Masterminds Toy Store on Mount Pleasant in Toronto

Luckily Toys'r'Us is not the only toy store around the GTA even though when you have a baby it's a must-go to place with all the merchandise and stuff they carry for every need.
I was looking for a ride-on toy for my little Achille and after I went to Toys'r'Us on Yonge and Eglinton where I remained disappointed I thought of Masterminds at 639 Mount Pleasant (south of Eglinton) and I found something different:) They didn't have a large selection but the 2 or 3 that they had were smart ride-ons and for a good price for value.
I quite liked that store as it is not too big but still big enough and even though I am not familiar with all toys for all ages yet I would assume they have something for every budget and every kid, from learning toys to books and from outdoor to indoor activities. Service is great, people are friendly and helpful.
If you are willing to give your email address they will send you coupons, discounts and newsletters. Not bad with Christmas coming up.
The store is full of toys everywhere but you still have enough to move around with your stroller and one good thing if you want to drive there: perpendicular streets have free parking for 1 hour between 8am and 6pm.
I just found out from their website that they have several locations and for those stormy days you can even buy online. One location might be closer to you so why not take a look before you go crazy with your x-mas shopping??
And it's always an additional way to pick new ideas for Santa:)
Go to http://www.mastermindtoys.com/store/default.asp?rd=871729434&MSCSProfile=X3P7EB333UKF8P4A2XQXGJQTP92C1077 for details and other store locations.

Body Worlds Exhibition at Ontario Science Centre in Toronto

Obviously this is not a children-oriented exhibition but babies don't care and for those in age of understanding the human body I guess it is a good educational way to spend a sunday afternoon and actually I was amazed by how many children were either listening to their parents trying to explain what they know about the human body or watching those lifeless bodies. The exhibition was first in Toronto approximatively 3 years ago and they came back for a few months with the Story of the Heart exhibition. I won't say much about the exhibition itself except one little thing: if you can't stand ER on TV then it might not be for you as it is tough on emotions:) but extremely interesting. The Ontario Science Centre is huge, displaying many exhibitions at the same time for all audiences and I guess you want to purchase a membership if you want to enjoy them all. With a baby your time is probably limited so based on Baby's schedule, you may try it at night as you will get special fares for the Body Worlds Exhibition only. Fee is $27 per person for the day and the museum is stroller friendly. They claim to have an online ticket booking service but it never worked for us so you may want to try to book over the phone as some of the times (I think they let people in every 30 minutes) might be already sold out when you get there. Washrooms on the main floor are well equiped with a changing station and a nursery room. Elevators can take you to the different levels. More info about the Body Worlds at http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/bodyworlds/default.asphttp://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/bodyworlds/default.asp
Just a quick piece of advice: don't eat anything too heavy before you go and see the Body Worlds Exhibition:)
We made the trip to the Ontario Science Centre for the Body Worlds Exhibition but I am sure they have many other really interesting events so please check their calendar at http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/whatson/default.asp

Patisserie la Cigogne on Bayview in Toronto

Are you a young mom with sweet food craving? I know the right place for you, it is at 1626 Bayview Avenue, south of Eglinton East. For less than $5 they have amazing pastries and they taste just as good as the french ones. I had a chocolate hazelnut cake and it was just what I needed.. A little bit of chocolate for magnesium, hazelnut for fibers and the rest for pure pleasure... From typical french pasrties to viennoiseries such as croissants aux amandes or pains au chocolat or even classical baguette, food is fresh and home made. And all the quiches, sandwiches and crepes make you come back for more too...
The store is big enough for strollers, the atmosphere is relaxing with classical music and service is okay and baby friendly. Not sure about a changing station though.
Because it is so close to Moms to be and More, the baby store on Bayview Avenue, I am sure you will have an occasion to first go and then you won't need any other excuses to go back except that it is sooooo good:)
Take a look at the pictures and then you'll know what I am talking about: http://patisserielacigogne.com/who_we_are.html. And even if your little ones are not ready for pastries yet they can still enjoy the smell:) Poor little guys...

Riverdale Farm in Old Cabbagetown Toronto

Have your kids ever seen cows and sheeps else where than on the shelf of a supermarket? Well here is your chance to show what they look like for real:) The Riverdale Farm in Old Cabbagetown is absolutely baby and kid friendly and it is an amazing place for an "educative" walk. Located 3 blocks east of Parliament Street along Winchester Street and 3 blocks north of Gerrard Street East along Sumach Street, the farm opens daily, 9:00am to 5:00pm year long. Only the lower east gate closes, December 1 st to February 28th.

The farm duties go from egg collection to goat milking or horse grooming and you will be able to enjoy cow milking every day at 10.30am.
They also have a farmer's market (in front of the farm) every Tuesday, rain or shine 3pm to 7pm during the growing season (May to October).
In the summertime come and enjoy a picnic outside the farm's west gate and when you're done with the animals you can walk down along the pathway to the Riverdale Park. Believe me, after 2 hours spent with Mother Nature it's hard to get back to street noises and ambulances:)
And all that right in the city:) For more details about the farm, its programs, the farmer's market or any other info, please go the Friends of Riverdale Farm's website at http://www.friendsofriverdalefarm.com/index.htm or to the city's website at http://www.toronto.ca/parks/riverdalefarm.htm.
Enjoy!

Riverdale Park in Old Cabbagetown Toronto

If you live in the city and have a baby you are probably experiencing the same issue as we are: what to do on weekends that we haven't already done tons of times? You don't want to stay home all day because after half an hour playing Peekaboo you feel like you are getting stupid and you don't want to go shopping either because you were taught that sundays afternoon are a family time:)
So what else? Well you could go for a nice walk in one ot the Toronto' parks and Riverdale Park is one of them. Located in the Old Cabbagetown district it goes from Riverdale farm down to the Don River and then (unfortunately) along the DVP. The path going both north and south is okay and wide enough for strollers even though you will mostly see joggers or bikers. Try not to go by yourself because you will have to go down lots of stairs before reaching the pathway. If you walk north at some point you will distance yourself from the DVP and I believe you could walk for at least 10 kms. If you wanted to go south you would end up at the Distillery district.
FYI that path is part of the Toronto Discovery Walk.
It is an alternative to Queen's Park. However, even if you probably get the lights from the DVP, I would not feel safe to go too late at night or when it gets dark.
In the summertime don't bother going too far, just stop anywhere in the park and enjoy a picnic or a nice afternoon in the sun.
More details on wikipedia at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riverdale_Park_(Toronto)

Grapefruit Moon Cafe in the Toronto Annex district

If you don't know about the place I don't think you will ever go there by chance but now that I am telling you about it you may want to check it out. It is between a coffee shop, a dinner and a bistro which makes it quite unique. I haven't had the chance to check if they have a changing table in the washrooms but they are breastfeeding friendly as per the sign on their door and the lady we suspected to be the owner is helpful and friendly. Even though we were just 2 adults we were given a table for 4 and lot of space for the stroller and they have a pretty nice patio too.
Not so baby friendly might be the rock'n roll music, not too loud though.
Food is good and they claim to use local products which gives us The excuse for those delicious blueberry pancakes or french toasts.
It is located at 968 Bathurst Street in Toronto (Queen West and Bathurst) and the kitchen is open from am to 10pm.
Their website is still under construction at http://www.grapefruitmoon.ca/ but you can check on dine.to at http://www.dine.to/grapefruitmoon

Baby Trunk Show at the Distillery in Toronto

I know this is a past event (Nov, 6-7th) but because it occurs every year I thought it might be good to say a few words about this baby show. First of all I liked that it took place at the Distillery district and that it was not too too big. There were probaby no more than 50 exhibitors but they claim to sell what you cannot find in stores and I must say that they had nice stuff, including a hairdresser that could come right to your place (haircuts on wheels) for your little one and your husband, clothing, toys, photographs and jewellery. Entrance was $7 which was getting you a 10% discount at the Cafe Uno right across the show, samples, coupons, a participation to a contest for baby products and last but not least a donation to Sick Kids Hospitals. No need to say that they had a changing station in the women's washrooms with wipes and diapers. They also had set up a few tables for parents to relax or feed their babies and a child care service from Kids & Company was available for free.
And because you don't need the full day to go through the exhibition, what a nice opportunity to (re) visit the Distillery and have a bite in one of the restaurants or little cafes there.
Having said that, you may want to bookmark their website for next year http://www.childrenstrunkshow.com/home/

Vanity Fair Portraits at the ROM in Toronto

Vanity Fair Portraits brings together a star-studded array of almost 150 iconic photographs from both its vintage period and modern periods. The exhibition is divided into two parts, 1913-36, the magazine’s early period, and 1983 to the present. This glamorous photographic history of portraiture features such legends as Madonna, Tom Cruise, Bette Davis, Ernest Hemingway, Louis Armstrong and Cary Grant.
That's for the exhibition, it's really worth the $22 at the entrance and it's on until January 3, 2010. Now as for the baby stuff the ROM is a baby friendly museum. They have strollers that you can borrow (not recommended for infants I would say as they almost are like carts), you can keep your stroller and/or baby carrier all the way and they have elevators to every floor. Washrooms downstairs are equiped with changing stations (not sure they have washrooms on each floor). The cafeteria in the basement is spacious and quiet and Baby can be fed in a peaceful environement.
I would, I guess, recommend weekdays vs weekends. I went there over lunchtime on a Thursday and it was really not busy.
For more info on the exhibition, please go to the ROM website at http://www.rom.on.ca/exhibitions/special/vanityfair/exhibition.php

Rosehill Reservoir Park in Toronto

How nice it would be to escape the city sometimes:) Well, last Sunday we haven't quite left the city, however we went for a long walk in the middle of the trees and Mother Nature. If you live downtown and don't want to get stuck in the traffic to High Park you might be intersted to know about Rosehill Reservoir. The Rosehill Reservoir overlooks Rosedale and goes all the way down to St Clair Avenue west of Mount Pleasant.
The huge, flat grass plateau is a good place for families and children with a playground and four swings. We spent a little bit of time there and really enjoyed the sun going down. If you are in the mood for hiking you may go down on the trails from the plateau but be aware that there might be some stairs at some point so might not be a bad idea to take your baby carrier that day. The scenery is quite nice and peaceful up there and if it's time for feeding you can always head back to a cafe or coffee shop on Yonge Street. I am not good at directions so if you want to find out more about that "discovery walk" you can rely on that route from Toronto Heritage at http://www.heritagetoronto.org/discover-toronto/map/walk/town-park-avenue-road-rosehill-reservoir.
Definitely a good spot for a family day and get some fresh air.

Richtree Restaurants at College Park Toronto

Of course Richtree is not the most exciting place in the city but when the weather is crap and you don't feel like you want to go anywhere too far or you just don't want to think about anything complicated Richtree does the job:) You can go anytime, either for breakfast, lunch or coffee, I don't think it ever gets crowded and there is plenty of space for strollers. What I liked about the one at College Park, located just outside the food court (at least you don't get that annoying onion ring smell) is the tables on the "fake" patio.... You get to see the day light which is priceless in a mall and it almost feels like you are having a drink outside:)
However they have no private washrooms so if you have to change your little one you will have to go the public washrooms on the same level where there is no changing tables (a small shelf right at the entrance can be used as a changing station though).
These days I am not sure we want to spend too much time in malls or other indoor public spaces but once all this is over Richtree might be a place to remember on a snow storm day...
For locations in Toronto, menu or photo gallery go to their website at http://www.richtree.ca/

Roof Lounge at the Hyatt Downtown Toronto

You remember that age where you were nervous about not getting into the latest trendy night club? That happened to my husband and I yesterday when we wanted to go for a martini at the Roof Lounge, located on the 18th floor of the Toronto Park Hyatt... We couldn't even get to the bar and we were stopped on the main floor because it was passed 4pm and children are allowed in th elounge from noon to 4pm ONLY. So when you are a parent you are compeled not to be fancy and get back home after 4pm where you can drink as many martinis as you want:) So not much to say about that place, sorry guys! But don't waste your time going there with your little monkey:) Too bad it is warm and cosy in there!!! So if you can get rid of your baby for one crazy night more info at http://www.parktoronto.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/entertainment/lounges/index.jsp#4225737

Lil' Bean n' Green Cafe & Play in Toronto

A trendy AND mommy friendly place in Toronto? Yes, it does exist, I went there earlier this week and it's quite nice. Lot of space to park strollers, choice of food and pastries made of fresh and local products and basic baby equipement such as high chairs and changing tables. Not to mention the wonderful setup and decoration made of vintage furniture (if it's not, that's what it looks like). The atmosphere is almost like at home except that you don't have to do the dishes after you had your coffee! And if you forgot Baby's food, no worries: they sell baby food too.
And for the little ones, there is a playroom at the back where they can play while Mommy is watching and enjoying girls talk with her girlfriends, unless Mommy wants to join the little beans group:) No shoes allowed and the playing area is protected from the sitting area by a fence. All sorts of toys from puppets to balls, from a slide to a little house on the prairie or even books and learning toys. I stayed there for a couple of hours and meanwhile a lady came to clean up and sanitize the toys. Good job!
No need to say that everybody is friendly there. We got there early in the afternoon and it got busy from around 4.30pm but the good thing, if they are old enough, is that kids get to play together.
The only downside for core downtown or west end moms is that Lil' Bean n' Green is located 1133 Queen Street East (between Greenwood and Carlaw Avenues). So you can either take the streetcar if you're comfortable or drive (parking is free in the side streets).
It looks like their website is still under construction: http://www.lilbeanandgreen.com/. Definitely a good address to check out. I heard there is a similar place by High Park so I will keep you posted soon... Stay tuned:)

Zoe's Bakery in Toronto

Achille and I went for coffee this morning at the Zoe's Bakery at 548 King Street West downtown Toronto and we quite liked it. Actually we don't drink coffee but tea and the green Jasmine tea is average price and average quality but always good:) 3 rooms with lot of space between the tables which makes it quite easy to move around and park your stroller. We were there together with 10 other couples moms/babies/strollers and we were all fine with enough space. Floor is concrete so definitely not the most comfortable if you want to put your baby down but I guess you can work something out with a thin mat (from your diaper bag). High chairs are available. No changing table but the waitress offered me to change Achille in the meeting room (his dad loved the idea that he got changed in a meeting room... Dads are always dads...)
Lots of food and pastries to choose from and it gets pretty busy around lunch time. Altough pretty quiet in the morning.
Last thing I want to mention: they have a few steps to get down to the room but at least you really feel like you deserve your sticky bun:)
In my opinion, it is worth a try. More details on their onsite and catering menus at http://www.zoesbakerycafe.ca/

Terroni Restaurant on Adelaide in Toronto

This week has been pretty standard so I don't have much to say except that I went for a late lunch at Terroni at 57 Adelaide Street East (at Church). If you want to go for italian food Terroni is probably a good address but then I would recommend that location as opposed to the one on Queen Street West (the other one I know out of the 3 that they run in Toronto) because there is much more space for you to park your stroller. However be aware of the 2 little steps to get into the restaurant and the 2 other ones to get to the main room. Not a big deal as the staff is friendly and eager to help. I was there after 2.30pm and it was not busy at all but if you go during rush hours it can be pretty crowded and loud so maybe not the best spot for your baby. Additional note: they have nice leather high chairs:) and the main room is organized with a few booths at the back convenient to let your little one play on the bench, beside you. Details on locations and menu at http://www.terroni.ca/. Viva Italia!!

Foggy Dew Irish Pub

Yesterday with a bunch of people from the Papas and Mamas meetup group I went to the Foggy Dew Irish Pub at 803 King St. West in Toronto. Get together was scheduled for 3.30pm and at that time of the day the place seems to be pretty quiet and not too crowded. It is large enough to park lots of strollers and they even have smaller rooms that you can reserve for your private party or event. Drinks and food are what you can expect. It almost felt like a cosy and family environment to me so I was not suprised to see, when I looked at their website, that they are part of the Toronto's best Irish pub family and that they also have a kids' menu. And last but not least appetizers cost $5 each between 4pm and 7pm on Mondays.
A good address to get that flavour of Ireland and for those addicted to pubs it is probably a good place to get your fix!!
More details at http://www.foggydew.ca/index-2.html

Coffee Culture on College Street

We had made other plans for that afternoon but with babies you never know what's next and my friend 's baby would not want to wake up that day so we had to change our plans and we ended up just meeting for coffee. Kids were hungry, it was a rainy day so we didn't bother and just went to Coffee Culture at 409 College Street (at Bathurst). To me it looks like any other coffee shop chains but as far as I can remember tea is way cheaper than in another famous american brand:) and as per my friend coffee is decent. I don't think they have a changing table but the room is organized with booths and hence it is pretty easy to be discreet if you have to change your baby and they do have high chairs. A couple of strollers fit easily around a booth without being too much on the way. Afternoons seem to be quiet and staff is friendly. Maybe we were just lucky that day but other customers were really baby friendly too. Not a must but a nice place to go on a rainy or crappy day. Website for Canada at http://www.coffeeculture.ca/canada/index-5.html

Movies at Strollers and Stars

I posted about Movies for Mommies but Toronto has another movie program from Cineplex for parents ; The theatre in Toronto is Silvercity located at Yonge and Eglinton. Same as Movies for Mommies with complimentary baby food, a changing table outside the theatre and lower sound. No strollers allowed in the theatre but you can leave it downstairs by the ticket office, they have the kids dedicated room with lot of space for many many strollers:) Movies are played every wednesday at Sylvercity. For the program and other participating theatres in the GTA, you can check their website at http://www.cineplex.com/Theatres/StarsAndStrollers.aspx#whatsPlaying.
If you are interested in the Yonge/Eglinton location, you want to allow yourself plenty of time as it is not that easy to access. If you have a stroller, make sure you will enter the building on Eglinton West, there's an elevator to the 2nd floor. If you enter on Yonge Street, you are going to be stuck with escalators not wide enough for strollers:)
Big theatre for the moms program, big screen. In other words, everything you need to have a great time and if you want to reward your baby after a quiet and peaceful show you can always go to Toys'r Us on the same floor:)
Enjoy the show!

MomCafe Toronto inaugural session

I attended this morning the inaugural event of MomCafe in Toronto. MomCafe provides a forum to connect women through meetings, seminars and internet-based communication tools and they had their 1st meeting this morning at One Up, 130 Dundas Street West. The purpose of this group, dedicated to working moms or stay-home moms, is either to share experiences or network with other moms or just get out of the house doing something good to your brain:) This morning we had the chance to listen to 2 speakers or I'd rather say 2 wonder women: Caroline Connell, Editor-in-chief for Today's Parent Magazine and Sarah Morgenstern, co-founder and publisher for SavvyMom Media. They basically do it all and that was good to hear in person that it's possible:)
It is also encouraging to see that even though you are a mom you can still participate in good conversation:)
Event ran from 9.30 to 11.30am, for non-members cost was $35 + tax and child care was provided for an additional $10 from Kids & Company. Breakfast complimentary.
Annual membership to MomCafe is $99 and you get access to online tools, valuable resources, new connections and discounts on upcoming events.
Not sure when the next event is scheduled for in Toronto but they look pretty active in Calgary and Vancouver where they first launched.
More details about MomCafe at: http://www.momcafe.net/home

Swimming Class at Trinity Recreation Centre

We made it, we took our 1st swimming lesson last monday at the recreation centre by the Trinity Bellwoods park (Queen Street West, west of Barthust) and we both enjoyed it.
The class is 30 minutes long in a small pool where you can easily sit down on steps or get on your knees while holding your baby. The group is fairly small with I would say 7 or 8 couples parents/baby. The class starts off with a song and then you get to learn how to hold your baby in the water. After that it's your time to play with your baby and get him/her comfortable in the water, you can walk around the pool, pick toys for your little one to play with or just chat with other parents. If you just did you hair you may not want to do it but otherwise you can soak your baby into the water, I was a little bit scared at first but it looks like Achille liked it so who cares about my hair?! Babies in the group are a few months to 2 years old.
I take the lessons from 10.15 to 10.45am on Mondays but they also have the Guardian class (that's how they call the class for babies) from 10.15 to 10.45am on Fridays and from 7.00 to 7.30pm on Mondays.
Price is affordable because part of the city kids program. It's only $30 for 9 sessions.
It was lot of fun, Achille loved it and the instructor is really nice . However I didn't find the water was really warm and when you get out of the water changing rooms are not warm either... My sessions go through the fall so at that point I am a little bit concerned...
FYI Little Swimmers and a bathing suit are fine.

Movies for Mommies

It looks like it is becoming a real phenomenon. First launched in Canada a few years back Movies for Mommies programs are now popular among parents from all over the world including France (ok for now it is just in Paris but we're getting there:)
The concept is based on recent movies (I just saw Love Happens with Jennifer Aniston yesterday and next week they will be playing Fame) that are being played one afternoon every week and you can go with your baby.
Sound is lower than usual, changing tables and wipes are available and tickets are $8.50 with complimentary baby food. And if you are a movie addict, make sure you get the fidelity card: one movie free for 6 movies purchased.
Downtown Toronto has 2 locations: one at the Beaches and one in front of the St Lawrence Market.
The Rainbow Cinema at 80 Front Street is a good place to go, they have an elevator for your stroller but, considering the success, the theatre might be a little bit small. Lot of space to park your stroller though.
The Fox Cinema at 2235 Queen Street East is an old theater with no elevator and stairs from the sidewalk up to the theater and down to the washrooms... So you might want to get a baby carrier or ask for extra help from other moms but I thought you should be aware of that little detail:). However they will let you bring your stroller in so that Baby can take a nap and Mommy can enjoy the movie.
Now that summer is over it might get really busy but it is a good way to stay connected to the world and the every-day life. When about the TIFF for Mommies??

YMCA Metro Central - fitness club and child minding service

For those of you who have read this blog before you might remember the post about the YMCA Family Development Centre. This time I want to tell you about the fitness centre and the child minding service. I went last Monday to try out the spinning class and I had to leave my little Achille to the baby sitting service.
The 45 minute spinning class was not long and intense enough for me, I wanna really sweat when I go to the gym but I also get my workout carrying Achille around... and as for the child minding service, it's a pretty good deal. $4.26 an hour or $28 for 7 hours and kids get to play or get some sleep in a big playroom with toys, activities and cribs for the little ones. No TV which I really liked:)

Child minding is open 7 days a week. However it is open 5-8pm mondays, wednesdays and fridays only.
Staff and volunteer are friendly and reassuring, with experience and they will make you feel relaxed and cool the 1st time you drop off your baby. If necessary they can change diapers, warm up a bottle and they always want to know where you gonna be in the building in case of a problem. Time is limited to 2 hours but would you exercise for more than 2 hours anyways?
I want to try out other classes and the pool before joigning the club as it is quite of a budget (around $60 per month + child minding) but a good gym with child care downtown, what other options do I have? They also packages with special prices for the whole family.

There's plenty of fitness classes to choose from as well as fitness equipment and a large variety of sports, including squash, swimming or badminton. For info on the activities and schedule go to http://www.ymcatoronto.org/en/files/PDF/hfr_program_schedules/metro_program_fall09.pdf

Meetup.com

As dynamic moms we are all looking for something to do in the city or someone to talk to (beside our little one) and when we live downtown it is not that easy. I guess many families live outside Toronto so when it comes to meeting downtown moms they are rare:) I have been trying to meet new people through different activities and I found out that the meetup.com website has more than 40 moms groups in the GTA but only a very few downtown. I just joined a group in the West End and I should be meeting with the group later on this week but based on your location, hobbies and lifestyle there might be a group for you. The website is easy to use, you enter your interests (such as "moms"), country and postal code and the system will populate a list of groups for you. Then just pick the one you want and because many of those groups are private, you need to apply and answer a couple of questions about yourself. It's free. Once you are approved you can review the activities and other members' profile. If you are interested in one of the activities just say YES... As simple as that, that might be a good way to meet new people and if you forget about activities you will be emailed reminders. When I first came to Toronto, I met some really good friends through a meetup group so why not again this time?

Start now, go to http://www.meetup.com/topics/

Fresh vegetarian restaurant

Long time no talk about restaurants:) No worries, I'm back on track.
Last weekend for the second time in a short period of time my family and I (meaning my husband, our little one and myself) went to Fresh on Queen West (passed the Trinity Bellwoods park). This place is about veggie food and you would have to trust them as you won't know half of the dishes and vegetables on the menu. I would think dishes are asian inspired but I am not even sure... All I know is that food is delicious and it is good to try out new flavours sometimes.
They have a nice patio, with space for strollers and the good or bad thing for our little ones is that the patio gets lot of sun exposure. Now that summer is almost over I am not sure about the room inside, it looks nice but it might be tough to park your stroller, although they have several high chairs available.
They serve food all day long which is priceless if your little one decided for a change that he would have the longest nap ever:)
Last but not least they have a changing station on the main floor so you don't have to carry your stroller down the stairs.
More info on their website at http://www.freshrestaurants.ca/locations2.asp. They also have 2 other locations in the city that I don't know (yet).

Baby Salsa

You want to know how to have fun with your baby and work out at the same time?
Baby salsa is the answer....
I am not a big fan of the caribbean music and rythms but when you learn how to salsa with your baby it is a lot of fun. It is a 45 minutes class, you need a baby carrier such as a Baby Bjorn, a lot of energy and you're good to go. When I first attended the class I had my jeans and a pair of sneakers on but you would be more comfortable with your workout outfit as you might be sweating:) The class starts with a warmup (and believe me squats with your baby pulling your shoulders down are worse than a body pump class), then goes on to the dancing and finishes up with a cooldown. The older and bigger your baby the better the workout:)
First class is free and then you can buy a package of 6 sessions for $110. Many locations in Toronto. For information about the fall schedule and locations, please go to http://www.torontosalsababies.com/schedule.php
FYI the location on Bloor Street is in the United Church but there is lot of space for strollers, feeding or diaper changing.

YMCA Family Development Centre

You may know about the YMCA or I should probaby say the "Y"... Anyways I didn't know about them until I have my little Achille and I am glad I found out about them as they have great activities for kids - from newborn to pre-schoolers.
The Y I'm talking about is called the Metro-Central YMCA and is located at 15 Breadalbane Street downtown Toronto (Yonge and South of Wellesley) but if you are looking for one around the GTA, you can go to their website at http://www.ymcatoronto.org/en/find-ymca/toronto/index.html.
When I joined, Achille was only 6 weeks old and we both enjoyed getting out of the house even though he was sleeping 20 hours a day:) We started with the baby circle class, a combination of soft lullabies singing and storytelling, at 10am on Fridays and we then joined the lively "singing class" at 10am on Wednesdays. This one-hour class is about the instructor, parents and kids singing lullabies while playing the guitar (I like to think the teacher could be Phoebe in Friends, the tv show!!). After a few weeks of me experiencing those lullabies at home I was amazed to see a smile on Achille's little face when I would pronounce even just a few words of those songs.
We recently joined the 10.30am Monday class even more lively and active but still based on music, songs and instruments. This class might not be for infants as you have to move around but definitely from a few months old.

The Y Family Development Centre has lot of activities that I haven't been able to try out yet, from gardening to cooking classes, from swimming to gym classes and lots of others.
And compared to any other activities for parents and babies it is quite affordable: $180 a year per family with unlimited access to classes and playrooms.
When I am in Toronto, I try not to miss the class as it is a good way for Achille to be educated to music and sounds and a good way for me to connect with other parents or care givers.

Anything I should add to convince you? Staff is really friendly and it is open 7 days a week. For more info on prices and location, you can go to their webpage at http://www.ymcatoronto.org/en/families/child-care-programs/family-dev-center/index.html

Shall I meet you there next week?

La Redoute Baby Clothing

I know that Toronto has great addresses for baby clothing but I want to share with you my experience as a french mommy in Canada so here is another address for you but this one is online exclusively. You create your account at http://www.laredoute.com/ and you're good to go! This first paper and then online catalogue always existed in France and you can get your stuff delivered at home within 24 hours (note: for deliveries in Canada it might take up to 3 or 4 weeks). They have anything you've been looking for from clothing to indoor and outdoor furniture, from beauty accessories to toys and in terms of baby and kids clothing they have a large selection for any age, any styles, any occasions and any budgets.
They present lots of different brands with new collections twice a year and I don't know anyone who ever purchased an item from la Redoute with no discount or special promotions. Once you have your account they will be sending you coupons and special offers all the time.... Prices are great but when it comes to sales and other great deals, they are the best!! My sister loves it and now I see how you can get addicted!
Your purchases will be sent over from France so you will have to pay extra for the postage but the good thing is that you won't be charged for French taxes (and most of the time not for Canadian taxes either unless you have bad luck with customs).
Because you are paying for postage you may want to order with a friend and have your shipment delivered at one same address.
I know it's nice to be able to touch the fabric or see what you are getting in real but believe me, it's worth it... maybe not as much as it used to with the CAD $ / Euros conversion but it will change again eventually:)
If you want more insight about la Redoute I would compare it with the Canadian Tire catalogue: if it wasn't printed anymore we would go on strike!!

H&M Kids and Baby Clothing

When you go to H&M you have to know what you want or you are so patient that you deserve a prize!! Having said that if your objective is clear and you know that you are looking for something for your baby, then it's a great place for basics. Prices, as per adults, are great and they carry items for any age.
I would tend to say that collections are more sporty and casual with lots of t-shirts and sweaters but they also have really cute outfits for girls. I got a white sun hat for my little Achille and it was half the price of the same sun hat from Baby Gap so definitely good deals there.
H&M is everywhere in the GTA but the only places I know with the Baby and Kids collections are Eaton Centre and Scarborough Town Centre (but I am sure there are other ones too).
Everybody knows about H&M and what you know about them for adults is what you can expect for kids: trendy, casual and good deals.
That's all!

Zara Baby Clothing

I was not planning on posting on baby clothing but a couple of my friends didn't know about Zara Baby and Zara Kids so I guess I have no choice but sharing that with you...
So yes, Zara has clothes for babies, including small babies. However, Zara Mini (that's how they call the line for small babies) is available at Yorkdale only and it's really worth a trip. I guess it's like everywhere else the section for girls is twice as big as the one for boys but you can find nice stuff for both and you could almost dress your baby up like yourself!!! without paying the high price. Clothes are affordable there and I find the sizing pretty accurate.
You will be happy to know that not only do they have clothes but they also have accessories such as shoes and bathing suits.
In Toronto, the stores at Eaton Centre and Yorkdale have stuff for babies but nor Queen Street West or Bloor Street (and remember Yorkdale has free parking so whatever you will be saving on parking you can spend it on clothes!!). Yorkdale also has a pretty cool nursing room with sofas.
I try not to go there too often because I would buy something different each time and we all agree to say that most of the time babies don't need anything!!!
Items are average prices (you may pay $30 for pants and $10/$20 for a shirt, sorry not sure about prices for girls stuff) and they get new stuff all the time.
In other words, highly recommended!!

le Select Bistro

Cocorico!!! You may not know what that means and that's fine but French people (I am part of it and I am not sure if it's a good thing or not) use that Cocorico to say "hey! Look, this is cool and this is french" and I would like to use that little word for le Select Bistro, a typical french brasserie located at 432 Wellington street (at Spadina). I believe it is one of those old places in Toronto but they moved into this new location only a few years back. You will never find it by chance but apparently everybody in town knows about it....
Anyways, le Select Bistro is a nice place for brunches (dinner is also very good but I haven't experienced with a baby yet). You get the french atmosphere (the good side of it!!), french food and a beautiful patio. If you read some of my previous articles, including the post about Sassafraz, you will notice that I am a big fan of croque monsieur and the one at the Le Select Bistro is dellliicciioouuss... It comes with a salad or french fries I believe.
The cold mixed meats platter with ham, pates and french "cornichons" has a real flavour of France...
Dishes are nothing fancy, they are just traditional french dishes that French people like to share between friends when they want to have a good time. The bouillabaisse and choucroute are also good choices depending if you are looking at calories or.... not (but definitely not for brunch)!!
And prices are just right and actually pretty cheap compared to other french restaurants.
And as for the mommy friendly side of it I am not sure as I didn't have to use any baby stuff but I know for sure that the staff is really friendly.
A good address you may want to share with your girlfriends. For more info, you can visit their website at http://www.leselect.com/ but you should note that they are several steps to get down to the washrooms. On the other side, it is located in a tiny quiet street, they have a few free parking spots and lot of space on the patio and the dining room to accomodate your stroller(s).

Jacadi... Baby Clothing

This little phrase is a well known game for kids in France. For the purpose of the game it would become Jacques a dit... (Jacques has said) and you would be able to add any actions at the end of it, such as Enfile tes chaussettes (meaning put on your socks). Kids just love it. But Jacadi is also a french brand for baby clothing and that one, moms just love it:)
When I was pregnant I found out that Toronto has 2 Jacadi stores (one downtown in the Hazelton/Whole foods mall on Avenue Road and one at Bayview Village North of Sheppard) and I was so excited that we went baby shopping there plenty of times. They mostly have clothes from new borns to 12 year old kids but also accessories (bathing suits, hats, shoes, socks, etc...)and furniture for baby rooms. The collections are more of a classic style and colors are no more than light blue, pink, white, beige and for "mad" Jacadi fans a little bit of red!! As per the bedding and the furniture, you pick your collection and you get anything you need or want (vocabulary is so rich that we can use 2 different words for the same definition:) from that same collection.
One downside: prices. They are pretty high compared to other brands so you may want to go there for a special occasion or when they have sales.
Both locations offer free parking and if you spend more than $1000 (that sounds like a lot of money but cribs, strollers or car seats are expensive anywhere) you get a $50 coupon.
Something I like about that store is the large choice of clothes they carry for boys.
And to wrap it up, one trick: if you are pregnant and you don't know what you're having, you can purchase anything you want in advance from 2 different collections as long as prices are the same, pay for it (obviously) and they will keep items from those 2 collections on stock for you (that's what we did with the Chateau collection and it worked out pretty well) and when your little wonder is finally here, you can just go and pick up your stuff.
Unfortunately you cannot buy online in Canada but you can always take a look at the catalogue at http://solution.poptract.fr/Jacadi/120000600059/109/ and then drop by for a great shopping experience.
I don't want to be mean but when I go back home (in France) I get the same stuff for 50% less!!! Hope you will like it anyways!

Hair of the Dog Neighborhood Pub in the Village

No surprise that Hair of the Dog at Church and Maitland is not the ideal place for us, mommies. The patio is great with some shade and the menu offers lot of variety. However this is a smoking patio and it can be pretty busy and lively at night. During the day it is still pretty busy so definitely a great place to go but when you're planning to go with your girlfriends, ask your husband to babysit... I am sure he will agree and if you need to convince him just tell him it is a simple neighborhood pub in the Village and that they have affordable prices. And if you still want to go with your stroller, prepare yourself not to get much space for it but other customers are always willing to help and baby friendly. See menu and more info at http://www.hairofthedogpub.ca/.
The restaurant room is pretty dark so again it might not be the right place for a baby.

Lusso Restaurant and Lounge on Harbourfront Toronto

How great it must be to enjoy a nice hot summer when we're on mat leave! Oh right we're in summer but where is the sun then? Anyways the weather is depressing enough so let's talk about those great patios where we could go if there was some sun... Lusso, owned by the Fornaio chain, is one of them. You won't miss it as it is, in my opinion, the prettiest patio on Harbourfront and it offers a beautiful view on Toronto islands, the ferries and the lake. Again not the ideal place for babies but the staff will be happy to help. However those nice tables and benches on the upper patio are not really appropriate for strollers so you will have to stay on the lower deck.
As per the food, lots to choose from, including healthy dishes like a tomato with vegetarian stuffing. The caprese (tomatoes + mozzarella) is nothing italian but the chowder is well served with real shrimps and seafood.
And if you go on a chilly day they have those pink blankets to cover you up and keep you warm. Toronto may not have the best harbour front in the world and everybody knows that but Lusso is a good place for lunch or cocktails and dream, about those past days where we could spend hours and hours on a patio, before your baby wakes up and reminds you that those days are over!!
I am not sure if they have their own website yet but you can take a look at their sister website http://www.ilfornello.com/

Sassafraz Restaurant in Yorkville Toronto

Sassafraz is well known in the heart of Yorkville for whatever you want: brunch, lunch, dinner or martinis. But their patio on Cumberland street is the right spot to see and to be seen! I am not going to say that the place is baby friendly as there are steps everywhere and no changing table but the staff definitely is. They will be happy to accomodate and make some space for your stroller (the little corner on the west end of their patio is pretty convenient). There might be a little bit of a line up but you're in Yorkville so that's the least you can expect:) I didn't have dinner in a long time there but martinis and drinks are always well prepared and if you go by yourself cars and people walking by will keep you busy.
If you want to go there for brunch I would highly recommend the croque monsieur. It is not on the menu anymore but you can ask and I am sure they will do for it. They did for me. The other nice thing about the brunch on Sundays is the jazz band (in the dining room though) but that was before the economic downturn so I am not sure how often they have it now:).
Their website is at http://www.sassafraz.ca/Sassafraz.aspx.
Sit back, relax. You're in Yorkville so put on your high heels and sunglasses...

Le Provence Restaurant in Cabbagetown Toronto

If you have a tough baby Le Provence might not be the best place to go to but otherwise this restaurant located in Cabbagetown is amazingly quiet and peaceful and the food is delicious. They have a big nice patio for hot summer days and evenings and if you should go in the wintertime the room is comfortable and cozy with lot of white painting and bright colors. Not too many tables which makes a good spot for a "family" night out.

Surprisingly prices are fairly low and what you pay for what you get is excellent. They have a A la Carte menu but the three course menu is much more attractive as you can pick anything you want from the appetizers, entrees and desserts for I believe $37, including foie gras if you like it and a delicious tarte tatin or creme brulee.
Provence is a region located in the south east of France but you will find dishes and inspirations from all over the country. The only downside I would say is that you have to pay for the french baguette but it is fresh and still warm from the oven!!

They also have a pretty big wine list, including french wines, but my husband could tell you much more than me about wines: I drink it but don't get to choose it!!!
They also have a brunch on Sundays but the dining experience is much better..., in my humble opinion.
Their website is at http://www.provencerestaurant.com/ and I can't help but thinking this is a nice place as my husband and I went there for dinner when I told him I was pregnant and I couldn't have any of the foie gras....

Afternoon Tea at the Four Seasons

Some of you might think that I spent the last 24 hours at the Four Seasons exclusively trying out all their eating options but actually I have been catching up on all the places I went to since my little Achille was born, meaning 3.5 months ago.
So let's talk about the afternoon tea at the Four Seasons. First of all, it is really not my favourite... Even though I like the classy setup with white tablecloth and nice tableware I must say that you feel a little in the hallway as the room is in the main lobby up two or three steps.
Regarding food, they open at 12.30 but make sure you had a solid breakfast before you go as your stomach (and your taste buds) might feel frustrated... However, those little sandwiches, scones with butter or a lemon spread (tastes like a lemon tart!!) and pastries are sooo good. That's the issue really: because everything is good you would want more but the only thing you can get a refill for is hot water for your tea! But if you are really hungry when you're done with your afteroon tea, you can always order a real big sandwich or a steak!
As for babies, you can read the post about the brunch at the Four Seasons but I would say that the afternoon tea is not the most baby friendly of all, except that we went there other guests were really friendly and nice to the baby.
View pictures and the menu at http://www.fourseasons.com/toronto/dining/lobby_bar.html

Brunch at the Four Seasons

The Four Seasons in Toronto is probably a great place to stay at - maybe we should book a room one day for a romantic night and to work on our little wonder's brothers and sisters!!! - but in the meantime it is a wonderful place for brunch. As you may know the hotel features 3 different restaurants: Truffles, Avenue and Studio Cafe.

I want to start with Avenue on the main floor. I am not sure what the bar is like the rest of the week but on Sundays it turns out to be an amazing brunch. From appetizers such as smoked salmon or a plate of cheeses and cold cuts to entrees with meats and pasta they have a large selection of everything! And desserts, what could I tell about you about their desserts? If you want something good for you, you can go with fresh fruit but if you want heavy stuff you can choose one (or two or three or...) of their mini cakes. But my favourite is the pancakes with looooot of maple syrup.
The good think for babies at the Avenue restaurant is that they have large couches where you could babble and "play" with your little one. There is lot of space for strollers and both the Manager and the staff are sure baby friendly. Just one downside: washrooms are upstairs (and escalators are too narrow for strollers) and there is no changing table but a marble counter at the back can very well do the job and if needed, cleaning ladies, are nice and helpful.

Now let's talk about Truffles. There is not much to add compared to Avenue except that they are open for brunch on Mother's Day and New Year only. The price also is different maybe because they are open for special occasions only , maybe because the room is on the 20th something floor overlooking the city and maybe because the buffet offers sushis but am I ready to pay double the price I would pay at Avenue for sushis and a bowl of soy sauce??? I am not sure.... and maybe for the price difference I could get a nice gift for that Mother's Day!!???
Same thing for the washrooms: lot of space but no changing table and one last thing: if you want to try it out don't forget to dress up. And I am still looking for the truffles to be served on the buffet...

Now regarding Studio Cafe, I haven't been there yet. All I know is that there is no buffet but a A la Carte menu. You can always take a look at their webpage at http://www.fourseasons.com/toronto/dining/studio_cafe.html

You now know almost everything about brunching at the Four Seasons so pick any occasion and make it an excuse to go....
For pictures and more info, please go to their website at http://www.fourseasons.com/toronto/dining/avenue.html for Avenue and http://www.fourseasons.com/toronto/dining/truffles.html for Truffles

Holt's Cafe on Bloor

We would all love to go shopping to Holt Renfrew every other week and that new baby that we wanted so much doesn't even give us that excuse to do such a crazy thing as they don't have a Kids section... Damned!
Anyways, shopping is like pastries we can always look, right?!! So if you find yourself walking around Holt Renfrew on Bloor Street you may want to check out their cafe on the mezzanine.
Their tartines (large slices of bread imported several times a week from the famous french Poilane bakery) are just delicious, some of them even have the healthy label and all tartines come with a salad. Other dishes, such as soup of the day, entrees and desserts are also available. And you'll see how proud the staff is when they explain the different kinds of peppers that they have for you to try with your dish.... Staff is really friendly and if you want to relax and enjoy yourself, ask to be seated in the lounge area. The atmosphere and the setup of the restaurant are, no surprise, trendy (a look but just a look at the bootle of water is worth it).
I have never tried their desserts but if I trust what they look like, they must be really good too!
As for babies, the couch in the lounge area is really comfortable, there is space for strollers (although you may want to avoid rush hours) and the good thing is that you have access to the store washrooms: if you've never been before, just go there for a visit, they're worth it, particularly the Mother's Room with a sofa, a changing table, a sink and soft wipes for your baby's bom.
Their website located at http://www.holtrenfrew.com/holts/pages/services/services.dot?language_id=1&url=16644&sf=msf is not really attractive but who cares? That's food that matters. And I experienced sitting there for a long time with my little Achille: we all loved it, the staff, Achille and myself... In other words, a good address to go to with your baby.

Le Pain Quotidien

For those who like the French baguette and the atmosphere of a Parigian bakery, Le Pain Quotidien is probably THE place for you (even though I must reluctantly admit that the chain is originally from Belgium). Food is good, there's a lot to choose from but whatever you will be picking from the menu, either salted or sweet items, I would highly recommend that you try out the bread basket with jams and spreads (in particular the Noisella one made of praline and, believe it or not there is no chocolate in it so it can't be bad for you, right??!!).
Le Pain Quotidien is not only a great place for us, but it is also baby friendly: staff is friendly and pleased to help you, washrooms are pretty big with a changing table, they have chairs for babies and if you are in a "I want to socialize with adults" mood (I assume that happens to you too!!), ask for the communal table and its corner by the window as there will be lot of space for your stroller and it can also be a good way to discuss with other guests around that big wooden table. As you can see, this is one of the "must go there" places.
For further info, check out their website at http://www.lepainquotidien.ca/ and if I have convinced you, they have 2 locations in Toronto: 508 Eglinton Avenue West and 18 Yorkville Avenue.
Enjoy!