Toronto’s Chinatown a must see
It is marred with history, boasts some of the largest and most lucrative land in Toronto, and encompasses one of the largest ethnic populations in the city. We are talking about Toronto’s Chinatown.
Chinatown has been in Toronto since the late 1800’s! However, it has quite the controversial history that many people do not know about. Originally settled by Chinese men who were working on the development of the railroad, Chinatown grew from there. From the 1890’s until the 1961 the “Old Chinatown” was located where City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square can now be found. However, when the city voted to develop the area the people of Old Chinatown were essentially evicted from the area. It was an underhanded move by the city and resulted in organizations being formed to save Chinatown. The leader of the “Save Chinatown Committee”, Jean Lumb, lobbied to keep the area and lost. Settling on having the residents move and develop the current location. Jean Lumb’s efforts did not go unnoticed however as she received the Order of Canada in 1976.
The New Chinatown started development in the 1950’s in the area where it can currently be found. Dundas and Spadina is the hub of Chinatown now and boasts one of the largest Chinatowns in North America. Featuring long-term residents, authentic Chinese stores, and of course numerous authentic restaurants, Chinatown is a feature of Toronto for both locals and tourists alike. Toronto’s Chinatown has grown in fame as well. It has been used as a backdrop for such Chinese directors as Chow Yun-fat’s movie “The Corruptor”. It was also used regularly on the long running series Kung-Fu: The Legend Continues.
January 31st 2014 sees the Chinese New Year arrive. This year is the year of the horse. Chinese New Year is one of the biggest celebrations for the Chinese. Toronto’s Chinatown will see celebrations that day including a parade in the middle of the day. People are asked to wear red who attend as it is a sign of good luck. Once the parade is finished, there will be numerous tents and side tables along the street for people to shop at. These tables will also have different foods to enjoy.
For those visiting Chinatown and wanting someplace special to visit for a meal, be sure to check out Kwangtung Dim Sum. This restaurant is famous for their namesake of Dim Sum. With specialty dishes constantly rolling around the room, it’s an amazing dining experience. However, if you want something more traditional, be sure to check out Spadina Garden. This restaurant has been a part of Chinatown for over 25 years. They know their customers and what they like. They also boast one of the largest menu selections available for authentic Chinese food.
B&J Trading Co.:
B&J is Chinatown’s answer to a local dollar store, with an infinite array of household items and more. Search the labyrinthine aisles for birthday gifts, housewarming presents or even paper to wrap all these items before you head out.
Chinatown Centre:
One of two malls in Chinatown, Chinatown Centre has a little bit of everything. Get a taste of China in the food court or pick up some funky accessories, fashion pieces and trinkets in the collection of shops.
Cubeshops:
Looking for something to fill that nook in your small apartment? Cubeshops has a delightful selection of Japanese designed helpful knickknacks, like sleek kitchen utensils and stylish home decor.
Dragon City Mall:
If you’re looking for a place to calm down from the hustle and bustle of Spadina and Dundas, pop into Dragon City Mall for shelter and free wifi. All the usual suspects are here, like mainland-inspired fashion stores, electronics, herbal remedies, karaoke and more.
Great China Herb Depot:
No trip to Chinatown would be complete without a visit to an herbal store. The cure for whatever is ailing you can probably be found at the Great China Herb Depot, a neat and organized spot lined with jars of herbs, ointments and desiccated animals. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
Whether you’re looking for shopping, food, or just an Eastern culture experience, Toronto’s Chinatown has something for everyone. While they might be seeing an aging community, they are still welcoming tourists daily and enjoying the fact that they can share their culture with others.
Be sure to check back with Love This City as we continue to travel around Toronto visiting the different districts this wonderful city has to offer.
Michael Chantler
Follow Mike on Twitter @mchantler
mike@lovethiscity.ca
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