Three Times The Charm: Feeding Friendship Across Three Toronto Trips
Over the course of three separate trips to Toronto, Jay & I developed a growing tradition of randomly discovering some of the best meals we’ve had in the city. Of course, we don’t gatekeep on our side of the internet so read below for our top restaurant picks for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
🍳🥓🧇Breakfast: A Happy Accident at OEB Breakfast Co.
20 Toronto St, Toronto, ON M5C 2B8
We came across OEB Breakfast Co. on Jay’s first visit to Toronto and to be honest, it wasn’t planned at all. We had worked up an appetite from shopping at a nearby Winners (very typical of us) and after checking reviews, we figured OEB would be the best place to have our first sit-down meal together. We walked in without a reservation and it wasn’t too busy so we were seated right away. The atmosphere immediately set the tone: modern, warm and inviting with browns, yellows and oranges softening the space. The staff were also friendly, welcoming and patient which is exactly what you want when your brain hasn’t fully booted up yet..
🍽️ Our Meal Selections
Shaneka: Waffle with side of bacon and home fries
⚠️ Important Note: The waffle contains almond extract. I have a nut allergy and didn’t realize until I had already eaten it so please be mindful if you have allergies!
Jay: French toast with eggs and bacon
The average cost for meal are around $20 - $30 which feels reasonable for the portion sizes and quality of a classic breakfast. Both meals satisfied our hunger and was the perfect pairing to our yap session as we caught up on life from the last time we saw each other.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)
It’s a reliable, cozy breakfast spot and a great introduction to Toronto dining, especially if you’re starting your day hungry with no plans.
🥯🥐 Lunch: Tim Hortons (Because this is Canada) 🍁
During Jay’s third visit to Toronto, we had a major revelation. Everyone who comes to Canada goes to Tim Hortons because it’s practically a rite of passage. But instead of ordering off the menu, we decided to get creative. Thus, our signature Tim Hortons sandwich was born. If you are looking to switch up your Timmies order (and are willing to trust us), here’s the formula. In exchange, we ask that you don’t judge us for our big-back behaviour.
Bagel Sandwich (or you can opt for a Croissant)
Choose your bagel/croissant (we recommend plain or cheese)
Add bacon, lettuce, cheese
Add a hashbrown (ask for it inside the sandwich)
Cream cheese on the side - we love Tims but we cannot trust their staff with portion control
Jay is also OBSESSED with their chocolate chip cookies so if you want to make this a full combo moment:
Add a chocolate chip cookie
Pair it with a caramel Iced Capp
The entire meal comes out to $18, making it indulgent and affordable for a quick lunch in between sightseeing.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 - yes we are biased!)
This meal is quintessentially Canadian and surprisingly customizable. Who knows? Maybe we will convince Mr. Timothy Hortons to make it a staple on the menu
Dinner: Ending on a High Note at Christina’s on the Danforth
492 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1P6
For Jay’s second visit in Toronto, I wanted to treat her to a proper sit-down dinner at one of my favourite places in Greektown. Christina’s always delivers and if you’ve never been, let me be very clear: THE FOOD IS BANGING.
🍹But Drinks First (As One Should)
We noticed another duo seated nearby with drink that looked too good to ignore. When we asked what they ordered, they told us the server surprised them with Dealer’s Choice - a specialty drink created on the spot. So naturally, I ordered it too. The result? A white sangaria-esque spritzer; fruity, refreshing and dangerously easy to drink.
🍽️Our Meal Selections
🧆Appetizer: Kefte (fried beef and lamb meatballs served with tzatzii & garlic basil tomato sauce)
We came in wanting to try something new and after chatting with our server, this was his recommendation. It was my first time eating lamb and although the meatballs were perfectly seasoned, the tzatziki really stood out to us. It was creamy, tangy and highly addictive. We liked it so much we asked for extra!
🍗Main: Chicken Souvlaki served with roasted lemon potatoes, rice, homemade coleslaw and tzatziki
This plate was pure perfection. Everything was cooked beautifully, well-balanced and incredibly filling. So filling that dessert was immediately taken off the table; not because we didn’t want it but because we physically had no space.
👎 The Only Miss
While the food and drinks were excellent, the experience wasn’t entirely flawless. By the end of the meal, it took us close to 30 mins to receive and pay for our bill. Our server was one of only two people managing the entire restaurant, and while he was attentive (taking the time to genuinely connect and chat with guests) it meant that things moved a little slower. It felt like the gift and curse of good customer service in an understaffed restaurant: you feel cared for, but you also need patience.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
☝️One Other Thing to Note
On certain nights (usually weekends), Christina’s features live entertainment ranging from soft performances by local Greek bans to belly dancers. If you enjoy a little show with your meal, this is absolutely the time to go!