Meet Phil

After over forty years of living in what I consider to be the best city in the world, it's fair to say I've come to know it like the back of my hand.

I've come to be known amongst my friends and acquaintances as the 'go-to' person for where to find whatever it is you're looking for - services, restaurants, unique boutiques and product sources.

This blog is my way of sharing the best the city has to offer. My focus will be on independently owned businesses with fantastic customer service.

I'd love to hear your feedback if you've had personal experiences with any of the venues discussed, and hear from you if you have a business that you feel deserves a mention!

This photo shows one of my favourite spots in the city - backing onto the iconic Flatiron building, the fountain has been used in many commercials and as a bathing site for many of the homeless in the downtown core :)

Occasionally, somebody with a sense of humour throws dish detergent into the fountain sending clouds of foamy bubbles down Front Street.

This neighbourhood is about to see a considerable amount of change, what with the new L Tower Condo project by Castlepoint Developments and the just started launch for Berczy Park Condos by Concert Properties- this will be an area to live, work and play.

Home to some very unique shops such as the best Christmas store in the city - The Christmas Market owned by Ted Genova, this business has been going strong for more than 30 years! His store imports some truly unique christmas and seasonal gifts, definitely worth the trip downtown just to see what he has in stock.

Some other notables in the neighbourhood - Nicholas Hoare bookstore, The Sultan's Tent and Le Papillon (restaurants), and of course Saturdays at the St Lawrence Market, on Sunday the Antique Market in St Lawrence North Market full to the brim with Treasures, Trash and collectables.

If the area is unfamiliar take a stroll down here on any Saturday or Sunday in the summer the outdoor patios, and busy street life make this a very unique spot in Toronto.