Norfolk County is a former tobacco belt turned Ontario’s garden getaway

5:00 pm

lavender fields at a Norfolk County farm (Instagram @BonnieHeathEstate)

It’s harvest time, farm stands and markets are overflowing with vegetable abundance. And there is no place better to embrace all that is fresh and delicious in Ontario than Norfolk County. Nestled along the north shore of Lake Erie in southwestern Ontario, Norfolk County is transforming into one of Canada’s most exciting agritourism destinations. Spanning 1,600 square kilometers, this region is a picturesque blend of rolling hills, charming small towns, rare Carolinian forests, and sandy soils that blur the line between farmland and beach.

Once dominated by tobacco farming—Norfolk County was known for producing 90 per cent of Canada’s tobacco—this area has undergone a remarkable transformation. Faced with a decline, Norfolk County’s farmers pivoted. With the help of federal transition funds, they began cultivating new crops like apples, ginseng, and grapes. Today, Norfolk County is a thriving hub for vegetables, fruits, hops, and even cattle, all while offering an enticing escape for food and nature lovers alike.

Norfolk County’s Agritourism Delights

Norfolk County has embraced agritourism, offering visitors the chance to explore its lush landscapes, savor farm-fresh produce, and experience the joys of rural life. Whether you’re cycling between farms and restaurants, sampling local wines and craft beers, or even glamping by Lake Erie, Norfolk County has something to offer every traveller.

Bonnieheath Estate Lavender and Winery: Near Simcoe, Steve and Anita Buehner have transformed their generational farm into a stunning estate featuring 120,000 lavender plants, a vineyard, an apple orchard and much more. Visitors are welcome to taste their wines or simply stroll through the fragrant lavender fields.

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YU Ranch: South of Tillsonburg, Bryan Gilvesy has repurposed his 300-acre tobacco farm into YU Ranch, a sanctuary for grass-fed Texas longhorn cattle. Visitors can tour the ranch, learn about sustainable farming, and purchase beef directly from the source.

Charlotteville Brewing Co.: Locals Melanie Doerksen and Tim Wilson returned to Norfolk after years in Europe to create Charlotteville Brewing Co., where they grow their hops and craft unique beers. Their farm-to-table restaurant is set to open soon, offering another reason to visit this vibrant region.

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Inasphere Wines: Near Turkey Point, third-generation farmers Shantel and Ryan Bosgoed have transitioned from tomatoes to vines. Their vineyard produces riesling, cabernet franc, and pinot noir, with every bottle hand-corked on-site. It’s cute and small and charming.

Burning Kiln Winery: Just down the road is the lovely Burning Kiln Winery, which as a former tobacco farm, gets its name from the old tobacco sheds some of which are found on site. Love the gorgeous view of the Long Point Cut.

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Front Road Cellars at Blueberry Hill Estates: Here, you can enjoy expertly crafted grape and fruit wines alongside small-batch ciders. This winery offers tasting experiences that showcase the region’s premium produce, making it a perfect stop for a scenic and flavourful getaway.

Embrace nature in Norfolk County

Although the region is best known for its agricultural bliss, the area is also something of a natural wonderland. The area’s adventurous pastimes start with Lake Erie and the drop-dead gorgeous Long Point Provincial Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with its stunning beach. But it doesn’t end there.

Norfolk County is home to Long Point Provincial Park — Long Point Provincial Park

There is also Big Creek, which some call Canada’s Amazon due to its incredible biodiversity, but it also makes a great tubing river. Backus Woods is one of the finest examples of a Carolinian forest in Canada, and it’s perfect for hiking to check out one of the oldest forests in the province.

Also up this fall is the Norfolk County Fair.

The best part of Norfolk is exploring the quiet country roads alongside gorgeous fields bursting with colour, finding that perfect farm stand or small market, stumbling across a new winery or a restaurant that offers delicious local food.

A perfect summertime road trip destination.

10+ things to do for Father’s Day in Toronto that are actually fun

Lauren DiBenedetto

4:00 pm

yorkvilleexoticcar — Courtesy yorkvilleexotics.com

Father’s Day is rolling in, and Toronto is stepping up with a weekend lineup that goes way beyond BBQs and baseball games. Whether your dad is the type to nerd out on vintage cars, crush a brunch, or just wants a chill day with the fam (ideally with a drink in hand), there’s something on the calendar for him.

From immersive art installations to yacht cruises and wrestling matches, these are the events and experiences happening around Toronto that will make this Father’s Day actually feel like a celebration.

Father’s Day cruises on Lake Ontario

boat cruise — Courtesy cityexperiences.com

Trade crowded patios for lake breezes with one of Toronto’s Father’s Day cruises. Yankee Lady Yacht Charters, City Cruises and Tall Ship Cruises are all offering scenic sailings that include buffets, drinks, and skyline views. Some cruises are brunch-focused, others lean into dinner and live music, but they all come with that floating-on-the-lake energy that feels just elevated enough without being stuffy.

Mini Putt Tournament at Reid’s Distillery

Where: Reid’s Distillery

When: June 15, 12 to 5 p.m.

Reid’s Distillery is bringing back its annual Father’s Day Mini-Putt Tournament, complete with nine holes, drink service and a lot of friendly competition. Tee times run every 30 minutes between 12 and 5 p.m., and the whole thing has a relaxed, tongue-in-cheek energy perfect for spending the afternoon sipping and swinging.

Amplified by Illuminarium Toronto

amplifiedtoronto — Courtesy illuminarium.com

Where: Illuminarium Toronto, Distillery District

If your dad still talks about the glory days of rock and roll, this one hits the sweet spot. Amplified at Illuminarium is an immersive walkthrough of music history — part concert, part digital archive — with over 1,000 iconic photos, 1300 rare videos and the sounds of 300 music legends woven throughout. From Hendrix and Nirvana to the Stones and Aretha, it’s a visual and sonic overload in the best way.

A DIY food festival crawl

This Father’s Day weekend is basically a food crawl in disguise. Here’s what’s happening:

Taste of Little Italy: Pedestrian-only streets, live music and more pizza and pasta than you can handle. Put on your comfiest pants and get ready to walk all along College Street while you find some of the city’s best and brightest. Think Susie’s Rise and Dine, Palma Pasta and Bear Steak Sandwiches.
Beaches Rib & Beer Fest: Classic BBQ vibes with craft brews, meat sweats optional. From 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., June 13-15 indulge in messy meals and live music in the company of all other food enthusiasts and their dads.
Toronto Island Eats Food & Travel Fest: Running from June 14-15 at Mel Lastman Square, enjoy over three dozen food and beverage pavilions with mouth watering Caribbean delicacies, live music, beautiful costumes and a marketplace.
Kensington Market Father’s Day Food Tour: A guided tour with behind-the-scenes eats and no waiting in line. ($89 per person and worth every bite.)

Yorkville Exotic Car Show

yorkvillecarshow — Courtesy yorkvilleexotics.com

Where: Bloor Street, between Avenue Road and Bay Street

When: June 15, 12–5 p.m.

If dad’s more into Ferraris than Father’s Day cards, Bloor Street is the place to be. The 15th annual Yorkville Exotic Car Show transforms the city’s luxury streets into a public showroom of high-end automotive design. Expect Lamborghinis, McLarens and more, all parked for your viewing pleasure — no ticket needed.

VARAC Vintage Grand Prix

Where: Canadian Tire Motorsport Park

When: June 13–15

This long-standing Father’s Day tradition brings vintage race cars to the track at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. The VARAC Vintage Grand Prix features three days of wheel-to-wheel racing, with everything from pre-1960s roadsters to ’90s open-wheel beasts. Tickets are $45 per day, and you can bring the whole family —it’s got a bit of a festival vibe.

Sounds of the Ocean at Arcadia Earth

Where: 486 Front St. W.

When: Open now through late June

If Dad is in need of a sensory reset, Sounds of the Ocean at Arcadia Earth offers something totally out of the ordinary. This immersive installation blends ambient ocean sounds with glowing light projections and calming melodies to create a meditative journey through the deep blue. Located at The Well in downtown Toronto, it’s designed to spark reflection around sustainability and the beauty of our oceans — without feeling preachy. It’s only in town for a month, so consider this a limited-time chance to decompress in style.

Little Canada’s Dad Joke Mini Mission

Where: 10 Dundas St. E.

When: June 14–15

Dads love dad jokes — it’s just science. At Little Canada, they’re embracing it with a mini scavenger hunt where guests follow a trail of terrible puns across the tiny world, matching punchlines to scenes and solving a final mystery joke. First 100 guests each day get a free Little Canada hat.

Sunday Gold Brunch at Ace Hotel

Where: 51 Camden St.

When: June 15, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

If your ideal Father’s Day brunch includes R&B, soul and an actually good menu, Alder at the Ace Hotel delivers. The Sunday Gold brunch brings a live backing band to brunch service, giving your midday meal just the right amount of groove. Stylish, low-key, and a little more inspired than your average toast-and-bacon setup.

Junction City Wrestling: School’s Out

rainhardwrestling — Courtesy Rainhard Brewing

Where: 100 Symes Rd.

When: June 15, 3 p.m.

If your dad enjoys a pint, a punch and some good old-fashioned entertainment, Junction City Wrestling is putting on a Father’s Day show at Rainhard Brewing Co. There will be beer, food from vendors like Fuoco Mio and of course, plenty of wrestling. Dog-friendly and wildly entertaining, this one’s perfect if your dad likes his Sundays with a little smackdown.

Father Figures Comedy Night

Where: Wenona Lodge

When: June 15, 8–9:30 p.m.

Cap off the weekend with some solid laughs at Bloor Street Comedy’s Father Figures show. Featuring a stacked lineup of comedians who have performed at Just for Laughs, SiriusXM, NXNE and more, this night leans into all the things dads love — jokes that go a little too far, and beers that are just cold enough. Tickets are $15 online, $20 at the door.

The best Portuguese custard tarts in Toronto

Jennifer Schembri

3:17 pm

snapins ai 3517403540912569308 — @cafebelem.to/Instagram

Portugal is known for its delicious cuisine — from fresh seafood to spicy Piri Piri chicken — but topping the list are its iconic custard tarts: pastéis de nata. These mouthwatering desserts, with their caramelized tops and creamy custard centres, have been a favourite among sweet lovers for over 200 years. And there’s no better time to celebrate them than in June, which is officially Portuguese Heritage Month in Canada. Even more special, June 10 has been declared Portugal Day — a time to honour Portuguese culture, history and of course, its incredible food. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel far to get a taste — Toronto is home to some amazing spots serving these freshly baked tarts that will transport you straight to the streets of Lisbon.

Cafe Belém

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At this Portugal-inspired bakery on College Street — from the team behind Mercado and Casa Portuguesa — everything feels like a slice of Lisbon. This family-owned spot is as stunning as it is inviting, and their pastéis de nata are made entirely from scratch in-house. Baker William even spent time in Portugal perfecting his craft, so you know they’re the real deal. Baked fresh in small batches (and often selling out), each tart features a crispy, buttery shell that crumbles delicately with every bite.

Doce Minho

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This charming mom-and-pop Portuguese bakery is a true hidden gem, serving up traditional breads, pastries, and rich coffee imported straight from Portugal. Their star attraction is their Pastéis de nata, available in a tempting variety of flavours — from the classic and mini classic to strawberry, chocolate, Nutella and coconut.

Caldense

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With six locations across the city and four more in nearby regions, Caldense Bakery has long been a favorite among Portuguese and European communities. Known for its wide selection of traditional breads, cakes, pies, and desserts, the heart of the bakery remains the beloved Portuguese custard tart. Baked fresh daily at every location, these pastéis de nata feature a creamy custard with the signature caramelized top — a mark of true authenticity.

Golden Wheat Bakery

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Famous for its tasty baked goods and beautifully decorated wedding cakes, this bakery on Rogers Road has long been a go-to for both early morning commuters and the late-night crowd. Whether you’re craving a hearty sandwich, a quick snack, or something sweet, you’ll find plenty to love — but if you spot a custard tart still on the shelves, consider yourself lucky. Baked fresh and in high demand, these tarts don’t stick around for long.

Nova Era Bakery

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With locations across Toronto, this Portuguese café and bake shop draws in crowds with its wide selection of cakes, tarts, pastries and breads — all made using time-honoured traditional recipes. Their signature pastéis de nata have even been featured on Food Network’s Food Factory, highlighting the craftsmanship behind their custard tart baking process. Whether you’re up early or out late, most locations are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., making it easy to satisfy your cravings any time of day.

Seara Bakery + Pastry

Tucked behind a Value Village in a modest strip mall, this Portuguese bakery may not boast the most obvious location — but don’t let that fool you. Its impressive selection of baked goods and extended hours (open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight) have made it a local favourite. Every morning, fresh pastéis de nata come out of the oven at all three locations, featuring the signature golden-brown tops and flaky crusts that keep regulars coming back for more.

Bom Dia Café & Bakery

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With two locations in Toronto, Bom Dia Café & Bakery brings a taste of Portugal to the city through premium coffee and high-quality baked goods. The Portuguese egg tart is their most popular offering — and it’s easy to see why. The balance between the rich, creamy filling and the perfectly crisp crust is spot-on. They offer both the classic and a decadent dark chocolate version.

Toronto’s new general store has flamingo walls, a claw machine and fart buttons

Lauren DiBenedetto

12:45 pm

Step into Bananas, and you’re instantly hit with a riot of colour, candy, and chaos — in the best way possible.

Located at 2582 Yonge St., this new midtown gem is the brainchild of best friends and next-door neighbours Joanna Stern and Lauren Shulman, who describe their eclectic, maximalist shop as “a one-stop shop” of whimsy and one of kind items.

Walk through the doors and instantly you’re met with a full-blown sensory carnival: checkerboard tile floors, flamingo-print wallpaper, 10 (yes, 10) kinds of wild patterning, a claw machine and shelves brimming with everything from pastel Adidas to retro board games to leopard-print dog leashes. There’s even a talking pickle that spits out affirmations. (“In a world of cucumbers, be a spicy dill.”)

“It’s just a bananas experience,” says co-founder Shulman. “People walk in and say, ‘This is chaotic — but in the best way.’ And we’re like, yep, that’s us.”

The masterminds behind the mayhem, Shulman and Stern, describe their aesthetic as “white tee, jeans, killer accessories” and maybe a fart button. (Yes, they sell those too.) Longtime collaborators in the custom invitation and event design world, the duo pivoted to retail after realizing people were always asking where they got their stuff. Their answer? Make a store that has all of it.

bananasstoreowners — L–R: Bananas owners Joanna Stern and Lauren Shulman

“We were always sending each other links on Instagram,” says Stern. “Eventually, we were like, let’s just put it all in one place.”

That place became Bananas — part general store, part nostalgic fever dream, part third space. “It’s like what’s inside of our heads at all times,” laughs Shulman. “A one-stop shop of whimsy and cool items.”

And while the merch is maximalist — think candy walls, cheeky trinkets, and neon-bright lounge sets — the mission behind it is heartfelt. “I’m a huge gift giver,” says Stern. “These days, everything’s gone digital — people just send gift cards. I wanted to go back to the days of going into a trinket shop with your mom and begging her to buy you something.”

That nostalgic joy of discovery lives on in Bananas. The store carries everything from artisan jewelry to funky homewares to wild novelty finds, like the infamous fart button picked up by a grandmother eager to prank her grandkids at Sunday dinner. There’s something for everyone — and everything is a conversation starter.

But more than a retail space, Bananas is a vibe. The women have dubbed it their “happy place,” and they’re proud to offer a break from doomscrolling and algorithmic shopping. “We wanted to create a place where people could just hang out, find something fun, and feel good,” says Stern. It’s not just about stuff. It’s about connection.

And that connection starts with their community. The shop is located on what Stern calls the “Sporting Life strip” in midtown, the street their very own two feet walked up and down as a teenager, now a pocket of Yonge Street that’s become a haven for beloved small businesses. “We’re in such good company,” says Shulman, in reference to both the neighbouring community as well as the soon to be bustling neighbouring stores — Mandy’s Salads and Andrea’s Cookies.

Bananas fits right in — and stands out. Between the playful design, the cheeky merch and the palpable sense of fun, it’s the kind of place that makes people want to linger. Some come for a birthday haul. Others stop in en route to a dinner party. A few just want to ride the pony cycle.

And for Stern and Shulman, that’s the dream. “I want people to come in, laugh, discover something they didn’t know they needed, and come back,” says Stern. “Getting to know people and their grandkids — it’s a whole thing. And we love it.”

So whether you’re craving a dopamine hit, a killer gift, or just a good giggle, Bananas is ready for you.

As Shulman puts it: “We’re just here to spread joy.”

The Lake Inez team’s new bar is serving up Jell-O shots and cold pizza martinis

Erica Commisso

12:16 pm

After Lake Inez garnered what can best be described as a cult following, the team behind the East End gem have opened another neighbourhood bar, Belle Isle.

Co-owner Zac Schwartz calls the new spot “a bit more calamitous” than Lake Inez — but with all the same whimsy, passion and energy.

“We wanted Belle Isle to be a place you could go to after dinner for a nightcap and still feel hot, but also everyone there is really nice to you,” he says. “Trying to embody the overlapping area in the Venn diagram of feeling hot plus people being nice to you. Anything is possible!”

snapins ai 3523194205504233228 — Photo: @iamjels_/Instagram

Schwartz, with co-owners Patrick Ciappara, Ali Yaqubian, and chef Jay Moore, pulled from a quirky and very specific set of inspirations to shape Belle Isle.

“Influenced loosely by the legendary aquarium on the actual Belle Isle in Detroit, we landed aesthetically somewhere between aquarium chic, cottage longing and Nonna core,” Schwartz says.

Like Lake Inez, Belle Isle’s menu is seasonal and always evolving. Chef Jay Moore and the team work closely with Broadfork Produce, letting the farm’s freshest offerings inspire their dishes. So far, the crowd favourites are The Coney Dog, the Ramp to Nowhere — a Texas toast piled with fermented ramp pesto, serrano chiles and house queso, all kissed with Herbes de Provence — and, of course, the Jell-O shot, which has seen many different iterations.

“But there are three core tenets,” Schwartz says. “It can’t be too sweet, you must be able to taste the booze and it must be jiggled liberally before consumption.”

The cocktail program is just as unique as the space that houses it.

“James McCole, our manager slash bartender, is super gifted and curious and thoughtful. I, on the other hand, have a very trashy palate,” Schwartz says. “We wanted to find the answer in between those two things. So we keep it accessibly priced. James experiments with ingredients I’ve never heard of, but most of the cocktails come back to roost in the form of something familiar.”

The result is concoctions like the “This Cold Pizza is Curing my Depression” pizzatini, the “Cheek Full of Hubba Bubba”, and the guava candy-infused vodka martini.

Most of all, Schwartz wants Belle Isle’s guests to have fun. “I hope they feel comfy, silly, hot, full, appropriately buzzed, and excited to come back,” he says.

Belle Isle is located at 1455 Gerrard Street East.

The 10 coolest spots to cold plunge in Toronto

Nisean Lorde

10:47 am

cold plunge social at othership Yorkville — Othership Yorkville

With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time for a cold-water plunge. Not only is it the best way to cool off this summer, research shows that it can improve muscle recovery, reduce inflammation and even boost mental focus. Toronto has some of the best spots for a cold plunge, whether indoors, outdoors or out in the wild! Here are some of our top picks.

Toronto’s best indoor cold plunge spots

Othership

Head to Yorkville for the ultimate otherworldly sauna and ice bath experiences. The spa offers eight ice baths that are kept icy-cold between 0 and 4°C, so you can stay cool with your crew. This, combined with guided breathwork and even a tea lounge, makes it a perfect hangout spot for the summer. 110 Bloor St W.

Alter Wellness

This cozy, unpretentious studio on College St W offers cold exposure in a community-oriented atmosphere. Experience a cold plunge under a shower bucket or as part of a four-person ice bath (temperatures range from 2 to 10°C). 860 College St.

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Sweat and Tonic Spa

Rejuvenate in a private suite on Front St W in a custom-built BlueCube cold plunge. Drop into water temperatures from 0-4°C to recover, reduce inflammation, enhance mental clarity, and boost your metabolism, all while listening to guided audio meditations. 486 Front St W, Terrace Level.

Stay Gold

This indoor–outdoor gym offers group training and fitness boot camps, but it’s also the most perfect spot to repair and recharge your body, with cold plunge and sauna experiences! Check out the custom-built six-person Dr. Sauna built inside a trailer, or take a cold plunge in one of the space’s three ice baths, kept between 5°C and 10°C. 124 Brock Ave. and 3519 Dundas St. W.

Hotspot

This automated two-person sauna/plunge on Queen St E is private, super easy to book, and offers drop-in or membership-based pricing. The space features a cold plunge with temperatures as low as 3°C and an infrared sauna that ranges from 32°C to 60°C. Each session lasts 60 minutes. All you have to do is book a session, select your ideal temperatures, and you’ll receive private access to the space! 535 Queen St E.

Lite Mind Body Clinic

A perfect spot for quiet self-reflection. Experience their infrared sauna and eucalyptus shower, followed by a refreshing cold plunge! Two locations: Liberty Village (34 Sudbury St) and Harbord Village (87B Harbord St).

Toronto’s best outdoor cold plunge spots

Element Outdoor Sauna

Opt for a cold-water plunge in a private, tranquil rooftop setting! The ice tub is infused with organic Epsom salt and maintained with micro-filtration and ozonation to keep the water clean and pathogen-free. 257 Danforth Ave.

Unbounded Well at Stackt Market

Relax at Toronto’s first outdoor wellness playground. It contains outdoor saunas, cold plunges and even a breathwork dome. The space focuses on hot and cold therapy, breathing techniques, and movement, promoting somatic wellness experiences to support both physical and mental well-being. It’s a seasonal pop-up, so follow @unboundedwell on Instagram for 2025 operating dates (sessions will likely launch sometime between June and September). 28 Bathurst St.

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Toronto’s best wild cold plunge sites

Cherry Beach

One of the best year-round spots for a wild cold plunge is Cherry Beach (Lake Ontario), nestled on the north shore of Lake Ontario’s Outer Harbour at the foot of Cherry St.

“Cherry Beach is a good spot for it. Lake Ontario is very clean… parking is only a few feet from the water,” one user explained.

Cherry Beach is known for hosting the most epic, cold plunge events throughout the winter months, but it’s a good spot to cool off in the summer as well. Lake Ontario stays relatively chilly during the summer months (ranging between 16 and 20°C), so it’s perfect to take a dip in after a long run or exercise session.

Runners-Up

Other hot spots for a cold plunge in the wild (all connected to Lake Ontario) include Woodbine Beach, Sunnyside Beach, Leuty Lifeguard Station (located in The Beaches and a great spot for photos) and Hanlan’s Point Beach.

The Growing Appeal of Online Slots in Toronto & Beyond

Dorothy Chudzinski

5:00 pm

There’s a quiet shift happening across Toronto. One that doesn’t make headlines but moves billions. It’s not crypto or real estate. It’s online slots.

These online real money games were always popular in the land-based establishments, but they also carved out their own corner of the entertainment market. Fast, engaging, and available 24/7, they’re now one of the main drivers behind Ontario’s booming iGaming industry.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s really behind this rise and why online slots are thriving in Canada right now.

Ontario’s iGaming Surge

Ontario has become Canada’s exemplary state for regulated online gambling, and the numbers from the last fiscal year say it all.

In 2023–24, Ontario’s iGaming market recorded $63 billion in wagers and $2.4 billion in gaming revenue, which is a 70% jump from the year before. Slots led the charge, responsible for a large chunk of that growth. These games, designed for quick engagement and simple mechanics, have clearly hit the right note with a wide audience.

In February 2025, Ontario set a new record with $7.13 billion in total wagers. This time it’s a 27% increase from January. Slots were again the top-performing category. So it’s no coincidence. People are logging in because the experience is genuinely entertaining.

Why Online Slots?

Not everyone wants to memorize poker hands or study betting strategies. That’s where online slots shine. They offer something universal: a break from routine, a splash of colour, a few moments of distraction, and — if the stars align — a win.

Easy to play: You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy online slots. You don’t need a background in gaming, either. It’s tap-and-go fun, with clear rules and instant feedback.
Always available: You can play from your phone, tablet, or laptop, on the couch, on the train, even during a coffee break. No need to travel, dress up, or wait in line. For many, that flexibility is what makes slots so appealing.
Rich, immersive design: Game developers have stepped up their game. Today’s most popular slots go beyond reels and symbols, creating mini-adventures. Think animated intros, background music, bonus levels, and themes ranging from mythology to sci-fi. There’s something for every taste.

A Look at Canada’s Favourite Slot Titles

You’ll find thousands of slot games online, but some clearly stand out. For instance, BetMGM online slots have built a strong following across Canada, and it’s easy to see why. This operator has a special category of slot games that are exclusive to them. Then there are the global hits, the ones you hear about in forums, see in top 10 lists, and probably have a free spins bonus waiting for you right now.

Here’s a closer look at some of the top options:

The Wizard Of Oz: Over The Rainbow: This one runs on pure nostalgia, but don’t mistake it for soft. Flying monkeys, tornado wilds, and a bonus round that hits like a stage show. It’s glitzy, fast, and just weird enough to stand out.
Olympus Lightning: Zeus doesn’t wait around. This slot hits hard and often. Every spin feels loaded with stacked symbols, explosive wins, and a theme that leans more war god than museum piece.
Avalon 2: Not your average medieval-themed slot game. This is storytelling with side quests. Bonus levels shift like scenes from a dark fantasy flick. For players who want more than just spin-spin-win, Avalon 2 delivers.
Book of Dead: A classic with a cult following. Part treasure hunt, part jackpot machine. Its simple setup hides a game that can turn quick spins into big hits, and it doesn’t need flashy gimmicks to do it.
Gonzo’s Quest: Known for its “avalanche” mechanic and cinematic approach to gameplay.
Immortal Romance: Gothic atmosphere, rich characters, and one of the most loyal fan bases out there.

Who’s Playing?

It’s not who you think. Online slots attract a wide spectrum of players, from early risers with a few spare minutes to night owls winding down after work. Recent data shows that 63% of men and 57% of women in Canada engage in some form of gambling, and a growing share of that is happening online.

Younger demographics, especially those in their 20s and 30s, are driving a lot of this growth. For them, slots aren’t “just gambling.” They’re part of a broader entertainment mix that includes mobile games, live streaming, and interactive media.

What’s Next for Online Slots in Canada?

As the tech improves, so does the experience. Expect to see more of these from big slot developers in the future:

Mobile-first slot games designed specifically for smaller screens.
Social features, like leaderboards and multiplayer modes.
VR and AR integrations that make gameplay more immersive.
Smart recommendations powered by AI to match players with new games they are likely to enjoy.

The market is growing fast and evolving along the way.

A Final Spin

Online slots are evolving beyond a digital hobby to become a pillar of Canada’s entertainment industry — and a major source of revenue for the provinces that regulate them.

Toronto, with its tech-savvy population and appetite for new digital experiences, is leading the way. The numbers are clear: more people are playing, more often, and they’re doing it on legal, well-regulated platforms that prioritize safety and fair play.

Whether it’s five minutes of fun or a longer session on a Friday night, slots offer something simple: entertainment that fits into modern life.

In the end, that’s what keeps the reels spinning.

Dear Sangita: I discovered my family’s secret group chat — and it’s about me

Julia Mastroianni

4:57 pm

Sangita Patel is Streets of Toronto’s advice columnist and was previously an entertainment reporter with ET Canada. She lives in Toronto with her husband and two daughters.

Dear Sangita: My family accidentally added me to a group chat, one specifically devoted to complaining about me. What I discovered shocked me. They were tearing apart my life choices and seemed to very actively use this chat. They realized their mistake pretty quickly and removed me, but since then, they’ve barely apologized and mostly act like it’s a funny joke. How do I move on? — Betrayed by the group chat

Dear Betrayed: I will admit that if my brother is not in the room, my sister and I are going to be talking about him. And I also know that if I’m not in the room my brother and sister are going to be talking about me! But there’s a big difference between a constant text thread criticizing your family member versus a one-and-done discussion while your sibling is running errands.

I think it’s fair to say to them, “I don’t appreciate you doing this, and if you’re going to talk about me, do it in person.” It also may be worth acknowledging and discussing whatever they were saying about you in the thread and getting it all out in the open. If they were doing things like criticizing your career or your dating life, you can put it all out in the open and tell them, “This is my choice, this is what I wanted to do, and it’s making me happy so it’s time for you all to accept it.”

The silver lining here is that sometimes it’s hard to bring up these kinds of difficult discussions with family, because you don’t want to cause chaos or hurt anyone. But now that this is out there, this is your opportunity to take advantage of — and who knows, you may end up with a more open and communicative relationship with your family.

Dear Sangita: My boyfriend hasn’t asked me to marry him, and we’ve been living together for five years. I never want to pressure anyone to do anything, but other than ending it, what option do I have? — Waiting On Engagement

Dear WOE: You and your boyfriend have been living together for five years, so you’re already common law — you’re already winning! I don’t know why you would give yourself that ultimatum — relationships aren’t all or nothing. You have to have a real conversation about the future with him. If you’re scared to bring it up, that should ring some alarm bells for you. If you’re that close, if this is your partner for life, why would you be nervous talking to him about this?

I dated my husband for six years before we got married. It was an evolution: we knew we were life partners, but I never brought up the idea of marriage until it felt right. It was probably in our fourth year dating when we had a discussion about the future. It wasn’t that we sat down and talked about marriage, it was more discussing things like kids and where we’ll want to be when we’re 40. Having a conversation like that may give you some comfort that you’re both in this together.

Have a question about love, relationships or life for Sangita? Send it to [email protected] or submit it here.

More from Sangita:

Dear Sangita: I snooped through my partner’s phone and I found something concerning. The question is: Do I go back into his phone to see if he’s still talking to people? Or do I admit to my boyfriend that I snooped and ask him straight out if he’s still using it?

Dear Sangita: I’m engaged to a married man. He was supposed to have mailed in the paperwork before he proposed to me, but I found out after that some documents were missing when he did. Was I wrong for calling off the wedding?

Dear Sangita: My New Year’s resolution is to break up with my awful boyfriend and start dating his best friend! His best friend is just a much better fit for me. Neither of us have acted on it, but I want to. How do I do this without breaking up their friendship?

Toronto’s best BBQ for Father’s Day, according to two of the city’s top chefs

Jennifer Schembri

2:06 pm

Post City’s tasting chefs Anthony Rose and Nuit Regular put ribs, brisket and more from Beach Hill Smokehouse, Cherry Street Bar-B-Que and Smoque N’ Bones to the test, because this Father’s Day, dads deserve the best southern barbecue in town.

Best brisket and sausage : Cherry Street Bar-B-Que

The brisket from Cherry Street Bar-B-Que was the clear favourite — juicy, tender and packed with flavour. It had just the right amount of fat for richness without being overwhelming, leaving both chefs seriously impressed. The house-made smoked sausage also stood out, thanks to its well-balanced seasoning and subtle herbiness. Anthony called it “a damn good sausage” and a quiet highlight among the meats. The mac and cheese had a satisfyingly creamy texture, though the coleslaw fell a little flat.

Best Ribs and + Sides: Smoque N’ Bones

The ribs from SmoQue N’ Bones impressed both chefs with their bold seasoning and a sauce that hit the sweet spot — tangy, smoky and just sweet enough without overwhelming the meat. Nuit and Anthony also singled out the sides, praising the mac and cheese for its gentle heat and the coleslaw for its crisp, balanced flavour.

Beach Hill Smokehouse

Beach Hill Smokehouse delivered some hits and misses. The mac and cheese was creamy and comforting but leaned too soft, while the coleslaw could’ve used more tang. Nuit found the ribs slightly overcooked, though Anthony appreciated the caramelization and smokiness. As for the brisket, it came up short — a little dry and lacking that juicy kick, though the fat content helped round it out somewhat.

Inside the new Toronto restaurant making Florence the mood of the summer

Jennifer Schembri

12:49 pm

Toronto’s Financial District just got a taste of Florence. Florin is the latest venture from Turner Hospitality Group, a family-owned company with a proven track record of destination dining across Ontario. Known for popular establishments such as Twist and Magnone’s in Blue Mountain, Winifred’s in Thornbury, Mother Tongue in both Toronto and Blue Mountain, and Liquid Courage a Toronto staple, Turner Hospitality now brings its signature blend of warmth, luxury, and culinary vision to 80 Richmond Street West.

Florin draws inspiration from old-world Italy, with velvet drapes, wood panelling, marble sinks and amber lighting. There’s an emphasis on mood — wine bottles tucked into softly lit alcoves and embossed paper towels at every booth. The all-booth layout and plush detailing are clearly designed to steer the space away from TikTok bait and toward something quieter, more grown-up.

“We don’t want it to be a TikTok hot spot,” says Shelby Turner, who now oversees the group’s Toronto locations. “We wanted it to be a good spot for the locals.” The name itself nods to the former currency of Florence and the family’s longstanding love of Italy. “Europe is beautiful,” says Turner, “but there’s something about Italy — the culture and the food — it’s different.”

The name Florin is both a reference to the historic Italian currency and a tribute to the Turner family’s
longstanding love of Florence. “Europe is beautiful,” says Turner, “but there’s something about Italy—the
culture and the food—it’s different.”

The menu reflects the restaurant’s Florentine inspiration without feeling overly themed. It takes the kinds
of unique dishes you’d only find on a true Italian’s kitchen table and elevates them with modern refinement. Dishes nod to regional tradition while introducing unexpected interpretations—like the Agnolotti al Baccala, a play on the classic Tuscan pairing of salted cod and potatoes, reimagined as hand-stuffed pasta served in a silky potato cream with sweet peas. The Gnudi—authentically Florentine and notably heavy on the spinach—are served in a sage and lemon brown butter, offering a light but flavourful take on a staple.

Screenshot 2025 06 09 at 10 47 02 AM — Photo: Paige Thompson

The mains range from Nova Scotia lobster to a seared cauliflower steak, continuing the theme of rustic dishes with a luxurious edge. Even the sides reflect this refined simplicity: the Cime di Rapa, layered with parmigiano cream and flecked with guanciale, is rich and comforting, while the Fritte con Tartufo—crisp, layered potatoes with truffle mayo—add a decadent finish. Dessert, while effortlessly delicious, is visually jaw-dropping. The Sinfonia di Fragole—a rose-shaped strawberry panna cotta filled with jam and finished with glaze and crumble—is as much a centrepiece as it is a sweet.

Thoughtful touches continue in the design and service. Four nook booths, softly lit and tucked into wooden alcoves, offer semi-private dining that feels both intimate and cinematic—like slipping into a secret corner of a Florentine wine bar. The staff are warm, knowledgeable, and attentive without ever hovering, contributing to the overall sense of ease and luxury. The drinks, too, are a highlight. The espresso martini is bold and balanced, while a Florence-inspired Campari cocktail arrives blushing and bright. With a patio slated to wrap the side of the building, Florin is poised to become both a dining destination and a go-to for after-work aperitivo.

Florin offers something rare: an intimate, detail-oriented space that evokes Florence without ever feeling like a replica. It’s less about show and more about soul—a restaurant that wears its beauty lightly and lets the food, the room, and the care speak for themselves.

World’s top women’s pro football league to launch in Canada

Nisean Lorde

5:00 pm

The Women’s Football Alliance (WFA), the largest, longest-running, and most competitive women’s tackle football league in the world — Instagram: @wfafootball

We’ve seen amazing growth in women’s sports in recent years, with the emergence of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) and the expansion of the WNBA in Canada, and now, Canadians can look forward to professional women’s football teams. The Women’s Football Alliance (WFA), the largest, longest-running, and most competitive women’s tackle football league in the world, is officially launching in Canada!

Founded in 2009, the WFA boasts more than 60 teams across the U.S. It operates under a tiered structure, led by the Pro Division (the highest level of competition in women’s football, boasting 12 of the top women’s tackle football teams in the world). With any luck, it’ll soon include a few Canadian teams.

“[N]othing in North American sports is as big as football and the NFL; and clearly, it is time for the Women’s Football Alliance—which has been operating for over 15 years—to explode into Canada in a big way,” said Cary Kaplan, President of Cosmos Sports & Entertainment, the company bringing this historic opportunity to Canada.

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A post shared by Women’s Football Alliance (@wfafootball)

Right now, the Alliance is inviting ownership groups to express interest in launching franchises to compete in the newly formed Canadian division. Similar to the men’s teams, these franchises will compete at the highest level of women’s tackle football, receiving league support in areas like operations, marketing and player development.

“The WFA has spent over 15 years building the strongest foundation in women’s tackle football, and our franchise model is designed to support long-term success for owners and communities alike,” Lisa King, Commissioner of the Women’s Football Alliance, said.

Given Toronto’s strong record of supporting women’s sports (we’ve got tons of superfans), the city will likely be a frontrunner for a WFA team (of course, we’ll keep an eye on any updates!)

Ownership inquiries are now open. For more information, visit Cosmos Sports.

University of Toronto ranked as one of the top 25 universities in the world

Nisean Lorde

5:30 am

With school wrapped up for the summer, students are already sizing up their post-secondary options for next year (and once again, one familiar Toronto institution is dominating the global rankings).

The Center for World University Rankings (CWUR), a consulting organisation that provides policy advice and insights to governments and universities to improve their educational and research outcomes, ranked the top 2000 universities globally out of 21,462 institutions. The University of Toronto ranked 23^rd on this year’s list, placing it in the top 0.2 per cent worldwide and first in Canada! It’s the same ranking that U of T received in 2023 and 2024, so if anything, it highlights U of T’s continued excellence.

Overall, U of T scored strongly in multiple categories, with a regional rank (in North America) of 18, an education rank of 219, an employability rank of 157, a faculty rank of 23, and a research rank of 5, with an overall score of 87.8.

Canadian universities also performed well overall, with 38 schools appearing on the list, including 13 other institutions from Ontario: Western University (ranked 185^th), McMaster University (186), University of Waterloo (211), University of Ottawa (220), Queen’s University (333), York University (490), University of Guelph (515), Carleton University (558), Toronto Metropolitan University (850), University of Windsor (1019), Wilfrid Laurier University (1291), Brock University (1305), and Ontario Tech University (1802).

As usual, American and UK universities dominated the top 10!

Harvard University, U.S.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, U.S.
Stanford University, U.S.
University of Cambridge, U.K.
University of Oxford, U.K.
Princeton University, U.S.
University of Pennsylvania, U.S.
Columbia University, U.S.
Yale University, U.S.
University of Chicago, U.S.

This isn’t the only list that U of T has appeared on in recent months. In February, international data analytics company Clarivate listed the school among the world’s top 10 universities in terms of powering global innovation, in critical areas like technology, healthcare, sustainability and economic development.

You can see the full list of CWUR schools here and Clarivate rankings here.

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