Toronto’s Riverside is home to plenty of hidden gems that offer something a little different, from a multi-floor vintage mecca to a Portuguese food joint operating out of a shipping container. Sometimes, the most delightful things are hiding in plain sight. Check out these spots in the neighbourhood you might have yet to discover:
Photo credit: Instagram user @joeharm
Elvira’s (@elviras.to)
Address: 639 Queen St E (Rear)
Located in a bright red container behind 639 Queen St E, Elvira’s is every bit a hidden gem. Serving up delicious Portuguese eats, a must-try from the menu is the Francesinha, a hefty sandwich packed with an assortment of meats and smothered with a rich sauce.
Photo credit: Riverside BIA
“Along the Riverbanks” Mural by Nick Sweetman
Address: Retaining wall at south end of Baseball Place
This 2000-square-foot mural by Nick Sweetman depicts the story of our connection to the Don River and the flora and fauna that inhabit it. You can learn more about the mural here. On a related note, you’ll also find (temporary) sidewalk murals by Nick for Queen East Eats in select businesses in Riverside this summer!
BLOG: Queen East Eats Sidewalk Mural Project – Nick Sweetman
Photo credit: Glass House Garden Centre and Cafe
Glass House Garden Centre and Cafe (@glasshousecafe.to)
Address: 771 Queen St E
True to its name, this garden centre has a cafe nestled in a charming glass house in the middle of the space. Aside from refreshing beverages and pastries, Glass House also serves gelato by the scoop, the perfect treat for those sweltering summer days.
Photo credit: The Vintage Hall
The Vintage Hall (@thevintagehallto)
Address: 754 Queen St E
From the outside, The Vintage Hall looks like your ordinary vintage shop — but looks can be deceiving. In addition to the vendor market on the second floor, the 2,700-square-foot retail space has a basement level with more vintage goods, including furniture and fixtures.
Photo credit: Aura
Aura Cafe (@auratoronto)
Address: 686 Queen St E
PSA: Aura has become a day-to-night hangout. Before it transforms into the cocktail bar we know and love, it now operates as a cafe from 7am-3pm, where you can get your coffee/matcha fix while working remotely or doing some light reading.
BLOG: Onto Greener Pastures: Where To Get Matcha in Toronto’s Riverside
Photo credit: ēst Restaurant
ēst Restaurant – Second Floor (@est.restaurant)
Address: 729 Queen St E
Did you know that ēst Restaurant has a second floor? It’s perfect for small gatherings and special occasions, whether it’s a corporate dinner or a birthday celebration. Enjoy ēst’s contemporary French cuisine in the privacy of this sleek space.
For more lifestyle content like this from Toronto’s Riverside, make sure to follow @riverside_bia on Instagram and check the Riverside Blog regularly!