When you’re thinking about taking a walk around a neighbourhood in Toronto, your first idea might be the trendy Queen St. West, or maybe a leisurely stroll into Leslieville. Both of these are excellent choices for their shopping selection, food options, and fun vibes. But when was the last time you wandered around a new part of the city?
Having moved to Little Portugal late last year, I’m just now discovering the hidden gems in the area. So, where exactly is this little gem? Well, it’s actually not that little. It takes up a large portion between Bathurst St. and Landsdowne Ave. all south of College.
Ready to explore? Let me help you get started with these 11 cool places to check out in Little Portugal!
Unboxed Market
Dundas West & Dovercourt
Looking to cut back on waste? Unboxed Market is the perfect place to start. You can do your grocery shopping, pick up bulk cleaning supplies, and oil on tap. Toronto’s first waste-free grocery store is a current hot spot for anyone trying to make an impact on their carbon footprint.
Stole My Heart
Dundas West & Dufferin
I stepped into this adorable lingerie shop a few years ago and fell in love. Looking to support female-led designers, Store My Heart is home to a variety of independent designers, including Toronto fave Mary Young.
Saudade
Dundas West & Ossington
If you’re looking for a taste of Little Portugal and love beautiful home decor, then Saudade is the place for you. Everything in the store celebrates Portuguese design and traditional artisan culture. It’s seriously beautiful!
Invisible City Record Shop
Dundas West & Dovercourt
Sitting right beside Unboxed Market, you’ll find this super cool coffee shop/record store that is 100% Instagram perfect. Seriously, I did a little photoshoot in there and all the photos turned out gorgeous. Who doesn’t want to browse $5 records over a coffee, or a German soda?
Extra Burger
Dundas West & Lisgar
So, after a bit of shopping you’re CRAVING a burger. Well, Extra Burger is the place to go, my friends! Their super simple burgers are also super delicious. And, you’ll definitely be wanting fries with that.
Pho Lihn
College & Sheridan
Pho Lihn was one of the first places I tried when I moved to the area, and with good reason! It is always PACKED every time I walk buy. I highly recommend a quick stop for a tasty Vietnamese meal.
Laylow Brewery
College & Dufferin
Laylow not only has a tasty selection of beers, but they also are killin’ it with their Trinidadian flavours and foods.
Depanneur
College & Rusholme Park Cres
Depanneur calls itself a “place where interesting food things happen” and it couldn’t be more true! I have been here for brunch several times, and can’t wait to try some of their workshops and other food events. Keep an eye on their rotating events schedule to stay up-to-date!
Hideseek
Dundas West & Dovercourt
Looking for something fun to do while their weather is still, “meh”? Check out Hideseek for a real-life recess.
The Lockhart
Dundas West & Dufferin
If you’re a Harry Potter fan and haven’t checked out The Lockhart, then drop all of your plans and head there right now. Their Tuesday Night Trivia is super hard, so no muggles allowed!
Track & Field
College & Ossington
Track & Field is a fun little spot with beers, cocktails, and fun games like bocce and shuffleboard! It’s one of my favourite ways to spend a Friday night out. I don’t know about you, but now I’m pretty excited for summer to come around so I can continue to explore my hood. It has a ton of amazing things to offer, so I highly recommend coming for a visit.
Featured Image: Instagram/@arikaplan
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