Visiting a city, whether for the first or fifth time, is always better when you’ve consulted a local for recommendations. We asked our Canada-based member agencies for their favorite spots in Toronto, from haute hotels and must-try restaurants to the chicest shops. If Toronto is on your to-do list, bookmark this blog as your guide to local-loved gems.
Where to Eat:
alobar Yorkville
Come here for an unforgettable evening whether you’re at a table or the bar. “The quality of the food as well as the impeccable service makes this restaurant truly exceptional,” says Maria Varvarikos, founder and president of ZOÏ Agency. “It's very well situated, in the heart of Yorkville, and perfect for dinner or drinks.” 
alobar Yorkville
Figo
Located in the Fashion District downtown, Figo serves up contemporary Italian dishes in a stylish and elegant setting.
La Palma
Located near the trendy Trinity Bellwoods area, the team at Chimera Collective comes here for the lasagna. 
La Palma
Bar Reyna
The go-to spot for delicious Mediterranean snacks and signature cocktails. Grab a seat in the back patio when it’s warm out.
Kiin
Kiin serves up some seriously beautiful dishes, almost too pretty to eat. The BICOM Communications team explains that, “Kiin showcases the regional diversity of traditions found all across Thailand, while incorporating the delicate qualities and rare art of Royal Thai cuisine--a culinary art form close to extinction.” 
Kiin
Bar Isabelle
This restaurant opened in 2013 with much fanfare, and for good reason. Five years later, the restaurant is as popular as ever thanks to its consistently good Spanish-influenced menu, craft beer selection and amazing cocktails.
Soso Food Club
Instagram-worthy décor, inspired by one of the owner’s upbringing in Hong Kong, is just one of the reasons to dine at Soso Food Club. Its sustainably sourced ingredients make up a delicious menu of mainland Chinese fare.
Where to Stay
The Broadview Hotel
BICOM recommends the storied Broadview Hotel. "This impressively-renovated heritage building (it first opened in 1891) offers rooms with free WiFi, smart TVs and record players, and there are three dining options, including the rooftop bar and restaurant, which features beautiful views of the city."
The Broadview Hotel
Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
You can always count on optimal customer service and supreme attention to detail at the Four Seasons.
Fairmont Royal York Hotel
This classic, old-school Fairmont hotel is located right by Union Station, which is super central. 
Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Where to Shop
6 by Gee Beauty
A Chimera favorite. Gee Beauty's lifestyle flagship store sells everything from Le Labo fragrances and fine jewelry to the new outfit you’ll be wearing to dinner at one of the aforementioned hot-spots.
WANT Apothecary
Maria Varvarikos lists this Rosedale boutique as a favorite, noting that “It carries a well curated selection of brands including the Canadian brands WANT Les Essentiels and Fleur du Mal, as well as other brands such as Acne, Aspesi, Byredo and many more. In addition to this boutique, there are many other stores to discover in the neighborhood.” 
WANT Apothecary
St. Lawrence Market
Get an authentic taste of Toronto at the St. Lawrence Market, which unites over 50 food specialty vendors and boasts a gallery on the second floor. BICOM’s pro tip: on Saturdays, enjoy the Farmers’ Market (a century old tradition)!
Honorable Mentions
Where to drink:
Soho House Toronto
Members will want to check out the House's cozy Toronto outpost. "Soho House is very different from most Toronto downtown restaurants and bars and is definitely a location to experience for pleasure or business," says Maria Varvarikos. "In the summertime be sure to grab a drink on the rooftop terrace! Also, make sure to check Soho House's programming as it's always very interesting to discover local talent." 
Soho House Toronto
Where to relax:
Hammam Spa in Toronto & Caudalie Boutique & Spa at Sherway Gardens
A spa day is the ultimate refresher when traveling. Reset at Hammam Spa or Caudalie Spa and take Toronto feeling refreshed. 
Hammam Spa
