Neighbourhood Profile: Mimico

Ever been to Mimico? It’s one of Toronto’s most popular neighbourhoods for a reason – several, in fact! Whether you’re as obsessed as we are with their iconic local baked goods, the beautiful waterfront retreats that evoke a slice of paradise away from the downtown bustle, or otherwise, it’s a great area to call home. 

Together, let’s explore Mimico’s many delights in more detail!

Location

Mimico is a lakeside haven tucked away in a pocket of land southwest of Old Toronto, and it’s one of the oldest municipalities in the area. Made a part of Etobicoke in 1967, it was independent from 1911 until then, so there’s a lot of history to savour. With prestigious lakeside manor homes, classic bungalows, and ever-increasing high-rise condominiums there’s something for everyone. 

The neighbourhood of Mimico is bordered to the east by the Humber River, to the north by the Gardiner Expressway, and to the south by the brilliant blue waters of Humber Bay and Lake Ontario. In the northwest corner, it stops at the north-south CPR railway line and in the southwest corner, Dwight Avenue acts as the border between New Toronto. The western half of Mimico is largely commercial and industrial. The centre portion is mostly residential with two lively commercial strips for shopping, dining, various services, and more in the form of Royal York Road and Lake Shore Boulevard West.

Housing and Education

As noted, Mimico is renowned for its traditional heritage architecture, with a healthy mix of lavish, sprawling properties and humbler, cozier homes to suit a variety of desired price ranges. There are also several low-rise apartment complexes and newer home builds in the area. For schools, you can take your pick from facilities operated by the Toronto District School Board and the Toronto Catholic District School Board. These include George R. Gault Junior School (formerly Mimico High School), David Hornell Junior School, and St. Leo’s Catholic Elementary School, just to name a few. 

Transportation

Getting around by vehicle is easy thanks to major arteries such as the aforementioned Gardiner Expressway and Lake Shore Blvd West. However, catching the GO Train at the Mimico GO station is a very popular and streamlined way of commuting to work downtown or to travel west of Toronto. Other alternatives include the local TTC busing system along Royal York Road and Evans Avenue as well as connections to local subway stops. And of course, there is the famous 501 Queen streetcar that runs through Lake Shore Blvd West 24/7. This streetcar can take you from Long Branch Loop at the western border of Etobicoke all the way across the city to the end of Queen Street East. Collectively, the sheer number of options make Mimico a popular choice for inner city tourism, homeowners seeking a hassle-free commute into the downtown core, and families looking for plenty of greenery and amenities. 

Lifestyle

Mimico is both laid back and very much alive thanks to the merge of residential and commercial in the area. Humber Bay Park East & West, the Mimico Cruising Club, the Etobicoke Yacht Club, the Humber River, and other local greenspaces and boating options round out the ways locals can soak up the sun, have some fun, and enjoy the great outdoors. There’s also the Mimico Tennis Club readily available for court action as well as the Mimico Lacrosse championships. However you prefer to play and stay active, there are plenty of recreational options nearby for your consideration, not to mention several excellent cycling and walking trails.

When it comes to special standout features of the local lifestyle, the Royal York Meat Market and many local bakeries are must-tries. Rich in diversity and flavour, they offer a wide range of options and form a collective foodie staple of the community. The SanRemo Bakery is a particular highlight, but don’t forget to sample the many local restaurants including LaVinia Restaurant, Nimman Thai Cuisine, and Kothur Indian Cuisine.

For the arts, there are wonderful March Break programs for the little ones to enjoy at Oak Learners, providing enrichment through specialized creative activities. Meanwhile, Lakeshore Arts operates a plentiful list of community programming for all ages. Alternatively, if you’re into shopping and browsing, don’t miss the Humber Bay Shores Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday between May and October. There’s also the popular local Santa Claus Parade, consisting of a colourful and fun assortment of floats, costumed entertainers and more as it follows Lake Shore Boulevard.

All in all, Mimico is a great place in which to settle down and unfurl a new chapter – and we’re not just talking about a good book along the lakeside with a coffee from Birds and Beans Café! Vibrant with a long and rich history, it’s a community that has grown and developed into something truly special as the years have gone on. 

If you’re looking for a place to rent in Mimico, check out our current vacancies to see if we have what you’re looking for. If you’ve purchased a new home or investment property, our Mortgage Agent can assist you with your financing needs and ensure you get the rate you deserve. 

Being located just outside Mimico’s border, Medallion Capital Group is very familiar with the area. Our property management team also currently manages both rental properties and condominium corporations in Mimico. If you already live in the neighbourhood and need local, professional, and experienced management services, contact us today to learn how we can help.