Living in Roncesvalles, when you walk through the streets, you immediately know something about this neighbourhood is very special. Known as Roncy’ by residents and locals — is the city’s west-side Polish neighbourhood, filled with boutique shops, restaurants and outdoor food markets that line the streets.
Roncesvalles Village can be found between the boundaries of Queen Street West to the South and Bloor Street to the North and Lansdowne Street to the East and Parkside Drive to the West. It is one of the hottest neighbourhoods in Toronto, and it’s very easy to see why.
Living in Roncesvalles: West End’s Finest
Roncesvalles will easily capture your heart, and stomach, with its small-town European charm. The area is home to many family-owned cafes and shops and as you explore the different boutiques, you may find yourself drawn in by the irresistible aromas that waft out of the local bakeries.
This neighbourhood (formerly known as Little Poland) should definitely be on your itinerary if you have an appetite for Eastern European delicacies such as hand-made perogies, juicy sausages, sauerkraut, cabbage rolls and traditional soups. One of these hearty meals will sustain you for a full day of exploring, or help you recharge.
In September, the area hosts the annual Roncesvalles Polish festival, when the main street is closed off to make room for dancers, games, rides, food and thousands of people. There are plenty of activities for children and adults and delicious treats to go around.
Sorauren Park is a community hot spot that offers activities for people of all ages, interests and abilities. An outdoor skating rink offers old-fashioned fun in the winter. Ample green space with soccer pitches, baseball diamonds and tennis courts offer organized fun, as well as enough room to simply to run and play.
Roncesvalles Real Estate
Roncesvalles real estate is known for its European ambience and small-town feel. The neighbourhood is popular among young families and move up buyers, who appreciate the convenience of the location just west of downtown. The close proximity to High Park, Toronto waterfront bicycle and walking trails, easy access to public transit, and the Roncesvalles shops and restaurants are also popular credentials on many house-hunter’s lists.
Residential homes began to appear from the early 1900s on, as Toronto experienced a massive building boom. For the first half of the 20th century, Roncesvalles residents were mostly of British origin. In the post-WWII years, a large number of Polish immigrants settled in the area, setting up churches, banks and businesses which remain important local institutions.
Roncesvalles Village homes for sale are highly sought after by Toronto homebuyers. The beautiful Victorian and Edwardian century houses that line the streets of this neighbourhood are enjoying a revitalization with a new generation of homebuyers who appreciate the charm and character of these older homes and who are not afraid to put in a little work to create the home of their dreams.
We imagine with the spring real estate market right around the corner there will be an influx of listings and homes for sale in this pocket. Sellers who have been putting the finishing touches on their renovated and updated homes are likely getting ready to hit the ground running when the piles of snow melt.
If you happen to be looking to buy in Roncesvalles, start your search now. Waiting for the spring market may give you more selection, but you’ll also be met with more competition and likely many listings with offers being held back with hopes of a bidding war. It’s a hot neighbourhood so don’t wait – start your search today.