Fuel up to explore this up-and-coming east-side Toronto neighbourhood.
Riverside is a coffee-lovers paradise
It can be easy to confuse Riverside with Riverdale. The downtown neighbourhoods are adjacent to one another and both feature incredible city-skyline views from the valley park. Yet Riverside has its own charms.
Slightly industrial and refreshingly unassuming, Riverside is separated from the downtown core by the picturesque Riverside Bridge (or Queen Street Viaduct), which crosses the Don River via Queen Street East. Easily accessible by the 501 Queen streetcar (just hop off at Carroll Street, right after the bridge), Riverside is the perfect neighbourhood to grab a drink, snack, and meander, while window shopping, taking photos or simply stretching your legs along a side street.
But first, coffee...
If you’re travelling east from downtown, the first coffee shop you’ll hit is Dark Horse. A local mini-chain, this east-end addition mixes modern and vintage furnishings in perfect balance. With its signature communal table and natural light, you’ll be tempted to take a seat.
Yet you’re going to want to grab and go because this is the start of some east-side exploration! Whether you get a classic Americano or something a little richer like a chai latte, you can’t go wrong. Don’t forget the pastries—notably the muffins and scones—most of which are baked in-house.
Once Queen Street East meets Broadview Avenue, the strip kicks into high gear. From restaurants and markets to thrift and beauty shops, there’s a little bit of everything to browse.
Stop into the Broadview Hotel’s bistro bar for coffee and a fresh-baked croissant or lunch if you’re still feeling peckish.
Then keep an eye out for such conscious thrift shopping as Common Sort and Good Juice Box Vintage. A little further east, you’ll stumble on Arts Market, which supports local makers. And if that’s more to your liking, you’ll want to stop by Tiny Record Shop and Token gift shop for more trinkets and a nice selection of vinyl LPs. Also, consider upgrading your hair care with handmade products from local cult fave, JŪS by Oreya. Don’t forget to pick up fresh blooms at Quince Flowers for your hotel room!
Boxcar Social is a must-visit local chain that offers a little more than coffee. Nestled in a historical building with beautiful architectural details tempting you to stay in, it features a stunning owl mural on its back wall, painted by Vancouver-based artist John James.
The meticulous baristas whip up expert brews, but if you’re looking for something different, this Boxcar location also boasts a daytime slow bar. You can indulge in espresso flights for more of a connoisseur experience. Paired with pastries and other snacks from local bakeries, you can’t go wrong here.
Last but certainly not least is this Toronto-born café. There are a few different locations to get your Jimmy's Coffee fix throughout the city, but we suggest stopping by Riverside to enjoy this delicious cup of joe.
Take your coffee to-go and take a stroll through Bruce Mackey Park.
Getting to Riverside
Take the 501 Queen bus (which replaces the streetcar during construction) eastbound to River Street. Routes may be impacted by construction. Check ttc.ca for updates.
