DOWNTOWN. This three-story establishment is an old Victorian house which has been converted into a café frequented by a diverse crowd. The downstairs bar has a hip atmosphere, and the rooftop patio draws a young crowd. Whichever spot you choose to settle down in, rich yet inexpensive desserts will prove to be quite satisfying. If your appetite is a little bigger, you'll also find surprisingly good appetizers, pastas, sandwiches and soups.

DOWNTOWN. Chef Marc Thuet has quite a reputation in culinary circles, and his stylish restaurant is the ideal atmosphere in which to enjoy his classic French technique. Start with an hors d'oeuvre such as rabbit pâté with shrimp and asparagus, or pan-seared foie gras with rhubarb and strawberry coulis. If a second course is in order, the ricotta gnocchi with porcinis and poached bone marrow is divine. Carnivores will love the selection of main courses, like beef tenderloin with braised pork knuckles and Dungeness crab. The house's wine suggestions are spot on, but the wine list certainly bears exploring.

EAST TORONTO. This bright and friendly spot is a great choice for breakfast or brunch. Feast on French-style pastries, fluffy omelets, crave-able spinach quiche, and what are widely regarded as some of the best baguettes in the city. Be prepared for a wait on the weekends ­ the place is popular and often packed.

DOWNTOWN. Brasaii's contemporary gray and white decor takes its cue from the 1920s-era black and white photographic prints that line the walls. When combined with fantastic traditional French cuisine, the effect is a stylish dining experience that just may make you forget you're in Toronto. Starters include all the traditional favorites: escargots in garlic butter, onion soup, steak tartare, and mussels. Featured main dishes run the gamut from steak frites to salade Nicoise with seared tuna. Daily specials are reliably good as well, and desserts are sublime ­ try chocolate ginger truffle tart with caramelized mangos.

DOWNTOWN. As one of the Fairmont Royal York's six dining rooms, EPIC is guaranteed to impress, whether at breakfast or brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner. All meals are lavishly prepared by a skilled chef, and menus change frequently to capitalize on seasonal fare. Innovative dishes combine the best ingredients in exciting combinations for amazing outcomes. Enjoy attentive, first-rate service and delectable food ­ this is the way life was meant to be.