It’s been a while since I’ve visited Canada’s biggest city. So when I had the opportunity to attend a cookbook launch by Yotam Ottolenghi, I thought this would be the perfect chance to explore Toronto and the area.

Air Canada along with many airlines, offers direct and non-stop flights to Pearson International. I chose an early morning departure to arrive at 1:30 pm, to allow for as much time in Toronto as possible.

Upon arrival, it was super easy to plan my transportation into the city. I just purchased a UP Express ticket right in the baggage claim area for a one-way on the train for just $12.35 CAD. It took roughly 30 min. And from Union Station, I took an Uber to my hotel – Courtyard by Marriott.

This centrally located hotel sits on the edge of the busy downtown core. A very comfortable hotel with friendly and accommodating staff. And as a super-elite with Marriott, you are treated to a welcome bag of snacks and a complimentary simple breakfast, but a little goes a long way. A very nice touch.

Just 15 min. away is the Distillery District, a great heritage area to walk around and explore. One great find is Madrina Bar y Tapas. a Michelin-recommended Restaurant, 3 years in a row, and it boasts one of Toronto’s best wine lists of Spanish wines (there was a spectacular selection)! I enjoyed the Raventos Rosado Cava to start, then a juicy 23 Gómez y Rial, Auxi, Albariño, Rias Baixas, followed by Fernando de Castilla Blanco and Casa Mariol Negre Vermouth. A modern, bustling space, with delicious tapas with an added Asian touch and outstanding service, expect to leave full and happy.

The next spot not to be missed is Mandy’s Salads at the new Well. This restaurant chain from Montreal is truly an experience. They put as much love into their salads as they do the interior, it’s unlike anywhere I’ve been. A whimsical, tropical, traveller-style interior with merchandise and loads of healthy options on the menu.

Next up was House on Parliament restaurant in ‘Cabbagetown’ for brunch or lunch. Located in a Victorian house, you’ve got the option to dine on the street-side patio, inside with a pub feel or on the roof deck. The menu is filled with delicious options that are fresh and local. The staff were happy and fun, and they had a great selection of brunch cocktails or Mimosas.

I also checked out a local institution called F’Amelia Ristorante for dinner in the same area. A local favourite, most likely due to the comfort food, lovely staff and cozy atmosphere. And not far away, the quaint little bar called Super Bargain was the perfect spot for a post-dinner cocktail.

Aside from eating and drinking, I walked and walked. And it was great to experience the city on foot. Walking along King Street, checking out the Toronto sign, and even experiencing the craziness that is Bloor at Yonge near Eaton Centre.

Toronto has a great energy which is quite different from the West Coast city vibes, and although I explored only a few of the restaurants that were recommended to me by friends, this trip had just the right amount of adventures. I’ll go back to explore more in the near future.

That’s it for now Toronto, next stop… Hamilton!

Cheers, Donita