By Adriana Zhang
Graffiti Alley in Queen West area, where street art is legal.
Toronto’s West Queen West is buzzing.
Vogue named it the second coolest neighborhood in the world.
The world-renowned fashion publication released an online article listing 15 of the hippest neighborhoods around the globe.
“Queen Street West is a verifiable artery of indie patisseries, homegrown labels, and hidden-from-view galleries – hallmarks of hipness, if ever they existed,” said Vogue’s Nick Remsen.
The report describes an area of the Queen West neighborhood known to locals as West Queen West, between Bathurst Street and Gladstone Avenue.
Local businesses are excited about the news.
Mabel’s Bakery displays a sign in front of their shop announcing: “Vogue has named West Queen West the 2nd coolest neighborhood in the WORLD. Let’s party.”
Mabel’s Bakery and Specialty Foods celebrating Vogue’s announcement.
Paige Boersma is the owner of Bicyclette, a boutique retailer in the area.
“West Queen West has a lot to offer between the restaurants, galleries, bars, retail shops, and parks. We’re a really diverse neighborhood, and it’s constantly changing,” she said.
Bicyclette, a local clothing boutique and lifestyle brand in the West Queen West area.
The online article lists a few of the famous locations in the neighborhood including the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art, the Drake Hotel and the nearby Graffiti Alley.
“There’s such a good cross of culture, art, shopping, and food,” said ReJeanne Bernard, a visual marketing manager, “You’ve got a little bit of everything, and there’s something for everyone.”
While many Torontonian locals seem unsurprised by the news, a few people are caught off guard.
West Queen West. Between Bathurst Street and Gladstone Avenue.
“It’s pretty shocking actually,” said Carlie Clough, who works in advertising. “Why did they choose Queen Street West?”
Clough said she typically comes to the area to walk her dog because of the diverse range of stores, restaurants, and people.
“I guess it makes sense the more I think about it,” said Clough.
“I think it’s really exciting,” said Bernard, “We always knew that Queen Street West was cool, and now the world knows too.”
Also known as the Art and Design District, West Queen West has gone through incredible transformation in recent years. Previously known for its stretch of art galleries, many of these galleries have now been replaced by new bars, contributing to its “hipness.”
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