Introduction
Roncesvalles Village is a hipster haven, bordered by Bloor, Queen, Parkside and the rail corridor/Lansdowne to the east. It’s home to crowds of funky 20-somethings, parents pushing baby carriages, and seniors who have called it home since immigrating from the old country. The Polish population has flavoured the main strip with Euro butchers and bakers, peppered with low-key bars and trendy restos.
Lifestyle
The downtown skyline looms at a comfortable distance from Roncesvalles Village – far enough from the 24/7 action just an easy streetcar ride away. Roncesvalles Village’s recent revival brought trendy new restos among the classic Polish delis, where pierogies and bigos are ever the favourite. Young professionals appreciate proximity to downtown and the local social scene.
The Vibe
Roncesvalles Village offers a casual setting for work and play. Quieter than your typical downtown 'hoods, it still offers all the conveniences and entertainment options you could want, but on a smaller scale. It's decidedly urban yet family friendly and certainly has its quirks. Where else could you walk to the corner store for the morning paper in your pajamas without attracting stares?
Meet the Neighbours
A predominantly British population gave way to Polish immigrants following the Second World War. Today, Roncy is the cultural hub for Polish-Canadians and hipsters of every background. Single folk and young families aged 25 to 64 are your most likely neighbours, followed by children age 0 to 14, and seniors who have more than likely lived here their whole life, or at least since their arrival from the 'Old Country.'
In the Area
Roncesvalles Village offers average-priced rentals that attract young 20-somethings. Detached houses here are above average, occupied by move-up buyers with a little dough, but they are big and many boast finished attics for three storeys of living space, plus basement. Restos range from average to slightly pricier options, and middle-of-the-road cafes for your Java fix.
6.5 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Catch any of the 501, 504, 505, 506 and 508 streetcars, or hop on the subway at Dundas West station to zip across the city. If you prefer to do the driving, Bloor St. W. is to the north, and Lake Shore Blvd. W. and Gardiner Expressway to the south.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Roncy is home to some 283 restaurants, bars and coffee shops (source: Walkscore.com). Many of these businesses are owned and operated by area residents, truly a labour of love. Roncesvalles Village is also home to the TTC Roncesvalles Carhouse built in 1895, St. Joseph's Health Centre on Marion, and The Revue Cinema on the main strip, which has been a beloved hotspot for over a hundred years!
Dollars & Sense
There is a lot of daytime traffic, which is not entirely surprising considering the location smack dab in the centre of some of Toronto's busiest arteries – Bloor Street West, Dundas, Queen Street and King. While the neighbourhood is busy by day, it's crickets at night so if you're looking for a seriously jumping nightlife, just continue a little further east into West Queen West.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Hugh’s Room
This intimate concert club offers dinner, and a show! You might come for the food, but you'll stay for the music with a line-up of folk, jazz and roots. Tiered seating surrounds the small stage.
more infoBarque Smokehouse
A carnivore's paradise, Barque Smokehouse is a smokin' spot for good company, casual cocktails and meat! The smoked pulled pork sandwich is a must-try. Make reservations, but if you don't, it's worth the wait!
more infoRevue Cinema
Films old and new hits the big screen in this small theatre, around since 1912. The single-screen venue features The Book Review, The Epicure Review, Silent Sundays paying homage to the pre-talkies era!
more infoThe Local
The Local serves Roncesvalles ramblers cold beer and a warm atmosphere. The menu features hearty pub grub like bangers and mash, Irish stew, fish and chips, and a beer list that includes local brews.
more infoVillage Meat
Roncy’s Polish deli lures you on sunny Saturdays to stroll the street and grab a sausage to go – barbecued right out front. If you don't know where Village Meat is, just follow your nose.
more infoCafe Polonez
This Roncesvalles Village staple is has been a much-loved and well-priced institution for 33 years, featuring a menu of old world Polish dishes – the picture of comfort food, regardless of your cultural background.
more info