Article Summary

This guide covers the best restaurants at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1, including dining options before and after security. You’ll find details on food choices, restaurant locations, menus, and operating hours to help you plan your meal while traveling. Whether you need a quick bite, a coffee stop, or a full meal, this article provides everything you need to know about Terminal 1’s food scene.

Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 Restaurants [Introduction]

If you’re traveling through Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 and wondering where to eat, you’re in the right place! This terminal offers a variety of restaurants, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Whether you’re looking for a fresh coffee before your flight or a full meal after landing, Terminal 1 has options to suit every traveler’s taste. In this guide, we’ll explore the best dining spots, their locations, menus, and what to expect before and after security.

Restaurants at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1

Before Security (List of Restaurants & Cafes)

If you have time before you go through security or are meeting someone at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1, you’ll find a variety of dining options. These restaurants and cafes are located in the public area, easily accessible without needing to pass through security. Some popular choices include:

Tim Hortons – A Canadian favorite for coffee, donuts, and sandwiches.
Starbucks – Ideal for coffee, pastries, and quick bites.
The Counter – A burger joint offering custom-built burgers with fresh ingredients.
Caplansky’s Delicatessen – A great spot for classic deli sandwiches and comfort food.

These spots cater to travelers who are looking to enjoy a meal or grab a quick snack before heading into the secure areas.

After Security (Dining Options for Domestic & International Travelers)

Once you’ve cleared security and entered the restricted areas, you’ll find more dining choices for both domestic and international flights. Depending on whether you’re flying within Canada or internationally, there are various restaurants and food outlets to choose from:

1. Domestic Departures

Here, you’ll find a mix of fast food, casual dining, and quick-service options, including:

Subway – Freshly made sandwiches for a fast meal.
Pizzaiolo – Pizza lovers can enjoy delicious slices or full pies.
The Keg – A sit-down restaurant known for steaks and upscale dining.

2. International Departures

International travelers have even more variety. Popular restaurants include:

Giraffe – A trendy restaurant offering global flavors, including Mediterranean and Asian dishes.
A&W – Classic fast food for travelers on the go.
Café Landwer – A Mediterranean-style cafe with light meals, coffee, and pastries.

Best Sit-Down Restaurants (Top Choices for Full Meals)

If you have time before your flight and want to enjoy a full meal, Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 has several sit-down restaurants that offer a relaxing dining experience:

The Keg – Known for delicious steaks, seafood, and a wide selection of wines.
Caplansky’s Delicatessen – Perfect for a hearty meal with a variety of deli options, including sandwiches, soups, and traditional Jewish comfort food.
Café Landwer – A cozy spot offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes, perfect for a more leisurely dining experience.

Quick Bites & Fast Food (Grab-and-Go Options)

For travelers who need something quick and easy, there are plenty of fast food and grab-and-go options available:

Tim Hortons – Open early and late, offering coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods.
McDonald’s – A reliable fast food option with burgers, fries, and more.
Subway – Fresh and customizable sandwiches for a quick meal.
A&W – Known for their burgers, root beer, and breakfast items.

These places are ideal for passengers who need a quick bite before boarding or don’t have time for a sit-down meal.

3. Food & Drink Options by Cuisine

American, Italian, Asian, and Canadian Food Choices

Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 offers a wide range of cuisines to suit every taste. Whether you’re craving a classic American burger or looking for Italian or Asian flavors, you’ll find plenty of options:

American: Fast food joints like McDonald’s, A&W, and Subway offer a quick American-style meal with burgers, sandwiches, and fries.
Italian: For Italian lovers, places like Pizzaiolo offer pizza, pasta, and delicious Italian salads.
Asian: Giraffe and other eateries offer Asian-inspired meals, including sushi, noodles, and rice bowls.
Canadian: Embrace the local flavor with Tim Hortons for Canadian coffee and pastries or Caplansky’s Delicatessen for a traditional deli experience.

Vegetarian, Vegan, and Halal-Friendly Options

Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 also caters to special dietary preferences, ensuring there are options for everyone:

Vegetarian & Vegan: Many restaurants, like Café Landwer, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including salads, veggie burgers, and Mediterranean bowls.
Halal: Some restaurants, like The Counter, offer halal meat options or are known for accommodating halal dietary needs, ensuring all travelers can enjoy a satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking for something light, hearty, or specific to your dietary needs, you’ll find plenty of choices to suit your preferences.

Restaurant Maps & Locations

Finding the right place to eat at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 can be easier if you know where each restaurant is located. Whether you’re before or after security, the terminal offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and time constraints. From quick-service restaurants for those in a rush to full-service dining for travelers with extra time, Terminal 1 has plenty of choices.

Below, we’ll guide you on where to find these restaurants and how you can use the Pearson Airport map to navigate easily.

Overview of Where Restaurants Are Located

Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 is divided into different sections: pre-security (public area) and post-security (restricted area for travelers only).

Here’s a breakdown of where you can find food options:

Before Security (Public Area):
If you’re waiting for someone or have time before passing through security, you can find restaurants and cafes near the entrance, check-in counters, and baggage claim areas. Popular options include fast food, coffee shops, and casual dining spots.
After Security (Domestic Departures):
If you’re flying within Canada, there are multiple restaurants and snack bars in the domestic departures section. You’ll find a mix of sit-down dining, fast food, and grab-and-go options.
After Security (International Departures):
Travelers heading on international flights have access to even more dining choices. There are well-known chain restaurants, specialty food places, and high-end lounges offering premium meals.
Near Arrival Gates:
If you’ve just landed and need a quick meal, some restaurants are conveniently located near baggage claim and exit areas.

How to Find Restaurants Using the Pearson Airport Map

Toronto Pearson Airport provides an interactive map on its website, making it easy to find dining locations. Here’s how you can use it:

Visit the Official Toronto Pearson Website – Go to the airport’s official site and look for the “Maps” or “Dining & Shopping” section.
Filter by Terminal & Food Options – Select Terminal 1 and apply filters to find restaurants based on cuisine, dining type (fast food, sit-down, café), and location (before or after security).
Use the Pearson Airport App – If you’re at the airport, the Pearson Airport mobile app can guide you with step-by-step directions to your chosen restaurant.
Check Digital Screens at the Airport – Inside the terminal, you’ll find digital information boards showing updated restaurant locations, operating hours, and special offers.

By using these tools, you can quickly locate a restaurant that fits your needs, whether you’re in a rush or have time to relax before your flight.

Operating Hours & Availability

Understanding the operating hours of Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 restaurants can help you plan your meals, especially if you’re traveling at odd hours. Whether you’re arriving early for a morning flight or arriving late at night, there are plenty of options available. Here’s a breakdown of the typical timings for major restaurants and the availability of late-night or 24/7 food options.

Timings for Major Restaurants

Most of the popular restaurants at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 have fixed operating hours, typically following the general flight schedule. However, certain restaurants adjust their hours based on passenger traffic and airport policies.

Morning Hours (6:00 AM – 11:00 AM):
Many restaurants, particularly coffee shops and quick-service eateries, open early to cater to travelers catching early flights. Places like Tim Hortons, Starbucks, and The Counter are common morning choices for quick breakfast snacks and beverages.
Midday to Evening Hours (11:00 AM – 7:00 PM):
This is when the bulk of restaurants are open. Full-service restaurants such as The Keg or Caplansky’s Delicatessen offer lunch and dinner options. Fast food chains like McDonald’s or Subway are also popular during this time for quick bites.
Late Evening Hours (7:00 PM – 11:00 PM):
During the evening, many eateries continue to serve travelers who may have late flights. Some sit-down restaurants and cafés still stay open for dinner service, but options might be more limited compared to daytime hours.

Late-Night and 24/7 Food Options

For passengers with late-night or early morning flights, Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 offers 24/7 dining options that can satisfy cravings at any hour.

Here are some of the spots to keep in mind:

Tim Hortons – Known for being open 24/7, Tim Hortons serves coffee, pastries, and sandwiches, making it an ideal option for travelers needing a quick meal or caffeine fix.
Starbucks – Also open 24 hours in some locations within Terminal 1, offering coffee, tea, and light snacks.
McDonald’s – This fast food chain is often open late into the night, perfect for those looking for a quick meal before a flight. Some McDonald’s outlets may remain open 24 hours, especially at major terminals like Pearson.
The Kitchen by the Food District – A popular choice for travelers flying out late, this restaurant stays open for a considerable number of hours into the night, offering comfort food like pizza and burgers.
Convenience Stores – Located near check-in counters and arrival gates, many convenience stores offer snacks and drinks around the clock, perfect for those who need a quick bite at any hour.

By keeping these operating hours and food availability in mind, you can make sure you’re never hungry, no matter when you pass through Terminal 1.

Best Restaurants for Arrivals & Departures

(Recommendations for Travelers on a Layover) If you have a layover at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1, finding the right place to eat is essential. Whether you have a short or long wait, there are great options for a comfortable meal. Many restaurants in the terminal offer fast service, seating areas, and a variety of cuisines to suit different preferences.

If you want a sit-down meal, The Keg is an excellent choice, known for its steaks and seafood. For a more casual option, Caplansky’s Delicatessen serves classic deli sandwiches and soups. If you’re in a hurry but still want quality food, Freshii offers healthy wraps and bowls that are perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.

Best Places for a Quick Meal Before Boarding

If you’re short on time before your flight, there are plenty of fast-food and grab-and-go options. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a light snack, or a full meal, these restaurants offer fast service and convenient takeaway options. McDonald’s and A&W are perfect for travelers craving a quick burger and fries. If you’re looking for something fresh and light, Starbucks and Tim Hortons provide coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. For a healthier choice, Subway allows you to customize your sandwiches and salads according to your preference.

Best Quick-Meal Options Before Boarding:

McDonald’s – Fast and familiar burgers, fries, and breakfast options.
A&W – Known for classic burgers and all-day breakfast.
Subway – Custom-made sandwiches and salads for a healthier choice.
Starbucks – Fresh coffee, pastries, and grab-and-go snacks.
Tim Hortons – Canadian favorite for coffee, bagels, and sandwiches.

7. Additional Services & Amenities

Lounges with Food Services

For travelers who prefer a premium experience, several lounges at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 offer food services. These lounges provide comfortable seating, buffet meals, snacks, and beverages. The Plaza Premium Lounge is accessible to all travelers for a fee and offers a selection of hot meals, desserts, and drinks. For Air Canada passengers, the Maple Leaf Lounge offers a luxurious space with gourmet meals, wine, and comfortable seating.

Best Lounges with Food Services:

Plaza Premium Lounge – Open to all travelers, offering hot meals, snacks, and drinks.
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge – Available for Air Canada passengers, featuring buffet meals and premium drinks.
American Express Lounge – Exclusive for AmEx cardholders, providing complimentary meals and beverages.

Nearby Convenience Stores & Cafes

If you need to grab a quick snack, buy last-minute travel essentials, or pick up a coffee, there are plenty of convenience stores and cafes throughout the terminal. Hudson News and Relay sell packaged snacks, bottled drinks, magazines, and travel accessories. For fresh coffee, Starbucks and Tim Hortons remain top choices, offering hot and cold beverages along with baked goods.

Best Convenience Stores & Cafes:

Hudson News – Offers snacks, drinks, travel essentials, and reading materials.
Relay – A great spot for magazines, books, snacks, and small travel items.
Starbucks – Freshly brewed coffee, teas, and light food options.
Tim Hortons – Popular for coffee, sandwiches, and quick breakfast options.

With these options, whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal, a quick bite, a comfortable lounge, or a convenience store, Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 has plenty to offer for every type of traveler.

FAQS

1. What are the best restaurants at Toronto Pearson Terminal 1?

Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 has a variety of dining options, including The Keg for steak and seafood, Caplansky’s Delicatessen for deli-style sandwiches, and Freshii for healthy bowls and wraps. If you’re in a hurry, McDonald’s, Subway, and Tim Hortons offer quick and convenient meals.

2. Are there any 24/7 restaurants at Pearson Terminal 1?

Yes, some restaurants at Terminal 1 are open 24/7 to serve travelers at any time. Tim Hortons and Subway typically offer late-night or 24/7 service, making them great options for early-morning or late-night flights. It’s always best to check the latest operating hours on the airport’s official website.

3. What types of food can I find at Terminal 1 restaurants?

Terminal 1 offers a diverse range of cuisines, including American, Italian, Asian, and Canadian dishes. You can find burgers, pizza, sushi, sandwiches, and vegetarian options. Restaurants like Pizzaiolo, Sushi Shop, and Freshii cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and halal-friendly meals.

4. Where can I find restaurants before and after security at Terminal 1?

Several restaurants are available both before and after security. Before security, you’ll find cafes and quick bites like Tim Hortons and Starbucks. After security, you’ll have access to a wider selection, including sit-down restaurants like The Keg and Vinifera, as well as fast-food options like McDonald’s and A&W.

5. Are there any lounges at Terminal 1 that offer food services?

Yes, Terminal 1 has several lounges with complimentary food and drink options. The Plaza Premium Lounge is open to all travelers for a fee and provides buffet meals, snacks, and drinks. The Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge offers a premium dining experience for Air Canada passengers, featuring gourmet meals and a relaxing atmosphere.

Conclusion

Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 offers a wide range of restaurants and dining options for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before your flight, a sit-down meal during a layover, or late-night food options, you’ll find plenty of choices. From fast food like McDonald’s and Tim Hortons to premium dining at The Keg, Terminal 1 ensures you won’t go hungry. Plus, lounges and convenience stores provide additional food services for those who prefer a more relaxed experience.

No matter your taste, budget, or dietary needs, Pearson Terminal 1 has something for everyone. Before your next flight, check the terminal map and restaurant hours to plan your meal and enjoy a hassle-free dining experience at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 Restaurants, Food, Map & Services Guide