What’s New in Riverside? (Summer 2026 Edition)

If you live in the area or frequently visit it, you’d know that Toronto’s Riverside neighbourhood is home to many businesses that have stood the test of time. But change is also always in the air and we get new additions in the community on the regular. In case you haven’t been to the neighbourhood in a little while, here’s what’s new in Riverside:

Photo credit: Archie’s

Archie’s (@archiestoronto)

Address: 106 Broadview Ave

Located inside The Broadview Hotel, Archie’s is your new hangout in the East End, perfect for after-work drinks with colleagues or dinner dates with your besties. Must-try items on the menu include the Archie’s Smash, Three-Cheese Spinach Dip and Steak Pot Pie. Make a reservation HERE.

Photo credit: Spotlight Dance Arts

Spotlight Dance Arts (@spotlight_dance_arts)

Address: 2 Strange St

Spotlight Dance Arts offers dance classes for children aged two to teens. The dance studio aims to instill a lifelong love of movement in the youth through fun and engaging dance classes in ballet, hip-hop, jazz, just to name a few. Dance season kicks off in September! Sign up for classes HERE.

Photo credit: Bailey Nelson

Bailey Nelson (@baileynelsonca)

Address: 747 Queen St E – Unit 102

The Australian eyewear brand has found a home in Riverside! Bailey Nelson offers stylish, affordable prescription glasses and sunglasses. The brand offers both quality craftsmanship and accessible pricing. Book an appointment at Bailey Nelson – Riverside HERE.

Photo credit: Glass House Garden Centre & Cafe

Glass House Garden Centre & Cafe (@glasshousecafe.to)

Address: 771 Queen St E

Glass House carries a wide assortment of plants for all the green thumbs out there. You can also just pop by the cafe for a hand-crafted drink and pastry and enjoy it on the dog-friendly patio. 

BLOG: Dog-Friendly Businesses in Riverside: Where to Go With Your Pup

Photo credit: Somanai Energy Lounge

Somanai Energy Lounge (@somanaienergylounge)

Address: 717 Queen St E – Unit 201

Somanai Energy Lounge introduces a new kind of wellness experience to Riverside. It is a dedicated space where advanced recovery technologies meet intentional mind-body restoration. Services include facials, infrared light, oxygen treatment, and more. Book your session HERE.

Photo credit: Knick Knack Paddywhack

Knick Knack Paddywhack (@knickknackpaddywhackdogs)

Address: 768 Queen St E

Knick Knack Paddywhack is your one-stop shop for pet supplies in Riverside. The store offers an extensive but thoughtfully curated selection of products, from natural food options and supplements to apparel and accessories. If you can’t shop in-store, you can order online from Knick Knack Paddywhack as well!

Photo credit: Red Copper Nail Artistry

Red Copper Nail Artistry (@redcopper.to)

Address: 741 Queen St E

Whether you like it clean and minimalist or more bold and intricate, Red Copper Nail Artistry makes the nails of your dreams come true with precision and attention to detail. Book your appointment HERE.

Photo credit: Elvira’s/Instagram user @joeharm

Elvira’s (@elviras.to)

Address: 639 Queen St E – Rear

Operating out of a bright red shipping container behind 639 Queen St E, Elvira’s is one of Riverside’s hidden gems. This charming food joint serves comforting Portuguese fare, including the viral Francesinha, which is a hefty Portuguese sandwich packed with meat and smothered in a rich sauce.

BLOG: Hidden Gems of Riverside: Local Spots Worth the Detour

Photo credit: Oorja Danceworks Studio

Oorja Danceworks Studio (@oorjadanceworks_)

Address: 717 Queen St E – Unit 202A

Welcome to Toronto’s home for South Asian dance. Oorja Danceworks Studio offers dance classes in Bollywood, Kathak, semi-classical and contemporary styles for all ages, backgrounds and levels. The studio also does wedding choreography and costume rentals. Learn more about the classes HERE.

To stay updated on what’s new and happening in Riverside, make sure to check @riverside_bia on Instagram and the Riverside Blog regularly!