Downtown Adventure

The other morning I had a wonderful time touring the streets of downtown Sudbury! I had a lovely visit to many locally owned shops and restaurants. It was a chance to familiarize myself with the atmosphere and the friendly faces behind the counter.

My first stop was La Boulangerie du Village on Durham Street. The umbrellas, tables and outside decor were very charming and introduced an inviting atmosphere. Upon entering I was welcomed by the two employees behind the counter. There were a few tables and stools facing the street window; the perfect place to sit, eat and enjoy the activity of the street corner. Along the back chalkboard wall, the menu was written, revealing the many different types of sandwiches, desserts and coffee that are offered. The owner Rob, was a nice, friendly man, who didn't forget to mention the wonderful Bed & Breakfast he runs upstairs from La Boulagerie.

The next stop was Fromagerie Elgin. It's a new addition to the downtown area and I was excited to check it out! I was greeted by one of the welcoming owners, Hazel. She introduced me to their menu of unique cheese platters, coffee, tea, wine and desserts. The atmosphere was so relaxing and it really made me wish I had time to sit down with friends and enjoy some wine and cheese. There was calming music softly playing in the background and it felt like a great place to unwind and mingle with friends and family.

I made my way back out to the street and headed for Stella’s Café on Cedar Street. This was my favourite stop of the morning! The sign outside advertises ‘Fine and Friendly Service’, and that is definitely true at Stella’s. Upon entering, I was greeted with big smiles from all four people in the back of the café. Stella herself was in the little kitchen behind the counter rolling dough. Carmela, her assistant, had just sat down to enjoy a nice cup of coffee with her husband and another dedicated customer was also seated at a table beside them. This lady didn’t hesitate to let me know this was the only restaurant in town that she ate at because the food is so great! Everyone was eager to chat me up about anything and everything about me and the city. It was wonderful to be surrounded by such lovely, enthusiastic people. Stella generously offered me a delicious butter tart which was homemade just like all the other food available. Stella’s serves European and Canadian food and it’s prepared for dine-in, take-out or catering. It was a true joy to meet Stella and her dedicated crew because not only was it a nice visit but I have heard nothing but great things from family and friends that eat there as well.

I set out for my next two destinations, Bead Diva and Mimi & Lulu. Both of these craft stores are new to the downtown area and are quickly becoming a popular destination amongst local crafters. Bead Diva is located at the end of Durham Street across from the Rainbow Center. I saw tones of beads of all types, string, wire, jewellery making tools and books, pendants and handcrafted jewelry for sale. I picked up a brochure listing the type of classes they offer Thursday nights from 6:30-8:30pm but you can also check out their website at http://www.beaddiva.ca/ for more information. At Mimi & Lulu on Cedar Street the set up was similar to Bead Diva except there was a wider range of craft materials and designs for sale. I saw purses, key chains, place mats, oven mitts, aprons, t-shirts and many more unique items for sale. All of the designs are handcrafted and most of the materials are sold in the store. Right when I walked in, I noticed the wall on the right hand side was lined with shelves full of material. As I progressed to the back of the studio I came across their large selection of unique beads. This is definitely a local business I would love to support! I’m looking into taking one of their evening workshops and I’ve added Mimi & Lulu on facebook. You may also check out their website at http://www.mimilulu.ca/.

I then set out for Bertolo’s Homeade Foods on Durham Street, across from the YMCA. I had never been inside the little restaurant before, but it was a pleasant surprise to be greeted with a warm smile and a rush of delicious aroma. The place is very small with only one table for two and a ledge facing the window, where you can take a seat and enjoy the street. Natalie, the owner, was a very friendly and upbeat lady! I took a look at the menu and there were many things that caught my eye. The roasted vegetable and goat cheese sandwich, the fresh porchetta roast sandwich, the feta cheese and dried cranberry salad and the homemade meat sauce to go all looked delicious. I’m glad I had a chance to stop by and discover the appetizing food Bertolo’s had to offer.

I passed Artists on Elgin and Greg Taylor Photography on my way to the last stop on my downtown adventure. Both of these shops are well worth a visit and display amazing artwork and photography by local artists. I love stopping by and browsing the shops. At Greg Taylor Photography I always walk out feeling proud that I come from Sudbury because all the photos capture the true beauty of the north. I finally make it into Infusion Tea & Tisanes on Elgin Street. Multiple times, I’ve enjoyed a wonderful glass of tea here, and I’d have to rate it as my favourite tea spot. There is such a wide selection that I’ve never had the same flavor twice! The wall across from the counter is covered in jars of flavoured tea leaves and each flavour sounds better than the next. The restaurant is uniquely decorated and I feel like I’m entering a little thai palace. This is a great place to go with friends or family to chat over a hot or cold cup of tea!

I hope that everyone visiting and living in Sudbury takes the time to go on their own downtown adventure! It is a great way to spend a few hours of your day and you’ll feel more satisfied that Sudbury is an awesome city!