Founded in 1959 by Harry Barberian, Barberian’s began as a tribute to the art of charcoal-grilled steak and has since grown into a cherished Toronto landmark. Rooted in a passion for quality food, fine wine, and Canadian history, the restaurant preserves its 1860s building and houses a vast Canadiana art collection amassed over 65 years. From its iconic two-story subterranean wine cellar to its original and expanded dining rooms adorned with historic artifacts, sculptures, and Group of Seven paintings, Barberian’s offers more than just a meal—it offers a rich, immersive journey through Canada’s cultural legacy.
1959
Harry Barberian saw a chance to showcase his love for a great charcoal grilled steak in his own restaurant, sharing his dedication to quality. He also wanted to share his love of Canadian history by preserving the character of the original building that houses the restaurant that was built back in 1860. The Canadiana Art collection that has been collected by the Barberian’s family over the last 65 years is a testament to their love and preservation of Canada’s history.
1961
Harry’s beloved charcoal grill which used to be at the front of the restaurant was relocated to the back of the building so an additional front dining room could be added to accommodate a growing clientele.
The back dining room extension was built to accommodate the ever increasing client demand. If you build it, they will come!
1969
2006
Harry’s dream, along with his son Arron’s, was to build a large wine cellar that could accommodate their massive wine inventory.
A two-story subterrainian wine cellar with a 30 foot ceiling was built where the parking lot used to be located. The wine cellar houses up to 30 000 bottles of red wine.
The cellar morphed into an dining space shortly thereafter where many guests have dined and celebrated milestones over the last 20 years.
It displays classic Canadiana and tell the early history of our nation through sculpture, paintings and material history. A bust of explorer Samuel de Champlain (1567-1635) honors the man who in 1608 founded the colony that would become Quebec.
At the entrance to the restaurant there is a copy of the Globe newspaper dated July 1, 1867; the day Canada became a country. A wooden statuette of Sir John A. MacDonald is one of two known to exist of Canadas first Prime Minister and Father of Confederation. The other was a treasured part of former Prime Minister John G. Diefenbaker’s private collection.
2025
Barberian’s is host to numerous treasures that celebrate the skill and diversity of Canadian artists. There are excellent examples of works by the Group of Seven and their best-known contemporaries. It was the Group of Seven who established the bold, distinct style that characterized a new and truly Canadian landscape art in the first decades of the 20th century.
Ontario scenes are predominant in our collection with works by A.Y. Jackson, Lawren Harris, Franz Johnston, A.J. Casson and many others, however all areas of Canada are represented. From “Mile 100”, Haines Road, Yukon by Collier to a rare oil depicting “Peggy’s Cove” by Nicholas Hornyansky. Among the artifacts and antiques are one of the original clocks made in Canada, a long case by I.
Twiss, authentic coal oil lamps, Inuit carvings, pre-Confederation money including coins and currency issued by the Hudson’s Bay Company and an extensive collection of firearms. These firearms include rifles used by the Hudson’s Bay Company for the fur trade and guns used by both sides during the Riel rebellion and the War of 1812.
The newest additions to the Barberian collection are appropriately displayed in the newest dining room. The interests of the second generation of restauranteur Barberians are reflected in the extensive collection of vintage photography by Canadian, American and French photographers.
Striking black and white images that celebrate the themes of food and wine are a fitting backdrop to the auiet eleaance that is the newest wina of Barberian’s. In 1959 Harrv Barberian started a restaurant to share his enthusiasm for great food, fine wine, and an ambiance that stimulates.
His family, staff and friends still work to keep Harry’s vision alive and his collections growing. We hope that you will take the time to enjoy it when you visit us and that we’ll see you again and again.
Arron Barberian is the steward of one of Canada's most iconic dining institutions who took over operations of Barberian's back in 1994.
Arron is very passionate about not only providing excellent food to his guests, but also passionate about providing great wines. His wine cellar houses one of the largest collections of cellar wine in all of Canada and boasts an inventory of over 30 000 bottles and our wine list is 110 pages long. There is something for everyone!
Arron not only upholds his family's legacy in hospitality, but is also widely recognized for his extensive charity work. He has raised millions of dollars for causes that are near and dear to his heart, including Holland Bloorview Foundation, Sinai Health Foundation and Jays Care Foundation to name a few. His innovative thinking, philanthropy and dedication to both business and community have made him an admired and highly respected figure in Toronto and beyond.
Photo Credit: Moon Creative and Liora Kogan
Barberian’s has been serving legendary charcoal-grilled steaks and fine wine since 1959. Rooted in Canadian history, the restaurant offers a timeless dining experience surrounded by art and tradition.
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