Ya Gotta Eat Here...Glimmer Style - Part One

I received a text from my sister in law yesterday mentioning that she told a new coworker about Glimmer (spreading the Glimmer Love - thank you). Well wouldn't you know her co-worker (who is new to Toronto) started mapping out places to eat via my Instagram @glimmerlife. That gave me the brilliant idea to compile all of my favourite restaurants and coffee shop/bakeries in one comprehensive list right here on the blog. A lot of these spots might be familiar to you - or maybe you've been thinking of going and just need a little extra push. Bon Appetite.

P.S. I love the show You Gotta Eat Here on the Food Network, but sadly I've only been to one of the restaurants, The Garrison House in Niagara on the Lake. I plan on road trippin' to more this summer. Stay tuned.

Colette Grand Cafe

550 Wellington St. W.

Located in the Thompson Hotel on Wellington Street, Colette Grand Cafe is hands down one of my favourite restaurants in the city. You can find me on the cafe side blogging away usually on Tuesday afternoon. It's one of my favourite 'coffices' in the city. I love the Parisian vibe and the food is amazing. I've had both lunch and brunch at the restaurant and am never disappointed. If you plan on going for a weekend brunch, call first for reservations so not to be disappointed.

Charmaine Sweet Studio

115 Vanderhoof Ave.

Relatively new to my list...and very close to home, Charmaine is one of my neighbourhood go-to's for yummy treats and delish sandwiches at lunch. I highly recommend the Chicken Salad Sandwich and the Buttertarts. I've also become OBSESSED with their Paleo Muffins. So good and good for you.

Lit Espresso Bar

1517 Bayview Ave.

221 Roncesvalles Ave.

810 College Ave.

With three locations in the city, Lit is another place you can find me blogging away. A perfect morning for me consists of an almond milk latte and a tiny bacon and egg cup...while writing another post for you :). I wish I could describe how yummy the "three bite" (maybe two) breakfast treats are. I also love the mini gluten-free Blueberry Cornmeal Muffins.

Nutbar

1240 Yonge Street.

This self described 'superfood snack cafe' is new to the Summerhill area scene. Thank goodness I live a drive away (as opposed to a walk) because I would definitely go broke on their toasts and balls. Yes...balls. Pictured above is the key lime pie ball. A very yummy and healthy treat after my white bean hummus toast called Fresh and my Nutbar Latte.

Impact Kitchen

573 King Street East.

The mission of Impact Kitchen is simple 'food has the power to change lives.' At Impact you'll find quality, wholesome, clean food. Nothing processed or artificially sweetened...but completely satisfying and delicious. The kitchen is gluten free and they offer paleo and vegan options. If I go just for coffee, I love there pumpkin loaf and the paleo chocolate banana muffin. For lunch or dinner their power bowls are amazing. My favourite is the Warrior Bowl. It's a delicious big bowl of steamed rice, hummus, feta, black olives, arugula, sprouts, pickled red onions, olive oil & balsamic dressing. Add your favourite protein like salmon, chicken steak or falafel balls and you have the most perfect healthy meal ever. And...they're on Uber Eats - so yay!

Fabrica

49 Karl Fraser Road.

Go to Fabrica for the Ricotta Gnocchi. They are melt in your mouth outstanding. Quite possible the very best Gnocchi I've ever had. I love the blend of gnocchi, ricotta and buratta cheese. They're pizza's are also yummy!