Of course, we’d all love a leisurely morning to catch up on the news over multiple cups of steaming hot coffee.
But since that’s rarely a reality, here are the best places in Toronto to enjoy breakfast on the run.
Carousel Bakery is a St. Lawrence Market institution is famous for serving peameal bacon in all its glory, and its popular breakfast sandwich doesn’t disappoint! A big fluffy roll topped with peameal bacon, a fried egg and cheese will keep you going until dinner on those busy days. Carousel’s peameal sandwich comes with a serious pedigree and has been reviewed in international publications including Conde Nast Traveler, the Washington Post and The New York Times. If you are staying at the Strathcona Hotel, don’t bother googling “breakfast sandwich near me”: this is your top choice and a Toronto tradition.
Portland Variety is a popular spot for sit-down breakfasts and brunches – but for those hurried mornings, their buttery croissants and top-notch coffee to go are a close second. The café-bar is located in the Entertainment district along the King streetcar route, so you can make a quick stop for breakfast takeout on your way downtown. The charming décor, with marble countertops and chalkboard menus, will make you want to come back for happy hour.
Just up the street, Forno Cultura is one of the best places in the city to experience a true taste of Italy. The third-generation bakers use only authentic ingredients and organic flours to create some of the city’s best pastries, sandwiches and pizzas in their lower-level King Street locale. You can see the magic in action thanks to the glass back wall, behind which busy bakers roll, shape and knead each item to perfection. A new location, Biscotteria Forno Cultura, recently opened in Union Station. Specializing in the Forno’s famous biscotti, the shop also exclusively brews pourover coffee, and allows you to indulge your sweet tooth and your need for caffeine all at once.
If you are in the market for lighter options, juice and smoothie bars in every neighbourhood will fill you up while respecting your detox plan. Some of our favourites include Big Carrot Juice Bar on Danforth – where you can enhance your beverage with superfoods, immune boosters, energy shots or added protein – and Daily Press Juicery on Queen West. If you are looking for lean and clean, a humble juice is the best breakfast in Toronto.
Kupfert & Kim serves up some of the healthiest meals in the city from seven locations including a convenient spot in the PATH. The quick service restaurant’s entire menu is plant based and wheat free, with a focus on fresh produce and hearty organic grains. Smoothie flavours like vanilla cocoa, PB mocha and acai have reached cult status in some circles, and the careful balance of protein, carbs and fat in every meal will leave you feeling energetic and nourished. As an added bonus, all takeout materials are compostable.
York Street Café is located on the lobby level of our hotel, and is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. With pride for our local roots, we serve Reunion Island coffee with our house-made menu items crafted by Chef Tony and his team. Stop by to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, friendly service and the great food of the York Street Café. You can easily enjoy breakfast at the York Street Cafe with our bed & breakfast package!
Toronto is a city on the go, but starting the day off right is easy with these convenient breakfast options for busy mornings.