Toronto is a haven for foodies, boasting a diverse range of cuisines from all over the world. However, dining out in this bustling metropolis can often come at a hefty price. Fear not, food lovers! We’ve scoured the city to find the best new cheap eats in Toronto that won’t break the bank. From street food to hidden gems, these affordable culinary hotspots will satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet.
Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto
Street Food
1- The Original Falafel
Nathan Phillips Square The Original Falafel is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal on the go. Located in Nathan Phillips Square, this street food vendor serves up some of the best falafel sandwiches in the city. Their signature sandwich comes loaded with crispy falafel balls, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tahini sauce, all stuffed into warm pita bread. This Middle Eastern gem is perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack.
2- Banh Mi Boys
Queen West Banh Mi Boys on Queen West is a local favourite for delicious Vietnamese-style sandwiches. These sandwiches are made with freshly baked baguettes stuffed with fillings such as lemongrass chicken, pork belly, and tofu. They also have vegetarian options available. In addition to the banh mi sandwiches, they serve other Vietnamese-inspired dishes like steamed bao buns and vermicelli bowls.
3- Buster’s Sea Cove
St. Lawrence Market Located at the historic St. Lawrence Market, Buster’s Sea Cove is a seafood lover’s paradise. Their menu features a variety of seafood favourites like lobster rolls, fish and chips, and clam chowder. The portions are generous, and prices are affordable, making it the ideal spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
4- La Bella Managua
Dufferin Grove La Bella Managua is a hidden gem in the Dufferin Grove neighbourhood, serving authentic Nicaraguan cuisine. Their menu features dishes like Gallo Pinto, a traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, and Rondon, a hearty seafood stew. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and friendly service make it an excellent spot for a relaxed meal with family and friends.
5- Pai Northern Thai Kitchen
Duncan Street Pai Northern Thai Kitchen on Duncan Street is another hidden gem that offers traditional Thai street food. Their menu includes classic dishes like Pad Thai, green curry, and Khao Soi noodles. The portions are generous, and prices are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a casual dinner out.
6- Seven Lives Tacos Y Mariscos
Kensington Market Seven Lives Tacos Y Mariscos is a popular spot in the trendy neighbourhood of Kensington Market, serving up delicious and authentic Mexican street food. Their menu includes tacos, burritos, and ceviche made with fresh seafood like shrimp and octopus. The portions are generous, and prices are affordable, making it an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
7- Doom ie’s
Parkdale Doomie’s in Parkdale is a vegan junk food heaven serving indulgent comfort classics like burgers, onion rings, and mac and cheese. Their menu also features vegan versions of meat favourites like chicken wings and ribs. The portions are large, and prices are affordable, making it an excellent spot for a casual night out with friends.
Fresh Restaurants
Various Locations Fresh Restaurant is a chain of vegetarian restaurants with several locations throughout Toronto. Their menu features healthy and flavorful dishes like bowls, wraps, and salads. They also offer smoothies and juices.
Toronto’s best cheap eats
Banh Mi Boys – This Vietnamese sandwich shop offers delicious banh mi sandwiches for under $10. Their menu also includes tacos, steamed bao buns, and kimchi fries.
Seven Lives Tacos – This Mexican street food spot is known for its delicious tacos, with prices ranging from 4−6. They also offer other Mexican specialties like quesadillas and tostadas.
Rasta Pasta – This Caribbean-Italian fusion restaurant offers unique dishes like jerk chicken pasta and curry shrimp linguine for under $10.
The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles – This spot offers delicious fried chicken and waffles for under $10. They also offer other chicken dishes like chicken sandwiches and chicken tenders.
Salad King – This Thai restaurant offers large portions of delicious noodles and curries for under $10. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
P.G. Clucks – This fried chicken spot offers sandwiches and plates for under $10. They also offer unique sides like mac and cheese bites and fried pickles.
Dumpling House – This Chinese restaurant offers delicious dumplings and noodle dishes for under $10. They also offer vegetarian options.
These are just a few of the many great cheap eats in Toronto. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian, Mexican, or Caribbean cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this diverse city.
If you’re looking for more options, here are a few other highly-rated cheap eats restaurants in Toronto:
Completo: A South American sandwich shop that offers creative sandwich combinations and a bright patio for dining.
Aunty Lucy’s Burgers: A burger joint serving delicious and affordable burgers.
La Salumeria: An Italian deli that offers sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.
Messini: A Greek restaurant serving gyros, souvlaki, and other traditional Greek dishes.
Bi Bim Bap: A Korean restaurant serving bibimbap, bulgogi, and other Korean dishes.
Gold Standard: A vegan restaurant that serves burgers, fries, and other vegan dishes.
Babu: An Indian restaurant serving curries, tandoori chicken, and other Indian dishes.
Cici’s Pizza: A pizza chain that offers affordable pizzas.
The MoMo House: A Nepalese restaurant that serves up momos, curries, and other Nepalese dishes.
Istanbul Shawarma: A Turkish restaurant serving shawarma, kebabs, and other Turkish dishes.
FAQ – Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto
Q: What are the best new cheap eats in Toronto?
A: Some of the best new cheap eats in Toronto include Banh Mi Boys, Seven Lives Tacos, Salumi Bar, Kinton Ramen, The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles, The Stockyards, and La Carnita.
Q: How much do these Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto restaurants cost?
A: These restaurants offer affordable options for those on a budget, with most dishes priced under $15. Some restaurants, like Seven Lives Tacos and The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles, offer individual items for under $5.
Q: What types of cuisine can I find at these Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto restaurants?
A: These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, Japanese, Southern-style, BBQ, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Q: Are vegetarian and vegan options available at these Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto restaurants?
A: Yes, many of these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Be sure to check their menus for details.
Q: Are these restaurants located in downtown Toronto?
A: Most of these restaurants are located in or near downtown Toronto, making them easily accessible for locals and visitors.
Q: Can I make reservations at these Best Cheap Eats in Toronto restaurants?
A: Some of these restaurants accept reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to check their websites or call ahead for more information. Salumi Bar and Kinton Ramen accept reservations, while Seven Lives Tacos and La Carnita are first-come, first-served.
Q: Are these Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto restaurants open late?
A: Some of these restaurants are open late, but be sure to check their hours of operation before visiting. For example, Seven Lives Tacos is open until 11 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends, while The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles is open until 3 a.m. on weekends.
Q: What are some other affordable food options in Toronto?
A: Other affordable food options in Toronto include Pizzeria Libretto, Big Fat Burrito, and Pai Northern Thai Kitchen. Pizzeria Libretto is known for its delicious Neapolitan-style pizza, while Big Fat Burrito offers a range of Mexican dishes, including burritos and tacos. Pai Northern Thai Kitchen serves authentic Thai cuisine at affordable prices.
Q: Are these restaurants kid-friendly?
A: Most of these restaurants are family-friendly and have menu options catering to kids.
Q: Do these restaurants offer takeout?
A: All these restaurants offer takeout options for those who prefer to dine at home.
Q: Are these restaurants accessible by public transit?
A: All these restaurants are located near major transit lines and are easily accessible by public transit.
Q: Are there options for people with dietary restrictions?
A: Yes, many of these restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. It’s always best to check with the restaurant directly before ordering to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
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