The Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto, 2009

The best new cheap eats in Toronto can just about be summed up in one word: sandwiches. Gourmet burger places continue to open all over town, but they're up against some stiff competitors who really know their way around a panini press. That being said, there are a few outliers on the list this year, proving that Torontonians crave a good poutine or bowl of ramen just as much as they love tasty stuff on bread.

There's a notable western hemisphere slant on this year's top spots. Will 2010 see the continuing domination of the sandwich? Will this be the year the gourmet hot dog rises up and takes the crown? Only time will tell. For now, here are the top 15 new restaurants for cheap eats in 2009.

Previously:

The Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto, 2008

W Burger Bar

Gourmet burger joints are sprouting like weeds these days, but W Burger Bar at Yonge and College differentiates itself by also offering up some mean chicken tenders and decent poutine. As for the burgers, they’re locally sourced and very tasty.

Rapido

Keeping up with this year’s sandwich/panini craze, Rapido brings in-house roasted meat, fresh veggies and homemade olives to the Bathurst and Dupont scene. Pizza, salads and fresh lemonade round out the offerings.