Northtown Way is the street that nobody knows about. Occupying a space not quite 300 feet across between Yonge Street and Doris Avenue in North York, this road is so small that its name doesn't even show up on Google Maps. In fact, many who have passed by may not even recognize it as a distinct street, instead assuming that it's little more than dead space between several sprawling condominium spaces.
Buried deep (well, as deep as 300 feet can get) inside this street, are a significant number of independent businesses that are impressive in both their diversity and quality. It may fly under the radar, but I personally love Northtown Way. In addition to the interesting points of diversion, this miniscule street also has a roundabout framed by small park benches and plenty of greener in the middle of the street. Nice touch.
Here are some of the places you can check out in Northtown Way:
Sushi Bong
Sushi Bong is extremely well-known around this neighbourhood as the go-to place for cheap and delicious sushi. Despite a name that conjures up activities of questionable legality, it's actually full of G-rated fun for the whole family, and is probably one of the most popular take-out sushi joint around the Yonge and Finch area. Granted, the presentation and quality of ingredients aren't going to win any Michelin awards, but when you can stuff your face with humongous Dynamite Rolls for $10, what else can you ask for?
Kung Fu Duck
No, Disney hasn't released a new martial arts animal movie. Despite its quirky name, this (extremely) small place doesn't have anything to do with self-defense and intense training. It is, in fact, a takeout place to get one of the most popular mainland Chinese snacks: duck neck and duck tongue. They're surprisingly delicious and have a very rich taste, not to mention rather a rare find in Toronto, making this place a must visit, despite its rather odd evening-only hours. From the regular to the spicy variety, these little munchies are consumed en masse with a side of cold beer during picnics and sporting events. A bit like how we view chicken wings in Canada, then.
Domi Cafe
If you're ever in the mood for an authentic Japanese dessert cafe experience, then pay this tiny spot a visit. Specializing in those cute Japanese fish-shaped hot cakes (don't worry, it doesn't contain seafood) and iced treats, this cafe is a great place to munch on some delicious red bean and cream cheese hot cake, topped with their refreshing azuki bean sherbet. Personally speaking, the best part is that these sweet treats do not leave you feeling really heavy, as you probably would following more conventional Western desserts such as cheesecakes or chocolate sundaes. Service is friendly and prompt, and each fish-shaped delicacy will only cost you around $3.
Baharan Pizza and Sandwiches
Bored of Subway's sandwiches and annoyed at the company's ridiculous adverts that feature people saying stuff like "Thank God It's Tuna Day"? Then give Baharan a try. While the name certainly isn't as catchy as its larger sandwich store counterpart, the deals over here are positively drool-worthy. Featuring large sandwiches with a Middle-Eastern twist, it's hard not to love their daily deals, such as the fearsome veal tongue sandwich combo, offered on Tuesdays for under $8. Or a hamburger supreme that positively oozes with cheese for 6 bucks on Wednesdays. The only downside is that it's really mostly a cramped takeout joint
Puppy Chappy
A great place to stop by for dog lovers, this all-in-one dog salon and store provides everything you want to spoil your furry friend. The most interesting part of the store is its half-and-half setup: half of the store is dedicated for the aforementioned grooming services (don't forget the pedicures!), while the other half is where you go to grab various accessories and other doggy goods, ranging from treats to adorable coats and boots. Service is friendly and attentive, assuring you that your best friend is in good hands.
Roll.com
Calling itself a Korean fusion restaurant, this rather spacious (by Northtown Way's standards) restaurant specializes in tteokbokki. Funny spelling and consonant overload aside, this rice cake dish is extremely popular in Korea, and Roll's offering does not disappoint, with its smooth taste, strong flavour, and burning hot spice (should you be a little brave in your dining). The service is pleasant, and the place also serves up a nice assortment of kimbap (Korean sushi rolls) which uniquely different than its Japanese counterpart. The restaurant's name doesn't have anything to do with having their own website, unfortunately, but I'll let that one pass (seriously, try typing it in to your browser).
Wiki Star
This small (and I mean TINY) food stall is a microcosm of Northtown Way: diminutive in size yet densely packed with awesomeness. What may at first glance looks like a cheerful bubble tea place turns out to be a very impressive Taiwanese takeout joint. The food is freshly made to order, and the service is friendly and cheerful. Try the cheap but delicious san bei ji (Taiwanese style chicken on rice), along with the spicy barbeque chicken, each at a paltry sum of $5.99.
Dumpling King
Despite a rather odd-looking logo featuring a mysteriously long-necked Jackie Chan lookalike, there's nothing else puzzling about this small restaurant. A branch of the popular local chain, the restaurant specializes in authentic Chinese dumplings, with more varieties than you can shake a stick at. My personal favourite is the pork and chive dumplings, along with the fragrant lamb and carrot ones. And you can get these tasty morsels in the boiled, steamed, or deep-fried variety, at no more than $6-$7 a pop. What more could you ask for?
Haida Sandwich
Proudly calling itself "the biggest fast food franchise in the Middle East", Haida Sandwich offers you a cacophony of delicious hot sandwiches, pizza, and pizza sandwiches (!) in a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. Try the Haida Hot sandwich (the secrets in the special sauce) for a satisfying foot-long sandwich resplendent with chicken, beef, and delightful morsels of potato sticks. The only downside is that when it gets busy (and it will), service can be a bit slow. On the flip side, it's open until 4 am on weekends.
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Posted by Darren "DKLo" Susilo. He hangs out on the twitter and his own mansion.