When it comes to travel recommendations, there’s nothing better than getting them from a local. For our new column Hidden Gems, we did just that, tapping longtime natives with the insider track on their Canadian city’s coolest, most underrated addresses. Here, we turned to Torri Webster, the preeminent TikTok-er on all things Toronto where she divulges her favourite hotspots, including authentic Aegean food and the best buccal massage in the city.

 

À Toi

“There’s nothing I love more than a speakeasy! Hidden along King St. W. is a glamorous one called À Toi. You enter through Coffee Oysters Champagne (a very pink and lovely lounge), but once you share the secret password “Champagne,” you’re escorted into a champagne cellar, which leads to a concealed door opening up to the speakeasy. Once you’re in, try the “Les Années Folles” cocktail. I always order this gin-based drink: it’s rimmed with vanilla and absinthe and topped with Champagne, if you know to ask for it. And don’t skip on the oysters! A plate is perfect for enjoying the chic and private ambiance. Unfortunately, no photos are allowed in this hot spot unless you find yourself sitting upon a horse… Make sure you head to the restroom to find that unique photo opp.”

214 King St. W., a-toi.ca

Well Bynd 

“I love a self-care day, but at WellBYND, a downtown wellness studio, healing is taken to a whole other level. My recommendation? A lymphatic massage followed by a circuit in the infrared sauna — it’s a combination I do every month. The massage helps with detoxification and immune support, while the sauna session delivers muscle relaxation and pain relief. Not only is the experience totally stress-relieving, but the aesthetic, peaceful space will leave you wanting to come back for more. If you want a peek into the full service, check out my TikTok wellness series to look at all the cool health benefits.”

460 Richmond St. W. Suite 500, wellbynd.com

Mamakas Taverna 

 

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“Mamakas Taverna on Ossington Ave. is modern Greek cuisine done right! The ambiance not only transports you to the islands, but the food quality is as authentic as it gets. I go here for my celebratory birthday dinner every single year. Don’t skip on the Taramosalata house dip or the Laimós Arnioú, 24-hour roasted lamb neck. If you’re looking for a faster and cheaper option, check out their sister restaurant Agora on Queen for a quick, but epic bite.”

80 Ossington Ave., mamakas.ca

Sous La Face

 

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“You may have had a facial in the past, but nothing compares to the Radical Radiance Regime at Sous La Face, a hotspot studio in Yorkville. This facial treatment releases tension, stimulates collagen production and naturally lifts and rejuvenates the skin from beneath the face. It’s the most unique service I’ve ever had in Toronto. The part that will leave you in total awe is the buccal massage, which includes a deep inner cheek and jaw massage to release tension. I never realized how much stress I hold in those spots!”

182 Davenport Rd., souslaface.com

Baz and Banks

 

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“Baz and Banks is the cutest new female-operated and -owned salon in Liberty Village. It’s the prettiest salon aesthetically, but it’s also the perfect place to spend a Saturday afternoon before hitting the town. I love relaxing here with my girlfriends while getting an affordable — and fabulous — blowout. But, of course, we also love indulging in a glass of Prosecco while we’re at it. Hot tip: these stylists know how to work with hair extensions, so if you have planned a big event or special night, I highly recommend getting your hair done here.”

51 E. Liberty St. #3, bazandbanks.com

Communist’s Daughter 

 

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“A snug little snack bar on Dundas West, the Communist’s Daughter is typically stocked with locals, but it’s definitely the place to be on a Monday night. On Mondays, the bar opens up its record player to the public. What ends up happening is a fantastic evening of record roulette. Locals and friends alike bring their vinyl to be shared with the bar — I love bringing some of my own favourites, like anything ABBA. The bartender will play one side of the record, then for the fun part, the rest of the patrons will vote if they want to hear the other side of the album, or if they’d like to go back to the mystery box of music and hear a new song. These nights make for a really fun bonding experience.”

1149 Dundas St. W., @thecommunistsdaughtertoronto

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