There is something sweetly nostalgic about homemade cherry pie, bringing to mind summer picnics and family gatherings. So when we heard about Madeleines Cherry Pie & Ice Cream shop, we knew a visit (and loose fitting pants) wouldn’t be far behind.
Madeleines Cherry Pie & Ice Cream shop is tucked in a heritage building in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood, and you’ll know you’ve arrived by the delicious smells that greet you at the front door. The shop is charming, with high ceilings and billowy curtains, and feels like an old-fashioned bonbon shop. There are sweet treats lining the walls; delicate meringues in hues of lavender and pink; yummy hello dolly bars; brownies; cookies; fresh-made biscotti; and of course, pies. Everything is created and crafted in house, or carefully sourced to fit the vision of unique and delicious treats.
Truly a family business, Madeleines was started eight years ago by Kyla Eaglesham, who is responsible for the many delicious homemade treats. Her brother also works the front of the store, and you can often find their mum rolling out pie crust. Along with the sweets, Madeleines has savoury menu items; like Brie and fig wraps and quiche, and they serve Sunday brunch – which can be enjoyed indoors during colder months, or on the back patio, under cozy umbrellas. There is plenty of space inside for a stroller, and while it would be a great place for a coffee and sweet while the babe naps, we wouldn’t recommend a toddling toddler, or rambunctious preschooler. With so many pretty things everywhere think, “bull in a china shop”…
Having said that, Madeleines is very kid-friendly for birthday parties, which they do often. They have cupcake decorating parties (ideally suited to ages 5+), which include an activity, sweet treat, savoury snack, and beverages. And during holiday time they have gingerbread house decorating, with homemade gingerbread and icing. The shop is not nut or gluten-free, but they will do their best to accommodate party participants. They also offer catering, and custom cake creation.
We gave the famous cherry pie a taste, which was delicious, and our kiddo loved the framboise meringue. We also brought their oatmeal energy cookie mix home to bake. It was a fun activity for our preschooler, as we only needed to add butter and egg to the mixture. But at $10 a bag, it’s probably not something you’d want to do too often.
Now that fall is knocking on the door, we’re looking forward to visiting Madeleines again for a sweet cherry pie fix … whoever said summer has to end?
Madeleines Cherry Pie & Ice Cream: www.madeleines.ca
1087 Bathurst Street
Toronto
416.537.3131
Yo, mama! Looking for some more sweet treats in T.O.? Here are some of our faves: