19 Must-Visit Diners in Ontario for Classic Comfort Food

Ontario is dotted with charming diners, each offering a unique slice of classic comfort food and a nostalgic atmosphere. These beloved establishments serve up everything from hearty breakfasts and juicy burgers to timeless milkshakes, making them perfect stops whether you're craving a greasy spoon classic or a delightful retro experience. From bustling city spots to hidden gems off the beaten path, these diners in Ontario promise generous portions, friendly service, and a trip down memory lane.

Table of Contents

• Fifties Diner Oakville
• Flashback Breakfast & Lunch | Barrie
• Elsie's Diner
• Electric Diner (George St)
• Electric Diner (James St N)
• Ted's Range Road Diner
• Flying Saucer Restaurant
• The Senator
• The George Street Diner
• Avenue Open Kitchen
• Patrician Grill
• Angel's Diner
• Bonanza Restaurant
• Prince Albert's Diner
• Skyline Restaurant
• Hutch’s on the Beach
• Hewitt's Dairy Bar
• Troy's Diner Inc
• The Diner House 29
• Joe's Diner - Stratford

1. Fifties Diner Oakville

A nostalgic spot for classic breakfast and comfort food.

Customers praise Fifties Diner in Oakville for its reasonable prices, generous portion sizes, and varied menu, which notably includes options like turkey bacon and smoked meat. The pleasant 50s decor adds to the charm, and while the service is generally friendly, some recent feedback points to occasional slower service or inconsistencies with certain dishes, such as their pancakes. Still, it remains a solid choice for classic breakfast fare.

• Rating: 3.7 (557 google maps)
• Address: 649 Fourth Line, Oakville.
• Phone: +1 905-849-0308
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Breakfast staples, turkey bacon, smoked meat, waffles, French toast, omelets, grilled cheese, fries.

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2. Flashback Breakfast & Lunch | Barrie

Step back in time for a delightful retro breakfast and lunch experience.

This cute retro diner in Barrie consistently earns high marks for its accommodating and quick service, with staff often highlighted for their warmth and efficiency. Visitors enjoy the well-priced, delicious food, including popular choices like breakfast poutine and eggs benny. The generous portions make it a satisfying and beloved spot for a nostalgic meal, truly living up to its name by taking you back in time.

• Rating: 4.5 (1.47 google maps)
• Address: 309 Bayfield St, Barrie.
• Phone: +1 705-726-6555
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Breakfast poutine, eggs benny, milkshakes, classic brunch items, chicken club sandwich.

3. Elsie's Diner

A vibrant 50s-themed diner offering huge portions and a charming atmosphere.

Elsie's Diner provides an authentic step back into the 1950s, captivating visitors with its amazing decor, complete with a classic jukebox. Diners consistently rave about the incredibly filling and tasty food, with highlights such as the blueberry pancakes, grilled cheese, and the famously enormous Big Daddy Burgers. Despite often being bustling, the service remains great, significantly enhancing the overall experience at this vibrant diner.

• Rating: 4.4 (1.321 google maps)
• Address: 104 Shane St, Owen Sound.
• Phone: +1 519-372-2050
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Blueberry pancakes, grilled cheese, Big Daddy Burgers, fish & chips, milkshakes, Retro Breakfast.

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4. Electric Diner (George St)

An electric journey into 80s/90s nostalgia with creative diner classics.

This Hamilton diner offers a truly kitschy and camp atmosphere, immersing guests in 80s and 90s vibes with its distinct decor and music. Customers consistently praise the inventive cocktails and the diverse menu, which includes excellent vegetarian options. Dishes like the Electric Benny and various burgers are frequently described as delicious and generously portioned, making it a vibrant and fun destination for any meal.

• Rating: 4.2 (1.146 google maps)
• Address: 96 George St, Hamilton.
• Phone: +1 905-526-9512
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Electric Benny, creative cocktails, strawberry cheesecake pancakes, panko crusted deep fried crispy French toast, chicken burger, homemade fries, flower power burger, corn ribs.

5. Electric Diner (James St N)

Hamilton's retro restaurant serving up delicious comfort food with a lively 80s twist.

This location of Electric Diner in Hamilton maintains a lively, 80s-inspired retro ambiance, complete with pop culture memorabilia. Diners often commend the well-prepared food, with special mentions for the scrambled skillet served with "awesome sauce" and roasted chickpeas. The menu offers a satisfying array of classic diner fare alongside unique fusion options, ensuring a great dining experience supported by friendly and efficient service.

• Rating: 4.1 (460 google maps)
• Address: 28 James St N, Hamilton.
• Phone: +1 289-389-3929
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Scramble skillet with "awesome sauce", roasted chickpeas, Reuben, cheeseburger, fried chicken sandwich, pancakes, French toast, avocado toast.

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6. Ted's Range Road Diner

An adventurous diner offering exotic meats and classic comfort in a rustic setting.

Beyond its unassuming exterior, Ted's Range Road Diner in Meaford is a true culinary adventure with a charming, rustic interior. It's highly acclaimed for its distinctive menu featuring exotic meats like crocodile, bison, and kangaroo, alongside perfectly executed comfort food such as Cajun Prime Rib and blackened trout. Guests frequently highlight the exceptional service, generous portions, and the unique dining experience that makes it a memorable stop for delicious dishes in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.7 (549 google maps)
• Address: 138490 RR1, Grey Rd 112, Meaford.
• Phone: +1 519-538-1788
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Exotic meats (crocodile, bison, kangaroo), frog legs, Cajun Prime Rib, blackened trout, mushroom caps with lobster and crab, chicken curry, beef Wellington, wings, deep-fried pickles, cheesecake.

7. Flying Saucer Restaurant

A uniquely alien-themed diner serving out-of-this-world portions at down-to-earth prices.

Situated in Niagara Falls, the Flying Saucer Restaurant offers a fantastic alien-themed environment that captivates both children and adults. It's highly praised for its massive portions, affordable prices, and delectable comfort food, ranging from a delightful stuffed French toast to a zesty buffalo chicken sandwich. The service is consistently attentive and welcoming, making it an essential visit for a fun and incredibly satisfying meal. This truly is one of the top diners in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.3 (7.911 google maps)
• Address: 6768 Lundy's Ln, Niagara Falls.
• Phone: +1 905-356-4553
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Stuffed French Toast, Chocolate chips pancakes, Buffalo chicken sandwich, fries, steak, NY strip, rack of ribs, triple patty burger, French Onion soup, Caesar Salad.

8. The Senator

Toronto's historic diner, offering a timeless taste of classic American comfort food.

As Toronto's oldest continuously operating restaurant, The Senator provides a charming and elegant old-school diner experience. Guests consistently commend the impeccable service and the high-quality comfort food, particularly highlighting the exquisite mussels and the widely celebrated pancakes. It's an ideal spot for brunch or a pre- or post-theatre meal, boasting a cozy ambiance and a menu that delivers classic satisfaction, making it one of the most reliable places to eat in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.3 (1.504 google maps)
• Address: 249 Victoria St, Toronto.
• Phone: +1 416-364-7517
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Mussels, homemade chocolate chip cookie, pancakes, eggs benedict, French toast, avocado toast, burgers, chicken pot pie.

9. The George Street Diner

An authentic Irish diner in Toronto, serving hearty, old-school eats with outstanding charm.

The George Street Diner stands as a true Toronto institution, offering a quaint and authentic diner experience infused with a distinctive Irish flair. Patrons frequently commend the delicious, hearty portions, with special praise for the Irish soda bread and the comprehensive Full Irish Breakfast. The cheerful atmosphere, coupled with friendly and efficient staff and a vintage retro feel, solidifies its status as a beloved spot for breakfast or lunch among Toronto's diners.

• Rating: 4.5 (1.853 google maps)
• Address: 129 George St, Toronto.
• Phone: +1 416-862-7676
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Fish and chips, Irish soda bread, Full Irish Breakfast, pancakes, breakfast wrap, club sandwich, poutine, Huevos Ranchero.

10. Avenue Open Kitchen

A classic downtown Toronto diner experience with delicious, no-nonsense homemade meals.

Avenue Open Kitchen is truly a hidden treasure in downtown Toronto, perfectly embodying the classic "old school" diner aesthetic. Customers adore the open kitchen concept, which allows them to watch their meals being freshly prepared. Highlights include their meaty bacon, perfectly cooked steak, Montreal smoked meat, and excellent omelets, all served in generous portions. The friendly service and nostalgic charm make it a highly recommended spot for authentic diner experiences and delicious dishes in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.6 (786 google maps)
• Address: 7 Camden St, Toronto.
• Phone: +1 416-504-7131
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Bacon & eggs, steak & eggs, Montreal smoked meat, poutine, burgers, peameal bacon, club sandwich, omelets, Avenue Clubhouse Breakfast Sandwich.

11. Patrician Grill

Toronto's cash-only classic diner, serving up authentic comfort food with a warm, old-school charm.

Patrician Grill offers a genuinely authentic, old-school diner vibe in Toronto, where regulars are often greeted by name. Customers consistently rave about the delicious, straightforward menu, featuring perfectly cooked breakfasts, a standout club sandwich, and savory homemade potato soup. The cheerful and quick service, coupled with its unique cash-only policy (with a convenient ATM nearby), contributes to its unpretentious and beloved appeal among Toronto's best diners.

• Rating: 4.6 (521 google maps)
• Address: 219 King St E, Toronto.
• Phone: +1 416-366-4841
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: All-day breakfast, grilled cheese, fried eggs, club sandwich, homemade potato soup, Western omelette, steak and eggs, coffee.

12. Angel's Diner

A vibrant retro diner in Guelph, known for its generous portions and classic 50s ambiance.

Angel's Diner in Guelph is much-loved for meticulously preserving its fun 50s theme, offering a true nostalgic journey through its decor and classic music. The food is consistently described as delicious, with incredibly generous portions that provide excellent value. Staff members are frequently praised for their exceptional and attentive service, ensuring a wonderful dining experience for families and individuals alike at this popular spot among diners in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.3 (2.622 google maps)
• Address: 23 Wellington St E, Guelph.
• Phone: +1 519-822-0507
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Breakfast, lunch, dinner options, daily specials, homemade soup, smoked meat dishes, chicken tenders, beef dip, eggs Benedict, pancakes, waffles, Caesar salad, burgers, hot dogs, sundaes.

13. Bonanza Restaurant

Pembroke's timeless diner, offering generous portions of home-style cooking with retro flair.

Bonanza Restaurant in Pembroke offers a delightful journey back in time, boasting a charming retro atmosphere and classic diner appeal. Customers consistently rave about the delicious, hearty, and generously portioned home-style cooked food, from savory homemade burgers to satisfying meaty spaghetti. The friendly and attentive service, combined with fair prices and excellent coffee, solidifies its status as a beloved local spot and one of the best diners in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.5 (434 google maps)
• Address: 119 Pembroke St W, Pembroke.
• Phone: +1 613-732-4412
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Carnivore Hash, spaghetti with garlic bread, homemade burgers, hot dogs, mashed potatoes, poutine, fried egg sandwich, lasagna, Eggs Benedict varieties.

14. Prince Albert's Diner

London's iconic 50s-style diner, famous for its incredible milkshakes and diverse menu.

Prince Albert's Diner in London instantly transports you back to the 1950s with its cool retro decor, vintage movie posters, and classic rock 'n' roll. It's highly celebrated for its amazing, hand-spun milkshakes, which are famously generous in size, and a diverse menu offering delicious and affordably priced comfort food. Despite its cozy size and frequent busyness, the friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere make it a London staple for late-night food or a nostalgic meal among places to eat in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.5 (1.101 google maps)
• Address: 565 Richmond St, London.
• Phone: +1 519-432-2835
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Milkshakes (especially pumpkin spice, cherry coke), Wally burger (peanut butter bacon burger), Fat Albert burger, onion rings, souvlaki meal, loaded perogies, chimichangas, seasoned rice, club sandwich, original burger.

15. Skyline Restaurant

A classic Parkdale diner offering delicious comfort food with a charming, vintage ambiance.

Skyline Restaurant in Toronto's Parkdale area is a beloved old-fashioned diner that evokes a sense of stepping back in time, featuring neat vintage decor and cozy booth seating. It's renowned for its delicious comfort food, including hearty Reuben and club sandwiches, excellent fried chicken, and some of the freshest poutine curds you'll find. The friendly and professional staff contribute to its welcoming atmosphere, establishing it as a cherished spot for delicious dishes in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.5 (984 google maps)
• Address: 1426 Queen St W, Toronto.
• Phone: +1 416-536-3682
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Reuben, club sandwiches, burgers, fries, fried chicken sandwich, poutine, French Onion Soup, Greek Salad, Caesar Salad, Fried Chicken Benny (Saturdays), veggie burger, Brussels sprouts, vegan specials.

16. Hutch’s on the Beach

Hamilton's iconic beachside diner, a timeless spot for classic fish & chips and comfort food with a view.

Hutch's on the Beach stands as a true Hamilton icon, providing a classic diner experience right on the shores of Van Wagners Beach. It's famous for its delicious and well-priced fish and chips, celebrated for their crispy, fresh perfection. Beyond the seafood, patrons enjoy generous servings of classic diner fare like burgers, hot dogs, and crispy onion rings, all served in a warm, retro atmosphere with a beautiful view of Lake Ontario. This is a must-visit among diners in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.4 (5.472 google maps)
• Address: 280 Van Wagners Beach Rd, Hamilton.
• Phone: +1 905-545-5508
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Fish and chips, chicken fingers, fries (cooked in beef tallow), poutine, cheeseburger, hot dogs, onion rings, ice cream, milkshakes.

17. Hewitt's Dairy Bar

A nostalgic Hagersville dairy bar serving up classic diner fare and incredible ice cream.

Hewitt's Dairy Bar in Hagersville is a charming, unpretentious spot that immediately evokes a sense of nostalgia with its retro decor. It's renowned for its top-tier, generously portioned ice cream available in a multitude of flavors, and equally praised for its classic diner food such as satisfying burgers and hot dogs. The quick, friendly service and affordable prices make it a popular family destination and a delightful treat stop for anyone exploring diners in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.5 (1.725 google maps)
• Address: 4210 Hwy 6, Hagersville.
• Phone: +1 905-768-5266
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Ice cream (many flavors, e.g., caramel ribbon, lavender, cookie dough, chocolate peanut butter), milkshakes (traditional, vanilla with malt), burgers, hot dogs, poutine, sundaes, goat products (cheese, milk, butter).

18. Troy's Diner Inc

Milton's charming retro diner, offering delicious comfort food and a fantastic, vibrant atmosphere.

Troy's Diner in Milton is a genuine treasure, celebrated for its incredibly cute and kitschy Coca-Cola themed decor that creates a wonderfully nostalgic atmosphere. Beyond the lively ambiance, guests rave about the delicious comfort food, particularly the juicy burgers, the satisfying Canadian Skillet, and the classic liver and onions. The consistently excellent and friendly service further enhances the dining experience, making it a highly recommended spot among top delicious restaurants in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.4 (1.437 google maps)
• Address: 295 Main St E, Milton.
• Phone: +1 905-878-8783
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Burgers (classic), Canadian Skillet, liver and onions, waffles, hot roast beef sandwich, sweet potato fries, pancakes (including volcano-themed), avocado toast, Mega Milkshake.

19. The Diner House 29

St. Catharines' hidden gem, serving innovative diner classics with a homemade touch and incredible flavors.

The Diner House 29 in St. Catharines is an unexpected culinary delight, located in an unassuming plaza. Inside, it transforms into a cool, welcoming retro diner with exceptionally kind and attentive staff. Patrons are consistently impressed by the delicious, imaginative food, from the famous deep-dish pancake to the unique Cajun pork belly and perfectly breaded poached eggs. Many items, including the bread and jams, are homemade, adding to its special charm and making it one of the most delightful diners in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.8 (758 google maps)
• Address: 431 Welland Ave, St. Catharines.
• Phone: +1 289-362-1129
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Deep dish pancake, Pork Hot Mess, Pork Belly Baked Beans, Cajun pork belly on corn fried rice, poached eggs (often deep-fried), crustless quiche, homemade bread, homemade hot sauces, jams, plain Jane breakfast (toast, eggs, potatoes, sausage), salmon & Brie asparagus quiche.

20. Joe's Diner - Stratford

Stratford's classic diner serving hearty meals and a genuine old-fashioned atmosphere.

Joe's Diner in Stratford is a beloved local spot that offers a refreshing old-fashioned diner experience. Customers consistently praise the delicious, generously portioned comfort food, including the hearty "Hungry Man Breakfast" and their amazing poutine. The friendly, quick service and cozy ambiance, often filled with locals, make it a perfect spot for a satisfying meal, embodying the true charm of a classic small-town diner in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.6 (996 google maps)
• Address: 155 Erie St, Stratford.
• Phone: +1 519-272-9933
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Hungry Man Breakfast, omelets, poutine, battered mushrooms, burgers, fries, coffee.

Conclusion:

Whether you're seeking a nostalgic trip back in time, a hearty breakfast, or simply delicious comfort food, the diners across Ontario offer a fantastic range of options. From classic greasy spoons to retro-themed eateries, each spot provides a unique atmosphere and memorable dishes. Choose a diner that suits your preferences and needs, and don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments section below this article!