Here are my picks for the top new stores and restaurants on the Danforth.
Time Capsule Cafe
While Snakes and Lattes may reign supreme, the east side is sparking up some competition with its new board game cafe. The roster of games features Loaded Questions, Cranium, Headbandz, Clue, chess, and many more. On the menu you'll find pub fare and shareable snacks, but unfortunately no booze.
The Great Canadian Sox Co. Pop-Up Outlet
Just west of Danforth and Donlands you'll find The Great Canadian Sox Co. Pop-Up Outlet. The shop stocks socks (say that three times) for every occasion, be it outdoor sports, formal events, or trekking through the tundra at -30 below. The outlet will be around for a few months, but if you don't make it in time, there are always the two permanent East York locations.
Absolute Bakery and Cafe
If you've got a sweet tooth, Absolute Bakery and Cafe is where to go. The confectionary boutique sells indulgent treats that will help to satisfy your sweet tooth. On the menu you'll find everything from challah to roti. This is the bakery's second location in the city; the first remains open in Cabbagetown.
Kops Records
Kops Records is a familiar name to the city's music lovers. There are locations on both Queen West and in the Annex that are well known for stocking excellent selections of records and music memorabilia. They've brought all that to the east with the added bonus of an increased stock of rarities.
Red Castle
At Danforth and Carlaw you'll find this new Mediterranean eatery serving up everything from falafel to shawarma poutine. Most meals ring in under $15, making it a more affordable option than some of the more pricey eateries in the neighbourhood.
Forth Avenue Kitchen & Bar
This cozy, chic eatery is a welcome addition to the East Danforth restaurant scene. The menu has a mix of Italian fare and pub grub, boasting dishes like orecchiette with garlic and parmesan and sticky short ribs. It also has a kids menu with all meals under $10 for those dining with children.
Magic Oven
Magic Oven has recently shuttered its Pape and Danforth location and moved closer to Coxwell. The restaurant offers plant-based eats like pizza with daiya, plus dozens of other options for vegetarians and carnivores. Gluten free substitutions are also available.
Press Books, Coffee and Vinyl
This new shop is more inviting than your average Chapters location and less crowded than a Starbucks. Here you can rifle through an expansive collection of preloved books, records, and DVDs while you enjoy a piping hot caffeinated beverage. They also serve up homemade scones and cookies, if you're feeling a little peckish.
The Shore Leave
Other than the loosely tiki themed Bill Hicks, tiki bars are (for now) a foreign concept on the east side. Luckily, The Shore Leave has stepped in to fill the void. The bar boasts Polynesian decor and drinks served in pineapples, plus a seemingly out of place (but very much appreciated) menu of charcuterie and cheese boards.
The Friendly Greek
The Friendly Greek has found a new home closer to Logan (a few blocks West of the original). The menu remains the same, flaunting all the Greek staples like saganaki, gyro, and souvlaki, but the space is certainly an upgrade.
What did I miss? Add your favourite new Danforth store or restaurant to the comments.
by Alice Prendergast via blogTO
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