12 retro spots for greasy spoon breakfasts in Toronto

Dec 16 2017, 12:30 pm

Vinyl booths, chrome fixtures, and massive blue plate specials — there’s something about stepping into Toronto diners that’ll have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.

From the traditional diner decor to the delicious comfort food, here are 12 of the best old school diners serving breakfast in Toronto.

Harry’s Charbroiled

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After 48 years as a neighbourhood institution this Parkdale diner was taken over by acclaimed Toronto restaurateur, Grant Van Gameren and team who have carried on the old school diner tradition with only a few modest upgrades.

When: Everyday 10 am to 2 am
Where: 160 Springhurst Avenue, Toronto

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Hazel’s

Hazel's Diner

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Hazel’s Diner is a go-to destination for a traditional diner grub and breakfast time is no exception. Settle into vinyl booths and order the early bird special—two eggs, toast, bacon and home fries for just $6.99 between 7 am to 11 am.

When: Monday to Saturday, 7 am to 4 pm; Sunday 9 am to 4 pm
Where: 523 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto

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The Bus Terminal Diner

The Bus Terminal Diner

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With a red and white checkered floor, bright turquoise booths, and retro vibe, Bus Terminal Diner is one of the oldest diners in the Danforth neighbourhood. It has been around since 1948 and after a brief closure in 2016, the restaurant reopened last December with a new made-from-scratch menu.

When: Everyday 8 am to 4 pm
Where: 1606 Danforth Avenue, Toronto

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Detroit Eatery

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On the Danforth, check out this no-thrills joint where loyal customers return again and again for the reliable greasy spoon standards and generous portions. This diner offers a tavern-type feel where ordering beer is always acceptable.

When: Everyday 9 am to 10 pm
Where: 389 Danforth Avenue, Toronto

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Avenue Open Kitchen

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This old-school diner has been around since the ’50s serving up classic Canadian comfort foods including a delicious peameal bacon sandwich that goes for just $6.75.

When: Monday to Friday, 7 am to 4 pm; Saturday, 8 am to 3 pm; Sunday closed
Where: 7 Camden Street, Toronto

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Ted’s Restaurant

ted restaurant

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Located in a remote area just outside of the city, Ted’s Restaurant is adored by locals for its greasy breakfast and old-school charm. With brick walls, lots of knick-knacks and outdated decor, Ted’s is simply a classic.

When: Monday to Saturday, 7 am to 7:30 pm; Sunday 8 am to 3 pm
Where: 404 Old Kingston Road, Scarborough

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Chew Chew’s Diner

Chew Chew's Diner

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Located in the heart of Cabbagetown, this railway inspired diner offers all-day breakfast with huge portions. From the menu, the All Aboard and Conductor’s specials are always a popular choice. Come before 11 am on weekdays and get a free cup of coffee, home fries and toast with any entree purchase.

When: Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 8 pm; Sunday, 8 am to 3 pm
Where: 186 Carlton Street, Toronto

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Fran’s Restaurant & Bar

Fran's Restaurant & Bar

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With multiple locations across Southern Ontario, Fran’s Restaurant is a family owned and operated diner that has been around since the 1940s. Best known for their Banquet Burger which was created by owner Fran Deck, this place offers a variety of breakfast foods that will have your mouth watering!

When: Sunday to Thursday, 6 am to 12 am; Friday to Saturday, 6 am to 1 am
Where: 
33 Yonge Street #104, Toronto

When: Open 24 hours
Where: 20 College Street, Toronto

When: 200 Victoria Street, Toronto
Where: Open 24 hours

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The Senator

The Senator Restaurant

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Claiming to be the oldest restaurant in Toronto, The Senator first established in 1929, has been at its current location on Victoria Street for decades. The vibe is swanky jazz club-turned retro diner and the menu here deals in classics: pancakes, eggs, bacon, etc.

When: Monday, 7:30 am to 2:30 pm; Tuesday to Friday, 7:30 am to 9:00 pm; Saturday, 8 am to 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 9 pm; Sunday, 8 am to 2:30 pm
Where: 249 Victoria Street, Toronto

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Patrician Grill

Patrician Grill

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Another longtime restaurant in Toronto that will be sure to inspire some old school nostalgia is the Patrician Grill. This St. Lawrence Market-area diner has been around since the ’50s serving up pancakes, omelets, and hearty bacon-egg breakfasts.

When: Monday to Friday, 7 am to 4 pm; Saturday, 8 am to 2 pm; Sunday closed
Where: 219 King Street East, Toronto

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Mars Food

Mars Food

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First established in 1951, and not much has changed since! The decor here is all original though the menu has seen a few upgrades in recent years. Go for delicious greasy spoon options like eggs any style, Belgian waffles, and the signature corned beef hash.

When: Everyday 6:30 am to 4 pm
Where: 432 College Street, Toronto

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Markham Station

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@waycho0/Instagram

Open 24-7, this Scarborough diner is a go-to for hearty, affordable breakfasts at any hour. Here the expansive menu can satisfy any and all cravings ranging from pancakes to burgers and beyond.

When: Open 24 hours
Where: 5117 Sheppard Avenue East, Scarborough

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See also

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