As the self-proclaimed “largest Greektown in North America,” it is not surprising that in the 1970s and 80s, this Toronto neighbourhood had one of the highest concentrations of Hellenic immigrants living outside of Greece. The area was named “the Danforth” after American contractor Asa Danforth, but in 1993, the local BIA lobbied City Hall to officially change the area’s name to “Greektown on the Danforth” to reflect the area’s status as one of the major settlement areas for Greek immigrants in Toronto.
Famous for its restaurants, particularly its authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, this neighbourhood also has one of the highest concentrations of restaurants per kilometer in the world. Of the 74 restaurants, bars, and cafes and additional 20 food retail locations in Greektown on the Danforth, approximately 23 restaurants serve Greek fare, and six of the food retail locations are Greek. The majority of the restaurants feature a mix of other food styles, showcasing the area’s variety and array of influences.
This is possibly best displayed during Taste of the Danforth, the area’s annual August festival, when retail and food vendors of all descriptions offer samples and dining deals to over 1.2 million visitors. Reportedly Torontonians’ favourite GTA festival event, “The Taste” offers plenty of food, but also acts as a venue to share Greek music, song and dance on the Greek Stage, involve the kids in the festivities at the Kids’ Fun Zone, as well as showcase several well-known and up-and-coming performers of all backgrounds, ages, and genres. As part of the “pre-show” activities, “The Taste” sponsors fundraising events (including the “Danforth Dash”) to contribute to the Toronto East General Hospital. An interactive sports zone, beer/wine/spirits gardens, and multiple contests round out the weekend’s activities.
While this area is obviously best known for its Greek roots, this neighbourhood has also become a popular community for young families. According to the 2006 City of Toronto Social Profile, Greektown on the Danforth is home to a higher percentage of children between the ages of 0-4 years as compared to the
rest of Toronto. The majority of couples in this neighbourhood are married, and most have two or more children at home. 65% of private dwellings in this neighbourhood are owned, while only 35% are rented.
Local schools are plentiful and popular among parents for their high-ranking test scores; Jackman Avenue Junior Public School, Earl Grey Senior Public School, Eastern Commerce Collegiate Institute and Danforth Collegiate and Technical Institute are all found in this neighbourhood.