The Vibe
Just east of Ossington, west of Bathurst, north of Dundas and south of Harbord is the Toronto neighbourhood best known as Little Italy for its residents and businesses that make up the area. Developed in the 1920’s, Italian immigrants began settling along tree-lined streets in row-houses and the Victorian homes built between 1880 and 1910. Now the neighbourhood has a mosaic population of Italian, Portuguese, Chinese and other cultural groups as the Italian population has slowly expanded to the Corso Italia district on St Clair West.
The Homes
The current price point ranges between $300,000 and $700,000 to get into one of the homes that remain from the turn-of-the-century.
Who Lives Here?
Parents will appreciate the number of public, and though limited catholic, school options in the area including an alternative and adult secondary school, Monsignor Fraser College. Families of all ages can enjoy the numerous programs, swimming facilities, and gymnasium at the West End YMCA, the College/Shaw Public Library, and culture activities at the First Portuguese Canadian Cultural Centre on College.
What's There To Do?
Authentic cultural dining and shopping can be done in the Little Italy shopping district along College, between Shaw and Euclid, or in the Portugal Village on Dundas offering patrons fresh baked goods, fine fruit and vegetables, and specialty seafood restaurants reminiscent of the cooking styles ‘back home!’ Pizza and pasta aren’t the only items on the diverse menu; the neighbourhood has also expanded to include swanky martini bars like LI’LY, fast authentic Mexican fare like Burrito Boyz, sustainable coffee joints like The Green Grind, and ton of trendy fashion shops for your perusal pleasure!
What About Commuting?
Public transit users can use bus service along Ossington Avenue and streetcars along Bathurst, College, and Dundas streets. Motorists will find convenient access to the Gardiner Expressway and Lakeshore Boulevard, just minutes away!
