INSIDER’S GUIDE TO

DISCOVER A CITY WHERE THE APPEALS ARE ENDLESS

Welcome A MESSAGE FROM
BENNETT JONES

The vibrant and dynamic metropolis of Toronto will welcome the

legal world at the 2025 IBA Annual Conference. The city's bustling
energy will be on full display and we look forward to meeting our IBA
colleagues and building new relationships throughout the event.

In this guide, we offer some practical tips on where to stay and what
to do as you travel to Canada's largest city next year.

Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Over

180 languages are spoken and almost half the population was born
outside of Canada.

A global centre of business, finance, technology and innovation,

Toronto is the capital of Canada's most populous province. The
Toronto Stock Exchange is the tenth largest in the world and the city
is home to more corporate headquarters than anywhere in Canada.
Bennett Jones' Toronto office is located at the very centre of the
thriving Financial District.

Toronto has world-class dining, entertainment and cultural scenes.

Bennett Jones will be hosting events during the conference and
we hope you can join us as we share the best of our diverse and
cosmopolitan city.

JOHN M. MERCURY DOMINIQUE T. HUSSEY

Executive Chair & Chair of the Board Chief Executive Officer
Contents
HOTELS 1
BREAKFAST 3
LUNCH 5
DINNER 7
BARS 11
COFFEE 14
ACTIVITIES 15
FURTHER AFIELD 19
GETTING AROUND 22
SEE YOU SOON! 24

The IBA Annual Conference

Looking for verdict-worthy sessions will be held at the:
recommendations?
Keep an eye out for hidden gems Metro Toronto
from our partners. Convention Center
255 Front St. W.
Hotels

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8 1
3 13 17

6 9
16 12 4
2
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5 7 11
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18

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1
1 The St. Regis Toronto
325 Bay St.
4 Fairmont Royal York
100 Front St. W.

2 The Ritz-Carlton 5 1550

Hotel
Wellington St. W.
181 Wellington St. W.

3 Shangri-La
188 University Ave.

6 Ace
51 Camden St.
13 One King West
1 King St. W.

7 Delta Toronto
75 Lower Simcoe St.
14 Radisson
Downtown
Blu Toronto

249 Queens Quay W.

Hilton Toronto
8 145 Richmond St. W.
15 Sheraton Centre Toronto
123 Queen St. W.

9 Hyatt Regency Toronto

370 King St. W.
16 Sutton Place Toronto
355 King St. W.

10 InterContinental
Centre
Toronto

225 Front St. W.

17 The Omni King Edward
37 King St. E.

11 Le Germain Toronto
Maple Leaf Square 18 The Westin Harbour Castle
1 Harbour Square
75 Bremner Blvd.

19 Toronto Marriott City Centre

12 Le Germain Toronto
Mercer
One Blue Jays Way

30 Mercer St.

Hotels | 2
Breakfast
ALL RESTAURANTS ARE ALSO OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

3
4

6
7 5

FOOD Maple syrup, a quintessential Canadian delicacy, is made

FACT from the sap of maple trees and boasts a rich, sweet flavor
that enhances everything from pancakes to savoury dishes. Harvested in
the spring, it’s a natural, golden syrup loved for its deep, caramel-like taste
and is a symbol of Canadian culture.

3
 1 1 Kitchen (inside 1 Hotel)
A farm-to-table experience that features ingredients sourced from local
farms, with a focus on sustainable and organic cuisine

2 Azure (inside the InterContinental)

A stylish restaurant which specializes in seasonal dishes, offering a menu
inspired by coastal cuisines from around the world

3 Bosk (inside the Shangri-la)

A contemporary restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience
with a menu that blends global flavours with locally sourced ingredients

4 Café Landwer (University & Adelaide location)

Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with multiple sites across Toronto,
featuring a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy a variety of dishes
including brunch options

5 Reign (inside The Fairmont Royal York)

An upscale restaurant that offers a luxurious dining experience with a
focus on contemporary Canadian cuisine with an elegant and refined ambiance

6 Stratus
A chic restaurant located in the TD South Tower known for its modern
Canadian cuisine and stunning views of downtown Toronto

7 TOCA (inside The Ritz-Carlton)

A refined dining experience with a modern touch, offering a menu of fresh,
seasonal dishes and an extensive wine list in an elegant setting

Breakfast | 4
Lunch
ALL RESTAURANTS ARE ALSO OPEN FOR DINNER

5
3

8 4
7

2
1

FOOD Poutine is a beloved Canadian dish that consists of crispy

FACT fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich,
savoury gravy. Originating from Quebec, this comfort food has become an
iconic part of Canadian cuisine, enjoyed across the country.

5
 1 Aera
A 38th floor restaurant housing a luxurious cocktail bar, an impressive
sushi counter and an expansive open-air terrace

2 Aria
A sophisticated dining experience with an extensive lunch and dinner
menu complemented by a curated selection of exquisite Italian wines

3 Chase
A hot spot with stunning panoramic views of Toronto's skyline
alongside contemporary dishes that highlight local and seasonal ingredients

4 Jump
A vibrant restaurant serving modern American cuisine with a focus on
fresh seafood and grilled meats

5 Leña
Imaginative yet rooted in tradition, Leña’s cuisine showcases the vibrant
essence of South American cooking, with unique Spanish and Italian influences

6 Miku
A 7,000 square-foot restaurant featuring a raw bar, sushi bar and a
spacious patio

7 Minami
Sister restaurant to Miku, delivering innovative Japanese tapas, tasting
menus and award-winning interior design

8 Modus
Located in the heart of the Financial District, specializing in refined Italian
cuisine in a fine dining setting

Lunch | 6
 Dinner
*RESTAURANTS ARE ALSO OPEN FOR LUNCH

19
20

11
16 8 18
1 14 2 6 13
17 3 12
5 10 4
15 7

FOOD Hawaiian pizza, a polarizing yet popular dish, features a

FACT unique combination of savoury ham and sweet pineapple on
a traditional pizza crust with tomato sauce and melted cheese. Despite its
name, this pizza was actually created in Canada and has sparked global
debate over the pairing of fruit with savoury toppings.

7
 1 Alo
A top choice for a refined dining experience, featuring a menu that blends
French classics with modern flair

2 Black and Blue*

A high-end steakhouse renowned for its premium cuts of meat, extensive
wine list and elegant, contemporary ambiance

3 Byblos
A menu inspired by the cuisines of Lebanon, Türkiye and beyond in a luxe
two-storey setting

4 Bymark*
Upscale Canadian cuisine in a stylish and refined atmosphere

5 Boehmer
For a taste of Toronto’s vibrant nightlife and eclectic
dining scene, stroll down the Ossington Strip. This
trendy neighbourhood is packed with chic bars, artisan
IAN C.
eateries, and unique boutiques. A great example is the MICHAEL
long-standing Boehmer restaurant that offers a Spanish Partner
and German inspired menu.

6 Canoe*
Perched atop the TD Bank Tower, providing a breathtaking view of
Toronto's skyline paired with a menu that celebrates Canadian cuisine

7 Chotto Matte*
Combining Japanese and Peruvian influences to create a unique Nikkei
dining experience

Dinner | 8
 8 Daphne*
A stunning new restaurant in the Financial District offering a modern
American menu

9 Don Alfonso 1890

An upscale Italian restaurant, located at the top of the Westin Harbour
Castle, delivering impeccable service and stunning views of Lake Ontario

10 EPOCH Bar and Kitchen Terrace*

A verdant park-side kitchen terrace and patio within The Ritz-Carlton

11 Giulietta
College Street offers some excellent dining
options just outside the downtown core. Giulietta is one
of them, providing a chic and intimate dining experience LINDA
with a menu that beautifully blends Italian and MISETICH
contemporary flavours. DANN
Partner,
Co-Head of Corporate
Department

12 Ki*
A sophisticated Japanese restaurant in Toronto's Financial District,
celebrated for its sushi and sashimi as well as its extensive sake list

13 LOUIX LOUIS*
An opulent restaurant and bar known for its contemporary Canadian
cuisine and extensive selection of spirits and cocktails

14 MARKED
A restaurant known for its creative dishes that blend South American
flavours with local ingredients in a vibrant atmosphere

9
15 Nobu
Canada’s first restaurant from the iconic Nobu Hospitality Group, perfect
for savouring expertly crafted sushi and inventive dishes

16 Planta Queen*
A fresh and inventive approach to plant-based cuisine with a focus on
sustainability and flavour

17 Petros82
An airy, contemporary restaurant, capturing the essence of modern
Mediterranean dining

Distillery District & Yorkville

18 Cluny*
A French-inspired menu in a stunning brasserie setting, known for its
classic dishes and artisanal breads baked on-site

19 Café Boulud*
Renowned for its French cuisine with a contemporary twist and crafted
under the guidance of the celebrated Chef Daniel Boulud

20 Sassafraz*
Nestled in the heart of Yorkville, a Toronto landmark known for its upscale
Canadian cuisine and stylish ambiance

Dinner | 10
Bars
2

1
5
7 12
6
9 13
4 8
3

11 10

FOOD The Caesar is a classic Canadian cocktail, often enjoyed as a

FACT brunch staple. It’s made with vodka, Clamato juice (a blend
of clam and tomato juices), hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce, served
over ice and garnished with a celery stick and a lime wedge.

11
 1 43 Down (inside the Sheraton Centre)
A hot spot that comes to life at night, known for its artisan cocktails and
eclectic menu

2 Bar Raval
With Gaudi-esque wood panels and a distinctive Barcelona-inspired
atmosphere, a hidden gem for cocktail enthusiasts

3 Clockwork
A bustling, easy-going, lobby lounge at The Fairmont Royal York, serving
bubbles, creative cocktails and small plates

4 Coffee Oysters Champagne

A swanky pink-and-gold-hued restaurant and cocktail bar with a wide
variety of oysters and the largest champagne selection in Canada

5 Craft Beer Market

Home to 160 beers on tap, comfort-food cuisine and daily happy-hour,
with something for every zythophile

6 Elephant & Castle

Serving up traditional British pub fare in a welcoming, relaxed
environment between the Financial and Entertainment Districts

7 King Taps
Offering a vibrant atmosphere, an extensive craft beer selection and a
gastro-pub menu, a top pick for after-work drinks

Bars | 12
 8 Library Bar
The Library Bar at The Fairmont Royal York exudes
classic elegance, offering a stylish setting for cocktails
and light bites. With its rich wood paneling and cozy KWANG LIM
atmosphere, it truly feels like a luxurious retreat in an Vancouver Managing
actual library. Partner

9 Liquid Courage
For an authentic speakeasy experience, head to Liquid
Courage. This hidden bar features a menu of expertly crafted
cocktails and a chic, vintage-inspired setting. MARTIN J.
VALASEK
Partner

10 NBA Courtside
An ideal venue for enjoying NBA games and cheering on the Raptors with
an impressive collection of basketball memorabilia

11 Real Sports
Combines a high-energy sports bar experience with a diverse menu of
American favourites and a 39' big screen, ideal for cheering for the Maple Leafs

12 Reservoir Lounge
This captivating retro speakeasy blends nostalgia
with live jazz music and showcases both legendary artists
and emerging talent all while serving superb martinis. MAUREEN M.
WARD
Partner

13 Walrus
A popular after-work watering hole featuring an elevated pub-style
atmosphere with a diverse menu of classic comfort foods and local beers

13
Coffee
*MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AVAILABLE

2
5
4
1
5 3 2

5
3

FOOD A Double-Double is a popular coffee order from Tim Hortons,

FACT consisting of two sugars and two creams in a cup of coffee.

While Starbucks and Tim Hortons are readily available on every corner, here are
a few of our favourite independent coffee shops:

1 Balzac 3 Forno* 5 Neo Coffee Bar*

2 Dineen* 4 Maman
Coffee | 14
Activities
3

2 9

7 13
1 12
6
10|11
12 12

8
4|5

14
15
 1 Art Gallery of Ontario
Housing a vast collection of artworks spanning centuries and continents
with pieces by renowned artists such as the Group of Seven, Henry Moore and
works from European masters

2 Bata Shoe Museum

Dive into the fascinating world of footwear at the
Bata Shoe Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum features
an extensive collection of shoes from around the world STEPHEN W.
and across history, providing a unique and insightful look BOWMAN
into cultural and fashion trends over the ages. Vice Chair &
Managing Partner,
People and Talent

3 Casa Loma
Toronto's only castle, transporting visitors to a bygone era with its
majestic architecture and lush gardens

4 CN Tower
An iconic symbol of Toronto, offering breathtaking panoramic
views from its observation decks and glass floor—if you dare!

5 EdgeWalk
For an unforgettable thrill, try the EdgeWalk at the
CN Tower. This adrenaline-pumping adventure lets you
walk hands-free around the outside, dangling 1168 feet PERRY
above the ground, providing unparalleled views of Toronto SPITZNAGEL
and beyond. KC
Vice Chair & Partner

Activites | 16
 6 Distillery District
A pedestrian-only village known for its Victorian-era industrial architecture,
artisan shops, galleries, bars and restaurants

7 Kensington Market
A vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood famous for its bohemian vibe, indie
shops, vintage boutiques, multicultural eateries and street art

8 Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

A delight to visitors with interactive exhibits showcasing diverse marine
life and a mesmerizing underwater tunnel

9 Royal Ontario Museum

Canada's largest museum of world cultures and natural history, featuring
the leading gallery on the Dawn of Life, along with outstanding exhibits on
dinosaurs, Chinese art, meteorites, geology and Canadian Indigenous culture

10 St. Lawrence Market

A food lover's paradise, offering fresh produce, gourmet specialties and
diverse international cuisines in a bustling market atmosphere

11 Peameal Bacon Sandwich at Carousel Bakery

A visit to the St. Lawrence Market wouldn’t be
complete without trying the iconic peameal bacon sandwich.
Head to Carousel Bakery inside the market for a delicious, ANDREW
savoury treat that’s been a local favourite for years. BOZZATO
Partner

12 Theatres:
Elgin & Winter Garden, Royal Alexandra and Princess of Wales
Hosting world-class performances ranging from Broadway hits to local
productions in beautifully restored venues

17
 13 Toronto Eaton Centre
A bustling shopping destination in the heart of downtown Toronto,
featuring over 250 stores, including major retailers and upscale boutiques

13 Toronto Islands
Full of beaches, parklands and bike paths, reachable by boat from Jack
Layton Ferry Terminal or water taxi along the Harbourfront

Parks
6

1
2
5

1 Cherry Beach 3 Woodbine

Beach Park
5 Humber Bay
Butterf ly Habitat

2 Trillium Park 4 Don Valley

Brickworks Park
6 Bluffer’s Park
Activites | 18
Further Afield
4

8
9
2 10
O
ONT
TOR

IO
L A K E O N TA R

6 7
5

RIE
LAKE E

FOOD Canada is the world’s largest icewine producer. This

FACT distinctive dessert wine is made from grapes that have
frozen while on the vine. It is available in both red and white varieties.

19
 1 Blue Mountain
A popular ski resort town located near Collingwood, Ontario
In addition to winter sports, it offers activities year-round such as hiking, mountain biking,
and golfing. The area is known for its picturesque landscapes and the Blue Mountain
Village, a hub for shopping, dining and entertainment. If you want to get away for a
couple of nights we recommend staying at the The Westin Trillium House hotel.

2 Millcroft Inn & Spa

Millcroft Inn & Spa offers a tranquil experience with
outdoor hot and cold pools, saunas and a serene natural
setting. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge after the
KATHERINE
IBA conference that is only one hour away from Toronto. HUTCHINSON
Senior Manager,
International Business
Development
3 Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa
Just outside Toronto, offering a luxurious escape with elegant rooms, a
world-class spa and fine dining
Set on 75 acres of gardens and woodlands, it provides a tranquil retreat with top-notch
service, beautiful surroundings and a restaurant ranked Best Destination Restaurant in
2024 by Canada's 100 Best.

4 Muskoka
Often referred to as "cottage country," a scenic region in Ontario known
for its abundant lakes, forests and rugged beauty
It's a popular retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing,
hiking and enjoying nature. JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa is a great
resort hotel from which to explore the area.

5 Niagara Falls
A world-renowned natural wonder straddling the border between Canada
and the United States
It consists of three majestic waterfalls—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal
Veil Falls—with the Canadian side offering stunning views and various attractions like
seasonal boat tours, casinos and parks.
Further Afield | 20
 6 Niagara Wine Region
Just a short drive from Toronto, the Niagara wine
region is a picturesque retreat featuring rolling vineyards
and award-winning wines. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely
PATRICK T.
day trip, offering scenic tours and tastings that showcase MAGUIRE KC
the best of Ontario’s wine country. Vice Chair & Calgary
Managing Partner

7 Niagara-on-the-Lake
A picturesque town situated where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario
The area is renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and scenic vineyards.
There are lots of hotel options to choose from including Pillar and Post Inn & Spa,
Harbour House Hotel and Prince of Wales Hotel.

8 Port Perry
A charming lakeside town in Ontario known for its historic downtown and
scenic views of Lake Scugog
A visit isn't complete without stopping at The Pantry Shelf for afternoon tea, where you
can enjoy freshly baked treats in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

9 Prince Edward County

Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, a rural gem known for its
picturesque landscapes and sandy beaches
This region is also famous for their local wineries and artisanal food scene. The 13-room
Drake Devonshire is a great base to explore the area.

10 Thermëa Spa Village

A wellness haven located just outside of the city centre
The spa features a thermal experience with a wide array of wellness installations including
saunas, baths and rest areas, as well as a selection of restaurants.

21
Getting Around
UP Express
For a quick and efficient journey between Pearson International Airport and
downtown Toronto, consider taking the UP Express train. Trains run every
15 minutes from Pearson Airport Terminal 1 and take approximately 25
minutes to reach Union Station in downtown Toronto. You can pay for the ride
by tapping your credit card.

Ride-Sharing Services
Uber and Lyft are widely available and convenient for getting around the city.
Simply use their respective apps to request a ride.

Taxis
Taxis can be hailed on the street, by your hotel or ordered in advance. Common
taxi companies include Beck, Co-op, Diamond and Crown, among others.

Car Services
For a private and pre-arranged option, consider reputable car services such as
Cullitons, Black Car Limo or Aeroport Taxi & Limousine Service.

Public Transit
Toronto’s public transit system, operated by the Toronto Transit Commission
(TTC), includes buses, streetcars and subways, providing extensive coverage
throughout the city. Purchase tokens, tickets or a Presto card for convenient
access. You can also pay by tapping your credit card.

Walking and Cycling

Downtown Toronto is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking
distance. Rental programs like Bike Share Toronto offer a convenient way to
explore the city on two wheels.

Getting Around | 22
 1

Airports
1 Toronto Pearson Airport 2 Toronto City Billy Bishop Airport
(YYZ) (YTZ)
Main hub for international and Conveniently situated in the heart of
domestic flights the city, offering primarily domestic and
Northern U.S. flights

23
See You Soon!
We are looking forward to welcoming you to Toronto next year!
Our incredibly diverse city is full of life and at the heart of business
and law in Canada. I first moved to Toronto when I joined Bennett
Jones in 2007 and this international city quickly became home. We
always revel in showing Toronto off to the world and eagerly await
the opportunity to host you at the 2025 IBA Conference.

PREET K. GILL
Toronto Managing Partner

IBA TORONTO
November 2-7, 2025

If you have any questions feel free to contact us at [email protected]

24
While the venues in this guide were suggested by our exceptionally cool
lawyers and staff, Bennett Jones makes no warranty as to the fitness
of these recommendations to fill your free time in Toronto. We are not
liable for any uncontrollable cravings, sudden outbursts of mirth or
mayhem or other unexplained desires to explore and experience our city.
Enjoy your visit to Toronto!