Go Where You Grow:
Top 10 Spaces to Work Remotely in Downtown Toronto
Nodding to Dean and Chris’ Sproutify Session we featured last month, making friends can be tricky when you’re moving to a new place, especially now that remote and hybrid-work models open the lane to work from anywhere.
In our Go Where You Grow feature, we’re spotlighting remote working destinations in cities flex workers are curious about, moving to, and thriving within - uncovering third spaces for connection, collaboration, and collision-moments.
Here is our top 10 list of where to head to in Downtown Toronto, and explore the neighbourhood as you meet new people over coffee, and co-create in co-working spaces:
Table Food Hall
A relatively new addition to Toronto’s Financial District, Table is a huge food hall-style space nestled on the fourth floor of the CIBC Square building. Not only do they offer a selection of lunch options from Chaiyo (by PAI), Friday Burger and Misoya Ramen, they have great coffee and ample space in a cosy library nook at In Good Spirits.
Whether you’re solo working or want to make use of the more social spaces, there are options! Table is open from 11am so prepare for that lunchtime rush. If you need a quieter environment, try any time from 2pm. Don’t forget to charge your devices before you get here however, as plug sockets are hard to come by.
Balzac's Distillery
One of our favourite areas in Downtown Toronto, the Distillery District has lots of coffee and food destinations but none better to work in than Balzac’s. Free (working) WiFi, plug sockets, good coffee and Victorian industrial architecture - what more could you ask for?
There isn’t a huge amount of space here and it’s certainly not co-working friendly if you’re a large group, but perfect for a solo working morning or afternoon. Order a coffee and pastry, grab your complimentary glass of water, sit yourself upstairs opposite the chandelier and settle in.
Distillery District – Balzac's Coffee Roasters
Ace Hotel Lobby
For somewhere with a more vibrant social scene and days where you have very few Zoom meetings, Ace Hotel on Camden and Brant is your perfect spot. Time this one early if you want to grab the shared working table with plugs because it’s likely to get busy. It’s a great day-to-night option if you’re casually co-working with others or meeting a friend for drinks later.
With plenty of coffee and lunch options, Ace is great if you don’t mind a background soundtrack while you work.
Ace Hotel Toronto | Official Site | Downtown Near Rogers Centre
Boxcar Social Harbourfront
A notable spot for the summer months, Boxcar Social’s Harbourfront location offers a lovely and spacious patio area. Minus any computer glare issues, it’s the perfect cafe to catch up on some emails and grab an iced coffee on the lakeshore.
They have indoor seating and strong brunch/dinner menus too, making it ideal for in-person meetings or a post-work get together. Check out their social channels before you go to avoid disappointment if they are closed for private events.
Boxcar Social Harbourfront - Cafe, Bar, & Restaurant
Ricarda’s
A popular French cuisine dinner location, Ricarda’s is also a great all-rounder when it comes to remote working. A favourite of large group co-working sessions, it offers all the mod cons you’ll need to have a social and productive work day.
Dark Horse Espresso Bar
With multiple locations throughout the city, Dark Horse, as they’ve captured in their ethos, is a perfect spot “to make space for new ideas and unlikely friendships— and to reflect, respect, connect and create tomorrow’s Toronto.”
Whether you’re meeting a new collaboration partner or craving a creative atmosphere, Dark Horse is a OG third space beloved by locals. Bonus: come for the coffee and stay after-hours for cocktails!
View Dark Horse Locations in Toronto
Dineen Coffee
Architectural history and exceptional coffee meet at Dineen Coffee - a classic cafe located Downtown at vibrant arteries, bustling with energy and city-vibes.
Each location has its unique draw; from the artisan feel of Dinnen Outpost in the east end of the City, to the Financial District crowd at Commerce Court - this meeting place is a perfect spot to take in Toronto.
East Room Workspaces
One of the best things about city-life are the options for satellite spaces; if you’ve recently relocated and are looking to secure a remote office location, the East Room is a co-working environment designed to “enhance the personal and professional well being of members”.
Membership based, the East Room offers turn-key office spaces to fit your needs.
Centre for Social Innovation (CSI)
Spaces with purpose. The Centre for Social Innovation is Canada’s first coworking space and is re-imagining space utilization for social impact. Whether you’re a person working to drive betterment for people and the planet, or a remote worker looking to be inspired by a community of changemakers - CSI holds space for people to belong, connect, and collaborate.
Membership based, CSI’s Hybrid Workspaces are the Future of Work.
Toronto Reference Library
Need some heads-down time? The Toronto Reference Library is not only one of the City’s biggest, it’s become revered for its modern architecture and is a hidden gem where students, corporates, and flex workers collide.
Balance out your work week in this quiet environment that also offers bookable meeting rooms.
Toronto Reference Library Location & Hours
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