New Finds

Chinolocos (http://chinolocos.com for locations)
Dave writes: "This Asian-Mexican Burrito joint has a "Juicy Vegan" menu item that is amazing.  Everything is customizable and made fresh in front of you.  My palette was pleasantly surprised when I tasted this fusion of flavors."

Magic Oven (5 locations )
Melanie writes: "Amazing: most of the Magic Ovens in Toronto now use Daiya Vegan Cheese on their vegan pizzas. Must visit one soon."

Starving Artist (584 Lansdowne Ave n. of Bloor, 647-342-5058)
Brandy writes: "Wanted to let you know about a vegan brunch spot - Starving Artist at Lansdowne and Bloor has vegan (and gluten-free) waffles, baked beans (or fresh fruit) and salad option for $9. It was delicious and very filling. They also have chocolate soy milk."

Closures 

Organics on Bloor
Delphine writes: "Organics on Bloor is kaput. There was a 'notice to tenant' sign on the door and window for about a week and it has been closed for at least two. There is still some food in there from what I can see... but yesterday I noticed a FOR LEASE sign so I think it is definitely not re-opening. Too bad. I enjoyed my TVA discount there! I'll send out some magical vibes for them to open a veggie resto in its place!

Rainbow Tree
Rainbow Tree has closed, as of the end of June. However, some of their fare will now be available at Tao Tea Leaf, across the street at 934 Yonge.

Places to eat

Akram's Middle Eastern Restaurant (191 Baldwin St, e. of Augusta, 416-979-3116)  As you may have heard on our Toronto Vegetarian Podcast, we are very pleased to announce Akrams re-opening after 3 years! They serve  a huge range of take-home hummus, $3 falafels & other sandwiches. "Vegan" items are marked as such on their menu.  Feinan writes: "Many of their Levantine sweet treats are vegan (their baklava, sadly, is not). The owners are also super nice, the food is super cheap, the place is open until late everyday, and just generally a great place to eat in Toronto! "

Poutini’s House of Poutine (1112 Queen St W, w. of Dovercourt, 647-342-3732) is a cafe serving poutine offering homemade vegetarian gravy, gluten free/vegan gravy and Daiya vegan cheese! Their cheese curd states on the label that it contains "microbial enzymes and/or rennet". Thankfully all their containers are 100% biodegradable and compostable. Open past midnight Thursday - Saturday for your late-night cravings!

CJ Lunchbox (409 Richmond Street W at Spadina, 416-913-9264)
Joan wrote to us "I have not been there myself but I saw a recent web post stating that CJ Lunch Box had several vegan options."  We asked the twitterverse  for reviews and @langela writes "I eat at CJ's Lunchbox regularly! I'd say they have 3 (or 4) kinds of veg sushi, 3 salads, soup. Tasty, cheap, cheerful." and @ammie_ tweets "yes it is - the service is AMAZING... food is ALWAYS fresh, cheap, healthy & quick for lunch- BEST veggie gyoza!" and @Our_Green_Home wrote "CJ Lunch Box is right across the street from our offices - yes it is Directory worthy. Good eats, reasonable prices!" CJ Lunchbox is a small sushi cafe with very limited seating, specializing in take-out meals.

Discount Update

Noah's Natural Foods  has launched their own loyalty program, because of this most locations will no longer be honouring the Vegetarian Discount Card as of  July 1st 2010. We are happy to report that the Bloor and Spadina location will be honouring the card for 5% off.

New at Farmers' Markets & Baking Classes

LPK’s Culinary Groove (718 Queen St E, at Broadview, 416-461-6440) is going to the market!  Pick up some yummy vegan and/or gluten-free goodies at Withrow Park (9am-1pm) and The Brick Works (8am-1pm) farmers' markets on Saturdays. In other news: in addition to their two most popular classes "Introduction to Raw Desserts"and "Introduction to Gluten-free Baking", LPK's is now offering their brand new "Vegan Baking Basics" class. Sign-up on their website. LPK's is a bakery with organic cakes, pastries and chocolates. Vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free desserts.

Summer Vacation Ideas

Active Veggie Tours (613-779-5794) is a  new travel consultant company specializing in active veggie group tours worldwide. The description: "Active Veggie Tours are fully escorted first class tours leaving from all major gateways worldwide to exciting destinations around the world. These veggie vacations are run by experienced tour operators. All tours feature an active component such as walking, hiking, yoga or swimming as part of the day’s itinerary along with vegetarian meals."

New Catering

Mesey Ethopian Vegetarian Catering  ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 416-335-5067)
They are an all vegetarian Ethiopian catering service. Mesey writes: "I am providing 12 different kinds of vegetarian dishes. Please contact me at least 5 days in advance."

Tales of Caution

"Fellow Veg" wrote to us words of warning about Cafe Diplomatico. "While this restaurant isn't listed as veg-friendly in the directory (for good reason!), I wanted to send out a cautionary warning to other vegetarians who may be pulled by friends to eat there. I was dining at the Diplomatico two weeks ago and ordered a small veggie pizza with tomatoes and hot peppers.  When it arrived at the table, the pizza was covered in pepperoni! I told the server that I was a vegetarian and had ordered the meat-free pizza for that reason.  She took it back and said she would have another one made up for me.... I got three quarters through a very sloppy pizza before noticing a half crescent of pepperoni tucked underneath some cheese.  It was obvious that the kitchen had simply picked (most of!) the meat off and then topped the dish with tomatoes before sending the same pizza back! The unapologetic server rolled her eyes and took the plate away saying only that I wouldn't have to pay.  I took my outrage to have a conversation with the Manager and ended up going home with a free dessert but the fact that it even happened is completely unacceptable.  I will not be back!"

New places to eat

Cafe Novo's Cupcakes

Cafe Novo (1986 Bloor St W, w. of Quebec Ave, 647-350-3538) has recently opened in the High Park Area. They are an organic coffee  house with lots of vegan baked goods. Their description: Cafe Novo is a locally engaged organic & fair-trade coffee house. Offering press coffee, espresso, tea & homemade baked goods including a rotating selection of delicious vegan muffins, cupcakes, cookies, biscotti + more! Closed Mondays.

kindfood (399 John St, n. of Lakeshore, Burlington, 905-637-2700) has just opened in Burlington. They are a  vegan cafe with organic foods, bakery and a juice bar. Their description: Organic Natural Foods, Cafe, Gluten-Free Bakery, Organic Juice Bar all in one! The cafe is all natural foods, dairy and animal free. The baked good are fabulous with no refined sugars, dairy or Gluten. Juices/smoothies are real fruit and vegetables.

Village of Punjab: Sweet and Restaurant (1515 Birchmount Rd., s. of Ellesmere, 416-757-1997) is the new name of the former Village of India Sweets & Restaurant. They serve eat-in and take-out and are 100% vegetarian, but only a few vegan items. "$7.99 lunch and dinner. Open until 10 pm. Large selection of salads, about 8 hot entrees, majority of them have paneer or are yogurt-based and includes nan bread and half a dozen types of ice-cream." writes Min Min.

Wass Ethiopian Restaurant (207 James St. South (at Forest Ave), Hamilton, 289-389-5294) Peter writes: "We had very delicious and inexpensive vegan food at the Wass Ethiopian Restaurant.  The owner plans to have gluten-free injera bread in the near future. It is not a vegetarian restaurant, but they did welcome vegans and vegetarians. The vegetarian dishes were all vegan and they were delicious and very cheap. The owner spoke with us and told us the doctors from the nearby hospital visit and they have the vegetarian food as they know it is healthy for them. "

New Catering and Meal Delivery

Alligator Pear Catering (416-546-5482) are a catering and meal delivery service with vegetarian options. Their description: We offer organic, custom catering to any diet. We have a wide variety of vegetarian dinners, hors d'oeuvres and platter. And try our personal meal plan delivery service. All your meals, portioned, home made and delivered fresh to your door.

No I Can't, Yes I Can! baked goods (37 Haviland Dr, Port Union & 401, Scarborough) offers healthy and allergy conscious baked goods and have many vegan options available by delivery or pick-up. Their description: We also have a line of Gluten Free products.  Product descriptions are available on the website.

Tiffinday Inc. ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 416-200-3663) has launched vegan meal delivery servicing downtown Toronto using their reusable containers. Their description: Delicious vegan lunches delivered right to your office. Made to be gentle on the planet, your individual lunch is delivered in a stainless steel container, the tiffin, which is collected back the next day. Our menu features a mosaic of world foods. No minimums and no long term commitments. Delivery is to Spadina/Queen and slowly expanding out in a circle from there. We plan to serve all of downtown Toronto within 6 - 8 months.

Menu & Product Updates

Buddha's Vegetarian Restaurant (666 Dundas St W, e. of Bathurst, 416-603-3811)  Daci writes: "We recently discovered that the E-fu noodles at Buddha's are egg noodles. One other type of their noodles is also egg noodles. Their flat rice noodles and vermicelli noodles do not contain eggs." (This has been confirmed by phone.) They serve Chinese cuisine - gluten, noodles, rice, etc. Inexpensive, generous portions. Closed Tuesday.

Pulp Kitchen Juicebar & Eatery (1129 Queen St E, e. of Pape) has new commitments to purchase produce locally through 100 mile Markets as well as eliminating genetically modified organisms from their food ingredients.  They are a full service vegetarian restaurant and juice bar. Wraps, veggie burgers, salads, all day breakfast and much more.

Viva Granola Vegan Store (418-803-3915)  Can't make it downtown for all your vegan treats and needs?
Don't want to deal with cross-boarder shipping? Shop with Viva! Their description: Canadian Vegan Web Store for Cruelty-free and Compassionate Shopping. It's easy to shop cruelty-free products, like Daiya, Vegan Marshmallows, Vegan White Chocolate, Vegan Jerky, Vegan beauty products and more! Efficient and Friendly Customer Service since 2007! Visit Canada's Vegan Shop today!

Closures

Excellent Cafe & Restaurant
2542 St Clair Ave W (e. of Jane)
reported closed May 2010.

New Discoveries

Vegan Danish Bakery (7718 Yonge Street, n. of John, Thornhill, 905-882-1331) is a Danish-style all vegan bakery and more! Their description: "We're vegan, we're Danish, and we bake! So, we started the Vegan Danish Bakery! Incredible vegan chocolates, delightful breads, fantastic cakes and pastries, awesome patés, Danish-style burger patties, spandour, kransekage, and marzipan treats!"  Sunny writes: "They have amazing truffles, pastries that they make upstairs! Just added a refrigerated display last week, so more items will come."

Lik's Vegetarian Kitchen (633 Silver Star Blvd. #F5, Steeles & Midland, 416-321-9088)
Min Min let us know about this fast food stall in a food court selling Asian vegetarian cuisine.There are over 100 items on the menu!

Two Girls Cooking (www.twogirlscooking.com, 647-342-7930) are raw, organic, gluten-free, vegan snack food producers. Their description: "Two Girls Cooking is committed to producing raw, organic, gluten-free, vegan snacks. Our vegetable based crackers and kale chips are handcrafted from live whole foods, in harmony with our earth. Dehydrated below 115 °F, all of the naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and deliciousness within vibrant whole foods are preserved."  See website for where to purchase. Available at many health food stores, including: Ambrosia Natural Foods, Organic Garage, Evergreen Natural Foods, Noah's, Panacea and Baldwin Natural Foods.

Business Opportunities

Rawlicious (3092 Dundas St W, w. of Keele, 416-519-7150) has launched the first raw food franchise system  in Canada! They write: "In an effort to make healthy and nutritious food accessible to a wider audience, Rawlicious is announcing that they are selling franchises across Canada. Our goal is to create hundreds of new raw entrepreneurs and provide truly healthy meals at moderate prices." Contact Angus Crawford or Chelsea Clark at  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  or 647-349-4510 for more information. They are a living foods (raw) cafe, featuring delicious smoothies, salads, wraps, pastas, breakfasts and desserts. This cafe has a beautiful airy ambiance with backyard patio.

Closures

Olive Tree Organics (366 Bloor St E, w. of Sherbourne, 416-920-5003) has closed. They were an organic and natural food market.

Pearl Vegetarian (4080 Sheppard Ave, Unit 5, e. of Kennedy, 416-299-9322) has closed.

Update to Vegetarian Guides page

Vegan Guide to Prince Edward Island (P.E.I) (http://www.vegpei.com) 
Prince Edward Island isn't known for being super vegan-friendly. It is, however, easy to be vegan on the island with this guide.

New Veg & Vegan Options at large chains

Has anyone else noticed the "I heart vegetarians" ads from Thai Express and been a bit excited?! Dara writes to let us know: "I was just at Thai Express here in Toronto (the one around University and Elm) and they now offer a veg option for their Pad Thai, Pad Sew, stir-fries, and fried rices!  They leave out the fish sauce and even ask if you want the egg left out. Not sure if there are any other hidden animal ingredients though (ie. in any of the other sauces they use), but probably not if they are saying it is a vegetarian/vegan option." 

One of our volunteers wrote that she noticed Second Cup selling Sweets from the Earth cookies in her locality!  We've found out that all the locations that carry cookies and a few other Sweets From The Earth all-vegan goodies and have listed them below. If you are able to show your support, hopefully the chain will stock these treats in more locations.

Second Cup - Wilson & Dufferin  693 Wilson Ave, Downsview
Second Cup - York University  4700 Keele St, Unit #27 York Lanes Building, Toronto
Second Cup - York Mills Shopping Centre  311 York Mills Rd, Toronto
Second Cup - Lawrence Plaza  490 Lawrence Ave W, Toronto
Second Cup - Leslie  1881 Leslie St, Toronto
Second Cup - Mt Sinai  600 University Ave, Toronto
Second Cup - 642 Mt.Pleasant Rd, Toronto
Second Cup - Clark  441 Clark Ave W #13, Thornhill
Second Cup - Promenade Mall  1 Promenade Circle Thornhill,
Second Cup - Yonge & Hwy 7  8910 Yonge St, Unit #1 & 2, Richmond Hill
Second Cup - Main Exchange Plaza   800 Steeles Ave West, Vaughan
Second Cup - Rutherford  9330 Bathurst Ave, Vaughan
Second Cup - Westdale  1004 King St W, Hamilton



 

Easter Chocolate Special!

Boardwalk Chocolates (Vegan, fairtrade & handmade, boardwalkchocolates.com ) has rescheduled their Chocolate Party and Lickin' the Beaters 2  Book Launch! Join them at Panacea Eco Shop , March 18, 2010 from 7 to 9pm. Free to attend and Free Samples!

Tired of all those chocolate bunnies and eggs this time of year? Vegans don't eat the real things, why should we be reminded of them when eating chocolate? Boardwalk Chocolates has created the Bunny Buttons. Hand painted hollow 4" spheres with organic jelly beans inside. All colours are vegan and organic. Each Bunny Button is different. They are being sold at: Panacea (588 Bloor St W), and online at www.EthicalOcean.com .

Now offering.....

Panacea (588 Bloor St W, w. of Bathurst, 647-350-3269) sent out a quick note to let everyone know that the much desired and long awaited.....Daiya Vegan Cheese is NOW AVAILABLE at PANACEA!! They have the Italian Blend Shred 400g ($11.49) and the Cheddar Style Shred 450g ($12.99). Not only does this shredded product melt, but it stretches! Your Vegetarian Discount Card will get you 5% off!

Camros Organic Eatery (at CCNM) (1255 Sheppard Ave E, at Leslie subway, 416-960-0723) has opened a brand new 100% organic juice and smoothie bar inside our North York branch at CCNM!  They write "we are excited about our in-house delicious juice and smoothie recipes that give you nutritional and energy boosts during your busy days. Blends such as "Soothing Tonic", "Brain Booster", and "Funky Pumpy" await you.100% organic... zero fillers... served in biodegradable cups (the straws are biodegradable too). No surprise ingredients.To make this the most trustworthy juicebar in town, we even make our ice with filtered water!"  They serve the same vegan aromatic Persian cuisine as their downtown plus breakfast. Their contract requires that they also serve some non-vegetarian options.

The Annex HodgePodge (258 Dupont St., e. of Spadina, 416-513-1333, theannexhodgepodge.com) has just contacted us about being listed in our catering section, see what they can offer you here . Your Vegetarian Discoutnt Card will get you 10% off. 

Meal Deals!

Fresh on Spadina (www.freshrestaurants.ca )  offers meal deals on  weekdays between 3 and 6 pm at all locations. Their meal deals are offered “while quantities last” so be sure to come in sooner rather than later in order to get one. Each day they will select one meal and one juice and offer it at half-price to our customers. Meal deals are NOT available for phone in orders.

Ingredients Update:

Joe Yee Vegetarian Cuisine (9688 Leslie St. Unit 17-18, s. of Major Mackenzie Dr. E, Richmond Hill, 905-884-6882) was reviewed on BlogTO recenlty. Contrary to the article, there is no vegan sashimi/sushi. All the mock fish contains dairy (and some of the mock meats as well). Karam writes: "If you're vegan and going for sushi you might as well eat at your local sushi spot. No brown rice either which is pretty common downtown...They do have vegan dishes, but you have to ask your waiter as they are not marked (that was a bit of an ordeal, he had to go back to the kitchen a few times to verify). It was still a good meal but I was very disappointed because I thought I was going to eat vegan sashimi etc.The omnivores i went with enjoyed the sushi pizza and the mock salmon sashimi. I would say it's suitable for ovo-lacto-vegetarians but not vegans." They are a Chinese and Japanese restaurant in Richmond Hill.

Valentine's Day Specials:

Vegetarian Haven (17 Baldwin St, www.vegetarianhaven.com , 416-621-3636) has a special Valentine's Day only menu. Reservations are recommened.  Some choices include: "a curry buttercup squash soup with coconut milk topped with baked puff pastry stripes, smoked tofu and tempeh in BBQ sauce with sautéed fava beans, carrot, daikon radish, and jicama, topped with sweet potato crispy noodles & dill, cornered by seasoned quinoa on radicchio leaves". Leave room for a luscious dessert of "chocolate fudge cake with mint lavender cream icing and chocolate dipped fresh strawberries."

Boardwalk Chocolates (Vegan, fairtrade & handmade, www.boardwalkchocolates.com )  UPDATE:  They write "Sorry I have to cancel the chocolate party - a friend died. I'll reschedule in March during National Chocolate week" Facebook event page.

Rashmi's Veg Cakes (80 Pertosa Dr, Brampton, www.vegcakes.com , 905-970-0666) are offering Valentine's Day savings on their vegetarian, egg free, nut free and Halal cakes. Click here for the promotion details and Valentines Day cake designs.

New to the directory:

By the Park Realty Inc. Brokerage (www.livinginmytoronto.com, 647-339-9711)
They are a vegetarian family run brokerage based in Toronto.
Their description: "Are You Looking to Buy, Sell, or Lease a Condo or House in the GTA? Enlist the Help of the 100% Vegan/Vegetarian team at By the Park Realty Inc. Brokerage. Conrad Rygier Donates 10% of His Commission to Animal Rights Causes/Charities."

Cruda Cafe (St Lawrence Market, 92 Front St E, www.crudacafe.com ) is now open! They are a food court style establishment.  Find them in the lower level of the South market, by the elevators. Their description: "Cruda Cafe (meaning RAW in Spanish) is the most vibrant, vegan cafe in the heart of downtown Toronto, located inside the beautiful St. Lawrence Market landmark. We serve vegan organic living foods available for eat in, take out and catering."

 Sprouts for Life (Hwy 9 & Jane St., Kettleby, www.sproutsforlife.ca, 905-778-8574)
They are "growers of Certified Organic Sprouts! Sunflower Greens, Wheatgrass, Pea Shoots, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Big Crunch, Sandwich Booster, Salad Mix, Broccoli, Radish, Nutty Sprout Mix, and Crunchy Bean Mix."

Address changes and expansions:

Now in the Junction, no longer in the Beaches:
Optimum Natural Foods (2865 Dundas St. W, 416-693-5328)
They sell bulk food items, but no produce. 

Second loation in Newmarket:
Ambrosia Natural Foods (16925 Yonge St, near Mulock, www.ambrosianaturalfoods.com, 905-898-5262) 

Now offering delivery:

Pulp Kitchen Juicebar & Eatery (1129 Queen St E, e. of Pape, www.pulpkitchen.ca ) now offers food delivery. Go to www.orderit.ca - and look under the "Healthy Options" category. They are an open and airy full service vegetarian restaurant and juice bar. Wraps, veggie burgers, salads, all day breakfast and much more.

A new find:

Caroline writes "I stumbled across a coffee shop with a vegan sandwich on the board. It was labelled as vegan with Tofurky veganaise etc." Drop in to Cafe  260 and let them know how great it is to offer this vegan option. (www.cafe260.com, 260 Richmond St. E, East of Jarvis)

Closures:

Prerna - Inspired Indian Cuisine  (790 Broadview Ave, www.prerna.ca ) Closed as of January 11, 2010
Magic Oven (788 Broadview Ave (at Danforth), location.  Next closest location is 798 Danforth Ave (e. of Pape), 416-462-0333)

Where to eat - ALL NEW!

This must be a record: FIVE new all-vegetarian places opened in the past month! Try some new culinary delights and welcome these new additions to Toronto's vibrant veg community.

Wild Seed Food bar (4031 Fairview St., Burlington, theseedfoodbar.blogspot.com ) has opened! They are an all vegan cafe located in a yoga studio. Their description: "Raw/cooked vegan food bar in Burlington. Located at 4031 Fairview St. Unit 103, situated in Kula yoga studio. Wild Seed serves organic juices, smoothies, salads, raw/cooked sandwiches, wraps, desserts, tonics, teas, coffees and way much more."

Loving Hut (953 Eglinton Ave W, West of Bathurst, www.lovinghut.ca/toronto.html , 416-916-0880) has just opened in December 2009.  They are a vegan restaurant that's part of an international chain founded by spiritual group Supreme Master Ching Hai. Their description:  "Loving Hut chain restaurants are newly opening around the world. It is an invitation to gourmet cuisine made with wholesome vegan ingredients, offering an accessible starting point for those making the noble transition to a plant-based diet."

Swagruhas (2970 Drew Road, Airport & Derry, Mississauga, 905-673-2244) has just opened.  They are a South Indian vegetarian restaurant in Malton. A visitor writes: "Veg restaurant offering South Indian specialities with Hyderabadi taste. Their Paneer (Cottage Cheese) Masala Dosas are just out of the world. Neat clean family run place - a must try for those looking for spicy vegan food." Closed Tuesday.

Teatree Cafe and Eatery (867 Danforth Ave, e. of Jones, www.teatreecafe.com , 416-901-9089) has just opened. They are a vegetarian casual dining cafe on the Danforth. Their description: "Vegetarian and vegan sandwiches on homemade vegan breads, gluten free quiche, vegan chili with vegan cornbread, soup, salad, and desserts. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, organic options. Loose leaf tea and espresso coffee." Open mornings and for lunch (8am-6pm)

Where to eat - updates

Bo De Duyen (186 Spadina Ave, n. of Queen St W, 416-703-1247) now has three  freezers full of mock meats.  Fresh lunches are made each morning for take out or eat in at bar seating. They are  a small cafe serving hot tea, bubble tea, cold soy milk served from a fountain machine, and frozen mock meats to take home.

Graceful Vegetarian Restaurant (7131 Kennedy Rd, www.agveg.ca,  Markham, 905-479-8381) is now offering ALL DAY dim sum. They are an elegant 150 seat Hong Kong Chinese vegetarian restaurant. A visitor reports: “Graceful does all day dim sum now. You have to ask for the dim sum menu and the server will warn you that not all of it is available. However, everything I ordered was!"

Help needed at Directory restaurants

Camros Organic Eatery is  hiring for their North York branch (inside the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine), at Sheppard and Leslie. Looking for a warm, friendly, hard working, experienced and honest customer service representative. Click here for application instructions . Immediate timeline (position needs to be filled in the next two weeks).

Hot Yam! (http://hotyam.blogspot.com ) is in need of an accountant to prepare a Review Engagement Report. They write: "We are currently unfunded. Each week we attempt to make enough money through our meal sales to pay for the week after, as well as cover rent and equipment costs. We are in the process of applying for funding from the university. We have been conditionally accepted pending production of a Review Engagement Report completed by a chartered accountant. This volunteer job posting is for a chartered accountant to work with us to prepare this document. We need it completed by January 18, 2010." More information here.

Online Shopping

Simply British Foods (www.simplybritishfoods.com , 905-666-2650) is an online store carrying British foods based out of Whitby, Ontario. Use search box for "vegan" or "vegetarian" to see just those items. Their description: "All our 'suitable for vegetarians and vegan' products are labeled accordingly. Only those products that are labeled as such are highlighted on our website – including: biscuits, sweets, crisps, groceries and cakes! Most major food manufacturers in the UK recognize the need to make their products suitable for vegetarian and vegan consumers. We also offer a '2 or more pricing policy to save you 15%."

And the award goes to...

One Love Vegetarian for being named #3 on Blog TO's Best New Cheap Eats in Toronto, 2009! 

Festive Meals Out

African Palace (834 Bloor St W, at Shaw, 416-588-7819) will be offering a special 3 course vegetarian meal for $9.99 on Christmas Day, Friday, December 25th. The meal will begin with a samosa appetizer, followed by a vegetarian combination plate (which includes 8 different items plus salad and injera), and then ends with fruit salad and traditional Ethiopian coffee. For New Year's day, January 1, they will be offering an all you can eat vegetarian buffet from 11-4 for only $11.99. They will be closed on Christmas Eve but will be open for dinner on Christmas Day, Friday, the 25th.  *Note that their vegetarian dishes are also suitable for vegans and they offer a gluten-free option of rice instead of injera.

Annapurna (1085 Bathurst St, www.annapurna.ca, 416-537-8513) is serving a Xmas season vegetarian dinner on Tuesday December 22 consisting of savoury panfried tofu with maple roasted squash, savoury stuffing, cranberry sauce and steamed broccoli.  They have been serving South Indian and macrobiotic dishes since 1974.

Commensal Vegetarian Restaurant (655 Bay St (n. of Dundas, enter on Elm), www.commensal.ca, 416-596-9364)  is serving Tofu Pot Pie and Grilled Apple and Vegetables, served with Vegan Gravy and Cranberry Sauce. For side dishes, we have Butternut Squash Puree, Brussel Sprouts dressed with Red Pepper Garlic and Olive Oil, Refried Bean and Cheese Yellow Corn Tortilla, Cheese Yellow Corn Tortilla and the Cinnamon Spiced Sweet Potato. For the dessert buffet: Maple Syrup Pie, Nuts and Raisins Pie, Yule Log made with Belgian chocolate and hazelnut cake; and a fruit cake that is free of colours and preservatives. There are also party platters for people to celebrate at home or the office. The holiday menu is available from mid Dec to mid Jan. They are closed Dec 25-26 and Dec 31-Jan 1.

M & B Yummy - Classic Ethiopian food (1263 Queen St W, at Brock, 416-516-2798) is serving an Ethiopian vegetarian holiday feast. The menu includes: My Gramma's small pot recipe, pumpkin stew, red lentil and carrot soup, potatoes slow cooked with traditional Ethiopian gravy, and Ethiopian lasagna (dairy & animal free) with FREE My Gramma’s herbal tea. Dinner for two is $16.99, Dinner for four is $35.99 and Dinner for six is $52.99. Available only between December 11 to January 5th . They'll be closed on December 25th and closed on New Year’s Eve after 9 PM

Rainbow Tree Healthy Deli (925 Yonge St, n. of Davenport, 647-427-4758) have a special meal combo from December 18th until the 24th.  Specials include a festive season combo meal vegan tofurky with wild rice stuffing, yams, orange casserole, veggies and vegan mini-mincemeavt pie for $8.99 or yam shepherd's pie, MiniChik'n' pot pie, veggies and dessert. They also have a special for vegan butternut squash soup with sandwich for $5.75. They serve quick and healthy vegetarian meals to go. Egg-free. Breakfast items. Vegan pastries.

Saravanaa Bhavan (4559 Hurontario St, at Eglinton Miss., 905-290-0769) writes about their Winter Menu: "This season we wanted to try combining dosa with spinach, cheese and spicy lentil powder. We came up with Palak paneer dosa, lightly spiced spinach puree spread on the dosa and topped with grated cottage cheese. While introducing these and many varieties to the menu, this time we also wanted to create options for kids and therefore a platter for kids is there too."  They serve authentic South Indian cuisine from Tamil Nadu. 

Vegetarian Haven (17 Baldwin St, www.vegetarianhaven.com, 416-621-3636) will be selling tofu turkey, made in house, starting immediately and continuing throughout the holidays. It is $25, including 2 drumsticks and should serve around 4 people (1kg).They will be closed from the 24th to 28th, reopening the 29th. They serve “Asian Fusion” cuisine featuring over 100 flavourful vegan dishes served in a cozy dining room and with friendly service and lunch and dinner specials.

Green Earth Vegetarian  (385 Broadview Ave (n. of Gerrard), 416-778-9199) Didn't get back to us about their holiday plans but we got a note via veg.ca saying; "I really appreciate that you provide seasonal updates on where we can get seasonal veggie fare.  However, I have noticed that your list of December specials does not include Green Earth Cuisine who  have a dinner special on this week as well."

Goodies to bring home

Boardwalk Chocolates (Vegan, fairtrade & handmade, boardwalkchocolates.com) has created  gift baskets, boxes of chocolate, 3D figures with prizes inside, and for a limited time - chocolate mint fudge! Soft, melt in your mouth chocolate mint with organic candy canes crushed on top. Chocolate and Mint is ALMOST as good as Chocolate and Peanut Butter. Wouldn't you agree?? They are a being sold at: Panacea ( 588 Bloor St W, West of Bathurst) Update!: "Candy, unlike cooking or baking, IS very precise and scientific. I was carefree and did not respect the fudge. It turned into caramel. Come to Panacea for limited amounts of big chunks of Maple Walnut Caramel that will feed the kid's table. I will try and put the chocolate mint caramel into a truffle before the holidays, but if not - you will have an new tasty chocolate to celebrate New Years! :)"

Khalsa Pizza (470 Chrysler Dr, Unit 7, Brampton, 905-799-1800) has 2 great holiday deals! First, get a large pizza for only $7.99 on December 19th and 20th, with a coupon wfrom their Facebook group under “I heart Khalsa Pizza ”. Second, mention you saw this write up on Veg.ca between December 25th and 31st to get a special discount or a free gift! They are an all-vegetarian pizza place and burger joint with rennet-free cheese and many vegan options. Delivery, take-out and eat-in counter.

Rainbow Tree Healthy Deli (925 Yonge St, n. of Davenport, 647-427-4758)  You can order your Christmas tofurky with wild rice stuffing (frozen) with gravy and cranberry sauce for $25.00. They serve quick and healthy vegetarian meals to go. Egg-free. Breakfast items. Vegan pastries.

Ying Ying Soy Foods has a ready-to-serve Stuffed Tofu Roast that is made of "layers of specially flavored organic tofu sheets and authentic turkey stuffing." It is available at their St. Lawrence Market location and many places around Toronto such as the Big Carrot, Noah's, Evergreen, Ambrosia and Pusateri's.

Wild Earth Cafe and Bakery (2142 Queen Street East, at Glen Manor, 647-348-0202) have a few special items for the holidays. They are doing a vegan pumpkin pie ($14.99) and vegan mince pies ($17.99) and special sweet trays for the holidays. Anyone interested in ordering should call the store ASAP at 647-348-0202. They will be open throughout the holidays except for Christmas Day and New Years Day.

Note: Many restaurants are closed for several days during the holidays. Best to call ahead.

 Whether it is Christmas, Solstice, or Kwanzaa – enjoy a vegetarian feast. See our complete holiday page for links to the best recipes, tips on what to serve, gift suggestions and E-card links. Plus, find out how to avoid stress when vegetarians and meat eaters will be at the same meal.

Where to eat

Commensal (655 Bay St, n. of Dundas, enter on Elm, 416-596-9364) has a great promotion this holiday season. Everyone enjoys 10% off (minimum party of 8) and the group organizer eats for free! They are a fancy pay-by-weight buffet with over 100 salads, hot dishes and desserts.

Hot Yam! (33 St George St, n. of College, www.hotyam.blogspot.com) has closed down for the rest of December until January 7th. Luckily, you can find many of their recipes here: http://hotyam.blogspot.com/ . They serve all vegan, mostly local and organic lunches at the UofT International Student Centre once a week.

Kale Eatery (2366 Yonge St, n. of Eglington, KaleEatery.com , 416-792-5253) is now open! This is Sunny Cafe's new location of pay-by-weight vegetarian eat-in or take-out food.
Shawn C writes: It is a self serve buffet and you can eat in (6 or 7 tables) or takeout (in compostable eco-container). ...They have about 20 items (split between 11 hot dishes and 9 salads or cold greens). They also have pre-made sandwiches for $6 or $7. They also have a juice bar and a cooler of locally produced take away soups and baked goods/deserts from other companies."

Magic Oven (360 Queen St E, at Parliament, www.MagicOven.com , 416-703-3555) has started to offer an "all-you-can-eat" pizza and salad night every Wednesday from 5 to 9 p.m. for $12.95 Nicole writes "I went last week and they had both vegetarian and vegan options available. The service was exceptional: they have servers constantly walking around with trays of different pizza and salads and you get as much as you want. I highly recommend it!" They are a gourmet pizza restaurant that also serves plus pastas, salads and appetizers. Many veg and vegan options.

In the news

Ying Ying Soy Food – Organic Gourmet Tofu (St Lawrence Market, 92 Front St E, www.yingyingsoyfood.ca, 905-847-5592)  had an interesting article written about their history and products in The Toronto Star on December 10th 2009 . They are an organic soy food manufacturer and retailer. Products include: Gourmet Tofu, Tofu Roast, Tofu Steak, Tofu Burgers & Tofu Bacon. Their hours are Tue-Sat 8am-5pm. Closed Sun-Mon.

Bakeries

Closures

Aliviar Spa (646 Queen St W, www.aliviarspa.com, 647-435-0903) has closed its doors. As seen on BlogTO. They were an organic and vegan spa. UPDATE: February 2010:  The owner informed a member that they're planning to reopen in a new location.

Where to eat

Pulp Kitchen Juicebar & Eatery (1129 Queen St E, e. of Pape, www.pulpkitchen.ca ) announces "After a long and somewhat painful delay, I am ever so happy to announce that Pulp Kitchen is finally open! We'll be running a limited menu as we build up and will be announcing some exciting new items as we ramp up." – Marie Crawford, owner.

Joe Yee Vegetarian Cuisine (9688 Leslie St. Unit 17-18, s. of Major Mackenzie Dr. E, Richmond Hill, 905-884-6882) has just opened in September. They are a Chinese and Japanese restaurant in Richmond Hill. Min Min writes "There is even a refrigerated counter for the 'fake' sashimi.  The 'sashimi' are mock fish products produced in Taiwan, but unfortunately, are not vegan since they contain milk products."

Kale Eatery (2366 Yonge St, n. of Eglington, www.KaleEatery.com) will be opening early December 2009.  This is Sunny Cafe's new location of pay-by-weight vegetarian eat-in or take-out food. 

Get Real Cafe on Ossington has closed. Noted by BlogTO .

Vacation Destinations

Casa Amanecer Bed and Breakfast (Costa Rica, www.casa-amanecer-cr.com , 506-2445-2100)
Vegetarian-friendly B&B in Costa Rica.

Best All-Day Breakfasts Reviewed

Congratulations to the all vegetarian joint, Sadie's Diner which made it to number 4 on BlogTO's 12 Best All Day Breakfast in Toronto! Karine's came in at number 11 with many vegetarian & vegan options.