5 Thai restaurants in Toronto that will transport you to the White Lotus

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Snapins ai 471296443 18475388185061113 9033380210445064059 n 1080 — @stnnana/Instagram

Season 3 of The White Lotus brought us sweeping Thai landscapes, luxury resorts and more drama than you can shake a lemongrass stalk at. And while our weekly dose of scandal and sunset views is sadly behind us, you can still escape to Thailand — sort of. Toronto’s Thai food scene is stacked with spots that channel the bold flavours, fragrant spices and comforting dishes of the region. No plane ticket (or HBO subscription) required.

Here are the best Thai restaurants in Toronto to satisfy your White Lotus-inspired cravings.

Pai

At Pai—born from the incomprehensibly brilliant mind of chef Nuit Regular—Toronto’s Thai food lovers are treated to a feast that’s as authentic as it is unforgettable. Expect crowd-favourite curries like the gaeng kiaw wan (green curry), brimming with bamboo shoots, makrut lime leaves, Thai basil and rich coconut milk. Don’t sleep on chef Nuit’s cult-favourite Pad Thai, tossed in her signature tamarind–palm sugar sauce, or the deeply comforting khao soi, where fresh egg noodles swim in a luscious, golden coconut curry. From its soul-warming dishes to its bustling, welcoming vibe, Pai isn’t just a dinner spot—it’s an escape. Perfect for a casual night out or a celebratory feast with the people you love.

Thai Nyyom

Thai Nyyom on Bloor may be small, but it delivers some of the city’s most memorable Thai flavours. With a tight menu—Khao Soi, chicken rice, and a daily rotating chef’s special—this spot proves that simplicity, done right, wins. The Khao Soi is a standout, rich with spice and citrus, while brothy specials like Tom Yum shrimp noodles are packed with depth. The Thai iced tea is a must. Friendly staff, authentic street food vibes and generous hospitality make Thai Nyyom a local favourite worth the wait—and the hype.

Isaan Der

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Offering authentic and unique Thai food that you can’ find elsewhere as well as the classics like pad Thai, pad see ew, green curry and sticky rice. Executive chef Ko studied Thai cooking in Thailand and has cooked at some of the best fine dining restaurants and rustic rural villages. Upon entering the space, guests will feel as though they’ve been transported to the lively streets of Thailand. Chef Ko has created an authentic neighbourhood dining experience that will make guests feel immersed in the local culture, whether it’s a romantic date or a cozy gathering with a small group of friends.

Nana

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From the team behind Toronto’s beloved Khao San Road comes Nana, a bold step into contemporary Thai cuisine, served in a vibrant, street-style setting inspired by the bustling back alleys of Bangkok. Executive Chef and owner Monte Wan launched Nana to showcase a wider, more adventurous range of Thai dishes—flavours rarely seen in the city. Located on Queen Street West, Nana’s design captures the essence of Thai street food culture with road-like flooring and casual seating, echoing Bangkok’s energetic vibe. With the same commitment to quality, value and consistency as Khao San Road, Nana offers a fresh take—same, same, but different—on authentic Thai dining in Toronto.

Som Tum Jinda

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Although it arrives Michelin recommended from Thailand, among Toronto’s array of Thai restaurants, it had much to prove — and prove itself it did! Open for just under a year, the unassuming basement-level restaurant aims to offer Torontonians a unique Thai experience. Specializing in northeastern Thai dishes, the restaurant is best known for Som tum, a zesty papaya salad prepared using a mortar and pestle. In its cosy intimacy, an open concept kitchen is at the heart of the restaurant, adding to the overall atmosphere.

Here’s how to get free passes for massive Leafs playoff parties at Maple Leaf Square

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Nisean Lorde

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5:30 am

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Maple Leafs playoff party at Maple Leafs Square — Instagram @codyl196

With the Toronto Maple Leafs heading to the Stanley Cup Playoffs and currently sitting pretty at the top of the Atlantic Division (50-26-4), there’ll likely be tons of celebrations taking place across the city. This year, Scotiabank is bringing back Maple Leaf Square tailgate parties, touting them as the ultimate destination for Leafs fans looking to rally around the team and show their support during the playoffs!

Tailgates will be located at Maple Leaf Square, just outside of Scotiabank Arena. At every home and away game, Leafs fans are invited to watch the game on the big screen and cheer on the team together, while enjoying on-stage programming, appearances from special guests, giveaways, a live DJ, food and drinks, merch pop-ups and more!

The parties begin two hours before the beginning of the game and only require a free mobile pass to enter! Passes will be available the day before each confirmed game at 1:00 pm, click here for more info.

The playoffs are scheduled to begin on Sat April 19. Toronto has two games remaining in the regular season and needs only one more point to clinch the Atlantic division — the team takes on the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday before finishing the regular season at Scotiabank against the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday. If the Leafs secure the Atlantic Division, the team will take on the Ottawa Senators in the first round of playoffs!

While tailgates are free to enter, expect to pay through the nose for playoff tickets. Resale companies like StubHub are selling tickets for anywhere from $354 (section 311) to $2,900+ (section 106) for individual tickets for Home Game 1. On Ticketmaster, Home Game 4 resale tickets range from $361 in the 300 level to $3,615 in section 115, while on StubHub, they’re going as high as $5,577/ticket (section 107).

Canada’s Wonderland ranks among world’s most physically demanding theme parks

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Nisean Lorde

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5:00 pm

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Swing ride at Canada's Wonderland — Swing of the Century, Canada's Wonderland

If you’ve ever left Canada’s Wonderland feeling sore, sun-soaked and ready to sleep after a day of fun — you’re definitely not alone! According to new research by the fitness experts at PureGym, the Vaughan-based amusement park has been ranked as the fifth most physically demanding theme park in the world, even beating out major US parks like Epcot and several Six Flags locations. It was also the only Canadian park to make the list.

Researchers based their findings on factors like park size, queue times, ride intensity and average temperature. Canada’s Wonderland had an exertion score of 79.9 out of 100 — the park has more than 200 attractions and 17 roller coasters (including this record-breaking ‘launch’ coaster) sprawled out over 330 acres — this along with parents spending their days chasing their kids as they dash between attractions, navigating queues to squeeze in as many rides as possible, or even the time it takes to get in and out of the parking lot — it’s no wonder a trip to Wonderland can make such a good workout!

Study researchers also noted how Wonderland’s Leviathan rollercoaster reaches a dizzying 93.3 metres tall and travel at speeds of 92 mph, contributing to it being one of the rollercoasters with the highest g-forces in the world (which would definitely take its toll alongside all the fun spent wandering the park!)

Ranking just above Wonderland is Beto Carrero World in Brazil (ranking fourth on the list, with an exertion score of 80.2), Disney Animal Kingdom in Florida (taking the third spot, 80.4) and Ocean Park in Hong Kong (second place, 82.1). Universal Orlando Resort in Florida — which covers a massive 541 acres and includes multiple ‘worlds ‘such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World and the Simpson’s hometown of Springfield — ranked first, with an exertion score of 83.

“[Theme parks] can be a highlight of a holiday, or make up a whole holiday in some cases, but more often than not, can leave people complaining of ‘theme park body’ after due to the aches and pains that come as the result of a full-on day,” Stephen Rowe, Chief Marketing Officer at PureGym said. “If you’re planning to visit a theme park for an action-packed day out, or even more so if you’re doing a few days back-to-back on a bigger trip, it can be worth adjusting your daily activity in the run up to help you get the most out of the experience…”

In any case, for thrill seekers, new attractions like AlpenFury will make post-amusement park exhaustion totally worth it! Click here to see all 25 amusement parks that made the list (as well as tips on how to prepare for a full day at a theme park) and here for all the new attractions this year at Canada’s Wonderland!

How They Met: Soccer star Diana Matheson on meeting her gold medal-worthy match

By

Julia Mastroianni

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4:11 pm

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By scoring the game-winning goal that won Canada our first-ever medal in women’s soccer at the 2012 Olympics, Diana Matheson had already succeeded in putting our country on the map for the sport. But she decided there was more to be done — and in 2022, she spearheaded the launch of Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league. It’s finally here: the kickoff of the Northern Super League (NSL) happens in April, including a Toronto game on April 19. Ahead of the launch, we caught up with Diana to get the scoop on her gold medal–worthy romance with her wife, Anastasia Bucsis, former speed skating Olympian and current CBC Sports host and analyst.

How they met

We met at a Canadian Olympic foundation fundraiser. We had a great night, and following that, she texted and reached out several times, but I am a terrible texter and was a bit oblivious, and we kind of lost touch. I was probably smitten from the beginning, but she’s very much heart first, while I’m very much a thinker, so I think it clicked for her sooner, and it took me longer to catch up. But we reconnected at the Milton velodrome, watching a friend, cyclist Georgia Simmerling, do a trial up there.

The first date

We count that as our first date. We actually had dinner with Georgia and her partner (Olympian Stephanie Labbé), and they ended up leaving early, so we ended up talking for hours. We looked back and later realized that it was on Feb. 14 — so unbeknownst to us, we had our first date on Valentine’s Day!

The proposal

Anastasia proposed — at some point, she called dibs on proposing! We had just gone out for a date to a favourite spot in the city and had some charcuterie and a nice glass of wine or two. She had arranged for my sister and her husband to come by our house while we were out, and she had them set up some beautiful flowers and candles up in our den at home. When we got home, she called me upstairs in a weird tone that I couldn’t place. I was like, am I in trouble? I went upstairs, and she was down on one knee.

The wedding

We got married in Montana. She’s from Calgary, so we looked for some venues in and around the foothills of Alberta, but we have some friends that live in Montana, so we started looking around there too. We did the city hall wedding here in Toronto, just with friends and family. And then about a month later, on Aug. 31, 2023, we got married in Montana. Our sports friends are all over Canada and the U.S., so we wanted to try to bring everyone together. We had a golf event, a brewery event and then a beautiful ceremony at this river mountain venue just outside Missoula. We had our honeymoon a year later, after the Paris Olympics — we went to Croatia!

The secret to success

I think we’re both just really good at supporting each other. We’re both ambitious and have dreams within work and our careers, and we support each other in doing those things but also just love spending time together, as well, and we’re looking forward to the many years ahead.

Balancing careers and a relationship

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Coming from high performance sport for both of us, when you’re chasing a dream, that balance is sort of a myth. You do the best you can! We’ve had the busiest two and a half years of our lives, with Anastasia building her career and hosting the Olympic Games on CBC, and with us building the NSL and all the stress and uncertainty that comes with that. But we’ve just tried to get better at managing that stress and finding the things that we can do together that bring us energy, but in a way that feels restful and restorative.

The future together

We plan on expanding our family, whatever that looks like. And right now we’ve got a small condo in Toronto. Maybe in the future we’ll have a little bit more of a patch of land somewhere that we can build up as well.

The top 10 must-do stops and shops if you’re a book lover in Toronto

By

Nisean Lorde

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4:05 pm

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Word on the street book festival — @envisionrealtyinc/Instagram

Toronto has a huge literary scene, boasting globally renowned book festivals, tons of niche little book shops, and the largest library system in North America, making it a dream destination for book lovers! Here’s a guide on the best spots to visit for a book lover in Toronto.

Biblio-Mat at The Monkey’s Paw bookstore

If you can’t decide on what to read, check out the Biblio-Mat at the Monkey’s Paw bookstore (1067 Bloor St W) — this coin-operated vending machine dispenses randomly selected old books, allowing bibliophiles to go antiquarian book hunting with a single $5 token. Book lovers will adore the Monkey’s Paw — the shop specializes in eclectic, arcane and absurd books, as well as unique 20th-century printed items. You’ll find old, rare and even out-of-print books!

Bibliomatt book vending machine in Toronto

Toronto Reference Library

The Toronto Library system is considered one of the best in the world as well as the largest in North America — with 100 branches and two bookmobiles, the library has more than 46 million annual visits to its branches and online! The Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge St) offers access to rare books, archives and special collections recognized for their local and global importance. For Sherlock Holmes fans, the library boasts the Arthur Conan Doyle Collection — one of the world’s leading collections devoted to the author. Stop by its cozy room, styled as Sherlock’s study!

Toronto library cybersecurity — Toronto Reference Library (Photo: Unsplash)

Toronto’s Literary festivals

Check out the annual Word on the Street festival — the 36th annual festival takes place Sep 27-28, 2025. This national celebration of reading, writing, and literacy boasts hundreds of author readings for visitors of all ages! It’s Canada’s largest free book-and-magazine festival, featuring tons of books by Canadian and Indigenous authors — there’ll be something for everyone. The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) brings together readers and writers from all over the globe to Harbourfront Centre every fall, offering patrons the opportunity to meet, hear and learn from the world’s best authors and artists across all literary genres! TIFA also offers year-round events, activities and mini-festivals.

Literary hotspots at the University of Toronto

University of Toronto alumni include some of Canada’s most celebrated literary figures, like Margaret Atwood, John McCrae, and Michael Ondaatje — so grab a notebook and pen, head to the university grounds and get inspired to write your own novel! The Trinity College Quadrangle (6 Hoskin Ave) serves as a sort of outdoor living room for visitors, you’ll find the perfect spot to read and write. Or check out the Philosopher’s Walk footpath (78 Queens Pk Cres W) located at the St George campus — it’s filled with history and it’s the perfect spot for a stroll to boost your creative juices. While you’ll need a TCard to access the iconic Robarts Library, you can check out the gorgeous cherry blossom trees surrounding the space to help spark your creative epiphanies.

Indie bookstores

There are more than 250 indie bookstores across Toronto, boasting the most unique hidden gems in the literary industry. A few popular options include A Different Booklist (779 Bathurst St), specializing in literature from the African Caribbean Diaspora and the Global South; Another Story Bookshop (315 Roncesvalles Ave) — its books focus on themes of social justice, equity and diversity; Ben McNally Books (108 Queen St E) — this family-run indie bookstore offers thousands of titles, as well as events and readings; and Type Books (three locations, including 883 Queen St W, across from Trinity Bellwoods Park) — an indie bookstore with a neighbourhood vibe, boasting literature for both serious book lovers as well as more whimsical readers.

Glad Day Bookshop

The world’s oldest 2SLGBTQ+-focused bookstore/café (499 Church St) is nestled in the Church–Wellesley Village! It carries literature for all ages, including kids and young adults.

Canada's oldest queer book store. — @gladdaybookshop/Instagram

Flying Books

Flying Books (784 College St and 371 Queen St W) is much more than a bookstore — it offers one-on-one sessions with professional writers of fiction, poetry and nonfiction, providing everything from practical notes and exercises to advice on how to take your writing project to a higher level. The store loves books so much that it even publishes them (check out Happy Hour, by Marlowe Granados, Good Girl, by Anna Fitzpatrick, and City in Flames, by Tomas Hachard).

Discounted and pre-loved books

ABC Books (662 Yonge St) is one of the most popular spots in the city for bargain books in great condition (for an amazing price)! BMV Books (multiple locations) is also a perfect place to visit if you’re on a budget — it has a great selection of second-hand books, as well as new-releases, old-school DVDs, Blu-rays, vinyl records, CDs, magazines, comic books, graphic novels, board games, and more — there’s something for everyone!

The Great Library at Osgoode Hall

The Law Society of Upper Canada’s Great Library at Osgoode Hall mainly serves Law Society licensees and their agents but the public can also access the library’s print resources and public access computer. When entering the Main Reading Room, you’ll be amazed by the magnificence of this space, including its stately columns, baroque fireplace, stained-glass windows and intricately designed ceiling!

silver snail — Silver Snail (Andy Nystrom (Flickr))

Comic books and graphic novels

The Beguiling (319 College St) has been selling the most iconic comics, manga, original local art and graphic novels for nearly four decades. Head to Queen Street West to check out the Silver Snail (809 Queen St W) — it’s stocked with collectibles, graphic novels, recent comic releases, toys, games and more.

Toronto’s favourite doughnut shop is closing — and a rebrand is already in the works

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:41 pm

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After 14 years of serving up creative, mouthwatering doughnuts to Torontonians, Glory Hole Doughnuts has made the difficult decision to close its doors.

But don’t panic—it’s not gone for good. The city’s favourite doughnut shop is rebranding and will return with a whole new concept in the near future. And with three months left to savour your favourite doughy treat, there’s still plenty of time to say goodbye to Glory Hole before the big change.

Earlier today, owner Ashley Jacot De Boinod, posted a video on Instagram, sharing the news with customers.

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A post shared by Glory Hole Doughnuts – What Creams Are Made Of (@ghdoughnuts)

“I’m not going to tiptoe around it, I’m just going to get to the point,” Jacot De Boinod said. “After years of reflection, I’ve decided that in three months’ time, I will be closing Glory Hole Doughnuts permanently. It’s been a wild and amazing 14 years of my life.”

She went on to say that she’s been working on a new brand for a number of years now, and it’s who she’s evolved into. She added that they were hoping to launch it in September of this year.

“We will stay at Gerrard and rebrand into something new! Stay tuned!!!” she captioned the post, adding that she’s excited to share more in the months to come. Jacot De Boinod also expressed her gratitude for the support over the years and encouraged customers to come visit before the closure.

Since opening in 2012, Glory Hole Doughnuts has become a Toronto favourite, built on three core values: a welcoming environment for everyone, and handmade doughnuts that satisfy. More than just a doughnut shop, Glory Hole was founded with a deep commitment to the community, aiming to provide all Torontonians with a truly exceptional doughnut experience without the flashy gimmicks.

For updates and sneak peeks of the new concept, be sure to follow Glory Hole’s Instagram for teasers along the way.

Dave Chappelle is heading to Toronto to headline inaugural Departure Festival

By

Ron Johnson

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10:52 am

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Dave Chappelle at the Departure Festival — Dave Chappelle

Legendary stand-up comedian Dave Chappelle is heading to Toronto to headline the inaugural Departure Festival + Conference in Toronto for a live performance on May 7 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

Tickets for Chappelle’s show will first be available to registered Departure conference pass-holders through an exclusive pre-sale beginning April 16 at 10:00 a.m.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential comedians of his generation, Chappelle has earned a reputation for pushing boundaries while skewering culture, race, and politics in his own unique way. From his groundbreaking sketch comedy series Chappelle’s Show to his award-winning Netflix specials, his work has left a huge mark on modern comedy. He is the recipient of numerous accolades, including the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, five Emmy Awards, and six Grammys, most recently for his 2025 special The Dreamer.

Departure evolved from the long-running Canadian Music Week, which includes a slew of concerts as well as a conference, and runs May 6-11.

The comedy component is something new to this year’s event. To coincide with the announcement, festival organisers have went ahead and launched an all-new Comedy&Culture Pass, offering access to the final day of the conference on May 9. The day will be dedicated to a deep dive into the future of comedy with curated sessions and opportunities to discover emerging comedy voices.

“Having Dave Chappelle take part in Departure is a real honour—for me, for the festival, and an amazing treat for our audiences. Starting off the inaugural Departure Comedy Festival with someone of Dave’s caliber and influence is incredibly exciting,” said Departure Comedy Executive Producer Bruce Hills.

Festival programming, open to public ticket buyers and select passholders, highlights the wealth of comedic talent across the country. Comedy Bar will host two showcase events celebrating the next wave of performers. The Departure Comedy “Breakout” Showcase, hosted by Ali Hassan, will feature eight Toronto-based comedians already making a name for themselves, including Adam Christie, Jackie Pirico, Courtney Gilmour, and Chris Robinson. The “Next Gen” Showcase, hosted by Rebecca Reeds, focuses on emerging talent such as Bita Joudaki, Ben Bayfield, and Rahul Topiwala.

Other standout events include a set by rising star Hassan Phills at Comedy Bar Danforth on May 8, and a late-night surprise show hosted by Ivan Decker at Comedy Bar Bloor on May 9.

The comedy lineup is in addition to a rather substantial music festival and conference that includes the likes of Bryan Adams and Matty Matheson at the conference and performance headliners such as Death From Above 1979, Mustafa, and the Rural Alberta Advantage.

Toronto’s best restaurants for brunch and high tea on Easter Sunday

By

Jennifer Schembri

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10:24 am

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With spring in the air and Easter on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to head out for a tasty meal with your loved ones. This Easter long weekend, let Toronto’s top chefs do the hard work for you and indulge in one of the many delicious and decadent brunches and high teas happening around the city.

TOCA, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

Toca is bringing back its beloved brunch buffet on Sunday, April 20, with a single seating at 2:30 p.m. Guests can indulge in a premium seafood bar with fresh catches, a carving station featuring slow-roasted meats and live-action pasta stations. The experience is priced at $185 CAD per adult and $85 CAD for children 12 and under. Reservations are available now on OpenTable.

Louix Louis

This Easter weekend, LOUIX LOUIS at The St. Regis Toronto is serving up a Royal Brunch worth dressing up for. On April 19 and 20, guests can enjoy a luxe spread featuring a grazing station of fresh fruit, pastries and desserts, plus dishes like truffle egg Benedict, Canadian beef prime rib roast and maple crêpes. Brunch runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and is priced at $120 per adult and $50 for kids under 10.

Auberge du Pommier

If classic French food is your jam, upscale restaurant Auberge du Pommier is inviting guests to indulge in a four-course lunch on Saturday, April 19. Chef Kane Van Ee’s refined menu features dishes like œuf de caille mimosa (quail egg in a kataifi nest), poached free-range eggs in puff pastry with béarnaise and jambon de Paris and aged Saint-Germain lamb with truffle mousse and spring vegetables. For dessert, a rich Easter chocolate gâteau with raspberries and joconde sponge. Priced at $130 per person with luxe add-ons like lobster, truffle and foie gras available à la carte.

Pure Spirits Oyster House & Grill

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This Easter weekend, Pure Spirits Oyster House & Grill in the Distillery Historic District is serving up an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet for just $35 per person. Available Saturday, April 19 and Sunday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the menu blends chef Jason McLaren’s Canadian-inspired cooking with Pure Spirits’ sustainable seafood focus. Highlights include lemon buttermilk pancakes, mussels Provençale, soy-glazed salmon, French toast, pastries, and a granola and dessert station. A family-friendly Easter Egg Hunt runs all weekend throughout the district, complete with prizes and an appearance from the Easter Bunny.

W Living Room at W Toronto

W Toronto is celebrating Easter with a high tea that brings both style and indulgence. On April 19 and 20, from 12 to 3 p.m., guests can enjoy a curated spread of savoury bites, freshly baked cranberry scones, and decadent pastries, paired with premium loose-leaf teas. For a festive upgrade, handcrafted tea-infused cocktails and bubbly are available to toast the occasion. Past menus have included playful touches like carrot macarons, lamb carpaccio toast, and edible strawberry “lipstick,” all served in W’s signature beauty-inspired presentation. Reservations are recommended.

Old Mill

Old Mill Toronto is putting a festive spin on its classic Afternoon Tea this Easter. From April 17 to 27, the long-standing favourite will serve seasonal sweets, fresh scones with Devonshire cream, and delicate finger sandwiches alongside premium Sloane teas. It’s one of the city’s coziest traditions — served in a historic space, with seating at 3 and 3:15 p.m., Thursday through Sunday.

One of Toronto’s hottest chefs is bringing sandwiches to Ossington

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Jennifer Schembri

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8:30 am

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Snapins ai 491439786 17925721008051862 2334284892520517208 n 1080 — Photo: Daniel Neuhaus

David Schwartz doesn’t miss. With Mimi, Sunnys Chinese and last year’s hit Linny’s, he’s become one of Toronto’s most talked about chefs. Now he’s opening something new — and it’s a little more low-key. Toronto’s reigning restaurant star is keeping it casual with Linny’s Luncheonette, a sandwich shop in the city’s hottest neighbourhood.

Coming soon to 174 Ossington — right next door to Linny’s at 176 — Linny’s Luncheonette is Schwartz’s latest project, and it’s a bit of a departure from the fine-dining vibe of his other spots. The name is a nod to his steakhouse-deli hybrid, but this time, the vibe is more relaxed and casual.

There’s no website yet, but the Instagram gives a good glimpse of what’s coming to Linny’s Luncheonette: pastrami sandwiches, house-made hot sauce, “100% Delishish Knishes” and cookies that are “nothing fancy.” Everything is straightforward and definitely tempting.

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There’s no menu or opening date yet, but the buzz around the new spot is already building. When Linny’s opened last year, it quickly earned a reputation as one of the best new restaurants in the city. Sunnys Chinese earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand. Mimi Chinese stands out with its upscale take on regional Chinese classics, drawing a stylish crowd with dishes like Hunan chili sea bass and the stunning four-foot belt noodle. Simply put, Shawartz isn’t someone who opens average spots.

Toronto’s sandwich scene is having a moment — from stacked hoagies to Florence-style sandwiches with lines out the door, and even Grammy-nominated artist Charlotte Day Wilson getting in on it. Linny’s Luncheonette fits right in.

If history’s any indication, this place is going to be packed. Keeping an eye on their Instagram is your best bet to make sure you don’t miss out.

Fashion legend pledges loyalty to Toronto by opening a flagship store in Yorkville

By

Lauren DiBenedetto

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1:00 pm

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After 35 years of shaping the Canadian fashion landscape, longtime veteran and designer Ross Mayer is bringing his vision to Yorkville. Driven by his personal frustrations with the mundanity of men’s fashion — Mayer actually made a name for himself first in the women’s world — he introduced a fresh, creative approach to menswear with his playful, boundary-pushing designs. The new Yorkville location marks a milestone in his career, offering Toronto shoppers a chance to experience his designs first-hand.

For over three decades Ross Mayer has been a fixture in Toronto’s style scene, cementing his reputation as a significant force in the industry. Beyond designing, Mayer plays an active role in shaping the future generation of talent in the city — as a professor in the city’s own George Brown fashion program. Mayer has always been a loyalist in the Toronto fashion scene, his brand even making debuts at Toronto Fashion Week. His designs caught the attention of retailers across the continent and he has dominated the North American markets.

Ross Mayer MAYER Designer — Designer and founder Ross Mayer.

His success wasn’t only seen by retailers, but also caught the attention of television personality and fashion enthusiast Ross Matthews — best known as a celebrity judge on Rupaul’s Drag Race and Drew’s News segment host on The Drew Barrymore Show. Matthews was captivated by Mayer’s bold but subtle aesthetic and became an early supporter of the brand amidst the pandemic, when Mayer began to build a larger following online.

Now, with the threat of tariffs looming, Mayer’s commitment to Canadian fashion rings true as he officially plants roots in the industry with the opening of his Yorkville boutique. The location, tucked in one of Toronto’s most fashion-forward neighbourhoods, offers prime exposure to both local and visiting shoppers.

The new Ross Mayer store at 122 Cumberland St.

At 122 Cumberland St., customers can expect an elevated shopping experience and a team with a deep knowledge of every product in store. The brand’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in its inclusive sizing, ranging from XS to 3X, and its androgynous approach to fashion (collections are gender-fluid, with no separation between “menswear” or “womenswear”).

“I look at classic staple pieces that are in our wardrobes — whether it’s a dress shirt or a bomber — and look at how to infuse those pieces with a novel unique twist,” Mayer says. For the designer, it’s not about making a loud statement but rather about the finer details — those subtle, unexpected elements that set the piece apart. “It can be in the seaming or some great buttons or a fun lining,” he says.

Mayer’s designs offer a balance of elegance and playfulness. With his Yorkville boutique, Ross Mayer is making a statement — Canadian fashion is his home and he’s here to stay. For those looking to elevate their wardrobe this spring, Mayer is already open and stocked with effortlessly cool, impeccably crafted pieces.

Little underwater hockey anyone? Here are 3 cool new sports to try in Toronto

By

Nisean Lorde

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5:30 am

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beach tennis is a new sport to try in Toronto — Instagram @torontobeachtennisclub

As summer is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to take up new sports! Studies show that people tend to be a bit more active during the summer season, perhaps because the days are longer and people can move about more freely, without the heavy winter clothing. It’s also the best way to meet new people and enjoy the sun! Instead of swimming or volleyball, try one of these new activities as the weather warms up.

Toronto Beach Tennis Club

Beach volleyball is a super popular summer sport, so why not give beach tennis a shot? It’s a racket sport with a twist — the court is similar to beach volleyball (but has a lower net), and players use purpose-built paddles and low-compression tennis balls. The sport shares similar rules to regular tennis (like, no second serve, no advantage) but one big difference is that if the ball touches the sand — the point is lost! Check out the Toronto Beach Tennis Club for everything from lessons (beginners are more than welcome) to drop-ins, tournaments and memberships. Games are played at Woodbine Beach (four courts) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and at Earlscourt Park (two courts) on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Underwater rugby and hockey

Instead of playing rugby in the heat or hockey in the cold, try playing these sports underwater! There’s no gravity, so an underwater sport will be one of the coolest experiences you’ll have this summer. With underwater rugby, two teams try to score a negatively buoyant ball (basically, a ball filled with saltwater) into the opponents’ goal at the bottom of the pool. You’ll have to cycle up and down with a partner, taking turns on the surface to catch your breath. And as it takes place underwater, you’ll have to watch out for 360-degree attacks!

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We all know that hockey is Canada’s national sport, so playing underwater hockey isn’t too much of a stretch. Two teams compete in a pool to maneuver a puck into the opposing team’s 3-metre-long net. It’s played with snorkelling gear and a short stick (as opposed to a regular hockey stick). Meetup hosts tons of underwater events throughout the spring and summer at venues across the city, including the Riverdale Collegiate Institute and George Harvey Collegiate Institute — just bring your bathing suit and a towel!

Australian Football

There’s regular football and then Aussie football — Australian football is more about athleticism and strategy, so it’s super fun to play this summer if you’re looking for competitive fun! It’s played on an oval-shaped field compared to a regular field, involves 18 players instead of 11, and is a bit more fast-paced compared to the more structured football game Canadians play.

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If you’re interested in Aussie-style football, then check out the Toronto Dingos Football Club. No experience is necessary (the team includes everyone from teachers and tech gurus to students and fitness instructors) and training takes place at Balfour Park (St. Clair and Yonge). You can join the club at any time of the year and they have dedicated coaches to help you learn the game!

Toronto’s wildly creative Easter chocolates will ruin grocery store sweets forever

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lindsaylow

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1:00 pm

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easter chocolate — David H. Chow chocolate

Whether you’re hunting for a show-stopping artisanal egg or a perfectly tempered bar made straight from the bean, these Toronto chocolate makers are raising the bar on Easter indulgence. With locally-crafted treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious, consider your holiday cravings officially covered.

David Chow’s artistic approach

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Local pastry chef and chocolatier David H. Chow is known for making colourful, intricately decorated bonbons, bars and other chocolate creations. It perhaps comes as no surprise that Chow was an engineer by trade before becoming a pastry chef, with the geometric patterns of his chocolates reflecting an almost scientific level of detail. For Easter, expect chocolate shell eggs topped with yellow passion fruit couverture and white chocolate to resemble a “sunny side up” egg, as well as eggs decorated with graffiti-like splatter patterns.

Award-winning Soma treats

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Run by husband-and-wife team David Castellan and Cynthia Leung, Soma Chocolatemaker has scooped up numerous international awards for its exquisite bean-to-bar chocolate. They’re widely recognized as some of the best chocolatiers not just in Canada, but in the world. Their spring lineup includes Cosmo, the sweetest baby owlet crafted from a wildly addictive blend of salted caramel chocolate and crispy bits—plus swirls of white, caramel, dark, milk, mango and matcha chocolate. Also on offer: irresistibly cute lime-green soda and matcha baby bunnies that are almost too adorable to eat.

Daniel Stubbe’s traditional treats

A sixth generation konditor (confectioner), chef Daniel Stubbe grew up learning the art of chocolate making in his family’s pastry shop in Germany. With Stubbe Chocolates, the chef aims to bring a modern approach to European chocolate-making traditions. This year’s Easter lineup includes an utterly charming chick house made from milk, dark, and white chocolate, complete with a marzipan chick nestled inside. Surrounding the house are a delightfulmix of marzipan bunnies, hand-painted hollow eggs, solid chocolate eggs and almond clusters. Other options Smash Egg, a chocolate shell painted with coloured cocoa butter, which can be cracked open to reveal a filling of berry clusters, milk almond clusters, nonpareils, tropfin and florentines. Stubbe also does classics like Easter bunnies and chicks.

Soul Chocolate’s small-batch snacks

Katie Wilson was inspired to get into the bean-to-bar chocolate business after touring chocolate-makers in Australia and New Zealand. She now makes small-batch chocolate from scratch at her Toronto café, Soul Chocolate, which she co-owns with her husband Kyle. Easter offerings include a higher-quality take on a classic chocolate bunny, made with 60 per cent Madagascar dark milk chocolate, and milk chocolate eggs filled with salted caramel “yolk” and creamy “egg white” fondant or marshmallow swirled with raspberry. soulroasters.com

Chocolate de Kat’s quirky creations

Chocolat de Kat is a female-founded, flavour-obsessed chocolatier known for turning bite-sized bonbons into full-on sensory experiences. What started as founder Kata’s personal quest to create chocolate she was proud to share with friends and family has grown into a 15-person team of quirky chocolate-lovers crafting edible art that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.This Easter, they’re leaning into their signature mix of fun and finesse with a limited-edition Easter Box, bursting with seasonal flavours like Lemon Poppy Cake and Hot Cross Bon, all wrapped up in a sunshine-yellow box that’s basically spring in packaging form.