If you’re new to a city, the first thing you probably want to do is socialize and create a network of like-minded people. This can be tough without being familiar with neighbourhoods, events, or hot spots that are “in the know” among particular communities. Good thing we at Notable are “in the know!” These three neighbourhoods are young professional hot spots that feature some of the trendiest restaurants, bars, and real estate, as well as unlimited networking opportunities at every corner.
King West
This part of King Street, which stretches from University to Dufferin, has seen a major revitalization over the past decade and is now home to some of the city’s most chic restaurants, lounges, and dance clubs. King West also now boasts some of most sought-after real estate in the city. Many industrial buildings have been converted into trendy loft spaces and new condo developments – like the world-renowned Thompson Hotel and Residences. The neighbourhood has also emerged as the centre of Toronto’s tech scene, and most of the city’s top advertising, PR, and media agencies reside here.
The Distillery District
Toronto’s distillery district is our equivalent to old Montreal. This relatively small neighbourhood is home to dozens of hip shops, Cafes, restaurants and bars that now reside within the former Gooderham and Worts distillery. The pedestrian-only neighbourhood is a hot bed for Toronto culture and features some of the city’s most prominent art galleries and exhibitions. The distillery district’s rejuvenation over the past decade has also opened the door for residential development. Two condominium towers have sprung up in the area over the past few years and many of the distillery’s buildings have been converted into loft spaces. Dedicated as a national heritage site, the distillery district is a haven for young professionals looking to escape retail and food chain culture and experience more of a European feel, right downtown.
Yorkville
Toronto’s Bloor-Yorkville has always been the place to be for young professionals, and has been at the forefront of the city’s shopping and trendy nightlife scene since the early 1990s. It now boasts some of the city’s most high-end bars and restaurants along with boutiques of almost all major international designers. Yorkville is also a major residential neighbourhood and offers young professionals endless options for finding that perfect living space. Newcomers to the area can expect to hang with the city’s elite crowd and meet some of the most influential people across all industries, not only in Toronto, but all of Canada. If you’ve made it, this is the place to be.
Photo by David Huang.