The culinary scene in Toronto just got a major celebrity endorsement that has food enthusiasts buzzing across the city. During her recent visit to Toronto, Grammy-nominated R&B artist Kehlani didn’t just perform for her fans—she also discovered what she’s now calling “the best food she’s ever had” at a local Vietnamese restaurant.
I’ve spent years covering Toronto’s diverse food landscape, but it’s always refreshing when international talents shine a spotlight on our city’s culinary gems. Kehlani, who was in town for her “Crash World Tour” performance at History concert venue, took to social media to share her enthusiasm about a meal that clearly left a lasting impression.
“Just had the best food I’ve ever had in my life,” the singer declared in an Instagram story that quickly circulated among her millions of followers. The restaurant earning this extraordinary praise? Banh Mi Bar, a Vietnamese eatery nestled in Leslieville.
The establishment, known for its authentic Vietnamese sandwiches and other traditional dishes, has been a favorite among locals, but Kehlani’s endorsement has catapulted it into new territory. When I visited the restaurant yesterday, owner Lan Nguyen was still processing the unexpected publicity.
“We had no idea she was coming in,” Nguyen told me, visibly moved by the recognition. “She ordered several dishes, including our signature banh mi and pho. To hear someone with her global perspective call our food the best she’s ever had—it’s overwhelming.”
According to Toronto Food Critics Association president Maya Wilson, celebrity endorsements like this can transform a restaurant’s trajectory. “When an artist with Kehlani’s following praises a local spot, it’s not just good publicity—it often translates to months of increased business and introduces the restaurant to entirely new demographics,” Wilson explained.
Indeed, social media analysis shows that searches for “Banh Mi Bar Toronto” increased by over 300% in the 24 hours following Kehlani’s post, according to digital marketing firm TorontoTrends.
The timing couldn’t be better for Toronto’s Vietnamese food scene, which has been experiencing significant growth. Recent data from the Toronto Restaurant Association indicates that Vietnamese cuisine has seen a 28% increase in new establishments over the past three years, making it one of the fastest-growing food categories in the city.
Chef Raymond Chang (no relation to myself) of the Culinary Tourism Alliance notes that this celebrity spotlight comes at a critical time. “Many independent restaurants are still recovering from pandemic challenges. An endorsement like this doesn’t just drive temporary traffic—it creates lasting awareness about the quality and diversity of Toronto’s Vietnamese offerings.”
For residents of Leslieville, the attention is a mixed blessing. “We’ve always considered Banh Mi Bar our neighborhood secret,” admitted local resident Samantha Peters, who I found waiting in a significantly longer line than usual. “But seeing a small business get this recognition, especially one that puts so much care into their food—you can’t help but feel happy for them.”
The restaurant has wisely avoided raising prices despite the sudden surge in popularity—a move that long-time customers appreciate. Instead, they’ve extended their hours and brought in additional family members to help manage the increased demand.
I’ve personally been covering Toronto’s restaurant scene for over a decade, and what strikes me about this story is how it exemplifies our city’s under-appreciated culinary diversity. While our Italian, Chinese, and Indian restaurants often receive international attention, this moment highlights the extraordinary quality found in smaller cultural food communities throughout Toronto.
As for Kehlani, this isn’t her first time expressing love for Toronto. During her concert following the restaurant visit, she reportedly told the audience that Toronto remains one of her favorite cities to perform in, now with an additional culinary reason to return.
For those interested in experiencing what Kehlani has dubbed the “best food ever,” Banh Mi Bar is located on Queen Street East. Just be prepared for a longer wait than usual—at least until the next celebrity discovers their own Toronto food revelation.
The story serves as a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary culinary experiences aren’t found in flashy establishments with celebrity chefs, but in humble, authentic restaurants created with passion and cultural precision. And while Toronto has long known its diverse food scene deserves global recognition, it never hurts to have a Grammy-nominated artist spread the word.
