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La Bartola was a fully vegan Mexican restaurant in Toronto, known for its authentic flavors and plant-based dishes. It received positive reviews for its innovative menu and vibrant ambiance. The restaurant closed on March 15, 2025, after five years of operation.

Discover La Bartola: Toronto's Vegan Mexican Gem on College Street.

Nestled in the heart of Toronto's vibrant Old Toronto neighborhood, La Bartola was a fashionable hot spot at 588 College Street, renowned for serving up innovative, fully vegan Mexican cuisine that thrilled food lovers and plant-based enthusiasts alike. This chic restaurant masterfully combined traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary creativity, offering an unforgettable dining experience that left a lasting impression on all who visited.

La Bartola delighted diners with an extensive plant-based menu that featured authentic Mexican staples like rich moles, cactus tacos, and the exquisite Hoja Santa Tamal with Mole Negro. The restaurant's acclaimed "One Night in Oaxaca" tasting menu, celebrated for dishes such as Oaxacan chocolate ice cream, embodied a culinary journey through Mexico’s diverse flavors — all crafted using vegan ingredients. This dedication to authentic taste and creative combinations earned La Bartola a prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction for three consecutive years, affirming its status as a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors.

Ambiance and Service That Elevate the Experience

Beyond the exquisite food, La Bartola impressed guests with its charming back patio — a tranquil oasis perfect for savoring cocktails or a relaxed dinner under the stars. The attentive and knowledgeable waitstaff were consistently praised for their friendly service and deep understanding of the menu, ensuring each visit was personalized and memorable. Whether enjoying the delicious La Chalupa mocktail or indulging in delightful vegan desserts like the orange tamale, visitors felt embraced by the warm and inviting atmosphere.

La Bartola was celebrated for its innovative vegan Mexican cuisine, receiving high praise for its authentic flavors and creative dishes.

 Despite closing permanently on March 15, 2025, the community remembers it fondly as a place that brought vibrant plant-based Mexican fare to Toronto’s culinary scene with passion and flair.

 No, La Bartola closed permanently on March 15, 2025.

What was the 'One Night in Oaxaca' tasting menu

 It was a special tasting menu inspired by Oaxacan cuisine, featuring dishes like Hoja Santa Tamal with Mole Negro and Oaxacan chocolate ice cream.

 Yes, La Bartola received a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction for three consecutive years, recognizing its exceptional quality and value.

North America

Canada

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Toronto, La Bartola is a culinary gem that redefines Mexican cuisine with a fully plant-based menu. This trendy spot at 588 College St invites you to experience the rich flavors of authentic Mexican dishes, all while enjoying a chic and inviting atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, the warm ambiance and colorful decor transport you to a lively Mexican fiesta, making it a perfect destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

At La Bartola, every dish is a celebration of flavor and creativity. The standout **mole** dishes, crafted with a blend of spices and rich ingredients, offer a depth of flavor that is simply unforgettable. Pair this with their **cactus tacos**, a delightful twist on a classic, featuring tender cactus paired with zesty salsas that will tantalize your taste buds. The restaurant also boasts a selection of innovative cocktails, including the refreshing **La Chalupa mocktail**, which strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart.

La Bartola is not just about the food; it’s an experience. The back patio, adorned with twinkling lights and lush greenery, provides a serene escape from the bustling city. The attentive staff, known for their knowledge of the menu, enhance your dining experience, ensuring that every visit feels special. Fun fact: the restaurant's name, La Bartola, pays homage to the traditional Mexican art of storytelling through food, making each dish a narrative of its own.

 La Bartola is celebrated for its innovative plant-based Mexican cuisine, featuring authentic dishes like mole and cactus tacos.

 The unique blend of flavors, creative cocktails, and a beautiful ambiance make it a must-visit for food lovers.

 Located in Old Toronto, La Bartola is close to various attractions, including art galleries and parks, perfect for a day out.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, La Bartola promises a unique dining experience that will leave you craving more. Don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in their exquisite dishes and delightful drinks. Make a reservation today and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Mexico right in Toronto.

Fashionable restaurant dishing up moles, cactus tacos & other Mexican delicacies, plus cocktails.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdWZuckV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJE9eyB8w1K4gR7rdhaLdjPSU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdWZuckV3EAE

The menu is fully plant based with plenty of authentic Mexican dishes. We tried the guacamole, the moles and a few cocktails. We also tried all the items on the dessert menu. The orange tamale dessert was 10/10. Service was great, the waitstaff really knew all the dishes very well. Reservations are highly recommended!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNueTczaWxBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJE9eyB8w1K4gR7rdhaLdjPSU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNueTczaWxBRRAB

Highly recommend La Bartola! Delicious vegan Mexican tasting menu. The food is unforgettable. Amazing flavours and combinations. The La Chalupa mocktail was so delicious that I had two - it is not too sweet, just right.

The dessert portion of the tasting menu was also delicious.

The ambiance of the back patio is gorgeous and the service is top tier.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzODZLdjhBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJE9eyB8w1K4gR7rdhaLdjPSU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzODZLdjhBRRAB

HEAVEN for vegans and vegetarians. Been here 3 times now and never disappointed. The flavours are phenomenal and unique. We got the tacos and mole Blanco! Could not as for a better experience and food. Will be returning for sure

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMaGRxanZ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJE9eyB8w1K4gR7rdhaLdjPSU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMaGRxanZ3RRAB

We had a lovely table sitting at the patio, our server Jennifer is amazingly knowledgeable about the food they have. Very attentive and friendly. Cocktails are very lovely and delicious as well.

However, the food was a big disappointment. We went with the tasting menu, only liked the corn appetizer and mushroom main. Cantaloupe salad was very hard to chew, the dessert crust has a weird texture very difficult to cut open with a spoon. It’s a $75 set menu plus 20% mandatory tip. But the portion was small.

Might still come back for a drink. But not for the food anymore.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUeG9PZ2l3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJE9eyB8w1K4gR7rdhaLdjPSU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUeG9PZ2l3RRAB

I will start my review by saying that I was recommended this restaurant by friends who are vegetarian but I am not. My wife and I came here for date night. We arrived on time and the service was fantastic. We actually had a spot at the bar booked but they placed us at a table as one was available. The vibe was great and the servers were very helpful. However the food itself I struggled with. We had the tasting menu at $75/ person; my wife had the wine pairing which was a good add as it was well thought through. However, Aside from the lions mane steak and the Mexican corn I fount the food really lacking. The desserts were not good at all and the vegetables/ salad were not enjoyable. The cocktails however were amazing. The cost as well was very high, we had 1 drink to start then I had one cocktail and my wife had the wine pairing and it was over $300 with the tip. Overall I would say worth trying but not somewhere we would come back to again.

La Bartola: Vegan Mexican Restaurant in Toronto's Old Town

The vibrant rise and farewell of La Bartola: Toronto's vegan Mexican gem.

La Bartola carved a distinct niche in Toronto's dynamic culinary landscape as a fully vegan Mexican restaurant renowned for its authentic flavors and innovative dishes that delighted food enthusiasts and plant-based diners alike.

Established in 2020 at the bustling 588 College Street in Toronto, La Bartola quickly became a hotspot for lovers of Mexican cuisine reimagined through a plant-based lens. Its commitment to authentic Mexican recipes, presented with a vegan twist, attracted a growing crowd eager for bold and flavorful dining experiences.

In 2022, La Bartola's excellence was formally recognized when it received the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, a testament to its exceptional quality and value in the Toronto restaurant scene.

Despite its popularity and acclaim, the restaurant's journey concluded with its permanent closure on March 15, 2025. During its five years of operation, La Bartola not only elevated vegan Mexican cuisine but also contributed to Toronto’s reputation as a hub for innovative, plant-based dining options.

 La Bartola opened its doors at 588 College Street, Toronto, bringing vegan Mexican cuisine to the city.

 The restaurant earned the Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, cementing its status as a top dining destination.

 La Bartola closed permanently on March 15, ending a memorable chapter in Toronto’s vegan culinary scene.

A selection of plant-based Mexican dishes inspired by traditional Oaxacan and Mexico City flavors.

Sikil P'aak, Salsa Macha & Sesame Tostadas

Herbed Guacamole, Poblano Tostadas

Esquites Oaxaca

Jackfruit & Mushrooms 'al Pastor' Taco (2 Pcs.)

Green Chorizo & Cactus Taco (2 Pcs.)

Taco Tasting Platter Kit

Broccoli Tamal with Tomato Sauce & Pitiona (Oaxacan Herb)

Charred Plantain Tamal with Mole

Tetela & Jackfruit Pibil & Xnipec

Oaxacan Chocolate Cake

La Bartola Menu

La Bartola Menu Overview at 588 College Street Toronto ON Canada - Authentic Vegan Mexican Cuisine Highlights from Starters to Desserts and Cocktails for Foodies and Trendsetters in Toronto ON Canada 

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant College Street, La Bartola offers an innovative plant-based Mexican dining experience that captivates food lovers and vegan enthusiasts alike. This stylish restaurant merges traditional Mexican flavors with modern vegan techniques, creating an unforgettable tasting journey that is both authentic and daringly fresh. 

Begin your meal with the Tetela, a delightful starter crafted from non-GMO heirloom corn, layered with creamy refried beans, topped with rich vegetarian cheese, and finished with crisped onions for an elegant crunch. This appetizer perfectly balances authentic Mexican tradition with plant-based creativity, setting the stage for the courses ahead.

The star of the main dishes is the Mole Blanco, a sumptuous plate featuring a luscious white mole sauce enveloping tender plant-based protein. The complexity of the mole’s flavor profile offers a rich, velvety experience that highlights the depth of Mexican culinary tradition without compromising on vegan principles.

Sweeten your dining experience with the Oaxacan Chocolate Cake, a decadent dessert made from rich Oaxacan chocolate and plant-based ingredients. This indulgent treat captures the essence of authentic Mexican chocolate delights while adhering to the vegan ethos of the restaurant.

La Bartola also impresses with a curated selection of cocktails and mocktails that perfectly accompany the menu’s bold flavors. Whether you indulge in a signature La Chalupa mocktail or explore other seasonal specials, each drink is crafted to enhance your dining atmosphere on the charming back patio or within the trendy interior.

 – Every dish is prepared from high-quality, plant-based ingredients honoring Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.

 – From starters to desserts, the menu is a celebration of creative vegan Mexican dishes that excite the senses.

 – Enjoy your meal in a cozy setting with outdoor patio seating that complements the vibrant flavors on your plate.

Discover La Bartola, a vibrant restaurant in Old Toronto serving delicious food on College Street. Experience the taste of Toronto!

La Bartola: Vibrant Restaurant in Toronto, ON

Toronto Municipality

La Bartola

A special tasting menu titled 'One Night in Oaxaca' featuring dishes like Hoja Santa Tamal with Mole Negro and Oaxacan chocolate ice cream.

Tasting Menu

La Bartola: vibrant vegan Mexican dining in toronto's college street district 

Nestled at 588 College Street in Toronto, La Bartola invites you to experience a dazzling array of plant-based Mexican delights that celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Oaxaca. This vibrant restaurant stands out for its commitment to authentic flavors, innovative vegan dishes, and a lively ambiance that perfectly suits foodies, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers exploring Old Toronto.

For those eager to dive deep into Oaxacan-inspired vegan cuisine, the $75 tasting menu is a stellar choice. Carefully curated to showcase the best of La Bartola's kitchen, it offers a parade of memorable dishes like the signature moles with complex, smoky undertones and innovative plant-based twists. Guests rave about the 'lion's mane steak' and the vibrant tacos, delivering bold flavors with every bite.

No Mexican meal is complete without tortillas, and La Bartola serves freshly made corn tortillas crafted from non-GMO heirloom corn imported directly from Mexico. Priced affordably at $5, these handmade tortillas add authenticity and a deliciously fresh base for tacos, making them a must-try item that perfectly complements any dish or cocktail.

La Bartola is celebrated not only for its food but also for its thoughtfully crafted cocktails like the refreshing La Chalupa mocktail. The back patio offers a gorgeous outdoor seating experience, perfect for soaking up Toronto’s vibrant street energy. Friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance every visit, guiding guests through the menu with enthusiasm and care — making reservations a wise move to secure your spot.

 that honors tradition with a vegan twist.

 perfect for enjoying cocktails and warm Toronto evenings.

 from knowledgeable staff passionate about Mexican cuisine.

Ontario

Experience authentic vegan Mexican dishes at La Bartola in Toronto's Old Toronto neighbourhood. Enjoy plant-based tacos, moles, and vibrant ambiance.

La Bartola Toronto - Vegan Mexican Cuisine & Oaxacan Flavors

Discover La Bartola in Toronto, offering authentic vegan Mexican dishes, housemade tortillas, and vibrant atmosphere. Book now for a unique dining experience.

La Bartola Toronto - Best Vegan Mexican Food & Tacos

Explore La Bartola in Toronto for innovative, plant-based Mexican cuisine inspired by Oaxaca & Mexico City. Perfect for vegan food lovers seeking authentic flavors.

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