V+P recently returned from our annual trek to visit our Canadian neighbors in Toronto, and brought back tales of natural disasters, military invasions and G-20 protesters. Yes, all three happened in the three short days we were there to meet with the Canadian journalists that we work with year-round.
Arriving just before the start of the G-20 Summit was quite the thrill. Everyone we spoke with was buzzing with news and rumors about what the highly politicized conference would bring to the city. Security was at an all-time high, with police in full riot gear guarding the fenced-off areas in downtown Toronto, where the meetings were set to take place. It was odd to see such a lovely part of town resemble a warzone. Unlike the NYPD, who are usually wiling to humor tourists and pose for pictures, these military forces did not take kindly to my request for a photo.
Behind police lines and just outside of Canoe.
Regardless of the military/police presence and news reports of protesters turning violent (a gas station was briefly held hostage), the fantastic meetings and dining in Toronto made the trip worthwhile. We practically rolled out of town after feasting on some of the city’s top noshes.
Among our favorites:
One Restaurant at the Hazelton Hotel – with a fantastic outdoor patio in the quaint and trendy Yorkville neighborhood, One hits the mark with its food selection too.
(Design note: Yabu Pushelberg designed this hotel and restaurant, which is not only rich and contemporary, but also has unbelievable service).
The outdoor patio at One, where the city's power brokers (and V+P) dine.
Canoe – Perched on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, Canoe boasts amazing views of the downtown Toronto (and the aforementioned temporary military fortress). But beyond its sights, the Oliver & Bonacini-owned restaurant offers fine Canadian dining at its best.
(Design note: We’re big fans of Yabu Pushelberg. They also designed this hot spot.)
The view fromCanoe
Mildred’s Temple Bar— our friends at Style at Home recommended this sleek spot in the recently revitalized Liberty Village neighborhood. A perfect spot for small plates and lunches, we dined on a true smorgasbord of delicious offerings including a popular Canadian treat – Gnocchi poutine, which was out-of-this-world. Almost as fantastic as the food, the bathrooms in this place are a little adventure of their own, complete with the travel instructions for Air Canada and the London Tube. All Aboard!
A bathroom menu?
As we finished our last lunchtime meeting, loosened our belts and headed to the airport, we learned that we were just part of a natural disaster too! A rare 5.0 earthquake shook Toronto, but apparently the V+P crew was too full or tired to even notice. Now that’s what I call a true send off, Eh?
Until next year….
