Greenavi snuggles in the midst of bustling shops and restaurants on the lively stretch of Queen West between Spadina and Bathurst. The roomy hideout has been open since May 2008, taking over from Just Us Cafe and still serving organic, fair trade beverages and treats.

Owner Ellen Lee serves me up a delectable "caravanilla" latte (no charge for soy!) and later explains that she opened up the place with her sister Tammy (the manager) as well as her boyfriend. Ellen's art adorns the walls and there are plans to host art shows and live music in the future, making Greenavi an artist friendly go-to spot for the neighbourhood (with free wi-fi, yessss!).

The organic menu is extensive, with all the hot bevvies you could hope for as well as iced drinks, smoothies, waffles, paninis and wraps. Their baked sweets are all from local suppliers with many vegan or gluten-free options, so I was like, "hey tummy - calm down and eat a cookie already!" And dig those recyclable, biodegradable take-out cups and containers, too.

Ellen stresses the warm, comfortable atmosphere at Greenavi - they just want people to come, sip a latte and chill out. Surf some blogs and watch some cat videos. Eat some pie. Whatever floats your boat, Greenavi is an escape from the buzz of Queen West.