As you might have seen via last week’s post, I’ve partnered with Tourism Toronto on a fun 2-part series showcasing two of my favourite areas in the city. Actually getting the chance to soak up neighborhoods and round up all the spots I frequent in them has been such a blast! For the recap, first up on my list was Queen West (you can read that post here). This time around it only made sense to do the next area I spend the most time in – King West.

King West is one of Toronto’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, most notably housing TIFF Bell Lightbox and David Pecaut Square (a.k.a the former World Mastercard Fashion Week home base), not to mention tons of high-end restaurants and the city’s hottest clubs and lounges. There’s a lot going on in the city at any given time…but there’s ALWAYS something happening on King West.

This neighbourhood has given itself a branding makeover in the last decade and is now the one-stop-shop for entertainment in Toronto. This area alone is reason enough to check out Toronto and is a definite stop for anyone that comes here – families can catch a show at the Royal Alexandria Theatre, and groups of girls/guys looking to party can do just that. Both types of visitor can take their pick of any of the incredible dining choices. The energy and vibe on King West is unlike anywhere I’ve ever been in the world! You could spend a week getaway here and still not even make a dent in all the hotspots – here are some of my favourite ones in the area:

Thompson Rooftop – Offering what is hands-down one of the best views of the Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario in town, this luxe retreat in the heart of King West pretty much IS the heart of King West. By night, the illuminated pool and skyline offer a vibe that is unmatched for enjoying creative cocktails far above the fray of downtown Toronto. The breathtaking 360° view of the city can be enjoyed year-round – inside the cozy, glass-walled rooftop bar in winter, or while taking a dip in the infinity pool in the warmer months.

 Colette – This Parisian-style bakery café/bar/lounge has an upscale dining room and lush wrap-around terrace decorated with foliage, topiaries and shaded valances. Their Sunday brunch is an over-the-top decadent experience, but the interior is reason enough to visit (not to mention their insane cheese soufflé!).

Portland Variety – A charming resto-cafe with chalkboards & marble counters that morphs into a dinner & tapas bar as the day unfolds. Their chocolate chip cookies are the best I’ve ever had, no exaggeration.

In conclusion, I just want to say that this has been such a FUN project to work on!! It’s human nature, but sometimes we take things for granted (including where you live)…getting the chance to really think about Toronto and everything it had to offer made me feel super happy and especially grateful. I’m lucky to be able to live in such a progressive, exciting city – but one of the great things about Toronto is that it’s so close and accessible to most people, especially our South-of-the-border friends. So next time you’re thinking of a getaway destination, come on over to the 6 😉

Canada’s largest city and most-visited destination, Toronto is Canada’s downtown. Toronto blends the best of modern Canadian diversity and inclusiveness with big-ticket events, top attractions, restaurants, music, architecture, culture and festivals in one of the world’s most unique and exciting cities.

This post was brought to you by Tourism Toronto via Mode Media Canada. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Tourism Toronto.