Toronto’s bakery scene has evolved into one of the most dynamic in North America, blending traditional European techniques with the city’s signature multicultural energy. Whether you are hunting for a perfectly laminated croissant, a crusty sourdough loaf, or a delicate pastry that borders on art, the city delivers at every turn. This guide focuses on the shops where bakers treat flour, butter, and time with the respect they deserve.
Navigating the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming, especially when you are looking for consistency rather than just a one-time sugar rush. We have prioritized establishments that demonstrate technical mastery, source high-quality ingredients, and maintain a loyal local following. These are the places where you will find locals lining up early on a Saturday morning, not just tourists checking off a list.
From the historic neighborhoods of Kensington Market and Little Italy to the bustling streets of Leslieville and the Annex, great baking is a neighborhood affair. Each bakery on this list offers something distinct, whether it is a signature loaf, a regional specialty, or an atmosphere that keeps the community coming back. Understanding what makes each one special will help you choose the right spot for your specific craving.
We have considered not only the flavor but also the texture, the bake quality, and the overall value. A great bakery is more than just sugar and butter; it is a craft. The bakers featured here often wake up long before sunrise to ensure that the ovens are hot and the dough is proofed to perfection, and that dedication translates directly to what ends up in your paper bag.
If you are a visitor, exploring these bakeries offers a delicious lens into the city’s diverse culture. If you are a local, you might just find a new favorite spot to add to your weekend rotation. Either way, come hungry and be prepared to make some difficult decisions at the counter.
Below is our curated list of the best spots currently setting the standard for baked goods in the city.
Serano Bakery
| Address | 830 Pape Ave, East York, ON M4K 3T5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 462-2735 |
This is a superb Greek and Turkish bakery with an impressive and almost overwhelming variety of treats to choose from.
Walking into their section on the right side feels like stepping into a baklava wonderland, filled with beautifully layered, syrupy pastries and a wide range of traditional sweets.
There is also a wonderful selection of cream-filled sponge cakes that are rich yet light, making them very enjoyable.
The refrigerated section is equally enticing, offering Middle Eastern favourites such as galaktoboureko and loukoumades, alongside elegant French pastries like mille-feuille and éclairs.
Beyond the desserts, the shop also carries a thoughtfully curated selection of cheeses and European packaged goods, including coffee, spices, and pastas. Everything is well presented and inviting.
The overall atmosphere is warm, charming, and almost magical, honestly giving me the same kind of delightful feeling as meeting someone special for the first time!
Amazing bakery with a grocery area. Long standing since 1994. Place smells amazing. Everything is so fresh. Very friendly staff. Some employees speak Greek. There is gelato available as well. Very clean store. Call ahead for special orders. Prices are okay. No credit card surcharge. Take out only.
This is the bakery of European pastries- not to be confused with the cafe, bakery operational since 1994 by Greeks and still the staff is greek speaking and same family.
Remember to pick up a number when you enter, they follow this order or it would be chaos
You will be distracted by all the cakes, pies, cookies, lukumades, frozen spanakopitas (even vegan) in the fridge
The staff is so friendly & helpful, just asks them what you need and they will find a similar thing- I can’t help but come by for a new treat when on the east side of town
Serano Bakery made the cake for our wedding. They did an amazing job of creating our dream cake based off of the design we wanted. They really out did themselves this time. The cake was so beautiful and very delicious. Great quality cake for a good price (we know how expensive wedding cakes can be). You cannot go wrong with Serano. Staff were very friendly and helpful.
What an actual gem this bakery is. Ethical business for pricing their cakes so well. I got a whole round mango cale for my friend’s birthday, and its not even taxed when its a whole cake. Love love love, will come back even though I’m on the other side of Toronto
Forno Cultura
| Address | 609 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 603-8305 |
Freshly baked bread and rich, creamy sandwiches with deep umami flavor make this a standout spot ✨️🤍 The quality of the ingredients is excellent, and the overall taste is outstanding👌🏻. While the prices are on the higher side, the food and inviting atmosphere make it well worth a visit.
Being a big fan of Almond croissants for as long as I remember, I finally found something even better and can never go back now!
Forno Cultura’s Cornetto Mandolra is packed with roasted Almond and the pastry is so flakey and most importantly, just enough sweetness that doesn’t leave you feeling guilty and heavy. It is definitely superior and I’ll ditch almond croissants for this anytime! Please please please keep this recipe and keep making them fresh! Such a gem!
The bakery has a hip style seating and really appreciate the goods more when you can see the hardworking bakers put all their hearts and souls into their creations.
Ok, so I just finished my sandwich and damn, it’s really good. I had the Mortadella and the bread has a nice crunch and flavour. It’s also great seeing their bread being created too. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience.
This place is dangerously good! Tucked off of the bustling King West neighbourhood, walk down a few steps to find this amazing spot. Filled with incredible Italian sandwiches, pastries and cookies, it’s a sure bet to keep me coming back for more! Daniel, the barista, makes incredible drinks!
The almond pastry was interesting. The americano was good for North American standards though not quite on a European level. Overall one of the better cafes in Toronto though.
LA LA Bakeshop (Bay)
| Address | 761 Bay St. Unit 2, Toronto, ON M5G 2R2, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 891-6097 |
Nice and clean coffee shop. We ordered trà vải and it was good. The tea itself is really strong so make sure you love the way strong tea is before ordering
Also, we ordered salted egg cake and it was amazing. The cake was soft and the salted egg was really tasty. The combination was just perfect.
Highly recommend and we’d def back
Could have been a perfect experience!
We visit La La on June 28. Great dessert, love the salted egg cake, drinks are good too, I love their matcha, quite strong.
Interior was so nice, especially the long table with tree.
The only downside was that fly on the display croissant. It was there quite a long time and no staff noticed.
A Hidden Gem! 🍃
I’ve walked past Là Lá Bakeshop several times without realizing it was a Vietnamese café, but I’m so glad I finally stepped inside! The atmosphere is fantastic, bright, modern, and super cute, with really unique and thoughtful seating layout (including a tree growing right out of the main table which i thought would be great for a larger group gathering or even team meetings)
I ordered the Matcha Raspberry Pistachio drink, and it was absolutely delicious and so well balanced. On top of that, the taller girl working at the counter was super sweet, polite, and welcoming.
Such a lovely spot to drop by. I’ll definitely be coming back! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
More spacious than I thought, with a lot of tables around!
The matcha latte and raspberry pistachio matcha latte were great.
Nice staffs, clean space. Look forward to trying their dessert lines!
There's so much I want to try here is how I want to start this review. Aesthetically pleasing atmosphere although limited space / always gets packed quick it seems. The staff here are very friendly. The food items are truly unique with pricing slightly above average but given the quality, it's worth it too. I haven't yet tried the drinks but no doubt that they'll be good as their pastries and desserts. Tried the salted egg cake and it is not overly salty nor too sweet - the ultimate Asian treat to have. Will be back to try more!
Whiskful Thinking Bakery
| Address | 72 Wellesley St E, Toronto, ON M4Y 1H2, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (437) 989-4475 |
Last week I really felt like getting a nice warm pastry to top up my lunch. It was cold but I wanted it sooooo bad. I needed to make sure that the bakery I chose was a good one. Not knowing a bakery near by I referred to Google. Whiskful Bakery jumped up as a 4.9! So I braved the cold. The atmosphere was ok. The attendant was very knowledgeable about the food that was offered. I chose the raspberry bloom, something I never tried before. I have to say I was a bit disappointed I did not finish it all it really needed more filling and felt like I was just eating doughy bread. With such amazing reviews I was definitely expecting more.
The baked goods are delicious. We picked up a fresh baked loaf for french toast and it was amazing to have sliced to the thickness we wanted. The cinnamon rolls are soft and gooey; I love being able to get them with or without frosting. The staff are always a delight and so friendly!
Supporting a small local business is always the right choice. But when they have the best seeded sourdough bread I've ever had, it's easy! All of the items are made in house and are always delicious! I can not recommend this bakery highly enough!
The best bakery in Toronto I recommend. I love their warm fresh cheese bread especially. I always buy different types of baguettes and sour dough bread together when I’m there. Garlic and herbs are great and love to dip the bread in good quality extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. The service is quick and very pleasant. Must try.
Best placeand locals know it! Blueberry scones, great coffee, best cinnamon buns! Nothing fancy, just really really good bakery. Get my bread here every week too
Paris Baguette
| Address | 2401 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 3H1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 322-3337 |
Update: We’ve been ordering from Paris baguette for awhile now. This time we got to try their Salted Caramel cake and other French pastries! They were so good both to look at and to savour !
Thank you Paris Baguette!
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I recently ordered catering from Paris Baguette for a lunch training group, and as a new admin, it was my first time placing an order with them. I was extremely impressed from start to finish.
Jeesun was so helpful throughout the entire process. I simply told her how many people we were ordering for, and she was able to recommend the perfect amount of food for our group. The ordering process was easy, delivery was on time, and communication was excellent throughout.
The food was a big hit!! The sandwiches are fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. And now I’m officially hooked on their chocolate chip cookies!
Very happy with the experience and will definitely be ordering from Paris Baguette again.
Unfortunately, I did not take proper pics except for a video where I captured this little photo of the sandwiches.
I tried Paris Baguette for the first time in Canada, and it tasted exactly like the ones I eat in Korea. It was so delicious that my eyes widened in amazement. The sandwich was seasoned just right, crispy, fresh, and generous in portion. I think I would want to buy it again if I saw it next time. The donut wasn't too sweet like Canadian donuts, looked so pretty, and was chewy; I only intended to have a little taste, but I kept reaching for more and ended up eating the whole thing. I enjoyed it with Paris Baguette coffee, and it was a truly happy experience.
This is my absolute favorite café — I come here almost every day to sit, work, and unwind. The atmosphere is always welcoming, and the staff are genuinely friendly, which makes such a difference when you’re a regular.
Their pastries are always fresh and incredibly delicious and they go fast, which says everything about how good they are! you can really taste the quality. And the coffee? Always perfect. Consistent, smooth, and exactly what you need to get through the day.
Today was such a sweet surprise — they gave every customer a slice of chocolate cake, and wow… it was amazing! Little gestures like that make this place even more special.
I almost tried everything at this store, nutella cold brew and berries pastry with lemon cream are heaven !!
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a cozy spot with great vibes, great people, and even better treats 🤍
We went to Paris Baguette to work on a couple things and to get some pastries and drinks. When we walked in, all of the tables with the booth were taken. It seems like this is a popular place to work remote.
I got a hot Matcha latte with oat milk and my boyfriend got an Iced Matcha Latte with almond milk. Our drinks were pretty good, they were sweet, earthy, and creamy.
For pastries, we got a croissant and coffee bun. I really liked my coffee bun, it was pretty large for a pastry. And the coffee flavor was really nice, it was sweet but nailed the "not too sweet" sweetness level as well. I absolutely loved my coffee bun. They have a huge selection of pastries to choose from, from sweet to savory. Everything looked good.
For me and it seems like I'm not the only one, pricing was a little bit more expensive than I anticipated compared to other cafes in the area. Despite this, I would come back again. I don't think I'd be a regular here because it can get pricey. But I'd definitely come back to try their different pastries and cakes.
I would like to thank Mimi for her excellent customer service and professionalism. When my order was not ready as expected, she handled the situation quickly and efficiently. As a manager, she made a prompt decision to resolve the issue and ensured that I felt valued as a customer.
Her kindness, attention to customer satisfaction, and willingness to take immediate action left a very positive impression. Thank you, Mimi, for turning an inconvenience into a great customer experience.
Nord Lyon Queen St West
| Address | 665 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1E6, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 792-6661 |
I came here for all you can eat brunch which was delicious. They have such a huge selection from eggs benny and sausages to pastries and desserts. It’s a great place to come to sample a bit of everything! My favourites were the eggs Benny and the Oreo cake.
I usually don’t like sweets, especially things like macarons. But their macarons were just amazing—perfectly balanced in sweetness and absolutely delicious!
The cream puffs were soooo good too! The cream had such a rich, fragrant flavor unlike anything I’ve ever tried before. The staff were all very friendly! Will definitely come back!
I stopped in at this Queen St., West French Café later on a Sunday afternoon. I was immediately greeted by the staff upon walking into the café and made to feel welcome.
Even at this later time of day, there was still a good selection of pastries and sandwiches on offer. I felt like a piece of cake so that's what I chose.
The staff was extremely knowledgable about the pastries and not reluctant to make a recommendation. I ended up with the piece of biscuit cheesecake and a Cortado.
The cheesecake was absolutely excellent and the coffee was what you would expect at a bakery Café. As I have remarked in my other reviews, I don't feel it is fair to be expecting the same level of coffee at a bakery restaurant as at a specialty coffee shop. The Cortodo here was a very traditional, strong brew, and it matched well with the cheesecake. Overall, it was a great experience, but I may have been a little disappointed if I had come in here just for the coffee
I believe it is a staff at the café and the great pastries which creates a nice stop on your day excursion to this area of queen west
This place has been on my list to try, and I received friendly greetings from staff when I arrived. Our server took me on a tour of the buffet. Met my friend for a 10am brunch, and we basically had the place to ourselves awhile. I would recommend going early on Sunday since you can park on Queen Street for free until 1 PM and it’s quieter. The food is fresh. The meal includes regular coffee or tea, water, and a couple of juice choices. There are many other drink options at an additional cost. There is such a wide variety of food! I would suggest going slow, and trying a little bit of everything. They will also make you a custom omelette. Many of the croissant/pastries and sandwiches are cut in half which is a good idea to promote trying different things. I’m sure some people have eyes bigger than their stomachs. There are number of hot items, including eggs Benedict, lasagna, vegetables, potatoes, french toast, waffles and more! A huge assortment of cold salads, fruit, nuts, some cold meat and cheeses etc. Crepes. There are some creamy petite fours and sweet pastries available as well. I think it is a great value and experience.
The main dining room is at the back, with flowers suspended from the ceiling and generic art/mirrors. Lighting and music are pleasant. Booths and tables are available.
There is a seating area in the front with beautiful pastries available.
We celebrated my son's birthday at Nord Lyon, and it was an absolutely wonderful experience. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel so welcome and helped make the celebration extra special.
The food and pastries were outstanding—everything was fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. Every dish was full of flavor, and you could tell great care went into every detail. The atmosphere was warm, cozy, and perfect for celebrating with family.
Thank you to the entire team for making my son's birthday such a memorable occasion. We had an amazing time and will definitely be back. Highly recommend Nord Lyon to anyone looking for fantastic food, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere!
Pappa Roti Café & Bakery
| Address | 202 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z2, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 595-9993 |
Was walking along Queen St. West and saw this place. I spoke with the kind and friendly owner who mentioned that the store just newly opened.
These coffee-caramel coated buns originated in Malaysia but were inspired by the Mexican conchas.
The store layout is very spacious and cosy creating a welcoming environment.
I ordered the OG Bun and a cappuccino to go with it.
Food/cutleries were served on a wooden tray and look visually appealing. I find the bun less sweeter than the once we had in Asia. Personally, I like it better here since I'm not really fond of overly sweet baked goods.
On the outside, the bun was crisp and moist with that delicious coffee-caramel crust they're known for and warm and buttery on the inside.
The cappuccino has a bold coffee flavour and you can taste the rich espresso with every sip.
I walked in randomly, walked out impressed.
If you haven't tried this delicious goodness in a bun, I recommend you do so.
Definitely adding this to my list of good bakery cafe in downtown Toronto.
Discovered this cute, spacious café on Queen! The owner Sina is so welcoming, hospitable and generous. You have to try the Papparoti—it’s the fluffiest, airiest bun ever, and the coffee is amazing. Plus, the best part? No annoying tip screens on the payment terminal!
10/10 highly recommend! ☕✨
A dessert café that opened just within the past month. I didn’t expect the space to be this large.
There’s even a small downstairs area toward the back. The whole café feels bright and spacious, with plenty of seating, so it’s especially suitable for bringing a laptop to study or get some work done.
Partial menu at the end.
👉 Pistachio Latte ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ($6.50)
A little acidic, with barely any noticeable pistachio flavor.
It tasted almost the same as a regular latte, so I was slightly disappointed.
👉 Cinnamon Roll ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ($7.50)
Really good.
The sweetness was just right, and the cinnamon flavor wasn’t too strong. It tasted more like a soft, milky bread with a gentle cinnamon note.
👉 Spanish Latte ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ ($6)
Very fragrant, with the sweetness controlled nicely.
It also wasn’t too acidic, so the overall flavor was smooth and easy to drink.
👉 OG Bun ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ($5.50)
I saw them making these fresh in the shop, and it tasted especially good after being warmed up.
The outside was crisp and buttery while the inside stayed soft and fluffy. It reminded me a little of a pineapple bun.
I had such an amazing experience at Papparoti! 🤎✨ The first time I tried their famous coffee bun was in Dubai, I was so happy to find out they have a location here in Toronto.
A special shoutout to Sina, who made the experience even more memorable with such warm, friendly, and attentive service. 😊 Great customer service always makes a difference. The buns love it. Perfect with karak chai
If you’re in Toronto, Papparoti is an absolute must-try! The food was incredible—the signature buns were soft, warm, and perfectly paired with the toppings.
But what really surprised me was the coffee. Hands down the best coffee I’ve had in Toronto! As someone who isn’t a fan of North America’s typical drip coffee, this was a game changer. It’s proper espresso-based coffee, smooth, rich, and exactly what I was hoping to find.
The café has a great atmosphere, friendly service, and I’ll definitely be back before I leave Toronto. Highly recommend!
Blackbird Baking Co. Riverside
| Address | 635 Queen St E Unit 101, Toronto, ON M4M 1G4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 465-0043 |
I finally made it over to this spot on Queen Street East, and it was well worth the visit. The display case is filled with such an incredible variety of fresh pastries and prepared sandwiches that it is honestly hard to choose just one thing.
I grabbed the Tuna Nicoise sandwich and it was absolutely delicious. Every ingredient tasted incredibly fresh, especially the roasted red pepper. I also couldn't resist picking up a few extra treats for later, and the quality is clearly top-tier. I will definitely be back soon to try more of the menu.
Best sandwiches in the city.
They have a rotating selection of different types of sandwiches but my favourite has been green goddess turkey, blue cheese and roast beef, and chimichirri and salami.
The bread amazing and I mean AMAZING, and affordable, recommend visiting and trying out a loaf of sour dough, brioche on the weekend, and the baguettes they have.
They have great spreads, and an assortment of delicious baked good and sweets.
Also the selection of different local goodies is amazing.
Best bakery in the city, don’t miss out on this amazing gem.
Easily the best and most consistent bread in city. Treat yourself to a canelé too.
Edit: May 2026. Canelé no longer recommended. Past 2 purchases has been underbaked. Enjoyed chocolate cork much more.
Great options if you’re booking for bread, lunch or a snack! I’ve tried a few things like the regular sourdough loaf, the toastie and the chocolate almond croissant. My only complaint would be that one of my toasties was heated up perfectly and then the next week when I got one and unwrapped it at home the cheese wasn’t even melted after they “heated it up”, but that won’t stop me from returning!
Not the most fair review, because all I got was a croissant. Came to $4. It was handed to me with no offer to heat it up; almost felt rushed. It was alright, nothing to write home about. I loved the atmosphere and it’s located in Riverside which is a great Toronto neighborhood. it’s only fair to mention as I was walking in, someone coming out told me it’s a great bakery.
Aux Merveilleux de Fred
| Address | 224 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z6, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (647) 812-5982 |
Super delicious sweets! Everything we tried was fresh, light, and really enjoyable. The puffs were definitely my favourite, they were so light, airy, and perfectly balanced without being overly sweet. I really appreciate when desserts aren’t loaded with sugar, and these had just the right amount of sweetness.
The chocolate chip brioche bun was also really good. It was soft, light, and had a nice chocolate chip flavour without feeling too heavy. Overall, everything was delicious and well made. Definitely a great spot if you’re looking for sweets that are light, fresh, and not overly sweet!
Last evening we were looking for a quick savoury snack to have before our 7pm event nearby. And we stumbled upon this lovely patisserie! The beautiful huge chandelier was so recognizable that I knew immediately it was the same place I went for freshly baked brioches every morning when I was visiting Brussels.
We had the salmon sandwich and the chicken curry sandwich. Considering we were getting them at around 6:30pm, almost around closing time, these sandwiches still tasted fresh and very delicious! I had the housemade hot chocolate and it was the perfect indulgent sweet treat.
The two female staff working there were very friendly, warm and patient so made our experience even better while we were eating there.
Since we had to rush to our event we had to buy the brioches to go. We got the pearl sugar brioche and the chocolate chip brioche. Both were my absolute favourites from the Aux Merveilleux de Fred in Brussels. I have to say even warming them up this morning in my mini oven for breakfast, they did not disappoint at all! They were equally scrumptious, and I'm so thrilled to know there is a location now in Toronto that I can go when I have a craving for these brioches!! 😁
Definitely check out this wonderful patisserie & café when you're in this area! 👍😊
Aux Merveilleux de Fred is one of my favorite bakeries and the perfect place for a coffee break.
I usually order a coffee with a small savory snack, and my favorite one is the smoked salmon and fresh cucumber sandwich. It’s always fresh and delicious!
When it comes to desserts, my absolute favorite is the chocolate meringue. It’s incredibly light, creamy, and perfectly balanced, making it a truly amazing treat.
The space is absolutely beautiful. Stepping into Aux Merveilleux de Fred feels warm, elegant. A charming European bakery shop.
The service is friendly and fast-paced, with staff who are efficient, welcoming, and clearly experienced at keeping things running smoothly, even during busy moments.
I ordered the raisin cramique brioche, chocolate cramique brioche, and the meringue from Aux Merveilleux de Fred, and every bite was pure comfort.
I ordered the raisin cramique brioche was soft, buttery, and generously studded with plump raisins, perfectly fluffy with just the right touch of sweetness. The chocolate cramique was just as indulgent, rich with chocolate pieces that melted into the pillowy brioche without being overpowering. And the meringue? Light as air, creamy, and delicately sweet, it truly melts in your mouth.
A place worth returning to again and again.
We had coffee here and it was ok. Though I had high expectations but it wasnt very unique as coffee overpowered the flavour I asked for so it felt like a normal latte. But I have heard good things about their sweet items so will try it next time. But its location is really nice and you wouldnt feel much gloomy in the Canadian winter.
Panemor Bakery & Cafe
| Address | 129 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1S3, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (416) 865-9999 |
I stopped in for a slice of veggie pizza, and you can definitely tell they use good quality ingredients. The pizza was fresh, flavorful, and tasted great overall. The only issue was that it wasn’t heated long enough, so part of the slice and some of the toppings were still cold. Other than that, I really enjoyed it. I’ll definitely be coming back I’ll just ask for it to be heated a little longer next time. Overall, it was a good experience and worth another visit.
I’ve been wanting to come to this bakery for long time and finally got here! So many beautiful, fresh breads and pastries for my eyes to enjoy. I loved all the different sourdough breads and even loved the different sizes of burger buns.
I decided on their croissant & coffee deal for $3.99 and got the pistachio croissant. It was very fresh and delicious. The place itself had a warm vibe to it especially with the fresh bread smell in the air. The service was also fast and friendly. I look forward to my next visit!
Every time I come here, I’m welcomed with a smile and such a positive atmosphere. The staff are always incredibly friendly, attentive, and genuinely make you feel appreciated as a customer. It’s rare to find a place where the service is consistently this warm and welcoming every single visit.
You can really tell that they care about creating a great experience, not just serving food or drinks. The environment feels comfortable, relaxed, and inviting, making it a perfect spot to unwind, meet friends, or simply enjoy your day.
If you’re looking for a place with amazing customer service and great vibes, definitely come check it out — you won’t be disappointed at all!
This place is so underrated. Literally where else u can find a legit pistachio croissant full of flavor, crispy n decent portion for $3 in downtown To. Also shout out to all the gentleman behind the counter. They r the best. A huge sourdough loaf for $6? I feel like this spot was open to promote for their bakery appliances. Cus unbeatable deal is available right here. Also dont skip their danish. I love danish now thanks to em. The custard is just awesome. Also scone is fireeeeeee. I got a huge pistachio croissant, peach scone, n blueberry danish for $10, Panemor is a killer hidden gem.
I’ve been here any time and bought their sourdough for $4.99 and various pastries like the pistachio croissant which is a nice portion size, as well as so flaky and oh so delicious and filling! And the price? You can’t beat it! $2.99 per croissant/pastry. There usually isn’t a line but if there is it moves fairly fast plus they’re open everyday. Oh and they have a coffee+croissant deal for $3.99 - which I haven’t tried yet but will soon!
Le Génie Bakery & Espresso
| Address | 382 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5B 1S8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Phone | (416) 546-8578 |
Nice cosy patio for people watching. I have had this place on my list for a while so it was nice when I have the chance to try them out. Their displays have an ample amount of gorgeously decorated pastries. I got their pain au chocolate and a cappuccino. Their pain au chocolate was flakey and buttery but I wish there was more chocolate in them considering how large it is. My cappuccino was good. They also sell french butter for anyone looking to purchase which I appreciate it.
Small cute bakery, they have chairs outside when it’s nice out. It’s a pretty tight space inside, with not a lot of room to sit or stand, which makes it not wheelchair accessible or if you have a stroller you’d have to leave it outside.
The baked goods are delicious but are on the pricier side. I liked the strawberry danish more than the butter croissant but nonetheless both were yummy. Staff are friendly.
I’d say it’s a nice place to try once or if you want to treat yourself otherwise it’s not an everyday thing.
They pack the baked goods into bags and not a box or something more sturdy so if you’re doing takeout it’s not really ideal as they get crushed or you have to hold them in an awkward manner so they’re protected. At this price point, the packaging for takeout should absolutely be better.
They don’t have any vegan items.
Accidentally spotted this cafe) the mocha & iced americano was decent, but a little overpriced for the taste. That said, the atmosphere inside is lovely, and the pastries are genuinely delicious & freshly baked. Definitely worth stopping by for the cozy vibe and something sweet! ☕️🥐
Dropped by yesterday morning since I was in the area.
When walking in, I was greeted and ordered a Butter Croissant and Latte made with oat milk. While cashing me out, they asked if it was for here or to go. I said to go, so they put the croissant in a paper bag for me and made my drink.
Liked that they didn't put the lid on right away for me and let me know I could add my own sugar if I wanted and indicated where it was.
Unfortunately for me since I shoved it in my work bag which was packed, the croissant ended up getting flattened instead of staying as full and fluffy as in the display, but it was still delicious when I got to eat it later.
Flaky exterior, soft inside, and super buttery.
There's a few small tables inside if dining in (and one just out front). The walls could use a facelift as the paint is not looking great, but other than that, the display area looks pretty modern.
No parking onsite, but plenty of paid lots in the area.
Visited on a Saturday around 11 a.m. and ordered a Flat White and Vanilla Flan, which came to $16.20 including tax.
Unfortunately, the experience was just average. It took around 10 minutes for my coffee to arrive, and the barista seemed a bit unorganized with the orders. I also noticed the previous customer had ordered two items but only received one, and they had to go back and pay for the missing item.
The coffee and dessert were okay, but nothing particularly impressive for the price. If you happen to be passing by, it might be worth stopping in, but I wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to visit this place.
Circles & Squares Bakery Café
| Address | 1909 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4S 1Z3, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 534-3338 |
Wonderful service and a wide variety of treats to meals you can get here. Haven't come across anything that I found was mediocre quite yet. Ample amount of seating in this location (two stories) but still more a grab and go spot. Butter tarts are good and they're unique due to their many flavour/styles but also the crust is slightly different than typical.
I visited Circles and Squares on a Saturday morning. I came from Scarborough and wanted to try them out. AMAZING!
I picked up a BLT breakfast croissant which was flakey, moist, sweet, savoury, salty, creamy. Omg it was so good. It had nice thick slices of tomato. I've never had a BLT like it before.
I also picked up a pecan bar and a brownie.
The brownie was excellent, chocolaty and super moist but the pecan bar will bring me back. It was dense, super sweet and buttery. I will be back.
They are worth every penny.
The staff were friendly and the place had a steady lineup that went quick. Obviously a popular spot on the neighborhood.
You won't be disappointed.
April 18. Update: visited again this morning. I hade the everything bagel croissant. Very nice. Filled with a dill heavy cream cheese. Very tasty. I tried the lemon oat bar and again, another winner. So far everything I've tried is excellent quality.
A cozy cafe with bar tables facing the street. I tried sesame baguette which was yummy. Enjoyed flourless brownies, preferably with less sugar. Cookies and shortbread were tasty too, I enjoyed savory scones the best. Their products are something you can have for everyday routine life and enjoy the taste and quality.
Second time visiting and I had to leave a review. The coffee is always amazing — the chai latte is so good, and the fresh chive cheddar scone is absolutely delicious, and sourdough is perfection.
But the real reason I’m here writing this review is because I’m a serious butter tart snob… and this place delivers. I’ve tried the classic, maple pecan, Snickers, and coconut cream.
The coconut cream butter tart though… wow. Where do I even begin? Custard, cream, toasted coconut shavings, and the most perfectly flaky tart shell with a semi-runny filling. The ratio is absolutely perfect.
Legit one of the best butter tarts I’ve ever had. I’m in LOVE.
Also just so cute to sit and enjoy what they have. Just wish they had a patio!
This cafe and bakery has a great location close to the Davisville subway station. Housed in a former Starbucks, the cafe space has keep its open, flowing feel and serves mainly a takeout clientele.
On the afternoon I was there I ordered a Cortado to stay. I was told that the beans which would be used are the Black Cap espresso beans available for purchase along with other beans used in the various drinks. My Cortado was excellent! It was hot, creamy and extremely rich. My only concern is that they only have paper cups, which, as anyone would know who follows my reviews, I find extremely detrimental to the coffee experience!!
There was, on the bar with the usual milk and sugar, an interesting array of potential coffee add-ins, including simple syrup and a honey syrup. This is an great idea to provide those options for customers.
It was obvious that this is a local place, and that the staff, who are incredibly friendly and knowledgable, know a lot of the clientele. I also witnessed some acts of extreme generosity from the staff, which would absolutely make me patronize this cafe if I lived in the area.
Next time I stop by, I will definitely try some of the bakery goods which they have on offer. They looked delicious and were obviously prepared fresh right in this location.
I have visited Circles snd Squares several times since my last review and every time have been impressed by the friendliness of the service and the quality of the coffee. On my last visit, I sat upstairs in the spacious and comfortable second floor seating area. It is rare to have this amount of seating in a cafe so centrally located and this just adds another reason to visit this outstanding coffee shop and bakery.
Rustic Bakery
| Address | 318 Rustic Rd, North York, ON M6L 1W5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Phone | (416) 245-1919 |
This was definitely worth the visit for my first time at Rustic Bakery. I came in looking for fresh hot dog buns and a baguette, and I’m so glad I did—they were exactly what I was hoping for. The staff at the bakery were also so helpful and friendly.
Of course, I couldn’t leave without grabbing a few extras… I ended up going home with cannoli and some salami sticks too. No regrets!
They have a bit of everything—hot meals, pastries, a café, convenience-style shelves, gelato, and even seating areas. It really feels like a one-stop spot for Italian goods and comfort food.
We ordered the 21" Sfoglia cake from Rustic Bakery for our wedding, topped with fresh blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries, and it was an absolute showstopper!
Not only was the cake stunning in photos, but it tasted incredible as well. We received so many compliments from our guests, and it quickly became one of the highlights of the evening.
One of our favorite moments was adding the sugar to the cake ourselves, it created such a beautiful, interactive experience and made for the perfect picture-perfect moment. It was unique, memorable, and so much fun.
The team at Rustic Bakery was wonderful to work with from start to finish. Communication was easy, efficient, and responsive throughout the entire process. On the wedding day, everything arrived on time and exactly as planned, giving us complete peace of mind.
We couldn't have been happier with our choice. If you're looking for a wedding cake that is both breathtaking and delicious, we highly recommend Rustic Bakery. 10/10!
Thank you for helping make our wedding day so sweet and unforgettable! 🍰
I have tried the cannolis here multiple times and they are hands down some of the best over ever tried. Recently I came here to buy treats for work. I came here at 8am and they already had fresh cannolis and pasteis de natas (Portuguese tarts). My coworkers were floored with how delicious and authentic everything was. The cannoli shells were crunchy and the filling was not too sweet. The staff in the bakery were such a delight and extremely helpful. I live in the west end but will continue to take the drive all the way to rustic just for their pastries.
I bought 30 cannolis (3 different kinds) and 10 pasteis de natas. Each item was $2 each and I spent an overall $80 on this trip. Well worth it!
I ordered my wedding cake from here and have nothing but amazing things to say. Beautiful and delicious cake, it looked exactly as I asked and was delivered on time. Also for the quality, the price is excellent. I also ordered pastries and they were a hit. 100% recommend.
I just wanted to say I really like this bakery it’s really nice. It’s actually my second time coming here. Last time was nice. I like the red Velvet cookie,and biscotti looks amazing. This is a really nice bakery. I highly recommend for people who are in the area. It’s not too far because I went to a store and then I decided to come to this bakery and the girl was really polite and she was very helpful. I feel like it’s a really nice atmosphere overall
Harbord Bakery
| Address | 115 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G7, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 922-5767 |
I had such a wonderful visit to this bakery. The selection of fresh breads and pastries is truly impressive and everything looks absolutely delicious.
I picked up a box of assorted fruit danishes and they were perfection. The flaky pastry paired with the sweet fruit fillings was exactly what I was craving. It is clear that a lot of care goes into the baking here. I will definitely be back to try more of their offerings soon.
I love Harbord Bakery! Just found it on my lunch break from work and now I can’t stop going. They make the besssst cheese danishes and the veggie empanadas and vegan water challah are my fav 🤤 also great veggie salads and pasta!! makes sense why they have been here for 81 years!!
Also the staff are so generous they are always smiling and happy to see you, just feels like a much needed hug when you enter the store.
The stuff here have always been friendly to me and they're so helpful. I love the fact that a small and independently owned because you can see that the owners are doing something right. The big corpse should study them.
Delicious bread, great products and excellent layout. Really well thought out servicescape.
I love, love, love this bakery! Visited today and bought three different loaves of bread, some bagels and a sweet treat. All were fresh and amazing! The staff were so nice too! Looking forward to visiting again!
An institution if you ask me and of the nicest bakeries in Toronto. My partner and I always make the trip when we come over from the East End and are always amazed at how fresh the items are, the range of local products they carry and how efficient the staff are. A staple in the Jewish food scene and I hope they are around for decades more to come!
Circles & Squares Bakery Café (Downtown)
| Address | 77 King St W, Toronto, ON M5K 2A1, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (416) 534-3338 |
I was happy to find out this place is open on weekends too! It’s located on the ground floor of one of the TD towers, so you just need to enter the building and you’ll see it near the security station. I liked their croissant and oat matcha, and they also have a nice variety of options like danishes and croissant sandwiches. I believe they sell some frozen products as well, along with a bit of merch.
They also have a good seating area with a few large tables right outside the café, and it’s nice that there’s easy access to the TD buildings’ outdoor seating area. The only downside for me was that there were no washrooms available on the weekend - apparently, the only washrooms are downstairs, and they’re closed on weekends.
This downtown location of Circles & Squares is a gem in the financial district - perfect for both a morning coffee or an afternoon pick me up. The assortment of pastries they provide is just phenomenal, and include both sweet and savoury options. I think they’re known for their butter tarts as well. I will note though, that their chocolate chip cookie was extremely buttery and salty - don’t know if I got a bad batch but it was very popcorn-forward. However, really enjoyed the other pastries I tried. They also have a selection of food and desserts you can take home in a refrigerated section. For beverages, my favourites are the iced honeycomb latte, rhubarb matcha, and the blackberry yuzu refresher. The baristas here are genuinely so sweet and overall, I’d recommend visiting.
Was super excited to try this place out and use it as a post-Passover breakfast (if you know, you know)!
Everything looked delicious…the hardest part was narrowing down what to get, as I’m just one woman, and can only carry so much.
Had to try the award-winning butter tart, and the baguette looked delicious 😋 + plus a cookie for the hubs, and a coffee cuz why not?!
Love the pink lid with the teal coffee cup aesthetic, and everyone working there was super pleasant.
Loved this location! First time here and everything was delicious. I highly recommend the chocolate almond croissant and the carrot loaf —both were amazing. The drinks were great too; I got an iced latte and really enjoyed it. Can’t wait to come back and try more pastries!
Circles and Squares was a decent place for food and pastries. The atmosphere is the average on what you find in a pastry/coffee shop. While there are a variety of coffee options, I did not purchase any. They also have a few lunch items you can buy.
The menu changes periodically, which means you have to get your favorites before the rotation switches. *Amended to Note: the pastries are delicious, so, if you're on a diet, plan a cheat day.* As far as service, I will say I was disappointed to be standing in line when someone behind the counter took the order of people behind me without attending to me first - but overall it was an okay experience.
Tips for Choosing the Best Bakery in Toronto
While the list above covers the heavy hitters, finding your personal favorite often comes down to understanding a few key indicators of quality. Whether you are a tourist trying to maximize your time or a local looking to branch out, these guidelines will help you distinguish a truly great bakery from a merely average one. Paying attention to these details will elevate your experience and ensure you spend your money on the best possible product.
Look for small-batch production. The best bakeries often sell out by mid-afternoon. If a shop has a fully stocked case at 5 PM, it sometimes means they prioritize volume over freshness. Don’t be afraid to ask what time the morning bake comes out of the oven.
Check the lamination. If you are buying a croissant or pastry, look at the interior structure. You want to see a honeycomb pattern of open, airy holes. If the pastry looks bready or dense on the inside, the butter was likely too warm during the folding process.
Prioritize butter quality. Great pastry requires high-fat European-style butter. If a bakery is cutting costs on butter, you will taste it immediately in the mouthfeel and the aftertaste. A quality pastry should leave a clean, rich flavor, not a greasy film.
Don’t ignore the savory menu. A bakery that puts effort into its bread and savory items, like quiches or sandwiches, often has stronger technical skills than one that relies solely on sugar and frosting. The savory side reveals a mastery of fermentation and seasoning.
Ask about the flour. Many top-tier Toronto bakeries are now milling their own grain or sourcing from local Ontario farmers. Bakeries that care about the provenance of their flour tend to care about every other step of the process.
Toronto’s bakery landscape is constantly shifting, with new talent emerging and established favorites refining their craft year after year. The beauty of this scene is that there is no single "best" bakery for everyone; the right choice depends on whether you value a crusty rye, a flaky pastry, or a perfectly spiced seasonal tart. Use this guide as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to wander into a small shop on a side street—the next great loaf is often found where you least expect it.
The common thread among all the establishments featured here is a commitment to the craft. In a world of shortcuts and frozen dough, these bakers stand out because they respect the process. Supporting them not only guarantees you a better breakfast, but it also helps keep the city’s food culture vibrant, diverse, and delicious for years to come.
