Our City Expert's Tips

Where the Expert Goes
For a taste of one of Toronto's great neighborhoods, the Little Italy strip of College is hard to beat. Food and nightlife are the big draws, but daytime brings a more typical scene--elderly Italian men gathered in cafes watching soccer games and debating the issues of the day. Pop into Riviera Bakery for fine Italian pastries and espresso, or sample the delicious home-style flavors at Tavola Calda. Two shops-- Soundscapes music store and Balfour bookstore--are among the city's finest, and both are easily worth an hour's idle browsing.

On the Town
College Street is synonymous with Little Italy, which in turn is known as one of the best spots to head for a good time in Toronto. Along with favorite nightspots like The Orbit Room, Convento Rico, and Souz Dal, many cafes and restaurants host DJs in the evening.

On the Town
Little Italy is the strip of College Street that runs west from Bathurst to Ossington Streets. It has long been one of Toronto's favorite nightlife districts because of the dozens of restaurants and bars lining the street. Little Italy is a bit of a misnomer, since you can find all kinds of cuisine here. Xacutti is nouveau Indian, while Grappa is old-school Italian, and Tempo is sushi with an edge. Outdoor patios abound (in summer months it's hard to get a table), and the street scene is among Toronto's liveliest. Great boutique shopping is available as well.

Tips From Other Travelers