Cabbagetown is a treasure trove of late-
Victorian architecture, most of the houses
lovingly renovated

Real Estate Guide › Central

Cabbagetown - South St. Jamestown

Average 2008 sale price:

$408,810

Property crime:

high

Crime against people:

high

Neighbourhood map:

See map

The area gets its name from Irish immigrants who fled the potato famine in the mid-1800s and then planted cabbages, among other sustaining vegetables, in their gardens to ensure an ample food supply. Today, it’s one of the most sought-after postal codes in the city, especially the Victorian homes east of Parliament, which usually sell from $500,000 to $1 million plus. With a large number of bars, cafés, restaurants and the occasional antique store, this stretch of Parliament exudes an easy-going vibe. The area is a long way from being fully gentrified—it’s bordered on the south by Regent Park—but if you’re in the shade of Riverdale Park or sipping a Jet Fuel latte, you’d never know it.

HOUSING STOCK: Cabbagetown is a showcase of some of the most impressive Victorians in the city. The streets are filled with Gothic Revival, Queen Anne and Second Empire homes, the vast majority of which are carefully restored and maintained with colourful gardens. Detached houses north of Spruce Street and east of Parliament can sell for more than $1 million; average size is around 2,500 square feet.

BARGAIN ZONES: The best deals are to be found west of Parliament, on streets like Ontario and Bleecker. A few houses that require minor renovations can be found east of Parliament, but they’re rare, agents say.

THE VERDICT: This is the spot for couples in their 40s and 50s who have shipped kids off to university, as well as their younger—yet moneyed—counterparts with small children and a hankering for a historical home.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
House on Parliament This Irish pub, perfect for sipping pints and cracking jokes with the bartenders, is especially packed on Sundays, when the roast beef special appears on their comfort food menu and sells out in seconds. 456 Parliament St., 416-925-4074.
JAM Café The unassuming bistro has a simple bistro menu, a fantastic wine list and a secluded patio. 195 Carlton St., 416-921-1255.
Omi Chef John Lee’s sushi restaurant is a sleek addition to the neighbourhood. Sashimi and sushi are fresh and satisfying, but truly adventurous eaters will try the fish ice cream. 243 Carlton St., 416-920-8991.
St. Jamestown Steak & Chops It’s easily the best butcher shop in the area, with organic salmon, sausages made in-house, and even fresh produce—a real find, considering the next best option is a dingy No Frills down the street. 516 and 518 Parliament St., 416-925-7665.