Fodor's Expert Review Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

Living up to the razzle dazzle of its name, the Ritz also has a great location—across from Roy Thompson Hall and smack-dab in the center of the Financial District. The building is a modern cube-like glass podium topped off with a 53-story tower. Guest rooms are huge, with spectacular views overlooking the CN Tower and Lake Ontario through floor-to-ceiling windows. The Clarins spa, cocktail bars, saltwater pool and high tea services are crowd pleasers.

The Ritz makes a "fun uncle"-type fuss over children, with activity programs and city guides for parents. You might expect the Ritz to be disapproving and haughty about kids--but no. Little guests enjoy their stay.

room

YOU SHOULD KNOW Because of the hardwood floor perimeter under the area rugs, noise from the guest room above can sometimes be an issue. Soundproofing is tough without wall-to-wall carpet. At least the perimeter hardwood flooring is heated.

bathroom

lobby

Swanning inside through the roundabout door, guests know they've arrived somewhere special when they enter the Ritz's lobby. The dramatically high ceilings are adorned with equally dramatic modern chandeliers--jazzy light sculptures by Canadian artists. The seats are numerous and classy, with great sight lines to all the hotel's eating areas. Enjoy some people watching, as famous guests mount the staircases up to the mezzanine.

pool

Tranquil and clean, the salt-water pool was made for swimming laps and appeasing children. It's modern and chic, with plenty of towels on hand and expansive views of the city.

Get to the pool early on weekends to snag one of the slightly concave, double Bali beds!

spa

gym

Located on the fifth floor, the Ritz's 24-hour fitness center is bright and airy, with state-of-the-art equipment and great city views.

dining

With a chef from Rome, the traditional Italian cuisine at TOCA is prized for its authenticity. Get the signature ravioli caprese. They have a thoughtful pre-theatre menu and cozy half-circle booths.

TOCA has the city's only cheese cave! Also, the Ritz has a tea sommelier for its fancy high tea and afternoon tea services. They've updated their trays from the traditional "petit four" three-story tower to a modern stacking design.

drinking

You'll never go thirsty at the Ritz. There is the lobby bar, known for its liquid nitrogen martinis, and the DEQ Terrace Lounge, with open-air fire pits and views of the CN Tower. They serve creative mixed drinks, including a $700 cognac cocktail called during TIFF.