TORONTO, ONTARIO

As a Montrealer, I “had” to hate Toronto, but once I moved there and lived there for ten years, I really did start to see the charm of it.

K maybe charm is the wrong word… but I could start to see beyond the city’s stereotypes. It’s true, Toronto has no identity — which is weird for such a culturally diverse city. I just think it’s a new city that hasn’t figured itself out yet the way that a Paris or a London has. It has shitty infrastructure that barely accommodates the 2M and counting population, architecture of the city consists of glass condos, the hustle work culture is toxic (and makes people social climbers and “fake”) and restaurants are unfortunately about the decor first… But, it’s also got some good pockets too.

STAY

Annex Hotel

Love this hotel, feels like an apartment more than a hotel.

Four Seasons

Love the pool area and I’m an FS girl until death do us part lol.

EAT

Keep in mind that I haven’t lived in Toronto in over a year now, but my very good friend Kayla and her partner Corey are extreme foodies and her TikTok is ALL about curated Toronto food. If you’re discerning, K’s your girl.

Gusto

Mafalde will live rent-free in my head forever.

Sugo

Like my nonna’s cooking.

Manita’s

Trendy, small plates to share

Patria

Paella all the way and decent wines! + love the heated patio in the fall/spring.

Akira Back

Sotto Sotto

Alo

A forever favourite

Byblos

Matty’s Patty’s

Bar Raval

Tinuno

Great Filipino food served on banana leaves.

Giulietta

Il Covo

Love the tasting menu here — also love College St. Intimate, romantic restaurant.