Discover Toronto through Sasha Mei’s eyes and explore her favourite spots and hidden gems across the city. From coffee shops and restaurants to shopping, art and local favourites, Sasha shares the places she keeps coming back to. Whether you’re planning a weekend in Toronto or looking for new places to discover, consider this your guide to experiencing the city like a local.

When it comes to coffee, quality comes first for Sasha. Library Coffee is one of her favourite coffee shops in Toronto. She loves enjoying a cappuccino at the café or picking up a bag of beans to make coffee at home.

“Most people will go places for the vibe, I go wherever the coffee is good.” — Sasha Mei

Nutbar is a Toronto cult classic. Sasha loves the Lemon Glow smoothie and açai bowl, and their breakfast bars have saved her more than once when she’s needed a quick, healthy snack.

Some of Sasha’s favourite places in Toronto are less about what to buy or eat and more about how she experiences the city.

The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of her favourite buildings in the city. Designed by Frank Gehry, it’s a place Sasha visits regardless of what’s on view, taking time to enjoy the natural light, quiet her mind and climb the spiral staircase to the top floor.

Then there’s Issues. It may technically be a shop, but Sasha considers it part of her lifestyle. With one of her favourite selections of print magazines in the city, it’s a place that reflects something she strongly believes in:

“Print = life.” — Sasha Mei

Around Avenue Road and Davenport Road, a collection of small flower shops has become part of Sasha’s weekly routine. She stops by at least once a week for beautiful seasonal flowers at a good price, and for the people who always brighten her day.

Sasha’s favourite places to shop in Toronto are all about pieces worth keeping. Pilgrim is her go-to for statement and staple jewelry, with rings holding a special place in her collection.

At River Crossing, the clothing selection is worth a look, but Sasha is especially drawn to the homeware. VSP Consignment is another favourite, with some of Sasha’s most treasured pieces coming from its consignment selection.

From neighbourhood comfort food to date-night favourites, these Toronto restaurants are the kind of places worth coming back to.

For date night, Bar Isabel is an easy choice. The tasting menu is a favourite, but a late-night visit for Basque cheesecake and an amaro is just as tempting.

Milou is a reliable favourite at any time of day, from breakfast through dinner. A midday stop for the cheese and honey is a favourite.

Le Swan is the ultimate comfort spot, where being a regular makes every visit feel a little like coming home. The order rarely changes: steak frites and a glass of whatever is on the featured fun pour.

“It’s nice to have a restaurant where you’re a regular and are welcomed as if you’re coming home.” — Sasha Mei

Sasha’s Toronto nights are a little more laid-back these days. Canary Counter is one of her current favourites for an evening out, especially for its selection. Bar Pompette is another favourite for its cocktails, consistently reliable martini and occasional live jazz.

The best way to experience Toronto? Make it your own. Save Sasha’s favourite Toronto spots, discover a few new ones and leave room for the unexpected along the way. While you’re out exploring, stop by Pilgrim Toronto for the finishing touches to your look.

Heading to Montréal next? Keep exploring with our Montréal City Guide.