A drive-in drag show and movie is happening at this Toronto airplane runway

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2:01 pm

downsview-park_orig — Courtesy torontosocietyofarchitects.ca/Northcrest Developments

There’s drive-in movies, there’s drag shows, but what about a combined drive-in movie and drag show experience — where the whole thing happens on an airplane runway? If you’re looking for some summer entertainment this weekend, there’s a two-night Runway Reels event happening on the Downsview Airport Lands.

The event, which was created by Northcrest Developments in partnership with Drag Me To The Movies and the Inside Out 2SLGBTQ+ Film Festival, promises to transport attendees back in time for a magical evening under the starlit sky. Attendees can drive in or bring their own lawn chairs to set up for this free experience.

Just in time for Pride weekend, the airport runway will play host to drag performer Babia Majora on night one, June 21, and Bombae on night two, as well as being hosted by Weird Alice.

Runway Reels will feature both cult classic films and creations by local artists: night one will showcase Wayne’s World, followed by short film Polly and The Pockets, directed by Gabriella Arno. Night two’s feature film is The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, followed by Cherry Cola, directed by Joseph Amenta.

To really make the backdrop of Toronto’s skyline sparkle, the gates open at 7 p.m. but the show doesn’t start officially until 8:30 p.m. for the drag performances and 9 p.m. for the movies — by then, the sun will have set and you’ll be ready for a nostalgic evening of fun.

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DJs Rose Hips and The Frandiscos will also be spinning tracks prior to the movies, so feel free to get out of your car and have a dance party!

The event is free, but reserve your parking or seating spot in advance to ensure there’s enough space for everyone — there won’t be any lawn chairs provided but there are a few picnic tables available on a first come, first serve basis.

Runway Reels is a rain or shine event, so come prepared — the forecast in Toronto is currently showing a 30-40 per cent chance of rain Friday evening and a 40 per cent chance of rain on Saturday.

6 must-try menu items at Toronto’s Shake Shack, ranked

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Erica Commisso

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12:03 pm

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The time has officially come: Toronto has been gifted one of the most famous American fast-food chains. Shake Shack has officially opened its doors at its Yonge-Dundas location, and is celebrating its first Canadian location in a big way. From one-of-a-kind partnerships to unique items on the Canadian menu, it’s already making its mark on the city.

If you plan to stop by Shake Shack this summer, here’s what you should order to the make the most out of your fast-food experience.

6. High Heat Dog

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100% beef from Vienna Beef is hard to find outside of the Midwest, but Shake Shack is bringing it to Toronto. The High Heat Dog, in particular, is topped with the brand’s own cheese sauce – which is made with real cheese and no processed ingredients – and cherry peppers.

5. More S’mores Concrete

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A Canadian exclusive menu item, this chocolate and vanilla frozen custard is blended at a high speed and infused with toasted marshmallow sauce, fudge sauce, graham crumb and chopped chocolate pieces topped with a graham cracker dipper. It’s delicious and it gives back: 5% of sales of the More S’mores Concrete will be donated to Campfire Circle, which offers camp-inspired programs to kids with cancer and serious illnesses.

4. ShackMeister Ale or Shack Red and Shack White

Bellwoods Brewery and Rosewood Winery are responsible for the alcoholic bevvies available on the menu, and Bellwoods’ custom brew is a hazy ale that pairs perfectly with a good smash burger. The wine, also a Shake Shack exclusive and courtesy of Niagara-based Rosewood, is served in cans. A Fifty/Fifty, made with half cab sauv and half cab franc, is made for those who are looking for something a little bit stronger.

3. ‘Shroom Burger

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Vegetarians, have no fear. Shake Shack has you covered. The veggie option is as rich as ever: A crisp-fried portobello mushroom is stuffed with melted muenster and cheddar cheeses and topped with the fixings: lettuce, tomato and the famous ShackSauce.

2. Avocado Bacon Burger

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Made with Angus beef that’s vegetarian- fed and never given antibiotics, this smash burger is topped with freshly cut avocado, applewood-smoked bacon, and ShackSauce and served on a toasted potato bun.

1. Maple Salted Pretzel Shake

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Another Canadian exclusive, the Maple Salted Pretzel Shake, is made with vanilla frozen custard that is blended (also at a high speed) with pretzels and maple syrup. It’s then topped with whipped cream and crushed pretzels to turn a ton of Canadian classics into a sweet, frosty drink.

Get your paws on Streets of Toronto’s new Raccoon Lager

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Nisean Lorde

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11:00 am

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This summer, make a difference with a cold brew in hand! Intrigued? Introducing Raccoon Lager, our debut charity collaboration with Tomorrow Brew Co. Every purchase from our restaurant partners or LCBO channels funds directly to the Daily Bread Food Bank — because no one should face hunger in the city we love.

Since 1983, the Daily Bread Food Bank has served as a vital lifeline, responding to emergencies and advocating for sustainable solutions to poverty through over 250 agencies. Streets of Toronto is proud to champion this crucial cause.Streets of Toronto Raccoon Lager isn’t just your new summer staple — it’s meticulously crafted for bold flavour and refreshing crispness. Each case features four collectible cans adorned with our quirky crew.

Meet Streets of Toronto’s trash can troublemakers

Kenny Sington: Graffiti Artiste and Lesley Ville: Humans Resources

Lawrence Park: Finance Bro and Danielle Forth: Person Trainer

Find our craft beers at your favourite spots like Seven Numbers Danforth, Madame Boeuf, Fetzun, Fat Pasha, select Gabby’s Roadhouse locations and NBA Courtside Restaurant.

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You can also find our Raccoon Lager at fifty LCBO locations, including prime spots like Spadina & Dundas, Yonge & Lawrence, College & Bathurst and Yonge & Summerhill. Live outside the city? No problem! You can also find our beer at LCBO locations in Belleville, Collingwood, Oshawa, Whitby, and Bradford And if you can’t find it, simply request BrewAid’s Streets of Toronto Raccoon Lager at your local LCBO!

Join us in raising a can to summer and making a tangible difference with every sip. Stay tuned for exciting city-wide pop-ups and exclusive promotions. Learn more and connect with our vibrant community of nearly one million social media followers who are passionate about making a positive impact!

Together, let’s toast to a summer filled with good brews and even better causes. Cheers to making a difference, one sip at a time!

A bar in Toronto just debuted a new cocktail with a real meteorite on top

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Jennifer Schembri

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1:56 pm

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If you’re into outer space, there’s a bar in Toronto you gotta hit up pronto. Offworld, the sci-fi-themed cocktail bar known for its theatrical experiences, has launched a stellar new addition to its menu: the Meteorite cocktail.

And you might be wondering, “What’s all the fuss about?” Offworld’s menu is already pretty stellar. But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill outer space-themed cocktail. Inspired by the blazing trajectories of cosmic rocks, this extraordinary concoction features Remy Martin 1738, Tio Pepe, Grand Marnier and lemon juice, all topped with a burst of yellow chartreuse.

It’s then garnished with gooseberries, a lemon wedge, and (prepare for liftoff) an actual slice of the Gibeon Meteorite, a relic from Namibia’s asteroid past discovered in 1838. Each cocktail includes a certificate of authenticity for the meteorite slice, but hurry — supplies are extremely limited!

Priced at $59 (because space relics don’t come cheap!), this new cocktail joins an already stellar lineup from Offworld, including experiential libations like the Cryosphere ($45) featuring Don Julio Blanco, Kuni Zakari Japanese Plum Sake, turmeric & ginger kombucha, honey syrup, Lemon and vanilla sugar. Served in a cosmic-ray-proof canister by one of their experiential specialists.

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And then there’s The Black Hole ($25) with El Dorado 12 year aged rum, Creme De Cacao, Frangelico, espresso ice cream, egg whites, and double chocolate chip cookie dough. Served with sound-canceling headphones pre-programmed with the haunting sounds of a real black hole captured by NASA in the terrain solar area.

Offworld isn’t just about cosmic cocktails; it’s also stepping up its culinary offerings with a new menu that blends French and Italian influences. Enjoy hand-cut pommes frites with shaved grana padano and truffle aioli, or try mushroom arancini served on spicy housemade sausage ragù. The gluten-free and vegan panisse, infused with Thai red curry spices, offers a unique twist. For a more substantial meal, dive into Moroccan-spiced short rib with broccolini, or classic pasta carbonara featuring egg yolk and guanciale.

These shopping hubs are the hidden culinary gems of the GTA

By

Julia Mastroianni

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1:10 pm

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Just north of downtown Toronto are two shopping centres that are home to great shopping, plenty of space and delicious food offerings that might become your new favourite spots in the GTA.

Yorkgate Mall, a two-level community shopping centre located just east of Highway 400, is a hidden gem in the North York community. Featuring ample parking, access to transit and over 60 stores, services and restaurants, visitors can enjoy a one-stop shopping experience.

Over at Disera Drive just north of the city in Thornhill, this vibrant shopping hub offers over 40 exciting retail stores, services and restaurants, with free parking as well. Just steps away from Centre Street, this shopping centre is an easy walk for condo dwellers and a go-to spot for young families.

But the highlight of both these GTA centres is without a doubt the variety of food options — step inside and you’ll be greeted by the sights and scents of some of the most delicious cuisines you can imagine.

“We offer a diverse array of restaurants showcasing the rich cultures and communities from around the world,” says Chris Couch, marketing associate at Yorkgate Mall and Disera Drive. “Our goal is to present an enticing variety of dining options within a welcoming, family-friendly environment for our customers.”

Yorkgate Mall — take a tour across the globe just by stepping inside this shopping hub. Try Caribbean Cuisine, featuring classic Caribbean dishes that include jerk chicken, curry goat, braised oxtail and more, all served with mouthwatering sides. There’s also China Wok, a neighbourhood favourite; enjoy fast service, great portions and an amazing assortment of hot table Chinese foods for affordable prices — including what some consider the best chicken wings in the city.

For satisfying and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, try El Greeko — this family-run business offers fast and delicious Greek food, with customers often highlighting the lamb shank as their stand-out dish.

If you’re looking for a taste of Jamaican food, Montego Jerk has it all, from callaloo to brown stew kingfish to, of course, jerk chicken. There’s also Top Food Asian Cuisine, with large portions and a variety of options that include sweet and sour chicken and Shanghai noodles — plus combo deals that can’t be beat! If chicken’s more your thing, Church’s Texas Chicken is the place to be.

At Disera Drive, the options are similarly delicious — you could spend the whole day there, from breakfast to dessert!

Locally-owned Bagel World is a go-to spot for breakfast and lunch, whether you’re picking up a dozen freshly-baked bagels or sitting down for a piled-high sandwich. Copper Branch also offers a tantalizing plant-based breakfast menu for those who are looking for more health-minded options; try their power bowls, grab a nutrition-packed smoothie or even a deluxe beet and brown rice burger.

For lunch or dinner, head to Halibut House Fish & Chips, a family business offering seafood platters, all kinds of fish and chips options and starters that include fish tacos and clam chowder. Or try Desi Pakwan, featuring an extensive menu of flavourful Indian and Hakka dishes. There’s something for everyone thanks to plenty of vegetarian options and everything from noodles to rice to fish to curry.

And for dessert, head over to Marble Slab Creamery where you can pick your own mixins and choose from over 50 flavours.

Yorkgate Mall and Disera Drive are ideal destinations for a family outing, quick bite to eat, celebratory meal or anything in between.

The best places to live in Toronto if you love music

By

Julia Mastroianni

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11:45 am

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Living in Toronto, there is truly something for everyone. Traditionally this is an aphorism that’s thrown around about the diversity of food available — look no further than Keith Lee’s recent expeditions throughout our fair city — but in reality this truth extends to Toronto’s music scene too. Whether you’re looking for live venues hosting Billboard chart-toppers or cool clubs to find your new favourite DJ, we’ve handpicked the neighbourhoods where you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. Though this list is by no means comprehensive (sorry to the east end!), Toronto’s music scene is vibrant, diverse and will satisfy a true music lover’s palate.

Ossington

Roll your eyes! Do it! I dare you! No area in Toronto has rapidly grown in popularity like Ossington. There are so many spots within a couple blocks that it felt not only natural but correct to have Ossington listed as a standalone. Chug martinis at Bowie while catching a stylish DJ set (where you will surely recognize someone from Toronto micro-influencer fame). Can/should Juice even be gatekept anymore? Reposado and The Painted Lady have live music and performances on weeknights for something a little more low-key. With close proximity to so many other bars, restaurants and venues, this was a no-brainer.

Little Italy-Harbord Village Corridor

The venues here are not only good but also hold sentimental value. Before the Mod Club became the Axis Club, I saw the Vaccines here at 16 and it was life-changing! In its newest iteration as the Axis Club, the bookers are attuned to up-and-coming talent, hosting the likes of French electronic music duo Jersey a couple of months ago for a truly raucous set.

“Funnily enough, I hate seeing live music shows but I love DJ sets, does that count?” writer Rhea Singh and Toronto’s preeminent party girl replied to a request for recommendations. Singh names Venus in Foil at Paradise Grapevine as a standout set from last year. On the weekends, Supermarket is the leading new grad bar, but if you want to head over on a weeknight or before the sun sets on Fridays and Saturdays, you can catch local bands tearing up the stage otherwise reserved for the drunkest Laurier and Queen’s alum.

Geary Avenue/Junction

Geary Avenue can be intimidating, but take it from someone who is definitely not cool enough to fit in here, you don’t need to dress like an OCAD student to have fun on Geary Avenue. Buy a ticket from Resident Advisor and be merry! This street has the highest concentration of capital G good music in the city.

“I think for a more diverse array of sounds it’s honestly Geary Avenue,” Singh notes. “I’ve seen a lot of sets there ranging from reggaeton, nightcore club, socca etc., more so because there are a lot of venues for big crowds of people.”

One of my most fun nights from last fall was when I introduced myself to Tony Price at Standard Time.

“There was this set I stumbled into at three in the morning at Goat Gallery with HiTech from Detroit playing for Living Room,” Singh recalls.

Go, go, go to Geary! Nearby, Cafeteria is another Singh favourite, and if you venture a little further east (but not too far east) you’ll find 915 Dupont; both are must-try cool multi-hyphenate listening bars.

West Dundas West

“I personally spend a lot of time on Dundas West and the venues there, like Bambi’s,” Singh says.

Situated in a basement at Dundas and Dovercourt, Bambi’s hosts back-to-backs and parties alike. Further south you can find smaller artists playing Drake Underground for dirt cheap in a way most concerts no longer are. With the recent addition of Sounds Good on the westest part of West Dundas West (it’s more like Brockton Village, but West Dundas West sounds less sleepy), we should be so lucky to have as many great venues as we do!

Fashion District

Perhaps the least stylish area of those listed, the Fashion District more than makes up for it by having the most variety of the five. Classic venues like the Velvet Underground and Rivoli line Queen Street West hosting local bands and bigger acts alike, meanwhile the Ace Hotel throws insider-y events on its rooftop for those looking to feel a little more glamorous. And if you’re lucky to get in, you may catch a surprise Anderson .Paak set at Drom Taberna.

You can get free pedicab rides in Toronto’s Little Italy all summer long

By

Dorothy Chudzinski

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10:30 am

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The Little Italy Business Improvement Area is thrilled to announce the launch of its exciting initiative: free rides along College Street, from Bathurst to Shaw. Yes, free. Running throughout the summer until the end of August, this project aims to make exploring the vibrant Little Italy neighbourhood enjoyable for everyone.

Imagine hopping on a pedicab bike for free and effortlessly cruising through the bustling streets of Toronto to get to Little Italy. From mouthwatering restaurants to cozy cafes, trendy retail shops to inviting salons, lively music venues to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, there’s something for everyone to experience and enjoy.

With the catchy slogan “Free Trip, Don’t Skip, Take the College Street Whip” displayed on each pedicab, spotting and boarding these complimentary rides couldn’t be easier.

Led by Connie Mastrangelo, owner of Cafe Diplomatico and chair of Little Italy BIA, and Vinita Kalia, community manager of Little Italy BIA, this initiative was born out of a desire to turn a negative situation — concerns over newly installed bike lanes — into a positive community-building opportunity. These pedicabs not only provide convenient transportation but also create social connections and outdoor fun during the summer months.

At its core, this project embodies Little Italy BIA’s commitment to supporting local businesses. By offering free rides citywide, visitors are encouraged to explore and support the diverse array of establishments that make Little Italy a must-visit destination this summer. From enjoying delicious meals to discovering unique finds, from enjoying live music to soaking in the neighbourhood’s rich atmosphere during soccer season, there’s no shortage of reasons to make Little Italy your go-to destination this season.

Get your very own free ride by visiting their website to see the schedule and pick-up times. First come, first served!

This project is funded by the City of Toronto’s Main Street Innovation Fund as part of the Government of Canada’s support through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).

GTA Michelin-starred restaurant closes so owners can focus on their farm

By

Jennifer Schembri

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10:16 am

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After six years in business, Michelin-starred Frilu, a fine dining restaurant in Thornhill, announced via social media that it’s closing its doors.

“On to new things…” owners John-Vincent and Sandra Troiano captioned the post. “After much reflection, we’ve decided to close Frilu. We’re finishing the way we started, with smiles on our faces. It’s been a wild and rewarding ride for the past six years,” the post read.

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Frilu has long been celebrated for its inventive tasting menus that highlight the simplicity of nature using local seasonal ingredients. Chef John-Vincent’s Asian influences create intricate flavours, showcasing dishes that reflect the Canadian landscape.

The restaurant first earned a coveted Michelin star in Toronto’s inaugural guide in 2022 and continued its success in 2023, earning another Michelin star as well as the city’s first Michelin Green Star for their outstanding commitment to sustainable gastronomy.

Michelin’s Take: “There is a saying that we should dance like nobody’s watching. This adage feels true of Chef John-Vincent Troiano, who cooks to his own rhythm in Thornhill. Smoke, game, and refined sauce-work figure prominently on what might be the only tasting menu for several kilometers. A tiny space packed with talent, the sparsely decorated nook leaves everything on the plate, with high-quality product from their own farm coupled with an intriguing Japanese element that feels natural.”

“Frilu has driven our goals and desires, inspiring us towards a sustainable future in new ventures,” the Instagram post continued. “Starting next week, we’ll offer a menu featuring the best of our spring and summer dishes until our last day.”

The post went on to say that the couple’s focus has now shifted to their farm — Willowolf Farm. “Frilu has been a motivating force for our goals and desires and has propelled and inspired us towards a sustainable future in different ventures.”

Frilu’s last day of service will be July 31.

Toronto’s top 5 must-try ice cream flavours this season

By

Jennifer Schembri

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3:13 pm

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ice cream from Good Behaviour — @goodbehaviour.to/Instagram

If the weather isn’t a clear enough hint, we’re now in the prime of ice cream season. Toronto is home to some incredible ice cream spots, and there’s a slew of exciting new flavours to try!

Here’s a rundown of the latest spots and their tempting ice cream creations.

Super Serve

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Soft serve is back in season at Super Serve! From the classic chocolate vanilla twist to rotating vegan flavours, this spot at the corner of Dundas and Kensington Ave., has something for everyone. Monthly features include creative combos like Earl Grey and hibiscus twist with pineapple compote and cornflake pretzel crunch! New to their 2024 menu is the cookie serve: the same delicious soft serve with the addition of an in-house made chocolate chip cookie. Pictured is vanilla soft serve with salted caramel sauce and a chocolate chip cookie.

Ruru Baked

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Luanne Ronquillo started Ruru Baked six years, selling (and selling out of) pints of delicious custard-based ice cream, before opening the first brick-and-mortar location at Bloor and Lansdowne. For those not in the ice cream know, custard-based ice cream — also known as French style — is denser and creamier than regular ice cream, which usually tends to be more on the lighter and airier side. The menu now boasts more than 70 unique and delicious flavours, featuring outlandish combinations that work remarkably well. New on the line-up this year is Vegan Tofu Fa: inspired by the traditional Chinese dessert, this vegan soy milk ice cream is swirled with brown sugar ginger syrup; Choco Caramel Crunch a gluten-free dark chocolate ice cream with luscious caramel swirls and crunchy/melty bits of sponge toffee. Sticky Toffee Cake: brown sugar ice cream dotted with rich brown sugar date cake and extra sticky toffee sauce; and Sea Salt + Gianduja: lightly salted sweet cream blended with velvety gianduja, a decadent mix of hazelnut and chocolate inspired by travels to Italy.

Good Behaviour

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If it want enough that Good Behaviour is serving up some of the best sandwiches in the city their ice cream earns high praise too. You have just a few more weeks to grab their flavour of the month, Afternoon tea, a delicious blend featuring Earl Gray ice cream infused with morsels of buttery lemony scone with accents of candied orange peel. Also until the end of the month take advantage of the shops Ice Cream Happy Hour where you can indulge in a kiddie scoop in a cup or sugar cone Monday to Friday, between 3 to 5 p.m. for only $2!

Daigyo Café

Daigyo Café, the beloved Japanese dessert haven While their matcha soft serve ice cream, renowned for its remarkably creamy and smooth texture, remains a favourite, the shop now offers an exclusive treat: jasmine white peach ice cream — perfect for a hot summer’s day.

Honey’s Ice Cream

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At Honey’s, their latest ice cream creation, Moon Mist, is stirring up mixed reactions. Dubbed a “kids’ Neapolitan,” this new flavour swirls bubble gum, banana, and grape ice cream for a playful eating experience. Naturally dyed with grapes, turmeric and blue spirulina, it’s worth a try next time you swing by!

The 7 best places to shop for sunglasses in Toronto this summer

By

Julia Mastroianni

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3:07 pm

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vijanvision — Drake wore these sunglasses from Vijan Visions in the "Churchill Down" music video

It’s about that time of year when you realize you’ve misplaced those $20 sunglasses from the Circle K. Or, you’ve miraculously had the same pair of Ray-Bans for ten years and you think it’s time for a change. Luckily, Toronto shops have you covered for new sunglasses this summer, ranging from vintage finds to brand-name showstoppers. Here are our seven favourite local shops that will get you right this summer.

Opticianado

Helping The Junction turn into one of Toronto’s trendiest areas, Opticianado has an eclectic selection of both vintage and fine frames for all. They carry a slew of brand names, including some off-the-beaten-path brands with shapes you won’t believe exist. If you take a step into Opticianado, expect to leave with a pair of bright, funky shades.

Spectacle Loves You

Falling on the more reserved side is Spectacle Loves You. Although they don’t offer the wackiest of frames, the store carries a refined selection that suits all scenarios. The brand is focused on finding sunglasses that suit your face shape first, and your aesthetic second.

Courage my Love

Since 1975, Courage My Love has been dropping some of the coldest vintage finds. If you were blown away by their selection of boots, wait until you see their sunglasses. Their selection is best described as the sort of frames you’d buy in order to cultivate an immaculate day downtown.

Zane

Their slogan is “Comfort in Motion,” when in reality, it should be, “Where the It girls go for frames.” Zane offers a ton of sunglasses to help you block out the negative energy this summer, making sure you’re catching absolutely zero evil eyes.

Eyes on Church

Eyes on Church takes a more luxurious approach to sunglasses. The store was founded by Farhad Ghahremani in 1997 as a way to merge a man’s lifestyle with his fashion choices. They’ve since expanded into selling eyewear for all, boasting brands like Tom Ford, Alexander McQueen and Matsuda.

Vijan Vision

If you’ve ever seen a pair of Cartier sunglasses on your favourite Toronto rapper, it was probably sold to them by Vijan Vision. The brand caters to the new generation of streetwear lovers who are influenced by rap. They’re authorized dealers of Cartier and Maybach, accept cryptocurrency as payment, and have remained exclusive by meeting on an appointment basis.

Public Butter

To complete your vintage looks this summer, head over to Public Butter where you can find some of the oldest pairs of sunnies in the city. The vintage spot sources sunglasses from just about every major decade, finding success with small, round or bodacious, square frames.

Massive new restaurant to open in historic shipping warehouse on Toronto waterfront

By

Nisean Lorde

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10:24 am

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A 23,000 sq ft restaurant concept will soon take over a 140-year-old shipping warehouse on Toronto’s waterfront. Queens Harbour will open in spring 2025 at 245 Queens Quay West, which is next to Amsterdam Brewhouse and about a five-minute walk from the Harbourfront Centre.

The restaurant’s social media presence is still scant, but we know that the venue will feature an expansive outdoor patio and a retractable roof. Restauranteurs Kevin Jazexhi, Ali Badreddine, and Iris Jazexhi are heading the concept.

“Our collective goal was to create a new landmark for the market in Toronto,” Jazexhi told Retail Insider in an exclusive. “Before setting out to create something new, we reconnected to our own collective identity. All of us believe in the importance of family and it’s embedded deep in our roots.”

Chefs Bobby Robert Balint Julien Laffargue have teamed up to serve a mixture of Mediterranean and Asian (“MediterrAsian”) flavours at the establishment. The curated menu will include mezes for sharing, charcoal grilled dishes, and even a full sushi bar.

Jazexhi noted that the culinary program will be complemented by a hand-crafted cocktail program aimed to surprise and delight patrons with fun and exciting textures and flavours.

“Combining the food and beverage program with a dynamic, multifaceted experience in distinctly different spaces throughout this over 800 seat restaurant oasis by the water,” Jazexhi said. “Queens Harbour is bringing something new to the waterfront that Torontonians have been clamouring for some time. Steps away from the hustle of Toronto’s vibrant core, lies an oasis embracing everything we love about waterfront.”

The restaurant’s founders are also from parts of the world where Mediterranean influences are strong.

“We believe the idea of the Mediterranean’s relaxed ethos – cherishing of family, friends, and loved ones over shared meals, with the vibrant foods that bridge the gap between what you should be eating and what you want to eat, is a sweet spot that represents where we want to go combined with some strong elements of our very own heritage and history,” co-founder Ali Badreddine told Retail Insider.

The site was formerly home to PawsWay Toronto—an animal-friendly center that featured plenty of entertainment for pets and their owners, including pet museums and educational exhibits for pet parents. After operating for nearly a decade, it closed in 2017. Other permanent options for the space were discussed throughout the years, including a 2021 application for a new Reptilia facility, although the City rejected that application.

As Toronto’s waterfront area continues to expand, the restauranteers behind Queens Harbour believe this will be a new era of hospitality, bringing patrons what they need and deserve

“For years we believed Torontonians and visitors to this iconic city have been under-serviced by destinations that embrace the water and the waterfront vibe,” Badreddine told the outlet. “We believe there is a gap for people looking to fuse our type of cuisine with our energetic atmosphere that engages all the senses, while getting great value.

“We set out to be part of the fabric that is weaved in the memories of our guests’ most cherished memories.”

Queens Harbour will be a welcome addition to the area, as a recent report suggests that the underwhelming waterfront needs a bold transformation.

Michelin-recommended chef dishes on where he eats and shops in Toronto

By

Megan Gallant

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1:14 pm

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An exterior shot of BB's — @bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs/Instagram

With so many new eateries popping up around the city, competing with long-time favorites, it can be tough to choose. If you’re struggling to decide where to go for dinner tonight or where to sit down for a coffee tomorrow morning, why not take a recommendation from an expert?

How about taking the advice of someone who owns the Filipino diner that has stolen the hearts of even the Michelin critics? We caught up with owner Justin Bella (one of the B’s in BB’s) to see where he’s eating and drinking these days, and it wasn’t always easy for him to come up with just one answer!

What restaurant do you take friends and family to who are visiting from out of town?

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It depends on the type of people I’m hosting [but] I always love Quetzal. Chef Steve [Molnar] is super talented. I used to follow him when he was a sous chef at Bar Isabelle and I’ve always been a fan of what he’s put out. I also obviously really like Bar Isabel. If I’m hosting people and trying to show them something that’s more of a “if you know, you know” type spot, I really like La Bella Managua on Bloor [and Ossington].

Where do you go for the best cup of coffee in the city?

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I’m a coffee fiend so I like Sam James on Brock, which is right across the street from BB’s. I’ll also go to Sam James on Ossington, or the 135 Ossington for something different.

Where do you go when you’re craving dessert?

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RuRu Baked on Landsdowne and Bloor. Mostly I get their ice cream but they also have great baked goods.

Where’s your preferred watering hole or cocktail bar for a night out?

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Communist’s Daughter for a local intimate watering hole, but cocktail wise, that’s one of the things I really like about Quetzal is they have a really amazing cocktail program there, as well as SIMPL THINGS around the corner and Bar Mordecai—I’ll have whatever [owner] Christina [Veira], the bartender’s choice, is really good.

Do you have a favourite place where you shop for food?

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I love Hua Sheng in Chinatown. It’s a small, family-run spot, super busy market. They have a little bit of everything. I shop there at least once a week. Also Carlos House of Spice is always great in the [Kensington] Market for spices.

Is there a particular market or specialty food store in Toronto that you love to shop at for hard-to-find ingredients?

I usually go to Scarborough. They have a lot of great, small, Asian grocers there.

What do you think is the best neighbourhood in Toronto for foodies?

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I really love the spots on Ossington and the Dundas-Ossington area. I feel you can really get a bit of everything.