Leslieville, Toronto - a street with cars and people
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Leslieville Toronto

4.6
·491k reviews·Toronto, Canada

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Brunch spots buzz with energy

CrowdHigh
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Leslieville, Toronto - a street with cars and people

Leslieville Toronto

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Brunch spots buzz with energy

CrowdHigh
Highlights

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.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Leslieville offers a charming blend of local boutiques, delicious eats, and beautiful park vistas."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Independent Boutiques

Independent Boutiques

Queen Street East

Discover unique fashion, home decor, and artisanal goods in Leslieville's charming independent shops.

Culinary Delights

Culinary Delights

Various locations

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

Riverdale Park Views

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

Leslieville, Toronto, offers a vibrant, walkable experience with a strong community feel. It's known for its independent shops, diverse eateries, and proximity to green spaces. Plan for a day of exploration, as many attractions are best enjoyed on foot.

Getting Around Leslieville

While Leslieville is walkable, understanding TTC routes is key. The Queen streetcar is a main artery, but be aware of potential construction delays. Consider using ride-sharing for quicker transit between farther points.

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Brunch spots buzz with energy
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Enjoy shops with fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Patio dining and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We hope to see you at our Leslieville location 💛 #butterandspice #bakery #brownies #browniesofgta #gtabrownies #browniesoftoronto #speakeasybakery #torontobakery #to_finest #yyzeats #freshlybaked #Bes...
@butterandspicebakeshop
25.6K likes • 262.7K views

☕ Coffee Crawl

Explore local favorites like Mercury Espresso and Rooster Coffee for your caffeine fix. Reddit+1

🍳 Brunch Must-Try

Bonjour Brioche and Lady Marmalade are top picks for a delicious brunch experience. Reddit

Toronto Hidden Gem: Bonjour Brioche #toronto #torontofood #torontoeats #torontofoodie #torontoeast #easttoronto #leslieville #fyp
@dinkbalshin
15.3K likes • 300.2K views
Join me for a tour of this 3 bedroom home located in the Leslieville neighbourhood of Toronto ✨ 📍39 Myrtle Ave. #torontohomes #housetour #leslieville #torontorealtor #torontorealestate
@yaelbunting
14.8K likes • 263.9K views

🛍️ Shop Local

Wander Queen Street East for unique boutiques and artisanal finds. Reddit

🌳 Park Views

Head to Riverdale Park for stunning city vistas. Reddit+1

reddit.com

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. Reddit+1

🍳 Brunch Must-Try

Bonjour Brioche and Lady Marmalade are top picks for a delicious brunch experience. Reddit

🛍️ Shop Local

Wander Queen Street East for unique boutiques and artisanal finds. Reddit

🌳 Park Views

Head to Riverdale Park for stunning city vistas. Reddit+1

🍺 Craft Beer Scene

Check out Left Field Brewery or Eastbound Brewing for local brews. Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Vibrant community atmosphere
Excellent food and brunch
Unique independent shops

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Crowded brunch spots

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

No, Riverdale Park is a public park and is free to enter. It's a great spot for enjoying views and outdoor activities. Reddit

For popular brunch spots like Bonjour Brioche or Lady Marmalade, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as they can get very busy. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit+1

Leslieville offers a diverse range of international flavors, including Middle Eastern at Tabule, Italian, and Japanese bakeries like Isso. Reddit+1

For dinner, consider Lake Inez for a unique dining experience, or explore options like Wynona or Pasaj for contemporary dishes. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit+1

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. TikTok

Butter & Spice Bakeshop is a local spot known for its delicious brownies and other freshly baked goods. TikTok

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Leslieville offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of green space and charming shops. Riverdale Park is a fantastic spot for kids to run around and enjoy the playground, with the added bonus of incredible city views. TikTokReddit Many bakeries, like Butter & Spice Bakeshop, offer delicious treats that are sure to be a hit with younger visitors. TikTok The neighborhood's walkability makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and you can find casual eateries that cater to family dining. Consider a visit to Red Rocket Cafe, which is combined with a flower shop, offering a unique and pleasant experience. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Explorers

Leslieville is a walker's paradise, especially along Queen Street East, which is lined with unique boutiques and eateries. Reddit You can easily spend hours browsing the independent shops, discovering local art, and sampling treats from various cafes and bakeries. TikTokReddit Don't miss the opportunity to walk up Broadview Avenue to Riverdale Park for stunning city views – it's a rewarding stroll that offers a great perspective of Toronto. Reddit+1 The neighborhood's compact nature means you can cover a lot of ground on foot, making it ideal for those who love to explore at their own pace.

🍔 Foodies & Drink Enthusiasts

Leslieville is a culinary hotspot, particularly for brunch lovers. Bonjour Brioche and Lady Marmalade are must-visit destinations for a memorable brunch experience. TikTokReddit Coffee aficionados will appreciate the quality brews at Mercury Espresso Bar and Rooster Coffee. Reddit+1 For those interested in craft beverages, Left Field Brewery and Eastbound Brewing offer a great selection of local beers. Reddit+1 Explore the diverse international food scene, from Middle Eastern at Tabule to artisanal sandwiches at Completo. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Scene of Leslieville

Leslieville is a true haven for food enthusiasts, boasting a diverse and dynamic culinary landscape. From cozy cafes perfect for a morning coffee to vibrant brunch spots that draw crowds on weekends, there's something to satisfy every palate. Independent bakeries like Butter & Spice Bakeshop offer delightful treats, while established eateries such as Bonjour Brioche and Lady Marmalade are celebrated for their brunch menus. TikTokReddit+1

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. Reddit+2

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. Reddit

Exploring Leslieville's Unique Shops

Leslieville is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking unique finds beyond mainstream retail. The heart of Leslieville's shopping experience lies along Queen Street East, where a collection of independent boutiques thrives. These shops offer a curated selection of fashion, home decor, artisanal crafts, and specialty goods, reflecting the neighborhood's creative spirit. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

The Allure of Riverdale Park and City Views

For breathtaking vistas of the Toronto skyline, a visit to Riverdale Park is an absolute must. Located just a short transit ride or a pleasant walk north from Leslieville along Broadview Avenue, this expansive park offers one of the most iconic and sweeping views of the city. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax, picnic, and capture stunning photographs. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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