Named after Asa Danforth, Jr., an American contractor who designed Queen Street and Kingston Road, the area is known for its architecture dating back to as early as 1910, and for its number of Greek restaurants and stores.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Danforth saw an influx of European immigration (particularly from Italy and Greece), many of whom were fleeing political and economic unrest which culminated in the seizure of power by the Greek military junta of 1967–74.

English-language media began to excitedly cover the Greek restaurant and nightclub scene in the 1970s, highlighting bouzouki players and busy dance floors.

More recently, the area has experienced a wave of gentrification as higher-priced restaurants and bars have moved in, as well as a public square (at Logan Avenue by Alexander the Great Parkette).

[citation needed] The neighbourhood is home to local raconteur Tom Petkos, and is mentioned in the Barenaked Ladies song, The Old Apartment, and by critically acclaimed author Joseph Assenza in his novel, "The History of John."

Greek is the third most-commonly reported mother tongue and home language in the ward, behind English and Cantonese[2] On July 22, 2018, there was a mass shooting in Greektown that killed two and injured 13.