Introduction
The word expansive applies to Islington-City Centre West, a “neighbourhood” that stretches over a huge swath – from Islington Avenue on the east, the Gardiner Expressway on the south, up the Etobicoke Creek and Hwy. 427 on the west, and across Rathburn to the Mimico Creek on the north side. Understand how diverse the area is – from mostly light industry in the south-central part, to leafy residential neighbourhoods to the north.
Lifestyle
Not that Islington-City Centre West doesn't offer options for leisure and outdoor activities, particularly around Bloor and Rathburn, with parks and trails aplenty. But there is a distinct commercial vibe. Everyone's trying to get somewhere to earn or spend. Subway to work, drive to Sherway for shopping or take in a flick at the new Cineplex VIP. But casual strolling to shops, restaurants and spas? Not so much.
The Vibe
You’ll get a different feel depending on where you are. The Queensway, for example, is enjoying a spate of development, with new midrise condos and retail expansion to complement existing commercial presence such as Sherway Gardens, which is undergoing a massive expansion. Head north and you’ll pass through a mix of industrial areas and small retail plazas, with older single-family homes in quieter residential streets. Highrise rentals are also prevalent.
Meet the Neighbours
Predominantly working age residents (25 to 64), with a sizeable seniors quotient, speaking to the established nature of the area. There’s a large contingent of families with children, mostly in the six to 14 years age range. NHL player David Clarkson and his family were among them – until early 2014. He lived in the area around Kipling and Bloor, often taking the subway to “work” at the Air Canada Centre.
In the Area
The average housing price in Islington-City Centre West is $672,433, according to TREB numbers for June 2014. For that, you're likely looking at some of the older bungalow or small two-storey homes, while the custom rebuilds go for a lot more. New condos provide more affordable options for newcomers. Prices may be on the rise, but given the area's proximity to downtown and convenient transportation options, that’s a product of popularity.
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Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Islington-City Centre West boasts an excellent location – with proximity to Hwy. 427 and the QEW, as well as Kipling station where the GO Train connects with the TTC’s Bloor subway line. Heavy truck traffic is noticeable in the southern part of the area populated by light industry and big box stores, but head north through the residential streets around Bloor and Burhamthorpe and you’ll find lots of greenspace and paths.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Islington-City Centre West has every amenity. Shopping galore at Sherway Gardens to Cloverdale Mall to the big box mall opposite Sherway. There’s plenty of parks and playgrounds north of Dundas Street West, though not all of them have been well maintained over the years. Trillium Health Centre West is conveniently located, nestled between Hwy. 427 and the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), and serviced by both the Toronto and Mississauga Transit systems.
Dollars & Sense
The residential streets in the northern part of the neighbourhood are quiet, with large mature trees and nice lots, as well as plenty of rental options for those in that market. Motorist traffic along the Queensway can test your patience at times, especially heading east during the morning rush hour, while the industrial plazas and warehouses around North Queen apply a bit of a blue-collar feel to the area.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
The Musket
From wiener schnitzel and pork hox, to the Hacker Pschorr and Warsteiner, The Musket is the place for authentic German cuisine and beer. For an unforgettable experience, visit during the World Cup or Euros. Ein prosit!
more infoDimpflmeier Bakery
Dimpflmeier’s retail outlet includes a window on the actual bakery, so you can watch the baked goods come off the line and onto the shelves. Doesn’t get any fresher than that!
more infoBier Markt
Hmmm, beer… or bier – as in the Bier Markt. “Bier is Beautiful, an expression of passion and dedication.” With 150 international beers, paired with a European brasserie-inspired menu, you’ll definitely feel the love.
more infoPanera Bread
Panera has perfected the bakery-cafe concept. Enjoy made-to-order sandwiches, paired with tossed-to-order salads or soups served in bread bowls. Great for a quick, reasonably priced weekday lunch, or grab some baked goods to go.
more infoSherway Gardens
With more than 200 shops, this upscale fashion and lifestyle centre is a shopper’s delight. And it’s about to get even better, with a $350-million expansion to add another 210,000 sq. ft. – including Saks Fifth Avenue.
more infoApache Burgers
Apache Burgers is a west end institution. When you’ve been around since 1969, you’ve earned the title. Don’t be surprised if there’s a line-up after midnight on weekend nights. Go for the onion rings!
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