After spending the last seven years living in New York City, Gina Yoo knows good style. And since she moved back to Toronto earlier this year, the fashion-focused entrepreneur is convinced of some sartorial parallels, especially our commitment to the circular economy.
“In New York, because apartments are so small — or sometimes non existent — you really have to be thoughtful about what you own and practice an ‘asset-light closet,’” says Yoo. “But Torontonians also care — perhaps less because they have to, and more because they want to, and that means a lot to me.”
It’s precisely why she just launched Zero Collective, a Canada-wide membership that allows access to hundreds of contemporary and vintage designer bags (think Chanel, Celine and Dior) without the commitment or prohibitive cost. A service that lends beautifully to our “very social city,” as Yoo puts it, members can swap out their styles every month or longer to keep up with their buzzy calendars.
The Friday night dinner spot
Lao Lao Bar, 5 St. Joseph St.
“Not only is Lao Lao Bar a truly authentic and contemporary expression of Laotian food, but the owners Seng [Luong] and Jason [Jiang] really created this restaurant as if it’s their home. It’s intimate but casual, and this is why I love going here on a Friday night — it just feels like I am going to a friend’s house for dinner. I always get barbecue pork skewers, green papaya fritters and pad kee mao.”
The nostalgic brunch spot
The George Street Diner, 129 George St.
“There are a lot of high-end restaurants with bougie dishes in the city, but for me, there is something special about going to a classic diner. It’s no fuss — I love that they still use simple, laminated menus — the food is fantastic and you feel relaxed. My go-to order: Irish breakfast with a side of blueberry buttermilk pancakes. I think George Street Diner is an institution and I hope it continues to live on!”
The night-out alternative
Ace Golf Bar & Lounge, 588 Eastern Ave.
“In the winter, I love going to Ace Golf Bar & Lounge. It’s an indoor golf lounge where you can rent a bay and swing clubs while ordering food and drinks. I go often with friends who have never played before and we have such a blast because of its causal environment. It’s an awesome alternative to going to a bar or a club since you can do an activity while still having some drinks.”
The classic cocktail bar
Library Bar, the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, 100 Front St. W.
“My favourite cocktail bar continues to be the Library Bar time and time again. The space is cosy but sexy, but more importantly, the cocktails are spectacular. The menu is almost a novel itself with different genres — romance, history, fantasy — and ties beautifully to the space. My favourite drink is the Red Snow, which is a gin-based cocktail that feels super romantic.”
The coffee-and-pastry combo
Bakery Pompette, 655 College St.
“It’s a bit of a trek from where I live, but Pompette is so worth it. I’m a purist when it comes to coffee, so it’s a black Americano with a dash of cinnamon, and I always get myself a treat. Their pastry is made with pure butter and you can really tell the difference. It reminds me of pastries you would get in France.”
The cool clothing shop
“I’m drawn to vert on Yonge Street, specifically because I love one of the brands they carry, T. LINE. I first discovered the brand while living in NYC but was so ecstatic to learn afterwards that it’s a Canadian brand. I own a lot of their dress shirts, which are staples but completely unique with big cuffs, statement colours and oversized yet sexy fits.”
The wellness studio
Solis, 548 King St. W., third floor
“I frequent a lot of HIIT classes, so it’s really nice for me to do something a bit different once a week. Solis just opened up a studio downtown, and hands down, it’s the most beautiful Pilates studio I have ever been in. I am a big believer that not every workout has to be super hardcore for it to be effective. Pilates has changed my body in the best way possible.”
