March is tough. Mentally, it feels like we’ve made it through winter. It should be spring, but we can still get hammered with minus temps into the double digits. Not to mention that windchill. The only way to really get through it is to embrace the frigid outdoors. But, here in Toronto, many of us are too deep in the grind to get out of the city to explore the winter wonderlands.
Luckily, there are spots that allow us to embrace the winter ambiance right here in the city. Here are six places that provide the perfect blend of Canadian cozy and outdoor(ish) atmosphere.
NEXT LEVEL COOL
The Bisha is one of the arguably chicest hotels in Toronto and, during the winter months, if you book one of their exquisite 900 sq foot Marilyn Monroe suites, and you have access to your very own private terrace with an epic, heated and furnished geo dome. Book the Ice Ice Baby package, stargaze and take in city views to your heart’s content while sipping bubbly. If you get a bit peckish, order-in room service and nibble on epic eats from Akira Back or KOST.
COZY CULINARY
Selvierno is a new, seasonal experience at Selva Toronto. They bring their colourful, jungle vibe outside into individually heated domes, outfited with cushy seating, blankets, pillows, music, and card games. Selva’s complete menu, from our favourite chef, Nuit Regular, is available inside the dome. Nuit brings her Thai flavours to a variety of latin-inspired dishes with delicious results. Or, try their new seafood tower which is guaranteed to delight sophisticated seafood lovers.
HIP LIKE A BANDIT
This beloved Roncesvalles hotspot, Bandit Brewery, got a sleek patio facelift this past year. Boasting actual trees inside the heated, glass-enclosed patio, you’re sure to feel the neighbourhood outdoor ambiance without being bothered by the Canadian winter temperatures.
ANYTHING-BUT-MUNDANE MEDITATION
Take a trip to Toronto’s first wellness playground, Unbounded Well, and experience “getting-comfortable-with-the-uncomfortable” ice plunge, as well as the otherworldly meditation Geo Dome. Pop in before or after your plunge session or barrel sauna to recalibrate. You’re sure to find your inner zen in this inner city sanctuary.
APRÉS SKI VIBES
In the heart of Toronto’s Distillery District, from now until March 19th, embrace Après Ski season with the Après Ski experience. A plethora of delicious drinks, food and even adorable s’mores kits, sitting fireside has never been more cozy.
HIDDEN WHISKEY BAR
It doesn’t get much cooler than a Jack Daniels Whiskey bar inside a lively outdoor yurt. Tucked away in Toronto’s much loved STACKT Market, this speakeasy-style whiskey bar, open until the end of April, is definitely a hidden gem you don’t want to miss.
