A Day in Little Italy
Toronto’s Little Italy neighbourhood isn’t just a destination for great food, it’s a district steeped in visual character and creativity.
Whether you’re drawn to sleek restaurant interiors, chic galleries or shops that celebrate a modern aesthetic, this walkable itinerary along College Street guides you through a full day of memorable moments. From a retro diner to a minimalist wine bar, each stop offers more than just a place to eat, sip or shop—but an experience in style and story. So, bring your curiosity (and your camera) to explore Little Italy through our eyes.
Photography by Jon Adediji
Susie’s Rise and Dine, 539 College Street
WEDNESDAY – SUNDAY | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Begin your day with brunch at one of Little Italy’s newest diners, Susie’s Rise and Dine. Emerald, powder blue and white tile encompass the space, complementing a quintessential, red-lit marquee across a peek into the live kitchen. This contemporary take on the retro aesthetic boasts an East Asian-inspired menu–including fluffy pancakes, banana pudding and a filet-o-shrimp.
Boxcar Social Laneway, 298 Markham Street
SUNDAY – MONDAY | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | TUESDAY – SATURDAY | 8:00AM – 6:00 PM
Stroll one block west for a post-brunch pick-me-up at Boxcar Social Laneway. Hidden at the end of an alley, this third-wave café takes cues from Japanese listening bars, with natural oak, exposed brick and built-in seating that gives the space rhythm and intimacy. Vinyl records hum in the background while sunlight filters through glass-brick windows–perfect for a design-minded recharge—with an iced Madagascar vanilla latte in-hand.
The Royal Theatre, 608 College Street
SCREENINGS AND EVENTS HELD WEEKLY
The Royal Theatre’s iconic 1930s art deco facade and bold marquee makes it a Little Italy landmark that design lovers will appreciate–whether you pop in for an indie film screening, a comedy show, a Candlelight Concert or simply snap a shot of its typographic charm.
The Local Gallery, 621 College Street
WEDNESDAY – SUNDAY | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Next, take a short walk to The Local Gallery, where contemporary fine art intersects with pop culture. With free rotating exhibitions of emerging and established artists, the minimalist space lets the work breathe–inviting reflection, curiosity and conversation.
The Monocle Shop, 776 College Street
SUNDAY | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | MONDAY – WEDNESDAY | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | THURSDAY – SATURDAY | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
A block away, The Monocle Shop is a haven for refined design sensibilities. Monocle began as a print magazine and expanded into a series of globally-informed storefronts and radio-studios exclusive to London, Zürich, Merano, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Toronto. Whether you’re browsing their global print publications utility-chic homeware, or travel-ready accessories, every item holds true to the brand’s worldly aesthetic.
Ziggy’s At Home, 794 College Street
SUNDAY | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | MONDAY – WEDNESDAY | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | THURSDAY | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | FRIDAY – SATURDAY | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Next door, step into Ziggy’s At Home, a home goods boutique in Little Italy bursting with personality. Expect bold patterned decor, artisan textiles including Donna Wilson towels and runners, and quirky interior finds like animal-shaped salt and pepper shakers that make it hard to leave empty-handed. This stop is a must for those drawn to design that tells a story.
Photography by Daniel Neuhaus
Photography by Daniel Neuhaus
Photography by Daniel Neuhaus
Photography by Daniel Neuhaus
Photography by Daniel Neuhaus
Martine’s Wine Bar, 293 Palmerston Avenue
SUNDAY – SATURDAY | 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Ease into the evening with dinner at Martine’s Wine Bar. Tucked away on Palmerston Ave, Martine’s exudes effortless charm with its minimalist design, soft lighting and western-European café ambiance. The space is the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of natural wine and unwind over the famous wood-fired chicken and fries.
