Kevin Zemnickis, Mobile Merchant Engagement, PayPal Canada

 

In the past several years, Toronto has become a feast for the senses, with plenty to see and taste – and the world has noticed. In fact, Vogue magazine just called West Queen West the second-coolest neighborhood in the world. As a foodie and former owner of a food truck marketing business, I’m thrilled to see the Toronto food scene getting the recognition it deserves.

 

More and more world-class chefs flock to the city to ply their trade with a slew of new restaurants opening on a seemingly daily basis and PayPal has been getting in on the action. I have worked with over 100 trendy restaurants, cafes, bars and food trucks to integrate the check-in feature of the PayPal app into their payment systems and make wallet-free dining a reality for Canadians.

 

All of this is a good excuse to pound the pavement and explore the bright and delicious city of Toronto – whether you live there or are just passing through. To kick-start your gastro tour, here’s my epicurean guide to the city. And you can travel light; these places accept PayPal, so ditch the wallet and check in using our app at every spot.

 

Ze Food and Drink

1704 Queen Street West

901.9951

 

In recent years, the west end has blown up with enough food options to keep you in canapés and doggy bags for a lifetime. Lace up your shoes and start things off in Parkdale – one of the coolest neighborhoods around – with brunch at Ze.Ze Food and Drink, where you’ll find a cute room with the best breakfast sandwich in the city.

 

Kanga

65 Duncan Street

324.9174

 

Walk off your brunch by taking a long walk across the trendy west end of Queen Street and you’ll end up at Kanga, the Australian meat pie shop. You’ll need to refuel after your hour-long walk, so grab a savory treat to go. They are fast, delicious and the perfect way to keep you going until lunch.

 

Hey Meatball

719 College Street

546.1483

 

A nice escape from downtown and a great place for lunch, Little Italy is surrounded by leafy streets and beautiful houses. Head toward Hey Meatball on College Street. Like the title implies, you can expect meatballs aplenty in a variety of options, including chicken, pork, beef, and vegan. The sandwiches are amazing; go with The Rodfather, my personal favorite. Afterwards, you can take a stroll around the many charming neighborhoods nearby, like The Annex and Kensington Market.

 

DaiLo Restaurant

503 College Street

341.8882

 

Feeling peckish? Rest your tired feet and grab a cocktail. Head on over to DaiLo, the hotly-tipped modern Asian fusion bistro with a selection of sumptuous shareable plates. You’ll want to bring your friends for this one – and don’t forget to save room for dinner.

 

The Whippoorwill Restaurant and Tavern

1285 Bloor Street West

530.2999

 

For your last meal of the day, look northward and head up to Bloordale to the beloved Whippoorwill Restaurant and Tavern. Not only does it have a cozy, local feel, it’s also got great service and a stunningly good burger.

 

Now your day of gluttony is planned; is your mouth watering? Remember, you can use your PayPal app to pay for all of the above, along with many other restaurants that showcase the multicultural offerings Toronto boasts. If you’re in the city, pull up the app and you’ll be able to see the spots near you so you can take your pick of the 100+ merchants available.

 

 Beautiful photos of the Lisa Marie restaurant in Toronto. Taken by: Mardi Michels.

 

Photos from Insomnia in Toronto. Be sure to check out more of the places Mardi visited on our Instagram channel.

 

If you want to see more, foodie, photographer, writer and Renaissance woman Mardi Michels (@eatlivtravwrite) will be setting out on a Toronto restaurant odyssey beginning on October 6. She’ll be capturing her journey on our Instagram account. In the meantime: eat up!

Original author: PayPal-Forward