Welcome to Toronto’s Little India neighbourhood and the Gerrard India Bazaar!
This dynamic enclave that stretches along Gerrard Street East between Coxwell Avenue and Greenwood Avenue, is one of Toronto’s most distinct and authentic neighbourhoods; it has roots in Toronto’s past,and strong connections to several cultural communities.
Taste Of Little India Festival (TorontoFoodTours)
Little India sometimes feels like too much of a blanket term; with a vibrant array of over 125 shops, the area offers tastes of various South Asian regional diversities. Yet, while various influences may have slowly re-shaped parts of the area over the past few decades, the neighbourhood is still anchored by some of the same families that have lived and worked here since the 1950s and 60s!
Many of the local independent businesses and restaurants have organized themselves collectively as the Gerrard India Bazaar BIA. Offering unique food, entertainment, and shopping options, the businesses along this section of Gerrard make up what is said to be the largest Indian market in North America. You’ll find anything from eclectic collections of South Asian clothing, jewelry, paintings and sculptures, to books, handicrafts, and music! Sample bread fresh from a tandoor oven, peruse beautiful textiles and fabrics,and find out where to buy the very best of your favourite spices. Each business entices you with colourful sights, exotic sounds, and mouth-watering aromas!
Image courtesy of Leo Li on Trover
The eateries found here are an eclectic mix, featuring delicacies from North and South India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Devour what is arguably some of the best samosa and butter chicken you can find in the city at MotiMahal (co-owned by Harjot Sabharwal, whose father, Gurjit Chadha, also owned a restaurant on the strip).
If you’re looking for authentic sarees, lehengas and other traditional South Asian wedding outfits there’s a wide selection of imports at both NuCreation, and one of the areas most recognizable shops, Chandan Fashion Centre Inc.!
“In July, the area is enlivened by the Festival of South Asia, a two-day extravaganza of music, dance, tasty treats and more. Then in November, hundreds of twinkling tea lights bathe the neighbourhood in a warm, magical glow as Diwali, the Festival of Lights takes over.” (SeeTorontoNow)
And of course, who could forget the energy and excitement of Toronto’s Taste Of India Food Festival!
This neighbourhood is also home to some fabulous street art, hidden throughout the neighbourhood, that is constantly evolving and changing. Here’s a blog post by ‘AS I Walk Toronto’ documenting some of the murals in 2015!
Can you imagine having such diverse offerings just a block or two away? Imagine the options for Friday dinners or a Sunday afternoon shop n’ stroll? Check out this stunning Winsome Wonder On Woodfield Road In Leslieville, which we SOLD in the summer!
But wait! The nearby offerings don’t end there! Here are two fresh-to-market properties in the Upper Beaches, just a 10 minute walk or 2 minute Gerrard streetcar ride from Little India! You don’t want to miss these!
Gracious On Golfview Avenue In The Upper Beach
This dynamic dwelling tucked away in the enriching Upper Beach community is NOW SOLD! Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, this fab family home – with convenient legal licenced front pad parking space – is perfect for those seeking a turnkey ‘unpack and enjoy’ residence. It’s rare to find a property that offers the intangible beauty of scale, proportion, and light, nestled in a picturesque community!
A Sun-Kissed Vintage Charmer In The Upper Beach
One block north of Gerrard, up a quiet tree-lined road, you’ll find this enchanting oasis of domestic bliss. This well-loved and well-maintained detached residence constructed in 1926 embraces its history but has been intelligently upgraded with modern building components, fresh contemporary touches, and plenty of style. NOW SOLD!
Thank you for reading!
~ Steven
Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-8000
– we’re here to earn your trust, then your business –
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