Let time stand still under the artfully curved ceiling at this Little Italy mainstay. As you sip kalimotxo alongside conservas, pintxos, and other traditional small plates, you'll see why a no-reservations policy doesn't deter most.

A place that makes Little Italy feel more like a slice of Spain, this sultry spot serves a number of traditional dishes to an eager clientele. Mains might catch your eye, but make a meal of gossamer slices of the "world’s best jamón," croquetas, pan con tomate, and other traditional tapas, and you won't be disappointed.

For bottomless brunch, afternoon snacking, or late-night recharging, this King West restaurant serves up modern tapas everyone craves. Among the artfully-plated options, patatas bravas and shortbread tarts filled with silky duck liver parfait and sherry gelée are highlights.

At this elegant Distillery District spot, executive chef Ramon Simarro marries his Spanish heritage with seasonal ingredients for whimsical takes on classic tapas. Case in point: excruciatingly-crunchy patatas bravas garnished with petit dollops of sriracha sauce and wasabi aioli. 

Tapas with a Portuguese spin populate the menu at this Little Italy hideaway. Snack on salt-cod quenelles, chicken lollipops with piri-piri sauce, and eye-catching flaming chorizo before calling it a night.

With a charming dining room and knockout patio, this family-run Portuguese restaurant in the Castlefield Design District is popular year round. Sharing boards allow for a taste of everything, from garlic-kissed grilled seafood to cauliflower tempura.

New to Little Italy, this spot is as big on tradition as it is on brilliantly-flavoured and striking food. Dishes may seem simple, but bite into grilled artichokes escalivada, brûléed chicken liver parfait, or piquillo peppers finished with pil-pil, and you'll understand that looks can be deceiving.

Serving coffee by day and tapas by night, this Bloorcourt spot appeals no matter the hour. Infused with Brazilian flavour, the snack menu includes pão de queijo and coxinha, deep-fried chicken croquettes that are crisp, creamy, and best paired with a zippy Caipirinha.

With winning small plates and a lengthy beverage list, this hopping wine bar adds a touch of class to its corner of the Entertainment District. Pair happy hour buck-an-ounce wine with a smattering of tasty tapas, like warm olives, crispy artichokes, and Parmesan-dusted truffle fries.