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Annex Food Hall: A Perfect Fit For Toronto’s Eclectic Neighbourhood

IMG 2200 e1553617551900
IMG 2200 e1553617551900
Reading Time: 3 minutes

What defines a neighbourhood? Well, it really comes down to two things: the people, and the attitude. People often choose to visit or live in a neighbourhood based on its attitude and outlook. Communities often take a lot of pride in how they view themselves and how they’re viewed by others. This couldn’t be truer than in the Annex, quite possibly one of the most eclectic neighbourhoods in Toronto.

PG Clucks

Taking the Neighbourhood By Storm

Home to a rich assortment of independent eateries and bars, bookstores, record stores and beyond, chain businesses have never really found a home there. This is a defining characteristic of the area and one of the main reasons the Annex Food Hall is a perfect fit. Taking over the space formerly occupied by neighbourhood staple grocery store Superfresh, the folks behind the communal eating space had no intentions of doing anything but complementing the vibe of the neighbourhood by showcasing local vendors.

Dal Moros
Dal Moros
Mean Bao
Mean Bao

Keeping It Local

Having a diverse offering of locally owned and operated businesses was only the tip of the iceberg for this place. The same flooring and paint job remain from the Superfresh days, along with a few other choice appliances from the grocer. Along the walls are vintage photos of the area displaying the Annex’s rich history.

Urban Herbivore
Urban Herbivore

A Great Vibe

The vendors all work a communal prep area as well, adding to the shared feeling that I got as soon as I walked through the door. This has to be the most unpretentious food hall in the city. An abundance of shared seating and large windows offer an amazing dining experience. Add to that a cheerful busser and dining manager. This place runs like a restaurant but feels like a picnic.

El Nahual
El Nahual
Smoked Up Meats
Smoked Up Meats

As far the food is concerned, no matter your palette there is something here for everyone, and a single meal won’t run you more than twenty bucks. It won’t be long before there is a bar on site, offering local beer and signatures cocktails for each vendor.

Here’s a list of what you’ll find:

  • PG Cluck’s – The juiciest fried chicken in the city, hands down.
  • El Nahual – The homemade tortillas are a game changer.
  • Dal Moros – Fresh handmade pasta to die for.
  • Urban Herbivore – Approachable and thoughtfully prepared vegan.
  • Mean Bao – The tofu and mushroom is a stand out.
  • Eat BKK – Way more than pad thai. Try the Khao Soi.
  • Smoked Up Meats – No need for a trip to Montreal for high quality smoked meat.
Eat BKK
Eat BKK

Whether you’re a student looking for inexpensive dining or parents looking to please the kids, Annex Food Hall has got what you’re looking for.

Read more:

  • Toronto Dining Style
  • Where to DINE Now: Bar Sybanne

 

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Written by Stephen Nelson

Stephen Nelson is a hospitality professional with over 10 years of experience. He is a Cicerone certified educator, and knows everything there is to know about craft beer. As a musician and foodie, Stephen is an all around creative person and has experienced food and culture from destinations all over the world.

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