A Greek empire is rising in Toronto.
Thanos Tripi already owns Mamakas Taverna, Koukla, and Agora Greek Market, plus another Agora opens in Yorkville this spring and Summerhill is getting a Mamakas Taverna come fall.
Where Chefs Eat
Where Chefs Eat is a weekly series that asks Toronto chefs and restaurant owners to name their favourite places to dine in the city: where they go for everything from weekend brunch to late-night cravings, fancy dinners to dessert.
This week: Thanos Tripi, owner of Mamakas Taverna, Koukla, and Agora Greek Market
Known for: Bringing a contemporary approach to Aegean cuisine and elevating traditional Greek dishes across Toronto
Tripi says they were the first in Toronto to bring a contemporary approach to Aegean cuisine; now he’s excited by the growing level of sophistication across the board, from creative concepts to service. “The playing field has really evolved over the years I’ve been here; there are more seats, more ambition, and a stronger sense of confidence in what we do,” he says. “It keeps getting better, and Toronto has firmly established itself as a world-class food destination.”
So where does Tripi head when he wants something extra-delicious? Read on for his go-to spots in Toronto’s bustling cuisine scene.
Best date-night spot
Osteria Giulia, 134 Avenue Rd.
osteria
“It’s my go-to date-night spot because it’s such a calming space. I love the neutral envelope; it allows the food to shine. Simple, delicious cooking paired with top-notch service. A beautiful experience every time.”
Best bakery
Romi’s, 744 St Clair Ave. W.
Romi’s
“They make rugelach and babka that I’ve never tasted anywhere else: incredibly rich, deep in flavour and always fresh. They sell out constantly, so I usually have to call ahead to pre-order.”
Hidden gem
El Trompo, 277 Augusta Ave.
el trompo
“Blink and you’ll miss it, but I highly suggest you don’t. Their tinga tacos are a burst of joy in your mouth, and they have hands-down the best guacamole ever. And the best part? It’s easy on the wallet.”
Repeat reservation
Quetzal
“I love a live-fire kitchen, so this is the place I keep coming back to. The level that they execute at shows a lot of care is given to each dish, and the way they elevate Mexican cuisine is inspiring. Like Greek food, it’s not fussy or overcomplicated. It’s about quality ingredients and layered flavour profiles, and it wows me every time. It never disappoints.”
The last best thing you ate
Dear Grain, various locations
dear grain
“Get the sourdough loaf. Honestly, that’s all I need to say.”
Current obsession
Ariete e Toro, 12 Keewatin Ave.
ariete
“I can’t stop thinking about the traditional Italian sandwiches piled high with the freshest ingredients. They’re incredibly craveable.”
Fancy dinner
Prime Seafood Palace, 944 Queen St. W.
prime
“It’s where I go for a special night out. Coulson’s food is incredible, from the cuts of meat to the fresh seafood. The care given to each dish is impressive, and of course, the live-fire cooking really speaks to me.”
Comfort food
Athens, 707 Danforth Ave.
athens
“Yes, the Danforth still has some wonderful old-school spots. Awesome traditional magirefta (a slow-cooked casserole dish) always warms you from the inside. Everything is cooked with love and respects time-honoured recipes passed down through generations — I love that. It’s perfect for these cold-weather months. Their youvarlakia and soutsoukakia take me back to my Yiayia’s cooking.”
Best dessert
N.L. Ginzburg, 548 College St.
N.L.
“They do this insane hot-and-cold cherry dessert that completely blows my mind.”
Lunch spot
UNION
“It’s always open, always consistent. They have delicious dishes, and great service. My go-to is the steak tartare and frites, and, honestly, it’s the best I’ve ever had. I love how low-key and unassuming it is.”
Best late-night craving spot
Happy Burger, various locations
Happy
“When it’s late, nothing hits like Happy Burger’s double cheeseburger combo and banana pudding for dessert. If that doesn’t do it, nothing will.”
Best takeout
Pai Northern Thai Kitchen, various locations
pai
“They do an exceptional job with authentic flavours. They’re always consistent, and for me, Thai food works so well for takeout.”
Favourite coffee shop
Morning Parade Coffee Bar, various locations
morning
“It’s a true local coffee shop in every sense of the word. They know their customers by name, they remember your order (mine is a flat white and a blueberry scone) and damn, their coffee is so good!”
Best cocktail bar
Gift Shop, 89 Ossington Ave.
gift shop
“It’s tucked away in the back of GlassBox Barbershop — one of those places where if you know, you know. And their The Devil You Know cocktail is just perfection.”
Place I’m dying to try
Bisteccheria Sammarco, 4 Front St. E.
sammarco
“I have heard nothing but amazing things about Sammarco, from the design to the service, and of course, the food. Rob and David know hospitality, and I have a lot of respect for this team.”
