A Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded BBQ spot in the Port Lands — Cherry Street smokes everything in-house over hardwood and does pit-style brisket, turkey breast, and ribs with a consistency that earned it international recognition.
Neighbourhood: Port Lands (275 Cherry St) · Address: 275 Cherry St, Toronto, ON M5A 3L3 · Hours: Mon–Thu 11:30AM–10PM | Fri–Sat 11:30AM–11PM | Sun 11AM–9PM · Price Range: $$ · Phone: (416) 461-5111 · Website: https://cherrystreetbbq.com · Editorial status: Not yet verified
If you want honest-to-goodness pit barbecue with a Michelin Bib nod, Cherry Street is the real deal. It’s a rare Toronto spot where the brisket is just as good on a Tuesday as it is for a Saturday feast.
Cherry Street is one of very few Toronto BBQ joints that smoke on-site daily with hardwood—no shortcuts. The turkey breast here actually rivals the brisket, and vegetarians aren’t totally left out with their smoked cauliflower steak. Plus, the Port Lands location means lots of space, a sunny patio, and a break from downtown’s crowds.
Cherry Street Bar-B-Que pulls serious smoke cred in Toronto, serving up Texas-style barbecue out of a converted industrial garage right in the Port Lands. Pitmaster Lawrence La Pianta and crew handle brisket, ribs, sausage, turkey, and more, all smoked daily over real hardwood. With a laid-back room, communal tables, and a big patio in warmer months, it’s the kind of place you stick around for another local craft beer and let the woodsmoke soak in. Expect casual counter service and that mouthwatering BBQ smell from the second you park.
Reservations are only accepted for large groups (8+), but walk-ins are almost always fine thanks to the big space.
The brisket plate with all the house-made sides—the pickled onions, slaw, and cornbread are nearly as good as the meat.
Absolutely—large tables, plenty of space, and a chill atmosphere make it great for groups, especially on the patio in summer.
Expect $18–26 for platters, $8–15 for sandwiches, and sides from $4–7; it’s solid mid-range for legit smoked BBQ.
WTF Toronto creates guides using independent editorial research, official sources, local knowledge and firsthand experience where available. Commercial relationships are disclosed where applicable.