With the shoreline of Lake Ontario to the south and Etobicoke Creek to the west, the natural beauty of Long Branch – which boasts tree lined streets and lovely parks – really sets the tone for this up-and-coming community.
In this progressing west-end neighbourhood, find great spots to grab a cuppa, a varied selection of restaurants and beautiful spots to picnic by the lake. Most importantly, you will be seduced by the neighbourhood’s beachy feel and outdoor activity-driven atmosphere.
Long Branch was once considered Toronto’s cottage country and its easy going vibe can still be felt today, along with an unmistakable family-friendly atmosphere. Major transformations have started to take place along the main hub of Lake Shore Blvd., which is breathing a new, hip vibe to the hood.
The City of Toronto's Families & Dwellings Profile for Long Branch highlights an almost even split between renters at 51 per cent and homeowners at 49 per cent. About 65 per cent of Long Branch residents indicate that their mother tongue is English.
Although prices have risen over the past several years, houses are still reasonable by Toronto standards, considering the quick and easy access to downtown and abundance of greenspace around the area and available on house lots.
Long Branch is a commuter’s paradise, with easy access to several major highways, a GO Transit train station, 24-hour TTC streetcar service and bus routes. Plus the added bonus – Toronto International Airport is a short drive away.
Single-detached bungalows are the most common form of housing, but the community has its share of lowrise apartment buildings, a handful of new and upcoming condos and posh mansions along the waterfront. Along Lake Shore Blvd., older businesses are shutting their doors to make way for hip, happening, restaurants, cafes and stores.
This area has been in transition for quite a while and still seems to be moving at a slower pace than other gentrified areas in Toronto. But with the addition of two new housing projects, plus a newly added Starbucks along Lake Shore Blvd., revitalization is starting to emerge.
Perfectly battered fish and generous portions can be found at this joint. Eat in or take out, the menu is simple and the service great.
more infoA cool cafe that serves fair trade coffee and scrumptious treats. Linger over an organic cup of joe and watch the world pass by on Lake Shore Blvd.
more infoA sprawling park with trees, ample parking, trails, picnic areas and a super cool kids playground (with wading pool) that would make Willy Wonka jealous!
more infoA neighbourhood favourite for delicious, gourmet burgers. Everything is made fresh on site without processed ingredients – and many sourced from local farms.
more infoA beautiful, rustic Italian restaurant serving authentic fare that changes seasonally, as well as great wine. If you dine Friday or Saturday night, you will be serenaded with Italian music.
more infoFriendly service and fresh fare make this a popular place! Choose from customized burritos and quesadillas with all the authentic sides including refried beans and guacamole.
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