Winterlicious Dining Festival Returns to Toronto for 2026 Season
The much-anticipated Winterlicious food festival is set to return to Toronto, offering residents and visitors a culinary escape from the winter chill. The event officially begins on Friday, January 30, and will continue through February 12, providing two full weeks of dining excitement across the city.
Festival Details and Economic Impact
Created more than two decades ago by the City of Toronto, Winterlicous was specifically designed to give local restaurants a significant boost during what is traditionally a slower period for the hospitality industry. The festival has proven remarkably successful over the years, with city officials reporting that Winterlicious and its summer counterpart, Summerlicious, have collectively served nearly 8.7 million meals and generated more than $353 million in economic activity for participating restaurants since their inception in 2003.
This year's festival features an impressive roster of more than 240 participating restaurants, representing a notable increase from last year's participation of approximately 200 establishments. These eateries will offer specially curated three-course prix fixe menus with price ranges spanning from $20 to $55 for lunch and $25 to $75 for dinner, making fine dining experiences accessible to a wide range of budgets.
Restaurant Participation and Menu Highlights
Among the diverse culinary offerings, several restaurants stand out with their unique approaches to the Winterlicious experience. Little Sister, a Dutch-Indonesian restaurant located on Portland Street in the Fashion District, has committed to offering full-sized portions despite the prix fixe format. General Manager Robin James Wynne explained their philosophy: "For us, we made the decision not to cut portion sizes and offer full-size proteins as they are in our regular menu, and add smaller-sized sides to go with them."
The restaurant, which qualifies for a higher price point, will offer $45 prix fixe dinners featuring full-sized appetizers, substantial main plates, appropriately sized sides, and complete desserts. Wynne noted that most patrons find this represents excellent value, with many leaving with take-home boxes due to the generous portions. A menu highlight includes their Ayam Pelalah – a half roasted Balinese spiced chicken served with crispy fried Brussels sprouts and their signature Nasi Goreng fried rice.
At 7 Numbers on the Danforth near Broadview Avenue, owner Vito Marinuzzi expressed genuine enthusiasm for the festival's return. "We're all excited when Winterlicious comes around," he shared. "It's always a really successful two weeks. The staff loves it. The customers are great. The neighbourhood sort of all flocks in so it's great." His Southern Italian restaurant, inspired by family recipes from Puglia and Bari, will feature traditional dishes including a classic octopus salad.
Culinary Diversity and Festival Planning
The festival showcases Toronto's remarkable culinary diversity with offerings spanning multiple international cuisines. Beyond the highlighted establishments, food enthusiasts can explore dishes from Iran, Morocco, Peru, Egypt, and Armenia. In Bloor West Village, Ukrainian gastrobar Hoyra will feature deruny – golden potato pancakes considered one of Ukraine's most beloved dishes. The owners described them on social media as "simple, comforting, and deeply satisfying, they are the kind of food that brings warmth in winter and gathers people together."
For those planning their Winterlicious experiences, the City of Toronto provides comprehensive resources including an interactive map of all participating restaurants and an alphabetical listing. A sophisticated search tool allows diners to narrow their options by neighbourhood, cuisine type, price range, and meal preferences. Reservations are strongly recommended given the festival's popularity.
Strategic Importance for Restaurants and Diners
Wynne of Little Sister emphasized the festival's strategic importance for both restaurants and patrons during challenging economic times: "As we see the challenges that restaurants are facing with slow sales, and guests facing affordability concerns, this is a great effort to offer new dishes, new menu items and allow people to come try your cuisine. More important than ever right now." His establishment has created a special Winterlicious cocktail menu with discounted prices to enhance the dining experience.
While the majority of participating restaurants are concentrated in or near downtown Toronto, the festival has expanded to include numerous establishments in suburban areas, making the culinary celebration accessible across the city. This geographic diversity ensures that residents throughout Toronto can participate without lengthy travel.
The festival not only provides economic support to restaurants but also encourages culinary exploration among Torontonians. It offers the perfect opportunity to revisit favourite establishments while discovering new culinary gems across the city's diverse neighbourhoods. With its combination of accessible pricing, generous portions, and culinary variety, Winterlicious continues to be a highlight of Toronto's winter calendar, transforming the colder months into a season of gastronomic discovery and community celebration.
