The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto
"We're heading to the Ritz. How will we know when we've arrived?The Ritz-Carlton's distinctive, multi-level glass façade is easy to spot amid the art centers, sports arenas, stores, and restaurants of the surrounding Entertainment and Financial districts. A strikingly contemporary exterior hints at what's inside: a modern twist on the luxury hotel brand's classic style, with sleek décor accented by more than 400 pieces of Canadian art. Standout views of the and the Toronto islands add to the sanctuary-like vibe. Who else is flocking to this hotel?The Ritz-Carlton's convenient Downtown location draws a notably diverse group of guests: families and business travelers, Marriott/Ritz-Carlton loyalists, and celebrity VIPs (the Toronto International Film Festival takes place nearby). Locals pop in to eat or drink, and the hotel hosts a good number of weddings and events in its 600-person ballroom, one of the largest in the city. What's the deal with checking in and out?The pros at the front desk keep things humming; Club Level guests, meanwhile, can check in even faster in a dedicated lounge—or right in their suites. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Edged by floor-to-ceiling windows framing Instagrammable views of the skyline, , and Lake Ontario, The Ritz-Carlton's 263 rooms—some of the largest in town—have a gold palette accented by bright throw pillows and armchairs. Beds are topped with 400-thread-count Frette linens, and the spacious bathrooms feature Portuguese marble, separate tubs and rain showers, mirror-embedded TVs, and double vanities. There is complimentary coffee, tea, and bottled water. And, most importantly, internet?The wifi is free. You mentioned a cheese cave—tell us more about the food options, please.Onsite dining and drinking options abound here, from the sexy lobby bar, which serves cocktails made with homemade infusions or liquid nitrogen, to a café that serves light bites and a daily afternoon tea. In summer, DEQ Terrace & Lounge offers small plates, cushy seating, an oversized bar, and a firepit. At TOCA, Roman chef Oliver Glowig has created one of the city’s best Italian restaurants; save room to sample from Toronto’s only cheese cave, which you can tour with the in-house affineur. Regular wine tastings, culinary workshops, and other food experiences up the ante even further. What's on offer on the wellness front?Found only in Paris and here, the Spa My Blend by Clarins offers a solid lineup of treatments (including ones for men) that use Clarins products. The fifth-floor fitness center is stocked with LCD touchscreen–equipped treadmills, complimentary earbuds, fruit-infused water, cold towels, and personal trainers upon request. Rounding out the wellness offerings are private and group yoga classes, a whirlpool, and an indoor saltwater pool. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The Ritz-Carlton's beautiful rooms, sweeping views, top-notch food and drink, ample wellness amenities, and personalized service can't be beat." - Sandra Ramani
