These 24-hour diners and restaurants are here to satisfy any craving around the clock, whether it’s burgers, eggs benny or cocktails. Many of the restaurants play a pivotal role in Toronto’s food scene, and have become institutions where diners flock to eat again and again. Here are some of Toronto’s best restaurants that are always open. [Photo credit: Courtesy of the Thompson Diner]
Yes, Boon Dock Saints was filmed at The Lakeview, but there’s so much more to this restaurant than cinema nostalgia. Diners, Drive-ins and Dives seem to agree, featuring the iconic restaurant in one of its episodes in 2014. The Lakeview has been an important institution for Hollywood North and hungry Torontonians since it first opened its doors in 1932. The menu has everything would expect a classic diner to have – burgers, all-day breakfast, sandwiches and more. Plus, the Caesars are only $4.
Located on the ground floor of the luxe-Thompson Hotel, the Thompson Diner is frequented by sophisticated diners, looking for a burger (or mac and cheese). It’s known for its signature cocktails, like the boozy milkshakes, and the comfort food menu. The Thompson Diner is chic, comfortable and serves up some delicious diner cuisine!
When Old School opened at Dundas and Bathurst in 2015, it promised to be a local hangout spot open 24 hours a day. You can tell it delivered on its promise due to the long wait times on the weekend. The eclectic décor in combination with the killer menu makes Old School a pretty cool spot to enjoy a diner-style meal.
Looking for a quick bite before your flight? No matter what time of day you’re taking off, Zet’s is open 24 hours! The quick-serve restaurant has become so popular there are lines going out the door! Zet’s serves classic diner food like all-day breakfast, burgers, salads and poutine. The most popular menu item is the souvlaki dinners!
There is no doubt about it, Fran’s is an iconic 24-hour diner. First opened in 1940, the diner has humble beginnings. It started as a 10-stool counter at Yonge and St. Claire and has since grown into a casual dining behemoth, and an essential must-try at the CNE each year. Try the infamous Banquet Burger, which features a half-pound patty topped with melted Canadian cheddar and bourbon maple bacon. Two out of the three locations are open 24 hours a day.
7 West isn’t like the other 24-hour establishments on this list. First, it’s located in the chic Yorkville neighbourhood, and second, you can impress your date here. The romantic atmosphere is a favourite among city dwellers, who also keep coming back for 7 West’s Italian-infused diner menu.
Located in Etobicoke, The Grille serves up North American-style comfort food 24 hours a day. The menu includes breakfast staples like omelettes and French toast, plus sandwiches, burgers and steaks. The Grille is also available for private functions.
Fan favourite Owl of Minerva has 10 locations across the GTA and three in Toronto. The Korean restaurant has been known to attract the “student-life” crowd due to its super lower prices. Its known for the casual atmosphere and steaming hot bowls of pork bone soup. Word is that Owl of Minerva is thinking of expanding, south of the border.
A melting pot of cuisines, Kayagum serves mostly Korean and Japanese items. The Korean barbecue is served around the clock, while the Japanese dishes are served in the afternoons into the evening. The Japanese side of the menu includes a selection of sushi and sashimi, and on the Korean side of the menu you’ll find Pork BulGoGi Dolsot, SoMoRi GukBap and more.
Those craving Korean barbecue can now get it 24 hours a day, at Huh Ga Ne. The Korean spot is home to some of the best Korean barbecue in the city; the restaurant is swarming with locals from the North York ‘hood, so you know it’s good. The menu includes authentic dishes like Jun Man Du, Bibim Bap and Kim Chi Chi’Gae.