Marvel Superhero Simu Liu’s Guide to Toronto —

The Canadian actor shares his go–to spots to get fit (and refuel).

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Simu Liu has starred in more than a dozen television series since making his small–screen debut in 2012, including the CBC sitcom Kim’s Convenience and Fresh Off the Boat. Now he’s backflipping his way to Hollywood as Marvel’s first Asian superhero in the film Shang–Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Here the accountant–turned–actor shares his favourite places to eat, sweat and let loose in his hometown of Toronto.

This interview was originally published in December 2019 and was updated in September 2021.

enRoute Where is the best place for parkour in Toronto?

Simu Liu My favourite place to go do parkour, gymnastics, acrobatics or anything of that sort is called Monkey Vault. It’s a massive warehouse space with an indoor playground, pits that you can just fall into, and it’s got a spring floor area if you want to do flips.

ER What is your favourite rock climbing gym in Toronto?

SL My favourite place in the city to go rock climbing is Rock Oasis because it’s close to the city, it’s a great location, and it’s very beginner friendly.

ER What’s your favourite way to refuel after a workout?

SL I love going to get bubble tea. It’s one of my favourite drinks. I love going to The Alley. It’s a perfect post–workout snack.

September 7, 2021
Simu Liu climbs an urban jungle gym

ER If your best friend was in town, where would you take them for dinner?

SL I would take them to Fishman Lobster Clubhouse. It’s an amazing restaurant, you get huge lobster towers, it tastes amazing. It’s a bit outside of the city but I think it’s worth the trip.

ER What is your favourite late–night spot in Toronto?

SL My favourite late–night spot is Hong Shing at the corner of University and Dundas. It's open late every day until about 1 a.m. If you haven't been, you have to check it out.

Simu Liu poses in a black jacket and a black and blue striped shirt

ER What is the best coffee shop in Toronto?

SL Balzac’s. It’s always a nice scene, lots of open space, and the coffee is great.

ER How would you spend a day off in Toronto?

SL I love to eat, so there are lots of restaurants that I would hit up all over the city. If I had a stomach with infinite space, I would go to DaiLo and Patois – they’re great Asian fusion places. For Thai, I love Pai, Khao San Road and Sabai Sabai.