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burgers and diners, cheap eats toronto, eating out in toronto, greek food, greek town, greek town restaurants, gyro and souvlaki, restaurants in toronto, toronto dining, toronto greek town, toronto tourism
I’m often asked from both out-of-towners and locals about where to dine in Toronto. And although I’m always flattered that some would look to me for a recommendation, I always take a few minutes to respond. I’m not one to steer someone wrong. But here’s the thing.
It’s a loaded question. Toronto is huge! And what’s more, it’s got several thousand restaurants to choose from. Menus, Chefs and in turn quality of food change all the time. With so many factors, it’s tough to pick and tougher to recommend.
That being said, I’ve decided to start by answering questions about where to dine in one of the most popular Toronto strips: Greek Town on the Danforth.
I’m not going to talk about the area itself other than to say, it’s loaded with cafes, boutiques and restaurants, festive all year round (but especially in the summer), and of course safe. Bottom line, if you’re planning to go to Toronto’s Greek Town, you’ll have a great time.
Now to the good stuff: where to eat. Especially on the cheap.
Here’s my Top 5. And by all means, this list is not the gospel. Well, actually it is…it’s my gospel. Feel free to critique my list, suggest other restaurants I may have overlooked or even create a list of your own…which would end up being your gospel.
#5 - Detroit Eatery 
Why go?
Besides the obvious inexpensiveness of the whole thing, the Eatery has a lot of history. Its walls are shrouded with both recent and past hockey paraphernalia and autographed pictures. It’s small and a no nonsense kind of diner where you get a kick ass burger and if you’re lucky a chance to pose with the Stanley Cup itself, which has made an appearance at the Eatery several times over the years (Go Red Wings).
How much am I looking at?
Burger with fries and a drink will probably run you about $5- $10.
Where?
389 Danforth Avenue, Subway: Chester station.
#4 – Louis Meat Market 
Why go?
Virtually no line-ups, quick, friendly and personable service. Oh ya, and a big, delicious portion. The Meat Market isn’t a bar, it’s a market/restaurant which serves up some of the best Gyro this side of Corfu. So why did I put it at #4? Don’t get me wrong I hate waiting in line, but I think we can all agree that waiting is all part of the experience of going out. I like a festive atmosphere with waiters jumping around, people walking by, the whole shebang. Otherwise, it’s just like eating at home. If you’re looking for great food and a bit of small talk with little else, then Louis is for you.
How much am I looking at?
Chicken/Pork Gyro and a pop will cost you about $7.
Where?
449 Danforth Avenue, Subway: Chester station.
#3 - Square Boy
Why go?
You wanna talk about institutions? A place where generations of people have come and shared good times over an old-fashioned style burger, fries with gravy and a real chocolate shake?
2 words: Square Boy.
The concept is simple: Order a Home Burger (preferred considering it’s home-made, seasoned and transformed into a giant, thick and juicy burger just like mama use to make…or in this case a wise old Greek man), with fries. After ordering, move casually to the left where you wait a few minutes before telling the straight up guy behind the counter what you want on your burger. Tzatziki sauce is available and I highly recommend you add it to your toppings. Of course, burgers aren’t the only thing on the menu. Chicken/pork souvlaki on a bun or pita is good too and if you’re extra hungry, you can order a whole chicken fresh off the rotisserie for about $10 bucks! That being said, the portions are beyond big. Add it all up and you get lineups that sometimes go out the door.
How much am I looking at?
Depending on how hungry you are, a home burger with fries and a drink will add up to about $8-$10. Or just get the whole chicken and feed the family for about the same cost.
Where?
875 Danforth Avenue, Subway: Donlands Station.
#2 - Asteria Souvlaki Place
Why go?
Because it seems like this place is only known and frequented by locals. And when I see locals frequent a place, I know it’s good. In many ways, Asteria is a typical Greek restaurant. More than likely a family run business for years, it’s the kind of place where you’ll see old framed shots of the Parthenon decorate the wallpaper. It’s not fancy by any means but it’s still got some atmosphere. Not to mention a team of dedicated and very experienced older Greek men behind the counter, who are all business all the time. I’ve never, not even once, ever seen any of them talk to each other. The bonus here is that there are no secrets. The kitchen itself is along the window, you can peek inside and see what exactly is on the grill and who exactly is preparing the dishes. If you believe that the best cooks are men, then this is your spot. And they don’t go small either; portions will fill you up good. Popular here is the Chicken souvlaki dinner with giant chucks of meat, and a bunch of sides to choose from such as fries, rice and of course the ever popular, lemon potatoes.
How much am I looking at?
This place is the priciest on my list. But then again you get the most meal here. Chicken Breast souvlaki or Pork Souvlaki on a Pita or Bun will run you about $5- $6. But if you want something bigger and more filling, try the Chicken Souvlaki dinner with sides which will cost you about $12-$15.
Where?
292 Danforth Avenue, Subway: Chester station.
#1 - Messini 
Why go?
Big portions at great prices with plenty of atmosphere, quick service and open all night, or at least it seems to be. This place made its presence felt almost immediately after coming on the scene. People have flocked here from the start and haven’t stopped. At lunch time, it’s busy. At dinner time, it’s busier. On the weekend it’s hopping. After midnight it’s jumping. How do they keep up with the demand? Having about 5 Gyro spits going at once, at all times of the day and night. The Greek salad is crisp, green and fresh. The Gyro is packed thick and juicy. But the other big draw here are the Greek Fries. Sliced potatoes topped with olive oil, oregano and feta cheese which is broiled on top for that extra gooey deliciousness.
How much Travel Mammal?!
The salads will run you anywhere from $6-$8. If you have a Pork, Chicken or Lamb dinner, you’re looking at anywhere from $11- $12.50. A Chicken Gyro topped with onions, tzatziki, tomatoes and french fries will cost you $5 and those Greek Fries I mentioned about $4.
Where?
445 Danforth Avenue, Subway: Chester station.
There’s our list of the cheapest eats on Toronto’s Greek Town.
Do you have other suggestions? Know of a place we may have missed? Don’t keep it to yourself. Let us know. Spread your gospel of cheap eats in this area of Toronto.
I am now living in Prague where the Greek food is sadly lacking. After 10 years on Paros its good to know when I get to Toronto I will be able to eat well.
By the way, in our travels a lot of the good people we meet happen to be from Toronto and environs. It must be a great place to live.
Hi Michael thanks so much for your note!
Yes Toronto is a fantastic place to live, especially in the summer in my opinion. Lots of great energy and plenty of festivals to enjoy. There are thousands of great restaurants from all ethnicities. When you come here, you will eat well.
Many people here continuously speak of Prague and its stunning beauty. I aim to go one day to Prague very soon…as well as Paros.
Drop by and feel free to comment again anytime.
Thanks!