Summer in Toronto is prime time for restaurant openings, and 2016 was no exception. From fast-casual Filipino, BBQ and delis to fancy poolside establishments, here's a new crop of restaurants to try before the weather cools and you go into hibernation.

These are my picks for the top new restaurants in Toronto.

Lena
Argentinian food is the focus at the new O&B restaurant inside Saks. Chef Anthony Walsh pays tribute to his mother-in-law with a menu that features family recipes. Find comfort food, like pollo dona aurora, pan di miga and patatas bravas, on the menu.

Lasa
The Lamesa team opened this kitchen on St. Clair that's dishing out Filipino dishes, like adobo, kare kare, lechon kawali and silog in a casual setting.

Lavelle
This rooftop, poolside restaurant made a big splash this summer with its luxurious setting and refined menu from chef Romain Avril. Brunch, lunch, dinner and dessert are all available. Must tries include the tuna tartare and seafood platters.

J&J Bar-B-Que
Central Texas-style BBQ is the specialty at Kensington Market's new smokehouse. The menu of pit-smoked delicacies includes snappy sausages, drool-worthy brisket, ribs, monstrous beef ribs and more.

Her Father's Cider
This cider house in Harbord Village is so much more than just a bar. Sure the rotating taps pouring local craft cider are impressive, but so too are the offerings from the kitchen. These include lobster salad, fried chicken and mini raclette.

98 Aroma
Among the many restaurants in Chinatown is this new one serving northern Chinese food, including garlicky stir fried cauliflower, pan fried pork buns and garlic shrimp.

Three Hands
Go here for the death mango wings and octopus salad but stay here for the good vibes and libations. This Dundas West bar that replaced the much-loved Henhouse is a welcome new addition for late night food and cocktails.

Canis
Reserve a table four for to tackle the whole 15-dish menu, featuring highlights like beef tartare sprinkled with magic dehydrated kale dust and crispy roasted duck for two.

Piano Piano
Acclaimed chef Victor Barry switched his focus this year when he closed the ultra-fancy Splendido to open this approachable Italian joint. Find pizza, pasta and family-style feasts on the menu.

When The Pig Came Home
I'm still dreaming about the sandwich I ate at this European delicatessen in the Junction. The menu bills porchetta and peameal, but the standout sandwich is easily the hand-carved, Montreal smoked beef cheeks, a major upgrade on the classic deli meat.

Photo of Lena by Jesse Milns.