When news broke that David Chang’s Momofuku Noodle Bar was officially leaving the Shangri-La, fans and past patrons were excited to learn that the globally acclaimed fine-dining spot Mott 32 would be taking its place. Now, we know the exciting news that the restaurant is set to open in late spring.
“As we embark on this exciting journey, our third restaurant in North America and our ninth world wide, we celebrate not just a restaurant, but a culmination of craftsmanship, culture and community,” says Malcom Wood co-founder and managing director Mott 32. “Toronto’s dynamic energy and global outlook make it the perfect home for Mott 32 and we look forward to creating unforgettable moments and becoming an integral part of this vibrant cityscape.”
The restaurant already boasts numerous locations spanning the globe, including Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul, Las Vegas and Vancouver, as well as Cebu and Dubai.
The Toronto location’s design appears to mirror that of the Vancouver spot, boasting an elegant, fine-dining vibe. Its interior combines industrial elements with a touch of luxury, reflecting its Chinese heritage and global influence. With accolades for both its cuisine and physical space, expectations are high for the Toronto location.
Established by the Maximal Concepts group, Mott 32 has gained global recognition, earning numerous awards for its unique fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours.
“This expansion marks an exciting chapter for Mott 32 as its commitment to authenticity finds a fitting new home in Toronto,” says Romano Castillo, general manager,, Mott 32 Toronto. “With a renowned and dynamic culinary scene, Toronto sets an ideal stage for Mott 32 to share its award-winning traditions and innovations of Chinese cuisine, celebrating diversity in the heart of such a vibrant and multicultural city.”
Stay updated with the latest news by following Mott 32 Toronto’s Instagram feed.
If you’re from Toronto and were commuting to Vaughan to buy your favourite vintage pieces from the Batch Vintage showroom, or else missing out altogether, you’ll be excited to know that the fashionable thrift brand has expanded into the city.
You can now visit the Batch Vintage studio right on Dupont Street. The brand is known for a diverse assortment of contemporary and deadstock vintage pieces, inspired in turn by fashion shows, movies and TV, skate and rave culture, Y2k fashion and the unique tastes of the founders.
While they continue to run their private showroom in Vaughan, Spano says it was always their hope to open a space in Toronto. They only debated the idea knowing that the lack of affordable rent in the city would make the expansion risky.
“We went back and forth for a long time,” says Stalteri, “but we knew we had to do it because we wanted people in Toronto to be able to come shop in person, on a consistent basis.”
They began searching seriously over the past few months, until they discovered the Dupont studio space, run by the founder of The Welcome Market, Cindy Chau, and managed by Aleks Roxborough who also operates their thrift business Shop Feelings Vintage out of the building. Since their Vaughan showroom remains their home base and is quite expansive, they knew they didn’t need a large space in Toronto — room for five or six rotating racks was more than enough. And they plan to refresh the stock as often as they can.
Since their operating hours will overlap on Saturdays, the couple will actually be splitting up for the first time since starting their business together in order to welcome customers into both spaces. They’ll continue selling stock through Instagram story sales as well, separated by “Marc’s picks” or “Ari’s picks,” and curated based on their individual taste. A decent chunk of their customers only shop Batch Vintage this way since many of their repeat shoppers don’t live in Canada, which means Stalteri and Spano recognize them by Instagram handle but haven’t met them personally.
That’s the case for many of the Toronto customers who can’t easily get to Vaughan as well, but the couple is excited to see that change.
“We already had people come in who’ve been customers for years that we’ve never met,” says Spano. “It’s funny to put the Instagram handle to the person,” Stalteri says. The official opening day was April 14, and Stalteri says they easily saw 100 people come through their door.
The stock is pretty much the same as what you’d find in the Vaughan showroom with the exception of more traditional menswear (vintage T-shirts, namely), which they’ve noticed a higher demand for in Toronto among all genders. When they host a pop-up in the city, they often sell out of stock they’ve been holding onto for months because people have been waiting for the opportunity to shop from them.
“The feeling is similar to having a pop-up, but we get to come here every week now,” Spano says.
“We’re going to try to figure out what specifically people in Toronto want more of, but we have an idea from our story sales,” Stalteri adds. She intends to use the space to its maximum advantage, collaborating with Toronto creatives she has long admired, and hosting various styling initiatives within the space.
“I feel like this was meant to happen at this time,” she says. “We want everyone to come and feel welcome, I’m so excited to meet new Toronto people who love vintage.”
You can visit Batch Vintage at 1110 Dupont St., on the second floor, Thursday to Sunday from 12-6 p.m.
In his latest venture, chef Jagger Gordon continues his mission to combat food insecurity in Toronto with Soup Bar, a pay what-you-can soup spot. As part of his non-profit, Feed It Forward, Gordon aims to address both food insecurity and food waste.
“I believe that no child should go without a meal, especially when it is within our reach. My journey led me to establish Feed It Forward as a way to combine my love for cooking with my commitment to addressing food insecurity,” he says.
Just like all Feed It Forward locations, chef Gordon collaborates with local grocery stores and restaurants to repurpose perfectly good food that would otherwise go unused. This initiative not only reduces food waste in the city but also transforms it into something beneficial for the community.
Soup Bar, situated at 766 St. Clair Avenue West, has garnered an “overwhelmingly positive” response, according to Chef Gordon. This reception mirrors that of his previous ventures.”People appreciate the opportunity to contribute what they can afford and to support our mission of addressing food insecurity,” he says. “It fosters a sense of community and empowers individuals to actively participate in helping others.
Chef Gordon selected the location of Soup Bar with careful consideration, focusing on four key factors: accessibility, community need, affordability, and community support. He found that St. Clair West best aligned with these values and criteria, enabling him to offer locally-sourced, fresh soups with a variety of flavours and choices. From bone marrow phô broth to Indian coconut Dal stews and Texas cowboy Beef chili to coconut curry tofu chilis, the diverse selection caters to various dietary restrictions and tastes. For Chef Gordon, soup serves as a solution to reach the widest audience possible and is an homage to his beginnings.
“Soup was chosen as our latest venture because of its versatility and cost-effectiveness in providing nourishing meals to those in need,” Gordon says. “It is a comfort food that appeals to a wide range of people and can be easily customized to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions. Our original soup bar was created in downtown Toronto in 2017, and its success led us to expand into the scholastic systems, offering faculty and students at university and colleges with a pay-what-you-can or free meal.”
Soup Bar’s grand opening is on April 20th from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m at 766 St. Clair Avenue West.
Crumbl Cookies, a super popular U.S.-based cookie shop, will soon open its first Toronto location in The Well at 486 Front St W.
The brand has more than 6 million followers across social media and is known for its unique treats, such as birthday cake cookies topped with a mix of Oreo pieces and rainbow sprinkles, and cinnamon square cookies marbled with brown sugar cinnamon butter and smothered in light vanilla cream cheese frosting.
We don’t know the exact opening date, but one local foodie shared a TikTok clip of the chain’s new storefront with a ‘coming soon’ sign.
The chain first opened its doors in Utah in 2017 and has since expanded to over 800 bakeries in 47 states across the U.S.
Last July, the cookie chain opened its first-ever Canadian store (its first-ever international location) in Mississauga’s Heartland Town Centre. They went on to open 8 locations in Alberta and 1 in Saskatchewan.
Crumbl follows the concept of a rotating menu—their award-winning chocolate chip cookie is a permanent menu item, but new cookie flavors are added almost weekly while existing recipes are updated and improved. Their cookies are inspired by popular flavors, foods, and desserts of all kinds—from pies to cakes to candies and more.
The brand’s popularity is partially driven by its celebrity partnerships, like their colab with popstar Olivia Rodrigo, who created the GUTS cookie— a treat inspired by her pop rock music, her latest album Guts, and her fav colour (purple). The cookie consists of two purple vanilla cookies sandwiching vanilla buttercream and triple-berry jam. It’s rolled in sprinkles and topped with a star-shaped cutout.
Ever thought tasting menus were too pricey? Think again! Toronto’s dining scene offers a spectrum of tasting experiences to fit any budget. From wallet-friendlier finds to over-the-top indulgences, here are the top tasting menus that will allow you to sit back, relax and let the experts guide you through a delicious feast.
Azura $78 for four to seven courses
@azuratoronto/Instagram
At the brand-new restaurant Azura, explore the Mediterranean with their petit tasting menu. Priced at $72 per person, the tasting menu offers optional wine pairings and non-alcoholic cocktail flights, allowing guests to tailor their dining experience. Diners are welcomed with creative appetizers, like a French panisse topped with kohlrabi and ambrosia apple labneh, Osetra sturgeon caviar, and Greek bottarga of red mullet row preserved in beeswax. Standout dishes include the shawarma spiced halibut, combining East Coast halibut with an Egyptian spice blend and Spanish piquillo peppers, and the Ibérico Secreto, a marinated Spanish pork cut served with pink radicchio and fennel confit. The complete Chef’s tasting experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
Sara $89 for four courses
@sararestaurantto/Instagram
Sara restaurant, located at Portland near Adelaide, offers a globally-inspired fine dining concept by the Food Dudes. “The Journey” showcases a combination of their signature and seasonal dishes, encompassing all that their Chef Team can bring to the table. Priced at $89 for four courses, some of the dishes include Hamachi Sashimi for the first course, Wagyu Reuben for the second course, and for dessert Profiterole topped with caramel, dulce de leche and spiced pecan.
AP Restaurant $95 for six courses
@aprestaurants/Instagram
Celebrity restaurateur Antonio Park’s restaurant, AP, situated high atop the 51st floor of The Manulife Centre in Toronto’s prestigious Yorkville neighbourhood, now offers a six-course dining experience for just $95. AP’s Chef’s Tasting Experience breaks from tradition. Guests start with a surprise amuse bouche, followed by their choice of first and second courses, a main dish and a dessert. Plus, a palate-cleansing hibiscus granita refreshes the palate midway through the meal.
Richmond Station $140 for seven courses
@richmondstation/Instagram
Richmond Station, near Yonge and Richmond at the edge of the financial district, offers a unique dining experience. Downstairs, enjoy a casual tavern atmosphere with high ceilings and white subway tile. Upstairs, discover a smaller dining room featuring a chef’s rail and a pantry room for larger groups. Their renowned tasting menu, priced at $140 for seven courses, showcases dishes like East Coast Scallop Sashimi, Braised Venison Ravioli and Black Forest Mousse.
Aburi Hana $300 f0r eight courses
@hanayorkville/Instagram
Experience the elegance of Aburi Hana, a Japanese restaurant from Aburi Restaurants Canada, known for Miku Toronto and TORA. Located in a laneway off Yorkville Avenue, the restaraunt offers an intimate kyō-kaiseki dining experience, drawing from Japanese tea ceremony traditions. Enjoy the signature 12-course experience for $430 per guest or an introductory 8-course option for $300, both available at the Chef’s Counter and Kakurega Private Dining Rooms.
Sushi Masaki Saito $680 for 17 courses
Sushi Masaki Saito on Instagram
At Sushi Masaki Saito, a prestigious omakase restaurant in Toronto’s upscale Yorkville neighborhood, the omakase dinner comes with a hefty price tag of $680 per person. It stands as the sole restaurant in Canada boasting a two Michelin-starred chef, Masaki Saito, who earned this accolade during his tenure in New York from 2017 to 2018. Sourcing their fish from Japan, Sushi Masaki Saito ensures maximum freshness by flying it in twice weekly on a direct flight. Prepare to indulge in seven appetizers before the first nigiri graces your plate.
Toronto is getting a new summer live music venue with the launch of a new concert series at The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium, formerly Rexall Centre amongst others at York University.
The series kicks off on June 27 in the most Canadian of ways with a performance by the Barenaked Ladies and will feature a lineup of renowned artists, including Shaggy and a special rock event dubbed “Big Shiny Saturday.”
The idea of live concerts at the tennis stadium is not new. And, for this scribe, it is actually the location of the one concert I regret not attending. Everyone has a concert they wish they didn’t miss. Many years ago, the late great Grammy Award-winning musician Levon Helm, co-founder of the greatest Canadian musical group in history, The Band, played a show at the stadium at York University. It was 2011, and he was opening for another legend, John Fogerty, as part of the Black Creek Music Festival.
Sadly, Helm passed away a year later. And that was the last I’d heard of anything but the thwap of tennis balls at the now Sobey’s Stadium.
But, times change and the idea of a concert series at the tennis centre is back in a big way this summer.
The Bowl, a 9000-seat open-air venue located on the York University campus, boasts 7,700 parking spaces and is easily accessible from nearby highways and the York University and Pioneer Village subway stations. This new venue aims to bring top-tier entertainment to a part of the city that has often been overlooked.
The series begins with a bang as Canadian icons the Barenaked Ladies take the stage on June 27, supported by Sam Roberts Band and KT Tunstall. Just two days later, on June 29, Grammy Award-winning reggae and dancehall legend Shaggy, famous for his hit “It Wasn’t Me,” will perform with R&B group 112.
The excitement continues on July 6 with Big Shiny Saturday, a night that promises to be a nostalgic trip for fans of 90s rock. The event will feature performances by The Tea Party, Headstones, I Mother Earth, Treble Charger, and Bif Naked—all of whom appeared on the iconic MuchMusic Big Shiny Tunes CD compilations, a staple of 90s music culture in Canada.
Tickets for these hot summer events will be available starting April 19 with presales beginning April 17.
Besides the stellar lineup, The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium offers luxurious amenities, including delectable dining options and private lounge suites, ensuring a premium experience for all attendees.
If you’re considering visiting Toronto or perhaps indulging in a staycation cityside, finding the right accommodation can make or break your stay. Whether you’re looking for a great spa experience, event space, family getaway or maybe just somewhere comfy to rest your head between exploring the city, here are the top 10 four-star hotels in Toronto, ranked.
Rated by guests as a top four-star hotel in Toronto, The Delta Hotels by Marriott downtown location offers condo-like guest rooms with plenty of light and home comforts. Stellar views of the lake, Rogers Centre, the CN Tower, and the city skyline contribute to a memorable stay in the city centre. Bar Cana, a rooftop terrace, offers visitors Latin American fare, great cocktails and lively city views. Hotel amenities include a heated indoor pool with towel service, a whirlpool and a fitness centre to help guests feel their best.
One of Toronto’s best-known convention centres offers something for everyone. Whether visiting for an event, business trip or fun-filled holiday, the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel fits the bill. Offering a welcoming stay with city views, visitors will appreciate being within walking distance of practically everything. An outstanding (heated) indoor-outdoor pool, by-the-hour meeting rooms, a waterfall garden, endless dining options and numerous rotating events offer guests an exceptional experience.
A stone’s throw from the ROM, the Annex and Yorkville’s discerning boutiques, The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel invites guests to experience Toronto’s finest locales. Comfortable and modern suites with ambient lighting make for a welcoming stay, while the indoor roof-level pool offers the perfect spot for a swim with city views. The hotel also features a lovely interior courtyard for dining and catered event spaces ideal for special occasions.
Close to the CN Tower, downtown attractions and major sports events, The InterContinental Toronto Centre is an excellent spot for city explorers. With impressive lake and city views, guest suites provide plenty of space to get comfortable. A saltwater pool, eucalyptus steam room and spa with indulgent massage therapy and skincare treatments are added pleasures. Dining options include an on-site restaurant featuring a-la-carte menus and a breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet.
The Old Mill Toronto is an iconic west-end hotel tucked amid picturesque parkland near the Humber River. Opening its doors in 1914, The Old Mill has kept up with the times while ensuring its nostalgic character remains part of the experience. Offering an escape within the city, this unique hotel is a short journey to Bloor West Village and the expanses of High Park. With only 57 suites, guests enjoy a boutique experience with plenty of historical charm, bed and breakfast packages, pampering spa treatments and rustic dining at the Home Smith Bar.
One King West Hotel combines history and modernity with its unique architectural integrations. Choose between contemporary suites in the sky-high Sliver Tower, which juts from the original 1914 building and is one of the narrowest skyscrapers in the world, or opt for a classic suite within the turn-of-the-century Dominion Bank Tower — an opulent Beaux-Arts building with plenty of character. Fabulous wedding and event packages, private limousine services, fine dining and even complimentary strollers for travelling families make this distinguished hotel an unforgettable experience.
In the middle of the Entertainment District, Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer offers an exciting opportunity for visitors looking to enjoy Toronto’s film and theatre scene. Featuring suites designed with elegant simplicity, muted palettes and comfortable beds, guests will enjoy a calming space to unwind after a busy day (the mattresses are so comfy, you can even inquire about buying the same brand for home).
Moments from Toronto’s best sports venues, Le Germain Hotel TMLS makes getting to the big game — or concert — an effortless experience (the hotel is also conveniently close to Toronto’s most famous attractions and shopping destinations). Contemporary guest rooms deliver a fresh, neutral ambiance with great views and luxury amenities. One suite even has a covered patio overlooking the excitement of Maple Leaf Square! For great on-site dining and people-watching, head to the Bar Le Germain and snag a seat on their street-level patio.
Bohemian-industrial social spaces with playful accents, including a rooftop tapas bar with whimsical cabana seating, make the W Toronto an alluring option. Guest rooms provide a comfortable stay within a futuristic meets mid-century modern atmosphere (some have private terraces and two-level living options). Situated at Yonge and Bloor and moments from Yorkville shopping and entertainment, the W Toronto makes for an exciting and convenient spot to explore the city.
Oldtown Toronto’s Omni King Edward Hotel represents the grandeur of a bygone era. Welcoming guests since 1903, this classically elegant hotel is close to St. Lawrence Market, the Flatiron Building, the Eaton Centre and the Distillery District. Known for its world-famous afternoon tea service with a historic flair, the King Edward also offers an excellent spa experience, including dry saunas, eucalyptus steam rooms, body treatments and more. A business and events centre, childcare options, top-of-the-line concierge services and an on-site tailor ensure guests enjoy an impeccable stay at this regal hotel.
Inspired by the beauty of spring and thoughts of Paris, we’re on the hunt for Toronto’s best salad niçoise. Join us as French-born chef Nadège Nourian and Michelin-recognized Anthony Rose unveil the standout salad.
First Place: Le Select Bistro
NN: “This is the type of tuna (ahi) I like in my niçoise. The two types of potatoes are wonderful.” AR: “Very pretty! The egg is really nicely cooked, and this salad packs a lot of flavour — it’s seasoned really well.” 432 Wellington St. W., $33
Second Place: Domaine Mamo
NN: “The presentation is top notch and the ingredients are excellent. You would never see branzino in a niçoise, but it really works here!” AR: “Everything is good here from the ingredients to the seasoning.” 581 Mount Pleasant Rd., $40
Third Place: Le Gourmand
NN: “The capers are really nice! The dressing is a little bit sweet, and I don’t really like the greens, but this is a really well-made salad.” AR: “I love the anchovies!” 152 Spadina Ave., $17.99
Fourth Place: United Bakers Dairy Restaurant
NN: “This doesn’t look very French — more like a caesar salad. Overall, it’s got all of the things
you want to see in this type of salad.” AR: “This is a very tasty salad. Flavour-wise it’s very good.” 506 Lawrence Ave W., North York, $17.99
Fifth Place: French Made
NN: “Visually, it’s not my favourite, but the ingredients are fresh, and it’s delicious.” AR: “It’s good, and the tuna is quite nice here.” 80 Blue Jays Way, $16.50
Sixth Place: Le Swan
NN: “The dressing is too acidic for my taste, but the green bean is crunchy, I wish that there was more than one; it would add more flavour to the plate.” AR: “The frisée doesn’t seem very fresh, but I enjoy the richness of the salad with the aïoli.” 892 Queen St. W., $18
Seventh Place: Hotel Gelato
NN: “This is a very nice French cafeteria type of salad and something I would make at home.” AR: “This is a textbook niçoise salad. The ingredients are very fresh.” 532 Eglinton Ave. W., $20
Anthony Rose is the Michelin-recognized visionary behind Fat Pasha, Schmaltz and Fet Zun.
Nadège Nourian, the owner of Nadège Patisserie, has been delighting Torontonians with modern dessert creations since 2009.
The latest in a long line of restaurants from Toronto restauranteur Hemant Bhagwani, Bar Goa is offering Torontonians a wallet-friendly ten-course Indian omakase menu, and things are getting “bougie.”
Continuing the trend set by Goa Indian Farm Kitchen in North York and and Goa New York, the St. Lawrence restaurant marks the third installment in a series inspired by Hemant Bhagwani’s travels in the Indian coastal state. Focused on new age Indian, the restaurant —the first in the country to serve Indian omakase — provides a more intimate dining experience compared to its predecessors.
“After the New York Goa, which is 7,000 square feet, I just wanted to do a very small, higher-end boutique style where I can be involved hands-on and make sure I meet people myself and talk to them,” says Bhagwani. “In a bar setting, I wanted to pair deliciously beautiful cocktails with the cuisine and offer more of a tasting experience with smaller portions.”
@bargoato/Instagram
With golden accents, grand arches, and sleek black-and-white tiles, the space draws inspiration from the churches of Goa, complemented by modern touches like LED lighting and luxurious cushioned seating.
The new menu emphasizes presentation and offers two options: a six-course standard omakase priced at $60 for vegetarian and $70 for non-vegetarian (with an additional $40 for beverage pairing), and a ‘bougie’ 10-course omakase at $90 for vegetarian and $110 for non-vegetarian (with an extra $60 for beverage pairing).
One of the standout items across all menu variations is the chaat, a popular Indian street food. It boasts a unique twist, aiming for a more ‘theatrical’ experience with a crunchy tart base topped with blackberries and pomegranate, all presented over a bed of dry ice.
Highlights on the ‘bougie’ non-vegetarian menu include the keema made with bison and paired with house-made pau (pav) bread, a twist on the traditional vindaloo featuring 24-hour cooked short ribs in lieu of pork, and, undoubtedly, Bhagwani’s legendary lamb chops, a signature dish perfected over two decades.
@bargoato/Instagram
To enhance the regional experience, the Prawn Balchao, a popular Goan pickle found in every household according to Bhagwani, takes centre stage. Instead of pairing it with ordinary bread or roti, Bhagwani elevates the dish by serving it on Japanese milk bread, a delicacy gaining popularity in Toronto.
As for the vegetarian ‘bougie’ omakase, the elevated Indian cuisine comes alive through dishes like the homemade paneer, a jackroot xaccuti with roti and the chai & cutlet — chanterelle, porcini, shiitake mushroom galouti kebab with a wild mushroom broth.
To transport diners to Goa through cocktails, specialty drinks complement the Indian flavours of the menu. Standouts include the paan whiskey old fashioned, the Kashmiri chili-infused gin in the Mirchi Negroni and a unique twist on the espresso martini using Indian coffee. Additionally, as a sommelier, Bhagwani curates an extensive wine list that expertly complements the menu offerings.
After a stint in New York setting up GOA New York, the restaurateur has returned to Toronto. Bhagwani is hopeful that his latest venture, featuring the first-of-its-kind omakase menus, in Canada, will pave the way for him to secure a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide
“That’s my dream,” he says. “I’m hoping I can get there, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed.”
Chef and restaurant owner David Schwartz is set to shake things up on Ossington with the opening of his newest venture, Linny’s. Anticipation buzzed as he took to the Ossington Community Association Facebook group to share the news.
Addressing potential confusion about the permit sign, Schwartz clarified that Linny’s, located at 176 Ossington, is entirely separate from the neighbouring establishment at 172 Ossington.
“We are opening a full service sit down steakhouse with no late night component. I apologize if the notice is tough to see; it was the only place I could find to put it that was visible and didn’t require ripping down our construction paper,” Schwartz wrote. “We have been working very hard on this project and are incredibly excited about opening in the Ossington Community!”
MIMI’s cult classic four foot belt noodles
Schwartz’s culinary journey has been nothing short of remarkable. After the success of Sunnys Chinese, launched as a takeout pop-up in 2020, he expanded to two brick-and-mortar restaurants—Sunnys, now a fixture in Kensington Market serving American-Chinese classics like orange chicken, and MMI Chinese—an upscale Chinese restaurant in Yorkville. Schwartz channeled his childhood love for Asian cuisine into this hotspot with a menu highlighting dishes from the Guangdong province, located in southeast China. Both establishments have garnered numerous dining awards.
His accolades continued to grow, with Sunnys receiving a Bib Gourmand in 2023, and Schwartz becoming the recipient of the Michelin Guide’s Toronto Young Chef Award in the same year.
No word yet on when Linny’s will open, but considering Schwartz’s success with his last two establishments and its prime location in one of Toronto’s hottest areas, it’s bound to be a hit.
With Ossington Avenue getting crowned one of the coolest streets in the world, you might be thinking of taking a trip there to see what the fuss is all about.
Last fall, Lowest of the Low released a new album, Welcome to the Plunderdome. Anyone familiar with this iconic Toronto band knows of the magical experience of watching them play live, which you can do tomorrow night, April 13 at the historic Concert Hall and Yonge and Davenport. Yes, the former Rock Pile where Led Zeppelin played their first Toronto show.
Lowest of the Low, led by founding member and instigator-in-chief Ron Hawkins, has left its mark on many lives, and many bars and stages across the city. They’ve crooned about the Carlaw Bridge, the Only Café, Kensington Market, and many other local landmarks. If there was ever a quintessential Toronto band, a strong case could be made for these guys, who released their first album, Shakespeare My Butt, back in 1991.
Lowest of the Low play a series of shows this month at Lee’s Palace and the Horseshoe Tavern
The new album has been culled from the band’s incredible 30-plus-year run with the city’s unofficial punk-rock poet of the people Hawkins leading the way.
Hawkins knows the city well, and when we last spoke with him we thought it would be fun to get a glimpse of his stomping grounds in his beloved Ossington neighbourhood. Use this list as your official tour guide next time you’re in the neighbourhood!
Rotate This, 186 Ossington Ave.
I’ll admit I didn’t know how much I needed it until the vinyl renaissance occurred. I thought all those beautiful pieces of wax wrapped in 12″ masterpieces were as extinct as the Dodo bird when I sold them for rent money back in 1990. But lo and behold they returned. I’ve been re-collecting for a decade or so, and a prime fixture in that journey home has been Rotate This. An absolutely perfect, no fuss, no muss experience. Wander through the racks and pick out a few albums blind, based solely on the artwork. Or ask for some expert help from the knowledgeable, unpretentious staff. Hi-Fidelity… in the best sense of the word.
Arockafellas Post Exchange, 2-216 Ossington Ave.
I have, on occasion, been referred to as “the man with a thousand hairstyles.” You can chalk that up to my impatience to some degree, but mostly to the inspiring and encouraging demeanour of gangster/therapist/Rude Boy/renaissance man Sergio Rodriguez. Serge threads the needle in his salon design creating environments that are at once nostalgic, and jaw-droppingly contemporary. The apothecary meets speakeasy vibe of the new address is a feast for the eyes. The environment is important but really the cut’s the thing, and Serge has given me my top 100 haircuts of all time. I don’t use the word genius lightly. Serge is a genius.
I Deal Coffee, 162 Ossington Ave.
I used to frequent the very first Ideal Coffee in Kensington Market back in the early oughts. As the, possibly apocryphal, story goes it got its name because it was located in a building where the upstairs tenant was a drug dealer. Thus, thumb skyward “he deals drugs… I deal coffee”. These days the cozy, quiet speed of I Deal on Ossington is exactly the place to start your morning. When I say “morning” I mean… late morning when the artists and gig economists in the neighbourhood stumble in like George A Romero characters and fuel up for the day’s challenges. Chat with Chris or Liam about old-school hip hop, cycling, or boutique guitar pedals. Or just get your coffee, slump into a seat and… abide.
Type, 883 Queen St. W.
Books are better than people! But what happens when books and wonderful people come together in one place? Well, you’ve got Type Books, my friend. Browse through this creaky floored, sunlit store and find what you’re looking for, what you stumble across, or what you didn’t even know you needed. Kyle and the staff will help you find what you want or will calculate your algorithms by eye and suggest something even better. And, as far as I remember, all the staff wear glasses so… smart.
Foxley, 207 Ossington Ave.
A sweet little joint on Ossington, Foxley is billed as contemporary pan-Asian sharing plates. But if you’re as bowled over by the aromas coming out of the kitchen as I am you may have to go back to JK and learn how to share with your friends all over again. Each dish seems more delicious and well presented than the last. The decor is cool, unfussy, and totally welcoming. Plates like sea scallop ceviche with kumquat and grilled jalapeños or lemongrass-marinated Cornish hen will keep you ordering… and ORDERING… and hopefully sharing.
Chinatowns across the country are facing threats to their vibrancy and cultural importance. One crucial way to protect them is by keeping the local businesses thriving.
To highlight the best eateries in Toronto’s Chinatown, we asked top chefs like Susur Lee and Shu Zhang to share their recommendations.
House of Gourmet, chosen by Katy Chan, chef and co-owner of Cafe Neon, Bar Neon, Blue Collar Bakery
@houseofgourmet.to/Instagram
House of Gourmet stands out as a go-to spot for a wide selection of Chinese cuisine, catering to all tastes and cravings. Boasting an extensive menu of more than 800 items, from traditional Cantonese dishes to Sichuan specialties, this bustling eatery has something for everyone. Its roots trace back to the Chen family, who have been helming the restaurant since 2005. “My cousin introduced me to this Hong Kong–style diner,” says Chan. “It’s comfort food for me.” Insider Tip: “Order the young pea leaves with garlic sauce, congee with chicken and black mushrooms and the fried rice noodles with beef and black beansauce — I like the wide-format noodles,” says Chan. And to wash it down? “Red bean and coconut milk.”
Swatow chosen by Craig Wong, chef and owner at Patois and JunePlum
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Swatow offers a bustling dining experience with quick service and generous portions. Open late, it’s ideal for a post-drinks meal, serving classic Chinese dishes, like lemon chicken and sweet and sour pork. “Make sure to grab a bit of the chili oil available on the table,” says chef Craig Wong. Despite its humble accommodations, it’s beloved by locals who appreciate its consistent quality and friendly service. Can-
tonese speakers can enjoy secret menu items, and the kitchen’s specialties include seafood dishes and sizzling platters. Insider Tip: “A favourite dish is the beef and vegetable chow mein,” says Wong, and another of his go-tos is the off-menu deep fried shui gow (water dumplings). “It stands out from their pan-fried dumplings and shrimp wontons,” he says.
Banh Mi Nguyen Huong, chosen by Shu Zhang, chef at Bar Koukla
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“In my opinion, this is the best banh mi in the city,” says Zhang. “Also amazing bang for your buck.” You’ll find it tough to match the value offered at this iconic Chinatown establishment, which has been serving up hundreds of sandwiches daily since the ’80s, priced between four and six dollars. In addition to sandwiches, the restaurant also offers fresh rice paper rolls and a selection of Vietnamese sweets. In 2011, the owners sons opened the incredibly popular restaurant Banh Mi Boys, pioneering the fusion of traditional and contemporary Banh Mi styles. Insider Tip:“I always get the as-sorted cold cut sandwich with extra pickle,” says Zhang. “They also have takeout-ready Vietnamese hams and cold dishes.”
Rol San, chosen by Colin Li, owner of Hong Shing
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Chef Colin Li hailed it as “one of the best dim sum spots in Chinatown.” With such praise, it’s no surprise that Rol San has been a staple since 1994, satisfying diners with delicious Chinese cuisine. Rol San’s famous all-day dim sum menu is served until the early hours, ensuring a delicious meal whenever the craving hits. Rol San proves that you don’t have to be flashy. It’s always packed, especially on weekends, so expect a wait. With made-to-order dishes, including favourites like deep-fried taro puffs and baked milk tart, it offers a standout dining experience with fresh dim sum made and steamed right to your table. Insider Tip: Chef Li says, it’s all about the dim sum, from turnip cakes and har gow to yeung chow fried rice and shrimp rice rolls —each dish more delicious than the last.
Taste of China, chosen by Susur Lee, owner and chef at Lee Restaurant
Chef Susur Lee’s go-to spot in Chinatown, Taste of China, continues to be a beloved haunt for late-night diners, drawing them in with its delicious Cantonese flavours and focus on fresh seafood. Dishes featuring fresh seafood, like deep-fried squid with garlic pepper, alongside classics such as braised duck with Peking sauce, never fail to impress. With its roots in Guangdong province, China, Taste of China owner
Ping Cham brings a taste of home to Toronto. Insider Tip: “Make sure to ask if any special seafood arrived that day that is not on the menu,” says chef Nick Liu of DaiLo. “I have had live drunken prawns, xo, razor clams and raw geoduck.”
