Windsor Arms Hotel

The Windsor Arms Hotel first opened in 1927 in Toronto’s distinguished Yorkville neighborhood, designed to harmonize with the neo‑Gothic architecture of nearby University of Toronto buildings. Hotelier William Arthur Price envisioned a refined residence that felt both elegant and welcoming. In the 1960s and 1970s, the hotel expanded its public life with the Three Small Rooms restaurant, the Courtyard Café, and Club 22.

After struggling in the late 20th century, it closed in 1991, then was bought in 1995 by developer George Friedmann and fully restored, preserving signature features like the stained glass window and stone portico while adding contemporary suites and condominiums. The hotel reopened in 1999 with 28 unique suites, a spa, and its celebrated Tea Room.

Beyond its architectural and hospitality evolution, the Windsor Arms holds a special place in film history. In 1976, the idea for what became the Toronto International Film Festival was conceived at the hotel as the Festival of Festivals, giving the property a lasting connection to one of the most influential film festivals in the world.

The Windsor Arms Hotel reflects a thoughtful blend of historic character and contemporary design. Originally built in 1927 in a neo-Gothic style, the building was designed to visually align with the nearby University of Toronto, featuring a distinctive façade. 

Following its reconstruction in the late 1990s, the hotel retained key heritage features such as the original stained glass window, stone portico, and architectural detailing, while introducing a more modern interior layout with spacious suites and updated materials. 

Inside, the design combines classic influences with contemporary touches, including limestone finishes, custom mahogany furnishings inspired by 1920s French styles, and a warm, understated color palette. Overall, the property balances its historic façade with a redesigned interior, creating a space that feels rooted in its past while adapted for present-day use.

The Gatsby Restaurant

The Windsor Arms offers a range of refined dining experiences that match its sophisticated boutique vibe. At the heart of its culinary offerings is The Gatsby Restaurant, a stylish spot with seasonally inspired lunch, dinner, dessert, and bar menus alongside an extensive 500‑label wine list and inventive cocktails. Live musicians perform Thursday and Friday evenings, creating a lively yet elegant atmosphere.

Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (daily)

Chagall

Chagall at the Windsor Arms Hotel is a refined kosher restaurant offering dairy-free, globally inspired cuisine. COR certified, it features thoughtfully prepared dishes that balance flavors and textures for a memorable dining experience. The intimate, elegant setting enhances the enjoyment of each meal, while attentive service ensures guests feel welcomed and well cared for. Chagall combines sophistication, quality, and creativity, making it a standout destination for those seeking a distinctive kosher dining experience.

Opening hours: 5:30 PM - 11:00 PM (Monday - Thursday; Sunday)

Afternoon Tea

The Tea Room at the Windsor Arms Hotel offers a timeless afternoon tea experience every day of the year. Guests can enjoy freshly baked scones with house-made preserves, delicate tea sandwiches, and sweet petit fours, all paired with a wide selection of premium loose-leaf teas. The tea service honors a classic tradition while accommodating modern preferences, offering gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options with advance notice.

Opening hours:
12:00 pm - 3:30 PM (Monday - Thursday ) [last seating 3:30 PM]
12 PM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM (Friday - Sunday)

Weddings at the Windsor Arms Hotel take place in elegant, historic spaces designed for private and memorable celebrations. Couples can work with the team to plan every detail, from venue layouts to décor, ensuring the event reflects their personal vision. The hotel also offers in-house dining with thoughtfully prepared meals that cater to a variety of cultural and dietary preferences, including vegan, Kosher, Halal, and gluten-free. Exclusive use of the property allows guests to enjoy both the beautifully designed spaces and exceptional cuisine in a private, intimate setting.

The Courtyard
Venue type and style: Soaring ceilings, historic limestone walls, and iconic artwork create an elegant, grand gala ballroom experience.
Capacity: Up to 500 guests

Gatsby Restaurant
Venue type and style: Mid-sized, stylish space perfect for cocktails, accommodating vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and kosher preferences.
Capacity: Up to 175 guests

St. Thomas Room
Venue type and style: Crystal chandeliers and a versatile layout make this room ideal for intimate celebrations or dinners.
Capacity: Up to 70 guests

Sultan Room
Venue type and style: Naturally lit, bright, connected to a guest suite, suitable for private meetings and small events.
Capacity: Up to 40 guests

The Eganridge Resort
Venue type and style: Outdoor setup with scenic views, offering a relaxed, naturally beautiful space for weddings and events.
Capacity: Up to 300 guests

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Beyond the property, the hotel’s location in Yorkville places guests close to some of Toronto’s most well-known attractions. The Royal Ontario Museum and the University of Toronto are within walking distance, while nearby streets are lined with upscale boutiques, galleries, and cafés. This combination of in-house amenities and nearby experiences makes it convenient to plan events that extend beyond the venue itself.

The Windsor Arms Hotel offers a range of flexible, well-designed spaces suited for both corporate functions and private celebrations. From executive meetings and conferences to birthday parties, anniversaries, and social gatherings, the venues can accommodate everything from small groups to larger events.

Event planning is supported by an experienced team that assists with layout, technical setup, and overall coordination, making it easier to organize seamless gatherings. The hotel also provides customizable in-house dining options with tailored menus and beverage pairings to suit different event styles and preferences. For more details on planning your next event, you can contact the hotel’s team directly.