Seemor
88 FoodsB-Worth Trying
55 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON M5A 2P8, Canada
· Takeout Restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (446 reviews)
Takeout
Ultra-budget Vietnamese street-food takeout with a beloved owner, excellent value, and generally tasty banh mi and snacks, though quality can be inconsistent and some sandwiches run dry.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
88 Foods delivers honest Vietnamese street food with exceptional owner hospitality and unbeatable value that keeps regulars returning. However, inconsistent sandwich quality—occasional dryness and variable seasoning—prevents a higher grade, while the tight, utilitarian space suits quick takeout rather than lingering meals. A beloved neighborhood gem for budget-conscious banh mi seekers.
Restaurant Summary
A tiny counter spot with warm, personal service where the owner chats, remembers regulars, and brews teas herself. Expect simple digs and a steady lunch trickle. One fan put it plainly: "A hidden gem for honest food and a friendly smile." The vibe is no-frills and welcoming, built for fast bites more than lingering. The cooking leans classic Vietnamese street fare—banh mi and rice paper salad—with comforting plates and strong, sweet coffee. Flavors are often lively for the price, though a few diners report dry bread or milder lemongrass on some days. If you value serious value over polish, this is your move for downtown lunches. Families do fine here: kids gravitate to fried rice and milk tea, and portions are forgiving on a student budget. There is no dedicated kids menu, but simple flavors and sandwiches make it easy. Space is tight, so plan on takeout if you roll in with a stroller or a crew.
At a Glance
- Exceptional value for downtown with C$6-7 banh mi
- Owner hospitality consistently praised by locals and regulars
- Rice paper salad and Vietnamese coffee are standouts
- Inconsistent sandwich moisture and lemongrass intensity
- Very small space; primarily takeout
What Sets It Apart
- beloved_owner_hospitality
- rare_vietnamese_street_snacks
- downtown_budget_pricing
What People Love
- Genuine, kind owner interaction
- Shockingly low prices in downtown
- Rice paper salad with customizable toppings
- Robust Vietnamese iced coffee and coconut coffee
- Fast, made-to-order banh mi
Points of Concern
- Some sandwiches reported as dry or under-seasoned on certain visits
- Very small, plain space better for takeout than dine-in
- Isolated cleanliness and food handling complaints amid mostly positive reports
- Review patterns show signs of potential inflation (very high five-star share and repeated owner mentions), though content remains largely detailed and organic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average CostC$12-18 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair a C$5.75-7 banh mi with a C$4-6 drink for a C$10-13 lunch
- If you want a fuller meal, add steamed pork rolls (about C$8.85)
Perfect For
- Quick budget lunch near George Brown
- Solo grab-and-go coffee and snack
- Students stretching dollars
- Banh mi fans hunting hidden gems
Location Insights
Area: Mixed commercial-residential near St. Lawrence/Corktown; student and office foot traffic; practical, local-serving blocks.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked during day; typical downtown conditions at night.
Nearby: Near George Brown campus, condos, small shops; convenient for quick lunches and grab-and-go.
St. LawrenceSt. Lawrence is characterized by its historic market, a vibrant food scene, and a mix of upscale and casual dining establishments. The area offers a lively social atmosphere with a strong community feel, popular among locals and visitors seeking quality dining and cultural experiences.
St. Lawrence Market DistrictThis micro-neighborhood centers around the iconic St. Lawrence Market, known for its fresh produce, specialty food vendors, and a variety of eateries ranging from casual to gourmet. It is a hub for food lovers and a key destination for culinary exploration within the city.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:30–20:00
Tuesday10:30–20:00
Wednesday10:30–20:00
Thursday10:30–20:00
Friday10:30–20:00
Saturday
Sunday12:00–20:00
Available: Takeout
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