Tanya Taylor Shares Her Toronto Travel Guide
Tanya Taylor may currently reside in New York City, especially considering her newly opened flagship store on the Upper East Side, but the designer’s hometown of Toronto still holds a special place in her heart. Known for her colorful prints and flattering silhouettes that range from sizes 0 through 22, she’s not afraid to make a sartorial statement or get creative (she hand-paints the designs herself). That particular brand of artistry is achieved through her surroundings. Just in time for the Toronto International Film Festival, check out Taylor’s favorite places to go and where to eat, shop, and sleep when she’s in the Canadian City.
TRAVEL
o Walk — People say New York is a walking city, but I think Toronto is just as amazing. I walk everywhere, from Summerhill to Yorkville, from the market to a business lunch.
o Bike — Cycling is a pretty popular way of getting around. Bike Share Toronto is our bike sharing service and there are dedicated cycling lanes to use.
o Fly — The fastest way to get anywhere, including Canada.
STAY
o Four Seasons Hotel Toronto —You can never go wrong with a Four Seasons property, and Toronto is no different. When I’m in need of a relaxing stay away from home, I’ll book a stay here to enjoy the wonderful pool and spa.
o Ace Hotel Toronto — The Toronto-based architecture company Shim-Sutcliffe Architects designed Canada’s first Ace Hotel that is conveniently located next to three really interesting neighborhoods: Queen Street West and Chinatown to the north and northwest, and the King West to the south. I love how inviting the hotel feels, with elevated common spaces that encourage guests and visitors to linger, and artwork primarily from Canadian artists.
o The Drake Hotel — I love spaces that support and honor the community. Located in a former heritage building, the Drake is another hotel with a retro, cool, and fun vibe that celebrates the local surroundings by featuring boundary-pushing contemporary artists through exhibitions on its property. Stop by for a cocktail even if you aren’t staying the night.
EAT
o Terroni — Nothing is more comforting than a bowl of pasta, and Terroni is one of my go-to spots when I’m home. Come here for sophisticated, authentic Italian dishes with a trendy vibe.
o Prime Seafood Palace — Everyone raves about Prime Seafood Palace for classic steaks and seafood dishes. It’s old-school goodness, but instead of the dark interiors of classic steakhouses, you’re invited into a modern, airy space featuring a maple ceiling and oak flooring for warmth.
o Bang Bang Ice Cream & Bakery — Go for the kids. Stay for the adult flavors that change daily (London Fog Earl Gray, Burnt Toffee, Rose-Lychee, etc.).
SHOP
o TNT — This past summer, we hosted a fun pop-up and party with TNT, the family-run concept store that has been around for over 30 years and carries the coolest selection of international and Canadian brands. I’m so excited and proud that our fall collection is available there.
o Formula Fig — My favorite one-stop shop for all my beauty needs. There are cool facials and wellness treatments, and brands like Sangre de Fruta, Vintner’s Daughter, OKOKO Cosmetiques, and Odacité, in a calming jade green-colored space.
o The Lobby — A cool concept/community store meets art gallery started by a real estate company. They sell T-Line shirts and other cool home products.
EXPERIENCE
o Art Gallery of Toronto — Home to over 120,000 works of art, Art Gallery of Toronto is one of the largest museums in North America, with works that range from contemporary to classic masterpieces. Whenever I’m in town, I always make the trip. Its existing building was redesigned by the star architect Frank Gehry.
o Bata Shoe Museum — We have the coolest little shoe museum that traces 4,500 years of shoe history, from native footwear to Manolos.
o Parterre Flowers — I love to pop in and grab a few stems of whatever is in season.
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