Torontoians takes their Jamacian beef patties seriously. Whether you’re grabbing one from a hot bakery window at the TTC or eating it as a little appetizer before a full on ox-tail meal, a good Jamaican patty is an essential part of the city’s food culture. But not all patties are created equal. Some are dry. Some taste dank, others skimp on the filling, and then there are the ones that leave a trail of flakey crumbs (which I personally don’t mind as tradeoff for extra flakiness!)
If you also follow me on Instagram, you’ll see that we recently ate our way across the GTA to find the flakiest crusts, the juiciest fillings, and the best spice-to-sweat ratio. Below are our top picks for the best beef patties in Toronto. We created the rankings based on flavor, texture, value, and whether we’d eat them if we had the munchies.
1. Michidean Caribbean Takeout (Scarborough)
This is the top choice, no question. Michidean’s patties are everything a great Jamaican patty should be. The crust is golden and flaky, just thick enough to hold up to the filling without going soggy. The spicy beef hits with real depth and heat, finished with that unmistakable Scotch bonnet kick and layered with aromatics like allspice, thyme, and green onion. The chicken patty is a favourite in our household as well and reminds me of a chicken pot pie. They are only sold in bulk, frozen and a box costs $20 cash for a dozen, picked up directly from their Markham factory. The only caveat is that they only come frozen so you can’t eat them immediately. They supply patties to many spots across Toronto. If you’re looking for these downtown, you can find these at Blessed Love Caribbean in Riverside (Queen East).
2. Allan’s Pastry Shop (Multiple Locations)
Allan’s has long been a favorite for good reason. Their spicy beef patties strike the perfect balance between buttery pastry and deeply seasoned filling. The crust is not as big of a flakey mess as Michidean’s or Patty Time’s. It is delicate and holds its shape, while the beef is juicy and layered with thyme, scallion, and just enough Scotch bonnet to make your lips tingle. Ask for it in their in-house coco bread with cheese for the ultimate comfort bite. Allan’s Pastry Shop also sells frozen patties to go at $20/dozen which is perfect for your freezer stash.
3. Patty Time (Scarborough)
Patty Time flies under the radar, but locals know it is one of the city’s best kept secrets. Their patties come out hot and fresh with a darker, more toasted (but still flakey) crust and a filling that’s packed with punchy seasoning and bold pepper heat. The pastry has a satisfying texture and their filling-to-crust ratio is higher than Allan’s and Michidean’s. The beef is flavorful and generously portioned, with just enough grease to let you know it’s real. Patty Time also serves up a strong ox tail game for those looking for a full meal that still hits. A dozen patties here runs you $28.99/dozen but that extra $8.99 buys you more filling.
4. Randy’s Take-Out (Eglinton West)
Randy’s is a Toronto institution, and it has the celebrity endorsement to prove it. Drake has shouted them out as his go-to patty spot, and fans have spotted him picking up patties there long before he was selling out arenas. Their patties feature a thicker, doughier crust and a heartier beef filling that leans slightly sweet but is packed with warm spice and pepper heat. The shop itself is no-frills, often with a line out the door and a cash-only policy. The spicy beef patty delivers a solid punch and makes for an incredibly satisfying lunch or late-afternoon snack. Go early or call ahead because they sell out fast!
5. Caribbean Queen of Patties (Parkdale)
This under-the-radar gem offers handmade patties with a crust that’s almost croissant-like. For those who grew up in the area, it is deeply nostalgia and a staple after-school snack. The beef is deeply seasoned and packed with umami, and the spicy version comes with a real kick. They also do callaloo and ackee patties, which are rare finds in the city. It’s cash only, so bring bills and come hungry.
Final Thoughts
Toronto is spoiled when it comes to Jamaican patties. Whether you’re loyal to your Scarborough bakery or willing to Uber across the city for that perfect bite, these patties all bring something to the table. But if you’re asking us for our preference? Michidean and Allan’s got my lunch money.
moussetaco 