Leslieville Toronto
Leslieville, Toronto: A vibrant East End neighborhood known for its independent shops, diverse culinary scene, and stunning city views from Riverdale ...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Brunch spots buzz with energy
Leslieville Toronto
Best Time
Brunch spots buzz with energy

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Leslieville, Toronto: A vibrant East End neighborhood known for its independent shops, diverse culinary scene, and stunning city views from Riverdale Park.
"Leslieville offers a charming blend of local boutiques, delicious eats, and beautiful park vistas."
☕ Coffee Crawl
Explore local favorites like Mercury Espresso and Rooster Coffee for your caffeine fix.
🍳 Brunch Must-Try
Bonjour Brioche and Lady Marmalade are top picks for a delicious brunch experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Independent Boutiques
Queen Street East
Discover unique fashion, home decor, and artisanal goods in Leslieville's charming independent shops.

Culinary Delights
Various locations
From cozy cafes to acclaimed brunch spots and diverse international cuisine, Leslieville is a foodie's paradise.

Riverdale Park Views
Broadview Avenue
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Toronto skyline from this popular local park.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the East End Vibe
Getting Around Leslieville
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Coffee Crawl
Explore local favorites like Mercury Espresso and Rooster Coffee for your caffeine fix.
🍳 Brunch Must-Try
Bonjour Brioche and Lady Marmalade are top picks for a delicious brunch experience.
🛍️ Shop Local
Wander Queen Street East for unique boutiques and artisanal finds.
🌳 Park Views
Head to Riverdale Park for stunning city vistas.
Fun ways to spend a day in the Leslieville area?
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Coffee Crawl
Explore local favorites like Mercury Espresso and Rooster Coffee for your caffeine fix.
🍳 Brunch Must-Try
Bonjour Brioche and Lady Marmalade are top picks for a delicious brunch experience.
🛍️ Shop Local
Wander Queen Street East for unique boutiques and artisanal finds.
🌳 Park Views
Head to Riverdale Park for stunning city vistas.
🍺 Craft Beer Scene
Check out Left Field Brewery or Eastbound Brewing for local brews.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Leslieville is widely praised for its vibrant community feel, excellent dining options, and unique independent shops. Visitors love the walkable streets and the beautiful views from Riverdale Park. Some find parking challenging and popular brunch spots can be crowded, but the overall experience is highly positive.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take the Queen streetcar (501 Queen) eastbound. Be aware that the Queen streetcar can experience delays due to construction, especially with the Ontario Line project. Alternatively, you can take the 503 streetcar or a bus route like the 501B that goes up Church Street to Queen and then heads east.
Yes, Leslieville is well-served by Toronto's public transit system, primarily the Queen streetcar. Several bus routes also connect the area to other parts of the city.
If you're driving from Buffalo, you'll likely head north into Toronto. Consider staying at the Broadview Hotel as a central point for exploring the Leslieville area.
Street parking can be competitive, especially on weekends. It's advisable to check parking signs carefully. Many visitors opt for public transit or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Leslieville is located east of downtown Toronto. Depending on your mode of transport, it typically takes about 15-30 minutes to reach from the downtown core.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Leslieville is a neighborhood, not a ticketed attraction. You don't need tickets to explore the streets, shops, or parks. Individual businesses may have their own entry policies or cover charges for events.
Most independent shops in Leslieville operate during standard retail hours, generally from 10 AM to 6 PM, with some staying open later on Thursdays and Fridays. Brunch spots are busiest on weekends.
No, Riverdale Park is a public park and is free to enter. It's a great spot for enjoying views and outdoor activities.
For popular brunch spots like Bonjour Brioche or Lady Marmalade, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as they can get very busy.
Leslieville and the surrounding Riverside area often host community events and festivals. It's best to check local listings or BIA (Business Improvement Area) websites for current event information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Leslieville is renowned for its brunch scene. Popular choices include Bonjour Brioche for its French-inspired fare and Lady Marmalade for hearty, delicious meals.
Coffee lovers have plenty of options. Mercury Espresso Bar is a local favorite for its quality brews, and Rooster Coffee and Red Rocket Cafe are also highly recommended.
Yes, while Leslieville has upscale dining, you can find more budget-friendly options. COPS donuts, Completo for sandwiches, and various bakeries offer delicious and more affordable choices.
Leslieville offers a diverse range of international flavors, including Middle Eastern at Tabule, Italian, and Japanese bakeries like Isso.
For dinner, consider Lake Inez for a unique dining experience, or explore options like Wynona or Pasaj for contemporary dishes.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Activities
Leslieville is known for its independent boutiques offering fashion, home decor, gifts, and artisanal products. Queen Street East is the main hub for these unique Leslieville shops.
Yes, the east end, including Leslieville and Riverside, has a growing craft beer scene. Left Field Brewery, Eastbound Brewing, and Rorschach Brewing are popular spots.
Families can enjoy exploring the parks, visiting bakeries for treats, and browsing the unique shops. The neighborhood's walkable nature makes it pleasant for strolls.
Butter & Spice Bakeshop is a local spot known for its delicious brownies and other freshly baked goods.
If you're active, consider joining a run club like the one at Eastbound Brewing on Monday nights. The Martin Goodman Trail is also accessible for cycling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkable Explorers
🍔 Foodies & Drink Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Scene of Leslieville
Beyond breakfast and lunch, Leslieville's dining scene extends to international flavors and contemporary cuisine. You can find authentic Middle Eastern dishes at Tabule, enjoy artisanal sandwiches from places like Completo or Lambo's Deli, and explore unique dinner options at restaurants like Lake Inez or Wynona. The area also features several craft breweries, including Left Field Brewery and Eastbound Brewing, making it a great destination for those looking to sample local brews.
For those seeking more casual or budget-friendly options, Leslieville doesn't disappoint. COPS donuts are a local favorite, and various smaller cafes and delis provide delicious and accessible choices. The Leslieville Cheese Market is also a noteworthy stop for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. The sheer variety ensures that whether you're looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, Leslieville offers a rich tapestry of flavors.
Exploring Leslieville's Unique Shops
Visitors can discover everything from stylish clothing and accessories to handcrafted jewelry and unique home furnishings. The appeal of Leslieville shopping is in its personal touch; many shop owners are passionate about their products and offer a more intimate and engaging retail experience compared to larger commercial centers. This focus on local and independent businesses is a defining characteristic of the Leslieville area.
Beyond fashion and home goods, you can also find specialty food stores, bookstores, and gift shops, making it a perfect destination for finding that special something. The walkable nature of the streets encourages leisurely browsing, allowing you to stumble upon hidden gems and support local entrepreneurs.
The Allure of Riverdale Park and City Views
The park's elevated position provides an unobstructed panorama, encompassing the downtown core's skyscrapers, the Don Valley, and beyond. It's particularly magical during sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the urban landscape. Many Redditors and content creators highlight this view as a key reason to visit the area, emphasizing its beauty and accessibility.
Beyond the views, Riverdale Park offers ample green space for recreation, including sports fields and walking trails. It's a perfect complement to exploring the urban charm of Leslieville, offering a natural escape and a chance to appreciate the city from a different perspective.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit