Square Boy

What is Square Boy? Anchoring a strip plaza at 875 Danforth Avenue near Jones Avenue since 1964, Square Boy is one of the east end's most enduring throwback diners. Operated by the Syrbos family for decades, the room retains its retro illuminated menu boards, vintage arcade machine, and an open charcoal grill sizzling right behind the counter. Seating is strictly casual, split between a handful of diner booths inside and outdoor picnic tables overlooking the Danforth.

Square Boy Menu & What to Order The menu splits cleanly between charbroiled diner burgers and classic Greek fast-food staples, delivering hearty portions at rock-bottom prices. Skip the basic frozen patties and order the Homemade Banquet Burger—a hand-pressed beef patty topped with bacon and melted cheese—or go for the charcoal-grilled Pork or Chicken Souvlaki on a pita doused in garlicky tzatziki. Round out the order with the thinly shaved gyros dinner, rotisserie chicken, and an order of fresh-cut fries drenched in thick brown gravy, washed down with a cold draft beer or classic milkshake.

Know Before You Go Reservations do not exist here; simply walk up to the counter and prepare for quick queues during weekday lunch rushes and late-night weekend crowds. The shop is cash-only, though an ATM is available indoors near the entrance. Located midway between Donlands and Pape subway stations, it is also one of the few spots along the strip with dedicated free plaza parking out front.