Quetzal

Upscale Mexican Flavors in the Heart of Downtown Toronto

Quetzal is a sleek and modern Mexican restaurant located on College Street in downtown Toronto. Known for its refined take on regional Mexican cuisine, this spot brings wood-fired cooking front and center, with an open kitchen that shows off the flames behind every dish. Designed by the team behind some of Toronto’s top dining destinations, Quetzal offers a warm, upscale atmosphere with stylish design and artisan attention to detail. It’s just a short stroll from many of Toronto’s biggest concert venues, making it a perfect pre-show destination.

Why Concert-goers love it

Quetzal's downtown location makes it an easy walk or quick ride to major music venues, so you won’t miss a beat. Its open-concept layout and energetic ambiance strike a great balance—lively enough to get you in the mood for the show, but not so loud that you can’t enjoy conversation. With a menu designed for sharing and quick service that keeps things moving, it’s ideal for squeezing in a high-quality meal before curtain time.

Who this Restaurant is great for

• Groups of friends sharing tacos and mezcal flights
• Solo travelers enjoying a seat at the chef’s counter
• Couples on a romantic concert night out
• Fans looking for a stylish, social space before the show
• Budget-conscious music lovers who still want great quality (tip: go for the tacos and house cocktails!)

What People Say

Reviewers on TripAdvisor and OpenTable consistently praise the exceptional flavors, especially the wood-grilled meats and seafood, with the octopus and lamb barbacoa getting special love. Guests rave about the craft cocktails and mezcal selection, and many note the knowledgeable servers who happily walk you through the menu. The ambiance—modern, welcoming, and just a bit edgy—gets high marks for setting a memorable tone before a big night out.

Areas for Improvement

Some diners mention that prices can be on the higher side, especially for smaller portions. Others note that while the design is beautiful, the seating can feel a bit tight during busy hours. Reservations are recommended—this spot fills up fast, especially on concert nights.

The Bottom Line

If you’re after bold Mexican flavors, stylish vibes, and a close-to-the-action location, Quetzal hits all the right notes for a pre-concert dinner in Toronto.