Leslieville

If you’re a lover of great brunch spots, you’ll find Leslieville a special place. Well-known as the neighbourhood of trendy eateries, galleries and shops, Leslieville, coined as Toronto’s new Queen West, is one of Toronto’s hippest places to live.

Formed as a small village in 1850, many of the residents were gardeners or employees at the brick factory. This area of Toronto is home to a piece of Canadian history: the poetic verse ‘The Maple Leaf Forever’ was composed under a tree in Leslieville where a historic plaque now commemorates this early, unofficial national anthem, at the intersection of Laing Street and Memory Lane. The quiet eastside neighbourhood is full of cafes, vintage furniture shops, fashion and designer stores.

The homes of Leslieville were built in the late 1800s and include Ontario Cottages, Second Empire row houses, and quaint Victorian homes. High-end condo and loft developments have more recently created some urgency for buyers looking for an investment in Leslieville. This area is a playground for urban professionals looking for something different in a neighbourhood and community.

There are numerous options for recreational activities within the neighbourhood. Greenwood Park has 3 baseball diamonds, an artificial ice rink, a pool and a playground. There’s also Ashbridge Park, which has tennis courts, a children’s playground and a wading pool. Leslieville is home to S.H. Armstrong Community Recreation Centre and Gerrard/Ashdale Public Library.