5 best burger spots in Toronto based on Google reviews
Aromas of patties simmering on the grill, a perfectly topped burger, and the sensation of sinking your teeth into that first bite are just a few of the things we associate with our favourite Toronto burger joints.
But these spots are more than places to get our burger fix; they’re an integral part of our small business community. Aside from adding a sense of vitality to our local neighbourhoods, they’re places that have gradually become a part of our lifestyles.
Restaurants in Toronto and across the country are battling the challenges of the pandemic as they arise, and they need our support more than ever. From October 18 to 24, Small Business Week is taking place in Canada, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to support local.
Since it’s tough to narrow down the top spots among our city’s food scene, we’ve rounded up the five best burger spots based on Google reviews.
Johnny’s Hamburgers
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The epitome of the classic burger, Johnny’s Hamburgers is basically a local institution at this point. Its charcoal broiled burgers have a distinctive taste — one that’s been perfected in the 50-plus years since the burger joint first opened its doors in Scarborough in 1967. The minimalist menu is reminiscent of another era, but keeping it simple is part of what allows them to do what they do best. For the full experience, make your takeout order a loaded cheeseburger, a milkshake, and a side of gravy fries before fully embracing the food coma (it’s worth it).
Google Review: “I have been going to Johnny’s for over 30 years and they never disappoint me. I moved to the US and every time I come back this is one of my first stops.”
Address: 2595 Victoria Park Avenue
Phone: 416-491-7222
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Top Gun Burgers
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The self-proclaimed mission of this popular Kensington Market spot (among its several other locations) is restoring the lost art of gourmet hamburgers using innovation and craftsmanship. As you’ve probably surmised, Top Gun Burgers approaches burger-making with passion and precision. As far as they’re concerned, frozen patties are sacrilege. As such, this burger joint only serves fresh, local ingredients and homemade burgers made with Canadian prime beef.
Taking a stance against bland flavours, the quirky menu features burgers topped with everything from pico de gallo, to chipotle aioli, fried eggs, and cheddar stuffed portobello mushrooms — all available for takeout or delivery directly from their website.
Google Review: “This place is amazing. The burgers are not only unique, but also very tasty. There was definitely no compromise in taste despite their large and crazy menu.”
Address: 251 Augusta Avenue
Phone: 416-593-2777
Address: 1960 Lawrence Avenue East
Phone: 416-792-9440
Address: 2761 Markham Road
Phone: 647-344-7883
Address: 16 Jutland Road
Phone: 416-251-2777
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The Burgernator
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It’s hard to believe Kensington Market is big enough to house not one, but two of the city’s top spots for indulging in the ultimate fast food staple. But The Burgernator takes a slightly different approach. In their quest to rid the city of half-hearted and overcooked burgers, this spot serves up nothing but the best.
Available for pickup or delivery, the menu is teeming with adventurous choices, including their “Burgers of Mass Destruction,” which incorporate creative toppings like grilled pineapple, mango salsa, rosemary aioli, and their signature Burgernator sauce. Those looking for beef alternatives will still find plenty to enjoy, like the grilled Atlantic salmon, grilled cajun chicken, and vegan burger patties.
Google Review: “Amazing food, you can taste the freshness of the ingredients. Great service too, very friendly and welcoming. I will be back for sure!”
Address: 269 Augusta Avenue
Phone: 647-748-0990
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Apache Burgers
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This legendary West End burger joint has been a family endeavour for over 40 years. Consistency is the name of the game here and those who have been patronizing this spot for years (maybe even decades) will likely attest to the fact that the taste has never changed. Even the classic neon sign that emblazons the outside of the restaurant has remained untouched throughout all these years.
Drop by Apache Burgers for takeout with a retro flair that’s akin to stepping into a time machine and being transported to the ’70s. But don’t mistake their no-frills offering as being synonymous with plain — after all, there’s a reason they’ve stayed in business for this long.
Google Review: “Apache is a staple joint around this neighbourhood. I’ve been coming here for the past 20 years and the service, food, staff has always been exceptional. If you’re in need [of] some late night foods, this is the place to go!”
Address: 5236 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke
Phone: 416-233-3046
Woody’s Burgers
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As the name suggests, what’s truly distinctive about what’s cooking at Woody’s Burgers is the unbeatable flavour of their Canadian hardwood burning grill. At this Etobicoke spot, processed ingredients have been outlawed in favour of fresh toppings and local, farm-raised cattle. Every single one of their 7 oz burgers is hand pressed on the daily before being grilled to perfection and served up on a toasted bun. Their eccentric menu — up for grabs in the form of takeout or delivery — includes gorgonzola stuffed beef patties, tandoori turkey, bison burgers, a veggie option, and a slew of creative specialty burgers.
Google Review: “The most supreme place to grab burgers. [Patties] so juicy and fresh that they will stay in your memory forever.”
Address: 3795 Lakeshore Boulevard West, Etobicoke
Phone: 416-546-2093
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Whether you’re already a fan of one (or more) of the aforementioned burger spots or if you’re eager to sample their menu offerings soon, showing some love with a Google review of your experience goes a long way for the owners — and fellow Torontonians.
In 2019, a BrightLocal survey reported that 91% of consumers say positive reviews make them more likely to use a business. And by adding a detailed description of the service, photos of the food, or a quick star rating, you’re also doing a good deed for local businesses at a time when it’s needed most.
To learn more about how to give and get help as a consumer or business owner during Small Business Week and beyond, check out smallbusiness.withgoogle.com.
Note, this list does not include chains and only includes businesses that have a verified Business Profile on Google.
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