Real Estate Guide › Central

Niagara

Average 2008 sale price:

$340,756

Property crime:

very high

Crime against people:

very high

Neighbourhood map:

See map

Niagara’s formerly industrial areas began to undergo relentless condofication about five years ago, which largely obliterated the single-family dwellings that existed. Contemporary condo developments now dominate, with the occasional more aesthetically pleasing warehouse conversion. The towers vary widely in charm, however, and the townhouses can be bland, cramped affairs. The Bathurst Quay area is somewhat underserved (especially by food and retail outlets), but the rest of the neighbourhood feasts on a veritable smorgasbord of cultural opportunities. Nowhere is the diversity better seen than on a tiny stretch of Niagara just south of King. A single block holds a Buddhist temple, the trendy Niagara Street Café, the Old York Bar and Grill (a local hang) and a sizable co-op. There’s a park (Stanley) in the middle of the neighbourhood, but also a city works depot filled with trucks.

HOUSING STOCK: A few worker’s cottages and the occasional bay-and-gable remain, along with a couple of converted industrial buildings—though these are rapidly disappearing. Rows of undistinguished modern townhouses cover many side streets, and condos are quickly enveloping King West and lower Bathurst. Even as far south as Bathurst Quay, several co-ops and the glam Tip Top Tailors redevelopment are being joined by yet more condominiums, especially on the site of the old Molson Brewery. Prices range from $225,000 for a junior one-bedroom in the new 550 Wellington West condo-hotel complex to $750,000 for a large four-bedroom semi.

BARGAIN ZONES: Older condos on the 700 and 800 blocks of King, between Bathurst and Niagara, tend to be more affordable.

THE VERDICT: If condos suit your fancy, you can’t do much better in terms of architectural diversity and cultural attractions. The art galleries that dot Tecumseth are some of the most adventurous in the city; the culinary choices tucked nearby are getting better; and ever-growing Liberty Village provides even more delights. With its own farmers’ market on Sundays and new retail spots sprouting up every day, the latter has become a self-contained miniature hamlet.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Atelier Thuet The famous chef’s Liberty Village food store sells his signature breads and charcuterie. 171 East Liberty St., 416-603-2777.
Diaz Contemporary This gallery shows disarming, eccentric work by contemporary artists. 100 Niagara St., 416-361-2972.
Niagara Street Café A charming bistro that offers a seasonal meat-focused menu ideal for nose-to-tail eaters. 169 Niagara St., 416-703-4222.
Old York Bar and Grill This neighbourhood joint attracts locals with a roster of homegrown folk, reggae, bluegrass and rock musicians. 167 Niagara St., 416-703-9675.
Ydessa Hendeles Art Foundation The doyenne of Canada’s contemporary art world has periodic shows that spotlight her astonishing collection of photography, sculpture and found art. 778 King St. W., 416-413-9400.

Today in Toronto: February 9, 2010

• Hub 14: The postage stamp measurements of the Hub 14 space will ensure close encounters with the performers taking part in the new series Under a Paper Moon
• More things to do tonight
• Something to do this weekend

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