A Gluten-Free Girl’s Guide to Toronto

The CN Tower

If you can tolerate heights, I highly recommend the CN Tower, the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere. Make sure it’s a clear day, and, if you can swing it, I recommend buying a timed ticket in advance with the fast pass. You take an elevator up 116 stories to the observation deck with an outstanding view of Toronto and beyond. If you’re feeling brave, you can go 33 stories higher up to an even higher point, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you don’t like confined spaces—the view wasn’t too much better than the 116th floor.

Hockey Hall of Fame

For any hockey fans, this is a must. You get a snapshot of all of the NHL teams and can even get your picture with the Stanley Cup in the Cathedral of Hockey (you’ll have to see it to believe the stain glass domed room dedicated to hockey).

Shopping on Bloor Street

Stop by Canadian classics like Lululemon and Aritzia, and check out their beautiful department store, Holt Renfrew, for any designer you could ever want.

Distillery District

This pedestrian zone in what used to be home to a number of distilleries is the perfect destination for treats, drinking, and shopping. There are so many cute shops to explore—make sure to check the store hours before stopping by. Take a picture with the love lock sign (and maybe add one of your own), grab a coffee from Balzac’s, and stop by the Spirit of York Distillery Co. to taste spirits that are still made in the district.

Rogers Centre

Check out a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game or your favorite artist’s concert at the Rogers Centre to experience the energy of Toronto. The outstanding feature is their retractable roof, so rain or shine your event will go on.

Piano Piano Bloor

A gem for a gluten-free dinner. The pastas can be made gluten-free and so can a number of the proteins. I couldn’t decide between either, so I got both: a mushroom cavatelli (modified with gluten-free pasta) and chicken piccata (modified for gluten-free as well—I was surprised by the red sauce, but it was delicious). Save room for a refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet at the end.

Bar Prima

Hidden behind a mostly unmarked door, this moody Italian restaurant is a must, even if only for appetizers and drinks. You can build your own martini served up with a sidecar on ice. My dirty Empress gin martini paired perfectly with our selection of gluten-free and vegetarian appetizers: citrus caprese, marinated carrots, fresh bread, and potato pavé.

Apothecary & Co

The ultimate vibey speakeasy, I would recommend making a reservation if available. Enter the door into a 19th-century apothecary, where a door sweeps open to welcome you into the back bar, complete with vials and all of the accouterments you could need for a drink. They have a variety of classics on the menu—my husband had an old-fashioned (“the best one I’ve ever tasted”) and I had a daiquiri (simple, refreshing, and delicious).

Gusto 101

A must-eat. This restaurant was unassuming—it looked like a car garage but had the most amazing food. If you’re heading to the entertainment district for a show or game, this is a 20-ish minute walk away and worth it. I had the Azzurro gin and blueberry lemonade, and the mushroom risotto (gluten-free, of course). My husband loved his margherita pizza (prepared comfortably nut-free).

Terroni Price

Known for their rooftop patio, Terroni Price offered another great Italian meal: I started with a side of olives, then moved on to gluten-free lemon pasta with a glass of crisp Italian white wine. They were super helpful with allergies.

Waterworks Food Hall

If you’re looking to try a little bit of everything, this is a great option! Gluten-free items include arepas, sushi, tacos, vermicelli bowls, and more. The arepa stand was delicious and super customizable—plus automatically gluten-free.

Bunner’s

An unassuming storefront opens up to the most delicious gluten-free (and vegan) bakery! Their French toast cupcake (flavor of the month) was amazing and they even have soft-serve. Other sweets included a soft-baked chocolate chip cookie, cinnamon rolls, brownies, and more. So worth the stop!