Diners, drive-ins and dives

[jacu]

My SO and I watch this show from time to time on Food TV. There must be places in Ontario like the ones the host visits in each episode.

With summer coming, a road trip to a funky, hole-in-the-wall place with unusually good food has to be any foodies' idea of fun, no?

Anyone willing to share their favourite diner, drive-in or dive destination in Ontario?

[CheddarCheese]

May I recommend Easterbrooks Hot Dog Stand. It is a old footlong hotdog place that is right across the street from The Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. It's been there for well over a half century housed in a long trailer like building. There's 1/2 dozen or so counter stools and 3 or 4 booths. The draw seems to be that it's thrived and maintained it's original charm of doing footlong hotdogs in a dozen or so different ways with topping such as chili, cheese, bacon, pepperoni etc. Hamburgers, fries, onion rings, ice cream and real milk shakes are also on the board. They haven't changed a thing in this space probably since they started and there's a nice back grassy area with picnic benches where the seagulls look longingly from a distance at your leftovers.
It really is like no other place I've been to in Southern Ontario. It truly is an institution and may fit the bill as a Triple D destination.

-----
Easterbrooks Hotdog Stand
694 Spring Gardens Rd, Burlington, ON L7T1J3, CA

[Yongeman]

CC, I've read you post before, but always wondered who makes foot-long dogs in Ontario? I love the foot-longs at Ted's in Buffalo. These are Sahlen's dogs. Any idea who Easterbrooks' supplier is?

[hondaboler]

Esterbrooks and Hutche's in Hamilton Ontario is using Schneider"s red hots or a cheaper Scneider dog. The burger meat may also be Schneider's ( Steakettes, Baron )

[Teffub]

"There >>must be<< places in Ontario like the ones the host visits in each episode."

...Should be, but there isn't.....

[anegg]

Weber's in Orillia on the drive up north, cottage country classic. http://www.webers.com/

-----
Webers-Highway 11 Ltd
King's Highway 11, Orillia, ON L3V, CA

[itzi]

there is absolutely nothing special about Webers..................

[pancake]

Great post. I drool everytime I watch the show. Curious to see if there is anything close to home that fits the bill.

[anegg]

I don't watch the show, but I think a big part of these kinds of places, is maybe not that food is the most original or outstanding, but the traditions and culture that surrounds the place.

Absolutely nothing special about Weber's?
I have to disagree. I think the line-ups that can stretch out the small hut housing the kitchen, and nearly up the overpass testify to the fact that those people think it's something special.

[abigllama]

Webber's was actually the first thing that came to mind when thinking of things in the area. But the show does focus on the specialties that bring people in and show how they're made. The idea is to highlight really unique recipes that maintain the establishment's huge cult following.

I really enjoy Webber's and it's an established institution for cottage country. But it's a fairly standard burger joint that has insane line because of it's location for the masses heading up to their cottages. I can't imagine anyone would drive up there from the GTA just to get the food and turn around. That's the difference between Webber's and what's being featured on that show.

[jrbuddah]

Webber's is nothing special. Sonny's in Brampton probably has burgers just as good. Also, it's probably older than Webber's with more personality.

[Randy50]

If your talking about Sonny's on Kennedy! Yes they have good burgers but it's nothing to brag about. Just as good as any Harvey's

[tjr]

The burgers at Weber's are awful. It's just a "tradition" for families going up to cottage country, beginning when there was nothing else really in the area.

Lots of people going doesn't make something special or even good, it just testifies to the fact that a lot of people go there for some reason or another.

[itzi]

There must be a reason that the store in Orillia closed and the take out at the airport .

[Muskokan1969]

Webers is overrated. If you want a great burger, fries, rings or shakes go a bit north to The Burger Pit, way better

[acd123]

Burger Pit is south of Webers. There are a couple of other threads on this topic. I dislike Webers too. Burger Pit is way better.

[winniesmom]

agree don't waste your time or money

[ebay3392]

I agree...stupid yuppies Muskoka bound go there who don't know any better.

[food face]

I think Guy would like Webbers. I tried Webbers today for the first time. I wanted to see what all the fuss is about. Since it was a Monday afternoon it wasn't too busy. There was a line up but it moved super fast.

The system- The place is run by sweet teenage girls. One comes with a pen and paper to take your order. Then another ones comes up to you (this is all in the line up) to take your money and bring you back your change. It is very efficient and they have it down to a fast art.

The Food- The food is very cheap considering they have some serious branding and a name for themselves in Ontario. A double burger with cheese cost $4.79 which is comparitively good considering it is a legendary burger joint which most places are charging upwards of $8 for a double. The burgers where grilled by a senior pro who was as fast as lightening and had some serious style while grilling. He had a red face and wore a headband. This was worth it already. I was beginning to see the allure. The burgers themselves where grilled (NOT charbroiled). They where fresh and juicy and had processed cheese on them. The bun was fluffy white and soft. The fries where no good. No good at all. Cavendish frozen with too much seasoning salt on them. Seasoning salt is not a secret ingredient. Maypole ice cream to finish everything off was real nice.

The Rest- "Stupid yuppies Muskoka bound". I would have to agree with this statement. . There where a couple of bonus' I really liked about Webbers. First bonus was the train carriage washrooms. I was expecting something dumpy. What I got was modern, extraordinarily clean and gorgious air conditioned washrooms. Lovely. Secondly, they have a really nice park studded with large picnic tables with forest behind them.

Summery on Webbers-
The place is an institution like it or not. Would I line up for it for more than 10 minutes....hell no. Would I go there again for a decent burger and sit with my dog at a lovely picnic bench looking at the trees....you bet.

[Full tummy]

I have to say that even if the burgers are good, I don't think it would be enough for Fieri. Every place I've seen him visit on the show has multiple homemade dishes that elicit high praise from customers and Fieri, as well.

[food face]

Yea you are probably right I suppose. Perhaps if it was a dulled down "Canadian" version.

[02putt]

nor Hutch's, Easterbrooke's or even Weber's which was sold by the original owner from Hamilton years ago. The only thing these places have is the nostalgia factor. I'm yet to met or even see the owner at their restaurants. I too watch Diners Drive In's and Dives from time to time and have read one of Guy's books. His staff go to great lengths to find these places. One of the prerequisites is that the food made is authentic and made from scratch. No chain or short cuts allowed. I therefore, nominate Mex-I-Can on James St N in Hamilton. Your typical whole in the wall made with authentic Mexican ingredients, and great prices. I would also recommend Murphy's subs on Dundurn. I have only ever had the homemade Italian Sausage sub. I have not tried his other ones that are made with regular deli meat. His wife makes the sausage, "Murph" is always behind the counter. While you get your sub made you are in for one interesting conversation depending on what "Murph" wants to discuss that day. We get them to go unheated and bring them home to heat up.

[designergirl]

I agree- excluding how they maintain the traffic flow...THAT IS an art!

-----
Webers-Highway 11 Ltd
King's Highway 11, Orillia, ON L3V, CA

[goldendelicious]

Good or not, EVERYONE knows Weber's. There's a lot of history behind it, so it would make sense if it were to appear on the show.

[jayt90]

Weber's is a brand name, like McDonalds, and can do no wrong, if your demands are small and appetite large. But they could offer better than Grade A chuck burgers, perhaps include hand cut russet fries, and real cheddar slices, if they wanted to be the best, and set the standard for the genre. They don't need to, because of location and nostalgic memories of past days.

[Full tummy]

I don't know about that. I've watched the show a number of times, and each place appears to offer something special and definitely yummy on the food front. Otoh, I haven't seen any mediocre, steeped-in-tradition restos featured yet.

If those were the criteria, then the Goof would work. Alas, the food is crap.

[mattagascar slim]

Sorry, but Weber's is an over-priced, over-hyped tourist trap in my opinion. It used to be great back in the 80's but it's gone seriously downhill since Mr. Weber died.

[S_CAR_GO]

Brutal place with long lines and unruly kids. The food was okay 20 years ago, but only because you had been driving so long to the cottage you were desperate for a break.

[Fang]

Weber's in the best, good food, great atmosphere with the park and train cars for in door dining.

[DESIZFINST]

Excuse my ignorance.......but where is weber's?

[acd123]

It's a crappy but very popular burger place north of Orillia on Hwy 11. It used to be good but now it's just a name and one of the few burger places on the way to cottage county.

[juliewong]

I enjoy the show - the only place I have found is a chili dog and poutine stand on Manitoulin Island. Shame

[ebay3392]

My bet would be hit Sturgeon Falls at Larry's or the P'tit Riv for poutine, pogos, etc....the constant lineups and activity speaks for itself there.

[Splendid Wine Snob]

Yes! Agreed! And the red Fish and Chip truck in Killarney-Herberts

SWS

[sgogo]

What about the old streetcar hamburger place at Hwy 89 & Hwy 10? East of Shelburne. I can't remember the name of it, and haven't been in years, but it seems a bit funky. Or funkayyy.

[icey]

I'm pretty sure its called Super Burger. But I would definitely not go out of the way to eat there. It is ok, nothing more, nothing less.

[hondaboler]

the burger place east of Shelburne at hwy 10 and hwy 89 is in Primrose Ont. Look for the TTC Streetcar. The place is called Super Burger and it serves Schneider supplied frozen patties and frozen cut french fries.

[Otonabee]

Sadly Superburger is not what it once was. My recommendation is try Champs next door... I gather from the inlaws that it really is where the locals eat.

-----
Superburger
506269 89 Hwy, Shelburne, ON L0N1S8, CA

[lovestocookandbake]

Haugens Chicken just outside of Port Perry is a good spot....

[TorontoTips]

I second Haugen's - cheap and cheerful, family-run, and good quality chicken and ribs with fresh-cut fries and home-made pies.

Not earth-shattering, but a good, solid, diner-ish choice.

[DockPotato]

About 1 mile north of the hamlet of Underwood which is north of the larger hamlet of Tiverton, about mid-way between Port Elgin and Kincardine, in almost perfect country emptiness on Hwy 21 is Klara's Countryside Inn. Klara's is a dinky wee motel with a swimming pool that's never seen a butt as far as I know.

The place is totally nondescript and unremarkable unless you're very, very local. It's dog ugly in fact, but well kept. I am told that the rooms are impeccably clean and decent - transient summer accommodation is almost impossible anywhere in the district so Klara's is quietly relied upon by summer residents for overflow guests.

Klara's restaurant does only breakfast and lunch. The breakfasts are typically huge - 3 eggs, home fries and bacon, pork sausage, back bacon or all three. Dress is informal - Dickies' duck bib overalls, OPP blues, farmer "shit clothes" and higher end duds of contractors and engineers from nearby Bruce nuclear.

The printed menu is typical Bruce County - burgers, clubhouse, excellent fires, wraps and what not along with daily specials - and that's where the place hives out on its own. It's owned and operated by Hungarians!

If we have business on Owen Sound or Port, we make it a timing point to have lunch at Klara's. We go for decent schnitzel sandwich or dinner, good chicken breast sandwich, cole slaw, or sausage dinner. The sausage comes with sauerkraut, paprika potatoes, and an Debriczener. Hungarian specialties are listed on the wall, good, solid local food is on the printed menu.

The soups are generally excellent - smoked ham and bean is my favourite. Oddly enough, what they offer as "goulash" ain't. Avoid it.

The rooms are cluttered with knick knacks - reminiscent of Paprika on Bathurst. There is a bias towards souvenir spoons, draught horses and boats.

The magic feature of this place is the view from the table at the south window. Wood lots, acres of forage crops, open highway, large sky and this.

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q4...

Outside the window are feeders for humming birds and orioles. In the shot there are actually three birds. the adjacent pasture has either Belgians or Clydesdales grazing and they collect under the nearby trees.

The food, except breakfast, is good but not outstanding, well above what one expects for under $10. The view and atmosphere are unique.

[Yongeman]

DockPotato, you're making me crazy I see ONE bird, but aren't those other creatures horses? Either that, or they have very tiny wings.
Sounds like a great place to stop en route to Owen Sound or Sauble Beach.

[DockPotato]

"you're making me crazy"

What about me? There were for sure 2 other humming birds hovering when I shot that pic and I couldn't find them either.

I think they are lost against the foliage. There were also 2 Orioles out of frame at their own feeder. The other creatures are indeed horses - the Belgians were out that day - the Clydes were in another field.

[ribboy]

i have been spending summers in southampton for the last 9 years and have always wondered about that place...we drive by it usually twice every summer and i always think we should stop..and this summer i will...sounds great..thanks...

[DockPotato]

It does early breakfast and lunch only, closing at 2 in the aft (2:30?)

[ribboy]

cheers....

[bittermu]

There's a little breakfast place in Stratford called "Features" that, IMHO, would fit in with the show. All of their meals are massive and I think that two of their meals would be perfect:

eggs benny (three poached eggs on ham on french toast)

The Paul Bunyon - it's in comprehensibly massive, has everything on it and it's served on a table-sized platter.

I think Ol Camp 31, arguably one of the best BBQ joints in Ontario, in Paris, with its picnic tables, tin shack walls and smokey goodness would qualify as well.

I second Itzi's posting about Weber's - it used to be something of note, but hasn't been so in many, many years.

[AverageJo]

Hi CHers, I just joined so please be patient if I violate any protocols...but hopefully I won't.

I love DDD too. I'll be driving through the U.S. eastern seaboard this summer and will try to stop at one of the joints featured on the show.

RE: SuperBurger (Primrose, Ont., at Hwys 10 & 89) -- When it first opened, about 25 years ago, it really was special. It was serving burgers made with organic beef, which was a rarity then. But it's changed a lot since then. Superburger now is the same as any other standard burger joint--frozen fries, patties, etc. Not worth going out of your way.

RE: DDDs in Ontario -- As Teffub noted above, there <<must be>> such places in Ontario, but there aren't. I really think such places are unique to the U.S. Canadian entrepreneurs, with a few rare exceptions, just don't seem to have the temperament do open places like these. Also, because of the lessened population density, it's much harder to get enough traffic to support a one-of-a-kind diner, especially up in Grey or Bruce counties.

[adkatz]

The whole point of Triple-D is showcasing independent restaurants that offer transcendent or novel food in humble surroundings -- and by that criterion, there aren't too many places in Ontario that could end up on Triple-D. Weber's is mediocre, maybe a step up from McDonald's but nothing more, and while I agree that Camp 31 is among the best BBQ places in Ontario, there are many many places in the US that are better (and this show, after all, is intended for an American audience).

If I were to nominate any places in Ontario, I would choose Gandhi Roti, which offers an interesting alternative to the West Indian roti, or Caplansky's, since nobody else is doing fusion smoked meat (Montreal-style cured brisket with Texas-style wood smoking).

[alsiem]

In Woodstock is a decent place called Big Al's Snack Shack. Definitely a good burger and fries and if it floats your boat, deep fried pickles.

[juno]

I regard Teddy's in Oshawa as a diner - larger than most, but a diner nonetheless. In my view, the best diner I've run across in Ontario. Classic diner food and lots of it, easy-to-take prices, good service from a corps of regulars. Little wonder it's always mobbed with locals who know good, straightforward cooking when they encounter it. Take the Park Road exit north off the 401and you'll see at it on your right within about five minutes.

But as others have noted, there's not much quite like the idiosyncratic joints you can stumble upon throughout the U.S., popularized by DDD on TV and by the Sterns, who first sought such places out years ago, in their regularly updated travel guidebook, Roadfood. Los Angeles and environs are particularly strong in such one-of-a-kind diners.

[Mike from Hamilton]

Teddy's in Oshawa
The Harbour Diner in Hamilton
Chicago Style Pizza Shack in Hamilton
Camp 31
Schneider's in Cloyne (great homemade pies)
Easterbrook's Hot Dogs in Burlington
Mexico Lindo in Ajax
The Station Grille in Ajax (this place is a converted KFC for goodness' sake!)

[BamiaWruz]

What's good at Teddy's in Oshawa?

[hungryabbey]

Im not sure if anything is mind blowing amazing but for the price, I always loved the open faced roast beef sandwich, strawberry pie (monstrous), montreal smoked meat on kaisers. Just go with the simple stuff.

[BamiaWruz]

Sounds good!! If I'm in the area and hungry I'll be sure to head over there. Thanks.

[hungryabbey]

oh yes, go very very hungry. the portions are huge, you get a roll and soup/salad with your main and its very inexpensive. But go either really early or late (they line starts up around 4- 4:30) but service is incredibly efficient. They truly have incredible servers, mature and experienced.

[Mitzimouse]

Be very jealous, Juno. My brother-in-law has cooked there for yrs. We love to hold him hostage at family events to whip up his magic!

[Northforker]

Teddys is a great value and solid dependable food. The Deli sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients, the open faced sandwiches served with mashed potatoes and gravy are delicious and HUGE. The service is prompt and courteous!

[shaddow]

I agree that Teddy's could make the grade on DDD, even though it is not as funky as a lot of the places Guy features. A number of quality options on the menu, I especially like the Warehouse sandwich, the rice pudding, and the coconut cream pie. Always make a point to detour into Oshawa to Teddy's anytime I am passing by.

We have a new place on the scene here in London, called the Early Bird, that would fit the bill. Everything is made from scratch, huge portions, some unique offerings, and very funky interior and serving staff. Early Bird is a bit of a misnomer as they do not open until 11 a.m. although they are open into the wee hours of the morning. Not time-tested like a lot of places on the show, but it is becoming fastly popular and with limited seating, there are often line-ups. The Turducken Club, The Fat Elvis, the pancake stacker, and the various sliders have all been delicious and very filling.

[Yummyolives]

Alsiem, where in Woodstock is Big Al's Snack Shack? I'm going there next weekend.

[OnDaGo]

The fried fish place at the back of Stlawrence market... I would consider a diner... even though it is not a drive in... as to the pealmeal sandwhich place... Both would qualify in my opinion...

[Pincus]

Yeah, in Toronto I've come across diners, but nothing where they do something extraordinary with their food like the places mentioned in the show.

[Tatai]

Guy appears to love everything he tastes at every single d/d/d he visits. I strongly suspect that not everything tastes as good as he makes it out to.

I've only been to one of the places he's visited -- Tecolote Cafe in Santa Fe, a few months ago. I had the Huevos Yucatecos (corn tortilla layered with black beans, two eggs any style, green chile, Swiss and feta cheese, pico de gallo, and surrounded with fried bananas; choice of beans, posole, or potatoes), which is the dish he featured on the show, and was not blown away. It was decent, but did not live up to expectations. http://www.tecolotecafe.com/

[fickle]

I like Flapjacks on Hwy 10 at the base of Caledon mountain, just south of the Forks of the Credit Road. We used to drive up for their fresh homemade brown bread and strawberry preserves. There's something great about toast that's at least an inch thick!
http://flapjacksrestaurant.com/about_...

[duckdown]

Is that place any good? I live in Brampton and occasionally pass by there, I always wondered what they had there

[fickle]

The toast and preserves are good, everything else is decent (though I'm not a good judge since I'm not a real fan of brunch/breakfasts in general). I wouldn't go out of my way to get there but if you're in the hood, I think it's worth stopping and checking out.

[magic]

They have very odd hours. Only open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays. Never been but am curious too.

[jrbuddah]

Great place for breakfast or brunch. Better than Cora's that's for sure!!

[ebay3392]

I was there this past weekend, met my cousin and recommended it...was I embarrassed....I used to go there in the '80s when it was a log cabin..did not expect the portion sizes of back then..but since 5 years ago this place has jacked the prices, $11.95 for a breakfast, two eggs, ham which was ham loaf style three thin slices half moon shape, 10-12 home fries cut in 3/4 inch cubes, home made toast that is no thicker than the Wonder Bread Texas Toast which was burnt, preserves that were watered down and runny, two pancakes that were overcooked and tough...really bad. I was hungry when leaving, only one refill for coffee..they ignored my second and third request for refills..never again! Prices were so high my wife ordered toast only as my cousin was paying and she felt so bad recommending this over priced place...and they burnt her toast as well.

[jrbuddah]

that sucks! try Flips in Brampton. maybe you'll have better luck there...huge portions....been there once. good solid breakfast.

575 Main St N
Brampton, ON L6X 0G6

[bsv]

I love the show but sometime you think the show has some places that are just good atmosphere but food not so much.

so some of the places I would suggest and I know some of you will disagree with my choice:

sneaky dee's: the food is not amazing but not bad however, a fun place to go

the chip truck at cherry beach , the fries are nice and they do make a neat poutine (always a line up durning the summer)

T-Bones Sizzling Steaks &Burgers Drive-In Restaurant: it is a drive in but more of a DIVE, I have never eaten there but I know people who enjoy it.. just a level of scary place that makes it worth a visit
(2540 Eglinton Avenue East Scarborough)

the fish store: little place on collage that I do not know what class it would fall in but DDD does some joins like this. The place is a small little place with a blue fence around it but I tried it they other day and was blown away by the shirmp sandwich, made fresh right there and I have had people tell me they makes a great fish sandwich.

this one will get me in trouble:
Johnny burger: just for the milkshakes

this is just a few of the place I could think of , Toronto has a lot of hidden little hole in the walls that are just fun places to eat.

[Pincus]

Johnny's actually does have great milkshakes. Burgers are average, rings are average, fries are terrible.

I would put the New York Cafe (Danforth/Broadview) up as a place with character & atmosphere that is fun to eat at.

[KevinB]

Having had many a meal at Johnny's, their steak on a kaiser is a great value - garlicky, salty, on a kaiser with grilled onions and BBQ sauce - yum!

Agree, their fries are awful; there's just some terrible mojo there that makes me order them every time.

[childofthestorm]

A place that would fit the criteria of the show would be that Filipino diner The Ritz in East York. Dishes out both standard fare and home-cooked Filipino dishes. I could see Guy swooning over the caldereta.

[KevinB]

Our Filipina nanny makes a great caldereta (and adobo). Where exactly is this place?

[childofthestorm]

First time trying this link thang.

-----
Ritz
310 Donlands Ave, Toronto, ON M4J3R9, CA

[goldendelicious]

Golden Star in Thornhill, maybe? They've got pretty decent burgers..

-----
Golden Star
7123 Yonge St, Thornhill, ON L3T2A8, CA

[Davwud]

Their homeburger is excellent.

DT

[SMOG]

Yeah, this is actually a really good candidate. Great atmosphere - they've got those rhyming guys. All kept in the family. Fresh hand cut fries. And the furniture is still from the last century :)

[Davwud]

I worked in the gas station across the street from in in the late 80's and ate there constantly. It was great.

DT

[mraca]

Key word "was". IMHO

[Little T]

I'm glad some people like Golden Star for there seems to be negative talk about it, i mean its not phenomenal but they have good decent burgers.
When i went the 1st time awhile ago i wondered what the fuss was all about, went again last night and realized why.
Get the homeburger not the hamburger, its a homemade patty.
They also have real fries with some skin on not frozen.
Homemade bbq sauce too.
Burgers and fries cooked fresh, comes in a little basket.
Combo about $8.69 before taxes.
Cheap beer too but didn't try.
And yes the decor looks like the original.

[ebay3392]

I was there about six months ago...is a very good hamburger joint....reminds me of Johnnys in Scarborough or Sonny's in Brampton..that same feel..good solid burger and fries, only GS has much more seating!

[designergirl]

Johnny's is defintely not the same as it was years ago- I think the burgers are less than mediocre.
Golden star- I like that fact that it is still family run. The decor- cute for awhile...but come on- those chairs are not comfortable. They want you in and out.
The burgers are alright...nothing thrilling.
Best burger this summer_ Miller Tavern hands down...yes. pricier and the atmosphere on the patio is great!

-----
Miller Tavern
3885 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4N 2P2, CA

[bytepusher]

Have they stepped up the burger recently? I get dragged there on occasion for business lunches and the last time I had the burger it was one of those frozen pucks formed in a shape to make them look handmade but of course every burger looks identical and no handmade burger holds it's shape like that, uniform thickness right out to the edge and crisp 90 degree corners.

[designergirl]

Which burger are you writing about? I am assuming the Miller? Try the Lamb burger ...for a change..the burgers were great! Maybe they changed the chef?

Golden star and Johny's are eh...bliq is better.

[bytepusher]

You didn't say anything about a lamb burger, in my business we call that moving the goal posts.

[designergirl]

In my business...we call it creative license. LOL

[jkmanosque]

Mike's Restaurant in Marysville, Ontario - just off the 401 east of Belleville on the edge of the Tyendinaga Reserve. They have the best homemade bean with bacon soup I've ever had. Great homestyle meals - fish, turkey, stews, etc. Pleasant staff and good prices. Another good diner style place, again pretty straight forward fare but a great breakfast for cheap is Stavros Family restaurant on Queen in Parkdale.

[dafydd]

Troy's in milton is a great place to eat. The family and I go there frequently.
Everything on the menu is really good.
great atmosphere and awesome service.

[SMOG]

I would suggest a couple places. One being Gandhi Roti. Definitely a dive with amazing food! And the other being Black Camel. Tiny little place with amazing sandwiches and coleslaw. Granted, this one may be a little too upscale for what is typically featured on DDD, but nonetheless a decent candidate.

[jrbuddah]

I've been to Troy's expecting something great and to be honest, the place looked very retro and the food was...normal. Nothing special......

[Davwud]

The Old Heidelberg House in Heidelberg.

http://www.oldhh.com/'

Outstanding house lager and great food. Mrs. Sippi loves, loves, loves the smoked hock dinner.

DT

[friskypete]

The Harmony Lunch in Waterloo. It's been there for about 80 years, I think. Go for a burger with fried onions, and a milkshake (skip the fries). Love it!

[Fang]

Agree. Definately a dive, but the burgers and shakes are classic. Get the onion rings instead of fries. Yum!

[jacu]

Thanks, everyone!

[TorontoJo]

In the city, I would throw out Gale's Snack Shop as a diner/dive with cheap, cheap, but decent food. Where else can you get a $2 club sandwich with real roasted turkey and bacon?

[sandymctyre]

I would have to second Gale's as a dive destination! For the price, you can't beat it...3 can dine for $10!! Not sure I could see Guy Fierri there, but it is certainly a place I take all visitors to the city/country. I did notice that the prices have recently increased though...$0.75 now for the fried egg sani instead of $0.65...steep! The club is my favourite....not bad shakes either.

[Davwud]

I almost forgot. I love Three Coins in Richmond Hill.

DT

[mstacey42]

Two places I would include in this category in Ontario are the Sovereign in Creemore and the Rock Dell Tavern just outside Collingwood. Neither of them is exceptionally good for food. The schnitzels at the sovereign are mighty tasty, prices are low, and the soups are homemade. The Rock Dell puts out decent, well-charred steaks. But both of them are local classics who exude plenty of homey charm. The Rock Dell in particular hasn't seen a renovation in decades, and for precisely that reason looks totally original.

[mstacey42]

I know that the Weber's question will come up inevitably from time to time, some people just don't like their burgers. But what I'm interested in learning is: do people know many other burger joints that serve as fluffy a bun? I don't know where those buns come from, they might be totally ordinary, but they are some fluffy. My webers defense stands and falls with the claim that fluffy buns are good, and that their bun is a fluffy one.

[OTFOODIE]

I have never understood the allure of Johnny's, Golden Star, Apache, etc. - generally so-so at best and usually downright bad in Johnny's case.

Back in the 70s, almost every crossroads hamlet in Waterloo county had a country inn with good-to-outstanding food. As far as I know, only two survive, the Olde Heidelburg House in Heidelburg and the Blue Moon in St. Petersburg. Both have an old country charm, but the food and beer are better at the Olde Heidelburg. The pork hock is one of my guilty pleasures.

If you pass through Drayton - summer theatre, anyone? - the Drift Inn is nothing fancy in terms of decor, but the food is delicious, honest-to-goodness home cooking.

I have tried Easterbrooks, and it does have its charm, but I'd rather get a knackwurst at Denninger's if I'm in the Hamilton/Burlington area. Easterbrook's does fit the original poster's criteria better, though.

I have never been tempted to try Weber's, but I did waste an hour trying Hutch's on the beach strip in Hamilton, once. It would meet the OP's criteria and there is certainly a strong local following, but I didn't find it to be worth the long lineups, and the wrath of my SO certainly added to my regret.

I would include Wolfie's, although it isn't a road trip destination unless you're outside of Toronto. Maybe I should consider my own Toronto Smoked Meat tour: Centre Street Deli (Hand-sliced MSM), Wolfie's (machine sliced MSM) and Caplansky's (outstanding TSM). BTW, David (Wolfie's) and Sam (CSD) are adamant that the only thing similar about their MSM is that Lester's make it for them. They are different recipes, which I've confirmed doing side-by-side tastings.

In Eastern Ontario, I would include the Kingston Brewing Company on a road trip list. The problem would be you'd need a designated driver, because after sampling their brews - try the two versions of the Dragon's Breath side-by side - you should/must not attempt to drive. The food is excellent as well.

[kjw46]

Wes's Chip Truck and Kingburger in Arnprior, Ontario on old Hwy 17- Legends
Madoc Dairy- Hwy. 7 and 62- Chicken, wedgefries, milkshakes

[Bobby Wham]

No not really, it's America, they do the diner thing correctly. Most of the spots make everything from scratch, where as Toronto they opt for the easy way out using pre prepared food, frozen burgers etc. Any Toronto place that tries to do the "Authentic" diner style usually fails a.k.a Lakeview. Guy Fieri would laugh at what we have

[jamesm]

I think I can handle Guy Fieri laughing at me.

[Lavender Chocolate]

I know why Guy is such a tool...he eats far too much and especially too much meat. He shares the same skater douche style as Fred Durst circa 1991. Anyways on to business....
Niagra Falls- Somebuddy's. For pizza, wings and these hybrids of pizza and phill cheese steak flatbreads. They are loaded greasy and well suited for the show.

[SMOG]

Hey, wait, are we in bizarro world here? :)

This just seems opposite to me. When "America" comes to mind, I think of processed and canned. While there are obviously exceptions, we have to keep in mind that the show features one establishment out of 1,000. The other 999 probably make absolutely nothing from scratch. Having said that, in the GTA, there are also a few standouts. Same goes for any other city in Canada. Overall, the Canadian population eats less processed than the US. So I don't think it's fair to generalize that.

[jamesm]

And they have to travel across the country to find these establishments, and I guarantee that in most of the places they find them the featured spot is the only decent restaurant.

[Full tummy]

Yes, it's true that in America there are diners a-plenty serving bad grub. But, the places featured on the show seem to be making stuff from scratch, and things that I haven't found the likes of in Toronto. Which explains why none of us can think of a venue that would actually work for the show (a D/D/D with a story and reasonably-priced great food). When I was a teenager, and of the belief that Toby's served amazing food, that would have been my suggestion... Don't know, though, how good those burgers actually were (teenagers seem to be more concerned with quantity than quality, in general)... Wish we had a good version of Toby's today.

[SMOG]

Yeah, very true! Toby's did seem awesome, although I was also a teenager at the time :).

I totally agree, those places do look fantastic. But we have had a few suggestions here. And if you poll everyone across the country, then you could easily fill the show with enough content. Don't forget... he goes to, say, 3 or 4 places in the Chicago area, and that's it. So compare the population of Toronto to Chicago... and I'm sure you can easily find 3 or 4 places in the GTA. Canada is just different. America invented the diner. We have way more authentic ethnic food. But an Indian restaurant (say, Amaya) is neither a diner... drive-in... and certainly no dive!

[sandymctyre]

mmmmm....Toby's, that place would have been perfect for the show, big, juicy burgers.

[Delshan]

Mars for weekend breakfast
Mimi's (not around any more) was a classic dive with great food
John's Italian Cafe on Baldwin
People's Food - 2 a.m. chicken salad club fries and gravy complete with late night cash meat delivery in a bucket...I'm sure the night cook is working off some debt owed to the mob

[stephen]

Is Mar's still disgustingly filthy? The last time I ate there was in the back and there was a good 3 square yards of black mold clearly visible. There are dives and then there are health risks!

As a transplanted New Jerseyite, I can tell you for certain that there are LOTS of places that still do everything from scratch and those are the spots they feature. One of them is Mustache Bill's diner in Barnegat Light NJ that my grandfather built and opened in 1961. It just won a James Beard award last month.

Even though I dearly love living in the GTA, the lack of good diners and New York style coffee shops is the one thing that really makes me homesick.

[Calipoutine]

Hmmm,. what about the lack of good pizza, NY bagels and deli? Those are what I dearly miss( oh and Mexican food since I lived in Cali before moving to Ontario)

[jayt90]

Cali, next time you're in Costco, try a $16. package of Dunn's smoked meat, from Montreal. I'm sure you can find good rye bread in the London markets.

[Calipoutine]

Think again re: rye bread. The only rye I usually buy is Dimplemyers. I can't find any decent bread in London. London is a culinary wasteland. Well, except for this fabulous new restaurant we ate at for our anniversary. The Only on King, wow, best meal I've had since moving to Ontario.

Btw, I dont eat red meat. I guess you missed that in my senior thread on eG or in my latest thread here on CH asking for a good deli in TO( with no red meat).

[jayt90]

Sorry, I'm thickheaded!. I've heard great things about the Only, and I'll visit soon. You may want to try Caplansky's smoked turkey when you visit Toronto. Call first, it's not always available.
www.caplanskys.com

[sandymctyre]

Cali, If you find a good Mexican, please let me know. I have been on the hunt for quite some time. Got turned on to good Mexican while visiting Cali, my wife would be eternally grateful for a tip here!

[hondaboler]

Cantina Mexicana 2 Queen St South Mississauga Ont (Streetsville) 905-813-1992 I'm not sure how good this place is, but you can also check out Hwy 3 Talbot Rd in Leamington Ont.This town is east of Windsor and has numerous Mexican street food joints. Most run by Mexican Nationals. Heinz Company in town and Leamington is the tomato capital. Theres is also a Mexican Consulate in Leamington. I have eaten at some of these Mexican places. I hope this helps Sandy McTyre

-----
Cantina Mexicana
277 Queen St S, Mississauga, ON L5M1L9, CA

[hal2010]

Leamington has some great Mexican food. It puts Toronto to shame. Try Taco Tony's.

-----
Taco Tony
52 Erie St S, Leamington, ON N8H3A9, CA

[thatlankyfoody]

People's food is certainly not open till 2 a.m; my experience has been that it closes early supper time. Perhaps you are thinking of nearby (and IMO pretty gross if consumed sober) Vesta lunch.

[Delshan]

Yes...you're right...The Vesta!

[FrankD]

Whatta revoltin' development. When I was a student at U of T, living in a frat on St. George, People's was where we'd roll after one of our legendary parties. That would be about 3-4 am, when the vibe was definitely comin' in from the outside.

[OnDaGo]

California Sandwiches

[Davwud]

Only the original location though.

DT

[Wiley]

I think Dangerous Dan's qualifies as a dive..

[Full tummy]

Ya, but the food isn't good.

[Pantz]

In the city, I can only think of one place that has the show's requisite combination of décor (or character, if you will) and food from scratch: the Cadillac Lounge. Fieri would love this bar; he looks like something that emerged whole from between the cushions of one of their leopard skin couches. Not sure if you can call it a dive these days. They just finished expanding the space and it looks really nice.

Food wise, they say they do it all from scratch. It's usually good, though I would have to say it doesn't seem to be as inspired as some of the places on the triple D.

[Thatcher]

Just don't have the hard liquor there. Their pours are barely a full ounce, if that...

Last time we were there drinking bourbons, there was barley enough splash to cover the bottom of the glass!

[JamieK]

There's a chip stand called Freddie's on Hwy 93 north just off Hwy 400 that I drive by all the time but never stopped at (always in a hurry, too tired or not hungry). It's been there forever and there are always people eating at the picnic tables, including truckers. The handpainted sign says they have elk burgers as well as beef burgers (and I think bison too). A sign says Dam Good Fries when you're going south, Da' Good Fries on the way north. No doubt not worth a drive but if you're on the way to Hillsdale/Lake Orr/Wyebridge/Midland/Penetang, might be worth a stop.

[thebutcher]

Angie's Kitchen in Waterloo.
Press Box in Niagara Falls NY

[Davwud]

I didn't know Niagara Falls NY is in Ontario.

DT

[Pincus]

Did some forgotten clause from the War of 1812 kick in recently? :)

[thebutcher]

Good pt Davwud - growing up in St.Catharines, 'over the river' just seems like another part of town, never mind another country :)

[jamielikestocookandeat]

Tally Ho on main st west, hamilton has been pumping out roast beef on a bun forever. I haven't been there for like 15 years but it's still there when I drive by. They used to put out a big pile of juicy roast beef with gravy and horseradish on a large soft kaiser in a basket with a rediculous amount of fries - ate there for cheap when I went to McMaster.

I would have said Hutch's back in the 70s or 80s - they had awesome homemade burgers as well as wicked beer battered cod and fries. But now they aren't so good.

Hewitt's Dairy Bar on hwy 6 south still has that 50's style lunch counter with simple scratch made food, milkshakes made in one of those metal Hamilton Beach machines in the steel cup. They have the best ice cream around. Hewitt's dairy products are in some stores in the Hamilton area. Buy their chocolate ice cream!

[Otonabee]

I was wondering where Hewitts is. Their milk is available at the Carrot Common. I would love to try their ice cream!!

[02putt]

I realize this reply is almost 2 years late but new to Chowhound and just read your post. We use to stop at Hewitt's when we were kids. It was a family tradition after a full day at the Waterford ponds. Funnily enough we went to Chicago Pizza Shack tonight after reading all the posts about it. Another place I haven't had in 30 years. Low and behold directly across the street there is a Hewitt's! Looks like it is closed for the winter which was a bummer cause it would have made a great dessert!

-----
The Pizza Shack
184 Marina Blvd, Peterborough, ON K9H6M9, CA

[TorontoTips]

I'm gonna second Tally-Ho as a guilty pleasure, but be forewarned, the fries are pedestrian frozen fare, the buns are wonder-kaisers, the roast beef is usually overcooked and shaved, and the gravy is as thick and dark as chocolate pudding, and clearly made from some mix.

However, the combo is strangely delicious and decadent, despite the low-quality ingredients all around.

[FrankD]

Is the Stoney Creek Dairy still around? That was an important halfway stop in the 60's from our home in Toronto to Grand-dad's cottage on Lake Erie.

[02putt]

Again, I apologize for the tardy reply but I am fairly new to Chowhound. The Stoney Creek Dairy is still open. The almost went under when they added the $10M dollar plant to manufacture Ben and Jerry's. It was around the same time their Ice Cream changed. To someone who has never had their Ice Cream it is still delicious but not what it was...even better. We still go in the summer once. I say once because I find any ice cream upsets my stomach these days. In the summer they have theme nights. My husband really enjoys the antique car night. Owners from all over park their beautiful cars in the lot and people stroll around while eating their ice cream. Was absolutely starving one night and my daughter and I went for a burger. It actually wasn't half bad. Not fantastic but much better than "chain" restaurants. Double check if you plan on going. They may be closed for the winter.

-----
Stoney Creek Dairy Bar
135 King St E, Stoney Creek, ON L8G1L4, CA

[TOchowgal]

Love this show!

The only one I can think of now is Chandni Chowk on Gerrard St (India Bazaar). It is in a building and their food is consistently good. Bit of a dive.

[OnDaGo]

how about Pete Street Deli.. with the breakfast Grill in the front and the day glo chicken balls and the owner is such a character.. he would make good TV...

[childofthestorm]

Got to think that Stockyards BBQ would probably be a spot that Fieri would hit, devour all the different meats and fried chicken. That guy must have his cardiologist on speed-dial.

[11oclockish]

Way off the beaten track there's a place up in Thunder Bay called Norma Jean's. When you walk in, there are booths on one side, and on the other old fashioned chrome stools, bolted into the floor, run along a low counter. There are tables at the back. The entire place is plastered with photos and posters of Marilyn Monroe (hence the moniker), Elvis Presley, and classic cars. It has not been renovated, as far as I can tell, in years. If you go to the bathroom, you will usually find a flower in a vase in there.
The nice older lady that serves you wears a poodle skirt. Almost everything is "home made" - fresh cut fries, turkey, gravy, etc. The burgers and perogies are very good. There is an old, but functional milkshake maker. Slices of lemon meringue pie sit in a glass shelving unit by the counter in case the huge portions have not done the trick. Although there may be nothing spectacular, it is standard fare done well in a setting that has character.
And as an added bonus, legend has it that it was the place Bambi Bembenek (remember her? US fugitive captured in Thunder Bay in the 90's?) used to work, or live (in the apartments above), or was arrested (depending on the version you hear). There is, in fact, a "Bambi burger" on the menu (alas, it is not venison...)

[Splendid Wine Snob]

Speaking of Thunder Bay, there's always time for Finnish pancakes at The Hoito too!

SWS

[haggisdragon]

The Hoito would actually be a PERFECT place for this show.

-----
Hoito Restaurant
314 Bay St, Thunder Bay, ON P7B1S1, CA

[haggisdragon]

Ha, I remember Norma Jean's. The waitress makes you get your own coffee if she knows you! She gave us all hugs when we left. I love that place.

-----
Norma Jean's Restaurant
123 May St S, Thunder Bay, ON P7E1A9, CA

[11oclockish]

Alas, I think it is goodbye to Norma Jean's. There has been a "closed for renovations" sign in the window for well over 2 months now - and there is no work going on.

[fivesensesreeling]

D Hot Shoppe in Burlington is ***SO*** D,D&d!! Awesome Trinidadian food - roti, curry, jerk, etc., super dumpy, plus friendly, outgoing, charming staff. A "touch" of hot sauce is all i need for a good kick.

Another Burlington contender for DDD is Sammy's Donair - salty and spicy with a sweet-ish sauce, yum!

[Davwud]

I haven't had a Sammy's in ages. Is it still good?? I think someone reported on here that they've gone downhill. I hope not.

DT

[fivesensesreeling]

I've maybe been there once in the last 6 months but it was still really good.

[amshmo]

I have to add Admiral's Submarine in downtown Brantford. It's the dive-iest of dives, but legendary for its portion sizes and quantities of grease...famous for "the junkpile": roastbeef, ham, turkey, peameal bacon, beef burger patty, and chicken fingers. Yikes!

[Full tummy]

But is is it just a pig-out feast, or is it really tasty, and homemade? So that Guy Fieri can't help but saying, "Now that's MONEY!" Hahahaha....

[OTFOODIE]

Sounds somewhat like a garbage plate, like you'd get in Rochester.

[thomson]

Buster's BBQ! In Vermillion Bay, Ont. Absolutely middle of nowhere N. Ont. Amazing pulled pork sanwiches - carolina style. decent ribs. would definitely fit in with MO of the show.

[ymz]

Buster's was featured on a Canadian version of Fieri's show: "You gotta eat here"... looked almost good enough to make a special trip from Toronto... (1760 km one way... I did say "almost"...)

[thomson]

oh, and a very strange, yet intriuging blueberry bbq sauce. not particularly tasty, but definitely original.

[yyzsfo]

The back of lots of the latino grocery stores in Kensington Market serve plaintains, pupusas, and other goodies. Emporio Latino would totally fit into Dive category.

[Thatcher]

Great diner on the northeast corner of Woodbine and Stouffville Road. Located in a dingy little strip mall. Family owned forever. Massive, delicious burgers, open-faced turkey sandwiches and all the rest of the diner greats. Wonderful fries. Skip breakfast if you;re going for lunch.

Go soon At the rate that new gas stations are going in, the clock is likely ticking for that corner...

[Full tummy]

What's it called?

[Thatcher]

I'm sorry. I have no idea. been eating there for years and just know it as "that place by the gas station."

I'm horrible with names. Can't remember the names of the people I met this weekend at dinner...

It's right on the corner. There's a Petro on one corner, a Sunoco or Shell on the other and a nasty strip mall across the street. There's only one strip mall and only one diner. You can't miss it.

[LUV_TO_EAT]

From google...I think it's Famous Sam's
12275 Woodbine Ave
Gormley, ON L0H 1G0, Canada

-----
Famous Sams Restaurant
12275 Woodbine Ave S, Gormley, ON L0H1G0, CA

[dory]

It is Famous Sam's. I live right near it, have eaten there, and could never understand why people go back. But based on what's been posted maybe I need to revisit?

-----
Famous Sams Restaurant
12275 Woodbine Ave S, Gormley, ON L0H1G0, CA

[Thatcher]

Well, take my recommendation as subjective. Persoanlly, when I go to a diner/dive, I want the real thing. Family owned, a menu that hasn't changed in years, original furntiure - likely with duct tape, and good greasy food that is genuine, tasty and generous. I don't want some place owned by a former indie musician and art directed down to the last detail.

Not saying that's what you might want, but it seems too many of the originals are dying and being replaced with body-pierced hipsters and $12 burgers...

So, Sam's fits that bill for me.

[SMOG]

I guess the question is whether it's a great neighbourhood diner for the reasons you mentioned, or whether it's a destination place that has really special food. Is it worth driving 30 mins for? Will people be wowed by the food?

[Thatcher]

That's a great point.

For me I drove by it twice a day for 4 years, so it was a neighbourhood place. I moved away last year, but still drop in when in the area.

I can't say whether it's "destination worthy." That too, is subjective. Some people won't get on a streetcar for 1/2 an hour to go somewhere else in the city. Some will make a day of driving somewhere to try a hot dog/donut/fry truck etc.

You'll have to be your own judge.

I don't know if I'd call diner special, though. A diner's a diner. Every town has at least one this is worth popping into. Some are just a little more unique than others.

For what it's worth, it is on a number of road trip routes, so if you happen to be on the 404, Bloomington Rd or Stouffville Rd, it could be worth a stop...

[Davwud]

So what's the burger like?? Home made?? Done on a flat top?? Typical diner burger??

DT

[Foodright]

From my experiences, the burger is Home made & fried on the griddle. They are warmed up on the grill when an order comes in. They usually end up quite overdone. There emphasis here is on Quantity over Quality.
The soups are usually quite good however.

[bytepusher]

If this is the place I'm thinking of it's the place where large numbers of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts congregate for breakfast on weekends.

[sandymctyre]

I used to call this place Gormley Burger when I was a teenager! Can't remember if it was called Sam's at the time, but I remember it as being a great burger. Went back a few years ago, still a good burger, but lost some of it's lustre for me. Probably built up too much in my head from nostalgiga.

[furrieone]

I do agree "Sams" although still good food has lost some of its lustre. But still a good burger Located @ Stouffville side rd. and Woodbine

[Boodah]

Steve's Diner in North York on Bathurst, home of real honest-to-goodness diner food (especially the french fries which are great).

[szw]

Well I don't know if it should be on a TV show but I have a fondness for Zet's by Pearson airport. Open 24 hrs, very popular place. I was surprised nobody even mentioned it in this thread. Their homemade burger beats golden star's homemade IMO.

They are famous also for their souvlaki also I believe. Never had steak there but they definitely look good, there are always tons of meat on display in the front counter (aging, I believe).

[Little T]

Just went to Zet's for the first time last weekend, got the souvlaki based on recs here. Good chicken souvlaki on a bun for about $7.50, big portion, tender meat, tzaziki thick and garlicky. Souvlaki was what most people ordered, its 24H too i believe.

[hondaboler]

If you look at Zet's hamburger patty, the edge is shaped like many semi-circles. I ordered one once for my son. If my guess is right. Zet's uses the Roadhouse frozen patty made by Cardinal Meats and sold at Costco. Cardinal Meats did or still supplies Harvey's beef patties to Harvey's Restaurants.

[jayt90]

If Zet's uses those Cardinal burgers they are factory fodder.
The fresh burgers at Costco are better, and not extruded at high pressure, or frozen.

[Davwud]

The Kirkland brand Sirloin Burgers are also very good. They need some seasoning first though.

DT

[furrieone]

I have had both and I think Golden Star is the better of the two.

[TorontoTips]

Get Yourself over to The Real McCoy in Scarberia. (Markham Rd & Brimorton Dr). Great family-run authentic joint where everything is home-made.

Order the Mojo Burger (homemeade patty char-grilled with cheese and grilled bacon) and fresh-cut fries with gravy, or hand-dipped ontion rings, it's somewhat similar in style to Golden Star or Burger Shack, but each element of the food is just that much better.

No tables - it's take-out or stand at the tiny window-ledge counter only, but definitely TO's best old-school greasy-spoon burgers, fries, onion rings AND they make a hella-good neighborhood-style pizza too!

[Davwud]

I had the Mojo burger for lunch with fries and gravy.

First the burger, I thought it was good but not great. I'd have one again but only if I was in the area and wanted a burger.
The fries were excellent however. Fresh cut and goooood.

The thing is, I love the place. It's the kinda thing that's been going away in TO. Family run, almost all regulars, cheap signage and just a great feel. There was a few people eating at the counter and talking Leafs.

DT

[MeMeMe]

The Victoria Restaurant across from St. Mike's hospital. The best diner food in the city - hot hamburger sandwiches, clubs, you name it. All delicious.

[Davwud]

I ate there years and years ago and remember liking it.

DT

[stet]

Victoria is pretty good and their staff is very friendly. I used to get dinner there all the time when I worked nearby. Their club sandwich is good.

[pinkprimp]

I used to go to the Victoria when I lived nearby but it's hardly a destination - the food is quick, hot, reliable and comforting but there's nothing special enough about it to be featured on a show. There seemed to be a lot of filler in the burgers (back when I could eat them, anyway) and I'm fairly certain the fries are frozen. Thumbs up on the service though!

[pizzaghetti]

Thunder Bay, Ontario has many great dives, but McKellar Confectionery is absolutely singular. It's a family business with a very small menu (hamburgers, hot-dogs, milk shakes, no french fries to speak of). The old man who ostensibly founded the place handles the busy lunch rush by lining up multiple burgers or dogs on his forearm and ladling his trademark steaming-hot tangy meat sauce onto the lot of them. His arm is understandably a little on the burnt side. It sounds like a disgusting code violation, but the food is transcendental.

someone's photo of the menu: http://static.panoramio.com/photos/or...

[Yongeman]

This thread has been around for awhile, but it's an interesting one. I'd like to name a couple of downtown TO spots in the 'dive' category. The first one to come to mind is Square Boy on the Danforth. Great food at great prices. I love the pork souvlaki on a bun. Not a bad Greek salad too.
The second place is New York Subway. This is awesome fusion food--east meets west in a burrito or sub. Love the lamb satay burrito!
Interesting servers at both places too, but for different reasons. If you've been, you'll know what I mean.

-----
Square Boy
875 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L8, CA

New York Subway
520 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V, CA

[magic]

I definitely agree about New York Subway. I love it. I actually usually get my lamb satay there on the sub rolls, not in the burrito wraps as most people seem to rightfully love. But both are wicked.

Question: What is Square Boy's bread and butter? Greek? Burgers? I'm unclear as to what they serve. Thanks.

[Yongeman]

Magic, I've really only had the souvlaki on a bun with Greek salad at Square Boy. It's like the place has never changed (including the 50/60 year-old guys who serve you) since it was opened. I've heard good things about the home-made burger, too. Good milkshakes, as well.

-----
Square Boy
875 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L8, CA

[magic]

Thanks, I've always been curious about it. I'll be checking it out sometime soon. Thanks again for the helpful info....

[Yongeman]

I learned about Square Boy here on CH, but my son had friends who loved it. We both are fans now...I have the pork souvlaki and he has the chicken.

-----
Square Boy
875 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J1L8, CA

[magic]

Then that is what I shall try. Thanks so much!

[Dasia]

I'm enjoying this thread so much (have taken notes, thank you all) I decided to join Chowhound. Greetings!

Once upon a time I lived in the States and agree American-style diners are a special treat--we're always on the lookout for interesting ones when we're down there. That said, in the Toronto area we like Amazing Ted's in Highland Creek (east Scarborough) for their generous, inexpensive breakfast and friendly fast service; we've enjoyed everything else we've eaten there, too. Sadly Donuts and Diner on Ellesmere near Birchmount, another Scarborough favourite, seems to have closed. I'd be happy to be wrong about that. By the Bluffs on Kingston Road serves good home-cooked style food in a "Down East" (Maritimes, not East Toronto) atmosphere. Their crabmeat sandwich is delicious.

-----
Amazing Ted's
404 Old Kingston Rd, Toronto, ON M1C1B6, CA

[Sharktail]

Great topic and I have to agree with Teddy's in Oshawa as certainly a good spot.

One thing that is sad is how many of us Canadians you see lined up at East Side Marios, Boston Pizza, Swiss Chalet, Montanas, shoeless joes, McD's and the other corporate cookie cutter crap restaruants that are out there.

More people (read.. general public not chowhounds..) need take a chance on something that isn't a chain and only then can we really start to have a selection of unique places to eat at.

Good luck.

[jamesm]

There;s no shortage of Americans lining up at the exact same places. It isn't a phenomenon specific to Canada.

[Sandybandy]

Try the Fry Basket which is on Yonge Street, north of Steeles on the East side. My hubby and his friends have been going there for about 10 years now and now I'm allowed to go too LOL. They have great all day breakfasts (I really like the pancakes and the omlettes) and don't forget to say hello to the cute little chef lady, Sandy : ) By the way, they also have really tasy rye bread...wish I knew what brand it was.

[Herne]

Well is great to hear of favourite places to eat and what the specialties are. But I watch 3D weekly and I don't think there are enough real good diners etc to fill a half hour show in all of southern Ontario. Some how Diner style eating is very mediocre in Ontario and despite a few notable dishes not good ground for 3D.

[MeMeMe]

I just thought of two places - very similar.

The Arbor in Port Dover is a great hot dog stand known for their foot longs and a drink called the Golden Glow.

Mackie's in Port Stanley is known for their burgers, fries (oh those fries) and their Orange-Ade. At least they used to be....anyone been lately??

Both restaurants have probably been around for close to 100 years - both in beach towns.

[Gumbril]

Hewitt's and The Arbor are both great--if I've had an adequate walk around Port Dover after eating a bunch of fried food I get a malt at Hewitt's on the way back into the city.

But, to me, Port Dover means perch. I know both of the Knechtel's-owned places have their devotees, as well as the Erie Beach hotel. The Knechtel's places make good fried perch (the batter is pancake-y, but you're right by the beach so the ambiance does a lot to make up for it) and the cucumber salad at their salad bars contains some secret ingredient(s) I've been unable to discover. The fries suck, however. If you happen to be down there in cooler weather, the homemade soups of the day at the place across from The Arbor are usually good too.

Closer to home, Tom's on the Queensway might have pretty standard fare, but it's got tradition going for it. I know I'm not alone in having frequented the place for the entire 20-some years of my life. Got Christmas trees there too.

And a place on Roncesvalles that I've never checked the name of. I think it's Super Kolbassa? It's basically next door to Abstract Tree. Anyway, it's not a restaurant; it's sort of a deli--in the buy-a-bag-of-sliced-meat sense, not the meat-on-bread-with-pickle sense-- but it's got a really good hot table frequented by both Polish people and yuppie newcomers to the neighbourhood. Their beet-horseradish salad is great, they make my favourite coleslaw in the world (oil and vinegar, not creamy) and their borscht is a pretty good Ukranian-style version of the soup. Schnitzel is tasty but unexceptional.

[grandgourmand]

Love Knechtel's. It's a great summer tradition in our family.

[02putt]

I don't think the Arbour is special but love Knechtel's. Next time you head to Dover stop at the butcher shop just outside of Jarvis. The food is excellent. My parents would load up with groceries and have breadfast before heading to the cottage.

[Nelson]

How about The Musket in the west end? Basic non-decor, homey atmosphere, slightly sticky floors, good beer on tap and very respectable Eisbein (pork hocks), Wiener schnitzel and other sundry German/Austrian pub grub. Definitely qualifies in the dive category, but the food is good if that's your style.

-----
The Musket
40 Advance Rd, Toronto, ON M8Z, CA

[laidoffhound]

Jim's Pizza in Port Hope.

[McIntoshC28]

There used to be a classic drive through burger place in Peterborough called Royal Burger. It's long gone, but the Montreal House Tavern has resurrected the namesake Royal Burger, which is a 2 patty marvel of fresh ground beef with cheese and special sauce, correctly cooked on a flat top. The atmosphere is vintage grandpa's tavern (the women's washroom was only added a few years ago), but the burger may be the best in Ontario.

[PoppiYYZ]

Thanks for the tip McIntosh!

Montreal House has the best burger in Peterborough by far. Nicely flat top charred ground steak and fresh crisp toppings. Good fries too. The MH is undoubtedly a dive, but with good food, cheap cold draft, and friendly old-timers (and college kids), it's a definitely good dive.

[thouse]

Every trip I make to the US I'm looking to find these places. In Ontario, they seem to be either lacking or crazy hard to find.

Rocky Racoon in Owen Sound always has some neat stuff on the menu. I've heard that it may be moving up to Tobermory or somewhere soon. He does some great curries and tries crazy stuff.

I've tried a new BBQ place in Winona called Memphis Fire. They're going for a triple D vibe, and even had it playing when I was there. They have some serious hardware and some heavy hitters in the kitchen.

Some other favorites that aren't wacky are Kori's in Oakville for some roti (Hot means hot!) Mex-i-can in Hamilton for some serious divey Mexican food and Iron Chef for Dim Sum when I remember in time (missed it today!)

I'll weigh in on Weber's. I like the experience, I love the buns. The burger is pure backyard handmade BBQ flavour. Love it or hate it. It's a good step above McD or Wendy's.

-----
Iron Chef
285 Geneva St, St Catharines, ON L2N2G1, CA

[C mac]

It's funny how we all have our own preferences. The reason I say this is because Johnny Burger being mentioned a few times on this thread, received not so favorable reviews, but Golden Star on the other hand seem to get good reviews. I think Johnny Burger is great and love the style fries they do. I also really like their onion rings. Their fries and onion rings were getting slammed earlier in this thread but I love them. I actually live pretty close to Golden Star but never go there because there was a place even closer to me that I like even better then Johnny's. Johnny was my second choice because they're open late. There's a place called "Burger Hut" near Sheppard and Leslie that was really good. They sold to new owners about 6 or 7 months ago and since then, I only tried it once and it didn't seem to taste as good. I'll have to give it another try. After years of avoiding Golden Star I finally decided to give it a shot about 6 or 7 months ago. I thought it was awful. That's why I laughed when reading these reviews. One persons garbage is another's treasure...lol.

Now, the one place I'm surprised I haven't seen in this thread is the Burger Shack. Definitely a dump but this place has been around for years, and most people I know love the food there. It's at Avenue Rd. and Eglinton. It's my number one choice out of The "Burger Hut", Johnny's and this place.

I also noticed someone mention "The Fry Basket" at Yonge and Steeles for a good breakfast. It's funny because I go to a place that's literally right beside it called "The Midway" and they're very similar. In fact, one night after my softball game we were chatting about these places and half the team voted for Fry Basket and half voted for the Midway. Became a big argument...lol.

I must say I love watching DDD and I always say "why aren't there places like this in such a big city like Toronto"? Especially a nice Rib place like Camp 31 in Paris.

It's just a sad reality that for some reason, Toronto just doesn't seem to have these places.

-----
Burger Shack
233 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M4R1A9, CA

[furrieone]

I see you have mentioned "The fry basket" and "The Midway" both not bad but try "The Three Coins" in Richmond Hill...Great Breakfast

[jiggerjams]

I ate breakfast at Aunt Gussies with my dad and the food was fantasic. Gingerbread pancakes, stuffed french toast, or your usuals of bacon and egg plates etc. Lots of variety, quality ingredients, and a line up out the door if you sleep in sums it up as a great DDD. The lunch and dinner menus read excellent but I have never been back to the area to give it a try.......yet! http://www.auntgussies.ca

-----
Aunt Gussie's
135 Ontario S, Grand Bend, ON N0M1T0, CA

[jiggerjams]

Hands down the best pizza I have had. I have ate Mckay's in Brampton which is very good and up there with the best but does not quite compete with Johnny's IMFamily'sHO. If you are on your way up to skiing in Collingwood, or going to Wasaga or Sauble Beach I strongly recommend picking up a Johnny's pizza. The deluxe is the ultimate for me. They are fairly priced and have double deals if you have a tribe to feed. Simply Delish!!

Located in the plaza (Beer Store) on the north east corner of 89 & 24 highway just before entering Shelburne from the east..

-----
Johnny's Pizza
802 Main St E, Shelburne, ON L0N1S4, CA

[jiggerjams]

Here is a classic deli that puts out a great product. I am hooked on the reuben sandwich. It is served with homemade pickles, coleslaw, and fresh steak cut fries. The kitchen is an open concept with meats (salami, sausage, etc) hanging all around. They are a little pricey but since eating there and trying a bunch of sandwiches off the menu I can understand why. Although I am not a fan of sourkraut, it is homemade and raved about. The rye bread is really good also but I am unsure if it is made on site. I would rate this as a DDD recommendation.

Located on the west side of Torbram road between Derry Road and Steeles Avenue.

-----
Switzer's
7310 Torbram Rd, Mississauga, ON L4T, CA

[srhz]

This will probably be a long post!

In/around Toronto I like Haugen's in Port Perry. They're famous for their bbq and have wonderful desserts, too. I do believe they're closed for the winter, though. T-Bones in Scarborough is also great. I almost hate to say this, but I have a Wimpy's Diner at the top of my street and have been there more times than I can count. I do like their burgers, but the fries are frozen and awful and they make their poutines with cheddar cheese (EEK!). Otherwise, their breakfasts are good as well as some sandwiches and salads. Big Boys Burgers at Kingston and St. Clair is take-out only, but they have great burgers, chicken burgers, and fresh cut fries. They also do a deep fried Mars Bar that is to die for, and a poutine with, if I remember correctly, fried onions and bacon (as well as curds and gravy) that I wont touch out of fear for my life, but friends love it.

Our cottage is in Kenogami (close to Kirkland Lake, about an hour south of Timmins) so all of these places are either on or just off Hwy 11. Weber's always has some crazy lines so it must be good, though I've never been there personally. Now, this probably isn't helping anyone but I do have to mention this place because I've been here many times and love it. I can't remember the name, but it's about 20-30 minutes south of North Bay, near an overpass and most likely was a German restaurant back in the day. They have great homemade pies and desserts, burgers and fresh cut fries, poutines and sandwiches, and a cozy dining area. It may or may not have been/still be a motel. That's all I can tell you, hopefully someone knows the place I'm talking about :( The Husky Truck Stop just north out of North Bay probably doesn't qualify, but has the best basic breakfasts I've had anywhere. Cousin's in Englehart has great food as well, and we've stopped there several times en route to the cottage. In Kirkland Lake, Claude's Last Stand has great food, I really love their poutine (a huge fan of those, can you tell?) Smitty's Drive In, which is in King Kirkland has good food, though the burgers are pretty small. Kenogami, which has about two places to choose from, has a great place that was called Delean's (I think they've changed the name, but can't be sure). It's a small gas station, but has wonderful food and homemade desserts and great prices. It's across the street from the old Chocolate Factory (I believe was called Heart's Desire) they closed down, which is too bad because it was one of the very few places I've found that sold Gold Medal Ribbon ice cream, which is my favorite. All of these places do traditional fare (burgers, dogs, fish, fries, rings) and are well received, even by my extremely picky mom!

-----
Smitty's Drive In
29 Broadway Ave, King Kirkland, ON P0K, CA

[fryerlover]

Baskin Robbins used to sell Gold Medal Ribbon, although not sure if they still do. It was when I worked there over 20 years ago. It was the location the The Queensway in Etobicoke that sold it. Call or check the webiste as maybe they still have it.

[cheesymama]

Kawartha Dairy also does Gold Medal ribbon, one of my favorites too!

-----
Kawartha Dairy
304 Toronto St S, Uxbridge, ON L9P, CA

[srhz]

Ooo I'm looking at their website now, thanks so much! And fryerlover, I think you're right about Baskin Robbins I just haven't been to one in ages. Doh moment for me.

[rpar]

If I may so bold. First trying new things yourself is the best but if you want a food trip then go up the 400 highway from Toronto and swing into Huntsville. there is a little place there called the Westside. Although it says "Fish and Chips" which are excellent, go for some of there experiment items. Burgers are great, makes the third best pork Tort. I ever had. (Mom and the wife are one and two let's be honest) but they also are creative and trying new things all the time. By the way, the pastries are great. So anyone from Huntsville reading this----sorry. rpar

[jamesm]

I'd say Shanghai Cowgirl qualifies.

And you do realize that most of the food featured on the program is disgusting, right? I watched an episode last night and almost gagged watching a guy prepare chicken a la king.

-----
Shanghai Cowgirl
538 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V, CA

[GoodGravy]

I disagree. Most of the food featured on DDD is awesome. Maybe not chicken ala king, but most everything else makes me want to hit the road to try these places out.

[jamesm]

No doubt some of it is good but a majority of the stuff I seem to see are just giant portions of some deep fried atrocity.

[Pincus]

I just want to visit all the pizza places he's featured.

[Yongeman]

What made you gag? The amount of butter or the mushroom soup?

[jamesm]

hah...the mushroom soup. A flood of repressed childhood memories came flooding back.

[furrieone]

My choice for the best "Eats" in the T.O. area:
Italian......Dante's in Vaughan /Mackay's (for pizza) in Brampton (2 locations)
Smoked Meat......Switzer's in Brampton
Burgers..... Sonn'y.in Brampton/ Golden Star in Thornhill/ Johnny's in North York
All would be GREAT candidates for the "Triple D" show on the Food Network if Guy Fieri ever ventures to the "Great White North"

[Doctormhl1]

Please let us know what your eating experience was like at WIMPY'S Diner.
They seem to be expanding all over the GTA.

[callitasicit]

Imho, nothing in Toronto qualifies for what restaurants Guy Fieri feature on his show. Golden Star, Johnny's and Wimpys, cmon people!

[somewhere4]

I agree that there's not a lot of Toronto-area diners serving up mammoth portions of food made from scratch.

The best suggestion for a DDD candidate I've read on this thread is the Stockyard BBQ . Guy's a smokehouse freak, and I can easily see him putting away more than his share of their pulled pork and ribs.

[belcat]

I'd nominate the Harbour Diner in Hamilton.

http://www.harbourdiner.com/

-----
Harbour Diner
488 James St N, Hamilton, ON L8L1J1, CA

[callitasicit]

This place looks wicked!

[Yongeman]

The Harbour Diner in Hamilton does look amazing. Loved the prices, the fresh ingredients, and the 5 spelling mistakes on the home page, including 'vegetables' spelled wrong twice, each one different.

-----
Harbour Diner
488 James St N, Hamilton, ON L8L1J1, CA

[belcat]

yeah. It's nothing if not quirky, but the food is good.

[Pincus]

"Ridiculous Cheese Bread"?

That's it, I'm booking a road tip to Hamilton, going to this place and the Chicago pizza joint. And seeing some comedy in there somewhere..

[juwan_carlos]

The Tulip on Queen and Coxwell in Leslieville has to be there...great specials, steaks, scratch made food...

http://www.tulipsteakhouse.com/

[chefbec]

Deluxe Burger in Sudbury should qualify. They do a really good fresh cut shoe string fry with this amazing BBQ Gravy. They've been around since the 60's and the menu is really basic. Burgers, Chicken (fried, wings and sandwiches), Hot Dogs, Fries and Shakes. We had lunch there this summer and I'd go back for the fresh cut shoestrings in a heartbeat.

[Davwud]

Is the beef fresh or frozen??

DT

[chefbec]

I don't know. I usually get the chicken when I go. I unfortunately don't get there regularly enough but they do make the gravy from scratch and cut the fries in house.

[PoppiYYZ]

Thanks to a CH suggestion on another thread, my wife and I went to Mad Michael's in Wyebridge (near Midland Ontario) last Friday for lunch on our way up north. We travel a lot in the States and have hit 15-20 triple D spots with great results. MM's is a quintessential D,DIs, Ds type of restaurant.

EVERYTHING is from scratch. Smoked meats (Pulled Pork, Brisket, Montreal Style), pickles, amazing sauer kraut (different but good), killer potato salad, ALL baked goods (corn bread to die for, excellent buns and breads, butter tarts that will blow your mind, and a selection of pies that would make a desert lover faint - really).

In addition to the food, MM is a character, the staff were friendly and helpful, the restaurant is also a wacky boutique, and go out back and check MM's smoking rig and grill. This place is a find. Only open until Thanksgiving though.

-----
Mad Michael's
8215 93 Hwy, Wyebridge, ON L0K1E0, CA

[bellywizard]

Since others are voicing their opinions of the TV show, I'll assume it isn't off-topic to do so.

I found the whole "mammoth food" DDD thing exciting & enticing at first too. But it makes me really SAD now - the fact that to have a really enjoyable experience, folks need to eat such poor-quality food. (fatty, salty, low-fiber, meat & starch, huge, likely factory farmed). Others above commented that they find it's the *culture* surrounding these DDDs that make them appealing - and I agree. So why does the food have to be so poor quality?

Anyhow - I love the mom & pop joints that many posters have mentioned. Let's keep 'em going.

[Wiley]

Another observation about Triple D..should I worry about eating at a place ( I think it was a pizza joint near Buffalo) where the chef covered pork shoulder roasts in plastic("to seal in the moisture") and then a layer of foil, and into the oven for 3 hours?And my concern isn't directed at this restaurant alone, where else is this happening?

[Davwud]

A: Lots of places.

DT

[PoppiYYZ]

Agree Wiley. When my wife and I saw that "technique" on a recent DDD show, we both gasped. Clearly avoid anyplace baking or boiling in plastic. I'm glad GF shows us what they are doing. Yeech.

[Davwud]

You'll have to stop eating out. It's a common practice and to avoid it, you'd have to check every kitchen.

DT

[bytepusher]

Ah, ghetto sous vide. As long as the plastic in question doesn't contain a phthalate plasticizer it's generally considered safe. Anything you can buy in the store today is going to be phthalate free. Commercial products I'm not so sure about.

Microwaves are a different situation, there's a concern, still unresolved, that the high energy microwaves may be breaking the bonds in the polymers and thus creating new compounds. Convential heat from a oven, boiling water, slow cooker, immersion circulator etc. doesn't have the energy to break the chemical bonds in this way so the concern about cooking in plastic in microwaves does not extend to this.

[jrbuddah]

That episode was on last week and my brother-in-law and I both caught the plastic wrap, then foil cover. EWWWW!! They did it twice!! Not sure if the editors just cut out the chef taking off the plastic wrap.......but, it's still gross. Both of us wondered where it went??? When we saw the guy peel off the foil, we both asked,"Where's the plastic?" The place was called the Pizza Junction in N. Tonowanda.

-----
Pizza Junction
878 Weber N, Waterloo, ON N2J, CA

[CKN]

I had breakfast once at a place called Da Classic Scoop up in Stouffville. It was so good and I promised myself that I would go back to try out their lunch menu. Well, the next time I was in the area I tried to look for it but it was nowhere to be found. I looked it up on Google and found this:

http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/artic...

What a shame.

-----
Da Classic Scoop
5262 Main St, Stouffville, ON L4A7X5, CA

[lecanadianfoodie]

Bubi's Awesome Eats in Windsor, ON is definitely DDD worthy! The burgers are big, sloppy, and made in-house!

-----
Bubi's Awesome Eats
620 University Ave W, Windsor, ON N9A5R5, CA

[jamesm]

I could see Shanghai Cowgirl making the cut.

-----
Shanghai Cowgirl
538 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V, CA

[PoppiYYZ]

Very disappointing to see that most recommendations on this thread are Breakfast or Burger joints. Says something about the lack of fresh, scratch made, cooking in Ontario. Maybe it says more about the majority of us and what we are willing to eat...

[jamesm]

Maybe it does say something about the fact that we don't want to eat brobignagian portions of fat laden, starch heavy 'comfort food'. There's hardly a lack of freshly prepared food in Ontario. I'm pretty sure every place he visits boasts an abundance of pre-prepared fast food as well.

[PoppiYYZ]

Please name some of your top fresh prepared restaurant suggestions.

Sure there are many Gut Busters on DDD. But there are also many innovative scratch cooking places. As a recent example, Pok Pok in Portland made exciting Thai food (I've even recreated their Boar recipe) and they didn't have Pad Thai on the menu. In addition, DDD has introduced me to Za'atar on Pita, Pork Carnitas, Teriyaki Pork with Blueberry Ginger Relish, Roasted Greek Chicken, variations on Fish Tacos, and a variety of BBQ rubs and sauces. All of which are now recipes I make regularly at home.

[lecanadianfoodie]

It's true... it seems like the two easiest things to make (burgers and breakfast) are the only things we bother to make from scratch anymore. One place that I stumbled across in Ottawa definitely breaks that mold. It's a great casual dining restaurant where they abide by the 100 mile diet. I believe the restaurant owner has his own farm where they get a large portion of their food. It's called JR's Family Restaurant. It's just outside of Ottawa. I believe the town is called Almonte, Ontario? It's fantastic.

http://www.jrsrestaurant.com/

[ektoronto]

My favourite DDD type resto in Toronto is Messini on the Danforth. The best real gyro in Toronto. Slices of meat slowly roasted and not some meatloaf on a stick. Lineups out the door. Terrific value. Friendly staff.

-----
Messini
445 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K1P1, CA

[sgogo]

I read this too quickly and thought their meatloaf on a stick sounded pretty good!! Hee.

[Little T]

Luv their souvlaki with fries inside the pita!

[TorontoTips]

If you're hitting the Danforth for souvlaki, the undiputed king of pork on a skewer is Astoria - they simply can't be touched for quality meat and perfectly seasoned marinade!

[Ghuldeen]

I can believe that nobody has mentioned Dangerous Dan's Diner http://www.dangerousdansdiner.com/. Great burgers and some definitely funky items like the Quadruple C (Collosal Colon Clogger Combo- 24oz burger, 1/4 lb cheese1/4 lb bacon and 2 fried eggs with a small poutine and a large shake), the Coronary Burger (2-8oz burgers, 4 slices of bacon, 2 slices of cheddar and a fried egg) and my favorite the Bronto Ribs Dinner - braised beef ribs and then grilled in their own home made BBQ sauce. Yeah the fries are frozen and nothing special, but the burgers and the Double D special items are outstanding.

-----
Dangerous Dan's
714 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M1H2, CA

[jmeggs]

Dangerous Dan's, Sukho Thai, Tacos Del Asador, Burger's Priest, Sneakie Dee's, Danforth Pizza House, C'est What

[Miacita]

If you venture down to Southern Ont. check out Bubi's Awesome Eats in Windsor.
Known as the house of garlic and pleasure. They have burgers and original menu items galore. Be sure to ask for the Bubi's sauce (Garlicky Good). I love the pizza crust appetizers served with bubi's and marinara, and the red hot burger. I've been going there for years and take my out of town guests there every time. http://www.bubis.org/

-----
Bubi's Awesome Eats
620 University Ave W, Windsor, ON N9A5R5, CA

[Pincus]

They have the most awesome dive-y website ever! I know where I'm going when I'm next in Windsor!

[foodjunkie89]

I watch this show all the time! It's my favorite on the food network!
I always wonder what Guy would say about some of the places in my hometown (Peterborough, ON) I think my all-time favorite place would go over well. It's called Hot Belly Mama's and they do the most AMAZING Cajun food you will ever find....with a little bit of Caribbean love thrown in. It is easily one of the most popular restaurants in the area. The Cuban Grilled beef sandwhich is to DIE for, and the frites (aka sweet potato fries) are downright addictive. Everything from their corn chowder to their caesar salad, to their po'boys are unbelievably good!

-----
Hot Belly Mama's
380 George St N, Peterborough, ON K9H3R3, CA

[PoppiYYZ]

Been to Hot Belly Mama's twice and found it ehh. Many seem to like it so I'll give them another try...

Best CH place near Peterborough is the Riverhouse in Lakefield. Amazing, creative, scratch made food that will rival ANYTHING in TO (at about half the price to boot). Honorable mentions go to Cosmic Charlies (Thai), St Veronus (creative with nice beer selection), and Montreal House (a "Dive" with one of the best burgers in Ontario - great sides too).

[foodjunkie89]

Your right abut the Riverhouse. I was floored the first time I tried it, a little out of my way and my price range as a student though. I've also been disappointed with St. Veronus since they changed their menu a year ago. Cosmic Charlie's is definitely the best Thai around though. I'll remember to try the MoHo next time I'm craving a burger, thanks for the tip!
Taste of India is quickly becoming my favorite restaurant though! Amazing Indian food!

Also in regards to Hot Belly's, they seem to have on days and off days......maybe it depends on the cook? I haven't figured it out yet, but if I do I'll let you know. Consistency would be nice.

-----
Cosmic Charlie's Cafe
170 Charlotte St, Peterborough, ON K9J2T8, CA

[canuckchuck]

Anyone travelling around the bermuda triangle of brantford-hamilton-cambridge would be advised to visit the tiny village of St. George and check out Scottie's Burgers in a plaza on St. George road just south of Hwy 5. Scottie himself is the mainstay at the grill and he's created no shortage of classic burger combos in the year or so he's been open. A friend of mine on the nearby fire dept. tipped me off to the place (these guys apparently spend the first half of many shifts debating where they're going to order their meal from and the latter part discussing the food and they routinely go well out of their way to get to Scottie's). Homemade, 15 hr. marinated pulled-pork and coleslaw topped one recent burger I've had there and another featured 2 grilled-cheese sandwitches as buns. Not for those on Jenny Craig - the relatively inexpensive overhead in this tiny village means heaping portions of double fried fries and everything else. Very good value overall. Scottie loves his new career as a burger chef and in a half a dozen recent visits I've never had the same sandwich and have yet to be less than very impressed (and very full!) each time.

[Luvtooeat]

Sadly Scotty's is no more
from their face book page

Dear FB friends and family, thank you so much for the support that you have shown Scotty's over this last year and a half! As most of you probably know, Scotty grilled his last burger this weekend and has closed up shop. He plans to search high and low for another location where he can re-open Scotty's and expand the restaurant. In the meantime, Scotty is eagerly anticipating spending some quality time with his family! Please stay tuned to this FB page for updates on Scotty's plans...until we eat again!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scottys...

[juno]

I'm not quite sure The Riverhouse belongs in a DD&D thread. It's a first-rate spot and setting for a pleasant dinner in the summer - I get there from Toronto once or twice a year - but it ain't cheap. To suggest it's about half the price of similar restos in Toronto is, well, somewhat over-enthusiastic. About 15-20% less would be more realistic. Definitely out of poor-student-at- Trent-University range. Their profs would enjoy it, though. A solid choice.

[PoppiYYZ]

Ate their again last night. Duck Confit, BC Black Cod, and two of their regular items were all excellent. House made deserts are to die for, and the small wine selection is more than adequate to find a good pairing. Visitors from Toronto repeatedly said they don't know a better place in TO and the price is a fraction of similar restaurants in TO. Two appetizers, four entrees, nice bottle of wine, two large deserts, $210 + tax + tip.

[cookbookaddict]

Two incredible places, both in Hamilton area. We drive all the way from Niagara to eat there!
Memphis Fire in Winona on Hwy 8 is incredible for great barbecue.
Chicago Style Pizza in Hamilton on Upper Sherman has the best pizza (the stuffed pizza is out of this world!!!) Definite Triple D worthy stops!

[Herne]

Sorry if it has been mentioned in the 200+ posts above but my vote is for Goody's Diner in Scarborough. If you are unfamiliar with it-- read the following
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/797955