Free Times Cafe

What is Free Times Cafe? Anchoring College Street just west of Spadina since 1980, Free Times Cafe is a storied Toronto cultural and dining institution run by longtime proprietor Judy Perly. The space unfolds into three distinct areas: a nostalgic, art-filled front bistro, a casual sidewalk patio along College, and a cozy 50-seat back club room built for nightly original folk music, comedy, and poetry.

Free Times Cafe Menu & What to Order The kitchen turns out scratch-made Ashkenazi Jewish and Middle Eastern staples from a strictly peanut-free facility with strong vegan and vegetarian options. You cannot go wrong with the crisp, golden potato latkes served with sour cream and apple sauce, or the brisket latke sliders stacked with tender roasted beef and onions. Pair a hot bowl of chicken matzo ball soup with sweet, lemon-kissed cheese blintzes and wash it down with Ontario craft pints on daily special.

Know Before You Go If you want the legendary Sunday "Bella! Did Ya Eat?" brunch buffet with live Klezmer music, reserve by phone well in advance for either the 11:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. seating. Back-theatre shows enforce a one-item food or drink minimum, while front bistro tables easily accommodate walk-ins. Hop on the 506 Carlton streetcar to Robert Street for quick transit access; note that the kitchen is closed on Mondays.