1. Stop for dinner and drinks at these restaurants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The first thing you’ll notice about the residents of Leslieville is… they’re foodies! There are so many amazing restaurants in the area and more are always popping up. The next thing you’ll notice, though, is that residents love to get drinks too. A restaurant here isn’t complete without a well stocked bar. These picks have got both sides of the market down:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Frankie’s Italian<\/strong><\/a> recently opened up in place of Lil’ Baci, they sell coffee all day<\/strong> from Bob Coffee Bar, their sister next door, as well as breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Come by for fresh pizza, daily pasta specials<\/strong>, and an exceptional negroni.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re looking for comfort food, Goods and Provisions<\/strong><\/a> is a cozy spot with an eclectic but hearty menu, natural wines<\/strong>, and they make a mean cocktail, too. On the other hand, Maple Leaf Tavern<\/strong><\/a> is a fine dining experience serving Canadian comforts<\/strong> for brunch or dinner and, in true tavern spirit, lots of drinks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on where you are on Gerrard, either stop by brand-new<\/strong> restaurant Wynona<\/strong><\/a> for natural wines and pasta on a cute little<\/strong> terrace<\/strong> on the west side of the tracks, or if you’re farther east don’t miss the wide selection of local craft beer<\/strong>, and small but mighty Asian-fusion menu at Lake Inez<\/strong><\/a> over by Coxwell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This historic landmark has had a new life breathed into it, check it out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Newly renovated, the Broadview Hotel<\/strong><\/a> acts as a gateway to the east end both geographically and by inspiring a new wave of development around it. The building is historic<\/strong>, having been built in 1891, but the comforts are modern. One of their restaurants, The Civic, similarly puts a contemporary twist on historical classics<\/strong>. You don’t have to be a visitor to enjoy what’s on offer at the hotel. The Rooftop restaurant has amazing views<\/strong> of the bustle of Queen Street, Toronto’s skyline and the Don River that are a wonder for anyone’s eyes. Or, you can also sip coffee and drinks<\/strong> downstairs at their ground floor Cafe + Bar (and it’s available as room service<\/strong> if you’re a guest!) website<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Fuel yourself for a big day of exploring the east end! These cafes make a great cup of coffee, and a couple serve stronger drinks, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Te Aro<\/a> <\/strong>is a chill neighbourhood spot with industrial vibes that’s perfect for getting some work done<\/strong> or just hanging out. The Pilot Coffee<\/strong> they serve is exceptional, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coffee in the morning, drinks by night (or the other way around) is a recipe for success. Boxcar Social<\/strong><\/a> is spacious and airy so you can really get comfortable with your sippable indulgences<\/strong>, while Dundas & Carlaw<\/strong><\/a> reps a key intersection in the area, and has a menu of munchable snacks<\/strong> alongside its selection of coffee and booze!<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s not only a space to catch a play but also gather, connect, share, celebrate and feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Streetcar Crowsnest is a hub for the performing arts<\/strong>. The permanent home of Crow’s Theatre<\/strong><\/a>, it has a constant schedule of exceptional local performances, event spaces, as well as programming and events<\/strong> for members of the community – including kids! If you’re hungry for dinner before the show, try Gare De L’Est<\/strong><\/a>, an upscale French bistro that offers a Prix Fixe menu<\/strong> for theatre goers. Ticket holders also get a free snack<\/strong> at Maple Leaf Tavern, before or after their show. In the meantime, stop by their lobby bar<\/strong> for refreshments, and let the actors steal your heart and blow your mind! website<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n On top of all the cafes and restaurants that’ll serve you some pretty great drinks, there’s some good old fashioned bars in Leslieville that are primed to become your new favourite watering hole.<\/p>\n\n\n\n First off, if you like wine, you’ve got to visit Chez Nous<\/strong><\/a>, a wine bar serving only Ontario wines<\/strong> and a couple bottles of locally brewed beer. You can get a cheese or charcuterie plate, but they don’t have a full kitchen so outside food is welcome<\/strong>! Wine, here, is really the star of the show.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Up on Gerrard is the home of Pinkerton Snack Bar<\/strong><\/a>. The Asian-inspired tapas menu<\/strong> at this chill bar is hand picked from the market, so there’s always something new to try. Plus, the kitchen is open until 1am for those late night<\/strong> cravings. Right across the street is their new sibling project, Poor Romeo<\/strong><\/a>. This place has real neighbourhood bar vibes. It’s inspired by America<\/strong> and Rock n Roll, perfect for having a beer and their famous smashed burger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hitch<\/strong><\/a> is a cozy spot on Queen Street. It’s named after Christopher Hitchens who was known for being a heavy drinker, so the cocktails are strong<\/strong> – they’re all two-shots. You could say this place is pretty hipster, except its completely unpretentious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finally, Lloyd’s on Queen.<\/strong><\/a> It’s another cozy bar but this one is named for the bartender in Stanley Kubrick’s movie “The Shining<\/strong>.” Instead of creep-factor, however, this place brings simplicity and familiarity<\/strong> to the bar scene. The staff and regulars are welcoming<\/strong>, drinks are good and the food is straightforward – exactly what you need after a long night of cocktails and good times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We’re not talking big box stores and international chains. All of these shops give you something new to discover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Arts Market<\/strong><\/a> works like any other market. It’s a space full of stalls and stands affordably rented to local artists, craftspeople and artisans to sell their creations<\/strong>. But there’s one big perk over other artisan markets: you can shop comfortably indoors all year as you support local art<\/strong>! There’s so much to see in store… from furniture and home decor, to jewellery and accessories, visual art, and even edible creations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Visit Good Neighbour<\/strong><\/a> in their little converted bungalow for excellently curated clothes, accessories, knick knacks<\/strong> for the house and even skincare products. This general store is packed with amazing gifts<\/strong>. Watch out, the prices are steep, but Good Neighbour only stocks the best. You get the North American craftsmanship you pay for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Leslieville may not quite be market Kensington Market<\/strong><\/a>, but you can find some really special second hand<\/strong> goods at Gadabout<\/strong><\/a>. It’s full of 20th century memorabilia from the Edwardian era up to the 1970s. Beyond clothes (such as exquisite gowns<\/strong>) they have textiles, posters, cameras, jewellery, kitchenware and so much more. There’s even a “Manly Man Corner” of masculine ephemera and curiosities<\/strong>. (If that’s not quite your speed, there’s also a Value Village in the area to fill all your thrift shopping needs.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re in Leslieville you’ve got lots of parks to choose from whether you’re looking to play a sport or just relax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Jimmie Simpson Park<\/strong><\/a> is your go-to for sports<\/strong>. It’s fully equipped for a game of hockey, baseball, soccer, tennis or basketball. There’s also a swimming<\/strong> pool<\/strong> and indoor gym at the Jimmie Simpson Community Centre. Greenwood Park<\/strong><\/a> has great sports fields too, as well as an outdoor swimming pool, a winding skating<\/strong> track<\/strong> and a dog park. Hideaway Park<\/strong><\/a>, meanwhile, is a little nook with a playground<\/strong> and splash pad tucked in between houses that’s perfect for letting your dogs<\/strong> or your kids run free. Matty Eckler Playground<\/strong><\/a> will fill those needs, too. If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, head outside of Leslieville and go tobogganing in Riverdale Park<\/strong><\/a> this winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is really when you begin to sense that Leslieville’s a bit of a hipster haven. There’s a brewery making craft beer tucked into just about every corner of the ‘hood. Most of these places have both a brewpub, a bottle shop, and a kitchen! Here’s what makes them special…<\/p>\n\n\n\n First off, Rorschach Brewing Co<\/strong><\/a>. has 16 of their own brews on tap as well as food menus for both brunch and dinner<\/strong>. Stop by to watch your favourite Toronto sports team play! Eastbound Brewing Co<\/strong><\/a>. serves fresh food that’s way beyond what you usually get at your local pub. You can get a crowler (that’s not a typo!) of their flavourful beer to take to the beach<\/strong> this summer. Godspeed Brewery<\/strong><\/a>, meanwhile, has a menu of Japanese street food<\/strong> thats worth a trip in itself, as well as a truly unique selection of beers inspired by the same flavours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Saulter Street Brewery<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>is known for their Riverside Pilsner, but you can try their more experimental brews<\/strong> in the Tap Room from noon – 9pm daily. Radical Road Brewing Co<\/strong>.<\/a> hosts specialty nights to bring your own vinyl<\/strong> or sample one-off beers brewed using wild yeast or bacteria. You can also tour the brewery and become a brewer for the day! Then there’s Brickworks Cider<\/strong><\/a>, which does something a little different, and you might have guessed it’s… cider! They have lots of fun seasonally inspired flavours<\/strong> to try in their Ciderhouse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Are you sensing a pattern? Leslieville has some of the best food and drink in the city so, of course, they celebrate it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sample beers from several of the area’s breweries at the Leslieville Beer Festival<\/strong><\/a>. It’s basically a neighbourhood street party<\/strong> that takes over Dundas and features the area’s best brewers<\/strong>, community food vendors and local artisans. Join in this summer on August 25th, 2018, from 1pm to 8pm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re not a beer lover, don’t worry. The area also hosts the Leslieville Food & Drink Festival<\/a><\/strong> at District 28<\/a><\/strong>, a multi-media facility in the area’s studio district<\/strong>. This festival has a more diverse selection of vendors than the last, featuring an Artisanal Food Market<\/strong> and displays by local artists, but there’s a bigger emphasis on wine<\/strong>. The festival includes wine tastings and workshops<\/strong> such as food and wine pairing or even oyster shucking. Then, in the evening, there’s live music and a DJ<\/strong> to dance to. If you love beer, don’t worry either, the breweries have opened up shop here as well. Stay tuned for 2020 dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes you don’t have time for a full sit-down meal with table service and the whole nine yards. These places are much more casual, perfect for a quick bite on the go, but that doesn’t mean the food’s not amazing too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tropical Joe’s<\/a><\/strong> is a cheap food stand in the food court of Gerrard Square Shopping Centre, but it’s also so much more. Locals know this is where to go for the best, most flavourful Caribbean takeout<\/strong>. It’s a standout even beyond the borders of Leslieville, and the portions are huge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This one’s another gem in a funny location: The Leslieville Pumps General Store and Kitchen<\/a><\/strong>, or simply “The Pumps” is a Southern style BBQ<\/strong> smokehouse that is repeatedly said to have the best brisket<\/strong> in the city. Where is this place? At a gas station<\/strong>. It brings all the cozy charm of a southern country kitchen to the hungry mouths of Torontonians. They even grow fresh herbs and vegetables in a rooftop garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re a meaty sandwich<\/strong> lover, you’re in luck! Pretty much right across the street is another classic, Rashers<\/strong><\/a>. Their version of Toronto’s signature Peameal bacon sandwich<\/strong> is simply mouthwatering! Everything is made to order so you can really customize your bacon experience, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This event series is the thing to do for anyone looking to explore the city’s indie food, music and art scenes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Though the exact location of this feast may not always be in Leslieville, if you can make it, the bi-monthly events<\/strong> are something not to miss! Feast in the East<\/strong><\/a> is a food, music and art series<\/strong> celebrating Toronto’s east end and its culture. For $10 (in advance) you get a free dinner<\/strong> prepared by a local chef, and a show by several of the coolest bands and artists<\/strong> from the city’s innovative indie music scene, and beyond. You’ll also be surrounded by environs created by some inspiring local artists<\/strong>, making it a night that’s unlike anything else. While you’re at it, take a look at the charming original artwork featured on all their event posters. website<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Everyone always says it’s the most important meal of the day, so treat yourself to a properly delicious breakfast and go to…<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"frankies](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/frankies-italian-leslieville-toronto-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/a>![\"lake](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/lake-inez-leslieville-toronto.jpg\")
<\/a>2. Check in, or just have dinner, at the Broadview Hotel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"broadview](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/broadview-hotel-leslieville-toronto-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/a>3. Get a coffee, or maybe something stronger<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"boxcar](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/boxcar-social-leslieville-toronto-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/a>4. See some theatre at Streetcar Crowsnest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"streetcar](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/streetcar-crowsnest-leslieville-toronto-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/a>5. Tour the best bars on a night out<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"chez](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/chez-nous-wine-bar-leslieville-toronto-1024x674.jpg\")
<\/a>![\"Lloyds](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/Lloyds-on-queen-leslieville-toronto.jpg\")
<\/a>6. Hit the (locally owned) shops<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"arts](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/arts-market-leslieville-toronto.jpg\")
<\/a>![\"good](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/good-neighbour-leslieville-toronto-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/a>7. Head over to the area’s parks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Jimmie](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/jimmie-simpson-park-leslieville-toronto-1024x640.jpg\")
<\/a>8. Find your favourite local craft beer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"rorschach](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/rorschach-brewery-leslieville-toronto-1024x681.jpg\")
<\/a>![\"brickworks](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/brickworks-ciderhouse-leslieville-toronto-1024x681.jpg\")
<\/a>9. Attend a neighbourhood food and drink festival<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"leslieville](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/leslieville-food-and-drink-festival-toronto.jpg\")
<\/a>10. Make a quick stop for lunch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"leslieville](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/leslieville-pumps-toronto.jpg\")
<\/a>![\"rashers](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/rashers-sandwich-leslieville-toronto-1024x525.jpg\")
<\/a>11. Have a Feast in the East<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"feast](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/feast-in-the-east-leslieville-toronto-1024x676.jpg\")
<\/a>12. Start your day right with a good breakfast<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"lady](\"https:\/\/localfoodtours.com\/toronto\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/lady-marmalade-leslieville-toronto.jpg\")
<\/a>