It’s often said that a city is defined by its neighbourhoods, each one brimming with the culture and character of those that inhabit it. The Distillery District in the heart of Toronto is a neighbourhood well worth a visit, jam-packed with creativity and style.

The site, former home to Gooderham & Worts distillery, has been transformed into an inspired blend of Victorian Industrial architecture and stunning 21st century design and creativity. The result is an internationally acclaimed, pedestrianised village of one-of-a-kind stores, shops, galleries, restaurants, studios and cafes.

Check out Team Coco’s best places to visit in The Distillery District:

Soma
Calling all chocolate lovers, for a truly rich chocolate experience you need to visit Soma. This factory store has expert chocolatiers on hand to point you in the direction of some the finest chocolate treats. Make sure you try their Spiced Mayan drinking chocolate, its got a real kick!

The Ordinary
This cult beauty brand is anything but ordinary. The Ordinary’s products are described as “Clinical formulations with integrity” by the company itself. The brand is completely vegan and 100% cruelty free which is why their budget skin and make up collection is one of the hottest ranges on the market. Products often sell out within hours of hitting the shelves because they work and don’t break the bank. Invest in one of their $7 foundations and $5 Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum.

El Catrin
This Mexican restaurant has a lively and fun vibe. El Catrin offers authentic, traditional and modern Mexican dishes all created by Olivier LeCalvez, one of Mexico City’s top chefs. It took three Mexican artists almost 100 days to create the dramatic floor to ceiling murals that fill the walls. The cocktails here are off the hook and a fully stocked tequila and mescal bar occupies the length of the restaurant. It’s well worth the visit.

The Spirit of York
This craft distillery specialises in producing a gin, a vodka, a whisky and an aquavit. Visitors can settle into the cosy round bar in the centre of the room and sample the products. All of the spirits are made from 100% rye grain and expert distillers are on hand to talk you through the process and flavours. The most impressive part of the Spirit of York’s cellar door is the huge glass wall at the back where you can view the working distillery. Settle at the bar with a drink and watch the spirits being made.

Arta Gallery
Arta Gallery offers an impressive collection of contemporary work by both Canadian and international artists. Under the leadership of Director, Fay Athari the vision is to bring art to our daily lives and make talented artists accessible to the Toronto community. Art consultants are on hand to help you find the latest emerging artists and recommend some of the finest artistic works to accommodate your taste and style. The gallery also boasts an art bank where you can rent an outstanding collection of art works for your home or office.

Team Coco travelled to Toronto courtesy of Tourism Toronto www.seetorontonow.com

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