Little Poland

Little Poland in Toronto is also known as the Roncesvalles Village. It was once Toronto's secret hidden paradise where you could purchase the freshest food, delicious baked goods, and professionally cut meats.

Location

You can find Toronto's Little Poland on the west end of the city. It is located beside High Park on the Roncesvalles Ave and below Bloor Street West. Roughly at the bottom you will find Queen Street with Sorauren Ave running along the east.

History

Majority of the area within Little Poland used to be known as Howard Park and belonged to the villages in the vicinity. In 1880, it officially became a part of Toronto! From the beginning of the 1900s, many of the buildings were built and area became more popular until the end of first world war. Afterwards, many of the wealthier residents moved west and the Polish immigrants moved in.

Culture

The culture of Little Poland is comfortably middle class, with wealthier areas still found throughout. The rich Polish community is friendly and supportive. This Toronto neighbourhood easily has some of the best butchers in the city. The European small-town atmosphere only adds to the neighbourhoods appeal.

Restaurants, Deli's, Bakers, Butchers and Food

Little Poland has a healthy combination of traditional Polish cuisine and smart brunch or dinner restaurants. It is the best for deli's - perhaps because of the great butchers - and pizza joints. You can also find bistros, Japanese cuisine, and some chain restaurants.

The butchers in Little Poland are part of the reason this Toronto neighbourhood is a city favourite. Skilled butchers have brought their talents here and opened their own family run shops. What ever meat you need, purchase it the right way; from a trained professional. Just think of it: handmade perogies, sausages, cabbage rolls, and traditional Polish soup.

The same goes for the bakeries in Little Poland. Authentic Polish baked goods, breads, and pastries will make your mouth water and your stomach grumble. They are the best place to visit first thing in the morning when all the goodies are warm and fresh.

For the rest of your food needs, visit one of the fresh food markets. Grocery stores are located throughout the neighbourhood as well.

Shopping

Shopping in Little Poland has many different kinds of stores and products. While the area has grown into mostly a residential area, there is still sufficient shopping available. Find everything from clothing, shoes, accessories and design.

Toronto's Little Poland also has vintage stores, antique and collectible dealers, furniture stores, home hardware, bookstores, music and records, hobby shops, and basic convenience and drugstores.

All the stores and businesses in Little Poland are protected by an organization called the Roncesvalles Business Improvement Area (BIA). This is a group of businesses owners from this Toronto neighbourhood who offer support, maintenance, and advice. If you are wishing to open a business in this Toronto neighbourhood, it might be beneficial to contact this BIA first and find out what is available.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Little Poland is relatively quiet compared to some other Toronto neighbourhoods, but a short trip on the TTC public transit will take you to more happening spots in downtown Toronto. There are some good bars and pubs in Little Poland, as well as a comedy club and a couple theatres.

Every year in September, a fantastic event called the Little Poland Festival is held in this Toronto neighbourhood. The festival has dancing, music, crafts, shopping, games, rides, and delicious food; all keeping with the Polish culture.

Real Estate

Real estate in Little Poland is popular and quite affordable compared to some other Toronto neighbourhoods. Houses can be purchased for a range of prices, depending on the exact location and number of rooms. The area is predominantly residential and has many schools in the area, so it is perfect for family living. There are some great parks in the area as well, with play grounds and even a zoo.

There is also lofts and condos for purchasing. If you want to rent, the homes, lofts, apartments, and condos are available for as low as $700/month. But it can also cost as much as $2000/month, so be sure to look around.

Religions

Churches in Little Poland have been around almost as long as the neighbourhood itself. There are churches for many kinds of religions: Greek Orthodox, United Church, Baptist Church, and Roman Catholic Church.

Toronto's Little Poland is a wonderful neighbourhood with a traditional Polish atmosphere and some of the best food around. Get freshly made cuisine, shop around, or share a drink with friends; all available in Roncesvalles Little Poland.

Totally Toronto has more on this fabulous neighbourhood, so take a look around.