Indian cuisine has firmly established itself as a favorite among Canadians, particularly in Toronto. People are more open to exploring the various facets of Indian cuisines, like Gujarati cuisine, Marathi cuisine & more. One such versatile cuisine is north Indian cuisine which is of Indian cuisine in Canada. North Indian food stands out for its rich flavors & aromatic spices. North Indian dishes amalgamate popular cuisine like Mughlai, Persian & more. 

Many Indian restaurants in Toronto serve North Indian food. One such pioneer of this cuisine is Leela Indian Food Bar, a hotspot for north Indian food & street food in Toronto. A few of their famous dishes include-

Charcoal Butter Chicken- Most loved North Indian Food in Toronto

Butter chicken is a quintessential North Indian dish that has gained immense popularity worldwide. It originated in Delhi in the 1950s and was developed at the Moti Mahal restaurant by Kundan Lal Jaggi and Kundan Lal Gujral. The dish was created by mixing leftover tandoori chicken with a rich tomato and butter-based sauce, resulting in a creamy and flavorful curry.

According to a 2023 report by SkipTheDishes, butter chicken topped the list of the most-ordered food items across Canada. Leela Indian Food Bar has added its umami touch to the traditional butter chicken. They use Charcoal-smoked tandoori chicken in their signature tomato-butter gravy, enriched with dry fenugreek. 

Garlic Naan- The undisputed partner of curries

Naan, a leavened flatbread traditionally baked in a tandoor (clay oven), is a staple accompaniment to many North Indian dishes. Among its various flavors, garlic naan stands out for its aromatic and savory profile. The bread is brushed with garlic-infused butter or ghee, enhancing its taste and making it a perfect partner for rich curries like butter chicken.

The same SkipTheDishes report from 2023 highlighted garlic naan as the second most ordered food item in Canada. There are two different types of Garlic naan that one can order at Leela Indian Food Bar- Garlic Naan & Chilli Garlic Naan.

Paneer Tikka- The best vegetarian food in Toronto

Paneer tikka is a vegetarian delight that features chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then grilled or baked until charred and flavorful. Often served with mint chutney and salad, paneer tikka offers a smoky and spicy taste that appeals to a wide audience.

It is a favored choice among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Paneer Tikka is another go-to North Indian Food in Toronto because of its well-balanced flavor.

Chaat Papri- King of North Indian Snacks

Chaat Papri is a beloved North Indian street food that has won hearts across the globe, including in Toronto’s vibrant food scene. This savory snack combines a medley of crispy fried dough wafers (papri), boiled potatoes, chickpeas, and tangy yogurt, all drizzled with tamarind chutney and green mint chutney. Topped with a sprinkle of chaat masala, cumin powder, and crunchy sev (thin chickpea noodles), it delivers an irresistible burst of flavors and textures—sweet, tangy, spicy, and crunchy. Chaat papri is a favorite among food enthusiasts in Toronto, often featured in Indian restaurants and at food festivals, showcasing its universal appeal and ability to delight diverse palates.

Pani Puri- the burst of flavors in one bite

Pani Puri has found a loyal fanbase in Toronto, with Indian restaurants and specialty eateries offering it as a nostalgic and fun-to-eat delicacy that brings a piece of Indian street food culture to Canada. It is a popular bite-size chaat consisting of a hollow crispy-fried puffed ball filled with chickpeas, potatoes, spices, tamarind chutney, yellow peas, and tangy spicy water, ready to be savored in a single mouthful.

Shahi Soya Chaap- the royal vegetarian dish

Recently, Soya Chaap has become one of the most ordered & best north Indian dishes in Toronto. It has gained a dedicated following in Toronto’s culinary circles. Made from soy protein and flour, the chaap is crafted into skewers resembling meat, making it a favorite among vegetarians seeking a hearty alternative. Soya chaap is incredibly versatile, often marinated with rich spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection or simmered in luscious gravies like butter masala or tikka masala.

Its appeal lies in its meaty texture and ability to absorb bold flavors, making it a satisfying and protein-packed option. In Toronto, soya chaap is frequently featured in Indian restaurants and is also a hit at catering events, resonating with those looking for innovative vegetarian dishes. Whether served as an appetizer, in wraps or as a main course, soya chaap captures the essence of North Indian cuisine while offering a contemporary twist.

Samosa- The love of every Indian food lover

The samosa is a popular North Indian snack consisting of a crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or lentils. Often served with tamarind or mint chutney, samosas are a favorite appetizer or street food item.

In Toronto, samosas are widely available in Indian restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors, reflecting their popularity among locals and visitors alike.

Chicken Tikka Masala- The most loved food

Chicken tikka masala is the most loved north Indian food in Toronto. It is celebrated for its rich, creamy, smoked & aromatic flavors. Marinated chunks of chicken are traditionally cooked in tandoor(clay oven) for a smoky char.

In Toronto, chicken tikka masala is a star attraction on the menus of Indian restaurants, catering to both Indian food enthusiasts and those exploring the cuisine for the first time. Its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors has made it a favorite for dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Paired with garlic naan or basmati rice, chicken tikka masala showcases the depth and versatility of North Indian culinary traditions while being a comforting choice for diverse palates.

Kashmiri Lamb Roganjosh- Celebration of Kashmiri Heritage

Kashmiri Lamb Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked, mutton-based celebrated north Indian food in Toronto. It hails from the northernmost part of India & has roots in Persia. The dish’s name derives from “Rogan,” meaning oil or ghee, and “Josh,” signifying intense heat or passion, reflecting its bold, spiced profile.

Lamb Rogan Josh is a hidden gem at Indian restaurants in Toronto. Its vibrant red hue, achieved naturally through the use of Kashmiri chilies, makes it visually striking while maintaining a milder heat level, catering to a wide range of palates. 

Conclusion

The popularity of North Indian cuisine in Toronto is evident through the high demand for dishes like butter chicken, garlic naan, and paneer tikka. Data from food delivery services highlight these preferences, showcasing the city’s appreciation for rich and flavorful Indian dishes. As Toronto’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, North Indian cuisine remains a significant and cherished part of its diverse food culture.

People who love exploring the various facets of vast north Indian food in Toronto can book a table at Leela Indian Food Bar. Our menu is a celebration of Indian cuisine & one can experience the diversity of Indian cuisine on their plates. We have a plethora of north Indian food for you to choose from.