Optimize your time in one of the city’s most dynamic neighbourhoods for food, cocktails, entertainment and shopping. 

Ditch the commute and take a winter workcation in Toronto’s Financial District, where you can eat, work, play, sleep and repeat—or extend your workday into the wee hours.

While it’s chockablock with architectural wonders, including the Toronto-Dominion Centre (designed by mid-century design hero Mies van der Rohe), there’s much more to see and experience.

Luxury hotels, Insta-worthy restos and must-see events will warm up your soul in the middle of winter’s chill. 

Dig into a working lunch

Fuel up with bites that delight after a morning packed with meetings. When you’re hankering for a quick and nutritious eat, try Kupfert & Kim

Tucked inside the neighbourhood’s underground PATH mall. Plant-based bowls and burgers will power you up for an afternoon of brainstorming. 

Head over to Sud Forno with your colleagues for a lunch sesh that will spark fresh ideas. Owned and operated by the Terroni Group, Toronto’s fave southern Italian food purveyors, their pasta, pizza and salads will keep conversations, breakthroughs and good vibes flowing. 

Or up your game with a power lunch 

If you’re after high marks to close a deal or land a partnership, book a table with a rooftop view of the Financial District at The Chase.

It comes with all the swish of an impressive wine list selected by a top sommelier, plus a menu that embraces seafood offerings like Dungeness carb, east coast scallops and maritime lobster. 

At Harriet’s, a top-floor resto and bar at 1 Hotel Toronto, you’ll score luxe surroundings with an equally impressive view. Their menu is peppered with upmarket comfort food—including Sticky Pork Ribs and Chicken Katsu Sando.

Unwind with after-work drinks

The Walrus Pub & Beer Hall is a chic social hub that pairs umami snacks with creative house cocktails in an inviting, airy space designed for making connections.

Branded a “wild and whimsical” gastropub, The Rabbit Hole is a player wooing the area’s suited and booted clientele. A British-inspired menu and laid-back vibe bring pub culture to life while spoiling discerning palates. Order a vesper martini and snack on clams & spicy sausage before your evening kicks into high gear. 

Take a seat

The city’s sports leagues are always buzzing. The Raptors and the Maple Leafs are playing in Scotiabank Arena

Suppose you prefer to be swept away with soaring voices, must-see costumes and theatrical staging. In that case, see what’s showing at the Canadian Opera Company.

At Meridian Hall, classical music fans will delight hearing the Cabaret Series. Or, if you are looking for a show with the kiddos, PAW Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite” is sure to be an exciting show. 

Make reservations for a late-night supper

There’s nothing like relaxing over a gorgeous meal after a full day of work and play.

If you’re hungry for sparkling city views, lush decor and impeccable menus, make a reso at Canoe, where contemporary Canadian cuisine has been served in plush surroundings for over 25 years on the 54th floor of a TD skyscraper. 

On the 36th floor of yet another TD building, you can leisurely dine at Stratus, where you’ll get a full view of the CN Tower lit up in the distance while indulging in seasonal delights and comforting flavours. 

Although located right in the core, these two restaurants will whisk you away, far from the hustle and bustle, with their flawless service and exquisite fine dining. 

Shop in the PATH 

Think of the PATH as an indoor underground city that’s always warm and pedestrian-friendly!

Located beneath the Financial District’s towers, its shop- and restaurant-filled corridors stretch some 30 km (19 miles) in climate-controlled, slush-free comfort. In theory, you could walk from Union Station to the CF Toronto Eaton Centre without putting on your coat.

The Running Room is a go-to for 5K enthusiasts and marathon runners. It’s the perfect place to stock up on clothes, gear and shoes. 

Give a boost to your wardrobe at Judith & Charles. The Montreal-based company has a dedicated female following for its boardroom style inspired by bespoke menswear, executed in softer and easy-to-wear shapes. 

There are plenty of places to grab gourmet nibbles for your trip home, too. Saks Food Hall by Pusateri’s brings an outpost of upmarket Toronto grocer Pusateri’s to the popular department store. Grab a jar of Toronto-made Bee Local Honey or Ontario-roasted beans from Balzac’s Coffee Roasters. 

Finally, take the PATH to Union Station to score the city’s fave Japanese cheesecakes and cheese tarts from Uncle Tetsu Express.

Also see: Financial District Neighbourhood
 

Getting to the Financial District

Take the Line 1 Yonge-University subway to King, Union or St. Andrew station.