Posted by Melissa Bell in fruit and vegetables, prepared foods, shops, vegetarian on June 26, 2008 at 7:36 am

The Beet Organic Café and Market
2945 Dundas Street West
416-916-2368

Located across the street from the Academy of Realist Art and The Rue Morgue House of Horror, The Beet was established as a new addition to the Junction community back in February. While its proprietors took possession nearly a year ago, being situated in an historical building (a former TD bank) meant a lot more red tape than they originally anticipated.

But that was then.

Now, The Beet is a busy neighbourhood one-stop shop for organic takeout, seasonal/local produce, super-fresh smoothies, and socially-aware comfy goodness.

As a café, it offers a bright and welcoming gathering place. Small tables (constructed of sustainable and renewable sorghum and bamboo, no less) are set with pots of fresh herbs, and glass milk bottles filled with water and lemon slices. As a market, a colourful array of produce takes centre stage, accompanied by a wide range of organic and free trade products including hearty breads, housemade granola, coffees, teas, and dips and dressings bright with flavour. Everything is well organized and shopper-friendly.

It's also super kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible.

Takeaway containers are fully biodegradeable – "styrofoam" containers are made from sugar cane, and "plastic" spoons from potatoes. Other materials used throughout The Beet include pressed crushed sunflower seed shells, PaperStone countertops, palm tree flooring, and reclaimed furniture and fixtures wherever possible.

Partners Heather Osler, a homeopathic doctor, and holistic nutritionist, Michelle Vella, have done extensive research sourcing the materials and suppliers for their earth-friendly business.

"We really do produce very little waste," says Michelle.

All food is made on the premises with the exception of the bread provided by St. John's Bakery. The menu is designed primarily by Heather and Michelle, but their staff cooks are encouraged to come up with their own ideas according to their area of culinary expertise. Among the menu items on this particular day is butternut squash with lentil chili, a roasted beet salad with orange and grapefruit, quinoa salad, and a chickpea curry with organic roti. While a lot of the food is primarily vegan and vegetarian, The Beet does serve organic meat meals, including roasted or barbecued chicken and bison burgers. "We're providing a healthy comfort equivalent to 'fast food'," Michelle explains. "All cooked food is either baked or lightly sautéed – nothing is deep-fried." Only unprocessed ingredients are used – cold-pressed oils, raw sugars, organic honeys and fruit purees – all in an effort to keep things simple and healthy. "Our food makes people feel good."

The Beet also carries eco-friendly personal and feminine care, and household cleaning products.

There are plans to expand the interior seating, and the owners are currently awaiting permits for a 25-seat sidewalk patio and a liquor license to serve organic beer and wine. And they intend to further develop organic "gourmet" take-out.

All the more reason to "beet" a path to the Junction!