This Toronto bar just earned some major recognition at North America’s 50 Best Bars

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Photo: Jessica Blaine Smith / https://jbsmithphotography com — Jessica Blaine Smith / https://jbsmithphotography com

One of Toronto’s most beloved bars has just snagged a major award.

Earlier today, Bar Pompette in Little Italy was honoured with the prestigious Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award at this year’s North America’s 50 Best Bars event. This award, which celebrates outstanding hospitality in the bar industry, is a well-deserved recognition for the bar, known for its creative, French-inspired cocktails and its warm, inviting atmosphere.

Bar Pompette has quickly become a go-to for cocktail lovers. After joining the North America’s 50 Best Bars list in 2023, it’s only gained more buzz with its rotating seasonal menu and creative twists on classic drinks. Signature cocktails like the Nitro Colada and Cornichon show off the bar’s fun, experimental side — but never at the expense of quality or flavour.

But what really sets Bar Pompette apart is the warm, unpretentious service that accompanies each drink.

“To us, it’s not just about making great drinks, but about creating a space where people feel at home, whether it’s their first visit or their fiftieth. Hospitality is at the heart of what we do, and we’re excited to keep sharing that experience with our guests every day,” says Hugo Togni, co-owner of Bar Pompette.

ar Pompette’s success isn’t just about its inventive drinks—it’s about making every guest feel right at home, whether it’s their first time or their fiftieth. The bar’s sleek, minimalist design, laid-back open-air patio and cozy seating create the perfect vibe for enjoying creative cocktails and tasty bites from its sister French brasserie.

The North America’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony will be held in Vancouver on April 29 where the countdown of the best bars in North America will be revealed.

How They Met: Dina Pugliese on her whirlwind romance and Greek honeymoon

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Andrew Mannsbach

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3:51 pm

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Toronto’s Dina Pugliese was one of the most recognizable faces on morning television for 16 years as host of Breakfast Television. She announced in 2023 that she would be stepping down as host, citing early hours and noting that she will use this time to go for walks with her husband Alek and be able to spend more time with family. But this week, she made a surprise return to the air after former BT hosts Sid Seixeiro and Meredith Shaw were let go, announcing she would be co-hosting the show again, this time alongside Tim Bolen. Read on to hear the story of how Pugliese she met her husband and the man of her dreams, Alek Mirkovich, at a nightclub.

How they met

I was throwing my co-worker a stagette, and my goal was to make sure she had a ton of fun. So I fashioned her a “Buck-A-Suck” T-shirt to wear and sewed Life Savers onto it, so she could walk away with some cold hard cash! She was making a ton of money, but the men were a bit too tipsy and eager for my liking, so when I saw a tall, handsome man’s head from across the room, I walked over in a hurry. The first sentence I said to Alek after tapping him on his shoulder was “Buck a suck?” He didn’t know what the heck I was asking (which I loved), and after much cat and mousing, I saw something so sincere, sweet and genuine in him that I gave him my number — which I usually never did.

The first date

Alek did not wait three days to call. He called first thing the next morning. It was so refreshing and signalled to me that he wasn’t going to play games. That’s what separates the men from the boys. We talked on the phone for hours and instantly knew there was something big there. We met the following day for drinks. I hoped he was as good looking as I remembered, and man, was I blown away when he turned the corner. Everything you read about and see in cheesy rom-coms happened — starbursts, butterflies in the tummy, heart pounding outside of my chest. As for the chemistry, let’s put it this way: I went in for the first kiss! It was another thing I never thought I’d do. We both knew we were “the one” after that first date, although we didn’t tell a soul.

The proposal

Alek bought my engagement ring without us ever talking about it. He flew to New York City to pick it out just two months after we met and popped the question shortly thereafter in Niagara-on-the-Lake. We had only known each other for six months by the time we were engaged. Like they say, when you know, you know. I was completely shocked and overjoyed by his proposal. I had no clue he had even shopped around for a ring.

The wedding

We were married in Mississauga at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church. It was a beautiful day in July … sweltering hot but so sunny and bright. Following the ceremony, we danced and ate and laughed the night away with those who meant the most to us at Copper Creek Golf Club in Kleinburg. It was just perfect. For our honeymoon, we decided on Greece. Perfect mix of great food, sea and history in between the lazy days on the beach.

Their lives now

Alek and I love to travel. We always say we will work as hard as we have to in order to make trips happen. We recently celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary by returning to my motherland, Italy. We absolutely love it there and dream about one day finding a place to call home in southern Italy — any plot of land along the coast.

Relationship advice

Work at it just like you do everything else in life. That is how you will both grow together and thrive. Try to set realistic goals, like a date night once a month, and stick to them. Even if it means a walk. It’s the little everyday things that have the biggest impact.

Frolic in a field of three million tulips at this Ontario farm opening next month

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Julia Mastroianni

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1:47 pm

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tasc tulip farm — @tascgrowtogether/Instagram

Spring has almost sprung, and that means Ontario’s largest tulip farm is gearing up to open for the season. Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, TASC Tulip Festival is home to over three million tulips across countless fields — and you can even pick your own flowers to bring home with you.

Featuring over 175 tulip varieties ranging in colour from red and pink to yellow and orange and spanning 55 acres, prepare to snag stunning photos of the very best that nature has to offer and leave with your own little bouquet.

Tulips are only in season for just a few weeks each year, so these floral experiences in Ontario are always popular. The farm notes that the tulips you leave with will largely depend on when you visit the festival: week one promises flowers with longest lifespan, while week two will feature flowers in the most vibrant colours and week three’s blooms will be the most unique.

TASC currently expects opening day to be April 26 at 1 p.m., and the festival will remain open until all blooms are picked.

tascflowertulips — Courtesy @tascgrowtogether/Instagram

If photos are your number one priority while visiting the farm, you or a professional photographer of your choosing can purchase a photographer ticket — which will give you access to a designated photography area with plenty of props and a no pick area so your backdrops are full of flowers. If a kid or two running in the background or a patch of picked over flowers don’t bother you, all visitors are permitted to take photos anywhere around the farm!

Ticket sales will open the last weekend in March and include entry at a designated time as well as 10 tulips.

The farm also announced a new, permanent location in Niagara-on-the-Lake this year, minutes from Niagara Falls and located among 43 wineries, so plan accordingly!

TASC Tulip Festival is located at 1173 Line 3 RD, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and is open from Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday to Sunday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

For Ontario’s largest sunflower field, click here.

For more flower experiences around Ontario, click here.

Toronto’s 2025 cherry blossom season countdown officially begins

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Nisean Lorde

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1:09 pm

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With the snow slowly starting to dissipate and above-seasonal temperatures warming the air, Torontonians can officially get excited for the 2025 Sakura cherry blossom season!

Sakura Steve (aka Steve Joniak) made his first visit of the year to High Park late last week and was pleasantly surprised to see many new cherry blossom trees planted throughout the key areas of the park.

The “buds appear healthy and plentiful,” he stated in a recent blog post.

As the city experienced a more normal winter this year, the schedule for this year’s Sakura bloom should align with the typical period of late April into early May.

“Of course[,] that prediction always comes with a giant IF – if the weather turns up the heat, we can see it earlier, but if the cold snaps return, or worse, a polar vortex event, that could push out the bloom dates later into May,” Joniak added.

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A post shared by Sakura Steve (@sakurahighpark)

The cherry-blossom expert noted how some of the more mature trees are in their final years and will no longer bloom. In recent years, other young trees had been pulled, broken and damaged by people who shook and pulled on them for photo ops or take-home souvenirs.

“We must respect the newly planted trees and let them grow to their full potential so they can one day replace the beauty we lost with new blooms in the years ahead–please don’t touch, pull or otherwise damage these young trees as YOU will be the ones ruining the chance for future blossoms to bloom,” he said.

Toronto has an eventful history with cherry blossoms. In April 1959, Toru-Hagiwara, the Japanese ambassador to Canada, presented 2,000 Japanese Somei-Yoshino Sakura trees as a gift to the city 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.

Throughout the years, more cherry blossoms trees were planted in and around the area, with new trees planted in a special ceremony in 2019 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Sakura tree donation.

Matthew Gray Gubler spotted filming new show in Toronto on U of T campus

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Nisean Lorde

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11:00 am

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matthewgraygublerfilming — Courtesy @jenna.leigh28/Instagram

Actor Matthew Gray Gubler was spotted strutting outside the University of Toronto’s Victoria College campus at Queens Park on Monday while filming a scene for the upcoming series Einstein.

Instagram user Jenna Kastropil Freeman shared footage of the scene — the 45-year-old actor was filmed walking past the historic residence buildings with a gang of followers behind him, seemingly lugging something heavy.

“Didn’t have meeting Matthew Gray Gubler and watching him film scenes for a new tv show on my 2025 bingo card!” Freeman raved in her post.

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A post shared by Streets of Toronto (@streetsoftoronto)

In another recent post, Freeman shared a selfie with the actor.

“So this just happened!!!! Matthew Gray Gubler AKA SPENCER REID!!!!! ???” Freeman wrote, referencing the role Gubler is most known for — criminal profiler Dr. Spencer Reid on the CBS show Criminal Minds, which he appeared in from 2005 to 2020.

CBS’s new crime procedural pilot, Einstein, focuses on Lew Einstein, the fictional great-grandson of Albert Einstein (played by Gubler). The show is based on a German series of the same name, and production should continue until April. Meanwhile, it’s the perfect opportunity for fans across the city to take selfies with Gubler!

@mrwillwong Lightning strikes twice!! Delighted to see Matthew Gray Gubler and get to wish him a happy birthday! Really hoping his new CBS pilot EINSTEIN gets picked up and films here again! We’re all hungry for more! Again, the nicest guy ever❤️ #matthewgraygubler #einstein #einsteinseries #criminalminds #spencerreid #toronto ♬ Criminal Minds – Movie Sounds Unlimited

The Emmy award-winning actor and director hails from Las Vegas, Nevada, and has also appeared in 500 Days of Summer, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, Suburban Gothic, and Life After Beth. For Chipmunks fans, Gubler was the voice of Simon in Alvin and the Chipmunks and its three sequels!

Dine among masterpieces at Toronto’s most art-filled restaurants

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Jennifer Schembri

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10:43 am

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Some say that art is food for the soul, so it makes sense that a number of restaurants in Toronto are furnished with eye-catching collections that make them the perfect spot to engage all your senses.

Come for the art but stay for the food at these four breathtaking Toronto restaurants.

Sofia Restaurant & Bar

At Sofia, a buzzy Italian eatery in Yorkville offering creative takes on Italian fare, owner Charles Khabouth’s love for art is apparent care of the restaurant’s on-site gallery that features works by globally acclaimed artists, encompassing street and contemporary art. The thoughtfully curated collection is updated frequently, providing diners with fresh visual delights. Each piece is up for purchase, and for those looking for a broader selection, gallery space, Taglialatella Galleries is located next door. Currently on display are pieces from Banksy, Basquiat, Dine, Mr. Brainwash and Andy Warhol.

Joso’s

During the 1970s, Joso’s Cafe beckoned people with its unique art, enchanting music, espresso coffees, pastries, sandwiches, and charismatic hosts. The celebrity hot spot gained a reputation for its nude art, including a voluptuous torso in the main window, as well as photos of celebrity diners like Al Pacino and Julianne Moore. In 2011, the cover for Drake’s sophomore album, Take Care was shot here and the restaurant’s name is mentioned within the album itself.

Minami

Inside Minami, an innovative Japanese tapas spot celebrated for its creative sushi rolls, premium sashimi, and signature Aburi-style sushi, esteemed artist Hideki Kimora has created a mural on translucent glass featuring whimsical imagery of frogs, koi and lotus flowers and is a combination of his background in Japan’s early rock music scene and his love for Japanese culture. Kimora hand-painted the mural and it appears in the bar lounge and on the dining room feature wall.

Cactus Club Café

Within Cactus Club Café’s sophisticated fine-dining establishment nestled in Sherway Gardens, the brand’s signature blend of refined, innovative, and worldly cuisine converges seamlessly with an ambiance of dynamic design and a striking art collection. This collection features works by globally acclaimed artists, including the iconic Andy Warhol, the influential Jean-Michel Basquiat, the visionary Takashi Murakami, and the LA street art luminary Mr. Brainwash.

From restaurants to bakeries, Drake’s unseen influence on Toronto’s food scene

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Jennifer Schembri

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5:00 pm

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He may say that he “started from the bottom,” but when it comes to Toronto’s food scene, Drake is definitely on top. Known for inspiring artists to chase their dreams, the rapper has also helped chefs and bakers in the city do the same, frequently repping the six in his videos and even on album covers. Here’s a peek at some of them.

Occhiolino

drake pasta — In 2020, Drake was filmed eating pasta off his Spotify plaque for 1 billion streams of “In My Feelings.”

One of last year’s hottest openings, Occhiolino, comes from Nick Manzone and Luke Donato who also just happens to be Drake’s former personal chef. The Italian spot at Bathurst and College serves up fresh, handmade pasta and unpretentious dishes like Spiedini di Mortadella. With its sleek design and Italian Disco vibes, it’s quickly become a city favourite and one of the hottest places to be and be seen.

Let Petit Pain

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A post shared by Le Petit Pain (@lepetitpaintoronto)

Ryan Silverstein, Drake’s former personal assistant, has reimagined his family’s bakery legacy with Le Petit Pain in Forest Hill. His great-grandfather founded Silverstein Bakery in 1918, and now, Silverstein brings a French-inspired vibe to the city with everything from crispy baguettes to delicate ficelle sandwiches. While the Drake connection may not be the focus, it’s clear that the rapper’s entrepreneurial spirit has had an impact.

Joso’s

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A post shared by Joso’s Restaurant ~ since 1967 (@jososrestaurant)

During the 1970s, Joso’s Cafe beckoned people with its unique art, enchanting music, espresso coffees, pastries, sandwiches and charismatic hosts. The celebrity hot spot gained a reputation for its nude art, including a voluptuous torso in the main window, as well as photos of celebrity diners like Al Pacino and Julianne Moore. In 2011, the cover for Drake’s sophomore album, Take Care was shot here and the restaurant’s name is mentioned within the album itself.

The Real Jerk

In 2016, Toronto’s east-end institution The Real Jerk became the backdrop for one of the year’s most talked-about music videos. Rihanna and Drake’s steamy dancehall anthem “Work” showcased the Caribbean spot, bringing its vibrant energy to life. The Real Jerk sets the perfect tone for the sultry chemistry between the two superstars, making the iconic spot an unforgettable part of the video’s appeal.

How They Met: Entertainment host Danielle Graham on her Oscar-worthy romance

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Julia Mastroianni

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3:26 pm

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For years, Danielle Graham rubbed shoulders with celebrities at the Oscars, The Cannes Film Festival, TIFF and more as an eTalk host. Now, she’s joining forces with entertainment producer (and real-life bestie and Queen West neighbour) Caleigh Rykiss for pop culture podcast In Three, where they’ll be giving listeners an inside scoop on the biggest celebrity headlines. But first, Danielle gives us the scoop on how she and her husband, Randall, travelled across the world to find love in their own backyard.

How they met

We met in 2011 in Ghana, Africa, on a work assignment. We worked for the same company in two different departments and had never crossed paths in the office. There is nothing subtle about Randall, and I was very intrigued by him. We hung out one night solo in Ghana at the end of the trip and made a plan to see each other again back home. When we returned to work, we learned our offices were right on top of each other. I was on the second floor, and Randall was on the third. We’d been 67 steps away from each other for years.

The first date

For our first date, we watched the Academy Awards at Randall’s, and he cooked dinner. He made beef ribs, roasted sweet potatoes and Ceasar salad. It’s his signature dinner when he’s trying to make an impression, and it worked. The Academy Awards always held a special place in our hearts because of that, and then for many years after, I would go to be a part of the red carpet coverage. In 2016, I was pregnant with our first daughter at the Oscars. The following years, Randall would send me pictures of her watching me on TV.

The proposal

We’d been dating for about 2 and a half years, and we’d talked about getting married. Neither of us had any doubt we’d found our person. But around spring of 2013, people started asking me, “When are you getting engaged?” And I just kept saying, “Ask Randall!” We bought a cottage together about a year into dating, and I figured it would happen there. Later on in the summer we went for a swim, just the two of us. We decided to race around the swim platform for fun. Once we were out of the water on the deck, we were looking out at the lake, and that’s when it happened. Once I saw Randall down on one knee, I kept saying, “no, no!” because my hair was all wet, and I was in total shock. Turns out Randall had the ring in an inside zipper pocket of his bathing suit!

The wedding

daniellegrahamwedding — Randall and Danielle Graham on their wedding day.

We got married the next summer, on a Wednesday, July 30, 2014. We chose that date because Randall said it was a date he’d remember. Spoiler: neither of us remember it year after year. We both wanted a small wedding, and we knew we wanted it at our cottage. So that’s what we did. Twenty-five people. We got married in the exact spot Randall proposed on. When we sold that cottage, we took those deck boards with us, and we plan to do something with them one day. I have a big Italian family on my mom’s side, so nine days after our cottage wedding, my parents threw us a big reception in their backyard with all my family and more of our friends. It was one of those parties people still talk about to this day.

The kids

grahamsandfamily — L-R: Randall, Beatrix, Danielle and Marigold Graham.

We do have kids! Two incredible little girls. Beatrix, 8, and Marigold, 5.

How have you found and built community in your Toronto neighbourhood?

I know everyone says this, but I really believe we have the best neighbourhood. The neighbours here look out for each other. We help one another out with shovelling, or bringing the garbages bins in or picking up packages to avoid porch pirates. I think there is a belief that downtown living can be impersonal. But in fact I find it’s the complete opposite. Living in closer quarters means we all understand the importance of being a good neighbour. The kindness of our neighbourhood is especially evident when my kids set up their lemonade stand in the summer to raise money for the Terry Fox Foundation. People go out of their way to support. They stop their cars and park illegally, run out, grab a glass and encourage the girls. We had a woman circle back share her entrepreneurial story. People without cash walk to bank machines and come back. The pedal pub always stops. One gentleman gave the girls $100 for a single glass of lemonade!

Tell us about any other relationships that play an important role in your life.

danielleandacaleigh — L-R: Caleigh Rykiss and Danielle Graham. Courtesy @inthreepod/Instagram

If you looked at my phone you’d see I speak to Caleigh (co-host of our podcast, In Three) more than anyone else. We met as colleagues many years ago. That turned into a friendship. And then about 10 years ago we became next-door neighbours. We literally share a property line. Now we get to work together, share ideas, think big and shoot for the stars as a team. It’s such a rewarding partnership rooted in deep respect and trust in one another. I feel so lucky to be on this journey with her.

The secret to success

We are very different people in many ways. I am a Type A person, and Randall is a creative genius! I think our success comes from the fact that, while we are different in a lot of ways, our values have always been aligned. How we move through the world, how we treat others and the things we prioritize as parents are completely the same. We are so connected that we often joke that we can put thoughts into each other’s minds.

The future together

Randall’s beard will be more grey. We’ll still be watching Seinfeld reruns. The girls will hopefully still want to hang with us.

The 10 best things to do this week in Toronto

By

Julia Mastroianni

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2:02 pm

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Winter is here and the city is alive and well with plenty of arts, shopping, food and more to enjoy!

From amazing concerts to a themed dance party and ’80s trivia, here are 10 things to do in Toronto this week.

If you’re looking for more things to do in Toronto, check out our Instagram page, @streetsoftorontodo.

See Jelly Roll in concert

American rapper, singer and songwriter Jason Bradley DeFord, also known as Jelly Roll, is taking the stage in Toronto on Saturday as part of his Beautifully Broken tour. He’ll be performing hits from his latest album by the same name, and he’ll be supported by Josh Ross, Savannah Dexter and Brabo Gator.

Keep the St. Pat’s Day love going with Riverdance

The Grammy award-winning music and captivating performances of Irish and international dance of Riverdance is coming back to Toronto as part of a special 30th anniversary tour. Featuring a “new generation” of performers (none of whom were born when Riverdance began 30 years ago), expect a blend of the traditional and the contemporary at the premiere on Tuesday!

Have a laugh with Matteo Lane

New York-based comedian Matteo Lane is taking his new standup hour on the road with his Can’t Stop Talking tour, performing in Toronto on Thursday and Friday. Previously seen on Netflix’s The Comedy Lineup, Abbott Elementary and more, he’s also performed standup on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Late Night with Seth Meyers. An oil painter and opera singer in Italy before getting into comedy, Lane also has his own cookbook, Your Pasta Sucks, releasing soon.

Celebrate the season with a Spring Equinox festival

With the first official day of spring approaching on Thursday, celebrate the season (and the approaching warm weather) with Stackt Market’s Spring Equinox festival. Running from Tuesday to next Monday, March 23, enjoy yoga, mindfulness sessions, sustainability focused-events, and wellness workshops, vendor markets, live entertainment and so much more!

Attend a free movie night

Going out doesn’t have to cost much money — and it can sometimes even be free! Soulpepper Theatre is back with its regular community movie night, and this Thursday you can snag free tickets to a screening of an amazing film set in Burlington, Ontario and written by Toronto filmmaker Chandler Levack, I Like Movies. Sign up online and enjoy a free movie night!

Celebrate all things Diane Warren with Hot Docs

Prolific songwriter Diane Warren has written hit after hit for industry giants and has scored Grammy, Emmy and Golden Globe Awards as well as an Honorary Academy Award and 15 Oscar nominations. Celebrate the legend this weekend with screenings of Diane Warren: Relentless as well as two blockbuster hits featuring her songs, Burlesque and Armageddon.

Shake it off at a Taylor Swift dance party

swiftieparty — @swiftiesocials/Instagram

Months after Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has come to a close, there are still so many events to enjoy her music — including, this Saturday, a Taylor Swift Dance Party by Swifties Socials. Featuring her greatest hits, deep cuts, remixes and hidden gems, party all night with over 500 Swifties!

Put your ’80s knowledge to the test

Test your knowledge of the past with Bata Shoe Museum’s Ultimate ’80s Trivia on Wednesday! From chart-topping music hits and iconic blockbuster movies to world-shaping events and retro footwear trends, this is your chance to prove you’re the ultimate 80s expert.

See JoJo in concert

Since dropping hit single “Leave (Get Out)” that is still beloved to this day, Joanna Levesque (better known as JoJo) has captivated her fans with her incredible voice and a career that has taken her from Disney Channel icon to Broadway star and, more recently, author of a tell-all memoir. Now, she’s taking her Too Much To Say tour on the road, including a stop in Toronto on Wednesday.

Catch Tynomi Banks at a drag brunch

Upgrade your Sunday drag brunch plans with one at the Lula Lounge that will feature an appearance from none other than Tynomi Banks, as well as Toronto’s dancing diva Just Peachy. Showgirls drag brunch will feature mimosas, prizes and more!

For more events happening this month, click here.

Expert Insights from 5 of Toronto’s Top Doctors

By

Dorothy Chudzinski

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1:34 pm

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From plastic surgery to orthopedic expertise to women’s wellness and sports medicine, five of Toronto’s leading physicians offer their unique and invaluable perspectives on their specialized fields. Discover the exceptional work and commitment of these top doctors as they share insights into their dedication to patient care, innovative techniques, and the ever-evolving landscape of medicine.

DR. KUNAAL JINDAL BSc(Med) MD FRCSC

STUDIO PLASTIC SURGERY & THE MINOR SURGERY CENTER

Dr. Jindal is a distinguished plastic surgeon in Toronto, specializing in aesthetic surgery. As the founder of Studio Plastic Surgery and co-founder of The Minor Surgery Centers, he brings over a decade of experience. His comprehensive training, combined with surgical expertise, allows him to deliver natural, beautiful results with a patient-centered approach grounded in compassionate care and trust.

What do you like most about practicing plastic surgery and why?

I’m fortunate to work in a dynamic, ever-evolving specialty that embraces the latest advancements to enhance patient care. What I cherish most is witnessing the boost in confidence my patients gain and hearing their stories of renewed self-esteem. This work demands precision, an artistic eye, and a dedication to persistent innovation and refinement—an honour I’m grateful for every day.

How do you build trust with a patient in your care?

At our practice, trust is the cornerstone of every patient relationship, built upon a foundation of honesty, integrity, and genuine care. I believe trust is earned through open, thoughtful communication by taking the time to truly understand each patient’s aspirations. This approach fosters a supportive, reassuring experience where patients feel heard, valued, and respected. My goal is to create a collaborative environ- ment where every patient feels empowered, confident, and cared for throughout their journey.

DR. IAN MAYNE M.D. FRCS(C)

NORTH YORK GENERAL HOSPITAL AND REVOLUTION PHYSIO CLINIC

Dr Mayne is an Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in shoulder, elbow and knee surgery and practicing at North York General Hospital for the past 8 years. He did both his Doctorate of Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery Residency at the University of Toronto. He completed shoulder and elbow surgery fellowships in Melbourne, Australia and Auckland, New Zealand as well as a sports medicine surgery fellowship in Toronto.

Why did you choose your field of specialty?

Orthopedic Surgery is an area of medicine that I was initially introduced to in my summer job as
an operating room attendant at Scarborough Centenary hospital back in 2003. I was immediately drawn to the technical aspects of the procedures and sophisticated operating tools and instruments. Throughout my training I was exposed to the different sub-specialties of Orthopedic surgery. As a former NCAA Track Athlete I was drawn to the sports medicine and shoulder & elbow sub-specialties. Orthopedic Surgery provides me with the privilege of treating a diverse group of patients who are injured, broken or in pain. I get to use advanced techniques to fix broken bones, arthroscopically repair and reconstruct tendons and ligaments, or replace arthritic joints. It is a very challenging and rewarding area of medicine. I am able to guide my patients through the diagnosis, surgical or non-surgical intervention and recovery process to help them back to a functional and fulfilling life.

DR. DONNA GASPARRO M.D.

FEMME WOMEN’S WELLNESS, MEDICAL & COSMETICS

Dr. Donna Gasparro, Medical Director of Femme, graduated with highest honors from medical school in 2010 and completed residency in NYC, USA. While in the US, she excelled at cosmetic treatments (injectables and lasers) and founded a hospital-based medical weight loss department. Dr. Gasparro practices high quality, evidence-based medicine and is committed to optimizing her patients’ physical and emotional well-being

What do you like most about practicing medicine and why?

The patient-physician relationship is the part of medicine I cherish most, as it is the launch-point from which we can intervene and enhance how a patient feels.

It is a great privilege to have patients reveal their inner and physical concerns, and then be able to apply advanced medical technologies and interventions as well as cosmetic and integrative care, to improve their experience of life. Practicing with this multifaceted, holistic approach resonates through to patient confidence and the healthiest version of themselves. I have always placed a strong emphasis on evidence-based medicine, patient education, and the emotional well-being of others. And I’m committed to guiding, motivating, and inspiring my patients to optimize their physical and emotional experiences of life.

DR. ASIF PIRANI MD, FRCSC

THE TORONTO PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER & SKN YORKVILLE

Dr. Asif Pirani is a cosmetic plastic surgeon known for his meticulous technique and patient-centered approach. He trained at top institutions including UofT, UBC and NYU and has served as an expert reviewer for The Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal. A trusted voice in the media, Dr. Pirani leads The Toronto Plastic Surgery Center & SKN Yorkville, delivering natural and refined results while upholding the highest standards of safety, precision and integrity.

How do you build trust with a patient in your care?

Building trust with my patients begins with listening—truly understanding their concerns, aspirations, and motivations. I believe in empowering patients through education, providing clear, evidence-based information about their options and expected outcomes. Open communication fosters a partnership where patients feel safe, respected, and confident in their choices. I prioritize patient safety by adhering to the highest standards of care and utilizing advanced, proven techniques. My commitment to excellence drives me to continuously refine my skills, stay at the forefront of innovation, and deliver results that look natural and harmonious. By maintaining transparency and setting realistic expectations, I help patients navigate their aesthetic journey with confidence. Trust is the foundation of my practice, cultivated through empathy, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to achieving exceptional outcomes.

DR. GURU KANDASAMY MD, DC, CCFP, Dip.Sport.Med.

INSTITUTE OF HUMAN MECHANICS, PHYSIOMED, UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO

Dr. Guru Kandasamy is a globally recognized Sports Medicine Specialist, acclaimed for his integrative approach to healthcare. With expertise in Medicine, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, & Kinesiology, he completed his medical training at Michigan State University & earned the CASEM Diploma in Sports Medicine. As a respected lecturer at the University of Toronto & Board-certified in Canada & the U.S., he treats elite athletes in the Olympics, NHL, MLB, & CFL.

What major changes/technological advances have you seen in Sports Medicine?

Throughout my career, I have witnessed revolutionary breakthroughs in regenerative medicine that are transforming how our bodies heal. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections harness the body’s natural growth factors to accelerate soft tissue repair, while Hyaluronate gel injections provide a non-surgical solution for joint pain & chronic injuries. Advanced imaging technologies, including high-definition ultrasound & MRI, enable precise injury assessments, leading to highly personalized treatment plans. Ultrasound-guided injections ensure exceptional accuracy while accelerating recovery & enabling a swift return to sports. In my practice, I am dedicated to seamlessly integrating these innovative techniques with a strong evidence-based approach, ensuring the highest standard of care. Whether treating professional athletes or individuals managing chronic pain, my goal is to empower my patients to restore an active lifestyle—safely, confidently, & efficiently.

Toronto’s arts scene gets a boost with the Nancy & Ed Jackman Performance Centre

By

Ron Johnson

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12:09 pm

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Toronto’s artistic community has a new home with today’s grand opening of The Nancy & Ed Jackman Performance Centre. The new venue, developed through a collaboration between Tapestry Opera, Nightwood Theatre, and St. Clare’s Housing Society, aims to provide accessible and affordable space for artists amidst the city’s growing challenges of high living costs and scarce rehearsal and performance areas.

Located at 877 Yonge St., in the lower level of a St. Clare’s Housing building, the Centre is positioned within walking distance of five diverse neighborhoods and two major TTC subway stations. It is between Davenport Road and Alymer Avenue on the east side of Yonge in a stretch of Main Street that is not very well used considering it is located between the neighbourhoods of Rosedale and Yorkville.

The roots of the project can trace back to 2002, when Nightwood Theatre and Tapestry Opera first established themselves as residents of Artscape Distillery District Studios. In 2022, the closure of their space forced more than 70 artists and organizations to relocate, stripping the performing arts community of valuable office and studio spaces. And, pushing the historic nabe more and more into the territory of shopping centre and away from the arts. In response, the two organizations joined forces with St. Clare’s Housing to repurpose a social housing space into a vibrant new artistic venue.

nightwoodteam — L-R: Naz Afsahi, Managing Director, Nightwood Theatre; Andrea Donaldson, Artistic Director, Nightwood Theatre; Jaime Martino, Executive Director, Tapestry Opera; Michael Hidetoshi Mori, Artistic and General Director, Tapestry Opera

“Finding a home and a sense of belonging is vital in these challenging times, not only for Nightwood Theatre and Tapestry Opera, but for the many artists and audiences that will walk through the doors at The Nancy & Ed Jackman Performance Centre,” says Andrea Donaldson, artistic director of Nightwood Theatre. “We need spaces in Toronto that intentionally reach out for people to gather, that allow for creative dreaming, bold action, and courageous expression.”

The space has been designed with accessibility at its core, ensuring that as many people as possible can engage with the arts.

The venue will serve as a home for resident companies Tapestry Opera and Nightwood Theatre, featuring a range of performances in many disciplines as well as artist residencies, and community workshops. A special focus will be placed on equity-deserving artists, ensuring a broad and inclusive artistic representation. Programming will include theatre, opera, dance, and other boundary-pushing interdisciplinary works.

The Centre’s inaugural season kicks off with the Launch Concert with Tapestry and Friends on March 22, followed by Where the Spirits Sit, a Nightwood Theatre workshop production from April 3–5, featuring multi-disciplinary artist Tamara Podemski. Later in the spring, Sanctuary Song, an original one-hour opera for all ages, will run from May 9–25.

Dina Pugliese returns to host Breakfast Television alongside familiar face

By

Nisean Lorde

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10:26 am

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Just weeks after hosts Sid Seixeiro and Meredith Shaw were let go from Citytv’s Breakfast Television, the show announced on Monday that Dina Pugliese and Tim Bolen would be the show’s new co-hosts. Pugliese is already super familiar with viewers — she joined the popular morning program in 2006, replacing Liza Fromer, and co-hosting alongside Kevin Frankish until he announced his departure in 2018. Frankish was soon replaced by Roger Petersen, who, in 2021, was replaced by Seixeiro.

Pugliese moved on from the network in February 2023 but seems more than ready to return to her former position.

“You will find no one more surprised about this news than me. It’s crazy how life works sometimes,” Pugliese — who will also serve as a co-executive producer for Breakfast Television — said on the program Monday morning.

“After two years of rest and recharging, it feels like I’m stepping back into a pair of comfy slippers. It’s such a gift to be able to return to what made my life meaningful for almost 20 years, connecting, sharing, and laughing with you, our BT viewers. I can’t wait to continue making mornings brighter together.”

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A post shared by Dina Pugliese-Mirkovich (@dina.pugliese)

Bolen’s also a familiar face. The former CHCH “Morning Live” host announced his departure from the station in January.

“Many incredible hosts have paved the way, and I feel truly privileged to add my name alongside them,” Bolen told viewers on Breakfast Television this morning, adding that the show has “set the benchmark” for morning television. “But the real pinch-me moment? Getting to co-host with the best in her triumphant return! I’ve admired Dina for years, and from the moment we connected, the TV spark was undeniable. I know we’ll turn that into a big yellow bulb of sunshine for audiences to wake up with.”

The rest of the Breakfast Television morning crew will include Melanie Ng, Frank Ferragine, Devo Brown, Tammie Sutherland, and Caryn Ceolin.

Viewers can watch Breakfast Television on weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 10 a.m. ET on Citytv.