Dylan YoungWith its towering skyscrapers, it’s easy to forget that Toronto is an old city. But old and rich in history it is, and one neighbourhood that reminds me of this fact is the Distillery District.
The Distillery District was home to the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, a popular distillery that shipped spirits all across Canada and the world in the 1800s. It made the neighbourhood a thriving industrial hub, attracting all sorts of visitors.
Over time, the district has lost its industrial grasp, but it still has its legacy and charm. Many of the heritage buildings still stand, but now they’re accompanied by modern restaurants and boutique shops, attracting even more tourists.
The Distillery District is undoubtedly one of my favourite places to visit in Toronto—even as a local—and I always recommend it to newcomers. If you’re interested, here’s a guide to help you out.
- Where is the Distillery District in Toronto?
- What is the main street of the Distillery District?
- How to Get Here
- What to Do
- Watch an immersive themed show at the Illuminarium
- Watch a play or musical at the Soulpepper Theatre
- Watch even more plays and musicals at the Young Center
- Enjoy the music of talented buskers
- Join the Spirits of the Distillery District Ghost Tour
- See amazing artwork at the Arta Gallery
- Appreciate contemporary art at the Thompson Landry Gallery
- Where to Eat
- Where to Shop
- FAQ
Where is the Distillery District in Toronto?
The Distillery District is located east of downtown Toronto and west of West Don Lands. Additionally, it’s bordered by Parliament Street to the west, Cherry Street to the east, and the Gardiner Expressway to the south.
What is the main street of the Distillery District?
The main street of the Distillery District is Distillery Lane, which takes you from one side of the neighbourhood to the other. You can spot a good number of heritage buildings along this street, so it’s perfect for sightseeing.
Trinity Street and Tank House Lanes are also major streets because they’re where most of the shops and restaurants are located.
How to Get Here
By Subway and Bus: Take the Bloor Line to the Castle Frank Station. From there, ride Bus 65A Parliament. Alight at Front Street East, and then walk south to Mill Street.
By King Streetcar: Ride the 504 King East Streetcar and disembark at the Distillery Loop. Make your way across Cherry Street at the Mill Street intersection, and walk toward Tank House Lane or Distillery Lane.
By Car: There are many public parking lots all around the neighbourhood. The best one, in my opinion, is Green P #230, which is an above-ground parking lot located along Distillery Lane. Another great parking spot is Green P #267; it’s also on Distillery Lane, but it’s underground instead.
What to Do
Watch an immersive themed show at the Illuminarium
– From: illuminariumtor
Address: 28 Distillery Lane
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Friday—12 pm to 7 pm
- Saturday and Sunday—11 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +12899984441
For me, Illuminarium is a cross between an art museum and a VR experience, and if that sounds like your cup of tea, then you have to visit it ASAP! This venue uses a combination of visual, audio, and projection technology to give you an immersive experience like no other.
The experiences hosted here change every now and then, so you never know what to expect. I’ve experienced going down the rabbit hole to Wonderland, wandering around the colourful land of Oz, and even journeying past vibrant nebulae in our galaxy!
Watch a play or musical at the Soulpepper Theatre
– From: soulpeppertheatre
Address: 50 Tank House Lane
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday—1 pm to 8 pm
- Sunday—1 pm to 5 pm
Contact Number: +14168668666
If you’re a theatre enthusiast, then here’s a piece of good news for you: the Distillery District has the Soulpepper Theatre, and it always has a play or musical for you to watch!
Admittedly, I’m pretty basic when it comes to theatre (I just know the popular ones like Hamilton and Les Miserables), but I’ve enjoyed the shows I watched here. One highlight for me is the play adaptation of Kim’s Convenience, a beloved Canadian sitcom.
To be fair, I already enjoyed the sitcom, so there’s a bit of bias there, but I genuinely think that the performances were great and the writing was sharp and witty.
Watch even more plays and musicals at the Young Center
– From: youngcentreto
Address: 50 Tank House Lane
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday—1 pm to 7 pm
Contact Number: +14168668666
Another place you need to stop by if you love theatre is the Young Center. This center is the brainchild of George Brown College and Soulpepper Theatre Company, so expect to find high-quality productions here.
I love that this theatre center features classic plays directed by up-and-coming directors. I just watched Romeo and Juliet, and though I’ve read this play and seen multiple adaptations of it already, this production still feels fresh to me.
The actors gave so much personality and energy to the characters that I momentarily forgot I already knew where the story was going.
Enjoy the music of talented buskers
– From: distilleryto
The Distillery District isn’t just home to heritage buildings, modern restaurants, and charming boutique shops. It’s also a breeding ground for talented buskers and artists!
This is why I love just walking aimlessly around the neighbourhood. You never know where the buskers are situated, so every time you come across one, it’s a pleasant surprise!
I make sure to pause and watch their performance because it’s riveting. Some buskers play their renditions of popular songs, while others do crazy experimental music that I don’t understand but jive with. It’s exciting!
Join the Spirits of the Distillery District Ghost Tour
– From: hauntedwalk
Starting Location: 11 Gristmill Lane
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—9 am to 5 pm
- Saturday and Sunday—6 pm to 9 pm
Contact Number: +14162381473
Considering that the Distillery District is super old, many people believe that it’s haunted. If you want to verify this rumour yourself, you might want to join the Spirits of the Distillery District Ghost Tour, hosted by the Haunted Walk of Toronto!
This tour goes all out to give you the most spook-tastic experience. First of all, the walk starts as night falls, and you’ll be holding a lantern as you make your way around the area.
A guide will tell stories about tragic events that happened in certain places, and they’ll also inform you about the supposed ghostly hauntings in certain buildings!
Personally, I don’t believe in ghosts, but I still had a blast going on this tour. It’s a great experience to have during Halloween.
See amazing artwork at the Arta Gallery
– From: artagallery
Address: 14 Distillery Lane
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +14163642782
For art lovers, the Arta Gallery is a must-visit! The interior of this art gallery is almost an artwork in and of itself. It’s a mix of colourful contemporary style and industrial aesthetic with exposed bricks and pipes!
As for the art on display, you can expect to find works by renowned and up-and-coming Canadian and international artists. Most of the works here are abstract—usually playing with colours and shapes—and though I’m not the biggest fan of this style, I do enjoy examining the works and contemplating what they’re supposed to mean.
Appreciate contemporary art at the Thompson Landry Gallery
– From: thompsonlandrygallery
Address: 32 Distillery Lane
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Saturday—11 am to 5 pm
Contact Number: +14163644955
Another art gallery you need to check out if you love art is the Thompson Landry Gallery. This one specializes in contemporary art as well, just like the Arta Gallery, but what I find fascinating about Thompson Landry is that they honour Quebec artists, in particular.
I’m very intrigued by the section with the Great Masters of Quebec. There are a few mind-bending abstract pieces, but there are also landscape paintings that look like real photos! Whenever I browse this section, I shuffle between feelings of melancholy, hope, and peace.
Where to Eat
District Pizza
– From: districtpizzato
Address: 30 Gristmill Lane
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday—12 pm to 9 pm
- Friday and Saturday—12 pm to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14168159898
It’s always pizza o’clock for me, and whenever the craving hits, one of my go-to places is District Pizza.
The Wolfgang is my favourite pizza to get here. It’s loaded with all sorts of toppings: basil pesto, smoked chicken, oyster mushrooms, roasted peppers, sundried tomatoes, and goat cheese. With such ingredients, every bite lets me enjoy smoky, earthy, tangy, and spicy flavours!
Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie
– From: clunysdistillery
Address: 35 Tank House Lane
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—12 pm to 9 pm
- Friday—12 pm to 10 pm
- Saturday—10 am to 10 pm
- Sunday—10 am to 9 pm
Contact Number: +14162032632
Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie has earned a reputation as one of the best French restaurants in Toronto, and having tried it, I can see why. Every dish I’ve tried has been a hit, and their wine selection is impressive.
My current obsession is the steak frites. The steak is wonderfully medium and savoury, thanks to its jus, and it comes with fries that are generously seasoned with spices. There’s also a sherry vinegar aioli for dipping, and it adds a nice tangy zing to your fries.
Sometimes, when I have extra money to spare, I treat myself to a side of shaved black truffle. This makes the steak taste even richer!
El Catrin Destileria
– From: elcatrinca
Address: 18 Tank House Lane
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday—12 pm to 9 pm
- Thursday—12 pm to 10 pm
- Friday and Saturday—12 pm to 11 pm
Contact Number: +14162032121
Confession: the main reason I checked out El Catrin Destileria in the first place is its wonderful patio. It’s so bright and airy, and I instantly feel relaxed, like I’m just vacationing somewhere.
It also helps that the food is great here, too. I love coming here for brunch, and my favourite thing to order is the birria taco. I’m obsessed with how tender the beef is, and the consommé is rich and tangy, with a distinct hint of spice.
I know the consommé is technically used for dipping the tacos, but I could drink it!
Madrina Bar y Tapas
– From: madrina.to
Address: 2 Trinity St
Operating Hours:
- Thursday—4 pm to 10 pm
- Friday and Saturday—4 pm to 11 pm
- Sunday—4 pm to 9 pm
Contact Number: +14165488055
There’s no need to book a trip to Spain. Just head to Madrina Bar y Tapas if you’re hit by a strong craving for Spanish cuisine!
What I love about this restaurant is that it’s vibrant all around—from the setting to the food. I recommend you try the chef’s tasting menu, which is a prix fixe menu with over 10 courses! You’ll be stuffed right after!
From what I’ve tried, the standouts from this menu are the truffled egg yolk for appetizers (so rich and earthy) and arroz negro con pulpo for the main dish (smoky and tangy).
Spirithouse Toronto
– From: spirithouseto
Address: 16 Trinity St
Operating Hours:
- Thursday—5 pm to 11 pm
- Friday and Saturday—5 pm to 12 am
- Sunday—5 pm to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14169489926
It just doesn’t seem right that you visit the Distillery District without visiting an actual distillery or brewery. So, be sure to stop by at least one, and one of my recommendations is Spirithouse Toronto.
I’m a big fan of the cocktails, and my current favourite is the Gingerbread Flip, which tastes surprisingly sweet. Seriously, it tastes like a mix between créme bruleé and gingerbread, which surprised me, but I grew to love it.
For food, you can’t go wrong with any of their burgers. The smash burger is a classic—so savoury and perfectly greasy. It pairs well with any alcoholic drink!
Mill St Brewpub
– From: millstreetbrewpub
Address: 21 Tank House Lane
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday—11 am to 10 pm
- Friday and Saturday—11 am to 11 pm
Contact Number: +14166810338
Another brewery that I highly recommend you check out is Mill St Brewpub. This one definitely has a classic vibe of a pub; the interior is tiny and dimly lit, with tables and chairs basically crammed against each other. The atmosphere is wonderfully cozy.
I love the pulled pork sandwich here. The bread has a nice, slightly crunchy exterior, but the inside is soft like a cloud. The pulled pork is tender and salty, with a hint of smokiness. It’s undoubtedly what makes the dish shine.
Boku Japanese Eats and Drinks
– From: jenuinetaste
Address: 42 Gristmill Lane
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday—12 pm to 8 pm
- Friday and Saturday—12 pm to 9 pm
Contact Number: +14163688686
Sometimes, all I need is a good bowl of ramen to lift my spirits, and Boku Japanese Eats and Drinks is one of my favourite restaurants to go to get it. Fortunately, there’s a location in the Distillery District, so I can go there whenever I want.
Their flagship ramen has a rich soup base, with strong umami and nutty flavours. The noodles are thin but perfectly springy, and you can choose to add pork, chicken, or vegetables to make the dish even more filling.
If you’re up for a challenge, get the spicy version of the flagship ramen. They don’t skimp on the spice, and even a spice lover like myself felt like I was fighting for my life when I ordered it one time.
Sweetie Pie
– From: mysweetiepie.ca
Address: 6 Case Goods Lane
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +16472453301
If you have a sweet tooth like me, you can’t be satisfied unless you treat yourself to a decadent dessert after every meal. Thankfully, the Distillery District has many dessert shops, and Sweetie Pie is my current favourite.
To no one’s surprise, the pies are the highlight here. I recommend the chocolate bourbon pecan pie. This one is undoubtedly rich in chocolate flavour, and the bourbon gives a hint of bitterness that cuts through the sweetness. The pecans also add a nice crunchy texture that I like.
Where to Shop
Peace Collective
– From: peacecollective
Address: 7 Trinity St
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—10 am to 6 pm
- Saturday—10 am to 7 pm
- Sunday—11 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +14163608836
Peace Collective is a clothing store chain my friends keep recommending to me, so when I learned that there’s an outlet in the Distillery District, I had to check it out. Now, I can see why it’s so beloved; I’m a big fan of the crewnecks, in particular.
The material of their clothes feels premium to the touch, and I like their designs—very trendy and definitely Gen Z-inspired. To be specific, I really like their Barbie crewnecks; the pink and purple just pop, and I feel so stylish every time I wear mine.
Hoi Bo
– From: hoibo
Address: 15 Trinity St
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +16478525488
Hoi Bo is another clothing store that I love in the Distillery District. This one specializes in apparel made with organic puffed cotton, so it feels extra plush and luxurious.
My favourite clothing items here have to be the dresses, especially the midi ones. I bought a cargo midi dress in denim here, and I’m obsessed. It’s loose enough that I can move around with ease, but also stylish with a waist-cinching belt, so I feel like a model walking the streets of Toronto.
Soma Chocolate Maker
– From: somachocolatemaker
Address: 32 Tank House Lane
Operating Hours:
- Sunday and Monday—11 am to 6 pm
- Tuesday to Saturday—11 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +14168157662
Soma Chocolate Maker is a chocolate lover’s paradise. This chocolate shop boasts an impressive curation of chocolate treats—from classic chocolate bars to indulgent truffles and even chocolate drinks!
The chocolate bars are my favourite thing to get; I love that the flavour options are inspired by different locations. The Tien Gang, the chocolate inspired by Vietnam, boasts an intense flavour: cinnamon is particularly strong, complemented by notes of wild ginger and cherry jam.
Queen’s Trunk
– From: queenstrunk
Address: 8 Trinity St
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday—12 pm to 9:30 pm
- Thursday—12 pm to 10 pm
- Friday—12 pm to 11 pm
- Saturday—10 am to 8 pm
- Sunday—10 am to 9 pm
Your outfit isn’t complete without accessories. If you’re lacking in that department, stop by the Queen’s Trunk. This lovely boutique shop is home to jewelry pieces so gorgeous you might think they’re owned by the royal family!
I always peruse the necklace options here because they’re so pretty. I’m eyeing the spring blossom necklace, in particular; I love the flower details and the fact that it’s double layered. I just know that I’ll feel like a fairy princess if I wear that every day.
Blackbird Vintage Finds
– From: blackbirdvintagefindsto
Address: 11 Trinity St
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +14166810558
If you love scouring through hidden gems in antique stores, then I just have the spot for you: Blackbird Vintage Finds.
This shop has all types of trinkets! One shelf has practical items like vintage salt and pepper shakers, and then the next shelf will be full of old posters and other decorative items with those iconic 1920s-style cartoon illustrations.
Every time I come here, I pick up different items. Most of the time, I’ll be hauling kitchenware, but sometimes, I’ll bring home vintage books (both novels and cookbooks).
Bergo Designs
– From: bergodesigns
Address: 28 Tank House Lane
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday—10 am to 7 pm
- Thursday to Saturday—10 am to 8 pm
- Sunday—11 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +14168611821
Bergo Designs is a shop I only checked out recently, but it’s now become one of my favourites. This lifestyle store has everything I want to decorate my home!
Their furniture offerings have caught my eye. I’m already planning to get one of their Firefly Lamps. With the way this lamp is designed, it does look like it’s being powered by 10 million fireflies (I’m sure Owl City will be delighted to have this)!
They also have adorable stuffed toys here! I just know these cute cows and sheep will liven up my bed.
Yummi Candles
– From: yummicandles
Address: 10 Trinity St
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—10 am to 7 pm
- Friday to Sunday—10 am to 8:30 pm
Contact Number: +14163640123
You might think that candles are now relics of the past, but I wholeheartedly disagree. Candles can enhance the look and feel of any room. If you don’t believe me, just stop by Yummi Candles; that might change your mind.
I love coming here for their scented candles. The Spanish cedar candle jar is my go-to because I find the scent soothing. The lavender fields one is also great; it’s a basic scent, but it never fails to lift my spirits every time I smell it.
Pepper Palace
– From: pepperpalace
Address: 9 Case Goods Lane
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 7 pm
Contact Number: +19056366692
I first encountered Pepper Palace when I visited the Blue Mountain Resort, and as a home cook, I was thrilled to see their impressive selection of spices and condiments. I was even thrilled to learn that they have an outlet in the Distillery District—so close to home!
I love spice, so I come here to shop for their hot sauce. Currently, I really love the Sweet Bourbon Glaze, which also happens to be one of their best sellers. This one packs quite the punch, but the sweetness helps in tempering the heat so that you won’t feel like you’re on fire.
