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lunch counters in toronto

I'm old enough to remember a few lunch counters in Toronto. Although the food wasn't always great sometimes the basics of the era like hamburgers and BLT's seemed so natual and fun in that atmosphere. I found one a few years back around Coxwell and Gerrard but unfortunately it closed. Does anyone know of a true and hopefully good one still running in Toronto? Nostagically yours...DanKar

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  1. There's a bagel place around me at Bathurst and Steeles called Kiva's. They do dairy and have a counter that's very busy along with the restaurant. They haven't changed the motif in 30 years through renovations. Still very 'old neighbourhood.'

    1. Collegiate Lunch is authentic 60's

      Collegiate Lunch
      1024 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4M1Z5, CA

      1 Reply
      1. re: jayt90

        I found a great one the other day, the Downsview Restaurant. (2865 Keele Street) Owners have had it for 50+ yrs. I had a nice chat with them. The place is incredibly well preserved, but not precious at all.
        I googled it and it even has a Facebook fan page:

      2. vesta lunch sounds like your cup of tea. The food is what you would expect of a counter diner.


        474 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R1W6, CA

        1. The Crowbar, aka Olympus, at Princess and Adelaide. Crazy old little spot with 20 layers of paint and a crooked floor. Older Greek guys serving club sandwiches, burgers, and similar diner fare from behind a counter at ridiculously low prices. Usually open only around lunch hour on weekdays.


          1. Do you mean a diner/greasy spoon or a lunch counter in a department store like Kresge's?