Toronto, a bustling metropolis known for its diverse culinary landscape, holds a delightful secret for morning meal enthusiasts: a thriving scene of restaurants for English breakfast. As the day dawns, these culinary havens become the epicenter of comfort, offering plates brimming with succulent sausages, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked eggs. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the traditional fry-up or curious to explore what makes the best English breakfast in Toronto, this city’s offerings are a testament to its love for this hearty British staple. Our journey through Toronto’s best restaurants for English breakfast promises to guide you to unforgettable morning feasts. Get ready to dive into a world where each bite tells a story of flavor, tradition, and culinary excellence.
What Constitutes an English Breakfast?
An English breakfast, often hailed as the quintessential start to a day, is a feast that marries both taste and tradition. At its core, this beloved meal typically includes eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. The eggs can be served fried, poached, or scrambled, offering a versatile centerpiece to the hearty ensemble. The bacon is usually thick and crisp, while the sausages are savory and rich in flavor.
In Toronto, restaurants for English breakfast often adhere to these traditional components, but don’t shy away from adding their local twist. Variations might include the addition of black pudding, hash browns, or even regional delicacies like peameal bacon, showcasing the city’s culinary diversity. English breakfast in Toronto can also cater to various dietary preferences, with vegetarian and vegan versions substituting meat items with plant-based alternatives, ensuring everyone can indulge in this hearty meal. Complete your culinary adventure in Toronto by discovering the best brews of bubble tea in Markham.
The charm of an English breakfast lies not just in its substantial offerings but in its ability to bring a taste of British comfort food to Toronto’s dynamic food scene. Whether you’re craving the classic fry-up or seeking out a twist on the traditional, the best restaurants for English breakfast in Toronto serve up satisfying plates that pay homage to this timeless morning ritual. If you ever find yourself craving a cozy morning meal while in Whistler, check out the top breakfast spots in Whistler, British Columbia.
Top 12 Restaurants for English Breakfast in Toronto
- The Old Nick
- The Queen and Beaver Public House
- The Senator
- Mildred’s Temple Kitchen
- The George Street Diner
- Emma’s Country Kitchen
- The Stockyards
- The Lakeview Restaurant
- The Wren
- Le Petit Déjeuner
- Fran’s Restaurant & Bar
- The Ace
The Old Nick
The Old Nick is a beloved spot in Toronto for English breakfast enthusiasts seeking a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its vibrant live music scene and community feel, this restaurant offers more than just a meal; it provides a warm, social experience. Their English breakfast is renowned for its generous portions and traditional flair, featuring all the classic components like succulent sausages, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked eggs. The food quality is consistently praised, with ingredients sourced locally to ensure freshness and flavor. Patrons love the laid-back vibe and attentive service, making it a go-to spot for a relaxed morning feast. The Old Nick stands out for its blend of great food, cultural richness, and friendly ambiance, making it a unique gem among the best restaurants for English breakfast in Toronto.
Address: 123 Danforth Ave. Toronto M4K 1N2.
Contact: 416-461-5546.
The Queen and Beaver Public House
The Queen and Beaver Public House stands out as one of Toronto’s best restaurants for English breakfast, offering a refined take on the classic meal. Known for its upscale, yet unpretentious atmosphere, this gastropub pairs traditional British fare with a modern culinary approach. Their English breakfast is a gourmet experience, featuring high-quality ingredients and a meticulous presentation. Specialties include house-made sausages and artisanal bread, enhancing the traditional flavors. The ambiance is elegant and cozy, with tasteful decor and a welcoming vibe. Service at The Queen and Beaver is top-notch, with staff known for their knowledge and hospitality. This establishment not only serves the best English breakfast in Toronto but does so with a level of sophistication and charm that’s uniquely its own.
Address: 35 Elm St, Toronto, ON M5G 1H1, Canada
Contact: +1 647-347-2712
The Senator
The Senator, one of the oldest restaurants for English breakfast in Toronto, offers a nostalgic journey back in time with its diner-style ambiance and vintage decor. Renowned for maintaining a high standard of food quality, it provides a comforting, traditional English breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients. Their specialties include classic fry-ups with perfectly cooked eggs, thick-cut bacon, and savory sausages, served alongside homemade toast and preserves. The atmosphere at The Senator is warm and inviting, with a history that adds a unique charm to the dining experience. The service is notably friendly and efficient, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike for the best English breakfast in Toronto.
Address: 249 Victoria St, Toronto, ON M5B 1V8, Canada
Contact: +1 416-364-7517
Mildred’s Temple Kitchen
You might also want to explore the top pancake hotspots in the city for a sweet change. Mildred’s Temple Kitchen is celebrated for putting a creative twist on the traditional English breakfast, making it a standout among english breakfast restaurants in Toronto. This place is known for its modern, airy interiors and a welcoming atmosphere that combines elegance with a touch of whimsy. The restaurant takes pride in its innovative menu, offering dishes like the famous “Mrs. Biederhof’s Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes” alongside more traditional English breakfast elements. The quality of the food is exceptional, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Service at Mildred’s Temple Kitchen is attentive and personable, contributing to a delightful dining experience that goes beyond the standard breakfast fare.
Address: 85 Hanna Ave #104, Toronto, ON M6K 3S3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-588-5695
The George Street Diner
The George Street Diner, an iconic establishment among the top restaurants for English breakfast in Toronto, offers a quintessential diner experience with a side of Irish charm. This eatery is famous for its authentic, hearty English breakfasts, featuring all the beloved staples like eggs, sausages, and beans. The diner’s ambiance is cozy and retro, providing a warm backdrop for a satisfying meal. Unique to this place is its selection of Irish specialties, including homemade soda bread and black and white pudding, which adds an international flair to the menu. The food quality is consistently high, with a focus on hearty, comforting dishes. The service is known for being friendly and welcoming, making The George Street Diner a must-visit for those seeking a homey spot for best restaurants for English breakfast in Toronto.
Address: 129 George St, Toronto, ON M5A 2M6, Canada
Contact: +1 416-862-7676
Emma’s Country Kitchen
Emma’s Country Kitchen is a cherished establishment in Toronto, famed for its homely vibe and scrumptious English breakfast offerings. This restaurant is known for its commitment to quality, with a focus on homemade, locally sourced ingredients. Their breakfast menu is a delightful mix of traditional English elements and North American comfort food, featuring dishes like buttermilk biscuits with sausage gravy and classic English fry-ups. The ambiance at Emma’s is warm and inviting, resembling a cozy country home. Service is exceptionally friendly and attentive, enhancing the dining experience. Emma’s Country Kitchen stands out for its delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to quality, making it one of the best restaurants for English breakfast in Toronto. For those who love to follow their morning feast with a stroll, consider visiting St. Clair West in Toronto—a vibrant neighborhood that’s just a short journey from some of the best English breakfast locations.
Address: 810 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6E 1A7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-652-3662
The Stockyards
The Stockyards is the go-to spot for those seeking a top-notch English breakfast in Toronto with a smoky twist. This eatery is celebrated for its barbecue and smoked meats, which are ingeniously incorporated into their English breakfast plates. Think traditional English breakfast elements enhanced with smoked bacon or brisket. The ambiance here is casual and bustling, with a clear focus on delivering high-quality, flavorful food. The Stockyards is known for its fast, efficient service and the quality of its ingredients, ensuring every meal is fresh and satisfying. For a unique take on the classic English breakfast, where smoky flavors meet traditional fare, The Stockyards offers an unforgettable culinary experience. While enjoying the robust flavors of English breakfasts in Toronto, consider pairing your morning tea with a visit to some of the city’s best bagel spots.
The Lakeview Restaurant
The Lakeview Restaurant, with its iconic status and 24-hour service, has long been a staple among restaurants for English breakfast in Toronto. This establishment is known for its retro diner ambiance, complete with vintage decor and a nostalgic feel. The Lakeview offers a classic English breakfast menu, known for generous portions and quality ingredients, including eggs, bacon, sausages, and grilled tomatoes. Its specialty lies in providing a consistent, comfort-food experience any time of the day or night. The service is friendly and welcoming, making it a favorite haunt for both late-night revelers and early morning risers. The Lakeview’s unique combination of timeless charm and reliable, tasty fare makes it a beloved destination for English breakfast seekers in Toronto.
Address: 1132 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1X2, Canada
Contact: +1 416-850-8886
The Wren
The Wren is a gem on Toronto’s culinary map, bringing a slice of Southern hospitality to the English breakfast scene. This restaurant is distinguished by its warm, rustic decor and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The Wren’s breakfast menu mixes classic English components with Southern twists, offering dishes like scrambled eggs with pulled pork or smoked brisket. Known for its quality and creativity, the food here is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to unique, satisfying meals. The service at The Wren is personable and attentive, complementing the overall dining experience. For those looking to enjoy an English breakfast with a different flavor profile, The Wren provides a delightful and memorable culinary journey.
Address: 1382 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1M9, Canada
Contact: +1 647-748-1382
Le Petit Déjeuner
Le Petit Déjeuner, a charming spot in the heart of Toronto, is celebrated for its Belgian-inspired take on breakfast, including the English classic. This cozy eatery is known for its eclectic decor and intimate ambiance, making diners feel like they’ve stepped into a European cafe. Specializing in both traditional and innovative breakfast dishes, it offers a beloved English breakfast with quality ingredients and a touch of Belgian finesse, like artisanal bread and gourmet sausages. The food quality is exceptional, with a focus on fresh, flavorful ingredients. Service at Le Petit Déjeuner is friendly and efficient, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. For a unique twist on the traditional English breakfast in Toronto, Le Petit Déjeuner is a top choice, blending European culinary traditions with classic British fare. Complement your exploration of Toronto’s finest English breakfasts with a visit to some of the city’s best waffle houses.
Address: 191 King St E, Toronto, ON M5A 1J5, Canada
Contact: +1 416-703-1560
Fran’s Restaurant & Bar
Fran’s Restaurant & Bar is an iconic Toronto establishment, famed for its long history and classic diner charm. This restaurant has been serving up English breakfast around the clock, making it a beloved spot for both early risers and late-night diners. Fran’s is known for its no-nonsense, hearty breakfasts, featuring all the traditional English components like eggs, bacon, sausages, and toast. The ambiance is friendly and unpretentious, with a nostalgic diner feel that’s been welcoming guests for decades. Service at Fran’s is consistently efficient and warm, contributing to its reputation as a dependable choice for English breakfast in Toronto. Fran’s stands out for its enduring appeal and commitment to serving satisfying, traditional meals.
Address: 20 College St, Toronto, ON M5G 1K2, Canada
Contact: +1 416-923-9867
The Ace
Consider a gastronomic journey through Roncesvalles, for the top dining destinations to experience the best local flavors. The Ace is a trendy restaurant in Toronto known for its stylish interior and inventive take on traditional dishes, including the English breakfast. This restaurant offers a menu that respects the classic elements of an English breakfast while introducing modern culinary flair, like offering organic and locally sourced ingredients. The Ace’s ambiance is retro yet modern, with a comfortable and chic setting that appeals to both families and hip brunch-goers. Service at The Ace is friendly and professional, ensuring a pleasant meal experience. Known for its high-quality food and unique atmosphere, The Ace is a standout spot and the best restaurant for English breakfast in Toronto for those looking to enjoy an English breakfast with a contemporary edge.
Address: 231A Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2L6, Canada
Contact: +1 416-792-7729
Key Takeaways
- Toronto boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of options for those seeking authentic and delicious English breakfast experiences.
- Traditional English breakfast components like eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast are staples, with variations available to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Restaurants in Toronto, such as The Old Nick, The Bristol, and The Queen and Beaver Public House, are celebrated for their authentic English breakfast offerings, combining traditional elements with local flair.
- Each restaurant has its unique ambiance and specialties, from the retro diner charm of The Senator and Fran’s Restaurant & Bar to the modern and inventive approaches of Mildred’s Temple Kitchen and The Ace.
- Quality of food and service are pivotal, with many establishments sourcing local and artisanal ingredients to elevate the traditional English breakfast experience.
- Toronto’s English breakfast scene is inclusive, with options ranging from upscale gastropubs like The Queen and Beaver Public House to cozy diners like Emma’s Country Kitchen, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Exploring Toronto’s best restaurants for English breakfast offers not just a culinary journey but also a cultural experience, reflecting the city’s rich diversity and culinary excellence.
FAQs
- Are there vegetarian options for English breakfast in Toronto?
Yes, many restaurants in Toronto offer vegetarian versions of the English breakfast, substituting meat with plant-based alternatives. - Are there any 24-hour restaurants in Toronto where I can get English breakfast?
The Lakeview Restaurant serves English breakfast 24 hours a day, catering to early birds and night owls alike. - Is there a place in Toronto that offers a fusion twist on English breakfast?
Mildred’s Temple Kitchen is known for putting a creative twist on traditional English breakfast dishes. - Do any Toronto restaurants serve English breakfast all day?
Emma’s Country Kitchen and The Stockyards are among the restaurants that serve English breakfast throughout the day. If your appetite for a hearty English breakfast extends throughout the day, you’ll appreciate the best all-day breakfast spots in Toronto. - Can I get English breakfast delivered in Toronto?
Many restaurants, including The George Street Diner, offer delivery services for their English breakfast menus. - Which Toronto restaurants offer an Irish version of the English breakfast?
The George Street Diner includes Irish twists like soda bread and black and white pudding in their breakfast. - Are there any English breakfast spots in Toronto with a historical ambiance?
The Senator offers a nostalgic diner experience, being one of Toronto’s oldest operating restaurants. - What makes Fran’s Restaurant & Bar notable for English breakfast?
Fran’s is notable for its diner-style setting and has been a staple in Toronto for classic English breakfast for decades. - Where can I have an English breakfast in Toronto with a modern setting?
The Ace provides a contemporary dining experience with a modern take on the traditional English breakfast. - Can I find a Belgian twist on English breakfast in Toronto?
Le Petit Déjeuner offers a Belgian-inspired menu that includes variations of the traditional English breakfast.