Saying the diner was invented in the United States raises the question whether it's not it's really the other way around. From the culture of the jukebox to the frugality of the blue plate special to the independence of everyone sitting together at the counter, it makes sense that 20th century America was born in the diner.
Yes, you can get a banquet burger, club sandwich or slice of strawberry-rhubarb pie at the Skyline, but they also have a number of dishes that would feel out of place at a diner with less élan. For instance, avocado toast finds its way onto the brunch menu, they do mussels here, and you can get an arugula salad with your BLT. Here’s to the transformative effects of new ownership!
Proper diner aficionados know that everything on the menu — from eggs to a tuna melt — should go with a cup of black coffee. So, places like George St. that really specialize in breakfast have a built-in advantage. The full Irish breakfast is the best immersion course in the ways of this landmark, with an all-red exterior and booths to match. George St. Diner gets well-deserved recognition for paying special attention to careful sourcing, including organic eggs for your breakfast.
Not the oldest but possibly the purest, this 62-year-old Dupont institution is all counter and stools. The menu is unreformed grilled cheese sandwiches, souvlaki on a bun and the like. It can get surprisingly crowded on weekend nights, but that really is the best time to go for a dose of classic diner atmosphere.
Harry's Char Broil Dining Lounge
On the one hand, Grant van Gameren having an ownership stake in a diner is a sign of the style's popular acceptance. But the light touch he and chef Nate Young took when applying their spin on Harry's says something for their respect of its timelessness. If you don’t make it in time for the breakfast cutoff at 4 p.m. go with the green chorizo burger with tomatillo relish.
Since it first opened in 1929, The Senator has played a variety of parts. It was a jazz club for a stretch and transforms itself into a midrange restaurant every evening, but from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this is definitely one of Toronto’s most iconic diners. Their restaurant chops mean that classic dishes like the liver and onions or the Cobb salad are worth trying and not just for nostalgia sake.
Brass-tacks ambiance, history, and all-night convenience are the staples of Mars on College St. The menu is thick with recognizable breakfast dishes including a section for omelettes and many permutations on the eggs-and-something else formula. But it’s the build-your-own eggs benny that are the relative bright spot and star of the show.
Leslieville’s diner with a double-barrelled name (it’s just OK2 on the sign) is a hefty dose of retro revival. From the breakfast menu, the eggs Bernadette (many of Benedict’s familiar elements, plus Florentine’s spinach) is a standard favourite. Quarters are tight and seats are in short supply, so it often looks busier than it is.