Cocktails And A Killer View: Thompson Toronto

Having lived in downtown Toronto for over a decade, I sometimes get so wrapped up in the day-to-day that I forget to pause to take it all in. I live in a pretty amazing city and there’s no better place to reflect on the thought than perched on the rooftop at Thompson Toronto with a cocktail in hand…

With sweeping views – from Lake Ontario to the skyline – it’s hard not to fall in love with the city when you visit the rooftop at Thompson Toronto. A walk around the 16th-floor terrace always gives me goosebumps; the full 360 view of Toronto is quite magnificent. And regardless of what time of day you visit or the season (the central bar is fully enclosed with floor-to-ceiling windows), you’re in for a treat. I still can’t decide what I love more: a visit during the day when the breathtaking skyline reflects in the 40-foot infinity pool, watching the sun set with a loved one, or being enveloped by the city’s glimmering lights on a night out with the girls! On our latest visit, my photog and I headed to the rooftop just before sunset to soak up the last ounce of summer…

As we slipped into vacay mode, Brad (the head bartender) brought us some cocktails to try. We kicked things off with Strawberry Fields (centre). Named after the James Bond agent (not the Beatles tune), the gin-based cocktail is one of their best sellers. It’s fruit-forward (fresh strawberry and lemon juice) and topped with Champagne (the real stuff – no sparkling wine or Prosecco here) which adds a nice splash of opulence to the drink. Next we tried the Kensington Market (left). Named after one of my favourite markets in the city, this drink is refreshing, well-balanced and beautiful. Brad’s concoction is served over ice and with a stirrer; according to him, there’s romance in stirring a drink. Oh la la! From the fresh ingredients right down to the presentation (loved the watermelon cube garnish), this cocktail is perfect for poolside sipping. We also tried the Botanist (right) – one of Brad’s favourite cocktails. I prefer robust bevvies (I’ve been told I have the palate of an old man when it comes to spirits), so I really loved this drink. Made with gin, absinthe, Benedictine, Lillet Blanc and Angostura bitters, it’s a bit too heavy for daytime consumption, but perfect in the evening.

As the night got cooler, we headed down to the Lobby Lounge on the main floor to continue sipping cocktails at the bar. The lounge is modern, beautifully lit and inviting. But as a frequent traveller, I can tell you that the most important element of a hotel bar (other than the drinks themselves) is the bartender behind the counter. We had the pleasure of spending a couple hours with two, talented gents: Brad J and Reiner. We quickly came to the conclusion that they may just be the nicest bartenders around! They were incredibly patient, engaging and helpful (we overheard guests asking them for tips and recos as they planned out their stay).

Most importantly, they both know how to make fab cocktails! Brad J made us a drink (not on the menu) with Grey Goose, Aperol and St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur. It was smooth and refreshing. We loved the copious amount of fresh cucumbers and wanted to head straight back up to the pool with this bevvie…

But our favourite drink of the night was a classic whipped up by Reiner. Made with vodka, Chambord (black raspberry liqueur) and a splash of pineapple juice, his French Martini was the best I’ve ever tasted. Perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of acidity, sweetness and froth. This cocktail is to die for! Oh, and according to Reiner, it’s “efficient” – plenty of booze in this baby…

We really enjoyed our night at Thompson Toronto and can’t wait to go back to check out their fall/winter cocktails. Before you head over, do note that the rooftop is only open to hotel guests, residents and private event attendees. That being said, there’s no shortage of great dining and drink options at the hotel: the lobby bar, Wabora, 1812, The Diner and Colette Grand Café and Bakery (one of Toronto’s most beautiful restaurants – read my full review here). Hope you get a chance to check out Thompson Toronto soon! It’s sure to be a TIFF hot spot again this year!

Special thanks to Thompson Toronto for hosting us. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.