LISTINGS

= MORE QUEER THAN NOT

= TOTALLY FREE OPTIONS

 

BOOKS

ABC BOOKS Those who are into the naughty stuff can head for the back, while the front of the store caters to those interested in pulp paperbacks and serious lit. Whatever your fancy, you'll find it for a bargain. 662 Yonge. 416-967-7654.

ANNEX BOOKS A small, quaint store that offers a nice refuge from the otherwise busy Bathurst. Carrying a number of modern titles, Annex also sells many used titles at a 50 per cent discount. 1083 Bathurst. 416-537-1852.

ATTICUS BOOKS With its convenient location and broad selection, Atticus is a long-time favourite among U of T students and a good place to pick up books for your classes. 84 Harbord. 416-922-6045.

BABEL BOOKS & MUSIC The prices may not be the lowest in town but the poetry section at Babel makes it one of the best places to go for wafer-thin volumes of verse. Babel also has a wide selection of random, but well-selected, used CDs. 123 Ossington. 416-533-9138.

BALFOUR BOOKS With books on retro art, design and film, Balfour may be one of the hippest bookstores the city has to offer. There is also a wide selection of academic books, especially philosophy. 601 College. 416-531-9911.

BOOK CITY This Toronto-owned independent chain offers wordsmiths and bookworms remainder and new books with 10 per cent off on all hardcovers. 501 Bloor W, 416-961-4496; 348 Danforth, 416-469-9997; 2350 Bloor W, 416-766-9412; 1950 Queen E, 416-698-1444; 663 Yonge, 416-964-1167.

BMV BOOKS At BMV you'll find used paperbacks, quality remainders, comics and even textbooks priced with repeat business in mind. 10 Edward, 416-977-3087; 2289 Yonge, 416-482-6002; 471 Bloor W, 416-967-5757.

ELIOT'S BOOKSHOP You are bound to find what you are looking for on one of Eliot's three jampacked floors. With over 60,000 volumes, 16,000 in literaturealone, Eliot's is a favourite drop-off point for book reviewers, so look for yet-to-be-published volumes at used-book prices. 584 Yonge. 416-925-0268.

GLAD DAY BOOKSHOP The first Canadian and second-longest-surviving gay and lesbian bookstore worldwide. Two floors of queer and trans fiction, biographies, and academic and sexual diversities titles. Also has a wide selection of queer-themed movies from around the world. 598A Yonge. 416-961-4161.

ORION BOOKS Something for everyone: paperback romances, books on cults and the supernatural and plenty of porn in the back. 544 Yonge. 416-923-5537.

SEEKERS BOOKSTORE Let the incense lure you into this friendly bookstore, where the staff are happy to shed insight on way-left politics, new-age spirituality and all kinds of healing methods – and point you to relevant books on the subject. 509 Bloor W. 416-925-1982.

SHE SAID BOOM! Viewed as one of Toronto's best used bookstores, She Said Boom! combines the old with the new. DVDs and music (vinyl included) also available. 372 College, 416-944-3224; 393 Roncesvalles, 416-531-6843.

THIS AIN'T THE ROSEDALE LIBRARY This indie bookstore specializes in queer, trans and gender studies, left-leaning politics and cultural theory, as well as work by Toronto poets and writers. 483 Church. 416-929-9912.

TORONTO WOMEN'S BOOKSTORE For more than 30 years, this not-for-profit bookstore has dedicated itself to promoting antioppression and feminist politics, carrying books on cultural theory, queer issues, violence against women and more. 73 Harbord. 416-922-8744.

WILLOW BOOKS The upstairs may have dullard tendencies, but the Willow magic happens in the basement, where you'll find piles of cheap books. 758 Bathurst, 416-534-2665.

 

FREE BOOKS (TO READ, NOT OWN)

ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE As the world's only library devoted to the Sherlock scribe, fans of Doyle's sly sleuth can curl up here with a mystery or sift through the British author's other works on true crime, spiritualism and Victorianera contemporary events. Metro Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge. 416-395-5577.

CANADIAN GAY AND LESBIAN ARCHIVES There are many found treasures in this place including photos of first Prides, issues of the now defunct Body Politic, periodicals, daily press clippings, erotica, novels, poetry, drama and more. 65 Wellesley, ste 200. 416-777-2755.

CHILDREN'S LITERATURE With three collections of kids' books, why not treat your brain to a trip down memory lane. Lillian H Smith Library, 239 College, 416-393-7746; 5120 Yonge, 416-395-5630.

GAY AND LESBIAN CULTURE The largest collection of PrideLit in the city's library system lives in Yorkville. It also houses a number of gay-themed periodicals. Yorkville Branch Public Library, 22 Yorkville. 416-393-7660.

GENEALOGY Find out which historical figure you are related to (or can at least pretend you are) in the Genealogy and Local History sections of the Toronto Reference Library. Metro Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge. 416-395-5577.

SCIENCE FICTION A sci-fi geek's happy place, the Merril Collection houses thousands of research and writing materials about science fiction, fantasy and horror. Lillian H Smith Branch Public Library, 239 College. 416-393-7746.

 

MUSIC

CD EXCHANGE With a large collection of albums priced at roughly $10, CD Exchange may be your kind of place. 161 John. 416-977-6889.

CD REPLAY Practically every genre you can think of, including imports. New and used. 523 Bloor W. 416-516-0606.

COSMOS RECORDS Carries original vintage records of Afro-centric vibe from R&B, soul, disco, jazz, Latin, Brazilian, Cuban, house and more. 607A Queen W, 416-603-0254; 663 Queen W, 416-861-9228.

CRIMINAL RECORDS Offers new vinyl, CDs and merch from jazz to hip-hop with a focus on indie-rock. 493 Queen W. 416-364-5380.

LOST 'N' FOUND Vinyl-heads come to this store tucked away from the Annex hipsters on Bathurst. All around selections include psych-rock, soul, punk rock, metal, '60s, '70s and more. 974 Bathurst. 416-538-2788.

NEUROTICA The cramped shop offers an eclectic music collection including jazz, rock, soul, goth, industrial and electronica plus crates of vinyl and DVDs. 642 Queen W. 416-603-7796. www.neurotica.ca.

PENGUIN MUSIC Penguin carries your standard rock and alternative titles, but this small store just off Queen West is also stocked with dance, industrial, trance, techno and indie beats. 2 McCaul. 416-597-1687.

ROTATE THIS! The serious music fan will enjoy Rotate This! as the store offers indie and alternative vinyl as well as a variety of CDs. They also sell tonnes of hip-hop, soul, funk, reggae and tickets to local shows. 620 Queen W. 416-504-8447.

SONIC BOOM While Sonic Boom may not be as trendy as some of those other second-hand shops, they make up for their lack of style in variety and volume. Sonic Boom also offers cash for good condition used CDs, cassettes, vinyl and DVDs. Plus, they'll take pretty much anything. 512 Bloor W. 416-532-0334.

SOUNDSCAPES This store on the edge of Little Italy has been giving serious music fans their fix since 1999. The store has reviews plastered on the walls and listening stations to help you make a new discovery. You can buy your favourite discs by local scene heroes and there's a decent chance you'll bump into the artists themselves in the aisles. 572 College. 416-537-1620.

 

VINTAGE & SECOND-HAND CLOTHES

BLACK MARKET Vintage duds, silk-screened wares and original tees are all plentiful at Black Market. In addition, they print tshirts for some of the best bands in the city. Get 50 per cent off everything on Tuesdays at 319 Queen W (416-591-7945) and on Wednesdays at 256A Queen W. 416-599-5858.

BRAVA New and vintage denim, dresses, jewellery, shoes, cowboy boots and even silk kimonos. 553 Queen W. 416-504-8742.

CABARET Period pieces from the '60s and earlier, including fabulous hats, dresses, shoes and bags. 672 Queen W. 416-504-7126.

COURAGE MY LOVE One of the most venerable vintage shops in Kensington, Courage My Love is where indie sweethearts buy their suit jackets and tuxedo shirts. They also have funky jewellery, like honking cocktail rings. 14 Kensington. 416-979-1992.

DANCING DAYS This place has oodles of '60s and '70s vintage stuff, plus tonnes of t-shirts, new clothes and jewellery, many of which are imported from Asia and India. 17 Kensington. 416-599-9827.

FLASHBACK Another Kensington address that offers style at bargain basement prices with jeans, '70s style clothing, belts and shoes. 33 Kensington. 416-598-2981.

GOODWILL BUY THE POUND For the most exhilarating and inexpensive shopping adventure in the city at $2 a pound, this is the answer. Unfortunately, Goodwill's warehouse full of unsorted clothes has moved from its previous Jarvis Street location to Scarborough. 50 Emblem Ct. 416-815-4773.

PLANET AID There are three stores: 160 Baldwin stocks all vintage, 416-597-1743; 546 Yonge has a mix of vintage and regular resale, 416-924-8928; 77 Roncesvalles has a mix of contemporary designers up front and vintage at the back, 647-438-8680.

STELLA LUNA This women's boutique carries vintage hats, bags, shoes and jewellery and is a must-stop for fashionistas, editors and debutantes. 1627 Queen W. 416-536-7300.

VALUE VILLAGE There are three rules for Value Village-goers: go early, go often, dig deep. Sign up for email notification of their 50-per-cent-off, crazysale days at www.valuevillage.com -- the next one is this Tue, Sep 4. 1319 Bloor W, 416-539-0585; 2119 Danforth, 416-698-0621; 924 Queen E, 416-778-4818.

 

DATES ON THE CHEAP

ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO Every Wednesday from 6-9pm the general gallery is free to the public. Converse about the classics and sculptures that tease the human form. Special ticketed exhibitions are also discounted on Wednesdays. 317 Dundas W. 416-979-6648.

BATA SHOE MUSEUM This award-winning building (which now looks like a miniature knock-off of the ROM Crystal) is frequented by shoe aficionados, especially on Thursdays from 5-8pm when admission is free. 327 Bloor W. 416-979-7799.

DUFFERIN GROVE PARK This community-powered park offers various activities for your date, including dancing in the park and pizza days where $2 gets you a make-your-own pizza (ingredients provided on-site). Visit www.dufferinpark.ca for more details.

HIGH PARK This massive park in Toronto's west end offers several options for a sporty date, with its tennis courts, baseball diamonds and bike path. If it's a romantic stroll you're looking for, the park also offers a number of woodland trails. Main entrance off Bloor W and Keele.

HARBOURFRONT With a variety of largely free festivals and shows happening, you can also eat ice cream, hold hands on the boardwalk, or sit at the benches overlooking the Toronto Islands. 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4000.

LAUGH RESORT See if you can spot the next Will Ferrell or Mike Myers. The show may be hit-or miss, but at least you can laugh about it later with your date. 8:30pm. $7 on Wednesdays. 370 King W. 416-364-5233.

PICNIC AT CASA LOMA The city's infamous castle is a perfect place to wander around and explore. If the weather is nice, pack a picnic lunch and cuddle up on a blanket to enjoy the view. $12 to get into the castle itself. 1 Austin Terrace. 416-923-1171.

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM Now that they've renovated the ROM, you'll have to find new kissing spots. Fridays evenings are halfprice, and you can get in for free an hour and a half before closing. 100 Queen's Park. 416-586-8000.

TORONTO ISLANDS Take the ferry to the Toronto Islands, where you can play a round of Frisbee golf or bare it all at the clothing-optional Hanlan's Point Beach. Ferry $6, departs frequently from Queens Quay at the foot of Bay. Call 416-392-8193 for ferry details, or check www.toronto.ca/parks/island/.

 

FILM

AL GREEN THEATRE Known for programming first-run, specialized films, special cinema events and programs with filmmakers and discussion panels. MNJCC, 750 Spadina Av. 416-924-6211 x:143. www.caprifilms.com.

BLOOR CINEMA Check out regular showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show (with a live cast) at one of the city's grandest ol' repertory cinemas. If drag doesn't do it for you, catch second-run Hollywood blockbusters or firstrun indies. Yearly membership $3. Members $5, others $8. 506 Bloor W. 416-516-2331. www.bloorcinema.com.

BRUNSWICK THEATRE Totally independent and showing documentaries only, this is the place to go for conscious entertainment at $10 a pop or $20 for a monthly membership. 296 Brunswick. 647-282-3627. www.brunswicktheatre.ca.

CINEFORUM Located in Reg Hartt's home, the converted screening room is home to obscure films ranging from Dali to Fritz Lang's Metropolis and censored Hollywood cartoons. Bring your own food, drinks, and anything else you want to consume. $10. 463 Bathurst. 416-603-6643.

CINEMATHEQUE ONTARIO A screening programme dedicated to presenting the history of world cinema on the big screen in carefully curated retrospectives, and for $6 (or $7 for special screenings), you can't really go wrong. Jackman Hall, AGO, 317 Dundas W. 416-968-FILM. www.cinemathequeontario.ca.

INNIS TOWN HALL Every Friday at 7pm, catch free movie screenings (on film reels) at Innis College. 2 Sussex. www.utoronto.ca/fff.

NFB MEDIATHEQUE NFB Media-theque offers free access to thousands of NFB films, shorts and documentaries at personal viewing terminals complete with surround sound and HDTV-quality monitors, but go soon -- this hidden treasure will stop being free on Oct 1. After that you'll either have to pay by the hour or get a membership. 150 John. 416-973-3012.

RAINBOW CINEMAS Rainbow cinemas are the cheapest choice for seeing first-run films in Toronto. Rainbow Market Square, 80 Front E, 416-494-9371; Rainbow Fairview, 1800 Sheppard E, 416-494-9371; Rainbow Promenade, 1 Promenade Circle, 905-886-7464; Rainbow Woodbine, 500 Rexdale, 416-213-9048. www.rainbowcinemas.ca.

 

CULTURE

ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO The AGO will close temporarily on Oct 8 until mid-2008 so it can reopen in grand fashion. Until then, students can still enjoy free admittance Wednesday evenings from 6-9pm, as well as $12 daily admission, and $60 for membership. Closed Mon and Tue. Wed-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat-Sun 10am-5:30pm. 317 Dundas W. 416-979-6648. www.ago.net.

CANSTAGE Better than crappy reality TV: CanStage's pay-whatyou-can Mondays. Even trust-fund kids in tastefully ratty clothes can plead pennilessness. Bluma Appel Theatre, St Lawrence Centre for the Arts, 27 Front E. Berkeley Street Theatre, 26 Berkeley. 416-368-3110.

CANZINE This festival includes small presses, handmade comics, zines, freak-out political tracts, pins, crafts and independently produced objets d'art. Oct 28. The Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen W. 416-531-4635.

DISTILLERY DISTRICT Unfortunately the booze has largely dried up since the Victorian era, but we're left with a cluster of art galleries and trendy shops you can browse for free and restaurants instead. The shopping and food aren't quite fit for the student budget, but keep an eye out for free festivals and events. 55 Mill. 416-364-1177. www.thedistillerydistrict.com.

NU MUSIC NITE For over a decade, 102.1 The Edge on-air personality Dave Bookman has lorded over this Tuesday night Horseshoe tradition, presenting a lineup of emerging artists – past performers include Billy Talent – all for free. Every Tue, Horseshoe Tavern, 370 Queen W. 416-598-4753.

NUIT BLANCHE For the second year in a row, from sunset to sunrise, the city will be alive with contemporary art and live performances in nearly 200 locations. 7:03pm-7:14am. Sep 29-Sep 30. www.scotiabanknuitblanche.ca.

QUEEN WEST GALLERY CRAWL While the AGO is busy beautifying itself, take the chance to explore the city's smaller art venues. Start at Trinity-Bellwoods Park and walk west, being sure to check out galleries that are off the main drag, like AWOL on Ossington and le on Dundas.

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM The new face of the ROM is finally finished! Check out the ancient Peru exhibit while it is still unearthed, the Glass World, and the Black Star Sapphire of Queensland. $12 for students, free on Fridays from 4:30-9:30pm. 100 Queen's Park. 416-586-8000. www.rom.on.ca.

TARRAGON THEATRE Since the 1970s, the Tarragon Theatre has been producing and supporting new Canadian plays. Tickets can run up to $25 but Sunday-afternoon matinees are pay-what-youcan (a $10 minimum is suggested). 30 Bridgman. 416-531-1827. www.tarragontheatre.com.

TORONTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Take advantage of being 15 to 29 and pick up a TSOundcheck program to get your tickets for the knockdown price of $12. Register at www.tsoundcheck.com to receive a personalized serial number and get cultured on the cheap. 416-598-3375.

WAVELENGTH For once, you can know about a band before all your best mates befriend them on MySpace. Toronto's premier indie music showcase was the site of early gigs by Broken Social Scene, the Constantines and pretty much every other major Toronto band. Admission is always, pay-what-youcan. Every Sun, Sneaky Dee's, 431 College. Read the companion zine at www.wavelengthtoronto.com.

WORD ON THE STREET For all readers and writers out there, or just those trying to maintain a perfect Scrabulous record, check out WOTS -- before school destroys any interest you ever had in books. Queen's Park. Sep 30, 11am-6pm. www.thewordonthestreet.ca.

 

FURNISH YOUR ABODE

CANADIAN TIRE One-stop shopping that goes beyond tires and tire accessories. Go green with motion sensor lighting and fluorescent bulbs. 839 Yonge, 65 Dundas, and various other locations. 416-925-9592.

CHINATOWN Chinatown still offers up the best chance of finding a great bargain, if you can be bothered to dig through all the crud to find it. Grab a coconut to sip on while strolling up Spadina between Queen and College.

HONEST ED'S Come in and get lost! Honest Ed has passed, but he is not really dead if we find a way to remember him. No better way than to visit his historic discount superstore. From kitchenware to bed linen, electronics to toiletries. Bow down before your cut-price lord; you may never need to shop anywhere else. 581 Bloor W. 416-537-1574.

IKEA It's an inescapable fact that Ikea will get you all the furniture you need for the forthcoming year for very little cash. Get in, get your MDF essentials and flee for your life. 15 Provost. 416-222-4532; 1475 The Queensway. 416-646-4532. www.ikea.ca.

 

USED AND CHEAP BIKES

COMMUNITY BICYCLE NETWORK In a valiant attempt to reduce waste and increase the cycling population, these kind folks offer a bicycle recycling program, which means you can pick up a cheap bike and get some help making sure it's in good working order. 761 Queen W, ste 101. 416-504-2918. www.communitybicyclenetwork.org.

DAVE... FIX MY BIKE If you just need some new wheels, you can pick up a second-hand bike on the cheap, but call first as they get snapped up quick. Even better, brandish your student ID for a 10 per cent discount. 254 Christie. 416-944-2453.

SET ME FREE This bike-repair shop stocks used mountain bikes and BMXs from $100. Your student ID earns you 15 per cent off any accessories and repairs. 653 College. 416-516-6493.

 

COPIES

ALICOS 8.5”x11” b&w copies: full serve, 3¢ each; fewer than 20 copies, 4¢ each, self serve, 4¢ each. 203A College. 416-599-2342.

COPYWELL 8.5”x11” b&w copies: 100+ copies, 3.5¢ each; 25-99 copies, 4¢ each; 1-24 copies, 5¢ each. 425 University. 416-599-5899.

KINKO'S 24-hour copying services! And located in the Annex! You can't put a price on convenience. Especially 24-hour, 7-day-a-week convenience. 459 Bloor W. 416-928-0110.

STAPLES BUSINESS DEPOT 8.5”x11” b&w copies: fewer than 100 copies, 8¢ each; 100- 499 copies, 6¢ each. Free delivery for orders over $50. 375 University. 416-598-4818.

 

HEALTH AND FITNESS

FITNESS ONE SPORTS CLUB FOR WOMEN For all the ladies who, for reasons beyond understanding, don't like getting hit on by men while exercising, sign up for this women-only gym. 675 Yonge and other locations. 416-921-6666. www.fitnessone.ca.

TORONTO CENTRAL SPORT & SOCIAL CLUB Enjoy slighty competitive recreation sports by joining a team or forming one with friends. Win the league and obtain the the coveted TCSSC t-shirt. www.tcssc.com.

TRINITY BELLWOODS PARK COMMUNITY CENTRE One of the best deals around, the community centre offers three month memberships for $50, and one-year memberships for $170. Includes full access to the weight and cardio rooms, the pool and fitness classes. 155 Crawford. 416-392-0743.

THE YOGA SANCTUARY Get bendy for little money, with drop-in classes at a student discounted price of $11. For those who want to be really bendy, pick up a three-month package at the student rate of $275 or a 6-month membership for $515. 2 College, 3rd fl. 416-928-3236; 95 Danforth Av, 3rd fl. 416-461-6161. www.theyogasanctuary.net.

YMCA The two main Toronto locations offer memberships on a sliding-scale. There are big discounts if you can prove financial hardship, and you don't have to be Christian or a young man. Open until 8pm on weekends and 11pm on weeknights. 931 College, 416-536-1166; 20 Grosvenor, 416-975-9168. www.ymcatoronto.org.

 

CAFÉS

ABSINTHE COFFEE SHOP AND PUB The only undergraduate, student-run restaurant at York University, meals run from about $4 to $6. 013 Winters College, York University. 416-736-2100 x: 22439.

ARBOR ROOM Saved last year by a student petition, this legendary U of T cafe is back and fully operational. Enjoy the sun on the front patio in September, and head inside for a warm bowl of chili once the long winter hits. 7 Hart House Circle. 416-978-3325.

BLUFF'S U of T at Scarborough's new(ish) restaurant is licensed, and open morning till night, and this year offers Halal food options -- and we're not kidding (bluffing?). $7 to $10 entrees help to stave off having to cook for yourself that little bit longer. 1265 Military Trail. 416-287-7042.

CAFÉ DIPLOMATICO College Street is the home of peoplewatching in Toronto, and The Dip is a particularly fine spot for doing it. Pull up a chair, slacken your jaw and stare away. 594 College. 416-534-4637.

CHEF SCHOOL BAKE SHOP The George Brown students produce far and away the best homework out of all the local universities; this entrée and pastry outlet produces far more succulent delicacies than the medical school ever could. 300 Adelaide E. 416-415-5000 x: 2515.

THE DRAKE HOTEL CORNER CAFÉ Take advantage of the free wireless, while chilling to the sounds of Tegan & Sara and the like. Naked Brunch on Sundays is worthwhile, though probably not what you're thinking. 1150 Queen W. 416-531-5042 x: 114.

FUTURE BAKERY AND CAFÉ The food's not the cheapest, but Future Bakery still has something about it that makes it the premier meeting spot for students from across the GTA. Settle onto the patio, particularly on Wednesdays for the all-you-can-eat perogies. 483 Bloor W. 416-922-5875.

II GATTO NERO Italian for “The gatto nero,” this café offers the rare excellent doppio-patio (that's Italian for a double espresso and a seat outside) combinations in Toronto. Nice veal sandwich, too. 720 College. 416-536-3132.

INNIS CAFÉ Lunchtime fare of salads, sandwiches and smoothies. Well, you can't argue with the classics; when you're bored of the mass cafeterias, head over to this healthtastic cafe. 2 Sussex. 416-977-7434.

JAVA HOUSE Student deal ahoy: get a free appetizer with every pitcher of beer. Take advantage of the Thai-inspired food as well. 537 Queen W. 416-504-3025.

JAVA JIVE When you're all cruised out, try this spot, one of the gaybourhood's quieter cafes. 585 Church. 416-923-7267.

KILGOUR'S Perfectly situated half a floor above street level, you can look down at all the Bloor Street bustle (or everyone's bald spots, depending on your perspective) from this restaurant cum coffee shop. The important thing is that the couches are friggin' huge. Order a breakfast special and kiss your hangover goodbye. 509 Bloor W. 416-923-7680.

NEW YORKER DELI This tiny restaurant is just east of U of T campus and very easy to miss. Their Montreal smoked meat sandwich is an excellent antidote to horrible residence cafeteria food. 1140 Bay. 416-923-3354.

MOONBEAN CAFÉ Kensington Market's stock-in-trade is the cool café, and Moonbean fits the bill: organic and fair trade coffee and beans to take home, smoothies and chai to settle down with, and a choice of patios to relax on, away from the hectic market. 30 St Andrew. 416-595-0327.

OAKHAM CAFÉ Ryerson's own café, serving light fare all day long to the starving hordes. 63 Gould St. 416-979-5250 x: 2353.

pen and leave a grade on the bill when you're done. 300 Adelaide E. 416-415-2260.

TEQUILA BOOKWORM Features a great magazine stand and book collection that you can use as your own temporary library. 512 Queen W. 416-504-7335.

WYMILWOOD CAFÉ For anyone who can remember this being Ned's Café, it's about time you graduated. If you don't, then get down to one of the most popular U of T cafés on the east side of campus. 150 Charles W, downstairs. 416-585-4521 x: 3065.

 

BOOZE

ABSINTHE PUB AND COFFEE SHOP This arty and bohemian pub of Winters College at York University offers band nights and cheap beer, where indie rockers, hipsters and the eclectic fine arts students have a place to call their own. 013 Winters College, York University. 416-736-2100 x: 22439.

ANDY POOLHALL Pop art has a home, and it's semi-subterranean. Bring your shades to protect your eyes from the wild colours in one of the area's more welcoming bars. There's pool, too, in case the name didn't tip you off. 489 College. 416-923-5300.

BISTRO 422 Does this drink sound appealing to you? Punker's Puke: random mix of five types of liquor, never the same. If so, then this is the place for you. More traditional drinkers can settle down with a few cheap pitchers on their back patio; a jug of screwdriver should sort you out. 422 College. 416-963-9416.

THE BRUNSWICK HOUSE The Brunswick has tried to turn itself into a family pub, but that shouldn't stop you. Push the women and children out of the way and get to the bar – that beer isn't going to drink itself. 481 Bloor W. 416-964-2242.

THE COCK AND BULL Watch bigticketed sports games on the big screen or dance to top 40 beats when the small dancefloor heats up after dark. 023 Founders College, York University. 416-736-2100 x: 33622.

DOONEY'S One of Bloor's finest multiple side-patio bars, Dooney's also does a mean line of breakfasts for soaking up the after-effects the next day. 511 Bloor W. 416-536-3293.

DUKE OF GLOUCESTER An authentic British pub that is Toronto's hotbed for soccer. The beer and the atmosphere are fantastic, but it raises one problem: study for exams, or watch the UEFA Champions League? 649 Yonge, 2nd fl. 416-961-9704.

DUKE OF YORK Another Brit pub in the Annex, serving food and drink with unremarkable accents and reasonably nice teeth. 39 Prince Arthur. 416-964-2441.

EMBASSY Retro-lounge chic without the too-cool-for-schoolitude, in Kensington Market. 223 Augusta. 416-591-1132.

FLY NIGHTCLUB “10,000 square feet of pure vibe,” this dance club (of Queer as Folk fame) holds some of Toronto's best gay-friendly parties every week. 8 Gloucester. 416-410-5426.

FOX AND FIDDLE Boasts 12 flavours of chicken wings, including pineapple curry. 106 John. 416-593-4407.

GLADSTONE HOTEL A pleasingly split personality encompasses both a multi-purpose art/performance space and karaoke nights. 1214 Queen W. 416-531-4635.

GRAD LOUNGE This 19+ lounge isn't just for graduate students -- many undergrads congregate here to talk to their TAs and profs. They offer food specials from vegan to mainstream and a selection of beers. 166 South Ross, York University. 416-736-5495.

GREEN ROOM The boho caférestaurant-bar that you always dreamed about but never found – until now – complete with mismatched furniture, cheap nosh and an ultra-chill atmosphere. Enjoy the $3 all-day breakfast while studying or getting shit-faced. 296 Brunswick (in the alley behind Future Bakery). 416-929-3253.

HERNANDO'S HIDEAWAY Here's an equation for nearby Ryerson students: margaritas + nachos = skip afternoon lectures. 545 Yonge. 416-929-3629.

HEY LUCY Open every night of the week, but really it's all about the Wednesday martinis. The crowd is a mix of business types and students in the know, and the generous martinis are a bargain at $3.50 a piece. 295 King W. 416-408-3633.

IMPERIAL LIBRARY PUB Vintage jazz and blues on the jukebox, shelves of books, baskets of popcorn and an awesome firstfloor bar where it's always 1973. 54 Dundas E. 416-977-4667.

LABYRINTH LOUNGE The martini alternative to Hey Lucy's on a Wednesday, get Slowly Screwed (tee hee) or one of 35 alternative flavours for $4.25. 298 Brunswick. 416-925-7775.

LOBBY Patrons may resume ordering red wine now that the Designer Guys have given this formerly all-white establishment a makeover in basic black. 192 Bloor W. 416-929-7169.

THE MADISON We stopped counting how many bars the Madison had once it hit double figures, but you can get sloshed on a pub crawl without ever leaving the venue. 14 Madison. 416-927-1722.

MICK E FYNN'S A popular pub for the Ryerson crowd, Wednesday and Thursday are the most popular nights. Be sure to pitch up early to shotgun some patio space. 45 Carlton. 416-598-0537.

THE SAVANNAH ROOM Tip top tapas bar near the U of T campus. Any returning students may know it as the Oasis, and the old nights have carried over, with Wednesdays still playing host to live comedy. 294 College. 416-975-0845.

O'GRADYS An active sponsor of U of T athletics, this two-floor pooltabled sports bar features $3 Thursdays for the budget-conscious jocksniffer. 518 Church, 416-323-2822; 171 College, 416-596-0327.

ORANGE SNAIL PUB One of the only independently owned pubs at York, this place specializes in Caribbean cuisine serving buffet lunches, dinner and vegan options. Thursday pub nights turns this space into a hip-hop jam-o-rama. 107 Stong College, York University. 416-736-2100 x: 77302.

PAUPERS PUB Cheap beer and the standard pub fare in one of Bloor's best, with three great environments in which to pound it: a downstairs pub, a chilled patio or a rooftop view upstairs. 539 Bloor W. 416-530-1331.

RAM IN THE EYE Ryerson's own pub, getting students drunk on $11.50 from 11am. Check out the patio before it gets too cold to enjoy the Muskoka chairs. 55 Gould. 416-979-5250 x: 2306

THE RED ROOM The more sophisticated sister of The Green Room, this place may not look like much from the outside, but the sparsely lit interior is spacious, cozy and swarming with hipsters. Enjoy their big portions of food -- nothing on the menu is over $10 -- and be sure to order a pitcher of the surprisingly alcoholic sangria before or after catching a show at the El Mo. 444 Spadina Av. 416-929-9964.

REPUBLIK Reopening in September after renovations, Republik offers lasers, 12 rotating plasma screens, 200,000 watts of sound, and a variety of other bells and whistles to keep you and your drunken friends distracted. 261 Richmond W. 416-598-1632.

ROWER'S PUB Sporto's saloon cum Brit pub, with plentiful pitchers and long wooden tables on which to slam ‘em down; it's just enough off the usual Bloor/College strips to feel like somewhere new. 150 Harbord. 416-961-6277.

SNEAKY DEE'S Their King's Crown nachos would be unbeatable, were it not for the wings and pitchers nightly deal. Once you've howed down, head upstairs for the live indie-rock amd then head back down for more food – it's often open till 4am. 431 College. 416-603-3090.

THE SOCIAL The dudes do indeed abide at this hot spot of Queen West cool. Dance to electro, house and rock under neon swirls, flirt with fashionistas and compare ironic t-shirt slogans with other native hipsters. 1100 Queen W. 416-532-4474.

SOUZ DAL Features an eclectic menu of fruity martinis and smooth drum ‘n' bass beats to wash them down. 636 College. 416-537-1883.

SUPERMARKET A spacious lounge that, like the popular hairstyle the mullet, offers business in the front (Asian fusion cuisine) and a party in the back (dancing and live music). 268 Augusta. 416-840-0501.

SWEATY BETTY'S This place is for those who recognize the value of a great jukebox in almost claustrophobic confines. 13 Ossington. 416-535-6861.

THE UNDERGROUND Holds the big Thursday night pub party at York Campus. Also serves as a resto and a club. Student Centre, York University. 416-736-5658.

VICTORY CAFÉ Great burgers or meatloaf downstairs for dinner; improv jazz and poetry readings upstairs for dessert. 581 Markham. 416-516-5787.

WHISTLER'S GRILL AND THE MCNEIL ROOM The patio features the best city skyline views you can get without hopping over to the islands, and the food's pretty darned good, too. 995 Broadview. 416-421-1344.

 

BUFFETS

BABUR From 11:45am-2:30pm every day, Babur offers a $10.95 lunch buffet with all your North Indian favourites -- if you don't have any yet, start here. 273 Queen W. 416-599-7720. www.babur.ca.

DHABA Seven days a week, Dhaba (named after the roadside restaurants that dot India's highways) has a 50-plus item lunch buffet. It's well worth the $12.95. 309 King W. 416-740-6622. www.dhaba.ca.

FREE TIMES CAFÉ Every Sunday from 10:30am-3pm is Bella! Did Ya Eat Brunch, an authentic Jewish dairy and fish buffet with Yiddish music. It's pricey at $18.95, but so good reservations are strongly recommended. 320 College. 416-967-1078. www.freetimescafe.com.

GOLDEN GRIDDLE Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the Golden Griddle has a breakfast/brunch buffet every morning: Mon-Fri 7am-3pm $8.99 (includes omelette bar). 45 Carlton location only. 416-977-5044. www.goldengriddlecorp.com.

 

HAND-HELD FOOD

ALBERT'S REAL JAMAICAN Expand your taste-bud horizons and try Albert's revered oxtail and curried goat dinners. If you need to walk while you eat, grab one of their excellent rotis. 542 St Clair W, 416-658-9445; 558 Queen W, 416-304-0767.

ALI BABA'S If you love decorating your falafel with as many toppings as possible, this popular Middle Eastern restaurant is for you. 607 Queen W, 416-504-2269; 1430 Queen W, 416-536-2100; 415 Parliament, 416-925-7016; 2202 Dundas W, 416-538-7001.

AMATO While most locations of this once-legendary chain have now closed, the tradition of huge quarter-of-a-pie, toppings-laden slices is still very much alive. 429 Yonge, 380 College. Call 416-703-8989 to order.

BURRITO BOYS Though they're scarily efficient in their conveyorbelt procession, be prepared to wait in line for the Boys' big bundlesof tortilla-wrapped perfection. 120 Peter. 416-593-9191.

CORA PIZZA The decor's not much to look at but have you honestly seen a decent pizza joint with good decor? Cora's pies are tasty and made with high-quality ingredients. 656 Spadina Av. 416-922-1188.

GHAZALE Ghazale has been feeding the after-movie crowd from the Bloor for years. Famed for falafels, make sure you try their tahini, or, if you want something sweet, the baklava. Open until 5am every day. 504 Bloor W. 416-537-4417.

LAILA When the Ghazale lineup is just too long, cross the street to this Lebanese hotspot for the best shawarma on the Bloor strip. 553 Bloor W. 416-588-0199.

LICK'S You like your burgers, and you like having your order sung back to you? You'll love Lick's. Most of their locations are kind of out of the way, but a new one just opened on Spadina, just south of Bloor (720 Spadina Av). 49 Eglinton E, 416-440-0523; 1960 Queen E, 416-691-2305; 860 York Mills, 416-391-3113; 654 Danforth; 1585 The Queensway, 416-503-3477.

MADANTO This former Amato's location has been renamed, but the recipes have stayed the same though some of the names may have changed. Try the house specialty Luciie slice, with french fries, onions and a cream sauce. 2311 Yonge. 416-486-5529.

MASSIMO'S The biggest, sloppiest, gooiest Margherita slice in town. 302 College. 416-967-0527.

PAPA CEO PIZZA Right across the street from the U of T Athletic Centre, one wonders just how many diets and exercise regimens have fallen before the mighty Papa Ceo, considering they serve 29 gourmet pizzas. Any slice is $3.50 Sun-Thu after midnight. 654 Spadina Av. 416-961-2222.

PIZZA GIGI In business for at least 30 years now, Gigi's loyal neighbourhood clientele (including the kids from Central Tech across the street who swarm there at lunchtime) will tell you the pizza is A-OK. They're open until 4am and have both thick-crust and thin-crust slices to choose from, including an excellent four cheese and spinach one. 189 Harbord. 416-535-4444.

PIZZAIOLO Less doughy than Amato's, look out for their newest location opening soon on Bloor, west of Spadina (where the Cheese Dairy used to be). 624 Queen W, 416-507-9944; 609 Queen W, 416-364-5551; 289 Dundas W, 416-597-1100; 2425 Bloor W, 416-767-8910. www.pizzaiolo.ca.

SANDWICHED Crepes, paninis and student discounts, oh my! This European-themed shop offers students 13 per cent off. 377 Church. 416-340-0289.

VENA Vegetarian items are the highlight here, including the delicately flavoured butternut squash and fresh spinach. For best results, use every drop of the tiny hot sauce ration. Get a 15 per cent discount with a valid student ID. 1263 Bloor W. 416-532-3665.

 

BREAKFAST JOINTS

AUNTIES AND UNCLES This is the place to go when you want affordable but delicious food. The Dijon potato salad is aces and the decor is pure kitsch. Don't be surprised if you have to wait for a table. 74 Lippincott. 416-324-1375.

AVENUE OPEN KITCHEN Cozy diner, friendly feel, omelettes for $5. 7 Camden. 416-504-7131.

BEAVER CAFÉ Recently adding “nightclub” to its resumé, this hot spot has a simple menu, sleek interior and good-looking staff. Get the steamed eggs with shaved ham or a breakfast panini with a perfect cappuccino. Open to 2am every day. 1192 Queen W. 416-537-2768.

BETTY'S With a pub-like feel and a laidback attitude, Betty's provides a cool atmosphere for chowing down. All-day breakfast goes for $7.95. For a few bucks more, get brunch on Sat-Sun, 11am-4pm. 240 King E. 416-368-1300.

BOOM The bright and cheery atmosphere will help kickstart your day; keep it going with a Very Berry smoothie ($4) and the Power Breakfast ($6) -- your hangover will thank you. 808 College, 416-534-3447; 1036 St Clair W, 416-534-3447.

GRAPEFRUIT MOON A neighbourhood favourite among hipsters and yuppies and yupsters and even some families. Try the Hoser, eh? sandwich or a make your-own omelette. 968 Bathurst, 416-534-9056.

GREEN ROOM $3 all-day breakfasts. 'Nuff said. 296 Brunswick (in the alley behind Future Bakery). 416-929-3253.

KILGOUR'S Just above Seekers Books you'll find one of the better cheap breakfasts around. 509 Bloor W. 416-923-7680.

THE LAKEVIEW LUNCH Worth the wait for the table, this is '40s-diner chic at its best. 1132 Dundas W. 416-535-2828.

OVER EASY This bright yellow storefront just north of the ROM serves eggs over easy, scrambled and any other style you're looking for. 208 Bloor W. 416-922-2345.

PATRICIAN GRILL Right in the George Brown neighbourhood, this family-owned diner offers up comfort food at its finest. 219 King E. 416-366-4841.

PETER STREET DELI With both Chinese food and diner fare, you'll be hard pressed not to find something on the menu that appeals to your hungry morning appetite. And for lunch, Eye Weekly staffers recommend the hot chicken sandwich. 126 Peter. 416-593-0517.

PICCADILLY Former home of the legendary KOS, but still serving up cheap bacon/egg specials by the plateload across the street from Sneaky Dee's. 434 College.416-923-1868.

STEM OPEN KITCHEN This oldschool diner boasts fine bacon and eggs, but we suggest the grilled cheese and tomato with home fries and a super-chocolatey milkshake. 354 Queen W. 416-593-0530.

 

ASIAN FOOD

HONG FATT Even though inflation has caused a slight change in prices, $3.50 still gets you a bowl of rice or noodles, a serving of barbecue pork or chicken and tea. One of the best deals in town. 443 Dundas W. 416-977-3945.

KIM MOON BAKERY The 80 cent buns and tarts are filled with everything from curried beef to coconut (pork's best though), so don't be afraid to buy a few and take them home for later. 438 Dundas W. 416-977-1933.

KOM JUG YUEN With big portions and a dining-room feel, Kom Jug Yuen is great for comfort food when you're homesick. 371 Spadina Av. 416-977-4079.

PHO HUNG This spot is one of the best and cheapest places to get pho (Vietnamese noodles in beef broth). If you're feeling fancy, try one of their fruit milkshakes made with papaya, mango or the awfulsmelling but sweet-tasting durian. 350 Spadina Av. 416-593-4274.

ROL JUI SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Their $3.95 lunch menu has two dozen options, and there are a bunch of noodle dishes and soups for under $4. Perfect for a quick, filling lunch. 472 Dundas W. 416-971-8885.

SALAD KING RESTAURANT With their lunch specials updated online at www.saladking.com every three days, Salad King offers Thai food and gives students 10 per cent discounts, 2-5pm. 335 Yonge. 416-971-7041.

 

VEGGIE FOOD

BUDDHA'S VEGETARIAN FOODS Buddha's offers a vast array of vegetarian Chinese dishes (try the mock duck!), with huge portions at low prices. 666 Dundas W. 416-603-3811.

CAFÉ 668 This vegetarian and vegan joint serves up inventive and delicious dishes. Try Vietnamese coffee for $4.50. Closed Mondays. 885 Dundas W. 416-703-0668.

LE COMMENSAL Part of the popular Quebecois chain (you can buy their p‰tés and entrees and soups at most health food stores), it's nationally successful for a reason. Since it's pay-by-weight, avoid piling your plate too high. Take a little bit of everything to keep your meal under $10. Excellent desserts. 655 Bay (entrance on Elm). 416-596-9364. www.commensal.ca.

ETHIOPIAN HOUSE Though not strictly a vegetarian restaurant, the menu has a full page of veggie options, which all happen to be vegan. Get the (rather large) vegetarian platter for $14 per person at dinner, $8.50 at lunch. 4 Irwin. 416-923-5438. www.ethiopianhouse.com.

KING'S CAFÉ A Kensington mecca for vegetarian sushi, magical tofu concoctions and complete meals for under $10. 192 Augusta. 416-591-1340.

SADIE'S DINER This vegetarian brunch spot serves up omelettes, grilled cheese sandwiches, tofu scramble and smoothies on a foxy array of vintage Formica tables. 504 Adelaide W. 416-777-2343.

SIMON'S WOK VEGETARIAN KITCHEN This restaurant specializes in Chinese vegetarian cuisine that is kind of greasy... in a very good way. Over 100 menu items. 11am-9:30pm. 797 Gerrard E. 416-778-9836.

 

24 HOUR OR OPEN VERY LATE FOOD

7 WEST CAFÉ 24-hour eatery with reasonably priced gourmet-style desserts, homemade hummus and other delights. 7 Charles W. 416-928-9041. www.7westcafe.com.

FRAN'S This Toronto institution has been serving all-day breakfasts to hungover (or still drunk -- they're open 24 hours a day) students for 65 years. The tables are big enough to accommodate all your housemates. Once a mighty Toronto chain, now reduced to just two locations. 20 College, 416-923-9867; 200 Victoria, 416-304-0085. www.fransrestaurant.com.

MEL'S MONTREAL DELICATESSEN There nothin' like a smoked meat sandwich on rye with fries and a pickle at 4am. You'll meet some definite characters here as you dine anytime on hearty breakfasts or monstrous sandwiches. Open 24 hours. 440 Bloor W. 416-966-8881.

SHANGHAI COWGIRL Open until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays, and with a patio that's open till it snows. Cheap drinks all the time. Try a burger with wasabi mayo and sweet tater fries. 538 Queen W. 416-203-6623. www.shanghaicowgirl.com.

SNEAKY DEE'S When the night's nearly done and you just don't want to go to bed hungry, stop in here for late-night fajitas -- the kitchen's often open till 4am. 431 College. 416-603-3090.

VESTA LUNCH 24 hours. Cash only. A legend of a diner with a choice of people-watching: either turn around and watch the world go by at Bathurst and Dupont, or face in and watch the crazy interactions of the charming cast of characters working the counter. 474 Dupont. 416-537-4318.

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