🌅 Toronto’s Hidden Sunset Gem: The Broadview Bistro + Bar
“When an Ordinary Evening Became Extraordinary at Toronto’s Most Stunning Rooftop”
Discovering Magic in Toronto’s East End – A Personal Journey to the Perfect Sunset Spot
It was just another typical Friday evening when I discovered my new favorite spot in Toronto. As I walked through the evolving east end, a magnificent Romanesque Revival building caught my attention, whispering stories of its 133-year history. The Broadview Bistro + Bar, located within The Broadview Hotel at 106 Broadview Avenue, completely redefined my Toronto sunset experience.
A casual dinner plan transformed into an unforgettable evening when a friendly server suggested, “Why don’t you try our rooftop for sunset?” That simple recommendation led me to discover one of Toronto’s best viewpoints – and the photos don’t do it justice.
📍 Essential Information
Location & Transportation
- Address: 106 Broadview Avenue, Toronto, ON M4M 2G1
- Nearest Subway: Broadview Station (Green Line)
- Streetcar: 504 and 501 Streetcars at Queen St and Broadview Ave
- Parking: Green P parking directly across the street – incredibly convenient!
- Walking: Situated at the intersection of Queen Street East & Broadview Avenue
Operating Hours
The Broadview Bistro: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM (breakfast), 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM (lunch)
The Rooftop Bar: 5:00 PM to late Tuesday to Saturday (winter), 7 days a week (summer)
Price Range
Budget-Friendly Excellence: $$ to $$$ (out of $$$$$ scale)
– Market Salad: $14, Classic Caesar: $16, Burrata: $26
– Cocktails range from $18-20
– Wine: $15 for 5oz (quality vintages)
🌅 The Rooftop Experience: Why This Place is Special
Sunset Magic at Its Finest
The moment you step onto the 7th-floor rooftop, you understand why this has become Toronto’s hidden gem. With stunning views of the skyline through a 360° glass facade, pyramidal skylight, and expansive terrace, this is truly an experience, not just dinner.
What Makes the Sunset Here Unforgettable:
- Unobstructed Views: Overlooking the east end, the Don River, and iconic skyline including the CN Tower
- 360-Degree Perspective: Enjoy views of both the sunset and city lights
- Indoor-Outdoor Flexibility: Enjoy both glass-covered areas and open-air patio sections
- Perfect Timing: Western exposure ensures a magical golden hour glow
Personal Sunset Experience
Arriving around 6:30 PM on a clear evening, the transformation was mesmerizing. The harsh daylight softened into that coveted golden hour, warming the glass towers downtown in amber tones. As the sun dipped lower, city lights twinkled to life, seamlessly transitioning from day to night.
🍽️ Food & Drink: Quality Without Breaking the Bank
Rooftop Menu Highlights
The menu features shareable plates and elevated comfort food, perfect for sunset dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Burrata ($26): Tomato, red wine poached figs, maple pistachio gremolata, pesto, warm focaccia
- Tuna Tataki ($27): Daikon, carrots, spinach, avocado, sriracha aioli, teriyaki
- Broadview Nachos ($19): Tortilla chips, aged white cheddar, corn salsa, pickled onions
Signature Cocktails:
- Ski Bunny: Tequila, Aperol, carrot, orange, and torched rosemary
- Double Black Diamond: Whisky, sweet vermouth, Cointreau, and absinthe mist
- The Archibald ($19): Crown Royal, Port, Vermouth Di Torino, Cardamaro Bitters
Value Assessment
The quality-to-price ratio impressed me. Prices were accessible for rooftop dining with such views, without the premium markup you’d expect.
🅿️ The Parking Advantage: A Game-Changer for Visitors
Here’s something locals know that tourists often miss: Green P parking is directly across the street, making dining in the city much more convenient.
Parking Perks:
- Municipal parking rates (less expensive than private lots)
- Safe, well-lit area
- No long walks to retrieve your parking receipt
- Easy access via Green P mobile app for payments
⏰ Best Times to Visit
For Sunset Dining
Golden Hour Glory: Arrive 1-1.5 hours before sunset
– Summer: 7:00-7:30 PM arrival
– Winter: 4:30-5:00 PM arrival
Reservations are recommended, especially later in the night.
Crowd Management Tips
- Weekdays: More intimate, easier to get reservations
- Weekends: Bustling energy
- After 9:30 PM: Walk-ins only
🏛️ The Historic Charm: More Than Just a Restaurant
A Building with Stories
This towering Romanesque building, built in 1891, has a vibrant history, from a gathering spot for prominent figures to its transformation from Jilly’s infamous strip club into an elegant boutique hotel and restaurant.
The renovation revitalizes the interiors with a balance of Victorian and modern design, showcasing a space that is both historically rich and contemporary.
🌃 Atmosphere & Ambiance
What to Expect
The rooftop delivers “stunning views” and a “great atmosphere,” making it ideal for memorable evenings.
Vibe Check: Perfect for romantic date nights, friend gatherings, business dinners, and providing iconic views without the tourist prices.
Service Quality
Guests consistently praise the “excellent service” and “delicious food,” as the staff curates a memorable experience.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
Best Photo Opportunities
- Golden Hour Shots: Capture the sunset through the west-facing windows
- City Skyline: Iconic CN Tower views
- Interior Design: Stunning glass pyramid ceiling
- Don River Views: Unique perspectives of Toronto’s geography
Photography Tips
- Timing: Arrive early to scout your best angles
- Equipment: Phone cameras perform beautifully with natural lighting
- Composition: Use the glass architecture for framing
🚶♀️ Exploring the Neighborhood
Nearby Attractions
- The Distillery District: 10-minute walk
- Riverdale Park: Beautiful city views, 15-minute walk
- Queen Street East: Trendy shops and cafes
- Leslieville: Hip neighborhood exploration
The neighborhood is thriving—Toronto’s east end is gaining recognition as a creative hotspot.
💡 Insider Tips
Reservation Strategy
- Reservations are recommended
- Book online via OpenTable
- Call directly: (416) 362-8439
What to Know Before You Go
- Dress Code: Smart casual is suitable
- Weather: Both glass-covered and open-air seating available
- Group Size: For parties of 12 or more, contact dinewithus@thebroadviewhotel.ca
Money-Saving Tips
- Happy hour specials (check current offerings)
- Sharing small plates for a budget-friendly experience
- Opt for beer or wine over craft cocktails
🎯 Final Verdict
The Bottom Line: The Broadview Bistro + Bar guarantees an exceptional rooftop experience at reasonable prices. Stunning views, quality food, convenient parking, and budget-friendly rates make it a top choice for locals and visitors alike.
Perfect For: Sunset dinners, romantic dates, gatherings with friends, and out-of-town guests seeking authentic Toronto views.
Notable Mention: Some reviews suggest limited menu options, and music volume might occasionally hinder conversation, but these factors do not overshadow the overall fantastic experience.
📞 Contact & Reservations
Phone: (416) 362-8439
Website: thebroadviewhotel.ca
Address: 106 Broadview Avenue, Toronto, ON M4M 2G1
Reservations: Available via OpenTable or direct call
Follow for Updates:
– Instagram: @broadviewhotel
– Check their website for seasonal menu changes and events
Pro Tip: This venue consistently ranks among Toronto’s top rooftop experiences, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors wanting a memorable sunset.
