Who hasn’t dreamed of living like a celebrity? From lavish restaurants, to decadent hotels, it’s a fun thought to entertain, even if just in passing. Toronto is a hotbed of celebrity activity for those who come up north, especially during the month of September when TIFF takes over the city. But for those of us who live here year-round, there are plenty of world-class hotspots to visit, that have attracted celebrities and regular citizens alike.
Here, we dive into 13 hotspots to eat, drink, stay, and shop in Toronto that have received a stamp of approval from celebrities.
STK
With a location in Toronto and others in glam cities like London, Ibiza, Las Vegas, and Milan, STK is the steakhouse/lounge combo that’s super popular among celebrities. Cardi B was spotted dining here when she was in Toronto for OVO and Veld Music Festival this past summer.
Patria
You can’t get more Canadian than Ryan Gosling and Justin Trudeau, and that’s exactly what happened at Spanish restaurant, Patria last year. Gosling was present for an after-party celebrating his film First Man, Trudeau was there to support, and the rest, as they say, is history. Swoon-worthy sightings aside, Patria serves up classic Spanish food (think tapas and paella) alongside fresh seafood, and a lengthy cocktail and wine list.
Montecito
Numerous celebrities have darkened the doors of this Californian-inspired Montecito, especially during TIFF. Owned by director Ivan Reitman (of Ghostbusters and Space Jam fame), it’s steps away from the TIFF Bell Lightbox and serves up farm-to-table cuisine. Famous faces like Bill Murray, Robert Pattinson, Kristen Bell, Sandra Bullock, and Robert Downey Jr. have all been spotted here.
Terroni
It wouldn’t be a proper list without mentioning our favourite Duchess who used to live in Toronto! trendy Italian restaurant, Terroni was a known favourite of Meghan Markle, who used to frequent when she lived in the city for seven years filming Suits. She even recommended the Peperoncini Piccanti chili condiment to Vanity Fair.
Byblos
Toronto local Rachel McAdams is reportedly a regular at this fancy, two-story Eastern Meditteranean restaurant. Byblos serves up a variety of dishes and cocktails in a Persian rug draped setting, with a celeb guest list that includes the likes of Matt Damon, Michelle Williams, and Gerard Butler, Dakota Johnson, and Jason Segal, all of whom have been spotted here in the past.
Rhum Corner
Actress Samira Wiley took Vanity Fair to this bar on a tour around Toronto, dubbing it “very cool, very chill” and “a real gem!” A low-key affair with an affinity for rum and fun (their rum list is very, very long), Rhum Corner serves up authentic Haitian dishes in a cozy, muraled setting. Wiley’s go-to is the Wray and Ting, a mix of Jamaican rum and grapefruit soda.
Petty Cash
Advertised as your neighbourhood bar, Petty Cash is a casual mix of gastropub food and cocktails consumed around pool tables, topped off with money-themed decor. The King West staple made quite a stir for all the right reasons last Halloween, when Shawn Mendes was spotted making drinks from behind the bar. We’re guessing tips were more than generous that night (even for a place named ‘Petty Cash’.)
Hazelton Hotel
Kate Moss herself was spotted (or papped, rather) here a few years ago, eating a bagel with a glass of wine. (For those who want to recreate the moment, it was a lox bagel and a glass of white.) Located conveniently close to the city’s poshest shops and restaurants, names like Justin Bieber, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have stayed here at the world-class luxury Hazelton Hotel.
Bisha Hotel
This boutique luxury hotel in the heart of the Entertainment district is a triple threat—featuring the extremely instagrammable KŌST on the 44th floor, celebrity chef restaurant, Akira Back, on the second, and Parisian pastry cafe, French Made, on the ground floor. Previous guests of the trendy residence include Lenny Kravitz, Margot Robbie, Ellen Paige, Emma Thompson, Stanley Tucci, and Jake Gyllenhaal, just to name a few.
Windsor Arms
With a plush Victorian-style interior, this past-century heritage hotel almost makes you feel as though you’re a celebrity yourself. Stars such as George and Amal Clooney and Eminem have taken advantage of the hotels ‘discreet luxury’ policy. Pro tip: even if you’re not staying in a room, the high tea here is excellent.
119 Corbo
An upscale specialty boutique with only the highest of designer brands and shoes—word on the street is that 119 Corbo was responsible for bringing Jimmy Choos and Manolo Blahniks to Toronto before Sex and the City made them staples in any fashionista’s closet. The boutique also has exclusivity to cutting edge brands like Haider Ackermann and Ann Demeulemeester and also features others like Dries Van Noten and Rick Owens. None other than Kimye themselves stopped by during Kanye’s tour stop in 2016, and apparently Jennifer Hudson and Michelle Fairley (from Game of Thrones) are also fans.
Mjölk
You really can’t get any more aesthetic than this. This homeware store comes recommended by Sarah Rafferty toVogue last year for “beautiful home furnishings.” Featuring pieces by artisans from Scandianvia and Japan, the store is peak minimalism and most definitely celebrity-worthy.
Augustina Boutiques
Another high-end fashion staple in Yorkville, Augustina Boutiques founder Cristina Burgess is known for scouting out up-and-coming and lesser known celebrity-loved brands such was Anita Ko jewelry, Sydney Evan and Temple St. Clair. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Jessica Chastain has been spotted shopping here, as well as Margot Robbie when she was in town filming Suicide Squad.
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If you’re like me, you love the idea of travel but when the time comes to, you know, pack up and leave, you start to get anxious and panicky. If you need a break from your daily schedule, why not consider booking a staycation?Simply book in at a local downtown hotel, wrap up in a cozy robe, and get some old fashioned R&R all without hopping on a plane. Being in a big city like Toronto means we have our fair share of chic and trendy boutique hotels. Why stay at a basic hotel chain when you can tuck in for the weekend at one of these local gems that promise luxe amenities and all the relaxation?
If you’re looking for a staycation, stay at these 8 Toronto hotels!
The Drake Hotel
The Drake Hotel
A Toronto icon and hotel that really needs no introduction is The Drake Hotel. Located on West Queen West, this is the perfect spot for a staycation, if you ask me. If a re-charge is what you’re after, this is the place to get it. The rooms at The Drake are decorated so perfectly but you feel instantly refreshed just walking through the door. Amenities include complimentary spin and yoga classes so you can even turn your staycation into a mini wellness retreat, too!
The Hazelton Hotel
The Hazelton Hotel
If you’re looking to indulge in a little luxury for a weekend, head on up to The Hazelton Hotel in the heart of Yorkville. Voted the #1 hotel in Toronto by TripAdvisor means that this is obviously the place to go for supreme service, style, and comfort as no detail is spared. From the spa where only the best Valmont products are used (trust me, it’s worth it!), to even a private screening room for you to enjoy with up to 25 guests, you’ll want for nothing when you stay at The Hazelton. Don’t forget to snag a spot on the patio at One Restaurant too, it’s the best for people watching. Plus, you can even get in a little retail therapy at the goop MRKT pop-up that’s happening right next door, too!
The Beverley Hotel
The Beverley Hotel
One of TO’s newer hotels is The Beverley Hotel that’s located on Queen at Beverley. This darling 18-room establishment boasts an elegant and modern design that’s a juxtaposition of its more grunge Queen West neighbourhood. This hotel is on the smaller side so it’s possible you may have passed by without noticing but step inside and you’ll find not only top notch comfort, but also a retail shop, Carlotta Bar, and a rooftop patio. This is the perfect cozy spot to unwind!
The Annex Hotel
The Annex Hotel
If an NYC getaway is what you’re craving but aren’t into shelling out big bucks for a flight, check into The Annex Hotel. Situated at Bloor and Brunswick is this 24-room boutique hotel that’s got all the chic and minimal New York vibes without paying steep Manhattan prices. The Annex is doing things the modern way as there isn’t even a front desk as everything is done the high tech way here. On the date of your booking, you’ll receive a text with a key access code. If you need anything like extra pillows or recommendations simply text that number and it’ll be taken care of.
Gladstone Hotel
Gladstone Hotel
Located even further than The Drake on Queen West, almost in Parkdale, is Gladstone Hotel. Known as a boutique art hotel, this abode prides itself on how it pulls you into an arts, culture, and dining adventure as soon as you walk through the historic doors. What’s unique about this hotel is that each room is completely different than the next as they’re all designed by different artists. If you’re looking for a good time, check out the art exhibitions, party at age at one of its legendary queer parties, or break out into song at the weekly karaoke night!
The Anndore House
The Anndore House
Even if you’ve lived in Toronto your whole life, staying at The Anndore House allows for you to experience your city in a whole new way. Located on Charles Street just south of Bloor, this historic hotel once had a shadier past but is known as one of TO’s prized gems. The Anndore’s doors opened just last year and notoriety sure has grown with how it marries art and culture with its modern yet cozy decor. Plus, one of the best restaurants in the city, Constantine, is within its walls, too!
Windsor Arms Hotel
Weekend plans, the #WindsorArms way. Indulge in our #AfternoonTea after your #SpaDay on our rooftop terrace. #WindsorArms ?: @lailakharouba ??? pic.twitter.com/0LQTwBXMan
— Windsor Arms Hotel (@windsorarms) August 18, 2018
If classic elegance is what you’re craving, then the Windsor Arms Hotel is just the place to go. This historic hotel has played home to visiting royalty, dignitaries, and various film stars, so it’s definitely good enough for your luxe staycation! Originally built in 1927 and rebuilt in 1999, the Windsor Arms is a Toronto icon for good reason as it encompasses the glamour, comfort, and luxury of past eras. Don’t forget to book in for the hotels notable Afternoon High Tea!
The Broadview Hotel
The Broadview Hotel
You might never guess that this gorgeous boutique hotel used to have a storied past but The Broadview Hotel used to be quite the place back in the day. With 58 rooms, this establishment provides a graceful home away from home but with better views. Located in Toronto’s East End, take in views of the hustle & bustle Queen and Broadview or soak in the peaceful landscape over Riverdale and up the Don Valley River. Because you’ll get hungry at some point, don’t skimp on a delicious meal at The Civic or indulging in cocktails at the bar!
Featured Image: Gladstone Hotel
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