Toronto is a city with a rich culinary history, filled with iconic restaurants that have stood the test of time. Unfortunately, some of these beloved establishments have had to close their doors over the years. However, ask any Toronto resident, and they’ll likely have a list of bygone restaurants they’d love to see make a comeback. Whether it’s the nostalgia of a childhood favourite or the loss of a go-to spot for comfort food, these eateries hold a special place in the hearts of locals.
Recently, Dished Toronto set out to find out which of these closed restaurants Toronto residents miss the most. The responses were varied and passionate, reflecting the city’s diverse food scene and the deep attachment residents have to its culinary landmarks.
Flo’s Diner
A local shared, “I wish Flo’s Diner would come back up in Yorkville.” Flo’s Diner was a retro-themed restaurant that served diner staples for over 30 years before its landlord refused to renew the lease in early 2024. The closure of this beloved institution was a significant loss for the Toronto food scene.
Rainforest Café
Another resident recalled the Rainforest Café at Yorkdale Mall. An unavoidable landmark due to the thunderstorm sounds and throngs of children who flocked towards it, this animatronic-filled, rainforest-themed restaurant closed in 2014 after 15 years. If you miss it, the chain still operates a Canadian location at Niagara Falls.
Superpoint
“Superpoint on Ossington shut down recently, and I really liked their pizza,” a woman shared. Recognized as one of Toronto’s best pizza joints for nearly a decade, Superpoint quietly closed its doors in the fall of 2025, leaving many fans heartbroken and adrift.
Top Gun Burger
A resident mourned the loss of Top Gun Burger’s former Kensington Market flagship, which closed in spring 2025. She remembered it fondly for its affordability, “It was really cheap; it was like ten bucks for a whole meal.” Fortunately, the chain still operates several locations in the Greater Toronto Area.
Momofuku
“I totally wish that Momofuku would come back. It was a great place. They also used to have the Milk Bar. That place had great memories and awesome food,” one man said nostalgically. After a decade in Toronto’s Shangri-La hotel, this noodle bar led by celebrity chef David Chang closed its doors in 2022. By 2024, it was replaced by the global Chinese fine dining chain, Mott 32.
Big Slice
“Back in the day, after a night out, right on Yonge Street, there was a place called Big Slice Pizza,” one resident reminisced. “That was our go-to spot when it came to pizza. You know, it’s 4 a.m., and I’m studying for an exam, doing an all-nighter, Big Slice was the place to go.” The aptly-named pizza joint, formerly located at the corner of Yonge and Gerrard, was a go-to for Toronto Metropolitan University students and late-night snackers. It officially closed down in 2016.
No matter which restaurant they miss the most, it’s clear that Toronto residents cherish the city’s culinary history and hope to see some of these bygone eateries return someday.
