DOWNTOWN. This three-story establishment is an old Victorian house which has been converted into a café frequented by a diverse crowd. The downstairs bar has a hip atmosphere, and the rooftop patio draws a young crowd. Whichever spot you choose to settle down in, rich yet inexpensive desserts will prove to be quite satisfying. If your appetite is a little bigger, you'll also find surprisingly good appetizers, pastas, sandwiches and soups.

DOWNTOWN. Along with reliable every day favorites such as whole wheat and rye, Alchemy offers an amazing selection of creative artisan breads. You may find blue corn-jalapeno, organic spelt sourdough, or spicy tomato and black sesame. Also available is delicious focaccia baked with potatoes and herbs, blueberries and raisins, or kalamata olives. Owner and expert baker Brian Kirk is well known for his inventive shortbread cookies ­ rosemary-lemon-cracked pepper, orange cardamom, and mint poppy are just a few of the varieties he makes. Other sweet treats abound, including classic cakes and fruity mousses. If it's lunch time, try one of the vegetarian rolls or empanadas.

EAST TORONTO. This bright and friendly spot is a great choice for breakfast or brunch. Feast on French-style pastries, fluffy omelets, crave-able spinach quiche, and what are widely regarded as some of the best baguettes in the city. Be prepared for a wait on the weekends ­ the place is popular and often packed.

DOWNTOWN. Brasaii's contemporary gray and white decor takes its cue from the 1920s-era black and white photographic prints that line the walls. When combined with fantastic traditional French cuisine, the effect is a stylish dining experience that just may make you forget you're in Toronto. Starters include all the traditional favorites: escargots in garlic butter, onion soup, steak tartare, and mussels. Featured main dishes run the gamut from steak frites to salade Nicoise with seared tuna. Daily specials are reliably good as well, and desserts are sublime ­ try chocolate ginger truffle tart with caramelized mangos.

MISSISSAUGA. The Waterside Inn's elegant restaurant is ideal for special occasion dining. If you don't have anything in particular to celebrate, do yourself a favor and invent something! The restaurant offers a globally influenced menu, highlighted by dishes such as seafood risotto, bison short ribs, dill-watercress pesto rubbed salmon, apple and cranberry stuffed pork loin, grilled steaks and venison, and halibut with salsa verde. They also have an interesting Taps and Tapas menu, which pairs a variety of international tapas-sized dishes with complementary beers. Award-winning wine list.