Neighbourhood Guide: Leslieville, Toronto
A family-friendly neighbourhood along Queen St. in the east end of Toronto, Leslieville is at its core a junction for all things local. With thriving independent businesses, delicious restaurants and weekly community events, this east end ‘hood feels more like a small town in a big city. Check out some of the spots that are favourites amongst Leslieville’s locals:
Sweat & Soda
1091 Queen St. E., sweatandsoda.com
If you’re tired of the same ol’ pastry selection at most coffee shops, try Leslieville’s Sweat & Soda, a community hub that attracts caffeine lovers and gym fiends. Perfectly-poured lattes are sold alongside healthy snacks and veggie-packed bowls, as well as a wide variety of kombuchas, cold brews and smoothies.
B-Side Beauty
1148 Queen St. E., bsidebeauty.ca
In need of a good manicure in an Insta-worthy space? B-Side Beauty is the east end’s go-to spot for all things nails, brows and makeup, plus they have an in-house bar if you’re craving some bubbly. They’re dog friendly too, so feel free to bring your pooch along while you get pampered!
Black Rooster Décor
1075 Queen St. E., blackroosterdecor.com
A neighbourhood staple and a favourite of local and international designers, Black Rooster Decor recently opened their new (and much bigger) location just down the block. Gold, black, white and navy reign in the shop, with unique furniture and accessories you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in the city.
The Green Wood
1402 Queen St. E., eatgreenwood.com
Nestled just past the corner of Queen and Greenwood, and tucked away in the well-lit lower level, sits this favourite brunch spot of Leslieville locals. Ontario-sourced ingredients make for fresh and delicious menu items, including fruit-topped French toast and delicious huevos rancheros. Vegetarians will be happy to note a number of meat-free options, as well.
Good Neighbour
935 Queen St. E., goodnbr.com
A trendy general store at the corner of Queen St. E. and Carlaw, Good Neighbour is the area’s one-stop shop for gifts, homeware and quality clothing. With the best selection of curated goods for guys and gals, you’ll find everything from Citizens of Humanity denim and Jenny Bird jewelry to Mackage handbags.
Frankie’s Italian
892 Queen St. E., frankiesyafrankies.com
Pasta, pizza and prosciutto – what else do you need in life? A newly-rebranded Italian restaurant, Frankie’s has become known for their affordable daily specials that range from a mouth-watering lamb bolognese for $13, to a bacon and gorgonzola pizza for $15. They also have an impressive Negroni list, featuring original takes on an old classic.
Varsity Brown
1107 Queen St. E., varsitybrown.ca
If you’re after some local handmade leather goods, pop in to one of Leslieville’s newest residents, Varsity Brown. A west end import, Varsity Brown has set up shop in the east to offer custom leather accessories, bags, pet goods and headwear that are made to last.
Goods & Provisions
1124 Queen St. E., goodsandprovisionsrestaurant.com
In the mood for cocktails? Goods & Provisions is a cozy, Prohibition-style bar that offers up some of the best drinks in Leslieville. Sip on a colourful ‘Beck Taxi’ – a homage to Toronto that includes Aperol and cucumber – or opt for the appropriately named ‘Corpse Reviver’ (shown here), a strong mixture of gin, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, lime juice and absinthe.
