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Mystic Muffin
Categories: Restaurants Sandwiches Restaurants Middle Eastern Sandwiches, Middle Eastern [Edit]
113 Jarvis StToronto, ON M5C 2H4
Neighbourhoods: Corktown, Downtown Core
(416) 941-1474
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 5 pm
Sat 8 am - 3 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
60 reviews for Mystic Muffin
Review Highlights
"The apple cake is really unique and fantastic."
(in 36 reviews)
"Elias is awesome and extremely generous."
(in 20 reviews)
"I got my delicious falafel with all the fixings."
(in 22 reviews)
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60 reviews in English
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Review from U. S.
Toronto, ON
1/23/2012
I had a meeting just east of the core - got stood up, and ended up walking back feeling a bit dejected. I was all dressed up with no place to go.
I thought a snack would be nice - this thought quickly evolved into a craving for something sweet. Cupcakes perhaps? I then thought it would be nice to bring back something for my colleagues. But where would I find a place with a sweet snack worth buying?
I came to a stop at queen and jarvis.... and was suddenly basking in the warm glow of Mystic Muffin. I stood on my toes and peeked through the window, and saw "Apple Cake" written on the chalk-board menu.
Walking in, I asked the man behind the counter if he took credit card or interac. He said no - but quickly offered to let me pay him back later. A short-term loan... for apple cake? Incredible!
I ended up finding an ATM, and bringing back some apple cake for everyone at work. It is incredible stuff! Not sure what they put in the crust... bits of carrot? Coconut? Crack? It's amazing, whatever it is. -
Review from Linda M.
1/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
I feel like I can officially call myself a Yelp Elite now that I've been to Mystic Muffin. I just started school nearby at George Brown College, so I tried this place out my first week there. As promised, Elias is quite a character. It wasn't busy on the Tuesday when I arrived around 1, so he chatted with me, asking what my story was. I ordered a falafel, and was given a free piece of apple cake since it was my first visit.
As I was eating, Elias asked me if I eat lentils. When I responded that I don't, he found that unacceptable and fixed me a plate for free. So for under $5, I got a falafel pita, an apple cake, and a place of lentils (that were actually quite tasty, especially considering I didn't think I liked lentils).
The food was good, the owners are great, the location is convenient...but it's also sketchy. It's right next door to a homeless shelter, and there was a woman who kept coming in and stealing V8 when I was there. It was a bit of an uncomfortable situation for me, especially when she sat down across from me to eat my leftovers. I don't know if that's a normal experience or if it's more of an exception. Hopefully the latter.
All in all, I'll be back for the friendly service and affordable tasty lunch, but I'll probably get it to go next time. -
Review from Anita K.
Toronto, ON
1/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
How do you like them apples?
I can tell you that I certainly like them in Elias' famous Apple Cake! Moist, apple-icious cake baked with a perfect crumble topping is a temptation that is hard for anyone to resist. And yes the rumours are true - first timer's are handed a very generous complimentary piece.
Mystic Muffin is a breakfast-lunch joint with personality... Elias and Wonita's personality. The duo will make sure that any stranger who walks through their doors is no longer a stranger when they walk out.
As for the other menu items - because I have been spoiled with the availiability of fantastic Middle Eastern cuisine in Ottawa, I can't honestly say that the rest of the menu would keep me coming back.
...but for some delicious apple cake that is so good that it must be forbidden?
Definitely. -
Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
12/25/2011
VIBE
This is a place that's in the middle of nowhere but really in the middle of everywhere because it services all of those working in nearby office buildings disguised as lofts. I've only been once but you only need to go once to know Elias's name. Oh, and he'll remember yours too. Dude has the memory of an elephant, so I'm told. He'll chat up a storm with you.
I ATE
I think I was cash strapped that day but I was in luck because I got the fameux Apple Cake. It was tasty. What a nice surprise! That said, there's lots on the menu but nothing really screaming out at me. Very reasonable prices.
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
There's definitely something mystic here. I just don't know if it's the muffin. -
Review from Nathan B.
Toronto, ON
10/9/2011
I've eaten enough Mystic Muffin to give an honest review. I use Elias for alot of catering at work and I've sampled alot of the food he has on the menu.
It's true about the apple cake. It is unreal. I've eaten it countless times and it always tastes amazing.
The falalfel is great and the sandwiches are excellent. If possible, try the potato and egg plant wrap. Sounds weird but its an amazing vegetarian dish.
On a final note, the owner Elias is a hard working and amazing individual. He always has orders on time, and is such a nice person. He is passionate, jokes around and is always in good spirits.
Great price, fresh food and an amazing owner. Mystic Muffin is worth the visit. -
Review from Evelyn W.
7/12/2011
I did it! I'm a such a yelper! I went to, and am about to review "Mystic Muffin."
We went in around 2, and they were low on most things, I gather from how awesome they are they are really busy at lunchtime.
We had the falafel plate, a bagel sandwich, beef roll and the infamous apple cake. It was all cheap and delicious. The apple cake was free because it was our first time -- not an urban legend, they actually love giving first-timers free cake.
Dave thought the food was good, but not as amazing as everyone said. HOWEVER, he said they were the nicest people in the world so he understands the perfect reviews.
While we were in there they gave away free coffee and cake to homeless people and knew them by name. Really swell people, really nice lunch, really close to moss park for a picnic. -
Review from Eric N.
8/16/2011
This place is unique. The interesting phrases add to the character of this place. The owner is similarly unique and nice.
I only tried the $2 CAD Apple Cake. For two dollars (or a Twooie, as I'm told they're called) I think you'll be hard pressed to find a better Apple Cake.
If I ever find myself in Toronto on Jarivis between the hours of 6:30am to 5pm, I'll be sure to try some other stuff. -
Review from Debaser S.
Toronto, ON
1/5/2012
One of my favourite places in Toronto, hands down. This is not just a restaurant but an experience in how great capitalism, when done right, can be. Elias and Juanita have so much soul and humour. I come there for lunch whenever i can, although i work 20 minutes away. Great falafels and soups and cakes etc etc. Strongly recommend this place. cannot recommend it enough!
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Review from Laura M.
Toronto, ON
6/16/2011
I cannot believe I've been working in the St. Lawrence Market area for almost 3 years and am only now realizing what a gem this place is!!!
I love a place that gives you an authentic experience. The staff at MM seem like they actually want to be there and are enjoying themselves - not just mindless robots working a minimum wage job and counting the minutes until they can resume their real lives. It seems to me that for the staff at MM - work is a valued part of their real lives.
I walked in and it was busy. I was confused about where to order, and was quickly helped by the man making the sandwiches, advising me that if I wanted lunch, I had to make my way towards him. The man making the sandwiches spoke to every customer about something other than what he was making them, all while efficiently cranking out perfectly made pitas.
When it was my turn, he asked me what I was having, and then asked my name because he knew I hadn't been there before. Within the 20 seconds it took to make my delicious chicken salad pita, he found out where I worked and told me a funny anectode about a director that used to work here that he knew. Then he shouted down to the cashier that "This was Laura's first time!" which means that I get a free hunk of the most amazing apple cake in the world.
The pita was delicious, the apple cake was beyond fabulous and the staff were superb. I can't wait to go back!!! -
Review from Danielle D.
Toronto, ON
6/30/2011
Oddly enough, I haven't had a muffin from this place, but here's my story.
I was starting a new job in the area and popped by Mystic Muffin around approximately 3:30pm, knowing full well a good chunk of the muffins could be gone, I didn't expect there to be NO MUFFINS AT ALL. According to the friendly counter-staff, a large corporate order swept up all the muffins around noon. I KNOW the apple pie is supposed to be phenomenal, but I was really craving a muffin.
Noting my hesitation to order anything else, I walked away with a free sample of the blueberry banana bread which was moist and sweet but not overly so, and nom nom nomed my way back to the office, satiated, but hopefully I'll be able to actually get a MUFFIN next time!
This place feels like time has stopped in an era before Starbucks and Second Cup, with real diner style tables and locals who love the hell out f this place and I think I'm a convert too. -
Review from Lisa K.
Toronto, ON
7/9/2011
Best. Apple. Cake. EVER!
Not only that, the veggie combo is a great deal, healthy, and filling. And Elias, the owner, and Juanita are so nice!
I wish I lived or worked closer so I could go more often.
Little shop with a huge heart. -
Review from Feifei R.
Vancouver, BC
7/4/2011
The owner is super nice! He was so nice to the homeless man: give them food at a good deal or free. From the set up of the shop, i guess he also involved in a lot of community activities with his store. Cute!
He gave you a great deal as you are the first time customer. Remembers your name so fast, very smart business man! Very funny as well, make jokes all the time, engaging the customer 100%
Chicken potato sandwich was great! Lentil soup was good too! Apple pie was amazing~ I was stuffed after spending $7
Will definitely go back and try muffins! -
Review from Angela S.
Etobicoke, ON
4/25/2011
My husband raved about their apple cake so I decided to check it out. I went during lunch with a colleague to grab a quick bite and decided to get 1/2 an apple cake for an afternoon meeting. The lunch was very filling and the soup was tasty.
The cake was out of this world. It went pretty quickly at the meeting and everyone was asking about it. I'm not sure if I'd walk the 15 mins to get lunch but I would definately walk it to get the apple cake.
Friendly service and genuine hospitality was refreshing as I think is often hard to find in this city. If you're in the hood definately stop by.. and please don't forget the apple cake. -
Review from Frau L.
Toronto, ON
10/3/2011
A wonderful place. Charming man behind the counter sparked up a conversation...it's nice to know there's people who have a heart in the service industry still. Chicken wrap hit the spot. Prices can't be beat!
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Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
11/24/2010
This place DOES live up to the hype.
On the corner of Richmond and Jarvis, the store front is a place you've always known and passed by, but you never bothered to stop in. I love this hidden gem!
I walked in, and immediately Elias asked me if I wanted lunch. The whole experience gets 1 bonus star for him being super friendly and make you feel welcome.
I got my delicious falafel with all the fixings. It was $4 including taxes. Crunchy, yummy, and super filling.
As a first time customer I got the free slice of apple cake. And he gave me a HUGE chunk too! Yum.
He told me about the wall of fame. Buy a t-shirt, proceeds going to the cooking camp he runs every year, take a photo in any place in outside of Ontario, and he'll put it on the wall. For each photo, you'll get a free apple cake, I assume it's a whole one!
Or you can just buy this delicious cake - half for $7.99 (more than enough)or whole for $14.99
He also sells moist and yummy banana loafs (blueberry, walnut or chocolate) but he only makes 10 a day (in the morning) or 30 on fridays.
But I'm sure you can tell him when you'd pick it up, and he'll make it for you.
I actually ended up coming back in the evening to pick up a falafel for my boyfriend because he was drooling hearing about my experience.
I got a t-shirt and half a apple cake, and he threw in a banana loaf slice too.
Elias makes all the difference with his passion and friendliness, and you get people who want to come back!
P.S. they do have muffinsListed in: Thanks Yelp!, Laura's Award of Excellence…
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Review from Janna S.
1/7/2011
This place is definitely among the most unique and memorable places you can visit downtown! Elias (the owner) will butter you up faster than anything you can order to go (although he did tell me that I was boring for living in North York). He has a smile, a hug, and a story for every customer, and the food is excellent - especially the cake!
I wish I lived closer to this place because I'd go more often. Toronto needs more friendly places like this one. -
Review from Steph L.
1/14/2011
How mystic are your muffins?
I haven't seen anyone here eat a muffin, but that famous apple cake sure is magical! As a first time customer, they give you a giant slice of warm apple cake. Not too sweet, moist, and pure yumminess!
For lunch, I had the combo of the day. It was $6.99 for a hell of a lot of food. Cabbage salad, green salad, lentils, falafel and hummus...and a cookie!
The lentils were delicious and all the veggies were crisp and fresh.
The falafel was tasty, not the best I've had but still pretty darn good.
Elias is one cool cat. Super engaging and friendly with each customer, it's not a surprise that this place is so popular and people keep coming back!
~Elias Quote of the Day~
"The food is hot, like me!"
One of the best cheap eats places in the city, guaranteed! =) -
Review from David M.
Toronto, ON
12/22/2010
Because my friends and I were too hungry (and impatient) to scope out the gigantic and extensive menu, we all had the falafel sandwiches, and one of us had the minestrone soup. We didn't see hide nor hair of the owner, so that was a bit of a letdown.
The falafels were average - we all had had much better elsewhere (see "Sarah's Shawarma & Falafel", "Falafel World"). Even thought the falafel balls were "nuked", they still weren't hot. The minestrone soup was lukewarm and mediocre.
It was the first visit for all of us, so we did receive the free apple cake, and it was very good and much appreciated. Definitely a nice touch, but the disappointing food, and absence of the owner, kept this review at three stars. I may be back to sample other menu items. -
Review from Isabella L.
Toronto, ON
10/10/2010 2 photos
I got here almost 15 minutes before closing. Bad timing. All the reviews about the owners being upbeat and stuff did not apply. I got a cold pasta salad, and 2 cookies for a dollar (closing sale) as well they threw in a free blueberry banana bread.
The banana bread was really dry on the outside, and did not have a strong banana flavour at all.
The cookies were.... well, I was skeptical to even buying them at first, but since it was so cheap I was like why not. Even at that price, I would not recommend wasting a dollar.
As for the pasta salad, it consisted of green onions, olive oil and mint I think. Too oily for me and it had this sour taste to it.
Overall, everything was below average. Thumbs down. Sorry, guys. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
2/24/2011 3 photos
Sometimes when you are in a so so mood... and you hate when people asking you too many personal questions.. especially if it is someone you never met before about where do you live? what you do for a living? (I feel like saying live in yelp world, yelping full time for a living) I guess I am in one of my bitchy mood?!
Dropped by Mystic Muffin during my Indie Coffee Passport Run, just a sense of "been here! ate that!".
Toasted Pumpernickel Bagel with Butter and Med Coffee ($2.49)
- Great price!
- The bagel itself was lightly toasted.. crispy outside and nice chewy inside.. and how I like it was not overloaded with butter...
Services was nice and quick. I would have order more but it was a 3 pm post lunch snack... :)
I know it is not fair to rate Mystic Muffin based on one visit...but sometimes it is the first impression that counts?
Maybe I should come back when I am in a better mood, maybe I will enjoy the jokes and humor better! -
Review from Rachael T.
Toronto, ON
10/30/2010
I scoped out all the cool places in Toronto to try while I came back from a mini trip and it just seems like there was something so amazing about Mystic muffin -... and then I read it:
A.P.P.L.E... C.A.K.E!
My eyes lit up. Done deal....Coincidentally, I was a block away from it on Monday afternoon so i wandered the streets until I found this little corner store with a sign with giant bubble letters, something that would not appeal to me at ALL....
walking in, most of the tables were filled, and I saw the lady (in the photo) greet me. Politley, she asked me what I wanted and I excitedly told her I was here for the apple cake....
Not sure who mentioned that first timers get it for free because I certainly paid my $2.00 and thanked her but none the less, it is the best $2.00 you ever spent on a piece of apple cake.
The cake was still warm, soft and LOADED... no joke here... LOADED with butter. It seemed like there was some brown sugar crumble on top that was oh so sweet and I could not get enough of.
If that platter was in front of me, it would be gone in about 30 minutes and that platter was mighty big.Listed in: I Love Apple Pie :)
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Review from Tony G.
2/28/2011
"My best friend and I got to Mystic Muffin right as the owner was closing for the evening. Thankfully, he still had some Apple Cake for sale. We had intended to purchase 2 slices...one for each of us, but the owner convinced us otherwise. We ended up buying a whole sheet of the cake. We were worried that it would spoil before we would be able to eat it all. He promised us that the cake would stay good for about a week as long as we wrapped it back up. WE FINISHED IT IN ONE DAY. Yes, it was THAT good." Stella Lai wrote.
That's what my best friend wrote. Now time for mine. I don't remember the price, but I would pay about 20-30 dollars for this apple cake again. It is a hole in the all, but damn, worth every effort to walk here, wait (if there were a line) and pay 25 dollars for a cake. When you chomp on this, there is a crunchy consistency for the top layer, bits-o-apples in every bite, and it just melts in your mouth. Not sweet at all like an apple pie or a lattice pie. It is moist but doesn't fall apart. I will finish this by saying this: the next time I fly into Toledo, OH I would drive 4-5 hours to Toronto, Canada, just to get me some apple cake. -
Review from Terry P.
11/13/2010
Stopped in here for a weekday lunch, and ordered a falafel pita with a side of spicy potatoes and a piece of apple cake.
The pita was just alright. However, the side dish of spicy potatoes was great, as was the moist delicious apple cake. Despite my lack of love for the pita, I have to admit that lunch was a good value at $8.50. If I lived or worked in the area I would probably become a regular, but it is not something I would go out of my way for. -
Review from Eric T.
Toronto, ON
12/28/2010
I thought I would add my two cents to all the other posts about Mystic Muffin...Elias is awesome and extremely generous.
As soon as we walked in, he offered us a sample of the apple cake. He then proceeded to shower us with a take-home container full of cabbage and pasta salads as well as coleslaw. All on the house!! What a salesman.
We ended up grabbing an apple cake and a blueberry banana loaf. The Apple Cake is worth the 5 stars, but the blueberry banana didn't have enough banana flavour for my wife and I.
I'll definitely go back to hang-out with Elias and try the rest of his menu. -
Review from Roma M.
10/5/2010
This is a great place to check out if you're in the mood for something healthy, light and fresh. The prices will keep your wallet feeling chirpy and full along with the spring in your step as you leave Elias and his fabulous restaurant.
The service was above and beyond average, and this is a business that is pretty much run on personality and hospitality. There is no Mystic Muffin without that hilarious man behind the counter, nor should there be.
I didn't expect the Apple cake to taste so darn great, but it did. Did I mention *everything* here is as fresh as it gets? I will agree with Matthew, in that it's not the best falafel I've had, but freshness, character, and a little je ne sais quoi definitely put Mystic Muffin up there with the best.
Cash only. Taxes included.Listed in: Vegetarians, Falafel
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Review from lucinda k.
Vancouver, BC
9/25/2010
I finally got a chance to check out Mystic Muffin yesterday for the first time, and like most- I was impressed. I got the full Elias treatment which was wonderful- he made sure to ask my name, where I worked, and told me about the restaurant, including pictures on the walls and child cooking classes.
I picked up a hummus to go, and it was very, very good. The free first-timer apple cake is everything you've heard and then some- moist and amazing.
What a great place that lives up to the hype- good food and lovely people. -
Review from Lauren M.
8/7/2010 1 Check-in Here
We FINALLY made it here today, after several failed attempts.
What everyone says is TRUE! This place is the bomb. I can't get over the owner, Elias. Dude is a CHARACTER! He was so chatty that it took awhile to place an order. This guy could do stand up!
Note that Saturday is not the best day to go here - Elias told us flat out that it's quiet on Saturdays so he doesn't have everything prepared off the regular menu. Go Monday-Friday. Come prepared with a story - he gives free apple cake to people with good stories. If your story sucks, then you only get a cookie.
I had a falafel pita for $4 bucks. Falafel was really fresh as was the hummus. The rumours are true; we got free apple cake. (Elias ensured us a special "Jenny Craig" chip was baked into the cake to prevent weight gain).
I really wish this place was close to my home or work, because I'd definitely be a regular.Listed in: My fav cheap eats
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Review from Ricky Z.
Toronto, ON
7/12/2010
Walking into Mystic Muffin is like walking into a comedy show. Elias and Wonita are quite possibly the funniest restaurant personalities in Toronto. Basically Elias does ALL the talking, and Wonita is the straight "man."
I used to work just around the corner and my coworkers and I would go to Mystic Muffin for lunch almost every day. Elias made a point of remembering all of our names (even though he purposely called me something else--I can't remember what, but it was funny). We'd often order the falafel and hummus pita, but the main event was the lentils! They are a must have!
The other item of note (you really can't go wrong with anything, though), is the apple cake. Elias claims that it is the best in the world, and he's right. It truly is the best apple cake I've ever tasted. During the Christmas season, Elias often sets a goal for the number of cakes sold. A couple years ago he said that if they reached their goal, Wonita would get a bonus so she could buy a new living room set from The Brick. HA. I know I bought several--that I usually ate all by myself. I hope she ended up getting that new furniture.
When the recession hit, Elias offered his customers free meals if they'd lost their jobs--I continue to have TONS of respect for him because of that.
I highly recommend a stop by Mystic Muffin for anyone looking for top-notch Lebanese food, amazing prices (did I mention it's dirt cheap?) and a HIGH-lariously good time. -
Review from Stella L.
2/27/2011
My best friend and I got to Mystic Muffin right as the owner was closing. Thankfully, he still had some Apple Cake for sale. We had intended to purchase two slices...one for the each of us, but the owner convinced us otherwise. We ended up buying a whole sheet of the cake!!! We were worried that it would spoil before we would be able to eat it all, but the owner promised us that the cake would stay good for about a week as long as we wrapped it back up.
WE FINISHED IT IN ONE DAY.
Yes, it was THAT good, and yes, we are fatties. -
Review from Jared Z.
7/26/2011
The taste of mystic muffin is still in my mouth as i write this, super nice folks that have a somewhat suspect sign outside proclaiming their apple cake to be the best in town and specifically requiring you to be of legal eating age to partake. While this worries me for the police state that is Canada, i hope everyone is legal age, because that shit is amazing. I didn't even notice if they had muffins, but the falafel sandwich and samosa was great, as was the apple cake, obv.
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Review from Leana M.
Toronto, ON
6/8/2011
Walked/drove by this place numerous times and always thought is was a joke. Glad I checked the reviews online! Have been three times now. Sandwiches are amazing. Got a free slice of applecake during my first visit...yummy! I brought a friend the second time and she got free applecake and I got a free cookie cuz I 'referred' her. ;)
Elias is hilarious, offered me a free hug my first time and entertained me with his wonderful stories!
I plan to make this place a weekly spot. Only downfall is that it closes at 5. -
Review from Ken S.
1/7/2011
I checked out this place purely based on the reviews on the apple cake. The cake is amazing as everyone says and their food was pretty good too.
I had a Eggplant wrap. The owner said, "oh we're kinda low on eggplant. Tell you what, well throw some potatoes in there, oh and some cabbage, you like cabbage? It'll be great, trust me."
The owner was really friendly and I will definitely return for that cake. -
Review from susan c.
3/10/2010 ROTD 5/5/2010
No, the name of this place doesn't refer to Jennifer Love Hewitt's vajazzled vajayjay. I'm not sure how it got its name but that's just one of the many questions I have about this kooky little deli/falafel shop, like:
- How can everything be so cheap here?
- How do they pay the rent?
- Why does the chalkboard menu look like Russell Crowe's conspiracy diagram from A Beautiful Mind?
- Does our trash really get sent to Michigan?
This place is inconveniently located for me and the food alone wouldn't be a draw but it's the owner, Elias, who I'd travel to see. This guy is a real character. He'll chat you up like you're long-lost friends and tell jokes that'll make even the most PMS-ey Eastern European with jacked-up Brit chompers sport a big toothy grin.
Then there's all the writing on the walls. When asked about the "Super Wonita" on the menu, we're told, "Wonita asked for a raise and I said to her: You want a raise or a sandwich named after you? She chose the sandwich."
Other little zany gems I found:
"Extra toppings cost more unless you bring it from home."
"WASTE: Michigan Bound" on the trash bin.
"It's a pita we're leaving -- we really falafel." (Huh?)[1]
"All above items includes GST
- Stories free
- Advice
- Worth a camel"
If you go, get a falafel and throw in some homemade hummus and smushy lentils. It's a massive sandwich that is tasty and filling--but reconsider if you have to sit through a long meeting in the afternoon since the contents are highly legumous. I should also warn you that the optional spice is really spicy. I tried to find out what it was and Elias told me it's LOVE. So, I guess sometimes love hurts.
But you really can't get any cheaper than this: a falafel + egg & cheese on a bagel + a bottle of juice came out to $9.50. Since Kat F. brought me as her friend, I was entitled to a free hug but Elias gave us each hugs AND a free slice of apple cake!
BOTTOM LINE: You can get some ridiculously cheap eats here but you're really going in order to experience a wack-a-doodle Toronto institution. Elias is a role model for business owners. We could all do with More Quirk and Less Jerk around the city.
====================================
[1] O.M.G. I just got this! -
Review from Jonathan C.
8/15/2010
Went for an early breakfast on a weekday. Saw some positive reviews here and it was also a seven minute walk from our hotel. The place does look a little dive-ish, but it looked clean. We ordered take out and ate in the park near the store.
I ordered the toasted bagel with cheese and tomato and my friend ordered the apple cake. I only took one bite of the apple cake, and it was pretty good. The top was nice and crunchy and the inside was soft. The bagel tasted fresh and the toppings were good. -
Review from Micki M.
Toronto, ON
7/22/2010
Ahhh maaa gaaad! I'm in love...like the real thing this time. Oh ya, I got it bad for this Mystic Muffin! (Hmm...questionable phrase)
I'll keep it short since the 5 stars says it all:
1) APPLEE CAAAAAKE!
2) Don't even read the menu, just let Elias take care of you - and that he shall!
3) Sandwich, soup/salad/whatever, dessert, drink under $10 (CASH)
Healthy, unique flavours, and service to boot! -
Review from Angela L.
3/13/2010 ROTD 7/17/2010
The chirpy call of quirky Mystic Muffin owner and falafel maker extraordinaire can catch unsuspecting walk-ins off guard. However, once you're introduced ("Oh, you can call me honey"), you'll no doubt warm up to him in a flash.
While hugs and banter are free flowing in this casual eatery, some would argue that the first and foremost reason to visit is for the amazing food.
Right off the bat, even before we even cast our eyes on the vast chalkboard menus, we were given a mysterious creamy dip with pita on the house and asked to guess what it was made of. While we had no clue what the pureed deliciousness was, we knew that we liked it. In the end, we were almost relieved when it was revealed to be made of zucchini and not another addictive illegal substance. Keep your eyes peeled for this being added to the menu soon!
The fresh falafels that come wrapped up snuggly with your favourite fresh veggies or plopped atop of a big green salad are some of the best I have had in Toronto - delicately crisp and crunchy on the outside while light and fluffy on the inside. The salads: green lettuce, pasta, shredded cabbage, or a melange of all three are again fresh and flavourful.
Since it was our first visit to Mystic Muffin, we knew that we were entitled to free slices of apple cake - it says so on the chalk board! However, to our pleasant surprise, we didn't have to show any proof. We didn't even have to ask for it! Two glorious slices of moist, old fashioned coffee cake with visible apple chunks topped with crumbly goodness were brought right to our table.
Freebies or not, I know that I'll be able to count on friendly service and great food on my second visit and everyone from here on after and that's more than enough to have me coming back for more. -
Review from Andre M.
Toronto, ON
3/17/2010 ROTD 10/2/2010
"So, how is your day so far," says Elias. "Not bad," I say. "So what's your name Jimmy," he smiles. "Andre" "Well Andre, Jaunita who's as hot as my apple cake is going to give you a free slice since I know its your first time in here." And so, I was hooked.
I didn't buy any of the bandanda, tshirts (green for St. Paddy's Day) or coffee mugs (free coffee with every mug) but I did smile at the couple who came in with their infant in a Mystic Muffin tshirt...and I smiled at the couple buying a mug to take back to the US (by the way, the owner Elias says the mugs next year on Ebay will be worth $1000).
Seriously, the food is fresh and yummy. Sandwiches as far as the eye can see, fresh salads (all kinds) and yumm apple cake. A lunch time paradise. Sit in the window and relax. Say hi to Elias. Bring a friend, get a hug. Bring two, get a soup, bring three and get an apple cake slice.
If Elias were here he'd never let me review this without saying "we cater for corporations...I just brought 100 sandwiches and salads to everyone at Scotiabank's trading floor." Go see Elias, for the food, the smile and if you are lucky a hug or a slice of apple cake.
Peace! -
Review from Brenda S.
6/8/2010
The falafels are amazing. Seriously.
The muffins are too. Screw Tim Horton's and Richtree, you need a peach muffin from Mystic. The place looks like a dive but the muffins are truly gourmet.
The apple cake is really unique and fantastic. It's a soft, fluffy, spiced slab cake with a topping of apple slices and crunchy melted brown sugar. For years as a student in Toronto heading out of town for long weekends on the Coach Canada bus, I rode past this place and saw the signs for the World's Best Apple Cake. Now I work down the street from Mystic and I believe it.
I'm not sure why it's marked as wheelchair accessible. There's a step up through a narrow door to get in. -
Review from Matthew S.
Toronto, ON
3/11/2010 ROTD 1/28/2011
A four star middle-eastern inspired lunch place elevated to five stars by great atmosphere, amazing apple cake, and the coolest owner ever.
Mystic Muffin has your typical falafel joint options plus things like egg salad and tuna sandwiches. True to the name they also have a small selection of baked goods: muffins, cookies, and the world's best apple cake. Apart from the apple cake, which is an easy 5 stars, this is four star food; very good but not the best. I had the falafel plate for $6.99 and it was a ton of delicious food.
What makes Mystic Muffin is the experience. This is a real neighbourhood joint and the guy that runs it seems to know everyone and he is the most fun, friendly, and zany dude ever. He prepares each dish or sandwich to order in front of you and he chats and jokes the whole time. He immediately asked me my name and where I worked and he, and his helper Wonita, referred to me by name for the rest of my visit.
Because it was my first visit he hooked me up with a free slice of his famous apple cake. The whole experience just left me so much more happy than when I came in and that alone is worth 5 stars.Listed in: Top Spots Under $10, Peace in the Middle East
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Review from Cisi Z.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 8/12/2010
This is the second time I've been here and what a treat! :) I brought my friend who just came back from Europe for a visit.
"You only have moments to make a friend and enjoy your time with them." Ah, Elias and his infinite wisdom.
My friend was duly impressed by how easily Elias made a connection. Plus, the free apple cake didn't hurt either. Ahah, I had to tolerate being berated by her when Elias revealed his Mystic Muffin promotion (t-shirt!!!).
Thought I'd try a muffin this time around.
Elias: "You can't find this (Lemon Coconut) combination anywhere else in the city. Just like our apple cake. So, what'll it be?"
Oh, Elias, you had me sold with that first sentence and the price was killer ($1), :D.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/27/2010
Well, all the reviews here sum it up pretty nicely. I really wanted to do my tenth review on a… Read more »
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