Brianna HarrisonParkdale, a beautiful neighborhood in Toronto, was once known for its Victorian houses and wealthy residents. Now, it’s home to artists, young professionals, long-standing residents, and newcomers alike.
It’s also known for its “Little Tibet,” home to one of the largest populations of Tibetan-origin residents outside of Nepal and India, offering some of the most authentic Tibetan cuisine in the city. Think delicious momos and traditional thukpa—yum!
Our comprehensive local guide will take you through the ins and outs of living in Parkdale, including its geography, lifestyle, and practical considerations. It will also highlight both the pros and cons of calling this dynamic neighborhood home.
Where is Parkdale?
Website: https://parkdale.to/parkdale-historical/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkdalevillage/
Address: Toronto’s West Side of Downtown
Contact: Parkdale Community Centre – (416) 392-6696
Toronto’s Parkdale, known for its immigrant communities such as “Little Tibet,” is located west of downtown Toronto. It’s bordered by Lake Ontario to the south and Queen Street West to the north and close to popular spots like High Park.
How to Get Around Parkdale
The 501 Queen streetcar, one of the city’s longest and most famous routes, runs directly through Parkdale. Several bus routes also service the area, and the nearby Queen and Osgoode subway stations are just a short commute away.
For those who prefer cycling, it offers access to the Martin Goodman Trail, which runs along the lakefront and provides a scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians. Car ownership is not essential here, thanks to the efficient public transportation options.
Things to Know Before Moving to Parkdale
Geography and Climate
- A sunny day in Parkdale
- A rainy day in Parkdale
Parkdale is located in Toronto’s west end, bounded by Dufferin Street to the east, Roncesvalles Avenue to the west, and Lake Ontario to the south. The neighborhood benefits from its proximity to both the downtown core and peaceful lakefront spaces.
Winters in Parkdale can be cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid, averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, with colorful foliage in the fall and blooming flowers in the spring.
Economy and Job Market
While many work in Toronto’s downtown core, a significant portion of Parkdale’s local economy is driven by small businesses, restaurants, and retail stores. It has become a hub for artists, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who thrive in its creative environment.
Additionally, its proximity to downtown Toronto means that many professional opportunities in finance, technology, media, and education are easily accessible. However, local jobs tend to be concentrated in the service and retail industries.
Cost of Living
Parkdale’s cost of living is 7% higher than the Toronto monthly average ($3,523.17). Housing is 42% higher than the national average which is $724,800. Older apartments offer affordable rent options, while newer developments are priced higher.
Groceries and dining can be found at both ends of the spectrum. Parkdale is known for its affordable ethnic eateries, but it’s also home to trendy restaurants and organic grocery stores, which cater to a more upscale clientele.
Healthcare
Toronto’s healthcare system is easily accessible in Parkdale. It has numerous family doctors, walk-in clinics, and pharmacies available within the neighborhood, which is great for its residents’ well-being.
St. Joseph’s Health Centre, a large hospital located just west of Parkdale, offers a full range of medical services, including emergency care. Many healthcare professionals in the area are equipped to serve the diverse linguistic and cultural needs of the residents.
Education
Parkdale offers a range of educational options. It’s home to several public and private schools—public schools such as Parkdale Junior and Senior Public School and Queen Victoria Public School are known for their diversity and inclusion programs.
For post-secondary students, Parkdale’s proximity to downtown Toronto makes it convenient to access some of the city’s major universities and colleges, such as the University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University, and OCAD University.
Pros and Cons of Living in Parkdale
Media credit: parkdalevillage
What to Do
Drop by Gallery 1313
Media credit: gallery1313
Website: https://gallery1313.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gallery1313/
Address: 1313 Queen St W
Hours:
- Wed – Sat: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 4 PM
Contact: (416) 536-6778
Gallery 1313, located in Parkdale, is a not-for-profit, artist-run center that showcases local, national, and international contemporary art. With four distinct exhibition spaces, the gallery hosts over 70 exhibitions and cultural events annually.
Since 1998, it has provided accessible exhibition opportunities for artists at any stage in their career, working in various media. These include drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, video, and performance.
Take pics of street art along Milky Way
Media credit: tanyaphilipovich
Website: https://pnlt.ca/milkywaygarden/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkdalelandtrust/
Address: 87 Milky Way
Contact: (416) 709-4829
Milky Way is a laneway tucked south of Queen Street West, between Dufferin Stand Cowan Ave. Here, local and international artists leave their creative mark, ranging from intricate wild-style graffiti and large-scale murals to smaller, quirky cartoons.
Milky Way is a perfect snapshot of what locals call #parkdalelife, with each piece of art telling a unique story about the neighborhood’s culture and creativity. One of its famous works is by New York artist Buff Monster, who painted a giant ice cream monster.
Work on your tan on Sunnyside beach
Media credit: annaakhalaiaa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnyside-beach-toronto/
Address: Lake Shore Boulevard West
Sunnyside Beach, located just south of Parkdale along the shores of Lake Ontario, is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and work on your tan. With its sandy shores and scenic views, it’s a favorite for locals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
In addition to sunbathing, it has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the nearby Martin Goodman Trail, or visit the Sunnyside Pavilion for a bite to eat and a stunning view of the lake.
Have a picnic at Budapest Park
Media credit: kyleaklim
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/335/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/budapest-park/
Address: 1575 Lake Shore Blvd W
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 338-4386
Budapest Park is a lovely waterfront spot located at the foot of Parkside Drive along Lake Ontario’s shore, east of the Sunnyside Gus Ryder Pool. This family-friendly park features a playground complete with toy dinosaurs and an accessible wheelchair swing.
Visitors can also make use of the nearby parking lot and grab a bite at the on-site restaurant. With plenty of benches, grassy areas, and signature Muskoka chairs scattered throughout, it’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Where to Eat
Loga’s Corner
Media credit: logascornerto
Website: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/logas-corner-toronto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/logascornerto/
Address: 216 Close Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (647) 761-0965
Nestled in Little Tibet, Loga’s Corner is a family-run operation that comprises a tiny takeout spot and a cafe a couple of doors down. After grabbing your food, you can head to their cozy cafe that has comfy couches, a non-working fireplace, and free wifi.
This unassuming spot is known for its delicious momos, particularly their deep-fried aloo momos. These crispy potato-filled dumplings are so filling and flavorful that you won’t necessarily need extra sauces, but for that extra kick, go for their homemade hot sauce!
Afrobeat Kitchen
Media credit: afrobeatkitchen
Website: afrobeat-kitchen-1165-bloor-st-w-toronto-on-m6h-1m9-canada-toronto/c529
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrobeatkitchen/
Address: 1510 Queen St W
Hours:
- Wed – Thurs: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Friday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 12:30 PM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM – 10 PM
Contact: (416) 880-2994
Afrobeat Kitchen started as a pop-up in Bloordale has now flourished into its own Parkdale restaurant, thanks to the passion of owner Victor Ugwueke. Growing up in Nigeria, Ugwueke learned the art of cooking from his beloved mother.
Try their delicious Sticky Suya Wings—wings are marinated for 24 hours in suya spice, a traditional Nigerian seasoning. They are then tossed in a dry rub packed with ginger, onion, garlic, chili, and more suya, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior.
The MoMo House
Media credit: themomohouse.ca
Website: https://www.themomohouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themomohouse.ca/
Address: 1422 Queen St W
Hours: Mon – Sun: 12 PM – 9:45 PM
Contact: (416) 588-8887
The MoMo House in Parkdale is run by the same owner behind Tibet Kitchen. It offers a variety of momos unlike any you’ll find in Toronto—they come in both traditional styles and innovative fusion varieties that are sure to catch your attention.
Our fave is their Butter Chicken Momos, a fusion of Indian and Tibetan flavors. You get five fluffy chicken momos drenched in a rich, creamy butter chicken sauce that could easily rival any Indian restaurant—yum!
Skyline Restaurant
Media credit: theskylinerestaurant
Website: https://www.theskylinetoronto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskylinerestaurant/
Address: 1426 Queen St W
Hours:
- Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (416) 536-3682
Skyline Restaurant is a Parkdale gem, owned by a brother-sister duo who bring a cozy, retro diner vibe to the neighborhood. Known for their classic diner dishes with a touch of French technique, they offer comfort food with a refined twist.
A must-try is their triple-decker Skyline Special Clubhouse, a revamped classic made with shredded turkey instead of the traditional chicken salad. It’s mixed with mayo and chopped pickles then layered with lettuce, tomatoes, and bacon strips!
Where to Go Nearby
High Park
Media credit: highpark_official
Website: https://www.highparktoronto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highpark_official/
Address: 1873 Bloor St W
Hours: Mon-Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 338-0338
Just a stone’s throw from Parkdale, High Park offers a perfect mix of nature and lively activities. With several lovely picnic areas, it’s easy to find a cozy spot to lay down a blanket and savor a meal while soaking up the outdoors.
One of its hidden gems is Grenadier Pond, a peaceful, protected spot that’s ideal for those who enjoy fishing. If you’re in the area around late April to early May, you’re in for a treat—the park’s cherry trees come into full bloom!
CN Tower
Media credit: cntower
Website: https://www.cntower.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cntower/
Address: 290 Bremner Blvd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Contact: (416) 868-6937
Just a short trip from Parkdale, the CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most iconic attractions. Don’t miss its Glass Floor Level, perched 1,122 feet above the ground; here, you can look straight down through the transparent floor at the bustling city below.
For an even bigger adrenaline rush, try the EdgeWalk. This thrilling attraction takes you outside, 1,168 feet above the ground, where you can walk around the tower’s edge, hands-free. In fact, it’s the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk!
Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto Canada
Media credit: mocatoronto
Website: https://moca.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mocatoronto
Address: 158 Sterling Rd #100
Hours: Wed – Sun: 11 AM – 6 PM
Contact: (416) 530-2500
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a hub for modern art enthusiasts, showcasing a dynamic range of works by both local and international artists. As you explore the museum, you’ll find an ever-changing lineup of exhibitions.
MOCA also regularly hosts a variety of workshops and events, from curator-led tours and performances to workshops and family-friendly weekends. Some of these events are included with admission, others are free, and a few may have an additional cost.
