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Toronto’s Best Student Eats: Fast Bites, Hidden Gems, and Sit-Down Favourites

Jaden Whitelaw  |  September 5, 2025
Toronto rooftop restaurant

Whether you’re a newbie to the Toronto food scene or want to find some new spots to try, you’ve come to the right place. The city offers world-class restaurants and must try meals that you can find no matter where you live! I’m not giving you the big chains like McDonalds or Subway, rather the places you may pass by without knowing what lies behind their doors.

As a foodie myself, here are some must-visits across Downtown Toronto and some of my picks for the best food spots near HOEM on Jarvis (for those of you reading who happen to live there!).

Must-Try Spots Around the City
My Favourites Near HOEM
The Best Sit-Down Restaurants Near HOEM

Must-Try Spots Around the City

1. Badiali’s Pizza

Badiali’s is by far the best pizza I have ever had! You may have to wait in line but it will be worth it in the end! So many different options for a slice and I highly recommend getting the garlic sauce with your pizza!

📍Address: 181 Dovercourt Rd.
📍Distance from HOEM: 35 min ride on 505 Dundas Streetcar + 5 min walk

2. Gus Tacos

I had to give an option from the famous Kensington Market! Honestly, for me, Gus has the best Mexican food in the city. I always opt for the Carne Asada burrito but I don’t think there’s a bad item on their menu. No matter where you’re coming from, it’s worth the trip!

📍Address: 225 Augusta Ave.
📍Distance from HOEM: 20 min ride on 505 Dundas streetcar + 5 min walk

3. Aera Restaurant

Definitely the most high-end restaurant I am recommending but I think Aera is the perfect place to treat yourself or someone else for a celebration! The food was amazing but the view of the CN Tower is genuinely breathtaking. This is the place to wear your best outfit and get those pics for IG! It is a little confusing to find so do your research before you get there.

📍Address: 8 Spadina Ave.
📍Distance from HOEM: 30 min ride on the 501 Queen Streetcar + 10 min walk.

My Favourites Near HOEM

1. Afros Pizza

I can safely say Afros is my favourite spot for food in Toronto and it’s genuinely a footstep away from HOEM on Jarvis. Its wild combinations of Chicago-style pizza and savoury pastas are to die for! I would recommend ordering online and then going in to pick it up because it is a hot commodity in the city!

📍Address: 107 Mutual St.
📍Distance from HOEM: 3 min walk

2. Mayday Burger

If you love a good ol’ cheeseburger then you have to stop at Mayday Burger. Right off Dundas Square, this burger joint serves up in my opinion the best burger in the city along with well-seasoned fries and even some sweet treats to have after!

📍Address: 66 Dundas St. E.
📍Distance from HOEM: 6 min walk

3. Burrito Boyz

My go-to quick and cheap deal in the city! I had to include Burrito Boyz because I always find myself here at least once a week for two good burritos. Pro tip: Uber Eats has a Buy One Get One Free Deal for a Chicken Burrito which can get you two for just over 15 bucks if you pick it up!

📍Address: 74 Dundas St. E.
📍Distance from HOEM: 6 min walk

The Best Sit-Down Restaurants Near HOEM

1. Joey’s

Right in the heart of the Eaton Centre, I have never had a bad time at Joey’s! The food is superb, the service is always excellent and the atmosphere is just the best! Some items that are must-try are the steak french dips and the Japanese Gyoza!

📍Address: 1 Dundas St. W.
📍Distance from HOEM: 10 min walk

2. The Queen and Beaver Public House

No it’s not what you think! This is an actual restaurant! An old-style British pub which I think does it best for breakfast! The decor is so cool and there are a lot of cool artifacts! I must warn you that there may be some loud football fans as you enjoy your meal.

📍Address: 35 Elm St.
📍Distance from HOEM: 15 min walk

3. Gyubee Japanese Grill

If you don’t leave here full then you did something wrong! For me, Gyubee is the best all-you-can-eat restaurant in the city! Loads of options brought to your table and you can cook them yourselves as each table has a grill! It’s an experience everyone has to try!

📍Address: 157 Dundas St. W.
📍Distance from HOEM: 15 min walk

Happy Eating!

I could name so many more but we would be here for ages. I know you’ll find your favourite food spots but if you need some motivation, I think these places will do you right as you explore what this great city has to offer!

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