What This new rustic Italian joint, from the guys responsible for Brassaii, is tucked out of sight down an alley in a large industrial space that was formerly a boiler room. Why Under the direction of chef Rob Gentile, whose previous gigs include One, Bymark and North 44º, the daily-changing menu focuses on authentic Italian comfort food like thin-crust pizza, an array of antipasti including an Ontario heirloom tomato salad and for dessert, house-made gelato.

604 King St. W., 416-865-1600, buca.ca

What Brothers Guy and Michael Rubino have reimagined their acclaimed restaurant, Rain (Ame is the Japanese translation of Rain), into a multi-faceted neo-Asian dining experience. Why Diners have the option of eating casually at the sushi counter, comfortably in the lounge while sampling the creative cocktail list (think grape infused vodka with ginger) or more formally in the main dining room. The presentation, from colourful nigiri to Wagyu flat-iron steak, is sublime and the space, though starkly modern, is nonetheless calming and cozy.

19 Mercer St., 416-599-7246, amecuisine.com

What A new shop that showcases handmade pieces and crafts ranging from beautiful prints to handmade ceramics, jewelry and toys. Why In addition to the retail facility, the space also hosts a workshop offering classes for both children and adults. Upcoming workshops include felting mushrooms and penguins – perfect for Christmas ornaments or personalized stocking stuffers.

986 Bathurst St., 416-535-3232, bluebirdhandmade.com

What The candid name is entirely appropriate for this cheery new bakery that takes its product (but not itself) very seriously. Because baked goods are no laughing matter. Why A mural of three giant cupcakes occupies the wall across from the counter, which is filled with the edible version. And the tasty treats don’t stop at cupcakes — savoury options, like a cream cheese and roasted vegetable turnover, are also available.

1561 Dundas St. W., 647-348-5664, omgbakedgoodness.com

What This old-Hollywood-inspired restaurant is the first Toronto venture to pick up on the supper club concept that’s swept Montreal. Why Once a week there is cabaret and Chicago-style jazz dinner theatre, while the rest of the time you can expect a fusion of classic and contemporary jazz in the evenings that morphs into club pop and house as the night wears on. In keeping with the theme, the modern French cuisine is inspired by the menu at Hollywood’s legendary Roosevelt Hotel.

2 Drummond Place, 416-599-9000, therooseveltroom.ca

What Offering Canadian-made tee shirts (they claim it’s “The Perfect T-Shirt”) and other simple staples like cardigans and tanks, Shared is like a Canadian James Perse, with a neutral palette (save for a few printed tees) and classic designs. Why Using Supima cotton exclusively, the product is ultra-soft, resulting in that prized worn-in look. Plus, a whopping 50% of sales are donated directly to local charities selected as per the customers’ choice.

82A Bathurst St., 647-348-3374, weshared.com

What These days, it seems that a neighbourhood just isn’t a neighbourhood without its own gourmet-casual burger shop. Brock Shepherd, capitalizing on the new trend, has transformed his previous venture, the Rice Bar, into a western saloon-inspired Burger Bar, thus admitting Kensington Market into the burger club. Why In keeping with the area’s green scene (the vegan Urban Herbivore is just across the street) Shepherd uses naturally raised organic beef and eco-friendly takeout containers exclusively, hoping to satisfy both the environmentalist and the carnivore.

319 Augusta Ave., 416-922-7423, theburgerbar.ca

What Michael Stadtländer, proprietor of Eigensinn Farm, where he prepares lavish meals cultivated exclusively from the property for small groups, has opened a more conventional, but still decidedly fanciful, restaurant and bakery an hour’s drive from the city in Singhampton. Why If you weren’t willing to drop $275 for the renowned Stadtländer experience, Haisai offers the same quality and some of the intrigue at the slightly more accessible prix fixe of $150. And you won’t have to reserve months in advance (at least not yet). You can also opt for some baked goods and select prepared foods from the bakery open Thursday through Sunday.

794079 Country Rd., Singhampton, 705-445-2748, haisairestaurantbakery.com

What A vibrant new café in Leslieville. Why Arriving just as the cold weather is settling in, the warm space accented by splashes of colour – lime green walls, magenta orchids, multi-coloured throw pillows – will draw you in even before you try Sophie’s homemade sweets, like the delectable lemon tarts and hearty bread pudding. Savoury lunch choices include quiche and assorted sandwiches.

889 Queen St. E., 416-461-0505

What After selling their handmade Peruvian imports at various locations across Toronto, Lady Mosquito has finally moved into its own shop on Queen West. Why The shop brings the colourful culture of South America to Canada. Accessories include boldy-patterned handbags from the Peruvian label PuroCorazon and jewellery from designer Lorena Pestana.

1020 Queen St W., 647-637-9335, ladymosquito.ca