Toronto Weekender: December 22 through 25, 2011

This Weekender’s going to be short but sweet. Let’s be honest, the next few days are dedicated to the fam and friends, but be not weary, there are still a few notable blips on the radar that should find their way into your rotation.

Start tonight off at the freshly-opened Maialino Enoteca Italiana. Point blank: it’s awesome. Amazing Sicilian-inspired food with a modern flare, great space that’s both rustic and chic, and some delicioso vino to top it all off.

While in the west end, make a jaunt over to Watusi on Ossington for Throwback Thursdays and have a soulful evening of jigglin’ and jivin’. Conversely, hit up The Great Hall for the first annual Halliday bash. With a talent lineup impressive enough for any YP, this party is sure to be a festive frolic. 

After-work Friday should be a hip one for you. Grab your crew (the ones still in town that is), and make way for Banh Mi Boys near Queen and Spadina. Order up some amazing Vietnamese street food done in-house style and fill up before hitting the town.

Make a trip over to the Ritz and enjoy some haute cocktails at DEQ, which has a new drink menu worthy of testing. Then head over to The Hoxton for the annual – though not at this venue – Longo Family Christmas Party, where hundreds of TO’s finest will be out in full force.

Saturday morning settle in for a bite at Insomnia and have some spectacular brunch. You pretty much can’t go wrong with anything you order. Spend the day catching up with old acquaintances and cavorting around town, and at night, should you not be family-bound, head over to Maison Mercer for the 10th annual Dreidle Rock. FYI, this is an inclusive event, so don’t let the name fool you. 

Sunday is Christmas. (We know, we know. We’re captains of industry as well as the obvious.) There are a few options for dining out there if you’re not staying in, like Epic at the Royal York, Sen5es at the SOHO, Studio Cafe at the Four Seasons. Click here to see the Notable list.

Movie theatres are open, a few bars and lounges, but the city itself essentially sleeps on the 25th. Take advantage of the quiet and prep for a busy day shopping on the 26th. Happy holidays, Notables!

Photo courtesy Watusi