Check Out These TIFF Celebrity Hangout Spots

Toronto’s about to get a serious dose of glitz and glamour as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2024 kicks off and trust me; you won’t want to miss a second of the action. Sure, the movies are great, but honestly, the real fun is in the star-spotting. Whether you’re hoping to snap a selfie with your favourite actor or casually “bump into” a director at a bar, we know some of the best TIFF celebrity hangout spots.

Major TIFF Venues

These are the key venues where TIFF’s biggest premieres and events take place. If you want to catch a glimpse of a star-studded red carpet or a big-name actor heading to a screening, these spots should be on your radar.

TIFF Bell Lightbox

TIFF Bell Lightbox is where celebrities frequently enter and exit for screenings, press conferences, and more. It’s the best place to catch the excitement up close.

Scotiabank Theatre

While Scotiabank Theatre may not have the glitz of other venues, it’s where you’ll find more intimate screenings and Q&A sessions. Celebs often enter through the same doors as regular moviegoers, so keep your eyes peeled.

Roy Thomson Hall

Roy Thomson Hall is where many of TIFF’s most glamorous gala premieres happen. The red carpet events here are legendary, and the steps leading up to the entrance provide a perfect perch for snapping photos of arriving stars.

Princess of Wales Theatre

Princess of Wales Theatre is another major red carpet venue during TIFF. It’s always packed with fans, so get there early to secure a good spot for celeb spotting.

Along King Street West

Celebrities, filmmakers, and fans flock to this area during TIFF, making it prime real estate for star sightings. And here are some hotspots to catch sight of celebrities at the film festival:

King Street Fan Zone

The King Street Fan Zone is a must-visit if you’re serious about celebrity spotting. This area is swarming with fans and photographers; you’re almost guaranteed to see someone famous.

Baro

Baro is a multi-level venue that’s always buzzing. During TIFF, it’s a magnet for celebrities looking to enjoy a vibrant night out. Expect to see stars enjoying the rooftop patio or indulging in the creative cocktails.

Petty Cash

For a hip set-up, visit Petty Cash. This spot is known for its lively atmosphere and fantastic bar menu. It’s a favourite among celebs who prefer keeping things low-key while enjoying the TIFF festivities.

DASHA

A modern Asian-inspired restaurant, DASHA is known for its stylish ambiance and celebrity clientele. It’s not uncommon to see A-listers here sipping craft cocktails between film screenings.

Abrielle Toronto

Abrielle is an ideal dining hotspot during TIFF for those who love coastal Mediterranean dishes. . Its proximity to major venues makes it a top choice for celebrity sightings. 

Silent H

Silent H is a trendy spot and a magnet for celebs who want to enjoy great food in a lively atmosphere.

Vela

Vela is another  King Street West gem, known for its modern vibe and celebrity clientele. It’s a great place to dine and soak up the festival atmosphere.

Oretta

Oretta is a stylish Italian restaurant, perfect for celebrity sightings during the festival.

David Pecaut Square Fan Zones

David Pecaut Square is home to several fan zones that are prime spots for seeing celebrities. With five areas dedicated to fans, including the Bell Movie Lovers Red Carpet Deck and the House of Peroni Fan Zone, you’re almost guaranteed a sighting.

Hotels, Lounges & Restaurants

These high-end hotels and their restaurants are where you’ll find celebrities sipping on cocktails and enjoying the finer things in life during TIFF.

Shangri-La Lobby Lounge

The Shangri-La Lobby Lounge is offering exclusive movie-inspired cocktails from September 1–30, 2024. This sophisticated spot is perfect for celeb-spotting while enjoying a crafted drink.

1 Hotel Toronto

1 Hotel Toronto is another luxury spot where celebs love to hang out. The hotel’s Flora Lounge and Casa Madera are top choices for celebrity dining and relaxing.

Fairmont Royal York

Hosting the prestigious TIFF Tribute Awards, the Fairmont Royal York is where you’ll find some of the biggest names in cinema. Even outside the event, it remains a prime location for spotting stars.

The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton is a top choice for celebs who value privacy and luxury. Whether they’re heading to a TIFF event or relaxing between screenings, they’ll also be found at the Epoch.

Park Hyatt

On the 17th floor of the Park Hyatt Toronto, the Writers Room offers stunning views and has hosted Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, and Jennifer Aniston during TIFF. It’s a sophisticated spot where celebs go to unwind.

More Bars and Restaurants

During TIFF 2024, these bars and restaurants are where you’ll find the stars enjoying some of the best drinks and cuisine Toronto has to offer.

KISSA

KISSA is a Japanese-inspired lounge. It is a TIFF hospitality partner and has hosted stars like Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Expect it to be buzzing with celebrities throughout the festival.

Nobu

Nobu is where you’ll find A-listers enjoying world-class Japanese cuisine. Located on Mercer Street, it’s close to all the TIFF action.

Marbl

Marbl is a TIFF hotspot, especially during exclusive events like the CINEMA CENTRE. This venue hosts gala premiere parties and press junkets, making it a must-visit to rub elbows with the industry’s elite.

Minami Toronto

Minami is a King Street West favourite, known for its modern Japanese cuisine. It’s a popular spot for TIFF after-parties and celebrity sightings.

Mademoiselle Raw Bar + Grill

Mademoiselle Raw Bar + Grill is an upscale spot known for its seafood and chic vibe, making it a favorite among TIFF attendees.

Sofi

Sofia is a chic Italian-inspired restaurant in Yorkville that’s perfect for celebrity sightings. Its large private patio has hosted the likes of Jennifer Lopez and Julia Stiles, making it a go-to spot during TIFF.

Byblos Downtown

Just minutes from the TIFF Bell Lightbox, Byblos Downtown is known for its Mediterranean flavours and star-studded guest list. Matt Damon and Michelle Williams are just a few celebs who have dined here during past festivals.

Soluna Toronto

As an official hospitality partner for TIFF, Soluna Toronto is a top spot for celebrity sightings. Located near the TIFF Bell Lightbox, it’s a great place to grab a drink and catch a glimpse of your favourite stars.

Tips for Celebrity Spotting

Remember, while seeing a celebrity is thrilling, respecting their space and privacy is essential. A friendly wave or a quick photo (if they’re cool with it) is fine, but let’s keep it classy. TIFF is as much about celebrating cinema as it is about enjoying the excitement of seeing our favorite stars. So grab a drink, enjoy the festivities, and who knows—you might have your own celebrity encounter story to tell.

References:

• https://streetsoftoronto.com/everything-you-need-to-know-before-attending-tiff-2024
• https://yourexperienceawaits.ca/where-to-spot-the-stars-at-tiff-2024
• https://www.styledemocracy.com/these-are-the-hot-spots-to-look-for-celebs-during-tiff
• https://theloftonking.com/blog/where-to-spot-tiff-celebrities
• https://nowtoronto.com/culture/tiff-is-just-around-the-corner-here-are-some-hotspots-to-find-celebrities