The Toronto rental market is as competitive as you might imagine in one of Canada’s largest and most expensive cities, and this is one area where shopping online can be hazardous to one’s mental health. Fortunately for me, prior to my move to Toronto (which required three days in a packed car), my friend found a lead on an apartment in Cabbagetown, on the east side of central Toronto. Reading up on it, I knew the neighbourhood would be a good fit for me – a quiet, historical area with a disproportionately high number of Doodles. No complaints here. Now that I’ve had a chance to explore, here’s my take on Cabbagetown.
Cabbagetown: The Story Behind the Name
The story behind the name is simple: Waves of poor Irish migrants escaping the potato famine of the 1840s would grow cabbages and other vegetables in their front yards in what was once a suburb of the city of Toronto. The prosperous, city residents gave the area the derogatory nickname of Cabbagetown and the name has stuck to this day. Though currently a mixed-income neighbourhood as it was in the late 19th century – think workers’ cottages next to grand houses – the Cabbagetown name now projects an image of wealth and pride. The houses and yards are beautifully kept and it isn’t exactly inexpensive to purchase a house here – a renovated, semi-detached home down the street from me was recently on the market for $2.9 million. These days, cabbages are a decorative nod to the past; accents in flower beds and the main attraction in many a potted arrangement.
What to do in Cabbagetown
It’s undeniable that the main attraction in Cabbagetown is the architecture found here. Most homes were built between the late 19th century and early 20th century. The Victorian period boasted a diversity of architectural styles and no less than eight of these can be seen in Cabbagetown according to the Cabbagetown Preservation Association: Arts & Crafts, Bay & Gable, Georgian, Second Empire, Queen Anne, Worker’s Cottages, Romanesque Revival, and Gothic Revival. My personal favourites are the stately Queen Anne, the ubiquitous Bay and Gable, and the charming Worker’s Cottage. How could I choose just one? On a walk around Cabbagetown, one must pay close attention to the details or you might miss the fabulous stained glass windows throughout the neighbourhood.
One last thing to note while roaming the area are the plaques to indicate where noteworthy people once lived. Not far from me is the home where Toller Cranston, Olympic figure skating medalist turned artist, once lived. I actually have a piece of his artwork, purchased for me by my mother when I was a child. Thus, it’s quite exciting to find his former home so close by!
Beyond the architectural attractions of Cabbagetown, I would recommend a visit to the Toronto Necropolis – yes, the cemetery. It is both beautiful and peaceful, and you will find the grave of prominent Canadian politician Jack Layton here, among other notable Torontonians.
Next to the cemetery, you will find what you least expect in downtown Toronto – a farm. The Riverdale Farm is an urban farm offering free entry during opening hours for visitors to see an assortment of domestic farm animals – think cows, goats, sheep, horses, etc. – and explore the grounds. This is not a petting zoo but an actual working farm, so don’t expect to get up-close and personal with the animals.
Where to Eat and Drink in Cabbagetown
There is a vast array of restaurants on and near Parliament street, which is the main thoroughfare through Cabbagetown. For an unconventional coffee or tea in a minimalist, youthful environment try NomNomNom. If you are lucky you may be greeted by a small, friendly pooch.
Elevated pub fare abounds in the neighbourhood. Try House on Parliament, Stout, or The Irv Gastropub. International cuisine is plentiful as well, for Indian try Butter Chicken Factory or Italian F’Amelia (make sure to have a reservation). For fast Greek food there is Souvlaki Express. There are many other restaurants I haven’t had time to try yet including Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese (sushi, izakayas, ramen), and even Congolese beignets. A restaurant that is hard to categorize but with good food despite an uninspired décor is Cranberries. Finally, for excellent pastries reminiscent of a neighbourhood patisserie in France, try Absolute Bakery.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this brief jaunt through my new neighbourhood. Despite its obvious attractions and being well-known to many a film crew for its similarities to NYC (try living with a film set just down the street!), Cabbagetown seems to remain somewhat undiscovered, even amongst many Torontonians. Who knew there were still hidden gems in this cosmopolitan city?
Clearly I have to visit. What a wonderfully enticing description. Have the Chamber of Commerce pick this up.
Definitely worth a visit!
You and the dress are beautiful!
The photos and descriptions make me want to visit Cabbagetown.
Thank you, Diane!
I love that your first photo is connected to a special date: May 3, 1975, when my dear friend wore this dress as bridesmaid at my wedding. I still am drawn to the floral peasant style.
it’s nice to know these things come back into style!
I love Cabbagetown so much! I have only had the chance to visit twice and we went to House On Parliament. It was awesome. The ambiance, the food. Both so delicious. I can’t wait to go again!
nice!! Can’t wait for a visit!