As the winter chill envelops Toronto, there’s one event that warms the hearts (and stomachs) of both locals and visitors alike – Winterlicious. This annual culinary festival transforms the city into a foodie’s paradise, and if you’re staying at one of our recommended downtown Toronto hotels, you’re in for a treat. Let’s explore what makes Winterlicious a must-experience event and how you can indulge in its delights.

Photo credit: @smoquenbones on Instagram

A Feast for the Senses

Winterlicious is a celebration of Toronto’s diverse and vibrant culinary scene. Taking place from January 6th to February 8th, 2024, this festival invites participating restaurants across the city to showcase their culinary prowess. Select from the fixed prices and choose from either a 3-course lunch or a 3-course dinner.

The result? A smorgasbord of delectable dishes and unforgettable dining experiences.

Photo credit: @oliverbonacini on Instagram

Explore the city’s top-notch culinary institutions, and delight your senses with unique and brilliantly crafted menus.

Whether you’re a fan of global cuisine, traditional comfort food, or modern gastronomy, and with over 200 participating restaurants, Winterlicious has something to satisfy every palate. When you stay at one of our recommended downtown Toronto hotels during Winterlicious, you’ll be close to a tonne of those restaurants, meaning you’re perfectly situated to embark on a culinary journey like no other.

Located within the Anndore House is Constantine – one of the many restaurants participating in Winterlicious 2024.

How to Make the Most of Winterlicious 2024

To get the most out of Winterlicious, here are a few tips:

1. Plan Ahead: Browse the list of participating restaurants and their menus to decide which ones pique your interest.
2. Make Reservations: Popular restaurants tend to fill up quickly during Winterlicious, so it’s wise to make reservations in advance to secure your spot – reservations open January 11th!
3. Try Something New: Use this opportunity to step out of your culinary comfort zone and sample dishes you might not typically order.
4. Stay Warm and Cozy: Dress warmly as you explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods and indulge in mouthwatering meals. Our recommended hotels all offer a warm, comfortable haven to retreat to after a day of culinary adventures.

Photo credit: @liciousto on Instagram

Top 3 Restaurants Where You Should Book a Table

Leña Restaurante

Vibrant, bright and flavourful, Leñas embodies both traditional and modern South American cuisine. Spanish and Italian influences weave together to fulfill their motto of “live to eat”. They also feature an extensive list of wines, local beers, and craft cocktails. The best part? Leñas is a convenient 8-minute walk from Pantages Hotel in downtown Toronto.

Photo credit: @lenarestaurante on Instagram

Constantine

Constantine, conveniently located within the Anndore House, features rich, luxurious, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. With many dishes cooked in their traditional wood-fired oven, they offer options to satisfy just about every craving and flavour profile. From pizza to smoked meats and local seafood, this is one place you don’t want to miss.

Photo credit: @constantineto on Instagram

Nami Japanese Restaurant

Nami Japanese Restaurant rings in 2024 with its 40th year serving the downtown Toronto community. Enjoy the freshest, most delicious sushi, as well as other favourites like donburi, and sukiyaki, along with a fine selection of wines, sakes and craft cocktails. Their traditional Japanese cuisine highlights the immaculately curated aspects of authentic Japanese cuisine while offering new culinary experiences to arouse the senses. Conveniently, Nami is just a 7-minute walk from Hotel Victoria in downtown Toronto.

Photo credit: @namirestaurant on Instagram

A Perfect Pairing

We understand that a good meal deserves an equally impressive setting. After indulging in Toronto’s culinary delights, return to the comfort and luxury of your room, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s gastronomic adventures, while attentive staff and cozy accommodations provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Here are our top five recommended places to stay in downtown Toronto for Winterlicious 2024.

Hotel Victoria

The Hotel Victoria has stood in the core of the city for more than 100 years, drawing guests from all over the world with its central location, sophisticated spaces, and uniquely iconic history. Now recently renovated, Hotel Victoria offers modern accommodation in the heart of downtown Toronto, with numerous amenities and features including being pet-friendly.

Novotel Toronto Centre

Relax and recharge in the freshly renovated Novotel in downtown Toronto. Located in the St Lawrence Neighbourhood, the Novotel Toronto Centre invites you to experience Old Town. Take a dip in the beautifully designed pool or work out in the newly renovated gym – you know, to work off all of those well-earned Winterlicious calories!

Pantages Hotel Downtown Toronto

At Pantages Hotel, guests have long appreciated the personalized service, attention to detail, and convenient location in the heart of Downtown Toronto’s most vibrant neighbourhood. Pantages Hotel delivers the style, service, and amenities to ensure a relaxed, comfortable, and memorable stay while you enjoy Winterlicious 2024!

Radisson Blue Downtown

The Anndore House

Seize the day and spend the night at the Anndore House. This historical hotel blends quirky and modern, with unique and chic rooms to inspire the soul, and a blend of convenient amenities and features. Each room even comes with an aux-compatible record player! Also located within the Anndore House is Constantine – one of the many restaurants participating in Winterlicious 2024.

We’ll See You There!

No matter where you choose to indulge, Winterlicious is a delightful winter festival that showcases Toronto’s culinary talents, and staying at our downtown Toronto hotel provides you with the perfect base to indulge in this gastronomic extravaganza. From exploring diverse menus to returning to your cozy accommodations, Winterlicious promises a memorable culinary journey that will leave your taste buds tingling and your heart content. So, bundle up and get ready to savour the flavours of this winter wonderland, and be sure to follow Winterlicious on Instagram for updates and mouth-watering pictures from the event.