Assembly Chef's Hall

Assembly Chef's Hall is Toronto's premier food hall and one of the smartest family dining choices in the city. Located at 111 Richmond Street West in the Financial District, this 18,000-square-foot space brings together some of Toronto's most talented chefs and restaurateurs, each operating their own counter-service stall with a focused, high-quality menu.

The concept is simple but brilliant for families: instead of negotiating over one restaurant, everyone walks to a different counter, orders what they want, and meets back at a shared communal table. The variety spans global cuisines — ramen from a Japanese specialist, tacos from a Mexican chef, BBQ from a pitmaster, poke bowls, fried chicken, bao buns, sushi, Middle Eastern plates, and more. Each stall is run by a serious culinary professional, which means the food quality is a significant cut above a typical food court.

For families with picky eaters, dietary restrictions, or simply different moods, this format eliminates compromise entirely. The child who only eats plain noodles, the teenager who is into sushi, the parent craving BBQ, and the toddler who will eat whatever is put in front of them can all be satisfied simultaneously. It is the ultimate family dining equalizer.

The space is architecturally impressive — high ceilings, exposed ductwork, communal wooden tables, and an industrial-chic aesthetic that feels curated and intentional. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, which means kids being kids is never a problem. The communal seating format means families can spread out and there is no pressure to order quickly or eat fast.

Practically, the food hall is busiest during weekday lunch hours (12-1:30PM) when the Financial District workforce descends. For families, Saturday lunch is the ideal time — the space is open, the crowds are manageable, and the atmosphere is relaxed. The hall is closed Sundays and Mondays, so plan around those days. Thursday and Friday mornings open at 9AM, offering breakfast options.

The location is PATH-connected, meaning you can reach it through Toronto's underground pedestrian network without going outside — a significant advantage during winter months or rainy days. Nathan Phillips Square, the Eaton Centre, and the Entertainment District are all within a 5 to 10-minute walk.

Pricing is individual per vendor, with most dishes ranging from $12-22 CAD. A family of 4 typically spends $60-100 CAD depending on choices. Portions are generally sized for adults, so younger children can often share with a parent or sibling.

The vendors rotate periodically, which means the food hall rewards repeat visits with new options. Check the website or social media for the current lineup before your visit.