This past Sunday, Toronto got a taste of Spain—courtesy of NBA Champion and beloved former Toronto Raptor Serge Ibaka. Making a special trip back from Spain, where he now plays for Real Madrid Baloncesto, Serge wasn’t here for a game. Instead, he came with a mission: to put the city’s Spanish-inspired spots in the spotlight.
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Serge’s stamp of approval
Toronto is a city of neighbourhoods, but one thing it doesn’t have is a dedicated Spanish district. That absence sparked an idea for Serge, who’s long been known for his love of food and culture. Partnering with Madrí Excepcional, a premium beer crafted to connect people to the soul of Madrid, Serge set out to change that—at least in spirit.
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The result? The “Serge Stamp List”—his personal guide to must-visit Spanish-inspired gems across the city. Each location on the list has something special to offer, from authentic flavours and vibrant atmosphere to the kind of warm hospitality that feels like a trip to Madrid without ever leaving Toronto.
Over the course of his visit, Serge dropped by some of his favourite spots, giving each one his official “stamp” of approval—literally. A custom Serge Stamp now adorns the windows of these local gems, signaling to passersby that they’ve made the cut. Whether it’s a cozy tapas bar, a bustling market stand, or a restaurant serving paella that rivals the streets of Valencia, these are places worth making the trip for.
His top picks include:
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- Cafe de Madrid
- The Spanish Pig
- La Paella
- Tapas at Embrujo
- Campo Restaurant
- Casa Barcelona
For Serge, it’s about more than just great food—it’s about celebrating culture, supporting local businesses, and sharing the essence of Spanish living with the city he still calls home. “Toronto gave me so much during my time here,” he says. “This is my way of giving back, and of bringing a little piece of Spain to the people.”
With the Serge Stamp List, Torontonians now have a curated roadmap to the best Spanish-inspired experiences in the city. Paired with a glass of Madrí Excepcional, it’s a passport to flavour, culture, and connection—no boarding pass required.
