DK Travel : Toronto

Torontonians are justifiably proud of their vibrant and exciting metropolis. Canada’s largest city and its financial hub, Toronto has a tremendous amount to offer, including a thriving theater, music, and arts scene, top museums, world-class restaurants and shops, a beautiful lakeside location with lovely beaches, and streets safe and inviting to walk in. Its cultural diversity – over 90 ethnic groups are represented in Toronto – enhances the urban experience.

Spring Rolls

South Asian delights for those on a budget: the Vietnamese pho (noodle soup), Thai curries, and stir-fries are excellent value.
Sprockets Toronto

The best in contemporary and classic children’s film is presented in this satellite of the Toronto International Film Festival. Features and shorts are geared to ages 3 to 18. Workshops offer kids a behind-the-scene glimpse of moviemaking.
St. Jacobs and Elora

Arts and crafts, antiques, and gift shops set in 19th-century buildings; bakeries; and cozy restaurants abound in these historic villages. St. Jacobs’ two markets have hundreds of flea-market and produce stalls – including those offering the area’s specialty, maple syrup, sold by local Mennonites. For more on this sweet treat, visit the Maple Syrup Museum at 1441 King St N, St. Jacobs. A 15-mile (24-km) drive northeast is Elora, on the bank of the Grand River and stunning Elora Gorge.

Maple syrup stand, St. Jacobs Market
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts

This venerable Toronto venue presents theater, dance, and music, along with lectures on subjects of topical interest, in its two intimate spaces. The Canadian Stage Theatre Company is based in the larger Bluma Appel Theatre, while Jane Mallet Theatre features recitals and performances by groups such as the Toronto Operetta Theatre Company.
St. Lawrence Hall

Just north of the market, at Jarvis and King streets, is this magnificent Victorian building, a carved stone and cast-iron gem. Built in 1850 for grand public gatherings, it is now used for private functions.
St. Lawrence Market

Farmers sell fresh produce and baked goods from seasonal stalls in the north market on Saturdays, with many specializing in organic food. In the vibrant south market, open Tuesday to Saturday, permanent vendors sell everything from fresh bread and produce to seafood, meats, and cheeses. The south building served as City Hall in the mid-to late 1800s (see St. Lawrence Market).
St. Lawrence Market

Considered by gastronomes around the globe as one of the world’s best markets, a visit here is reason enough for food lovers to travel to Toronto. A huge selection of meat, fish, cheese, and produce, as well as handcrafted gifts, make for a one-of-a-kind experience. Vendors pushing food samples and buskers add to the dynamic atmosphere; frequent special events and festivals liven things up even more. When you can’t carry another thing, visit the free parcel check on the west side of the lower level, outside (see St. Lawrence Market).
St. Michael’s Majors

Ontario Hockey League team.
Starfish

This low-key, sophisticated restaurant specializes in fish and seafood, particularly oysters – almost 20 varieties of them, with fresh French oysters on Thursdays. Preparations such as lobster bisque give a nod to Gallic cooking, with its classically complex flavors. Save room for dessert, all of which are excellent. The reasonably priced wine list is mainly French (see Starfish).
Starfish

Seafood is given graceful, luscious treatment here. Outstanding oysters.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $30
- $30–$50
- $50–$80
- $80–$110
- over $110