WHY I LIKE IT
Better known as “TO”, at first glance Toronto is just a cleaner version of NYC. Yes, I am oversimplifying a bit, but it is a first impression and my second and third… The flight over from NYC is over within a blink of an eye (58 minutes wheels up to wheels down), it is hard to believe you need a passport! It doesn’t have the European charm of Montreal (the only port) or Quebec City but it is a stout, pragmatic city, a hub for Universities and financial institutions. And yet, it feels like a residential neighborhood within a city. It is decidedly less modern architecturally than most big cities and I gather the residents wouldn’t have it any other way. That is one aspect that sets it apart. Though it was settled by the French, it has a decidedly British feel to the city. It could be because of the late 18th-century turf war.
So let’s talk places to stay, see and dine…That is, after all, what really matters.
WHERE TO STAY
PARK HYATT: When I am in TO, I prefer the Park Hyatt on Avenue road. They underwent a major renovation of the entire hotel in 2020 and finally re-opened. The Park is centrally located, in the shopping district of Yorkville, close to museums, retail, cute cafes, and restaurants.
Four Seasons: Is there anything bad to ever say about Four Seasons? Impeccable service, decadently modern rooms, and a lively bar. Always a win-win.
Hazelton: In the same area as the Park Hyatt and the Four Seasons. The rooms are generous in size, and the bathrooms are killer but the restaurant falls below expectations. If you are looking for something decidedly not so “5th Avenue”, I would recommend the PH or the FS. They are a bit less pretentious.
Fairmount Royal York: This hotel has amazing architecture and history but is also a hotel within a hotel. the Fairmount Gold experience is the only way to stay there. Le Labo toiletries, a fantastic shower, and a richly textured room, make it a must-stay. Limited to a certain number of floors, you have modern, updated rooms and a full Concierge lounge open 24/7. A great place to work, relax, snack and sip.
WHERE TO DINE
Bar Mercurio: Owned by an old Italian lady who believes in high-quality ingredients. A homey environment. The house-cured Prosciutto and Burrata cheese are fantastic. They have thin crust pizza made with spelt, for those that are super health conscious, and an interesting wine list too.
Cafe Boulud: Located in the Four Seasons. they make the best burger in North America. It’s perfectly cooked and properly rested with a dark pink hue in the middle and juice dripping into the bread. Ask for an egg on top.
Over Easy – A casual breakfast spot in Yorkville. Great eggs, but it’s hard to mess up eggs, right? I’m told they have multiple locations. Note: its open only for breakfast.
Sassafraz. – Upscale restaurant without the pretention. If you are staying at the FS or PH, it’s an easy walk, and great for drinks and tapas. Love the modern and light decor.
WHERE TO DRINK
D Bar: Daniel Boulud’s bar at the Four Seasons has a great wine list and a killer cocktail. Be sure to try the “Yorkville Affair.” I have it on good authority that roses are delivered fresh every day just to make the ice cube that goes in that drink.
Real Sports Bar. Prefer a sportier environment? This is the Disney World of sports bars in that it’s huge with enough screens to make Times Square jealous. You can’t miss it. You can find the bronzed statues of the TO Maple Leafs right outside.
HEMINGWAY’S -An after-work bar with a pub feel.
WHAT TO DO
TORONTO BOTANICAL GARDEN: A must-do at any time of year. A wide variety of plants, landscapes, and structures to enjoy. It is about 25 minutes from downtown but well worth the trip.
HOCKEY GAME, EH?: Head over to the Scotiabank Arena in the heart of Downtown TO to watch Canada’s national sport.
SHOE MUSEUM: Spend the day learning the history of…shoes. Exhibits that date to early civilization. A must-visit for any fashion lover. Roger Vivier would be proud.
ICE WINE TOURS: I am so upset I haven’t been able to do this yet. I love wine but am never in TO long enough. There are many different tour packages in Niagra, which is about 45 minutes away. I am a fan of Viator, when choosing day tours. Do check it out.
BEACHES: I never got the chance to take the Ferry over to the beaches but I have no doubt they are worth the trip. I heard there are nude beaches there too.
SHOPPING: Yorkville is the 5th Avenue of shopping. A paradise for those that love their labels.
WALKABILITY
Below average. It is a big city that is very clean. Toronto does boast a neighborhood feel but those neighborhoods are quite spread out. Public transit, Uber/Lyft, or renting a car is your best bet for efficient exploration.