Annika's 24 Hours In Toronto
Every Torontonian knows that the day revolves around food and strolling around the city. Another thing Toronto is definitely known for is being multicultural, so you can eat or drink anything from everywhere in the world in one day!
There is no better way to start the day than with a beautiful and curated brunch! Here are my faves!
GORGEOUS is the only way to describe this beautifully Parisian inspired bistro. Come on a Saturday and you better come early! Come on the Sunday for their gourmet buffet and you best make a reso! The spread includes made-to-order crepes and omelettes, fresh seafood, and, of course, their famous macarons! Also included in your spread is unlimited rich coffee and fresh squeezed juice! Don’t plan on rushing out; you will want to savour the indulgence!
Photo: Fernweh Society
Souk Tabule is the new kid on the block in Toronto; it's that cool, new, mysterious kid that every girl wants to date and every guy wants to hang out with. . . I digress . . . but it does not disappoint! Souk Tabule is from a line-up of Lebanese and Middle Eastern inspired restaurants in Toronto. The menu is full of spices and aromas, some items include the Lebanese coffee (I had two in a sitting!) and the sharing platter, full of baba ganoush, lebneh and muhamara, of course with a generous serving of warmed pita bread. Take time to enjoy the Beirut-inspired design and test your skills with the menu.
Photo: Fernweh Society
This gem is small, and you can easily miss it on a stroll in Toronto east. Saturday Dinette is on the corner and very modest, with only a few tables inside. IT IS WORTH THE WAIT! Get a small marble table by one of the two windows if you plan of photo-documenting your delicious meals. Enjoy Shakshuka (veg/vegan/pork options) or test out the ‘Shrooms on toast. These are only two of many drool-worthy selections. Have a tea, coffee and EPIC milkshake to wash down the yummies!
Photo: Fernweh Society
After a full on brunch as a Torontonian myself, I’d recommend taking a stroll in one of Toronto’s beautiful neighborhoods; my recos include . . .
Waterfront: You will see a lake the size of an ocean; if you need a nibble stop at The Slip in the afternoon for a patio rest.
Chinatown: Toronto’s Chinatown is a BUSY place, especially in the warmer months. Pick up some goodies for later at one of the many Asian supermarkets or bakeries.
Kensington Market: Kensington feels like you have been transported to a different country with small vendors and hipster boutiques. Try and visit on the last Sunday of the month when the streets are closed down for foot traffic only, as this will show the true vibes of the market.
Bloor - Yorkville: If you’re feeling fancy, walk along Bloor street between Yonge and University; you will pass by the likes of Gucci, Prada, Hermes, and D&G to name a few. Window-shop or spoil yourself #YOLO.
After all the walking, it may or may not be time for another coffee, am I right? Don’t worry delicious teas are also available!
If you went to Saturday Dinette, you might as well stick around for a drink at Hailed Coffee. This cute little find is white tiled, bright windowed, and perfect for Instagramable coffee and teas. I would definitely recommend their croissants and matcha lattes! Sit in the light and absorb some vit. D while you sip a matcha.
Photo: Fernweh Society
There are two Rooster Coffee locations in the city so you might have one near YOU! I fell in love with the steeped chai latte, but you cannot go wrong with the classic cappuccino; don’t forget to take a snap of the HELLOGOODBYE tiles at the front door!
Photo: Fernweh Society
In the heart of the financial district, full of busy bodies in suits, you will find Dineen. I love the visual texture in this café; everything from the displayed roasted coffee to the rust red coloured tiles on the floor. Have a simple café cortado on the patio of Dineen; it is the PERFECT spot to people watch or eavesdrop on a business deal . . . not that I have every done that ;)
Photo: Fernweh Society
Take the rest of the day to relax, have a nap in the hotel to prepare yourself for an evening cocktail or another evening escapade to one of Toronto’s hole-in-the-wall bistros. I myself will go fix a cocktail now.
Happy Travels
OXOX Annika
About Annika:
Annika Friesen is a lifestyle blogger from Toronto, Canada. The blog Fernweh Society specializes in travel, career, fashion and girlbossin’. You may find her running around Toronto cell phone in hand and jacked up on espressos or sneaking off to the airport for a jet setting adventure. Annika lives with her other half Dustin and their frenchie Karlsson. Follow her on Instagram @fernwehsociety
