5 THINGS: A Travel Guide to Toronto

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In “5 Things,” I’ll ask some of my favorite bloggers in cities all over the country to share insider travel tips on where to eat, shop, stay, and play in their neighborhoods (plus, what to pack to make the adventure complete). This week, Jacquelyn Clark of Lark & Linen takes us on a tour of Toronto.

5 Things: Toronto
Jacquelyn Clark of Lark & Linen

Though I’ve done my fair share of traveling to some pretty amazing places, I can’t imagine calling any city other than Toronto home. I was born and raised here, so I can attest to the fact that there is always something interesting going on—we’ve been blessed with a rich history, beautiful multi-culturalism, and all the bells and whistles to boot. Whether you’re looking for authentic Thai food (served in a coconut!) or the fanciest French restaurant you can imagine, we’ve got most every culinary base covered. And with a bustling art culture and world class shopping, you’re left with little to want. (I mean, a better transit system would be nice—#damnyouTTC—but you can’t always have it all.)

EAT:

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Me & Mine, 1144 College Street, (416) 535-5858
Kitten and the Bear, 1574 Queen Street W, (647) 926-9711
Buca, 604 King Street, (416) 865-1600
Nadège, 780 Queen Street W, (416) 368-2009
Bang Bang Ice Cream, 93 Ossington Avenue, (647) 348-1900
Bake Shoppe, 859 College Street, (416) 916-2253

My new favorite brunch in the city is Me & Mine. It’s slightly off the beaten path, but literally everything on the menu is drool-worthy. Also, Kitten and the Bear is the most adorable little shop in the West End, serving homemade scones and unique jams alongside steaming pots of tea. It’s teeny-tiny, with only two tables, so be sure to get there early!

Other favorites: Buca, a great spot on King Street West, where you’re sure to find fabulous Italian food (I dream about the tiramisu); Nadège, which makes the best almond croissant in the city; Bang Bang for ice cream sandwiches; and Bake Shoppe for classic, all-natural treats. You can’t go wrong!

SHOP:

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Scout, 405 Roncesvalles Avenue, (416) 546-6922

Queen Street West is ever-changing and dotted with both tried-and-true favorites (think: Zara and H&M) and more unique, mom-and-pop type shops. The Distillery District, on the other hand, is a pedestrian-only historical neighborhood brimming with delicious coffee ready to be enjoyed on a host of great patios. Word to the wise, though: skip the restaurants. They’re overpriced for the quality.

A couple of my personal favorites for unique home goods and cute accents: Brika and Scout.

STAY:
The Gladstone, 1214 Queen Street W, (416) 531-4635
Windsor Arms, 18 Saint Thomas Street, (416) 971-9666

The Gladstone is a beautiful boutique hotel. It’s located in a great neighborhood in the West End of the city, and each room is designed by a different artist. I also love the Windsor Arms, which is centrally-located and filled to the brim with history. It’s opulent, lush, and all sorts of lovely.

PLAY:

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Bellwoods Brewery, 124 Ossington Avenue, (416) 535-4586

Bellwoods Brewery has an amazing patio, which is perfect for people-watching in the summer. I’d also recommend spending a day meandering the streets of Kensington Market. Or, rent a bike, hop on the ferry, and tour the Toronto Islands!

PACK:

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Comfortable shoes, like these Kendall & Kylie Espadrille Flats, $49.95

Toronto is a fairly large city with tons of little neighborhoods to explore. Unfortunately, our transit system isn’t the best—so prepare for lots of walking!

Thank you so much, Jacquelyn! I’ve never been to Toronto—I’d love to come visit. (Thank you to Shoko Wanger for her help with this series.)

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