Canada isn't short of amazing fast food joints; across the country, there are plenty of hugely popular quick-service restaurants serving up everything from classic poutine and burgers to succulent tacos. Whether you're after a beloved local spot or a nationally adored chain, there's a fast food gem waiting to be discovered in every province and territory. Here's our list of the best.
Click or scroll through our gallery to see if your go-to spot made our list of the best Canadian fast food restaurants – and discover some new favourites.
Our selections are based on genuine user reviews, awards and accolades, and the first-hand experience of our well-travelled (and well-fed) team. They're also regularly checked and updated.
A Calgary favourite since 1999, this 1950s-inspired drive-in boasts nostalgic charm and a menu brimming with comfort food classics, both of which are guaranteed to whisk you away to simpler times. Known for its real fruit milkshakes, 100% local beef burgers and large portions of curly fries, Angel’s is one big trip down memory lane. Keep an eye out for the Cadillac perched on the roof – it's a beacon of retro flair that gives a clue as to what lies within.
At Peters' Drive-In in Calgary, the usual lunchtime traffic jam is a testament to the tasty food this spot serves. Since Gus Pieters opened the first location in 1962, it's been the go-to place for delicious burgers and legendary milkshakes. Known for serving up 100% Canadian beef burgers and more than 30 milkshake flavours, Peters' maintains plenty of nostalgic charm with its old-fashioned values and unwavering commitment to quality.
This Baja-inspired taco joint has been a beacon of West Coast eats since it opened in 2009. Serving up tacos and burritos inspired by global surf destinations, what started as a solo food truck in a parking lot has now expanded to more than 10 locations, each staying true to Tacofino’s ethos of bold flavours, clean ingredients and happy oceans.
JAPADOG, which has multiple locations across British Columbia, is an icon of local culinary fusion. Since 2005, this award-winning hot dog stand has been delighting taste buds with its unique blend of Japanese and North American flavours, crafted with premium ingredients like Kurobuta pork and Kobe beef. What started as a humble venture has now expanded across North America, spreading happiness one hot dog at a time, and earning the chain the prestigious ‘Best of Vancouver’ title for three consecutive years.
First opening its doors in the heart of Vancouver’s Granville entertainment district, Mean Poutine has been a late-night saviour since 2011. Founded by former BC Lions football players Sherko Haji-Rasouli and Jon Hameister-Ries, this spot marries classic Quebecois poutine with West Coast flair. An irresistible combination of hot dogs and customisable poutine has made it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. You can now find it in New Westminster, British Columbia and Ajax, Ontario, too.
Open from March to October, this neighbourhood gem is celebrated for its house-made fries and signature bison burger. Whether you’re craving bacon Cheddar poutine loaded with freshly sautéed onions and bacon, or a generously filled ice cream sandwich, Tastee's draws customers back for more all summer long.
At the foot of the historic Elm Park Bridge you'll find a Winnipeg icon that's affectionately known as BDI to locals. Since 1957, this legendary spot has been dishing out creamy soft serve and inventive sundaes, and among its signature treats is the renowned Goog: a decadent concoction of hot fudge, marshmallow and crushed peanuts. The annual reopening of BDI's stand has come to signal the start of summer, drawing crowds eager to experience its time-honoured recipes and house-made toppings.
From the savoury aroma of beef brisket brined in-house to the tantalizing spice of slow-roasted pulled Buffalo chicken, King + Bannatyne elevates fast-casual dining with its stacked menu of handcrafted sandwiches, all of which are prepared with locally sourced ingredients. While the sandwiches steal the show, you shouldn't miss out on the spot's daily soups, salads and array of vegan and vegetarian options either, all while taking in the historic charm of the surrounding Exchange District.
Known for its juicy bacon cheeseburgers and array of chicken wing flavours, Big League allows its patrons to customise their burgers with a choice of Swiss, mozzarella or Cheddar cheese and a variety of fresh toppings. A commitment to quality and reasonable prices makes this place a standout. If you're not in the mood for a burger or wings, there's a menu of hot dogs and sandwiches to choose from, too.
Phillys Subs & Spuds is a family-run gem that promises hearty feasts for meat lovers. Expect a range of hot and cold sandwiches (both of which are stuffed to bursting with meats), as well as giant burgers, which can be loaded up with cheese and other toppings. Phillys offers comfort food at its indulgent best, complemented by tasty potato bowls loaded with grilled steak, pulled pork, cheese, and gravy.
This food truck is renowned for serving up more than just fast food meals; it offers a taste of Newfoundland tradition in every bite. Craving homestyle hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, tacos or poutine? Look no further. And if you want something new to try, Johnny and Mae's is renowned for its Asian-inspired poutine flavours, like the salt beef poutine (which often sells out): a symphony of tender beef, savoury gravy and perfectly seasoned fries.
Starting out as a pop-up, Black Cat Pizzeria has gone on to open its first bricks-and-mortar joint, and locals couldn’t be happier. The spot has become renowned for its signature Detroit-style pan pizzas, which come loaded with toppings like classic pepperoni, and chicken, bacon and ranch. Customers can buy pizza by the slice, allowing them to mix and match different topping combos. Prefer your pizza thin? Fear not, as the shop also offers Chicago-style thin pizzas and New York slices on select days.
Hidden inside a full-service gas station on Old Airport Road, you'll find a Yellowknife culinary hot spot. Known for indulgent bacon-wrapped jumbo hot dogs, this spot is a go-to for travellers and locals seeking fast and utterly satisfying fare. The menu also features favourites like ice cream cakes, Japanese-inspired fried chicken and juicy burgers, making Gastown a unique destination where you can fuel both your car and your appetite before hitting the road.
A popular spot for pizza, Yk Wood Fired Pizzeria is loved for its crispy crusts, oozy cheese pulls and endless toppings. The joint serves up all of your usual favourites, including pepperoni and classic cheese pizzas, as well as a few unusual options like a shrimp and garlic pie. It wouldn’t be a Canadian pizzeria without poutine, and this spot’s version – piled with cheese curds and rich gravy – is definitely worth sampling.
Turbo Chicken is the go-to spot in Halifax for crispy, juicy fried chicken. This local joint has perfected the art of comfort food, offering delicious menu items like the Cluck Cluck Burger (with a chicken patty, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese and pickles) and Sweet Chilli Popcorn Chicken – and everything is served with waffle fries and a slightly sweet house sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner treat or a satisfying lunch on the go, Turbo Chicken consistently delivers quality and flavour, making it stand out on the city's fast food scene.
Tastee Freeze is a cherished establishment offering a blend of classic and innovative fast food favourites. While famous for its massive portions of creamy soft serve (in experimental flavours like blueberry and mocha), it also serves up savoury favourites like loaded burgers, fries and perfectly crisp onion rings. Note that it's only open during the summer season, usually April to October.
Conveniently located in Iqaluit International Airport, Tundra Take-out Diner is a haven for travellers seeking quality fare made quickly. This diner offers comfort food at its best and is renowned for its generous pulled pork poutine and fish and chip Fridays. The walls, adorned with murals by local artists, create a relaxing atmosphere that makes waiting for a flight enjoyable. With quick service and hearty portions, Tundra Take-out Diner ensures you won't leave Iqaluit hungry.
Yummy Shawarma has garnered a loyal following for its fresh, flavourful and authentic shawarmas. The spot is particularly loved for its juicy beef shawarmas and tasty salad additions, and all of its dishes are praised for being prepared quickly, with generous portion sizes. This eatery also impresses with its roasted eggplant and cauliflower sides, and the welcoming staff make every visit a delight.
A beloved Burlington institution since 1930, Easterbrook's Hotdog Stand is the epitome of nostalgia and charm. This family-owned gem is famous for its footlong hot dogs (it's the second-oldest footlong hot dog stand in Canada), with more than 15 varieties on offer – including the Wonder Dog (with melted cheese, bacon, fried onions and tomato). Near the Royal Botanical Gardens, it's the perfect spot for a casual summer meal, complete with fries, gravy and hand-scooped ice cream.
Founded in 1995, Pita Pit was ahead of its time, offering a healthy alternative to traditional fast food long before it became trendy. Today, with more than 450 stores worldwide, Pita Pit continues to champion its 'fresh thinking, healthy eating' motto, and it's a familiar sight on many college and university campuses. Its speciality? Fresh pitas stuffed with grilled meats, fresh veggies and zesty sauces.
Situated on Regent Street, this family-run establishment is overflowing with warmth and nostalgia, drawing in patrons from far and wide. Since opening in 1960, Deluxe Hamburgers has been a cornerstone of Sudbury's dining scene, serving breakfasts loaded with eggs, bacon and sausage alongside its signature burgers and fries. Favourite dishes include chicken in a bun, accompanied by Sudbury’s traditional gravy-inspired sauce.
Bolets Burrito is a haven for those seeking bold flavours and generous portions. Specialising in jumbo burritos, this casual joint offers a menu brimming with original and eclectic combinations. From classic beef and chicken to more adventurous crispy fish and Thai-inspired fillings – not forgetting an ever-popular Buffalo chicken roll – there's something for everyone.
Since opening its first location in Thunder Bay in 1975, Robin’s Donuts (fondly known as Robin’s by most) has gone on to become one of Canada’s best-loved coffee and breakfast chains. It's garnered a reputation for its strong brews, breakfast sandwiches (the Steak, Egg & Cheese is next level) and, of course, its donuts. While the classic glazes are delicious, Robin’s Eggs – miniature donut holes that come in a host of flavours – are a must-order.
Established in 1959 in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Harvey's has become synonymous with quality and flavour. Leading the pack with over 200 locations in Ontario alone, Harvey's is perhaps most famous for its flame-grilled Angus burgers, but it also boasts a menu rich in other fast food classics, including loaded poutine, hot dogs, onion rings and fried chicken.
BOOMburger is a beloved PEI staple, with branches in Charlottetown and Cavendish. Celebrated for its mouthwatering burgers and hand-cut fries (made from regional PEI potatoes), this burger joint adds a touch of local history by serving its meals with raspberry cordial, a sparkling beverage inspired by Anne of Green Gables. The Charlottetown location, housed in a beautiful reclaimed church, is a must-visit, both for the food and the Instagram-worthy backdrop.
Ken’s Island Fries in Stratford is a fry lover’s paradise. The aroma of freshly cooked skin-on fries, made with local PEI potatoes, fills the air as you approach. There’s also a small menu of hot dogs to add to your fries order, but it’s really the taters that take centre stage here. Want to try something unique? Order the Nacho Taco: fries loaded up with taco meat, cheese sauce, salsa, sour cream and crushed tortilla chips.
Rotisserie Romados specialises in succulent Portuguese-inspired rotisserie chicken, generously coated in spicy peri peri sauce and served with perfectly crispy fries and a fresh green salad. This place also makes pastéis de nata, traditional Portuguese flaky pastries filled with sweet set custard. Grab a combo meal to go and enjoy a lunchtime picnic in nearby Jeanne-Mance Park.
Ashton (formerly known as Chez Aston) had humble beginnings in 1969 as a truck serving only fries – but since then it's evolved into a cult favourite. Its main offering is poutine: a hearty portion of crispy fries, fresh cheese curds and ladles of savoury gravy. Sure, there are burgers, hot dogs and other fast food favourites on the menu, but the poutine is the main draw. Try it classic or with any number of additions, from grilled sausage to chicken and roast beef.
A Quebec hot spot since 1979, Valentine is renowned for its fresh (never frozen) French fries. The chain, which now has multiple locations across the province, serves up some of the tastiest poutine around, ranging from classic cheese curd and gravy varieties to Thai-inspired options. There are plenty of other fast food favourites here, too, including burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs and chicken strips.
When hunger strikes in Saskatoon, look no further than Franky's Banh Mi for a quick and delicious meal that hits all the right notes. This family-run gem is known for its lightning-fast service and mouthwatering Vietnamese dishes, which keep locals coming back for more. Accompany one of the joint's signature bánh mì sandwiches with a steaming bowl of authentic wonton soup, crafted from a cherished family recipe perfected over three decades. Just be sure to arrive early, as this popular spot tends to sell out fast.
Utilising a unique broasting technique that combines pressure frying and traditional shallow frying, Golden Broasted Chicken's birds are marinated to perfection and cooked to a crispy, golden finish. The spot's delicious chicken sandwich, featuring tender breaded chicken breast on a toasted bun with fresh lettuce and tomatoes, is a standout. Customers flock here for flavour-packed, satisfying meals at great prices.
In a territory with few family-run fast food joints, La Cara is loved for its exceptional food and welcoming atmosphere. Known for delicious burritos, tacos and bowls, the Mexican-inspired spot is perfect for a quick takeout lunch or a relaxed dine-in experience. It’s also worth keeping an eye on the restaurant's social media channels, as there are often special deals and promotions.
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Last updated by Lottie Woodrow.