With its mix of students, young professionals and longtime residents, the Annex is full of places that are perfect for getting some caffeine-fuelled work done. And when you’re ready to relax, there’s quite a few spots to enjoy something a little stronger than a freshly pulled espresso.

In the Upper Annex, Ezra’s Pound is a great destination for sipping on some coffee while working on that term paper. With a chill staff and a delicious menu, it beats out the library when you need to cram. If you’re looking for a coffee shop that harkens back to the old way of doing things, check out the Green Beanery. Located in a former bank building, the Green Beanery roasts all of its own coffee and offers over 100 varieties for purchase. The smell alone is enough to turn that essay from slap-dash to scholarly.

Another ideal place to put your nose to the grindstone is the CSI Cafe. Located in the Centre for Social Innovation, the CSI has a large open space to stimulate the mind and lots of coffee and snacks to satiate the appetite.

When the work’s all done, there’s nothing better than a pint (or three) to celebrate. Annex favourites include Pauper’s Pub for one of the best rooftop bars in the city, or El Furniture Warehouse where every dish is $5 and the drinks are cheap and cheerful. Another great choice is the Mugshot Tavern. With terrific food and a rooftop patio, the Mugshot perfects the dive bar experience.

Finally, the Madison Avenue Pub (the Maddie to locals) is a giant mega-pub made, where each section has its own vibe. With a capacity of 2,000, the Maddie is great if you’re out to cut loose and celebrate or just looking to enjoy a pint with a few thousand of your closest friends. Pro tip: check out the piano bar and belt out your favourite tune.

Visit t.uber.com/exploreto for a local guide to Toronto. Make this big city feel small and start exploring.