Here’s a look at Toronto’s exciting new village where Honest Ed’s used to be

Honest Ed’s may be a relic of Toronto’s past, but big developments are underway to transform its former home at Bathurst and Bloor into Mirvish Village, an equally exciting destination for locals and visitors alike.

According to development company Westbank Corp, Mirvish Village is set to be completed this year.

Construction began way back in 2018 and according to a video shared by Westbank last month, the structures appear to be almost finished.

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 Described as a “complete, pedestrian oriented, 100% rental community,” Mivrish Village will have over 900 pet-friendly rental homes, 100 of which will be affordable rentals.

The rentals will be surrounded by a bustling community featuring a new park, a sprawling public market with shops, restaurants, live music venues, and much more.

The 25,000-square-foot market will have all kinds of pop-up and permanent food vendors, indoor and outdoor events, film screenings, and street festivals.

A block of  18 restored heritage houses will be converted into “unique restaurants, cafes, bookstores, record stores and other retailers that reflect the distinct character of the neighbourhood,” says the description.

“We are returning Markham Street to the vibrancy of its heyday in the 1960s, when rows of twentieth century residences housing galleries and studios lined the street, and artists sold their pieces on their front lawns.”

A lineup of stores along Lennox Street will be complemented by public art installations, and the former Honest Ed’s alley will be occupied by 25 micro-retail shops, featuring neon signage and lighting inspired by the alleyways of Tokyo.

The closure of Honest Ed’s has left a gaping hole in our hearts and it’s safe to say that Mirvish Village has some big shoes to fill.

But, based on what we know so far, we’re feeling pretty excited about what’s in store.