I would have to agree with the last critic the food here is fair at best. Although location is definitely a large part of the recipe to success, I would have to congratulate The Annex Hodge Podge for riding the mediocre coattails of its highly ordinary culinary neighbours.

Well...according to the most recent review, had I been one of the owner's former school principals, I would be defaulting to a rave review. The unfortunate reality is that I'm not a principal, nor do I know the owners and the food is merely alright. It's a tiny place that will feed you if you happen to be driving by hungry or you accidentally run out of gas. If you like soup or wraps or the flavour of ginger then you'll be fed accordingly. I'm not saying the food is bad, I'm just saying that if you pressed your brake pedal 5 or 10 or 30 seconds later, you'd end up at a place that will receive the same review.

Great sandwiches!

The Annex Hodge Podge 258 Dupont St. ( at Spadina) 416 513 1333

I am influenced by labels. If I dont like a wine label I wont buy the bottle. Packaging is very important to entice the senses. When I first heard about the Annex Hodge Podge I knew I had to find it. I loved the name and it whetted my curiosity. What I discovered has me very excited and satisfied.

Hodge Podge is one of the tiniest restaurants in the city. There are only 2 tables. The cooler is filled with tempting salads, burritos and desserts. A large blackboard lists all the sandwiches named for streets in the Annex. Two large cauldrons behind the counter tantalize the senses with the aroma of home cooking. Two shelves stocked with old books are on the wall over the front door. I immediately loved this place for its teeny tiny dcor and its charming old world atmosphere and beckoning menu.

I spoke to Jenna Katz the proprietor. She is a spunky, talented young graduate from psychology. She has always loved food and I can see that she knows a great deal about food presentation and display. She also knows about marketing her product. She does it well. I was fortunate to also meet David Urbonas her partner. It turns out I was his school Principal when he attended elementary school. What fun! These two young creative people have established themselves in only a few months. They already have plans for the summer to serve gelato and sorbet at the front window. Their burritos can also be purchased in some of the health food stores in town. I bought a few to take home.

I asked my friend Estelle to join me because I know how much she treasures small intimate and affordable diners. She keeps threatening to write that book about reasonable places to dine in Toronto. Guaranteed Hodge Podge makes the grade. We loved every bite.

Estelle started with the Signature Soup, a carrot ginger mixture. I had a taste of Estelles soup and we both agreed it was the perfect starter on this cold rainy day. I also tried some of the Spinach Soup. I commented on the little kick it had. I was told that jalapeno peppers were lightly added to the thick spinach soup. The soup choices do change regularly. All the soups are vegan and made on the premises from Jennas own recipes.($4.49) Did I comment on how delicious both soups were?

We were already satiated and completely content but decided to share a Sandwich. The Kendal was the best sandwich I have ever tasted.($6.49) Grilled eggplant, zucchini and roasted peppers are served with Asia go cheese and balsamic vinegar. The multigrain rectangle was of the highest quality. The Madison features grilled chicken breast with tomato, sun dried tomato, havarti cheese drizzled with chipotle mayonnaise and served on a Swiss rectangle.($6.99) The Walmer is a roast beef sandwich served with caramelized onions. Dijon and mayonnaise on a multigrain triangle.$6.99)

Estelle and I each had a serving of the Spinach Salad. The small spinach leaves were so fresh and tasty. Cranberries, slivered almonds and candied pecans enhanced the total flavor. Small pieces of brie cheese and Jennas signature dressing completed this fantastic salad.($6.49) Next time I must try the Greek Pasta Salad. It looked so delicious. Gluten free rotini is served with freshly chopped carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, water chestnuts and sprinkled with feta cheese.($4.49)

I was impressed with the healthy approach to the environment. The soup containers and sandwich wrappers were all environmentally friendly.

We each bought several burritos to take home for another day. I wish I had room to try the vegan cakes. Their main business is take out and catering. What a little gem!

cozy place with amazing vegan food but Not pretentious. A good place to ride out the recession.