Toronto might not boast the old-world delis of Montreal or the world-stage eateries of New York. But that doesn’t matter. In its own strange and unique way, Toronto is emerging as one of the finest food scenes in North America.

Toronto's superpowers have always been threefold: Its staunch commitment to multiculturalism, boldly innovative streak, and zeal for trying new things. Those superpowers translate to a dining scene that always feels fresh, forward-thinking and – most importantly – delicious.

If you currently live in Toronto, these are the top neighbourhoods to hit if you’re hungry. And if you’re a foodie looking to call the Six home, chat with the best real estate companies in Toronto about calling these neighbourhoods home.

Hip and Happening: The Ossington Strip

The Ossington Strip has witnessed a decade-long transformation into one of the city’s hippest epicentres. And while many people visit for the bumping nightlife or fantastic shopping, they stay for the eats. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of old, venerated businesses and scrappy newcomers. You’ll also find a wide variety of cuisines, price ranges and restaurant types (from hole-in-the-wall spots to classy “splurge” restaurants).

Where to Go: Try the modern Greek menu at Mamakas (or its sister restaurant, Bar Koukla); sip the Michelin-recommended pho at Pho Tien Thanh; and cap it off with the hippest slice this side of pizza this side of Williamsburg at Superpoint.

Street Food at Its Finest: Kensington Market

Kensington is the undisputed king of informal eateries, packing a king's ransom of excellent street food spots into a few city blocks. Caribbean flair, Mexican comfort and Italian Canadian staples are just a few things on the menu in everyone’s favourite Bohemian enclave. Our recommendation is to come hungry and sample a few places.

Where to Go: Queue for pristine fish tacos at Seven Lives; watch the grill master at work tending to a fiery frum of jerk chicken at Rasta Pasta; sample the jewel of German-Turkish food at Otto’s Berlin Doner.

Business-Casual: King Street West

When businesspeople want to wine and dine their clients, they head to King Street. When tech workers and advertisers take a lunch break, they stay on King Street. And when the city’s couples need a date night location that won’t fail to impress – you guessed it – they stick to King Street. It’s your reliable centre for business-casual eats in vibrant dining spaces.

Where to Go: Get the trattoria treatment at Gusto 101; sample arguably the best Thai food in the city at Pai; or impress your partner with a gorgeous prix fixe menu at Canoe.

Brewpubs and Brunches: Leslieville

If you’re a fan of beer and eggs (though not necessarily at the same time!), you’ll love the Leslieville dining scene. Sure, lunch and dinner places exist. But they’re outshone by imposing brewpubs slinging craft ales and eclectic brunch spots serving creative pick-me-ups.

Where to Go: Take a “flight” through Eastbound Brewing Company and sample their surprisingly good food menu; shake off the cobwebs with brunch at the creative Pasaj; and try some Detroit-style pizza at Descendant.