Looking to spot some of the world’s most fabulous people during TIFF? Then these hotspots need to be on your list. From luxurious restaurants in Yorkville to the city’s best hotel bars, we’ve got the top joints for you to catch a glimpse of your favourite celeb during Toronto’s biggest festival!
Montecito
Newly opened, Montecito is the perfect place to stalk a few celebs and socialites alike. A collaboration between Hollywood royalty/director Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters) and Master Chef Jonathan Waxman, Montecito just might find Bill Murray wining and dining at the restaurant. Plus, being so close to TIFF Bell Lightbox, it’s only fitting that a few after-premiere dinners may take place at this new restaurant.
Victor Restaurant & Bar
Located at 30 Mercer Street, Victor Restaurant & Bar is only steps away from the hub of TIFF on King West. Whether you’re catching a potential Oscar-nominated flick at TIFF Bell Lightbox, The Princess Of Wales Theatre, or even Roy Thomson Hall, be sure to head on over to Victor for nibbles and libations with a few film buffs like yourself. Plus, they’ve got some fine dishes… Blackened Blue Goose Organic Trout, anyone…?
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The Shore Club
Another hotspot for the rich and famous is none other than Toronto’s famed Ritz-Carlton! However, Hollywood’s elite may find the Ritz to be an obvious choice and may feel the need to venture somewhere different, but just as classy. And because we know all celebrities are divas, The Shore Club – only one and half steps away from the Ritz and two steps from Roy Thomson Hall – may just house a few pre-flick dinners. If you’re planning on checking out The Shore Club during the festival, there’s potential to be dining in the same room with Robert Downey Jr., who is rumoured to be in attendance for the premiere of his film, The Judge, at the Roy Thomson Hall.
dBar
Celebs love the Four Seasons Toronto like a fat kid loves cake. Apparently the beautiful penthouse suites at the Four Seasons Toronto have hosted a few scandalous TIFF after-parties! Hang around d|bar and you just might find yourself befriending a few hot actors and actresses (rumour has it Al Pacino sipped on a few cocktails here). While you’re there, don’t forget to indulge in their signature Queen B cocktail. With only 80 calories, it’s the perfect choice for those on that TIFF diet.
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Cafe Boulud
Still hanging around the Four Seasons? (Don’t pretend like you’re not!) Four Seasons Toronto is keeping their celebrity guests this year hush-hush, but we can be sure that you’ll be able to satisfy your craving for fine French cuisine (hello, Seared Foie Gras) and that craving to feast your eyes on hottie patotties James Franco and Channing Tatum.
One Restaurant
If it’s good enough for the one percent of Toronto, it sure as hell is good enough for Hollywood’s leading actors and actresses. In the heart of Yorkville (read: luxury), the Hazelton Hotel’s One Restaurant will surely be buzzing with famous people. Hang around the area and you’ll definitely be able to spot the rich and famous.
The Roof Lounge at the Park Hyatt Toronto
The Park Hyatt, though not in the heart of all the TIFF buzz, is still a great spot to get your people-watching on. This Avenue Road rooftop patio is the perfect spot to kick back and take a break from all the Festival rush. Sit back, enjoy the view and drink the (rest) of the night away. With their late night menu, you just might find a few celebs looking to get in a couple bites after their after-parties! If you do find yourself seated next to Jennifer Aniston or Channing Tatum, recommend the Hyatt’s signature Mango Fizz for extra brownie points!
Firkin On Yonge
Only a true TIFF fan will know that King West isn’t the only spot to people-watch during the festival. Jake Gyllenhaal’s Nightcrawler will be premiering at the Visa Screening Room in the Elgin Theatre on September 5th, and instead of trying push through a crowd to get in on the action, seat yourself near the front window at the Firkin on Yonge so you can enjoy all the red carpet hoopla while you throw back a few beers!
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O&B Canteen
If you’re looking to situate yourself right at the heart of all the TIFF action, the O&B Canteen is your go-to hotspot. Located at ground level in TIFF Bell Lightbox, your celeb sightings will definitely sky rocket. Get there early for brunch on their street-side patio and watch all the TIFF happenings unfold before your eyes.
Starbucks
Yes, Starbucks! This coffee shop is perfect for those who’ve got Us Weekly and People Magazine bookmarked on their laptop. The Starbucks at King and Peter just might be the ultimate joint for paparazzi-wannabees. It’s best for catching celebs who are premiering their films at the TIFF Bell Lightbox – get your camera ready and keep your eyes on hawk mode!
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Where will you be people-watching at TIFF this year? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.
