Depending on your location, September 8, 2016 marks the start of two major cultural events (or both if you fancy yourself a jet-setter). In New York, fashion week kicks off while TIFF revs up in Toronto. For the film-lovers visiting Toronto, we’ve put together a mini city guide, highlighting the eats and treats, situated only steps away from the festival.
Café: Little Nicky’s Coffee
A neighbourhood favourite, this hole-in-the-wall espresso joint serves up chia pudding parfaits, croissants, and mini-donuts so fresh they’re made only after you order them.
Breakfast: Portland Variety
Serving brunch daily, Portland Variety is a special downtown spot for the early rising breakfast eaters (you know who you are).
Lunch: Pokito
This new lunch joint serves up Hawaiian poke by the bowl and burrito. Fresh salmon and tuna are yours to customize and the assembly line format of the restaurant ensures you’ll be sufficiently suffonsified in no time.
Tapas: Patria
When 5 o’clock hits and you need a pre-dinner snack, head over to Patria. Specializing in traditional Spanish tapas, this King West staple will have you fighting over the last bite.
Dinner: Gusto 101
There is no shortage of eateries in the city’s entertainment district, but travel seven minutes west, and you’ll find an unbeatable Italian haunt. From artisan cocktails to renowned Mafalde ai Funghi pasta, this Portland hotspot is not to be missed.
Dessert: Sweet Jesus
Fulfill your guiltiest pleasures with the most outrageous dessert in the downtown core. Prepare to wait in line for Sweet Jesus’ complex frozen treats.
Late Night Munchies: Thompson Diner
Cravings happen to the best of us so it’s a good thing the Thompson Diner specializes in midnight snackery. Open 24 hours a day, you’re never too late (or too early) when you arrive.