Top 10 spots for after-dark decadence in Toronto

As North America’s fourth largest city, Toronto is fast becoming a world class destination, and with that it has seen the birth of several world class establishments. Both the quantity and quality of upscale spots to eat and drink has seen vast growth over recent years. But here are the top ten luxury bars and restaurants for anyone considering a decadent trip to Toronto this summer. Getting there from the UK is simple, with non-stop flights from London to Toronto from Air Transat. Restaurants Bymark Nestled in between the skyscrapers in t eh middle of the financial district, this spot charges the kind of prices that attract fat cats with expense accounts, but delivers on service, great food, and an indulgent crowd. The $40 Bymark burger is a prime example of the decadence on display. One Restaurant One Restaurant isn’t just another hotel restaurant. Located in Yorkville’s Hazelton, One offers up a bevy of luxurious dishes, including Lobster Tortellini and Roasted Black Cod. Not for those who pay attention to the price lists, but the food does shine as high as the bill. Patria A favorite among professional athletes and celebrities, Patria offers a great selection of upscale Spanish tapas and a buzzing crowd of eye-pleasing patrons. The ‘best of the best’ is imported from Spain to serve up an array of bite size cheese and meat delights as well as great mains like the roasted garlic ribeye. Woods Newly opened by chef Bruce Woods, this spot offers a Canadian theme lending to the name, but this does not take away from the striking and elegant atmosphere. Start the meal with Quebec-seared foie gras accompanied by bacon and confit purple potato puree, and follow it up with dry aged prime ribeye – a prefect piece of meat served simply. La Société The name of the French bistro ensured it was no secret that Charles Khabouth – “King of clubs turned Emperor of hospitality” – was hoping to create the Cheers of Toronto’s high society. It could now be argued that this is the place where Toronto A-listers go for after-work drinks and birthday dinners. An excellent place for lunch, with P.E.I. lobster and the Société Benedict (with Westphalian ham, toasted brioche, poached eggs and potato hash). Bars and clubs Spoke Club The Spoke Club is a private, invite-only members club in downtown west Toronto. Inside, there’s an art gallery, screening room, lounge, library, restaurant, private dining rooms and one of the best rooftop patios in Toronto. If you can score an invite its definitely worth a visit. F-Stop For VIP bottle service among the cities pro athletes and celebrities, F-Stop is a good place to start. The crowd is young and thirsty and music is loud and relentless. Soho House The multi-floor space is outfitted with a partially enclosed rooftop bar, a library, a house kitchen and pantry bar, and the main lounge area, which will be named the Pretzel Bell Bar Lounge, apparently after the tavern that originally occupied the space. It’s a members club as well that caters to the cities creatives and artists. Switch Switch is a new resto-lounge located at 55 Colborne Street. Brought to you by Toronto clublords Hanif Harji and Charles Khabouth, Switch currently serves booze to young Torontonians with disposable income but will move into serving gourmet bar snacks to accompany cocktails in the coming fall. Thompson Hotel The Thompson Hotel features a few bars that ooze the same decadence as the rest of the hotel. Thompson Hotel’s rooftop patio is plush with the who’s who of Toronto’s downtown scene. You’ll hear echoes of “Queen West?! Who goes there anymore?” as you sip your wine and look out on the distance, breezing past the rooftop infinity pool. This patio has ample lounging opportunities and vintage corduroy blazers. Technically it’s a private rooftop for guests of the hotel and condo residents so get your story straight before your try to smooth-talk your way in. There you have it, the quick and dirty of Toronto’s late night luxury hangouts. If you’re planning on a decadent trip to Toronto this summer, these would all fit the bill.