Hank’s Café

Rated this place:

9-1/2 Church Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5E1M2

A hankering for Hank’s: Attached to Jamie Kennedy’s Wine Bar, Hank’s is an adorable café with great food. They open early for breakfast with menu items that include toast, granola and a selection of pastries. (Best bet: the sweet stuffed croissant, filled with chocolate and nuts--yummm!) The lunch menu includes sandwiches (from egg salad to meatloaf), soups, stews and delicious cookies and squares. They also offer great take-away items, such as loaves of St. John’s bakery breads and savory dishes such as Mac & Cheese. Looking for something a bit different? Pick up some of their mushroom butter. It’s great mixed into simple pastas or scrambled eggs. Hank’s is licensed.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• delightful cafe

St. John’s Bakery

Rated this place:

153 Broadview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4M2E9

Bread that gives back: St. John’s Bakery makes fantastic artisanal bread from organic ingredients. And they provide apprenticeship and employment to homeless and at-risk individuals. Their wide selection of breads includes sourdough rye, olive cilantro, walnut raisin and red fife, among others. In addition to the Broadview location, St. John’s products are also carried at a number of farmer’s markets, stores and restaurants throughout the city. See www.stjohnsbakery.com for a complete list. As well as their delicious loaves, the bakery also offers a selection of cookies, flavoured scones (the cheddar chive ones and the chocolate ginger ones are especially good), sweet breads, cakes, puddings and tarts. And they do gift baskets—pre-set and customized. Makes a great gift for the holidays!

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• bread

Loic Gourmet

Rated this place:

722 Queen Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4M1H2

Eco-gourmet goodness: Located just east of Broadview, Loic Gourmet offers wonderful French-inspired take-away items. Not only is everything delicious, but they provide biodegradable containers that can go in your green bin or (for a small deposit fee) reusable containers that you bring back. They also use naturally raised meats and lots of locally sourced products. The menu includes mains, sides, salads (the string bean and goat cheese one is especially delicious), sandwiches, soups and desserts. The place itself is lovely looking, with a light airy feel and large blackboards describing all the food items. There are also a few stools in the front window if you choose to eat in. Prices are very reasonable.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• eco take-out

Culinarium

Rated this place:

705 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, Ontario, M4S2N4

Gourmet locovore store: Culinarium is a gourmet food shop that offers organic and artisanal items produced and grown locally. Given our cold climate and how much food typical grocery stores import, it’s amazing to go in to Culinarium and see everything that is grown or made near-by. Products include everything from staples (oils, flours, nuts and spreads) to dairy (cheese, butter, ice cream, milk) to meat (pork, chicken, lamb) to produce (tomatoes, heirloom beets, greens.) In addition to the items for purchase in store, they also run seasonal food share programs, which provide a weekly box of delicious, locally-sourced food in return for a lump sum fee. Not just a shop, Culinarium also hosts events and classes—everything from bread making to beer and cheese tastings.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• local food

Monforte Dairy Co. Ltd.

Rated this place:

92 Front Street East (Farmers' Market, booth 58/59), Toronto, Ontario, M5E1C4

Ethical cheese: Located at St. Lawrence North Market, Booth 58/9. You’ve heard the expression happy cows make great cheese? Well apparently happy sheep and goats do the same! Monforte Dairy Company is a great place to buy ethical cheese. All of the animals are raised fairly and humanely and the artisanal cheese they produce is as far removed as possible from the mass produced blocks you find in the grocery store. Monforte’s offerings include flavoured cheddars, ricotta, blue cheese and plenty more. Want to feel even better about your purchase? Ten percent of their profits are donated to Médecins Sans Frontières. If you don’t live near the market, Monforte’s products are also carried by a number of other retailers throughout the city and are used at Jamie Kennedy’s and other fine restaurants in Toronto.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• cheese

Lively Life Fine Food

Rated this place:

93 Front Street (lower level B9), Toronto, Ontario, M5E1C3

Hard to find ingredients: You know those times when you’re all excited to make a new recipe for a dinner party and then you suddenly find you need an ingredient you’ve never heard of? When this happens to me, Lively Life Fine Food is the first place I go. They’ve got a wide selection of hard-to-find items (especially international products) and the knowledgeable owners can help you quickly locate what you’re looking for. They also have a small bulk food section that offers various types of pastas and nuts. They are located on the lower level of St. Lawrence Market (South Side), right next to the rice shop.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• international ingredients

William Ashley China

Rated this place:

55 Bloor St W (Manulife Centre), Toronto, ON, M4W1A5

Not just for weddings: William Ashley is typically known as the wedding registry store. But it is also the ideal spot to pick-up higher end, classic kitchen accessories that you plan to have forever. Think Le Creuset cookware, Wusthoff knives and Emile Henry ceramic baking dishes. They have a great selection, great service and the prices are comparable with other (less chi-chi) stores. In addition to their great kitchen classics, they also stock some fun, kitschy items like Koziol flower-shaped tea strainers and Elsworth toasters that are decorated with outrageous colours and designs. While you’re there you can also pick up some great gourmet food items like delicious cookies and jams.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• classic kitchen items

Kitchen Stuff Plus

Rated this place:

2887 Yonge St, Toronto, ON, M4P2C6

Deals and steals for the kitchen: Forget the CN Tower. Forget the ROM. Urban legend has it that out-of-town visitors have been known to request Kitchen Stuff Plus as their first tourist stop in Toronto. (And given all the fabulous bargains you can find there, I’m inclined to believe that this is one urban legend that’s true!) KSP stocks everyday kitchen items, from tea towels to egg timers, all at really low prices. Ideal if you’re starting from scratch and need to outfit a kitchen on the cheap. As the name implies, they not only carry goods for the kitchen, but also the bathroom, living room, dining room, deck, etc. Right before Christmas they slash their prices, making this the perfect place to go for inexpensive stocking stuffers.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• everyday basic housewares

Globe Bistro

Rated this place:

124 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4K 1N1

Great bistro brunch: Some brunch spots are just-rolled-out-of-bed places and others are a bit more upscale. Globe Bistro falls into this second camp. Perfect for a day when you just feel like being a bit more dressed up. Everything is delicious, especially their new-school huevos rancheros, which are listed on the menu simply as “Eggs.” They are served on house-made tortillas with an updated take on traditional huevos rancheros ingredients—a mix of hollandaise, pico de gallo, chimichurri, cheddar, and so on. Pair your brunch with one of their tasty smoothies and you’ve got what is perhaps the perfect way to start a weekend morning. Globe also serves great lunches and dinners.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• new-school huevos rancheros

Le Pain Quotidien

Rated this place:

508 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto, ON, M5N1A5

The wait is over!: Le Pain Quotidien has finally arrived in Toronto. Even though this is a chain, it’s about as far removed from a Denny’s, TGI Fridays or other typical chains as you can get. Well known for their beautiful, natural décor, Le Pain Quotidien restaurants somehow make you feel healthier just by stepping inside. And not only is the décor pretty, but the food is fresh and delicious too. They offer a great selection of tartines (sandwiches) and salads … not to mention all their fabulous sweet treats. A great place to meet a friend for lunch. Or if you’re an early bird, they are also open early for breakfast. And they have great breads and a selection of gourmet products (like olives and organic jams) to take home with you. Yummm.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• lunch with a friend

Umbra Concept Store

Rated this place:

165 John Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1X3

Small kitchen items in a big space: Umbra carries a number of items that are ideal if you have a small kitchen and need to maximize space. Examples include their sink caddies and their over-the-sink shelf. As a bonus, many of their products are eco-friendly, often designed from biodegradable plastic or bamboo. While you can find Umbra products at lots of stores, it’s always great to go direct to their concept store if you can. At 7000 square feet, it has the most extensive selection of Umbra products. Plus you get to see Umbra designers at work. Who knows, you may even get a peek at what could turn out to be the next Umbra “it” item.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• space saving kitchen goods

Table 17

Rated this place:

782 Queen Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4M1H4

Grab a seat at this table: Table 17 is a great Leslieville restaurant that’s a perfect place to share a lingering meal with friends. Its pretty décor, filled with candlelight, rustic tables and chandeliers makes you feel instantly at home. The menu features local ingredients and there are plenty of different ways to dine, from a meal of made up of appetizers, to sharing plates, to ordering more traditional apps and mains. Great options include the “Hot Balls” (the goat cheese and honey one is especially good), the polenta (served on a rustic cutting board for a homey feel), and the Chili Beef Ribs. The desserts are also good, especially the chocolate pudding with a bit of a spicy kick. And they have a good selection of wines by the glass.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• cozy restaurant

Burger Shoppe Quality Meats

Rated this place:

210 Ossington Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M6J2Z9

Mmmm … burgers: While the original Burger Shoppe on Queen East was more of a take-out place (with some limited seating) the new Burger Shoppe Quality Meats on Ossington is more of an eat-in place. Not only do they have the same great burgers, but they also offer a range of other food options, like steak and salads. And they serve alcohol. All this in a sweet little building, complete with a gorgeous wood bar, long communal table (plus other seating), walls that are covered (partially) in wood and (partially) in sweet round tiles and a pretty selection of old-school photographs. The perfect place to grab a relaxed dinner with friends.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• upscale burger joint

High Tech

Rated this place:

106 Front Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M5A1E1

Living the high (tech) life: As the name implies, all the products at High Tech have a modern design feel, and some have almost a museum-like quality to them. It’s a great spot to pick up everything from salt and pepper grinders to kitchen scales, all made by well-known high-end brands. In addition to kitchen supplies they also stock products for the bathroom and laundry. Plus they have some decorative items, like their compact, wall-mounted gas fireplaces. Stunning! Most of the items in the store have a stainless steel finish. And although the prices aren’t cheap, they’re fair given the quality. The staff are very knowledgeable and helpful.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• sleek kitchenware

Jumbo Empanadas Ltd

Rated this place:

245 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T2L8

Jumbo empanadas, jumbo taste: Run by a lovely mother-daughter team, Jumbo Empanadas is right at the top of the list of good, cheap eats in Toronto. Everything is delicious, with the cheese empanada being especially tasty, followed closely by the chicken one. And the avocado salad makes a delicious side to any order. Yummm! Whatever you choose, it’s a great meal for just a few bucks and an ideal stop when you’re rushing from work to an event and want something easy, quick and tasty. The fact that this place almost always has a line-up speaks volumes for the quality and price. Located in the heart of Kensington Market. Licensed.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• Cheap Eats

Starfish Oyster Bed & Grill

Rated this place:

100 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON, M5C1K9

Ah shucks!: You’ll know you’ve reached the spot when you see oyster shells scattered around the base of the trees out front. A cute and quirky touch! But on to the important part—the food! Everything at Starfish is fresh and delicious. And although this order may not technically be on the menu, one of the best meals there is oysters & frites with aioli. Even better when paired with a Kir Royale! Ask for seats at the front counter so you can watch all the shucking up close. (The owner, Patrick McMurray, is a World Oyster Opening Champion.) Reservations are advisable, although they always work magic when it comes to accommodating walk-in traffic. Great date spot.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• oysters and frites

Holt Renfrew & Co Ltd

Rated this place:

50 Bloor St W #300, Toronto, ON, M4W 1A1

Holts for the classics: Holt Renfrew is the perfect place to shop for investment pieces that are good quality and can be worn season after season. They have plenty of great clothes for work, especially their Theory suits. They also have lots of fun options for after work too, whether you’re looking for an outfit for a date or a girls’ night out. Add to this a superb selection of shoes, especially during the Now or Never sales when prices fall dramatically. And to finish off your outfit, the first floor has lots of fantastic accessories, including sunglasses and designer handbags, plus perfume and make-up.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• pretty hair accessories
• classic items

Finn

Rated this place:

1 Yorkville Ave., Toronto, ON, M4W 1L1

Find something you’ll love at Finn: Finn is a sweet boutique just on the edge of Yorkville. The store consists of two white rooms with a gorgeous Lucite swan chandelier in the second room. There is a supremely lovely collection of clothes and items for the home, all beautifully displayed. Clothing includes lines such as Mercy, while the home collection includes lines like Missoni Home. They also offer some beautiful accessories, such as great handbags in a variety of sizes. Everything in the store has a beautiful, almost timeless elegance, mixed in with a touch of drama. The prices are not unreasonable given the designers they carry and the quality. Get ready to drool!

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• beautiful designer clothes

Jamie Kennedy Wine Bar, Restaurant

Rated this place:

9 Church St., Toronto, ON, M5E 1M2

Perfect meals in the perfect setting: Perhaps the best way to spend a cold winter evening is sitting with friends on the bar stools by the open kitchen at Jamie Kennedy’s Wine Bar. Not only is it warm and cozy when the weather is terrible, but it’s also interesting to watch the chefs at work. All the delicious food at Jamie Kennedy’s is made with local ingredients and the menu is updated frequently so there’s always a new selection each time you go back. A wine pairing is indicated for each item, taking out all the guess work and making for an interesting tasting experience. Perfection!

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• open kitchen

Lee

Rated this place:

603 King St. W., Toronto, ON, M5V1E1

De-Lee-cious: Toronto may have lost Susur Lee, but luckily we still have Lee restaurant! Left in the supremely capable hands of chef Jason Carter, Lee’s menu offers a wonderful selection of beautifully-presented tapas. Everything is always delicious and it’s a great place to go with a group so you can order (and taste) more items. To pair with your meal, they always have a good selection of wines by the glass and a variety of other interesting drink options, like sparkling sake. Top all this off with a fun, dynamic atmosphere and an exposed brick wall that gives the restaurant a cozy loft feel. It’s no wonder that this place is always packed!

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• small plates for sharing

Pizzeria Libretto

Rated this place:

221 Ossington Ave., Toronto, ON, M6J 2Z8

Pizza the way nature intended: Perhaps the best test of a good pizzeria is its simplest pizzas, like the Margherita. And Pizzeria Libretto does not disappoint with this or any of its other great options, like the delicious Wild Mushroom one. All of the pizza is cooked in a fantastic-looking wood-burning oven, which was made by a traditional pizza oven maker in Naples and then shipped over. How’s that for authentic! In addition to pizza, they have a great selection of appetizers (try one of the delicious cheeses) and desserts. A fun place for a quick bite with friends. Or if you’re not in the mood for a night on the town, they also do take-out.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• Margherita pizza

Belly

Rated this place:

1574 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M6R1A6

Get in my belly!: Belly is a tiny café in Parkdale that’s big on taste! They have a wonderful selection of freshly baked goods, like their delicious zucchini cake. (Think carrot cake, only much, much better!) Snag the stools in the front window and enjoy leafing through their great collection of magazines and cookbooks while you enjoy a sweet treat paired with their wonderful coffee. Then before you leave be sure to pick up one of their great take-away items, which range from maple croutons to beet salad to soup. Still want more of Belly? They also offer catering and other services, like cooking lessons.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• zucchini cake

Pistachio

Rated this place:

2433 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4P2E7

Eco-chic supplies: Pistachio is an eco-minded store that carries a delightful selection of home and beauty products. Some of the products have been designed by their own Pistachio team while the rest are sourced from a variety of eco-friendly companies. What will you find at Pistachio? Desk and office supplies (like their own note cards and Bruce Mau wrapping paper), skin care items (think lines like GRN Bath & Body and Jurlique) and a selection of gifts (such as organic chocolate bars and hot cocoa.) A portion of their proceeds goes to support the development of Evergreen Brick Works. For more information on their environmental commitments, see the full description on their website at www.epistachio.com

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• eco home items

Virginia Johnson

Rated this place:

132 Ossington Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M6J2Z5

Cute and quirky and fun to wear: Clothing and textile designer Virginia Johnson’s sweet and innovative pieces never fail to elicit oohhs and aahhs, followed quickly by the inquiry, “Where did you get that?” Her fun and quirky nature-inspired designs (from camels to flowers to owls) can be found on everything from tote bags to adorable dresses to cozy scarves. And although the items don’t come cheap, they’re good value for the money because they’re the kind of thing you can wear season after season and still feel great in. She recently added underwear to her line. At just $15 a pair, they’re an affordable way to take home a piece from her fabulous collection.

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• cute underwear

Browns Shoes

Rated this place:

55 Avenue Road, Toronto, Ontario, M5R3L2

For your shoe fetish: There are Brown’s stores throughout the city, but the one in Hazelton Lanes is special. It carries all your typical Brown’s brands, such as Miss Sixty, Lacoste and Adidas. But it also carries a good selection of higher-end labels labels, like Marc Jacobs, Prada and Miu Miu. Which means it’s the ideal location if you want do your own save-versus-splurge comparison, or if you’re just looking for some designer inspiration while you shop for your typical brands. The store has a good layout and is rarely crowded, making it a nice relaxed location in which to shop. Like all Brown’s stores, this store has great end of season sales with steep discounts and well-organized sale racks. tag: mix of high-end and regular shoes

• favourite thing(s) at this place:
• mix of high-end and regular shoes