Running around trying to catch the rush lines for flicks, spotting celebs in awkward poses for Instagram, and party hopping takes its toll on both one’s feeling of satiation and one’s pocket book. Luckily, we’ve a few great spots for you to get your nosh on during the TIFF 2013 festivities, ranging from those for the absolute baller to the budget-conscious savvy soul…
Ballin’ Bites
Cafe Boulud – There’s no doubt that the Four Seasons Toronto’s flagship eatery, the divine Cafe Boulud, will see star power throughout the fest. (Heck, a ton of the celebs and industry titans will be staying in the floors above.) Head here for a taste of sophistication and class throughout TIFF 2013.
ONE at the Hazelton Hotel – While likely not as strong a draw as it was in years past, ONE Restaurant at the Hazelton Hotel is still a classy culinary complex throughout the festival.
Michael’s on Simcoe – Closer to TIFF’s home-base, Michael’s on Simcoe is a sexy steak spot perfect for pre-gala screening eats.
LUMA – It’s in TIFF Bell Lightbox. Need we say more?
Victor Lounge – It’s bright and airy yet sultry and sophisticated. Plus, it’s inside the uber-cool Hotel le Germain. Last year we caught Jason Bateman enjoying a few sips at a cocktail party there…
Estiatorio VOLOS – We’ve heard some of the stars that are akin to Grecian Gods love to head over to VOLOS for their refined fare. Best part? It’s equal distance from the Yonge Street theatre screenings and TIFF central.
Mid-range Meals
Weslodge – A couple blocks away from TIFF Bell Lightbox, styled like a saloon… it’s almost like a movie set, really. Oh… and it’s beside another hotspot that’s actually hosting some real star power…
Patria – A couple after parties and cast dinners will happen here, and its proximity to the festival’s core is noteworthy as well.
Pizza Rustica – Laugh not, as this pizza joint has hosted celebs ranging from Shannon Elizabeth to Sarah McLachlan. Also, it’s across the street from the Soho Met, and the best pie near the theatres.
The Oxley – Across from ONE at the Hazelton, The Oxley has a great front patio for people watching and star sightings any day of the week. The odds are just better for that quick celeb glimpse during TIFF.
Gusto 101 – No way in hell Gusto will go unnoticed by the cooler, hipper, trendier stars during the fest… whether or not their names are well-known.
Big Daddy’s Bourbon Street Bistro and Oyster Bar – Fancy some bivalves between your flicks? Head on over to Big Daddy’s, just two blocks east of TIFF Bell Lightbox and right across the street from Roy Thomson Hall.
Dishes on a Dime
CANTEEN – It’s at Festival Tower. It’s O&B so you know at the bare minimum you won’t be disappointed. It’s a good spot for lighter-fare for the film-after-film festival-goer.
Belly Buster Subs – A block away from TIFF central. Cheap subs. Real meat. Can’t complain ’bout that!
Momofuku Noodle Bar – The ramen’s pricier than the other joints in town, but you don’t have time to run to Dundas West while waiting at a red carpet hoping for an autograph. Plus, with the cold seeping in, a bowl of hot n’ happy is just what the doctor (aka us) ordered.
Khao San Road – If you’ve got three hours to kill between showings, hit up KSR for some of the best Thai food in the city. (Besides, by day three, you’ll be used to waiting in line.)
Hooters – Wings and cheap beer. What?! Don’t make that face…
