TORONTO – The Michelin Guide has recognized five restaurants in southern Ontario for offering excellent value, but no new Michelin stars have been awarded in the region this year. The announcement regarding the 2026 selections was made during a ceremony held in downtown Toronto on Tuesday.

This year, five establishments were honored with the Bib Gourmand designation, which highlights restaurants that deliver great food at commendable prices. The awarded restaurants include Antylia, Golden Horseshoe Barbecue, and The Lunch Lady of Saigon, all located in Toronto. Additionally, Les Incompetents in St. Catharines, Ontario, and RPM Bakehouse in Jordan, Ontario, also received this recognition.

Despite the accolades for these five restaurants, the total number of Michelin-starred establishments in the Toronto region has decreased to 15, down from 17 the previous year. Notably, Aburi Hana, a notable restaurant in Toronto, lost its only star during this evaluation period. Furthermore, Hexagon, another restaurant situated in nearby Oakville, Ontario, has permanently closed its doors since the last Michelin announcement.

The Michelin Guide made its Canadian debut in 2022, initially covering entries for Toronto and Vancouver, and it has since expanded to include a version for Quebec as well. This expansion signifies a growing interest in recognizing culinary excellence across Canada.

As the Michelin Guide continues to evolve in Canada, it remains pivotal for local dining establishments, both in terms of prestige and economic impact. The Bib Gourmand designation particularly offers a unique opportunity for restaurants to attract diners seeking quality cuisine without the exorbitant price tag often associated with Michelin-starred venues.

In summary, while the Michelin Guide has acknowledged five restaurants for their value this year, the overall reduction in starred venues indicates a more competitive and challenging dining landscape in southern Ontario.