20+ Cheap Food & Eats in Toronto
Looking to eat well in Toronto without breaking the bank? You’re in luck. The city has a diverse lineup of spots where you can grab a tasty bite without stretching your budget. From flavorful street snacks to cozy spots serving up generous portions, we’ve put together the best cheap eats across Toronto. Perfect for students, budget travelers, or anyone who appreciates good food without the high cost—this list has your next meal covered. Let’s dig into some affordable and delicious finds around the city!
Best Places to Get Affordable & Yummy Foods in Toronto
Fresca
Fresca is the definition of an old-school pizza joint where you can grab a hot slice without hurting your wallet. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for late-night cravings or a quick bite between classes. The pizzas are crispy, cheesy, and generously topped, making each slice worth every penny.
- 302 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 1R9
- (416) 922-9555
- https://www.instagram.com/frescapizzatoronto/
Cabano’s Cheeseburgers
Cabano’s Comfort Food is a cozy spot on St. Nicholas Street, known for serving some of the city’s best comfort eats like burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and wings. Their menu includes crowd favorites like the Cabano Burger, featuring and their fried chicken sandwiches. Don’t miss the chili cheese fries, which are loaded with toppings and creamy American cheese sauce for the ultimate indulgence.
- 75 St Nicholas St, Toronto, ON M4Y 0A5
- https://www.cabanoscheeseburgers.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/cabanos.cheeseburgers/
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Hair of the Dog
Hair of the Dog is a beloved local pub located on Church Street, offering a laid-back atmosphere perfect for brunch, dinner, or drinks with friends. They serve a mix of pub fare and comfort food, with dishes like burgers, pasta, and classic brunch items such as eggs benedict. The restaurant is known for its spacious patio and cozy interior, making it a go-to spot for both sunny afternoons and relaxed evenings. With friendly service and a solid selection of craft beers and cocktails, Hair of the Dog has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike for years.
- 425 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C3
- (416) 964-2708
- https://hairofthedogpub.ca/
- https://www.instagram.com/hairofthedogto/
Allwyn’s Bakery
Allwyn’s is your go-to for affordable Caribbean eats that don’t skimp on flavor. Known for their legendary jerk chicken and flaky Jamaican patties, it’s the place where you’ll find a lineup even on weekdays. Whether you’re picking up lunch or grabbing a snack, the hearty portions will leave you more than satisfied.
- 81 Underhill Dr, Toronto, ON M3A 2J8 / 4750 Yonge Street, North York, M3N 0J6 / 976 the Queensway, Etobicoke, M8Z 1P6 / 404 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A6
- (647) 847-4698 / (416) 479-2848 / (416) 901-1882 / (905) 597-8890
- https://allwyns-bakery.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/allwynsbakery
Logas Corner
You can dig into some of the best momos in the city at Logas Corner. This Tibetan joint is a hit for its juicy dumplings that are packed with flavor. Grab a few steamed or fried momos, and add a side of their signature hot sauce for the ultimate budget-friendly comfort meal.
- 216 Close Ave, Toronto, ON M6K 2V5
- (647) 761-0965
- https://www.instagram.com/logascornerto/
El Furniture Warehouse
A solid pick for broke students and bargain hunters alike, with burgers, sandwiches, and shareable appetizers, it’s easy to eat big without spending big. The lively atmosphere also makes it a popular spot for catching up with friends over a casual bite.
- 410 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1X5
- (647) 350-7326
- https://warehousegroup.ca/locations/el-furniture-warehouse-bloor-st/
North of Brooklyn
Located in the heart of Queen West, North of Brooklyn serves up their signature New York-style pizzas with a perfect thin crust. It’s a small, no-frills spot, making it the ideal place for grabbing a slice to go or enjoying a casual meal with friends. Their pepperoni and mushroom pizza is a crowd favorite, and they use fresh ingredients with just the right amount of char on the crust to keep you coming back for more.
- 650.5 Queen Street West / 469 Church Street / 1728 Avenue Road / 511 Rogers Road / 663 Greenwood Avenue / 229 Geary Avenue
- (647) 352-5700 / (647) 980-7990 / (416) 789-7000 / (647) 358-4800 / (647) 352-1000 / (647) 929-9500
- https://www.northofbrooklyn.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/northofbrooklyn/
Okonomi House
Okonomi House is where you’ll find delicious, fluffy okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes) at student-friendly prices. Their range of toppings lets you customize your meal, and the portions are generous enough to keep you full. It’s the ideal spot for those looking to try something new without paying downtown restaurant prices.
- 23 Charles St W, Toronto, ON M4Y 2R4
- (416) 925-6176
- https://www.instagram.com/okonomihouse/
Mom’s Pan Fried Buns
Mom’s Pan Fried Buns serves up pan-fried dumplings that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Located in Chinatown, it’s a low-key spot for serious dumpling lovers. At just a few dollars per order, it’s easy to indulge in a plate (or two) without a hint of guilt.
- 185 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5G 1C7
- (647) 346-8368
- https://momspanfriedbun.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/momspanfriedbun/
Pennies
Pennies is all about sliders, and their AYCE (All-You-Can-Eat) Wednesday deal is a killer bargain. With a variety of mini burgers, from classic beef to veggie options, you can sample a bit of everything. It’s the kind of deal that makes hump day a lot more bearable.
- 127 Strachan Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2S7
- (647) 748-4800
- https://pennies.bar/
- https://www.instagram.com/pennies.bar/
Queen Mother Café
Queen Mother Café has been a Queen Street West staple for decades, serving up a mix of Thai-inspired dishes and Canadian classics. The cozy interior makes it feel like a home away from home. A great spot for date nights that won’t break the bank!
- 208 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z2
- (416) 598-4719
- https://www.queenmothercafe.ca/
- https://www.instagram.com/queenmothercafe/
Juicy Dumpling
Tucked away in Chinatown, Juicy Dumpling has become a go-to spot for delicious Chinese food and cheap eats. The cozy restaurant is best known for its flavorful soup dumplings, which are perfectly crafted and range from just $3 to $10. Whether you’re a dumpling fan or simply looking for an affordable, tasty meal, this place consistently delivers on quality and value.
- 280 Spadina Ave Unit M-N, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3A5 Canada
- (647) 352-5678
- https://juicydumpling.ca/
- www.instagram.com/juicydumpling.ca/
Alpha’s Shawarma
Alpha’s Shawarma is the perfect spot in Toronto for mouthwatering Middle Eastern cheap eats. Their shawarma is packed with juicy, seasoned meat and fresh toppings and wrapped to perfection.
Ideal for a quick lunch or late-night snack, Alpha’s offers delicious food at prices that keep you coming back. If you’re looking for a satisfying, affordable meal, Alpha’s Shawarma has you covered.
- 598 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1E3
- (416) 504-1598
- https://www.alphasshawarma.ca/
- www.instagram.com/alphas_shawarma/
Buddha’s Vegan
Buddha’s Vegan Restaurant is a top spot in Toronto for delicious, affordable, plant-based Chinese eats. Specializing in vegan twists on classic Chinese dishes, their menu is full of flavorful options, from stir-fries to dim sum, all served in generous portions.
Perfect for a casual meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your wallet, Buddha’s offers the ideal balance between taste and budget. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for tasty, budget-friendly options, Buddha’s Vegan Restaurant is a must-visit for its affordable, flavorful dishes.
- 666 Dundas Street W Toronto, ON M5T 1H9
- (416) 603-3811
- https://www.buddharestaurant.ca/
- https://www.instagram.com/buddhasveganto/
Wilbur Mexicana
Wilbur Mexicana on King West blends fast-casual vibes with the trendy taco joint experience. You order at the counter, grab a craft soda or beer, and enjoy the sleek, modern space complete with big windows and subway tiles.
The highlight of this spot is the self-serve hot sauce bar, with the tangy pineapple-habanero salsa pairing perfectly with the grilled avocado taco topped with cotija cheese and smoky chipotle crema.
The grilled Mexican street corn with crema and cotija is a must-try. However, don’t expect dessert here—it’s all about the savory flavors at Wilbur Mexicana.
- 552 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M3
- (416) 792-1878
- https://www.instagram.com/wilburmexicana/
WVRST
WVRST, located on King West and at Union Station, redefines the beer hall experience with a vibrant atmosphere and a unique twist on German-inspired cuisine.
The menu focuses on a wide variety of sausages, offering everything from classic bratwurst to adventurous options like venison, wild boar, and even kangaroo. What sets WVRST apart is their famous Duck Fat Fries—crispy, rich, and the perfect complement to any sausage.
Beyond sausages, WVRST offers additional treats like giant pretzels, poutine, and vegan options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re after a unique dining experience or simply craving quality comfort food, WVRST delivers great meals at affordable prices.
- 609 King Street West Toronto ON M5V 1M5
- (416) 703-7775
- https://wvrst.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/wvrst/
PG Clucks
PG Clucks is a must-visit for fried chicken lovers in Toronto. It offers some of the crispiest and most flavorful chicken in the city. This small but popular spot is famous for its massive fried chicken sandwiches, which pack a punch without emptying your wallet.
The star of the menu is the signature fried chicken sandwich—juicy, perfectly fried chicken tucked into a soft bun, topped with tangy pickles, and drizzled with house-made sauces.
These hefty sandwiches can be enjoyed on their own, but you can also add sides to create a combo meal for under $20. With bold flavors and generous portions, PG Clucks has become a favorite for those craving a satisfying and affordable meal.
- 610 College St., Toronto, ON M6G 184 / 1112 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1H9
- (416) 539-8224
- https://www.pgclucks.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/pgclucks/
Udupi Palace
Udupi Palace is a beloved spot in Toronto’s Little India, renowned for its authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. Specializing in dosas, idlis, and other traditional dishes, this casual eatery offers a flavorful and budget-friendly dining experience.
The dosas—thin, crispy crepes filled with savoury ingredients—are a must-try, particularly the masala dosa, which comes stuffed with a spiced potato mixture and is served with coconut chutney and sambar on the side.
The menu at Udupi Palace is extensive, featuring a variety of South Indian staples that cater to both newcomers and those familiar with the cuisine. Almost everything is priced affordably, making it easy to enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
The ambiance is simple and unpretentious, allowing the food to take center stage. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Udupi Palace delivers a taste of South India right in the heart of Toronto.
- 1423 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1Z7
- (416) 405-8189
- https://udupipalaces.ca/
- https://www.instagram.com/udupipalacetoronto/
The Momo House
The Momo House is a hidden gem in Toronto, bringing the rich flavours of Himalayan cuisine to the city. This cozy spot serves authentic Tibetan food, with momos (Himalayan dumplings) as its standout dish.
The prices are incredibly reasonable, with most dishes costing between $6 and $12, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy delicious, comforting food without overspending.
- 1422 Queen St. W / 1240 Bay St. Unit 107 / 679 Danforth Ave
- (416) 588-8887 / (416) 964-6060 / (416) 461-0050
- https://www.themomohouse.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/themomohouse.ca/
Nom Nom Nom Poutine
Nom Nom Nom Poutine is your go-to guide for finding the best poutine in Toronto without spending a fortune. We’re all about discovering those hidden gems where you can enjoy cheesy, gravy-covered goodness at budget-friendly prices.
Whether you need a quick bite after a night out or are craving a hearty, affordable meal, this blog highlights the best spots in the city to get your poutine fix. No fancy reviews—just honest, straightforward recommendations for poutine that’s big on flavor and light on your wallet.
- 707 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 2W6
- (647) 636-0707
- https://www.nomnomnom.ca/
- https://www.instagram.com/nnnpoutine/
EGG Sunrise Grill
Egg Sunrise Grill is a go-to spot in Toronto for a hearty breakfast. Think classic diner vibes with big portions—perfect for when you need a good meal to start your day.
Whether you’re into the usual eggs and bacon or craving a stack of pancakes, this place keeps it simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly. Plus, the friendly service makes it feel like your local hangout.
- 1422 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1Y5
- (416) 532-1571
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