Whether you have a team of 10 or a team of 100, everyone needs to celebrate the holidays in some form. Smaller teams are easier (and cheaper) to accommodate, but the bigger teams are more complicated mainly because it’s a run-to-the-finish line when it comes to booking for the festive season. Too many companies have their “go-tos” and forget how many options Toronto has to offer. We have come up with our top eight spaces that can accommodate anywhere from 20 people to 200.
The Citizen
The Citizen is a fantastic space that can accommodate both smaller and larger parties. A perfect destination to host your holiday party, the sophisticated ‘sports-bar meets farmhouse’ is 5,000 square feet offering guests a warm and inviting restaurant & bar space, providing a feel that includes vintage sports paraphernalia and leather couches. Retractable screens quickly descend from the ceiling to divide the space, allowing for private functions and full buyouts.
The Addisons Residence
The new house on the block, this innovative 80’s style “residence” is complete with a game room, kitchen, dining room and living room. Looking for a cool space that will have your team participating in some friendly competition while also enjoying delicious food (from the Food Dudes) and creative cocktails? The Addisons won’t disappoint.
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Montecito
Sprawling over two floors with three sections that can be privatized, the food and vibe at this Ivan Reitman and Chef Jonathan Waxman is both sophisticated and comfortable. Located on Adelaide between Peter and John, this eatery hosts private events regularly so you have nothing to worry about when it comes to exceptional service and food. Just book, show up and enjoy!
Gusto 101
Everyone knows Gusto – it’s well known for its $1/ounce wine, ever popular kale salad and vibrant vibe. Bu did you know that you can also rent out the rooftop space? Yes, you can. With a beautiful glass rooftop, imagine your holiday party under the stars – even in Canada.
Bar Reyna
New this year to Yorkville, Bar Reyna makes for a cozy and intimate holiday venue – the upper level of what used to be a 2-storey Victorian house is perfect for private parties. If your party is larger, their winterized back patio is perfect for groups between 40 and 50 people. Their secret winter garden in addition to their unique Mediterranean menu, which features bite-size eats and shareable plates, and the fancy list of lavish cocktails will put anyone in a festive mood!
iYellow Wine Tasting Room
Opened in November 2013, this basement wine cave is full of rustic charm and can accommodate up to 30 people seated and 50 people cocktail-style. Located near the Shangri-La, it has a back alleyway entrance, giving it a very exclusive New York-style cache. Inside, you will find cozy couches, a bar, cool art on the walls, and wine barrels used as high-top tables. Looking for somewhere cool to host your party? Check this place out. You won’t go unnoticed.
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Chill Ice House
OK, so we get that nobody wants to go from cold to colder, BUT this place is downright cool. And guess what: It’s not ALL cold. Most don’t realize that the ice lounge is only half of this venue, with the other half being a very cool speakeasy. So why not get creative this holiday season and freak your team out? Start them off in the Chill Ice House and, once they’re freezing their tushies off, surprise them by leading them through the back door to the secret speakeasy!
Stratus Restaurant
If you’re looking to throw a party on a grand scale, then Stratus Restaurant is the place. On the 36th floor of the TD South Tower, Stratus offers stunning views of Toronto and can host up to 200 people. The menu offers delicious Canadian cuisine with a mix of old and new flavors… the stellar cityscape won’t be the only thing wowing your guests.
Archeo
Located in the historic Distillery District, Archeo feels like an urban loft apartment. Exposed brick walls, high ceilings with beams, and wooden tables decorate the venue. Although, if you have your own vision in mind, they’ll scrap their decor and let you design the space (fees apply). Plated meals are suitable for 118 people, while cocktail-style parties can host 150 people.
Church Aperitivo Bar
Like the name implies, Church Aperitivo bar is located in what used to be a Slavic Pentecostal Parish on downtown Toronto’s Queen St. West. While the building is old, the decor is modern with subtle hints of the historical roots. Along with fine Italian cuisine, Church Aperitivo also has an extensive wine list and bottle service. The venue is ideal for 100 seated guests but has enough standing room to accommodate 180.
Hopgoods Foodliner
If you’re looking to throw a party on a smaller scale, Hopgoods Foodliner is home to one of the city’s hidden gems: The Oyster Shack. The space, which is equipped with a vintage turntable and record collection, is intimate and accommodates 12 seated or 18 standing. Party throwers have the option to custom tailor their events to include anything from caviar service to punchbowl cocktails to lobster luges.
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RELATED LINK: The Best Restaurants to Celebrate Your Birthday
Where will you be hosting your Christmas party this year? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.