There are plenty of places to get an antique chandelier or dining room table in Parkdale, but few also stock 19th century peanut machines, decades-old vespas and big signs that read Prescriptions. This is Bill Jarman's haunt, recently renovated for extra room and always brimming with his latest finds. Just don't be deterred by the "Girl to Gorilla" banner.

Read my profile of Hideaway Antiques in the design section.

There's something brewing in the Junction. A new bar, named simply by its address, is bringing several varieties of local craft beer, pinball machines, an art wall, boardgames and a multi-purpose stage to the neighbourhood. On a Saturday, a woman in a polka dot dress wails retro tunes over the bobbing heads of a large, eager audience. The best part: the space has only been open a week.

Read my review of 3030 Dundas West in the bars section.

Bev Hisey has been designing carpets from her Dundas and Shaw studio for years, but she only recently decided to sell the pieces directly to customers herself. Along with her hand-tufted and hand-knotted carpets, Hisey is offering retro gems from her vintage collection of glassware and ceramics. And it's a time-warp, if you've ever seen one.

Read my profile of Everyday Housewife in the design stores section.

Tucked at the end of a corridor just off Yonge north of Eglinton, this restaurant meets bar meets pool hall is a busy place in the summer months when its courtyard patio fills with area locals. While the food isn't rave-worthy, it works well enough as pre-billards fuel.

Read my review of Spacco in the restaurants section.

Not "inspired by" French design or "fueled by" fashion movements in Paris — this new boutique offers the real deal. This husband and wife team decided to leave Paris to open their own shop, bringing with them their favourite designs by mostly independent French labels.

Read my profile of Canon Blanc in the fashion section.

You might already know this space for its weekly boozy offerings. But now, this upper level bar above Lavish and Squalor is prepped and ready to add espresso to its roster. If you're looking for regular drip, keep on walking; this bar mixes its drinks with organic honey, lemon rinds, and of course, premium espresso.

Read my profile of City Bar in the cafe section.