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One-of-a-kind event to revive dead Yorkville mall for one day only

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Cumberland Terrace is slated for redevelopment with a proposed three-tower residential and retail development, including a brand-new public plaza. The 53-year-old mall at 820 Yonge St has been considered ‘dead’ for years, with little foot traffic, despite being connected to several office towers and retail areas, with direct links to both the Yonge–Bloor and Bloor–Bay subway stations.

But this Saturday, the mall will be brought back to life for a few hours as part of a Liminal Assembly tour, led by founder Aryeh Bookbinder. Bookbinder puts on tours of dead malls and ‘liminal destinations’ across the GTA, which are meant to unravel childhood memories and “challenge the construct of time” (that is, people can feel nostalgic for something they haven’t experienced before).

On Saturday, March 1, between 2 and 5 pm, the group will attempt to bring the Terrace back to life as if it were 1985.

“NOTE: This is not a demolition party, nor an invitation for poor behaviour. As you would attend any other mall, we’ll be doing the same at Cumberland Terrace.
See you there!” Bookbinder said in a recent Instagram post.

 

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It seems that the event is sold out through Eventbrite, but it can’t hurt to go and support the local businesses, like BEAD-dazzled and the 25-year-old Cumberland Shoe Repair shop.

 

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Previous liminal tours included spots like the Chinatown Centre, Rexdale’s Woodbine Centre, and Mississauga’s High Point Mall.

Walking tours are usually 2 h long and cover about 5000 steps, with groups visiting five to eight liminal destinations. During the summer and spring, Liminal’s flagship tour takes place in the Annex. During the winter, Bookbinder offers a series of indoor alternatives, such as the PATH tour.

Crying is common on these tours (especially the Annex tour), perhaps due to the nostalgic factor, although Saturday’s outing seems to be all about supporting the businesses.

“100% buying some [shoe] polish there on Saturday,” an Insta user said under the Cumberland Shoe Repair post.

Here is what we know about Sabrina Carpenter’s two Toronto shows this year

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Sabrina Carpenter had a huge sold-out show in Scotiabank Arena last September thanks, in part, to her song of the year “Espresso,” which was streamed more than any other piece of music in 2024. The biggest pop star in the world who isn’t named Taylor Swift just announced a return trip to the city in 2025 and tickets will sell out in seconds. Here is what we know.

Carpenter has been vocal about her love for Toronto and let’s face it who doesn’t. She even visited a local record store last time she was here.  Carpenter will be back for not one, but two nights at Scotiabank Arena on Nov. 10 and 11. Joining her on stage will be special guests Ravyn Lenae (“Love Me Not”) and Amber Mark (“Lose My Cool”).

The Short n’ Sweet tour, named after her latest album, originally launched in September 2024 and wrapped with a three-night finale in Los Angeles. Now, after a European leg kicking off in March, she’s set to hit key North American cities—including New York, Nashville, L.A., and, of course, Toronto—in October and November.

Presale opens on March 4 at 12 p.m. (registration available via Sabrina Carpenter’s website), with general sales through Ticketmaster starting at 10 a.m. on March 7. Expect a frenzy—because Toronto fans won’t want to miss their second chance to see the “Espresso” singer live.

And, if you miss ticket sales, don’t worry grotesquely exaggerated resale tickets will be available moments later.

11 of the best new restaurants to check out in Toronto this week

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Amid a flood of new eateries that open each week, a few manage to rise above the rest. From a Middle Easter mecca to a spot brining Japanese dishes to the breakfast scene, here are 11 of the best new restaurants to check out in Toronto this week.

1. Hawa Beirut

Hawa Beirut brings the vibrant flavours of Lebanon to downtown Toronto with an upscale twist. Located on Adelaide Street East, the restaurant combines authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, premium shisha and live entertainment. The menu boasts luxurious offerings like truffle hummus, smoked lamb shank and flame-grilled lamb chops wrapped in edible gold leaf. This spot is a must-visit for lovers of Middle Eastern food and culture. 466 Adelaide St. E.

2. Bready

Bready, the popular bakery-café that started in Vaughan, has now expanded to King West, offering the same artisanal charm with a fresh new urban vibe. Known for their house-made sourdough, flaky pastries and gourmet brunch options, Bready brings together the best of bakery, patisserie and café culture under one roof. Try their signature buttermilk pancakes, indulgent Sabich Benedict or fresh salads, paired perfectly with locally roasted coffee. And don’t miss their decadent desserts, from ice cream sandwiches to indulgent Nutella pizza. 130 King St. W.

3. Tatsuro

 

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A new brunch spot in Leslieville is bringing Japanese-inspired dishes to the weekend breakfast scene. Highlights include housemade milk bread toasts, wafu pasta and specialty items like mochi waffles (moffles) and crispy karaage. Try the muffle a chewy waffle with butter and maple syrup, or the honey butter toast made with shokupan bread, whipped honey, butte, and salt. For a heartier option, the karaage moffle pairs fried chicken with mochi waffles, miso syrup and spicy mayo. With unique takes on Japanese breakfast staples, this new spot offers a fresh twist on brunch. 1378 Queen St. E.

4. HOJA Mi-Sua

 

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HOJA Mi-Sua has arrived in Markham, bringing authentic Taiwanese comfort food to the community. Featured dishes include  Mi-Sua  (Taiwanese vermicelli), braised pork rice (Hoja Lo-Bah-Png) and century egg with tofu. The cozy spot serves up rich, flavourful bowls of misua, perfect for powering through a busy day, along with crispy basil salted chicken and iced black tea. The restaurant’s charm comes from the hand-painted lanterns made by local kids, adding a cool, unique vibe to the place. 3235 Highway 7 E, Markham,

5. Rumeli

 

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Situated on Dufferin Street just steps away from G. Ross Lord Park, Rumeli is awash in gold and emerald tones but it’s the decadent chandeliers, intricate mirrors and green foliage that really bring the sumptuous, high-end quality to the interior design. Even the small details — white tablecloths, lap napkins, tableside lamps and cutlery placements — offer an air of elegance typically reserved for Toronto’s city centre. As one would expect from Turkish cuisine, the menu at Rumeli offers no shortage of grilled meats from steaks and lamb shanks to chicken chopstick and beef shish — and it’s all 100 per cent halal. North York has been showing instant appreciation for the restaurant’s special mixed platters which can feed the whole party at the table with a combination of textures and tastes found in lentil soup, Adana, findik lahmacun, chopsticks, oven-baked mushrooms and so much more. 4700 Dufferin St.

6. 612 Harlowe

 

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Step into the heart of Italy at the new downtown spot, 612 Harlowe. The menu reads like a love letter to traditional Italian cuisine with classics like caprese salad, mushroom arancini, tiramisu, chicken piccata and a pasta lineup that includes arabiata, linguine pesto and penne alla vodka. But just when you think you’ve got it figured out, the menu throws you a curveball with non-Italian items like chicken wings, miso salmon and corn steaks. 612 Richmond St. W.

7. Elements Restaurant

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Located on Richmond Street, Elements boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and an art-deco inspired design. The restaurant’s menu is a mix of global flavours, including mozzarella spring rolls and polenta fries. For something heartier, the spaghetti di mare features al dente pasta in a garlic and white wine sauce, loaded with calamari and shrimp, with other seafood option like shrimp fried rice and fritto misto.  21 Grenville St. 

8. B-Town Pizza

 

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A big hit in Brampton, B-Town Pizza has now expanded to a downtown location. Known for its Indian-style pizzas, the menu features unique pizza options like paneer, tikka chicken, butter chicken and even a fried chicken pizza topped with French fries and cheese curds — say goodbye to ordering a side of fries with your pizza. Beyond pizza, B-Town offers a variety of non-pizza dishes including pasta, poutine and French fries, plus indulgent desserts like lava cake and the traditional Indian treat, moong hawla. 13 Elm St.

9. Chillax Eatery & Mart

In North York, Chillax Eatery & Mart offers a fresh take on all-day breakfast and Asian fusion. Created by husband-and-
wife team Allen Li and Ning Jia, it combines delicious food with a unique grocery twist, just south of Yonge and Sheppard. he spot puts a unique spin on brunch, offering classic favourites with a fusion twist. The breakfast menu includes dishes like chicken and waffles. After 4 p.m., the menu transitions to Asian fusion options like salty egg yolk fried chicken wings and rice and noodles. Exclusive dishes at this location include the braised beef noodle soup and the mouthwatering basil n’duja ragu rigatoni. 4679 Yonge St., North York.

10. Gochu Libre Kantina

 

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Gochu Libre Kantina features an all-new lineup of unique offerings, crafted by the new executive chef, Rodrigo Salas-Aguilar, who brings his expertise in Mexican cuisine to the table. The menu boasts share plate and small bite options including the special ssireum smash fries — which is decadently topped with a red bean curry, tofu bulgogi and multiple salsas —and the crispy Korean fried chicken wings with homemade cotija ranch.n A beef bulgogi is among the options that can be found on the taco menu, which includes Korean-inspired twists on pulled pork and tempura cod. 815 Bloor St. W.

11. Sophia Turkish Restaurant

The team at Sophia’s Turkish Restaurant wants their customers to feel like invited guests at a party, and the vibe and food certainly live up to that expectation. Must-try dishes include the ezme, a blend of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, green peppers, and parsley, finely chopped by hand using a traditional half-moon knife. Follow that up with the Babaganough, a smoky roasted eggplant dip mixed with tahini, garlic, and lemon. For something a bit more indulgent, try the crispy Handmade Roll Borek, stuffed with creamy feta cheese for the perfect crunch. And no meal is complete without the Adana Kebab, spicy ground lamb skewers grilled to perfection. 302 Eglinton Ave. W. 

6 of the most romantic spots to propose in Toronto

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Wedding season is right around the corner — and of course, before the wedding comes the proposal! Toronto is filled with tons of intimate settings that are perfect for popping the big question, including scenic islands, gardens, museums, and even castles. Here are some of the most romantic spots in the city to propose.

Toronto Music Garden 

 

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This beloved garden is nestled on the waterfront and is one of the most enchanting locations in the city for a surprise proposal! The park design is inspired by Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1, with each dance movement corresponding to a different section of the garden. Propose to your partner while surrounded by an alley of native Hackberry trees and a grove of wandering trails. Head up the hillside toward the rocky vantage point that looks over the harbour and take memorable pics amidst the circle of Dawn Redwood trees! Address: 479 Queens Quay W.

Sheldon Lookout at Humber River

 

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This picturesque spot along the Martin Goodman Trail in Toronto’s west end provides an ideal escape from city life and is the most serene setting to ask for your partner’s hand in marriage.  The Lookout is within walking distance from Humber Bay Shores — bordered by the Humber River to the east and Lake Ontario to the south — so you’ll have the most gorgeous panoramic views of Toronto’s skyline! Head over at sunset and time your proposal against a backdrop of warm orange and pink streaks across the evening sky, or visit on a weekend afternoon and admire the fluffy white clouds against a clear blue vista — it’ll be a moment you and your partner will cherish for life. Address: Martin Goodman Trail, Etobicoke.

Polson Pier

 

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This pier is nestled in the Port Lands on Toronto’s waterfront, accessed via a small boardwalk. Street parking is somewhat lacking in the area, but many reviews suggest that this is one of the prettiest spots in the city for a gorgeous, unobstructed view of the Toronto skyline. Head over at sunrise or sunset and you’ll have the memorable proposal!  Address: 11 Polson St.

Toronto Island Park – Snake Island

 

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So, Snake Island may not sound like the most romantic venue for a proposal, but the view of the skyline from this lesser-known island is super breathtaking — your partner will be in awe. The Island boasts four fire pits and tons of picnic tables, so pack a bottle of wine and a romantic lunch and pop the big question amidst the lush trees and crystal-clear waters as you and your partner watch the sunset. Or head over at night and bend the knee beside a roaring fire while admiring the scenic view! The beach faces Toronto Harbour and can be accessed from the pedestrian bridge on the south side to Centre Island.

Adamson Estate

 

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This peaceful waterfront park is surrounded by landscaped gardens and historical architecture, with stunning views of Lake Ontario. The estate was originally a cottage built in the late 1800s, but it was transformed into a beautiful mansion by Grace and Charles Adamson in 1919. Today it serves as a public park and campus for the Royal Conservatory of Music, so you’ll have the most gorgeous engagement pics! Address: 850 Enola Ave, Mississauga.

Casa Loma

 

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Get engaged on the grounds of one of North America’s only castles, nestled in midtown Toronto! This historic venue is filled with charm and five acres of enchanting gardens, creating a magical backdrop for a proposal. Engagement shoots are accepted subject to availability, just make sure to contact the venue beforehand for more information. Address: 1 Austin Terrace.

Toronto’s favourite diner is serving all-you-can-eat pancakes for one day only

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With Shrove Tuesday just around the corner, we’re sure you’ve been craving the best pancakes in the city. Well, you’re in luck. One of the city’s oldest and most beloved diners is serving up all the flapjacks your heart (and stomach) could ever desire, but only for one day.

On Tuesday, March 4, The Lakeview is hosting its “buttermilk pancake marathon,” serving all-you-can-eat pancakes from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Expect endless stacks of soft, fluffy pancakes throughout the day and night. Since the diner’s open 24/7, you can always go back for a second (or third) round.

Open since 1932, The Lakeview has earned its reputation as the “handshake diner” thanks to its warm, 24-hour service and comforting menu. Located on Dundas Street West, it became a late-night staple and even appeared on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. In 2023, the diner closed temporarily for a revamp, with owner Fadi Hakim promising a fresh look and updated menu. The goal? To stay relevant for another 15 years by continuing to serve classic favourites alongside new, exciting options for both loyal regulars and newcomers.

No word yet on the price for this year’s all-you-can-eat pancake marathon, but last year’s event was priced at $17, with the option to add a strip of bacon for $4. Other all-you-can-eat options included indulgent toppings like peanut butter, Nutella + banana and strawberry banana.

Shrove Tuesday, or Pancake Day, is the ultimate pre-Lenten indulgence, all about feasting before the fasting begins. The name comes from the tradition of “shriving,” or confessing sins, before the solemnity of Lent. Originally, it was a way to use up rich ingredients like eggs, milk and fat before they were off-limits for the next 40 days. Today, it’s simply an excuse to eat pancakes.

For more details on the Lakeview’s one-day pancake fest, click here. And if you’re hunting for other spots to enjoy the best pancakes in the city, click here.

Newly rebuilt Toronto Island Café set to open by summer

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The rebuilding of the Toronto Island Café and Ward’s Island Association Clubhouse is moving forward as the project enters its second phase of reconstruction.  The Clubhouse, located just south of the Ward’s Island Ferry Docks, burned to the ground last year March after a fire broke out, destroying a popular spot that had been a gathering place for nearly a century.

The Island Café in particular, which had operated out of the Clubhouse, was well-known due to its fresh, locally sourced food and laid-back atmosphere. As a temporary solution, the Café has been operating out of shipping containers and wooden kiosks with an outdoor seating area and a washroom trailer — this was part of Phase 1 of rebuilding efforts, which focused on clearing the site and developing initial designs.

If all three phases of construction stay on schedule, the new Island Café and Clubhouse should reopen by this summer!

 

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Currently, structural work is taking place at the site as part of Phase 2, with a focus on laying the foundation of the new Clubhouse, improving visitor experiences, and expanding food and drink options. Key additions to look out for include a new bar kiosk with expanded seating and a liquor service area, a covered deck with heating, which will allow for extended seasonal operations, a stage for live music and cultural events (so locals can expect concerts throughout the summer), expanded washroom facilities, and a larger seating capacity, with a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Looking ahead — Phase 3 will focus on interior work, like kitchen installations, electrical systems, and final aesthetic touches.

According to the Toronto Harbour Leaflet, the design will preserve “the historic charm of the original building while incorporating modern, eco-friendly features.”

If you’d like to share your thoughts on Phase 2 plans, check out the community engagement session on Wednesday evening, Feb 26, 7-8:30 p.m., at the Algonquin Island Association Clubhouse (both in-person and virtual participation options are available).

Contact the Island Café for details to join in person or the link to joining virtually.

Toronto teacher with half a million followers uses music to teach people Italian

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Learning a language isn’t easy—but for followers of Frank Moyo, at least it can be really fun. The Toronto teacher and musician-turned-social media creator has gone certified viral on TikTok and Instagram for his one-of-a-kind songs teaching Italian, quickly garnering a following of over 800,000 across both platforms as fans clamoured for more songs.

The elementary school music teacher (whose full name is Francesco Muoio, but goes by Frank Moyo as a musician) first started recording himself during the pandemic, doing covers of popular Italian songs and making videos with his nonna, as well as putting out his own original music. But in 2024, he tried something different—Moyo recorded himself singing a song to his students that he composed about none other than Italian cheese.

“I love cheese, you love cheese, when it’s made in Italy! Mozzarella, parmigiano too, fior di latte, I love you,” goes the lyrics to the call-and-response earworm of a song. In the video, Moyo is seen practicing pronunciation of a list of Italian cheeses on the white board with his students—and he finishes it off with a sip from his espresso cup, of course.

The video went viral, with celebrities including Jennifer Garner reposting it and fans flooding his comments with requests for more. So Moyo obliged, composing viral song after viral song about everything from gelato to coffee.

While he says his original videos with his nonna and ones joking about Italian culture caught the attention of viewers in Italy (“When I went back to Calabria with my nonna, we were stopped every two feet and people were waving from balconies —it was like I was George Cloooney!”), his latest songs have reached fans from across the world.

 

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“Getting people from different cultures and backgrounds involved and interested in learning a new language through music is the most amazing part of all of this, and it really gives me the drive to continue,” Moyo says.

He’s especially proud to be reaching people through music—especially as someone whose interest in the art started at such a young age. “I started off at maybe three or four playing air guitar at family functions, and then by the time I was 11 I begged my dad to get me a guitar,” he says. “I started taking lessons from one of the older men in my neighbourhood at Dufferin and Eglinton; he was my grandmother’s neighbour.”

From there, he started writing his own music and learning different instruments, from piano to the accordion. He studied archeology in university and eventually went to teacher’s college and landed a job quickly as a music teacher. But through all of it, he’s had one major goal: to become a musician.

“I always wanted to do the whole rock star life and not work a nine-to-five,” he quips.

Now that dream is closer to a reality, thanks to his colourful compositions. Moyo recently released his Let’s go to Italy album, complete with 11 songs including the now-iconic “Cheese Song,” “Amo Mangiare (I Love to Eat)” and “The Wine Song (For the Grown-ups)”.

He’s also released some other original songs, including one called “Nonna,” written about the grandmother who has appeared in so many of his videos and his other grandmother who has passed away.

“She’s a huge, huge inspiration,” Moyo says of his grandmother. “We’re both kind of the black sheep of the family in that we’re both very artistic and creative.”

And while he dreams of pursuing music full-time, Frank Moyo is still thinking of his students—who he notes he’s always careful not to show in his videos.  “I want to show my students that if you have a dream, don’t stop believing in it.”

Want to dine like royalty? Matty Matheson is offering an elaborate feast for $5,750

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If you’ve been eyeing Matty Matheson’s renowned Toronto restaurant, “The Palace,” but the prices are a bit (okay, a lot) outside your comfort zone, his latest exclusive dinner inspired by a 15th-century French king might not be the moment to splurge either.

For one night only, Matty Matheson’s Prime Seafood Palace is hosting “An Evening with Louis XIII at The Palace,” featuring a meticulously curated multi-course menu by executive chef Coulson Armstrong. Expect a lavish spread of beef, seafood and more — all for a jaw-dropping $750 per person. And no, King Louis XIII won’t be showing up, but you’ll get a taste of the legendary Rémy Martin Louis XIII cognac to finish off the night in style.

Matty Matheson
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Anyone who knows anything about cognac (or even those who don’t) knows how expensive it can get. A 700 ml bottle of Louis XIII is priced at a staggering $5,302.05 at the LCBO. So, the $750 price tag for this exclusive dinner might not seem that outrageous when you factor in the multi-course meal — plus, it’s a rare chance to taste a drink most will never get the opportunity to experience again.

If you’re wondering what makes this drink so expensive, it’s all about the process. Rémy Martin Cognac gets its hefty price tag from years of meticulous aging, the blend of over 400 eaux-de-vie and its coveted Fine Champagne designation. Simply put, it’s luxury in a glass.

And if you’re sniffing at the $750 price tag because you think it’s not elevated enough, The Palace has something even more exclusive: an experience priced at $5,750 per guest. For that, you’ll not only indulge in a premium multi-course meal, but you’ll also take home a bottle of Louis XIII Cognac and a set of bespoke crystal glassware. Now that’s luxury.

For tickets or more details on this exclusive Matty Matheson event, head to OpenTable to reserve your spot.

Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner and wife expecting first child

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Mitch Marner and his wife had a baby on Sunday
Mitch Marner and Stephanie LaChance

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner may be on cloud nine after picking up two assists in Team Canada’s 3-2 overtime win over the US at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament last Thursday, but now the public is aware of another reason for him to celebrate — he and his wife Stephanie are expecting their first child!

On Sunday, Gaby McCabe — the wife of Leafs defenceman Jake McCabe — revealed the news on her Instagram story after sharing an image of a cookie adorned with blue icing alongside a card that read, “Oh Boy! Welcome Baby Marner[,] Love your Lady Leafs”, with the caption “We can’t wait to meet you” above the card.

GTA makeup artist Estelle Phillips also hinted at the news after posting a series of pics of the glowing mom-to-be on her Instagram page, with the caption “baby shower glam for our girl.”

 

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The Marners will join other Leafs couples who recently became new parents. Last August, Leafs defenceman Morgan Rielly and Olympic ice dancer Tessa Virtue welcomed their first child, McCormick Rielly (this was a few months after the couple announced that they were expecting in the cutest way possible), while Leafs defenceman Simon Benoit and his girlfriend became first-time parents in September.

As for Marner — he’s playing out his final year of a 6-year, $65,408,000 contract with the Leafs, with a cap hit of $10,901,333 per season.

The 27-year-old is having a fantastic season with the Leafs, with 16 goals, 55 assists and a total of 71 points in 56 games played. He’ll become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, but his future with the team is uncertain. NHL insider Bob McKenzie believes it’ll be unlikely he’ll renew with Toronto before becoming a free agent.

“Players like Marner are difficult to come by and if you don’t do well in the playoffs you gotta keep working at it, I know Leafs’ fans don’t like to hear that but I would try to sign him,” McKenzie said on Sunday night during the broadcast of a game between the Leafs and Chicago Blackhawks, according to HockeyFeed.

Wherever he ends up, Marner is thanking his loved ones for his success. After last week’s 4 Nations tournament win, he celebrated alongside with his wife and family, calling the moment “special”.

“It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to celebrate something really special, and hockey-wise, winning,” Marner said. “It felt really cool just to have them around me with how much sacrifice and effort they put in throughout my whole life to get me to the point where I am today.”

A new theatre production inside a Dundas West coffee shop opens this week

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There are hip indie coffee shops and then there are hip indie coffee shops that also host immersive theatre productions. And that’s the case with Dundas West’s Morning Parade coffee bar, which will play host to Performance Review, a new immersive theatrical experience from Outside the March (OtM), which is described as a bold, darkly comedic, and deeply unsettling journey through power dynamics in the workplace.

This one-woman show, written and performed by award-winning playwright Rosamund Small, unfolds in the intimate setting and was inspired by real events. The play marks Small’s return to the stage after seven years in television and education—and her debut as a live performer.

“Performance Review unfolds at Morning Parade Coffee Bar, for an audience of only 30 people. I love when we get the opportunity to connect with audiences in such close proximity,” said Mitchell Cushman, artistic director of Outside The March. “The smallest gestures can take on huge significance, and every moment of the experience is being thought through in those terms – each flourish of the cappuccino machine or ring of the door chime becomes integral to Rosamund’s storytelling.”

At its core, Performance Review is an examination of power, privilege, and vulnerability. The story kicks off with an unsettling act: a customer tipping a young barista an escalating amount of money—first $15, then $100, then $150—despite her knowing she’s not that good at making cappuccinos. What follows are seven intertwined vignettes chronicling the worst days at seven different jobs.

Small’s storytelling is immediate, unfiltered, and deeply personal. “There’s no intermediary,” she explains. “It’s honest. When I go to the theatre, I want to feel like the artist is really there with me. Like we give a shit about each other. And I want to have a good time. You’ll have a good time!”

Outside the March is no stranger to pushing theatrical boundaries, and Performance Review is no exception. Under the direction of Cushman, the production transforms a working café into a stage where the audience becomes more than just spectators. Coffee is served in real-time, blurring the line between fiction and reality. 

“Working site-specifically always has its bumps in the road. For Performance Review, we’re learning what it means to work “in rep” with the daily activities of a coffee shop – one that’s open seven days a week until 6 p.m.,” Cushman explains. “Normally, once we head into the final stretch for one of our projects, we’d be working 10-12 hour days to tech the piece. But this time around we’ve had to be particularly creative and compact in our thinking – since we can never be in the space for more than four hours every evening.

Performance Review has already created a buzz, selling out ahead of its opening night. Performances run from Feb. 27 to March 23 with doors opening at 7:30 PM. Organizers are working to add more seats, but for those who missed out, a waitlist is available.

For ticket availability and more information, visit Outside the March’s website.

James Beard award-wining chef raves about his visit to this Toronto restaurant

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Celebrity chef José Andrés is in Toronto and stopped by a restaurant famous for its impressive seafood towers.

The award-winning chef and restaurateur shared his visit to Fishman Lobster Clubhouse with his 1 million-plus Instagram followers.

 

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Andrés captioned the post, adding a smiling emoji. The carousel of images included everything he ate at the restaurant, including a shot of a man holding a giant crab.

Andrés is in town filming his new cooking competition series Yes, Chef!, which he’ll co-host with Martha Stewart. His followers were quick to suggest where he should visit next.

Fellow celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern was quick to chime in, writing, “Well, you made it to Fishman Lobster Clubhouse! I recommended that place to @marthastewart48 last week. I’d eat there every day.”

Others also chimed in with recommendations, suggesting restaurants like Quetzal, Bar Raval, and Beast Pizza, along with Toronto favorites like Koh Lipe, Edulis, and Aloette.

Andrés has been documenting his foodie adventures in Toronto, including a post on Facebook where he’s seen making sushi with fresh seafood from Oraishi Fish Co.

José Andrés, the Spanish-born chef, moved to the U.S. at 21 and quickly became a force in the food world. With multiple James Beard Awards under his belt, Andrés is renowned for his innovative Spanish cuisine. But he’s not just a chef — he’s a humanitarian too. In 2010, he founded World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit that serves fresh meals to communities hit by natural disasters. Andrés’ restaurant group spans 31 locations, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences, from food trucks to his  vegetable-focused fast-casual spots.

You can follow along with the chef’s Instagram to see where he’ll be eating next, including his latest foodie adventures in Toronto!

Here is the presale code to Neil Young’s Toronto concert this summer

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Neil Young
Neil Young

Legendary Toronto musician Neil Young is set to return to Toronto this summer as part of his highly anticipated Love Earth world tour. Fans can catch Young at Budweiser Stage on Aug. 17, where he will be joined by his band, The Chrome Hearts.

As one might recall, the last time Young played the Bud stage, it sold out in minutes, and tickets skyrocketed in price almost immediately. Well, if you have a presale code, the playing field versus the dreaded scalpers who suck the joy out of live music wherever they gather, might be levelled to some degree.

To that end, the presale code for the Live Nation ticket event happening Thursday, Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. is listed as DUET. Get there early, get your tickets and have your fun.

Young is also doing his part to end the scourge of ticket scalping, by using what is called Ticketmaster Face Value Exchange tool. But, apparently, that is not available in Canada. Of course, he could just demand that Ticketmaster stop the transfer of tickets for his show. A move initiated by a number of cool artists such as The Cure and Billie Eilish that drastically cuts down on scalping. So maybe he’s not all that progressive after all?

Toronto has always held a special place in Young’s heart. Having spent many years growing up in North Toronto, playing in and around Yorkville, before achieving international fame, he has frequently returned to perform in front of devoted hometown fans.

He is best-known for his timeless hits such as “Heart of Gold,” “Harvest Moon,” and “Rockin’ in the Free World.”  The “Love Earth” tour, named after his recent environmentally conscious album, promises a mix of classic anthems and new material that speaks to the artist’s ongoing passion for music and activism.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Feb. 28.