Windsor’s Via Italia is no stranger to charm, but lately, it’s transforming into something even more exciting—Windsor’s hottest new entertainment district. Everyone knows about the great restaurants on the street, but here are 7 other reasons why this historic neighbourhood is buzzing with fresh energy:
WindsorEats Food Hall
We’d be remiss if we didn’t include ourselves here. Home to the city’s largest patio and only food truck lot, the WindsorEats Food Hall is a dynamic space where you can sip on margarita flights, enjoy boozy brunches, and vibe to live music on the regular. We’re also constantly hosting new and fun festivals and events that keep people coming back for more.
Canada’s Best Live Music Venue is Moving To Via Italia
Did you know that Phog Lounge was named the best small live music venue in all of Canada? It’s true!
The iconic Phog Lounge is leaving their downtown home for the last 20 years and relocating to Erie Street, right across the alley from WindsorEats. Known for its indie music scene, this move will undoubtedly inject even more life into the area, giving people a reason to stay on the street after dinner.
Craft Beer Boom
Craft Heads Brewing Company is moving in right next door to Phog Lounge, joining the recently opened Rose City Beer Works in brewing up a storm on Erie Street. With Erie Street Gastro Pub and WindsorEats Food Hall offering a stellar selection of local and Ontario craft beers, this street is becoming a craft beer lover’s paradise.
Bocce Courts and Café Vibes
Directly across from Gennaro’s Café, brand new bocce courts are have opened up bringing a slice of Italy to Windsor. Folks are regularly lined up for their turn on the courts.
Playing a classic game while sipping on your favourite espresso and gelato—does it get more authentic than that?
Electric Avenue Art Alley
Thanks to the Free For All Walls mural festival hosted by DENIAL in 2023, this vibrant alleyway is a canvas for murals by over a dozen artists from across North America. It’s quickly becoming a must-see spot, adding a splash of colour and creativity to Via Italia.
It’s a great spot to go on the cheap (it’s murals on buildings, so it’s free!) while taking a little passegiato through the neighbourhood. Check it out on the map here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9JaMSnMnvgJFypVFA
LGBTQ+ Central
Soon to be the largest LGBTQ+ venue in the region, The Well is setting up shop across from Nooch Vegan Eatery with a three level venue, including a rooftop patio . This much-anticipated opening is sure to make Erie Street even more diverse and inclusive, providing another entertainment anchor on the other side of the district from Phog Lounge.
Festivals Galore
Via Italia is a hub for cultural celebrations, including the Italian and Mexican Villages of the Carrousel of the Nations, the thrilling Tour di Via Italia bike races, and the colourful Via Italia Butterfly Festival. These events showcase the rich heritage and lively spirit that make this neighbourhood so special, making the dates a must to circle on your calendar.
With all these developments, Via Italia isn’t just preserving its cultural roots; it’s redefining itself as the go-to destination for entertainment in Windsor.
