Check Out
The Tequila Bookworm at 490 Queen Street West near Augusta is a very funky café with great food, magazines, books and ambience. This is an ideal place to relax, play a game of chess, dominoes or even scrabble, and people-watch. The neighbourhood is an eclectic mix of shops, from the avant-garde to trendy to second-hand which invites exploring.

One of the most interesting bookstores in the city is Abelard's at 519 Queen West. This is a real bookstore (no food, no music, no coffee) with many one-of-a-kind books - both new and antiquarian: definitely for readers and book lovers.

Tip
To check out what's on in entertainment during your stay, get a free copy of NOW magazine available inside many convenience and food places in the city's core and also outside in metal boxes. There are comprehensive listings and critiques on all types of theatre, music, film and clubs. Each Thursday, a new edition of NOW hits the stands.

Questions?
If you want more information about this area you can email the author or check out our North America Insiders page.