Dip into island life by grabbing a Jamaican patty. Toronto’s large ex-pat community brought this handy treat with them, mixing their food culture with Canadians’ crush on fast food sandwiches. With its characteristic crispy, golden-brown outside and spicy filling inside, the Jamaican patty has become one of Toronto’s favourite, hand-held meals.
One of Toronto’s most popular patty places, Randy’s has been around since 1979. As the line snakes closer to the counter, the only decision you’ll have to make is whether to have just one or to take home a dozen. Be daring: try the ackee and codfish patty.
Kensington Market is a mixed bag of awesome treats and Patty King has been a cornerstone of the neighbourhood for decades. They’ve got your classic standby, beef patties, as well as goat patties. With a curry-based filling, you can never go wrong with this choice.
Street parking costs more than Tinnel’s patties, so take the bus across Eglinton to Keele, because you might be here a long time. Why? With a selection of chicken, beef and veggie patties, made mild or spicy (hello, scotch bonnet peppers!) you’ll find it difficult to stop at just one
One patty, two patty, beef patty, yes patty: at Pat’s, the Jamaican patty is made in a way that’d make Momma proud. The soft flaky shell is perfectly buttery and golden brown and the filling is seasoned and spicy. Bring lots of loonies and toonies and prepare to splurge.
Wellesley Street just east of Sherbourne oughta be called “Little Jamaica” in honour of this hidden gem. You can stuff yourself silly for under $10 and catch dinner well after the sun’s gone down. All patties are made fresh, not frozen.
Spicy Jamaican patties have an unparalleled sizzle but you can kick the heat up further with a dab of scotch bonnet sauce. Pro tip: grab a handful of beef patties with the daily lunchtime specials, and don’t forget a cold bottle of pop to extinguish the fire.
Consider yourself warned: there’s spicy hot, and then there’s Ali’s spicy hot. Ice cream is a must after any meal you have here, with Ali’s signature chickpea patty driving up the heat to incendiary levels. If you can finish it, though, you’re definitely entitled to dessert.
Over in Gerrard Square Mall, this is the spot for a tasty snack between shopping sprees. Tropical Joe’s is worth a sit-down visit. Just make sure to leave room in the car for the patties you’ll be taking home.