Tucked into the wooded Humber River valley in the city's west end, the Old Mill is one of Toronto's most enduring institutions — a Tudor-style complex on the site of a sawmill that dates back to the 1790s, serving guests since the early twentieth century. The mock-Tudor stonework, fireplaces, and garden terrace give it a country-house feel that is a world away from the downtown towers, despite being a short walk from Old Mill subway station.
It is best known for its long-running Sunday brunch and afternoon tea, and for the live jazz in the Home Smith Bar. The cooking is classic and unhurried rather than adventurous, and the setting — riverside, leafy, and quiet — is the real draw. It is a popular spot for weddings and special occasions, so booking ahead is wise.