Feb 3, 2025

The Royal Cinema Toronto

Not your average movie night

""The Royal Cinema" Toronto (est. 1939) is not just any kind of cinema. They only play special movie here. Great special events and a nice change of pace."

Smack dab in the middle of Little Italy, this art deco style theatre has remained a popular movie venue for Torontonians. Opening in 1939, The Royal Cinema has persevered through hard times and now doubles as both a cinema and a post-production studio. The cinema holds only a single theatre, but it's a nice change of scenery to the giant chain cinemas we've become so accustomed to.

Entering the main doors under the glow of the marquee - visitors will find the concession stand offering beer and wine, as well as soft drinks, candy and of course, popcorn.

The Royal differs from regular theatres as it does not show current blockbuster hits - but rather independent films, documentaries, special screenings and premiers, live shows and stand-up comedy, as well as themed movie series - showing the best monster movies, or fan-favourite Wes Anderson movies.

Two events you should try not to miss are their NOW Free Flick Mondays - showing a great film for free admission, and Indie88's Band & a Movie - which showcases a performance by a local band followed by their flick of choice.

This intimate theatre experience is something I've always found to be a fun, low-key night out - and you can start or end your night off by visiting one of the great restaurants or bars in the neighbourhood!

002-building
Art & culture
008-ticket
Cinema

About this spot

College Street 608

Movie ticket:

C$

10

4164664400

Explore Toronto like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Toronto guide.

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Toronto

Planta Queen

Amazing Asian-inspired vegan eats

I recommend ordering a few of their smaller dishes to try, which should definitely include their renowned Bang Bang Broccoli!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

By

Cassandra

Della Mora

Feb 15, 2025

Khau Gully

Best Northern Indian Food in Toronto

"Khau Gully" is my favorite Northern Indian restaurant in Toronto. Street food is its thing but it's best to sit in for its beautifully painted dining room

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

By

Cameron

Bryant

Feb 13, 2025

RE Place / Poured Coffee

Low-waste for the win

From biodegradable bamboo products to personal care items that are better for both you and the planet, you can find plenty here for a more sustainable life.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Cassandra

Della Mora

Feb 11, 2025

Good Intentions

Shop to support women

It’s rare that I leave this store without having bought something, be it a beautiful ring for myself, or a unique piece of artwork to give as a gift.

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Cassandra

Della Mora

Feb 11, 2025

Gia Restaurant

Plant-forward perfection

With environmental sustainability in mind, Gia is a “plant-forward” restaurant, with the goal of sourcing produce locally, and organic when possible.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

By

Cassandra

Della Mora

Feb 11, 2025

Scout

Gift giving made easy

Besides selling goods from small, often local, independent makers and mindfully selected brands, they also help to support local charities and initiatives.

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Cassandra

Della Mora

Feb 11, 2025

Philistine

Curated clothing & goods

Founded over 15 years ago as a purveyor of vintage goods at local markets and pop-ups, Philistine now has two shops of its own, both on Queen Street.

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Cassandra

Della Mora

Feb 11, 2025

Swatow

My go-to for hole-in-the-wall Chinese food

"Swatow" Toronto's been my go-to for that kind of Chinese food for years -- you know, the comforting, inexpensive stuff that's still plentiful & delicious.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

By

Anita

Kim

Feb 9, 2025

La Salumeria

The perfect midtown deli

"La Salumeria" is always where I go when I need something delicious on-the-go during the day. It's a delicatessen that also makes the best sandwiches!

024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Anita

Kim

Feb 9, 2025

Aloette

Toronto’s best restaurant's cooler sister

"Aloette" in Toronto is an upscale bistro with a wider range of food. Their burger is definitely a staple, and their iceberg wedge salad is a sleeper hit!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

By

Anita

Kim

Feb 9, 2025

The One in the Only

Coffee coffee coffee

"The One in the Only" in Toronto is an eclectic coffee shop that just exudes positivity. Most of the decoration is a random mix of old photos & art prints.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea

By

Jeffrey

Wood

Feb 9, 2025

Il Covo

Α gem of a hideout in Little Italy

"Il Covo" in Toronto is an Italian restaurant that's special for every special occasion. I encourage you to order and share as many cichetti as possible!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

By

Anita

Kim

Feb 9, 2025

Heading to Toronto?

145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

Heading to Toronto?

145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

Our team loves Toronto

Get to know our other Spotters from Toronto