The best places in southern Ontario to see the northern lights

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11:37 am

It is the time of the year for geomagnetic storm with at least a slight chance of seeing gorgeous Northern Lights in the sky! For southern Ontario, this doesn’t necessarily guarantee a huge overhead show (according to the Weather Network, the timing of this storm could favour central and western Canada for the strongest displays, while northwestern Ontario appears to have some of the better clear-sky potential in the eastern half of the country), but there are still some prime areas to look out for them.

Some of these spots are a few hours from Toronto, so if you’re looking for skywatching options closer to the city, click here.

The Torrance Barrens Conservation Area and Dark Sky Reserve, Muskoka

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This Muskoka fave is the world’s first permanently designated Dark Sky Reserve, so it’s a top location for viewing the cosmos, especially for anyone leaving from Toronto for a roughly two-hour drive. The vast expanses of Canadian Shield bedrock provide wide-open sightlines for stargazing, with sweeping panoramic views above. The main viewing area sits just behind the Southwood Road sign with a broad, unusually open panorama (observing can also be done from the parking lot)! There’s no power at the site, but there is an outhouse located halfway along the path to an alternate observing site. Southwood Rd, Gravenhurst.

Bruce Peninsula National Park, near Wiarton

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Evergreen Forest in the Bruce Peninsula is one of the strongest southern Ontario options, especially if you’re willing to drive a little farther! The park has been a dark-sky preserve since 2009, with a main observing area near Cyprus Lake and another very dark, low-horizon site at Singing Sands. The area is also ideal for a nature-filled getaway with friends or, perhaps, the ultimate date night. Accommodations include the clear-roofed Constellation Suites with gorgeous skylights high above your bed, which will make it feel like you’re sleeping under the heavens. When the skies are clear, visitors can also join the free Telescope Nights. About 2.5-3 hours from Toronto. 381135 Concession 17, Georgian Bluffs.

North Frontenac Astronomy Park, near Plevna

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This site is arguably the most serious southern Ontario aurora option based on darkness alone! North Frontenac is home to the darkest skies in southern Ontario, and the astronomy park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with free access, parking, washrooms, electrical service and a dedicated viewing pad. Just over a 3-hour drive from Toronto. 5816 Road 506, just south of Plevna.

The Lennox & Addington Dark Sky Viewing Area, Erinsville

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This is the most southerly dark-sky site in Ontario. The site is free, open from dusk until dawn, and set up with lots of parking and a large concrete pad for cameras and telescopes! Dark sky events are hosted between May and September, so make the most of your experience and head over for a weekend getaway. Just over 2.5 hours from Toronto. 7980 Lennox and Addington County Rd 41, Erinsville.

MacGregor Point Provincial Park, Port Elgin

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This is one of the better southwestern Ontario options if you want dark skies without heading as far east. MacGregor Point is an all-season park set along the Lake Huron shoreline just south of Port Elgin. The year-round access and darker setting make it a perfect weekend aurora bet. About a 3-hour drive from Toronto. 1593 Bruce Road 33, RR#1.

Pinery Provincial Park, Grand Bend

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Pinery is a great choice, especially for anyone coming from London, Sarnia or the western GTA, and it’s just under a 3-hour drive from downtown Toronto. The park is open year-round on 10 kilometres of Lake Huron beach, with dark-sky viewing options! Pinery gives you far better odds of seeing the northern lights than trying from a backyard surrounded by city lights. 9526 Lakeshore Road RR2, Grand Bend.

Want to hide from this endless winter, we have the perfect spot

By

Ron Johnson

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11:22 am

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The moment I stepped into Aire Ancient Baths, Toronto melted away. And with it all that slush, the damp cold, and the grey skies that seem to never leave.

The traffic, the city noise, the stress—it all disappears. From the beginning, the spa signals that this isn’t just a wellness stop; it’s a full-on sensory experience with a nod to ancient times. The vibe is decidedly old school Spanish, with giant wooden urns hoisted to the ceiling, dark rich woods, dim lighting. It exudes warmth, and that’s just what I am after.

The attendants are everywhere, quietly guiding guests with polished attentiveness. I was ushered into the men’s changing area, which felt more like a luxurious prep lounge than a locker room: rows of lockers, showers, and a carefully curated assortment of hair, face, and body products meant to elevate the post-spa glow. Soft slippers were handed to me, hygienic yet plush, ready to wear straight into the baths—a small detail, but one that instantly feels indulgent.

The Flotarium, a saltwater flotation pool — Flotarium, a saltwater flotation pool

From there, I entered the first room, home to Aire’s two largest baths, and my gateway into the spa’s signature thermal journey. One, the Tepidarium, was a warm—but not hot—water pool, perfect for easing in. It was soothing, inviting, and surprisingly spacious; I found myself drifting for a few quiet strokes, letting the water melt tension from my shoulders. The other, my favourite, was the Flotarium, a saltwater flotation pool. This was where time seemed to bend: I floated effortlessly, listening to music that seemed to emanate from beneath the water itself, perfectly immersive and very meditative. There was plenty of room to stretch out, turn over, and just disappear into the calm.

The outdoor Palestra would be perfect at night — The Palestra, an outdoor bath, would be perfect at night

Leave a lot of time for this area.

The main room is also home to a complimentary salt scrub, which you apply yourself. Rubbing the coarse yet gentle grains across skin became part of the ritual—simple, tactile, and grounding. By the time I finally left this first room, I felt as though I had already travelled far from Toronto.

The Tepidarium, the perfect spot to ease into a very relaxing journey

Next came the thermal circuit, a slow and deliberate journey through rooms with names that could belong to an ancient Roman emperor’s extended family: Caldarium, Tepidarium, and Palestra. Each space guided my body into relaxation, alternating warm, cool, and neutral temperatures, allowing my muscles and mind to loosen. Along the way, I encountered two cold plunges—one bracingly icy, the other just cold enough to awaken the senses. Both were surprisingly doable and invigorating, with a hot pool nearby perfect for melting back into warmth immediately after.

There are two cold plunges available on the thermal circuit

I also made time for the dry spa, something I adore. A sanctuary of gentle heat that felt like a soft exhale for my muscles. The steam room, while not particularly large, was empty when I visited, and the humid warmth was a perfect antidote for a dreary winter. Together with the hot, cold, and flotation pools, these spaces made the thermal circuit feel like a carefully orchestrated dance of sensation.

dry sauna at Aire Ancient Baths — Dry sauna? yes, please.

This was followed by a massage as one of the attendants quietly poked their head into the dry spa to let me know it was time. It was wonderful. The thoughtful practitioner made sure to hit my trouble spots and left me in a dreamy state of relaxation.

Every corner of Aire’s Toronto location feels intentional. The building itself—a restored 1912 publishing warehouse—is adorned with amphorae, carved wooden doors, and sculptural elements, all sourced from Spanish antique dealers or custom-built replicas. The stone bath used for a wine soak is a faithful recreation of an ancient Andalusian fountain. The combination of historic architecture, sensory design, and service makes the indulgence feel both rare and completely natural in the city.

By the time I stepped back into the Toronto streets, I was relaxed, rejuvenated, and floating in that saltwater pool in my mind. Aire Ancient Baths isn’t just a spa; it’s a temporary escape from the world, a place to slow down, indulge, and remember that quiet luxury can be transformational.

This pretty Ontario village just two hours from Toronto is called the ‘Jewel of the Kawarthas’

By

Nisean Lorde

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5:01 pm

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fenelon falls sunset — Courtesy explorefenelonfalls.com

Just two hours from Toronto sits a tiny lakeside village along the Trent-Severn Waterway. It’s filled with so much charm that it makes for the perfect overnight escape or weekend getaway!

Fenelon Falls is known as the “Jewel of the Kawarthas” for a reason: it has a historic lock station where you can watch boats pass through the crystal-clear water, a wide, cascading waterfall along the river and a walkable downtown core filled with pretty little indie shops and patios.

When you arrive, the first stop should be Lock 34 along the waterway (this is where you’ll get some of the best Instagram-worthy views). The lock station sits on an island only steps from downtown and is a perfect spot to soak in the sun with a Kawartha Dairy ice cream in hand while watching the boats pass through. Then wander over to see the falls on the lower side of the station, located on the Fenelon River between Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake. There’s even a bridge and dam above the falls, giving you an excellent view of the cascading waters and making it the most scenic, peaceful way to start your trip.

Next up, wander along the Victoria Rail Trail. This 85-kilometre multi-use route runs through town, linking communities across the Kawartha Lakes, so cyclists and walkers have a built-in scenic outing. If you want to get on the water, local paddling routes flow through the Fenelon River and into Sturgeon Lake, making it especially perfect for families!

For a more relaxing afternoon, when the weather gets warmer Garnet Graham Beach is a great pick, with stunning white sand, a playground, a splash pad, a beach volleyball court and a picnic shelter (bonus: the beach is within walking distance of Lock 34 and downtown shops).

If you’re looking for more artsy activities, Maryboro Lodge Museum (originally the 1837 estate of James Wallis) now operates as a community museum with rotating exhibits and local-history displays. Admission is by donation, which makes it the perfect heritage-focused add-on to your trip. Fenelon Station Gallery is another worthwhile stop. It’s housed in a historic train station and showcases work from local artists. And if your timing lines up with a performance night, The Grove Theatre stages concerts and community events in an outdoor amphitheatre.

Even though Fenelon Falls is a small-town Ontario destination, it’s still a foodie’s paradise. White Cottage Cafe is a cute downtown coffee stop known for its handmade syrups and buttery bagels, while The Little Pie Shack offers the freshest pastries and desserts.

fenelon falls mainstreet — Fenelon Falls, courtesy lawarthalakes.ca

For a scenic meal and patio pint, Murphy’s Lockside serves casual Irish-pub food at Lock 34 (keep an eye out for weekly specials like the citrus-crusted salmon with mixed green salad), while Fenelon Falls Brewing Co. is nestled inside a 200-year-old building on the Trent, serving everything from loaded burgers to locally-brewed craft beers. The Locker at the Falls is one of the best picks when you want a meal with a view, since its patio directly overlooks the falls (it closes at 10 p.m., making it a beautiful way to end the night).

If you visit between the May long weekend and Thanksgiving, the Fenelon Falls Farmers’ Market is another perfect excuse to head to this charming community! It runs Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with locals selling produce, baked goods, meats, honey, maple syrup, artisan goods and more.

After visiting Fenelon Falls, check out this low-key Lake Erie beach town: it’s packed with hidden gems and small-town charm.

The Blue Jays 2026 home opener is on Friday and here’s what fans need to know

By

Nisean Lorde

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3:30 pm

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blue-jays-finally-flying-home — Donna Lay/Unsplash

The Toronto Blue Jays open their 2026 home season this Friday, March 27, against the Athletics at Rogers Centre. And it’s not just any opener. The night launches the club’s 50th season, so expect a pregame ceremony honouring Toronto’s 2025 American League championship run, as well as a pennant giveaway for all fans on entry and a magnet schedule on the way out!

Who’s in and who’s out

Toronto is coming off a World Series appearance, so the club doubled down on that momentum Monday by extending manager John Schneider through 2028 and general manager Ross Atkins on a new five-year deal.

Still, the biggest emotional change for fans is the one in the infield. No amount of free steak could keep former Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette. After a decade in the organization, he left for the Mets on a three-year, $126 million deal. Kyle Tucker agreed to a four-year, $240-million contract with the Dodgers (despite being offered free pizza for life by a Toronto restaurant), while Chris Bassitt also moved on, signing with the Orioles. Seranthony Domínguez, Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Ty France are also notable exits, while Joey Loperfido was traded back to Houston.

Thankfully, the Jays still had a strong offseason. Toronto signed Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million deal that the MLB called the largest free-agent contract in franchise history! The team added Japanese star Kazuma Okamoto on a four-year, $60 million contract (fans just might have his daughter to thank for that one); signed KBO MVP Cody Ponce to a three-year deal; brought Max Scherzer back on a one-year deal; and added reliever Tyler Rogers for three years ($37 million).

Alejandro Kirk is still a major part of the team after signing his own five-year extension last March. Fans should also keep an eye on George Springer, Daulton Varsho, Andrés Giménez and Ernie Clement.

According to the MLB, Toronto added Jeff Hoffman as closer a year ago and later brought in Louis Varland at the deadline. The projected relief group also includes Brendon Little, Mason Fluharty and Eric Lauer.

Ace pitcher Kevin Gausman enters the final season of a five-year, $110 million deal he signed with the Jays, although he recently admitted that retirement has been on his mind. Add that to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s 14-year, $500 million extension from last spring, and the team is set!

Injured list

Shane Bieber opted into 2026 but is dealing with forearm fatigue. José Berríos is expected to open the season on the injured list because of a right elbow stress fracture, and rookie right-hander Trey Yesavage is also beginning the year on the injured list with a shoulder impingement (this after his climb from Class-A ball to Game 7 of the World Series).

Anthony Santander’s injury is one of the biggest blows. The outfielder is recovering from left shoulder labral surgery, and the club’s official injury tracker says any return in 2026 would be a success, so Toronto’s outfield group (Varsho, Nathan Lukes, Addison Barger and Sánchez) is all the more important early on.

Rogers Centre fan experience

The Jays are selling Outfield District tickets, which offer general admission access to five outfield neighbourhoods (the Corona Rooftop Patio, TD Park Social, The Catch Bar, The Stop and WestJet Flight Deck) along with more social spaces inside the renovated stadium, like Rogers Landing, Schneiders Porch, bleacher seats, the left- and right-field balconies and drink rails.

The home opener is really the start of a full week of promos. March 28 features an AL Champions white-panel hat giveaway for the first 15,000 fans, March 29 is Jr. Jays Opening Day with postgame run-the-bases for kids 14 and under, March 30 has an AL Champions crewneck giveaway and March 31 brings back Loonie Dogs.

Ahead of the 2026 season, Rogers Centre is also rolling out Rogers Terrace, a new premium space in the 200-level directly behind home as part of the Blue Jays’ nearly $400 million ballpark transformation. The space offers an elite behind-home-plate vantage point paired with an elegant outdoor terrace, so it’s essentially a members-only club with open-air sightlines and views toward the CN Tower and skyline!

Food at the home opener

The food and beverage menu will likely be similar to last year’s, and fans will still be able to find familiar gluten-friendly, halal, vegan and vegetarian options throughout the park.

Check out the Blue Jays’ home opener this Friday, March 27, at 7:07 p.m. against the Athletics at Rogers Centre.

An iconic 40-year-old Montreal diner just opened its first Toronto location

By

Nisean Lorde

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1:35 pm

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spanos diner — Courtesy Spano's Diner/Uber Eats

A long-running Montreal diner known for its classic comfort food and huge portions has just opened a Toronto outpost in North York. Spano’s is a family-owned spot that has been serving customers in Montreal for more than 40 years, and its new location at Keele and Lawrence brings the diner’s second-ever location to Toronto, along with old-school diner vibes and a menu stacked with smoked meat, loaded pizzas and massive sandwiches packed with toppings!

For your first order, the Spano Special Submarine is a good place to start: it’s filled with steak, pepperoni, fresh veggies, Spano’s sub dressing and premium Saputo cheese. If you’re in a burger mood, the Ninja Burger is topped with bacon and served with fries and coleslaw, and for an even more indulgent option, the Spano Burger is dressed with sautéed mushrooms and tangy mayo.

Pizza is a huge draw here. Try the All Dressed Pizza with pepperoni, mushrooms and green peppers or the Special Spano Pizza topped with Montreal smoked meat (it’s smoked for hours and slow-cooked the right way)!

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Or go all in with the Meat Lover Pizza, which piles on pepperoni, smoked meat, sausage, bacon and ground beef. Spano’s uses fresh ingredients and makes its dishes from scratch on site.

On the Greek side of the menu, the juicy chicken souvlaki platter is a restaurant fave, and comes with rice, fries and salad, while the chicken souvlaki pita, pork souvlaki pita and gyro pita are served with onions, tomatoes and homemade tzatziki.

It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re into old-school comfort food and a super-filling meal, so grab some friends and family and make a night of it!

Spano’s is located in North York at 1 Hafis Rd., near Keele and Lawrence.

After a year away the GTA’s most anticipated restaurant returns this April

By

Megan Gallant

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11:59 am

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Just over a year since shutting its doors, Fish & Loaf is making its return to Toronto — this time in Richmond Hill. The Asian fusion restaurant will be opening at 155 East Beaver Creek Road, Unit 22 in early April.

When Fish & Loaf opened in a Scarborough plaza in 2023, it quickly earned acclaim for its diverse menu, which draws on Japanese, Chinese, and European influences. After two years of positive reviews and a loyal customer base, owner and chef John Situ shut down the restaurant with the goal of relocating closer to his valued regular clientele in Markham or Richmond Hill.

SnapInsta Ai 3249704289231130260 — Dry aged scallops risotto

“We’ve been looking for a new location nonstop since we closed down,” he says, noting that he would also have been open to relocating downtown. “If everything went according to plan, we should have been reopened in June of last year. I was only planning for a three-month gap before opening the next location, but we were dealing with a landlord, and midway through discussions, we found out something that really impacted our decision.”

Though it took longer than expected to find, the new location is not the only upgrade Fish & Loaf will see when it reopens. This time, it will seat double the number of guests, with space for 40 people to dine in. Despite the expanded dining room, Situ says it will still feel intimate and comfortable, brightened with earthy tones and marble accents that elevate the perception of strip-mall dining.

“It’s similar to the old Fish & Loaf restaurant, but at the same time, there are enough differences to make it something fresh for customers,” Situ says about the design. “We’re keeping everything cozy, and we’re not going for a big, grand-looking restaurant — it will be comfortable and inviting.”

SnapInsta Ai 3295534917084743340 — Grilled seafood platter

Similarly, the menu will pick up where Fish & Loaf left off, spotlighting the signature clay pot rice as well as the go-to grilled fish — including a Mediterranean sea bass or the more expensive and hard-to-find kinki fish from Hokkaido.

With the expanded storage and workspace at the new location, Situ says they will be able to prepare more dry-aged steak, something he was not able to do as often in the previous location due to the months of preparation it requires.

“We’ll add more so I can do several at the same time,” he says. “It’s a popular item, but it always ran out, so most customers never got the chance to try it even after a few visits. Hopefully, I’ve solved that problem.”

Since many dishes sold out during the final months at the old location due to high demand, Situ says he will use the soft opening period to determine which items customers are most drawn to before finalizing the menu.

SnapInsta Ai 3206951273503906852 — Australia grass-fed striploin

In the meantime, he’s looking forward to welcoming guests back to Fish & Loaf and, if the response to the social media announcement of its reopening is any indication, customers are eager to have them back in a new neighbourhood.

“We actually have a lot of people responding to that post,” he says. “Many customers are reaching out, asking when it will open. I’m surprised that people haven’t forgotten about us since last year. I’m very grateful.”

You can soon adopt your own emotional support plush toy at a new pop-up in Toronto

By

Keena Al-Wahaidi

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5:49 pm

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Ontario’s most unique – and saddest — chicken nugget toy is making its CF Toronto Eaton Centre debut this spring. Sound strange? You’ll be able to take one home at this adoption centre pop-up and see what the hype is all about for yourself.

Starting May 1, the Sad Nuggie Adoption Centre will be offering up the chance to match one of these melancholy plush toys to your personality and interests.

But what exactly is a Sad Nuggie? According to the official website, it’s an emotional support stuffed chicken nugget, known for being “constantly sad and depressed” but has a “loveable, relatable and adorable personality.”

Most of all, they’re also known to bring joy to children and adults who are in possession of them, despite the nugget’s perpetual sad mood.

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The digital design of the Sad Nuggie comes from artist Anastasia Sevastyanova, who crafted the visual representation for the brand. From there it went viral on platforms like TikTok, where the Sad Nudge account currently has over 1 million followers and 30 million likes.

Ever since the toy launched in 2022 by London, Ont. entrepreneurs Ryan Thompson and Rowan Carter, they’ve been a huge phenomenon, and a wonderfully weird cuddle companion. The character was the brain child of Thompson initially, who thought up the character inspired by his own mental health struggles.

On top of its internet popularity, the Sad Nuggie has even been involved with other endeavorus such as collaborating with SIA on her “Gimme Love” music video.

The brand first started with stickers and magnets before meeting its eventual fame, but it now boasts 15 different products, from the plush toys themselves to merchandise that includes apparel.

The Sad Nuggie Adoption Centre emerged in 2024, just two years after the toy’s launch. It has since helped match tons of the stuffed nuggets with their forever homes.

You’ll be able to be matched with your own plushie at the new Eaton Centre adoption centre, which the brand promises to be a “long term” pop-up on the main floor of the mall.

A 7-flavour matcha & gelato festival is coming to Toronto this weekend

By

Nisean Lorde

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5:00 pm

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Screenshot 2026 03 20 at 4 02 53 PM — Matcha House

Toronto’s matcha fixation is getting a full-on festival moment! Pretty Sweet Gelato has announced a Matcha Festival happening this weekend in partnership with Matcha House, promising freshly whisked matcha dirty drinks, seven premium matcha and hojicha gelato flavours, as well as an exclusive sampling kit featuring seven shades of matcha, each meant to showcase a different flavour profile and level of depth.

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The announcement is a bit light on some details, but it’s the perfect event for anyone looking for more than a standard sweetened latte. Matcha House is a Toronto-based online shop focused on Japanese ceremonial matcha and green tea, with teas from producers and regions like Uji, which is known for deeply umami-rich matcha, and Nishio, which is known for a creamy, smooth profile, helping explain the “7 shades” tasting flight featured at this weekend’s festival!

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On the gelato side, Pretty Sweet is known for its artisanal, small-batch, flavour-driven treats, made with high-quality ingredients and available in customized options such as less-sugar, vegan and dairy-free varieties. We don’t know the exact shades of matcha that will be offered this weekend, but looking back at past Insta posts, guests might expect options like Matcha Ube (a swirl of earthy Japanese matcha and sweet, nutty Filipino ube), Matcha Strawberry (which blends creamy Japanese matcha with sweet strawberry milk, Ontario strawberries and crunchy freeze-dried strawberries), Matcha Coconut (made with coconut water, milk and matcha) and a Matcha Latte coffee, so you can have the best of both worlds in one creamy scoop.

The Matcha Festival takes place Saturday, March 21, from 8 to 11 p.m. and Sunday, March 22, from 3 to 8 p.m. For now, we don’t have pricing or an address, but it’ll likely be held at Pretty Sweet Gelato’s Scarborough location (110 Silver Star Blvd., Unit 116). Follow @prettysweetgelato and @ca.matcha.house for updates!

Toronto’s Toby Fournier Back in March Madness Spotlight with Duke

By

Ron Johnson

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1:10 pm

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The Duke Blue Devils are once again a team to watch in NCAA March Madness—and in Toronto, all eyes remain firmly on Toby Fournier. The team kicks off its NCAA championship run on March 20 versus Charleston Cougars.

One year after bursting onto the national stage as an ACC Rookie of the Year, Fournier returns to the tournament no longer a surprise—but a central piece of Duke’s championship ambitions.

Now more experienced and playing a larger role, the 6-foot-2 forward has evolved from an electric freshman off the bench into one of the Blue Devils’ most reliable two-way threats.

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Fournier was also named an All-American earlier this week for the first time.

Duke is seeded third in the Regional 2 Sacramento bracket with UCLA the top seed followed by LSU. Duke finished the season ranked eighth in NCAA Division 1 women’s basketball.

From Phenom to Focal Point

Fournier has been on the radar for years—dating back to her viral dunking videos as a teenager at Crestwood Prep in Toronto. But in 2026, she’s no longer just a highlight-reel curiosity. She’s a proven performer on one of the biggest stages in college basketball.

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After averaging solid numbers in her freshman campaign, Fournier has taken a clear step forward this season, increasing both her minutes and production while becoming a more consistent presence in Duke’s rotation. Her athleticism remains elite, but it’s her improved decision-making, defensive versatility, and ability to take over stretches of games that have elevated her impact.

Peaking at the Right Time

Heading into March Madness, Fournier is once again trending upward.

She’s delivered several standout performances down the stretch on the way to Duke once again winning the ACC championship.

Duke head coach Kara Lawson has continued to lean on Fournier in high-pressure situations, a sign of growing trust in the Toronto native’s all-around game.

A Tough Road Ahead

As always, March Madness offers no easy path.

Duke enters the tournament as a contender, but a deep run will likely require navigating a bracket filled with powerhouse programs, including familiar heavyweights such as the University of Connecticut, at the top of most people’s list to win the tournament as well as South Carolina and other threats.

Canada’s Rising Star

Beyond the NCAA spotlight, Fournier remains one of Canada’s brightest young basketball talents. Her international résumé continues to grow following her bronze medal performance at the 2023 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup, and she’s widely viewed as a cornerstone of the senior national team of the future. Maybe she’ll even be drafted by the new Toronto Tempo WNBA team so we can see her play for her hometown team.

For Toronto fans, that makes March Madness even more compelling.

Because while Duke may be chasing a title, there’s a sense that Fournier is still just getting started—and that the biggest moments of her career are still ahead.

“It tastes like pho and Tom yum had a baby”: The cult-favourite chili oil reimagining Toronto menus

By

Lauren DiBenedetto

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12:24 pm

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SnapInsta Ai 3606242167112508318 — @rippahchilioil/Instagram

The “Chino” from Uncle Pete’s might be Toronto’s most controversial sandwich, but its brilliance is hard to deny. While a mozzarella arancini tucked into homemade focaccia sounds heavy, the dish is elevated by a crucial finishing touch: Rippah Chili Oil. Yet, like many of the city’s best culinary breakout stories, this one didn’t begin in a professional kitchen. It started with a farmer’s market, ten jars and a leap of faith.

Rippah Chili Oil is the brainchild of Nicola Scott, an Aussie who moved to Toronto during the COVID pandemic to be with her Canadian fiancé. “I always wanted to live overseas,” she says. “And at the time, it just felt like the universe was telling me, go.” Toronto, with its layered food culture and constant cross-pollination of cuisines, turned out to be the perfect landing spot.

“It’s such a food mecca,” Scott says. “You can get a little bit of everything.” That “everything” is baked into the oil itself. Though Scott laughs about being “a white woman making chili oil,” her palate tells a more complex story. Raised by a mother born in Hong Kong, she grew up eating Chinese chili oils and hot sauces, later spending time in Malaysia and travelling throughout Southeast Asia.

As a result, was a chili oil born out of an amalgamation of life experiences, something unable to be replicated. “It tastes like pho and Thai tom yum had a baby,” Scott explains.
Layered with lemongrass, lime leaf and tamarind, the oil has bright, citrusy, slightly sour flavours balanced with smoky, umami depth. The kind of flavour that evolves as you eat it.

Before Rippah, Scott spent fifteen years in HR in Australia. After moving to Canada, she faced a common barrier: a lack of local experience. “No one would hire me,” she says. During that first year of instability and distance from home, chili oil became her anchor.

SnapInsta Ai 3519448313840106666 — At the One of a Kind Show

“I would make it for friends and family back home as gifts,” she says. “During that time, it was really the thing that got me through.” Even after landing an HR job, she kept daydreaming about chili oil. Finally, she tested it the simplest way possible: a yard sale, Dollarama jars, and a batch of 10. They sold out. “That was enough for me to quit my job,” she laughs. No business plan. No food production background. Just, as she puts it, “a lot of passion, delusion and naivety.”

The early days were chaotic, and little has changed — Scott still wears every hat. From production and deliveries to marketing and finances, she handles it all herself. This often means working late into the night, hunched over equipment in commercial kitchens she was still teaching herself how to use.

“I’d be doing production runs until 2 a.m., 5 a.m.,” she says. But growth came quickly.
From her home kitchen, she moved into rented commercial spaces, then into a food incubator program, and now operates out of the Ontario Agri-Food Venture Centre, where she’s preparing to scale even further with new equipment. “In one production shift now, I can do around 800 jars,” she says. It’s a long way from 10.

Part of Rippah’s rapid rise can be credited to the city itself. Scott began at farmers’ markets, using them as a testing ground. Tweaking her recipe based on real-time feedback and figuring out what people actually wanted from a chili oil. Then came the One of a Kind Show. “That was the rocket launcher for my business,” she says. It introduced her to a wave of new customers, industry connections, and opportunities — including retail
placement. Today, Rippah Chili Oil can be found at Summerhill Market, with plans to expand into larger grocers like Farm Boy and Whole Foods.

It isn’t just retail where the brand is making an impact; Toronto’s restaurant scene has taken notice. At Uncle Pete’s, the oil has become a defining ingredient, adding heat and complexity to the already showstopping Chino. The reach is even extending beyond the city— at Poppies Bagels in Orillia, it’s drizzled over fresh cream cheese. For the home cook, Scott suggests whisking it into mayo for fries or stirring it into coconut-based curries and noodle dishes. “It pairs really well with anything with coconut milk,” she says. “Or like a peanut butter, chili oil, soy, lime noodle situation.”

Chili oil is on the rise in Toronto, but Scott notes she’s not alone. Brands like Zing, Magic Taste, and others brought chili oil into the mainstream during COVID, paving the way for smaller producers. “Because it’s still so new, we all advocate for each other,” she says. “If someone buys another brand’s chili oil, that’s still a win. It means they’ve been converted.” It’s a rare camaraderie, supporting each other through collective momentum. “It really takes a village,” she adds. Scott’s vision to expand into more retail and food service is ambitious but achievable, with Rippah’s set to work with restaurants, caterers, and hotels to integrate the oil into signature dishes.

Expect to see Rippah integrated into signature dishes at restaurants, caterers, and hotels across the province soon.

Here is when Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are in Toronto to play our new WNBA team

By

Ron Johnson

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10:42 am

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The city’s new WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo, is nearing its inaugural season and single-game tickets are going on sale, with none hotter than Aug. 18 when Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are in town.

Single-game tickets now available for select matchups in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver as part of what the Tempo is calling its “Cross-Canada Series.” An attempt to have to team be seen, like the Raptors and Blue Jays, as one that represents the entire country, as well as, bring the best women’s basketball in the world to other cities.

Two games will be held at Montreal’s Bell Centre on July 10 and 12, followed by another two at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena on August 21 and 23.

This also means Toronto basketball fans will miss the opportunity to see WNBA stars Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings and Sabrina Ionescu and Breanne Stewart of the New York Liberty.

The Tempo will face the Dallas Wings and New York Liberty in what will be the first-ever WNBA games at the Bell Centre in Montreal.

In Vancouver, the team will meet fellow expansion side Portland Fire and the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces.

“From day one, our vision has been to build Canada’s team,” said team president Teresa Resch in a statement, emphasizing the importance of connecting with fans nationwide. “Bringing Tempo basketball to these cities is about more than games—it’s about growing the sport.”

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The Tempo will play Clark’s Fever team on two other occasions one in Indiana on June 16 and a second game back in Toronto at Coca-Cola Coliseum on Sept. 18.

Since the joined the WNBA two seasons ago, Clark has helped propel the league to newer and greater heights. There are times when home teams have actually moved to larger facilities, such as Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, when she comes to town to play. And, one would not be surprised if that happens here.

Although it is listed as Coca-Cola Coliseum on the Ticketmaster site for the Aug. 18 Tempo tilt with the Fever is already on the Scotiabank Arena calendar of events.

The team

Now that the schedule has been set, the only thing the Tempo needs now is a team. Although the ownership group, which includes Serena Williams and Lilly Singh, have been announced, as well as the coaching staff, including coaching legend Sandy Brondello, because of a labour dispute the WNBA has not yet held the expansion draft for the two new teams, or the college draft, or open its free agency period.

Although no official date for the expansion draft has been set, it has been reported that it will be between April 1-6. A shortened free agency period will happen after the expansion draft beginning on April 7. The college draft will be held on April 13.

For Toronto—and for Canadian basketball more broadly—the countdown to tip-off has officially begun.

Toronto’s best soft ice cream parlour opens for the season

By

Jennifer Schembri

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10:14 am

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Snapinst app 285246689 1189423378500497 7317458693098066766 n 1080 — Tom's Dairy Freeze

Spring has officially sprung in Toronto (finally!), and with it comes the long-awaited return of one of the city’s most beloved ice cream institutions: Tom’s Dairy Freeze. A local legend since 1969, Tom’s is back open for the season, and if you’ve got a soft spot for creamy swirls and nostalgic treats, this is your moment.

Why’s this a big deal? Because for many Torontonians, Tom’s Dairy Freeze is more than just a place to grab a cone. It’s a sign that the brutal winter is (hopefully) behind us, and sunnier days are on the horizon. It’s a ritual, a part of the city’s fabric, and it marks the true arrival of warmer weather in the most delicious way.

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If you’ve never been, here’s what you need to know. Tom’s Dairy Freeze offers a range of mouthwatering soft serve ice cream, with or without flavour bursts, and you can top it however you please — whether you prefer a classic dip in chocolate, butterscotch, or even blue raspberry. But Tom’s doesn’t stop there. It’s also home to sundaes, banana splits, slushy floats, milkshakes and frozen yogurt.

Not in the mood for just ice cream? Tom’s has you covered with burgers, hot dogs, homemade souvlaki and fresh-cut fries. They’re all made fresh to order, with juicy, flavour-packed bites to balance out your sugary fix.

The retro vibes don’t stop there. Located on The Queensway, Tom’s Dairy Freeze features a classic window-serve setup that feels like stepping into a simpler time. With ample parking and picnic tables, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy your treat on a sunny day

Nothing beats the first creamy soft serve after a harsh winter. And with the promise of sunny days ahead, Tom’s Dairy Freeze located at 630 The Queensway is back to kick off the season in true Toronto style.