The Donlands Diner in East York

417 Donlands Ave, East York, ON M4J 3S3, Canada

★★★★★
(606 reviews)
Categories: Breakfast restaurant
Website
donlandsdiner.com
Address
417 Donlands Ave, East York, ON M4J 3S3, Canada
Plus Code
MMV4+QW East York, Ontario, Canada
Time Zone
America/Toronto

Business Hours

Monday
7 AM–9 PM
Tuesday
7 AM–9 PM
Wednesday
7 AM–9 PM
Thursday
7 AM–9 PM
Friday
7 AM–9 PM
Saturday
7 AM–9 PM
Sunday
7 AM–9 PM

Services

Service options
Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Spirits Wine
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating
Amenities
Bar on site Toilets
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Paid street parking Parking

Photos

Reviews

4.5
★★★★★
606 reviews

Most Mentioned

atmosphere (27) retro (19) bacon (15) eggs benedict (14) school (13) milkshakes (12) gem (11) 50s (9) chicken fingers (7) turkey (6)
5 stars
399
4 stars
141
3 stars
34
2 stars
14
1 stars
18
★★★★
December 10, 2024

This 50s style diner is clearly a neighbourhood favourite. We came on a weekday for brekkie at 10am and it was busy. We quickly got a table and were pleasantly greeted and immediately brought coffee. Portion size was just enough and prices were reasonable. The turkey bacon was a little over done as were the breakfast potatoes. Maybe just an off day? I won't hold it against them. Not great for street parking as it is close to a busy intersection, but if you are able, park a little south and its much easier to park. Overall, a pleasant experience.

★★★★★
November 9, 2024

This is a cute diner. We came for brunch. My Salmon Eggs Benedict was cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is an old-fashioned diner with matching decor, and the shakes look great. It was a fairly busy place.

★★★★★
June 28, 2024

Amazing diner atmosphere with prices from 2010. Probably my favourite chicken fingers in the city. Next time I visit I’m gonna get 2 orders. They make a really good classic milkshake too.

★★★★
May 19, 2024

Nice little restaurant with 50s styling. Food is decent with okay portion size. Price is fair and service excellent. The place is very clean and well maintained. It's definitely a place to check out if you find yourself in the neighbourhood.

★★★★★
November 5, 2023

I've been coming here for years and it's been consistently a pleasure each time. Friendly staff, timely service and generous portions! This restaurant even got better after the pandemic. Unlike most restaurants that found it as an excuse to rip off their customers, the Donlands diner stepped up and got better! I tell everyone to visit. Best brunch, best pancakes, best classic breakfast. You cannot go wrong!

★★★★★
September 28, 2023

Diner, yup! Describes this place perfectly! We ordered the lumberjack platter and eggs Benedict. Lots of food that's priced accordingly. Everything tasted great and was seasoned just right. No need for extra salt or anything! Tina was very nice, and ran the place like a champ. Wasn't very busy when we arrived, but it filled up in no time. Service was quick. We sat down, ordered, ate and left in a rhythm that felt right. Parking on the street is there, but can be tricky on busy days. I will return for sure, as there are few restaurants around that do everything right to keep you coming back.

★★★★★
September 6, 2023

We went there for brunch on a weekend. The place was very clean and not at all busy. Our server was friendly, took our orders and got us our drinks. Every dish was properly cooked and tasted real good. We really enjoyed going there.

★★★★★
March 31, 2023

A long-time favourite and one of Toronto's few remaining authentic, old-school diners. How good is it? Well, we live in the Junction, don't own a car and once a month we get a car share and drive over to Donlands Diner for a great experience. Everything here is excellent. The decor is legit retro. It's not the fever dream of some interior designer striving to create a retro aesthetic. This look and feel is the real Donlands, and has been for a long time; makes a visit here worth it on its own. But of course the food has to be good, or they wouldn't have been around and successful for so long. And the food is perfect diner fare. Great quality, huge portions, all at a great price. Some of the highlights to seek out: fish and chips (killer); clubhouse sandwich (slather the mayo and dive in); and, any one of their hot sandwiches (the hot beef is probably our favourite). And be sure to get the coffee. It's not fancy, but it's a perfect bottomless cup of classic diner java that takes us back every time we have some. Finally, there's the warm, welcoming vibe and always friendly service. Pro tip: when things are a bit slow sit at the lunch counter and chat with the folks as they go about their work. You'll have a blast. Highly recommended!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 2, 2024

Beautiful retro feel and decor :) Our server was very friendly and attentive. The vegan breakfast option was pretty good!

★★★★★
November 23, 2024

Very yummy food. Super fast delivery by server Kayla. Clean inside and loved the style

★★★
November 23, 2024

My first experience was good, the milkshakes were great. Although, the pasta and pancakes were a solid 7/10. The atmosphere is so cute, and I love the retro feel. Coming the second time around was pretty disappointing. The service was not so great, the staff was inattentive and let the Uber eats device ring for at least 3 mins before it was turned off. I ordered $29 10 oz medium rare, mash potatoes, steamed vegetables, and gravy. The steak came out partly gray and tough. I asked for it to be cooked a little more and that is when the steak came out like it was microwaved. Overall, I took 3 lollipops to compensate for the service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

My long reigning favorite brunch spot.

★★★
September 23, 2024

Great waitstaff, but the kitchen needs to learn how to prep multiple plate orders and serve them all hot. Ordered 3 plates, and the 2 egg based dinners arrived cold - even the toast was cold, the 3rd order (stir fry) was hot. Looks like they prepped the omelette orders and left them sitting while they prepped the other dish. Maybe show them how to turn on the warming lamps?

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Nice people and good food

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

Experienced staff, great food, great value, cool retro decor and murals. Bathroom could use a little updating and more light.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

Old school vibe, diner food as it should be & an A1A environment.

August 23, 2024

Rude customer service: phone line never works, they answer without speaking. I called more than 10 times to place an order, but they dont take their job seriously.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

I went with my parents to treat my dad for Fathers Day. It was very busy but they still took the time to welcome us and we got seated quite quickly in less than 10 minutes. Our server was very attentive, friendly, and kept the coffee flowing. The food is as affordable as it is delicious. Classic breakfast for under $15. I was so impressed I left my own tip and made sure it went to our server! 5/5 would highly recommend. Parking: Theres street parking as well as parking at the plaza where the Tims is near the diner.

★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Had the donlands burger!! It was huge... onion rings were really good!!

★★★★★
June 23, 2024

Stumbled on this place absolutely a hidden gem, we will be back very impressed.

★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Great little diner with wonderful service. The food was great, too. We had the Classic Breakfast as well as a single pancake with a side of fruit. The side of the fruit was quite generous, too. Wheelchair accessibility: The bathrooms are downstairs.

★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Tasty food, had the goat cheese omelette. Classic, basic, flavourful, fast, slightly pricey

Local Guide
June 23, 2024

While the service was very friendly, I have to admit the food was awful, and just not like it was a year ago. I got their roast beef served with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies and while I m gonna skip over the cheap portion of unseasoned veggies, the mashed potato was sour and off in taste and the roast beef, to be completely honest, I should have returned it now looking back at it. It was two thick WAY overcooked small slices of meat with a very small size of gravy, used to try to swallow it. Absolutely hideous, especially when you re hungry. Sorry but I never had such a bad meat and that was nothing like what roast beef is. My friend got fried chicken and it was extremely dry too. Just not recommended at all unfortunately.

★★★★★
June 23, 2024

Hidden Gem, love the retro style, the attentive staff and the great food!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

What a good menu!!! Food preparation temperature 10 . Super potatoes

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

My first visit and it won t be my last. What a wonderful gem in the city. Fabulous food, quality and choices, and exceptional service.

★★★
June 23, 2024

My wife and I were excited to see a neighbourhood hub like Donlands Diner. I can confirm it s no frills diner with a couple cute decor twists. Our first time visiting we brought my wife s parents and our nephew. No complaints! The breakfasts were great and the service was good! After a positive experience the first time my wife and I decided to go again this afternoon. Unfortunately it was not quite the same. We both ordered the recommended chicken fingers they have on the menu. The deal includes fries and coleslaw. We also ordered a couple mimosas. Mimosas were fine (albeit not strong) Chicken Fingers came with multiple hairs on them. I have long hair myself so wanted to confirm they weren t mine however, they were blonde, dark brown and grey. Not my hair colour. I sheepishly raised my hand (I hate returning food) and let the waitress know about the issue. She gladly accepted the return and told me to eat off my wife s plate while we wait for the correction. We also had to prompt for the coleslaw that was supposed to come with our meal and was missing. Needless to say nothing was complimentary with the gross hair in the food plus missing item mix up and no one really said anything as we left. No apology etc. you d think we d get a small discount at the very least as I was not too hungry while combing through my food expecting to see more hair. We really wanted to like this place but will figure out other options in the area as there are plenty. That being said if you like kitschy diner style restaurants this place is for you and you probably will only be slightly disappointed.

★★★★★
June 23, 2024

Every two weeks or so I normally go to the diner on takeout. I always get the chocolate milkshake and a steak sandwich for dinner. Within 5 minutes we get our order done. Steak sandwich is amazing. Service is amazing because she knows our order and the atmosphere is pretty well done to. 10/10 would recommend going here.

★★
June 23, 2024

Service was nice, but the food was below average. It s noticeable that the ingredients aren t good quality

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Ive been coming to The Donlands for 40+ years. Its still a gem of a restaurant!

Local Guide
May 23, 2024

I took a cab from Home and arrived at 7:55pm and the staff said theyre closed early. I dont get why Buisness list later hours and dont commit to it. Im not coming back

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Down to earth type of place. Great breakfast and Burger and I love the fries! Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

Delicious breakfast great service

★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

Can never go wrong as breakfast option ;)

★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

Unfortunately, we had a disappointing experience at this diner. The atmosphere and service were fine. The food, however, was lacking in taste and quality. A pancake wasnt fully cooked and doughy on the inside. My corned beef hash must have been a deconstructed version with a pink pile of corned beef unmixed and unseasoned on the side. Yes, there were potatoes and eggs on the plate as well. But none of the ingredients were mixed, and I didnt detect any onions. Overall, disappointing.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

very homey atmosphere. Parking: I think you have to be there early to get some nearby parking Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

One of the best restaurants Ive ever been to will definitely return

★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

50s style dinner that are few and far between. Breakfast menu had all the standards and was fine but the price was about 10% more than the average. Food was normal quality and taste. Staff were good and came by for coffee refills frequently.

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

I recently had the pleasure of dining at [chachus], and it exceeded all expectations. From the moment we stepped in, the warm ambiance and attentive staff made us feel welcome. The menu boasted a delightful array of dishes, each expertly crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The presentation was impeccable, and every bite was bursting with flavor. Whether youre a fan of seafood, steak, or vegetarian fare, theres something to satisfy every palate. The service was impeccable; our server was knowledgeable, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. The attention to detail did not go unnoticed, from the timely refills of water to the personalized recommendations. The atmosphere was perfect for any occasion, whether its a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends and family. The cozy yet sophisticated decor added to the overall charm of the place. To top it all off, the dessert selection was heavenly. Indulging in their decadent desserts was the perfect way to end our meal on a sweet note. Overall, [chachus] offers not just a meal, but an unforgettable culinary journey. I cant wait to return and explore more of their delectable offerings. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

Very clean, enjoyable environment service for the amazing food. Excellent as usual.

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

Favorite place to eat in the neighborhood

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Coco and I checked this place out after a workout looking to get a nice sloppy and carby brunch. We got exactly what we came for. Its a fun throwback diner with bubbly staff and a retro feel. The menu has too many amazing options so I went with the simple Lumberjack breakfast. Nice and tasty with plenty of food. There was a real syrup option which I happily took. Coco grabbed a steak skillet and was very impressed. I really want to go back for their sando options and maybe their teriyaki. They have french onion soup, so that will be a checked out for sure in my not too distant future. UPDATE: We came with the kids and everybody was happy, which almost never happens for us at a restaurant haha. Just a more fun atmosphere than places like BOCA or EGGSMART.

★★★★★
February 23, 2024

Great spot!! An East York staple. Food is great, atmosphere is relaxed. Loving the old school music that is played. But what makes this place is the staff. Super friendly, welcoming, very courteous. They always make you feel comfortable. A definite must try.

February 23, 2024

Do not get the steak skillet the meat had a very off taste and the sauce was gross. The service was ok, we were never offered a coffee refill even when other people around us were getting refilled.

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Tasty food, great fried chicken. Even kids menu has the same great hime made chicken fingers as the main courses have. Huge portions and reasonable prices. Highly recommend. Food : 5/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Weve been here a few times with our 1 year old. The food is always good and prepared quickly. However, one of the main reasons we like this place is because of how friendly the waitresses are with our son. They love him and always get him smiling and giggling. Consider us regulars!

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Great breakfast place,service is exceptional

★★★★★
January 23, 2024

The original best brunch place

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Great atmosphere, great food, good portions, good servers and free parking.

★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Looks like theyve hired enough wait staff. Loved it!

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

I felt like I was in 50s. :) People are very nice and friendly. I ordered the waffle & chicken w/honey garlic sauce and also the old fashioned milkshake. I have absolutely no regrets. I will visit this place again to try the others

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Nice clean spot with lots of variety. Plenty of tables reducing the chance of having to wait

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

I tried this place for the first time since our friend lives nearby and has been many times. It s like going to a diner from the past. Nice bright red seats and benches, with a great atmosphere. A very nice selection of food since you can get breakfast all day, sandwiches and other foods. I got a Reuben sandwich with home fries, while another guest for the fish and chips (homemade) with coleslaw, and our friend got Eggs Benedict. Everything was delicious. The service was also great. I ll definitely go back again. Plus it s reasonably priced and so much better than the chain restaurants.

January 23, 2024

Went there for the first time with my kids and had a terrible first time experience. The place was not busy, we waited 15 min and no one came by, another table came in after us and got served before us and we were still waiting then naturally decided to leave.. never going back and I do not recommend.. staff dosn t care.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Dec2022 Beautifully decorated - makes you feel good righ away. Great service - so important also! Food was great other than the potatoes - the ones that accompany most breakfasts - were undercooked. That was too bad because that is the one thing I eat first because I love the good ones and that is something I do not do at home.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Parking: Shared parking on a busy street with the rest of the plaza, but theres usually a space. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Local, long-standing, quintessential, diner experience. We enjoyed a nice family lunch.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Very good. Well worth a try. Nothing fancy, but definitely satisfying.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good food.friendly staff

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Decided to try somewhere new... 20 mins from me.. when j arrived it was pretty fully, staff are friendly. I ordered the classic breakfast with freshly squeezed orange juice. The food was good, the eggs were amazing. The cheese mixed in perfectly, tasted like real eggs (in comparison to eggsmart) there was a minor lil issues which they resolved. Abd how they handled it I would definitely come back. It was a nice lil diner.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This was my first time, but I went with a friend, So I can comment on the omelettes and on the soup only.. Both were exceptional and priced well.. I would definitely encourage people to check it out, if yours around Donlands Ave area..

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Amazing food. Our party ate there during our layover from India to Florida. Our waitress Sharon was GREAT!!! She made sure all of us get what we needed. She greeted us with a big smile. The food was prepared in a speedy time and it was exquisite! Recomended! If we ever come back to Toronto, definitively will eat there!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Food was great as always. Luckily it was too busy this time. Will come back regularly.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This place is solid! The interior takes you back to the retro diner days - definitely more modern but it s a charm! Bf and I got the steak skillet & he grabbed the steak and eggs - the FLAVOUR hits the spot! For me, the skillet sauce on top was the highlight so good (def ask for extra sauce on top or on the side!!) Service was so fast, food came out in less than 10 minutes - there was no wait for a Sunday at 11:30am which is almost unheard of but it is a little bit more east in the city The vibes are great though, definitely a neighbourhood staple as lots of seniors and families dine in and are greeted like they are regulars! There s also little shops and a beauty of a bakery on the same block so a walk is necessary afterwards! Experience it if you re curious - but this place is a must try!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I used to waitress there many moons ago. Called to see if bathrooms were still downstairs after renovations. They are. Not able to take my client there unfortunately.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

If you love a 50s breakfast dinner this is the place for you. They have a great menu thats huge, and it has all the breakfast diner staples. They make great bacon and eggs, great dinner coffee, and fresh orange juice. Theyve got lots of seating, but if you go on a Sunday around noon, you may be waiting 10-20 minutes to come in.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I got the lumberjack breakfast. Price was average. The breakfast was average sized. The 2 Pancakes were huge tho. Very very filling. The server, she was very nice. She drew a little happy face on my take out box. Parking: Green p parking right outside.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great location, ambience and service, but food was so-so.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Nice place, well decorated, excellent atmosphere from the 60s and 70s The food was well presented and very tasty, the service was excellent, the price was good. I dont mind going across town to have breakfast there. Food : 5/5

December 23, 2023

threw all food in garbage it was horrible/ chicken wings were burnt and greasy chicken fried rice was tastless.. will never call again

December 23, 2023

Waited over an hour for bacon and eggs here, how is this even possible? Wasnt even busy and the waitress was barking at customers and telling them over and over again to bare with her. Really wanted to like this place but its getting harder and harder to find a decent diner in the city it seems

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Lovely dinner. Had the fish and chips. So delicious. Great waitress.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Went for the first time, food was great. I jad the corned beef hash and everything was cooked perfectly. Good options for breakfast items and they even had pie. Gonna be back any time im in the area for sure.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Friendly, good food served fast and hot! Highly recommended!!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

This diner is a great old style diner. The food is good, the servers are great and the food comes fast. Great atmosphere if you miss the old style diners. I recommend it highly.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Lovely, attentive service. Coffee was good, hot, and plentiful. Breakfast came quickly, hot & cooked to perfection- one of the better omelets I ve had in a long while. Cute 50s diner.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Everything here is great here , the French onion soup is not the best but everything else I had here is great

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good old school dinner, great comfort food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Friendly staff that accommodated my nostalgic dietary needs.

December 23, 2023

Beware, I got food poisoning after eating their lumberjack breakfast. Approx 6-8 hours after eating, I was overwhelmed by retching, vomiting, and pure liquid diarrhea. I was out for a few days recovering from this. Im never going to order from this place again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Had the eggs Benedict and the eggs were perfectly cooked.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Quaint and retro diner. Good service, good grub at good prices. Cant go wrong comfort food at its best.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The Donlands Diner has great staff that make you feel at home. Sharon, Shy, Victoria and DJ are a great team. The chicken fingers and soup come highly recommended. The menu became a bit pricy post-covid however food costs have significantly risen. Highly recommend you stop by for a visit!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This place is a gem in the city. We had steak and eggs and when i tell you everything from the coffee being tasty and fresh to the perfect cook and seasoning on the food was amazing, not joking. DEFINITELY a repeat , all day breakfast and attentive and personable hostess. She was on top of everything in spite of it being fairly full. Parking: Using the green p app, one hour was only 1.50 Kid-friendliness: Great booths and amenable staff to my little one

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Amazing food , amazing service. Shy and Deajai are the best

★★★
December 23, 2023

Okay to good

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The food was not good. Didn t taste well. Service was ok.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This diner is a hidden gem. I moved into the neighbourhood a few weeks ago and was looking for breakfast options. Far off the beaten path and genuine. Think I will make this my new hangout in the hood.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Kid-friendliness: I was there with my sister-in-law and my great nephew who is on the autism spectrum. The waitress were very patient and understanding with his hyperness. Also with the fact that he is very blunt and loud. I would highly recommend this place for anyone who wants to eat at an out fashion diner with good old fashion food and friendly people.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Really enjoyed the smoked salmon eggs benedict....and how it was ready quite fast!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great service in addition to a consistently delicious-tasting food makes every single visit an enjoyable time with family or friends. The place is always clean and tidy; cozy interior. The place is a hidden gem! Food : 5/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Huge menu selection and always a great meal. Quick service too

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Went there for the very first time. I like the decor, the waitresses. The food I have and my husband have been really really good. They cooked my steak to my liking. Their breakfast s there are very reasonable in price and you get a decent portion. We will be going back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great food. Exceptional service. My waitress Kayla was very friendly.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Recently updated decor looks awesome - still a retro feel but modern cleanliness... The food is the exact same as when I was born, and so are a few of the waitresses... basic diner fare... For a quick breakfast or a workers lunch, this is where to go in East York

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Had breakfast with my wife this morning. First time there and it was awesome. Very clean place,staff very friendly and the food fresh and tasty. Overall I would rate it a 10 . Awesome atmosphere

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Ive never had a problem with the Donlands. However, today, I had the sausage skillet, and on paper, it sounds great. But it really shouldve been called Potato Supreme. When sausage is in the title, one would expect sausage. If I had sausage, I really didnt taste it. I wouldve liked more egg and sausage. But it was good, as a side, too much potatoes for breakfast. That being said, one mediocre meal in 18 years is still an impressive track record. Ill be back, Ill always be back...

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

We were from Chilliwack, BC and boy were we stuck in traffic- let me tell you, we don t have this traffic back in the Wack! We ll, we pulled into The Donlands Diner and whooped it up with burgers and chicken fingers- we ate, we laughed and we ate some more! Great food, great service and a wonderful atmosphere- 5 stars baby!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Amazing diner, looks just like it was in the 50s! The menu has plenty of delicious things to order, pancakes, burgers, eggs, etc. Great place to have lunch! Best part is the milkshakes!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

First time in a diner and I couldn t have chosen a better place! An amazing place with an amazing service!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Friendly service in a laid back classic style diner. Perfect diner breakfast spot!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The food Id great the service is great. I will be back for sure.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great Breakfast. Love the eggs Benedict

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Service was good! Staff were friendly! Prices are reasonable! Food came fast for us! One of us ordered a waffle but it didn t come with icing sugar as described n I don t remember about whip cream. We ordered it with extra chocolate chip for $2. However we asked for the whip cream and they brought it! The other meal was the breakfast platter. It was as described. The coffee was not good!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Lovely waitstaff, super tasty food. Would recommend.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good and service were great just a little expensive. Great place for breakfast!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Food pretty good and for a decent price

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good vibes all over the place, Shannon is amazing, the food is abundant and really tasty. Highly recommend

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

A good place to enjoy and have breakfast with the family at affordable prices. A touch of the 60s

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Food was great, service was great. Suggestion for the breakfast burrito: have salsa! Made the joke to my server I would suggest it! Would definitely visit again when in the city. The spicy chicken burger was CRAZY big and delicious!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Amazing food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Excellent diner! Top notch classic breakfast. I always get the classic bacon, eggs, toast, and home fries. This place did not disappoint! Super friendly service too.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great food and new retro decor

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

We love this restaurant. There are so many food choices and the portions are huge. Everything weve tried here has been delicious. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff are really nice

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

its been consistently a pleasure each time. Friendly staff, timely service and generous portions! This restaurant even got better after the pandemic. Unlike most restaurants that found it as an excuse to rip off their customers, the Donlands diner stepped up and got better! Best brunch, best pancakes, best classic breakfastin East York. Cosburn Ave and on Donalds. Enjoy! You cannot go wrong! OPENS EARLY 7AM!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Amazing homie atmosphere and very nice service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Never disappointed! Everything on their menu is delicious. Best breakfast in East York.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

A Nostalgic Gem with Exceptional Service My first visit to Donlands Diner this past weekend was nothing short of delightful! Stepping into this establishment felt like a journey back in time, offering a cute & quaint experience reminiscent of old-school diners a charming ambiance that resonated with me in the best possible way. What truly elevated our experience from great to FANTASTIC was our server. Their friendliness, kindness, & dedication to ensuring our complete satisfaction were truly commendable. Its rare to find such genuine & warm service that leaves a lasting impression. Now, lets talk about the food it was an absolute feast for the senses! My partner & I opted for the BIG breakfast to share, accompanied by a side of bacon. The flavours were outstanding, & the portion size exceeded our expectations, leaving us fully satisfied. Donlands Diner has undoubtedly earned a 10/10 in my book, & I would jump at the chance to visit again. From the nostalgic ambiance to the exceptional service & delicious food, this diner has carved a special place in my heart. The only problem is I wish they were closer to my home, but I would definitely travel just go to again!!!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

The Donlands is all of our favorite breakfast place to eat.. the food is amazing here, make sure to ask for home fries deep fried ..OMG ...

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Love the retro atmosphere! Great food and service!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

I have been going to this spot for over 40 years and even with all the change of owners the food stayed great. The menu has changed but the breakfasts are pretty much the same and even better if you get the early bird special. I also had the triple decker turkey club sandwich for dinner and it was fantastic! Service is very friendly and on point. See you again very soon!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Not inexpensive but very good.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Absolutely great food. I had the NY steak + mushrooms + mashed potatoes + ceasars! Oh my this is a solid, and proper diner!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great value breakfast!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

I havent been here in years, but let me tell you, it is a great diner! I love sandwiches and this place has great sandwiches. I am WFBP now but back then my favorite sandwich was the club sandwich and the chicken salad sandwich. The club was full of delicious turkey and perfectly crisp bacon, the lettuce and tomatoes were always fresh and crisp, as well. Now, for my favorite, the chicken salad sandwich...I loved the chicken salad sandwich! Tonnes of white and dark meat, crispy celery bits, creamy mayo on white toasted and buttered bread, accompanied by crispy fries smothered in a greasy spoon style delicious brown gravy...my goodness what a meal that was. Besides what I mentioned, Ive tried various soups that were all delicious, along with tasty juicy burgers and beautifully juicy chicken strips. This is a great diner!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great service, friendly staff, good music, great company and great food. Definitely recommend coming here. Everyone is so nice and welcoming.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great authentic food and awesome service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great food, excellent service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great spot for years recently renovated with new everything. ..fast service, good food....getting busy on weekends...may need to open an hour earlier at 6am...new menu items

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great food with a 50s diner motif.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Excellent service and good food reasonable price

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Hidden gem, love the atmosphere, service and food is really good. Would definitely be back again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great portions, very friendly service, a restaurant like I remember as a child. This one has been around since 1955, & no wonder! It was worth the drive, & one I ll go back to.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Undoubtedly the best breakfast expereince in the east part of the city. Actually anywhre in the city. Friendly fast service. 10/10

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Stopped for a quick breakfast here on our drive to QC. Ordered a Classic breakfast with eggs, potatoes and toast. It tasted amazing and, the food was fresh, the diner gave out a very quaint town vibe where everybody knew each other. I am so glad that we stopped here for breakfast instead of sunset grill. The ladies who served our table was so wonderful. I would definitely go here again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

I go there for the breakfast which is amazing and the food is excellent as well.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Good ol fashion all-day breakfast, brunch and more.. food is always amazing, great service and it wont break your wallet either

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Great Club sandwich. One of the best in the city. Real turkey; crisp bacon, fresh lettuce and tomato, with mayo.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Nice and cozy neighborhood diner, great food and service, lets support local!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Homemade burger and fresh fries. I am so coming back here. Fantastic!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great food... AH-MAZING coffee... fabulous service... will definitely go again. A must go-to...

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great place to go for breakfast, lunch or dinner! I work from home and its a short walk away so I can even get stuff for takeout if I want! Small, cozy and pleasant atmosphere - the classic 50s music that they play is better than the Top 20 schlock that I normally have to listen to on local radio stations. Big shoutout to Sue and all the other waitstaff. Theyre always friendly and the service is impeccable. My only knock is that Ive come to work before 7:30 AM a few times and the cooks arent always there yet, so the wait is a bit longer even if the place hasnt filled up yet. But I dont mind waiting because everything else is so great! Wish Id come here sooner; been in Toronto since 2010 and it feels like a missed opportunity. But better late than never!

★★★★
December 23, 2022

Good breakfast. Thanks. Great wait staff. More thanks!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great breakfast

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

I stopped in with my step dad. I ordered a steak sandwich with coffee. The food was delicious and filling. The waitress was very attentive.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

True old school community diner. Loved the food and decor!

December 23, 2022

What a rip off they charged 6.99 for a kids french toast. 1 slice of bread cut in half no home fries no bacon or sausage

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Amazing local Chinese takeout. Great prices, friendly staff, quick service, speedy delivery, and delicious food.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Wow havent been here since 1967 just as good as ever. A friend surprised me, said we were going to a 50s diner we passed my old public school Wilkerson on Donlands Ave & I still didnt clue in, until I saw the old Donlands Theater. What a nice treat.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great breakfast and service.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Amazing food at a reasonable price and large portions! All day breakfast is definitely a plus :))) will be back for sure

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Came in for brunch with the in laws to celebrate my anniversary with my husband, and we were super impressed. I got the Benedict, and its easily in my top 5. My husband couldnt stop talking about how juicy his burger was, and my father in law loved the 10oz steak. Our server was so nice, and the atmosphere was so relaxed. Highly recommend!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Great service, prices, retro music, and decor! Highly recommend! The one server on duty was friendly, funny, professional .just amazing!!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Hands down was amazing!!!! Hubby ordered lumberjack my 9 year old ordered the Nutella pancakes and I ordered the triple deck turkey club. Everything tasted fresh hot to order and the flavor was out of this world. The two waitresses was beyond friendly and attentive. Will definitely be coming back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Nice place! The server was very kind and suggested us with the best breakfast option..

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

First time at the Donlands Diner. It feels like walking into a movie set in the 50s. The retro look is lovely. Lots of choices on the menu and for around $15 you get a ridiculous amount of food. Tina (our server, the owner probably?) is so welcoming and warm. This place should be a travel destination. I will be back again.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Great Food, Great People and Cathrine is a dolly Breakfast on the weekends are amazing! The cook is also very nice and welcoming!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Amazing breakfast! Everything was cooked perfectly. Cool decor and atmosphere!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

One of my favorite spots in East York! My family has been coming here since the 50s. They have since updated the decor and have new management but have continued to serve great diner classics and tasty all day breakfast! Staff has always been lovely and attentive. Parking: Street parking available Kid-friendliness: Its a family diner

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Trendy place with good service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Excellent

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great local diner

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Friendly staff. Solid breakfast portions. Bottomless coffee.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Bummed it took me so long to find this spot. Were over on Woodbine. Long walk but well worth visiting.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great Service and Breakfast

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

We love it here, theyre amazing with my kids. It gets busy around 10:30am so make sure to arrive early to get a spot.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Family friendly.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Good typical diner grub.