The one place in Toronto where finding a stiff caffè, the finest gelato, TO's best sandwich, underground acts, insanely delicious grilled octopus, and haggis (if you’re into it) is never more than a minute away. This particular Little Italy is considerably younger, cosmopolitan, and friendlier to creatives than its sister hood in NYC. And probably a little less obnoxiously Italian (which in this case is a good thing). In the midst of its own renaissance, a number of interesting and unique restaurants, bars, and shops run by some of Toronto’s up-and-coming have opened up and reinvigorated this once recently sleepy street. Just make sure to bring an empty stomach and a full wallet to get a taste for the real Little Italy.
The city's best octopus and craft beer selection
If you want to look and feel like one of those sexy Italians you see riding one of their scooters, this is the place for you. (And don’t pretend that you haven’t wanted to. We've all fantasized about it.) Despite its humble facade, there are a multitude of interesting brands, bikes, and scooters stocked in this boutique. The owners pride themselves on carrying only quality and offer year-round servicing for riders. Non-riders will top-quality brands like Filson, Alternative, Cheap Monday, and Red Wing represented among the racks of shelves. Prices are very, very good too. Honest to God, we always leave with something. (Hopefully a bike next time.)
