People can't stop raving about this all-vegan Dundas West diner

There’s so much to love about this petite, unfussy and fully-plant-based diner. Opened in late 2024 by Jenny Coburn, it’s got all the best parts of its sister spot and neighbour, Gia: an excellent, forward-thinking menu developed in consultation with renowned vegan chef Lauren Toyota; uber-fresh pasta and bread, made in-house; friendly service from staff who genuinely care; and a cozy, convivial atmosphere.

Stefano’s' sandwiches get lots of fanfare, and deservedly so. Think eggplant, sugo, mozzarella, muffuletta and whipped garlic on an Italian bun; and house-made meatballs on a Sicilian La Mafalda sesame bun. Then there's the smash burger — delightfully crispy, the vegan meat and farro patty is stacked with cheddar, caramelized onions and pickles before being slathered with russian dressing.

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If you’ve been vegan for a while, and rue that you’re no longer able to enjoy classic comfort foods, Stefano’s is a godsend. You can dunk mozzarella sticks in sugo; let layers of cheesy, gooey lasagna melt in your mouth; spread generous spoonfuls of cashew brie on crusty bread, sweetened with a seasonal compote; or have your mind blown by the New/School Foods salmon filet, which Stefano's pairs with broccolini and béarnaise.

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The brunch menu is back-to-back hits, with plenty of Stefano's signature freshly made in-house bread. The brioche french toast with nut butter and coconut whipped cream is what daydreams are made of, and we'll keep coming back for chef Toyota's bagel breakfast sandwich with kimchi chili mayo, egg, cheese, tomato and bacon. Wash it all down with a matcha latte, made with Stefano's owner Jenny Coburn's house almond-coconut 'mylk' and strawberry cold foam.

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Coburn realized her dream of making her popular sandwich pop-up (which was lauded by national treasure, Dan Levy) into a full-fledged restaurant in 2024. There’s limited seating, so be sure to snag a reservation.