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Welcome back to Cassandra’s Canadian Travel Guide, where I share the best places to stay, sip and savour across our beautiful country. Toronto is one of those cities that surprises you — a place where world-class dining, diverse neighbourhoods and historic pockets of charm meet modern, big-city energy.
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Most think of Toronto for its skyline or sports teams, but for me, it’s the quieter corners that stay with me. And no matter how many times I visit, I always find myself back in the Distillery Historic District. With cobblestone lanes, brick buildings and cafés, shops and restaurants, it feels like a little European village tucked into downtown — the perfect starting point for your Toronto itinerary.
 

Nestled in the Distillery District, Cluny is a French-inspired bistro with one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the city. I sat down with Executive Chef Taylor McMeekin, who was gracious and genuinely excited about the menu he’s created at Cluny. His philosophy centres on French technique, responsibly sourced seafood and the best of Ontario’s growing season. He shared, “The menu leans into a French influence, especially with our fish and seafood. We want everything to feel light, fresh and joyful.” Cluny is part of The Distillery Restaurants Corp., with nearly everything made in-house, including a Wine Spectator–recognised list of close to 200 bottles.
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We started with the French onion soup, which may be the best I’ve had: deeply caramelized onions and that glorious cheese pull with every spoonful. The tuna & tomato was rich yet fresh. But the plate that stole my heart was the Cod En Bleu, a twist on the chicken classic: breaded cod wrapped in smoked ham and Gruyère with bright green peas. Pure bliss.
What makes Cluny special is the care behind everything, from sourcing to service. Our server Anil went above and beyond — the kind of warm hospitality that turns a meal into a memory. Say oui to Cluny, a must-visit when in Toronto.
A short walk from Cluny brings you to El Catrin Destileria, another standout from The Distillery Restaurants Corp. What I love about this restaurant group is how beautifully each space is designed. A spectacular wall hand-painted by Oscar Flores sets the energy. Even in colder months, the patio stays busy with outdoor heaters.
We ordered guacamole and margaritas — and I’m still thinking about them. During our meal, Stuart Kempston, Director of Operations, joined us and shared how the avocados are sourced directly from Mexico and how every margarita is shaken by hand. They also carry the largest tequila and mezcal selection in Canada, which explains why margaritas stand out here.
 
Executive Chef José Matamoros brings a modern Mexican style rooted in fresh ingredients and bold flavours. Whether you’re settling in for the tasting menu or stopping for salsa and chips on the patio, it’s a Toronto favourite for good reason.
 
If you’re visiting Toronto in November or December, the Distillery Winter Village is something you’ll want to plan your trip around. It’s the largest Christmas market in Canada, welcoming over one million visitors each season. Twinkling lights, a towering Christmas tree and the smell of something delicious around every corner. With 40+ food vendors and nine outdoor bars, there’s something for everyone. A new highlight this year is Chef’s Lane — four chefs and four exclusive holiday dishes created by Chef Claudio Aprile, Chef Nuit Regular, Chef Bruno Feldeisen and Chef Eric Chong. A celebration of Canadian culinary talent.
 
Cassandra’s Tip: Make a day of the Winter Village — snack, shop, stay for dinner and enjoy the lights after dark. Don’t leave without a Dubai Hot Chocolate from Demetres and a box of Craig’s Cookies for the hotel.

Outside the holidays, the Distillery District is beautiful year-round, filled with restaurants, cafés, boutiques and galleries that make it one of Toronto’s most charming neighbourhoods.
 
 
Don Alfonso 1890 Toronto is one of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants — the first North American location of Michelin-star Chefs Alfonso and Ernesto Iaccarino, bringing their Amalfi Coast legacy to Canada. Internationally recognised, it was named the #1 Italian restaurant outside Italy in the 2022 50 Top Italy awards and holds a Best of Excellence Award from Wine Spectator. Sommelier Christopher chose a perfect bottle for us, and as I always say, trust your sommelier, they won’t steer you wrong.
 
Set on the top floor of The Westin Harbour Castle, the dining room offers skyline views. Our server, Luca, was so kind — he even took us behind the scenes to meet the kitchen team and poured us a glass of limoncello. My favourite dish from the à la carte menu was the cannelloni. Luca, born and raised in Italy, told me it’s made just the way his Nonna would prepare it on Sundays. And if I see Manitoba bison on a menu, it’s always an order. The Il Bisonte, with organic Manitoba bison tenderloin, wild Ontario mushrooms and Italian black truffle, was one of the most tender cuts I’ve ever had.
 
Cassandra’s Tip: Two more Toronto spots to add to your dining list. For dinner with a view, head to Canoe atop the TD Bank Tower. The skyline alone is worth the reservation. Start with the Talking Heads, a clarified mezcal cocktail with eucalyptus that’s silky smooth. For something more relaxed, Scaddabush is a great downtown Italian spot where the Margherita pizza cut with oversized scissors is a must. And if he’s working, ask for Paul at the bar because he makes one of my favourite margaritas in the city.
  
For downtown stays with views, Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto is an excellent choice — modern rooms within walking distance to the waterfront. If you’re celebrating something special, The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, with views of Lake Ontario and the CN Tower, offers an elevated experience with beautiful rooms and a spa that feels like a retreat after a day in the city.
Both hotels put you near Toronto’s most iconic stops: Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the largest indoor aquarium in the country, the CN Tower, and Rogers Centre or Scotiabank Arena for a game or concert.
Toronto reminds me how lucky we are to have cities like this in our backyard — where historic charm, culinary ambition and warm hospitality come together. You can’t cover this city in one weekend, and it leaves you full — not just from food but from moments that stay with you.
 Where should I head next for Cassandra’s Canadian Travel Guide? Connect with me on Instagram @cookwithcassandraI love to hear from you. Cheers, Toronto — until next time!
Cassandra Morris, Food & Lifestyle Columnist for the Winnipeg Sun, spotlights the city’s best restaurants, shares trusted recipes and cooking tips, and celebrates local businesses through Cassandra’s Local Edit.
 
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