10 new stores and restaurants in Corktown

Corktown is booming with new restaurants, bars, coffee shops and businesses. Thanks to the Pan Am Games and new Canary District developments, the neighbourhood has had a bit of a renaissance in the last twelve months.

Here's a round-up of new stores and restaurants to check out in Corktown.

Roselle Desserts
After having the "Loco Coco" cake I now know what I want for my death row meal. This adorable new bakery has the prettiest dessert options in the neighbourhood. Bonus: they have sweet (and soon savoury!) crepes on the weekends for all you brunch goers.

Odin Cafe
Odin is a cool "Nordic Canadian" style coffee bar with a bold architectural design. It has state of the art espresso machines and an impressive drink menu. It's also fully licensed and plans to roll out a regular weekend brunch menu soon.

Cocina Economica
The brainchild of Taco fanatic and restaurateur Dave Sidhu has taken over The Berkeley Cafe's cozy space and transformed it into an aesthetically pleasing tribute to homestyle Mexican cooking, with a tortilla press, molcajetes and clay cookware as part of its rustic decor.

Corktown Kitchen
The former Weezie's location has been completely renovated for an intimate and casual dining experience. With moderately priced Canadian fare, it's a nice new addition to the neighbourhood.

Schnitzel Queen (New Location)
Neighbourhood favourite, Schnitzel Queen, has recently re-opened their new location after a short-lived crowdfunding campaign. This old staple has a totally new vibe and new menu items such as dessert schnitzel.

The White Elephant
This restaurant had me at "Thai street food", however, their sleek design elements and live music solidified my enjoyment of this Corktown restaurant. Their Guay Teow street noodle dish is a must have. Plus you can add your own stamp of approval on their chalkboard wall.

Made Design
Need to furnish your home with cutting edge contemporary design? Made has got you covered. Their Canadian-designed furnishings may not be budget friendly, but the pieces are sure to be the envy of all your friends.

Studio Pazo
Recently relocated from Queen and Broadview, Studio Pazo is a 20th century design lovers dream offering everything from vintage chairs to Art Deco-esque mirrors and custom headboards.

Leaves of Trees
If you like your beauty products clear of parabens and harmful preservatives, Leaves of Trees will be right up your alley. Featuring a wide range of all natural skin and body care items, this modern apothecary is a welcome addition for Corktown beauty junkies.

Tacorrito
Tacorrito, as the name implies, specializes in mexican fare. If you're on the market for a budget friendly burrito, it's the place to go in Corktown. They also offer vegan options, making life easy for the those who choose soy over chorizo sausage.

With contributions from Hannah Jack and Alice Prendergast. Photo of Cocina Economica by Jesse Milns.