My Neighbourhood

My Neighbourhood: Riverside

FOR 13 YEARS, Lisa Clarke has called Riverside home. And like many newcomers to the east-end, she assumed Riverside and Leslieville were one in the same. But in recent years, the flourishing of independent shops, fitness spots, and restaurants has made the Riverside community one of the most distinct in the city. Lisa shares with us her favourite Riverside highlights:

6:30am:

I typically start my day with a home workout. In the summer, I enjoy biking up to Riverdale Park to run on the amazing outdoor running track.

7:30am:

On our morning walk, Coco leads the way straight up Boulton Avenue to sit on the steps for a quick chat with our neighbour, Ron, a long-time resident of Riverside. We chat about the day, and often marvel at the Riverside real estate market. His family bought his house on Bolton for under $50,000 — granted that was many many, years ago!

8ish

After our stop at Ron’s, Coco and I stop at least one, often two, and sometimes three of the beautiful parks in Riverside. We can usually hit up Jimmy Simpson, Saulter Street Parkette, and Joel Weeks Park and still be back home within the hour. That includes catching up with all of our doggie friends, and their owners!

9:00am:

Riverside is not only loved by its residents, but by many Toronto foodies. It is one of those neighbourhoods that has something delicious to offer everyone. Breakfast institutions like Lady Marmalade or Bonjour Brioche have been here longer than me and if you go you will see why they’re such Toronto favorite.

11:00am:

In addition to being home to some of the city’s best restaurants, Riverside is home to many fabulous home cooks. And the neighbourhood has the needs of the most discerning chefs covered, with shops like The Brick House Bakery, Butchers of Distinction and Rowe Farms.

4:00pm:

I recently discovered that Power Kitchen on Logan has excellent prepared meals for any dietary preference. And of course, everyone here knows that The Riverside Market at Queen and Broadview has everything and anything you could ever want if you’re looking to dine in with some Netflix.

6:00pm:

For lunch or dinner in Riverside, the options are both tasty and diverse. Looking for something healthy? Try Tabule. If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, both The Comrade and the Café at the Broadview Hotel make an excellent burger.

7:30pm:

Although I try not to eat dessert, I see nothing wrong with finishing off the day with a cookie from Craig’s Cookies or an ice cream from Ed’s Real Scoop when I deserve a little indulgence!