Looking for the ultimate escape in the heart of downtown Toronto?
Having experienced a night at 1 Hotel Toronto recently, here’s how I would recommend making the most of your staycation this season.
The city’s 1 Hotel is a stunning sustainable luxury hotel nestled in the bustling Fashion District and inspired by the surrounding diverse natural environment. This is the ideal location to access major attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks- including the city’s latest hot spot, The Well, which is mere minutes away.
Upon walking into the hotel, you are immediately transported to an oasis that effortlessly blends urban sophistication with natural tranquility. This is because every detail of the space has been meticulously crafted to emphasize the use of locally sourced materials and products- all while supporting local businesses and reducing their carbon footprint. The 1 Hotel is one with nature- and this is evident as soon as you walk in the door and step foot into the lobby. Interior furnishings feature local and reclaimed materials, while the establishment has been optimized for energy efficiency and is powered by green systems. The staff is also incredibly welcoming and attentive, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
After checking in, I would recommend checking out the rooftop pool for a dip, which is currently open for the season and exclusive to hotel guests and residents. The outdoor deck offers unparalleled views of the city landscape and features the perfect plunge pool to cool off in. The convenient pool menu also spotlights handcrafted cocktails and small bites for a refreshing snack. My go-to’s? Harriet’s signature Blushing Geisha and Provencita cocktails are must-tries while the Chicken Sliders and Pork Yakiniku Bao are always a crowd pleaser.
After lounging poolside, it’s time to return to your room and get ready for your dinner reservation at the hotel’s Casa Madera. The rooms at 1 Hotel Toronto are ultra-luxurious and feature modern amenities. Locally sourced, sustainable bed linens and non-toxic, organic mattresses ensure the ultimate night’s sleep. Thoughtful in-room touches also include recycled wine-into-water bottles that are refillable, leaning into the hotel’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.
When it comes to dining at 1 Hotel Toronto, there are multiple on-site options to choose from. In fact, the exceptional experiences promote farm-to-table principles, in which menus focus strongly on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and producers. One of my favorite spots to dine in 1 Hotel is Casa Madera, in which this immersive location is the first in Canada. The menu features a selection of creative and daring flavors rooted in sustainable, organic ingredients, spotlighting a commitment to using fresh produce. As well, the thoughtfully chef-curated offerings showcase the rich culinary traditions of both Mexico and the Mediterranean.
So, what should you order? I’m going to let you in on some of my favorite can’t miss menu items.
To begin, be sure to try items from both the Starters and Raw Bar. The Octopus Croquetas features a delicious blend of potato, beef bacon, and morita chili aioli. The Ceviche Blanco is a refreshing dish with a kick, in which it includes white fish, red onion, habanero, lime, citrus supremes, and cilantro.
When it comes to main dishes, you can’t go wrong with any of the establishment’s Taqueria menu items. However, the Duck Carnitas are sublime. They feature orange supreme, red onion, serrano, garlic cream, and chipotle cherry salsa. As well, the Truffle Risotto is always a hit. This dish is made with chanterelle mushrooms, vegan parmesan fondue, and black truffle. This ended up being one of our most memorable dishes as our server came by to personally shave the truffle onto the risotto, offering some history and insight into the origins of the restaurant’s truffles.
If you’re a fan of fish, the Pacifico Striped Bass is the ultimate indulgence, featuring fennel citrus salad, and a salsa trio served with corn tortillas. The corn tortillas are a great touch because they allow guests to create their own tacos using a combination of the ingredients from the dish.
Finally, the Brown Butter Tarta came highly recommended by our lovely server- and it was one of the highlights of our meal. It features a brown butter tart, feuilletine crunch, caramel sauce, blueberry coulis, and brown butter ice cream. This was truly a 10/10.
When it comes to drinks, Casa Madera’s cocktail menu is the star of the show. If you’re looking for an immersive experience, there are multiple options to choose from, such as the Pog (Reposado Tequila, Passion Fruit, Guava, Orange, Agave, Fire Water) or the Playa Paraiso (Blanco Tequila, Watermelon, Coconut Water, Benedictine, Lime, Agave, Eucalyptus & Cinnamon Fog). However, the Mayahuel (Mezcal, Nopales, Kiwi, Lime, Mint, Fernet Sidecar) and Quintana Roo (Mezcal, Blue Spirulina Agave, Lime, Himalayan Salt) are also delicious.
After a delectable dinner at Casa Madera, feel free to grab a nightcap at the adjoining Flora Lounge, which has been designed to curate an experience for the senses. You can also head up to Harriet’s Rooftop to catch a glimpse of the sprawling city nightlife.
The next morning, awaken to the sights and sounds of the city by having breakfast at 1 Kitchen Restaurant, which offers up fresh, local, and sustainably sourced farm-to-table cuisine. If you have a sweet tooth, the French Toast is divine. However, the Breakfast Sandwich is also a fabulous option.
Then, it’s time to explore! 1 Hotel has your daylife covered with endless opportunities such as Audi Excursions with the fully electric Audi Q8 e-tron house car, and 1 Hotel exclusive events. Since 1 Hotel is also wellness-focused, you can opt to engage in bike and hike tours, personal training, or group fitness classes. In addition, the website’s neighborhood guide details the latest local attractions and activities to ensure you can make the most out of your stay in the city.
There you have it- the best way to make the most out of your next getaway to 1 Hotel Toronto. From beginning to end, this is the ultimate eco-conscious retreat- where every detail is designed to offer a serene and unforgettable experience in the middle of a vibrant metropolis. —Samantha Vecchiarelli
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