OPINION: Why you should visit Toronto’s East End instead of the West End

I’m tired of people saying all the fun is in the West End of Toronto.

And when I say East End and West End, I do mean from East End-Danforth to High Park. Sorry, Scarborough and Etobicoke — people will recognize your charm soon enough.

There’s plenty to do in the East End — this is coming from someone who lived in the West End for four years across three different neighbourhoods.

Yes, we have Riverdale Park — and it’s perfect for sunsets — but we’re so much more than that.

We have our own cute bakeries, coffee shops to work and chat at, and we have restaurants and shops that would make you think you’re on Ossington or Queen Street West.

So, this summer, I’m challenging y’all to get out there, hop on Line 2 or one of the 506, 505 or 504, 501 streetcars and try spending a day in the East End.

I want to see TikToks about people rediscovering “hidden gems” that have existed for years, or the top three places to go while on a hot girl walk.

Toronto can feel like a ghost town in the winter, but the second the sun’s out, you wonder where the heck everyone’s been hiding. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup here, we need to diversify where we hang out to avoid the crowds.

And, why not try some new spots while you’re out enjoying the sun?

To help you get started, here are some purely East End vibes to try this summer:

• A great little bakery, Jupiter Bakehouse at 1505 Gerrard St. E. in Greenwood-Coxwell.
• Try Maha’s Brunch at 226 Greenwood Ave. in South Riverdale for Egyptian cuisine.
• For some shopping, Queen Street East has a couple of unique vintage and secondhand shops, including The Vintage Hall at 754 Queen St. E. in South Riverdale.
• Try Chai Culture at 1445 Gerrard Street St. E. in Greenwood-Coxwell, if you’re looking for a taste of India and refreshing drinks.
• If you’re looking for more of an activity, check out VIP Billiards & Lounge at 485 Danforth Ave. in North Riverdale’s Greektown.
• For some sweet treats, check out Serano Bakery at 830 Pape Ave. in Broadview North.

• A great little bakery, Jupiter Bakehouse at 1505 Gerrard St. E. in Greenwood-Coxwell.
• Try Maha’s Brunch at 226 Greenwood Ave. in South Riverdale for Egyptian cuisine.
• For some shopping, Queen Street East has a couple of unique vintage and secondhand shops, including The Vintage Hall at 754 Queen St. E. in South Riverdale.
• Try Chai Culture at 1445 Gerrard Street St. E. in Greenwood-Coxwell, if you’re looking for a taste of India and refreshing drinks.
• If you’re looking for more of an activity, check out VIP Billiards & Lounge at 485 Danforth Ave. in North Riverdale’s Greektown.
• For some sweet treats, check out Serano Bakery at 830 Pape Ave. in Broadview North.

Do you have another East End recommendation? Send me an email at julia@thegreenline.to or send The Green Line a DM on social media!