Cincinnati native Mark Williams has only lived in Toronto for just over two years, but the Toronto Symphony Orchestra Beck Family Chief Executive Officer already gets it. “While some cities only dazzle upon first interaction and then peter out, I’ve found that the better I come to know Toronto, the more there is to discover,” he says.
Now firmly planted in his adopted city, Williams has been tasked with making the TSO’s creative output even more accessible to new audiences. “My goal is to honour the legacy of this remarkable institution while steering it toward a future that reflects the dynamism and vibrancy of Toronto,” he says. “We have to be an orchestra for everyone in this community.” With the company’s new season opening on Sept. 24, the opportunity is ripe.
Here, Williams walks us through his weekend hot spots, including his favourite hidden slice of green space in the city, the quintessentially Toronto restaurant he frequents most and where to get a (very) good cup of coffee.
The morning coffee stop
Sam James Coffee Bar, multiple locations
“I’m a purist and I drink my espresso black, so a coffee shop cannot hide the quality of their pull. I am never disappointed by Sam James Coffee Bar.”
The breakfast spot
Janelle’s Kitchen, 843 College St.
“This is tough because my husband Joseph makes an amazing breakfast. If we are going out, it’s Janelle’s Kitchen on College, which is tiny at perhaps only four tables, but the vibe and the fluffy eggs are always worth it.”
The weekend walk
Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Ave.
“We have friends in Moore Park and whenever I need a jolt of nature, I like to walk from their home through the ravine to Evergreen Brick Works. That walk makes you feel as if you’ve left the city in no time.”
The local boutique
I Miss You Man, 63-E Ossington Ave
“The designer consignment shop I Miss You Man on Ossington is so much fun — it’s full of beautiful things and a great place to dream about what you might wear. I’ve picked up very special pieces there, each of which add some flair to my wardrobe.”
The repeat-reso restaurant
“I have dined at DaiLo on College more times than I can count. Each time I enjoy something new and intriguing on the menu and the dishes I have experienced before are always executed at such a high level that they never lose their ability to wow. Their team is so professional and friendly — who doesn’t want to be greeted by name and with a hug at their favourite restaurant?”
The new dining find
“I took my husband to Dreyfus for his birthday last month and was so excited to have finally gotten to this Toronto bistro. The tables are tight and that makes the atmosphere even more convivial. The menu is tiny and changes constantly, and frankly, the real difficulty is not just ordering everything. The almond financier with blueberries and maple syrup vinaigrette that we ordered for dessert is still in my dreams.”
The evening cocktail
David Rocco Bar Aperitivo, 95 Cumberland St.
“There’s nothing like taking a break from the bustle of Yorkville to pop into Bar Aperitivo, tucked away on Cumberland behind Harry Rosen. Under the large Murano glass chandelier, you’ll find straightforward, well-crafted cocktails and easy, delicious Italian bites.”
