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4.6(298 Reviews)

General Public Restaurant

General Public is inspired by trying to imagine what an upscale English pub would be if it had the heart of an American brasserie (and was open 11 to 11). It’s also going to signal a little bit of steakhouse, but not too much. And finally, it will look behind itself at The Black Hoof, because too often we forget all the paths we took to get where we are — a small chop of nostalgia is always welcome, but we won't ever overwhelm with the whole pig — some things, like a poorly functioning home hood and no credit cards are best left to our memories. In terms of vibe, the main floor is ‘everything’s gone green’, with lush banquette seating, warm wood, and barstools designed for long conversations over many cocktails. Upstairs you’ll find a completely different space that transports you to a peachy 80s dream. Somehow these two halves make perfect sense, and complement each other in a seamless conversation, where neither wins the argument, but you really do have to see it!

4.5

404 Reviews

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By Danielle W on May 24, 2026 Verified by Business

Wonderful, top tier service at General Public. This was a celebratory meal for us, and the team went above and beyond to make us feel special. The experience, from the food/ wine/champagne pairings were exquisite.a great reminder of what makes the Toronto food scene so special: outstanding attention to detail with authentic and unpretentious service.

By Danielle W on May 24, 2026 Verified by Business

Wonderful, top tier service at General Public. This was a celebratory meal for us, and the team went above and beyond to make us feel special. The experience, from the food/ wine/champagne pairings were exquisite.a great reminder of what makes the Toronto food scene so special: outstanding attention to detail with authentic and unpretentious service.

By shiva golchi on May 18, 2026 Verified by Business

We’ve been here twice. Once for dinner and once for the Sunday Roast. Both experiences were great. The chef knows what they’re doing! We used to live in England and I was craving a proper Sunday roast for ages and it didn’t disappoint! It was the real deal. Even better! Paired with a perfect bloody merry 🤌

By Bredgy L. on Apr 24, 2026 Verified by Business

Follow @bredgyeats for more food posts!

Once you’ve feasted here, you’ll begin to appreciate the texture you can hear, the balance that’ll make you cheer, and the subtle thrill of flavour executed wonderfully here. The evening opens with the Bluefin Carpaccio, quietly exuding its luxury. Thin ribbons of bluefin tuna nearly dissolve on the tongue, cured just enough to coax out its sweet, gentle umami. A whisper of malt vinegar mayo adds a mellow tang, meeting the sweet crunch of pickled shallots for balance. The fruity olive oil envelops the fish in silk, while the parmesan crisps bring the necessary texture and sharp, savory contrast and an herbal lift of lovage. Following with bolder flavours, the finely minced Lamb Tartare is impossible tender and seasoned with purpose: salt, gentle heat, and perfume of Kashmiri spice. Each bite hums with curry warmth, cooled by dollops of mint-coriander yogurt. On the side, poppadums crackle at the light touch, adding a crisp and aromatic bite. However, the burger is a nod to pure indulgence. The patty, juicy and full-bodied, leans on marrow for an extra layer of buttery richness while maintaining a proper meaty chew. The melted cheese - a mellow, cheddar/leicester blend - melts seamlessly into the patty, blanketing it in savory comfort, just like how the plush sesame brioche bun hugs your palate with its faint sweetness and eggy aroma. Then, the Branston pickle cuts through the richness with sweetness and subtle crunch.

I wasn’t sure what a pie made of tongue and tail would entail. What stood out was the pastry - golden, flaky, and layered with buttery precision. But beneath it was a thin mix of tender tongue and oxtail stewed in a stout-infused gravy with carrots and mushrooms, bringing an intriguing malty, deep, faintly bitter savory aroma. The Mushroom Schnitzel is a surprise standout for those meat-lovers. A lion’s mane mushroom, flattened and breaded, delivers a crisp shell that yields to a juicy, bouncy interior. Its flavour blooms when dragged through the pool of grenobloise - a buttery caper sauce that adds a flash of acidity and salinity. A side of pomme puree brings indulgence, impossibly smooth and rich with butter yet still distinctly potato-forward. The brown butter here leans soft and subtle, letting the mushroom lead. The finale arrives with a bang, yet lingers long after the plate is cleared. The toffee is molten and buttery, sweet but never cloying, carrying notes of vanilla and roasted nuts. Fresh banana slices bring fruity creaminess, while a layer of dark, fudgy chocolate deepens the sweetness into something elegant. The whipped cream is featherlight, and the biscuit crust - crumbly, buttery and faintly salted - ties it all together with a satisfying contrast of textures. Each dish feels thought out, every flavour deliberate. The highs are quietly spectacular; even the missteps come with intent. Run, don’t walk, as this place is open to the General Public.

By Bredgy L. on Apr 24, 2026 Verified by Business

Follow @bredgyeats for more food posts!

Once you’ve feasted here, you’ll begin to appreciate the texture you can hear, the balance that’ll make you cheer, and the subtle thrill of flavour executed wonderfully here. The evening opens with the Bluefin Carpaccio, quietly exuding its luxury. Thin ribbons of bluefin tuna nearly dissolve on the tongue, cured just enough to coax out its sweet, gentle umami. A whisper of malt vinegar mayo adds a mellow tang, meeting the sweet crunch of pickled shallots for balance. The fruity olive oil envelops the fish in silk, while the parmesan crisps bring the necessary texture and sharp, savory contrast and an herbal lift of lovage. Following with bolder flavours, the finely minced Lamb Tartare is impossible tender and seasoned with purpose: salt, gentle heat, and perfume of Kashmiri spice. Each bite hums with curry warmth, cooled by dollops of mint-coriander yogurt. On the side, poppadums crackle at the light touch, adding a crisp and aromatic bite. However, the burger is a nod to pure indulgence. The patty, juicy and full-bodied, leans on marrow for an extra layer of buttery richness while maintaining a proper meaty chew. The melted cheese - a mellow, cheddar/leicester blend - melts seamlessly into the patty, blanketing it in savory comfort, just like how the plush sesame brioche bun hugs your palate with its faint sweetness and eggy aroma. Then, the Branston pickle cuts through the richness with sweetness and subtle crunch.

I wasn’t sure what a pie made of tongue and tail would entail. What stood out was the pastry - golden, flaky, and layered with buttery precision. But beneath it was a thin mix of tender tongue and oxtail stewed in a stout-infused gravy with carrots and mushrooms, bringing an intriguing malty, deep, faintly bitter savory aroma. The Mushroom Schnitzel is a surprise standout for those meat-lovers. A lion’s mane mushroom, flattened and breaded, delivers a crisp shell that yields to a juicy, bouncy interior. Its flavour blooms when dragged through the pool of grenobloise - a buttery caper sauce that adds a flash of acidity and salinity. A side of pomme puree brings indulgence, impossibly smooth and rich with butter yet still distinctly potato-forward. The brown butter here leans soft and subtle, letting the mushroom lead. The finale arrives with a bang, yet lingers long after the plate is cleared. The toffee is molten and buttery, sweet but never cloying, carrying notes of vanilla and roasted nuts. Fresh banana slices bring fruity creaminess, while a layer of dark, fudgy chocolate deepens the sweetness into something elegant. The whipped cream is featherlight, and the biscuit crust - crumbly, buttery and faintly salted - ties it all together with a satisfying contrast of textures. Each dish feels thought out, every flavour deliberate. The highs are quietly spectacular; even the missteps come with intent. Run, don’t walk, as this place is open to the General Public.

By KVL Explorer on Apr 08, 2026 Verified by Business

Went for lunch at this elevated British-style restaurant and had a great experience. The menu is simple but very well executed, with a clear focus on quality ingredients. There are nice French influences throughout, along with subtle Indian flavors that add a unique twist to the dishes.

The portions were well balanced, leaving you satisfied without feeling too heavy, and everything we tried was delicious. Service was flawless—attentive, polished, and genuinely welcoming.

A refined yet approachable spot that delivers on both flavor and experience.

By KVL Explorer on Apr 08, 2026 Verified by Business

Went for lunch at this elevated British-style restaurant and had a great experience. The menu is simple but very well executed, with a clear focus on quality ingredients. There are nice French influences throughout, along with subtle Indian flavors that add a unique twist to the dishes.

The portions were well balanced, leaving you satisfied without feeling too heavy, and everything we tried was delicious. Service was flawless—attentive, polished, and genuinely welcoming.

A refined yet approachable spot that delivers on both flavor and experience.

By Rhea V on Feb 26, 2026 Verified by Business

We visited General Public for happy hour and were immediately struck by the beautiful interior. The burger was stacked with a hearty patty, melted Red Leicester and cheddar, caramelized onions, and a punch of tangy Branston pickle. The fries were perfectly crisp on the outside, tender inside.
We found the service attentive and friendly. Altogether, an enjoyable visit

By Rhea V on Feb 26, 2026 Verified by Business

We visited General Public for happy hour and were immediately struck by the beautiful interior. The burger was stacked with a hearty patty, melted Red Leicester and cheddar, caramelized onions, and a punch of tangy Branston pickle. The fries were perfectly crisp on the outside, tender inside.
We found the service attentive and friendly. Altogether, an enjoyable visit

By David on Feb 17, 2026 Verified by Business

Service and ambience was fantastic however the food for me left more to be desired for the price point. Blue fin tuna had these cheese crips which I swear are from Costco. Lamb tartar was very gamey and texture slightly slimey. Chicken pot pie had a very strong cheese I believe which left a weird after taste.
The best thing was probably the fries. Super delicious.

Interesting food to try out, but not something I'd rave to my friends about.

By David on Feb 17, 2026 Verified by Business

Service and ambience was fantastic however the food for me left more to be desired for the price point. Blue fin tuna had these cheese crips which I swear are from Costco. Lamb tartar was very gamey and texture slightly slimey. Chicken pot pie had a very strong cheese I believe which left a weird after taste.
The best thing was probably the fries. Super delicious.

Interesting food to try out, but not something I'd rave to my friends about.

By Byron J on Feb 15, 2026 Verified by Business

Went here for Valentine’s Day. What wonderful staff and meal. They really took care of us the entire night given dietary restrictions.The drinks were novel and tasty. Had the bubbles and bump caviar for a tiny luxury. Ribeye steak melted in your mouth and we shared it. Will definitely come again for special event. Absolute class…

By Byron J on Feb 15, 2026 Verified by Business

Went here for Valentine’s Day. What wonderful staff and meal. They really took care of us the entire night given dietary restrictions.The drinks were novel and tasty. Had the bubbles and bump caviar for a tiny luxury. Ribeye steak melted in your mouth and we shared it. Will definitely come again for special event. Absolute class…

By OneQt Piesam on Jan 17, 2026 Verified by Business

Went for brunch. Service and decor excellent. The pace of the meal was very slow. Waited 30 min for a roast beef sandwich and my eggs Benny. Which was overcooked and had to send back. They were gracious and got me another. Sadly the home fries were inedible. So greasy. The coconut hollandaise was also gross. It was probably the worst benny I have ever had. Sweet? Could have used some sort of bacon as well to balance it. Just soggy greens. The roast beef was nicely cooked but very soggy on the bottom. Again the fries were very greasy. Not my taste. Sadly I don’t think I’d return.

By OneQt Piesam on Jan 17, 2026 Verified by Business

Went for brunch. Service and decor excellent. The pace of the meal was very slow. Waited 30 min for a roast beef sandwich and my eggs Benny. Which was overcooked and had to send back. They were gracious and got me another. Sadly the home fries were inedible. So greasy. The coconut hollandaise was also gross. It was probably the worst benny I have ever had. Sweet? Could have used some sort of bacon as well to balance it. Just soggy greens. The roast beef was nicely cooked but very soggy on the bottom. Again the fries were very greasy. Not my taste. Sadly I don’t think I’d return.

By Alex Ego on Nov 16, 2025 Verified by Business

Lovely! Light crisp flavours. I can say I’ve never tried anything like the dishes here.

If I could: I’d make the menu more approachable.
Every dish had a sophistication that discouraged you from stuffing your mouth. The dishes are masterfully put together; but why not focus on the subtle flavours of your supreme produce instead of gimmicking with ingredients we can’t pronounce?

By David Y on Oct 18, 2025 Verified by Business

Many people have raved about this place, so I'm in the minority here in thinking it was just ok. Not sure if it was the heightened expectations or personal tastes, but was left a bit disappointed. Stopped by for dinner and got:
- Bread Basket: Good variety, came in warm.
- GP Burger: Was expecting a more elevated taste on the burger patty given the bone marrow. The cheese blend was drool-worthy good. The bun was nicely springy.
- Rainbow Trout Tartare: Fresh, liked all the nuts, and loved how strong the butter undertone was.
- Popcorn Clams and Mussels: Too much batter and too deep fried for me to appreciate the clams or mussels.
- Black Cod: Delicately cooked, though a tad on the bland side.
- Malt Chips: I'm not joking or being snide when I say this was my favourite dish of the meal. The chips were thick, perfectly crisped on the outside and milky on the inside. The beef fat mayo was an indulgently perfect dipping sauce.
- Charred Broccolini: Overly salty for my tastes.
- Banoffee Pie: Great whipped cream, like how the caramel wasn't overpowering, would have liked just a smidge more banana.
- Negroni: Smooth and refreshing.

Service was attentive, friendly and efficient. Kitchen was relatively quick. We sat on the second floor counter area overlooking the main dining area, giving it almost a theatrical feel. The entire place is casually beautiful and has a great-night-out vibe.

While not for me, can see why the general public love this place.

By Michelle on Sep 30, 2025 Verified by Business

Love this place! Don't miss out on their breakfast menu, especially their breakfast sandwich (which is topped with a hashbrown and silky delicious Red Leicester queso) and my favourite, their bruleed porridge. The porridge is totally unique to anything I've ever ordered in a restaurant and it's phenomenal! It's a must get. I've also had the masala eggs and can vouch they're also very good.

The restaurant is beautifully designed and decorated from top to bottom, down to every last detail. The service was also great! Can't wait to come back again soon.

By Michelle on Sep 30, 2025 Verified by Business

Love this place! Don't miss out on their breakfast menu, especially their breakfast sandwich (which is topped with a hashbrown and silky delicious Red Leicester queso) and my favourite, their bruleed porridge. The porridge is totally unique to anything I've ever ordered in a restaurant and it's phenomenal! It's a must get. I've also had the masala eggs and can vouch they're also very good.

The restaurant is beautifully designed and decorated from top to bottom, down to every last detail. The service was also great! Can't wait to come back again soon.

By Izabela on Sep 13, 2025 Verified by Business

Finally made our way to GP last night for dinner. Firstly, I am obsessed with the mascot and need them to sell merch - I would buy it all. Ambience was amazing though a little loud at times for table conversation (but just squished a little closer in our booth to solve the problem). The black cod as promised was the standout dish. We tried several of the cocktails and found they all had their own unique twist - I had a very hard time deciding each round. My only minor complaint is that all the meaty large plates were ice cold (steak and pork chop) not sure if that was the intention. Fries were also a must try based on the reviews I read and did not disappoint. Both desserts were exceptional and I would be remiss not to mention the bathroom lighting and decor. An earlier reviewer suggested bringing your phone to the bathroom for a must-have selfie - thank you random reviewer 🙏🏻

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Q. Where is General Public Restaurant located?

General Public Restaurant is located at 201 Geary Ave in Toronto , ON and serves great food and drinks in Toronto

Q. How do I contact General Public Restaurant?

You can contact General Public Restaurant by calling 4165711788 or visiting their website at http://generalpublic.ca/ You can also email them at info@generalpublic.ca