The Leslieville Guide: 26 essential destinations for shopping, eating and drinking

This east-end neighbourhood is constantly being labelled “the next big thing.” Yet it’s been seven years since Edward Levesque opened his eponymous restaurant at Queen and Alton, and nearly a decade since the first old industrial building was transformed into condos. Leslieville has not only arrived: its evolution is unique in the city. The tight-knit community of business owners—most live within blocks of their workplace—has allowed “Toronto’s Brooklyn” to avoid the fate of unruly and super-hyped Queen West and Ossington. Mainly untouched by big box retailers and uncharted by tour buses, this is one of the city’s most relaxing spots to spend a day. Here is our guide to the top cafés, shops, restaurants and dairy parlours for caffeine fanatics, curious day trippers and anyone who appreciates a scoop of really good ice cream.

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