Head off the beaten track for coffee, food and shopping in this relaxed neighbourhood in Toronto’s east-end Scarborough community.
You can’t deny how beautiful Toronto is during the winter — especially along the Scarborough Bluffs. After taking in the scenic and snowy views at Bluffer’s Park or the historic sculpture gardens of Guild Park, stop by the quaint and quiet neighbourhood of Birch Cliff for a little warming up.
Sip a hot cup of joe at one of the few neighbourhood coffee shops or grab a hearty meal at one of the many multicultural restaurants situated around the neighbourhood. If you’ve got some time, stop into one of the home goods or vintage boutiques on Kingston Road for a little shopping.
Explore these Birch Cliff shops
Vintage & Antiques
From vintage artwork to antique furniture, you can browse all kinds of incredible second-hand treasures at Vintage & Antiques. Whether you’re into Victorian-style tchotchkes or mid-century modern furniture, you’ll definitely find some well-loved pieces from all decades to bring home with you. 1462 Kingston Rd.
The House & Garden Co.
Shop cozy home decor, beautiful dried botanical arrangements and curated vintage gems at this charming spot housed in a chic two-storey historic building. They’ve been serving the Birch Cliff community for over two decades, and the daughter of the owner owns the café down the street, The Birchcliff. 1660 Kingston Rd.
Luxe Home Décor
Your one-stop shop in Birch Cliff for all things home, including handmade candles, soaps, kitchenware and home decor. You’ll find plenty of Canadian-made goodies at this adorable decor and lifestyle shop, perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself. The owner’s impeccable taste was honed working as a department store buyer for Hudson’s Bay Company. 1434 Kingston Rd.
City Cottage Market
Find all your specialty grocery needs at this small family-run market in Birch Cliff, where everything is sourced locally. From handcrafted hot sauces to coffee beans, there are plenty of incredible products to take home with you as a foodie souvenir of your Toronto visit. If you’re hungry, pick up fresh pastries sourced from local bakeries. 81 Haig Ave.
Warm up to these Birch Cliff coffee shops
The Birchcliff
Get cozy at this rustic coffee shop aptly named after the neighbourhood. You’ll find a range of classic and creative espresso and tea drinks (including non-dairy milk options), perfect for pairing with one of their house-baked pastries. They also serve up brunch and lunch if you’re looking for something heartier. 1680 Kingston Rd.
Ethio Natural Coffee
Coffee hounds should add a quick jaunt east to the neighbouring Crossroads of the Danforth neighbourhood for Ethio Natural Coffee. This charming indie café roasts its Ethiopian-grown Arabica coffee beans in-house daily for all its espresso drinks. Grab some freshly roasted beans to bring home. 3224 Danforth Ave.
Try these local-fave Birch Cliff restaurants
The Quarry Café
You’ll find all-day breakfast and Greek-inspired eats at this long-standing hidden gem in Birch Cliff. From traditional eggs Benedict to decked-out Belgian waffles, there’s an endless selection of breakfast options at this warm and well-loved mom-and-pop shop. If you’re in the mood for Greek instead, treat yourself to one of their massive souvlaki plates. Plus, you eat free on your birthday if you bring three friends! 2560 Gerrard St. E.
The Green Dragon Pub
Indulge in all your favourite staple pub eats at this cozy, low-key spot known for its mouthwatering burgers and hot and saucy chicken wings (some of the best in the city). Dig in, and you’ll definitely get some fire in your belly to warm up from the winter cold! 1032 Kingston Rd.
SISAKET Thai Kitchen
What better way to stay warm than with spicy Pad Thai or Khao Soi noodles? Enjoy all your favourite Thai dishes or try something new at this authentic Thai restaurant in Birch Cliff. It’s a newer spot in the neighbourhood, but locals already love their fresh and delicious food. 1466 Kingston Rd.
ADDA Bengali Cuisine
Warm up to authentic, traditional Bengali cuisine at ADDA, a newer restaurant in nearby Crossroads of the Danforth, owned by spouses. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with some fun neon signs and even a swing inside the restaurant. They've also got a Bengali-style brunch on weekends, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. 3342 Danforth Ave.
Getting to Birch Cliff:
Take the Line 2 Bloor-Danforth subway line to Victoria Park station and catch the 12 Victoria Park Station bus southbound on Victoria Park Avenue, which will head east on Kingston Road. Get off the bus at Kingston Road and Warden Avenue.
