Here is how Gen Z is revolutionizing this classic style trend in Toronto

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

Preppy fashion is back — but this year, gen Z is giving it a fun, equestrian edge. Follow in Bella Hadid’s footsteps and go full horse girl, or lean timeless and classic with all things preppy perfection. Jeanne Beker searched everywhere from the classroom to the stables for inspiration to source the best of prep in the city.

A. SADDLEBAG

“I like the simplicity of this, the minimal hardware and the shape of it. It looks really nice and compact and I love this Bordeaux red colour.” Uppdoo, $295, 916 Bloor St. W.

B. CROSSOVER BLAZER

“There’s a really elegant, ’40s-inspired look to this. The tailoring is exquisite, and it has an equestrian vibe to it with the crossover.” Smythe, $795, 1116 Yonge St.

C. PLEATED SKIRT

“At a midi length, these skirts can be so elegant. You can wear this with a blazer, a jean jacket, a chunky knit sweater — it’s a total classic.” Gravitypope, $315, 1010 Queen St. W.

D. BUTTON DOWN

“This is a great twist on a crisp white shirt with all the detailing. It gives a classic garment a kind of artisan feel.” Over the Rainbow, $310, 55 Bloor St. W.

E. RIDING BOOT

“This is a beautiful combination and such a nice colour. I like the straps. It looks like you’re ready to get on your horse!” Browns, $1,090, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

F. BARN JACKET

“This is a great, preppy look. This will do so well in your wardrobe because you can travel with it and it also acts a bit like a windbreaker.” Ralph Lauren, $398, 3401 Dufferin St.

G. RUGBY SHIRT

“I’m loving this rust colour for the season. This is a very bold, graphic rugby shirt that you can wear all year round.” Kotn, $148, 148 Ossington Ave.

G. CAP

“I love a little newsboy cap. What a fun hat that tops everything off and gives you a bit of attitude!” Simons, $60, simons.ca

H. FAIR ISLE SWEATER

“I love the colours in this. It looks like something you’ve had in your wardrobe forever. This pattern is so nice, and it has a great cut to it.” Gravitypope, $475, 1010 Queen St. W.

I. SILK SCARF

“If you really want to treat yourself, this is so classy and great for horse lovers.” Holt Renfrew, $670, 50 Bloor St. W.

J. SUNGLASSES

“I love the shape of these glasses. I have a pair of glasses that style, and I wear them religiously.” Warby Parker, $150, 684 Queen St. W.

K. EARRINGS

“If you want a statement earring with a bit of whimsy, these will show people you don’t take yourself too seriously.” 100% Silk Shop, $175, 1558 Dupont St.

L. LOAFER

“These are so incredibly comfortable with such a nice tread, and what an interesting texture on the leather.” Ron White Shoes, $595, 55 Bloor St. W.

M. PLAID COAT

“What a cosy coat. It’s so cuddly and nice and lightweight. I love the beautiful colouration, and it’s such a statement.” Hilary MacMillan, $265, hilarymacmillan.com

Here are 5 magical Christmas markets to visit near Toronto this holiday season

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Nisean Lorde

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12:45 pm

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The holidays are right around the corner, and browsing through festive Christmas markets for unique gifts is a beloved annual tradition for many. These markets are filled with handcrafted arts and crafts, cheerful Christmas carols, and delicious culinary treats, providing unforgettable holiday shopping experiences for the whole family! You don’t have to travel too far to enjoy them. Here are a few of the best Christmas markets in Southern Ontario:

Niemi’s Scandinavian Christmas Market, Mount Albert

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This Christmas, visit this magical outdoor market on a gorgeous Scandinavian family farm. It’s just under an hour from Toronto but you’ll feel like you’ve entered a northern European city! Stroll through a real-life Christmas land filled with pine trees, lights, and festive decorations. Discover local vendors offering handmade Finnish gifts that are sure to impress your friends and family. Taste delicious treats at the cozy Scandinavian bakery before embarking on a meet-and-greet with Santa in his workshop! Don’t forget to hop on the Christmas Train — it’ll bring you around the magical farm to meet the farm animals while listening to the Christmas Story. Begins Nov. 15, every Friday and Saturday until Christmas, 12:00-8:00 p.m. Select activities require tickets, check website for more details. 18463 Highway 48, Mount Albert, Ont.

Cambridge Christmas Market, Cambridge

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With over 100 local artisans, crafters, and craft-makers filling up over four floors at City Hall and the Cambridge Centre for the Arts — you’re sure to find the most perfect Christmas gift at this award-winning indoor market! Enjoy free live entertainment, traditional holiday music, and a giant fire pit lounge. Support local vendors by sampling seasonal treats from food trucks. Have your phone camera ready — Santa, Mrs. Claus, and ‘Willy Melt’ will be wandering the market, so you’ll want to capture a few pics for lasting holiday memories! Dec.14 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Dec. 15 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Admission is free. Cambridge City Hall (50 Dickson St) and Cambridge Centre for the Arts (60 Dickson St), Cambridge, Ont.

Sparkles, The Village of St. Jacobs

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Wander through a village filled with thousands of twinkling lights – you’ll feel like you’ve entered a true winter wonderland! Enjoy St. Jacobs’ many unique shops and eateries. Shop into the evening hours on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and take in the holiday festivities and entertainment! Traditional Christmas music will be performed by a strolling quartet of accomplished singers dressed in authentic Victorian costumes. Hop onto a festive horse-drawn trolley and take a charming ride through town, or warm up with a cup of cider by the open fire! Before you leave, bring your family and friends to Home Furniture to meet Santa, as he will be collecting Christmas letters! Nov. 14-17, Nov. 21-24. Admission is free. King St N, St. Jacobs, Ont.

Markham Home for the Holidays: Christmas Market, Markham

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Experience the true essence of Christmas at this beloved annual tradition! Take in the joyous atmosphere while shopping for unique handcrafted decorations and gifts (everything from jewelry to scented candles). Munch on freshly baked gingerbread, jams, jellies, and shortbread under thousands of twinkling lights reflecting off handmade stained-glass pieces. For Christmas carol lovers, the Baker Street Victorian Carollers will be back in full Victorian garb as they sing the classics. Nov. 15-17. Tickets: Adults: $14.00 Seniors: $12.00 | Youth: $3.00 | Children 12 and Under: Free. Markham Fairgrounds, 10801 McCowan Rd, Markham, Ont.

Christkindl “Christ Child” Market, Kitchener

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For four days in December, the streets of downtown Kitchener will transform into a traditional Christmas festival that dates back 700 years! Savour the sights, sounds, smells, and spirit of the Christmas festivals found in Germany. This annual market has more than 35,000 visitors each year and was named one of Ontario’s “Top 100” festivals and events (you won’t want to miss it). This year, you’ll discover Christmas trees in Carl Zehr Square and on Gaukel St near Charles St. Stop by to get a photo and see the dazzling lights! Dec. 5-8. Admission is free. 200 King Street West, Kitchener, Ont.

Kids in the Hall’s Mark McKinney on new TV show, his SNL stint and his greatest fear

By

Ron Johnson

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11:53 am

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Acclaimed actor, comedian and all around funny guy, Mark McKinney, of Toronto sketch comedy troupe The Kids in the Hall and Superstore fame, has a new TV show on CTV all about hobbies and the fanatical community that partakes. Mark McKinney Needs a Hobby airs on Wednesday nights.

What inspired the creation of this new show dedicated to hobbies?

It was a gradual realization. I remember walking on the Danforth and just passing a hobby store and remembering that I was into models and toy soldiers when I was a kid. The next thing I knew, I was out $150 worth of models, and I still haven’t taken it out of the bag. That was four years ago, but two years ago was a writers’ strike, and there was just this quiet, and it was like, “Well, who am I when I’m not working?” And I realized I needed a hobby from my original hobby, which was improv comedy.

And do all these groups have their own quirky communities?

Oh yes. You go birding and you meet all the birders. They all showed up. They turned up at this regular meet-up in Hamilton called Birds and Beers that you’ll see in the episode. And you know, the medieval re-enactors go out three or four times a year and they go to Italy. They all go together and they build armour and teach each other sword fighting.

Any other interesting ones?

The barbershop quartet people. They all have day jobs. But they have this outfit called the Aristocrats, and they travel to these big conventions and talk about community. Did you know that there’s an 80-acre summer spot up north that is called Harmony Ranch, and it’s entirely populated by people who do barbershop quartet singing?

Were there any you considered taking up after the show?

Well, I put the birding app on my phone. I would love to get back to sing with the Aristocrats. I’m really interested in following up singing and dancing and bodyboarding in the waves. It’s kind of like when I was on tour with Kids in the Hall. Every time we go to a city I’d be in, like, you know, Columbus, Ohio, wow. What a great place. You know, you find something interesting, right?

What was the most challenging?

They were all kind of interesting ones and difficult ones, but probably puppetry. We went to Ottawa for the International Puppet Festival. I think that that was a little challenging because my performer nerves kicked in.

What are you hoping people take from the show?

Well, I hope it’s entertaining. And I hope I draw people into considering hobbies. I think it’s a fantastically healthy thing. I hope people just like the interaction and the play and that it is something worthwhile to lean into.

Saturday Night Live just had its 50th anniversary. What was it like being a part of that iconic show?

Starting from my very first exposure to it, which was, like, I was working at a Second Cup in Toronto. I was 25 and one week, and the next week I was at SNL giving notes on my sketch to Madonna. It was endlessly thrilling, often terrifying. I went once as a writer, and then I went back after Kids in the Hall as a performer. It’s a hard show to do, but it’s like, whenever you meet anyone who’s worked at SNL, you have a kind of secret handshake or look, because we have this thing, this fantastic career-making thing.

All right. Now I have just a few kind of short answer questions for you. What was your first job?

If you take out babysitting and, you know, yard work as a teenager, it was actually working at these huge government buildings in Quebec after I flunked out of high school. Later on, my early favourite job was repairing used pianos in Calgary. And I also drove for Dial-a-Bottle.

What’s your great extravagance?

Wasting time playing video games.

What is your greatest fear?

Embarrassment.

What Torontonian would you most like to hang out with?

Maybe Catherine O’Hara, she’s from Toronto right? I also think it’s cool to hang out with Drake, because I think he did improv comedy, and I bet we’d get off because we both played the Rivoli back in the day.

Where do you send visitors to the city for the first time?

I think Kensington Market and Little Italy are unique. When I’ve recommended friends to just walk around there, I haven’t had a bad report.

Air Canada just dropped its list of best new restaurants and three are from Toronto

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Jennifer Schembri

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9:46 am

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Air Canada’s 2024 Best New Restaurants list is here, and Toronto is taking centre stage. Out of the 10 restaurants selected, three are in the 6ix, proof that Toronto’s food scene is a serious contender on the national stage.

Taking second place is Mhel, a Korean-Japanese fusion gem by Seung-min Yi and Young Hoon Ji. Known for its open kitchen and show stopping purin (Japanese crème caramel), it’s a place that’s rethinking the boundaries of flavour

Close behind in fourth spot is Takja BBQ House, an elevated Korean BBQ experience that also earned Air Canada Best New Restaurants’ Sides of the Year for its bold banchan, which include spicy kimchi and crunchy mustard greens.

Rounding out the list of Toronto spots is Craig Harding’s Bar Prima, a retro-inspired eatery that also earned Air Canada’s Design of the Year. With its throwback glamour, creative cocktails and expertly executed dishes like beef tartare with fermented chili and bone marrow cream, it’s become known as a spot where old-school style meets new-school technique.

So which Canadian city beat out Toronto for the top spot? That coveted honour went to Sabayon, a Montreal restaurant led by pastry chef Patrice Demers and sommelier Marie-Josée Beaudoin. Known for its intimate, seasonally driven dining experience, Sabayon is a masterclass in fine dining. Maison de Soma, a farm-to-table destination in Mont-Tremblant, takes third place, where nearly every ingredient on the plate is grown on their 600-acre property.

Other winning cities on the list include Victoria, St. Catharines and Vancouver.

The list highlights Canada’s evolving food scene, with restaurants selected for their creativity, quality, service and overall experience. Tara O’Brady, an award-winning cookbook author and culinary journalist, visited over 30 restaurants across 16 cities, from Newfoundland to Victoria, to curate the 2024 picks.

“Every restaurant I visited told an eloquent story about its community, championing local ingredients and diverse culinary traditions,” says. O’Brady.

For the full list of wining restaurants, visit Air Canada’s website.

Dear Sangita: I’m engaged to a married man

By

Julia Mastroianni

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2:01 pm

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Sangita Patel is Streets of Toronto’s advice columnist and was previously an entertainment reporter with ET Canada. She lives in Toronto with her husband and two daughters.

Dear Sangita: I’m engaged to a married man. He was supposed to have mailed in the paperwork before he proposed to me, but I found out after that some documents were missing when he did. We started looking at wedding venues and found a spot we both liked. We put the deposit down — but now I don’t want to get married. He hasn’t even taken the time to get divorced or make an effort to do something about it! I did tell him he had to be divorced before we got engaged. Was I wrong for calling off the wedding? — Duped by divorce

Dear Duped: You can’t even get married legally right now, so you made the right call! I will say, I know people who are going through a divorce, and it takes a long time — some people have been doing it for five years. It doesn’t sound like he’s just sitting there twiddling his thumbs; there might be something happening making it difficult to get the divorce finalized.

Instead of saying you’re going to call off the wedding, maybe it can be more of a conversation about how you can work together to get him through the divorce and finalize it so that the two of you can move on with your lives. Right now, I don’t think you should be booking vendors. Take your time — it’s a lot to process mentally, the fact that he’s just coming out of a divorce and also engaged to you.

You mentioned that you told him he needed to get divorced before the two of you got engaged — the fact that he wasn’t up front about that with you, I wonder if he’s afraid to talk about it with you. I completely understand if you feel like you don’t want to deal with it, but that’s the thing about marriage; you’re taking on the good and bad of your new partner. By choosing to be with this man, you’re choosing to take on everything that he has in his life, too.

Regardless, he does need to get these divorce papers finalized for the two of you to start this life together. Hopefully an honest conversation between both of you will help that.

Dear Sangita: I have a question about dealing with stubborn senior parents.My mom is 75 and a full-time caregiver to her 85-year-old common-law partner who is my stepfather. He has three useless kids who won’t help. The only time we see them is at Christmas when they come with their hands out. Their dad always gives them money. His daughter then whispers to my mom what a jerk she thinks her father is. Recently my mom has had some health issues. She needs cataract surgery and someone to take care of her while she recovers, plus someone to take care of my stepdad.

My question has to do with how to help my mom. I have written down the name of every nursing home and home care option in our area and given it to my mom, but my stepdad refuses to let any home care come in to help. My mom wants to stay in a nursing home for a month to recover, but we can’t afford this. I’m a disabled adult on government assistance. I can’t afford to pay for a nursing home, but I have offered to come take care of both of them for free. My stepdad won’t allow it, and my mom stubbornly says, “I can’t let you do that.”

I’m an only child and trying my best to help. I’m so stressed out, worried sick and at the end of my rope with this. I don’t know what to do. Or how else to help. Am I going about this situation wrong? I want the absolute best for my Mom but I feel like I am dealing with two very stubborn people. — Stubborn seniors

Dear Stubborn: The fact that your mom is saying she wants to go away to her own nursing home suggests to me that she knows she needs help and can’t be caring for your stepdad at the same time. She may just not be ready to admit that to you yet — that’s something I have experience with as my mom has taken on the role of full-time nurse for my dad and is still hesitant to ask for help. But you’ve done everything you can, providing resources and so kindly offering up your own help. Take some of that stress and pressure off of yourself and let your mom come to you. At the end of the day, when and if your mom needs help, she will ask. All you can do is let her know that you are there for her if she needs it.

What you can do now is get your stepsiblings involved. Lay out the situation for them, and see if you can work anything out — it’s completely fair for you to ask them if they can go visit your mom and their dad. I know you say they haven’t done this in the past, but now that both your parents are sick, now is the time to say, we need to work as a team to help them out. If those siblings can’t be there physically, that’s OK — every sibling has a different role in these situations. One could be taking parents to appointments, one could be helping more financially. But everyone needs to play a part; this can’t all be on you.

I understand your stepdad’s stubbornness about getting help. But it’s worth having a conversation with him to see if he’d be willing to at least try home care — it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. He may not know what that experience will actually be like until he tries it.

The best way to approach these conversations is with openness — it’s about figuring it out together, both with the siblings and with your mom and stepdad.

If home care is what you and your family choose, I hope you can find a government assistance program that makes the option more financially viable.

Have a question about love, relationships or life for Sangita? Send it to [email protected] or submit it here.

More from Sangita:

Dear Sangita: I snooped through my partner’s phone and I found something concerning. The question is: Do I go back into his phone to see if he’s still talking to people? Or do I admit to my boyfriend that I snooped and ask him straight out if he’s still using it?

Dear Sangita: My friend is obsessed with her dog, and it’s getting to be too much. She invites us all to her dog’s birthday parties, and she often will turn down invites from us because she “needs” to stay with her dog. I’ve spent a lot of money on gifts for this dog and I’m tired of it. Am I being unfair?

Dear Sangita: My New Year’s resolution is to break up with my awful boyfriend and start dating his best friend! His best friend is just a much better fit for me. Neither of us have acted on it, but I want to. How do I do this without breaking up their friendship?

The 10 Best Concerts in Toronto this month not featuring Taylor Swift

By

Ron Johnson

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1:53 pm

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Bruce Springsteen one of top concerts in Toronto this month — Bruce Springsteen (photo: Raph_PH)

November’s lineup of concerts in Toronto is here featuring everything from rock legends and indie darlings to boundary-pushing artists. Whether you’re ready to belt out “Born to Run” with Bruce Springsteen at Scotiabank Arena, catch the soul-stirring harmonies of Ocie Elliott at Massey Hall, or lose yourself in the genre-defying magic of Sturgill Simpson (now Johnny Blue Skies), this month is a feast for your ears and your musical soul. And hey, if intimate shows are your thing, don’t sleep on Carol Ades at the Drake Underground – trust us, you’ll want to say you saw her when. November’s got something for everyone, and you don’t want to miss a beat, ahem.

Nov. 6 Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band are bringing their tour to Scotiabank Arena. Finally! Bruce Springsteen, affectionately known as “the Boss,” is one of rock’s most iconic and enduring artists. For over five decades, he has captivated audiences worldwide. Accompanied by the E Street Band, his longtime backing group, Springsteen’s live shows are legendary.

Nov. 7 Kacey Musgraves

Ok, looking for an artist similar to Queen Taylor Swift but a bit more country than pop? It doesn’t get better than Kacey Musgraves, who is playing Scotiabank Arena in support of her Deeper Well. She is joined by two incredible opening acts in Nickel Creek and Lord Huron.

Nov. 14 Ocie Elliott

Straight Outta Vancouver Island, Ocie Elliott brings their lush harmonies and soulful vibes to the venerable Massey Hall. The Victoria, BC-based duo are amidst their biggest tour to date on the heels of the release of the single “Adelina.” The Ocie Elliott vibe is ideal for Massey Hall and its legendary acoustics. Should be a great show.

Nov. 16 Life Is a Carnival

The Band is one of the most legendary and acclaimed musical groups, well, ever. And it all started right here in Toronto. What better way to take a look back then to head to the “Life Is a Carnival: Last Waltz Tour 24” at Meridian Hall . The star-studded lineup at this concert promises an unforgettable musical experience. Headlining the tour are artists Ryan Bingham, Jamey Johnson, Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench (Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers), Don Was, John Medeski, Terence Higgins and many others. These talented musicians will bring the Band’s legendary 1976 final concert to life, paying tribute to the original Last Waltz event, which culminated with a memorable rendition of Marvin Gaye’s “Baby Don’t You Do It.” The show will run for four hours, offering a nostalgic and exhilarating musical journey.

Nov. 16 Adrianne Lenker

One of the great American singer-songwriters of the last decade thanks to her work with her band Big Thief, Adrianne Lenker also has an incredible solo career. Lenker released her fifth solo album Bright Future earlier this year. She checks in the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on the Exhibition grounds on Nov. 16 for this show.

Nov. 22 Ombiigizi

Ombiigizi brings their electrifying blend of alt-rock futurism to the Monarch Tavern this month in support of the Anishinaabe-Canadian band’s new album. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable night where experimental sounds meet powerful storytelling—this is the show that’s bound to make an impact.

Nov. 21 Sturgill Simpson

Sturgill Simpson, known for his boundary-pushing sound and independence, is bringing his “Why Not?” tour to Massey Hall in Toronto. This concert marks his return to the music scene under the new moniker Johnny Blue Skies, coinciding with the release of his highly anticipated album, Passage Du Desir. Fans of Simpson’s genre-blurring music won’t want to miss this evening at Toronto’s iconic Massey Hall.

Nov. 26 Pat Matheny

Pat Metheny, the legendary guitarist with 20 Grammy wins across 12 categories, will grace Massey Hall on Nov. 26, as part of his Dream Box / MoonDial Tour. Audiences can expect an unforgettable night featuring his masterful playing on over a dozen guitars, alongside captivating stories spanning his nearly 50-year career.

Nov. 26-29 Tokyo Police Club

One of Canada’s most popular bands throughout the 2000s, Tokyo Police Club is signing off for good but in grand style with four shows at History. The high-energy band started as a bunch of Newmarket high school kids and took on the world with their infectious live performances and pop-punk hooks.

Nov. 27 Carol Ades

Swept up in the wave of incredible female singer-songwriters beginning with Phoebe Bridgers and including the likes of Lizzy McAlpine and many others, Carol Ades doesn’t quite get the same attention. But maybe she should. She is an immense talent, with a breathtaking voice and a penchant for poignant and honest songwriting. But, the good part of her not hitting it big just yet is that we can still see her in one of the city’s best intimate venues, Drake Underground. Worth a trip to Queen West for this one.

Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight Toronto’s must-see concerts and unforgettable performances each month.

Another steak house is opening in Toronto — this one promises a new experience

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:17 pm

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Steakhouses in Toronto are popping up faster than Taylor Swift can sell out a stadium tour. There’s The Steak Pit, the freshly minted Linny’s, and the soon-to-launch Sammarco from celebrity chef Rob Rossi. Now, Charles Khabouth of Ink Entertainment — the visionary behind sleek spots like Akira Back, Pink Sky, and Ultra — is adding Animl to the mix.

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While Toronto’s dining scene is a battlefield for standing out, Animl aims to cut through the noise, vowing to “redefine the art of dining” with a mix of sophistication and primal allure.

Replacing Hyde Social, Animl brings a refined concept that celebrates indulgence and elegance and, according to Khabouth, marks a new era for Toronto steakhouses.

“We created a discreet and cozy space, moving away from traditional, massive steakhouses,” he says “Animl is about redefining the concept, offering an elevated journey from the interior design to the overall experience.”

The steak house is promising to flip the script on classic fare, serving up modern twists on the favourites, including dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood and sides that are indulgent enough to make you blush.

At the helm is executive chef Marc Cheng, a local talent shaped by his stints at the award-winning George and other Toronto faves like Patria and Clio. Growing up in the 70s and 80s, he brings a nostalgic edge to his modern take on the classic steak house.

Joining Cheng as chef de cuisine is Michael Degrazia, who brings over two decades of experience to the table, including a notable stint at AloBar.

As for the design, Animl invites you to unapologetically come as you are. The interiors will whisk diners back to the opulent excess of the 1970s — think bold animal prints mingling with rich dark and cherry woods, crafted to “encourage exploration and indulgence.” The exotic interior oozes glamour, paying homage to the spirit of the Art Deco era, the party days of Studio 54 and the extravagant lifestyle of the 1970s, all thanks to the vision of Nivek Remas, the Toronto-based studio known for its work on Planta Queen and the Shangri-La penthouse.

Animl will open its doors on November 15 at 420A Wellington Street W. and will operate Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The cocktail bar will be open nightly until 2 a.m. For more details click here.

From pavlova to cheese fondue: 8 retro dishes making a comeback in Toronto

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Jennifer Schembri

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10:49 am

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In a city where culinary trends shift faster than you can say ‘avocado toast,’ Toronto is suddenly getting cozy with nostalgia. From classic devilled eggs to retro shrimp cocktail, a wave of old-school dishes is making a return, proving that sometimes it’s the familiar flavours that hit the hardest.

Here are eight retro dishes making a comeback in Toronto.

Baked Alaska at BlueBlood Steakhouse

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It was French chef Charles Ranhofer who famously put the baked Alaska on the foodie map when he created the delicious concoction while working at renowned New York eatery Delmonico’s in the mid-19th century. The show-stopping dessert was introduced by Ranhofer (to much fanfare) to celebrate the U.S. purchase of Alaska in 1867. At Blueblood Steakhouse, the showstopper is the table-side baked Alaska for two, featuring rich dark chocolate ice cream and zesty raspberry sorbet, all topped with a berry Prosecco truffle.

Shrimp cocktail at Prime Seafood Palace

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Shrimp cocktail, that retro appetizer dripping in nostalgia, has been winking at diners since its heyday in the 1960s. A staple of cocktail parties and fancy dinners, it perfectly captured the era’s obsession with glamour and indulgence. Served on a mound of ice and paired with a tangy cocktail sauce, this dish was less about the shrimp and more about the spectacle. At Matty Matheson’s swanky Prime Seafood Palace, the shrimp cocktail brings the classic into the modern age with NK shrimp from Argentina, skewered and poached to perfection, then served chilled with a punchy spicy cocktail sauce.

Pavlova at Cafe Renée

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The pavlova has a rather aristocratic origin. The dreamy dessert was named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova during one of her tours to New Zealand or Australia in the 1920s — the originating country of its creation has apparently been a source of contention between the two nations for decades. Not to be confused with a similar egg white creation, meringue (which is dry and crisp throughout, whereas the pavlova has a soft, marshmallowy centre), the elegant cake is then topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. At French hot spot Café Renée, the Fresh Berries Pavlova is a dreamy dessert that features a vibrant compote of strawberries, blueberries, and Saskatoon berries, all enveloped in a light, airy meringue.

Devilled eggs at And/Ore Restaurant

Deviled eggs were once known as the quintessential party snack. Originating in ancient Rome, where boiled eggs were seasoned with spicy sauces, they transformed into the retro crowd-pleaser we know today during the 19th century. By the time the 1950s rolled around, deviled eggs had become a staple at cocktail parties. Traditionally made with hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise and mustard, they were often sprinkled with paprika for a burst of colour. Queen West spot And/Ore serves up devilled eggs that are anything but ordinary. On the snacking menu, these bites are elevated with a topping of soy, chili, cilantro scallion, and crispy wonton, transforming the retro classic into a flavour-packed treat.

Bananas Foster at Hy’s Steakhouse

In 1951, a New Orleans restaurant owner challenged his talented chef Paul Blangé to create a dessert using bananas — at the time the city was the major port of entry for the imported fruit, which was being shipped from Central and South America. The result was the deliciously sinful bananas Foster that’s made with a decadently rich sauce and then dramatically torched right at your table. Along with perfectly grilled steaks, the bananas Foster at Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar stays true to the original recipe: ripe bananas are sautéed with butter, brown sugar and fresh orange juice and then flambéed with dark rum and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cheese fondue at Beerbistro

Cheese fondue, the ultimate comfort food for cold nights, has roots that stretch back to Switzerland in the 18th century. Originally a dish for farmers, it combined leftover cheese and stale bread, melted together to create a hearty meal perfect for the cold Alpine winters. By the mid-20th century, fondue had morphed into a symbol of communal dining, especially after a wave of Swiss restaurants began popping up across North America. Today, cheese fondue is experiencing a renaissance, with chefs experimenting beyond the classic. Beer Bistro’s cheese and lager fondue is a mouthwatering blend of aged cheddar, Emmental, and Gruyère, perfectly paired with a rich lager for a flavourful twist.

Beef Wellington at Black+Blue

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Beef Wellington, originally named for British war hero Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, has long been a symbol of luxury dining. Though its exact origins are murky, the dish — a perfectly seared filet wrapped in mushroom duxelles, crêpe, and puff pastry — became a fine dining classic by the mid-20th century. Today, Toronto’s high-end spots are bringing it back for the masses. At Black+Blue, Beef Wellington for two is a lavish affair, with truffle jus, baby heirloom carrots and pommes purée — a reminder that some classics never go out of style.

Coconut cream pie at Scaramouche

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Originating in the 19th century, coconut cream pies combines rich coconut custard with a cloud of whipped cream, making it a must-have at summer BBQs and family gatherings. But now? It’s back with a vengeance, with a new generation of chefs taking on its retro glory. Toronto’s Scaramouche has become a go-to for those looking to indulge in this old-school treat. Known for its coconut custard, clouds of Chantilly cream and a rain of white chocolate shavings, it’s then finished with dark chocolate sauce.

Here is how to buy your own bona fide ‘Taylor Swift Way’ Toronto street sign

By

Nisean Lorde

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9:50 am

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Taylor Swift street sign — Instagram/TaylorSwift

The City of Toronto, in partnership with Rogers, unveiled new “Taylor Swift Way” ceremonial street signs to be installed this month. You can find the signs along the route connecting Nathan Phillips Square to Rogers Centre (along Queen St W, John St, Front St, and Blue Jays Way) in honour of Swift’s upcoming “The Eras Tour” shows in the city. In August, Council voted 21 to 1 in favour of Councillor Jennifer McKelvie’s motion to temporarily rename the route of streets to celebrate the artist.

“Taylor Swift will make the whole place shimmer at the Rogers Centre in concerts that Swifties will remember forever and always. These honorary signs created in partnership with Rogers will never go out of style and will support the Daily Bread Food Bank’s important work here in Toronto. It’s our way of following Taylor Swift’s lead of generosity to the communities she visits,” McKelvie said in a statement.

The 22 street signs will be donated to the Daily Bread Food Bank at the end of the month to raise money for the organization through auctions (Rogers will match funds raised of up to $113,000 – a nod to Swift’s lucky number, 13).

The online auction for the “1 Taylor Swift Way” street sign and six other Swift signs kicked off today and will run until Nov 10 at 11:45 pm (five more signs will be released for auction each Monday in November). That means, you can own a piece of the Taylor Swift Eras Tour history by winning one of these bids! As of publication, there is a bid of $2500 (and rising) for the 1 Taylor Swift Way street sign, but other signs are a bit more affordable (the lowest bid for a Taylor Swift Way sign topper with John Street sign currently sits at $300).

“It’s our honour to welcome Taylor Swift to Toronto for nearly a Fortnight of music and magic. We hope fans are Enchanted by their walk down ‘Taylor Swift Way’ and will generously support the auction of these signs – each a keepsake for Evermore that will help a great cause,” Mayor Olivia Chow said in a statement.

Swift will perform sold-out shows across two weekends in Toronto: Nov 14, 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23. She’s be the first artist ever to perform six nights at Rogers Centre in a single tour, and her concerts are expected to bring in well over $280 million to Toronto’s economy.

Her impact on the city is so significant that Rogers recently completed an $8 million upgrade to its 5G network at Rogers Centre, which will deliver three times more 5G network capacity throughout the stadium (this is critical, as past Eras Tour experiences indicate that thousands of fans will likely be livestreaming at Swift’s concerts). Tons of Toronto businesses are also prepping for their Taylor Swift moments, you can read more about that here.

Toronto just got a new immersive cocktail bar serving Mediterranean-style tapas

By

Jennifer Schembri

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12:28 pm

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Mention cocktail bars to most Torontonians who frequent the scene, and a few names are bound to come up: BarChef, Civil Liberties and the award-winning Bar Pompette are just a few favourites, with plenty of others on the tips of tongues. Enter Maaya, a new late-night haunt that’s shaking up the Toronto cocktail scene with immersive drinks and upscale bites, all rooted in ancient philosophies.

Opened just a few short months ago, Maaya offers a moody and dark vibe that sets the perfect backdrop for its immersive cocktail experience. Picture red velvet chairs lining the expansive bar, marble countertops gleaming under dim lights, and vibrant, mysterious decor that perfectly reflects the bar’s theme of illusion.

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Maaya’s menu features a range of sharable plates inspired by both Eastern and Western cultures. Begin with the chicken karaage — crispy, soy-citrus-marinated bites — and pair it with the tuna ceviche, topped with creamy avocado and sweet mango.

Other dishes worth noting include the lamb chops seasoned with Asian spices and served with mint and cardamom yogurt and the grilled red garlic shrimp marinated in a fragrant ginger-garlic sauce. And you can’t leave without trying the truffle fries—crispy, indulgent and the perfect sidekick to your cocktails.

And you haven’t truly experienced Maaya until you’ve indulged in one of their delicious drinks.

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At Maaya, cocktails aren’t just drinks; they’re immersive stories designed to transport you. The star is the saffron spice cocktail, a visually striking creation that ignites in a theatrical flourish. With a sweet mango finish, it’s the ideal way to kick off an exciting night.

For those who prefer traditional flavours, the smokey trails cocktail is a must-try. Served in an eye-catching wooden box, it features mezcal infused with hickory syrup, delivering a smooth, smoky experience that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico.

Perfect for Toronto’s classy crowd, Maaya features smooth jazz with live saxophone music every Saturday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The bar is located at 244 Adelaide St. W..

Yorkville’s bakery scene just got a chic Parisian upgrade

By

Jennifer Schembri

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11:35 am

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Serving as a sort of entrance to the Yorkville neighbourhood, Paris Baguette, the City of Lights-inspired bake shop invites guests to take a bite of some of France’s best exports: pastries.

Located at 110 Bloor St. W., Paris Baguette opened its doors to the streets of Toronto earlier this month, serving up indulgent pastries, sweet treats, colourful cakes and rich baguettes in a warm, European-feeling setting, combining elegance with a modern twist.

“The Yorkville neighbourhood, in the heart of Toronto’s bustling downtown core, offers a vibrant and diverse community,” says Cathy Chavenet, chief marketing officer at Paris Baguette. “It was the ideal location for Paris Baguette’s flagship café offering guests a truly unique bakery café experience.”

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Paris Baguette aims to bring the European concept of a bakery as a community hub worldwide, with over 4,000 locations globally.

Founded in 1988 by Hur Young-in in South Korea, the bakery grew from his father’s 1945 shop. After studying in the U.S., Young-in blended French-inspired pastries with Asian influences, rapidly expanding the brand across the globe.

Inside, the sweet and savoury fare lends itself to French culture, promoting the idea of meeting friends at a café bakery for a satisfying bite, a warm drink and a good conversation. However, the centre island where customers grab their own pastries could use a rethink — there are just too many hands touching too many items, which makes the process feel a bit chaotic.

Founded in 1988 by Hur Young-in in South Korea, the bakery grew from his father’s 1945 shop. After studying in the U.S., Young-in blended French-inspired pastries with Asian influences, rapidly expanding the brand across the globe.

And opening the bakery brings more than just goodness at the storefront: To celebrate the café’s opening, Paris Baguette donated $5,000 to Second Harvest, Canada’s largest food rescue organization. At the grand opening on Oct. 4, Laura Buzzelli, Second Harvest’s manager of new business development, accepted the donation through a check presentation, and the partnership between the bakery and the charity is ongoing.

So far, Chavenet says, the response from the community has been positive.

“Guests have been enjoying a mix of our signature favourites, including our buttery, flaky croissants and soft cream cakes alongside seasonal offerings like our pecan tart, maple pecan layer cake and pumpkin danish,” she says. “We’re always exploring innovative ways to enhance our menu and introduce exciting new items.”

Toronto’s new winter village brings s’mores huts, curling lanes and cozy fire pits

By

Jennifer Schembri

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10:40 am

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holiday market 1 — @stacktmarket/Instagram

Set your alarms! Holiday Hills is back at Stackt Market on November 15, ready to become Toronto’s ultimate holiday hangout.

From indie markets to art installations, killer food pop-ups and prime photo ops, Stackt is going all in on holiday vibes with a fresh, modern twist.

Expect some serious upgrades: new art, expanded installations and community-focused events are all on deck.

“Holiday Hills will provide a vibrant celebration showcasing over 100 local vendors and international brands, unique shopping opportunities, immersive experiences, and tantalizing culinary adventures,” says the Stackt team.

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Here’s a rundown of what to look forward to at Holiday Hills 2024:

Tunnel of Lights: Kick off your night with a stroll through a dazzling 100-foot-long light tunnel, complete with a CN Tower backdrop for those perfect Instagram shots.

Branded Pop-Ups & One-of-a-Kind Gifts: With over 100 businesses on board, including local faves and exclusive pop-ups from brands like GLAD, KIND, and Samsung, there’s no shortage of holiday finds here. Kensington Flea and Table Market are also curating seasonal vendor markets for that perfect, homegrown gift.

Live Entertainment: Look out for holiday-themed performances, family-friendly shows, dog-friendly events and even surprise visits from Santa.

Gaming Zone: Stackt’s winter patio, covering 5,000 sq. ft., is packed with curling lanes, cozy fire pits, s’mores huts and interactive brand experiences.

Speakeasy & Culinary Delights: Dig into festive eats from top Toronto vendors like Kong’s Tacos, Fat Bao, Sunday’s Pasta Lab and Courage Cookies. Plus, seasonal cocktails at the Speakeasy Whiskey Bar will keep the chill off as you wander.

Community Programming: From weekly parent socials and live comedy to karaoke nights and music showcases, Holiday Hills has activities for everyone, including Family Sunday Funday with all-day kid-friendly programming.

Interactive Workshops: Over 20 hands-on sessions where you can get crafty with local pros like Let’s Make It, perfect for those who want to make their own holiday gifts.

Belgian Moon Brewery is back as the go-to spot for cozying up with a seasonal brew or hanging by the fire, making it an essential stop along the Holiday Hills route. The daytime vibe is family-friendly and relaxed, but by night, things heat up for an amped up, younger crowd.

Holiday Hills takes over Stackt Market at 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto, from November 15 to December 29, with a special opening at 4:00 p.m. on the 15th. The festival runs daily from 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., except on Mondays and best of all, admission is free!