Why Little Italy

Little Italy is one of Toronto’s most sought out neighbourhoods. It spans from north of Dundas, south of Harbord, and east of Ossington, and west of Bathurst. Little Italy is known as one of the most multicultural areas in Toronto. Italian immigrants first relocated here in the 1920s, but there are now Portuguese, Latin American, Vietnamese, and a mix of other residents. It’s the ideal real estate for high-achieving women (like you!) to experience the liveliness of the city while avoiding the busyness of the downtown core.

Who You’ll Find Here:

Ladies, you’ll love this neighbourhood because it’s the perfect blend of young professionals, families, and seniors who have been here for generations. Whether you’re a working momma or single and building an empire, you’ll fit right in.

The Vibe:

With a large Italian and Portuguese population, there’s no shortage of authentic and delicious cuisine. Little Italy is abundant with hip restaurants and cafes serving macchiatos and biscotti. You’ll find live music, a cinema, swanky cocktail bars, pizzerias, and gelato. You won’t have to venture far from home for a great evening out. It’s also very safe for women as there are plenty of people around, so you won’t feel nervous walking at night.

Lifestyle:

Little Italy is one of the most walkable neighbourhoods in the city. You can get nearly all your errands done by foot. There are fresh food stalls, health food stores, and your typical big grocers all in the vicinity. Right in the heart of Little Italy, Bickford Park is the perfect spot for dog walkers, with an off-leash area and plenty of space for your pups to roam. For the fitness fanatics, there’s a GoodLife Gym, a YMCA with a swimming pool, and yoga studios a short walk away, just north of Harbord.

Fred Hamilton Playground and Art Eggleton Park are other nearby green spaces to explore.

Types of Homes

The real estate in Little Italy is primarily residential homes. There are rows of old Victorian-style houses from the early 1900s with large bay windows overlooking the tree-covered streets. Most of the houses are semi-detached, but further along College Street towards Bathurst, you’ll find more modern style condos.

What You’ll Love:

Great restaurants for brunch or a cocktail with girlfriends.

What You Might Not Love:

College Street commutes can be hectic during peak hours. But that’s nothing Toronto gals aren’t used to!

Insider Tip:

If you’re looking for a quiet evening to yourself or a romantic date spot, head to Bar Pompette. Slip past the busy inside to their large back patio and get cozy with a glass of Chardonnay under the fairy lights.

Must-see spots

Give yourself a little time to explore. A neighbourhood visit is always better with a coffee stop. And possibly gelato.

• Café Diplomatico, 594 College Street: The Dip is a Little Italy classic. Come for pizza, pasta or a coffee, and take in the neighbourhood from the patio. It’s been part of College Street since 1968.
• Sicilian Ice Cream / Sicilian Sidewalk Cafe: A neighbourhood staple for gelato, tartufo and a little Italian café culture. A very good reason to leave room for dessert.
• The Royal Theatre, 608 College Street: That familiar marquee is part of the streetscape. Check the current calendar for live comedy and special events when you’re planning an evening in the neighbourhood.
• Bar Pompette, 607 College Street: For cocktails and a more intimate evening out. It takes walk-ins, so keep it in mind when your neighbourhood wander turns into dinner-and-drinks plans. It was voted one of the world’s top bars, ranking No. 55 on The World’s 50 Best Bars extended list in 2025.
• Danny’s Pizza Tavern, 611 College Street: Add a pizza stop to your Little Italy wander, or settle in for dinner with girlfriends.