Some swear that Toronto and/or Scarborough dominate the food scene when it comes to global cuisine in the GTA. But true foodies know that the international dining crown rests in only one spot: Mississauga.
From old school eateries, family-run storefronts, fusion, and fancy restaurants, The City That Hazel Built offers variety galore for every palate.
READ: The Exchange District: Creating a Heart for Mississauga
Whether deep within the sprawl or located in its exciting new density areas, these Mississauga restaurants all provide a tasty morsel of what to expect when you step out to explore and savour the diverse flavours the city has on offer.
So enjoy and discover. And know that doggie bags will be necessary.
Leela’s Roti and Doubles
When you get a craving for doubles or absolutely need some pholourie and a goat roti, Leela’s is your stop. The store is tucked away in a nondescript plaza but don’t let that stop you. Leela’s focuses on authentic West Indian food from Trinidad and Tobago. Not only can you get buss-up shut, paratha and dhalpuri, you can also buy a Trinidad Sunday lunch of macaroni pie, stew chicken and rice. If you need more than that, pick up a bake and shark with all the toppings. It may not be Richard’s, but it’s pretty good for being at Maracas. You can pick up or stay to eat.
Address: 900 Rathburn Rd W, Mississauga
Rogues Restaurant
Rogues Restaurant is a classic, having been around for several decades. It specializes in Italian-inspired continental cuisine that is light and filling and perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s a tight menu but there’s something for every palette whether you’re craving pasta, seafood or red meat. It also has the largest wine list in the city with more than 300 wines available.
Address: 1900 Dundas Street West
Chilli Chicken House
We once got into an argument with friends about where to get the best Hakka in Toronto and the GTA. If you live in Mississauga, Chilli Chicken House is the place for Hakka cuisine. The menu is hot, spicy and affordable. No argument necessary.
Address: 4040 Creditview Road, Unit 25
Kage Restobar
Don’t let the name fool you. There are no shadows in this restaurant. Kage in this space means foreign in Japanese and blends Japanese and Peruvian flavours and techniques. The restaurant mixes comfort food with its Pollo Frito and more contemporary offerings like Blistered Shishito & Okra. Pair your choice of meal with wine, sake, beer or a cocktail of your choice.
Address: 3038 Hurontario St #9
Guru Lukshmi
Owner Kumar says that after he and his wife Thana couldn’t find an authentic South Indian restaurant, they clearly had to open one. That was in 2003 and since then Kumar and Thana have been joined by their daughters serving their secret recipes to repeat customers. If you love dosa, this is where you get them.
Address: 7070 Saint Barbara Blvd. Unit #45 & #50 at Derry and McLaughlin
Anokhi
A relatively new restaurant that opened in 2018, Anokhi quickly made its mark with its elegant space and a menu that offers a new spin on Indian food. There are the traditionals such as classic butter chicken, fish curry and lamb vindaloo but you can also order fish tacos topped with spicy eggplant salsa and cumin sour cream. If you have room for dessert, there’s the Anokhi patisserie which blends French and Indian flavours.
Address: 200 County Court Blvd unit B1
Raw Aura
Vegan and sustainable food have definitely come into their own in recent years, but Raw Aura has been serving excellent meals that has solidified their reputation for over a decade. The food is made from locally sourced ingredients and you’re served a dish that is vegan, gluten and refined-sugar free.
Address: 94 Lakeshore Rd. E, Port Credit
Mario’s BBQ
Get ready to get saucy! If you’re craving BBQ, you have a choice of two (three if you count Oakville) Mario’s BBQ locations. Mario’s specializes in Portuguese chicken. When you go in, you can pick and choose your sides to go with your chicken order. Make sure you’re hungry because the portions and sides are very generous. If you’re not a chicken fan, you could also have some grilled seafood and pair it with a variety of grilled veggies.
Address: 5425 Creditview Rd and 2500 Hurontario Street
Michael’s Back Door Restaurant
This restaurant has been serving an Italian-themed menu for 35 years. The “magic” began with traditional rustic and regional dishes but when executive chef Mark D’Souza joined Michael’s in 2015, he updated the popular menu, adding a modern twist. Michael’s Back Door is good for all occasions whether it’s a quick drink, a romantic night out or a fun family dinner.
Address: 1715 Lakeshore Road West
Holy Smokez
You'll be licking your fingers in public when you stop by Holy Smokez. This restaurant, which specializes in Southern BBQ, has a great list of sandwiches ranging from pulled pork to brisket. That said, if you go here, get the ribs. They've been voted the best in Mississauga and are deliciously rubbed with a blend of spices and smoked on a low, slow heat. Pair with mac and cheese or baked beans. Delish!
Address: 1133 Dundas Street East
