How Baseball Player Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Spends an Off Day in Toronto

“Toronto is like my second home,” says Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a powerhouse hitter for the league-topping Toronto Blue Jays. Guerrero was raised in the Dominican Republic, with Canadian roots that run deep—his father played professional baseball in Montreal, and the game has always been a big part of his life.

Since his move to Toronto, Guerrero has acquainted himself with the multicultural city. “The vibe is something you gotta feel,” he says. “It’s out there, but just under the surface, which I like.” On a recent Off Day, he shared some of the places that help make the city feel like his own, taking us to his favorite spot for “Dominican poutine,” the steakhouse where he refuels with family and his favorite hotel for a nightcap.

Where to Eat

Choose your own poutine adventure with the customizable options at Poutine Hub.

Toronto’s food scene is legendary, but sorting your way through all of its options can be overwhelming. Thankfully, between Guerrero’s top picks and these recs from our friends at The Infatuation, you can consider yourself covered.

Poutine Hub
Trefann Court

You can’t visit Canada without trying poutine, and Poutine Hub is one of the best, thanks to its variety. “I’ve been a fan of poutine since before I can remember,” says Guerrero, who opts for the original style with fries, cheese curds and gravy.

El Camion La Fritanga
Toronto & Greater Toronto Area

This food truck, run by a fellow Dominican who coincidentally grew up 10 minutes away from Guerrero, offers the real deal when it comes to Dominican food. “Everything they make is good, especially their signature mix plate. For me, the best is yaroa, which is kinda like Dominican poutine,” explains Guerrero.

Prime Seafood Palace
West Queen West

“For me and my family, grabbing a great steak on a day off is what it’s all about. The Palace serves up an amazing côte de boeuf. And their service is the best.”

Jacobs & Co Steakhouse
Downtown Toronto

“Toronto has so many great restaurants, and as the name suggests, this spot has steak that’s legit. They just opened a new location, and I can’t wait to check it out.”

Rogers Centre
Downtown Toronto

“It might come as a surprise, but I actually love the concessions at Rogers Centre. The hot dogs are great and I love coming to see baseball and having great food together. It’s a perfect combo.”

What to Do

Discover vinyl records from all genres at Play De Record.

When he has free time, Guerrero loves to shop, game and, unsurprisingly, watch baseball.

Play De Record
Chinatown

“I love music, and this unassuming record shop has all the classics. From hip-hop, rock and Latin records to all the latest music on vinyl. Plus, the owner, Eugene, is from the Caribbean, just like me.”

A & C Games
Chinatown

“Me and my crew are pretty hardcore gamers, so if you’re looking for the spot to buy games in Toronto, it has to be A & C. They have everything, including a massive retro and vintage selection, plus cool ball cards and other collectibles. Don’t miss it.”

Kenshi
Yorkville

For designer goods like bags, hoodies and t-shirts, Guerrero recommends you make Kenshi your first stop. The owners curate a selection of the latest brands and styles, making “coming here an easy, simple and fun way to grab clothes, sneakers and accessories,” he says.

Where to Stay

Swim alongside CN Tower and Toronto skyline views at the rooftop pool at 1 Hotel Toronto.

When you “basically live out of a suitcase all year,” as Guerrero does, finding a hotel that fits your needs is essential. An intense travel schedule makes features like laundry service and gym access must-haves. Guerrero’s favorite stay in the city, 1 Hotel Toronto, combines sleek design with skyline views.

1 Hotel Toronto
King West Village
Member of The Edit by Chase Travel

Located in the heart of downtown, 1 Hotel Toronto offers a retreat from the city’s commotion. The property has four restaurants, cozy cool-toned rooms and suites, and a rooftop pool. Its calming, sustainable design makes 1 Hotel Toronto Guerrero’s favorite place to stay in the city. “The vibe, the look—all of it feels good the moment I pull up,” he says. He also likes to head to the hotel’s bar “at the end of a long day. The views from the rooftop are great, and the cocktails are really good.”