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
It’s as exciting a store for an adult as it is for a kid. Wall to wall candy from all over the world, and all high quality stuff. Bursting with colour and a very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful shop owner, it’s not hard to be pleasantly overwhelmed at The Candy Bar. (And also leave with a bag of candy that will surely give you a sugar hangover.) British candies abound here, and you’ll find pretty much everything: designer chocolate, bonbons, liquorice, crisps, lollies, gum, and soft drinks. Great to grab something for when you’re in a bad mood, a good mood, or to gift someone. Must eats: Baratti e Milano chocolate, Walkers crisps, Sky Bars.
