Where to shop, dine and explore

Although it caters to the stroller set, this east-end Toronto neighbourhood is also a design lover's dream. Associate editor Sara Cation explains why.

Black Rooster Decor

I have fantasies of living inside this decor store. Pretty, funky and loaded with hits of animal print and gold, the collection here is quirky and eclectic. Where else could you find antique furniture beside a brass hand giving the peace sign? 1025 Queen St. E., blackroosterdecor.com.

Sweet Bliss Baking Company

I dare you to walk by Sweet Bliss and not stop in. Forget the promise its name makes and its shabby-chic decor – it’s the enticing aromas that will draw you inside. The next thing you know, you’ll be breaking your diet with a delectable cupcake...or three. 1304 Queen St. E., sweetblissleslieville.com.

Machine Age Modern

Opened two decades ago, Machine Age Modern is a mecca of vintage 20th-century design, specializing in Mid-Century Modern and teak furniture – the likes of which you’ve surely seen on Mad Men. 1000 Queen St. E., machineagemodern.com.

Arts Market & Pied-a-Terre

Two stores, one building: one upstairs, the other down; one featuring quaint curios, the other concentrating on antiques and more. Both are amazing shops to get lost in. 1114 Queen St. E., artsmarket.ca, pied-a-terre.ca.

More Leslieville favourites

• Lady Marmalade: 898 Queen St. E., ladymarmalade.ca.
• Glas Wine Bar: 1118 Queen St. E., glaswinebar.com.
• Gio Rana's Really Really Nice Restaurant (A.K.A. The Nose): 1220 Queen St. E., 416-469-5225.