There’s a new food channel ready to spice up your screen with a fresh twist on programming tailored to Canadian tastes. Now streaming on STACKTV, Flavour Network is serving up an exciting range of Canadian originals mixed with popular international and exclusive shows. Whether you’re a foodie who loves competitions or someone who enjoys experimenting with new recipes, Flavour Network is sure to satisfy every craving.
Launched earlier this year, the channel brings big inspiration, including a diverse and cutting-edge take on all things food, from nail-biting competitions to adventurous culinary tours.
On Flavour Network, you’ll find a lineup of familiar chefs, including global stars like Gordon Ramsay, Carla Hall and Adam Richman, alongside Canadian favourites, including celebrated pastry chef Anna Olson, restaurateur Mark McEwan and cook and TV host Eden Grinsphan.
And don’t worry, all your foodie favourites will be making a comeback, like Top Chef Canada Season 12 and Great Chocolate Showdown, alongside exciting new additions like Pamela’s Cooking with Love, where Pamela Anderson invites chefs to her stunning rural property on Vancouver Island. For a dose of comedy, comedian and actor Andrew Phung brings the laughs in The Big Burger Battle, where seven burger-obsessed cooks and chefs compete in the kitchen to prove who can become the world’s best Burger Master.
Other exciting new shows include Chasing Flavor with Carla Hall and Adam Richman Eats Britain, which will see the foodie embarking on a unique culinary tour of Britain, visiting places that share their name with a famous food, from Sandwich to Scone. In addition to food documentaries, cooking challenges, and travelogues, the network will roll out new content throughout the year.
Flavour Network is available to stream on STACKTV, so whether you’re at home or on the go, you can easily access full episodes of all your favourite shows. The best part? Everything is on-demand, so you can watch your favourite content whenever it suits you. Subscribe to STACKTV with a 14-day free trial on Amazon Prime Video.
Prime Minister Trudeau took a dig at the US (or, more specifically, President Donald Trump) after Team Canada beat Team USA 3-2 in overtime at the 4-Nations Face-Off Championship Game on Thursday night.
“You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game,” Trudeau stated on X after the win. The post garnered more than 260,000 likes and 40,000 reposts within hours.
You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game.
Trudeau’s quip comes after Trump’s repeated calls to turn Canada into America’s 51st state. The 78-year-old President has been referring to Trudeau as ‘Governor’ instead of Prime Minister and threatening to implement tariffs on Canada — and, so, the long-standing brotherly rivalry between the two countries has become quite sour in recent weeks. Canadians have been booing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at sporting events, and the Canadian anthem has received its share of jeers in return.
Prior to Thursday’s 4-Nations game in Boston, boos spread around the arena when singer Chantal Kreviazuk belted out “O Canada” (the Canadian artist even changed the line “in all of us command” to “that only us command” in response to Trump’s threats).
Due to the political tensions, everyone knew that winning this game would lead to some serious bragging rights (at least on social media). It was Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid (named game MVP) who scored the winning goal for Canada at 8:18 into overtime, breaking the 2-2 tie. Nathan MacKinnon (named tournament MVP) and Sam Bennett each scored a goal for the Canadians, while Mitch Marner had two assists. Jordan Binnington made 31 saves for Team Canada, including six in overtime.
After the game, Canada’s head coach Jon Cooper told reporters that Canada “needed a win”, and the players bore that on their shoulders, and took it seriously.
“This one was different. This wasn’t a win for themselves. This was a win for 40-plus million people. And the guys knew it, and they delivered,” Cooper said.
The team sang “O Canada” loud and proud after their victory, and it even seemed like some Americans were cheering (so perhaps the brotherly love still remains).
Singing O Canada loud and proud after winning the #4Nations Face-Off.
According to NHL.com, Canada won the gold medal at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, the 2004 World Cup of Hockey, the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, the 2014 Sochi Olympics, and the World Cup of Hockey 2016 (meaning, it won gold in six of the past seven best-on-best international tournaments).
The next best-on-best tournament will take place at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics.
Weekends in Toronto are always filled with activities, and this one is no exception. If you’re looking for things to do, there’s an outdoor craft beer fest, an urban art crawl and more!
If you’re looking for more things to do in Toronto, check out our Instagram page, @streetsoftorontodo.
Get fired up for SickKids
Courtesy sickkidsfiredupgala.com
On Friday, head to the Four Seasons for the second annual SickKids Fired-Up Gala in support of the hospital’s burn and plastics unit! This luxury black tie event features a cocktail hour with an oyster bar and silent auction, live entertainment, a four-course dinner, raffle and plenty of dancing.
Explore a light festival across the city
@downtownyonge/Instagram
Running all week and until March 2, the Downtown Yonge BIA is putting on interactive light festival Illuminite in the heart of the city. Travel around from Trinity Square Park to Yonge Street to Dundas Square and enjoy some fantastic light displays, including an 100-foot light tunnel.
Go on a walk in support of charity
This Saturday marks the Coldest Night of the Year—an annual winteriffic family-friendly walk and fundraising event in support of local charities all over the city and the country. Find your local walk and get ready to walk in the cold and raise some funds in support of Sistering, Red Door Family Shelter and more!
Get crafty at a beer festival
Courtesy craftbeerfest.ca
One of the hottest events for the coldest season, Winter Craft Beer Festival will light up your Saturday! Visitors can enjoy craft beer, wine, ciders and more from breweries across the province, along with a live DJ and an après ski dance party. Dress to impress (and to keep warm!).
See a one-person show premiere
Rachel Cairns’ Hypothetical Babymixes data and drama in an autobiographical work about abortion that premieres on Saturday. A vulnerable and irreverent one-person show, her performance explores both the personal and the societal factors around the especially timely top of the right to abortion.
Shop at an urban art crawl
Courtesy torontoartcrawl.com
The Toronto Art Crawl’s 8th annual Urban Exhibit will help you fight off the winter blues on Sunday with art, photography, sculptures, jewelry, fashion and more one-of-a-kind items from local vendors. Make a day of it thanks to delicious eats on-site and music from DJ Kid Artik!
Get your wedding planning done early
If you’re planning a wedding for 2026 or 2027, head to the Modern Bride Wedding Show this weekend and get some planning done early. Learn about the newest bridal trends, meet amazing photographers, decorators and cake designers and secure some show-only deals and discounts!
Take a tour of the winter stations
One of the upcoming Winter Stations, Watch by Trae Horne.
The Winter Stations are back all week until March 30, just in time to rescue you from the impending winter blues. Featuring some of the most incredible installations from international artists stationed across the east end beaches, make a trip out of visiting each one — previous favourites include Conrad, a larger-than-life tribute to a raccoon named Conrad that died in Toronto in 2015.
The trade wars may be on hold for now, but if we can thank Trump for anything, it’s for reminding us that it’s always a good time to support local. We’ve rounded up our favourite Canadian fashion brands, including many from Toronto, to make shopping local even easier.
Montreal-based cruelty-free, sustainable and vegan apparel brand Noize made a splash on the Canadian market when it launched over a decade ago. At the time, the idea of cruelty-free outerwear was true innovation, and at accessible price points, shoppers were sold. Though it’s their parkas, puffers, trenches and vegan leather coats that made them so popular, Noize also now crafts loungewear and other accessories.
Animal lovers, look no further than Ontario-based Wuxly: with jackets made from recycled, bio-based and animal-free materials, you can look good and feel good and, most importantly, stay warm. This company makes everything from parkas to fleeces to rain jackets in colour ways that stray from the usual neutrals for winter.
For luxury winter coats and jackets made out of shearlings, wools and leathers, Toronto-headquartered HiSO is the place. With a production facility in Europe, you can expect extremely high-quality outerwear that, while on the expensive side, will last you for decades to come.
Also a Montreal brand, but with a few stores in Toronto, Mackage has been making extremely (and we mean extremely) warm winter wear since 1999. Super stylish and made for everything from the slopes to the hiking trail, the brand is also known for their functional and fashionable footwear line and ski-focused apparel.
If you don’t know Toronto designer Hilary MacMillan, you should—known for her size-inclusive clothing collections (sizes range from XS-4X), her designs are always fun, fashion-forward and often very affordable. While we recommend everything from this brand, outerwear is where they shine: whether it’s a two-tone leather trench coat (always cruelty-free and vegan), a cropped printed puffer or a faux fur wrap coat, they always make a statement. Check out the website’s Canadian-made section for all Hilary MacMillan items that are guaranteed to be 100 per cent locally-produced.
As the name suggests, Province of Canada is an entirely Canadian-made brand, so you can trust that your new favourite crewneck or tee was manufactured here. Highlighting natural fabrics and with vintage-inspired designs that we love, this company makes everything from pyjamas and sweatsuits to overshirts and dresses. With two locations on the east and west end of the city, you can visit in-store for your loungewear needs.
A Canadian-made small business that produces locally in Toronto and Vancouver, Free Label is a frequent favourite for loungewear shoppers. With cute matching sets, super comfortable bras and plenty of choice when it comes to styles and colours, the brand also produces sizes 5X-XS, making shopping local even easier.
All products at Good for Sunday are 100 per cent made on Canadian soil; they mill, dye, cut and sew every garment right in Toronto. The brand offers stylish and often retro-inspired loungewear and casual wear—including an incredible collaboration with iconic ’90s healthy living brand BodyBreak.
Toronto-owned slow fashion underwear and loungewear brand Mary Young manufactures pyjamas, bodysuits, robes, lingerie and more in Montreal. Stocked at multiple shops in Toronto, including Loversland and Frock, you can pick out a new lounge set in person.
One of the original brands to take to upcycling before it was cool, Preloved hand-picks quality vintage clothing, deadstock or recycled fabrics, and uses sustainable manufacturing techniques to reimagine them into original preloved garments.
Handcrafted in small batches in their Toronto atelier, Opelle makes beautiful leather totes, handbags, crossbody bags and more in unique styles and elegant colourways.
Also based in Toronto, Pixie Mood offers a wide selection of vegan and cruelty-free handbags at affordable prices. Whether it’s a backpack for travel that you’re looking for or a dainty shoulder bag for a night in the city, you’ll find it here—and probably in an unexpected and fun shade.
Mother-daughter-owned handbag and accessories brand Ai is based in Toronto, though the team works with artisans in Seoul to craft their “sustainable luxury” pieces. The brand’s bags are fun and stylish, as are the many hair accessories, from hairbands to velvet scrunchies.
Made in Toronto, the architectural handbags of Sonya Lee are works of art in themselves. Perfect for the person who thinks nothing is better than an all-black outfit, these bags feature subtle detailing such as studded straps and drawstring tops.
A Toronto-based, award-winning accessories brand, Ela has expanded from handbags into jewelry and other accessories. Made vegan and cruelty-free, shop totes, crossbodies, work bags and more in beautiful colourways.
Bags made from apple leather? Say no more. The next step in vegan leather, Toronto-based bag brand Samara is truly innovative in their approach to sustainability. Also using some recycled ocean plastics, organic cotton, bamboo and castor seeds for other products, including loungewear and sunglasses, Samara says don’t just eat your plants—wear them too.
Built by animal lovers, for animal lovers, Toronto brand Espe creates completely vegan handbags with truly unique designs and a particularly impressive “weathered leather” look to some of their products that is the closest we’ve seen to the real thing.
Worn by Olivia Rodrigo, the Kardashians and more, designer Steff Eleoff’s pieces have inspired a new generation of avant-garde, futuristic and drippy jewelry in her style. From molten ear cuffs to spidery silver rings, the self-taught jewelry artist has put Toronto on the map with her statement pieces.
Originally from Vancouver, Lisbeth founder Sophie Alden now designs and manufactures her jewelry collections in Toronto. Either handmade in studio and produced by small family run companies, Lisbeth pieces are simple, elegant and minimalist.
When you see a Biko piece, you’ll know it—designed in Toronto by founder Corrine Anestopoulos, her unique pieces are inspired by nature, contemporary art, architecture and travel. Expect chunky bangles, architectural hoops, funky shapes and more.
Made by hand in Toronto, Par Ici jewelry is unique and colourful, often featuring coloured glass elements and mixed metals. Inspired originally by founders Eve Tobolka and Alynne Lavigne’s obsession with vintage jewelry, wearing a pair of earrings or necklace from here will have people asking you, “Where did you find that?”
Designed and handmade in Montreal, the vintage lace statement jewelry found at This Is Ilk is as unique as it is gorgeous. Delightfully lightweight, these often floral and nature-inspired pieces will satisfy the itch for dangly earrings without hurting your earlobes.
A Vancouver-based eventwear brand with a shop in Toronto, Park and Fifth has quickly become the go-to for bridesmaid dresses, wedding guest wear and more in Canada and beyond. With prices that beat out many of the competing event dress shops across the pond and the promise that each piece is manufactured locally, you can be dressed to impress, and with pride, at your next event.
Montreal eponymous brand Eliza Faulkner is feminine, fun, whimsical and oh-so-fashionable. Each piece is a work of art—especially the flouncy, flowy and incredibly comfortable dresses ranging from wedding-ready to perfect for a picnic in Trinity Bellwoods.
Founded and designed in Vancouver, A Bronze Age crafts each piece made-to-order. The brand’s dresses are especially stunning, often featuring oversized puffed sleeves and tiered skirts.
Based out of both Toronto and Australia, Silk Laundry prioritizes natural fabrics and is most recognized for the brand’s eye-catching prints. Ranging from paisley to flower petals and abstract leaping rabbits, the dress designs are often 90s-inspired in shape, sleek and form-fitting.
Toronto fashion designer Fumi Egbon crafts eclectic, colourful and sophisticated dresses and casual wear through her brand Fumi the Label. Her beautifully structured dresses stand out, featuring ruffled details, monochromatic elements and stunning knit fabrics.
Founded by Toronto novelists and friends Claudia Dey and Heidi Sopinka, each Horses Atelier piece is designed and sewn in downtown Toronto. Featuring oversized coats, coveralls, full skirts and balloon sleeve blouses, there’s a bit of vintage inspiration behind each beautifully made garment.
Founded and designed in Toronto by sisters Chloé and Parris Gordon, Beaufille’s minimalist designs are ultra-sophisticated and the epitome of “cool girl.” Having dressed top celebrities including Solange, Lady Gaga and Selena Gomez, you’ll be in good company if you invest in a piece from here.
Markoo, founded by Toronto friends Tania Martins and Mona Koochek, embodies all things cool, casual and effortless. The brand, which releases small collections that focus on quality and design over quantity, draws inspiration from pre-2000s subcultures.
We’ve all tasted Pai’s mouthwatering dishes, but who knew they were serving up music too?
The Michelin-recommended Thai restaurant just released an original album to celebrate its 10-year anniversary. Written and produced by Toronto composer and musician Jamie Ruben, the Pai Toronto album is an ode to the restaurant’s origin story.
It is widely known that owner/ chef Nuit Regular and her husband and business partner, Jeff Regular, named the restaurant after a backpacker town in Northern Thailand called Pai, where Nuit grew up, and where Jeff met and fell in love with her.
What is lesser known is that while the couple continued to live there in the early 2000s, they would often go out to hear live music performed by local and travelling musicians. In particular, they would attend a bar called be-bob where they met a travelling musician from Toronto named Jaime Ruben.
Ruben was living in Pai himself at the time, playing a regular gig at be-bob as well as other local bars. The Regulars greatly enjoyed his music and the three of them became friends, and eventually reconnected in Toronto, when Ruben moved back in 2010.
“We bonded over our shared experience,” he says. “They had always talked about wanting to bring me into play at their restaurants and in 2021, I began a weekly gig with my trio at their Pai uptown location.”
Jeff and Nuit Regular
“We thought it would be such a full circle moment to have him play at our uptown location. Every Thursday night he brings back another touch of that spirit of Pai that we love so much. The first time we watched him play on our stage in front of our “be-bop” sign, the nostalgia was incredibly sweet,” the couple wrote in an Instagram caption, announcing the album.
The Regulars felt that Ruben’s music perfectly encompassed the vibe and energy of both Pai in Thailand and Toronto, so when he pitched the idea of putting together a “Pai Toronto” album, there was no hesitations.
While it’s not uncommon for restauranteurs to host live music performances in their restaurants, or thoughtfully curate a soundtrack in the background, it is rather unheard of for a restaurant to produce its own music.
In the 1980s, American restaurant chain Waffle House did it — launching its own Record label called “Waffle Records” and producing mostly food-themed songs that didn’t perform particularly well. Though not original music, Hard Rock Cafe produced a compilation album featuring various rock musicians in 1990. And in 1998, neo soul musician D’Angelo produced a live album featuring live recordings from his performances at The Jazz Cafe venue and restaurant in London.
What Pai has ventured to do is arguably closest to the latter example. The album features four original tracks, which can be heard on vinyl at listening stations at both Pai’s uptown and downtown locations, or purchased for $15.
Ruben’s career includes writing background scores for television and film, and he says that writing this album was much like that — a collaborative effort “to write a soundtrack to Pai.” He describes the sound as bluesy, with world music and reggae influences.
All elements were recorded live, using remote sessions to involve contributing artists outside of Toronto. Twelve musicians are credited, including Ruben, Nuit and Jeff Regular themselves (Nuit contributed backing vocals), as well as Jeff’s brother Joel Regular and his daughter Trinity Jae Regular who did lead vocals. Also featured are Juno-nominated Toronto bassist Bret Higgins, and Toronto drummer Jon Hyde, both of whom often join Ruben’s Thursday night gig at Pai Uptown.
In total, 500 records were produced for the initial run, and will be followed by a digital release, starting with the first single “Sweet Spice,” which will go live on streaming services on February 28. The album cover features the word “Pai” written as a neon sign in both English and Thai.
“It’s a different kind of strategy for putting out music, but it’s done very earnestly and creatively,” says Ruben.
“We are so proud of Jamie’s work. It’s mostly instrumental but if you are curious to hear Chef Nuit’s singing voice, you just might be able to find it on this album,” wrote the Regulars proudly on Instagram.
You can find listening stations featuring the album at both Pai restaurants, at 18 Duncan St. and 2335 Yonge St.
Research shows that culinary activities like “trying local food and drink” are key drivers of travel to Canada, and Toronto’s multicultural food scene is a paradise for foodies looking to sample the best in fine dining!
Google reviews and social platforms remain some of the best ways to help travellers uncover trending restaurants and one-of-a-kind dining experiences, even before travellers book their trips. With this in mind, Travelbag, a company that offers tailor-made holiday packages, compiled a list of 50 cities worldwide and analysed their Instagram and TikTok data to find the most popular foodie destinations on social media. Toronto not only took second place, but it is the only Canadian city to appear in the top 10, making it one of the most sought-after destinations on social media for food lovers around the globe.
Toronto has the highest number of TikTok posts (145,600) among long-haul destinations with the location hashtag ‘#torontofood,’ and 2,600,000 Instagram posts under the location hashtag. Toronto also beats Melbourne, Australia (ranked third in food-related social media posts) when it comes to the types of cuisine available in the city, boasting 103 cuisines overall (compared to 100 for Melbourne), including traditional Canadian dishes like poutine, Michelin-starred sushi, Asian-inspired cuisine and Taiwanese food, Greek food, Turkish spots, and much more!
“For food lovers visiting Toronto, key areas to explore include Kensington Market, known for its multicultural street food and artisanal delights, and the Distillery District, which offers a mix of trendy restaurants and cafés housed in historic buildings,” Travelbag researchers noted.
Sushi Masaki Saito
London, England stands out as the top foodie destination on social media, with 3 million Instagram posts tagged ‘#londonfood’. London is tied with Melbourne for the highest number of food-related Insta posts but dominates all other cities on TikTok, with 163,500 videos using the same hashtag.
When analyzing the list for the top 10 ‘long-haul’ destinations for foodies to visit in 2025 — ranked on metrics like the variety of cuisines, dining affordability, number of food and drink activities in each location and their popularity on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok — Toronto still ranks second, boasting 40 food and drink activities and an average cost of a meal for two equalling about $118!
Based on the above-mentioned metrics, Toronto trails Melbourne — the Aussies boast more Insta posts (3 million) and slightly less TikTok posts (118,500) tagged with food-related hashtags, but offer 78 food and drink activities (the average cost of a meal for two down under costs about $102). In third spot is Dubai, which provides 61 cuisines and leads in food and drink activities with 106 options. Although social media posts are fewer in Dubai (2,100,000 Insta posts and 127,900 TikTok posts with food-related hashtags) compared to Toronto and Melbourne, the average meal price is $107.
Amid a flood of new eateries that open each week, a few manage to rise above the rest. From an Indian-style pizza joint to a spot boasting traditional Italian cuisine,here are 11 of the best new restaurants to check out in Toronto this week.
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.
2. Elements Restaurant
@neboske_couple/Instagram
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
7. Arada Bar and Restaurant
This Ethiopian/Eritrean restaurant offers an authentic dining experience, due in part to the menu that features the bold and flavourful dishes from both cultures. The menu includes traditional meals like injera, a sourdough flatbread and rich stews such as doro wat (spicy chicken stew) and tsebhi (beef stew), common to both Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. Ethiopian dishes are often known for their unique spicing with berbere (a spicy chili blend), while Eritrean dishes feature the use of niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter) for deep, aromatic flavours. The restaurant also serves various vegetable stews like misir wat (spicy lentils) and shiro (chickpea stew). 965 Bloor St. W.
What was once a hidden pizza shop has now transformed into Enoteca 89, a vibrant space that’s buzzing by day as a coffee shop and pizzeria and comes alive at night as a wine bar, restaurant and bottle shop. With the same passionate ownership, it’s not just a place to eat, but a community hub that invites you to experience something new at every visit. Enoteca 89 now serves traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas throughout the day. In addition to a popular truffle pizza and a unique pear and gorgonzola option, there’s also a weekly chef’s choice pizza, inspired by seasonal ingredients. Enoteca 89’s menu also features a variety of share plates, including two types of arancini balls (beef and mushroom), oven-baked meatballs, focaccia and more. 2196 Bloor St. W.
A beyond stunning North York restaurant serving mouthwatering Turkish cuisine has finally opened. Dishes include crispy, thin, and flavourful freshly baked lahmacun, topped with a perfectly spiced minced meat mixture, fresh herbs, tomatoes and aromatic spices. The spot is perfect for everything from upscale and romantic dinner dates to special occasions, while offering traditional Turkish cuisine brimming with bold flavours and fresh ingredients. 4700 Dufferin St.
A collaboration with Eva’s Original Chimney, Guerrilla Burgers are must-try vegan burgers “approved by carnivores,” so you know they’re good. On the menu, you’ll find everything from juicy burgers (obviously) to creamy mac and cheese and even vegan milkshakes in irresistible flavours like Oreo, chocolate peanut butter and mango. The dessert menu is just as exciting, offering everything from vegan ice cream and sundaes to a delicious vegan apple pie. 55 St. Clair Ave. W.
Chao Lay Thai Seafood BBQ brings the flavours of Thailand to Toronto, blending the laid-back beach vibes with bold BBQ and seafood dishes. Chef Chao Lay, a former photojournalist turned chef, drew inspiration from his travels and passion for food to create this unique spot. After over a decade of culinary experience in Toronto, he wanted to capture the essence of Thailand’s coastal cuisine and share it with the city. 809 St. Clair Ave. W.
The music of The Tragically Hip, one of Canada’s most iconic musical groups, will be featured in a new musical production. Producers David and Hannah Mirvish and Michael Rubinoff have announced It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken, a new production featuring the band’s iconic songs, set to debut in 2026.
With a book written by Brian Hill and Ahmed Moneka, the musical will follow the story of a family struggling with long-held secrets, finding peace and resilience through a tight-knit group of friends in Toronto’s Kensington Market. The production aims to capture the spirit of The Tragically Hip’s music, which has been a defining element of Canadian culture for decades.
The project is being developed in collaboration with Thousand Islands Playhouse and The Creative School Chrysalis at Toronto Metropolitan University.
The Tragically Hip, a band that tragically lost iconic singer Gord Downie to cancer in 2017, expressed enthusiasm for the project.
“Some of the country’s best theatre makers have come together to create a show that honours our music,” the band said in a statement. “It’s exciting to see our songs interpreted in a new way that will continue to connect audiences while supporting a compelling story for the theatrical stage.”
Producers David and Hannah Mirvish emphasized the band’s cultural significance, stating, “The Tragically Hip are a foundational part of Canadian culture and music. We are thrilled to support a musical that uses their music to tell a wonderful and uniquely Canadian story.”
Rubinoff, known for producing one of the most popular Canadian musicals in history, Come From Away, echoed the sentiment, calling the project “a dream.” “The Tragically Hip’s music has had a huge impact on me and millions of others, transcending generations and people from all walks of life,” he said. “This musical is an opportunity to not only honour the band’s legacy but also celebrate their glorious music.”
An open casting call for the production will take place on March 9 at The Creative School Chrysalis at Toronto Metropolitan University in Toronto.
Osheaga Music and Arts Festival is back for its 18th edition, and it’s shaping up to be one of the best summer music festivals of the year. From Sug. 1-3, Montreal’s Parc Jean-Drapeau will be the site of a festival that has become the place to be for many Toronto music lover thanks to an unbeatable lineup of chart-topping artists, genre-defying performers, and unforgettable festival moments.
Headlining this year’s festival are The Killers, Tyler, The Creator, and Olivia Rodrigo, each set to deliver show-stopping performances that will leave the crowd buzzing long after the final encore.
For the first time in years, Osheaga has revealed its entire lineup at once, and it does not disappoint. Festivalgoers can expect performances from a mix of superstars and rising talents, including Gracie Abrams, fresh off her world tour with Taylor Swift, Doechii, FINNEAS, Glass Animals, Cage The Elephant, Dominic Fike, The Chainsmokers, Jorja Smith, Amaarae, Jamie xx, Lucy Dacus, and Shaboozey. Osheaga boasts 87 acts set to take the stage.
Making history this year is Shaboozey, the first artist ever to perform at both Osheaga and LASSO Montréal—proving that genre lines are meant to be blurred and great music knows no bounds.
Meet the Osheaga Headliners
The Killers – Kicking off Friday night, the legendary indie rockers will bring their characteristic sound to Montreal with hits such as “Mr. Brightside” and “Somebody Told Me.” Expect a stadium-worthy performance that will have thousands singing along under the stars.
Tyler, The Creator – Taking centre stage on Saturday, Tyler brings his signature blend of bold beats and introspective lyricism. Fresh off the release of CHROMAKOPIA, he’s set to bring a one-of-a-kind energy to the Osheaga crowd.
Olivia Rodrigo – Closing out the festival on Sunday is one of the biggest pop stars on the planet. The Grammy-winning pop sensation will deliver a powerful performance featuring fan-favourite hits such as “drivers license,” “good 4 u,” and “vampire.”
Osheaga has always been about more than just international superstars—it’s a platform incredible homegrown talent. This year, 21 Canadian artists will take the stage, including a number of Toronto artists led by the beloved local band The Beaches.
Three-day festival passes go on sale Feb. 21, at 10 a.m.
The future is grim for former fashion district Queen Street—or at least that’s what the team behind popular Vancouver streetwear brand Reigning Champ thought when they decided not to renew its lease on the strip. The location suddenly closed up shop this month, and their reasoning points to a growing problem for what used to be a major retail hot spot in Toronto.
“It’s not necessarily a shopping district anymore, with a lot of the closures on the street,” an employee at their remaining downtown location on Ossington said of the explanation they received from their district manager regarding the closure.
The Reigning Champ employee pointed to H&M, Zara and Adidas as examples of retail shops that recently shut their doors on Queen West. H&M closed one of its original Toronto shops on the street in 2023, while Zara closed in late 2024, leaving just its Eaton Centre location downtown. Adidas also decided not to renew its lease in 2024, and Anthropologie recently closed its massive Queen Street store.
“The business decision was just to not renew the lease they had previously from 2017. The fact that Queen Street itself is going to become more under construction due to the subway to be installed there soon was also a factor,” the store employee said.
“We’ve outgrown the space and are looking to pursue new opportunities that align with our growth strategy,” a representative from Reigning Champ explained in a statement to Streets of Toronto.
These comments from the streetwear brand reflect a growing discussion in the city around the future of Queen West. What used to be a cultural and shopping district that drew tourists and residents alike has transformed into a shell of its former self. Some commenters have blamed the very big box stores that are currently shuttering their doors for the change, noting that it’s difficult for independent shops to survive on the street thanks to massive chains taking over the spaces and more easily being able to swallow exorbitant commercial rent costs.
Reigning Champ, founded in Vancouver in 2007 and quickly rising in popularity through collaborations with major brands, still has a downtown location at 41 Ossington Ave. as well as a pop-up that has since turned permanent in Yorkdale Mall. Aritzia acquired Reigning Champ in 2021 as part of their foray into the menswear market, purchasing a 75 per cent stake in the brand.
Reigning Champ confirmed that there will eventually be a new location elsewhere in the city. “We are actively looking for new spaces in Toronto and will continue to serve our loyal Queen West clientele through our Ossington and Yorkdale locations.”
The Bloorcourt neighbourhood might have felt the loss when Overpressure Club closed, but the downtime didn’t last long. The same team has now returned with a fresh vibe, reopening the spot as Gochu Libre Kantina.
Also behind the Dundas West hot spot Project Gigglewater, the team has taken influence from the neighbourhood to combine Mexican and Korean flavours at the new restaurant.
@marbletrend/Instagram
“We wanted to fit better in the neighbourhood and being in Koreatown, we wanted to have a Korean element,” says owner Alfred Siu. “This was one of the many concepts we thought about before opening up the space as it combines some of my personal favourites of Mexican and Korean food.”
The name itself shows this combination with “Gochu” being the Korean word for “chilli” to represent the dishes’ heat and flavour while “libre,” meaning “freedom,” pays tribute to the Mexican wrestling style of Lucha Libre.
“The ‘k’ in Kantina is a nod to the Korean culture,” adds Siu, who’s juggling it all after going into partnership on a third restaurant, Dundas’s Dzô Viet Eatery.
@gochulibre/Instagram
Gochu Libre Kantina still captures the essence of Overpressure Club, blending elevated flavours with a laid-back, casual atmosphere.Diners can still relax at the marble bar top or settle into the leather couches beneath the brick accent wall. In anticipation of the upcoming Grand Opening celebration, Siu mentions that Gochu Libre Kantina will be refreshing the décor with more Mexican-inspired wall hangings and adding extra greenery throughout the space. And, he teases, a ceiling mural might even be part of the plans in the works.
One thing Sui does know is the restaurant’s patio this summer will be a go-to spot in Toronto for feasting on tacos and margaritas. Following last year’s patio rebuild, this summer, it will boast more inviting and picture-worthy decorations including colourful flags.
“We never aim to be super pretentious,” says Siu. “We just want to be a casual spot that fits really well into the neighbourhood.”
As for the menu, 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.
@gochulibre/Instagram
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.
Like those found at its sister bar, the cocktails at Gochu Libre are creative, innovative and not-to-be missed. Highlights are the Seoul Jeju, a citrusy vodka drink with Korean pear and the Poblan Sour, which offers a mild though flavourful kick with a touch of cinnamon and coconut rum.
And if you’re craving a taste of the beach to escape the snow, Gochu Libre serves up three killer margaritas, all $5 off during power hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily.As Gochu Libre Kantina gears up for its grand opening, they’ll be adding more items to both the Power Hour and regular menus, including a wider selection of alcohol-free cocktails.
“I don’t think there are many Mexican-Korean places so we’re hoping with the amazing quality of food and cocktails, it will really appeal to the neighbourhood,” says Siu.
After years of discussions about high-speed rail between Toronto and Quebec City (with worries that these plans would lead to little to no results), Prime Minister Trudeau just announced plans for ‘Alto’, a high-speed rail network in the Toronto-Quebec City corridor.
This rail network is expected to transform the megaregion, which is home to 18 million people (including over 700,000 students, and more than 30 colleges and universities) and responsible for about 40 per cent of Canada’s GDP.
Introducing Alto: Canada’s largest infrastructure project ever — connecting nearly 20 million Canadians between Quebec City and Toronto with 300km/hour high-speed rail.
Passenger rail service in Canada currently runs on tracks owned by freight rails, which often leads to longer service times. Once this high-speed train is operational, travel times will be slashed by about 45 per cent, getting passengers from Montréal to Toronto in about three hours (the average travel time from Toronto to Montreal by VIA Rail is 5 hours and 8 minutes, notwithstanding any delays).
“Today’s announcement will put passengers first,” Transport Minister Anita Anand said at the press conference this morning, emphasizing the passenger-focused design of Alto. “This will cut train travel times in half. It will promote growth in regional economies and reduce emissions at the same time. It’s a nation-building project we can all be proud of.”
Alto will be Canada’s largest-ever infrastructure project, boosting the GDP by up to $35 billion annually, creating over 51,000 jobs, and enhancing productivity for decades to come.
According to a government statement, Cadence — an alliance of experienced Canadian and international private partners with expertise in large-scale transportation infrastructure — was selected to co-design, build, finance, operate, and maintain this project. Cadence will support Alto as work begins on the design phase, consultations, land acquisition, and the environmental assessments needed to enable construction.
Possible Delays
Construction on the rail is expected to begin after the design phase is complete, and that could take a few years — and there could still be further delays or the possibility that the project won’t be implemented. According to Trudeau, the government has committed $3.9 billion to the project’s co-development phase over the next six years, with an additional $371.8 million in funding from the 2024 budget. With a federal election taking place in or before October, a future elected government could potentially modify, delay, or even cancel Alto.
If implemented, the high-speed rail project would operate in a similar fashion to France’s high-speed rail network, which runs up to 320 km/h on a high-speed network linking towns across France (more importantly: it’s smooth and quiet, even at high speeds). And who knows, perhaps Also will inspire a high-speed train corridor between Toronto and New York.
