There’s something about the atmosphere of a hotel bar or restaurant that is distinctly different from standalone dining options. Between the abundance of travelers checking in and out and the keen attention to service and detail from the bartenders, chefs, and waiters, a meal at a hotel restaurant is akin to taking a trip without leaving your city—and Toronto is certainly a city with a whole lot to offer in that department.
Whether you’re looking to check into a hotel with great dining options at arm’s length or you’re simply looking for a cozy new date night spot, here are some of the best luxury hotel restaurants in Toronto.
TOCA
Nestled into the upper mezzanine of the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, this high-end Italian restaurant and watering hole is both sumptuous and sophisticated—without the pretension. The Italian trattoria-inspired menu boasts beyond decadent delights: think risotto with B.C. harvested mushrooms and scallops; Milanese veal cutlet with arugula; and grilled whole lobster with fresh spaghetti.
Louix Louis
Louix Louis is one of the most trendy hotel restaurants in Toronto—and for good reason. The high-end bar and restaurant sits 31 storeys above the city below and as such is the ideal spot for watching the sunset from the sky. Expect to find everything from rare champagne and wagyu beef to classic burger and fries—and don’t skip the 13-layer chocolate King’s Cake.
The Library Bar
The recently reopened Library Bar is tucked into the Fairmont Royal York—and is a must-visit for anyone looking to relive the days of sumptuous speakeasies and cocktail dens. The downtown institution is mostly known for its tableside martinis and classic cocktails—but its lunch and dinner menus are very much worth exploring as well.
EPOCH
Located just beyond the lobby of the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace aims to re-imagine old classics—from retro cocktails to elevated pub fare—in new and exciting ways. Chef Jeff Crump was inspired by the British gastropub movement in the 90s and as such has created a winning menu that ranges from the Billionaire Sheppard’s Pie to the Cold Water Shrimp Cocktail. We suggest washing it all down with a Nitro Martini—a classic gin or vodka martini that’s not shaken or stirred but rather chilled with liquid nitrogen and prepared tableside.
Shangri-La Lobby Lounge
The Shangri-La Lobby Lounge is the kind of spot that’ll eat up your entire afternoon or evening without even realizing it—especially after a glass or two of Veuve Clicquot. The sumptuous lounge is packed with comfy sofas and lounge chairs, all perfectly positioned around a central fireplace and grand piano. Think of it like settling into dinner on the couch in your fancy friend’s living room. Menu highlights include the likes of ad Thai and elevated club sandwiches. The lounge also serves a decadent afternoon tea on weekends.
Cafe Boulud
Inspired by Chef Daniel Boulud’s childhood in Lyon, Cafe Boulud in the Four Seasons Toronto is the ideal spot if you’re looking for classic French fare in a brasserie-style setting. The menu changes seasonally but you can expect tried-and-true French dishes like steak tartare and croque monsieur to appear regularly.
