Toronto

Doing the 5 to 6 hour drive to Toronto is always worthwhile when I get the chance to try new food spots.

First of all you have to check out the Thompson Hotel which had an incredible 24 Hour Diner that satisfies everyone’s cravings all day. The hotel also has an extraordinary rooftop pool and lounge area where you can sip cocktails, or grab a bite while gazing at the wonderful Toronto Skyline (CN tower being a very prominent building). It also has a busy lobby bar that gets pretty packed on the weekends.

On my trip I indulged and had some delicious wee-hour snacks. The Diner at the Thompson embraces the classic “diner” look with a bit of modern flare, so does its menu. The Chicken Matzo Ball Soup with egg noodles and diced vegetables makes you feel right at home. The Chicken Fingers with spicy chipotle mayo brought you back to childhood birthday parties with a little bit of heat to kickstart the long night ahead. Not to mention, these delectable treats were accompanied by a mix of adult friendly cocktails. Did I mention that by the end of the night there is a line of people around the block standing on their sore dancing feet, hoping to get the chance to make it inside to maybe, just maybe enjoy a Milkshake before bed.

Thompson Hotel– 550 Wellington St. West, Toronto, ON M5V 2V4

Another Spot to check out in the area is Gusto 101. Hiding on a corner, don’t let the shabby chic style fool you, the food and drinks are exquisite. Not to mention Gusto 101 boasts an outdoor terrace area, and indoor bar and seating area as well as a 2nd level which is an all around open space. It’s perfect for a refreshing lunch on a hot Toronto summer day.

The Bruschetta al Pomodoro 
with marinated heirloom tomatoes on toasted tuscan bread, topped with fresh basil and olive oil transports you to the Mediterranean. And the Insalata a-Gusto which is wonderful mix of greens, honey mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes topped with creamy goat cheese, a balsamic vinaigrette, decorated drop of unique little red peppers is not a heavy lunch option, but quite filling. AND, never forget dessert– even if it is bikini season! The house Tiramisu of mascarpone cream, pistachio and strawberries comes in a tasteful little cup, yet if filled with bold flavors. Also, don’t skip out on the Gelato! A must have!

Gusto 101– 101 Portland St, Toronto, ON, M5V 2N3  Tel: +1 (416) 504-9669

If you’re in town and there is a Raptors (basketball) or Toronto FC (soccer) game, try to score some tickets because Toronto fans are incredible. The atmosphere at BMO Field and Air Canada Center are incredible. Even if you don’t follow either team you will be at the edge of your seat for the whole game.

BMO Field170 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3

BMO Field is located in Exhibition Palace which gives you a sightseeing opportunity aswell.

Air Canada Center–  40 Bay St, Toronto, ON M5J 2X2

If you can’t make into the game, try to line up and get a seat at the  Real Sports Bar & Grill which is just outside the arena, off Maple Leaf Square. You wont miss a play on the gigantic screen that takes up an entire side of the place, while you enjoy a bite and drink.

Real Sports Bar & Grill – 15 York St, Toronto, ON M5J 0A3 Tel: +1 (416) 815-7325

The Air Canada Center is located Bay Street in Downtown Toronto, so there is a lot to see around there as well.

Another area that MUST be checked out in Toronto is The Distillery Historic District which is filled with cute boutiques, art galleries, and amazing restaurants like mexican cuisine El Catrin, where you can get your fresh guacamole prepared table side while admiring the incredible artwork on the walls.

And if you are a sucker for everything chocolate and a somre more gelato, then stop by SOMA Chocolatemaker & Gelato for caramaziled nuts covered with dark chocolate or even some almond gelato. (The flavor choices are incredible)

Don’t forget the district gets its name from being an old distillery neighborhood, so a cocktail or beer are in order– and there is a few good spots to enjoy a drink or two!

El Catrin– 18 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Tel: +1(416)203-2121

SOMA Chocolatemaker & Gelato– 32 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Tel: +1 (416) 815-7662

 One last thing, while walking around the city– in some areas at least–by King and Queen St. check out the amazing art work on the sides of buildings.  (all images compliments to Rena and Bene)