The residential neighbourhood of Moss Park was named after the green plant that was once prevalent. Central and easily accessible, it was largely an industrial pocket of Toronto filled with large factories and the modest dwellings of their workers. After deindustrialization in the 1970s a large housing project was installed at Queen and Parliament. While some parts of the area, which runs in an L-shape reaching from Jarvis Street on the west to the Don Valley in the east, from Carlton Street down to Front Street, have been considered dangerous, other parts are seeing a move toward gentrification. The area encompasses parts of more well-established neighbourhoods, Cabbagetown and Corktown. The area is well served by the 501 Queen streetcar and the 505 Dundas streetcar running east-west, and buses 75 and 65 running north-south.
Out and About
The Allan Gardens Conservatory is a stunning glass-domed landmark known as Palm House, built in 1910, surrounded by striking manicured gardens. Free and open to visitors year-round to take in its permanent collection of exotic plants in six greenhouses, it also offers special seasonal flower shows.
Allan Gardens, 19 Horticultural Avenue
Easy Eats
For brunch at any time of the day, Chew Chew’s Diner has long kept locals satiated in its railway themed interior. Over on Parliament, English pub food is served up with culinary upgrades like the Wild Boar, Pheasant and Cognac Scotch Eggs or the Posh Ploughman’s, which features cured meats and cheeses and house-made chutney.
Chew Chew’s Diner, 186 Carlton Street
House on Parliament, 454 Parliament Street