Burger bars in Little Italy
Little Italy might be better known for its hearty Italian fare, but it's also home to some of Toronto's most drool-worthy burgers. Gourmet gastropubs and veggie options abound in this vibrant Toronto neighbourhood. Check out these College Street burgers bars, pubs and restaurants for a burger made just right. [Image credit: iStock.com/Sorendls]
Utopia Cafe Grill
586A College St, Toronto ON M6G 1B3Fulfilling the burger needs of folks in Little Italy with panache since 1995, Utopia has 13 patties on the menu, including beef, chicken and vegetarian varieties, and also less common bison and lamb. There's a choice of premium toppings like asiago cheese and tzatziki, as well as regular finishing touches such as grilled onions and relish. The interior is simple and cosy for dining in and take-out is available in eco-friendly packaging.
Burgernator
269 Augusta Ave, Toronto ON M5T 2M1On a self-proclaimed mission to free Toronto of “half-hearted” burgers, this battle-themed burger spot has 11 meat burgers with such names as The Atomic and The Commander, and two veggie options with equally commanding names. The menu also features an assortment of sides. If you like theme restaurants, this may fit the bill.
Gangster Burger
607 Queen St W, Toronto ON M5V 2B7Another themed burger spot, this one names their burgers after notorious bad guys. The wide array of burgers, including a veggie option, includes names like The Capone, The Lucas and The Don. Unusual toppings include fried plantain and egg and the tasty hand-cut fries are made from Yukon gold potatoes, dashed with kosher salt.
Burger Shop Bqm
210 Ossington Ave, Toronto ON M6J 2Z9Pop down from College to Dundas West for one of the top-rated burger joints in town. With locations in Riverside, Roncesvalles, King West, and Little Portugal, it’s not surprising that these hand-crafted patties have made quite a name for themselves. Burgers include the Lamby, served with grilled red peppers, goat cheese and chipotle aioli, the grilled cheese bacon burger, and the BQM namesake burger, accompanied by caramelized onions and horseradish. Drink ‘em down with a signature cocktail (the Lynchburg Lemonade, for instance, features Jack Daniels, Triple Sec, and lime), or one of the many craft beers on tap.
Pour Boy Restaurant
583 College St, Toronto ON M6G 1B2With its colourful, mural-clad building, it’s not hard to spot this College-Street watering hole. Come for the beer, burgers, and good vibes of one of Toronto’s most beloved and charming dives. A red-hued interior of exposed brick and chandeliers make a great backdrop for a weekend hangout with pals, while a food menu with pub favourites (including beef, chicken, and veggie burgers), make it a prime stop for a casual dinner in Little Italy.
The Hogtown Pub and Oysters
633 College St, Toronto ON M6G 1B5Enjoy vintage-style pub ambience complete with picture-covered walls and beer signs contrasted with some rather chic lighting in the form of light-studded branches. There’s a standard Hogtown Burger to which you can add your own toppings, and four other signature burgers with tasty toppings like blackened spice and truffle aioli.
