A SATURDAY IN THE WEST, WEST END

From Ossington to High Park, Toronto’s west, west end harbours hidden gems around nearly every corner. Whether it’s the best bagels in the city, or a local’s only stop for great furniture finds, this side of Toronto remains one of my most treasured areas to explore. For moms looking for something different to do with the kids over the weekend; for those bitter cold Saturdays when you don’t want to stay inside...here’s a well-thought out guide to spending a Saturday in the west, west end.

Where to…

EAT: Pop into Drake Commissary, a recent addition to the Junction Triangle, for a coffee and a sweet, or for a taste of the freshly baked breads (a perfectly good take-away item). Anthony Rose's Schmaltz Appetizing, a newcomer to the famous Ossington, is the place to go if you’re in the mood for bagels and smoked fish. The “maven” is a bagel and lox classic, but there are plenty of other adventurous items worth a try. Anthony Rose never disappoints. For dinner, The Good Son on Queen St. W. is a local favourite. The food is always good, the ambience is welcoming, and the menu is simple, seasonal and local.

Photo cred: @schmaltzappetizing

PLAY: Take a stroll through High Park or window shop along Roncesvalles; stop for an afternoon film and popcorn at Revue Cinema; or head to Bad Dog Theatre on Bloor St. W. for a night of laughs.

Photo cred: @revuecinema

SHOP: Modern Furniture Knockoff near the corner of Dupont and Dufferin: cluttered and crowded it may be, if you’re willing to search, this shop has great furniture finds for less.

The west, west end of Toronto continues to change. New restaurants, new shops, new residents; although it still manages to maintain its west end charm. No matter the weather, this part of the city is worth getting outside and exploring. Stay tuned for more neighbourhood guides on where to eat, play and shop in Toronto. More good stuff at Magwood.co.