Here's where you can spot celebrities in Toronto during TIFF 2025

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), running Sept 4–14, 2025, is a magnet for celebrities, and as the city buzzes with red carpets, press junkets, parties, and premieres, a few hotspots consistently draw star power.

Based on past TIFF sightings, there are some key celeb hotspots to keep your eyes on.

Here's where you're most likely to glimpse the VIPs in action:

Fairmont Royal York

This hotel is TIFF central. It's legendary for hosting A-listers — from Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon to Jennifer Aniston — who frequently stay or attend gala events here during the festival period.

Oretta

The chic Italian restaurant is a quieter hangout — perfect for post-screening dinners. It hasn't made major lists yet, but its proximity to Queen West makes it a low-key, potential celebrity haunt. Patrons have confirmed that Shawn Mendes was spotted here last year.

Ritz-Carlton 

Ritz attracts A-listers looking for luxury. Those staying here frequently visit its rooftop lounge and spa as one of TIFF’s official hotel partners. Celebrities seen here include Elton John, Keifer Sutherland, Lenny Kravitz, and Erin McCormack. 

Queen & Ossington (the neighbourhood)

This Queen West hub spills over into restaurants, bars, and intimate venues. Stars tend to slip into spots here for their buzzy, indie vibes. Rumours have it that Anne Hathaway is a regular in this neighbourhood when she's in town.

Parkdale

Adjacent to Queen West, Parkdale's cool coffee shops and local eateries have welcomed more under-the-radar talent and indie film creatives in past festivals.

Windsor Arms

A TIFF "classic" hotel staple — Windsor Arms is often chosen by stars who prefer understated elegance, and its lobby and patio see a steady flow of festival traffic. This one is a "publicist confirmed" hub for A-listers.

St. Regis 

Top-tier luxury aligns well with TIFF's glam-polished crowd. Red-carpet overflow often retreats here for private after-parties. 

Shangri-La

Another upscale TIFF hideaway — its serene spa, restaurant, and bar attract stars mindful of downtime between multiple premieres. It's another "publicist-approved" venue. 

1 Hotel 

Confirmed as a TIFF celebrity destination, the 1 Hotel's Flora Lounge, Harriet’s Rooftop bar, and Casa Madera attract talent for chic socializing.

Park Hyatt

Luxury and relative quiet make Park Hyatt appealing to celebs seeking downtime away from press swarm zones.

Four Seasons

A TIFF staple where many stars stay and dine; its restaurant and spa are celebrity drawcards during the festival.

Hazelton Hotel

Yorkville's upscale charm makes this boutique hotel a frequent pick for stars who enjoy high-end privacy and boutique service.

Bisha Hotel

Famously spotted by photogs, stars like Margot Robbie, Naomi Campbell, and Elliot Page have popped up here — Bisha's Mister C lounge and BAFTA/Deadline lounges are TIFF nightlife must‑sees.

PAI

A favourite when stars want Michelin-level Thai cuisine, PAI is usually buzzing with hungry (and famous) diners during TIFF. Popular sightings include Jacob Elordi, Simu Liu, and Oscar Isaac.

Soluna

Soluna is a TIFF hospitality partner and celeb magnet — past visitors include Jennifer Lawrence and Daniel Craig.

Nobu 

This one feels like a no-brainer! A hotspot for after‑party dining, people like Adam Driver and Pharrell Williams have been seen here in past years.

Pro tips for celebrity spotting

• Mornings and early evenings near TIFF venues: stars often enter through side doors or pose for local photographers before screenings.
• Hotel lobbies and rooftop bars: not just nice settings — they double as celeb workspaces. Expect media coverage and possible introductions.
• After‑parties and lounge events: RSVP or network your way into TIFF-affiliated events—they're where industry deals and celeb mingling happen.

Toronto's festival life is rich with chances for a celeb sighting — whether at a press event, impromptu café rendezvous, or swanky after-party. Keep this guide handy, respect their space, and you might just photobomb your way onto red carpet memories.