TIFF season is almost here and it’s about to be one of the busiest few weeks in Toronto. If you hope to catch a movie and dine near the stars, these restaurants are where you need to be. We’ve compiled a list of popular restaurants and bars where Hollywood celebrities have been spotted in the past or are sure to be at, in Toronto.

In the past, some of the restaurants have been celebrity hot spots and it could easily be once again. From new, must-try spots to buzzworthy eateries, here are the best restaurants and bars in Toronto to wine and dine during TIFF.

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Adrak Yorkville

The Yorkville neighbourhood is a hot spot for celebs as many stay in its luxury hotels like the Four Season, Hazelton Hotel, and more. And since they’re in the area, they’ll definitely check out the fine dining offerings like Adrak Yorkville. Known for its tantalizing Indian cuisine, we’re sure a few celebs will want to know what all the hype is about.

Jessica Alba and Oscar Isaac have been spotted here in the past.

Where: 138 Avenue Rd

Bisha Hotel

Bisha is the place for a luxury hotel experience in Toronto’s Entertainment District, steps from TIFF Bell Lightbox.

High-end Japanese restaurant Akira Back at the Bisha Hotel is one of Toronto’s best restaurants, so it’s no surprise that Arnold Swartznegger himself dined there when he was in the city. What famous guests will stay at Bisha during TIFF? We can only guess!

Where: 80 Blue Jays Way

Black + Blue

Elevated, elegant, luxurious! Black + Blue, also known as Canada’s premier steak dining experience will surely capture celebs attention.

Where: 130 King St W

Casa Madera

A frequent celeb spot throughout any time of the year and most likely during TIFF is Casa Madera. It was created by Los Angeles-based hospitality and lifestyle company Noble 33, and serves Mexican coastal cuisine inspired by the elements of earth, air, fire, and water.

You can only describe it as a luxurious, contemporary, and eccentric dining destination that you must try.

Where: 550 Wellington St W

Daphne

If you’re in Toronto’s Financial District, stop by Daphne for a delicious meal and cocktail. And who knows, maybe you’ll come across a celebrity on your night out.

Where: 67 Richmond St W

EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace

This hidden oasis within the 5-star downtown hotel The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is a celebrity favourite during TIFF.

Not only will there be A-List inspired activations in honour of the annual event but also delicious offerings at EPOCH Bar + Kitchen Terrace. While you’re there, check out TOCA, and the soon-to-launch LANO.

Where: EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace, Lobby Level of The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

KISSA

The same team behind Soluna brought this Japanese-inspired lounge to life and it is a must-try spot during TIFF. It’s an intimate yet luxurious spot which is sure to be a hot spot for celebs this year.

Where: 619 King Street West

Laylak Lebanese Cuisine

Known for its tantalizing Lebanese Cuisine, Laylak is one of the best restos to check out during TIFF. But don’t just take our word for it, The Hollywood Reporter shared this gem on its must-try list last year.

Where: 25 Toronto St

Louix Louis

Made for royalty, or at least the star treatment! Not only do you have to stop by Louix Louis for its exquisite thirteen-layer chocolate cake but you should swing by for some celeb sighting too.

Where: 325 Bay St

Mademoiselle Raw Bar + Grill

King St is home to the bold and elegant dining destination that is Mademoiselle. It’s so great that it has already earned its spot as Toronto’s top venue for dining and cocktails.

On top of that, this spot was designed with TIFF in mind as it was inspired by venues surrounding Theatre de La Licorne in Cannes.

Where: 563 King St W

Margo

Located right on one of Toronto’s busiest intersections and with reason. Margo will definitely be one of the best spots to hang out during TIFF weekend.

Sit by the bar, sip on an exquisite cocktail and treat yourself to some delicious cuisine.

Where: 600 King St. West – Clio, fourth floor

Minami

Situated right across from TIFF | Bell Lightbox and Festival Tower, Minami Toronto is ideal in terms of proximity to the red carpet. And in honour of the annual film event, Minami will have special menu items during TIFF. We’re talking entree specials, an exquisite cocktail and more.

Where: 225 King St W Suite 100

Mott 32 Toronto

Toronto’s newest addition, Mott 32 offers an intimate yet elegant dining experience that any celeb would want to take part in. It has won several prestigious awards due to its renowned approach to traditional Chinese cuisine and dining experience.

Where: 190 University Ave

Nobu Toronto

Nobu is one of the most renowned hospitality brands in the world and it finally opened in Toronto. Founded by Chef Nobu Matsuhis, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper back in 1994, Nobu is a beloved spot among the masses, especially those looking for an evening of fine dining.

As for celebs, there’s no doubt you’ll see one here!

Where: 25 Mercer St

ONE Restaurant at Hazleton Hotel

The tree-lined wraparound patio of this trendy restaurant offers a front-row view of Yorkville, making it the perfect place to celeb-spot and people-watch. The sumptuous bar and lavish dining area are also worth visiting — if you’re prepared to treat yourself, that is.

Where: 116 Yorkville Ave

Parc Ave

This Yorkville luxury cocktail bar is sure to be a hot spot when celebrities come to town for TIFF.

Given its location in the famously star-studded neighbourhood, the intimate ambience, and the “mesmerizing” cocktail menu, we wouldn’t be surprised to see an A-lister or two here during the festival.

Where: 265 Davenport Road, 2nd Floor

Pink Sky

Popular seafood spot on King Street, Pink Sky is sure to be a fan favourite this year. Or more like celeb favourite, if you catch our drift.

Where: 480 King St W

Shangri-La Lobby Lounge and Bar

Enjoy the luxurious surroundings, exquisite cocktail menu and live entertainment during TIFF season right at the Shangri-La Toronto.

Where: Shangri-La Toronto, 188 University Ave

Soluna

With its Tulum-esque vibes and chill environment, Soluna has definitely attracted an exciting crowd. Celebs like Jennifer Lawrence, Zac Efron, Daniel Craig and many more, stopped by Soluna so we’re sure more will return.

Where: 312 Queen St W

Sotto Sotto

Most might recognize Sotto Sotto as being one of Drake’s favourite Toronto restaurants but he’s far from the only star to frequent this upscale trattoria.

Given its popularity among celebs, there’s a good chance that it’ll have some famous visitors during TIFF.

Where: 120 Avenue Rd

The Chase

You’ll find this gem on the fifth floor of the Dineen Building. The Chase is the perfect escape from the busy downtown core so you may spot a few celebs here and there.

The unparalleled views of downtown Toronto with a refined, seafood-led menu aren’t too shabby either.

Where: 10 Temperance St Fl 5

Writers Room Bar

Of course, we can’t forget about Writers Room Bar. The beloved establishment is a must if you’re in search of a cocktail experience that’ll blow you away. That and for spotting a celebrity as well.

Where: Park Hyatt Toronto – 4 Avenue Rd, rooftop

Oh, and here’s a little map to help visualize your celeb journey:

Karen Doradea

Karen Doradea

Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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