Toronto Chain Restaurants Worth a Taste

For those times when all you want is a quick bite, consider these local chains where you're assured of fresh, tasty food and good value.

Freshii: A healthier choice (formerly Lettuce Eatery) where baseball-capped salad artists get through the lunch rush like a championship team. The interior is all steely white and blond wood, and designer greens and custom-made sandwiches clearly appeal to the masses. The Cobb is a standout. www.freshii.com.

Harvey's: Harvey's says it makes a hamburger a beautiful thing, and we agree—whether it's a beef, salmon, or veggie burger. Made-to-order toppings will please even the most discerning kids. The fries are a hit, too. www.harveys.ca.

Lick's: Great Homeburgers and turkey burgers, plus the best veggie burger you'll ever taste. Onion rings, fresh fries, extra-thick milk shakes, and frozen yogurt will keep you coming back for more. www.lickshomeburgers.com.

Milestones: Duck into the cool comfort of this very happening spot for Cajun popcorn shrimp or stone-oven pizza. Spit-roasted half chicken with curly fries and gloriously spicy corn-bread muffins may be the kitchen's best. www.milestonesrestaurants.com.

Second Cup: You'll find coffees plain and fancy, as well as flavored hot chocolates, a variety of teas, Italian soft drinks, and nibbles that include muffins, bagels, and raspberry–white chocolate scones. www.secondcup.com.

Spring Rolls: For Asian favorites on the fly: appealing soups and spiced salads, savory noodle dishes, and spring rolls all satiate lunchtime hunger pangs. www.springrolls.ca.

Swiss Chalet Rotisserie and Grill: Children are welcome at this Canadian institution known for its rotisserie chicken and barbecued ribs, in portions that suit every family member. Ask for extra sauce for your french fries. www.swisschalet.ca.

Tim Horton's: It never closes, and coffee is made fresh every 20 minutes. Check out the variety of fresh donuts, muffins, bagels, and soup-and-sandwich combos. The Canadian Maple donut is an obvious front-runner. www.timhortons.com.