On warm summer nights, Little Italy (College Street), which runs through Little Italy, becomes a Roman holiday. Patios fill with people blowing kisses at each other, and settling in for the evening with pitchers of sangria, plates of antipasto and thick slices of authentic pizza. Eventually, they casually arise, and stroll along the crowded street towards Dolce Gelato for a late night frozen treat. The attitude is "la dolce vita," the good life.

The Little Italy/College Street strip is where University of Toronto students, artists, musicians and other locals meet Italian-owned restaurants, bakeries, wine bars and cafes. Throw into the mix trendy nightclubs, an increasing number of Asian restaurants and artsy shops that sell things like hand-made hats and alternative music. It's a perfect destination for a romantic dinner, a night out with friends or an agreeable amble.