Few neighbourhoods can boast the luxury amenities of Yorkville, and that includes incredible restaurants. This upscale pocket of the city offers more than its fair share of culinary delights—many of which can be enjoyed at home. That’s great news for residents. At a time when having delectable meals prepared for you can be a challenge, there are still local options!

Looking for high-caliber takeout or delivery in Yorkville? Here are five Yorkville restaurants that make the cut…

Alobar

There’s nothing quite like dining at Alobar. Savouring the delicate flavours of this upscale eatery’s sharing plates is something every Torontonian should experience at least once. Right now, Alobar is offering a pick-up menu that changes on an ongoing basis. Upcoming dishes include a foie gras parfait with pear and hazelnut, and a butternut squash risotto. Pair dishes like these with the right wine or cocktail, and you’re in for a real treat for the senses.

Charbol

Charbol is one of the finest French restaurants in the city. While this cozy, light-filled eatery is the perfect place for an intimate dinner, the food is just as delicious if you enjoy it at home. Currently, the restaurant is offering contactless pickup—and it’s definitely worth the trip. At any given time, dishes like flavourful tartine, perfectly-prepared pork chops, and rich chocolate mousse are on the menu. Put simply, this is the place to order from when you’re planning a special-occasion dinner in.

Trattoria Nervosa

When you’re craving Italian, Trattoria Nervosa is a great bet. This local gem, which sits at the corner of Yorkville and Bellair, serves up pizzas, pastas, and salads made with fresh and inventive ingredients. During the pandemic, Trattoria Nervosa is offering not only takeout, but delivery through Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes, and DoorDash. They’re also providing meals for frontline health care workers, social services staff, and individuals facing food insecurity.

Sassafraz

On Cumberland Avenue, tucked in amongst Victorian row houses, you’ll find a charming restaurant known as Sassafraz. Its interior is charming—but even more importantly, the fare it serves up is one-of-a-kind. From the yellowfin tuna salad to the mac n’ cheese with truffle essence and panko crust, this is the ideal place to grab a luxurious bite. Sassafraz is currently available for pick-up, and you can even order some vino to go with your meal!

Aburi Hana

Lovers of Japanese cuisine, rejoice! Aburi Hana is offering traditional dishes that are flavourful, colourful, and neatly packed. These are true show-stoppers. Whether you’re in the mood for incredibly-fresh fish (which is frequently infused with flame-seared smokiness) or tenderloin steak (seasoned with red miso sauce), this gem of a restaurant will never leave you unsatisfied. The eatery’s online platform is the best place to place an order, though Aburi Hana is also available on Uber Eats.

When you’re ready to find the perfect Yorkville home, we’re ready to guide you in your search. Reach out to benefit from our local expertise!

If you’re searching for the perfect residential neighbourhood, look no further than the Annex. Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant area is known for its picturesque streets, lively local businesses, and strong sense of community. The neighbourhood’s diversity is reflected in its housing stock, which includes everything from mid-rise apartment buildings to some of the grandest (and most distinctive) older houses in the city.

Learn what makes the Annex so special here in our neighbourhood guide…

The History

The Annex remains an incredibly popular neighbourhood, though its character has shifted over the years. Subdivided in the 1870s, the area was long known as one of the city’s most fashionable. Timothy Eaton (founder of the Eaton’s department store) was one of its most notable residents.

Following the 1920s, many of the Annex’s elite residents left for upscale suburbs like Forest Hill. Fortunately, the neighbourhood’s appeal has endured—due in large part to the beauty of its residential architecture and the strength of the Annex Residents Association.

Your Neighbours

Part of what makes the Annex special is the mix of people who call the area home. Academics and creative types are drawn to the neighbourhood for its authentic feel and proximity to the University of Toronto. Affluent buyers adore its gorgeous older homes, mature trees, and picturesque streets.

Put simply, the Annex is far from a cookie-cutter community—and its residents reflect that. If you decide to live here, one thing you can count on is neighbours who take pride in where they live (and care for their homes accordingly).

Where to Shop and Dine

In the Annex, you’ll find eclectic restaurants, nightlife, and shops. While many of these businesses cater to students, there’s no shortage of places where you can have a truly inspired meal or incredible shopping experience.

Fans of modern French cuisine will want to try Nord Bistro. This Dupont Street favourite is the ideal place to enjoy duck confit with a cocktail! If Japanese is more your thing, Kinka Izakaya brings something different to the table with its inventive small plates. Pisac serves up flavourful Peruvian (including pitch-perfect ceviche), while Opus is known for its impressive fusion menu and wine list.

When you’re ready to explore the local boutiques, you won’t be disappointed. The local stretch of Bloor Street West is bustling with shops that sell designer clothing, unique home decor, high-end kitchenware, charming greeting cards, and everything in between.

Literature aficionados won’t want to miss BMV Books (one of the city’s most beloved independent chains) and Contact Editions (one of the best rare book stores in the city).

Places to Explore

When you’re looking for something different, check out the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. This renovated old theatre, which is over 100 years old, is now used to showcase documentaries.

The Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre (MNJCC) offers a state-of-art fitness centre, saltwater pool, and local theatre, along with a wealth of arts, cultural, and recreational programs. While it’s committed to values grounded in the Jewish faith, the MNJCC is welcoming to the community at large.

When you need some outdoor time, head to Jean Sibelius Square (a pretty, well-treed green space in the heart of the neighbourhood) or Vermont Square Park (a Seaton Village staple with an off-leash area and bocce ball courts).

Real Estate

Along its wide, tree-lined streets, the Annex boasts gorgeous Victorian-era homes—including some prime examples of Queen Anne architecture. Sandstone and brick exteriors combine with refined period details in some of the area’s most stunning residences.

The neighbourhood is also known for its own distinctive “Annex-style” architecture. Features include Romanesque arches and decorative turrets.

Home pricing in the Annex runs the gamut. For just over a million dollars, you can purchase a smaller semi-detached property (so long as you’re okay without dedicated parking and are willing to do some renovations). Some of the grandest homes can eclipse $10 million, and they’re worth the price tag.

When it comes to the Annex, one thing is certain. No matter which pocket you decide to call home, you’ll enjoy the beauty, convenience, and sense of community that comes with living in one of Toronto’s most wonderful neighbourhoods.

When you’re ready to find and secure the perfect home in the Annex, we’re ready to guide you in your search. Reach out to benefit from our local expertise!

For more Toronto neighbourhood information see our guides on Lawrence Park, Yorkville, Moore Park & Rosedale

It’s one of Toronto’s most iconic buildings. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has undergone many changes over the years, and we’re not just talking about the special exhibits. This fascinating landmark (located in the heart of downtown and just ten minutes south of the Annex and Yorkville) is the result of internationally-renowned talent. The outcome is truly unique—just like the artworks inside and the visitors who appreciate them.

In this post, we’ll look at the AGO, its architecture, and the ways it’s been transformed over decades…

The Basics

At 583,000 square feet, the AGO provides plenty of space for the 90,000 artworks it holds. The roots of these masterpieces span continents, time periods, and artistic movements, making the museum a prime attraction for art lovers of all stripes. Completed in 1918, the building has been modified numerous times.

In one notable renovation, a brick structure was added to the AGO’S Dundas Street facade to improve accessibility. As a consequence, the building’s entrance became more closed off and far less central. This is one of the issues that award-winning architect Frank Gehry tackled during his 2008 building revitalization.

Frank Gehry’s Vision

Canadian-born Frank Gehry is one of the world’s preeminent architects, and his reimagining of the AGO lives up to his reputation. Gehry’s overhaul contains elements of his deconstructivist style, respect for the building’s past design, and an overall dreamy quality that demands to be experienced firsthand.

As part of the redesign, Gehry added 97,000 square feet to the building—and nearly doubled its art-viewing space. He removed the previous addition to the entranceway, opening it up for a more welcoming (and much grander) feel. A shop, restaurant, cafe, and lecture hall were added as well.

The overall style has also evolved. Walkways and an elegant (yet perfectly off-kilter) staircase link old and new elements of the museum. The glass-panel facade pairs beautifully with the structure’s sinuous wooden beams, making the most of natural light.

Architectural Highlights

The latest iteration of the AGO contains many standout features that every visitor should see. Here are just a few highlights:

• The 70-foot-tall glass and stone facade, which curves out over Dundas Street

• The Gallery Italia, adorned with towering Douglas Fir beams

• The titanium and glass South Wing, looking out onto Grange Park

• The spiralling baroque staircase, rising up from the second floor

• Baillie Court, an event space offering stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows

The Grange

If you’re interested in doing more exploring, walk over to the Grange. It’s known as the AGO’s first home, but the building started out as a residence for Toronto’s well-known Boulton family in 1817. This Georgian manner has mysterious origins (its architect is unknown), but it’s believed to be constructed of soil bricks with a high concentration of clay.

Additions were made to the Grange over the years, and it eventually began its new life as the AGO’s predecessor in the early 1900s. Today, it’s the site of the Norma Ridley Members’ Lounge and exhibition spaces. An accompanying two hectares of green space make up pretty Grange Park.

No matter how many times you visit, the AGO is a sight to behold. It’s one of many buildings in Toronto that prove you don’t have to leave the city to appreciate an architectural marvel!

Looking for an architecturally-significant home? Get in touch to learn how we can help you buy a truly spectacular property.

Gorgeous mansions on quiet, gently-winding streets. Stunning ravine views and lively business districts. Some Of the best schools in the country. This is just a small taste of what you’ll find in Forest Hill. This upscale midtown neighbourhood is ideal for those who are seeking the good life—and can afford the price tag.

Learn why Forest Hill should be at the top of every affluent home-buyers list here in our neighbourhood guide…

The History

Formerly known as Spadina Heights, the neighbourhood of Forest Hill was first incorporated as a village in the 1920s. The area was named after a local residence, constructed by a John Wickson in 1860. It was split into two sections, Upper and Lower Forest Hill, and the former developed first.

The community was one of the last to be annexed by the City of Toronto in 1967. Today, it’s one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in one of the hottest real estate markets in North America.

Your Neighbours

If you move to Forest Hill, your neighbours will likely be some of Toronto’s wealthiest and most highly-esteemed residents. You’ll find many families, and they include children who attend the city’s top private schools, Bishop Strachan (for girls) and Upper Canada College (for boys).

Having an address in Forest Hill is a sure sign you’ve reached the upper echelons of success, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by high-ranking professionals who share your mindset.

Where To Shop and Dine

An enviable lifestyle is about more than owning a stunning home. It’s also about having easy access to both the essentials and life’s little extras. Forest Hill residents have all of that and more.

When it comes to dining out, the local go-to’s are impressive. If you love Italian food, start with 7Numbers. This Eglinton hotspot is the ideal place to grab an espresso or sample some authentic antipasto. Edo-ko is ideal for those seeking fresh cuts of sashimi, while Hotel Gelato is the place to go for a refreshing dessert or flavourful brunch.

When you’re in the mood to shop, there are two local districts you’ll want to check out. The first is Forest Hill Village, around the intersection of Spadina and Lonsdale Roads. Here you’ll find a collection of essential services, food markets, art galleries, and quaint shops (including a cozy Type Books location). There’s also a shopping district along Eglinton West (just west of Bathurst), which offers an abundance of retail offerings.

Places To Explore

Forest Hill is bordered by the Cedarvale Ravine, which provides stunning views. Given that the neighbourhood is known for its majestic beauty, it makes sense that some of the most enjoyable local activities take place outdoors.

A section of the glorious Beltline Trail runs through the area on its way to Rosedale and Moore Park. Whether it’s a gentle stroll, brisk jog, or smooth bike ride you after, this well-treed nine kilometres is the ideal place to do it. Suydam Park is another local spot for those who like to spend time outdoors. This pretty green space contains a playground, which is perfect if you have little ones.

If you’re looking for something fun and family-friendly to do on the weekend, consider visiting Casa Loma. This true architectural marvel is about a five-minute drive from Forest Hill South.

Forest Hill Real Estate

Forest Hill real estate is truly something special. Brick and stone mansions, many of which were built during the pre-war period, sit on lots adorned with mature trees.

South Forest Hill is where you’ll find some of the largest properties, but there are awe-inspiring homes to be found across the neighbourhood. Increasingly, modern architecture (including a number of new condo buildings) is also making its way into the local housing stock.

Home prices in Forest Hill start around the $2 million mark, though some of the grandest properties have been known to eclipse $20 million. Fortunately for locals, the opportunity to live in this incredible community is well worth the price.

When you’re ready to find and secure the perfect Forest Hill home, we’re ready to guide you in your search. Reach out to benefit from our local expertise!

For more Toronto neighbourhood information see our guides on Lawrence Park, Yorkville & The Annex

Are you the type who thrives on the energy of the city? Do you feel most at home amongst bustling shops, buzz-worthy eateries, and exciting nightlife? If so, consider getting to know Yorkville. You’ll fall in love with this vibrant neighbourhood, which offers incredible upscale amenities—and so much more. From its lively urban attractions to its charming residential streets, there’s no doubt that this is one of the finest areas in Toronto.

Ready to learn more about living in Yorkville? Discover what makes the neighbourhood special here in our local guide…

The History

The story of modern-day Yorkville begins in the 1830s. During this period, Willam Botsford Jarvis (known for his role in founding the area of Rosedale) and Joseph Bloor (a prominent brewer and innkeeper) subdivided the land. It was called Yorkville after the Town of York, which later became a city (and eventually developed into the Toronto we know today). Incorporated in 1853, it was the first village annexed by the city in 1883.

Yorkville has had many identities over the years, one of the most notable being that of a hub for hippie culture in the 1960s. Today, the area is known internationally for its high-end retail, its upscale dining, and the all-around luxurious lifestyle it offers.

Your Neighbours

Yorkville is home to a mix of residents, from young professionals to power couples to families. In other words, it’s hard to predict exactly who your neighbours will be. What they’ll likely share is their relative affluence—and their zeal for living at the centre of it all.

Where to Dine & Shop

Those who live, work, and play in Yorkville appreciate refinement. From critically-acclaimed restaurants to designer boutiques, this neighbourhood delivers.

When only a spectacular meal will do, head to Alobar. Here you’ll find truly inspired dishes with European and some Asian influences. Whether you order the fresh oysters, seared scallops, or perfectly-prepared cornish hen, you can’t lose.

Fans of French cuisine will adore Chabrol, which offers fresh takes on authentic dishes. There are also dazzling Italian hotspots in the area, like Buca Osteria & Bar (known for its artisanal pasta) and Blu Ristorante (truffle wild boar ragu, anyone?)

Yorkville is also the ideal place to indulge in some high-end retail therapy. Louise Vitton, Hermes, Gucci, Chanel, Burberry—you name the world-renowned designer, and they’re here. It’s little wonder that the strip of shops along Bloor Street is often referred to as Mink Mile.

Places to Explore

There’s a lot more to do in Yorkville than eat and shop. To start with, the area is home to the beloved Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). With its many exhibits and galleries, the ROM pays tribute to art, history, cultures from around the globe. Simply put, this is the largest museum in Canada, and it’s well worth exploring.

The Bata Shoe Museum is another local gem. This stunning building, designed by esteemed architect Raymond Moriyama, displays some of the world’s most fascinating and culturally significant footwear.

If you’re more the outdoor type, be sure to check out Village of Yorkville Park. This award-winning green space, which sits near Cumberland and Bellair Streets, features scenic gardens, majestic granite outcrop, and an awe-inspiring fountain.

Yorkville Real Estate

In Yorkville, there’s no shortage of incredible places to call home. From beautiful Victorian houses with period details to modern condos in some of the city’s most upscale buildings, it’s all right here.

Some of the area’s most luxurious homes could set you back $10 million or more. That said, you may be able to snag a townhouse or semi-detached for somewhere in the neighbourhood of $1.5 million. Local properties at this price point often require some renovations—perfect for those who want to make a Yorkville home all their own!

When you’re ready to find the perfect Yorkville home, we’re ready to guide you in your search. Reach out to benefit from our local expertise!

For more Toronto neighbourhood information see our guides on Moore Park, Rosedale, Lawrence Park, Forest Hill & The Annex

Lawrence Park is one of those rare neighbourhoods that truly has it all. Stunning homes, reputable schools, and beautiful green scenery make this affluent area one of the most sought after in Toronto. Nearby communities, like well-established Lytton Park and lively Davisville Village, only serve to make the neighbourhood more attractive to those who are ready to move up in the housing market—and into their dream home.

Are you thinking of making Lawrence Park home? Get started on the right foot with our neighbourhood guide…

History

The story of modern-day Lawrence Park begins in 1907, when a large section of the area was obtained by the Dovercourt Land Building and Saving Company. Named after its previous owner, John Lawrence, it was developed as an upscale suburb. Lawrence Park was marketed as an aristocratic community, prized for its location far from the cold winds that blew across Lake Ontario.

Development was slower than expected, but the area really came into its own in the 50s. Lawrence Park is now one of the most desirable neighbourhoods for high-end home buyers in Toronto.

Your Neighbours

Those in Lawrence Park love the neighbourhood because it’s majestically beautiful and well-established. As a rule, they appreciate its fine architecture and garden-suburb charm more than the prestige that living there affords them. Put simply, families in the community tend to be a sophisticated lot.

Lawrence Park counts professional athletes, high-profile business leaders, and even a Canadian astronaut among its residents.

Where To Dine & Shop

The residential streets of Lawrence Park may be peaceful and idyllic, but there are plenty of lively amenities in the nearby business district on Yonge Street.

When you’re hungry, Shoushin is a must-visit. This traditional sushi bar, just a five-minute drive from the heart of the neighbourhood, serves up wild-caught fish, hand-crafted wasabi, and a variety of authentically-prepared Japanese dishes. Nearby, Maiz is the go-to for casual-yet-tasty Latin American fare, while the quaint Bobette and Belle will satisfy your cravings for cakes, pastries, and French macarons.

If your idea of the perfect Saturday or Sunday includes shopping, you’ll love exploring the boutiques along Yonge. Local women with a thing for footwear insist that Studio D is one of the best places in the city for designer shoes. When it comes to menswear, the Coop Ink is the place to find upscale labels—or get that custom-tailored suit that fits perfectly.

Things To See

Lawrence Park is named for a gorgeous, 4.6-hectare green space and ravine. Here you’ll find a playground and picnic area, which make the area ideal for families who want to get out of the house without venturing too far from home.

At Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens, you can immerse yourself in nature—and feel truly at peace. Take in the gorgeous flowers and fragrant herbs, then consider extending your walk to the interconnected ravines and pathways nearby.

Lastly, many Lawrence Park residents enjoy membership at the exclusive Granite Club. From aquatics and tennis to fine dining and social endeavours, there’s something for every family at this community institution.

Lawrence Park Real Estate

In Lawrence Park, you’ll find no shortage of big, beautiful older houses. These homes—many of which are in the Tudor, Colonial, and English-Cottage styles—have retained many of their original details.

Since we’re talking about one of Toronto’s wealthiest neighbourhoods, entry-level homes are typically around $3 million—though prices have been known to climb above $10 million in some instances. The good news is, the houses (and the opportunity to live in a tranquil, truly stunning community) is worth it. No wonder so many other buyers want to live here, too!

When you’re ready to find and secure the perfect Lawrence Park home, we’re ready to guide you in your search. Reach out to benefit from our local expertise!

For more Toronto neighbourhood information see our guides on Moore Park, Rosedale, Yorkville, Forest Hill & The Annex