Home Blog Page 220

Yorkville’s iconic festival of flowers returns for its 100th show

By
Ron Johnson
-
0
Fleurs de Villes
The Chien exhibit in Yorkville Village (Credit: Jesse Milns)

Fleurs de Villes is set to return to Toronto for its milestone 100th show, Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE. Running from May 8 to May 12, the event promises a vibrant celebration of art and botanical beauty, just in time for Mother’s Day.

The five-day event will transform the streets of Bloor-Yorkville into a floral wonderland, featuring more than 35 fresh floral pop-ups at various locations throughout the neighbourhood. Participating venues include W Toronto, Kith Toronto, Lafayette 148, Brooks Brothers, the Anndore House Hotel, and many more. Each installation is crafted by local florists and pays homage to both contemporary visionaries and timeless masters of art.

“We are absolutely delighted to have Fleurs de Villes returning to Bloor-Yorkville and to host our first edition of Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE,” says Briar de Lange, Executive Director of the Bloor-Yorkville BIA. “Hosting Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE not only adds a fresh and exciting event to our community but provides a wonderful opportunity to highlight local floral talent throughout the neighborhood.”

The theme of ARTISTE will be evident in the installations, which will highlight sculptures in the Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood, as well as artwork from renowned galleries such as Galerie LeRoyer, Heffel Fine Art, Gallery Gevik, and Mira Godard Gallery.

“We are thrilled to bring Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE to Toronto and to celebrate our 100th show,” said Karen Marshall, co-founder of Fleurs de Villes. “The Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood is the perfect, vibrant backdrop to share these beautifully crafted floral sculptures, each telling a story of creativity, unity, and the enduring power of artistic expression.”

Aside from the floral installations, visitors can also enjoy various activities along the floral trail, including beauty-inspired High-Beau Tea, a Paint & Wine Experience, and floral-inspired cocktails at participating venues such as the W Hotel, Constantine Toronto at The Anndore House, and ONE Restaurant at The Hazelton Hotel.

The event will feature street performances from local musicians at the Village of Yorkville Park, The Colonnade, and the Manulife Centre on May 11 and 12. Performers include Danielle Bassels, Juan Arce Trio, and Kalya Ramu Trio.

The event is free to attend, and signage beside each floral sculpture will provide insight into the inspiration behind the installations. The floral trail will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., allowing visitors to explore the stunning displays in daylight.

Looking for a restaurant to combine with your floral adventures, check out our list of the top 10 Yorkville restaurants.

For those looking to pick up a floral arrangement for Mother’s Day, a massive fresh flower market will be open at the Village of Yorkville Park and Manulife Centre on Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pastry chef from Michelin-recognized White Lily is opening a retro-inspired bakery

By
Jennifer Schembri
-
0
@whitelilybaker/Instagram

Toronto now has 36 Michelin-starred and Bib Gourmand restaurants. So, when one of them announces a new opening, it’s a big deal.

Bib Gourmand restaurant White Lily Diner’s pastry chef Rachelle Cornish is gearing up to debut Alice Marie Bakery & Coffee this summer. The bakery will occupy the space once held by Suzanne Barr’s now-closed Saturday Dinette.

Located at 807 Gerrard East, the bakery promises a nostalgic culinary journey with quality, scratch-made baked goods evoking childhood memories. Guests can indulge in sweet and savoury treats, including seasonal fruit cakes, cookies and scones, alongside espresso-based drinks and premium teas. The menu also features sandwiches and salads crafted with fresh ingredients sourced from local suppliers, served on house-made bread.

@alicemarie.ca/Instagram

A look at Alice Marie’s Instagram account, sees a plethora of delicious concoctions from lime rhubarb tarts and lemon poppyseed cake to decadent lemon shortbread chiffon wrapped up in earl grey ermine frosting and Deep’n Nostalgic homemade chocolate cake.

According to the website, Cornish’s inspiration for opening the bakery stems for cherished memories of baking with with her grandmother Alice Marie. The bakery will offer nostalgic, from-scratch treats inspired by their favourite recipes, with a modern twist.

Alice and Marie is not a new venture for Cornish. In addition to crafting pastries at White Lily Diner, including their famous doughnuts, she has also been operating Alice Marie, which was previously a home-based bakery.

Alongside Cornish, Aaron Hubley will oversee operations, front of house and wholesale. A certified VPN Pizzaiolo,  he honed his Neapolitan wood-fired pizza skills at Cotto Enoteca in Vancouver. He then advanced to roles as head chef and general manager at Prima Strada in Victoria, BC.

Follow along with Alice Marie’s Instagram page to stay in the loop.

This Canadian city just beat out Toronto as the ultimate foodie destination

By
Jennifer Schembri
-
0
@kissatanto/Instagram

Planning a Canadian getaway? Here’s some mouthwatering news: Chefs Plate just served up their latest findings on the top foodie destinations in Canada!

The meal kit delivery company just released its report of the “Top 10 Canadian Cities” For Foodies to Visit” which breaks down the volume of restaurants in each location, restaurant reviews, food costs and public demand.

After analyzing the data, Chefs Plate crowned Vancouver as Canada’s premier destination for food enthusiasts, earning a flawless rating of 100. The coastal metropolis flaunts the highest percentage of restaurants rated 4 stars or above, standing at an impressive 67.1 per cent. Its diverse array of dining options, ranging from upscale establishments to casual eateries, food trucks and bustling farmers’ markets, solidifies its status as the top spot.

Sushi Masaki Saito stands as the only Toronto restaurant with two Michelin stars.

Toronto closely trailed behind in second place, with a score of 95.6.Boasting the largest social media presence with over 103,000 posts tagged #torontofood, the city offers diverse culinary options from around the globe. With more online restaurant reviews and TikTok videos captivating over 50 million daily users, the foodie scene in 2024 is changing rapidly.

Victoria stands out for its seaside location and abundance of fresh seafood, earning a spot as the third-best foodie city. With Victoria leading in restaurants per capita at 67, it’s clear that Canada’s food scene is thriving. Other notable cities like Halifax and Quebec City also offer high-quality dining experiences.

In addition to Toronto, three other Ontario cities made the list: Mississauga, Hamilton and Windsor.

Top 10 Canadian Cities For Foodies to Visit: Ranked

  1. Vancouver: 100
  2. Toronto: 95.6
  3. Victoria: 86.9
  4. Richmond: 81.6
  5. Calgary: 78.0
  6. Montreal: 71.8
  7. Mississauga: 60.9
  8. Hamilton: 56.4
  9. Burnaby: 53.0
  10. Windsor: 53.0

The data analyzed 30 of Canada’s largest cities and towns, assigning scores to determine the best locations for foodies.

Toronto is getting a cutting new immersive ‘Knives Out’ dining experience

By
Ron Johnson
-
0
knives out
Netflix

A new immersive dining experience inspired by the popular film series Knives Out is set to debut in Toronto, offering guests a chance to solve a murder mystery while enjoying a four-course meal.

Presented by Secret City in collaboration with Netflix, The Perfect Bite, A Dinner Experience inspired by Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery promises an evening of suspense and culinary delight.

Taking place at the renowned Peter Pan Bistro in Toronto, the event will run from May 16 to June 30, providing limited opportunities for patrons to book their seats. Attendees will be immersed in a thrilling “whodunnit” murder mystery scenario, complete with a live cast of characters.

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by acclaimed chef Maribelle Moore, who will shockingly reveal that the evening’s menu holds a dark secret about the Salty Six, a group of culinary prodigies formed by Moore and five other chefs during their student days. As tensions escalate among the members of the Salty Six, a murder occurs, setting the stage for a gripping investigation.

Assisted by the world-renowned detective Logan Locke, participants will work together to unravel clues hidden within the menu as they indulge in a four-course meal. With each course offering vital information, attendees must use their deductive skills to identify the culprit behind the crime.

The event will take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 6 PM and 9 PM, and Sundays at 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM. Tickets, priced between $149 and $176, are now available for purchase.

“The Perfect Bite” promises to be a unique dining experience, combining the thrill of solving a mystery with the enjoyment of fine cuisine. With limited seating available, interested patrons are encouraged to secure their tickets promptly for an unforgettable evening of intrigue and entertainment.

Toronto just got a dreamy French restaurant with a boudoir-style speakeasy

By
Jennifer Schembri
-
0
Photo: Hector Vasquez

A new French brasserie inspired by southern France has opened at The Well. La Plume, located at 453 Wellington St. W., offers a cozy atmosphere with high ceilings, patterned tile floors and elegant chandeliers adorned with dusty rose fringe-wrapped lamps.

Oliver & Bonacini’s latest addition to The Well, following the recent opening of Aera, is a collaboration with O&B executive chef John Horne, known for his work at Auberge du Pommier, Maison Selby and Biff’s Bistro. The seasonal menu at La Plume draws inspiration from his experiences cooking in the region.

Photo: Hector Vasquez

“La Plume is our love letter to southern France,” says Horne. “Marrying the cozy romance of a classic French bistro with the unruffled flair of a laid-back brasserie, La Plume celebrates l’art de vivre from day to night”

The dreamy menu captures the essence of French cuisine, with classic dishes like the indulgent French onion soup, topped with three cheeses, baguette and parsley. Chef de cuisine Navider Saini from Parcheggio lends his expertise to the kitchen team, introducing standout offerings like a unique tartare bar featuring traditional beef, trout and mushroom seared with grilled bread, house pickles and crips. Guests can also sample several variation of steak frites and authentic French entrees like the croque madame crepe and tuna Niçoise salad.

Photo: Hector Vasquez

La Plume’s bar will be a vibrant hub, serving a variety of refreshing spritzes perfect for brunches, daily happy hours (3 to 6 p.m.), and late-night gatherings. Guests can indulge in specialties like the the Riviera Spritz with St-Germain, sparkling wine, soda water, lavender thyme syrup and lemon; along with modern classics like the Plume Negroni with Dillon’s Selby gin, Campari, Dolin sweet vermouth, Lillet Blanc, strawberry syrup and orange bitters. 

Designed as an ode to sophisticated French architecture by Solid Design Creative, La Plume features a stunning main floor bar at the heart of the restaurant, adorned with a custom birdcage-inspired back bar and a bespoke mural. Upstairs, guests are welcomed by Bordeaux checkerboard flooring, whimsical wallpaper, a spacious open kitchen, an inviting private dining room and a greenery-filled terrace overlooking Wellington Street.

Guests who venture into the right (or perhaps wrong?) washroom stall will discover a boudoir-inspired speakeasy named Bonne Nuit. The space is open Thursday through Saturday evenings, providing an upscale setting for late-night cocktails, bottle service and private events. With custom feather and fringe design accents, a sculptural banquette and French apothecary details, it exudes a moody European vibe.

La Plume is open Tuesday to Friday for lunch and dinner as well as weekend brunch and dinner. page1image41632576

Toronto actor stars in new series backed by Trailer Park Boys comedy legends

By
Julia Mastroianni
-
0

Before Jennifer Spence became a regular on multiple popular sci-fi series and now the lead of a new comedy series from the team behind Trailer Park Boys, she was just a kid testing the waters in a community theatre play in Toronto.

“We did The Crucible, and I met a bunch of other great young women as well — it was a nice group of people to have my first experience with,” she says. “I remember thinking, ‘OK, this is what I want to do. I want to be an actor. I don’t care if it means I’ll be broke; I just love it.’”

The community theatre play was her first attempt to get herself ready for “the professional world of acting.” After that, Spence went full speed ahead on her acting career, despite plenty of moments of discouragement, she says. As an Asian actor (her mother is Japanese and her father is British), Spence says there weren’t many role models for her to look to growing up.

“Watching TV, I didn’t see a whole lot of people who looked like me,” she says. “I don’t remember being too fazed by it, but when I started auditioning, I realized it was more difficult to land roles. They’d say it was open ethnicity — but there was no way they’d actually cast an ethnic person for the role.”

Spence started out landing bit parts on movies and TV shows alongside stars such as Jennifer Garner, but soon her career took on an interesting shape — sci-fi star. Her first ever multi-episode arc was on the American science fiction show The 4400, and soon after, she landed her breakout role: Dr. Lisa Park on SGU Stargate Universe. One of a few series in the Stargate military science fiction universe, her popularity on the show led her to a lead role on Canadian sci-fi series Continuum, a recurring role alongside Eric McCormack on Netflix sci-fi series Travelers and eventually a starring role on British crime drama Traces.

So how does the darling of the science fiction genre make the pivot to comedy with The Trades, a new series from the team behind the award-winning Trailer Park Boys? Spence says the cast made the switch easy for her.

“It just felt right. I was blown away by the calibre of talent I was working with. They were all personally funny, not just funny on set!”

The Trades, which premiered on Crave at the end of March, follows a blue-collar community working on a refinery when Spence’s character, Chelsea, steps in as the new site manager from head office.

Spence says the comedy is her kind of humour — raunchy and edgy. “I just loved the script from the beginning. I said, ‘Thank God for material that makes me laugh out loud,’” she says. “It felt very authentic; it was a world that I wanted to know more about.”

This being the first “corporate” role Spence has played, she says she translated her own excited and nervous energy into her character’s as the new boss on the block. “It was a fun challenge to play.”

In a career that is often feast or famine, as Spence says, The Trades sticks out as a positive experience filled with genuine camraderie among the cast and crew. “It can get easy to second-guess yourself,” she says. “But my husband put it nicely — actors are compelled to act. We have this pathological need to tell stories and be a part of something.”

TikTok food critic Keith Lee is coming to Toronto

By
Nisean Lorde
-
0
Keith lee
photo: Door Dash

Popular TikTok food critic Keith Lee is coming to Toronto—it’ll be his first international stop on the ‘FamiLee Food Tour’.

“If you’re in Toronto, Canada, and you or somebody you know have a mom-and-pop shop that has great food, great customer service, but may need the marketing for absolutely free to them, please let me know,” he said in a Tik Tok video, reminding people that he will focus of mom and pop shops, restaurants that embody the food scene according to the people in Toronto, and restaurants from different backgrounds and different cultures.

@keith_lee125 FamiLee Food Tour ? would you try it ? ? #foodcritic ♬ original sound – Keith Lee

Torontonians are already highlighting their fav mom and pop spots for him to check out.

“TORONTO????? Okay try knockout chicken !!!” one user posted under his TikTok video. Another suggested “nomi izakaya, rasta pasta in Kensington, Mainsha on Eglinton, Chubby’s, and PAI”. On Instagram, the Ivorian restaurant Instant du palais on Mt Pleasant Rd. came up more than once.

Users on X shared hundreds of ideas about where Lee could visit when in the city:

Lee first became popular after posting food reviews in Las Vegas. As his social media presence grew, Lee decided to take his food reviews on the road. Last year, Lee and his family visited 10 states across the U.S. He focused on reviewing Black-owned and family restaurants, and created a stir wherever he went.

A good review from the humble influencer, who has more than 16 million TikTok videos and two million Instagram followers, can result in massive economic effects for a struggling restaurant almost overnight, leading to crowds descending on small, family-owned spots and lineups around the block.

His reviews are simple, and even if he isn’t a fan of a certain spot, he’s always respectful. To remain anonymous, Lee often sends his family members to pick up the food, which he eats from the comfort of his car. He then reviews the food, rating each item on a scale of one to 10. He’s non-pretentious and speaks directly to the camera about what he likes and dislikes about a meal, as well as, when applicable, the service at a restaurant.

Unfortunately, sometimes things don’t go as planned for the critic. During a visit to Atlanta last year, Lee said he experienced customer service issues, long wait times, odd rules about ordering, and wrong or misleading information about hours of service at some popular restaurants.  Luckily, he’s giving the city a redemption tour.

Luckily, he’s giving the city a redemption tour.

A guide to exploring Canada’s great outdoors: Road to the Rockies

By
Kaitlin Narciso
-
0

Canada is renowned worldwide for its vast and majestic great outdoors, boasting pristine wilderness, towering mountains, serene lakes and captivating wildlife. Embark on a legendary journey with us as we traverse one of Canada’s most iconic road trip routes: Calgary to Banff. 

This scenic drive is well-known for its breathtaking vistas, charming pit stops and rich cultural history. Since no road trip is complete without the right set of wheels, we’ve teamed up with TURO to put together this Road to the Rockies guide, complete with tips, tricks and loads of inspiration! From awe-inspiring landscapes to small town vibes and remarkable hidden gems, this road trip is a quintessential Canadian experience. 

So buckle up and join us as we unravel the allure of the Calgary to Banff road trip. 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4LmiJQg8-x/?igsh=ZDJqamdpdXhibHVw

TIP #1: Find your drive. Picking the right vehicle for your road trip is essential as it’s the foundation of your journey. TURO proves to be an amazing companion for road trips, offering an unparalleled level of flexibility and convenience. With TURO, travellers can choose from a diverse array of vehicles tailored to their specific needs and preferences, whether it’s a sleek convertible for cruising along coastal highways or a rugged SUV for off-road adventures. For our journey, we opted for a Jeep Wrangler, an ideal choice capable of tackling the varied terrains and weather conditions encountered along the route. For those arriving at the Calgary International Airport, TURO also offers airport vehicle delivery and drop off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your adventure. 

Starting Point: Fairmont Palliser, Calgary

Our adventure begins at the historic Fairmont Palliser, a landmark hotel in the heart of Calgary. Built in 1914, the Fairmont Palliser exudes old-world charm and elegance, offering guests a glimpse into Calgary’s rich history. From its luxurious accommodations to its impeccable service, this iconic hotel sets the perfect tone for our road trip ahead.

Located in the heart of Calgary, there’s a plethora of amazing food and drink options in the neighbourhood. For shareable plates, Ten Foot Henry is an amazing option, with a vegetable-forward and creative menu. For unprecedented views, Major Tom Bar is located on the 40th floor of the Scotia Centre overlooking the Calgary Tower.

Fuel Up: Cochrane Coffee Traders

After a rejuvenating night at the Fairmont Palliser, we hit the road bright and early, making our first pit stop at Cochrane Coffee Traders. Nestled in the quaint town of Cochrane, this local gem has been serving up homemade treats and artisanal coffee for over two decades. 

Fuel up with a cup of coffee and a hearty muffin or cinnamon bun, which have become local favourites. 

TIP #2: Car snacks. Since snacks are a must-have for any road trip adventure, grab a few extra treats for the drive. 

Hikers Haven: Grassi Lakes and Three Sisters Creek 

As we journeyed towards Banff, we made a detour to Canmore, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the picturesque trails of Grassi Lakes and Three Sisters Creek. With stunning mountain views and crystal-clear lakes, Canmore offers a taste of the Rockies like no other.

TIP #3: Don’t miss the grip, we don’t want you to slip. Proper footwear is extremely important when hiking. Make sure to have proper hiking shoes — and if you’re venturing out in a snowy season, bring crampons for extra traction. 

Lunch Break: Bridgette Bar, Canmore

After working up an appetite on the trails, we headed to Bridgette Bar in downtown Canmore for a much deserved lunch break. Indulge in their mouth watering dishes, accompanied by a selection of cocktails for the passengers and mocktails for the designated drivers. With a cozy atmosphere and delicious menu, Bridgette Bar is the perfect spot to refuel before hitting the road again.

Final Destination: Banff

Our journey culminated in the world-renowned town of Banff, where we checked into the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs. 

Nestled amidst the majestic Canadian Rockies, this iconic hotel offers unparalleled luxury and hospitality. Established in 1888, the Fairmont Banff Springs has welcomed guests from around the globe, including Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Robert Mitchum.

Once settled in Banff, there’s no shortage of activities to indulge in. Visit the Sugar Shack at Fairmont Banff Springs for a sweet Canadian experience, complete with maple taffy and hot chocolate by the fire pits. Take a ride on the Banff Gondola for panoramic views of the Rockies, or explore the charming downtown strip, lined with local shops and eateries. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the iconic Banff sign for the perfect souvenir of your Canadian adventure.

TIP #4: Love a surprise? Try Guess Where Trips. This Canadian company offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience that allows you to surrender yourself to spontaneity and surprise as they plan and produce self-guided, road trip itineraries. 

For more Great Escape adventures, follow Streets of Toronto on Instagram.

To learn more about TURO, visit TURO.com. 

At this unique all day Toronto café and wine bar, happy hour starts at 2 p.m.

By
Jennifer Schembri
-
0
@thecompanywekeep_to/Instagram

The Company We Keep is not just your average café — it’s a multifaceted establishment born from the vision of industry mavens Jenn Hornak and Nika Mistruzzi. Drawing on their expertise in sommelier work and baking, they’ve created a space that effortlessly shifts from pantry and café to wine bar and restaurant, all while serving as a vibrant venue for pop-up events.

Walking into the space is like stepping into a cosy kitchen with friends. Hornak and Mistruzzi wanted a place where guests could relax, connect and enjoy homemade food, and they’ve done just that. From Mistruzzi’s delicious pies made with seasonal fruits to Hornak’s thoughtfully chosen wines, everything reflects a commitment to quality and authenticity.

But it’s not just about the food — it’s about the experience. The café buzzes with life, hosting everything from culinary pop-ups to live music nights. And with partnerships with local suppliers and industry friends, every product on the menu is a testament to the power of collaboration.

“We both wanted to open a café that fostered a sense of creativity and community,” say the owners.

@thecompanywekeep_to/Instagram

The support of family and friends has played a crucial role in our business journey. They have been instrumental not only in designing and decorating the space but also in contributing to the daily operations.

“We are so lucky to have Nika’s mother-in-law, Ersilia, work at the shop every Saturday. She brings such beautiful energy to the team, and we love learning from her,” say Hornak and Mistruzzi. “Jenn’s mom, Roberta, is always helping us with repairs and upkeep; we couldn’t thank her enough. Roberta and Jenn’s stepdad, Jack, also make custom wooden cutting boards that we sell at the shop.”

The evening program enhances the experience with wine flights, cider, beer and cocktails, complemented by small plates of charcuterie and savoury snacks. And with a happy hour that starts at 2:oo p.m. daily complete with $5 beers and $7 glasses of wine, the festivities can begin early.

Looking ahead, guests can expect even more goodness on the horizon. With plans to expand their patio space, enhance their menu offerings and host a variety of events and collaborations, this café’s journey is just beginning.

In a world of fast dining, The Company We Keep offers a refreshing reminder: good food and company make life meaningful.

The Company We Keep is located at 634 St. Clair Ave. W.

Toronto’s top TV weather people on the best rain gear for spring

By
Julia Mastroianni
-
0

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

 

Toronto’s top meteorologists (and Storm the weather dog!) take Jeanne Beker’s favourite spring rain gear for a spin.

Anthony Farnell, Chief meteorologist at Global News, and Storm the weather dog

A. COAT- CLASSIC TRENCH

“This is a coat that will last you forever. It’s absolutely elegant, and nobody makes trench coats better than the Brits!” Holt Renfrew, $3,290, 50 Bloor St. W. 

B. UMBRELLA- TARTAN TOPPER

“That’s a very nice plaid that goes great with a classic trench coat, and I like that wooden handle.” Good Neighbour, $75, 935 Queen St. E.

C. BOOTS- ADVENTURE BOOT

“These are cool. It’s not a thick sole, but these are super waterproof. They definitely make a fashion statement!” Annie Aime, $158, 42 Ossington Ave.

STORM’S COAT 

Dogfather & Co., $42, 1007 Yonge St.

Natasha Ramsahai, Chief meteorologist at CityNews 

D. BOOTS- CHELSEA BOOT

“These Chelsea boots are really sharp-looking and great to wear rain or shine. And there’s a lot of edge to the lines of this boot.” Getoutside, $104.99, 437 Queen St. W. 

E. UMBRELLA- FLORALS FOREVER

“This is a really pretty floral print that really speaks of spring and optimism and femininity — what a happy umbrella!” Juxtapose, $56, 430 Bloor St. W.

F. COAT- POP OF PINK

“This is so vibrant and joyful and has an oversized feel to it — I love the sleeves you can really roll up, the gigantic lapels and the fun button detailing.” Freda’s, $450, 45 Elm St. 

Kelsey McEwen, Chief meteorologist for CTV’s Your Morning

G. BOOTS- FLOWER POWER

“This looks like a great boot to wear all through the summer, and it’s nice to have a rain boot with so much colour.” Corso Shoes, $99.95, 446 Danforth Ave.

H. UMBRELLA- SPLASH OF SUN

“This bright yellow colour is so stunning, and I love the little wooden duck at the handle!” Good Neighbour, $60, 935 Queen St. E.

I. COAT- PRETTY IN PLAID

“This is a really unusual and uplifting colouration, and this is a great plaid for spring. What a fun take on a trench.” Hilary MacMillan, $295, hilarymacmillan.com

Bill Coulter, Meteorologist at CP24

J. COAT

“This is a great colour and a great length to this coat. It looks very comfortable to get around in and has plenty of classic detailing.” RW&CO, $143.96, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr. 

K. UMBRELLA- STYLISH STRIPES

“I love any black and white fashion story, and this umbrella has an almost ’60s campy feel. The graphic look is very cool.” Grapefruit, $28, 528 Church St.

L. BOOTS- READY FOR RAIN

“This is a great boot that will last you forever. This would look good for any kind of pants, jeans or even a dressier look.” Gravitypope, $168, 1010 Queen St. W.  

 For Jeanne Beker’s top picks for the mob wife trend, click here. 

5 restaurants with huge portions in Toronto

By
Jennifer Schembri
-
0
@sugotoronto/Instagram

In Toronto, you’ll find restaurants where prices are sky-high and portions are tiny, leaving you hungry for more.  There are also spots that embrace a “more is more” philosophy. From towering stacks of pancakes to hefty burgers, these five Toronto restaurants serve up huge portions that’ll satisfy any appetite.

Sugo

@sugotoronto/Instagram

At Bloor West Italian favourite, Sugo, hearty portions are the name of the game. From pasta dishes like the Pomodoro to generous plates of veal, chicken and meatloaf, the servings here are substantial. And let’s not forget about the sandwiches —the chicken Caesar club is legendary in its proportions. Customers also praise the friendly service and surprisingly reasonable prices given the massive portions.

King’s Tacos

@kingstacoscanada/Instagram

At St. Clair West’s King’s Tacos, everything is supersized— from their Sopa de Polla to their tacos, quesadillas and wraps. The restaurant’s commitment to massive portions is evident, offering meat by the kilogram. Tacos are piled high on the plate, embracing a “the more, the merrier” approach, while burritos are forearm-sized and quesadillas practically beg to be saved for lunch the next day.

Chica’s Nashville Hot Chicken

@chicas.chicken/Instagram

Chica’s ChickenHusband-and-wife team, Carolyn and Matthew Pelechaty love friend chicken. So much so that after a trip to Nashville they opened Chica’s Chicken in the Junction to immediate success. Incorporating their own ideas and flavours, Chica’s has created a unique version of Nashiville hot chicken with each piece dry-brined with a blend of their own in-house spices — even their Carolina reapers and ghost peppers are blended by hand to ensure they are using the hottest peppers possible! Choose from six heat levels that range from plain to hot af (extremely hot) and delicious options that include sandwiches like the OG Nashville-spiced boneless fried chicken topped with slaw, pickles and buttermilk ranch, served on Texas toast, chicken bites and wings. 

Porzia’s Lasagna

@porzias_lasagne/Instagram

In just a few short years, Porzia’s  has evolved from a humble online takeout spot into a bustling dine-in restaurant. With seating for 26, this newly-opened gem offers a unique dining experience. Their standout dish? A towering fourteen-layer lasagna, standing at a whopping four inches tall, featured on both lunch and dinner menus. Alongside this showstopper, Porzia’s serves up beloved Italian classics like eggplant Milanese and Barese sausage, making it a must-visit for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.

Mildred’s Temple Kitchen

@mildredstemplekitchen/Instagram

In a city that loves brunch as much as Toronto, it takes a certain place to really be known amongst the masses. Chances are, you know of Mildred’s Temple Kitchen, the Liberty Village staple dedicated to locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, simply and sumptuously prepared. Perfection on a plate,  the hug stack of Mrs. Biederhof’s infamous light and fluffy blueberry buttermilk pancakes are the focal point of the famous Sunday brunch. Heck, Mildred’s even got a Facebook page dedicated to them. Topped with Lanark County maple syrup, fresh whipped cream and blueberries, these pancakes have such amazing texture and flavour, it’s hard not to order seconds. The space is bright yet industrial, relaxing while intimate, and the warmth of Mildred’s stays with guests longer than the food does.

Toronto restaurant faces backlash for ‘no tap water’ policy

By
Jennifer Schembri
-
0
Jay Wennington/Unsplash

A Toronto resident recently recounted a surprising experience from a dinner outing at one of her favourite upscale Italian restaurants. Despite the establishment’s reputation and multiple locations in Montreal and Toronto, the patron and her dining companions were met with an unexpected and unwelcome policy: “No tap water allowed!”

On March 29, Elise Burton, a member of the Food and Wine Industry Navigator Facebook group, shared her encounter with the community. However, she couldn’t disclose the restaurant’s name due to the moderator rules of the Facebook page, which prohibit revealing restaurant names.

“Asked our server for some iced tap water. We were told “No. We do not serve tap water. You must buy a bottle of sparkling or spring water,” she recounted. 

Stunned by the policy, Burton asked to speak with the manager, who explained that it was a new policy by management and he could do nothing about it.

The “livid” Burton, asked the Facebook group, “Is this a new thing?” She expressed her disappointment at being unable to enjoy a simple glass of tap water, despite planning to order other items from the menu.

Burton’s post sparked a lively discussion in the Facebook group, garnering over 200 comments. Many members sympathized with her frustration, questioning the restaurant’s motives and sharing their own experiences or advice on how to address similar situations.

“How does one deny a guest something simple and free and still believe they are in the “hospitality” business,” said one member.

Another member, a former server also shared their thoughts. “That will be the day when I EVER buy bottled water in a restaurant or anywhere else for that matter and I worked as a server for many years.”

“It’s typical to be offered sparkling or flat water from a bottle in Italian eateries. Good way to get you to pay for water without telling you. And that’s fine. But you cannot refuse someone water in any establishment serving alcohol,” said another member. “I do definitely empathize with the cost of operating etc. but this is just not the way to go. I would straight up just never go back”

Burton’s experience underscores the significance of hospitality and customer service in the restaurant industry, particularly as diners become more selective due to rising costs.

1...219220221...1,014Page 220 of 1,014
© Copyright 2025 | All rights reserved by Post City Magazines, Inc.
Website by Web Publisher PRO