Toronto’s pedestrian-only Distillery District is one of the most recognizable destinations in the city. Hollywood Blockbusters and Oscar-winning films like Chicago and X-Men have used the district as part of their set. And it’s no surprise why: the cobblestone streets, Victorian Industrial buildings and bustling culture make the neighbourhood worthy of any big screen.
Once the home of a large whiskey distillery, the district now offers over 40 businesses ranging from small shops to bakeries and art galleries. But an afternoon spent wandering the streets of this entertainment neighbourhood wouldn’t be complete without a stop at one of the many delicious restaurants in the area. Check out these top spots to grab a bite when you find yourself in the Distillery District.
Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie
All the cute simplicity of a European diner can be found at Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie. With a lively bistro, quaint café and cozy patio, Cluny encompasses everything you’d expect to find in France. Though simple, the yellowfin tuna ceviche is a highlight on the seafood menu, and it looks fantastic too, with a lemon, basil, and chili, bergamont lemon marmalade. Following the French Onion Soup, and paired with one of Cluny’s over 200 bottles of wine, this dish is a seafood lover’s dream.
Madrina Bar and Tapas
From executive chef Ramon Simarro, Madrina brings authentic ingredients from Spain to Toronto. A minimalist interior is illuminated by low-hanging fixtures and light wood finishings. Madrina‘s features small and large tapas that pair perfectly with the cocktail menu of over 70 gins and imported wines, but one of the most talked about dishes is the steak tartar. This dish is topped with a Manchego cheese foam and deep soy pearls that offer a burst of flavour on the first bite. Not only pleasing on the tastebuds but on the eyes, this tartar comes served on top a roasted marrow bone, providing a mouth-watering photo-op.
Boku
Right near the iconic peace sign that stands tall at the heart of the Distillery District, you’ll find a stylish sushi restaurant serving up Japanese eats. On the signatures menu, guests will find the popular Katsu Curry Udon. This slightly spicy dish with fried katsu, Japanese curry, vegetables and soft noodles will keep you warm as you sit on Boku’s cobblestone patio. Also on the specials menu, pulled duck, sour cream and yakitori sauce gives a Japanese twist to a classic Canadian poutine.
El Catrin
Did you know you can find the country’s largest mezcal and tequila collection in the Distillery District? You can gaze at all of them from the bar at El Catrin. Though Mexican food is most recognizable as tacos and quesadillas, the Sunday Brunch is one thing you really don’t want to miss at this hotspot. The Huevos Rancheros is a saucy and hearty plateful of breakfast, including three eggs, salsa roja, tortillas, black bean puree, guacamole, and cotija. We won’t blame you if you want to pair your brunch with a margherita featuring one of El Catrin’s many tequilas.
Balzac’s
There’s a plethora of cafes in Toronto that serve up Balzac’s Coffee Roasters, but few offer what the space at the Distillery District café does—views of the bustling district from a transformed 1895 Pump House. Brick walls, a wooden staircase, a custom-made bar, and a grand chandelier complement the large Paris-inspired space, accentuating the historic and Victorian architecture of the building. Though located in such a historic building, Balzac’s represents the District’s reputation of combining history with modernity by supporting green practices. Balzac’s directly supports and donates to Toronto-based charities that engage in environmental and bird conservations. Stopping at Balzac’s for a coffee and a delicious pastry (or two) including decadent croissants, muffins and cookies while on a walk through the District, isn’t just good for you—it’s good for the planet!
 Mill Street Brew Pub
A trip to the Distillery District would not be complete without downing a pint at the Mill Street Brew Pub. Distillery District isn’t the only thing bustling with history, so does the beer. Mill Street’s original organic lager was the first organic lager to be brewed here in Ontario, and now there’s a lot more on the menu. And, while of course you could never go wrong with a classic lager or pilsner, Mill Street’s drink menu is stocked full of award-winning originals, like the Cobblestone Organic Stout, an Irish-style stout, and the tropically fruity Hazy IPA. The bar also has a robust food menu with pub classics like fish & chips, burgers and pizza reigning supreme.
