Leslieville and Riverside are well on their way to becoming happening alternatives to their west end counterparts with tons of new restaurants, coffee shops and stores opening up. From bulk food to tacos, there are plenty of new spots to check out in the neighbourhood.

Here's a round-up of new stores and restaurants to check out in Leslieville and Riverside.

Raspberry Cafe/Yogaville
With the saturation of coffee options in the neighbourhood Raspberry Cafe has decided to diversify by offering yoga classes in their upstairs space. Famed Toronto yogi, Mahyar Raz and her son have opened up their new yoga studio and offer espresso drinks and baked goods for a lovely after class wind down.

Il Ponte
Capitalizing on the available space at the bottom of one of the many new condo developments beside the Don River, Il Ponte is serving up contemporary updates to classic Italian dishes. Added bonus: they have gluten free pasta on the menu.

Raise The Root
Not only do I love their punny name, I'm also a fan of the great organic fruits, veggies and eggs they offer. Sitting next to Meating on Queen it's the perfect grocery pairing for the neighbourhood. Not only does it offer up organic alternatives to regular grocery store shopping, it's also a quicker stop than a big box store.

District 28
This Logan St. event space and cafĂŠ is a great addition to the neighbourhood. A massive and versatile 23,000 sq. ft. space for your next party, fashion show or corporate event. Doubling as a cafĂŠ they offer sandwiches, pastries and in-house catering for their events.

Urban Bulk Emporium
This indie take on Bulk Barn is a great place for the health conscious cook. From locally-sourced honey to every type of quinoa you can imagine this place has all your specialty food needs. Urban bulk emporium also offers a great selection of natural soap products and some pre-packaged foods for those with strict dietary needs.

Queen's Head Pub
If you're looking for an English-style pub head here. With traditional pub fare, a lengthy beer list and daily specials, it might just be your new local. They also offer brunch on weekends.

Remarkable Bean
There are tons of great coffee options in the neighbourhood but this second coming from the Beaches stalwart is trying to make inroads with their small batch espresso, roasted up fresh by the owners every other day. Can't get a spot at Bonjour brioche for brunch? Head to Remarkable Bean for delicious quiches and baked goods.

The Cannonball
F'coffee has rebranded as The Cannonball. Now fully licensed and open a little later than it previously was it's a great spot to grab a coffee, a bite or a beer. Their grilled cheese is to die for and if weather permits, head out to their shady back patio. The added bonus of available beers keeps the option of a day drink open, which is a nice touch.

La Carnita
The popular west end taqueria has moved to the east, filling the space of Rasputin Vodka Bar. The narrow space has been warmed up with bright stools and wood accents in their signature Mexican street style. All the favourites from their College St. location are available, including their Margaritas on tap.

Home James
This retail outlet is like the best of reel of southern Ontario's antique markets and vintage shops. Carefully curated by owner James Lane, Home James is bringing Leslieville the best in both new and upcycled homewares. The owner also offers home staging which is a skill he obviously uses in the beautiful layout of his store.

What did I miss? Let us know about your favourite new Leslieville and Riverside business in the comments.