Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite with the kids incognito, or dress up and celebrate good grades with the entire fam, there’s no shortage of restaurants in Toronto’s east end that aim please every member of the clan. When it’s time to gather your picky eaters, meat lovers and health-conscious vegetarians, make sure you check out these family-friendly east end restaurants. [Image credit: iStock.com/Imgorthand]
Burger’s Priest near quiet Queen and Coxwell is like a contemporary, local A&W for the modern cheeseburger-loving family. You can order your burger smothered in chilli (the Red Sea), or top it with blue cheese and crisp bacon (the Magnum). There are many options, including vegetarian, to choose from.
With a calming east coast atmosphere, The Beacher Café is a great spot for fancy family gatherings. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a fantastic view of Toronto’s Beaches neighbourhood while the walls showcase new local artists each month. You can order New York sirloin and sip wine while the kids slurp spaghetti bolognese and soft drinks. The menu has a little something for everyone.
With colourful artwork, booth or window seating, retro lighting, cocktails and Shirley Temples, the whole family will enjoy dining at Braised. Even your pickiest little eater won’t be able to resist the simple penne with butter dish from the kids menu. Adults on the other hand can enjoy the penne with short rib bolognese, or try seared ahi tuna with quinoa and wilted kale. To boot, it’s got a lovely industrial-romantic interior, making this Leslieville restaurant a great place to gather for celebrations and special occasions.
Fresh and fast best sums up the east end’s Completo restaurant. This little Latin-inspired restaurant in Leslieville features hard-shell tacos with four fillings to choose from, plus organic hotdogs served on a toasted buns, and fries topped with goat cheese and tomato-cilantro salsa. All ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, making both adults and kids plenty of delicious and nutrient-rich options. Cute (but compact) outdoor patio? Check.