Before 2015 rolled in, I took my yearly pilgrimage to Yorkville, which is, without a doubt, one of Toronto's swankiest areas. It's also my personal favorite city in the vicinity. Any time of the year Yorkville is trendy and glamorous, and maintains a small-village feel within a large metropolis. But during the month of December, with the extra twinkling of festive lights, it is especially attractive and romantic.
In and around Yorkville, you'll find art galleries, bars, restaurants, cafés, night clubs and shopping, shopping, shopping. The city has everything needed for a fabulous Toronto outing. But where to stay? Among the many luxury hotel options is the InterContinental Toronto Yorkville located on Bloor Street, just west of Avenue Road and directly across the street from the Royal Ontario Museum.
Spinning through the hotel's revolving door, I entered into the lobby, which feels more like the entrance of a grand estate, than it does to a hotel. “Welcome to the InterContinental,” said Lobby Concierge Fabiana Briceno, who seemed to personally be awaiting my arrival. She directed me to the reception desk for a prompt and efficient check-in.
The InterContinental has 208 guest rooms and 33 suites which come with coffee and tea makers, bathrobes, hairdryers, a work-desk and enough electrical outlets around to support today’s technological needs. Wi-Fi is available for all guests but is complimentary for IHG Rewards Club members.
For a pre-dinner cocktail, drop into the hotel's own Proof Vodka Bar. I ordered a Grey Goose vodka martini, and with the glow of a warm fireplace behind me, I quickly warmed up on the cold December night. Signatures, the hotel’s award-wining restaurant, is where Chef de Cuisine Andrew Frastacky's, culinary artistry can be sampled. The restaurant has a very local feel with its walls holding unique photographs of Toronto's landmark neighborhoods. Guests can opt for the three-course, pre-fixe dinner, which at the time of my visit, included a creamy pickled apple butternut squash soup, braised lamb shanks, roasted root vegetables and warm steamed pudding topped with vanilla ice cream.
Whether you find yourself in Yorkville for the shopping, food, art or just the beautiful-people watching, the InterContinental Toronto Yorkville is a great hotel option, especially with its easy access to the subway system.
