The one place in Toronto where finding a stiff caffè, the finest gelato, TO's best sandwich, underground acts, insanely delicious grilled octopus, and haggis (if you’re into it) is never more than a minute away. This particular Little Italy is considerably younger, cosmopolitan, and friendlier to creatives than its sister hood in NYC. And probably a little less obnoxiously Italian (which in this case is a good thing). In the midst of its own renaissance, a number of interesting and unique restaurants, bars, and shops run by some of Toronto’s up-and-coming have opened up and reinvigorated this once recently sleepy street. Just make sure to bring an empty stomach and a full wallet to get a taste for the real Little Italy.
The city's best octopus and craft beer selection
Apart from the beautiful wedding cakes and cupcakes that made it beloved by Torontonians, Bake Shoppe has some of the most inventive sweets, bars, tarts you’ll find in the city. A marshmallow square made of Ruffles chips instead of puffed rice - need I say more? (Uber now sells them as part of the Uber Eats daily specials, that's how popular they are now.) They also have Pop Tarts that are actually pretty filling and made with fresh jams and Nutella. Plus they have an eye-catching and evocative installation by painter Anser and comfortable seating to enjoy your treats. Or just sit on their multicoloured bench out front and people watch. Must eats: everything.
