If you’re a lover of brunch, you’ll find Leslieville a special place. Well known as the east end neighbourhood for its trendy eateries, galleries and shops – it’s one of Toronto’s hippest places to live. Coined as Toronto’s new Queen West, it’s become a desirable area for Torontonians to invest in as housing prices have started to spike.

Formed as a small village in 1850, many of the residents were gardeners or employees at the brick factory. This area of Toronto has a special piece of history that the residents are particularly proud of: The poetic verse ‘The Maple Leaf Forever’ was composed under a tree in Leslieville where a historic plaque sits at the intersection of Laing Street and Memory Lane. The quiet eastside neighbourhood has a cohesive village feel to it and is chalk full of cafes, vintage furniture shops, fashion and designer stores.

The homes of Leslieville were built in the late 1800’s and include Ontario Cottages, second empire row houses and quaint Victorian homes. With the spike of real estate prices, high-end condo and loft developments have boomed as well, which has created some urgency for buyers looking for an investment in Leslieville. This area is a playground of urban professionals looking for something different in a neighbourhood and community.

Shops and eateries aside, there are lots of options for recreational activities to keep you active within the neighbourhood. Greenwood Park has 3 baseball diamonds, an artificial ice rink, a pool and a playground. There’s also Ashbridge Park, which has tennis courts, a children’s playground and a wading pool. Leslieville also has S.H. Armstrong Community Recreation Centre and Gerrard / Ashdale Public Library.

This is surely the neighbourhood to look into if you want something unique in an urban experience.