My first pick for this space–The Black Camel–while not a chain or right downtown, wasn’t a particularly challenging suggestion. They do great sandwiches, are widely well-reviewed, and consistently sell out. Hell, they’re across from Rosedale station.
This week we’re going deeper and squeezing all the value we can from that single fare. The subway system is dotted with several in-station bakeries but I think one of the best one is located at Islington Station.
Islington is one of those TTC outposts on the outer edges of the system that was built with lots of space to serve the rush-hour bulge of passengers. In this case, that includes a large underground bus-bay concourse, which features two businesses selling baked goods. It pays to ignore the first and walk a bit further for Gourmet Bakery and Delicatessen.
The full-length counter features the usual suspects from the world of cookies and multi-coloured sprinkle doughnuts. Skip these and head for the offerings selected from Toronto’s various ethnic communities.
Particularly, the large, triangular baklava is flecked with pistachios and is better than many I had on my search for Toronto’s ultimate baklava. They’re also available in walnut and almond versions.
The real value goldmine for traveling Etobians (the preferred name for those hailing from Etobicoke) who don’t have time for a proper meal is the large vegetarian empanada for under three dollars. Heavy on the potatoes but with just the right amount of spice to give interest and heat. (I feel sorry for the woman behind the counter who must tire of asking a thousand times if customers want theirs heated–in the, control your gasps, microwave.)
The freezer case offers Jamaican patties by the dozen for those looking for (an admittedly not-very-healthy) dinner for the kids or refreshment for the next Starcraft II party.
The offerings aren’t the absolute best you can find in their respective category in Toronto. For those, you should look to Lawrence East or Kensington.
However, the location is convenient for a large number of riders; for some selections, quality and taste are priorities; and prices are reasonable and not reflective of their captive audience. I hope I can find more hidden gems like this one.
Gourmet opens with the subway at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM on weekdays. It’s 8 to 8 on Saturdays and 9 to 8 on Sundays.
Gourmet Bakery & Delicatessen
Inside the bus concourse at Islington station
Metropasser – Black Camel
The WORKS Gourmet Burger Bistro Opens in Oakville
Gourmet Burger Company
2011 Gourmet Food and Wine Expo, win passes.
Great post, David! I grew up in this neighbourhood (Islington is my ‘home’ station) and never thought to try these tasty treats. Next time I visit the folks, I sure will! Similarly, I’ve heard great things about the Bathurst Station bakery. Gives new meaning to the concept of ‘subway fare’ I suppose?