The vegan fast food spot is changing the game in Scarborough
In a sea of burger joints and takeout options, one Scarborough spot is serving up something radically different—and far more compassionate. Tucked inside Morningside Crossing plaza at 4549 Kingston Road, Odd Burger might just be the city’s best-kept secret: a fully vegan fast food restaurant that offers more than 50 crave-worthy options, from towering burgers to soft serve, and everything in between.
It’s not just fast food—it’s food with a purpose. And it’s delighting taste buds while challenging the idea that ethical eating has to mean sacrifice.
A Quiet Launch, a Big Mission
Odd Burger Scarborough opened its doors in late 2024 with a soft launch. Yet those who have found it often leave wondering how they went so long without knowing about it.
“It’s definitely a bit of a hidden gem,” says Lemar Burke, franchise owner of the Scarborough location. “But once people try the food, they get it. This isn’t just for vegans—it’s for anyone who wants to enjoy fast food without the guilt.”
Although Lemar didn’t grow up in Scarborough, his connection to the area runs deep. “My mom grew up here, and my siblings and I spent so many summers and long weekends staying with our grandfather,” he says. “Opening a business in Scarborough just felt right—it’s familiar, and it’s full of heart.”
100% Vegan, 100% Canadian
What makes Odd Burger stand out isn’t just its plant-based menu—it’s the scope of it. Unlike mainstream chains that offer a single veggie patty hidden in a corner of the menu, Odd Burger offers a full menu where everything is vegan, from the sauces to the desserts.
“A few things that make Odd Burger unique are that it’s a Canadian brand through and through,” says Lemar. “Many of our menu items are made at our facility in London, Ontario, which is amazing. And since we’re the largest 100% vegan quick-serve restaurant in Canada—possibly in North America or even the world—there’s no need to restrict yourself to just one part of the menu. You can try anything.”
That variety includes comfort food classics that rival their non-vegan counterparts in both taste and satisfaction.
- The Famous Burger, a layered, saucy creation, is a clear nod to the Big Mac.
- The Vopper is their answer to the Burger King Whopper—char-grilled, juicy, and stacked with lettuce, tomato, onion, and their signature sauces.
- For taco lovers, Odd Burger’s crispy tacos are a stand-in for Taco Bell—just without the animal products, and made with better ingredients.
- Craving chicken nuggets or wings? Pretenders (nuggets) and Wingalings (boneless wings) come in a variety of flavours and are perfect for sharing… or not.
- Their breakfast sandwiches mimic the classics found at major chains like Tim Hortons and McDonald’s, only with plant-based eggs and sausage patties.
- And for dessert? You’ll find nostalgic staples like chocolate chip cookies, Nanaimo bars, and creamy strawberry or chocolate fudge soft-serve ice cream—reminiscent of childhood trips to McDonald’s, only cruelty-free.
All of this is served in cheerful, nostalgic branding that’s hard not to smile at. From the upbeat fonts to the signature yellow Odd Burger smiley face, the entire experience feels playful and lighthearted—like fast food should. “It kind of makes you feel like a kid again,” says one customer on Instagram.
Simple Ingredients
What also sets Odd Burger apart is how their plant-based proteins are made from simple, recognizable ingredients like seitan, soy, oats, and chickpeas—**not ultra-processed lab formulas. This focus on clean, whole-food ingredients ensures that customers can feel good about what they’re eating, whether they’re vegans or simply looking to cut down on meat. It’s comfort food you can actually understand, made with care and transparency.
A Fast Food Revolution for Everyone
The ethical appeal of Odd Burger is clear. Every item on the menu is 100% plant-based—no animal products, no cholesterol, and no compromise. That matters for a growing number of consumers who are increasingly concerned about the impact of their food choices.
A 2022 study from the University of Oxford found that plant-based diets can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75%, land use by 75%, and water pollution by 49%, compared to meat-heavy diets. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization has categorized processed meats as carcinogenic, while plant-based diets have been linked to lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Odd Burger offers a powerful solution: food that’s fast, delicious, and doesn’t harm animals or the planet.
Still, Lemar was drawn to Odd Burger not just because of the mission—but because of the experience.
“I wasn’t specifically looking to open an Odd Burger,” he says. “But a close friend invited me to lunch at one of their locations, and I was immediately impressed. I saw the potential—not just from a business perspective, but from a human perspective. It’s a company positioned to do a lot of good.”
Local, Accessible, and Ready When You Are
Whether you’re a local, a student looking for a quick bite, or someone just curious about plant-based options, Odd Burger Scarborough makes it easy to give vegan fast food a try.
Diners can eat in, grab takeout, or order from Uber Eats, DoorDash, or SkipTheDishes for delivery right to their door. The location at Morningside Crossing offers plenty of parking and is surrounded by a bustling mix of stores, making it a convenient stop for lunch, dinner, or even a mid-shopping snack.
And if you’re looking for recommendations? Lemar suggests starting with the Famous Burger and a side of Wingalings—though you might end up with a soft-serve cone in hand before you leave.
Come for the Burger, Stay for the Impact
In a city as diverse and dynamic as Scarborough, Odd Burger is a refreshing alternative—something that brings people together over food that’s fun, flavorful, and forward-thinking.
With more than 50 items on the menu, a welcoming vibe, and a mission that makes you feel good about what’s on your plate, Odd Burger isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to feel good.
So the next time you’re hungry and craving comfort food with a conscience, head to Odd Burger Scarborough at 4549 Kingston Road. You’ll leave satisfied—and smiling.
article submission by Vikki Lenola
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