the world's largest photography festival is toronto born and raised! CONTACT exhibits throughout the month of may across the city. Enjoy public installations, lectures and artist talks, education programs, numerous social events, and the huge roster of exhibitions, featuring celebrity and high-profile photographers, and many emerging (often local) artists. not to miss!

the most delicious coffee i've ever had in this city. doubly enjoyable because it's fair trade and organic. they also carry a wide range of loose tea. the actual space is tiny but adorable, with a shabby-chic decor, free wireless, and a huge window overlooking college street. a real hipster coffee bar.

a contemporary art centre with a great program, lots of educational series, interesting and varied events. and artist-run!

the toronto photographers workshop. lots of great programs, exhibitions and events go on here. another artist run organization.

ridiculously good

great selection, everything i've ever wanted is pretty much available here. i like the way the store is organized as well. concert tickets sell out fast here though!

amazing and extensive collection of movies, many rare and hard to find, ie. documentary, criterion collection, foreign films, etc. my favourite movie rental store by a long shot. they even have free popcorn, treats and coffee available!!

small and independent presses, a cultural studies section with a wide array of international magazines. well organized. they seriously have everything that's missing at more corporate bookstores.

CHEAP, friendly servers, ecelectic atmosphere, pretty good food. they play good music too- the only time i ever heard american analog set in a public space!!