High Park cherry blossoms on track for timely bloom this month

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11:51 am

High Park cherry blossoms — @justinpluslauren/Instagram

The gorgeous pink and white cherry blossoms at High Park are expected to bloom on time this year between late April and early May (this despite the erratic spring weather Toronto has experienced in recent weeks).

Sakura Steve, aka Steve Joniak, made his first visit of the year to High Park early last month and was pleasantly surprised to see many new cherry blossom trees planted throughout key areas of the park. As of Thursday, Joniak says that the cherry blossom buds are progressing steadily — they’re now in Stage 2 of their development, where we can see larger, rounder buds with bright green and yellow tips!

The on-and-off rain may seemingly be a damper, but it plays a crucial role at this stage of the cherry blossoms’ lifeline.

“As rain also continues to dominate the forecast, it is a vital part of the development cycle and will help keep things on track for a normal end of month blooming schedule,” Joniak said.

Toronto’s history with cherry blossoms dates back to April 1, 1959, when the Japanese ambassador to Canada presented the city with 2000 Japanese Somei-Yoshino Sakura — a gift to Torontonians for their support of Japanese Canadian refugees after WWII.

Many of the trees were planted along High Park Trail around Grenadier Pond, which today has the most impressive grove of Sakura–cherry blossom trees in the city!

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Cherry blossom-themed dishes and cocktails

If we needed another sign that cherry blossom season is almost here, some Toronto restaurants are boasting blossom-themed menus! Until May 31, Aburi Tora in North York is featuring five cherry blossom-inspired items, including Sakura Dai and Cherry Sea Bream. The popular Sakura Cola and Sakura Mochi are also coming back for this special duration!

From April 1 to 30, Minami Toronto is offering delicate flavours and ingredients that evoke the essence of cherry blossom season — think cured Sakura flower, strawberry, ume, and floral notes like elderflower and rose. Try a Sakura Hokkaido Scallop Crudo topped with Sakura flowers or a four-piece Sakura Roll with spicy shrimp, sockeye salmon, sakura tempura bits, and hanaho. Toast the spring season with a cherry blossom cocktail, like a Sakura Spritz (Rosé wine, St-Germain, cranberry and elderflower tonic) or a Soho Sour (Soho lychee liqueur, butterfly pea tea–infused gin, cranberry, lemon and egg white). Click here for the full menu.

Iconic Toronto band Blue Rodeo gets its own stamp

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Ron Johnson

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9:47 am

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Blue Rodeo stamp has been released — Photo Courtesy: Heather Pollock

Just over 40 years ago, Jim Cuddy, Greg Keelor and company took to the stage at the Rivoli and Blue Rodeo was born. It didn’t take long for the group to take the city and then the country by storm becoming one of the most successful acts in Canadian music history.

And, although maybe not the crowning achievement in the band’s storied career, Blue Rodeo is getting an official Canada Post stamp.

The stamp showcases a collage of studio portraits of Blue Rodeo’s seven current members. From left to right, Mike Boguski, Jimmy Bowskill, Jim Cuddy, and Greg Keelor are in the front row, while Colin Cripps, Bazil Donovan, and Glenn Milchem are in the back.

Designed by Jim Ryce, the stamp features photography by Luis Mora, illustrations by Katy Lemay, and flower designs from thegraphicsfairy.com. Printed by Colour Innovations, the issue includes a booklet of six Permanent™ stamps and an Official First Day Cover. The cancellation mark, a guitar pick with a floral centre, is inspired by the band’s western-style shirts and is stamped in Toronto, Ontario, where the band is based.

Canada Post New stamp celebrates Blue Rodeo — A new stamp honouring Blue Rodeo (CNW Group/Canada Post)

Keelor and Cuddy, the founders of the band, have been friends since their high school days at North Toronto Collegiate Institute. However, their musical journey started later—Keelor didn’t pick up the guitar until he was 21.

In 1980, under the name the Hi Fi’s, they moved to New York City, where they met the ambitious young keyboardist Bob Wiseman. After returning to Toronto, Blue Rodeo was formed in 1984, and in 1987, they released their debut album, Outskirts, on Warner Records. The album included the catchy track “Try,” which became a staple at Canadian high school dances.

“Even when we started with the first record, I can remember the radio guy, the air guy, saying don’t expect to get any radio play on this. You guys just aren’t that sort of band,” said Keelor, in a previous interview with Streets of Toronto. “And for the first six months, we didn’t make any impact anywhere. We were very fortunate that “Try” became a radio hit.… That was a pretty strange phenomenon.”

The band is still going strong after all these years, and will return to Toronto’s Budweiser Stage this summer for their annual show on Aug. 23 with Allison Russell. A beloved local tradition.

Toronto native Jim Carrey shares heartfelt tribute to late actor Val Kilmer

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Nisean Lorde

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5:00 pm

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Val Kilmer and Jim Carrey — Jim Carrey with Val Kilmer (right) (photo: Instagram @jimcarrey)

Jim Carrey shared a heartfelt tribute to his late “Batman Forever” co-star, Val Kilmer, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 65. In his tribute, the GTA-born comic reflected on Kilmer’s legacy as an actor as well as a man of great strength and character.

“I’m remembering Val Kilmer today with great admiration for him as a man and as a generational talent who left us an enviable legacy of indelible acting performances. His greatest artistic achievements were rivaled only by the grace and courage with which he endured his life’s most challenging moments. Wishing his family so much love,” Carrey said in a statement on his website, while sharing a throwback pic of the star to his Instagram account.

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Carrey and Kilmer worked together on “Batman Forever” in 1995, where Carrey played the over-the-top Riddler and Kilmer played the Dark Knight himself. The iconic film also starred Drew Barrymore and Debi Mazar as the characters Sugar and Spice.

Mazar shared throwback photos of Kilmer on her Instagram account and opened up about how she first met the actor back in the 80s, years before they worked together on the Batman flick.

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A post shared by Debi Mazar (@debimazar)

“So sad to hear that Val Kilmer has passed. I met Val in 1984, in a dilapidated van that had a door missing. We had just attended Vincent Gallo’s wedding to a girl named Denise(?) in NYC. The van took a bunch of us to the wedding reception in Jamaica, Queens. Super fun memory of that day…” Mazar wrote. “Years later, I’d work with him in “The Doors” & “Batman Forever”[.] He was so talented & interesting. I know he struggled over the years with his health, and was a fighter. My condolences to his family &loved ones. May he R.I.P.”

Kilmer, 65, died from pneumonia following nearly 10 years of health problems, including a 2014 throat cancer diagnosis that led to two tracheotomies.

Sister of terminally Ill Toronto bar owner starts GoFundMe to build dream garden

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Jennifer Schembri

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3:54 pm

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Abra Shiner, the much-loved owner of Toronto’s Swan Dive bar, is facing an incredibly difficult time. Known for her effervescent personality and commitment to the local Toronto food and alcohol scene, Abra has been battling terminal cancer for a few years. Her illness has progressed, leading her sister Erica to launch a GoFundMe campaign to support her.

Abra, who first made her mark bartending at Toronto’s Big Bop and has worked at many legendary spots, eventually opened her own spot, Swan Dive, in the city’s Little Portugal neighbourhood. Over the years, she’s been a key figure in the Toronto bar community, supporting local businesses through pop-ups and other events.

“Abra has done SO MUCH for so many over the years, let’s continue to give back to the walking kaleidoscope that is my magical sis!” Erica writes on the GoFundMe page.

The campaign, which has a goal of raising $10,000, is aimed at helping Abra through her challenging times. As Erica shares on the campaign page, Abra’s cancer has entered a new stage of progression, and her mobility has significantly decreased.

“She is a lot less mobile and in a lot more pain and really looking forward to building a beautiful garden in the months ahead!”

Abra’s new home offers a bit of space for gardening, but she’s faced with unique challenges.

“A random ice cream stand that pops up on her lawn all summer, the need to contain her precious Nugget” means she needs to build a fence to make her garden a reality. The costs of this project, along with transportation, meals, cleaning help and all the additional expenses related to her illness, have made it difficult for Abra to keep up.

This comes less than a month after Abra shared an Instagram post revealing that she had to put her savings into the bar’s account to cover the overdue rent, which was still in overdraft. She also asked people to visit more often, acknowledging that times are tough, but added, “If you’re going to grab a beer, come enjoy it in our maximalist wonderland—it would mean a lot.”

So far, the campaign has raised $2,209 with 29 donations. Erica is inviting supporters to “pitch in to give my sister her flowers while she is still with us.”

You can watch a Swan Parade at this picturesque Ontario town this weekend

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Nisean Lorde

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12:54 pm

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If you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway, then consider heading to the charming little town of Stratford. The picturesque city is nestled on the banks of the Avon River in Perth County, just under a 2-hour drive from Toronto. Although it’s mainly renowned for its world-class theatre, every spring on the first Sunday of April, the quaint city draws in locals and visitors from around the globe for the annual Stratford Swan Parade!

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This year, the festivities take place on Sunday, April 6, starting at 2 pm. Every year, from Nov to March, the Avon River is frozen, so the swans are kept in a cozy retreat in their winter quarters behind the William Allman Arena. Sunday’s event will begin with the swans being led out of their winter hideaway before they waddle along the scenic parade route, from Morenz Drive to Lakeside Drive, culminating in a graceful entry into the river at North St.

This procession isn’t just any parade — it’ll be led by the sounds of the Stratford Police Pipes and Drums Band, adding a musical element to the cute performance!

And the swans aren’t ordinary birds — many are descendants of a pair gifted to Ottawa from Queen Elizabeth II’s royal herd in 1967, commemorating Canada’s Centennial. Today, these birds are cared for by the City of Stratford’s Community Services Department.

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The event is free and can be enjoyed by attendees of all ages, so it’s a perfect family outing.

If you’re planning to attend, be advised that the following roads will be closed to vehicle traffic on Sunday: Morenz Drive from Lakeside Drive to Water St from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, and Lakeside Drive from Waterloo St to North St from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The date is tentative and may change due to weather, so check out the city’s Insta page for updates!

After the parade, visit the town’s cozy cafes, unique shops and scenic parks to make the most of your stay!⁠

Toronto’s coolest R&B artist is opening an Italian sandwich shop

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Jennifer Schembri

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11:09 am

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Charlotte Day Wilson, the Toronto-based R&B artist known for her futuristic sound and emotive vocals, is venturing into the culinary world. Partnering with close friends, she’s opening Tutto Panino, an Italian sandwich shop that is set to put a creative twist on classic flavours.

Tutto Panino kicked off in 2024 as a successful pop-up, hosting four popular events at Burdock Brewery. Along with inventive sandwiches, the pop-up featured creative cannoli flavours like Concord grape and peanut butter as well as rhubarb pistachio, which quickly became fan favourites. Standout panini included the Bollito with brisket, salsa verde and chili oil, the Calabrese with spicy salami, provolone and ‘nduja aioli and the Caponata, packed with eggplant, Sicilian olives and stracciatella.

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While the menu is still in the testing phase, Wilson recently started teasing her upcoming brick-and-mortar spot on TikTok, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at the process with her crew. Joining her are Paul Liliani, Toronto’s legendary skater and entrepreneur, Kaitlyn Lasagna, the creative mind behind Paradise Grapevine and real estate expert Andi Larocca.

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If you haven’t heard of Charlotte Day Wilson, it’s time to give her a listen. She released her debut album ALPHA in 2021, followed by Cyan Blue in 2024, which went on to earn a Grammy nomination. She’s even caught the ear of Drake, who sampled her song “Mountains” on his Certified Lover Boy track “Fair Trade.” And the Drake connection doesn’t end there—her cousin, Oliver El-Khatib, co-founded OVO with the Toronto rapper.

While the location is still under wraps, there’s no doubt Wilson will bring her effortlessly cool vibe to the shop. It’s set to join Toronto’s growing list of popular sandwich spots like Lambo’s Deli, Leslie’s Sandwich Room and the recently opened Ariete El Tore, which has been drawing lines out the door. Toronto’s love for great sandwiches shows no signs of slowing down.

Keep your eyes on Wilson’s Instagram for updates on the shop, and your ears tuned to her Spotify for more music.

Shrek is taking over Toronto this month with these swamp-tacular events

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Julia Mastroianni

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5:30 am

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April is the season of flowers blooming, unpredictable weather, playoffs and… Shrek? There must be something (green) in the air, because Toronto is playing host to a whopping four themed events this month revolving around everyone’s favourite ogre. It could be because the anniversary of the release of Shrek 2 falls mid-month, on April 12 — 2025 marks 21 years since the premiere. Or it could just be because Toronto really loves supporting our own; don’t forget that Shrek himself is a Torontonian, voiced by the great Mike Myers!

Get into the swampy spirit this spring and check out these Shrek-tastic events.

Shrek 2 Shout-Along

Which Shrek movie is your favourite says a lot about you — and for many, the answer is unequivocally Shrek 2. If you agree, head to Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema on April 12 for a shout-along (no, not sing-along) to the iconic sequel. The event feautures a drag performance by Andy Fetamean, a shout-along game, a themed drink special and endless opportunities to show off your Shrek knowledge and belt the lyrics to the legendary soundtrack.

Swamp Ball! — Shrek: An Interactive Drag Screening

Though some may argue it should have been a Best Picture win, Shrek fans can take solace in the fact that the original 2002 movie did get some critical acclaim when it secured an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Celebrate the award-winning classic on April 11 with Swamp Ball!, an interactive drag screening of Shrek hosted by VaJayJay Abrams with special guest Baby Bel Bel. Expect a spectacular pre-show performance, followed by an interactive movie experience full audience-led prompts and shout-outs and even prop bags for early ticket buyers. Cheer on Shrek as he attempts to rescue Princess Fiona (who isn’t exactly keen on the whole rescuing part), with the hilarious Donkey by his side — whether he likes it or not!

Shrek’s Spring Fling

Lean into the extreme campiness of the film series with Shrek’s Spring Fling on April 26, an ogre-the-top event presented by Camp Queer and filled with Shrek-themed drag, live music, burlesque and a DJ taking your favourite songs from the soundtrack as well as top 2000s hits and spinning ear-catching remixes all night long! All performances by drag performers, musicians and burlesque artists will have a distinctive Shrek-ified spin, and event-goers are expected to come dressed as their favourite fairytale creature, swamp dweller or even more obscure reference from the film for a chance to win a prize! Then, party all night long to Y2K music before washing off your green paint.

Shrek 1 and 2 Trivia

After you’ve shouted along, cheered on ogre-fied drag performers and partied hard to the movie soundtrack, test your Shrek knowledge at themed trivia on April 29! See how well you remember the first two movies (or host a watch party in the days before with friends to refresh your knowledge). And get dressed up in your best fairy tale attire for the chance to win the Best Dressed prize! You can also snag a few Shrek-themed drinks while you’re there.

These Toronto billionaires made Forbes’ 2025 list of the richest people in the world

By

Nisean Lorde

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3:09 pm

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Larry Tanenbaum (middle) at the launch of the Toronto Tempo

Forbes’ 2025 World’s Billionaires list was just released, and some notable Canadians (including those with ties to Toronto) made the list. Forbes has been scouring the globe for billionaires since the late 1980s, and this is the first year that the list topped 3,000 (3,028 to be exact), with the billionaires worth a combined total of $16.1 trillion — up nearly $2 trillion since last year’s list.

In all, 78 countries/territories have at least one billionaire as of 2025 — the U.S. has the most billionaires on the list (902), with Elon Musk, 53, being the richest person in America (worth $342 billion), followed by China (516 billionaires) and India (205 billionaires). Canada has 76 billionaires this year worth a total net worth of $359 billion (down from 67 billionaires/$315 billion last year).

Chinese Canadian billionaire Changpeng Zhao, 48, the founder and former CEO of the cryptocurrency exchange platform Binance, is the richest person in Canada (with $62.9 billion) and the 24^th richest person in the world. Although his citizenship is Canadian, his current residence is listed as Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Notably, a few billionaires can be found in Toronto (or at least have ties to the city). Collectively, the Thomson family — who hails from Toronto — is one of the richest families in Canada. The family holds more than 310 million shares of Thomson Reuters, as well as assets in the Global and Mail newspaper, the Montreal Canadiens and the Winnipeg Jets. There are six billionaire heirs to the Thomson Reuters Corporation, founded by Roy Thomson (who passed in 1976):

Sherry Brydson ranks 125^th on the global list, with a total net worth of $16.7 billion, making her the second-richest Canadian on the list and the richest Canadian woman. Brydson is the cousin of David, Taylor, and Peter Thomson, and the daughter of Irma Thomson (who was one of the children of Roy Thomson). The 78-year-old is notoriously private, so we don’t know her current residence, but we know that she owns a 23 per cent stake in Woodbridge Co. (the firm that manages the Thomson family assets), as well as owns the award-winning Bangkok Garden Thai restaurant and Elmwood Spa (18 Elm St) in downtown Toronto.

Siblings David Thomson, 67, Peter Thomson and Taylor Thomson are tied at no. 264 on the global list (no. 6 on the Canadian list), each boasting a net worth of $10.2 billion. David is the Chairman of Thomson Reuters, while Peter (co-chair) and Taylor are also heirs to the company. David’s current residence is listed as Toronto.

Rounding up the Thomson family heirs are Linda Campbell and Gaye Farncombe (tied at no. 382 on the global list and no. 8 on the Canadian list, with a net worth of $8 billion each). The two granddaughters of Roy Thomson each own about 11 per cent of Woodbridge. We don’t know their residences, but Campbell previously served on a number of not-for-profit boards, including Toronto’s Sunnybrook Foundation, while Farncombe and her sisters once donated $30 million to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto.

Moving away from the Thomson family, 74-year-old Toronto resident Peter Gilgan (no. 520 on the global list and no. 11 on the Canadian list) is worth $6.4 billion and has built more than 135,000 houses since founding Mattamy Homes in 1978. Trailing behind is Mark Leonard, 68, president of Constellation Software. He and his family rank 688^th on the global list (no. 17 on the Canadian list) and have a net worth of $5.2 billion. Leonard’s current residence is listed as Toronto.

Carlo Fidani is ranked at 846 on the global list (no. 21 on the Canadian list), with a net worth of $4.3 billion. The 70-year-old runs Orlando Corp. — a Toronto-area real estate company he took over following his father’s death in 2000.

Larry Tanenbaum, ranked 1305^th on the global list (29^th in Canada), and is worth an estimated $2.8 billion. The 79-year-old is chairman of MLSE, which owns several sports franchises, including the Toronto Raptors, the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto FC.

Mitchell Goldhar, ranked 1362 on the global list and 30^th in Canada, is worth $2.7 billion. The 63-year-old tycoon founded real estate firm SmartCentres in the early 1990s and has since developed more than 265 shopping centres. He currently resides in North York.

Click here to see the full list of billionaires!

The ultimate Canadian-made, Canadian-owned guide ahead of Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’

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Julia Mastroianni

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2:07 pm

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canadaflag — Courtesy Hermes Rivera/Unsplash

Since President Donald Trump decided to inexplicably go after Canada in a series of tariffs that kickstarted a trade war, we Canadians have spearheaded a sort of patriotic uprising in response — cancelling travel plans to the U.S., booing the national anthem at sports games and most of all, supporting local whenever and however possible. Now, Trump is trying to make enemies of even more former allies and partners with a self-declared “Liberation Day”: on Wednesday, he’ll be announcing “reciprocal” tariffs on global trading partners, including more for Canada.

Ahead of the announcement, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide for shopping and supporting Canadian-made and Canadian-owned, so you’re prepared no matter what tariff Trump throws our way.

30+ of the best local outerwear, loungewear, accessories, jewelry and clothing brands

Whether you’re shopping for gifts or looking for a wardrobe refresh, there are so many incredible Canadian brands to choose from that you’ll never have to look across the border again. From sustainable and size-inclusive outerwear companies and affordable wedding guest dress brands to handbags made of apple leather and celebrity-approved jewelry designers, shopping local has never been easier.

10 best made in Canada burger spots in Toronto

Harry's Charbroiled — Harry’s Charbroiled on Instagram.

There are so many incredible burger spots in Toronto — and with some amazing made in Canada burgers to choose from in every corner of the city, you can ditch McDonald’s forever for some amazing smash patties and triple cheeseburgers.

9 Canadian alternatives to American fast fashion brands

We’ve been inundated with American fashion chains in Toronto — but it’s time to change that. We’ve found equivalent Canadian brands to the most popular U.S. clothing and accessory chains, so that the next time you’re thinking of going to your go-to fast fashion company, you can opt for a locally-owned and Canadian-made brand that is better for the planet and for the workforce (fast fashion chains have labour practices that are questionable at best and exploitative at worst).

10 best Canadian-owned getaways around Ontario

So many Canadians are opting to travel locally this year instead of crossing the border into Trump territory, and you can really up your locals-only game by opting for Canadian-owned getaways. From a treehouse-inspired cottage in Muskoka to a glamping hot spot near Tobermory, there are so many beautiful places to “stay and play” in Ontario.

7 Canadian alternatives to American fast food brands

American fast food chains have also taken over our fair city, but there’s no need to give your dollars to U.S. companies the next time you’re craving a crispy chicken sandwich or cake-like cookie. These homegrown spots taste better and feel better (because you know every bite supports a local company)!

5 Toronto craft distilleries knocking out the American competition

Toronto’s distilling roots run deep, tracing back to the 19th century when the Distillery District housed North America’s largest distillery. Now that the LCBO has removed all U.S.-made alcohol from its shelves, local distilleries are more important than ever. With a craft spirits scene that produces everything from gin to rum, abandon the American bourbon and try out these local premium spirits.

Get ready, Toronto! An award-winning pizzeria is opening its doors this summer

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Megan Gallant

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1:27 pm

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When a Whitby pizzeria opens a new location at Toronto’s harbourfront this summer, they will bring not only their award-winning pizzas but also exclusive drinks, authentic recipes and the essence of Tuscany.

Marco Caveglia, who owned a pizzeria in Tuscany for 17 years before moving to Canada, opened Tuscan Wolf Pizzeria in downtown Whitby in 2018. Since relocating, Caveglia has earned podium finishes in national and international competitions, including placing second in the Canada Pizza Chef of the Year competition in 2018.

Snapins ai 346930523 1980152162335263 4544018496240581799 n 1080 — @tuscanwolfpizzeria/Instagram

A plan long in the making though delayed with the pandemic, the new Toronto location is anticipated to open in July, replacing the now-closed pizza takeout joint Nforno Pizza at 59 Merchants’ Wharf, Unit G.

“It’s a new area with lots of condos coming up and close to the marina,” Caveglia says. “On the other side of town, there are a lot of Italian restaurants and pizzerias, but we wanted to open here, where it’s still relatively open with no competition, yet a lot of people moving in.”

Caveglia promises that the harbourfront location will offer the same relaxed and comfortable atmosphere as the original Whitby location. Aiming to bring the dining experience of a pizzeria in Tuscany, the restaurant will feature a brick wall in the dining room, with Italian music setting the perfect soundtrack for guests.

Snapins ai 236376530 928529784360559 6135331739303451241 n 1080 — Penne with arugula pesto, hazelnuts, walnuts and parmesan

The restaurant will also have an outdoor patio space open for the summer—located just steps away from the waterfront—as well as an outdoor dining space that can be enclosed for colder days.

“It’s a combination of options that will make it very cozy and nice,” says Caveglia. “Everything is meant to remind people of Tuscany, so we’re trying to recreate the same vibe and atmosphere in every location.”

When Tuscan Wolf Pizzeria opens, Toronto’s pizza aficionados will have nearly 150 options to choose from on the expansive menu, which features pastas, salads, calzones and unique spins on classic comfort foods.

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For Tuscan Wolf Pizzeria, Caveglia has invented a one-of-a-kind item that cannot be found elsewhere called “Olimpo,” which is described by Caveglia as “half calzone and half pizza in the same order.” He has also invented the covaccino, which is a pizza folded in half and flattened, but rather than tomato sauce, olive oil is used to create a crispier calzone.

The rest of the classic pizzas feature a thin crust dough made from flour imported directly from Italy, with white pizzas (“pizza bianca”)—those without sauce, as commonly found in Italy—being the specialties. The menu also includes decadent pastas, such as gluten-free gnocchi, along with gelato and authentic house-made desserts inspired by Caveglia’s grandmother’s recipes.

To pair with the pizzas, Torontonians can expect a selection of exclusive beverages, including four craft beers produced specifically for Tuscan Wolf Pizzeria. The restaurant also offers wines imported directly from Italy, which can’t be sourced from Ontario’s liquor stores—such as a sparkling red wine that Caveglia expects to be a “huge” hit in the summer—and a wine made exclusively for the restaurant by a vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Snapins ai 52626402 836259703387633 1812985559436330997 n 1080 — Owner Marco competing in Las Vegas

All of this has earned numerous awards for Tuscan Wolf Pizzeria’s original location in Whitby, including recognition as the region’s top pizza place and for having the best Italian pizza. Caveglia remains confident that the new location in Toronto will garner the same acclaim.

“I believe this will be a big hit in Toronto,” he says. “Toronto has higher competition, but with our quality, our products, and the way we represent ourselves—it’s something different that people will appreciate, no matter where it is.”

With a second location opening in Cobourg at the end of April, Caveglia says the expansion beyond the GTA is just the beginning of the franchising opportunities for Tuscan Wolf Pizzeria.

“We’re excited to move to Toronto for this huge opportunity as we expand our little Wolf Pack across Ontario.”

Bidding a sad farewell to Toronto’s iconic ‘Big Red Canoe’

By

Ron Johnson

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11:05 am

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There was a period a decade or two ago when acclaimed Toronto novelist and artist Douglas Coupland created a number of wonderful works of public art, often as part of a development of one sort or another. The best known of these works was the Big Red Canoe perched atop Canoe Landing Park. Everyone travelling by car along the Gardiner at one point or another is familiar with it. Sadly, it burnt down.

This is very sad news that the red canoe structure at CityPlace has burnt down in a fire. I sat in the red canoe with my kids and went on many imaginary adventures! Hopefully the Douglas Coupland structure can be rebuilt. https://t.co/wgLt4zYObr #topoli pic.twitter.com/l5kVEmzF67

— Norm Di Pasquale Spadina-Harbourfront NDP ?? (@normsworld) April 2, 2025

The park with the Big Red Canoe opened in 2009 and includes a few works from Coupland, who also had a hand in designing the green space as part of the CityPlace neighbourhood.

Other Coupland touches in the park include a vibrant installation featuring oversized fishing bobbers, a sculptural representation of a beaver dam, programmable tree lighting that will become more prominent as the foliage fills in, a pair of “iceberg benches” positioned near the canoe.

Coupland is best-known for his novels chronicling Generation X such as Generation X, Microserfs, Girlfriend in a Coma and many others. But, especially over the last decade or two, he has expanded his visual art contributions, and is often exhibiting at Daniel Faria Gallery in Toronto.

Other notable works of Coupland’s in Toronto include the Monument to the War of 1812 at the northwest corner of Bathurst and Front, and an incredible clock Supernova featuring post-war suburban homes at the Shops at Don Mills.

As one Reddit commenter suggested when news of the fire broke, it would be fantastic if Coupland designed and constructed another Big Red Canoe, this time of stainless steel and made with anti-graffiti materials.

Toronto’s underrated spring fashion trend is all about pockets, buckles and cargo

By

Julia Mastroianni

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5:30 am

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One of Canada’s most trusted authorities on style and fashion, Jeanne Beker has covered the industry for more than 30 years. Now watch her in her current style editor role on TSC’s Style Matters with Jeanne Beker or tune into her podcast Beyond Style Matters, available wherever you get your podcasts.

Functional fashion is key for spring — so it’s no surprise utility style has taken over the runways this season! Featuring pockets galore, Jeanne Beker has helped us source the best of this trend from locally owned shops.

A. VEST

With contrast stitching, a two-way zip for adaptable styling and multiple pockets, this vest s the perfect practical layering piece for spring. Kotn, $128, 148 Ossington Ave.

B. BELT

This nylon stretch belt is handcrafted in Italy and the warm brown colour will pair nicely with a dark wash denim or shorts as we head into summer. Park & Province, $190, 927 Queen St. W.

C. NECKLACE

Utility when it comes to jewelry is more about the look than the function, and this industrial chain link with a carabiner clasp and adjustable chain certainly fits the bill. Vitaly, $C194, 505 Queen St. W.

D. CROSSBODY BAG- Jeanne’s pick

“This is a really cool bag that looks really functional and great for travel.” Lululemon, $74, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

E. CARGO TROUSERS- Jeanne’s pick

“A pant like this is so flattering and really elongates the leg, and all the different little pockets are so cool.” Smythe, $525, 1116 Yonge St.

F. QUILTED JACKET

Any utility look for spring isn’t complete without a utility jacket — ranging from barn coats to chore coats, the style is recognized by its functional fabrics, plethora of pockets and workwear edge. This quilted jacket from Barbour, a longstanding British brand known for its countrywear, will give any outfit an effortless edge. Andrews, $399, 2901 Bayview Ave.

G. SHOES

Nothing screams utility more than an all-season sneaker — this pair from Montreal brand Maguire features a water-resistant outsole and rubber lining that are made for those rainy April days. Maguire Shoes, $285, 760 Queen St. W.

H. TOTE- Jeanne’s pick

“These straps are adjustable, so you can wear them multiple ways, and it’s great to have signature pockets in the front.” Pixie Mood, $125, pixiemood.ca

I. MINI-SKIRT- Jeanne’s pick

“What a fun little skirt, and it’s a great olive colour.” Aritzia, SALE $38.99, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

J. BUTTON DOWN

Elevating the simple button down with the inclusion of a funky carabiner detail on the front pocket, this shirt also features a breathable, perforated fabric for ultimate function. Due West, SALE $239, 431 Queen St. W.

K. DENIM SHIRT

Complete any utility look with a denim overskirt — ideal for layering, we love the dark wash denim and delicate stitching of this one. Kotn, SALE $98, 148 Ossington Ave.

L. EARRINGS

The ideal everyday jewelry can be found with one simple trick: mixed metals. This pair of hoops are interchangeable and reversible, making for four pairs of earrings in one. Mejuri, $298, 64 Ossington Ave.

M. MIDI-SKIRT- Jeanne’s pick

“What a beautiful latte colour with the patch pockets and the split up the front: great for year-round wear.” Over the Rainbow, SALE $72, 55 Bloor St. W.

N. FITTED VEST- Jeanne’s pick

“This has a dressy kind of edge to it, and the pockets make it sporty. This is a really statement-making garment.” Smythe, $525, 1116 Yonge St.

O. JUMPSUIT- Jeanne’s pick

“Jumpsuits are so cool, and what a nice colour. I love the cropped leg. You could wear this with or without a belt!” Frock, SALE $275, 97 Roncesvalles Ave.

For Jeanne Beker’s top picks from women-owned Canadian brands, click here.