Avenue Diner in Toronto

Great place to go for breakfast.I always do say hi to louie and bridget if youre there

15 minutes to get the food at the counter, 10 minutes to get coffee refill, <5 seconds after the last bite the bill lands on the counter. Their welcome phrase is: we are cash only there is an ATM downstairs . The food? Not the best. The problem is that there are no alternatives for a diner around, since Flo closed.

Best diner in the city

Classic diner experience! Good food and a quick turn around meal! Just remember they only take cash.

I fell into heaven when I walked in here. The people, the service and OMG, the food. All excellent. I love the community feel.

Just overall disappointing, 50 dollars for bacon and eggs(2 eggs with minimal homefries) and pancakes. We decided to try this place out with our favorite breakfast joint currently closed for an emergency. We wont be back. The waitress and staff are nice and service was good. Just cant justify the inflated cost and diminutive portions.

We went there on the recommendation of one of the locals in the area. The diner is super neat, vintage decor and has amazing vibes. Its obviously a family business with Mom running tables and Dad and Junior busting out food from the griddle. We had French Toast and bacon and the 2 Egg Breakfast The Home fries were pillowy inside, crispy on the outside. No fancy nick nacks, just good honest straight forward deliciousness. Fresh OJ and coffee and tea just rounded things out. Ill be back like the terminator :)

Overpriced! Food was fine, but cost double the quality. Ive had nice dinners less costly than a simple breakfas served here.

Soooooo disappointed. My girlfriend went here many years ago with her kids and it was great. Not anymore! I was in the mood for diner food. I asked the waitress if the hot chicken sandwich was open face and she said yes. That implies 2 pieces of bread to make a sandwich. Thats not what I got. One piece of bread with a little tasty chicken and gravy on it and a decent amout of potatoes on a small plate $21 and I was hungry. My girlfriend ordered the club sandwich. She got a small 2 piece sandwich that was small for a regular sandwich with nothing on a small plate just the sandwich. $18. Very tiny glass of tropicana orange juice $4. We both left hungry and were not big people. This place needs a wake up call. They charge a lot and serve very little portions not big enough for a normal lunch. We decided not to order coffee there. Instead we went out for coffee and a croissant since we were still hungry.

What a disappointment!! This used to be such a gem in our neighborhood! We arrived towards the end of the day only one other customer in the place. I ordered a club sandwich...got bread with a few pieces on chicken, bacon, tomato for $18!!! Nothing else on the plate . My boyfriend ordered a chicken sandwich also very skimpy...we both left hungry!! I had to remind the waitress about my OJ, also not memorable $4 for a small glass. Not coming back!

Was just here and was appalled at the cleanliness of the overall establishment and the waiter balked at my $15 cash tip because they only accept cash

This place is wayyy too overpriced for what it is. Like, offensively expensive. Cash only. The sandwiches don t come with fries, the salads are the size of side salads, no kids menu, etc. If you re looking for good value, this is not the place.

Very pricey!!! Much more expensive then any equivalent establishment near by. Club sandwich $32 at New York deli its 18 same for center st deli.

What a great restaurant in town!

Very expensive for what you get. Fries don t come with the sandwich, and they were $7 for a small amount of just average-tasting fries.

Good lunch, excellent service, very nice place.

Great staff and atmosphere but I paid close to $50 for French toast and a BLT which was very underwhelming. The sandwich didn t come with a side and a handful of fries was an additional $7. I get that food cost has gone up but cmon

Great food very friendly! Cash only, ATM available.

Best and affordable diner food with good portion sizes. Endless coffee!!

Great restaurant and food

Great service, and good food. This is a CLASSIC diner. Absolutely loved it. Its cash only here, but they have an atm, and a TD is right across the street

The place has a very retro atmosphere, there are photos of many famous people who have visited this small place, when you enter you feel a very particular smell but after a while you get used to it, there is nothing wow about the breakfasts and the price seems to me. Made high with portions that handle I entered because of the striking nature of the place but once is enough

Well, if you like char, this is the place. My bun was burnt too bad to eat, so I sat there knocking hunks of blackened bread off of my bun. I had smelled toast burning, what surprised me was the cook had the nerve to serve it to me like that and for first time ever a waitress didnt ask if everything was good. No discount either. But also, the lettuce was placed on the lid of the bun, with relish and mustard on top of the lettuce, so it just made a big mess, and there were two super woody slices of unripe tomat I had to pick off in disgust. Not impressed. Actually rather angry. Does that bun look soft? The dried burnt shards? Unbelievable.

a wonderfully, cozy and friendly diner with simple classic breakfast. I m so glad they will keep this and develop around and next to it.

Amazing place, very nice people, great service

Still homey but pricey. The dew has fallen off this particular rose and the breakfast pricing is obscene.

Very good and like in the films of the 60s

11yo had a steak and devoured every bit of it, with homefries on the side. Friendly staff.

Wow wow wow way over priced and the food is 2 out of 10 at best. Save your money and go somewhere else trust me. If you dont believe me go there amd you will after. I would like to go back under new owners or same owners but fix your pricing and improve your food please .

I was working construction out front and asked to use the washroom, I was told I had to buy something. Fine, can I get a can of coke? Sorry sir but thats not enough was the reply. Screw this place. Ignorant owners

It really looks like a 1950s diner. Personally not a fan of the quality of the food, but definitely go here for the experience!

Amazing!

Amazing food and the friendliest staff! Vegetarian options: Good selection in the omelette! Food : 5/5 |

Go for great food!

This place is simply great. The family that owns and runs it are all very amicable, very personable and very responsive. The food is addictive and I find myself there quite often. I highly recommend.

I remember this place as being a decent diner, though not as cultish as Mars or as good as the old Peoples Diner on Dupont, but OK. So the other weekend, I walked down with my wife for a late brunch. Yikes! Food is so-so at best, but expensive! I had a club sandwich (fries were extra) with fries on the side, no slaw (they dont do slaw anymore), and my wife had a veggie omelet, with the eggs barely scrambled and the veggies rather scant. All this came, with tax and tip, to over $60, and BTW, they only take cash. And, no A/C, so they had the doors wide open for the breeze, which also brings in swarms of hungry yellowjackets ( I killed 4 during our meal) which will try to share your food. All in all, a very disappointing experience, and my wife hasnt let me hear the end of it yet, and its been a couple weeks. Avoid this joint like the plague. There are diners out there with better food, at cheaper prices and with better service.

We read some raving reviews in the local magazine, so went for our Sunday morning brunch with our kids. Utterly disappointing! I think its charming to have maintained the old style diner feel but when it comes to restaurant, the quality of food is where its at. It was very bad. The staff is lovely, we could tell that its a local spot where folks know each other but again we were so disappointed in their food at those prices. I have a lot of respect for folks trying to create a certain feel but the quality of food has got to be the central point. The grilled cheese sandwich was made with store bought slices of cheese, just so bad!

Its a brilliant place to experience an authentic Diner experience. I loved the atmosphere, the service is bar none and the food is delicious. I highly recommend it

A cozy little diner with friendly staff, and great coffee!

Incredible retro diner with amazing food - try the banquet burger or clubhouse! Fresh ingredients, open kitchen at the counter! Super nice people working there. Highly recommended! Food

We tried the twin got sandwiches on the menu and I think I prefer burger, the meat is seasoned really well, almost like a meat loaf and it was just what I needed for lunch! Savory and filling. I also got a latte that was lovely to sip on.

Legit diner, good vibes, and good food! It s cash only though so don t forget to bring cash, but if you do, they also have ATM inside.

By far the most warm and welcoming diner Ive been to in Toronto. Favorite spot to grab breakfast, I drive down from Mississauga at least once per week. Highly Recommend!!!

Deliciously old fashioned

Absolutely Delicious! Best tuna melt and pancakes Ive ever had. Will be back to try everything!

Not always open on time. Call ahead to see if theyre open before going.

20+ years and still coming back

Avenue Rd.,m Diner: it s just perfect. No other word for it.

Cash only

Great old school dinner serving standard breakfast/lunch dinner fare. CASH ONLY. Open since 1944. Charming and cozy, you may have to wait for a seat at one of the few tables or at the counter. Bathrooms are down a winding set of stairs, watch your head! Ive been here before and Ill be back on my next pass through.

Great burger and fries! Wonderful atmosphere with owner / operator. A real traditional diner which is becoming rare in Toronto. Real food made in front of you. !

A cash only establishment, but with an ATM right there in the diner that gives them $2 on top of every transaction. Pancakes were covered in black specks and tasted like oil. The milkshake wasnt bad.

Ordered club sandwich ($17) and fries ($7) . Neither were very good and were very overpriced for what you get

A reasonable place, not fancy at all and not a great place for more than 4 in a group. I guess old time charm is a good description. The offering, the decoration, the service all feel like 20 years ago. Cash only for some reason, but there seems to be lots of regulars. The food is basic and nothing to brag about.

Portions are insanely small and overspriced. Service was very lackluster. We werent even offered water.

I saw this place after glancing around Google maps looking for an original breakfast place. This diner is fantastic. The service was brilliant, incredibly kind and happy staff. I loved that it was cooked in front of you. I went for steak and eggs, my partner went for the French toast with bacon. We had coffee to drink. It was a good medium steak, I did ask for the rarer side of medium, but it still tasted great. Lovely calm atmosphere that felt very intimate. It is cash only and we spent about $50 cad here. I think if you are from Europe this is a quintessential diner experience.

My favourite Toronto diner.

Disgusting cleanliness, bug was crawling right beside my mediocre food

4 great celeb spot cozy nostalgia with urban flair

Nice place. Very cozy. It will be open for a few more years until its torn down for redevelopment

We love this place, people are great as is the food and the atmosphere. My two sons and I were fairly regular customers (pre-COVID sadly). Our place to meet for a delicious Sunday breakfast. Now I hear disturbing rumours that the whole corner has been sold to a developer for yet another condo and the future of the Avenue Diner is in question. This neighbourhood treasure has been around since 1944, too precious to lose!! Add your voice to save it please!!!

Pricey I got a burger and soup 20 bucks . I believe it was canned aswell .

Nice quaint diner. Cash only, although they have an ATM in the basement ($2 fee) Food and service was good, would definitely eat here again.

Good food and homely atmo.

Best hot chicken sandwich ever!

Biked with the kids out of our way only to see them closed before their posted hours. (same hours online and on the door)

You might be safe from the unvaccinated, but the cleanliness will make you sick. Poor service too. Had to wait quite awhile for lackluster food.

Nice cozy old-school diner with very affordable prices. I don t expect there are many of these left! Short < 5 minute wait for a table but service was slow. Please note that they do NOT follow COVID protocols re: vaccine certificate check or mask policy. Examples included the chef improperly wearing his mask and an unmasked patron leaning over the counter near food prep to speak with the chef

A family tradition.

Lived in TO all my life and always wanted to check this iconic place out. Finally did. Couldnt ask for friendlier, warmer reception and service and the food was faultless. Amazing fluffy pancakes particularly good. Love the touches of history like original bar stools.

This classic Toronto spot should be high on your list. Whether it s to try their big breakfast, dine in the star-stuffed diner decor or to try the iconic burger, Avenue diner has something for everyone. Friendly owners and clientele make this the perfect place to start your Saturday, or treat yourself to a hearty meal on a work-from-home weekday.

Fast friendly and great food .. customer service was great

Great family friendly service

Open since 1944, this small diner is like stepping back in time. Very good coffee, bacon, eggs and toast served with a warm smile.

Good service. Love the decor.

One of my favourite diners in Toronto. The space is small and they only accept cash, but that is part of what makes this a classic diner.

Great spot, good service. Cash only.

A Yorkville classic far past its expiration date

Best breakfast in Toronto

Great food, great staff, just a little expensive and is cash only

Cute retro dinner, booths and counter space. awesome breakfast from a small menu and its is cash only . super fun, small, neighborhood gem

Great old diner for breakfast. Authentic, not one of those cheesy replicas u find in every mall.

Please, no. And its cash only.

Love the atmosphere

I found this place randomly and it became in one of my very favourite for breakfast. I had the western omelette and my boyfriend the bacon and eggs y everything was spectacular and really cheap! And the surprise for both of us was the coffee, really good.

Great old school diner. Great food and service.

Awesome service awesome food wish we had a Diner like this back home loved it

Best breakfast in town.

I love how the place is listing to the north, the wait staff with Playtex gloves also add a nice touch of retro diner realism. (Maybe a bit too real) Cheap and fast.

Quaint, unpretentious and delicious food!

A very cozy place, the food is of good quality and served immediately. The prices are cheap and it is a good place for breakfast.

A landmark.

1940 s dîner... very good hearted people working here, make you feel right at home. Diner Food delicious like the old days. Great flashback diner!

Classic Diner of the Annex since 1944

My all time favorite old school proper diner in the city. The staff rock, all of the food is great (milkshakes included) and they have all of the standards - breakfast, grilled cheese sandwiches, clubhouses etc. Eat here as often as I can. Highly recommended

I had a steak for breakfast was done perfectly and their coffee was very good despite I m not a coffee drinker. Mind you it s my first time here and I ll coming back

Good food. Worth a couple extra bucks. Want garbage go to McDonalds.

Fantastic service. Food was good and served in good time

Tiny neighbourhood diner visibly run by a family spanning 3 generations since 1944. The family remembers the orders of regular patrons and makes all visitors feel welcome.

Good food, good service and great people.

Loved the atmosphere! Cosy and nostalgic. Great food, great service!

Like home cooked food .. Service is so good

Great place to eat and shop. Spacious and good customer service.

Very cute diner straight out of the 70s, amazing food and service. Definitely a regular spot for me.

Cool atmosphere, cosy and retro. The menu was simple and everything was done perfectly. Had a great, fluffy western and some tasty bacon. Coffee was pretty tasty too. Friendly staff, good service. Cash only is a bit annoying but theres a TD across the street. Thanks!

Old school setting with modern prices. Very basic breakfast for two, $30

I didn t think the food was good for the price they make you pay. I wouldn t go back

Great family atmosphere and good traditional food- a go to place for our family brunches

Good food with great service. Not a fancy breakfast and lunch place but that doesnt take away the quality of experience

Standard breakfast was good, nothing to write home about

Not anything special. Breakfast was over priced for what we got.

The best breakfast!

A wonderful diner to have a home-style cooked meal. The staff are very friendly. A must try!

Good inexpensive classic diner

Great food... old style tiny diner

Had a hot chicken sandwich. It was alright. Nothing you cant make at home, but I guess thats the diner way. Also, theres no veggies to be had on the weekend so its a pretty carb heavy meal.

Nice place to eat. Homey and cosey.

Classic dinner

Very nice old style diner. Good Hamburger, good steak. The quality of the food is ok. Small and with a small number of tables. At the end is an average place.

Exceptionally friendly service, basic breakfast and sandwiches. Old diner with a cosy feel.

As Canadian as it comes a hold out of the diner tradition. Coffee flows and there is no pretension. A great place to get a hot delicious meal.

Good friendly service

Great service. Home style food.. nice atmosphere. Cash only..

The Milk Shakes are incredible.

Ok folks...go here. This is the real diner deal. You have dreamed of this place....cheap and good - cash only! I give it a 5 out of 5 because its perfect. I will be back.

Great place. Friendly...legit old diner with all the charm. Food is like home.

Food is great, service is good with friendly staff. Menu isnt very extensive but what you get is good. Prices are good, not expensive at all. For a classic diner experience you cant go wrong.

Cute and friendly place.. food is almost homemade and pretty quick to arrive. One star less because the washroom needs a lot of work

Still one of my favorite little spots. Its a CASH ONLY establishment.

We sat at the counter for brunch. Place was busy but there are many tables and several stools at counter. It might take a bit to get served as one person is waiting on all the patrons, but the food comes incredibly fast. Good standard breakfast. Staff is friendly. Keep in mind that it is a cash only establishment. They have burger, fish and chips etc for evening meals but I have yet to try them. Price is reasonable.

Cozy, personal, clean and quality

Really good, cozy and quaint joint. Food is inexpensive and very good. Service was also great. My server was very attentive and courteous. My gripes were with the home fries. It could have used a little bit more seasoning and/or veggies. Also, they only accept cash. However, there are ATMs nearby so it worked out. Strongly recommend.

its okay

Great service and amazing staff! Its a diner, youre not getting a gourmet breakfast.

Nice happy quick service with food cooked infront of us

OK food, insanely overpriced. Club Sandwich + fries = $16 after tax, no drinks

Diner atmosphere; great greasy breakfast!

The smell of old person is infectous and the value is pitiful

Great traditional dinner been there since 44 a nice treat

The staff is great and the food is amazing.! Great breakfast and Fantastic Burgers the burgers are homemade

October 2016: First time visit and why such a long wait! Wonderful established Diner since 1944. Clean floors, clean kitchen and clean food. Well beyond the term greasy spoon compared to other diners within a 50 block radius. Pleasantly greeted and promptly sat. Not so tiny tables allows you to read a paper et all if you so wish. Ive seen and had to deal with tables barely able to handle a cup of coffee never mind a plate of food. My steak was well seasoned, the roast potatoes were golden brown and left no greasy smear on the lips. The eggs were perfection and the coffee is as good as it gets. My only complaint would have been the city grime on the amazing windows giving onto Davenport but by the time I devoured my meal, Staff were out with buckets tending to the task. Cash only.

Excellent food and family friendly service

Solid breakfast spot.

Great food (orange juice very tasty, potatoes perfectly cooked, crispy bacon), friendly service, easy parking

Great breakfast spot. To those complaining about the prices, Id say its pretty reasonable for toronto and certainly one of the cheapest spots in the hood.

we had a completely overpriced and lousy salad and a chicken soup with less than 5g chicken. Really bad value.