kfc leslieville

A Toronto neighbourhood is getting a KFC and residents aren't happy

On this episode of Not In My Backyard, a KFC is slated to open in Leslieville and residents are not having any of their eleven herbs and spices.

Initially it was unclear what was moving into the space at 1364 Queen St. East where a convenience store used to operate.
lesvlieville,kfcBut a permit issued in July was eventually discovered by locals. It promised a restaurant space and confirmed KFC as the tenant.

The main issue that's got people fired up is concern over the longstanding Chick-N-Joy that has been in the neighbourhood since 1977.

chick n joy,leslieville

More broadly, some also fear that the incoming KFC signals a coming wave of corporate-style gentrification in Leslieville.

kfc,leslieville

Other Toronto neighbourhoods have held similar grievances towards big businesses coming into their area.

A few years ago, Junction residents were upset over a Starbucks moving in across the street from independent coffee shop Crema, while gentrification in Parkdale seems to always be a urgent subject of conversation (to name only two neighbourhoods).

kfc,leslievilleBeyond any corporate concerns, area residents also had more sensory concerns about the incoming food chain. But, hey, at least KFC's fries aren't as bad as they used to be.

Lead photo by

Mike Mozart


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Eat & Drink

Woman's dream of running her own business derailed by Toronto officials

Shop known for its ice cream sandwiches is closing Toronto location

Toronto bar that's been around for 35 years is permanently closing

Toronto restaurant has permanently closed due to financial pressures

Toronto restaurant posts Travis Kelce photo ahead of Taylor Swift concert

Toronto bar forced to make changes after someone complained to City officials

Another Canadian coffee chain to stop charging for oat milk and other non-dairy drinks

Viral cucumber TikToker visits Toronto and gives food review of a local spot