Toronto: Curated City Guide

So Toronto definitely moved up serval notches in my "favorite cities to explore" book. With Marco spending half the week there for work, it gave us a great excuse to spend the weekend and check out what all the buzz is about. The city is full of culture, restaurants, boutiques and wonderful (read: super friendly) people. If you can weather the cold temps, I'm sure you'll enjoy it too! Here's just a few of our favorites for the weekend. 

FOOD & DRINK:

Miss Things: This was our first bar stop before dinner on Friday. It's the epitome of the tiki-bar done right. With concoctions (I had Jasper's Rum Punch, amazing!) served up in real coconuts to brass pineapples, you'll think you've been transported back to Hawaii in the 60's.

Bar Raval: I absolutely love this place! Set in the charming Little Italy neighborhood, this tapas-style bar mixes some serious cocktails. Make sure to try the croquettes and admire the stunning wood-carved bar - crafted with a stylish nod to the Spanish master, Gaudi, himself.

The Black Hoof & Cocktail Bar: The most charming, delicous resturant and cocktail bar (set across the street from one another). This definitely topped Marco's list and it may have been the cochinita pibil tacos that sealed the deal. Make sure to try the pistachio hummus with chicken livers, it is out of this world and cap off the night with a drink in the cozy setting across the street.  Note - they don't take reservations so be prepared to wait a bit on the weekends. 

The Good Son: This is comfort food to the max, set in a cozy setting that feels like you're back in your eclectic, childhood home. Set on the popular Queen St West, this is the newest restaurant from Vittorio Colacitti (of Top Chef Canada fame).

Khao San Road: Best place to get your Thai food fix, seriously, we went there twice in 3 days. Everything is great and the service is fast, don't be too intimated by the long line out the door - they turn tables quickly. 

L'Ouvrier: This trendy, spark space serves up a hearty brunch. With options ranging from a beef burger with a brioche bun to a healthy yogurt/granola parfait - it pleases all appetites. I especially loved the pops of neon pink accented across the space. 

 SHOP:

Park & Province: The perfect boutique to snag trendy fares from a curated selection of men's designers. Our favorites included Penfield jackets (definitely left with one of these), the Todd Snyder + Champion sweats, and the woodsy candles from Sydney Hale. 

Type Books: The most charming book store imaginable, I literally could spend hours here. Everything from the staff's picks to the adorable children's section in the back, will make you fall in love with this quaint store.  

Brika: Don't miss this curated pop-up featuring top picks from artists and etsy favs. The painted Wind and Willow wood serving spoons and baby bandana bibs were among my top pics. 

Club Monaco: Set amidst the bevy of designer shops on Bloor St, this brand flagship is a must see. The modern decor, outdoor market/coffee shop, and seemingly unending rooms of merchandise is a sight to be seen (and shopped). 

SEE:

Graffiti Alley: Set in the fashion district, this long stretch of back alley (over a half of a mile) is a sight to be seen. The walls are covered with bright, street art murals full of energy and diverse subject matter.

Nuit Blanche: One night a year the downtown is transformed to house contemporary art projects all across the city. I hear it is amazing, sad to say we missed it and oped to stay out of the rain instead. I guess that means we'll have to catch it next year!