The El Camino Travel Guide to Toronto
Written by Katherine Harrison
Northwest of New York, tucked on the shore of Lake Ontario, lies Toronto, the capital of the province of Ontario. While Canada is a sprawling country, comprising ten provinces and three territories, Toronto is the largest city in its domain. This metropolis is not all concrete, though, known as “The City of Trees” for its large parks, walking trails, and green spaces all over the city. Walk along the waterfront to enjoy a view of the iconic city skyline and the famous CN Tower, one of the largest free-standing structures in the world. Toronto is surrounded by great city escapes, like the nearby islands, easily accessible by ferry, and countless swimming holes and hikes within a short drive.
As a major destination for immigrants, with more than 50 percent of residents belonging to an immigrant population group, Toronto is culturally rich and can’t be pinned down—it is bursting with life, contributing to its inspired cuisine, arts, and shopping. We tapped past and present Toronto-area residents, Heather Funk, Julia Flood, Sogol Lohi , and Emily Plug and sourced recommendations from The ECT Clubhouse to provide a glimpse into this underrated city.
Stay
Stay at The Broadview in the East End. This luxury hotel was first built in 1891 when the neighborhood was young and bustling. As the neighborhood has changed over the years, so has the hotel’s ownership and name. Purchased most recently in 2014, the new ownership is focused on preserving the historic look and feel, while cultivating a lively spot that contributes to the quality of the neighborhood. Don’t miss their rooftop bar, which features a stunning, 360-degree view of the city skyline.
Also included in the guide:
A hidden gem with sunlit apartment-style suites that are spacious with a focus on minimalism
A renovated Victorian home that features mid-century modern designs and curated, chic decor
Source: Dreyfus
Drink
“Make sure you don’t miss Bar Raval for tapas, cocktails, and atmosphere,” says ECT Clubhouse member Sogol L, located near the corner of Bathurst and College. Transport yourself to Barcelona in this Spanish pintxos bar, featuring Gaudi-esque wood panels. Sogol mentions that you will find “mostly standing room and bar stools,” in this warm, social scene. Order one of their house cocktails, like the raval martini, with olive oil washed beefeater, dry vermouth, balsam fir liqueur, strega, and orange tincture.
Also included in the guide:
An incredible, year-round rooftop patio and New Zealand-inspired pub
A laid-back, cozy bar with muraled walls, serving Haitian grub and rum cocktails
Join the ECT Clubhouse—our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide. Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.
Source: The Broadview Hotel
Eat
Gastronomes, look no further than the intimate “French-ish” restaurant, Dreyfus, in Harbord Village. Nestled in a Victorian brick row house, this cozy and cool eatery serves classic French cuisine made from local products and natural wines. They boast an ever-changing menu based on what is fresh from Ontarian farms and Canadian fisheries. Recently, the veal, confit egg yolk, spinach and Louis d’Or (a mouthwatering cheese) received a great reception. Be sure to make a reservation for this foodie-favorite.
Also included in the guide:
A family-owned restaurant that has brought original tastes of the Caribbean with Indian influences to Toronto
An authentic Turkish spot that is thoughtfully designed to transport each person to the streets and culture of Istanbul
Source: Bar Raval