When you're feeling squeezed for time at lunch, it can be hard to find a good meal that stands out from the usual fast food and slice of pizza that so many have become accustomed to. But these amazing places along West Queen West will broaden your choices.
Fresh is a go-to spot for lunches that focus on high-quality ingredients to keep you feeling good all afternoon. More than just a salad and juice bar, Fresh also has a full range of lunch items from soups and salads to burgers, tacos and French fries. The vegetarian hotspot also boasts a full menu for those on gluten-free diets, so there is no need to worry about whether they can accommodate your group. Feel free to call ahead for even quicker service.
When you're looking for a quick lunch, few places are better than Barton Snacks on West Queen West. Since it opened, this place has been visited by food fans for its amazing selection of chips, popcorn and cookies, but they also have more substantial items like hot dogs with toppings that range from pepperoni to avocado. If that's not enough, Barton Snacks makes some near-legendary tacos filled with brisket, fish or jerk chicken for those looking to spice things up.
Soup-lovers rejoice. Ravi Soups makes some of the most flavourful soup you’ll find anywhere in the city, from the corn chowder with blue crab to the beef miso. Their ingredients are all fresh and Ravi caters to people with restricted diets. In addition to soups, they also make some pretty great wraps filled with roasted pork shoulder, curried lamb or oven-roasted veggies. It's the perfect stop for a healthy lunch on the go.
For those looking for something healthier than fast food, Bolt Fresh Bar specializes in items that use high-quality fresh ingredients in a host of tasty lunch options. There's a full range of freshly squeezed juice and custom smoothies, or if you want something more, they have made-to-order salads, açai fruit bowls and grain bowls made with rice, beans and your choice of veggies.
This place is made for those with short breaks. Just head to the Fat Bastard website and print out the order form before you head down. Whether you’re looking for something standard like pulled pork or baked yam, or if you want to go for something a little different like the tequila lime chicken or sautéed shrimp, they’ll keep your lunch original and filling.
For those who like sandwiches, there are few better or more versatile than the Vietnamese banh mi sub – a fact that Nam Sandwich proves every day. There are a variety of fillings ranging from lemongrass chicken to panko-crusted tiger shrimp. Sandwiches are topped with carrots and cilantro, with jalapeño peppers if you want it spicier. When you’re looking to mix things up, they also have some pretty awesome grilled meat buns and salad rolls.
Featuring fast Asian-inspired food, this takeout friendly spot is known for its dishes that allow you to pick and choose from a variety of noodles or rice, plus a whole range of toppings and sauces. If you’re pressed for time, call ahead so your order is ready during your break. Sweet Lulu also has a range of lighter dishes, from edamame and satay to soups and salads for those looking for something smaller.