As the chill of winter blankets the cityscape, Toronto transforms once again into a culinary haven during its much-anticipated Winterlicious festival, and something I look forward to year after year. A gastronomic celebration that has become a staple in the city's cultural calendar, Winterlicious 2024 promises to be a feast for the senses, offering an array of delectable dishes, cozy atmospheres, and unforgettable dining experiences. This year I had the opportunity to indulge in a few new restaurants perfect for locals and tourists alike. You’ll find these featured restaurants situated conveniently inside luxury hotels within Toronto’s Entertainment District, restaurants that offer up jaw-dropping and unique views you won’t be able to get anywhere else in the city, or even find the best of both worlds! But first, here are a few reasons why I absolutely love Winterlicious!
Embracing Culinary Diversity: One of the hallmarks of Winterlicious is the city's diverse culinary landscape coming together to showcase the best of Toronto's food scene. From upscale bistros to cozy neighbourhood gems, participating restaurants curate special prix-fixe menus that allow diners to explore an assortment of culinary delights at affordable prices. Whether you're a fan of international cuisine or seeking a twist on classic comfort food, Winterlicious menus cater to every palate.
Ambiance Amidst the Winter Wonderland: Toronto's charm is only accentuated during Winterlicious, as participating restaurants embrace the season's magic. Picture warm, dimly lit interiors, tables alongside glorious views, creating an ambience that perfectly complements the city's frosty and cold landscape that we’ve all grown to love. From intimate date nights to lively gatherings with friends, each restaurant participating in Winterlicious brings its unique flair to the winter season.
Culinary Highlights and Trendy Hotspots: Winterlicious 2024 promises a myriad of culinary highlights and trendy hotspots for food enthusiasts to explore. Just alone in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District there are 40 unique restaurants to choose from. Highlights include innovative dishes crafted by world-renowned chefs, exclusive tasting menus, and opportunities to discover hidden gems tucked away in Toronto's culinary scene that you may not have discovered otherwise.
Now that I’ve whet your appetite, here are some of my favourite restaurants that you do not want to miss out on this year!
Reign
Nestled within the heart of the city and inside one of Toronto’s most iconic hotels - The Fairmont Royal York, Reign offers an exquisite culinary experience inside a distinguished dining room in the heart of the noble manor house. As you step into the warm and inviting ambience, you'll be greeted by a curated Winterlicious menu that showcases the culinary prowess of Reign’s Executive Chef Roland Ducharme. From the tantalizing Albacore Tuna Crisp to the savoury 6oz Flat Iron Steak, each dish is a celebration of flavors, sourced from local farmers, and meticulously crafted to elevate your winter dining adventure. Lunch - $55, Dinner - $75.
Bosk
Step inside Toronto’s luxury hotel, the Shangri-La, and head on over to their signature restaurant Bosk, one of Toronto's premier dining establishments. With a recent menu transition to Northern Italian cuisine, the menu is meticulously crafted to pay homage to the dedication of local Canadian farmers and purveyors. The Winterlicious menu at Bosk is a symphony of flavours, featuring delights such as my ultimate favourite, the Scallop Risotto and the indulgent Champagne Cheesecake. Each dish is a testament to Bosk's dedication to culinary excellence. Make sure you add in their wine pairings curated specifically for Winterlicious to really elevate your dining experience. Lunch - $48, Dinner - $65.
Sportsnet Grill
Who says sport fans can’t enjoy Winterlicious?! Sportsnet Grill is Toronto’s premium destination for sports fans tucked away inside the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel, and most remarkably offers up floor-to-ceiling views directly inside the Roger’s Centre! Once the full renovations are done, come back here and watch a Toronto Blue Jay’s game with the best seats possible! This restaurant offers up the thrill of sports and the delight of culinary excellence all into one as you can also watch your favourite sports team on their big-screen TVs mounted throughout the space. From the mouthwatering Southern Flavoured Beef Tacos to the hearty Duck a l’Orange, each dish caters to both sports enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike. Lunch - $34, Dinner - $45.
360 Restaurant
Elevate your winter dining experience to new heights at Toronto's 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower! I can confidently say that you will not be able to find a dining experience at this height anywhere else in the city. Perched above the clouds and cityscape, this iconic restaurant invites you to indulge in a spectacular culinary adventure in a setting truly like no other. Hopefully you can find a day to visit when the skies are clear and sunny because these panoramic views of the city are simply stunning. The Winterlicious menu at 360 offers a panoramic feast, featuring a hearty soup like the Mushroom and Herb Potage, and a delicious Foraged Mushroom Pappardelle that complements the breathtaking views. This is an iconic dining destination you do not want to miss out on, and when your meal is done, walk down the flight of stairs and jump on the glass floors (if you dare)! Lunch - $55, Dinner - $75.
District Restaurant & Bar
Experience the best of both worlds at District Restaurant & Bar, where clean eating meets dirty drinking. As an award-winning cocktail bar with an inclusive menu catering to both vegans and meat lovers, District offers a culinary journey that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients, and nourishing flavours. Whether you're in the mood for a detoxifying mocktail made with cold-pressed juices or craving the savoury delights of their Buffalo Cauliflower Bites and Honey Dijon Chicken, there's something for everyone. Plus, with the largest rooftop patio on King Street, District is the perfect spot to revisit when the temperatures rise. Lunch - $27, Dinner - $35.
For those looking to make the most of their Winterlicious experience, planning is key. Head on over to the official Winterlicious website to discover participating restaurants, peruse menus, and make reservations in advance. This will ensure a seamless and delightful journey for your 2024 Winterlicious experience. To me, Winterlicious is more than just an annual two week fling of prix-fixe menus. It's a celebration of Toronto’s culinary prowess and a testament to our vibrant winter spirit. As locals and visitors alike come together to savour the flavors of the season, Winterlicious becomes a communal experience that warms the soul and leaves lasting memories. So bundle up, embark on a culinary adventure, and let Toronto's Winterlicious be the highlight of your winter escapades in 2024.
Here are the rest of the participating restaurants located in Toronto’s Entertainment District!
Lee Restaurant - 497 Richmond St W (Asian, French, Fusion)
Little Sister - 102 Portland St (Dutch Indonesian fare)
Sara Restaurant - 98 Portland St (Canadian)
Vela - 90 Portland St (American)
Margo - 600 King St W (Mediterranean)
Dasha - 620 King St W (Asian)
Pink Sky - 480 King St W (American, Seafood)
Northern Maverick Brewing Co. - 115 Bathurst St (Brewpub, Comfort Food)
The Parlour Restaurant - 642 King St W (American, Italian)
Lapinou Bistro - 642 King St W (European, French)
Baro - 485 King St W (Latin American)
Cheffry’s Artisanal Bistro - 388 Richmond St W (Canadian Global)
Bar Chica - 75 Portland St (Spanish)
Paris Texas- 461 King St W (American, French)
Lavelle- 627 King St W (American, Brazilian, Comfort Food)
Orettta King - 480 King St W (Italian)
Miss Likklemore’s - 433 King St W (Caribbean, Jamaican)
Le Select Bistro- 432 Wellington St W (French)
Hibachi- 550 Wellington St W (Asian, Japanese)
Mother Tongue - 348 Adelaide St W (Asian, Filipino, Japanese, Korean)
Kost (Bisha Hotel) - 80 Blue Jays Way, 44th Floor (American)
King Street Social (Hyatt Regency Hotel) - 370 King St W (American, Canadian)
Petros82 - 299 Adelaide St W (Greek, Mediterranean)
Victor Restaurant (Le Germain Hotel) - 30 Mercer St (Canadian, European, French)
La Fenice Tuscan Chophouse - 329 King St W (Italian)
Fox on John - 106 John St. (British)
Luma - TIFF Bell Lightbox - 330 King St W (Canadian, International, Seafood)
District Restaurant & Bar - 303 King St W (Canadian)
Canteen - TIFF Bell Lightbox - 330 King St W (Continental, International)
Aanch Modernistic Indian Cuisine (Marriott Residence Inn) - 259 Wellington St W (Indian)
Hey Lucy Café - 295 King St W (Italian)
Milagro Cantina - 5 Mercer St (Mexican)
Minami Restaurant - 225 King St W (Asian, Japanese, Sushi)
TOCA (The Ritz-Carlton Hotel) - 181 Wellington St W (British, Canadian, Fusion)
EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace (The Ritz-Carlton Hotel) - 181 Wellington St W (British, Canadian, Fusion)
Azure Restaurant & Bar (Intercontinental Toronto Centre Hotel) - 225 Front St W (Canadian, Continental, European)