A Toronto city-wide pastry tour on your Zygg ebike

Chances are, you already have a favourite, neighbourhood påtisserie. Your “regular”...a place for crusty, fresh bread, or a sweet-treat to go with your Flat-White that they make just right. What about the rest of the city?  Zygg has put together a must-try list of spots to entice you to take a ride, far and wide, and explore new areas by bike. Clustered by region for the perfect day trip, we suggest a route, some hot locales, and list their particulars with a few specialties. If you cycle via e-bike, no area is too far, nor too tough a terrain to tackle, no matter where your journey begins & ends. Zygg’s fleet of ebikes have terrific range & power to take you there.

Using the guidance of resources like the City of Toronto’s Cycling Network Map, plan ahead, so you can get to your destination at your own, safe pace and meander, checking out other attractions.  Or, use Google-Maps with the cycling filter on. With the new (and upcoming) “lite navigation” mode, cruising via two wheels has never been so easy.

Get kitted up with layers, a backpack, panniers or a basket, and embrace the crisp winter ambience as you amass your stash of baked-goods.

MIDTOWN:

From points east, west, north and south, all routes will lead you to “Pastry Mecca”: Midtown!

Start on Mount Pleasant Road, just north of Davisville, then loop over to Bayview Avenue.

Jules Cafe & Patisserie - JulesCafe.ca

617 Mount Pleasant Road

Baguettes, Quiche, Croque-Monsieur. Their Chocolate Almond Croissants and Beignets are super-decadent.

Thobors - thobors.ca

627 Mount Pleasant Road

Breads, Pastries, Chocolates and Savory Lunches: The Pink Praline or Caramel Brioche is amazing.

Flaky Tart - flakytart.com

711 Mount Pleasant Road

Old-school “home baking” : Cookies, Tarts, Pies, Squares and Special Event Cakes. Butter-tarts and Brownies are the way to go.

Bomou Artisanal Bakery- bomou.ca

1636 Bayview Avenue

Try the Fougasse (Olive & Rosemary Bread), Bon Bons, Pistachio Croissants.

La Cigogne - patisserielacigogne.com

1626 Bayview Avenue

A huge selection of Assorted Macarons, Madeleines and Truffles are oh, so pretty.

Rahier - rahierpatisserie.com

1586 Bayview Avenue

Exquisite Miniatures, Mousse Cakes, Tarts and European Cookies by the wrapped bag.

EPI Bakehouse - epibakehouse.com

1526 Bayview Avenue

Fantastic Loaves, Boules, Baguettes. Their Sourdough is legendary.

CORKTOWN, RIVERSIDE, LESLIEVILLE

Roselle Desserts - roselleto.com

362 King Street East

Whole Cakes : Valrhona Chocolate Mousse Cake, Banana Cream Pie Eclairs are wow. Their take-away, “cake-cups” are easy to transport.

Brick Street Bakery - brickstreetbakery.com

27 Trinity Street (The Distillery District)

Savoury Treats - Sausage Rolls, Ham & Cheese Rolls/ Spinach & Feta Rolls, Cornish Pasties, Steak n’ Stout Pie, Chicken Tarragon Pie, Buttertarts, Portuguese Custards, Scones

The Sweet Escape Patisserie - thesweetescapedistillery.com

24 Tank House Lane, (The Distillery District)

A destination, custom-order place for Specialty Cakes, Cupcakes and Festive Cookies.

Blackbird Baking Co. -  blackbirdbakingco.com

635 Queen Street East (they have another outpost in Kensington Market)

Sourdough and Multigrain Baguettes, Flatbreads and Focaccia

St. John’s Bakery - stjohnsbakery.com

153 Broadview Avenue

Organic Bread made in the French method; the Walnut Raisin Sourdough is addictive.

Bonjour Brioche - thesweetescapedistillery.com

812 Queen St East

Flans, Savoury Tarts, (like Salmon/Gruyere Quiche or Pissaladiere with carmelized onion, tomatoes, anchovies) Brioche Royale, Lemon Twists.

THE BEACHES

Bobette & Belle

Bobbette and Belle - bobbetteandbelle.com

1121 Queen Street East

Haute Cakes, Pies, Tortes, Cookies, Bars and yummy Cupcakes!

Zane Patisserie and Boulangerie - zanepatisserie.com

1842 Queen St East

Fantastic Tartes, Pâtisseries and Quiche.

Petite Trianon - petitetrianon.com

2020 Queen Street East

A Parisian Tea House with Scones, Croissants, Tea-Sandwiches and more.

Somun Superstar - somunsuperstar.com

998 Kingston Road

Bosnian Wood Fired Bread and some of the best reviewed Sandwiches in the city. Try their Woodfired Pizza on the weekends.

EAST YORK, SCARBOROUGH, DON VALLEY NORTH

mon K Patisseries - monkpatisserie.ca

1040 Coxwell Ave 

Seasonal Pastries and Holiday Cakes. Order cakes in advance of the week you will pick up through their website.

Sultan of Samosa - sultanofsamosas.com

1677 O’Connor Drive

Sad that their Corktown locale has closed, however, you still have a chance to snack on some of the “Best Samosa In The World”. 10 types of Samosa - - great to buy for parties! Their Tandoori Chicken and Ten Vegetables are superb!

Daan Go Pastry Lab

Patisserie Royale - patisserieroyale.com

1415 Kennedy Road

Traditional Middle Eastern baked goods. Their assortment of Cookies and Baklava are made with the finests pistachios, nuts and grains.

Daan Go Pastry Lab - daango.com

3380 Midland Ave

Chef Christopher Sui is the newest and youngest Master Chef Canada.  This place is full of awesome, eye-candy: Signature Cakes, Character Macarons, and Desserts, like a Hello Kitty inspired “Tira Meow-Su”.

Allan’s Pastry Shop - allanspastry.webs.com

3056 Don Mills Road (Peanut Plaza)

Hands down the best Patties in the city: Beef, Chicken, Curry Goat, and Vegetarian. One of the only places that makes Jamaican “Hardo” Bread.

KENSINGTON MARKET, CHINATOWN

Little Pebbles - little-pebbles.com

160 Baldwin Street

Japanese Pastry : Strawberry Daifuku Mochi, Black Sesame Chiffon Cake.

Blackbird Bread - blackbirdbakingco.com

172 Baldwin Street 

You always think “bread” with Blackbird, however, they make a mean cream-puff.

The Night Baker

Bunner’s Bake Shop - bunners.ca

244 Augusta Avenue (also in The Junction) 

100 % Vegan, 100% Gluten Free. Always a great welcome for  Holidays and special occasions.

The Night Baker - thenightbaker.com

825 College Street (also at 405 Danforth)

Cookies galore, by the single or the box.

TRINITY BELLWOODS, PARKDALE, LIBERTY VILLAGE

Terroni Sud Forno - terroni.com

716 Queen Street West

Italian Breakfast Pastries, Bombalone (filled donuts), Panetteria, Panini, Pizza, Pasta to go. 

Dlish Cupcakes - dlishcupcakes.com

833 Queen Street West

Cupcakes, cupcakes, cupcakes! They have a days-of-the-week chart profiling flavours on offer.

Brodflour Urban Mill & Bakery

Hadrien Verrier Patisserie - hadrienpatisserie.ca

1418 Dundas St West

Classic, “French-Master” baking. Also available at The Evergreen Brickworks Saturday Market.

Fantail - fantail.biz

333 Roncesvalles

Sweet and Savoury Croissants, Brioches, Scones and an Apple Olive Oil Cake to die for...

Brodflour Urban Mill and Bakery - brodflour.com

8 Pardee (Liberty Village)

They source their own Heritage, Canadian Grains, mill it themselves in their certified organic stone mill to preserve flavour and nutrients, then bake into wholesome goods.

BLOOR WEST VILLAGE, THE KINGSWAY, ETOBICOKE

Hot Oven Bakery - hotovenbakery.ca

2226 Bloor Street West, 2974 Bloor Street West

They have it all: Great Bread, Pâtisseries, Cakes, Home-style Baked Goods.

Hot Oven Bakery

The Cake Smith - thecakesmithinc.com

2352 Bloor West

Specialty Cakes by order: perfect for birthdays, graduations, weddings, and key events.

The Pie Commission - piecommission.com

927 The Queensway

Savoury Pies - (Steak n’ Ale, Meat Pies etc.) - A supplier to many pubs and restos in the city, it is a great place to stock-up (fresh or frozen) for your own home-kitchen or cottage/chalet.

Tatsu’s Bread - tatsusbread.com

3180 Lakeshore Blvd. 

Daily Bread, Sweets and awesome, made-or-order Sandwiches.

Fleur Du Jour

And, any day of the week, your e-bike will make that hill (Bathurst, Christie, Spadina Road, Avenue Road...) no sweat, and easy to dash out to get that last craving or something for that impromptu brunch or dinner party. Check out this gem on ST. CLAIR WEST:

Fleur du Jour - fleurdujour.ca

603 St. Clair West

Their individual Viennoiseries and Pâtisseries are sublime.

Let us know which were your favourite-finds, or ones we have left out. Tag them at #LOCALPASTRY #BIKETO

Cycling Health & Longevity: It’s A Real Thing!

Many choose cycling as a low-carbon, economical and fun mode of travel. From 1996-2014, Statistics’ Canada noted a doubling in cycling rates throughout the country, (up to 41% or 12 million people) with some centres boasting that 20% of commuters travelled to work by bike or e-bike. As cycling has increased at an exponential rate in the last few years, (cycling in Toronto, alone, is up by 147%), there was a prime opportunity to conduct sound research into the overall health benefits to riders. Here are some eye-opening, real advantages, to your physical and mental well-being. Several international studies are cited below:

1.Improved Immune System

The thymus organ is responsible for the body’s immune cells, called “T Cells”. After our teens, the thymus shrinks and our immune system declines by 2-3% each year. By middle age, the thymus is down to 15% of its maximum size, forcing our body to rely on the antibodies it has gained from fighting germs over the years. A study by King’s College, London entitled “Aging Cell” (2018), tracked 125 long distance cyclists of advanced years and found their immune systems were robust because they were producing as many T Cells as a person in their 20s. Regular physical activity, like cycling, can help the body flush out bacteria from the lungs and airways reducing the chance of cold and flu taking hold. A rise in body temperature while exercising also prevents bacteria from growing & fights infection. 

2. Boosts Mental Health

During these challenging times (especially heading into the winter months), many of us may suffer from anxiety or boredom from loss of social interaction. Getting away from our screens, and heading out into the sun to get some fresh air, exercise & Vitamin D, is the way to go. Socializing with friends as you ride also releases your mind from stress, and cognitive focus will improve as you explore new experiences.

3. Better sleep 

With all this fresh air and exercise - in tandem with good mental health & cellular regeneration - one’s sleep will undoubtedly improve.  The upside of better sleep, besides the obvious?

Weight loss. Yes, it is proven that those who maintain a routine 6-9 hours of sleep/night will maintain a good weight or even lose weight, naturally, over time.

4. Slows Down the Ageing Process

As we age, it’s normal to lose muscle mass. Our muscles’ ability to contract reduces due to fat and connective tissue. When we stop being active, the rate of muscle loss speeds up and we age faster. 

A University of Glasgow study (2017) compared the health of 260,000 cyclists aged between 55 and 79 to a group of healthy non-cyclists of the same age. The cyclists were much healthier. They had preserved muscle mass & strength - especially in the large muscle groups - compared to those who didn’t cycle, and had maintained stable levels of body fat with better cholesterol levels. With an increase in glute, leg and core muscles, flexibility & balance improves. One’s knees and lower back are more able to soften joint strain. Choosing an e-bike, with even less impact, will further reduce any wear or impact on the joints. 

Experts recommend that people with osteoporosis cycle as it moves the knee through a range of motions and strengthens surrounding muscles. Weight bearing exercises like jogging can injure the spine, hips, knees and ankles. 

Men in the cyclists group also had higher testosterone levels.   

Cycling can increase your lifespan by reducing the risk of chronic disease. The same study, above, (printed in the British Medical Journal) revealed that those who cycled frequently cut their risk of death from all causes by 40% and cut their risk of cancer by 45%.

Cycling is also a form of vigorous activity that protects telomere length. Shortened telomeres cause aging and cell death. Another study in the journal “Science Direct” (2017) cites that “regular exercise can save up to nine years of cellular death”.

5. Reduced Risk and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Emerging from recent Alzheimer’s Association International Conferences, research shows steady exercise can delay, if not prevent, Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. Exercise can reduce the levels of “tau”, a protein in the brain linked to Alzheimer’s. Exercise increases blood flow in the memory and processing centre of the brain which can improve attention, planning and organising.  

The uptake? Any amount of cycling, no matter how long or far, is the wise choice. Of the dozen articles / studies Zygg consulted on cycling & health, the increased lifespan average for those who bike or ebike 3-4 days a week, for a minimum of 45 minutes to one hour, is an impressive 7 years. Wow. Get outside and enjoy! Stay safe and keep healthy in 2022.

Tips for Winter Cycling

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE. LET’S GO FOR A RIDE!

Photo Courtesy of The Winter Cycling Federation

Many believe that in a country like Canada, you have to give up riding during the colder, snowy weather & store your bike / electric bike over the winter months. “No way!” we say. The Winter Cycling Federation stages an International Conference each February to enlighten and advocate on a global scale.  Their vision : “winter cycling for everyone - - a world where cycling year round is understood as normal and practical, where cycling is a viable transportation option for people of all ages and abilities.”

If cities focus on keeping cycling infrastructure clear of snow (in the same manner as we rally to have our sidewalks cleared for pedestrians) people will ride. And, if one is prepared to dress appropriately, and take it slow during dark and inclement conditions, winter cycling can be a breeze!

In Nordic and Scandinavian countries like Finland and Sweden, there is a massive effort to maintain and clear bike-lanes & dedicated pathways year round - some roads are even heated for optimum safety and comfort. Oulu, Finland’s success in bicycle transportation points to its potential in Canada. While Oulu’s population density is lower than that of the Edmonton metropolitan area and while its subarctic climate results in more than 160 days of snow cover per year, it has achieved cycling transportation rates (i.e. percentage of all urban trips) of 21 %, the same goes for Umeå, Sweden. Let’s not forget Copenhagen - “the world’s most bike-friendly city” (overtaking Amsterdam since 2015) where 80% of Copenhageners who bike daily, cycle through the winter.

Our friends at The City of Calgary, a winter-wonderland in its own right, have compiled a great checklist of tips for cycling at this time of year. Zygg would like to share the highlights with you:

1. Plan Your Winter Cycling Route

The route you take during fair weather may not be the best route in winter. Many bike lanes and sections of pathway are cleared within 48 hours of a snowfall ending, while the downtown cycle tracks are cleared within 24 hours. In Toronto, call 311 to submit a service request to clear a bike lane if there is an omission or delay. 

• This Pathways, Bikeways & Walkways online map shows which section The City of Toronto clears after snowfall.

• There is also a real-time Road Conditions and Snow Clearing Map which shows when cycle tracks and on-street bike lanes in Toronto are plowed after a snowfall. 

• Test the route following a snowfall - especially if you are a commuter with important timelines - to find out how long it takes.

2. Maintain Your Bike

If you subscribe to a Zygg e-bike, the beauty is, maintenance is included. All we ask is you keep the tires pumped at the appropriate pressure and let Zygg know if there are any issues that need attention.

If you are on a personal bike / ebike, keep in mind: snow, dirt and slush can damage the moving parts of your bicycle over time. Wipe down your bike using hot water or a bicycle specific cleaning solution to wash away dirt or grime before it has a chance to settle in. If it is particularly wet and slushy out, clean your bike more often.

Keep bike parts moving with a bike grease or other lubricant. Dry lubricants will keep dirt and grime from building up. Oil-based lubricants will keep your bike functioning but they attract and accumulate dirt, so cleaning your bike more often is required. Apply bike grease/lubricant to all moving parts:

• chain

• pivots in the derailleur

• brake levers, posts and pivots

• gear shifters

• cable housing ends

Bikes function best when protected from freeze-thaw conditions. Whenever possible, bring your bike /ebike into a warm area, wipe it down and let it dry completely before you ride it again.

3. Suit Up!

Dress in layers so you can adjust as needed for the morning cold, warmer afternoons and any sudden shifts in temperature.

First Layer

• This layer is against your skin.

• Select items that will wick moisture to keep your skin dry.

• Shirts and leggings made of merino wool are a good option.

• Wool or a similar material sock will keep your feet warm and dry. Keep an extra pair or two at work so you can double up as needed.

Second Layer

• Select items that are breathable and warm.

• A fleece or wool sweater and a light down jacket or vest will keep your upper body warm.

• A pair of comfortable pants over your first-layer leggings will work for your lower body.

Third/Outer Layer

• Wear a jacket that will block the wind. Those with reflective features are pretty cool.

• A pair of shell pants that repel snow and slush will keep your second-layer pants dry.

• Mittens with two finger sections keep your hands warm while allowing you to brake and shift gears with ease. Leather gloves or mittens over a thin fleece glove cut the wind. Better yet, if you are a commuter or bike food delivery rider, attach Pogies or Bar Mitts to your handle-bars to keep your hands ultra-protected from the wind and cold. Sweet Pete’s has them: Grab them while they are hot! They sell out quickly. 

• Wear a thin toque or headband under your helmet.

• A neck warmer or scarf will take care of your neck/face. Gaiters are particularly good for pulling up over your nose and mouth for warmth and to make breathing easier on your lungs. 7 Mesh has one for you.

• Prevent watering eyes and freezing eyelashes with a pair of sunglasses or glasses with clear lenses. Ski goggles work very well for the extra warmth and visibility they provide.

• Any flat-footed winter boot, fleece-lined rain boot, hiking boot or neoprene cycling bootie will help repel snow to keep your feet dry. At specialty cycling stores, like Gears, you may also find  biking “overshoes” to fit on top of your regular ones.

Winter Cycling Equipment

• Tires - if cycling infrastructure is groomed properly, your regular tires should suit you fine on urban streets. Studded tires (with a knobby tread) are great for challenging winter conditions and locales. In places like Colorado, Sweden and rural Canada, they are quite popular.

• Fenders - on the front and back, will keep the slush and dirt away from you.

• Lights / Reflectors - are always important, however, in the dark days of winter they are a must. All Zygg e-bikes come with integrated lights and well-placed reflectors.

• Bags - you may want to add a waterproof/splash-proof pannier or backpack to your routine to keep your stuff protected. Check out some options at Curbside Cycle.

• Cycling Care Kits - with an extra clothing layer, an all-purpose tool for adjustments, cash or a transit pass if you want to take your bike / ebike on public transportation for part of your route, and your mobile phone to keep in touch with friends or to text/call ahead to your destination that you may be delayed, if you need to take it really “slow”.

If you do want to add features or accessories to your ride, a local shop like Bateman’s Bicycle Company has what you need.

Get outside! Have a fun, safe winter ride!