The Annex
Quaint, forested streets and a booming social scene make the Annex one of the most prestigious and desirable places to the live in the greater Toronto area. Developed in the latter half of the 19th century, many of the Annex’s more affluent residents moved north to Forest Hill and Lawrence Park, while many of the remaining residents stayed behind to form the Annex Residents Association (ARA). Responsible for preventing the Spadina Expressway from bisecting the neighbourhood, the ARA has helped the Annex develop into a one of Toronto’s most premiere neighbourhoods. With its diverse population and multicultural influence – many of the local businesses are owned by Hungarian-Canadian families and Koreatown lies to the southwest on Bloor Street – the Annex will continue to be one of the most sought after destinations for locals and newcomers alike.
Located to the south is the prestigious University of Toronto, making the Annex one of the premiere destinations for the thousands of new and current students looking for convenient housing in gorgeous turn-of-the-century Victorian and Edwardian mansions. Dozens of restaurants, pubs, and cafes line the picturesque streets, many of which serve cuisine from around the world on tree-lined decks and rooftop patios, firmly solidifying the Annex as one of the most fascinating and diverse hotspots in Toronto. Whether having a cold Guinness at The Pour House Irish Pub, hanging with friends at The Insomnia Restaurant Bar and Lounge or enjoying an authentic Middle Eastern style brunch at The By the Way Café, The Annex offers something for everyone. The Annex is also conveniently located along several subway lines, ensuring this small, bustling neighborhood is nothing more than a hop, skip, and a jump away from downtown.
Although the Annex is known for its dense population of students, Seaton Village, often referred to as the West Annex and situated between Bathurst and Christie Street, is a more residential area suitable for young families desiring a quieter place to live without sacrificing the social life the Annex proper provides. Known for its similarity in terms of architecture, Seaton Village is an affordable alternative to the Annex and features a public school, a local Boys and Girls Club, and the scenic Vermont Square Park, ensuring that the area is a welcoming place for children and families.