North Riverdale

Average sales price freehold (2009): $573,871; (2010): $606,429

Lowest price sold (2009): $183,500; (2010): $225,000

Highest price sold (2009): $1,010,000l; (2010): $956,000

Average sales price condo (2009): N/A; (2010): N/A

Postal code: M4K

Boundaries: Hogarth Ave – Gerrard St E; Logan Ave — D.V.P.

Subway Stations: Broadview, Pape and Chester

Significantly more expensive than its neighbor to the south, North Riverdale is nestled in a prime location — bordering on the subway line and the D.V.P.  North Riverdale is home to an architectural landmark – the Don Jail. The prison is historically significant as it was built before the Confederation —however, it is now considered ‘an overcrowded dungeon’, and described as ‘an insult to humanity’. Further east along Gerrard, between Broadview and Carlaw, is East Chinatown, a smaller version of Spadina’s Chinatown. North Riverdale is also known for Riverdale Farm, a largely wooded area with an actual farm and farmer’s market.

Real Estate: North Riverdale attracts families with children, as the houses are bigger and so are the lots. 2 ½ story semis dominate the leafy streets, but it’s common to see detached homes here and there. Verandas are an apparent trend which can be seen on a large number of homes in the area.

Parks: Withrow Park boasts an off-leash dog area, a fenced and dog-free children’s playground and summer wading pool, a clubhouse for indoor classes and community group use, plus plenty of outdoor space for sports and recreation including tennis, tobogganing, hockey, baseball and soccer.

Hot Spots:

Lil’ Baci — 892 Queen St E
With a selection of creatively dressed pizza pies and microbrews, Lil’ Baci’s Pizza offers a slightly upscale twist to the classic pizzeria.

Pan on the Danforth — 516 Danforth Ave
This eatery delivers a unique take on Greek Mediterranean cuisine by eschewing the limited, conventional dishes associated with Greek dining.

Bad Dog Theatre Company — 138 Danforth Ave
The Bad Dog Theatre is an improv comedy club in Toronto with shows most nights of the week, improvisation workshops, and acting classes.