This is a guest post by my sister, Natalie. She’s the photographer of our family and the most well-travelled person I know. She’s currently exploring Southeast Asia, so I asked her to write a bit about what she’s been up to.
Southeast Asia travel is so popular right now and many travellers start their adventures in Bangkok, Thailand. This is a quick rundown of a few things you can see in Bangkok before heading to either the northern part of the country or the infamous party island in the south. By no means is this a typical guide (or an exhaustive list of attractions, you can read about those on any other travel website). Our ideal way to see a city is to walk around the main areas to get a feel for the culture and way of life. We don’t typically visit the popular tourist attractions (after awhile they seem repetitive from city to city).
We first landed at BKK and were instantly impressed by the easy access to the city using the BTS train system.
The Weekend Market
Luckily we landed on Friday and the next morning we ventured to the weekend market bright and early before the crowds. As you’ll read in any guide, this city is a shoppers’ mecca, full of cool clothing, home decor, coffee shops, delicious thai snacks like coconut ice cream and frozen bananas. There are a couple larger restaurants within the market – avoid these. We ended up in one and the food was average and overpriced. It’s best to stick to the smaller spots where the locals are eating. Another tip is to impulse shop – if you like something, buy it because if you wait, you probably won’t find that stall again. I like to think I am a good navigator, but could not wrap my head around the market. Just finding the exit was a challenge, but I’m going to blame that on my jet lag.
The Grand Palace and old city
We didn’t visit this area until our second time in the city, but I would definitely recommend it. This is where you can soak up the culture and history of the city. We went picture crazy taking shots of the temples within the palace. Make sure to pack light packs that cover your ankles (no leggings) or you’ll end up dying of heat in jeans (like I did). While you are in the area, check out the Flower Market and if you are curious to see the notorious Khao San Road full of backpackers.
Siam
This was our favourite place to stay in the city, mostly because it had that big city feel. It’s where I would want to stay if I ever decided to live in Bangkok. It’s also walking distance to massive and beautiful parks that were very clean and a great escape from the heavily populated city. There was lots of shopping available here, but we particularly enjoyed Siam Center because we hadn’t seen any of the stores before and they all looked hip and good quality. There’s also lots of great street food options where many locals eat. Bangkok Arts and Culture Center is also worth a visit – it’s free and consists of seven floors of local arts and crafts. It’s an amazing place to pick up unique souvenirs.
Let Natalie know what you think of her travel guide! If you like them, hopefully I will coax her into doing more!
As you may know, I recently relocated to Christchurch, New Zealand and have been exploring the various neighbourhoods that comprise the garden city. In many ways, Christchurch is almost unrecognizable from its prior self. With whole blocks completely wiped out by the earthquakes, the city is disorientating even for those who’ve spent their whole lives here. While there’s lots to miss about the old Christchurch, the ongoing revitalization continues to challenge the city’s former ecosystem. The contrasts between old and new, pre and post-earthquake are what compelled Nick and I to move back. And we feel unusually privileged to be here; to witness and influence this city in transition.
New jobs are constantly being created as projects unfold, bringing diverse talent into what was previously one of New Zealand’s more homogenous populations.
One of my first priorities upon arriving in Christchurch was to purchase a bicycle. With new cycleways being added on the regular, I thought what better way to get around and experience the city! Fortunately, I discovered Velo-Ideale, a small workshop selling beautifully simple bicycles. I like the owner’s emphasis on a relaxed and comfortable style of riding.
Nick has taken me on several tours of downtown Christchurch. I found the 185 empty white chairs piece, which is a memorial dedicated to the 185 people who lost their lives on February 22nd, 2011, incredibly powerful. Moments like these act as reminders of what was lost, but you’ll also notice just how alive Christchurch is at present and why it’s such a valuable place to visit.
The beautiful Anglican cathedral was severely damaged by the February 22nd, 2011 earthquake and now the congregation worships at the cardboard cathedral, a transitional space. The cardboard cathedral is host to many local events, just last week we attended a Korean festival.
I’ve been seeing these trams everywhere and they remind me of Toronto’s streetcars. I initially referred to them as streetcars and instantly gave myself away as a non-local. I obviously want to have a ride, but apparently they’re quite expensive. I’m assuming they’re used for tourism purposes only rather than a viable way of getting around (like in Toronto).
New Regent Street is my favourite street in Christchurch, those pastel facades are just too pretty.
Of course, I’ve also been indulging in the delicious café scene. Christchurch has so much fresh produce and the coffee culture is unbeatable. Foodie culture has multiplied in recent months, with more restaurants, cafés and bars than imaginable. My favourites so far are Hello Sunday, The Caffeine Laboratory and Supreme Supreme. I’m also a huge fan of Made Espresso Bar‘s interior and the coffee at C1 Espresso, which has done amazing things for the central city.
I was craving a Montreal-style bagel and The Stolen Bagel didn’t disappoint!
Lyttelton is a vibrant port town on the north shore of the Lyttelton Harbour. It is all too easy to spend an afternoon exploring the old storefronts and watching the ships.
New Brighton is a beautiful coastal suburb, east of central Chirstchurch.
The Christchurch Farmer’s Market is a sight to behold. Held every Saturday morning, vendors sell fresh produce, delicious baked goods, and locals and visitors gather by the river to relax and enjoy their breakfast.
I’m sure I’ve mentioned this before, but Christchurch is Nick’s hometown. Last week we visited his family home, which was significantly damaged by the series of earthquakes. To say that I admire his resilience and foresight is an understatement. He loved growing up in Christchurch and has always spoken of it fondly. Thankfully his knowledge and expertise working as an transportation planner in Toronto will be a huge asset to the Christchurch City Council.
I attended Cup and Show Week thanks to some lovely friends, Andrew, Beth and Mariah! I’ll take any excuse to dress up and wear a fascinator!
Don’t shoot me for saying this, but Vancouver and I didn’t hit it off right away. The perpetual grey skies were somewhat of a deterrent despite having visited Vancouver on unexpectedly sunny days. Regardless of our previous differences, I fell in love with Vancouver on my most recent visit.
I was fortunate to stay with my friend, Todd, who had recently moved to the area. He was the perfect host and tour guide, and I saw Vancouver through a new set of eyes. The city overwhelmed me in the best way possible. We also caught up with Brooklyn and Brianna, two Yorkton gals who were both in my sister’s class, and it was such a pleasure catching up with these prairie kids.
Whenever I travel, I like to dabble in various activities. I usually start my day off with a strong coffee (always espresso) and delicious breakfast before I take in something cultural or artistic. What I loved most about Vancouver was that my afternoons and evenings usually involved cycling (Stanley Park seawall!) or hiking (Grouse Mountain Grind!) As a somewhat sporty person (and yes, I wear Lululemon when I exercise) I loved how active I was during my three days in Vancouver.
Planning a trip to Vancouver? The following is a list of my recommendations:
Coffee/ Revolver Coffee: This cozy café is the perfect place to meet a friend or settle in with a book. The cortado was one of the best I’ve tasted. Timbertrain Coffee Roasters: Another excellent option for espresso lovers.
Matchstick Coffee Roasters: A specialty roastery that focuses on single-origin coffees. Their Chinatown location is absolutely stunning. 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters: If you’re looking for a top notch locally-roasted bean, you’ve come to the right place. Oh, and they also serve Lucky Doughnuts, so it’s a win-win! Prado Café: One of the liveliest cafés in Vancouver, it’s all about atmosphere at Prado. Lukes General Store: More of an old school general store, Lukes sells everything from Mast Brothers Chocolate to kitchen and homeware. The highly curated grocery and apothecary carry hard-to-find brands. Don’t get me wrong though, the coffee here was the best I had in Vancouver.
Breakfast/ Medina Café: I had read about Medina from a few trusted sources, so it topped my list of brunch spots to try. You won’t be disappointed with anything on the menu, but I recommend the lavender latte and the rosewater pistachio waffles! Chambar: Another great option for weekly breakfast or weekend brunch. Nelson the Seagull: If you’re after a simple breakfast, this place reigns. The interior is beautiful and the coffee and avocado toast are impeccable.
Baked Goods & Sweets/ Small Victory: An airy bakery with a delectable selection of sweets. Beaucoup Bakery: Croissants from your dreams! Cartems Donuterie: High-quality cake donuts in refreshing flavours. Think earl grey and Canadian whisky bacon. Earnest Ice Cream: I had a scoop of London fog and my life will never be the same!
Lunch/ Birds and the Beets: Healthy, wholesome sandwiches and salads in a stunning café/flower shop. This is the ideal spot to spend a few hours with a coffee and a book. Tacofino: The freshest fish tacos in the cutest surroundings.
Dinner/ L’Abattoir: If you’re looking for Pacific-Northwest fare, you’ve come to the right space. This intimate setting serves up some of the inventive dishes and delicious seasonal cocktails. Six Acres: Housed in Vancouver’s oldest brick building, Six Acres is a cozy pub that serves rustic comfort food (think macaroni and cheese!) and a large selection of beer and cocktails. Wildebeest: You’ll start to notice a Gastown trend as it’s my favourite Vancouver neighbourhood. Wildebeest is a carnivore’s dream, with adventurous meat-centric dishes made with local ingredients.
Shop/ Old Faithful Shop: If you’re on the hunt for carefully curated goodies and gifts, Old Faithful’s got your back. The beautiful general store sells everything from bourbon maple syrup to shower curtains. It’s the perfect place to stock up on good quality essentials for your home. One of a Few: This gorgeous boutique stocks locally made threads and an extensive jewelry range. My personal favourite are the Kara Yoo necklaces that are so reasonably priced. The Block: With covetable brands like A.P.C., Filippa K., and Nudie, The Block is a great spot to stock up on womenswear, menswear, and accessories.
Activities/
Stanley Park: Save time to explore this beautiful park that is almost entirely surrounded by water. Autumn was the ideal time to cycle around the Seawall, taking in scenic views from every angle. The changing colours were breathtaking! Grouse Mountain Grind: Commonly referred to as nature’s stairmaster, the Grind is a relatively steep 3km hike up to Vancouver’s highest peak. On average, it takes an hour and a half to complete, but give yourself two hours if you want to stop a lot to take in the views.
Culture/ Vancouver Art Gallery: Located along Robson Street in the old courthouse, the Vancouver Art Gallery features a diverse mix of contemporary and historic exhibitions highlighting artists from around the world, Canada and British Columbia, such as Emily Carr. Vancouver’s Public Library: A beautiful building inspired by the Flavian Amphitheatre in Rome, the library has six floors chock-full of books.
LAX isn’t anyone’s favourite airport. While it’s currently undergoing improvements, I still aim to get out and see different parts of Los Angeles whenever I have a layover.
On two recent flights, I had six hours to kill in Los Angeles. I decided to explore Venice Beach and Santa Monica for a couple hours before returning to LAX to catch my red-eye. Needless to say, I’m definitely considering a non-layover trip to Los Angeles in the near future. Here’s my advice for those finding themselves at LAX with a few hours to spare.
Grab an Uber.Uber has completely taken off in Los Angeles and for good reason. Catching an Uber from LAX to Santa Monica will set you back approximately $20-25 USD, less than half the fare of a taxi.
My first stop was Alfred Coffee for a cappuccino and a strawberry croissant (both delicious!) I had heard a lot about Alfred and was instantly drawn to their branding and design aesthetic. It was the perfect way to kickstart the next few hours.
After coffee, I ventured to the Santa Monica Pier, so I could walk along the sand, watch the sunset, and gawk at all the palm trees. There’s nothing more rewarding than getting some fresh air and exercise to break up a long travel day. I loved visiting the pier and taking in all the neon sights of the rides and the exciting energy on the docks.
Venice Beach is another fun neighbourhood to visit, especially if you don’t want to steer too far from the airport. I recommend checking out Moon Juice for refreshing cleanses, cold-pressed juices, and other concoctions or Café Gratitudeif you’re craving a wholesome, vegetarian meal.
If you’re getting anxious about making it back to the airport for your flight, I suggest hitting up Terminal 5 for lunch or dinner at Lemonade. A Los Angeles institution, Lemonade serves fresh, healthy salads and sandwiches made with seasonal ingredients. They’re also known for their delicious lemonades such as watermelon rosemary and blueberry mint, always a great pre-flight option.
Another enticing option, close to the airport, is In-N-Out Burger. Make sure to have your fries ‘animal-style’.
Kelowna is one of Canada’s most desirable destinations. Often referred to as Canada’s Napa Valley, it’s known for the numerous vineyards that produce some of our best wine. One of my best friends, Amanda has been living in Kelowna since beginning her career. Despite living on opposite coasts for the past three years, we’ve made every effort to spend time together. I wanted to make one more visit to see her (and her stunning city) on my way to New Zealand. Coincidentally, our friend Elyse had already planned a visit, so my cousin Lucia and I thought we’d crash the party last minute!
Geographically blessed with picturesque mountains and glistening Lake Okanagan, Kelowna is a popular tourist destination and offers an endless array of activities for all types of travellers. Whether you want to spend your time hiking, sipping wine, or indulging in some of Canada’s best cuisine, Kelowna undoubtedly delivers. Here are a few of our favourite local spots:
Canyon Falls:This 60-minute hike is ideal for those who want to see Kelowna’s natural beauty, but don’t want to miss out on wine tastings in the afternoon. Canyon Falls features gorgeous waterfalls and rugged terrain, so make sure you pack proper shoes.
Knox Mountain offers one of Kelowna’s best views, so you’ll want to bring your camera.
Bean Scene Roastery:The beans roasted here provide an excellent base for the delightful caffeinated beverages on offer. And the skilled baristas rival those at Vancouver’s best coffee shops.
Carmelis Goat Cheese Farm:Need some cheese to go with all those wine tastings? Carmelis is a goat farm where you can sample more than a dozen types of cheese. My favourite was the cream cheese laced with dill. Oh, and they also make goat cheese gelato. I tried the salted caramel and was blown away.
Okanagan Lavender Herb Farm: If you’re at all a fan of lavender, I highly suggest checking out Kelowna’s lavender herb farm. A beautiful farm overlooking Okanagan Lake, the boutique store sells face products, hand creams, scents, and lavender-infused goodies. I was especially intrigued by the lavender and rose petal scones and lavender jelly. You can even pick bunches of lavender yourself if you reserve in advance.
RauDZ:We had to check out Kelowna’s best restaurant and TripAdvisor’s fifth best ranked restaurant in Canada. It didn’t disappoint, every dish was perfectly executed and the cocktails (Lavender Bees Knees and rhubarb martinis) were a major selling point.
Micro:Next door to RauDZ, Micro offers sharing plates, strong drinks, and an intimate environment. The Corpse Reviver consists of gin and absinthe, and will certainly kick start your night.
Krafty:Another spot for delicious local craft beer and cocktails with a fun, light-hearted environment. I’m also told they serve a 90s hip hop brunch on Sundays. Count me in!
Tantalus Vineyards: Tantalus was recommended to us by the friendly server at Cedar Creek Winery, for their riesling and pinot noir. A visit is worthwhile for the architecture and resplendent views alone!
Summerhill Pyramid: The best winery for bubbly, many of the local restaurants use Summer Hill’s brut for mimosas!
Mission Hill:Kelowna’s most well-known winery and one of the most respected in Canada.
If you’ve ever met my friend, Navroz, you’ll know she has impeccable style. Everything she wears is so perfectly put together that it immediately makes me question my outfit. On top of that, she is one of the most wonderful people I know. She’s warm and generous, and this Saturday, October 24th, she’s hosting a Vintage Sweater Sale at Tucana Coffee. I’m no longer living in Toronto, but I’d be there in a heartbeat if I could. Not only will the sweaters be highly covetable, thanks to Nav’s sartorial genius, all proceeds will go to a Syrian family with young children. So, get amongst it and give back to this worthy cause!
#Sweaters4Syrians Tucana Coffee, 1413 Dundas St W( Dundas and Gladstone – south side) 11am-4pm
Be sure to share your photos with the hashtag, #sweaters4syrians! Thanks for your support!
Much of this blog has been dedicated to highlighting international travel destinations. With this photo essay, I’d like to demonstrate the stark beauty of my home province. For my own selfish reasons, I’d like to encourage those who may not consider the prairies a worthy travel destination to look beyond their initial reservations.
Growing up in Saskatchewan, suffering through extremely cold winters and scorching summers, I always dreamt of travelling to faraway places. I devoured guidebook after guidebook of destinations far more exotic than my home province.
For a long time, I struggled with being from Saskatchewan when talking to friends from big cities, whom I perceived as more cultured and interesting than myself. I failed to appreciate the incredible opportunities that existed for me and the important relationships I had formed throughout my first eighteen years. Some of the most captivating people I’ve come to know live right here in Saskatchewan. I regret my urgency to escape, but as they say, we need to leave in order to appreciate what we have.
I’ve since come to marvel at all the beauty that surrounds me. As an avid and amateur photographer, I seem to take the majority of my photographs in the prairies. From the grain elevators, golden fields, and breathtaking sunsets, Saskatchewan will always be home.
There’s a certain tenacity that Saskatchewan people exhibit. Maybe it’s enduring six months of winter or the unexpected vigour that comes from living in a less populated region. In observing different cultures around the world, I’ve also noticed that Saskatchewan people tend to be gracious, genuine and appreciative, regardless of their circumstances.
While Saskatchewan isn’t necessarily the first place that comes to mind when considering where to spend your hard earned holiday, those who make the trek are always happy they did.
“And the danger is that in this move toward new horizons and far directions, that I may lose what I have now, and not find anything except loneliness.” -Sylvia Plath
I first visited Sydney’s stunning shores in 2009 while studying abroad in Auckland. We stayed at a raucous hostel in Kings Cross where each guest was offered daily pub crawl tickets and matching t-shirts. Needless to say, my recent trips have been a tad more civilized!
One thing I’ve discovered about Sydney is its appeal to the both adventurer and the urbanite. It’s a fantastically picturesque city (stunning beaches with the Blue Mountains in the distance, what more could a girl want?) but with all the trappings of an urban playground.
This guide focuses primarily on central Sydney and Bondi Beach. There’s so much to experience in Sydney, even in a few short days, you won’t be disappointed!
See/ Sydney Opera House: You cannot visit Sydney without venturing to the iconic Opera House. This architectural gem has some of the best acoustics in the world! I was fortunate to see the symphony here with my mom and sister during my second trip to Sydney. Darling Harbour: Located on the western end of Sydney’s CBD, Darling Harbour is a beautiful pedestrian precinct. The Royal Botanic Gardens: Located in the heart of Sydney, the garden opened in 1816 and is a testament to the state’s diverse floral and fauna.
Activities/ Vicious Cycle: Get your sweat on at this high-energy spin studio in Bondi Beach. Art Gallery NSW: A beautiful building for the state art gallery’s collection of Indigenous Australian, contemporary and international art. Be sure to check out their Art After Hours series, the gallery stays open until 10pm! Ramsgate Organic Foodies Market Bondi Farmers Market
Coffee/ Kafeine: Great caffeine can solve all your problems, and Kafeine is no exception! Gusto Espresso Bar: The best way to start the day is at Gusto, one of the oldest establishments in Bondi Beach. Grab a coffee to go, or sit in and sample their noteworthy breakfast rolls. Gertrude and Alice Café Bookstore: A bookworm’s dream, this quirky bookstore is absolutely charming.
Breakfast/ Porch and Parlour: A trendy café that serves delicious breakfast and casual lunch. A favourite among vegetarians. bills Bondi: A popular hang out among the surfer babes and creatives of Bondi Beach. Ruby’s Diner: Healthy, organic all-day dining in a sleek setting.
Lunch/ The Fine Food Store Who knew a simple toastie could taste THIS good? Do yourself a favour and sit outside and watch the world go by, it’s utterly relaxing. Henley’s Wholefoods: With three locations, Henley’s serves up healthy, organic dishes (often paleo, if you’re so inclined) in a bright, welcoming environment. Two & Twelve: Craving American-style BBQ? Two & Twelve’s pork belly will melt in your mouth.
Dinner/ Drake Eatery: Seasonal, locally-sourced fare in a relaxed setting. Pompei’s: On the hunt for traditional Italian fare? Look no further than Pompei’s! Mamasan: Chinese, Tawainese, and Japanese tapas with some delicious cocktails to top it all off.
Drink/ Bulletin Place: This place is super cozy, and they have a cocktail made with rhubarb – my favourite ingredient!
Grandma’s Bar: Homemade ginger beer? I’m sold! The Baxter Inn: If you like whisky, this bar has the best selection!
Stay/ Hotel Harry: A hotel of contrasts with impressive modern rooms impress and a speakeasy feel. QT Sydney: Edgy and excellent customer service
As Saskatchewan’s largest city, there’s a lot more to Saskatoon than initially meets the eye. While this prairie gem isn’t on everybody’s list of places to travel, the city greets each visitor with open arms. After living in Toronto, I’ve become fond of the more intimate experience Saskatoon offers.
A city full of kind, open-minded, and good-natured people, here are some of my favourite Saskatoon haunts:
Activities/ Forestry Farm: Every winter, the Forestry farm has a remarkable display of Christmas lights. Make yourself some hot chocolate, pile into a car, and check it out. University of Saskatchewan: Arguably Canada’s most picturesque campus, the U of S was founded in 1907. It initially began as an agricultural college. Built primarily with grey stone, it remains one of the campus’ most distinguishing features. Saskatchewan Jazz Festival: One of the best events of the summer, Sask Jazz Fest hosts noteworthy Canadian and international artists. Hot Yoga on 20th: Say hi to my sister who teaches here (occasionally in French!) Saskatoon’s Farmers Market: Shop the stalls of this cooperative for local produce and goods from over 140 vendors. The Roxy Theatre: What is it with me and old movie theatres? Needless to say, The Roxy is one of my all-time favourites!
Coffee/ Museo Coffee: Sample the quality coffee and delicious baked goods at this local coffee shop and roaster. Formerly housed in the Mendel Art Gallery, Museo is now conveniently located on Broadway. Collective Coffee: The cortados here are some of the best I’ve ever tasted. It’s easy to see that the friendly baristas who work here truly love coffee. Road Coffee Co.: Brand new to the Saskatoon coffee scene, Road Coffee Co. roasts their own coffee beans and take pride in the relationships they’ve formed with farmers. City Perks Coffeehouse: Again with those mint green mugs and 49th Parallel beans! The interior here is gorgeous. Christie’s Il Secondo: I’m not sure why I’ve listed Christie’s under ‘coffee’ but try their fresh-baked bread and paninis.
Sweets/ Little Bird Patisserie: If you love macarons and tartines (we all know I do…) you’ve come to the right place. The interior is absolutely stunning as well. Homestead Ice Cream: A classic ice cream parlour, Homestead has been serving up yummy ice cream treats since 1978. Cupcake Conspiracy: Delightful, freshly-made cupcakes in a variety of unique flavours.
Eat/ The Hollows: I’m already dreaming about my next meal here. Inventive dishes made with seasonal ingredients, The Hollows is a must for Sunday brunch Primal Pasta: Fortunately, the people at The Hollows opened a second (pasta-focused) restaurant that is equally amazing. Ayden Kitchen & Bar: A sleek, modern space that serves up international fare with a twist. Poached Breakfast Bistro: My favourite spot for weekday brunch. Try the butternut squash omelette. Drift Sidewalk Café: I have nothing but praise for Drift and their crepes. The restaurant itself reminds me of the breakfast spots in California, beachy pastels, palm trees, and plenty of outdoor seating. Oh, and you pay and take a number, which I love. Nosh Eatery: You’ll forget you’re eating healthy food because the dishes are so innovative and yummy. Keo’s Kitchen: Some of the best Thai food I’ve ever encountered was consumed at Keo’s!
Drink/ Winston’s Pub: Beer lovers unite! Winston’s has a diverse list of beers on tap. O’Shea’s Irish Pub: Their patio is the only place to be on a hot summer day. Flint Saloon: An interesting array of cocktails are worth sampling at Flint.
Shop/ Anthology Home Collection: Flowers galore and plenty of excellent gift ideas! Green Ark: If I ever own a home, I’d love it to look just like Green Ark. Luna & Hill: Most of the garments here are designed and made within Canada, think Valerie Dumaine and Dagg & Stacey! One of their employees even makes jewellery carried at the shop. Upstairs, you’ll find a General Store with candles, self-care products, and scents. Kit & Ace: I love how each Kit & Ace store is uniquely influenced and decorated by region. The Saskatoon store has artwork and photography by local artists, and the wood they use in all their furnishings is sourced locally and their supper table was designed by Noah Rossmo! Olson + Burke: A well-curated shop that carries a fantastic range of jewellery, including Jenny Bird. Hazlewood: A sparsely decorated vintage shop that feels oh so cool. The Better Good: Environmentally-made goods that promote a sustainable lifestyle. Swank Shoe Lounge: Fantastic customer service and must-have brands.
Green ArkThe Delta Bessborough
Stay/ Delta Bessborough: Experience old-world glamour at this luxurious hotel. The gardens are worthy of a visit in the warmer months. The James Hotel: Overlooking riverside Kiwanis Park and the Meewasin Trail, this trendy downtown hotel is centrally-situated. The Sheraton Cavalier: I loved celebrating my friend’s wedding at the Top of the Inn, which offered stunning views of the city.
There’s no way I could leave Toronto without compiling a guide featuring all the spots nearest and dearest to my heart. This list has been in the works for the past three years, even before I moved into my downtown apartment. So, without further ado, here’s the city guide I’ve most enjoyed writing!
Toronto is a city of neighbourhoods, each with its own personality and intricacies. It’s impossible to create a guide to Toronto without considering the myriad of unique communities that make up this metropolis. I’ve organized this guide by neighbourhood, and then by category, to make for easy perusing.
Note: Toronto is HUGE, and this guide focuses primarily on the core. It doesn’t venture too far north of Bloor. This is where I’ve spent my time and the guide is already quite extensive while only encompassing these areas.
Downtown Core (Queen West and Chinatown) The first few months of living within the downtown core was overwhelming, to say the least. I soon grew very fond of having the city at my fingertips, and loved being so close to many iconic buildings.
See/ Much Music: The television and radio headquarters for all of Canada. Many Canadian daily shows are filmed here, such as The Social and Marilyn Denis. The building is a striking, unmistakable landmark of Queen West.
OCAD University: Another stunning landmark, Ontario College of Art and Design fits in perfectly with the courses it offers. Hang out on campus, or visit one of the nearby cafés brimming with students for street style inspiration.
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Designed by architect, Frank Gehry, The AGO is my favourite gallery in the city. There’s always something exciting to see, and the permanent collection is worth checking out regardless of when you visit.
Eat/ Toronto is a foodie’s dream! In the (almost) three years I’ve lived here, I’ve tried my hardest to visit as many cafés, restaurants, and bars as humanly possible. Let’s just say, dieting here is not easy. Rol San: Excellent Chinese food, this place is always pretty busy but the atmosphere and food is ridiculous. Mother’s Dumplings: Life-changing dumplings and steamed veggies Lucky Red: Delicious, delicious bao! The service is super friendly and the cocktails are mouthwatering. Bahn Mi Boys: Cheap Vietnamese eats! The kimchi fries are my absolute favourite!
Bahn Mi Boys
Peter Pan: I haven’t visited since they renovated, but the new patio makes it a must! La Carnita (John & Adelaide): The biggest and best La Carnita location. There’s ample natural light, and if you have a sweet tooth, you can grab a pimped out soft-serve cone from Sweet Jesus after your meal! Byblos: Make a reservation for the most delightful Turkish/Mediterranean cuisine in the city. P&L Burger or Burger’s Priest: Queen West has no shortage of burger joints, and the best burger is a highly contested debate. It’s a toss up between these two takeout spots. If you like a juicier burger, opt for P&L. The Burger’s Priest is known for outlandish burgers (think grilled cheese buns and multiple patties!)
The Burger’s Priest
Drink/ Peoples Eatery: I like to go here primarily for the kalimotxos (red wine and coke, who knew?) but the small plates are equal parts delicious!
Sweets/ Butter Avenue: Macaron heaven, this place is so darling! They also have a midtown location. Kekou Gelato: With two locations, one on Baldwin Street and a newer one (serving soft-serve gelato) on Queen and Spadina, Kekou serves up delicious Asian flavours like Vietnamese coffee and Hong Kong milk tea. Sweet Jesus: Attached to La Carnita’s newest location on John Street, Sweet Jesus dishes up soft-serve masterpieces with all the fixings. Go right at 12pm, and you’ll beat the rush. Le Gourmand: Skip the coffee, and try one of the best (and melty) chocolate chip cookies in Toronto.
Kekou Gelato on Baldwin Street
Coffee/ Dark Horse Spadina: Arguably the most photogenic of all the Dark Horse locations (there are four and counting…) This Toronto powerhouse makes a mean cappuccino. Oh, and it’s a hub for freelancers and creative types with shared work spaces in the building. Little Nicky’s: Did someone say, “mini donuts”? I love the vintage details of this cozy café. Red Eye Espresso: Located near the OCAD campus, this coffee shop is a hub for our city’s future designers, artists, and creative directors.
Stay/ Hotel Ocho: Boutique hotel with a popular restaurant/bar in the heart of Chinatown. Super 8: Affordable accommodation in the middle of bustling Chinatown. The Beverley Hotel: I have an affection for this hotel and its beautiful rooftop patio. My sister, Stephanie stayed here once and they offered us both free breakfast!
Activities/ Y Yoga: I chose this yoga studio based on its proximity to my apartment, the studio is beautiful, the classes are some of the city’s best, and I absolutely LOVE the spin classes and sauna access included with your membership.
City Dance Corps: As a former dancer, I wanted drop-in classes at an affordable price. City Dance Corps has accomplished teachers and a huge assortment of classes for all ability levels (ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, ballet boot camp, stretch, barre class!)
Financial District/Harbourfront The central business district is constantly buzzing with activity and suits (yes, Suits the TV show is filmed here!) It’s a fun place to be during the week as the backdrop for New York in many films and TV series.
Nathan Philips Square
See/ Union Station: Maybe I’m biased because Nick worked here, but I think Union Station is the most beautiful building in Toronto. I sometimes sit in the Great Hall and feel myself being transported back to the heydays of railroad travel. Toronto Islands: No trip to Toronto is complete without a visit to the Islands. There’s a ferry that goes out every half hour from the Harbourfront. Pack a picnic (with some cheeky beers) and dig your toes into the sand. St. Lawrence Market: If I lived closer, I’d buy all my groceries from St. Lawrence Market. The vendors are knowledgable and friendly. Oh, and this is the place to try Toronto’s famous peameal bacon. Sugar Beach: Pastel pink umbrellas, anyone? Massey Hall: One of the most iconic concert venues in Toronto.
Gooderham Building: The original flatiron building is a historic landmark of Toronto.
Nathan Philips Square: There are plenty of concerts and events (including Jazz Fest) held here, and its now the home to the official Toronto sign.
Activities/ Rogers Centre: Do yourself a favour and go see a Blue Jays game. They’re Canada’s only professional baseball team and are on fire this season! Air Canada Centre: I visited the ACC for the first time a few weeks ago to see Janet Jackson – it’s massive! Steam Whistle Brewery: Learn about the deep water cooling system while enjoying a pint of crisp Pilsner at iconic Steam Whistle.
Eat/ Richmond Station: An unpretentious fine dining experience. Their burger is the best you’ll have in Toronto! Little Fin: If you love seafood, you’ll love Little Fin. The lobster roll is unbeatable. The Chase: The best rooftop patio in Toronto, you’ll want to take someone special to this spot. Pizza Libretto: Incredible Neapolitan pizza iQ Food Co: Healthy fare that consists of smoothies (try Peaches and Green) and salad boxes. The spicy salmon is my favourite.
iQ Food Co.Pizza Libretto
Drink/ AAA Bar (Triple A Bar): A Texas-style BBQ joint with enough bourbon to go around! Mascot Brewery: The unofficial pre-gaming spot before heading to a Jays game! El Patio: Margaritas and buckets of Corona, anyone? And apparently they give away free tacos at midnight?!
Coffee/ Dineen: Worthy of a visit for the building alone, Dineen has the most instagrammed floors in Toronto. Maman: New York’s famous french café recently opened in Toronto to hoards of devoted fans. Try their croque maman or stop by for a cocktail and their cinq-à-sept menu. Sam James (Toronto Street): Newest location, same incredible coffee
King West: Simply walk along King West, and you’ll hit so many of Toronto’s favourite restaurants and bars. Maybe of these spots (Portland Variety, Bar Buca, Colette) evolve throughout the day, serving breakfast and coffee earlier in the day and dinner and drinks at night. This trendy neighbourhood is exceedingly popular during the Toronto International Film Festival, held every year in September. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a celebrity. Bill Murray was cycling, exploring, and taking selfies with locals during the festival in 2014.
See/ Princess of Wales:The place to go for live theatre in Toronto.Kinky Boots is currently playing! I’ve also seen Anything Goes and The Book of Mormon here. TIFF: King Street West becomes pedestrian-only during TIFF, so even if you’re not seeing any films (but I recommend you do! Tickets are available to the public!) you’ll want to walk along King from University to Spadina to take in the energy and excitement. I always joke that TIFF is my Christmas because it’s the most wonderful time of year.
Activities/ Her Majesty’s Pleasure: Getting pampered has never been this much fun. Her Majesty’s Pleasure is a café, bar and beauty-lover’s mecca all in one. You’ll gush over the marble countertops and copper details. TIFF Bell Lightbox: See art house, documentaries, and hard-to-find films year-round at this venue. We saw a New Zealand Maori film here last year. The adjacent bar and restaurant, Luma is a local gem. SPiN: A ping pong social club offering lessons and regular tournaments.
Her Majesty’s Pleasure
Eat/ Wilbur Mexicana: Housed next-door to Her Majesty’s Pleasure, Wilbur is seriously addictive (and reasonably priced!) Colette: The most beautiful restaurant and café in Toronto. Don’t ask questions, just go! Wvrst: German beer hall with any type of sausage you can imagine. The curry wvrst is as authentic as they come. Bar Buca: An all-day snack bar with excellent service Patria: The best Spanish tapas in the city Home of the Brave: All your favourite American classics like tater tots and deep dish pizza.
Wilbur Mexicana
Drink/ Valdez: South American food and delicious sangria, their rooftop patio is a hit among locals and tourists! Bar Hop: All the beers you could ever imagine in a relaxed setting. Bar Wellington: A casual spot for outdoor drinks Rock ‘N Horse Saloon: If you like country music, this is the place to be for some serious two-steppin’! The Porch: A massive rooftop patio that serves bulldogs, win!
Sweets/ Forno Cultura: An italian bakery with a modern aesthetic. Millie Patisserie & Creamery: French-inspired pastries infused with Asian flavours. The sister shop to Kensington’s Millie Creperie. Delysées: French classics in the most unique flavours and hues. The shop is a sight for sore eyes. Try the gold and rainbow sprinkled éclairs.
Coffee/ Portland Variety: Coffee, breakfast, lunch, cocktails, dinner? They do it all in a beautiful space. Forget Me Not Café (formerly La Merceria): An Argentinean café that oozes charm.
Stay/ Thompson Hotel: Thanks to Hotwire, Nick and I were able to stay here at a very affordable rate. If you’re here in the summer, I highly recommend checking out the rooftop pool.
Kensington Market: See/ Walk around, take in all the sights and smells of this delightful neighbourhood. You can’t go wrong with any of the restaurants, food vendors, and vintage clothing shops that make up this vibrant, eclectic community. Pedestrian Sundays during the summer months are especially fun.
Drink/ Cold Tea: Ask them to make you anything. I’ve had the most delicious, inventive cocktails in Toronto at this speakeasy. Handlebar: It feels like your grandmother’s basement, but in a good way. They always host the best events, like people sharing their traumatizing Tinder conversations on Valentine’s Day.
Sweets/ Bunner’s Bake Shop: A gluten-free/vegan bakery. They even have vegan soft-serve!
Coffee/ Café Novo: Another perfect café patio with free wifi! Café Pamenar: A pleasant (and quiet) environment with impeccably pulled shots. Fika: Swedish café with a glorious backyard patio! They also serve delicious open-faced sandwiches (just like Swedes do!) and breakfast.
Fika Café
Shop/ Courage My Love: One of many incredible vintage stores along Kensington Avenue. Good Egg: My favourite bookshop/gift shop in the whole city! BYOB Cocktail Emporium: For all your cocktail and bar cart needs
Little Italy: See/ The Royal: My favourite cinema to catch non-mainstream (and mainstream) films. I saw St. Vincent here, and it remains one of my favourite movies today.
Eat/ Bar Raval: A spanish tapas bar that will transport you to Barcelona. Bar Isabel: Grant Van Gameren’s first restaurant featuring creative plates. Try the octopus. DaiLo: Inventive Chinese fusion, think fried watermelon! Easy Restaurant: Great for all-day brunch on any day of the week
Drink/ Sneaky Dee’s: Super dive-y, but always a good time. Their nachos are consistently rated the best in Toronto. No One Writes to the Colonel: A laidback spot for small-medium groups Mod Club: I’ve only been here once to see my friend, JT perform, but I had a really good time.
Coffee/ Voodoo Child: An all-day affair, coffee is served during the day and cocktails at night. Manic: This café doesn’t offer wifi yet still manages to appeal to students from nearby U of T. Empire Espresso: This cozy nook is the perfect place to bask in the sun with a cappuccino. They have a white and pink floral espresso machine that I can’t help but admire.
Sweets/ Bake Shoppe: My sister bought my birthday cake here, and it’s been my favourite cake to date! They make homemade poptarts that will make you swoon!
West Queen West/Dundas West See/ Trinity Bellwoods Park: Some of the best people watching in Toronto, this park is filled with the very fashionable and good-looking.
Graffiti Alley: Toronto has fantastic street art, particularly between Portland and Bellwoods on Queen Street West.
Eat/ (West Queen West) Saving Grace: Best brunch in Toronto with an ever-changing menu and heaping portions. The Federal: This place is less busy than Saving Grace, but also super delicious. I recommend the Eggs Federal. Kadbanu: Try the dates and eggs at this Iranian breakfast spot. Patois: Chinese and Jamaican food that will knock your socks off. The service is always incredible and the cocktails are yummy. The Goods: A takeaway joint with healthy, lighter fare for those in a hurry. Rock Lobster: There have been numerous photos taken and articles written on their famous caesar. The lobster poutine is also excellent.
Saving Grace
Eat/ (Parkdale) Grand Electric: Tacos and bourbon on the cutest patio. Electric Mud BBQ: Southern comfort food by the same folks as Grand Electric. Miss Thing’s: Polynesian food and the best cocktails in town (Rum in a coconut, so you feel like you’re on holiday!)
Coffee/ Capital Espresso: When in Parkdale, caffeinate here
Tucana Coffee: See my blog post on Tucana Coffee and owner, Tenille Clark.
Drink/ Czehoski: An all-around good spot and their sign is awesome! Cocktail Bar: They have a drink with a watermelon slice that I can’t stop thinking about. Northern Belle: By the same people as Northwood, this place makes magical cocktails The Beaconsfield: Good for groups The Drake: Plenty of live music on offer Bar Fancy: Look for the neon tiger 416 Snack Bar: The best bar snacks you’ll ever eat and a wonderful cocktail, beer, and wine list.
Shop/ Coal Miner’s Daughter: Such a lovely shop with mostly Canadian-designed and made garments. ZANE: An excellent assortment of accessories, both by Canadian and international designers. They’ve recently opened a Yorkville location as well. Old Faithful Shop: Vancouver favourite, Old Faithful recently opened its doors to Torontonians Aesop: This Australian skincare line has a massive global following, their flagship Toronto shop is stunning. Easy Tiger Goods: Another local design-focused store, I’ve written about Easy Tiger before. They also have a coffee bar in the back (yay for multipurpose spaces!) and serve Philip Ice Pops in the summer. Penny Arcade: Great vintage store where every piece is curated by the owner and restored to its original integrity. Monkey’s Paw: A used bookstore with a vending machine that dispenses books! Type Books: This is just the best place to spend an afternoon and has been written about in countless magazines. It’s located right across from Trinity Bellwoods Park, so grab a book and read in the park! Soop Soop: Stocking all those hard-to-find magazines
Soop SoopApolis bag from Old Faithful Shop
Shop/ (Parkdale) North Standard Trading Post: For a taste of Canadiana, stop by and chat with the lovely couple who own and operate this shop. Public Butter: Vintage shop worth checking out
Ossington: See/ Lower Ossington Theatre: A fun spot to catch live theatre The Garrison: Another great live music venue. We saw Christchurch’s own, Shapeshifter here last year.
Eat/ Boralia: I haven’t been here yet, but I’ve heard only good things Mamakas Taverna: A light and bright restaurant serving yummy Greek food Union: French fare in an intimate setting Poutini’s: Skip Smoke’s Poutinerie and hit up Poutini’s after the bar. La Cubana: I love the mint interior and design elements of this restaurant. Try one of the Cuban plates and a fresh mojito while you’re at it.
Drink/ Reposado: If you like tequila, you’ll want to add this to your list of must-visit watering holes. The Painted Lady: Everyone’s always dancing and smiling here, so many good vibes. Dakota Tavern: Bluesgrass and country tunes in a chill setting. They also serve bluesgrass brunch. Get Well: Lots of arcade games and great beers on tap Bellwoods Brewery: You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment after gaining a spot on this covetable Ossington patio.
Shop/ Victoire: Locally-made threads and the raddest employees!
Shop Lost and Found: See my blog post on this awesome menswear boutique.
Stay/ The Gladstone: Each room has its own theme and has been designed by a local artist. The Drake Hotel: Another design-focused hotel with excellent dining options.
Roncesvalles and Bloor West:
See/ Revue Cinema: Catch an independent flick or art house film at this adorable cinema.
High Park: Cherry Blossom season is brief, but worth checking out if you’re here in late April/early May. High Park Library: Housed in a beautiful old building, this a pleasant place to get lost in a book.
Eat/ (Roncesvalles) La Cubana: The original location has a patio and serves cuban brunch! The Westerly: My friend Lisa had brunch here two weeks in a row because she loved it so much! The Ace: One of my last meals in Toronto, and I was a big fan of the Dark and Stormy I had here. Barque Smokehouse: Meat-heavy dishes like smoked duck on blueberry pancakes.
Eat/ (Bloordale/Bloor West) Starving Artist: A variety of yummy breakfast options all served on waffles! Brock Sandwich: Trust me on this one, the best sandwiches I’ve had in Toronto. Hello Darling: Innovative vegetarian brunch options make this place a worthy destination Wallace & Co.: An adorable diner with one of the best burgers I’ve tasted in Toronto.
Coffee/ (Roncesvalles) Reunion Island Coffee Shop: This Oakville roaster set up shop on café-heavy, Roncy. With refreshing drinks like cold brew and tonic and a gorgeous interior, this place was an instant success. Lit Espresso Bar: A nice place to work remotely and I’m a huge fan of their mint green coffee cups. Extra Butter: The last time I was here they had these decadent breakfast tarts with either egg/bacon or egg/spinach. SO INCREDIBLE.
Coffee/ (Bloor West) Propeller Coffee Co.: An airy, spacious café that caters to students and freelancers. Wallace Espresso: An intimate café with strong coffee and good vibes Grey Tiger: Café-cum-bar with an eye-catching mint exterior.
Sweets/ Home Baking Co.: Carrot cake that even those who dislike carrot cake will enjoy. By the same people as Bakerbots and Bang Bang, they also have ice cream sandwiches, tea and coffee. Through Being Cool Vegan: The best vegan donuts (you won’t even know!) in the city.
Shop/ Muttonhead: Canadian apparel company, all clothing is manufactured right in Toronto Likely General: The best, most unique general store I’ve ever been to! This shop was curated with love.
Bloor/Yorkville:
Mink Mile, as its often referred to, is a popular shopping destination. If you’re wanting to give your credit card a workout, Yorkville is the place to be.
Eat/ Trattoria Nervosa: Try the mushroom pasta, you’ll die. Kasa Moto: Japanese dishes on a fabulous patio with top-notch cocktails
Drink/ Hemingway’s: The best (and least pretentious) bar in Yorkville. Maybe I’m biased because its a New Zealand-owned bar and they always play the rugby.
Sweets/ MoRoCo Chocolat: Soft-serve and decadent macarons in a dazzling café Summers: Delicious ice cream in the heart of Yorkville.
Coffee/ Sorry Coffee Co.: Located in Kit & Ace’s new flagship store, you won’t be sorry you stopped in. Sorry Coffee Co. is a copper/rose gold dream.
Shopping/ COS: Recently opened in September, this Swedish brand is known for minimalism and beautiful textures. The interior is absolutely stunning, and you’ll probably want to take photos on the staircase. Holt Renfrew: A Canadian jewel, this department store is reminiscent of the past. Club Monaco Bloor Street: The most beautiful and iconic of all the Club Monaco locations, they even host an outdoor market in the summer/autumn months.
East End Church-Wellesley Village: Canada’s largest gay village is vibrant year-round, but really comes out to play during Pride.
Activities/ Pride Toronto: A ten-day festival celebrating the LGBTQ community both in Toronto and internationally, culminating with an exciting parade on the final Sunday. It’s always such a fun event and makes me happy to live in such a diverse city.
Eat/ Smith: By far my favourite dining establishment in the Village, the brisket hash is out of this world. Oh, and order the doughnuts to share. Guu Izakaya: Inventive dishes are abundant at this rowdy izakaya.
Drink/ Bar Volo: Their website says it best, “rotating taps and snacks”. Woody’s and Sailor: Everyone is workin’ it at Woody’s and it lives up to its name as “Toronto’s Hottest Gay Bar”. Fly 2.0: Fierce and fabulous, you’ll want to dance all night long at the second edition of everyone’s favourite nightclub. Crews and Tangos: Another place to go if you want to leave your head and heart on the dance floor.
Corktown/Distillery District
See/ Allan Gardens Conservatory: A botanical gem in the heart of the city, Allan Gardens has a permanent collection of exotic plants and seasonal flower shows. St. James Cathedral: Striking Anglican cathedral that’s home to the oldest congregation in the city. Berkeley Events: A gorgeous old church that has been converted into an event space. Distillery District: The restored historic Distillery District features North America’s best-preserved collection of Victorian Industrial Architecture. It’s the perfect backdrop for local restaurants, design stores, cafes and art galleries, and the annual Christmas market. Arta Gallery: Open since 2003, Arta features the work of Canadian and international artists. It’s well worth a visit!
Eat/ Le Petit Déjeuner: All-day brunch, try the waffles! Cocina Economica: You’ll feel like you’re in a small Mexican village at this new joint. El Catrin: Another Mexican restaurant with the largest patio I’ve ever seen and superb artwork.
Coffee/ NEO Coffee Bar: Japanese desserts and the best coffee in Toronto by award-winning barista, Bruce Ly. Tandem Coffee: One of the best matcha lattés I’ve ever tried! They also have matcha floats! Oh, and the owners are the sweetest people you’ll ever meet! ODIN: A beautiful Norwegian café and bar that’s blowing up on Instagram. Rooster Coffee: Not as iconic as their Broadview location, this spot is still a gem! Balzac’s: Either my taste buds have changed, or Balzac’s coffee has become less bitter. Anyway, even before I liked Balzac’s coffee, I loved their coffee shop in the Distillery District.
Sweets/ Roselle’s: Earl Grey soft-serve in the summer, decadent, beautiful treats year-round!
Shop/ Hoi Bo: Toronto-made garments that are made to last in an aesthetically-pleasing shop. John Fluevog: Made in Vancouver, John Fluevog shoes are anything but boring. Heel Boy: Another of my favourite local shoe stores.
Leslieville:
This is certainly one of my most-visited neighbourhoods in Toronto. More mature and less rowdy than the West End, a trip to Toronto isn’t complete without an afternoon in Leslieville.
See/ The Opera House: Opened since 1909, The Opera House is one of Toronto’s oldest music venues. I saw Flume perform here for $13! What a bargain!
Eat/ Lady Marmalade: Vegetarian-friendly brunch options Bonjour Brioche: French bakery and delicious breakfast spot. I love their croque madame. Maha’s: You’ll want to return again and again for this Egyptian brunch. The County General: Their Riverside location is so cozy and welcoming.
Sweets/ Desmond & Beatrice: The best cookies and cupcakes I’ve ever eaten. Bobbette & Belle: A store so beautiful you’ll want to spend an entire afternoon reading or writing while sampling macarons and tea. Ed’s Real Scoop: So many flavours, so little time!
Coffee/ Te Aro: The perfect space to enjoy a flat white. Pilot Roasters: Try a coffee flight in this industrial warehouse that supplies many local cafés. Boxcar Social: Boxcar’s second location is even prettier than you’d imagine. They serve treats from local favourite, Bake Shoppe.
Beauty/ Fuss Hair Studio: I’ve tried SEVERAL salons in Toronto, and Fuss is by far my favourite!
Shop/ Good Neighbour: The East End’s version of The Drake General Store. It’s an excellent place to find gifts and unconventional Toronto souvenirs. Tiny Record Shop: Located inside TOKEN, this place has an extensive collection of records.
The Danforth/Broadview: See/ Danforth Music Hall: Hands down, the best live music venue in the city. I’ve seen Bombay Bicycle Club, Lorde, Brooke Fraser, and a handful of other wonderful artists here. Evergreen Brickworks: A community environmental centre that inspires visitors to live, work, and play more sustainbly. They even have a shuttle from Broadview station, so you don’t have to drive. Cycling is also encouraged. The farmers market is one of the biggest in Toronto and they often host food and cultural events. I was here a few days ago for their final summer’s night event that offered free food and entertainment.
Eat/
The Danforth has some of the best Greek food you’ll ever eat. It’s also host to a festival called Taste of the Danforth, which is really popular every year.
Sweets/ Von Doughnuts: The freshest doughnuts I’ve tried in Toronto (and I’ve tried too many!)
Coffee/
Rooster Coffee House: Overlooking Riverdale Park with the perfect view of Toronto’s skyline, this coffee shop is a must-visit.
Rosedale: Full disclosure: I’ve spent very little time in Rosedale, but here are a few suggestions for places to visit!
Eat/ Terroni: Authentic Italian cuisine, you can’t go wrong! I believe this was their first location.
Coffee/ Boxcar Social: Superb cortados, friendly baristas, a stunning space to write, read or catch up with friends.
Shop/ Want Apothecary: Hard to find brands that I wish I could afford.
Yonge & Eglinton:
Regrettably, I haven’t spent too much time on Yonge & Eglinton. However, these are a few places I’ve been and would recommend you visit, should you venture north of Bloor.
Eat/ Little Sister: Where else can you get Indonesian food in Toronto? La Vecchia: Set foot in old world Italy at this delicious restaurant Lil’ Baci: I haven’t been to this location, but I’m told its even better than their Leslieville spot.
Coffee/ De Mello Palheta Coffee Roasters: Great coffee with the best takeaway cups and great lunch options. Crosstown Coffee Bar: This place JUST opened as I was leaving Toronto, so unfortunately I haven’t had a chance to visit. My friends (aka BlogTO) have raved about it.
Drink/ The Rebel House: I had lunch and my leaving drinks with my colleagues here, and we had such a great time.
Escapes/ The Beaches: one of my favourite neighbourhoods, I like coming here to run or relax with a coffee.
Niagara Falls: It’s a must-visit for anyone who is coming to Toronto for the first time.
Niagara-on-the-Lake: Have lunch at the oldest pub in Canada and visit the myriad of wineries scattered along Niagara. Prince Edward County: Time Magazine rated it one of the best places to visit in 2015. Go see for yourself.
Tobermory: The perfect escape from the concrete jungle that is Toronto; a small community at the Northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula.
Transportation/Getting Around/ Toronto Transit Commission: The quickest, most convenient way to get around Toronto. The subway system is linked with buses and streetcars. GO Transit: Ontario’s inter-regional transit system, which links Toronto to the greater Toronto area and beyond. Bike Share Toronto: A great way to get around the downtown core. Uber: Uber’s received a lot of backlash in Toronto, but most Torontonians want it regulated. It’s safer and more reliable than taking a taxi, and you can order it directly from your phone. UP Express: The most enjoyable way of getting to Pearson International Airport.
prairie girl musings 