Home to the largest collection of luxury brands in Canada, Yorkdale is a global shopping destination for locals and visitors alike.
Yorkdale has always been synonymous with luxury. It’s where I’d go whenever I wanted to make an important purchase, like my first designer handbag, and the diamond ring that I gifted myself after graduating from law school.
Over the years, I’ve excitedly watched as more international brands have set up shop, like Loewe, Anine Bing, Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware, Jo Malone London, and Diptyque, to name a few.
Yorkdale has evolved into much more than just a shopping centre—it’s become a global shopping destination where I can access exclusive brands. And as a foodie, I’ll even find myself visiting specifically for the restaurants at Yorkdale, like Aburi TORA and RH Courtyard Restaurant.
Yorkdale has everything I am looking for under one roof. From the largest collection of luxury brands to exclusive experiences and elevated dining, this shopping centre has become my go-to shopping destination.
Here’s how I’d spend my perfect day at Yorkdale.
How to get to Yorkdale
The TTC subway ride to Yorkdale is fast and hassle-free, and for that reason, it’s my preferred mode of transportation. From Union Station, it’s only 25 minutes.
You can also get there by GO Transit from all around the city and surrounding area. If visiting by car, there is ample parking, as well as designated rideshare pick-up and drop-off locations. Or if you want to feel like a VIP, valet is available.
Things to do at Yorkdale Shopping Centre
Coffee at % Arabica
Coffee first. Always. % Arabica is a rapidly expanding coffee chain originating from Japan that opened their first brick and mortar location in Canada at Yorkdale.
They have a huge following worldwide and are known for their clean and minimal aesthetic and bespoke coffees made using custom espresso machines.
Try the Kyoto Latte or Spanish Latte which are made with condensed milk for a little bit of sweetness.
Afternoon tea at Ladurée
My suggestion is to head here earlier in the day. Ladurée opens daily at 10 a.m. and sitting down for afternoon tea is like a little slice of Paris.
While the tearoom is beautifully appointed with hues of pink and mint green, the desserts are the main attraction. Known for their indulgent selection of macarons and other dainty confections, like madeleines and financiers, you'll be spoiled for choice and want them all!
Luxury shopping
Yorkdale offers the country’s largest collection of designer labels and luxury brands all under one roof, so the sky really is the limit! Whether you’re in the market for a new handbag or some designer shoes, you’ll find everything you’re looking for here including an elevated in-store shopping experience.
At Jimmy Choo, the Aurelie 65 pumps immediately catch my eye. It’s been a while since I’ve purchased designer heels. (Note: a new Yorkdale location is slated to open in fall 2024.)
For the Chanel and Prada sunglasses I’ve been admiring online, I head into the new Sunglass Hut, where I can see how they fit and try on some brand-new styles too.
Alo is great for activewear, and the Yorkdale location has a huge selection of styles in various colours and sizes.
For my elevated staples, Ralph Lauren’s pieces are timeless and high quality. And for my outerwear, I can rely on Canada Goose for their all-season collection.
Lunch at the RH Courtyard Restaurant
The RH Courtyard Restaurant is like a beautiful oasis and one of my favourite restaurants inside Yorkdale. Although its location makes it seem like a hidden gem, it’s abuzz even at lunch on a Wednesday.
Stop to admire the airy interior accented with crystal chandeliers and greenery before delving into the menu. Must-order dishes are the lobster roll, truffle fries, grilled shrimp, gem lettuce salad, and of course, the burger.
Curated Experiences
I wander into Jo Malone London, as the scents emanating from the store are captivating. I’m greeted by a sales associate who offers a personalized experience where I can find my scent.
I gravitate towards the English Pear fragrances before settling on a bottle to purchase that is engraved with my initials free of charge.
At Kiehl’s, I try the complimentary Derma-Reader Skin Analysis which helps to identify skin concerns. The sales associate then walks me through the products most suitable for my skin.
Dinner at Aburi TORA
By now, I’ve clocked over 10K steps and have a hankering for torch-pressed sushi. Aburi TORA is my go-to.
It’s one of the only places where you can have your sushi arrive on a conveyor belt and they serve some of the best aburi in the city.
Their signature aburi oshi set is a must and their collaboration menu with Chef Ryusuke Nakagawa (from MICHELIN-starred sister restaurant, Aburi Hana) features a fantastic tuna tataki salad and wagyu truffle sukiyaki.
Sweet ending at The Cheesecake Factory
Last, I duck into The Cheesecake Factory (the first and only location in Canada) for one of their iconic cheesecake slices. I get it to-go so I can later indulge at home over a day well-spent at Yorkdale.