Te Aro’s outpost on Ossington called ‘Crafted‘ is exactly that. And finely crafted, I might add. Their first café and coffee roastery on Queen Street East was very well received by the coffee community and now the west-end has it’s own cafe to enjoy.

The espresso drinks and decor are wonderful. The store also houses an innovative gizmo that looks like a bunch of glass test tubes and beakers connected together. It percolates coffee without heat to create the perfect iced espresso beverage. Science. I like it.

And last but not least, there is also a fabulous little patio on days when the sun is shining.

Try it. You’ll like it.

Someone couldn’t resist responding to the ‘post no bills’ prohibition on this boarded up west-end construction site.

Can you name them all these happy guys?

Spotted on Annette Street near High Park Ave.

Freedom is a wonderful shop and artist collective. Self-described as “a non-profit volunteer-run cooperative committed to supporting local and eco-friendly artists and designers,” Freedom is full of unique art by emerging local artist, designers, and artisans. They sell everything from elegant and fun clothing, to jewelry, paintings, kids stuff and furniture.

I found the pieces to be inspiring and very reasonably priced. I bought myself a great blouse for a steal and got numerous compliments on it. My girlfriend bought a skirt and also got a lot of positive feedback. Shopping there makes you feel good about supporting local emerging artists, and you are also keeping the carbon footprint of your purchase small.

Check it out: Freedom Clothing Collective, located in Toronto’s Bloorcourt neighbourhood.