Where to Eat and Drink During TIFF
Lights, camera, appetite! This year marks a blockbuster milestone… the 50th anniversary of the Toronto International Film Festival. From September 4 to 14, the city will once again roll out the red carpet for 11 days of world-class cinema: prestigious premieres, exclusive screenings, celebrity-filled soirées, and movie magic.
Soon, the city will be buzzing with that unmistakable TIFF energy, and all that film-going calls for the perfect food (and drink) intermission. Whether you’re squeezing in a quick bite between screenings or sipping a late-night cocktail while keeping an eye out for A-listers, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to the best spots to eat and drink near the heart of the action.
Popcorn’s great — but TIFF’s 50th deserves something a little more memorable.
Luma
A key hub of the festival is the iconic TIFF Lightbox, which just so happens to be the home of Luma! Nestled on the second floor, Luma’s dreamy dining room is perfect for a pre-dinner show starring fresh seafood, quality meats, and seasonal vegetables. It also features a warm and cozy lounge that overlooks King Street West. Cocktails and an aerial view of all the TIFF action? Count us in!
Please note: Luma’s Magic Hour will be on offer from 4–5:30pm, featuring an impressive lineup of $8 cocktails! Drinks under $10 during TIFF? We’d call that magic!
Canteen
Fun fact: we have not only one but TWO restaurants in the TIFF Lightbox! Canteen, located on the street level, is your go-to destination for casual, fresh, and tasty fare. Home to an airy dining room and wrap-around patio on one of the city’s buzziest corners, dining at Canteen will put you at the heart of all the TIFF happenings.
Tuck into hearty salads, housemade sandwiches, oven-baked pizzas, and loads of satisfying plant-based options. Plus, Canteen will be offering a special Grab & Go menu for a quick breakfast, salad, bowl or wrap on the go. And if you prefer to dine in, the Show Time Prix Fixe is always a steal of deal!
Just a stone’s throw from the Visa Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre, Roy Thomson Hall, and the Royal Alexandra Theatre, add Canteen to your must-try list and thank us later.
Please note: Canteen will be walk-in only during the first week of the festival. Happy Hour will not be available.
La Plume
A Southern French-inspired bistro nestled in downtown’s vibrant destination, The Well, La Plume has become a beloved staple in O&B’s lineup of exceptional culinary experiences. Oozing charm and sophistication, it offers a welcoming atmosphere paired with high-quality ingredients.
Here, timeless dishes reflect the flavours of French coastal cuisine—from fresh tartares and seafood to some of the best whole bird rotisserie you’ll find in downtown Toronto.
Thirsty? Take advantage of Happy Hour on La Plume’s warm, lively street-side patio facing Wellington Street. And with The Well just a 13-minute walk from the TIFF Lightbox, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a meal before heading to your evening premiere.
The Dorset
Neighbouring La Plume, The Dorset offers a warm and welcoming British restaurant and bar experience with a touch of seaside flair. Classic dishes like fish & chips, Waldorf salad, and Scotch duck egg bring comforting yet elevated flavours to the table — perfect whether you’re grabbing a casual lunch or enjoying an approachable dinner with clients or friends.
Looking to unwind? The Dorset’s Happy Hour features great deals on drinks, and bar bites are always discounted from 3–6pm. With its cheerful, inviting atmosphere, it’s a fantastic spot to relax and soak up some good vibes.
Aera
Ready to take your TIFF experience to soaring new heights? Located on the 38th floor of The Well, Aera tops O&B’s lineup with breathtaking views of downtown Toronto’s skyline. Conveniently accessible right off Spadina, it’s the perfect spot to stay close to all the TIFF action. Did someone say Happy Hour?
Featuring an impressive sushi counter, mouthwatering steaks, and some of the city’s most creative cocktails, Aera promises to impress both you and your +1. When the evening turns glamorous, it’s the go-to destination for stylish nights out—so dress to impress and party like an A-lister well into the late hours.
Open Aera
As if things aren’t already majestic enough at Aera, you can even take a first-class trip one floor up to Open Aera! High, mighty, and sure to delight, Open Aera is a rooftop patio where we keep the good vibes going and the cocktails flowing. Experience the magic that’s only available 39 floors above the city as you treat yourself to fresh, elevated bites that the whole table will love. Your Instagram feed will love the sweeping panoramic views, and trust us―it’s even better in person!
Canoe
If glitz, glamour, and red-carpet premieres are on your TIFF agenda, reserve a table at Canoe. Located a lofty 54 floors above the city’s hustle and bustle, this iconic establishment is an absolute must-visit for fine dining fans. Canoe is ranked number 50 in the nation according to Canada’s 100 Best, and for a good reason. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted using the finest ingredients from across the country. Try the tasting menu for one of Toronto’s best dining experiences (complete with wine pairings) or sip on a handcrafted beverage at the bar while taking in breathtaking views of the city.
The Rabbit Hole
Just east of TIFF’s Festival Street in the Financial District lies The Rabbit Hole, a wild and whimsical gastropub serving up bold British flavours. Find a seat on the enchanting three-level garden terrace or nestle into its whimsically designed dining room, then round out your order of elevated pub food with a handcrafted cocktail, cider, refresher, or glass of wine.
Jump
Find a moment of bliss amidst the film frenzy at Jump, one of the most enduring dining destinations in the Financial District. Featuring a legendary sky-high glass atrium, a hidden-gem courtyard patio, and a bustling wrap-around bar, this timeless Toronto treasure serves honest, fresh, and flavourful cuisine along with a robust selection of spirit-forward cocktails.
No matter how you experience TIFF, we’ve got something for every movie lover and thrill seeker! From elevated favourites to elegant fine dining and everything in between, one thing’s certain: this 11-day film frenzy will be filled with fabulous food and drinks. Join us for a cocktail, a full dining experience, or both — and let’s make TIFF’s 50th anniversary one to remember.
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