Little Portugal is an eclectic emerging neighbourhood bordered by Little Italy to the east and Parkdale to the west. Its main strip, Dundas Street West, is also known as Rua Açores in a nod to the Azorean immigrants who largely comprise Toronto’s Portuguese community.
Dundas Street West is characterized by century-old low-rise buildings that now house some of the city’s best restaurants, chicest bars and coolest independent retailers. Little Portugal is among the most chill, quirky and walkable neighbourhoods in a city known for its diverse communities and hyper-local character.
Whether you’re loading up on gifts or treating yourself to some splurges, you’ll be sure to find captivating items from Little Portugal’s independently owned retailers. Here are eight shops where you can find distinctive mementos for the wardrobe, home, bath, body, and more.
For local logos
Even though it may be tiny, Beadle is packed with items designed and created right here in Toronto. Show your neighbourhood pride by sporting a Dufferin Tracks or Brock Ave T-shirt, or keep up your resolution to live in an eco-friendly way by shopping some of their more sustainable brands.
For design lovers
Saudade is a lifestyle store specializing in Portuguese designs and artisan traditions. Step inside to be transported from Toronto to a warm Iberian embrace, with colourful handmade items sourced from Porto in the north to the coastal Algarve in the south. A darling of local design lovers, Saudade offers a finely curated selection of housewares, fashion and foodie gifts.
For fashionable finds
Bringing the laid-back coastal vibe to Little Portugal, Three Fates mixes contemporary designers with carefully picked vintage pieces at reasonable prices. This store is like shopping in your stylish friend’s closet, with a seamless blend of old and new pieces. If you’re ever in doubt, you can get some one-on-one fashion assistance by booking a personal shopping appointment.
For local souvenirs
Easy Tiger Goods offers a chill shopping experience. Peruse the shop’s collection of locally made and designed items from indie labels like Province Apothecary and Rush Home Ceramics.
NOTE: Check online before visiting, as the store is temporarily closed for renovations.
For a wardrobe update
From made-in-Toronto fashion basics and jewellery to on-trend vintage finds, 96 Tears is a clothing hound’s dream. You’ll find upcycled denim, locally made asymmetrical jersey tops and cult-fave limited-edition sterling silver pieces like a doberman pinscher ring or kitschy Bambi necklace.
For boho vibes
Add warm and intricately woven textiles to your home after stopping by The Wanderly. Showcasing well-crafted goods from around the world, its shelves are filled with everything from vintage Moroccan poufs and rugs to ethically made, small-batch apparel and accessories. The store specializes in natural earth tones that bring out the boho vibes to create a cozy sanctuary in your home.
Getting to Little Portugal:
Take the 505 Dundas streetcar to Ossington Avenue.
Or take the Line 2 Bloor-Danforth subway to Ossington station and the 63 Ossington bus southbound to Dundas Street West.
—This story has been updated with new details since it was first published in December 2021.
