The 38 Must-Try Restaurants in Markham

Located on the western edge of Markham in Thornhill, Frilu offers a remarkable tasting menu experience crafted by executive chef/owner John-Vincent Troiano and his wife, Sandra. Over the past three years, Troiano’s impressive culinary background—including stages at Noma in Copenhagen and Benu in San Francisco—has led to a menu that artfully blends Scandinavian influences with Japanese flavors and Canadian ingredients. Expect seasonal highlights like Ontario plums, B.C. uni, and even Quebec horse tenderloin, alongside ingredients sourced from Willowolf Farm. Troiano has also gained attention for his inventive Oreo-inspired creation: black quinoa and blueberry cookies filled with a whipped pork fat center spiced with star anise. []

It’s noteworthy that this Persian restaurant’s first venture outside Iran is in Markham — though not surprising, given the rapid growth of the Persian/Iranian community in Markham and Richmond Hill. Many come to this cozy spot for an authentic taste of home. The star dish here is tahchin, or baked rice cakes. Iranians are enamored with these golden, saffron-infused delights, featuring a crunchy exterior filled with options like ghormeh sabzi (herb beef stew), bademjan (eggplant stew with beef and dried lemon), boneless veal, or chicken, all topped with tangy barberries. There’s even a macaroni tahdig: pasta, ground beef, and tomato sauce baked into a crispy potato puck. Don’t miss the refreshing saffron drink with lime and rose, a favorite among locals. [$]

Providential 9 excels in upscale Cantonese-style dim sum, beautifully presenting classic dishes that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to taste. Guests flock to try the signature red rice rolls filled with crispy shrimp, but they linger for a dizzying array of offerings—think crispy cuttlefish, deep-fried pumpkin and okra in egg yolk, and spareribs paired with taro and olives, among others. Sweet treats like the exquisite Cantonese sponge cake and sesame balls with salty egg yolk enhance the overall dining experience. [$$ - $$$]

As part of the esteemed dim sum establishments in Markham, Skyview excels at all the traditional favorites and more. Must-try dishes include the tender char siu, hearty siu mai, rice rolls, and delightful egg tarts. The barbecue pork is particularly exceptional, whether enjoyed solo, in a rice dish, or tucked inside a sweet, meaty bun. Be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends when the crowds can get wild. Skyview also wins top marks for its unique light fixtures, resembling vibrant jellyfish cascading from the ceiling. [$$$]

Zen is the premier spot for dedicated omakase enthusiasts to savor the exquisite seafood creations of sushi chef Seiichi Kashiwabara, featuring exceptional selections sourced from Japan, Canada, and beyond. In addition to the impressive multicourse omakase, Zen offers a la carte options with pristine seafood cuts, including otoro (from farmed bluefin), filefish, sea robin, and more. Be sure not to miss the roasted duck, grilled miso cod, or the beautifully simmered beef tongue from the non-sushi menu. For beef lovers, there's an abundance of A4 and A5 wagyu from Gifu prefecture. A traditional kaiseki experience with a tea ceremony is also available. [$$$$]

A steaming bowl of congee is ideal at any hour, and this beloved spot excels in crafting savory rice porridge. Wong Sam started Sam’s in Hong Kong in 1966, later moving his family to Canada in the 1990s. Originally located near Pacific Mall, the restaurant relocated in 2018 to its current vibrant teal space, where creamy bowls of comfort are served. If you're unsure what to choose, opt for a classic: shredded pork with preserved egg; minced beef with pork pudding; or a mix of minced beef, squid, and pork rind. Don’t forget to get dough sticks to dip in the soup, and definitely try one of Sam's exquisite handmade rice rolls. [$]

Diana Cicirello’s oyster haven serves an incredible variety of bivalves sourced from Fanny Bay, Colville Bay, and occasionally from Newfoundland, Ireland, and New Zealand. The daily “buck a shuck” deal attracts fans of Lucky 88 (British Columbia) and Malpeque (Prince Edward Island) oysters. Additionally, Diana’s features live scallops from B.C. and Nova Scotia, a range of clams (blood, cherrystone, mahogany, little neck), sea urchin, and side stripe shrimp. While the entrée selection is impressive, the clam linguine remains a steadfast favorite. [$$$]

This isn’t just another upscale restaurant serving traditional Mughlai and northern Indian cuisine. While it features a range of expertly grilled tandoori meats, curries, and Hakka dishes, it’s the dum pukht cooking method that’s making waves among Markham’s food enthusiasts. Slow-cooked chicken, mutton, biryani, or vegetables in clay or copper pots sealed with dough create an explosion of flavor and aroma. The elegant dining space also includes a welcoming bar, where non-drinkers can savor the house-made nimbu pani, a refreshing lemon soda infused with black salt and Indian spices. [$$]

Since 1864, QJD has delighted diners, and one taste of their renowned Peking duck reveals why. Dining at the first North American location of this Chinese chain feels like a treat, complete with chefs carving the duck right at your table—and the price tag reflects that indulgence. However, the cost is justified for the exquisite duck peony set: 24 meticulously arranged slices of duck shaped like a peony blossom, served with steamed pancakes, hollow sesame seed buns, a sweet soy dipping sauce, cucumber strips, scallions, and sugar for pairing with the crispy duck skin. [$$ - $$$]

While it may mimic the famous Taiwanese chain Din Tai Fung, this restaurant serves up exceptional, steaming-hot handmade xiao long bao that are hard to resist. You can even see the chefs crafting these delightful soup dumplings through a window at the back. Their Shanghai-style dim sum menu offers an impressive variety—think pan-fried pork buns, wontons in spicy chile sauce, and pork pies with turnip. Vegetarians will also find plenty to enjoy, such as king mushrooms over stir-fried bean leaves and veggie steamed dumplings. DTF is located within the First Markham Place shopping complex (refer to separate listing). []

Explore this vast shopping complex that hosts numerous dining gems, including Ding Tai Fung (see separate listing). The well-known Chinese chain Bingz offers crispy burgers, while Mei Nung Beef Noodle House is a favorite for Taiwanese cuisine. Additionally, don’t miss Wiang Kuk Thai Food, Malay Thai Famous Cuisine, Real Vegan Chinese Restaurant, KAKA All You Can Eat, Brown Donkatsu, Mabu Generation, and for dessert lovers, Patisserie Gateau. [$ - ]

For nearly 25 years, the largest Japanese shopping mall in the GTA has catered to the cravings of Japan enthusiasts. Within its walls, you'll find an array of options, from Heisei Mart’s diverse grocery selections to Tanuki, a restaurant that offers yoshoku-style dishes (Japanese adaptations of Western cuisine). The mall features a butcher, two fantastic bakeries (Nakamura and Sasaki Fine Pastry), and even a seafood market stocked with sushi-grade fish. Other highlights include Izakaya Ju, ramen spot Niwatei & Green Tea Lounge, and Cafe Green Tea. [$ - $$]

When two-Michelin-starred chef Masaki Saito — the mastermind behind his namesake sushi restaurant on Avenue Road — frequents your establishment, you know you’re on the right track. Ivan Lee has achieved this with his omakase offering at Liberty Square, where he brings a touch of sophistication and understated elegance to the sprawling strip mall. Priced at $138 for 17 courses, including 10 types of nigiri sushi, it’s a worthwhile experience. The menu changes with the seasons, and Lee imports much of his seafood directly from Japan. Takeout is also an option, featuring indulgent selections like foie gras, otoro, and Hokkaido uni for an upscale dining experience on the go. [$$$$]

Making its mark in the GTA, Hutaoli brings Sichuan-inspired dishes to life in a lively setting, complete with a musical lineup straight from the Chinese mainland. It’s a vibrant experience, but the standout is undoubtedly the food: think 36-hour sake sous vide beef tongue, their signature roast chicken marinated for 12 hours, and even durian pizza. If you're in the mood for a cocktail, don't miss the Flaming Lips — a delightful mix of vodka, raspberry, lemon, and black currant, served in a glass rimmed with crystal sugar and rose petals. [$$]

This elegant dim sum destination features an opulent dining area with Italian granite, marble columns, and sparkling crystal chandeliers, making it a favored choice for banquets and weddings. Since opening in 2008, it has attracted dim sum enthusiasts with its vast selection of Cantonese dishes, including shrimp har gow and siu mai, as well as sumptuous options like Peking duck and whole roasted suckling pig. Be sure to try the stir-fried Nova Scotia lobster dressed in salted duck egg yolk. Note: The restaurant also offers bird’s nest soup and shark fin soup, should that influence your dining choice. [$$$]

Since 2009, Eddie Yeung's cozy noodle shop has been a go-to for patrons craving plump dumplings, whether in wonton soup, served over lo mein, or on their own. The star of the menu is the classic wonton noodle soup, featuring four wontons filled with a delightful mix of shrimp, pork, chives, shiitake mushrooms, and crunchy black fungus. For added greens, consider adding choy sum (Chinese mustard greens), and a dash of red vinegar and chili oil enhances the flavors. Besides wontons, you can savor tender beef brisket with vegetables, lo mein, or as an extra in your soup. The restaurant has also introduced its own line of Hong Kong-style milk tea and house-brewed lemon tea. [$]

Focusing on the flavors of Xinjiang, where the Muslim Uyghur community thrives, this unpretentious Mytoury offers a variety of halal Chinese dishes. Lamb is the star here, with barbecued lamb skewers generously seasoned with cumin and chili being a must-try. You can enjoy the lamb served with silky hand-pulled noodles or in a hearty soup featuring lamb, yam, and traditional Chinese herbs for an authentic Xinjiang experience. For something different, try the stir-fried beef with onions paired with lotus-shaped buns, highlighting the comforting essence of northwestern Chinese cuisine. A selection of dim sum, including beef and chive pancakes and lamb and onion steamed dumplings, is also available. [$-$$]

The stunning design of Old Chengdu is a feast for the eyes at this two-story tribute to hot pot, matched only by the extensive selection of proteins, vegetables, noodles, sauces, and condiments. The all-you-can-eat experience features a sprawling buffet where you can choose items to cook in one of four broth bases: tomato soup, stewed mushroom and bones, spicy sour fish, or xiangzi spicy soup (or any combination of two). With over 300 ingredients available, you’ll find everything from lamb tripe and beef balls to Spam, quail eggs, and pork blood tofu, alongside imported sesame oil and Sichuan seasonings. A hot table offers numerous cooked sides and small desserts. For those seeking premium options, upgrades include lobster, crab, scallops, and marble beef cubes. Prepare for a delicious mess—avoid wearing white, or opt for a complimentary apron if you do. Note: Each diner receives their own hot pot during the pandemic. [$$]

Pâtisserie Fleur is simply stunning. If you need more reasons to visit this charming pastry shop, consider their matcha crepe cake. This shop blends French techniques with Asian flavors, and the crepe cake is a marvel of both beauty and baking. The eclairs are equally impressive, featuring flavors like rose lychee and pistachio strawberry. The pièce de résistance is a cake shaped like a rose, truly embodying the ‘fleur’ in Pâtisserie Fleur. While the sesame noir cake may not look as appealing as the others, don’t let its appearance fool you; its filling of sesame and Madagascar vanilla bean mousse, sesame paste, and sesame cookie will leave you in awe. [$]

Located within the historic Hagerman Corner School, established in 1888, this esteemed fine dining spot boasts white tablecloths and professional servers dressed in suits. While the lighting may not be ideal for social media, the loyal clientele appreciates the ambiance. Classic dishes include rack of lamb, chateaubriand, and escargot bourguignon. The outdoor patio offers a delightful option for those seeking an upscale meal in the fresh air. [$$$ - $$$$]

Originating from the Uyghurs, chuan’r is the Chinese take on yakitori and kushiyaki, featuring pieces of cumin-spiced lamb grilled over an open flame. This popular street food is enjoyed throughout China, particularly in Beijing. Chat Bar claims to be the first establishment in the GTA to serve it, and the Markham location offers a cozy, woodsy atmosphere. It highlights lamb skewers, including options like lamb ribs, kidneys, and tripe, alongside other proteins such as beef heart, chicken skin, pork knuckle, and grilled Fanny Bay oysters with garlic. Vegetarians are also well-catered for, with over 20 choices, including the hearty grilled cabbage. [$]

Next Door is a quintessentially Canadian restaurant that highlights the rich diversity of the GTA, nestled in the charming Main Street Unionville. Dishes like octopus shawarma, lamb barbacoa, pani puri, okonomiyaki cheeseburgers, and duck poutine provide comfort without pretension. In the summer, the elevated patio with a pondside view attracts diners looking to enjoy one of the restaurant’s signature brunch towers — imagine seafood towers, but stacked with double-smoked bacon, lamb sausage, buttermilk pancakes, and chile scrambled eggs. [$$]

Celebrating 25 years in 2021, Pacific Mall faced a fire that briefly shut it down, leaving food lovers craving their favorites. After just two weeks, patrons flocked back for hand-pulled noodles at Sun’s Kitchen and delightful kanazawa curries and beef bowls at Gyugyuya. With countless food options in this vast mall, it would take multiple visits to sample everything, so don’t miss the legendary lamb skewers at Prairie Lamb Kabob and the spicy octopus pancakes at Mr. Pancake. For more, slurp some Potato Noodle Soup from Bai (specializing in northwestern Chinese cuisine), enjoy a cup of imported Vietnamese coffee from Dak Lak, or try Filipino hotcakes at Pinoy Waffles. Before you leave, grab some unique snacks like uji hojicha-flavored Kit Kat from Ding Dong Exotic Sweet. [$ - $$]

A sister establishment to Chiang Mai in Etobicoke, this restaurant brings beautifully plated Thai dishes to Markham. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it serves traditional favorites with flair. The tom yum pad thai creatively combines two beloved classics, and the khao soi is as impressive in taste as it is in presentation. The ambiance is equally appealing. [$$]

Transforming into one of the largest outdoor dim sum venues in the GTA proved beneficial during the pandemic, but it's the loyal fans of dim sum that keep returning for Chef 88's sophisticated takes on classic dishes. You won't encounter a disappointment on the menu, so feel free to experiment with something new: try braised duck feet with chestnuts, spicy fried chicken knuckle, or pumpkin and sweet corn congee (and don't forget to order youtiao to accompany it). Plus, you can take home frozen dim sum options like shrimp har gow and chiu chow chicken dumplings. For dinner, indulge in a selection of live seafood—how about Hong Kong-style crab? [$$ - $$$]

This Hong Kong-style diner offers a delightful mix of Cantonese comfort food, but breakfast is the main attraction for locals. They flock here for classic morning dishes like macaroni noodle soup paired with Spam, instant noodles, and a fried egg. However, the HK-style French toast—two thick slices of deep-fried, peanut-buttered bread slathered in butter and syrup—is a champion's meal at any hour. Be sure to enjoy it with some of the finest Hong Kong-style milk tea in town. A special tea time menu from 2:30 to 6 p.m. features budget-friendly diner staples, including beef macaroni with Russian borscht and steak with black pepper sauce. [$]

Bigger is indeed better at this popular Langham Square hotspot, where the flavorful soup and wontons are generously portioned. The noodles are always delightfully springy, and the broth is served steaming hot. Don’t hold back when ordering the ‘three kinds of toppings noodle in soup,’ featuring shrimp wontons, dumplings, and brisket. For a crispy side, try the plate of crackling fried fish skin. Choose from egg noodles, rice noodles, or vermicelli for your soup. Just a heads up: the hot sauce packs a serious punch. [$]

This sprawling 500,000-square-foot commercial and residential hub boasts an impressive array of dining options (over 40!), featuring some of the finest wontons in the GTA at Big Trio Wonton Noodle (see separate listing). Toast Delight specializes in Hong Kong-style egg waffles, Kore Chicken serves up crispy fried chicken, and Northwestern Chinese Cuisine offers a diverse menu that includes lamb ramen and spicy homemade rabbit head. You’ll find Mytouries focused on dumplings and sushi, along with those offering Taiwanese and Sichuan dishes. Additionally, the complex houses a T&T Supermarket, Canada’s largest Asian grocery chain, complete with a tempting hot food section, an excellent bakery, and fresh mango and durian mochi. [$ - $$]

When Evan Lu relocated his noodle shop from the Yonge/Finch area, it turned out to be a win for Markham. Lu excels at crafting chewy Lanzhou-style hand-pulled noodles, serving them in his acclaimed beef bowls, whether flat or round. Try the classic braised brisket and beef topped with pickled mustard, accompanied by Shanghai-style bao with a crispy bottom (just be ready for a burst when you bite in). Don’t miss the cumin lamb skewers, spicy corn with cheese, and cold spiced chicken drizzled with chile oil. [$]

While Haidilao holds the title of the largest hot pot chain in China, the Markham location is worth a visit. Not only for its eight distinct soup bases (with the spicy mala being a standout), but also for the entertaining “noodle dance” performed by the staff—think rhythmic gymnastics meets noodle pulling. Just keep an eye out; patrons have reported getting hit by flying noodles during the show. Note: This spot doesn’t offer an all-you-can-eat option like some others. [$$]

Founded by the former chef and manager of the renowned Lahore Tikka House on Gerrard Street, this establishment has carved out its own legacy. Here, you'll find mouthwatering beef kebabs served on sizzling platters alongside rich, ghee-soaked naan. With eight distinct varieties of biryani, the options are plentiful. Be sure to order a side of tandoori chilies—don't fret, there’s ample lassi to cool down the heat. And don’t miss out on the frothy Bangladeshi-style khandani chai before you leave. [$]

In Markham, throwback dining experiences are becoming a rarity, yet this steakhouse has thrived since its inception in 1978. Much of the dining experience occurs tableside, from tossing Caesar salad and carving chateaubriand to flambéing cherries jubilee and pouring Spanish coffee right at your table. It’s posh with a touch of kitsch, making for a thoroughly enjoyable outing. Plus, the 45-day-aged USDA Prime steaks are unmatched. Dress to impress—you wouldn't want to let grandpa down. [$$$ - $$$$]

This cozy little Dinogoy in northeastern Markham is all about the snacks. At Papa Chang’s, you can explore the diversity of Taiwanese cuisine with favorites like chile popcorn chicken, Taiwanese sausage, and braised minced pork served over rice topped with a soy-marinated egg and pickled mustard greens. You’ll also find some Japanese-Taiwanese fusion dishes, including takoyaki and a Japanese tako pancake made with squid. Bento boxes are a lunchtime hit, but if you’re getting takeout, don’t miss the fish skewers drizzled with teriyaki, wasabi, mayo, and topped with shredded fish. [$]

From the outside, Inspire blends seamlessly into its charming block on Main Street Markham, but stepping inside reveals a contemporary and eclectic space that sets the stage for an exciting dining adventure. The menu features a delightful fusion of flavors, like duck confit frites paired with curried salted egg aioli and Thai chilies, and shiitake udon carbonara that tantalizes with its chewy, creamy, and runny textures thanks to a quail egg yolk. The burgers are decadently crafted, particularly the O.G., which combines prime beef, seared pork belly, and a fried egg. The curated cocktail and wine selections are equally inspired. [$$]

Fulfill your culinary dreams at this modern Chinese Mytoury that hosts “Iron Chef dinners.” Select any ingredient, and the skilled chefs will craft a creative five-course tasting menu around it. (Just a heads up: you'll need to give 10 days' notice, and a chat with the kitchen staff is required before reserving the $150 per person experience.) For those not partaking in the special menu, the regular offerings are equally impressive, featuring aromatic truffle fried rice, two-day marinated buttermilk fried chicken with kimchi, and mantou (Chinese buns; don’t miss the braised ox tongue). They also serve authentic yakitori, cooked over binchotan charcoal, along with intriguing cocktail selections. [$$$ - $$$$]

No discussion of the top kebabs in the city is complete without highlighting this beacon of Afghan cuisine. Bamiyan has expanded into a beloved local chain with seven locations across the GTA, each serving up a variety of kebab platters. Don't miss the choppan (lamb chops), barg (filet mignon), and chaplee—two spiced ground beef patties adorned with pomegranate seeds, paired with some of the finest rice you'll find in the area. Each dinner is served with a salad and Afghan naan, but for an upgrade, try the kabilee rice infused with raisins, carrots, and almonds. [$]

This long-standing Hakka restaurant has been delighting customers for over 20 years with its fantastic Indian-Chinese dishes, including the ever-popular chile chicken, kan shue green beans, and wonderfully wok-fried Manchurian chow mein. Their takeout offerings are also impressive. Note: The restaurant serves only halal meat, so if you're looking for pork, you'll need to find another option. [$]

Don’t let Appa’s address on Karachi Drive mislead you; owner Ruban Subramaniam specializes in distinctly Sri Lankan cuisine, not Pakistani. He draws South Indians from across the GTA with his signature kottu roti — a beloved Sri Lankan dish made of chopped roti mixed with eggs, onions, cabbage, leeks, and a selection of proteins like chicken curry, mutton pepper fry, or even lobster tail curry. Another standout is the lamprais, a Dutch colonial creation that combines a spiced mix of meats (mutton, chicken, fish) along with anchovy sambal, shrimp chili paste, a boiled egg, yellow rice, eggplant moju, and cashew-green pea curry, all baked in a banana leaf. Subramaniam also honors his new home with poutine-inspired mutton supreme fries. [$]