Introducing Leslieville In Toronto’s East End

Located off Lake Shore Boulevard East and overlooking the Don River on the west, Leslieville in Toronto’s east end is a neighbourhood that has long played second fiddle to westerly hot spots such as Queen Street West and Little Italy. Now, however, the tables have turned and Leslieville has evolved into one of the city’s liveliest areas, home to vibrant restaurants, superb bistros, quaint shops and a number of venues for a night on the town including pubs, martini bars, and clubs. In fact, in a city where brunch is practically a competitive sport, Leslieville is one of Toronto’s best brunch destinations with trendy eateries dotted around every corner.

Leslieville’s metamorphosis from a gritty working class borough to a trendy playground of urban professionals has attracted many Torontonians and tourists alike. This has led to a spike in property values and rents while high-end lofts and condo developments boomed along Carlaw Avenue and around the neighbourhood. For example, Flatiron Lofts is a striking, loft-style building developed by Lamb Development Corp. at 1201 Dundas Street West. The other notable residential developments of the area include Showcase by Aragon Properties and The Carlaw, which is a 12-storey building featuring 320 lofts and 21 townhouses in the heart of Leslieville.

Alongside good quality accommodation characterized by head-turning architecture, sophisticated modernism and enviable building amenities for stylish urban living, Leslieville is also excellently placed for a number of Toronto attractions. This includes popular neighbourhoods west of the bridge including the Distillery District, Harbourfront, the Entertainment District, and the Discovery District. In effect, living in Leslieville is like living in a small town in the city where people know their neighbours. At the same time, you are just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown core.

In terms of local amenities, Leslieville’s retail scene has also changed to accommodate the demographic shift that came with the addition of modern and high-end condos in the area. As more money moved into the neighbourhood, shops and other commercial spaces opened to cater for a better-heeled clientele. This includes fitness and recreational facilities, an upscale gas station, nightlife hotspots and trendy restaurants. Leslieville is also home to the Gerrard India Bazaar, a commercial center where you can find Asian treasures like imported silks and fabrics with an interesting backdrop of music and scents.

Last but not least, Leslieville is also well connected in term of transport links. The area is served by a number of bus and streetcar routes while the downtown core is a short drive away for motorists.