Toronto, Entertainment DistrictFresh on Spadina, a vegan café that ticks all the boxes

Fresh has five innovative vegan cafés across the city, each offering a massive selection of plant-powered dishes: from mouth-watering burritos and burgers; to innovative salads and tacos.

Fresh began twenty years ago, with a mission to prove that a plant-powered diet could be undeniably satisfying, energising and delicious.

From our experience at the Spadina branch, it still takes its mission statement seriously.

The setting

Set on one of Toronto’s main arteries, Spadina, the café is close to the junction of Queen Street West with its cool shops. It’s across the street from instagram magnet Graffiti Alley and hip Kensington Market is a 10 minute walk away.

The fresh juice test

As you enter Fresh, you can’t miss the juice selection. The fridge is stacked with rainbow coloured options in large, recyclable glass bottles. Each one contains 3 lbs or 10 servings of fruit and veg. Plus there’s power shakes, smoothies and kombucha cocktails.

We decided to review the Vitamin C elixir – a beta carotene boost balanced by spicy sweet citrus carrot, orange, lemon, apple and cayenne.

It was one of the best juices we’ve ever had – fresh, not too sweet and with a welcome kick of spice. Next, we tried the Passionfruit Schizandra. It was a mix of cold pressed organic lemon, sparkling mineral water and craft ginger kombucha. It was refreshing and tasty. Schizandra is an adaptogenic berry which boasts anti-inflammatory properties.