Romping Around Yorkville

Ahhh…beautiful Yorkville, a little slice of paradise for this fashion blogger with cozy streets brimming with life, beautiful boutiques and the finest restaurants. It wouldn’t be a visit to downtown Toronto without a stop in Yorkville. Conveniently located right out the door of the Four Seasons Hotel, Yorkville offers something for everyone.

Starting with a stop at the well known Trattoria Nervosa will undoubtedly begin your day off on a high note. As a lover of anything Italian, this charming cafe will undoubtedly whet your appetite.  I highly recommend starting with the Rucola salad, overflowing with the freshest arugula, lemon and parmesan and moving on to the freshest homemade Pizza Primavera with the most delicious veggie combination. Combing the fresh pasta menu, I selected the Torchetti El Pesto loaded with artichokes and pistachio flavor. It certainly didn’t disappoint as my taste buds were bursting with flavor.

Romping around town in a Romper that’s truly lustworthy by Marissa Webb with vibrant fuchsia suede sandals by Tabitha Simmons, it’s a look that just might get you noticed. It’s perfect with simple hoop earrings and a chunky bracelet. The earrings are from Intermix and the chank link bracelet is a JCrew classic sale find. I’ve collected a beautiful selection of handbags over the years and usually defer to a simple clutch with a dressier look. I’m known for having a great eye for discovering treasures, and this Loeffler Randall clutch was a fabulous sale find over the holidays. I discovered the Australian designer, Samantha Wills, this past year and have been obsessed over her rose gold line. I haven’t seen anything quite like her collections; so unique yet also an amazing price point given the quality. I haven’t taken these sunglasses by LeSpecs off since finding them at Intermix. Definitely one of my best purchases as they are a designer knock off making it hard to distinguish from the real McCoy.

Having fueled up for an afternoon of shopping, I was off to check out Pink Tartan, a local designer boutique with a fabulous reputation, carrying everything from Paul Andrew and Tabitha Simmons to Mark Cross, this top boutique will have you styled from head to toe. With their own line called Pink Tartan, they offer high quality at more affordable prices than most designers. The shop is light, bright, airy and fun with a varied selection of designers from around the world. They have an online presence where you can find most everything including an amazing selection of sale items. It’s a must see if you’re staying in downtown Yorkville.

It was difficult to pull myself away from the goodies at Pink Tartan, yet it was time to continue my tour of Yorkville. I’m a people watcher by nature as  I could sit and take in the sights and watch the people go by all day long. With a vibe of old Europe, this area of Toronto is oozing with charm. Next stop was at Kasa Moto, a fabulous Japanese restaurant around the corner from the boutique. A contemporary restaurant featuring the finest Japanese cuisine, it was time for a little break and some healthy fare. Beginning with the edamame and moving onto the miso soup, the perfect way to refuel before finishing my stroll around Yorkville. With everything from signature dishes like black cod and sea bass to skirt steaks and ribeyes, there’s something to please most everyone on your list. I was craving seafood and decided on the Rockshrimp Tempura. It didn’t disappoint and gave me just enough energy to continue my romp around Yorkville.

With a rare sweet tooth craving, I came upon Summer’s Ice Cream Shop, and had to take a peek. Loaded with everything to satisfy your sweet tooth, I settled upon a delicious homemade waffle cone filled with the yummiest homemade ice cream. Given that it was the heat of summer, it was a delightful way to cool off and feel a bit like a kid again.  Next, with my inner chill invigorated, I couldn’t resist posing with my favorite Canadian Mountie. What’s a trip to Canada without a true tourist capture?

The lovely Four Seasons was calling me to turn in for the evening. Heading back to the hotel, I passed by one of my favorite shops, the famous Pusateri’s. Located kitty corner from the hotel, Pusateri’s is a veritable institution in Toronto. Much like the freshest outdoor markets in Europe, Pusateri’s is brimming with the freshest produce, delicious pastries,  a deli as well as a wide range of delicious homemade prepared foods to make your life easier. This institution  became a daily stop of mine, beginning with their freshly made smoothies for breakfast.

Back at the elegant Four Seasons, it was time to slip out of my heels into my comfy oversized robe and fluffy slippers while relaxing in the tranquility. Overall, it was a lovely day and I was made to feel right at home with the Canadian hospitality. I can’t wait for you to visit Yorkville! It isn’t complete without a stay at the Four Seasons and a visit to my favorite restaurants and boutiques. Have you been to Yorkville? Where do you like to stay? I love hearing your recommendations! Don’t be shy!