Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Toronto

North America

Canada

# Old Mill Toronto – Historic Restaurant and Venue in Toronto

Old Mill Toronto is a renowned restaurant and event venue located in the picturesque Humber Valley of Toronto, Canada. Known for its historical charm and elegant ambiance, the Old Mill has been a cherished destination for over a century, offering a unique dining experience that combines traditional afternoon tea with modern culinary delights. The venue is celebrated for its beautiful decor, especially during the holiday season, when it transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with festive decorations. The Old Mill is not just a restaurant; it is a community hub that hosts various events, from weddings to concerts, making it a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

## History

### The story of Old Mill Toronto

Old Mill Toronto was founded with a vision to create a space that blends history with hospitality. Established over a century ago, it was designed to reflect the charm of an English country inn, complete with lush gardens and a serene riverside setting. The founders aimed to provide a retreat for those seeking relaxation and enjoyment in a picturesque environment. Over the years, the Old Mill has maintained its commitment to excellence in service and culinary offerings, becoming a staple in Toronto's dining scene.

### Milestones and growth

- **1914**: The Old Mill opens its doors, quickly becoming a popular destination for afternoon tea.
- **1920s**: Expansion of the venue to accommodate increasing demand, including the addition of event spaces.
- **1980s**: Major renovations enhance the historical architecture while modernizing the facilities.
- **2000s**: Introduction of themed dining experiences, including seasonal events and special menus.
- **Present**: Continues to be a leading venue for weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings.

### Cultural and local influence

The Old Mill has played a significant role in the cultural landscape of Toronto. Its historical significance is reflected in its architecture and decor, which evoke a sense of nostalgia and elegance. The venue has hosted countless events, from jazz concerts to holiday celebrations, fostering a sense of community and connection among attendees. Its commitment to local ingredients and culinary traditions has also made it a proponent of the farm-to-table movement, further embedding it in the local culture.

### Continuing the tradition

Today, Old Mill Toronto continues to honor its founding vision by offering a blend of traditional and contemporary dining experiences. The venue regularly updates its menus to reflect seasonal ingredients while maintaining classic dishes that have become favorites among patrons. The commitment to high-quality service and a welcoming atmosphere ensures that the Old Mill remains a cherished destination for both new visitors and long-time supporters.

## Community

### Community involvement

Old Mill Toronto is deeply embedded in the local community, often collaborating with local organizations and charities. The venue hosts various community events, including fundraisers, art shows, and seasonal festivals, encouraging local participation and engagement. This involvement not only strengthens community ties but also enhances the cultural fabric of the area.

### Community notion about the place

The community views Old Mill Toronto as a historical gem that offers more than just dining; it is a place where memories are made. Many locals have fond memories of celebrating significant life events at the venue, from weddings to anniversaries. The charm and elegance of the Old Mill create a sense of nostalgia, making it a beloved spot for both residents and visitors.

### Events and gatherings

Old Mill Toronto hosts a variety of events throughout the year, catering to diverse interests and audiences. Seasonal events, such as holiday tea services and summer garden parties, attract both locals and tourists. The venue also provides space for private gatherings, including weddings, corporate meetings, and family celebrations, making it a versatile location for any occasion.

## Offerings

### What Old Mill Toronto offers

Old Mill Toronto is renowned for its exceptional dining experiences, offering a range of culinary delights that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. The venue prides itself on its commitment to quality, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that reflect both traditional and contemporary flavors. The restaurant's ambiance, characterized by its historical architecture and elegant decor, enhances the overall dining experience.

### Dining and food experience

The dining experience at Old Mill Toronto is marked by its signature afternoon tea service, which has been a staple since its inception. Guests can indulge in a selection of finely crafted teas paired with an array of delectable treats, including finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The venue also offers a diverse menu for lunch and dinner, featuring seasonal dishes that highlight local ingredients. Special dietary needs, such as vegan and vegetarian options, are thoughtfully accommodated, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a memorable meal.

### Events and packages

Old Mill Toronto provides a variety of event packages tailored to meet the needs of different gatherings. Whether hosting a wedding, corporate event, or private party, the venue offers customizable options that include catering, decor, and entertainment. The experienced event planning team works closely with clients to ensure that every detail is meticulously arranged, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience.

### Facilities and features

- **Elegant dining rooms**: Multiple dining spaces with unique decor and ambiance.
- **Outdoor gardens**: Beautifully landscaped gardens ideal for outdoor events.
- **Event spaces**: Versatile rooms for meetings, weddings, and celebrations.
- **Accessibility**: Convenient access for all guests, including parking facilities.
- **Historical charm**: Architectural features that reflect the venue's rich history.

## Pros and Cons

### Key insights from reviews

Reviews of Old Mill Toronto highlight a mix of experiences, showcasing both the strengths and areas for improvement. Many guests praise the venue's historical charm, beautiful decor, and overall ambiance, particularly during special events. However, some reviews indicate inconsistencies in service quality and dining experiences, suggesting that while many patrons leave satisfied, others encounter challenges that detract from their visits.

### Compliments and strengths

Guests frequently commend the Old Mill for its stunning setting and the quality of its afternoon tea service. The historical significance of the venue adds to its allure, making it a popular choice for special occasions. The attentive staff and the variety of menu options, including vegan offerings, are also highlighted as strengths that enhance the overall experience.

### Contrasts and notable mentions

While many reviews are positive, some guests have noted issues with service efficiency and food quality during peak times. Instances of delayed service or miscommunication regarding reservations have been mentioned, suggesting that the venue may benefit from improved operational management during busy periods. Despite these contrasts, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with many patrons expressing a desire to return.

### Summary evaluation

In summary, Old Mill Toronto offers a unique blend of historical charm, culinary excellence, and community involvement. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in service consistency, the venue's strengths in ambiance and food quality make it a worthwhile destination for both locals and visitors. The commitment to providing a memorable dining experience continues to resonate with patrons, ensuring its place as a beloved establishment in Toronto.

## Location & Nearby Attractions

Old Mill Toronto is situated in the Humber Valley neighborhood of Toronto, specifically at 21 Old Mill Road, M8X 1G5. This scenic area is known for its lush greenery and proximity to the Humber River, providing a tranquil setting for visitors. The venue is easily accessible by public transportation and offers parking facilities for those driving. Nearby attractions include the scenic Humber River trails, which are perfect for walking and cycling, as well as the historic Old Mill Park, which adds to the area's charm. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes this location a delightful destination for those exploring Toronto.

## FAQs

**What type of cuisine does Old Mill Toronto serve** The restaurant offers a diverse menu, including traditional afternoon tea, seasonal dishes, and vegan options.

**Is there parking available at Old Mill Toronto** Yes, there is a parking lot across the street from the venue.

**Can Old Mill Toronto accommodate large events** Yes, the venue has multiple event spaces that can host gatherings of various sizes.

**Do I need a reservation for afternoon tea** Yes, reservations are recommended, especially for themed afternoon tea services.

**Is Old Mill Toronto accessible for individuals with disabilities** Yes, the venue is designed to be accessible for all guests.

## Visit Old Mill Toronto Today

Experience the charm and elegance of Old Mill Toronto, where history meets exceptional dining. With its rich heritage, beautiful surroundings, and commitment to community, the Old Mill is the perfect place for a memorable meal or special event. Whether you’re indulging in afternoon tea, celebrating a wedding, or enjoying a night out with friends, the Old Mill promises an experience that will leave a lasting impression. Plan your visit today and discover why this historic venue continues to be a beloved destination in Toronto.

dfbcfab6-286e-4f7d-a9a6-2ca5066125e1

We came here for the Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea and it was all that we had hoped for: beautifully decorated exterior and interior of the hotel (lots of photo opportunities with the many Christmas trees and holiday decorations on all the floors), and a spectacular afternoon tea experience. I loved the historical charm of this place, especially during the holiday season, with all the Christmas decorations and a diferently adorned Christmas tree in almost every corner, room, and floor of the venue. One section of the hotel (with the large half-spiral wooden staircase) reminded me of a section of a castle from the Medieval era. There were many rooms for events, weddings, and various functions. The lobby itself was decked out with festive holiday décor. The afternoon tea reservations are hard to come by (especially the themed one - Winter Wonderland), so we were glad to snag one of the last few remaining spots (even though we booked early, weeks before the reservation date). Everyone got called by reservation name and escorted to an assigned table by a personal server, who explained the historical significance of the afternoon tea tradition at the Old Mill. I thought that was a nice touch. When arriving at the assigned table, the menu was already personalized based on whether you had the regular, vegetarian, or vegan menu. We opted for vegan menu (had to call in and request it at least 48 hours in advance). The server then took our tea selection, and shortly came back with the pots of tea and our afternoon tea tower (savoury sandwiches, scones, and desserts). The vegan Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea menu consisted of: SANDWICHES - Cucumber & Vegan Cream Cheese Sandwiches (delicate finger sandwiches with sliced cucumber and herbed vegan cream cheese) - Grilled Vegetables Sandwiches (grilled zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and red onion, tossed in herbs - served on rosemary focaccia bread) - Field Mushrooms with Pesto Sandwiches (field mushroom duxelles with pesto, vegan cream cheese, and mustard - served in brown bread) - Roasted Golden Beets & Vegan Pesto Goat Cheese Sandwiches (roasted and pickled golden beets, vegan pesto goat cheese, and arugula - served in dark rye bread) SCONES - Caramelized Leeks & Vegan Cheddar Scones - Eggnog, Dry Cherry, and White Chocolate Scones DESSERTS - Pomegranate & Dark Chocolate Yule Logs - Coconut & Raspberry Travel Cake - Chestnut & Vanilla Snowflake Chocolate Verrine - Peppermint Macarons All of the savoury were delicious and quite filling. My favourites were the Grilled Vegetablese and Field Mushrooms sandwiches. I found the scones were too dry (not a big fan of scones in general), and the desserts were pretty but too sweet for me. The server came by our table a few times to refill the pot of tea with hot water, and asked how we were doing. The room was nicely decorated with all things Christmas, and I liked the comics / historical mini posters on some of the walls. Overall it was a great afternoon tea experience at a historical inn in Toronto.

e9bdcd72-af39-49dc-b8bb-1bc70d7e06bb

Came here for my friend's birthday. She's vegan and they are able to cater to that, which is great! We had a lot of fun, everything was tasty, servers were super nice, but I personally wish there was more tea variety...

736d391e-cda6-4d00-b8e0-6bcc92c477d0

Before leaving Seattle for Thanksgiving in Toronto, I reserved a table for the Thanksgiving buffet on Sunday the 12th for 4 at 4 pm. We drove 45 min. to the restaurant and when we arrived were told service did not begin until 6. Told me that they had had a glitch for a few days and service was never supposed to start until 6. Claimed they had phoned and left messages 3 times- I did not receive any messages and can only guess that they didn't realize it was long distance. Or just lied. But I doubled checked my phone- nothing. And I think a message would have gotten my attention. We were offered service at 6 or could go next door for Italian. Desperately called several restaurants, no availability, so ended up having to go to a pub... for blinking Thanksgiving. Place is in desperate need of refurbishing and smelled a bit off so maybe we enough for dodged a bullet

06f5e00c-071c-46e6-901b-a84b8d9151f3

I absolutely love the Old Mill! The hotel conjures up memories of a bygone era with its elegant facade and interior. There is always something going on at the hotel, from jazz, to scotch tastings, to plant shows. Their high tea is a beautiful experience; you will feel enchanted while sipping tea in their beautiful property. I went to a holiday concert there recently and I loved everything about it. I ordered the flatbread and a cocktail, and food/drink were top-notch. Service was friendly, and the concert definitely put me in the holiday spirit! Parking is convenient and is located right across the street.

4bcef213-a6e0-48f3-9246-b0f04461084c

Came for a birthday lunch because we've heard so much about the Old Mill and how beautiful it is. The location is fantastic and relatively easy signage to know where to park and walk over to. The parking lot was across the street (paid parking) behind a condo looking complex, and you cross the street or go under in the tunnel to get to the Old Mill restaurant. Making the reservation was also incredibly easy to do. I had to make a last second change to the number of people and they were quick to help make a revision. I was a bit disappointed walking in. We were not greeted right away. They were having a conversation amongst themselves until I took another step all the way up to their cubicle looking set up. Though I made it very very clear that we were celebrating a big birthday, it was not mentioned a single time during the welcoming or even throughout the lunch. Hospitality-wise, this is a huge fail for me. It's failure to notice the details and create a memorable experience. It also took a long time to get our order in because they seem to have staffed two servers for the entire space. They spent more time setting up tables than anything else, and we didn't even get waters until after food had come. It's not their fault, the servers were doing their best to be friendly, be quick, and give good service. FOH Manager could maybe take this into consideration. Even if it's suppose to be a quiet weekday, that should actually mean that we can count on the servers having more time to be attentive. At the price points they're charging, I'd think it comes with top notch service. Food wise we got a salad, fish and chips, and steak. I also ordered a mocktail. Salad was fantastic. Steak and chips was good. The steak was not cooked to the temperature we asked for (Medium Rare) but it wasn't too far Medium that we didn't want it. So we just kept it. It still tasted good. I would not recommend the fish and chips. The fish was really fishy and the breading was thick and flavourless. Considering the price point, I wouldn't come back because I know I can get a better experience and food in Toronto. But it is still a lovely scenic location and it's worth a visit. They do get some amazing reviews on here so different events, different days/ meals maybe are better. We just happened to have a not so great experience here. But we're still glad we came by to try and take in the beautiful venue.

c2f8b329-22ba-461e-a97d-d93fcb34ac9b

If you are looking for an afternoon tea experience in Toronto, come check out the Old Mill Inn. Located in the lush Humber Valley, the Old Mill Inn has been serving up tea time for over a century. They have recently introduced 12 new signature Sloane teas, which represent their English roots and complement the new tea menu. We picked the Palace Chai and Heavenly Cream which are both blended black tea, but one with notes of creamy vanilla, and the other with a sweet floral finish. The food comes in a 3-tier platter. Starting at the bottom, we have finger sandwiches including prosciutto brie bun, creamy chicken sandwiches, and my fav smoked salmon croissant. Then the middle tiers we have some scones and berries. And finally desserts at the top. The clementine tart was my fav followed by the hazelnut and dark chocolate dessert which reminds me of ferroro rocher. They also have a cocktail menu with variety of mimosa and prosecco. We came here for a baby shower and had a great time. While the tea service was not as contemporary or luxurious compared to other venues, it's is a good value option at $60/per person. The dining room is a bit dated but make sure to check out the charming garden that's on site!

355bbc1b-925d-498d-a662-ea19662a8ba7

Auntie Patsy took Aimée and I here for our wedding present - fairly close to her house. Restaurant is attached to a hotel, and there is a parking lot and garage across the street. Atmosphere is old school; exposed dark wood, leaded glass, etc. also a conference center; a wedding, two birthday parties and an IEEE dinner were all there that night. It also has a nightclub/lounge in it with a dance floor and stage; they were setup for dancing that night. Drinks were good - my Manhattan was well made, however with a regular Maraschino and not a Luxardo. Aimée and Patsy had the sparkling Rose' - this was terrific. Dinner for them was the wild mushroom ravioli - outstanding they said! I had the beet root smoked salmon; also terrific. I did get the sun dried tomato flat bread as well; this was mediocre. Service was truly amazing - non intrusive, but right there with a fork when Aimée accidentally dropped hers; or to refill water, etc. Truly first class. We'll be back to dance! Recommend.

aa7f1134-8fd7-47f9-8dbc-4a9c19c92d96

This review is for 21patio. It's the outdoor patio restaurant at Old Mill Toronto. Our team got together in a safe and gorgeous venue for lunch after not seeing one another in 1.5 years. It's definitely better seeing folks in person than over Microsoft Teams. I also enjoyed being off work for half the day! I was the first person on my team to arrive. The last time I was at Old Mill was over a decade ago. The condominium and underground parking lot were new to me. In the past, it was a vast outdoor lot that was free. Not anymore! I used a credit card to pay for parking. The maximum rate during the day is $12. You pay first, place the receipt on your car's dashboard, and you're good. The entrance to 21patio (21 denotes 21 Old Mill) is directly across from the parking lot. The interior looks the same, with wooden panels telling you where various rooms and such are. I checked in with a nice man. He directed me to his female counterpart. She asked whether I wanted to hit the patio or wait inside. I did the latter. I found the women's washroom. It was classy and fancy. It was clean and nicely maintained. I headed back and sat on a nice comfy bench. Sure enough, my manager, who had picked up a team member who doesn't drive, showed up. We all decided to hit the patio, with the rest of our crew trickling in. We were under huge umbrellas on a hot day. I liked that we got paper menus. It was a company-sponsored outing. It meant that we all went crazy. I ordered the XOXO botanical spritzer in peach orange blossom. My boss wanted to split his No Boats on Sunday peach cider with me. Our server was highly attentive and gave me two glasses. I split my drink up. They were refreshing. I actually liked the spritzer more because it was crisp and had less sugar. My main was the east coast lobster roll sliders with a side salad. I eyed it from the start. The sliders were a new spin on classic lobster rolls. My manager was looking at how I was going to eat them, which I found odd. I enjoyed the rolls, with a mixture of decent chunks of lobster meat, and chopped green onions, celery, and seasoning. Each bun was perfectly toasted, while soft. I had a choice of fries or salad. Salad is my vice these days. This one was seedy, with pumpkin seeds and mixed seeds. There were bits of goats cheese that I enjoyed with the leafy greens, and crunchy carrots and cucumbers. The balsamic dressing was flavourful. I was sad when I ate it all. It then became a family feast. We ended up sharing a lot of our food. I tried a crispy wing. Our newest member of our team was eating them with a knife and fork. Not me! I'm all fingers. It was delicious. My colleague who doesn't drive ordered cauliflower bites and crispy truffle parmesan fries. I sampled a bit of each. I am not a big cauliflower bite person. It was spicy, but the sauce always ends up making the once crispy batter soggy. The fries were amazing. Truffle oil is the best. They were cripsy with a light batter around each fry. My former intern-turned-employee loved them better than his regular fries that he basically ate most of the truffle ones... haha! I had friends on either side of me. To my right was my friend whom we've met a few times during this pandemic. She ordered the skirt steak with frites. I learned that she's a prime rib person, as am I. She liked her meal, but wished that her steak was prime rib. It was so much fun taking photos of everything that we had ordered. None of my colleagues found that weird because they are used to me. I had to explain that to our newest member, who ended up fuelling my passion! Dessert became a sharing session. We got the following items: - Cremoso - Peach bellini tarte tarin - Limone - Strawberry gelato I sampled the first three. The cremoso was decadent. I loved the dark callebaut chocolate. It had a brownie torte, espresso, cream, marscapone ganache, and the best candied pecan that I have ever had. OMG. Get. It! I also loved the peach bellini tarte tatin. I ended up dividing one into four and serving others. The caramelized peaches with rosemary and honey all work nicely. The pastry was so flaky and enjoyable. Did someone say prosecco wine reduction? Yes, please! It had dulce de leche ice cream that was creamy and heavenly! I love lemon and had high hopes for the limone, but it wasn't meant to be. I love tart lemons and this one wasn't tart at all. The tart had a sweet almond and coconut base, which I enjoyed the most. The lemon cream was boring. Why was it so yellow that it likely lit up in the dark? I liked the berries that came with the tart desserts. I wish that I had room for the icewine gelato. Instead, I gawked at the strawberry gelato that our newest member got. She handed it over to me to take pics without my asking her. Yay, conditioning! I paid our bill on the company card. It worked! Great staff, food, and patio. Highly recommend. (339)

661f3b2a-c9a0-4004-ab78-67d8bad2436a

I attended a business event here and I believe it's a nice spot for these kind of gatherings. It's well-maintained and has different rooms with different sizes, you can have your meeting in one room and serve the meals in another one. They could organize serving meals better and be more efficient with it.

10faad79-d5c1-4df3-8193-f51564b5b31a

Everything was great---food, atmosphere, service--until the light went up toward the end of the night, making me feel like it was the forced time to leave. It's rude. If a restaurant wants everyone out by 9pm then they should end their reservations at 7pm. If a restaurant wants to cut diners short then they should cut them a discount off the bill. I doubt I will ever return.

Discover Old Mill Toronto, a charming restaurant in Etobicoke, Canada. Experience exquisite cuisine in a historic setting. Book your unforgettable dining experience now.

Old Mill Toronto Restaurant in Etobicoke, Canada

Old Mill Toronto

Ontario

Explore the full menu at Old Mill Toronto in Toronto. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 21 Old Mill Road, Etobicoke.

Old Mill Toronto Menu – Food & Drinks in Toronto

Learn about Old Mill Toronto, a historic restaurant located at 21 Old Mill Road, Etobicoke. Experience our rich history, unique ambiance, and exceptional cuisine in Toronto.

About Old Mill Toronto, Toronto

Opening hours for Old Mill Toronto, Toronto. Find opening hours for Old Mill Toronto, Toronto on 21 Old Mill Road, Etobicoke.

Old Mill Toronto Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Old Mill Toronto

Golden Gecko Coffee

Salsa Venezuelan Street Food

Asa Sushi