Yorkville

By Rani Pooran, SLA Toronto Chapter

Yorkville is an urban oasis fusing old world and modern styles. Within several small streets, Victorian mews, modern buildings, statues, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and hotels are all concentrated. The neighbourhood is hemmed in by Avenue and Bloor streets on the west side and Yonge and Bloor on the east providing easy access from the Museum and Yonge-Bloor subway stops respectively. The area was founded by Joseph Bloor in 1830 and as it stands today betrays its early beginnings as a hang out spot for musicians such as Joni Mitchell and Neil Young.

Yorkville is best known for its people watching potential. Celebrity sightings are frequent as many Hollywood stars stay, exercise, or dine out in the neighbourhood. The Holt Renfrew department store hosts many a party; especially, in September when the Toronto Film Festival is full swing. On Bloor, Cumberland, and Yorkville streets you will find numerous designer boutiques including Hugo Boss, Vivian Shyu, Betsey Johnson, Gucci, and Prada to name a few. In Hazelton Lanes, there is a myriad of upscale shops in addition to The Whole Foods Market.

For a night out, try FLOW where the food and drink are ultra trendy. The Four Seasons offers a choice of two lounges Lobby Bar or Avenue. Other options are Remy's and Hemingways if you are seeking a more low-key atmosphere. Strolling down the streets of Yorkville will pit you face to face with many restaurants and you will most certainly find something to your liking. On the periphery of the neighbourhood at Avenue Road is Sotto Sotto which serves authentic Italian fare. Other highlights include The Courtyard Café for Continental & Hungarian food, Yamato for the excellent sushi and the cooking table experience, Sassafraz, Dimmi's, Pangea, Morton's of Chicago and Annona which are both in the Park Hyatt on Bloor. For ice-cream lovers there is Summer Sensations and if you a craving a pie visit Wanda's Pie in the Sky.

But, Yorkville is not all about shopping, dining out, and people watching. Small art galleries such as the Hollander York Gallery and the Arctic Bear are worth a drop in. As you amble through the side streets of Yorkville you will come across auctioneers and antique dealers like Sotheby's. All in all, even if the prices seem out of your budget, Yorkville is definitely still an attraction!