Every September, Toronto transforms into the world’s stage, as film lovers, celebrities and industry leaders converge for the Toronto International Film Festival. This year is particularly special, as the Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary. In the heart of this cultural moment, Shangri-La Toronto offers a culinary experience that pays homage to the artistry of cinema itself: the TIFF 50 Afternoon Tea. More than a simple indulgence, this is a story told through flavour, presentation and atmosphere.

A Red-Carpet Welcome

At the entrance to the hotel’s Lobby Lounge, guests are greeted by a striking black, white and gold sign, emblazoned with “TIFF 50,” and surrounded by lush floral arrangements. It is both a tribute to the festival’s milestone year and an irresistible photo opportunity, setting the stage for what awaits inside.

Stepping into the Lobby Lounge feels like arriving at a private screening: the ambiance is elegant yet buzzing with excitement. Plush seating, golden light, and the soft hum of live jazz music set the scene for an afternoon that is equal parts glamour and comfort. The tea service is similar to the typical High Tea service at the Shangri-La Toronto and begins with a flute of champagne or a fragrant pot of Shangri-La’s luxurious teas, inviting guests to pause and prepare for the performance to follow.

Each detail, from the exquisite tea sets to the cinematic references woven into the menu, is designed to capture the spirit of TIFF. 

Act I: Savoury Notes

The opening is bold yet delicate, echoing the artistry of an independent film. Savoury canapés arrive on a tiered stand, each crafted with precision. 

Each bite is a vignette of textures and contrasts, evoking a director’s careful framing of every scene. Each item is also inspired by renowned films from the last five decades. The Emperor’s Deviled Egg (inspired by The Last Emperor, 1987) features crispy soba noodle nest, umami egg yolk puree, scallion and truffle. The Paris Bite (inspired by my personal all-time favourite film, Amélie, 2001) is an exquisite tartlet, with foie and chicken liver mousse, pickled plum, pistachio and plum gel. Another highlight is the Starlight Trout Gravlax, (inspired by La La Land, 2016), featuring cucumber, goat cheese, dill, trout roe and beets.

The savoury course reflects Toronto’s global palette, uniting European refinement with Asian influences, and reminding guests of the festival’s international scope.

Act II: The Classic Interlude

No afternoon tea would be complete without the timeless comfort of scones, and Shangri-La does not disappoint. Freshly baked and served warm, the Signature Shangri-La scones are paired with Pizza Scones (with red pepper jam). This is the interlude – familiar, nostalgic and grounding – the equivalent of a beloved classic film that audiences return to again and again. The balance here is deliberate: indulgence without excess, tradition without monotony.

Act III: The Sweet Finale

The finale unfolds like a closing montage of TIFF’s most dazzling premieres. The dessert course is both playful and refined, offering a curated collection of sweets inspired by cinematic glamour. Expect Blueberry Haskap Pie, Red Velvet Madeleine, Mango Lassi Mousse, Black Forest Cake and German Chocolate Cake. The artistry of the pastry chefs shines through: each confection is a jewel, visually striking and narratively rich. The finale perfectly lingers on the palate.

The Cocktail Edit

For those who wish to extend the performance, Shangri-La Toronto also presents a lineup of TIFF 50 Signature Cocktails designed exclusively for the Festival. Each creation is truly a work of art, crafted with the same creativity and attention to detail that defines the silver screen. Expect small spotlights, beautiful smoke effects and gold flakes that glimmer like a trophy. The presentation of everything on this menu is truly spectacular.

Eight cinematic creations pay tribute to iconic films, from the sparkling Bartender’s Fantasy (The Princess Bride) and bold Lava You Lots (Lady Macbeth) to the vibrant Disco Boogie (Boogie Nights), tropical Star the Fruit (Whale Rider), and refined The Golden Reel (The Fabelmans).

Curtain Call

The TIFF Afternoon Tea at Shangri-La Toronto is a tribute to storytelling, artistry and the city itself. Whether you are a film buff seeking a refined interlude between screenings or a local indulging in TIFF’s vibrant energy, this experience captures the intersection of culture and cuisine.

Like the best films, the TIFF Afternoon Tea at Shangri-La Toronto will leave you inspired, happy and still thinking about it the following day. 

This luxurious experience is available until Sept.28, 2025; Thursdays to Sundays, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Photography by Hannah Yakobi and courtesy of Shangri-La Toronto.