Inside Tom’s Place

After more than 65 years in business, Tom’s Place looks sharper than ever.

with Google Tour

Expect the Unexpected

In this age of bland chain stores, Tom’s Place is unique. You’ll get a friendly welcome from the owner, Tom Mihalik, and helpful service from his knowledgeable staff members, including son Tom Jr. Come in and see us!

Our Customer’s Stories

Roots of the Family Business

Tom’s father, William Mihalik first came to Canada in 1956 after the Hungarian Revolution. Like many immigrants, William had little money — but he did possess a tremendous work ethic. He settled in Kensington Market and opened a small store in 1958 selling second-hand clothing. He was joined by his family, including his 12-year-old son Tom.

Tradition and Innovation

Growing up in Kensington Market, Tom was surrounded by neighbours of diverse nations. Young Tom helped out in the store, where he absorbed his father’s business philosophy: Always give the customer a good deal. The business prospered, and when William retired, Tom took charge in 1981. The store moved to new premises on Baldwin Street in the 1980s, with a new name—Tom’s Place.

Tom began working in the family business at 12

Business Suits – The Core of our Business

Toronto is Canada’s economic capital, so Tom decided to specialize in meeting the needs of the business community, offering top quality business suits at outrageous discounts. Tom’s Place began to build a loyal clientele in the nearby financial district and beyond.

A Heart for the Community

Tom’s Place supports many local organizations, including the Children’s Breakfast Club, The Hospital for Sick Children Foundation, St Stephen’s Community Centre, St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation, and numerous minor sports teams. The annual warehouse sales are held at the Miles Nadal JCC, helping to support the many recreation and social programs for downtown residents. Tom was a driving force in the statue erected in tribute to the King of Kensington, Al Waxman, and received the Queen’s Jubilee Award in honour of that initiative and others. He also received the Toronto West Rotary Youth Impact Award.

Growing Tomorrow’s Business

The tradition continues, with Tom’s son Tom Jr. now taking a hand in the business, with sister Anett Alves. And we’re excited to see what the next generation brings.

The storefront of Tom’s Place has expanded, so it’s now five stores wide, offering 15,000 sq ft of retail selling space and a massive selection of suits. All suits are 100% wool, in every price range.

Tom’s Place is a family business Tom Jr, Anett Alves, Tom Mihalik, William Mihalik

Tom’s Community

ALL ABOUT YOU

The Naked Truth – Our Customer’s Stories

Tom loves to hear from his customers. Especially when you have found the right suit at Tom’s Place—the one you needed for a

job interview
wedding
courtroom date
business trip
first day in a new job
public speaking engagement

From a radio listener:

Hello,

I periodically hear advertisements for Tom’s Place on jazz.fm, and I love the impromptu commercials. They are remarkably fresh and real with true character. Also, it reminds me very much of “Old Toronto”…like commercials done by Ed Mirvisch for Honest Ed’s back in the day, and later Mel Lastman for “Bad Boy”. I actually live in Buffalo, but have been to Toronto innumerable times over the past 30+ years, and to me, Tom’s commercials really connect to that self-made successful and unpretentious retailer style that I so miss from a time before condo skyscrapers began to chip away at some of Toronto’s unique and distinctive character. I look forward to stopping in the store next time I am in the city. Happy birthday, Tom! It’s a pleasure to listen to your jubilant voice! Many more years of success and happiness to you.