Ossington Building - Unique cubic administration building for Egypt-Japan university of science and technology designed by the Japanese Architect Arata Isozaki
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Ossington Building

4.6
·491k reviews·Newark-on-Trent, United Kingdom

Toronto's vibrant Ossington Avenue, famed for its eclectic shops, diverse eateries, and buzzing nightlife. A true urban gem!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings & Weekends

Street comes alive with energy

CrowdHigh
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Ossington Building - Unique cubic administration building for Egypt-Japan university of science and technology designed by the Japanese Architect Arata Isozaki

Ossington Building

Best Time

Evenings & Weekends

Street comes alive with energy

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Toronto's vibrant Ossington Avenue, famed for its eclectic shops, diverse eateries, and buzzing nightlife. A true urban gem!

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Voted one of the coolest streets in the world, Ossington offers hidden gems and a lively atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the shops and eateries! :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check for Events

Ossington hosts street festivals and events, especially in summer. Check local listings! :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Eclectic Boutiques & Shops

Eclectic Boutiques & Shops

Ossington Avenue

Discover unique fashion, artisanal goods, and Canadian-designed products. A shopper's paradise!

Culinary Delights

Culinary Delights

Ossington Avenue

From hidden speakeasies to renowned Greek tavernas and diverse international cuisine, Ossington is a foodie's dream.

Vibrant Nightlife

Vibrant Nightlife

Ossington Avenue

Experience the buzzing energy of Ossington's bars, pubs, and cocktail lounges, perfect for a night out.

Ossington Summer Fest

Ossington Summer Fest

Ossington Avenue

An annual street festival celebrating local culture, music, and food with a lively community atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Ossington Vibe

Ossington Avenue is a vibrant Toronto street known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, so expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Plan your visit to align with your interests, whether it's exploring boutiques, enjoying diverse culinary experiences, or experiencing the nightlife.

Navigating Ossington's Charm

Ossington is a walkable street, but comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to explore extensively. Public transit is readily accessible, with the Ossington subway station nearby. Consider visiting during off-peak hours if you prefer a more relaxed experience, though the street truly comes alive in the evenings and on weekends.

Best Times

When
Evenings & Weekends
Why
Street comes alive with energy
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
More relaxed shopping
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Evenings
Why
Outdoor dining & events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ossington Avenue was voted one of the coolest streets in the world and it’s no wonder. There’s so much to see and do on this amazing strip in Toronto, including restaurants tucked away behind coffee shops and speakeasies! @Krystle has rounded up 6 hidden and not-so-hidden gems on Ossington Ave. 1. Côte de Boeuf - 130 Ossington Ave. 2. Favorites Thai BBQ - 141 Ossington Ave. 3. @Bar Banane - 227A...
@destinationtoronto
28.3K likes • 818.2K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the shops and eateries! :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check for Events

Ossington hosts street festivals and events, especially in summer. Check local listings! :calendar:

lmk what I’m missing!!
@dumbblondediary
26.8K likes • 329.8K views
Today, with St. Clare’s Multifaith Housing Society we officially added 26 new deeply affordable homes to the Davenport neighourhood at 1120 Ossington Ave. Built in 17 working days, this three-storey building will provide supportive homes for those at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Designed by Smart Density and and McCallum Sather (@mccallumsather), and developed with Assembly Corporation ...
cityofto
1K likes • 49.1K views

🍸 Explore Hidden Gems

Look beyond the main street for speakeasies and unique restaurants tucked away. :cocktail_glass:

🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations

Popular restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book ahead to avoid disappointment. :ticket:

Details ⬇️ Welcome to this luxurious contemporary multiplex just north of Bloor on Ossington Ave. Located in the Bloorcourt Village; steps from Ossington station and the cities best dining, coffee, shopping, and more. Beautifully built by Blue Lion Building; this home is a masterclass in great craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Elegant and modern, with sleek minimalistic contempor...
tamish
118 likes • 12.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the shops and eateries! :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check for Events

Ossington hosts street festivals and events, especially in summer. Check local listings! :calendar:

🍸 Explore Hidden Gems

Look beyond the main street for speakeasies and unique restaurants tucked away. :cocktail_glass:

🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations

Popular restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book ahead to avoid disappointment. :ticket:

🚶‍♀️ Walkable & Transit-Friendly

Easy to get to via TTC and explore on foot. :subway:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ossington Avenue is celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere, diverse culinary scene, and unique shopping experiences. Visitors rave about the vibrant energy, especially in the evenings and on weekends, and the wide array of restaurants and bars. Some find parking challenging and the crowds can be significant during peak times.

What People Like

Vibrant street life
Diverse food options
Unique shops

What People Dislike

Crowded on weekends
Difficult parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ossington Avenue is easily accessible by public transit. The TTC Ossington subway station on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) is located right at the southern end of the avenue. Numerous bus routes also service the area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city. Many visitors find it a great spot to explore on foot once they arrive. Reddit

Street parking can be challenging to find on Ossington Avenue itself, especially during peak hours. There are some paid parking lots and garages in the surrounding areas, but it's often more convenient to use public transportation or rideshare services. Reddit

Ossington Avenue is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll want to wander in and out of the many shops, cafes, and restaurants. The street is quite long, so consider which section you're most interested in visiting first. TikTok

While cycling is possible, Ossington can be busy with traffic and pedestrians. It's advisable to be cautious and aware of your surroundings if cycling. Dedicated bike lanes may be available on parallel streets. Reddit

Yes, you can reach Ossington from Pearson Airport via public transit. Take the UP Express train to Union Station, then transfer to the TTC subway Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) westbound to Ossington Station. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service is a more direct but costly option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Ossington Avenue itself is a public street and does not require tickets for general access. You can freely walk along the avenue and explore its many businesses. TikTok

There are no entrance fees to visit Ossington Avenue. Individual businesses, restaurants, bars, and shops will have their own pricing for goods and services. TikTok

Ossington Avenue is always accessible as it's a public street. However, individual businesses have their own operating hours. Shops typically open around 10-11 AM and close between 6-9 PM, while restaurants and bars often stay open much later, especially on weekends. TikTok

For special events like the Ossington Summer Fest, check the official event dates and times. These festivals usually take place during specific weekends in the summer and transform the street into a pedestrian-only zone with entertainment and vendors. TikTok

Yes, it is highly recommended to book reservations for popular restaurants on Ossington Avenue, particularly for dinner on evenings and weekends. Many establishments use online booking platforms or take reservations by phone. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ossington Avenue offers an incredibly diverse culinary scene. You'll find everything from Greek tavernas like Mamakas TikTok and Italian eateries to Thai restaurants, artisanal bakeries, and trendy cafes. There are also options for vegetarian and vegan diners, such as the potato and pickle sandwich at Lennie's. TikTok

Yes, many restaurants on Ossington cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. For example, Lennie's offers a popular potato and pickle sandwich. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff about their plant-based offerings. TikTok

Mamakas Tavern is a long-standing favorite for Greek cuisine.TikTok Cote de Boeuf is known for its French-inspired dishes.TikTok For a unique experience, try sampling dishes from multiple restaurants in one night, as suggested by some foodies. TikTok

Absolutely! Ossington has several coffee shops, some of which transform into cocktail bars at night. Rosewood is mentioned as a spot with coffee by day and DJ sets by night.TikTok Many cafes offer a great atmosphere for working or relaxing. TikTok

Ossington is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Many restaurants transition into lively bars and lounges in the evening, offering a wide selection of cocktails and drinks. It's a popular spot for a night out with friends. TikTok+1

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Activities

Ossington Avenue is a fantastic destination for shopping, featuring a mix of independent boutiques, Canadian brands like Kotn,TikTok and unique specialty stores. You can find clothing, accessories, home goods, and more. TikTok

Yes, Ossington has unique spots like Hobbiesville, a popular card shop for trading cards, board games, and collectibles. It's a great stop for enthusiasts and collectors. TikTok

Beyond shopping and dining, you can explore the street's art scene, catch live music at some venues, or even visit a haunted pub like The Painted Lady, which some visitors report as a spooky experience. TikTok

Ossington is a popular choice for date nights, offering a wide array of romantic restaurants, cozy cafes, and lively bars. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse options make it easy to find something for every couple. TikTok

The Ossington Summer Fest is an annual street festival that celebrates the vibrant community of Ossington Avenue. It typically features live music, food vendors, local artisans, and family-friendly activities, transforming the street into a lively celebration. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Ossington Avenue offers a visually rich environment for photography. Capture the vibrant street art, unique storefronts, bustling crowds, and the architectural details of the buildings. The diverse culinary scene also provides great opportunities for food photography. TikTok+1

While Ossington doesn't have one single iconic landmark, the street itself is a character. Look for interesting signage, colorful murals, and the blend of old and new architecture. The 'Painted Lady' pub is also a notable spot. TikTok

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for capturing the street's ambiance. However, the street's energy is often best captured during the lively evenings and weekends, even if the lighting is more challenging. TikTok

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other patrons or staff. Some establishments might have specific policies, so it's good practice to be mindful. Food photography is very popular here. TikTok

The entire length of Ossington Avenue is a prime location for street photography, with its constant flow of people, diverse characters, and dynamic urban environment. Capture candid moments and the street's unique character. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Ossington Avenue is more known for its nightlife and adult-oriented dining, families can still find enjoyable experiences. During the day, exploring the unique shops and perhaps grabbing a casual bite at a cafe can be fun. The Ossington Summer Fest, when it occurs, is a particularly family-friendly event with activities and a lively atmosphere. TikTok+1

It's advisable to visit during daytime hours for a more family-appropriate experience. Consider places with more casual dining options or bakeries. While there are no specific 'kid attractions' on Ossington, the vibrant street life and diverse shops can still offer an engaging outing for families looking for a taste of Toronto's urban culture.

🥂 Couples & Date Nights

Ossington Avenue is a prime destination for couples looking for a memorable date night. The street offers a fantastic selection of intimate restaurants with diverse cuisines, from romantic Greek tavernas to cozy Italian spots. Many establishments have a sophisticated ambiance perfect for a special evening. TikTok+1

After dinner, couples can explore the numerous bars and lounges, many of which offer craft cocktails and a lively yet intimate atmosphere. The street's vibrant energy, combined with its wide range of entertainment options, makes it easy to craft a perfect evening out, whether you're seeking a quiet dinner or a night of dancing. TikTok+1

🍻 Nightlife Enthusiasts

Ossington Avenue truly shines for those seeking a vibrant nightlife experience. The street is packed with a diverse range of bars, pubs, and clubs, catering to various tastes. From trendy cocktail lounges to more laid-back pubs, there's something for everyone. TikTok+1

Many of the restaurants on Ossington transition into lively bars in the evening, offering a dynamic atmosphere. Some spots even feature DJs and live music, adding to the energetic vibe. It's a popular area for bar hopping and enjoying a night out with friends. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolution of Ossington Avenue

Ossington Avenue has transformed over the years from a more industrial area to one of Toronto's most celebrated streets. It was even recognized as one of the 'coolest streets in the world' by Time Out magazine, highlighting its unique blend of independent businesses, diverse culinary offerings, and vibrant nightlife. TikTok+1

The street is a testament to Toronto's evolving urban landscape, with a mix of historic buildings and modern developments. You'll find everything from long-standing family-run businesses to trendy new establishments, creating a dynamic and ever-changing atmosphere. This constant evolution keeps Ossington fresh and exciting for both locals and visitors. Instagram+1

Community involvement plays a significant role in Ossington's character. Events like the Ossington Summer Fest showcase this, bringing people together to celebrate local culture and businesses. The street's popularity also means it's a hub for social gatherings, making it a go-to destination for a night out. TikTok+1

A Culinary Journey on Ossington

Ossington Avenue is a true haven for food lovers, boasting an impressive array of dining options that cater to every palate. From authentic Greek cuisine at Mamakas Tavern TikTok to French-inspired dishes at Cote de Boeuf,TikTok the street offers a global culinary tour. Foodies often recommend trying multiple dishes from different restaurants in one outing, showcasing the sheer variety available. TikTok

The street is also known for its hidden culinary gems, including speakeasies and tucked-away eateries that offer unique dining experiences. For those seeking plant-based options, places like Lennie's offer creative vegetarian sandwiches, proving that delicious food is accessible to everyone. TikTok

Beyond dinner, Ossington's cafes provide a relaxed daytime atmosphere, some of which transform into lively cocktail bars by night. This dual nature makes Ossington a versatile destination, perfect for a casual coffee, a delightful meal, or an energetic night out with friends. TikTok+1

Shopping and Unique Finds

Ossington Avenue is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking unique finds and supporting local businesses. The street is lined with independent boutiques offering a curated selection of fashion, accessories, and artisanal goods. Canadian brands like Kotn have a presence here, providing ethically sourced clothing options. TikTok

For those with specific interests, Ossington also hosts specialty stores. Hobbiesville, for instance, is a popular destination for collectors of trading cards, board games, and other hobby items, drawing enthusiasts from across the city. TikTok

The shopping experience on Ossington is characterized by its personal touch and the discovery of items you won't find in mainstream malls. It's a place to wander, explore, and unearth hidden gems, making it a rewarding destination for a leisurely shopping day. TikTok

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