Dundas West (Little Portugal)
beauty/spas
Grateful Head
1006 Dundas St. W. 416 916-4323
It’s cool without trying. Funky without screaming. The exposed brick and open-concept design of this hair salon are the perfect setting for a pro haircut or colour. Whether your stylist is earthy and ponytailed or sports a dyed-pink mohawk, staff members here are expert listeners and will happily offer suggestions to give you a whole new look—or just tweak the one your currently enjoying.
$$ to $$$$
accessories/clothing
Skirt
895 Dundas St. W. 647 436-3357
Some people are happy to ride with the pack, wearing chain store million-of-a-kind Ts, dresses and pants. But if you like wearing your self expression on your sleeve, literally, check out the unique (and Canadian-made!) wearables that line the walls of this teeny, pretty shop. Find patchy dresses in muted shades, silk screened Ts, tiered skirts and all sorts of jewellery by the likes of On and On, Snoflake, Soos, Called Your Bluff and plenty more.
$ to $$$$
Sunshine Deli
895 Dundas St. W. 416 364-8832
Previously loved clothes are the deal here. Carefully selected
for either fantastic quality, wicked fabrics (cashmere, anyone?) or that “wear with irony” category that defies explanation. In the latter grouping, polyester dresses make the grade. In the former, find sweaters, coats, Ts and a variety of intriguing tops. Not to be missed: unique purses, accessories and an excellent collection of vintage footwear from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s.
$ to $$$
décor/lifestyle
Urban Living
785 Dundas St. W. 416 955-0188
If “modern” furniture is your thing, then this is your décor hotspot. Toss a red velvet circular chair in your room and shake up the Ikea boredom. Or consider an asym-metrical yellow plastic lamp for your desk, or giant lime green throw pillows for carpet-picnic purposes. Nothing here is bargain priced exactly, but one well-chosen vintage piece can go a long way when it comes to adding some sparkle to your space.
$$ to $$$$
Psychic Reader
889 Dundas St. W. 416 363-2843
Hanging in the storefront, a poster of a large eye suggests the mystical goings-on within. Inside, a small white dog greets visitors with tremendous enthusiasm. Closely followed by the equally friendly Madame of the shop.
Buyer beware (and skeptical) of course. But (starting at) $25 you’ll either have your fortune read (by palm, Tarot or crystal ball) and—at the very least—have a good story to tell.
$$ to $$$
food
Saving Grace
907 Dundas St. W. 416-703-7368
If you’ve ever been to NYC, then you might agree that this popular brunch spot has a very Lower East Side vibe. Which simply means it’s small and good tunes are always on the hi-fi. With delicious and well-portioned mains for about $7, your wallet and your tummy will sing. On the weekend, you can’t go wrong with choices like the waffle du jour with real maple syrup or eggs any style and oven-roasted home fries. During the week, head to the café for no-nonsense salads, sandwiches and soups like Thai-style coconut cream thick with boneless chicken breast.
$
California Sandwiches
244 Claremont st. 416 603-3317
Smack dab in the middle of a residential street, this shop exists for those in the know. And boy, is it worth knowing. Follow the trail of “use other door” signs around to a sketchy side entrance. Just look like you know what you’re doing as you quickly suss up the menu. Best picks are the veal, eggplant or steak sandwich which can be ordered sweet, medium or (ridiculously) hot.
$
Legend: $ = Under $20 $$ = $20 to $50 $$$=$50 to $80 $$$$=$80 to $100
