The Burger Shop — Restaurant in Toronto

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I've just returned from a culinary rollercoaster that involved free burgers, emotional onion encounters, and a serious re evaluation of my food choices.

So, Queen West, right? Land of the trendy, the try hard, and the "artisanal" everything. Today, however, I stumbled upon a beacon of pure, unadulterated burger bliss: Smash Burger. They were slinging free burgers like they were going out of style, which, let's be honest, is my love language. I usually approach free food with the same level of skepticism I reserve for politicians promising a better change, but something about the sizzling patties called to me.

Now, let's be real. "Free" usually translates to "cardboard patty on a sad bun." I braced myself for disappointment, like a seasoned veteran of questionable smash burger. But what happened next? Folks, I'm still processing.

I got the beef smash burger. I took a bite. And I swear, a single tear rolled down my cheek. Not because I was sad, but because I was experiencing pure, unadulterated burger bliss. It was like a symphony of beef, cheese, and whatever magical condiments they're brewing in there. I'm pretty sure I heard angels sing. Or maybe it was just the guy next to me humming along to his Spotify playlist, but either way, it was divine.

The beef! Oh, the beef! It was smashed to perfection, crispy on the edges, juicy in the middle. It was like they took a perfectly good cow and gave it a tiny, delicious wrestling match. And the bun? It wasn't some flimsy, disintegrating excuse for bread. It was sturdy, supportive, like a tiny, edible hug for the burger.

I finished it. I stared into the CAMH building at the distance, contemplating my life choices. Was this it? Had I peaked? Was this the best burger I'd ever have?

Apparently not, because two hours later, I was BACK. Like a moth to a flame, a squirrel to a nut, a slightly unhinged individual to a really, really good burger. I bought another one. No freebie this time, but honestly, they could have charged me double and I'd have wept with joy while handing over my credit card.

This place is dangerous. It's addictive. I'm pretty sure I'm going to start scheduling my therapy sessions around my smash burger cravings. "Yes, Dr. Naya, I know I need to work on my emotional regulation, but first, let's talk about the Maillard reaction happening on that perfectly smashed patty..."

Seriously, if you're on Queen West, and you value your taste buds, and you don't mind potentially developing a crippling burger dependency, go. Just go. You won't regret it. Unless you're a vegetarian. Then, I'm sorry, I can't help you, but I can direct you to the west for Vegan sushi, But for the rest of us, burger...

I'm always on the lookout for new culinary gems in my neighbourhood, and The Burger Shop might just be the winner! While I'm typically a fan of thick, juicy burgers, I decided to step outside my comfort zone and try their Mushroom Smash and I'm so glad I did! This smashed burger was a revelation. The perfectly seasoned patty was incredibly flavourful, and the special TBS sauce had a delightful kick that complemented the earthy mushrooms beautifully. It almost converted me to the smashed burger fan club! I also ordered the spicy loaded fries. They were delicious, with a generous topping of flavourful goodness. While they weren't quite as spicy as I'd hoped (think Tabasco level rather than Armageddon!), they were still a great side dish. Beyond the delicious food, the service was top notch. The owner was incredibly friendly and helpful, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. The restaurant itself has a cool, modern classic vibe that makes you want to hang out and savour every bite. The Burger Shop has earned a spot on my regular rotation. Whether you're a smashed burger aficionado or just looking for a a great meal, you won't be...

walked into this store right after drinking the nastiest matcha of my life, feeling disheveled, confused, and honestly just trying to find myself again. The second I stepped in, the worker greeted me with this gentle compassion that hit me right in the chest. I don’t know what came over me, but I ended up telling her my whole life story. Everything. And after hearing it all, she looked at me with the kindest eyes and let me use the bathroom without even expecting me to buy anything—just because she still believes in being a decent human, which is so rare these days.

I was so moved… that I moved my way to the menu and ordered their smash fries. Imagine fries covered in cheese sauce, layered with little slices of burger, and drizzled in their special homemade sauce. It was so good I straight up forgot why I was even sad before. And to top it all off? She gave us extra sauce. No charge. Just kindness.

Sometimes the smallest gestures from strangers can bring you back to life. “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” also the cook...