Seen as Toronto's culinary destination, Little Italy offers a dynamic mix of historic charm, trendy eateries and a strong sense of community.

A large number of Italians first arrived in Toronto during the early 20th century and settled along College Street, near University Avenue. Approximately 40,000 Italians came to Canada during the interwar period of 1914 to 1918, predominantly from Southern Italy where an economic depression and overpopulation had left many families in poverty. In the 1920's, most Italians had moved west of Bathurst Street and this pocket became recognized as the residential and commercial centre for Toronto’s Italian community. In 1985, the local business association on College Street officially adopted the Little Italy name in recognition of the role this neighbourhood had played as the starting point for Italians in Toronto.

The 1950's saw a significant influx of Italian-owned businesses establish along College Street – bakeries, fruit markets, meat markets, salons, tailor shops and barber shops. The Little Italy shopping district on College Street, between Shaw Street and Euclid Avenue, now features authentic Italian restaurants, cafes and European fashions.

The majority of Little Italy’s residences were built between 1880 and 1910, consisting of detached and semi-detached houses displaying remarkable Victorian and Edwardian styles of architecture. These houses are set on alluring, tree-lined streets and feature sizeable front porches which enhance the more narrow lots. Parking is typically located at the back of the property, connected by a series of rear laneways.