I was further impressed to learn that Toronto boasts TWO Italian neighbourhoods, each with charming trattorias, outdoor cafes and boutiques. 

The Italian pride is so great in Toronto, that when Italy won the World Soccer Cup in 1982, over 200,000 celebrated the victory by blowing horns, waving flags and shouting "Viva Italia" in a general pandemonium that took over the heart of "Little Italy".

I have been told that there are whole towns near Toronto that are 80-90% Italian, and Italian is mandatory in schools along with English. 
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TORONTO'S ITALIAN NEIGHBOURHOODS

Little Italy

(College Street, between Bathurst Street and Ossington Avenue) 

When large numbers of Italian immigrants came to Toronto after the Second World War, they began to settle around an Italian grocery store on the corner of College and Clinton Streets. Before long, they were buying the properties owned by Jewish merchants in the area, creating a cultural community by setting up shops that catered to Italians. Little Italy was born. 

The majority of these residents moved north during the 1960s, and the area has culturally diversified, with the Portuguese predominating. However, Italian restaurants and cafes still remain, as does another interesting aspect of that community -- the "social club." These coffee shops and billiard halls are filled with conversation, cigarette smoke and mostly older men discussing issues of the day, including the latest soccer scores. 

When the sun begins to set, street signs in the shape of Italy's "boot" are illuminated. The air is filled with the aroma of oregano, garlic, and basil as the area's many restaurants begin to fill up. Little Italy at night has become one of the hottest spots for Toronto nightlife, dominated by a late-20s crowd. The street life is lively, especially in the summer, thanks to the many outdoor terraces. 

Corso Italia

(St. Clair West between Bathurst Street and Old Weston Road) 

As many of Toronto's Italian families became established, they moved north of Little Italy to St. Clair Avenue, which became known as "Corso Italia." Here the streets are lined with Italian lamp posts and potted plants, which give a European flavour to the new heart of Toronto's Italian community. When Italy won the World Soccer Cup in 1982, over 200,000 celebrated the victory by blowing horns, waving flags and shouting "Viva Italia" in a general pandemonium that took over the street. Many of Corso Italia's restaurants and shops still display photos of the celebration. 

Corso Italia is also an interesting shopping districts, with terrific European shopping possibilities. In the neighbourhood's seven blocks, there are over 20 shoe stores as well as Toronto's highest concentration of bridal shops, men's clothing stores, children's boutiques and textile stores. 

After a long day, shoppers retreat to restaurants and cafes (many of which are family-owned) along St. Clair Avenue. The savory flavours and fresh fragrance that helped build Little Italy have been carried into this neighbourhood, which features some of Toronto's best Italian restaurants. 

Interesting facts and trivia: 

In 1966, CHIN Radio, which is based in Little Italy, became the first privately funded multicultural radio station in Canada. Today, the station broadcasts in 30 different languages, and runs a multi-lingual television station. 

Earlscourt Recreation Centre in Corso Italia boasts an indoor soccer field and probably the only indoor bocce courts in Canada. 

Little Italy's Cafe Diplomatico has become a Toronto institution for coffee lovers. Affectionately referred to as "The Dip" by locals, this cafe has also been used as a set by filmmakers. (594 College Street) 

One block south of Cafe Diplomatico is the corner of Clinton and Gore Streets. The signs marking the intersection make for a unique picture for anyone who follows American politics. 

Courtesy of the Toronto and Convention & Visitors Association