Cathy MerrittThere’s always something awesome happening in the Danforth, and I don’t get tired of it! One street can take you from a morning espresso to an afternoon of shopping to a night of dining with friends.
This is one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, where Toronto’s multicultural spirit is on full display. It may be known as Greektown, but people from all over the world have made it their home.
I put together this guide to help you explore the area and see for yourself why it’s such a special part of Toronto.
Where is the Danforth?
The Danforth is a neighbourhood along Danforth Avenue in Toronto’s east end. It starts just east of the Don River at the Prince Edward Viaduct and runs for several kilometres, stretching toward East York and Scarborough.
What is the main street in the Danforth?
The main street that gives the neighbourhood its name is Danforth Avenue. It runs east to west through Toronto’s east end, starting just past the Don River and continuing for several kilometres into Scarborough.
This is where most of the neighbourhood’s restaurants, cafes, and shops are located, with the busiest section between Broadview Avenue and Pape Avenue.
How to Get to the Danforth
By Bus: Several TTC bus routes serve the Danforth. Common routes include the 62 Mortimer, 91 Woodbine, and overnight 300A/B/S Bloor-Danforth buses.
By Train: The Danforth is on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) of the TTC subway. Key stations along the neighbourhood are Donlands Station, Chester Station, and Pape Station. For regional rail, Danforth GO Station on the Lakeshore East line is nearby.
By Taxi: Toronto taxi fares start at a base rate of about $4.25, with an additional charge of roughly $1.75 per kilometre. Common drop-off points include Broadview Station, Pape Station, or directly in front of restaurants along Danforth Avenue.
By Car: If you’re driving, there are several Green P municipal parking lots close to the main strip, including Carpark 87, Carpark 277, and Carpark 272. Street parking is also available on some side streets, but always check posted signs for restrictions.
Best Time to Go to the Danforth
If you want to catch The Danforth at its liveliest, the Taste of the Danforth festival is the time to go. It’s held every year on the second weekend of August, running from Friday through Sunday along Danforth Avenue between Broadview and Jones.
During those three days, the street is closed and turns into a huge pedestrian zone filled with food stalls, live music, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities!
What to Do and See in the Danforth
Watch a concert at The Danforth Music Hall
Photo credit: imprint_ent
Website: https://www.thedanforth.com/
Address: 147 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 416-778-8163
I’ve been to The Danforth Music Hall more times than I can count, and it remains one of the best places to enjoy Toronto’s music scene. It’s been here since 1919 and has undergone several changes before becoming the live music venue we know today.
What I love most is how it blends its heritage with a modern concert experience. The facade still shows off its original brickwork and opal glass windows, and inside, the high ceilings create a sense of space that feels much larger than the actual size.
The last time I visited was for tripleS’ 2025 world tour. It was a thrill to see them perform live! Because The Danforth Music Hall is way smaller than Scotiabank Arena, I had a clear view of the stage without needing to pay for a VIP ticket.
Watch thought-provoking plays at The Coal Mine Theatre
Photo credit: coalminetheatre
Website: https://www.coalminetheatre.com/
Address: 2076 Danforth Ave
Operating hours:
6:45 PM – 10:00 PM (TUES-SAT)
1:30 PM – 4:00 PM (SUN)
Price (General Admission):
Week 1 showing – $65
Week 2 showing – $70
Week 3 showing – $75
Aside from live music, The Danforth is also home to engaging live theatre at The Coal Mine Theatre. Since opening in 2014, it has built a reputation for staging contemporary plays that are both thought-provoking and beautifully produced.
The space itself is small enough that you feel completely connected to the actors, yet the productions remain polished and ambitious. It’s quite impressive that they often feature some of the country’s most respected performers.
One of the most memorable plays I’ve seen here was Between Riverside and Crazy, which featured Dora Award-winner Alexander Thomas. It felt raw and honest, with messy and flawed characters whose struggles were easy to relate to.
Enjoy a picnic at Monarch Park
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-recreation/
Address: 115 Felstead Ave
Contact details: +1 416-338-4386
Monarch Park has been part of the east end community since the 1930s and sits just south of Danforth Avenue, tucked between quiet residential streets. It’s not the biggest park in the city, but it has a certain charm that keeps me coming back.
One good reason is the range of amenities. There’s a public pool with a tall water slide here that’s perfect for the summer, and in winter, the park offers an artificial ice rink. There’s even an off-leash area where dogs can run and play.
I like to come here on mild afternoons to walk the winding paths under the trees. Sometimes I’ll bring a coffee from a nearby cafe and sit on a bench to watch a soccer game or just enjoy the open space.
Where to Eat and Drink in the Danforth
Rendez-Vous Ethiopian and Eritrean Restaurant
Reel credit: rendezvous.to
Website: https://www.rendezvousethiopianrestaurant.com/
Address: 1408 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 416-469-2513
Operating hours:
11:00 AM – 1:00 AM (MON)
11:00 AM – 2:00 AM (TUES and WED)
11:00 AM – 3:00 AM (THURS-SUN)
An excellent way to enjoy the Danforth’s multicultural vibe is by trying out its restaurants. One of the hottest right now is Rendez-Vous, where they serve authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine in a warm and welcoming space.
I’ve eaten here a couple of times, and each visit has been memorable. My favourite dish is their doro wot, a rich and fragrant chicken stew simmered with berbere spices and served with soft, tangy injera.
It’s a mainstay on their menu, and for good reason. The flavours are deep and comforting, and the injera soaks up every bit of the sauce perfectly. I often pair it with a side of lentils or collard greens, which balance the spice beautifully.
Messini Authentic Gyros
Photo credit: motorcitymunchers
Website: https://www.messini.ca/
Address: 445 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 416-778-4861
Operating hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (MON-SUN)
As I’ve mentioned earlier, the Danforth is also known as Greektown, and that’s because of restaurants like Messini Authentic Gyros. They’ve been serving classic Greek comfort food since 2003 and have built a loyal following in the neighbourhood.
This is one of my favourite spots whenever I’m in the Danforth because they’re remarkably consistent with their portions. The servings are always generous, and I always feel that I get my money’s worth here.
If you’re looking for a recommendation, I suggest trying their pork gyro pita. The meat is shaved fresh from the spit, tender and full of flavour, then wrapped in a soft pita with tomatoes, onions, tzatziki, and crisp fries tucked inside.
Allen’s
Photo credit: allensdanforth
Website: https://allensdanforth.com/
Address: 143 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 416-463-3086
Operating hours:
11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (MON-THURS)
11:30 AM – 11:00 PM (FRI)
10:30 AM – 11:00 PM (SAT)
10:30 AM – 10:00 PM (SUN)
If you’re looking for a classic pub atmosphere, then Allen’s is a restaurant you should check out. It’s been serving folks in the Danforth since 1987, with a menu that’s filled with a wide variety of Irish-inspired dishes.
Their selection includes smoked salmon sandwiches, lager-battered halibut and chips, and butter chicken. There’s also an impressive range of beverages, especially for those who enjoy a drink with their meal, like draught beer and single malt whisky.
I don’t come here as often as other restaurants I’ve mentioned, but I hear their Dublin lamb shank is excellent. It’s braised in Guinness until the meat is tender enough to fall off the bone and served with champ that soaks up the rich sauce!
Mofer Coffee Danforth
Photo credit: mofercoffee
Website: https://www.mofercoffee.com/
Address: 1577 Danforth Ave, Unit 1
Contact details: +1 647-349-9120
Operating hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (MON-SUN)
While exploring the Danforth, it’s easy to find yourself in need of a short break. That’s why I recommend stopping at Mofer Coffee, a cafe that brings the rich traditions of Ethiopian coffee culture to Toronto.
Ethiopian coffee is quite different from what most people are used to. It often has a fruity flavour that gives it a natural sweetness, along with a touch more acidity. The result is a unique taste that’s worth experiencing at least once!
I’ve grown to love Ethiopian coffee, so whenever I’m in the Danforth, I usually order Mofer Coffee’s traditional black coffee. Served without milk or sugar, it allows the bold and citrusy flavour to shine through in every sip.
Where to Shop in the Danforth
Percy Waters Florist
Photo credit: percywatersflorist
Website: https://www.percywatersflowers.com/
Address: 1360 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 416-463-1125
Operating hours:
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON-SAT)
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (SUN)
One of the oldest shops in the Danforth still operating is Percy Waters Florist. It opened in 1911, and although it’s no longer run by the original family, it remains one of the neighbourhood’s go-to places for fresh flowers.
They offer a wide selection of blooms every day, including roses, lilies, carnations, and orchids. Many are arranged into elegant bouquets suited for occasions such as birthdays or back-to-school celebrations.
They also accommodate custom orders if you have a specific arrangement in mind. For those who can’t make the trip to the Danforth, they provide same-day delivery anywhere in Toronto.
Treasure Island Toys
Photo credit: treasureislandtoys
Website: https://treasureislandtoys.ca/
Address: 581 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 416-778-4913
Operating hours:
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON, TUES, WED, and SAT)
10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (THURS and FRI)
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (SUN)
As someone who still loves to collect toys, it’s no surprise that Treasure Island Toys is one of the shops I visit regularly. The bright shopfront and colourful window displays make it almost impossible to walk past without stepping inside.
Their shelves are filled with toys, games, puzzles, and crafts for every age. And these aren’t just generic items. They stock well-known brands such as Lego, Playmobil, and Brio, which makes browsing even more enjoyable.
I often stop by whenever Lego announces a new set, especially the Minecraft-themed ones. The store is easy to reach, and if the weather isn’t ideal for a visit, I simply have my Lego set delivered to my door the next day.
The Big Carrot
Photo credit: thebigcarrot
Website: https://thebigcarrot.ca/
Address: 348 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 416-466-2129
Operating hours:
9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (MON-FRI)
9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (SAT and SUN)
Now that I’m trying to live better, eating healthier foods is at the top of my list. That’s why whenever I’m in the Danforth, I usually stop by The Big Carrot, a natural food market that’s been operating since 1983.
Quite different from the usual grocery store offerings, they mostly stock non-GMO produce. You’ll find stuff like strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and kale, which I’ve recently been buying a lot of to add fiber to my diet.
They also have a good selection of natural supplements, bulk goods, and body care products. They even have a juice and coffee bar that makes it easy to grab something healthy on the go!
Where to Stay in the Danforth
The Only Backpacker’s Inn
Photo credit: theonlybackpackers
Website: https://www.theonlyinn.com/
Address: 972 Danforth Ave
Contact details: +1 855-463-3249
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price ($ for $199 and below, $$ for $200–$300, and $$$ for $300 and up): $
My experience with The Only Backpacker’s Inn was pretty amusing, actually. My friends and I had been out drinking in the Danforth, and when our designated driver had to leave for an emergency, we decided to spend the night here.
Even though it’s only a 1-star hotel, it still has a relaxed and welcoming vibe that makes it easy to get a good night’s sleep. The beds were simple but comfortable, and the rooms had secure locks that gave us peace of mind.
In the morning, we spent some time in the cafe downstairs. There’s also a shared lounge where we chatted with a few tourists while playing board games. Overall, it’s a nice and affordable place to stay if you need somewhere convenient for the night.
Riverdale Suite Artist Retreat
Address: Provided after booking
Check in: 4:00 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price: $
If you’re looking to spend a lot of time in the Danforth (and maybe Toronto in general), then consider staying at Riverdale Suite Artist Retreat. This Airbnb home belongs to a local artist, and you can see that creative touch in every corner.
The walls are decorated with original pieces, the furniture is thoughtfully chosen, and the interior feels spacious while keeping everything within easy reach. There’s also a smart TV and some books to keep you entertained if the weather isn’t playing nice.
A cousin of mine who lives in Europe stayed here while visiting us, and the thing he liked most was its location in a quiet residential pocket of the Danforth. It offers a peaceful retreat away from the noise while still being close to the neighbourhood.
