Top 5 burger spots in Toronto

Toronto's burger scene is a dynamic slice of the city's broader culinary tapestry. Whether you're chasing a perfectly caramelized smash patty, an over-the-top stacked creation, or a nostalgic late-night bite, Toronto delivers. Here are five must-try burger destinations.

5. Happy Burger: comfort food done right

Happy Burger nails the fundamentals: consistent burgers, reasonable prices and friendly service. The menu focuses on classic cheeseburgers, well-seasoned patties and simple, crisp fries.

Order this: the Happy Stack, two smashed patties with cheese, lettuce, onions, pickles and stack sauce on a three-layer sesame bun.On the side: crispy waffle fries, plain or as poutine.Veggie friendly: Impossible patties available on the signature burgers.

4. Burger Drops

A Liberty Village smash burger spot known for thin patties with a caramelized crust, a blend of AAA Canadian beef, house-made Drop Sauce and toasted Martin's potato rolls.

Order this: the Double Original, two patties, griddled sweet onion, American cheese, house pickles and Drop Sauce.Also try: the Double American, or the Pastrami Burger made with Linny's pastrami.Veggie friendly: a house-made mushroom and barley patty with the same toppings.

3. Ugly Delicious: Wagyu smash burgers

A quick-service spot in Kensington Market specializing in premium halal Wagyu smash burgers. Hand-formed Australian Wagyu and AAA beef patties are smashed thin for a crispy, caramelized edge, with bold, messy flavours inspired by Japanese and Korean comfort food.

Order this: The Classic, with American cheese, Ugly sauce, pickles, lettuce and tomato.Also try: Onions We Crazy, with Oklahoma-style smashed onions.Bring friends: The Ugly Delicious is a seven-patty burger built for sharing.

2. JABS Burgers

Just Another Burger Spot has locations on St. Clair Ave W and in Woodbridge. It's known for crispy-edged smash patties, toasted buns, house-made pickles and sauces, and custom-ground beef, balancing comfort with real refinement.

Order this: the Big Jab, often compared to a premium Big Mac.On the side: lechon fries topped with pork belly.

1. Cabano's Comfort Food

Topping the list, Cabano's brings robust flavour and real devotion to the craft. High-quality Angus beef is seared into thin smash patties with a crisp, caramelized exterior that stays juicy inside, a frequent hidden gem in Toronto's dining scene.

Order this: the Cabano Burger, a double smash with deep-fried jalapeños, melted cheese and the house sauce.On the side: beef tallow fries or chili cheese fries.

Tips for trying them all

Go during off-peak hours to skip the lines and get a fresher, quicker experience.
Order different styles, a classic at one spot and a specialty at another, to compare techniques.
Share sides so you can sample more without overstuffing yourself.
Ask about sourcing and cooking style. Many of these places are proud of their beef.