I remember when I was a kid my Nana used to take me to the Woolworth's lunch counter for a grilled cheese sandwich and a milkshake. I'd sit at the counter and make myself dizzy turning around on the stool. Afterwards, I'd get to look at the toys. A chance encounter in Liquidation Outlet (a discount store) on Coxwell this week revealed a similar authentic 1940's lunch counter.

The chocolate milkshake I have ($2.99) is made in an old-fashioned milkshake mixer. It is served in a plastic cup, but I am jonesing for the stainless steel cup it was made in.

The bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich ($3.99) is offered on white or brown, but I go for white for the full retro experience. Accompanied by a dill pickle, this is true comfort food. There aren't a lot of items to choose from (and no french fries), but all the diner standards are here including fried egg sandwiches, banquet burgers, apple pie and their "famous" homefries.

You can turn around on your stool and shop for socks while you munch or enjoy the witty banter between waitress/cook and the colourful eccentrics who all know each other.

Deals on Meals at the Liquidation Outlet
265 Coxwell Avenue, just north of Gerrard