If you ever find yourself in Toronto, east of the downtown core, make a point to stop in and visit the Mystic Muffin at the corner of Jarvis and Richmond. While the muffins are delicious as advertised, there is so much more that will keep you coming back again and again.
For starters, owner Elias Makhoul is a one of a kind character you’d expect to only find in a Seinfeld sketch. He is the antithesis of the Soup Nazi though, instead sharing his infectious smile and humour with every person who visits his store. The walls are filled with stories and quotes that simply underline how Elias can use words like passion and love when talking about his food.
Recently, I stopped in to the Mystic Muffin with my kids for one of Elias’ twice annual cooking camps he puts on for the children of his regular customers. Elias refuses to take a penny for his camp despite closing his doors to regular business while the children are busy helping out in the kitchen. Each child proudly sports a Mystic Muffin tshirt that Elias provides and, clearly in his element, he has them all hopping from table to mixer and back again as they prepare cookies, humus dip, banana cakes and salads. He has also set out an elaborate feast of a buffet for all of the parents who’ve made the trip for the day.
However, you do not need to come to one of Elias’ camps to feel like you are being given the royal treatment. Every new client in the Mystic Muffin is treated to a giant piece of apple cake on their inaugural visit. I do not say this lightly, but Elias and his sidekick Wonita serve up the best apple cake in the city. Do not be fooled by its humble appearance, the Mystic Muffin is a gem.
With wraps and salads that keep lunch under $10, and a friendly banter that will leave you feeling like you should have paid for the entertainment, the Mystic Muffin is one of my favourite spots this city has to offer.
I have to find this place- what a great story-I love when you find people who put their heart and soul into their business!
Elias Makhoul was featured on the television show Eat Shrink and Be Merry. His humour and warmth really came across in the episode. Thanks Gav for the wonderful post, it’s great to learn more about Elias and be reminded that Toronto is a great place to live.
Definitely have to find this place. What an awesome story and perspective on life and home!
I love me some Mystic Muffin!
Oh, what a lovely find! I’ll have to check it out the next time I’m in the Tdot. I loves me some apple cake!!