If you're in downtown Toronto and need something quick but still healthy, Pret A Manger is a great choice. The name literally means "ready to eat" in French, and that's exactly what you get. They have a wide variety of fresh grab-and-go options that don't feel like typical fast food.
I always make a point to stock up here when I am in town during the Toronto International Film Festival. When you're running between screenings, it's a lifesaver to have hearty sandwiches, salads, and wraps that are actually good for you and easy to take on the go. Everything is conveniently packaged, so you can grab it and keep moving. I've also found that not only do the sandwiches travel well, they stay fresh for a couple of days in the hotel refrigerator!
What really stands out is the variety. There are tons of vegetarian and vegan options, and everything is clearly labeled so it's easy to choose something that's right for you. The ingredients taste fresh and high quality, and you can genuinely feel good about what you're eating. Knowing that the food is prepared daily in on-site kitchens using natural ingredients makes a big difference for me.
I also appreciate their efforts to reduce waste. Unsold food gets donated to local charities and shelters at the end of the day, and a lot of their packaging uses paperboard instead of sealed plastic, which is a nice touch.
The menu does change daily, so the selection will vary depending on when you visit. I've tried a majority of the menu, but my personal favorites are the avocado veggie sandwich, the Chicken & Avocado baguette, the falafel and hummus bowl, and the veggie salad. I also think the coffee is decent, and the prepared salads (like noodle salad or shrimp salad) make a nice lighter meal. I also sometimes can't resist the desserts, and I really like their chocolate chip cookies!
Prices aren't super cheap, but they're fair for the quality you're getting. Definitely worth it if you want something quick, fresh, and satisfying. read more