Sweet Treats: Toronto's Dessert Cafes--Nightlife doesn't have to mean high culture, barhopping, or anything in between. It doesn't even mean you have to stop eating. Here are some of the city's most agreeable places to satisfy a sweet tooth and do some people watching.

Demetre Caffe -- In the heart of Greektown on the Danforth, Demetre is known for its Old World ambience as well as its sweets: Belgian waffles, oversized sundaes, cakes, tortes, and baklava. It's popular at all hours of the evening with a casual crowd, and on weekends it draws families. Closing time is midnight Sunday through Thursday, and 3am Friday and Saturday. 400 Danforth Ave. tel. 416/778-6654. Subway: Broadview.

Desserts by Phipps -- The cafe serves salads and sandwiches, but what really draw the crowds are the decadent desserts. Cappuccino chiffon cake is a direct hit, as are the moist but not gooey apple confections. 420 Eglinton Ave. W. tel. 416/481-9111. Subway: Eglinton.

Dufflet Pastries -- On menus around town, you'll sometimes see mention of "desserts by Dufflet." Divine is the word that best applies to these confections. Owner Dufflet Rosenberg bakes some of the most delectable tortes, tarts, and pastries in the city. The problem is deciding where to start. Chocolate raspberry truffle? Cappuccino dacquoise? Your call. There are a few selections for people with gluten or nut allergies, and the cafe also serves light fare. 787 Queen St. W. tel. 416/504-2870. www.dufflet.com. Subway: Osgoode, then any streetcar west to Euclid Ave.

Greg's Ice Cream -- One taste of Greg's homemade ice cream will turn you into an addict. (I should know -- I've been one for years.) Different flavors are available each day, and the staff is generous about handing out samples. It's hard for me to pick one favorite flavor, but the roasted marshmallow would definitely be up there. 200 Bloor St. W. tel. 416/961-4734. Subway: Museum or St. George.

Just Desserts -- This cafe stays open practically around the clock on weekends for those in need of a sugar fix. Around 40 desserts are available -- as many as 12 different cheesecakes, 10 or so pies, plus an array of gâteaux, tortes, and meringues. All cost around C$6 (US$4.20). 555 Yonge St. (at Wellesley). tel. 416/963-8089. Subway: Wellesley.

Sicilian Ice Cream Company -- This old-fashioned ice cream parlor is Toronto's top purveyor of Italian gelati. The wonderful patio is open in the summer. 712 College St. tel. 416/531-7716. Subway: Queen's Park, then streetcar west.