People clash over if it's okay to gatekeep the best Toronto spots

Everyone claims to know a hidden gem in Toronto right up until one too many people ask where it is. But is gatekeeping actually protecting Toronto favourites, or just keeping great businesses from getting the attention they deserve?

We asked residents whether they're for or against gatekeeping, and the opinions were surprisingly divided.

Some insisted you simply can't gatekeep the best spots in the city, arguing that spreading the word helps local businesses thrive. Fair enough. Others, however, pointed out the trade-off that may come with viral attention: longer wait times, bigger crowds and, if it's a bar or restaurant, higher prices down the road.

@blogto Yay or Nay: Gatekeeping in Toronto 🔓👀 🎙️ @samkieme ♬ original sound - blogTO

As for us, blogTO has never been in the business of gatekeeping, no matter if it's a hole-in-the-wall bar or an under-the-radar seafood restaurant. 

Where do you stand on the whole gatekeeping debate? Let us know in the comments below.