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The Distillery District
Category: Local Flavour Local Flavour [Edit]
55 Mill StToronto, ON M5A 3C4
Neighbourhoods: Distillery District, West Don Lands
(416) 922-9760
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
29 reviews for The Distillery District
29 reviews in English
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Review from Q H.
North York, ON
12/31/2011 1 photo
This neighborhood stands on its own with its unique culture. It feels like you are landed in a different city or a different time. Art galleries, clothing stores, houseware stores, eyewear store, cafes and more are found in this place. And they all have distinctive and distinguished items that are not likely found anywhere. It serves as a good shopping plaza for mind and soul!
This is a very nice to take photographs as well. Plan an event during a weekend to take photo sessions at Distillery. The experience would be memorable, and some local artists/photographers will take beautiful breath-taking shots since they know the area well like the back of their hands.
Other than that, Distillery is good dates, reading books and just talking with a friend on a bench.
There are many restaurants in this area, but to be honest, all of them is rather underwhelming in terms of quality and service. -
Review from Grace Y.
11/17/2011
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful! The sunlight hits this place at all the right angles. As a photographer, secret romantic, and lover of good food- I was in heaven.
No cars, Christmas decorations, night lights, food, shopping- this place will keep you entertained for hours.
Bring money, this place will seduce your wallets. -
Review from Edwin A.
10/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's a lovely area in Toronto, there's unique artworks to view in the musuems, good selection of restaurants and one of a kind shops, all housed in lovely brick buildings that are have been lovely restored.
It is one of my favourite spots in the city and makes a great setting for any occasion. -
Review from Jiao S.
12/18/2011 1 photo
This just made my weekend.
Wonderful and beautiful~ Really feel the Holiday spirit~ Enjoyed the performance too, especially the singing parts~ just beautiful -
Review from Nicole G.
12/28/2011 15 photos
Lots of art galleries, art sculptures and little shops. The buildings have been beautifully restored and there are antiques everywhere... a wood planer.. a safe from 1875.
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Review from Jason B.
8/29/2011
A beautiful historic village of brick-lined streets, completely closed off to traffic, leading you to many restored Victorian Industrial buildings now filled with restaurants, cafe's and boutique stores.
Get lost wandering the area... take a segway tour, a beer tour, then stumble into one of the little cafe's or bake shops and have a bite. You can expect to find a live theatre, art galleries, fashion, design and jewelry boutiques, unique cafes and award-winning restaurants.
If you're thinking about going... your are best to go when all the local artisan's are out and showing off... there are some really unique crafts and creations worth checking out.
And they will be there this Labour Day weekend for an outdoor art show!
http://www.artisansatt... -
Review from Julia B.
8/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm not sure if we missed a big part of the District, but there didn't seem to be a whole lot here. There are no longer any distilleries in the area, and while that's not too surprising, we were a bit disappointed. There was, however, a sake distillery! We had a taste and it was ok.
Neither of us are big gallery people, so didn't wander into many of the galleries. The buildings themselves are pretty awesome, though. There are some neat little sculptures scattered about the district that are worth checking out, too.
If you have a lot of time to spend in Toronto, it's definitely worth a wander down to this area. If you're trying to keep things pretty quick and are on a tight time schedule, this area is worth skipping. -
Review from Steve M.
8/25/2011
Despite its pricy boutique shops, the reborn Distillery District is a welcomed addition to Toronto. Mill St. Brewing is the local brewery. Did not have time to step in but will mos def next time around. The newly opened sake distillery was worth the cab ride over. We sampled a variety of flavors and read up on the process. They give tours.
Throughout the cobblestone streets, vendors set up shop to sell an array of products. Blueberry maple syrup, real vanilla, and exotic caramel to name a few. Guitar players strumming the tunes as you stroll between the old brick buildings.
Kudos for resurrecting this old, neglected clump of warehouses in downtown Toronto into an energetic and fun shopping destination. -
Review from F T.
5/12/2011
The Distillery District is one of my favorite places to visit. It is an area located in downtown Toronto, with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. I admired the brick-lined streets and the historical Victorian industrial buildings. I adored every detail preserved in the area such as, the red brick wall, rusty bolts and doors, and the old wooden barrels. There are some art galleries and studios in the District. Unfortunately a lot of them were closed during my visit. There are also some boutiques where independent fashion designers sell their clothes. The clothes were nice and a little pricey, but they are unique and stylish that you cannot find in common shopping malls.
This area sets a good example to other cities. Instead of torn down beautiful historical buildings, we should renovate them and turn them into something beautiful and useful. This is a truly sustainable design and make good use of old things in a new way. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
12/7/2010 4 photos
I love the Distillery District!!
Yes it is Touristy! Yes it is Overpriced! Yes it can be so Tacky!
But it is so pet friendly! It was a sight to see some of the dog were sharing a brunch with their owners at the seating area for The Sweet Escape!
Most of the stores down at the Distillery District does welcome small/petite size dogs... thanks so much for letting our little furry friends in.. so we can do some shopping/browsing together!
OK, yes I too love the set up and the old rustic buildings in the Distillery District.
Now when is it going to be nice and sunny?!!Listed in: A Day in the Distillery…, Dog Friendly Places in GTA!
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Review from Mel U.
12/7/2010 1 Check-in Here
This "neighborhood" was amazing. In a somewhat larger scale, it reminded us of our old place on East 4th Street in Cleveland. Since it was cold (I mean, it probably ALWAYS is up North in December), we didn't stay outdoors exploring long, but the collection of buildings, alleys, shops and cobblestone paths was very, very cool. We were lucky to see it decorated for the holidays, complete with outdoor Christkindlmarkt.
I suppose my first impression was that this was the area of Toronto designated for all the breweries -- and I suppose at some level, that assumption is correct, albeit in its former glory -- we found one place for beers (Mill St. Brewing, which review is coming). I love how the interior spaces kept much of the original exposed brick, concrete, floors and beams to make each restaurant, shop or establishment more unique than the last -- a perfect blend of old-meets-new and modern-meets-classic.
There is a beer garden, but even with open fire pits and heat lamps, this day was FAR to cold to enjoy much of anything outdoors. I do give you Canadians props for being able to withstand that whipping, chilly wind for longstanding periods.
I love the elegant touch of the white lights strung from building-to-building. This, too, was something I loved about our former neighborhood. The Distillery District makes me smile upon the thought of it, so I suppose that means a visit is certainly worthy of the special trip.Listed in: Taste of Toronto
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Review from Julie D.
8/28/2010
Wow, I really like it here. The developers took a bunch of derelict and old industrial buildings and transformed them into an amazing entertainment and shopping destination. Wow. If you are traveling to Toronto, add this stop to your list of must do's! We were very impressed by the architecture of the buildings and amazed at how well they have been restored. I mean, these building's are from the 1800's.
As for shopping, they have totally unique stores. We also enjoyed seeing different galleries and the nice variety of restaurants. We also enjoyed the live entertainment. While we were there, someone was doing slight of hand and also they had musicians performing. Very impressive. -
Review from Lisa N.
9/1/2011
I understand this is one of the most touristy spots in Toronto, but we couldn't help but check it out twice during our visit. The shops are mostly junk, but there are a few cool places to purchase gifts. The live music and open market is a nice touch, but we maintained our window-shopping policy during the stroll. The best part of this whole place would be the brewery! The beers are unique and the food was fine. We didn't realize how big the space was until our second visit to the brewery for dinner. I can't help but recommend locals and visits to check this spot out. It's easy to get to from downtown once you figure out the bus routes...at least it was for us.
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Review from Aaron S.
7/27/2010
I had a chance to visit here recently and I think I need a return trip to see if my original impression has changed. Kind of a neither for nor against kind of thing. The buildings themselves are fantastic and well preserved. Certainly impressive what they've done with the place. I was there early on a Sunday so it was kind of sleepy and nothing really going on. I assume it's a more happening place on a Saturday afternoon. The shops are interesting but everything there is expensive so it's mostly window shopping for the average visitor.
Another trip East and lunch at Mill Street brew pub is in order. Perhaps I'll like it more after a tasty beer or seven. -
Review from Jenni B.
5/15/2009
I love tourist traps when travelling... kind of. But with the charming old building and all the brick I was easily in awe of this Toronto landmark attraction.
Wandering on a Saturday I was amused not only by fellow tourists taking photographs like mad (like how I was), but also the fact that there were four seperate wedding parties having photos there (at one point three in a row on the same street).
The Distillery has charm day and night - and I do encourage people to check it out at night for some good ol' night photography. I was informed the resturants are rarely open Monday nights except in summer so do note that if you have hopes of Monday night pints at St Mills Brewery. -
Review from Joyees Y.
Scarborough, ON
3/13/2010
My first impression of this place is "very pretty" and after having a brief walk around it my thoughts are...still "very pretty".
It is definitely a place for tourists but it offers locals something too and I'm not just talking about the wonderful Soma Chocolate store (which is wonderful and I will review later).
The whole place have a very nice atmosphere and the architecture is gorgeous. There is a nice, small, amount of eclectic stores, restaurants as well as galleries and theatres (apparently they were there, I just took a very brief stroll). Pretty interesting things to look at and the place itself it nice for scenery watching.
Everything there is a bit on the pricey side though. I saw a t-shirt being sold for over $200...and the whole place is actually not that big.
It is good for romantic dates and relaxing times. I actually like going when it's very quiet. The whole place is basically surrounded by nothing and it's like that until you see old fashion gates leading into many old fashion buildings. It makes me feel like I'm stumbling on to a secret enchanted town, like in those Ghilbi films.Listed in: When You're Bored Out Of Your…
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Review from Abby R.
Toronto, ON
5/28/2009
I love the Distillery District, I think it's so gosh-darned neat.
I'm kind of amazed that it's relatively new. I love the vibe, I think there are a ton of really interesting things to see and do and buy. I wish I spent more time here, and I will definitely make an effort to just relax and enjoy the space a little more. I haven't caught too many tourists here, and I like to take my class here from time to time to entertain myself.
Recently took a historic tour here which was really interesting. Balzac's is awesome for people watching too. Mill street great for having some booze and good eats - and they make a great vegetarian sandwich. -
Review from Melissa J.
Toronto, ON
1/8/2009
Living in Toronto your entire life tends to make many touristy places in the city lose their allure. Chinatown? I don't care about it, I go there to eat. Yonge & Dundas? Forget it. King Street? BLAH.
But the Distillery District still makes me ooooh and aaaaah like it's something in a new city. It's such an interesting area of town -- surrounded by absolutely NOTHING, but once your within its fort-like walls, you can find a bunch of cute boutiques, restaurants and coffee joints. There's always something new here -- most recently A Taste of Quebec, a store specializing in delicious Quebec eats like cheeses and patés.
It's a little annoying to get to, which is why I usually stick to summertime trips, but if you're visiting the city, take a detour to the Distillery to see what it's all about and you won't regret it. -
Review from Robin D.
10/10/2010 2 photos
There is really nice places in Toronto. And this is definitely one. This place is super funky. With nice new and old architecture, interesting artwork, and decor outside. Find a Toronto chocolate maker here and your fill of alcohol or caffeine.
Listed in: Touristy Things in Toronto…
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Review from Emily T.
Toronto, ON
1/4/2009 1 photo
The Distillery District is my FAVOURITE area of the city.
It is very unique and distinct and every time I go there I feel like I'm stepping back in time. I was taken there for the first time having no idea it existed and fell in love with the cobblestone roads, the industrial shops and the large square, perfect for people watching.
The Distillery is a national heritage site (meaning its historical and will be forever preserved). Whether day or night, The Distillery district is a wonderful place to visit and get out of the city while still in it. The buildings are archaic, Victorian and beautiful. They have all been preserved and what were once industrial, are now commercial and residential.
The buildings have been converted into restaurants, bars, shops and galleries. During the summer, the district holds jazz festivals, music shows and a number of outdoor exhibitions.
There is always something to see in the Distillery district. If you get lucky, you may even stumble upon a movie/video/tv set as its a Hollywood North favourite for shooting. The Distillery District is a hidden mecca of Toronto, and displays everything that is old yet not forgotten. -
Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
3/31/2009
I love the Distillery. Go on a weekend afternoon and just spend the day tourist-watching = )
Take in the ridiculouly overpriced treats- soma chocolate and beatiful little patisseries that have decadent sweets or savoury meals. -
Review from Miss V.
12/14/2007
Originally an old mill from 1832 located in Toronto, ON, Canada. The Distillery was re-opened to create a pedestrian only village entirely dedicated to arts, culture and entertainment.
This place is gorgeous and lots of fun. It feels like you've been thrown back in time to an old cobblestone village with great restaurants, artist shops and galleries. I love going here!
Some of my fav shops & restaurants in The Distillery are,
http://www.leifbenner.com/ (gorgeous custom jewelry designs)
http://www.corktowndes.../ (gorgeous independent artist jewelry)
http://www.purespirits... (great for lunch)
http://boilerhouse.ca/... (great for dinner)
http://www.perigeerest.../ (amazing tasting menu)
http://urbandog.ca/ind... (wonderful doggie daycare) -
Review from Connie T.
Toronto, ON
12/27/2008
Sometimes I like to pooh-pooh the Distillery District as being a tourist trap, but I agree with Jimi in that there's something great about wandering through its alleyways, especially on a late summer weeknight evening.
The Distillery District is simply our answer to Old Montreal and Vancouver's Gastown, but has the negative effect of being just a titch too far away from the central downtown core. Even though it really isn't a jaunt, I don't know many locals who come out here for a regular outing. The restaurants and cafés here really cater to out-of-towners who want an added experience to their Toronto trip. Doesn't help that a lot of the services and stores are a tad overpriced.
Still, I do think it's okay here for a stroll, and makes a nice stop en route to my T&T Supermarket run. Suppose that's worth the trip alone. -
Review from Andy H.
8/6/2008 3 photos
A very cool area of Toronto, that is full of artsy shops and great dining options. They have a brew house, an oyster house and a wine bar in this unique looking section of Toronto. Check out their website for more places to check out, and be sure to take a walk over to the Distillery area when you visit this amazing city.
Listed in: Oh Yelp Canada!
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Review from Sarah O.
Toronto, ON
2/21/2010
I didn't think I'd be sucked into the mini cooper-driving, grande mochafrappachococacaccino soy latte-sipping, distillery district-browsing yuppie vortex but just between you & me, i have to admit, i really enjoyed my afternoon wandering around the distillery district grounds this sunny sunday afternoon.
i can't tell you the name of the shops i stepped into except soma chocolate shop (noticed the "yelp approved" sticker on the door) and balzac's coffee shop. balzac's was packed and the interior looked very nice. the organic hot chocolate was delicious though over-priced (nb/i do not own a mini cooper. i can't afford to keep up with a yuppie lifestyle).
i liked to see local artists showcasing their jewelry, art and clothing. there were plenty of neat shops (all of which i could only browse and dream of striking a crude oil well so i could buy a pair of fancy earrings).
i didn't quite get what the group of people riding segways was all about. there's plenty of tourists around taking photos to weave around. we even saw john malkovich in a shop! wowza!
so if you want to wander around the grounds, take some photos and browse (or buy if you're stinkin' rich) all the different wares, i would suggest taking a jaunt down to the distillery district. -
Review from Dawn M.
11/28/2009 1 photo
As a relatively new "district" in Toronto, wasn't expecting too much when we headed over there. We ended up very much enjoying wandering in and out of the various spaces.
A few things:
1) Signage says Distillery Historic District... ugh... wouldn't it make more sense for signage to say Historic Distillery District? (picky picky picky)
2) Make sure you pick up the brochure available everywhere on location and read about the history, the stores and the sculptures - was glad that was provided.
3) Take your camera - many photo-worthy views.
4) Avoid going during One-of-a-Kind show, as some proprietors will be closed to attend the show. (That gives you a hint as to the type of stores you may find there too.)
5) Parking in the district is reasonable, if you can get it. (We went at an off time, so no problem for us.)
6) Go at an off time - you will have the area to yourself. Bad weather, odd days, anything to avoid the crowds will let you see more.
7) While you can window shop, plan on spending quite a bit on food - not a lot of inexpensive options for eating (unless the weather is nice, in which case, try the bake-shop - we didn't, but it looked wonderful.)
8) Many art galleries. Still lots of unused space - am curious to see where this is at in 10 years time with improved economy and time to grow into the space.
Would I recommend: Yes - a gorgeous space, with some unusual vendors.
Would I return - Yes. -
Review from Rob P.
5/1/2010
Everything was a bit pricey here, so we didn't buy anything, but that didn't stop us from looking at the shops, and maybe sampling a couple of beers. Nothing in particular was amazing in the district, but it was a nice afternoon stroll.
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Review from Jimi S.
ON
12/5/2008 2 photos
the most exciting about the distillery is its alleyways and buildings. these factory buildings have been used for many movie sets, exploited for their artistic, rustic feel to give an old world illusion of craftspeople toiling away, artists musing and so forth. regardless of whether you buy into that illusion or not is up to you, but the current reality is that there are indeed artists that live and work in those buildings, soulpepper theatre company which has its home within the complex and many many shops and restaurants to boot.
you can be sure that all items for sale, be it food, art, clothes or accessories all lean towards the luxurious in price to be sure; its up to you whether its worth it, but as a days event its definitely exciting. as a nights event, especially in the summer its even better (sure to be slammed though on the weekends) when you can walk between the buildings, slink into a gallery, grab a truffle for five bucks, all the while, hearing some jazz band playing in a courtyard nearby....
like any other toronto landmark it takes on a tourist attraction and becomes a larger than life and larger than your pocketbook experience. -
Review from marisoL t.
2/2/2010
no one was here when we went. so we just bummed around. the place is nice. it would have been nicer if more people were there besides us. haha... anyway, it took us about thirty minutes or less, and we were done with the place.
maybe, it's better at night?
