This review is for the initial impression I went in the opening week for this store if there is a significant change I will update my review.
Located in the thorncliffe neighborhood this store is not particularly accessible by TTC from the downtown core (Danforth location would be a better choice if you are coming from downtown).
First impression is nice and a somewhat upscale store, there is Starbucks right at the entrance and color scheme and clean look enhances this feel. However the good impression didn't last long as it is a somewhat "lite" version of the US counterpart.
Sure they have the interior nailed down but the variety is lacking to say the least. I am a sucker for kitchen/cookware and can spend hours in this area if it is well stocked but sadly I didn't see much I couldn't get by just walking into a neighborhood Winners (gasp)
All the departments I saw i.e. clothing, outdoor, housewares are a miniature version of the stores in the south. Gone are the modern and somewhat durable furniture items (well a lot of things are more durable than your Ikea) and I was hard pressed to find a single item that would stand out.
I was looking for a bistro set to buy and a couple of things I saw did interest me but upon further inspection they can be had from the largest retailer in the world's website. Service is decent and I didn't have to look for help as there was always someone nearby.
Tsk Tsk they need to get their act together or they will be written off like just any other store into oblivion.