Ayla Upstairs
794 Dundas St W 2nd Floor, Toronto, ON M6J 1V1, Canada
Phone: (647) 340-4999
Website: http://www.aylaupstairs.com/
Ayla Upstairs in Toronto is a 4.6-star restaurant with 184 Google reviews, known for Chrysanthemum Caesar and Prawn Toast Okonomiyaki.
Why we love it
- Hong Kong fusion with Caribbean influence
- Intimate space, unique decor, cozy room
- Attentive service with knowledgeable staff
- Hong Kong fusion with Caribbean influence
- Located nearby
- Intimate space, unique decor, cozy room
- Attentive service with knowledgeable staff
What to Order
Chrysanthemum Caesar
This isn't your average Caesar; it's a generous portion featuring a unique blend of bitter greens, miso, pecorino, and sesame dressing.
"The chrysanthemum caesar was great. As someone who’s usually averse to veggies, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. It’s a generous portion, but very shareable for two people and easy to eat. The balance of bitterness, salt, and umami worked well with the miso, pecorino, and sesame."
A.J.
Prawn Toast Okonomiyaki
A creative take on prawn toast, this appetizer is crunchy and familiar in flavor but presented in a fun, different way.
"The prawn toast okonomiyaki was a great appetizer too, crunchy and familiar in flavour but presented in a fun, different way."
A.J.
Ibérico Char Siu
Tender and glazed, this BBQ pork offers a sweet and savory depth of flavor, often served with a chimichurri.
"The char siu was tender, glazed, and sweet with lots of depth."
A.J.
Drunken Wild Sablefish / Miso Sablefish
This fish dish is consistently praised for its tender texture and rich flavor, often complemented by a brown butter sauce and pickled accompaniments.
"The Drunken Wild Sablefish should spoil you for fish forever."
C FG
HK Risotto
An inventive and well-executed risotto, often featuring oxtail and a unique flavor profile that some describe as Chinese-style congee.
"The risotto with oxtail and the drunken sablefish were equally delicious too."
S G
Typhoon Shelter Mushrooms
These mushrooms are celebrated for their umami-centric flavor and fragrant garlic crunch, making them a standout side dish.
"A highlight for us was the Typhoon Shelter Mushrooms, with their umami centric flavour and fragrant garlic crunch."
Ryan J. Chan
HK Style Egg Custard
A refreshing and not-overly-sweet dessert, often featuring pomelo and sago for a delightful finish to the meal.
"Desert (egg custard) was exceptional, don't miss it!"
Avner Levin
Lychee Cocktail
A surprisingly delicious and well-balanced cocktail that perfectly complements the unique flavors of the food.
"I ordered the lychee cocktail, and it was far better than I expected — absolutely delicious!"
Yeon Yun
Inside Scoop
- Consider the 10-dish tasting menu for a comprehensive experience, as portions are generally small.
- The front deck/patio is a highly sought-after spot in warmer weather.
- The chefs are often involved in the service, sometimes serving dishes themselves.
- Be prepared for small, "bite-sized" portions, which are designed for tasting and sharing.
- The restaurant can get very warm if the patio door is left open during hot weather.





