In Toronto’s lively Dundas West area, Elsie’s is more than a typical record shop; it’s a fusion of nostalgia, music and excellent coffee. This newly established venture reflects Menno Versteeg’s deep passion for music and serves as a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, Elsie.
Most probably know Versteeg from his musical ventures with Anyway Gang and Hollerado. As the owner and co-founder of the indie record label Royal Mountain Records, it’s not surprising that he decided to expand his passion even further.
The inception of Elsie’s wasn’t part of a grand plan. Instead, the idea sparked from a serendipitous encounter at Fattoush, an east end sandwich shop, blending Versteeg’s passion for music with Fattoush’s culinary expertise.
“I just started talking to the guy making my coffee and then I had the food, and it was one of the best falafels I’ve ever had in Toronto,” recounts Versteeg. “I asked him if you can get these in the west side and he said no, but had hopes of opening up a shop there one day. So, then I asked him, how soon?”
Versteeg says that he asked Fattoush’s owners on the spot if they’d like to collaborate on the vacant space beneath his record label office. While he acknowledges that some might have deemed it crazy, Versteeg couldn’t be more pleased with taking the chance.
Now situated beneath the Royal Mountain Records office, Elsie’s has evolved from a space that served as a studio, rehearsal space and storage into a new neighbourhood spot. It’s a place to discover the next addition to your record collection or enjoy a delicious sandwich and cup of coffee.
According to Versteeg, Elsie’s curated collection of records is bound to please fans. Featuring everything from vintage country tunes to autographed gems and releases from Royal Mountain Records, each vinyl is sure to attract enthusiasts and collectors alike.
On the menu, coffee aficionados at Elsie’s can savor classics like an Americano or venture into the seasonal realm with a new gingerbread latte. The food offerings mirror those of the original Fattoush location, featuring breakfast sandwiches, grilled cheeses, and an ever-evolving list of specials to satisfy the craving for comfort food.
Elsie’s is a place where you might unexpectedly encounter celebrities. Past notable visitors include Fred Penner, who treated patrons to a delightful rendition of his hit song “Sandwiches” (quite fitting), as well as members of July Talk.
“We’re not trying to start a sandwich/record store/coffee empire. We just just want to be a place that our neighbours can enjoy while they get something, whether it’s a vinyl or some food,” he says.
“We’ve also had a lot of shows in the back parking lot and we want to do more stuff like that. It’s super family friendly and it’s just a place where art, community, food and coffee meet each other.”
And as for how Versteeg’s grandmother feels about the spot, he says, “She’s so proud. If you look on my Instagram, you can find a photo of her wearing an Elsie’s hat and she’s just beaming.”
Elsie’s is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located at 3365 Dundas St. West.
