What to know and love about this Toronto neighbourhood
Kensington-Chinatown is one of the city's most vibrant and eclectic neighbourhoods. Home to Kensington Market, people from across the city come here to shop for vintage clothing and unique treasures along foot-traffic only streets. Popular with U of T students, and bohemian types, Kensington Market also has great fair-trade coffee shops and vegetarian/vegan restaurants. Also, nearby Chinatown has (you guessed it!) delicious Asian restaurants, along with bars and Mexican restaurants. The neighbourhood is also very walkable and commuter friendly. Take the College, Spadina, Dundas, Bathurst, or Queen TTC routes- they all run through the area! If you want to live in a downtown neighbourhood with a personality all its own, close to shopping, dining, and transit you're sure to love life in Kensington-Chinatown.
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“you’ll
love”Unique stores and restaurants. From the eclectic vintage clothing stores in Kensington Market to the wide variety of restaurants, including the city's best Chinese spots, this neighbourhood has it all! No matter what cuisine you're in the mood for you'll find it here, from tacos and burgers to dumplings and noodle dishes. Then, shop for vintage jeans, dresses, and concert tees at stores such as Courage My Love and Exile in Kensington Market.
the
neighboursKensington-Chinatown real estate is most popular with younger buyers, looking to be close to the action, and to school. There is a 49% population of adults age 25-54, and 19% of residents are between 15-24. There is also a 15% senior population, many of whom are longstanding Kensington Market residents who helped establish the distinctive 'hippy' energy in the area.
Local Insight: "I moved to Kensington Market while I was going to U of T, and never wanted to leave. I love the Solstice Parade. People dress as sun gods, play drums, sing,...and breathe fire!"
what its
like to live hereWhat to Expect: Walkability and amazing food. Residents really have no need for a car in Kensington-Chinatown, since multiple major TTC routes allow people to traverse the area with ease. Also, every block seems to burst with cool restaurants, quirky stores, and great people. There are also art galleries nearby, including the AGO and student exhibits at OCAD. To enjoy the outdoors, head to Alexandra Park's playground and pool. For nightlife College and Queen offer bars with live music and casual patios.
What NOT to Expect: An easy drive. The streets here are busy and the nearest highway isn't very close. So, prepare for a longer drive or take one of the many convenient transit options in Kensington-Chinatown neighbourhood.
A Day in the Life: Walk from your Kensington Market condo to an independent coffee house for breakfast. Then, stroll through the streets of the market, where people are beginning to stream in to browse the racks of clothing on the sidewalk. Find a beaded purse that will go perfectly with everything. Then, meet friends at a Vietnamese restaurant for noodles and beer, before heading to the AGO to explore the latest exhibit. Walk home and get dressed for a night out at Sneeky Dees eating tacos and hearing a local band play. Stroll back to your place and unwind on your terrace.
In Summary: Kensington-Chinatown is a vibrant neighbourhood with bohemian style and plenty of amazing restaurants.
