Bluebird Handmade in the Annex is all about beautiful handmade goods and craft supplies. Originally serving as a workshop for classes, the tiny Bathurst Street location now also makes and sells lovely custom ceramics, prints, scarves, ornaments, bags, jewelery, and toys from their storefront.

See the profile of Bluebird Handmade in the design stores section.

Formerly Lou's Coffee bar, Buddha Pie is a tiny pizzeria that opened about a month ago on the southwest fringe of The Junction. Schooled by Cosimo Mammoliti of Terroni, the owner now makes one of the best margherita pizzas in town.

Don't believe me? Read my review of Buddha Pie in the restaurants section for the photo and written evidence.

Despite a prior dislike of florists, my visit to Coriander Girl has got me thinking that they're not all bad. Well, maybe. I'm still not quite sure if it's accurate to label this store as a florist. Along with the flowers -- which I must say are anything but cliche -- owner Alison Westlake sells furniture and pretty much anything else she deems worthy.

Read my review of Coriander Girl in the design store section.

The Grilled Cheese in Kensington Market has unleashed one of my favorite comfort foods at just the right time. Nothing says awesome autumn snackery quite like a warm, melty gourmet grilled cheese sandwich and a bowl of soup.

See my review of The Grilled Cheese in the restaurants section.

Since Poutini's raised the game for late-night alcohol mopping on West Queen West earlier in the year, Parkdale has seemed like a desert of pizza to the stumbling pedestrian. Taste of Tandoree changes that with traditional Indian food, served canteen style and prices that have the right kind of inverse relationship to the portions. Plus, it's open until the subway starts up again.

See my review of Taste of Tandooree in the restaurants section.

Raaw Japanese Cuisine in Liberty Village specializes in non-standard sushi rolls filled with cream cheese, chicken and other 'global' ingredients. They also have a $10 taster lunch menu of more traditional offerings.

See my review of Raaw Japanese Cuisine in the restaurant section.