A warm Trinidadian and West African fusion restaurant in Scarborough that bridges Caribbean and continental African cooking traditions. The goat curry, jollof rice, and fried plantain bowls combine the best of both — a genuinely unique Toronto dining experience.
Neighbourhood: Scarborough · Address: 1867 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto, ON · Hours: Mon–Thu 12PM–9PM | Fri–Sat 12PM–10PM | Sun 12PM–8PM · Price Range: $$ · Phone: (416) 754-3142 · Website: https://calabashbistroto.com · Editorial status: Not yet verified
It’s hard to find a spot in Toronto that genuinely blends Caribbean warmth with West African classics, and Calabash does it from scratch. The goat curry isn’t just another stew—it’s layered, slow-cooked, and genuinely spicy if you want it.
Scarborough’s got West African, Jamaican, and Trinidadian eats, but very few restaurants merge both regions on one plate. Calabash’s menu is shaped by the owners’ dual heritage and Toronto’s taste for bold, cross-cultural food. It’s one of those places where both the regulars and the new faces are equally at home.
Calabash Bistro brings a mashup of Trinidadian and West African cooking to Scarborough, using family recipes and Toronto-born creativity in equal measure. The small, no-nonsense dining room has lots of colour and the hum of families, groups of friends, and curious solo diners working their way through pepper soup, doubles, and addictive plantains. Owned and run by a pair of siblings who grew up between Lagos and Port of Spain, the kitchen is in good hands—everything is made to order, and the spices are always dialled-in. Don’t expect fancy plating, but do expect dishes that are both familiar and just a little bit new.
Usually not required for small groups, but weekends fill up fast so call ahead if you're more than 4.
The goat curry with jollof rice and fried plantain—the signature blend of both regions.
Yes, tables can usually seat up to 6–8 comfortably; bigger groups should book ahead.
Most mains are $18–$26; starters around $8–$12.
WTF Toronto creates guides using independent editorial research, official sources, local knowledge and firsthand experience where available. Commercial relationships are disclosed where applicable.