Toronto is blessed to have a vibrant Koreatown that offers the best of Korean culture in the city.
But while it’s a main feature of the area, Seaton Village has more to offer, with plenty of character and some mainstay locations that Toronto residents flock to.
So get ready to explore Toronto’s Seaton Village neighbourhood, from its litany of Korean establishments to some of the unsung gems.
Food
Obviously, I can’t talk about the food in Seaton Village without mentioning the bevy of fine Korean establishments that grace this strip of Bloor. While there are too many spots to choose from, here are a few to get you started.
Buk Chang Dong Soon Tofu is a go-to for many in the city, but some personal favs are Yummy Korean Restaurant, Jin Dal Lae, and The Owl of Minerva on Bloor. For the famous Korean BBQ, Daldongnae offers high-quality meat cuts, and the Famous Table BBQ package comes with a generous selection of complimentary side dishes.
If you’re looking to chow down on something that’s not Korean food, Papamio’s slogan of “The Best Italian Sandwiches in Town” isn’t wholly unearned, as this spot is a favourite amongst the Curiocity crew.
Other recommendations:
Bars
While iconic establishments like Clinton’s aren’t around anymore, that shouldn’t deter you from a fun night out in Koreatown.
It was tough to know where to put Mapo Pocha, because it has both great drinks and food. But, at the end of the day, it will make a Soju lover out of anyone, with cocktails that highlight the best of this Korean liquor.
Zui Beer Bar is a stylish neon spot with plenty of daily deals that’ll have you coming back every day of the week. A hallowed neighbourhood spot, Pour Boy is a cozy bar that offers a mix of classic tavern fare and Asian-inspired cuisine.
Shops
Seaton Village is packed with so many cute shops, making it the ideal spot for some window shopping.
If you love some good stationery, Mr. Pen and Hanji Gifts have the cutest pens and notebooks that raise the bar on functionality and aesthetics. K-Pop lovers can also hit up Sarah & Tom’s to snag the latest releases for themselves. Looking for a special gift? Juxtapose is your one-stop shop for unique home goods.
Doug Miller Books is an independent used bookstore that’s a trove of vintage finds, and you can see the new stacks that come in via their daily Instagram updates.
PAT Central is the grocery spot with items you won’t find anywhere else.
Panoply on Dupont has vintage finds that will make your apartment pop.
Get your skincare together at K-Beauty.
Activities
Come to Seaton Village with your vocal cords warmed, because Koreatown is packed with a plethora of karaoke bars.
K Karaoke, Echo Karaoke, Gorhe Gorhe Karaoke, Freezone Karaoke — once you walk out of Christie station, you’re practically hit with the sounds of groups singing off-key to their favourite Taylor Swift songs.
If singing isn’t your thing, and you want a quiet, competitive night with friends, check out the historic Snake & Lattés location to see where the board game café giant got its start.
See you in Seaton Village!
