Grab and go lunch spots in the Beaches
This city is as diverse in culture as it is in landscape, and the eclectic cuisine in the Beaches is a great example of Toronto's culinary variety. Take a stroll along Queen Street East and discover these casual lunch spots, just a few steps away from the lake. [Image credit: iStock.com/PamelaJoeMcFarlane]
Hogtown Smoke Restaurant
1959 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1H7It’s rustic, modern, and truly old-school rolled into one at this Queen East smokehouse. Open for lunch seven days a week, Hogtown Smoke specializes largely in Southern-style dishes with a modern spin. Think: pulled chicken served with potato salad and baked beans, Cuban-inspired pulled pork, smoked brisket, beef short ribs, and smoked chicken wings. Oh, and bourbon. Did we mention they boast a stacked selection of bourbons on the menu?
Yumei Sushi
2116 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4E 1E2Got a hankering for a lunchtime sushi feast? This mom-and-pop sushi restaurant in the Beaches in a neighbourhood favourite. A compact but inspired interior creates the calm, casual vibes of Yumei, while sushi boats stocked with oh-so-fresh sashimi (including salmon belly), bibimbap, lunch combo specials, and both the standard rolls and unique maki creations attest to the solid reputation of this long-time spot.
Recipe Unlimited
1636 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1G3This burger joint has become somewhat of a cult favourite in Toronto. The Burger’s Priest offers a homemade take on popular fast food. The simple menu focuses on the patties, which are made fresh daily. The Beach location is tiny but perfect for take-away, whether you're headed back home or to the beach with friends. For vegetarians, The Option offers two roasted, breaded and deep-fried Portobello mushrooms that sub for the beef.
Burrito Bandidos
1614 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1G3Burrito Bandidos was born when Ian Angus split ways with Burrito Boyz, a massively successful restaurant he founded. Feeding hungry customers from multiple locations across Toronto, this spot offers mixed meat options and some great guacamole. Who doesn’t like a little Mexican inspired fare for the beach? This packed tortilla will keep you on-budget and ready for the next great thing, from boardwalks to beach volleyball.
Tori's Bakeshop
2188 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4E 1E6If you're looking for grab-and-go lunch options free of dairy, egg, casein and sugar, Tori's Bakeshop is for you. While the entire menu is not entirely free of these ingredients, all options are natural, organic and made with love. Choose from bakeshop favourites such as pies, breads and cookies – but don’t miss out on the delicious sandwich options that are perfect for on-the-go lunch. The grilled cheese is a top pick, as it seems locals can’t get enough of it.
Beaches Bake Shop
900 Kingston Rd, Toronto, ON M4E 1S5Owner Anna Tvinnereim wants her love of food, community and friendship to shine through in everything the bakeshop does. Having studied nutrition, Anna creates Scandinavian-inspired options that are healthy and delicious. These take-away suggestions are perfect for picnicking at the beach. Choose from quiches, quinoa salads, soups and more. You can also balance out your nutritious meal with a mouth-watering Swedish cinnamon bun – in Toronto these are some of the most authentic rolls around.
Sanna's Farmacia Organic Juice Bar
2096 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4E 1E1For a light option that is full of all the good stuff – vitamins, nutrients, fibre – Farmacia Juice Bar is your place. What’s more refreshing and rejuvenating than a fruity juice or smoothie? Former physical trainer, Stefano Sanna, will help you find just what you need. If you’re looking for something more filling, try a protein smoothie or add a baked goodie. A whole lot of care goes into each creation, so stop by for a delicious concoction.
