Pavillon Pastries

In 2010, Maria Sotirocoulou wanted something new in her life, something that would allow her to combine her Greek heritage with her love of food and cooking. She also had a fiercely independent spirit that meant entrepreneurship had to be a factor. So she partnered up with Victoria Kodothodoros and Pavillion Coffee on the Danforth was born. At its simplest, it can be described as a cozy coffeehouse where strangers become friends, but for Maria, it’s so much more. “Victoria and I, we’re from the same town,” says Maria, “and we knew each other’s families for a very long time.”

Victoria made the move to Canada when she was young, well before Maria, but before that, they developed a sisterly bond as children. “I remember,” says Maria, “her father was coming to my place very often and we were going over to his place. We were very, very close.”

Their friendship endured to adulthood and when the idea to start Pavillion Coffee came up, they instantly thought of each other. “She’s very friendly, patient and an open character,” says Maria of Victoria. “She’s a nice person.” In turn, Victoria admires Maria’s dedication to always honing her cooking craft, as well as her outgoing nature with customers.