Whether you’re traveling for a conference, meetings, or a quick overnight trip, having reliable go-to spots in a city can make all the difference.
At Dakota, we’ve spent years on the road meeting with allocators, industry professionals, and investment managers across the country and around the world. Along the way we’ve learned firsthand which hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops consistently deliver.
This is a guide shares our most trusted recommendations in Toronto, the places that make your travel smoother, your meetings more effective, and your downtime more enjoyable. You can find these spots in Dakota Marketplace under the metro area tab. With Dakota Recommends, you’ll see a curated collection of places we’ve personally used and loved, plus our “Dakota must trys,” our standout picks that we never skip! Our team chooses these spots time and time again for their quality, convenience, and service.
To discover both people and places that matter to your business, book a demo today.
Hotels
Address: 188 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 0A3, Canada
Situated in a soaring modern tower on University Avenue in downtown Toronto, Shangri-La Toronto offers a refined retreat just a short walk from vibrant neighbourhoods like Queen Street West and cultural landmarks such as the Art Gallery of Ontario. According to its website the hotel features 202 rooms and suites, is rated five-stars by the Forbes Travel Guide, and prides itself on blending luxury design with urban convenience. Guests can enjoy high-end amenities including fine dining, a wellness spa (the Miraj Hammam Spa), stylish rooms, and direct access to downtown’s best shopping, dining and attractions.
Address: 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J 1E3, Canada
The Fairmont Royal York is a landmark luxury hotel in downtown Toronto that blends historic grandeur with modern sophistication. Opened in 1929, it has hosted royalty and world leaders while maintaining its reputation as one of Canada’s premier destinations. Located across from Union Station, the hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, acclaimed dining venues, a wellness spa, and direct access to Toronto’s PATH network. Combining timeless architecture, exceptional service, and a commitment to sustainability, the Fairmont Royal York remains an iconic choice for both business and leisure travelers.
To see the rest of our Toronto recommendations, click here.
Coffee Spots
Address: 199 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5L 1L5, Canada
Dineen Coffee Co. is a boutique downtown Toronto café located in the lobby of a Bay Street office tower. It features a stylish interior with high ceilings and modern design, offering artisanal coffee, freshly baked pastries, and light breakfast and lunch options.
Dakota Must Trys:
- Vanilla Latte
- Feature Brew
- Iced Matcha Latte
- Banana Loaf
Address: 215 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2C7, Canada
Located in downtown Toronto, Dark Horse Espresso Bar blends specialty-coffee passions with a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere. With a focus on high-quality beans and carefully crafted drinks, the café also offers house-made lunch sandwiches and seasonal specialties, providing both a quick coffee stop and a comfortable place to linger. Whether you’re browsing the city or meeting friends, Dark Horse delivers friendly service, vibrant energy, and tastefully curated space to enjoy your brew.
Dakota Must Trys:
- Iced Latte
- Cappuccino
- Cheddar Kale Scone
- Banana Bread Matcha
To see the rest of our Toronto recommendations, click here.
Restaurants
Address: 601 King Street West, Toronto, M5V 1M5, Canada
Earls is a Canadian upscale-casual restaurant chain; the King West location in Toronto offers a modern, vibrant ambiance with multiple patios, a rooftop solarium, and lounge spaces. The menu is globally inspired—featuring sushi, steaks, tacos, and creative cocktails—and their private event menus are customizable for group dining and social functions.
Dakota Must Trys:
- Spinach Cheese Dip
- Chimichurri Skirt Steak
- Cobb Salad
- Wagyu Beef Oshi Press
Address: 150 York Street, Toronto, ON M5H 3S5, Canada
Sushi Yūgen offers a refined and intimate Japanese dining experience focused on omakase and kaiseki-inspired tasting menus. Guests can choose between a main sushi counter offering a shorter omakase experience or a chef’s counter featuring 16-18 courses merging kaiseki and sushi elements in a more immersive setting. Reservations are essential, dress is business-casual or better, and the environment is designed for a focused, elevated meal rather than casual dining.
Dakota Must Trys:
- Uni Rice Bowl
- Special Nigiri
- White Fish with Truffle Sauce
To see the rest of our Toronto recommendations, click here.
Dakota Recommends
Dakota Recommends isn’t just a list, it’s a toolkit for business travelers. These are the places that have helped us at Dakota deliver successful meetings, memorable events, and efficient trips time and time again.
When you're traveling for work, trust the spots we've already vetted. You’ll find them all in Dakota Marketplace, organized by metro area, ready to support your goals on the road. We've also incorporated "Dakota Must Trys" under each place listed!
Whether you're planning your next trip or refining your meeting strategy, book a demo of Dakota Marketplace to explore the people and places that keep our team coming back.
