Waterloo’s dining scene is full of surprises if you know where to look. Beyond the obvious chains and campus favorites lies a treasure trove of hidden gems that locals guard jealously. These are the unassuming spots tucked into strip malls, the family-run operations that have been quietly perfecting their craft, and the newcomers creating buzz through word-of-mouth alone. From a Vietnamese bao bar that’s redefining street food to an authentic Japanese sake bar that transports you straight to Tokyo, these hidden gems represent the true heart of Waterloo’s culinary diversity. Whether you’re a University of Waterloo student seeking your next study spot or a local foodie ready to expand your horizons, these restaurants offer exceptional food, genuine hospitality, and the kind of authentic experiences that make dining memorable.
Quick Comparison
| Restaurant | Rating | Price | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Korner Kitchen | 4.6 | $$ | Weekend Brunch |
 | Mimo Thai Kitchen | 4.6 | $ | Authentic Thai |
 | Gol’s Lanzhou Noodle | 4.4 | $$ | Hand-Pulled Noodles |
 | Shawerma Plus | 4.4 | $$ | Mediterranean |
 | Bao Sandwich Bar | 4.3 | $ | Vietnamese Street Food |
The Complete List
For a deeper dive, here are the full profiles, insider tips, and signature dishes for all 10 of Waterloo’s best hidden gem restaurants.
Korner Kitchen
This cozy breakfast spot has earned a devoted following with its elevated comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. Their Smoked Meat Hash is legendary among locals, featuring perfectly seasoned potatoes topped with tender smoked meat and perfectly poached eggs.
Mimo Thai Kitchen
Tucked away on Spruce Street, this authentic Thai kitchen serves some of the most flavorful and traditional dishes in the region. The intimate setting and consistently excellent food have made it a favorite among those seeking genuine Thai flavors.
Gol’s Lanzhou Noodle
This specialized noodle house brings the art of hand-pulled Lanzhou noodles to Waterloo. Watching the noodle masters at work is almost as satisfying as eating their perfectly chewy, fresh noodles in rich, aromatic broths.
Shawerma Plus
This Mediterranean gem elevates the shawarma experience with high-quality ingredients and unique touches like their signature pomegranate molasses. It’s a cut above typical fast-casual Middle Eastern spots.
Bao Sandwich Bar
This trendy Vietnamese spot has revolutionized the bao game in Waterloo with their pillowy soft steamed buns stuffed with creative, flavorful fillings. As one reviewer noted, ‘their soft and fluffy baos are stuffed with super fresh and flavourful fillings!’
The Poké Box
This Hawaiian-inspired spot serves some of the freshest poke bowls in the region. One enthusiastic reviewer declared it the ‘BEST POKE BOWL EVER!’ and explained it perfectly: ‘basically a bowl of sashimi (sushi) toppings topped with Rice or veggies. DELICIOUS.’
Ken Sushi
This neighborhood sushi spot creates a ‘very relaxing environment’ with ‘nice and polite and bright’ service, according to regulars. The quality consistently impresses, making it a reliable choice for fresh sushi in a welcoming atmosphere.
Watami Sushi & Sake Bar
This authentic Japanese restaurant creates an immersive experience that transports diners to Japan. One customer who visited with a Japanese co-worker noted: ‘I felt like I was stepping into a restaurant in Nagoya or Tokyo. Very authentic experience.’
Princess Cafe
This charming cafe has earned rave reviews for what one customer called the ‘Best sandwiches in the Province.’ They use high-quality ingredients and have created a loyal following among locals who appreciate their attention to detail.
Cafe 22
Despite its simple appearance, this small cafe has earned an impressive 4.6-star rating from those who’ve discovered it. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that locals love to keep to themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on our research, Korner Kitchen stands out as the top hidden gem with its exceptional weekend brunch and signature Smoked Meat Hash. With a 4.6-star rating, it perfectly balances quality food with a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
For budget-friendly options, Mimo Thai Kitchen and Bao Sandwich Bar both offer exceptional value with $ pricing. Mimo Thai serves authentic Thai dishes in an intimate setting, while Bao Sandwich Bar revolutionizes Vietnamese street food with creative, flavorful baos.
For celebrations, Watami Sushi & Sake Bar provides the most authentic Japanese experience, transporting diners straight to Tokyo. Mimo Thai Kitchen also offers an intimate, romantic atmosphere perfect for date nights with its cozy setting and exceptional Thai cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Waterloo’s hidden gems prove that the best dining experiences often come from the most unexpected places. From authentic international cuisines to elevated comfort food, these restaurants represent the true spirit of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Start exploring – your new favorite spot is waiting to be discovered.