A History of Excellence: The National Club

The National Club - Toronto , a Distinguished Clubs since 2022, was founded in 1874 by many of the founding fathers of the Canadian Confederation.?

It was home to the Canada First movement – a nationalist group that favored closer ties with Britain, free land to entice immigration, extending voting rights ensuring minority representation, a well-organized Canadian militia, and reforming the House of Commons and Senate.?

As the years passed, Canada’s major political parties adopted the Canada First movement’s policies, and the movement disbanded. It had, however, established a lasting contribution in the form of The National Club, which has continued as an apolitical social and business club. When the club moved to its current spot on Bay Street in Toronto, Ontario, in 1907, it was coming “out in the boonies” though it was only a few blocks north. It turned out to be a great decision.?

The National Club, in the heart of Toronto’s financial district, is famous for its beautiful heritage-designated clubhouse. It has numerous dining options and multiple exclusive private dining rooms. The club’s expertly crafted cuisine, prestigious 40,000-bottle wine cellar and highly professional staff provide a friendly, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

A younger membership (average age of 47) is enjoying upgraded facilities, such as the recently completed major rooftop renovation. In addition to the outdoor dining patio, the club offers a contemporary four-season bar and dining room space with opening skylights and accordion windows. Members can enjoy alfresco dining during the warmer months and use the space during the colder months. It’s the only rooftop dining area of its kind on Bay Street and includes spectacular views of the skyline.

The club prides itself on creating a warm, welcoming, diverse and inclusive club. In addition to a fabulous dining experience, the club offers rooms for overnight stays – six deluxe rooms and a suite, remodeled recently. In recent history, the club hosted a member of the Royal Family in the suite. The esteemed guest commented that the night spent at the club was the best stay experienced during the guest’s visit to Canada.?

The National Club is especially proud of its employees. Most clubs offer a beautiful clubhouse, great cuisine and an impressive wine cellar, but the people set The National Club apart. They go above and beyond to ensure excellent member experiences.?

“Your staff has this amazing ability to remember your name, and when we bring guests, they demonstrate a level of sophistication that impresses every time!” explained one member.?

With a club as well established as The National Club, it comes as no surprise the leadership has a harmonious relationship.?

“The COO and president relationship at The National Club has always been excellent because of our progressive board selection process,” said Bill Morari , GM/COO. “By the time a member arrives in the president’s seat, they have extensive board experience and are well versed with a clear understanding of their role.?

“The key to maintaining a productive relationship is strong communication skills in keeping the president and board informed on club happenings. In turn, the president ensures the board operates at a high-level strategic approach and not in an operational role, leaving that to the professional management team.”

As for the Distinguished Club designation, Morari said, “It is an amazing accomplishment to be recognized as one of the top city clubs in the world and a huge source of pride amongst members and staff alike. It has validated that we are doing things right at The National Club, and we have earned our place as one of the premier clubs of Canada.” ? BR

Ronald Banaszak, CCM, CCE , BoardRoom Distinguished Club Executive Vice President of International Business Development. Ron may be contacted at (415) 420-5183 or [email protected]. ?