Canteen

Every year AccessTO teams up with the University of Toronto's Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy to speak with the future generation of healthcare professionals about accessibility, universal design and inclusion. As part of their continued learning, these students go on to conduct a review of the accessibility for one of their favourite spots, and we share the best of what they put together with you!

Special thanks to OT Students: Elizabeth Cambridge, Vanessa Gaglia, Kylie Mallory, and David Mathers for the great review.

330 King St. West, Toronto, ON M5V 3X2

Phone: (647) 288-4710

Looking for a great place to eat before the game, theatre, movie at TIFF, or just lunch with friends? Canteen is the place for you! It’s conveniently located at the corner of King W. and John street. Lunch time at Canteen is fairly quiet, but it can get busy if there is a show or game. Accessible parking is available at the adjoining TIFF Bell Lightbox and accessible transit stops are nearby.

A lovely glass L-shaped entranceway contributes to an open atmosphere at Canteen. However, the transparency of the glass may pose difficulties when turning and/or judging the width of the doorway. The two level and barrier free entrance doors are 34 inches. The entrance doors are manual, however staff noted they are always propped open.

With high ceilings, light colours, and casual decor, Canteen provides a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The floor to ceiling windows provide plenty of natural light without causing uncomfortable glare. Textured concrete floors reduce the risk of slipping, while the heating lamps on the patio allow patrons to extend the patio season well into chilly fall weather. The soft background music contributes to the ambience, without impeding mealtime conversation. Speaking of food, there are options to satisfy everyone’s cravings! From Italian to American and even some international flare, the menu options meet a variety of preferences and dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and gluten free!

Canteen has both indoor and outdoor seating options. Tables are standard height (29 inches) with sturdy removable seating. Tables can be easily rearranged to accommodate parties with multiple accessibility needs or large gatherings. Cushioned benches contribute to Canteen’s warm atmosphere by breaking up the hard surfaces and dampening the overall noise level.

The large, single occupancy washroom has a manual door that measures 35 inches wide. Accessible features in the washroom include an automatic toilet, hand dryer, and two grab bars located behind and to the left of the toilet. The sink sits at 29 inches of clearance from the finished floor and an automatic faucet.

The staff at Canteen are able to accommodate many individual’s special needs. Menus are clear and easy to read due to simple font on a white background. If you need a bigger font, menus can be printed on site. Staff were patient and provided recommendations for food and catered to our dietary restrictions. They also informed us that Canteen offers $5 Mill St. pints on game nights! What a great pre-game venue!

Checking out Canteen? Let us know how your experience was in the comments below!