Explore Toronto with Me! 🇨🇦
My Toronto Travel Diaries & Must-Do Things + My Top 5 Eats! 🍁✨
Toronto was such a vibe! From the iconic skyline to the bustling streets, I was living for every moment. If you're planning a trip to this beautiful city, here are a few things you cannot miss:
✨ CN Tower – Because you simply can’t say you’ve been to Toronto without taking in that skyline view! Bonus: SkyWalk for the adventurous! I did this my first trip in Toronto and it was scary but so worth it! 😆
✨ St. Lawrence Market – Foodie heaven! Fresh, local finds that beat out any market experience for me. I picked up so many delicious Greek pastries 😋
✨ Distillery District – Filled with cute boutiques and art galleries. Such a charming area to stroll through, and don’t even get me started on the photo ops!
✨ Toronto Islands – Take the ferry, pack a picnic, and just vibe out by the water.
Now, a quick note on Kensington Market. It used to be one of my favorite spots, but I was a little let down this time around. The vibe has really changed—lots of homelessness, and honestly, the area had a pretty strong smell when walking through. If you're on a tight schedule, I'd personally skip it and head to St. Lawrence Market instead! Way better experience for food and culture.
Okay, now for my fave part of any trip: THE FOOD! 🍽️ Here are my Top 5 Places to Eat in Toronto:
Pai – If you love Thai food, this is the place. Every bite felt like a flavor explosion.
Bar Isabel – Spanish vibes with small plates, perfect for sharing. The ambiance? Chefs kiss.😘
Dough Boys Pizza – Their pizza is delish, no matter your preferences.
Planta – Veggie lovers rejoice! Such creative, plant-based dishes that even non-vegans will drool over.👌🏽
The Burger’s Priest – Because sometimes you just need a good burger. No fuss, just yum. & yes! They have veggie burger options 😋
And how could I not mention… I finally tried Tim Hortons! 😍 Y’all, the hype is real! Their coffee and Timbits are an absolute must, especially when you need a quick pick-me-up while exploring the city. I also really did like their egg and cheese on an English muffin it did have a nice crisp to it too! (Please don’t judge) 🥲
Toronto, you were unforgettable. I can’t wait to go back and discover even more of your magic. ✈️✨ Have you been? What was your favorite thing to do or eat? Let me know in the comments below!
After soaking in Toronto's iconic sights and indulging in its incredible restaurant scene, I found myself constantly wondering, 'What more does this city offer for a true food lover like me?' That's when I discovered the magic of Toronto's culinary festivals. If you're a food enthusiast planning your trip, knowing when to visit can unlock an entirely new dimension of delicious experiences! Generally, the sweet spot for food festivals in Toronto stretches from late spring through early fall, roughly May to October. This is when the city truly comes alive with outdoor events, farmers' markets brimming with seasonal produce, and a packed calendar of gastronomic celebrations. However, Toronto offers year-round foodie opportunities, so there's always something to tantalize your taste buds! One of the biggest draws, though not a festival in the traditional sense, is Summerlicious (typically July) and Winterlicious (late January/early February). These city-wide culinary programs see hundreds of Toronto's top restaurants—including some I adore, like Bar Isabel—offering prix fixe lunch and dinner menus at fantastic prices. It's an unbeatable way to sample diverse cuisines, from fine dining to cozy bistros, without stretching your budget. Imagine finally trying that gourmet spot you've always eyed! For a more classic festival atmosphere, look out for events like Taste of Toronto, which, when active, usually takes place in the warmer months. These events gather a curated selection of the city's best eateries in one location, allowing you to graze and sample multiple dishes. It's a fantastic opportunity to discover new favorite chefs and restaurants, often accompanied by live music and culinary demonstrations. Toronto's diverse neighborhoods also host their own vibrant street festivals with significant food components. Think of the cultural celebrations in areas like Little Italy, Greektown, or even specific summer street food fairs. These are perfect for experiencing local flavors, trying authentic international street eats, and getting a real feel for Toronto's multicultural vibe. While my recent experience at Kensington Market wasn't ideal, it's still a hub for various community events, so it's always worth checking local listings. Beyond the large-scale events, you'll find a plethora of specialized festivals. Craft beer and cider festivals are popular in late summer and early fall, often held in engaging venues. There are also chocolate festivals, coffee festivals, and celebrations dedicated to specific cultural dishes. And don't forget how places like the St. Lawrence Market—my absolute favorite for fresh finds, remember those Greek pastries?—often align their seasonal offerings with these broader city-wide food trends, making every visit unique. You might even find local producers showcasing unique items like a delicious Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup! Even as the weather cools, the culinary scene doesn't hibernate. The Toronto Christmas Market in the historic Distillery District (which I loved for its charm) transforms into a winter wonderland with incredible food stalls offering everything from traditional European treats to local gourmet hot chocolates. It's a truly magical experience for the senses. My best advice for any food enthusiast visiting Toronto is to check the city's official tourism websites and local event calendars a few months before your trip. This way, you can perfectly time your visit to coincide with a festival that aligns with your culinary interests. Whether you're craving gourmet tasting menus, diverse street food, or unique local delicacies, Toronto's festival calendar has something delicious waiting for you!
