Understand

Serving as a hub for food and shopping, this district in Toronto is renowned among Torontonians for its friendly charm. Being close to the University of Toronto and Central Technical School, including the renowned art school The Art Centre, the neighborhood boasts a vibrant student and faculty population. The main commercial strip along Bloor Street exudes a collegiate vibe, albeit an affluent one, with its array of small restaurants, pubs, and bookshops. While the side streets are mostly residential, featuring long and narrow townhouses to the south of Bloor and grand mansions to the north. Defining the precise borders of the neighborhood may be a topic of debate, but compared to other neighborhoods in the city, it is relatively clear. Avenue Road and Bathurst Street are generally accepted as the eastern and western boundaries, respectively, while Harbord Street serves as the southern boundary. However, the northern limit is somewhat contested. Generally, the neighborhood extends up to Dupont Street, excluding the industrial area just north of it along the railway tracks. This industrial area contrasts with the common perception of the Annex as a neighborhood of elegant homes and charming bookstores. For the purpose of this article, it is considered that the neighborhood stretches all the way to the Nordheimer Ravine in the north, just south of St. Clair Avenue.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and a generous amount of gravy. This dish originates from the province of Quebec but is now widely enjoyed across Canada. It's typically a non-spicy, warm, and filling meal.

Smoked salmon is a popular food item in Canada, particularly in British Columbia where the Pacific salmon is abundant. The salmon is cured with salt and sugar, then cold-smoked over wood chips to enhance its flavor. It's often served as an appetizer, accompanied by cream cheese, bagels, or crackers. The dish offers a mixture of savory and slightly smoky taste, making it a refreshing choice.

Butter tarts are a sweet and flaky dessert native to Canada, particularly popular in the prairie provinces. A butter tart consists of a pastry shell filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and syrup, often with added raisins or pecans. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them a beloved Canadian treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing