Some of the best meals in Vaughan may not be found on the busiest streets or behind flashy storefronts – instead, you can find them tucked into neighbourhood plazas and industrial strip malls or even hidden inside commercial buildings. Vaughan is home to a remarkable selection of independently owned restaurants, bakeries and cafés that locals know and love. From authentic international cuisines to handcrafted baked goods and unforgettable comfort food, these hidden gems prove that wonderful dining experiences can be found where you least expect them. This guide will introduce you to some of Vaughan’s best-kept culinary secrets…and where to find them!

Myeongdong Gyoza Kalguksu (7117 Bathurst St.) specializes in handmade dumplings and noodles that are crafted with care, explaining why locals keep coming back for more. This hidden gem, located in a plaza, is a local favourite for authentic Korean comfort food. It’s highly regarded for its signature juicy steamed pork and vegetable dumplings (gyoza/mandu) and fresh, handmade knife-cut noodle soups (kalguksu).

Insider Tip! Head over to Promenade Shopping Centre (1 Promenade Cir.), only 10 minutes away, or visit the Sugarbush Heritage Park (91 Thornhill Woods Dr.) to walk off that delightful meal.

Here’s one of Vaughan’s best-kept culinary secrets! Bartholomew Bakery (467 Edgeley Blvd.) is in an industrial park, where you wouldn’t necessarily expect to see a high-end, European-style bakery. They’re committed to creating handmade, all-natural, uncomplicated and delicious baked goods. From naturally leavened sourdough to coveted viennoiserie. Bartholomew is becoming a massive local sensation, so consider yourself one of the lucky ones if you score their delicious treats.

Insider Tip! Their signature pistachio twice-baked croissants and dense pistachio cheesecake are legendary and routinely drive massive hype

Here’s another hidden gem in Vaughan. Bevi Birra (7500 Highway 27) offers the freshest and finest in Ontario craft beer, plus locally sourced wine, cider and spirits. Hidden and easily missed from the main road. However, once inside, you’ll find a cozy and atmospheric bottle shop, restaurant and pool hall. The food is built entirely around massive, gourmet Italian sandwiches served on house-made, 100 per cent sourdough focaccia bread.

 Insider Tip! Locals recommend these two sandwiches: the Filomena and the Italia.

Hidden in plain sight in Vaughan, Memphis BBQ and Wicked Wings (8074 Islington Ave.) is a smokehouse located in a modest strip mall. It’s often praised for its authentic Southern-style barbecue, massive portions and extensive selection of wing sauces. In fact, they’ve competed in Ribfests across Ontario for years and have won more than 50 barbecue championships. Super popular among locals and BBQ enthusiasts, the dining room has a relaxed, rustic and “dive-like” charm, though there is often a wait due to its popularity.

Insider Tip! Boyd Conservation Area (8739 Islington Ave.) is about 1.5 kilometres up the road. With nature trails along the Humber River, it is perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Smoke and Mirrors Gastropub (2780 Highway 7) is located in a commercial strip along Highway 7. Online reviewers have noted that you would never expect such an upscale, trendy ambiance from the outside. This intimate establishment has earned a strong local reputation. Patrons frequently highlight its cozy, tucked-away setting paired with high-end culinary execution. It’s an Italian gastropub, but the menu features modern, elevated twists on classics, like their short rib rigatoni, truffle fries, risotto and handmade speducci. They also specialize in cocktails with smoke and bubbles. Yes, you read that right.

Insider Tip! Only about six kilometres north, you’ll find Canada’s Wonderland (1 Canada’s Wonderland Dr.) and Vaughan Mills (1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.). Both great ways to turn your hidden gem lunch or dinner into a full-on day of fun or shopping.

The best way to experience Vaughan is to venture off the main roads, where you might find a gem of a restaurant or café you didn’t know existed. Whether you’re craving authentic international flavours, unforgettable comfort food or a sweet treat, these food experiences prove that some of Vaughan’s most memorable dining experiences are the ones you must seek out. Find these previously hidden meal treats and everything else Vaughan has to offer by visiting visitvaughan.ca.

As you explore all that Vaughan has to offer, don’t forget to tag us at #VisitVaughan and follow us on Instagram at @visitvaughan!