Mabel's is the kind of place you visit when you sleep in on a breezy Sunday morning, then go for a long run, and a long shower later and realize there's nothing you'd like more than a flaky croissant and a piping hot coffee. It's the kind of place you visit after an infuriatingly frustrating day, where nothing goes your way and the only thing that will lift your mood is a tangy lemon square, or maybe an orange blondie with cream cheese frosting. Or perhaps you delight in small, quirky details, like swirling milk into your coffee with a pasta noodle?
Mabel's is the best. There's a handful of locations around town, with one of them around the corner from my apartment on Queen West and a short walk away from various other places you might be aiming for/coming from, like Trinity Bellwoods Park, the Drake and Gladstone Hotels, or Parkdale (an oddball neighbourhood in the west end). There is usually a pun-ny quote on the sandwich board on the sidewalk out front, along with the dogs anxiously waiting for their owners and patrons enjoying their treats.
In terms of what you should try, I've already given you some hints - I'm partial to their squares, which are dense and generous. Mabel's croissants and pain chocolats rival those I've had in France, and their crusty bread makes a lovely house gift.
Find your way with 145 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Broadview Espresso" in Toronto makes cappuccino just the way I like it -- almost scalding hot! I love sitting at the patio in the wooden seats...
by
"Toronto Reference Library" is Canada's largest reference library & a must-stop on any downtown tour, with plenty of exciting cultural secrets to discover.
by
"Maids' Cottage Butter Tarts" in Toronto makes some of the best butter tarts you can find in the city, and there's nothing more Ontario than eating them!
by
Not only do they have delicious coffee and delightful baked goods, but they also stock a solid selection of Canadian-made food and drink products...
by
Pick up a quick lunch at the front of this low-waste shop, which you can take away in your own or borrowed containers that can be returned later!
by
"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
by
I recommend ordering a few of their smaller dishes to try, which should definitely include their renowned Bang Bang Broccoli!
by
"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
by
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.
by
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.
by
With environmental sustainability in mind, Gia is a “plant-forward” restaurant, with the goal of sourcing produce locally, and organic when possible.
by
145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 145 Insider Tips