Charmaine Sweets — Restaurant in Toronto

I stumbled upon Charmaine's Sweets during the pandemic. Charmaine is devoted to her shop, and it's clear that everything she creates is infused with a bit of herself and a whole lot of love. I particularly fell in love with her sourdough loaves. Toronto is filled with excellent bakeries that all sell great sourdough. Even so, Charmaine's bread has the edge over all of them.

Firstly they're delicious. They have a beautiful soft and fluffy inside instead of being heavy and dense and are enveloped with a gorgeous crust that contrasts the interior. Perfect alongside stews, pasta, whatever or straight up as sandwiches. They are also available with a crust covered in seeds making for a scrumptious side alongside a bowl of soup or salad.

Secondly shape. There is no waste with these breads. At a time when green bins are flowing over, I'm mindful of limiting my organic waste. They are baked, so you can slice uniform pieces from one end to the other. Too many sourdoughs are round, thick and high, which doesn't permit consistent slices for sandwiches.

Thirdly they last. The other sourdoughs I've purchased have become very hard after a day or so. Charmaine's can last up to five days, although in our house, they typically vanish after two. Even so, there were times we had a bit left after several days, and it was still fantastic, lending itself beautifully to be toasted and slathered with avocado, scape salt and olive oil or chopped up and cooked as delicious croutons.

Lastly, they are vegan for anyone who is on a plant-based diet. Anytime our granddaughter visits, she asks for a slice of Charmaine's bread covered with butter and jam. For a fussy toddler that is a testament all unto itself.

Charmaine's other baked goods are equally impressive. Her danishes are gorgeous. Fresh, crispy, and not wet, as some danishes or pastries can be with a lovely fruit topping. Her beignets are wickedly delicious. Her Hala bread makes for mouthwatering French toast. Though soaked in an egg batter, it cooks up fluffy and light.

Too many gorgeous baked goods as well as soups and sandwiches in this fantastic small business located at this unassuming location at 115 Vanderhoof Avenue to speak about. A must-stop for what is the best sourdough bread in...

INCROYABLE! DÉLICIEUX! BRAVO! So gooooood that it will make you speak all sorts of French in no time.

You know a good boulanger when the basic baguette is right. This one is better than right. ELLE EST PARFAITE CETTE BAGUETTE!! You know by the touch. Thiiiiiinest crust that gives a joyous crackling sound under the gentle touch of an eager hand. Crunchy and just the right amount of savory. It's a real baguette and not a loaf in disguise, pretending to be a baguette.

The tarts. THE TARTS! bourbon pecan and butter tarts. My wife does not even like bourbon and she couldn't believe how good it is. I love bourbon and I might quit drinking it straight just to eat more of those bourbon tarts. But the butter tart is decaaaAAAAAAdent. My fav? Eat one of each back to back. You won't regret it (well, ok maybe for 2 seconds and then you won't).

Macarons...OH LA LA LA! These put to shame some of the ones in France. Crumbles in mouth. Thick yet light filling. 2 bite size perfect. They a bit pricey but hey, when it's that good, it's justified. Ppl spend lots more for terrible food. At Charmaine Sweets, not a chance.

Anyways, don't be influenced by the accolades from pros and michelin geniuses. Go taste Charmaine Sweet for yourself. You will not regret it.

And oh, the people there....ILS SONT TROP TOP!

Not much to say about the atmosphere. No fluff, no bull. Places to sit and happily buttered ppl around you. Just right for enjoying the amazing food served here.

(Flip flops displayed are not from there. I know...

✨ My neighborhood gem! ✨

Ever since moving into the area, Charmaine Sweets has quickly become my go-to morning spot for an iced latte and something sweet. Their pastries and treats are not only delicious but clearly made with love and care from the way they’re arranged to the flavors themselves.

Sometimes I’ll treat myself to their prosciutto sandwich (so good!), and I’m always impressed by the quality and freshness. The space itself is charming and polished, with big bright windows, seasonal florals, and an aesthetic that feels both cozy and elegant.

I had the pleasure of meeting Charmaine, the lovely owner, who occasionally pops out to greet guests with a warm smile and a genuine hello. I even got to learn a bit about the café’s story it’s a a kind of passion project brought to life by Charmaine, her husband (who does most of the baking!), and her supportive family. That just made me love it even more.

You can truly feel the heart behind this place. A wonderful local business with high-quality goods and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere I’m so happy it’s in the neighborhood! 💗

Oh, and they have plenty of seating both inside outside and a patio area and although no live animals are allowed inside they always leave a nice doggy dish full of water for the pups...