Come along with us for our #AgentInsider, as we explore hidden gems, the best dining options, our favourite shops, and more across southern Ontario! This month, we’re featuring the Davisville neighbourhood of midtown Toronto. Known for its tree-lined streets, attractive homes, and its easy access to public transportation, Davisville is a vibrant and desirable neighbourhood that offers its residents an excellent quality of life. Keep reading as we showcase a few favourite spots curated by Bosley Real Estate Agent Chantal Vaillancourt.
The Davisville neighbourhood is located in the midtown area of Toronto. The area was originally part of a large land grant given to Timothy Davis, a United Empire Loyalist, in the late 18th century. Davis built a large house on the property, and the area was eventually named after him.
In the 19th century, the Davisville area was largely rural and agricultural, with several farms and orchards. However, the arrival of the Toronto and Nipissing Railway in 1884 brought development to the area and led to the construction of the Davisville railway station.
During the early 20th century, the Davisville area began to develop as a residential neighbourhood. The construction of the Yonge Street subway line in the 1950s brought further development, and today, Davisville is a bustling and vibrant neighbourhood with a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces.
Davisville has a rich history and many notable landmarks, including the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, which is the final resting place of many famous Canadians, including former Prime Ministers William Lyon Mackenzie King and Lester B. Pearson. The Mount Pleasant Cemetery connects to the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail, which boasts 4.5 kilometres of recreational trail!
Residents experience a strong sense of community, with various community events and festivals throughout the year, including the Appletree Farmers’ Market in June Rowlands Park. The neighbourhood also has several active community groups, including a residents association and a business improvement association.
Davisville has a wide range of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, parks, and community centres. The neighbourhood also has a variety of top-grade schools, both public and private, and is home to several healthcare facilities. Read on to learn more!
DINE IN DAVISVILLE
The Granite Brewery
245 Eglinton Ave East, Toronto, ON
The Granite Brewery in Toronto is a true gem. Established in 1991, this independent craft brewery has been a family-owned business since its inception. The Keefe family, who are the proud owners of this establishment, have been in the brewpub business since 1980 when they opened their first Granite Brewery in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
This neighbourhood staple appeals to everyone, from young families in the dining room to old friends catching up over drinks in the bar and in the library. The beer is great, and so is the food with its changing weekly menu. This establishment is truly a treasure in midtown!
Sweet Cultura
245 Eglinton Avenue East, Toronto, ON
Source: Sweet Cultura – Instagram
Sweet Cultura is a popular bakery and catering service owned by Sicilian Chef Andrea and his wife Abby. They specialize in private events and catering. Sweet Cultura is a great spot to pick up homemade Sicilian treats like cannoli and cookies, as well as fruit tarts, pies, cakes, sandwiches, and salads. Chef Andrea’s authentic Sicilian recipes have made Sweet Cultura a go-to destination for those seeking traditional Italian desserts and savoury dishes!
Zee Grill Restaurant & Oyster Bar
641 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
Source: Zee Grill Restaurant & Oyster Bar – Instagram
This popular restaurant has been serving up seafood for over 40 years! Did you know Zee Grill was the first restaurant in Toronto to feature a variety of oysters displayed on beds of shaved ice? The name Zee Grill comes from the owner’s Dutch heritage, with seafood being a passion for both owners, Beth Eckhardt from Pictou, Nova Scotia and Jac from The Netherlands. The menu offers a range of seafood dishes, including oysters, clams, mussels, lobster, fish, shrimp, and surf & turf. Zee Grill has a loyal local following and is a neighbourhood gem where patrons can expect a warm welcome and personalized service. It is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers in Toronto!
Domaine Mamo
581 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
Source: Domaine Mamo – Instagram
Domain Mamo’s is a must-visit restaurant in Midtown Toronto for anyone looking for French-Italian-inspired cuisine. With 30 years of experience in the industry, owner Robert Prete previously owned Grazie Ristorante and Coquine French Bistro. He now brings his expertise to Domaine Mamo, located at 581 Mount Pleasant. This restaurant is perfect for intimate dinners for two or catching up with friends. Robert and his team also offer catering options and event space – be sure to inquire! If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience in Midtown Toronto, Domaine Mamo’s is worth a visit!
Wild Chicory
525 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
Source: Wild Chicory – Instagram
Wild Chicory is a cozy restaurant in Midtown focused on elevating Canadian ingredients to create delicious dishes and drinks. Chef Shawn Limoges heads up the team and creates the seasonal menu, showcasing locally-sourced ingredients. Try the Charcuterie Board or maybe the Grilled Lamb Chop – you can’t go wrong either way!
PLAY IN DAVISVILLE
Davisville Tennis Club
220 Davisville Avenue, Toronto, ON
Davisville Tennis Club (DTC) is a 50-year-old club boasting a very active and social community tennis organization operating in the heart of Toronto. If you are new to the sport, DTC offers beginner classes, round robins and orientation to familiarize you with the game and make you comfortable on the court. For the more advanced player, they have Majors, A and B Intercounty teams, a Ladies League C team, Tournaments, and Ladder play. There’s something for everyone at Davisville Tennis Club!
Mable’s Fables
662 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
Source: Mabel’s Fables – Instagram
Mabel’s Fables is a beloved children’s bookstore in Toronto’s Davisville neighbourhood. Established in 1988, Mabel’s Fables has provided high-quality children’s literature to the community for over three decades. The bookstore boasts an impressive collection of books for children of all ages, from board books and picture books to young adult fiction. In addition to their extensive book selection, Mabel’s Fables also offers a variety of toys, games, and gifts for kids. The store’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place to bring children for storytime or to find the perfect gift for a young reader. Mabel’s Fables is truly a gem in the Toronto literary scene and a must-visit destination for any book-loving family!
LabMotus
511 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
At LabMotus, they understand the frustration of injuries or limited movement capabilities. Their team has dedicated their lives to helping individuals overcome and prevent these ailments. Their team creates customized programs for each client, ensuring you take positive steps toward your goals. Whether you want to improve your performance or finally put a recurring injury in your past, they are here to help!
SHOP IN DAVISVILLE
Rewind Couture
598 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
Unlike other consignment stores, Rewind Couture offers a curated selection of high-end vintage and designer clothing, shoes, and accessories! The store’s selection includes pieces from top designers such as Chanel, Gucci, and Prada, as well as unique vintage finds. With its upscale atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who offer a one–on–one personal shopping experience, Rewind Couture is a popular destination for fashion-conscious shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind pieces to add to their wardrobes. Whether you’re a vintage aficionado or simply looking for something special, Rewind Couture is definitely worth a visit!
Snapdragon Designs
622 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
Source: Snapdragon Designs – Instagram
Snapdragon is a place of comfortable clothing that looks good on all different body types! Shop easy dresses, tops and pants and go from work to dinners out in a flash! Plus, their beautiful jewelry, fabulous accessories like bags, belts, hats, scarves and global finds like blankets, candles, and paper goods make ideal gift ideas. Drop in for a browse at 622 Mount Pleasant Road!
Helene Clarkson
565 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON
Source: Helene Clarkson – Instagram
This stylish, smart, versatile clothing line for “women on the go” was founded in 2014 with the goal of helping women look and feel great travelling across town or across the ocean! Their line of 100+ styles is distributed online and around the world via heleneclarkson.com and at the flagship store located at 565 Mount Pleasant Road. HC gives you limitless options with versatile and reversible clothing. No matter where you’re headed, you will be dressed in comfort and style! Fun Fact: Helene Clarkson is not only a fashion designer but a Genie-nominated actress who lives and works in Toronto with her family!
Poor Little Rich Girl
2094 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON
Source: Poor Little Rich Girl – Instagram
Located in Midtown Toronto, the Poor Little Rich Girl aesthetic marries uptown sensibility with an urban edge! Their merchandise ranges from everyday casual to event wear and an assortment of accessories and jewelry. In addition to its impressive selection of clothing and accessories, the boutique’s friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help customers find the perfect piece!
The Davisville neighbourhood is filled with family, fun, food, and activity! If you want to learn more or are curious about relocating to this area, don’t hesitate to contact Bosley Real Estate Agent Chantal Vaillancourt for more information!
Patrick Rocca & Chantal Vaillancourt
Phone: 416-322-8000
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