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. read more

The Distillery District - Local Flavor Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

We came for dinner and it was freezing...the kind of cold that the great white north is famous for. Even with the freezing temps, we loved exploring this area and all of the shops. I can only imagine that in nicer weather this place really brings out the people. The brick sidewalks and beautiful architecture with historical significance is a treat, especially since so much of So Cal is cookie cutter new. read more

The Distillery District - Local Flavor Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I know this is going to be an unpopular opinion, (even though I've heard it echoed by many people privately), but I find The Distillery District ridiculously overpriced and overcrowded, a sub-Arctic wind tunnel in the winter time, and a tourist trap for the trendy in the summertime. I can appreciate the reclaimed vintage brick architecture as much as the next person, but rather like turning Maple Leaf Gardens into a Loblaws store, or turning a historic Factory into some Bachelor condo Lofts, I find it all a bit overwrought and calculated and largely a way to sell both 'local tourists' and visiting tourists overpriced beer and trinkets. Sure it's kind of cute at a first glance, but to quote Gertrude Stein, "Once you get there, there is no there, there". read more

Distillery District Parking The Distillery District is a great spot but be very careful with parking, the Company that handles it are Bandits. I parked in the underground at 33 Mill St. I bought a Parking Ticket for for $6.75 good for 1 1/2 hours, I thought that was enough time to go have Dinner, I got back to my Car just a few minutes after the Ticket expired and there was a Ticket for $69.75. I called Precise Parking Link, they don't use any discretion they said it has to be paid or it goes to Collections and will be put on my Credit Bureau. What a scam. read more

Really cool little hipster area. A lot of old, warehouse like buildings reincarnated into breweries, bakeries, cafes. There was also this one super cool, wacky, nifty gadget/home goods store 'Bergo' with so many things I wish I can afford to buy, and the snarkiest greeting cards. It was a lot of fun to walk through. Also keep an eye out for cool sights like the 'Love' sign made of locks--you won't miss it: flocked by tourists taking pictures from every angle. Fun experience, but pretty touristy and overpriced. Worth a visit for newcomers to come and soak up some hipster air, but I wouldn't count on coming here for great deals or souvenirs. read more

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. read more

The Distillery District - View thru the district - Local Flavor Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

November 20, 2018 - This was my first time going to the Distillery District and I really liked it. They had a lot of vendors and things to see. read more

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Fun area for all to explore! The brewery tour guide made sure that we had a beer before the start of a tour. Highly recommend visitors to stop by! read more

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The Distillery District is great for so many reasons- -Restaurants -Shopping- Art Galleries, Desserts, Shoes, other shopping -History -Great Buildings -Great Vibe It is a perfect place to stroll through as a tourist or to bring a date. Make sure you check out all all pathways and everything it has to offer. MUST SEE! read more

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Lots of bars, restaurants and just a quaint little area. It's worth stopping by and taking some cute pictures. read more

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This just made my weekend. Wonderful and beautiful~ Really feel the Holiday spirit~ Enjoyed the performance too, especially the singing parts~ just beautiful read more

The Distillery District - Christmas Market 2011 - Local Flavor Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I dig this area. There's really nothing else in and around this area but shops and restaurants so you're stuck eating, drinking and shopping. As Josh mentions the whole place is slightly overpriced but I have to admit I would hang out here for parts of a day. Between some of the artists shops, limited clothing stores, the house wares, furniture and restaurants you can easily spend a day here. There is also a brewery and sake brewery that you can get tours of. Is it touristy? Of course but isn't most popular parts of downtown Toronto? read more

A little pretentious with some down home charm is how I describe this place to out of town visitors. I went today for the Artfest festival they had going on this weekend. The parking is atrocious at best. Park on King and walk over. The quaintness of the "streets" in here and all the little surprises you find make this the ideal place to take some photos! Everything is art - from the flowers, to the cars, to the windows and the window displays. I love walking in the little alleys and discovering new places. A great place to kill a few hours in the summer..walking around and seeing glimpses of what the district looked like back in the day. read more

The Distillery District - Local Flavor Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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one of the most historically important places in the city, from the moment you get here its like stepping into a time portal of sorts. some of the buildings are showing there age very well, and some of them have been preserved good as well. lots of little niche shops inside each of the buildings, some AWESOME restaurants, and lots of crafty items here. if you're a photographer, this is a shooting paradise, however if you're shooting for commercial purposes, you will need a permit, otherwise you might get booted. make sure to bring extra batteries. if youre coming in the month of december, they have a winter festival happening, they don't charge admission through the day or night, only on weekends, so best to go during the week. read more

Artsy spot probably best to visit at night and enjoy a drink or some food. There are stores, coffee shops, tasty desserts and unique gifts. They have seasonal farmers market and we got lucky to be around to enjoy it. read more

Thoroughly enjoyed walking through this former beer distillery. Lots of dining options, shops for guests and specialty stores. We stopped into the chocolate shop for one. Neat area with an upscale vibe. read more

It's a nice place for sightseeing. There are multiple galleries and studios on the street. Also some food places and statues (public art). However it's not a big place as we spent less than two hours there. read more

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I love the distillery. The shops and restaurants are the bomb! I always bring my guests here and they have the same feeling. anyone who comes down to Toronto must come and visit the distillery. Its truly one of a kind. Sometimes I forget how beautiful toronto can be that we take it for granted. read more

The Distillery District - So close yet so far! Lol - Local Flavor Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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My favorite section of downtown, although this is mostly because they host the Toronto Christmas Market and Christmas is the holiday of the year! But the Distillery is still a great place to go get a meal, go for a drink, or just hang out. There is lots of parking all around. I always prefer to drive here that take public transit because it is in a weired stop of downtown that is now well serviced by public transit. My favorite spot here is the bakery ship near the main entrance, they make great bread! read more

I have been going here to the Christmas distillary district for years now with my family. It is a real treat with many things to do. The Christmas carollers near the Christmas tree is the heart of the little village. Food wise, the poutine has fresh cut fries with vegetable gravy this year instead of the meat gravy; still mighty delicious. Also a must try is the large oven cooked pretzel. Many firepits are located to stay warm, along with tasty chocalate treats. read more

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Nice tourist area to stop by in Toronto. They have alot of restaurants and shops. I would highly recommend walking through all the art galleries and studios behind the coffee shop. There were also art and light installations in the courtyard. Perfect for some cool pictures. read more

It was great nice restaurant lots off shopping lots to do some micro brewery local I had few samples off

Since they revamped the area, this has become one of the most visits in Toronto. When finally sold in 1990, Gooderhams & Worts played a huge part in Toronto's economic interests, making whiskeys and spirits. Even helped out our neighbours in the south when they were going thru prohibitions with some shady dealings and leave kegs of alcohol in the lake for them to pick up. Until it reopened up in 2003, it was used a movie set for things like Chicago, and Tommy Boy (http://torontoist.com/2008/05/reel_toronto_to_1/). There's something about the victorian architecture, the brick walls and industrial look that nowadays attract a lot of wedding/engagement couples for pictures. It's so recognizable these days. It's a beautiful place on a nice sunny day for the amateur photographer to get some artsy shots. Super easy here. In any season, it's a nice walk. It's family oriented, as well as great for a romantic stroll. Art Galleries and craft stores line the outer edge, including Bergo Designs, basically an art gallery/retail store of industrial design. You have one of a kind, and Canadian made clothing and jewellery stores. There's also great cafe's like Balzac's Coffee, and the Soma Chocolate Maker. More recently opened is Canada's only Sake Distillery. Restaurants include Pure Oysters Bar (meh), Mill Street Brewery (yum, with free tour available), Boiler house (yum). There's also recently a great event space and club/lounge, The Sterling Room (on sat the cover was $20, $10 on guest list) - awesome if living in the area. Christmas time for the last few years, a makeshift European Xmas market makes it appearance (http://www.yelp.ca/biz/lowes-toronto-christmas-market-toronto). Parking in the area is expensive but we've always found FREE PARKING on Parliament. Free on weekends after 4pm or after 6pm on weekdays. read more

This is one of my favourite areas of the city. Yes during the Christmas Market it's insanely busy, but it's just one of those areas that's great to grab a coffee or ice cream and walk around. Mostly because cars are not allowed so you can freely walk from shop to shop freely without worrying about looking both ways before you cross! Aside from the history behind the place (which you can piece together based on it's name - yea they made alcohol here (and still do)), what makes the distillery really amazing are all the independent local specialty shops and restaurants. Some of Toronto's finest opened first or second location and many who continue to open here grow rapidly! Mill St Brewery/Brew Pub (formally independent... formally cool, just kidding) is a great place still with amazing beer and even better food. You've got delicious ethnic eats like El Catrin (Mexican), Tappo (Italian) and even a spot the brews Japanese Sake! Yes for real! The beautiful old world Victorian architecture of the market is also a big favourite of newly engaged/newly wed couples for their pictures. And speaking of weddings you can also find a gorgeous banquet hall called the Fermenting Cellar - you gotta see it, it's incredible! And just when it cannot get any better here, mid November comes around and the Distillery gets a crazy Christmas makeover and the Christmas Market takes over. The Market essentially takes the normal romantic air of the Distillery and pumps it up by about 1000%. It's so amazing you feel like you're in a old world Bavarian romantic comedy movie staring you and your SO. I honestly can't say enough good things about this about this place, it's definitely one of my top 5 areas of the city to visit! See for yourself! read more

I am a fan. It has that je ne sais quoi that most touristy areas in Toronto would kill their heritage for if it meant a greater amount of, well, je ne sais quoi. Okay so first and foremost this is most likely going to be an ongoing review since as most of you know, the District is a neighbourhood, a tourist attraction (errr... trap) and a chillin' hood -- like the Annex or Kensington Market are, all rolled in one. So aside the bricked streets and the condo towers nearby, the District has a number of restaurants, cafes, art stores, galleries, jewellery store, heck, a furniture store and even a theatre. So it is unfair to couple all those establishments fairly into one general review. So... what else? the Distillery is comprised of three major roads although there are ten in total, all of which are littered with places to sit and hang out which is of course quite nice. Furthermore aside the circa 1800's and 1900's historic Victorian architecture along its pedestrian friendly nature, you will quickly find just how overpriced everything is. Hanging out here can quickly amount to a pretty penny if you come for a full fledge drinks and dinner package yet having said that, expect most of the venues here to be packed during the weekend. Overall, it is a nice little place to hang out although you will get bored very quickly if you are not willing to shell out some cash unless you go for coffee or the galleries. Personally I have used this venue for a few photo shoots as it does have that industrial, yet old world vibe which lends itself for very classy looking stills. In the future I will be updating my review, as I hardly ever drop by during the Winter since it is mostly the locals who venture out during the cold months. During warm months however, the Distillery District is a great addition to the city of Toronto and yet another place to meander and people watch. read more

This place is a Toronto staple and is super cute! The cobble stone walkways (as there are no cars inside the village) are super quaint and the shops are all super hipster-y. Nothing here is cheap, but it's nice to walk around when the weather is nice and grab a coffee or an ice cream without breaking the bank. My favourite place is the weird antique shop across from the theater with a strange mix of commercial goods and random old stuff. The Christmas market is a zoo!!! PRO TIP: it's free on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Again, nice to see, but everything has such a long line, and is somewhat pricey, so not really worth it. read more

One of the best areas of Toronto and a must-see if you're visiting in my opinion. The festivals are great like the Christmas Market (I go every year!) and the Light Festival, but even on a regular day, it's a nice place to work through and plenty of places to eat! (El Catrin, Cocoa 70, etc.). It makes you feel like you're not even in Toronto sometimes. read more

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Pretty cool development, much like some in other cities such as Atlanta. The alleys and 'streets' make for a people-friendly shopping or walking environment. I saw a lot of interesting shops, including a sake brewery, but I was here for the Mill Street Brewery. They have a sweet setup. read more

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. read more

Great vibes here. The historic buildings are beautiful and the unique shops offer novelties you won't find anywhere else.

If you're visiting Toronto (or you live here but have never been) this place should be on your list as a must see! Places you can't miss IMO are: Soma Chocolates, Sake Brewery, and Mill St Brewery. Stores are kind of pricey, but that's to be expected in a touristy area. read more

It puzzles me why everyone raves so much about this area. Sure, it's a nice recycling of historical building with some interesting outdoor art. Pleasant for a stroll if you are in the area, with a possible stop or a bite to eat or to see something else nearby. There are some interesting shops, but for the most part they are overpriced. What this should have been was an area completely dedicated to artisan shops and galleries - no factory merchandise. There are several of these but the quality does not compare with elsewhere and evidently they do not attract enough buyers to stand on their own without the addition of mass merchandise and of course, beer. High prices would be justified if they shops were all truly galleries and craft shops with unique merchandise, but alas, they are not. Most of it is simply another come-on which is so typical of this city - grandiose ideas toned down by mediocrity in execution. read more

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. read more

The Distillery District - Local Flavor Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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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.artisansatthedistillery.com read more

The distillery has really become a hip and happening location for artists, tourist and foodies alike. The beautiful architecture makes for a romantic backdrop for a evening stroll, dinner or photo op. There are also numerous events that run throughout the year that are very unique to Toronto. Amongst the historical buildings, once occupied by distillers are now a hub for artists and small retail shops. You're sure to find some unique gifts, decor, art pieces, jewelry etc. here. The restaurants here are also a great reason to visit with places like Cluny Bistro offering French cuisine, or El Catrin offering unique Mexican dishes; there is really something for everyone. I must also add that the price range for the variety of shops and restaurants here are on the higher end. Parking is at times scarce and/or pricey. Best thing to do is to park just outside the district for better pricing or to take transit. read more

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. read more

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. read more

The best bit of advice that I received from a local while in Toronto was to visit The Distillery District. It's only a $12 uber ride or 15 minute drive from the CN Tower. The shops aren't open late so I would suggest giving yourself some time to walk around and see this amazing place before having dinner/drinks at Mill St. Brew Pub. Which I might add was great. They have a decent menu with a great drink selection. The wife and I had burgers and pasta, which were delicious. Whether it be art, food, antiques or beer, The Distillery District has a lot to offer. Do yourself a favor and drop in for an afternoon. You won't regret it. read more

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. read more

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I believe the Distillery District has the potential to be very good. I love the architecture and design. Unfortunately, the food falls short at every single restaurant and the shops are unimpressive. I live in the area and have tried every restaurant more than once. The food and service could definitely be better. The Distillery is a very good example of what happens when one company monopolizes all the restaurants and stores, where there is no healthy competition between business owners to encourage improvement. read more