You won’t find the big-box stores that litter downtown Toronto in Leslieville, and that’s a good thing. The neighbourhood is still a haven for talented local artisans and indie shops.
One of our favourites is Arts Market (1114 Queen East, 416-546-84464, artsmarket.ca) because it features over 120 artists, designers and other creative types from the GTA. Seriously, you could spend a few hours in this place. It’s all about supporting entrepreneurs by providing economical rent space without forcing them to sign away commissions or enter into long-term contracts.
Another great spot is Good Neighbour (935 Queen East, 647-350-0663, goodnbr.com), a mashup of fashion shop and general store. Find everything here from clothing, footwear and housewares to razors, golden geese and doilies. Good Neighbour carries hip lines from all over the world but prioritizes local finds. Ther space also houses a Drake General Store pop-up.
Fashion fiends, check out Doll Factory by Damzels (1122 Queen East, 416-598-0509, damzels.com). The Toronto-based design duo behind Damzels’ retro-flirty frocks have one of the biggest cult followings in town.
Don’t miss out on Leslieville’s vibrant vintage scene: stop by Gadabout (1300 Queen East, 416-463-1254, gadaboutvintage.com) for gear ranging from the Edwardian era through the 1970s. Their Manly Man Corner is known for its random but wonderful antique curiosities like tin cans, boy scout paraphernalia and billiard balls. Also hop on over to Thrill of the Find (1172 Queen East, 416-461-9313, -thrillofthefind.com) for luxe vintage and consignment from labels like Dior, Chanel, Yves St. Laurent and more.
Area parents love Baby on the Hip (969 Queen East, 416-465-414, babyonthehip.ca) for its selection of eco-conscious kids’ products and fashion. Dog parents rely on the Bone House (946 Queen East, 416-463-2663, thebonehouse.ca), which only sells organic dog food and toys, most made in Canada.
Cyclists get their fix at Velotique (1591 Queen East, 416-466-3171, velotique.com), which specializes in bike sales, service and accessories, but also has a solid rep for its cross-country skis and roller-skis. Bonus: the boutique carries tons of Canadian and North American brands.
Wonderpens (250 Carlaw, unit 105, 416-799-5935, wonderpens.ca), a shop that sells the best of the best fountain pens, ink and paper, caters to lovers of the handwritten word. They don’t teach cursive in school any more, but you can still learn it at Wonderpens at a calligraphy or children’s handwriting workshop. A letter-writing club meets every second Sunday of the month from 2 to 4 pm, and the staff will even mail your letter for you with Canada Post.
See more on Leslieville here.
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