Introduction
Once a gritty semi-industrial neighbourhood, London’s Old East Village (OEV) has undergone a physical and cultural transformation in recent years, making it an increasingly attractive destination for renters and home buyers. The area is bordered by Oxford Street to the north, Highbury Ave. to the east, Adelaide in the west, and extending as far south as the rail lines just below Bridges Street.
Lifestyle
Community-minded people who love to give back, the typical OEV resident enjoys a low-carbon-footprint lifestyle. You’ll see people walking and biking everywhere here, and a local parents’ group even organizes a “Walking School Bus” in the neighbourhood from September through June, for kids to travel to class together on foot. There’s an annual Block Party summer street festival on Dufferin Ave that attracts huge numbers of locals and visitors.
The Vibe
Hipster central. Newer housing developments in overlapping Carling offer a taste of suburbia, the old reflects a rebranding of its working-class roots. Vintage shops and independent cafés proliferate in the area. The newly gentrified main drag along Dundas street still retains its local colour and history, with the venerable “Reeg” (St. Regis Tavern), the second-oldest bar in London.
Meet the Neighbours
Old East Villagers are an eclectic bunch, and one might wonder how such a diverse population of cool cats, retirees, and regular working class folk get along. The answer would appear to be tremendously well, given the number of community members who dedicate their time to enhancing the lives of their neighbours through the volunteer-run Community Association and Business Improvement Area.
In the Area
You’ll find a pretty wide array of amenities on offer. McMahen Park is home to the Carling Heights Optimist Community Centre, a multipurpose facility. When it comes to entertainment, OEV can’t be beat. Aeolian Hall is home to the London Youth Symphony and London Community Orchestra. The Palace Theatre, The London Clay Art Centre and more offer variety.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
London Transit operates several routes along major streets in the area, including Quebec, Dundas, York/Florence, Oxford and Adelaide. There’s a good network of bike paths for cyclists, and a plan to create more bike lanes. It’s very pedestrian friendly, probably one of the best places to live in London if you don’t own a car. Commuters have easy access to the rest of the city.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
There are still stretches of less-than-friendly-seeming industrial sites: some in use, some long forgotten. While much of Dundas Street has been noticeably cleaned up, it’s still an area where familiar local characters begin their personal happy hour upon waking, and petty crimes and street hassles can’t be ruled out. But it’s nothing a seasoned city type wouldn’t expect, and by other cities' standards, pretty tame.
Dollars & Sense
No matter where you’re from, Old East London seems like a bargain. Housing costs are lower than average, and retail prices are incredibly reasonable in this neighbourhood, where retro finds and the latest trends can be picked up for a fraction of what they’d cost in a place like Toronto’s Queen West. It’s worth a move here for the vintage shops alone.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Sandy’s Diner
This unique and beloved neighbourhood eatery is a well-kept secret, housed in a red brick cottage with a beautiful patio. Famous for its “all-day breakfast,” Sandy’s serves a legit array of deli sandwiches and specials
more infoThe Root Cellar
From farm to fork and plough to pint is their motto, and OEV residents are eating it up. It’s known for fresh, local, organic ingredients, seasonal menus, and an innovative take on pub fare.
more infoBack to the Fuchsia
Part art gallery, part mid-century antique treasure trove, this is a garage sale lover’s dream. While jam-packed with carefully curated items, this multi-room shop doesn’t feel cluttered or claustrophobic, with friendly helpful staff.
more infoWestern Fair District
Entertainment facilities here include a massive sports complex, raceway, Yuk Yuk’s comedy club, OLG slots, and several conference and expo venues. It hosts the Farmers and Artisan’s market on Saturday - a popular draw.
more infoThe Boombox Bakeshop
You can’t miss the hot pink exterior of this fantastic bakery, and you wouldn’t want to, because they sell out almost every day! Cupcake cravers can choose from 21 flavours, and don't skip the lemonade!
more info