Airport food has a reputation for being pricey, and if you’re catching an early morning flight, grabbing a bite is often unavoidable. But at Toronto Pearson Airport, there are a few wallet-friendly spots that let you fuel up without overspending before takeoff.
You can get to almost anywhere in the world from the airport, and its cuisine largely reflects that!
Toronto Pearson has a variety of dining options, including traditional fast food restaurants, as well as Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Thai, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Whether you’re in the mood for some sushi, pizza, pad Thai, or a burger with fries, the airport has plenty of options, and you don’t even have to blow your holiday budget to enjoy it.
So, whatever you’re in the mood for, here are some of the cheapest places to eat at Toronto Pearson, according to the airport itself.
A&W
A&W is the epitome of the phrase “the old reliable.” If you’re ever hungry, it’s the perfect fast food option as it’s affordable and convenient.
Whether it’s the Mama Burger or the Mozza Burger, A&W is perfect if you’re in a rush.
The Toronto Pearson A&W is located in Terminal 1, after security, near gate D37. It’s open 24 hours a day.
Acer
If you’re in the mood for modern Japanese cuisine, Acer is the place for you.
Located in Terminal 3 (past security) on the departures level, it offers fresh, healthy dishes such as sushi, dumplings, noodles, and curry.
It is open daily from 5 a.m. to the last flight of the day. It also serves breakfast until 11 a.m.
It’s situated near gate C36.
Booster Juice
If you don’t want to eat a big meal, but want something refreshing and healthy, there are plenty of Booster Juice locations throughout Toronto Pearson.
Booster Juice doesn’t just offer smoothies; you can also enjoy paninis, wraps, quesadillas, and acai bowls.
There are four locations in the airport.
- Terminal 1: After security (U.S.), near gate F57 (5 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
- Terminal 1: Before security, near level 2 parking (24 hours)
- Terminal 3: After security, near gate B41 (24 hours)
- Terminal 3: After security, near gate B3 (5 a.m. to 10 p.m.)
Corso Pizza and Pasta
Corso Pizza and Pasta is a bustling spot that serves up fresh Neapolitan-style pizzas, pasta salads, and antipasti.
Its pizzas are straight from a wood-fired oven, and it also offers a variety of pasta options.
It’s located in Terminal 3, after security, near gate B29.
It’s open every day from 5 a.m. until the last flight takes off.
Freshii
Freshii started in Toronto two decades ago and has grown into a go-to spot for wholesome, flavour-packed meals that fit busy schedules and tight budgets alike.
From crisp salads and hearty soups to flavourful rice bowls and burritos, there’s something to satisfy any craving. It also serves creamy frozen yogurt crowned with fresh fruit or crunchy nuts.
There are two locations in Toronto Pearson.
- Terminal 3: After security, near gate B18. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. However, it may not be available at certain times of the day.
- Terminal 3: Before security at the departures level. It is open every day from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Osmow’s Shawarma
Osmow’s Shawarma is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing shawarma chains in North America. It’s a modern twist on classic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.
The taste of rice and meat is delicious, and it’s very affordable for the portion size you get.
For example, Osmow’s Chicken on the Rocks starts at $13.79.
The Osmow’s store at Toronto Pearson is open 24/7 and is located in Terminal 1, after security, near Gate D37.
You can also order it for pickup through UberEats.
Shanghai 360
This location offers takeout Chinese food, including dumplings, soups, and traditional dishes from the fresh noodle bar.
You can enjoy a combo meal featuring stir-fried noodles, vegetables, shrimp, and pork, along with a selection of steamed and pan-fried dumplings.
It’s located in Terminal 3, after security, near gate B26. It opens daily from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Smoke’s Burritorie
Brought to you by the same company as Smoke’s Poutinerie, this location serves burritos that will surely fill you up before your flight.
You can choose from a selection of proteins, accompanied by rice, beans, sour cream, cheese, and other fresh ingredients.
It’s located in Terminal 3, past security, near gate B26. It is open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. every day.
Smoke’s Poutinerie
If you’re craving a poutine before jetting off from Canada, this is is the ideal place.
Smoke’s Poutinerie is known for its unique take on the Canadian dish, which has made it hugely popular.
It’s located at Terminal 3, before security at the arrivals level. It’s open from 1:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.
Thai Express
This quick-service Thai food chain is one of the most popular in North America, and it has a location at Toronto Pearson.
You can order pad Thai, spring rolls, fried rice and a variety of curries.
It’s located in Terminal 1, past security, near Gate D45. It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Urban Crave
There is something for everyone at Urban Crave.
It offers street food from all over the globe, including Korean, Indian, and South American dishes, as well as poutine. It also serve breakfast in the morning.
It’s situated at Terminal 3, after security on the U.S. side, near gate A12. Its opening hours depend on flight times.
Wahlburgers
This burger spot and sports bar is the ideal place to unwind, eat, and drink before your flight.
It offers a wide range of burgers, including single, double, and triple patties, as well as burger bowls.
There are two Wahlburgers locations, one on the international side and one on the U.S. side.
- Terminal 1, after security (International), near gate E67. It’s open every day from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Terminal 1, after security (U.S.), near gate F67. Its opening hours depend on flights.
If none of those options suit you, don’t worry — there are also nine Tim Hortons, nine Starbucks, and four Subway stores at the airport, too! And, of course, plenty of more expensive options as well.