A new list of the 50 best restaurants in North America gives the title to Chicago, but two Canadian restaurants also made the podium.
Smyth in Chicago came out on top, rising from number five on last year’s list. Second was a new entry to the top 50, Eight restaurant in Calgary. Taking the bronze medal was renowned Pearl Morissette in Lincoln, Ontario (Niagara Region). Pearl Morissette was named Canada’s best restaurant a few weeks ago.
The U.S. had 36 spots in the top 50, while Canada had a very solid 14 (and five of the top ten).
Smyth in Chicago is named The Best Restaurant in North America at the North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 awards, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, held in New Orleans on May 28th.
In the States, New York City led the way with 13 entries; more than 25% of the total. San Francisco, Washington D.C., which has a growing reputation for great food, and Los Angeles each had four, while New Orleans and Philadelphia each had two entries in the top 50.
In Canada, Montreal had four spots in the top 50, while Toronto had three and Vancouver had two. Whistler and Collingwood, Ontario each had an entry, as did Quebec City.
Chicago has long been known as having some of the best restaurants in the U.S. I haven’t been to Smyth, but I’ve had tremendous meals in Chicago in the past.
Here’s the top 10:
- Smyth, Chicago
- Eight, Calgary
- Pearl Morissette, Lincoln, Ontario
- Dakar NOLA, New Orleans
- Mon Lapin, Montreal
- Albi, Washington D.C.
- Atomix, New York City
- Quetzal, Toronto
- Taniere3, Quebec City
- Cesar, New York City
Editor’s note: The list actually is only for Canada and the United States. Mexico was not included, nor was the Caribbean or Central America. Which means the list is quite misleading. Still, it’s useful/interesting for many travellers.
PARKS CANADA TRUMPETS ECONOMIC IMPACT
Parks Canada welcomed 26.2 million visitors in 2025-26 from over 100 countries to enjoy some of Canada’s most memorable tourism experiences in some of the world’s most iconic natural and cultural heritage destinations. Further, visitors to Parks Canada administered places spent $6.5 billion in communities located in or near national parks and national historic sites, resulting in a direct contribution of $5.9 billion to Canada’s GDP, which represents $16 million every day in communities across the country. This is an increase of 45% since 2023.
Spectacular Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park, B.C. – JIM BYERS PHOTO
This success can be credited in part to the Canada Strong Pass which provides free admission to Parks Canada administered places, as well as a 25% discount on camping and roofed accommodations. Parks Canada has seen a steady increase of visitors over the last several years, allowing for the development of new and innovative programs and services that enable more Canadians, including youth and newcomers, to experience the outdoors and learn about the environment and history.
Canada’s national parks are one of the best things about this country. Big or small, they are vital pieces of the Canadian puzzle and hugely important icons that help knit this massive nation together. I’ve probably been to more than 100 national parks and historic sites in ten provinces and Yukon over the years, and they’re all terrific.
A TAHITIAN TREAT
