These are our adventures in the neighbourhoods

While we had originally thought we would run away for the Victoria Day long weekend we decided to stay in the city, to relax and spend some more time exploring the wonderful neighbourhoods of Toronto. Besides, we are planning a proper getaway over the summer so it made sense to stay put and just enjoy our new home.

Friday
I gave myself an extra day off, so we could start our long weekend on Friday. We walked up Queen Street West in search of some new shoes, with a quick stop at Nadege Patisserie for some pastries and a drink. Mmmm...We kept up our walk eastward on Queen Street into the Entertainment District, ending up at a lovely pub called Town Crier, just a block away from my office. The great thing about the pub is that they have a sort of hidden second floor that is like a hideaway. It was so cozy and welcoming, so we stayed for a refreshing pint.

Saturday
We went for brunch with Toni at favourite spot Cafe Bernate and then hit the galleries in the Ossington Avenue radius. We then strolled around our 'hood Liberty Village and went home to relax.

Sunday
We headed down to the city's excellent Harbourfront and walked around for a few hours. It was a perfect sunny and hot day, and the breeze off the lake plus all the action of tourists and locals like was really fun to take in. We found a great new bar called Bar Milano that offers patrons a marvellous upscale lake-view patio. We enjoyed a drink before heading on our way over to Church Street gaybourhood to check out some shopping. We decided to stop in and have more drinks and lunch at Churchmouse & Firkin. 


Monday
After breakfast at home we strolled through Parkdale and over into Roncesvalles, my current favourite Toronto neighbourhood. While we enjoyed poking our heads into various shops, delis, and bakeries, our aim was to have lunch. We had a few spots in mind but they were too busy. All was well as we stumbled across Pizzeria Defina and had a simply outstanding lunch, anchored by one of the best pizzas we've ever enjoyed plus a tasty grilled calamari starter. I topped this off with a lovely negroni so I was a happy camper indeed. Then it was back home to rest our weary feet and enjoy the last day of our extended long weekend.