I can almost guarantee that you will not walk out of Arts Market empty-handed when visiting one of their three locations in Toronto. Case in point: the vintage purse I bought when I went in recently to take the photo shown. From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor pieces, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells (like the Algonquin campfire), it’s a gift-givers heaven!
Making it even easier to visit, they have three shops all located in neat neighbourhoods that are worth visiting in their own right. I’ve been to their Danforth location multiple times but only realized the last time I was there that they have a downstairs area full of fun vintage finds… It's definitely a dangerous place for someone who loves to shop secondhand like myself!
Their west end location is in The Junction, along Dundas Street West, which is a sweet strip full of great restaurants, bars, and shops. Personally, I love the bar Famous Last Words and the store Pretty Clean Shop, which is full of sustainable goodies!
Riverside is home to their third location, along Queen East, which also has many great spots worth visiting. One of my favourites, especially on a nice day, is the Broadview Hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar!
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"Riverdale Farm" is an oasis of culture, nature, animals and trees at the heart of Toronto. I like visiting with my camera, especially for macro photos
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I recommend ordering a few of their smaller dishes to try, which should definitely include their renowned Bang Bang Broccoli!
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"Khau Gully" is my favorite Northern Indian restaurant in Toronto. Street food is its thing but it's best to sit in for its beautifully painted dining room
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From biodegradable bamboo products to personal care items that are better for both you and the planet, you can find plenty here for a more sustainable life.
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It’s rare that I leave this store without having bought something, be it a beautiful ring for myself, or a unique piece of artwork to give as a gift.
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With environmental sustainability in mind, Gia is a “plant-forward” restaurant, with the goal of sourcing produce locally, and organic when possible.
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Founded over 15 years ago as a purveyor of vintage goods at local markets and pop-ups, Philistine now has two shops of its own, both on Queen Street.
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"Swatow" Toronto's been my go-to for that kind of Chinese food for years -- you know, the comforting, inexpensive stuff that's still plentiful & delicious.
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"La Salumeria" is always where I go when I need something delicious on-the-go during the day. It's a delicatessen that also makes the best sandwiches!
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"Aloette" in Toronto is an upscale bistro with a wider range of food. Their burger is definitely a staple, and their iceberg wedge salad is a sleeper hit!
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"The One in the Only" in Toronto is an eclectic coffee shop that just exudes positivity. Most of the decoration is a random mix of old photos & art prints.
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145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters