East Toronto refers to one of the oldest sections of the city east of the Don River. It is roughly bordered by Jarvis St. in the West, the Don Valley in the East, Bloor St. to the North and Lake Ontario to the south. It is a mixed area that contains both professional and working class citizens. The area includes neighbourhoods such as Upper Beaches, Riverdale, Leslieville, East Danforth, and the Beaches.
You’ll recognize The Beach as one of the few parts of the city with easy access to Lake Ontario. The vibe is a mix of cottage life with city life. It also contains the R.C. Harris Filtration Plant, which is one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks.
Leslieville, on the other hand, is a very different kind of neighbourhood. It has evolved from a mostly working class neighbourhood to one of mixed incomes and diverse retail stores. Most recently, it has become home to many art galleries, coffee houses and restaurants. It also houses a large part of Toronto’s film industry along the southern edge of the neighbourhood.
The Riverdale and Danforth neighbourhoods are located just east of the Don Valley and are home to a number of family homes and artists. The area has a number of large parks (Withrow and Riverdale) and is known as being very walkable. The Danforth is home to Toronto’s Greek community, centres around Queen East, which has seen a renaissance over the past 10 years. The area bosts a number of cool bars, restaurants and galleries. On Gerrard, if found one of Toronto’s three Chinatowns and contains lots of grocery stores, restaurants and the Chinese gate which welcome visitors.
WHERE THE MUSIC’S AT
Jam Factory Co. | WEBSITE
The Danforth Music Hall | WEBSITE
Phoenix Concert Theatre | WEBSITE
The Opera House | WEBSITE
