10 new stores and restaurants in Parkdale
The newest stores and restaurants in Parkdale are as authentic, diverse, and exciting as the neighbourhood itself. The businesses that have popped up over the past year reflect a culture of urban cycling and vintage shopping, as well as an appreciation for high quality products and cultural foods in the most modest of settings.
Here's a round-up of new stores and restaurants to check out in Parkdale.
Loga's Corner
Tucked just off the Queen, the tiny, simple restaurant owned and operated by a Tibetan couple has three tables, five framed photos of the Dalai Lama, and no menus. They sell three things: beef momos, veggie momos, (both 10 for $6) and deep-fried potato momos ($1 each). Loga's has an equally modest cafe two doors down.
Bike Pirates
Having recently moved from Bloor and Lansdowne, the DIY shop teaches cyclists how to fix and maintain their own bikes. It's funded completely by donations - use of the space, old parts, and tools are all pay what you can - and run by volunteers, who share their time and expertise out of a love for cycling.
Duggan's Brewery
The 100% Ontario-made beer is brewed on-site at Duggan's, which currently has eight beers on tap and the capacity to double that amount. The Parkdale Bomber - a 7% malt liquor-style lager - is the most popular in the 64oz 'growler' size. With an emphasis on quality and local foods, their menu includes items like Jerk Fried Chicken, Beer Candied Bacon, and Grilled Cauliflower.
Mankind Parkdale
The Parkdale location of the male grooming salon does stache and beard trimming (The Gandalf, $15), grey hair touch-ups (Camoflage, $25), and a cut and style, which includes a scalp massage and paraffin hand treatment (The Alpha Male, $45). The space is stylish and inviting with its exposed brick, wooden beams, big screen TV,and leather armchairs.
Glory of India
It doesn't look like much from the outside (or the inside, really), but the small, friendly restaurant is sure to become a neighbourhood favourite. Serving excellent, flavourful Indian food for a decent price, Glory's top-sellers include their dosas, butter chicken roti, and generous combo platters.
The Tempered Room
The patisserie carries essentials like croissants, baguettes, and a good cup of coffee, but what really catches your eye are the rows of beautiful mini-cakes and pastries. A taste of Paris right here in Parkdale.
Norling
Opened with the local Tibetan community in mind, Norling has quickly attracted many non-Tibetan diners as well. Serving both Tibetan favourites like gyuma (Tibetan sausage), gyathuk (Chinese-inspired noodles), and of course momos (dumplings), they also have an impressive Hakka menu, including the popular Manchurian dishes.
Kid Icarus
Unlike the Kensington Market flagship, the small Parkdale shop doesn't have a studio or offer services (like poster printing or wedding design), but it carries a charming selection of unique and beautiful items. With a focus on handmade, their cards, notebooks, ceramics, screen prints, and jewelry are worth checking out.
96 Tears Vintage
The bright and tidy store features a well-curated collection of vintage clothing, shoes, accessories, and a handful of home wares. Partners Chris Koyionis and Collette Todoroff are welcoming, describing their shop as fun, lighthearted, and "not stuffy." A Parkdale resident, Todoroff loves the neighbourhood "for its authentic grit."
MetroCycle
After two years fixing bikes out of his Parkdale home, Gordon Robb has opened a small workshop amidst artists at 1266 Queen Street West, the same building that hosts the Parkdale Flea Market. Friendly, enthusiastic, and with a background in engineering, Robb offers by-appointment service out of his shop.
What did I miss? Add your suggestions for new stores and restaurants in Parkdale in the comments.
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