ABOUT US

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Welcome to Old Mill Toronto, Toronto's oldest restaurant in continuous operation at the same location since 1914. Originally established as a restaurant and tea garden on August 4th 1914, we have grown into a premier event venue, entertainment destination, and dining establishment. Since the very beginning, we have upheld our cherished traditions, including our renowned Afternoon Tea service, Dining & Dancing Series, Jazz Lounge Series, and our popular Saturday and Sunday buffets. These classic offerings continue to delight guests today, reflecting the timeless charm and legacy we have been known for throughout the years. Our expansive venue features 16 elegant banquet rooms and event spaces spread across 25,000 square feet, including a private on-site chapel and beautiful outdoor ceremony spaces and gardens. Our outdoor courtyard patio offers al fresco dining and picturesque photo opportunities amidst lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Restaurants in Canada by OpenTable, Old Mill Toronto blends historic charm with modern luxury, offering exceptional service and ambiance for every occasion.

OUR HISTORY

1600s

Indigenous Roots and Early Explorations

Long before European settlement, the Humber Valley was home to the Huron Peoples (Wyandot), who inhabited the area for centuries. In 1615, French explorer Étienne Brûlé became the first recorded European to explore the valley, traveling the "Toronto Carrying Place," a well-established Indigenous trading route used for transporting goods like furs, ornaments, and weapons.

1793

The King's Mill

In 1793, the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada, John Graves Simcoe, ordered the construction of a sawmill on the west bank of the Humber River, near today's Old Mill Road. Known as the King's Mill, it was Toronto's first industrial building, providing essential lumber for ships and government buildings. This establishment marked the beginning of industrial activity in the region, setting a precedent for future developments.

John Graves Simcoe, The first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada

1822

Thomas Fisher and the King's Mill

Thomas Fisher became the tenant of the King's Mill, which had been neglected by previous owners. By 1829, Fisher had revitalized the mill, turning it into a profitable business. He was known as a merchant miller, manufacturing nails and engaging in trade, shipping, and storekeeping. On the property, he built Millwood House, a grist mill, a store, and cottages for his workers. He also constructed roads for easier transport of flour. In 1835, Fisher sold the King's Mill to William Gamble but retained other properties.

1835

William Gamble's Empire

In 1835, William Gamble purchased the King's Mill and expanded the milling business significantly, renaming the property Milton Mill. He acquired adjacent mills and diversified his interests to include a distillery and a hotel. That same year, Thomas Fisher sold his home to Gamble, who named it The Milton House, also known as the William Gamble Homestead.

This house later became the site of Old Mill Toronto. The original mill was destroyed by fire in 1849, but Gamble rebuilt it using local stone, lumber, and heavy beams from the Humber Valley. Despite setbacks like the repeal of the British Corn Laws in 1849 and a devastating flood in 1850, Gamble continued his operations until the Bank of Upper Canada foreclosed on his mortgages in 1862.

1881

The End of Milling

In the cold winter of 1881, the upper loft of the mill, used for storing apples and heated by a wood-burning stove, experienced an overheated stove that caused a fire. This fire destroyed the mill, marking the end of active milling at the site. The picturesque ruins of the "Old Mill" remained a notable landmark for the community.

1906-1912

Robert Home Smith's Vision

A visionary lawyer and businessman, Smith aimed to create a "Garden of Eden" with his Humber Valley Surveys. He imposed architectural restrictions to maintain the area's English Tudor charm, reflected in subdivisions like The Kingsway, Riverside Drive, and Baby Point. Smith's motto, "A bit of England, far from England," encapsulated his vision.

1914

Opening of the Old Mill Tea Garden Restaurant

On August 4, 1914, the same day World War I began for Canada, the Old Mill Tea Garden opened its doors adjacent to the Old Mill ruins. This venue marked the beginning of Old Mill Toronto's legacy as Toronto's oldest restaurant in continuous operation at the same location.

The Old Mill Restaurant and Tea Garden quickly became a beloved community center, offering a tranquil retreat with facilities like a boathouse, canoe livery, tennis courts, lawn bowling green, and a three- hole golf course by 1915.

1919

Print Room

In 1919, the Print Room was built, becoming one of the few places at the time to offer the enjoyment of dinner and dancing in an elegant atmosphere. This addition marked the beginning of Old Mill's music tradition.

1920

The Beginning of Live Music Performances

In 1920, the Old Mill introduced live music in the Print Room featuring violinist Cec Ryder and pianist Nelson Hatch.

1928

Growth and Cultural Hub

In 1928, the William Gamble house was demolished, and a new Administration Building was constructed. This building housed the offices of Home Smith & Company and offered additional amenities, including a post office and a branch of the Bank of Nova Scotia.

1929

New Dance Hall

In 1929, a new dance floor was added, featuring performances by a nine-piece orchestra led by Nelson Hatch.

1935

Robert Home Smith's Legacy

Robert Home Smith passed away suddenly in 1935. His executor and partner, Godfrey Pettit, inherited his estate. Pettit, a decorated veteran of World War I, continued Smith's legacy, maintaining the Old Mill as a beloved local landmark.

1939-1945

World War II Era

During World War II, the Old Mill became a popular gathering place for military personnel and locals. Despite the war's challenges, the Old Mill remained a cherished venue, known for its old-world charm and exquisite dining experiences.

1954

Surviving Hurricane Hazel

In October 1954, Hurricane Hazel struck Toronto, causing widespread destruction. The Old Mill and its historic bridge were spared, though the surrounding areas suffered significant damage. The resilience of the Old Mill stood as a testament to its enduring presence in the community.

The Old Mill Bridge in 1954, during the devastation of Hurricane Hazel

1973

A New Chapter

Skyline Hotels Limited took over Old Mill Toronto in 1973, leading to extensive renovations. The east wing, completed in October 1973, included the Lanterned Dining Room, Mezzanine Balcony, Garrett Rooms, and Humber Room. In January 1974, the west wing was completed, adding unique banquet, dining, and meeting rooms, including the Brule Ballrooms, The Royal Oak Room, The Mill Room, Wedding Chapel, and the Cottage, now known as The Garden Room and The Drawing Room.

1983

Heritage Property

The Old Mill was declared a Heritage Property in 1983 by the City of Toronto.

2001

Inn and Spa

In 2001, the Old Mill Toronto Hotel opened after an extensive restoration and reconstruction of the original grist mill on its historic site. As part of this expansion, a 57-room boutique hotel and spa were added, incorporating the original stones into the hotel's exterior walls. This development enhanced the Old Mill's standing as a premier dining and event destination in Toronto.

Present

A Timeless Landmark

Today, Old Mill Toronto stands as a cherished historic landmark, offering exquisite dining and entertainment, and exceptional event spaces. Our venue features 16 elegant ballrooms, a refined Dining Room, and beautiful outdoor gardens with a charming outdoor patio for al fresco dining. Seamlessly blending rich heritage with modern amenities, Old Mill Toronto preserves its legacy as a leader in hospitality and cultural experiences in Toronto, continuing to offer unparalleled elegance and service in every aspect of our historic setting.

Fun Fact

Sunnyside Amusement Park

In 1922, Robert Home Smith opened Sunnyside Amusement Park, remembered for its many rides, including the Flyer roller coaster. The park was dismantled in 1955 to make way for the Gardiner Expressway. The park's 1922 handcrafted Dentzel carousel was moved to Disneyland in California, where it became known as King Arthur's Carousel.