Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood has been named as part of Time Out’s annual survey reveals of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world.

Toronto’s Annex and Montreal’s downtown district clinched spots 38 and 36 on the top 40 list, while Medellín’s Laureles neighbourhood took the crown as the world’s trendiest.

More than 12,000 respondents and local experts assessed these neighbourhoods based on factors like community initiatives, green spaces, and vibrant street life.

The Time Out write mentioned the Annex both because of it’s long-running reputation as well as some serious changes underway that will inject new life into the neighbourhood.

“The Annex has changed. After the closure of the iconic Honest Ed’s department store changed the area’s landscape, the neighbourhood is now finally emerging from years of construction with a fresh new look,” the article reads. “The developing Mirvish Village hub brings new retail spaces, more housing, plus a music venue and park to Queen Street West’s uptown younger sibling.”

Local favourites highlighted in the coolest neighbourhood article include Hot Docs Cinema and restaurants such as Mimi Chinese. Nearby attractions include Lee’s Palace, the Royal Ontario Museum, and smaller galleries like the Bata Shoe Museum. To end the day, the article suggests a cozy evening at Snake & Lattes for board games.

Other recent favourites highlighted by Time Out in year’s past include Ossington, which was crowned one of the coolest streets on the planet back in 2022.