If you're a fan of authentic Italian bakeries, here's one that takes that particular art to a whole new level. Situated at 609 King Street West at Portland Street, Forno Cultura bakery was opened by owner and creator Andrea Mastandrea in April 2013. As evidenced by the whir of activity, the shop is a working bakery more than a store front; although coffee is served here, you won't find a seating area. However, you will find a phenomenally beautiful selection of authentic baked goods – both savoury and sweet – developed from generations-old recipes handed down to Andrea from his father and grandfather.
Although he grew up in the family business, Aida's Pine Valley Bakery in Woodbridge, this wasn't Andrea's first career move as an adult. Interestingly, Andrea trained as an architect, and worked in that field until he started to miss the Italian food he and his friends grew to love as kids.
“I realized it didn't exist anywhere. I was complaining to my colleagues and friends, and I thought, 'let's stop complaining and just do it.' This kind of baking will be a dying breed if we don't put it back on the market.”
In addition to baked delicacies like their famed tomatoey focaccia and deliciously chewy olive bread made from organic wheat, Forno Cultura offers an array of imported olive oils, tuna, preserved Italian peeled tomatoes, and an array of mineral water, and balsamic vinegar.
We're highly thankful of Andrea's decision to embrace his family craft, and if you're in the King West/Niagara neighbourhood, drop in to sample some of his fine handiwork. We adore, and we're certain you will too!
609 King Street West, Toronto, Ontario
Tuesday to Saturday: 7:30AM to 9:30PM
Sunday: 8:00AM to 6:00PM
Monday: Closed
Along with our faves like fab Gusto 101, Balzac's Coffee Roasters and nearby Thor Espresso Bar, Forno Cultura is yet another fabulous spot to discover in the King West/Niagara/Liberty Village neighbourhood. Can you imagine having this phenomenal authentic Pugliese bakery replete with delicious treats and their spectacular aromas only steps from your home? Check out this stunning you-as-a-movie-star two-level urban oasis currently offered for sale called–>A Lofty Cityvista 'House In The Sky' On Niagara Street!
Have we piqued your interest in this neighbourhood or any of the other great Toronto neighbourhoods we specialize in? We welcome hearing from you!
~ the urbaneer team
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Restaurants