Greektown is a vibrant neighbourhood on The Danforth, buzzing with food, music, shops and culture. However, the first Greek immigrants actually settled near the Yonge-Church (between Dundas and Carlton) area. So why the move to The Danforth?
Wait, What? It Hasn’t Always Been on The Danforth?
Looking for economic and political stability during and after World War I, Greek Canadians settled near Yonge and Church. Their arrival was tense, due to assumptions they did not support the allied war effort.
However, they switched from their neutral position and joined the allies in 1917. But resentments survived, with returning veterans’ fuelled by lack of work amongst Greek Canadians running a good portion of restaurants and hospitality businesses.
And So Began Toronto’s Largest Riot in History
On August 1st, 1918, a drunken, disabled war veteran, Claude Cludernay, was kicked out of a Greek-owned Café after striking a waiter. Although a minor incident, rumours spread that Cludernay had been badly beaten by the Greeks.
This erupted into Toronto’s historical, anti-Greek riot that lasted for 3 days, forcing the Greek Canadians to resettle in a new area.
The Danforth
They found The Danforth neighbourhood, between Chester and Dewhurst and with the beginnings of a Greek Community, it paved the way for future Greek Canadians, particularly after World War II. It has since evolved into a culturally unique area that attracts over 1 million visitors a year.
Highest Concentration of Restaurants per km in the World
Along with a plethora of restaurants in a small walking space, Greektown is an engaging area with much to see and celebrate, whether you’re a local or a tourist:
- Colourful murals
- Alexander the Great Parkette
- Bilingual Street Signage
- Greek Grocery Stores
- Greek Restaurants and Patios
- The Taste of Danforth Street Festival
- Danforth Music Hall
- Food Stands
- Protected Bike Lanes
The Changing Neighbourhood
Even though Greektown still remains very Greek, it has evolved into a cosmopolitan hub, blending Greek traditions with influences from other cultures.