It’s entrenched in paradox—beginning where Queen meets King and ending where Dundas crosses Bloor – the nexus of the West end. It’s like stepping into another era, a simpler time lacking the bustle of suitcases and cell phones. Yes, ‘tis a strange place filled with small-town wonders. Mostly unscathed by familiar franchises, the denizens are staunch supporters of local, independent industry. It’s heavily concentrated with young families, Polish culture, and all the rest who simply love the surroundings. Welcome to Roncesvalles.

The zoning line between High Park and Parkdale, Roncesvalles Avenue has developed into a one-sided street—all business to the east, all residential and religious institution to the west. Dotted with all the necessary venues for food, drink, entertainment, and shopping, Roncesvalles is like a society unto itself. Unhomogenized, but not yet fallen prey to gentrification, a stroll down this one kilometre stretch discloses a neighbourly ethic that reeks of social and environmental responsibility.

The first stop is not technically on Roncey, but what the heck—it’s still a member of the enclave. Housed in a mellow yellow brick bungalow, Coffee & All That Jazz (72 Howard Park Avenue) is a good way to enjoy a lazy morn. What could be more soothing than the sounds of Billie Holiday or Nat King Cole with a sinless cup of fair-trade gourmet in hand, while pondering or pontificating over the complexities of the universe? It may be hard to choose just one of almost 20 global blends, but that’s just one more reason to return.

Cherry Bomb Coffee (79) proves to be a less lofty visit, as the line is queued all but out the door. If it weren’t for the convergence of patrons, I may have missed the mark. The sole red (cherry coloured, in fact) bomb way high above the picture window is the only emblem that denotes the shop, albeit a bit abstract but nonetheless cool. A pint-sized space with a couple tables and a bar window overlooking the street, Cherry Bomb has an express feel to it—but don’t be bashful about sitting and munching on a fresh cookie. Everybody else is doing it.