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A Formula One experience is making it North American debut in Toronto

By
Julia Mastroianni
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Courtesy F1 Exhibition

Calling all motorheads! A spectacular new exhibition that has already dazzled fans in Madrid, Spain and Vienna, Austria is making its North American debut in Toronto, and it’s going to be an immersive journey into all things Formula One.

The F1 exhibition will open in the city on May 3, and fans of what some have called one of the fastest-growing sports in the world will be able to test out F1 cars using state-of-the-art stimulators and official gaming equipment.

The experience debuted in Madrid, where it became Spain’s biggest-selling temporary show in 2023, and with the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal this year almost entirely selling out, there’s clearly growing demand for the sport on our side of the Atlantic.

The 90-minute experience will take visitors on an adventure through six specially designed rooms across more than 20,000 square feet, where they’ll get an inside look at the inner workings of the world of F1.

Courtesy F1 Exhibition

The exhibition includes previously-unseen photography, film and artifacts meant to give fans a history of the sport’s most iconic moments. Visitors will also get a glimpse at how F1 teams design and manufacture new cars. The experience will also highlight drivers of note throughout the years since the beginning of F1 in 1950, including a display about one of the most horrific near-death crashes in the history of the sport. Since the exhibition is taking place at Lighthouse Artspace Toronto — previously home to popular immersive experiences including Immersive Van Gogh — it wouldn’t be complete without an immersive experience of its own. The finale of the entire exhibition features a “show-stopping” immersive cinematic experiences where fans can relive the greatest moments in F1 history.

Courtesy F1 Exhibition

According to a press release, the experience will also feature a few new displays exclusive to the Toronto exhibition. Tickets go on sale to the general public on March 28.

“Canada has a huge history in the sport, from a host of world-class drivers to an iconic Grand Prix.  Toronto is home to a plethora of sports, entertainment and culture so it’s in an ideal position to be the first in North America to welcome Formula 1 fans to this one-of-a-kind show,” Jonathan Linden, producer of the exhibition, said in a statement.

There have been a few successful F1 drivers from Canada over the years, including Gilles Villeneuve and his son Jacques Villeneuve, Allen Berg, and Toronto’s own George Eaton and Nicholas Latifi. There’s currently one Canadian racing driver on the grid — Montreal’s Lance Stroll, who has been competing since 2017.

How to prepare your home for a winter storm

By
Jarrod Daley
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See all posts by Diamond and Diamond Lawyers

During the winter season, snowstorms and extreme weather conditions are inevitable. As Canada’s largest personal injury law firm, the team at Diamond and Diamond Lawyers has become very familiar with the safety concerns that winter conditions can bring. Jeremy Diamond, a Founding Partner at the company, shares some valuable tips to help ensure that your home is ready to handle the next winter storm.

1. Secure Your Home’s Exterior

Winter storms bring strong winds and heavy snowfall – two things that can seriously threaten the structural integrity of a home. As a result, it’s critical to perform routine checks throughout the season to secure your home against whatever conditions mother nature throws at it. “Inspect your home’s exterior for loose shingles, damaged siding, or compromised roofing. In addition to this, it’s important to properly seal all windows and doors to help prevent drafts,” says Jeremy Diamond.

One additional consideration that homeowners should address is the presence of any tree limbs that hang over buildings. Failure to properly remove these limbs can result in damage to homes and buildings.

2. Check Your Heating System

A functioning heating system is essential during snowstorms. “No one wants to find themselves in the middle of a blizzard without adequate heat,” says Jeremy Diamond. Not only can a lack of heat damage water pipes in a home, but it can also be a serious safety concern to those inside the home. For this reason, having a professional inspect all heating mechanisms is pivotal to help identify and address any issues.

3. Insulate Water Pipes To Prevent Freezing

When extreme cold is in the forecast, all homeowners must prepare accordingly. Frozen water pipes can lead to significant issues for homeowners. As such, it’s important to insulate any exposed water pipes in your home to help prevent freezing.

“When in doubt, one old trick that many people follow is if you allow your faucets to drip slowly, the water flow will continue and help reduce the risk of pipes bursting,” says Jeremy Diamond.

4. Emergency Power Preparedness

While we never want to think about it, the reality is that snow storms can leave people without power and electricity. Investing in a generator to provide backup power during outages is an excellent idea for homeowners. While generators are a great tool, it’s essential to make sure you know how to use them safely. Diamond and Diamond’s Safety Ambassador, Cam Woolley, has outlined several generator safety tips to consider before operating one.

@diamond_lawyers It’s time to talk about #generator safety! ? Our Safety Ambassador, Cam Woolley, discusses 5 mistakes that people commonly make when operating a generator. #generatorsafety #homesafety #portablegenerator #backupgenerators #safetyfirst #fyp ♬ original sound – Diamond & Diamond

5. Create a Winter Storm Emergency Kit

One very easy way to prepare for winter storms is by having a winter storm emergency kit. Below is a list of several things you should consider having on hand should a winter storm arise:

Note: this is not a comprehensive list, and everyone’s situation may differ slightly.

  1. Bottled Water
  2. Non-Perishable Food Items
  3. Blankets & Warm Clothing
  4. First Aid Kit
  5. Portable Chargers
  6. Candles and matches

Conclusion

Securing your home for a winter storm is a proactive step towards maintaining the safety and well-being of your family. By following these comprehensive tips, you can confidently navigate the challenges of winter storms. Stay safe, and stay warm!

About Jeremy Diamond

Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.

 

The best places to see the total solar eclipse in Ontario

By
Julia Mastroianni
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Courtesy USFWS Mountain-Prairie/flickr

On April 8, as the moon traces its path across the afternoon sky, its shadow will collide with daylight and momentarily block out the entirety of the sun. Southern Ontario will experience an incredible celestial event: a total solar eclipse. 

But how rare is this event? Is it truly once in a lifetime?

Dr. Robin Metcalfe, director and associate professor of natural science at York University, explains the probability.

“Solar eclipses actually happen quite often – at least twice per year. Total solar eclipses are a bit less frequent. They typically occur once every two years.” 

But Metcalfe, who specializes in astronomy and astrophysics, noted that although solar eclipses aren’t uncommon, the path of the upcoming solar eclipse is.

“Total solar eclipses can only be seen from a very narrow strip of our planet — only about 150 km wide. Since Earth is mostly water, it’s far more likely for total solar eclipses to be visible only from the ocean. That’s what makes the April 8 total solar eclipse so rare,” Metcalfe said.

“Not only will it be visible over major North American cities, but its path will include parts of Southern Ontario, as well. This won’t happen again for the GTA for another 100 years or so.”

Torontonians recalling the 70 per cent solar eclipse of Aug. 24, 2017, may wonder how this event differs. With the GTA expecting more than 99 per cent coverage this time, the difference is substantial — but don’t expect to have the same experience as those in the path of totality. 

“Viewers in the GTA will not actually witness the total eclipse phase as Toronto is a few kilometres outside the path (unless you happen to be out on Lake Ontario),” Metcalfe said.

“It sounds like a tiny difference, but that remaining 1 per cent changes the experience dramatically. While the changes to the sun are quite spectacular, viewers won’t experience the darkening of the sky, nor will they see the sun’s outermost atmosphere.”

Asked how long the eclipse will be, Metcalfe notes Toronto’s partial solar eclipse will last approximately 2.5 hours, starting at 2 p.m. and peaking around 3:15 p.m. Outside of Toronto, viewers in the path of totality can expect anywhere from 1-4 minutes of total solar eclipse.

“Fortunately, the path of totality does hit landfall both east and west of Toronto, including Cobourg, Belleville, Kingston and Burlington, Hamilton, St. Catharines, and Niagara Falls,” she said, “The path of the moon’s shadow just happens to be avoiding Toronto. Maybe it heard about the traffic!”

Indeed — expect traffic. If you want to experience the big day in full, you’ll want to plan ahead to avoid disappointment, especially if the weather is good.

“If you’re planning to travel to the path of totality, it’s best to head out very early in the morning, or ideally the day before,” Metcalfe suggested. “And keep in mind that when the eclipse is over, everyone is going to leave at roughly the same time. Like a Blue Jays home opener and a Leafs and Raptors playoff game all ending at the exact same time!”

Despite the potential for traffic jams and crowds, those who journey to the path of totality will get rewarded with a spectacular astronomical phenomenon. 

“I have never witnessed a total solar eclipse and am planning to travel to the path of totality and hope that the weather behaves. I’ve been told it’s an incredible and surreal experience,” Metcalfe said.

Curious to see the total solar eclipse, too? Why not explore these ten nearby locations and plan your very own cosmic road trip now? Just don’t forget snacks for the road — and, of course, a good pair of eclipse glasses.

Bay of Quinte

Encompassing Belleville and the surrounding area, the Bay of Quinte will host several special events, including a community bike ride and various themed viewing parties.

Cobourg

The beach town of Cobourg and other nearby communities offer excellent viewing locations for the total eclipse. Areas like Cobourg Beach and East Pier will be lively.

Fort Erie

Closest in proximity to the eclipse’s central path compared to anywhere else in Canada, Fort Erie can expect nearly four minutes of total eclipse time — the longest in the country.

Hamilton

Special events include a free ticketed celebration at Tim Hortons Field and a viewing party at CF Lime Ridge, led by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

Kingston

Promising free local transit for the day, Kingston will host several eclipse-related events, including celebrations at nearby Grass Creek Park and historic Fort Henry. 

Niagara Falls

Admire the wonders of the falls and solar eclipse from one of many local viewing areas. The tourist town will also host special events, including a parking lot party featuring live music and food trucks.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Enjoy the total eclipse amid the picturesque scenery of Niagara-on-the-Lake and surrounding wine country. Cycling tours and vineyard celebrations will be occurring throughout the area.

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Experience the solar eclipse within the Niagara region’s best parks: Ball’s Falls, Binbrook or Long Beach. Day-use campsites and overnight tent camping are available. Pre-bookings only.

Prince Edward County

Solar eclipse events, including viewing parties, wellness retreats and themed brunches, are available throughout the county. Though unstaffed, Sandbanks and North Beach provincial parks will also be popular destinations.

Windsor-Essex and Pelee Island

Locations dotted along Lake Erie’s shoreline, such as Leamington and Point Pelee National Park (a dark sky preserve), offer superb viewing opportunities within Canada’s most southerly region.

Toronto’s best bookstores according to Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro

By
Nisean Lorde
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Guillermo Del Toro
Guillermo Del Toro (X)

Oscar-winning director Guillermo del Toro is in Toronto filming his latest masterpiece, Frankenstein, for Netflix, and during his downtime, he opened up about his favourite bookstore in the city.

“Shopping in Acadia Bookstore- Queen st in Toronto.  Found some of the good stuff. Browsed for an hour +” the writer–director wrote in an X post on Sunday, referencing the bookstore located at Queen St. East, off of Sherbourne.

In a follow-up post, del Toro listed more of his favourite local bookstores across the city:

  • Acadia Art & Rare Books, 232 Queen St. E. specializes in rare, antique, and out-of-print books and art prints.
  • Re: Reading Used Books is a used bookstore on 548 Danforth Ave,  (“Amazing sci-fi room”, del Toro said of the space).
  • D & E Lake Ltd. sells rare books, located at 239 King St E.
  • The Monkey’s Paw, located at 1067 Bloor St. W. has a used-book vending machine and sells rare 20th-century printed items.
  • Hollywood Canteen, located at 1841 Danforth Ave. (“great Cinema bookstore”, del Toro noted).
  • Bakka-Phoenix Books, a sci-fi bookstore at 84 Harbord St.
  • The Scribe Bookstore, sells  rare books, located at 375 Danforth Ave.
  • Karol Krysik Books, sells rare books, located at 491 Davenport Rd., second floor.
  • Circus Books & Music—sells a hand-picked selection of used books, CDs, DVDs, and records, located at 866 Danforth Ave.
  • The Beguiling—sells comics, manga, original local art, and graphic novels, located at 319 College St,
  • Silver Snail—a comic book shop stocked with collectibles, toys, and games, located at 809 Queen St W.

In a separate tweet, he gave a shout-out to Labyrinth Books (formerly located in Oakville, but it shut down permanently in 2020 during the pandemic, it solely runs online now);  BMV Books (they have three locations, at 2289 Yonge St., 471 Bloor St. W., and 10 Edward St.), Seekers Books, and the Great Escape Book Store at 957 Kingston Rd.

The famed director’s Oscar-winning films include Pan’s Labyrinth, The Shape of Water, and 2022’s latest live-action remake of Pinocchio. Frankenstein is based on the 1818 novel by Mary Shelley and will focus on the classic tale of Victor Frankenstein—a brilliant scientist who brings a creature to life in a monstrous experiment. The adaptation of the book is del Toro’s lifelong dream, and he says he has been working on a Frankenstein film for over a decade.

In January, the director shared a selfie of him standing near a mysterious-looking ship as a preview for the highly anticipated sci-fi flick being shot in Toronto. Frankenstein follows up Pinocchio, another classic remake Del Toronto released with Netflix in 2022.

Del Toro has a long and unique connection to the city, having spent much time here including sending his kids to school in Toronto, in addition to shooting many of his movies in the city such as The Shape of Water and others.

Hot new fusion restaurant from Michelin-starred chefs set to open in Toronto

By
Jennifer Schembri
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@sushimasakisaito/Instagram

Three of the world’s most esteemed chefs have joined forces to soon open what promises to be one of the most anticipated new restaurants in Toronto.

Named after Didier Leroy, Masaki Saito and Christian Le Squer — LSL restaurant is celebrated for its harmonious fusion of “grand French traditions with unique Japanese techniques and ingredients.”

Steamed Barracuda Fish Cake

Hailing from France, master chef Leroy is renowned globally for his expertise in French cooking and techniques. Leroy will helm the team in the intimate “jewel-box” dining room, which accommodates just nine seats for guests.

As Toronto’s only two Michelin-starred chef, chef Saito will offer the team “masterful instruction and daily consultations.” His close connections with premier food suppliers in Japan will ensure that LSL guests enjoy dishes unavailable elsewhere.

Lastly, Paris-based Le Squer, a three-star Michelin chef at Restaurant Le Cinq, will contribute his “creative genius and global perspective.” He will apply his expertise to ongoing menu refinements, ensuring culinary excellence at LSL. Le Squer is lending his name for the first time to a project in Canada

LSL’s signature Tomato creation

While the opening date remains unconfirmed, some of the restaurant’s signature dishes have been unveiled. Among them is LSL’s tomato creation, a fusion of just three ingredients: handpicked seasonal Japanese tomatoes, medium fatty tuna and the pièce de résistance, luxurious French caviar.

Another standout dish is the steamed barracuda fish cake, crafted with fish paste, shallots and button mushrooms, accompanied by a sauce made from Vin Blanc and barracuda bones reduced in fish stock.

LSL restaurant will be located at 2066 Avenue Rd.

One of Canada’s top galleries shut down as striking workers hit to picket line

By
Ron Johnson
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ago strike
Art Gallery of Ontario workers and communities allies rally outside the gallery ahead of strike action. (CNW Group/Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO))

As the clock struck 12:01 a.m. on March 26th, more than 400 cultural workers from the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) initiated strike action after voting to reject the latest offer from their employer. As a result, one of the country’s top art galleries is shut down until further notice.

Members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO) Local 535 embarked on the labor disruption citing dissatisfaction with the proposed terms, particularly concerning wage increases and protections against precarious employment.

“As public service employees, we were hit right in the paycheck during the pandemic,” said Paul Ayers, president of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 535.  Ayers highlighted the disparity between the financial struggles faced by workers and the substantial compensations received by executive personnel. Ayers underscored the necessity for an agreement that addresses the cost-of-living challenges prevalent in one of Canada’s most expensive cities.

According to the union, negotiations spanning 10 months have failed to yield a satisfactory resolution, with the proposed terms deemed inadequate for long-serving employees. Various roles within the AGO, including assistant curators, archivists, hospitality staff, and technicians, are represented by members of Local 535, all seeking terms reflective of contemporary standards.

“Devaluing artists is not how we show the public that the arts matter,” said JP Hornick, president of OPSEU/SEFPO. Hornick said, AGO workers play a vital role in enriching the cultural landscape of the city and condemned the institution’s prioritization of financial considerations over the well-being of its workforce.

Last year, Canada Goose CEO Dani Reiss donated $35 million to the AGO, which was pegged for a massive expansion.

“These workers keep the gallery lights on, the doors open, and the programming delivered,” Hornick added.

Despite the commencement of the strike, union members maintain hope for a resolution and urge the AGO to present an improved offer.

The union also help up AGO Foundation CEO Stephan Jost as an example of the disparity between gallery management and its workers.

“The AGO Foundation paid out its CEO, Stephan Jost, over $390k in ‘consulting’ fees between 2020 and 2021 alone – on top of his $406k salary,” said Ayers. “Yet there’s no money for wages? The gallery can absolutely afford to bring forward a better offer.”

Community support is solicited, with individuals encouraged to advocate for a fair agreement by contacting Jost.

One of the world’s best bars is coming to Toronto this month

By
Jennifer Schembri
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@natasha_sofia/Instagram

With Toronto’s nightlife already buzzing, the announcement of one of the ‘World’s Best Bars’ coming to the city is sure to spark even more interest!

Ranked number seven on the World’s 50 Best Bars for 2023, renowned Mexican bar, Licorería Limantour, will grace Toronto’s Library Bar with its innovative mixology and vibrant atmosphere for an exclusive one-night pop-up event!

Led by Benjamin Padron, Limantour’s founder,  guests can expect a night filled with the bar’s favourites. Adding to the excitement, Library Bar’s Director of Mixology, James Grant, will join Padron behind the bar, concocting signature cocktails like the Birdbath Martini, served tableside with your choice of gin or vodka, and the visually striking Southern Reach, featuring riboflavin and topped with an edible Szechuan button garnish.


Opened in 2011, Licorería Limantour revolutionized Mexico City’s bar scene, earning a spot on the prestigious 50 Best list since 2014. The iconic establishment in Roma Norte continues to thrive, boasting a vibrant split-level bar that attracts nightly crowds with its innovative drinks like the Fluffy Paloma and Margarita Al Pastor.

While there’s no word yet on the amazing libations Padron is bringing to Toronto, Licorería Limantour’s latest menu, Ida y Vuelta, which translates to ’round trip,’ showcases Oaxacan ingredients. Fan favourites include the mezcal milk punch Rosita de Cacao and the refreshing alcohol-free Mr Americano made with Topo Chico, , Runneght rosso and strawberry syrup.

This is not the first (or certainly the last) time one of the best bars in the world has graced Toronto with its presence. Just last month, Hope & Sesame, named China’s best mainland bar in 2023 and earning a spot on ‘Asia’s 50 Best Bars’ for three consecutive years, held a pop-up at 1 Hotel Toronto inside their Flora Lounge for two exclusive guest shifts.

The Licorería Limantour x Library Bar Pop-Up will take place on Saturday, March 30th, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at 100 Front St W.

One of these 5 wineries could be the coolest place to watch the solar eclipse

By
Nisean Lorde
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solar eclipse

What better way to enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir than to pair it with a celestial wonder like an eclipse? On April 8, a total solar eclipse will take place that can be seen across North America, making it Canada’s last total solar eclipse for the next 20 years. And a number of Niagara wineries want you to pair a glass of plonk with primo viewing on the eclipse path of totality.

To help you celebrate, here’s a list of Ontario wineries hosting solar eclipse watch parties that still have space available as of publication date (events are selling out fast, so make sure to contact each one for registration requirements):

Eclipse 2024 at Southbrook Vineyards

Join Southbrook on April 8 from 1:00-5:00 pm (eclipse totality is expected to take place at 3:18 pm). Special performance by Pink Floyd Niagara. Cost: $55 per person ($45 for SIP Club Members).  The event includes 1 glass of wine (additional glasses will go for $10/glass), 1 pair of eclipse glasses, as well as info stations on the eclipse, biodynamics, and organics. Food trucks will be onsite. Location: 581 Niagara Stone Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0.

Solar eclipse Party at Sandbanks Winery

Prince Edward County is in the perfect path of totality to watch the eclipse. Grab a spot at the Sandbanks Winery vineyard on April 8 from 11:00 am-5:00 pm to watch the once-in-a-lifetime event. A limited number of tickets are available for purchase; the event will include a pair of solar glasses and solar-themed snacks. Location: Sandbanks Estate Winery, 17598 Loyalist Parkway, Wellington, ON, K0K 3L0.

Sips and the eclipse at Viewpointe Estate Winery Restaurant

On April 8 from 11:00 am-5:00 pm, join Viewpointe Estate for a complimentary wine tasting while enjoying the solar eclipse. Viewing glasses are available while supplies last. Location: 151 County Road 50 East, Harrow, ON, N0R 1G0.

Solar eclipse in the Vineyard—Reif Estate Winery

Sip on the Reif Estate’s “The Stars” Riesling while enjoying lunch in their garden. They will have viewing glasses available and live music featuring The Feverish Lemons. Date: April 08, 1:00-5:00 pm. Location: 15608 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0. Tickets are $60.00 per person and can be purchased here.

Eclipse viewing at Megalomaniac Wines

Lincoln is located on the path of totality, and Megalomaniac will be open for guests to watch from their outdoor patio and vineyard on April 8 from 1:30-6:00 pm. Eclipse viewing is outdoors (rain or shine) and standing room only, with seating for wine by the glass, “light to dark” tasting flights, charcuterie in the wine bar, and dining throughout the afternoon. Cost: $10/person cover charge (wine and food purchases will be extra); proceeds will go to the Bethlehem Housing & Support Services. Capacity is limited and online reservations are required. Please note: Guests must supply their own protective eyewear. Location: 3930 Cherry Ave., Vineland, ON, L0R 2C0.

In Toronto, the eclipse will begin at around 2:05 p.m., reach maximum coverage at about 3:18-3:20 p.m., and end at around 4:41 p.m.

This new French restaurant on King West is the most talked-about spot in the city

By
Megan Gallant
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Tucked away on Portland Street, Café Renée is the latest hotspot to capture the attention of King Street’s worldly and adventurous crowd.

Inside the transformed townhouse awaits an oasis of Instagram-worthy moments from the French-Italian menu helmed by chef Nick Liu of DaiLo, to a dining space in a stunning glass atrium or discover the hidden gem upstairs: Charlemagne, the second secret cocktail bar.

According to general manager and operating partner Bianca Rossi, the glistening white tiles, tabletops reflecting light, and the panelling of windows at the back of the space is meant to inspire a “lived-in French bistro,” with focus on a lively, bustling atmosphere — not unlike that of the neighbourhood Café Renée now calls home. 

Though it has already caught the attention of the King Street crowd, Café Renée doesn’t need to make a name for itself, considering it accidentally borrowed from a Canadian icon—the Canadian icon herself, Celine Dion, who was born in the Quebec city of Charlemagne and whose late husband’s name was René.

“She’s a living legend so it’s a great homage,” Rossi says, noting that the partners chose the name without realizing the connection. “It was meant to be.”

The new addition could become the ultimate go-to spot for battling rising living costs without compromising on the taste of a decadent cocktail. With daily martini happy hours from 5 to 7 p.m., and rotating happy hours between martinis and spritz from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., indulging in another drink won’t leave you feeling guilty or strain your wallet.

No King Street bar is complete without an espresso martini, and Café Renée offers a unique twist that’s truly unforgettable. Their crème brûlée version, made with maple and bruléed sugar, is a showstopper. Watching the creation process is an experience in itself, with the sweet smell of caramel filling the air and adding to the vibe of the bar.

Beverage director Angus Edmundson, previously from BarChef, brings his expertise to Café Renée, crafting cocktails that put a flavourful spin on classics. The Naya, reminiscent of a Margherita, features grapefruit liqueur and mushroom tincture, while the Binotto blends rye with Fernet Branca, strawberry syrup, and lemon juice. Despite its illusion of sweetness, the Binotto caters to those who prefer a less sugary option.

Bringing an Italian flair to Café Renée, the menu showcases freshly made pastas crafted by chef du cuisine Josh Ling, formerly from a Michelin-starred kitchen in Hong Kong. Indulge in carbonara, escargot ravioli and ricotta and spinach gnudi with green goddess butter sauce, combining the best of Italy with chef Liu’s signature touch. Additionally, the late-night menu offers highlights such as oysters, shrimp cocktail and steak tartare, ensuring there’s something to munch on until last call.

For a taste of Europe, venture upstairs to the speakeasy Charlemagne, a space that contrasts with the bright and lively ambiance of Café Renée. Here, you’ll find a dark and intimate setting complemented by the nostalgic sounds of the 40s, featuring Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Sip on specialty cocktails like the Verona, a glistening pink gin, or indulge in a scotch espresso martini. The lighter cocktail menu, distinct from the offerings downstairs, is a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered.

Moving into warmer summer weather, Café Renée will be opening up seating in the back garden and adding a weekend brunch menu.

Café Renée and Charlamagne are open at 100 Portland Street.

This $8.9 million Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home is an architectural marvel

By
Dorothy Chudzinski
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Hodgins Realty Group

Truly one of the most iconic homes in the world-class ‘Doulton Estates’ in Mississauga, 2386 Doulton Place is an architectural masterpiece. This raised bungalow seamlessly blends warm contemporary design with stately elegance. Inspired by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright (Robie House), this home offers expansive luxury estate living at its finest in a breathtaking, inspirational and tranquil setting.

Hodgins Realty Group

Overlooking the serene Credit River, the home boasts soaring ceilings, an elevator, multiple spacious balconies, and a full walk-out basement open to approximately 1.6 acres of gorgeous manicured grounds. The outdoor space is a private oasis, complete with an in-ground pool and inset raised jacuzzi, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding.

Hodgins Realty Group

The grandeur continues inside with a lofty 14-foot architecturally significant front foyer, complete with rare black American walnut walls. The magnificent vaulted Great Room features premium quarter sawn solid white oak floors & meticulously handcrafted book-matched custom designs.

Hodgins Realty Group

The generous dining area, adorned with solid limestone tiles offers a walkout to an expansive terrace that extends past the kitchen to the eating area with panoramic river valley views.

Hodgins Realty Group

The kitchen itself is a chef’s dream, equipped with two oversized fridges, a double stove, and impressive dual islands. Additional features include commercial style hood fan, and high-end appliances.

Hodgins Realty Group

Strategically reclusive the luxurious main floor office offers the ultimate creative retreat overlooking the sprawling front grounds, winding lane & significant signature landscape features.

Hodgins Realty Group

The primary bedroom is a sanctuary of its own, offering panoramic views, a fine retail style dream closet, and an opulent hotel inspired ensuite bathroom. A symphony of luxury, featuring alabaster throughout, his and her sinks with indirect lighting, pampering holistic body spa shower with double steam control, jacuzzi, operable skylight, heated floors, vaulted cathedral ceiling and much more.

Hodgins Realty Group

The spectacular mostly wide open lower level offers a masterfully designed sunken bar that compliments this level’s groovy vibe and is perfect for entertaining or family chillin’.

Hodgins Realty Group

Additional features include the limestone wood burning fireplace, his & hers bathrooms, a fourth bedroom/gym with 9 ft ceiling and massive double walkouts plus huge inlaid glass walls overlooking your personal resort backyard.

Hodgins Realty Group

Hidden by design is the sunken multi-bay auto court providing generous heated indoor & outdoor space for both auto enthusiasts and busy ‘on the go’ families. Enjoy convenient multi-car access and elevator use options. Also doubles as the perfect sport court.

More than just a residence, this signature home is a statement of luxury, sophistication & timeless architecture offering a lifestyle that is second to none.

2386 Doulton Place. is listed with James Hodgins of Hodgins Realty Group Inc, Brokerage.

Wildly popular Hippie Market is returning this spring for all your vintage needs

By
Nisean Lorde
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0
Hippie Market
@hippiemarketlife

Toronto’s Hippie Market—a large outdoor pop-up market where you can nab vintage clothes and antique goods—is returning late next month after a brief winter break.

The Hippie Market is known as “Toronto’s biggest small vendor market,” and the pop-up event will display over 50 eclectic vendors, featuring style-driven vintage clothing from every decade, re-worked fashion, art, homeware, decor, handmade goods and accessories, and slow fashion design.

The Hippie Market was founded by Toronto eclectic clothing veteran Kealan Sullivan and her husband, Alistair Kyte, in 2017. From 2004 to 2016, Sullivan owned vintage stores across the city, such as 69 Vintage, Buy the Pound, and V—so pop-up markets for fashion vendors was the natural next step.

“People always came to me to find out where they could get almost anything,” she told Streets of Toronto in a previous interview, crediting sustainability and inclusivity as the two major themes of the market.

Previous pop-up events saw everything from handmade colourful baubles…

… to old-school band tees…

… to vintage crop tops, rooftop dresses, strapless minis, floral two-pieces, corsets,  linens (and more!):

The Hippie Spring Fling Pop-Up market will take place at the HomeCourt space, at 178R Ossington (down the laneway), on the weekend of April 20 and 21 between 12 and 6 p.m. You can follow hippiemarketlife on Instagram for more updates about future pop-ups.

And if you’re looking for more vintage items in Toronto—check out Vintage Beyond, a new, super trendy vintage furniture shop that recently opened at 180 Davenport Rd.

Or click here to check out some of the best vintage stores in the city.

A beloved Toronto diner forced to close in two days launches GoFundMe campaign

By
Jennifer Schembri
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0

UPDATE: Just a month ago, Toronto stalwart Flo’s Diner stunned its loyal patrons with news of its sudden closure after serving the community for over three decades. The decision came amidst a lease negotiation gone awry, so the beloved diner was forced to shut its doors.

In response to the outpouring of support from loyal customers the diner’s team has launched a GoFundMe campaign to alleviate the financial burden of legal expenses incurred during the lease negotiations and to cover the expenses of shuttering the business.

“In our attempt to stay and secure a new lease, we incurred an overwhelming legal bill,” the page said. “Our costs to wind down the business are also formidable. Any donation to help us offset these costs would be appreciated

So far, the campaign has raised over $9,000 towards its $100,000 goal.

While the future of Flo’s remains uncertain, dedicated diners can now show their love by contributing to the campaign and visiting the restaurant which will officially close in two days’ time.

Flo’s Diner, a Yorkville staple for 33 years, will close on March 31, ending an era for Toronto diners. Located at 70 Yorkville Ave., Flo’s is known for its welcoming vibe and classic diner food.

Co-owners Pierre Hamel and Peter Lau hope for a new Yorkville location but face uncertainty due to a legal dispute with their landlord. According to the owners, they were denied an extension of their lease or an offer for renewal.

“This legal challenge means we’re losing 15 valued staff members and hundreds of cherished patrons. We’re devastated and hopeful that the landlord will reconsider its decision not to renew our lease,” says Hamel.

Entering Flo’s felt like traveling back in time, with its classic decor and cozy atmosphere. The diner’s high staff retention spoke volumes about its sense of community and teamwork.

“Once you worked at Flo’s, you stayed at Flo’s,” says veteran line cook “Suresh” who has been crafting burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches for over a decade.

Serving a wide selection of all-day breakfast options, including their standout eggs Benedict, regulars at Flo’s often discovered hidden gems not listen on the menus. Families have been drawn to the diner for its simple and delicious menus and accommodating hospitality.

As patrons bid farewell to Flo’s, they reflect on the countless memories made within its walls – from first dates to family milestones.

“Our patrons are like family to us, and we are endlessly grateful for the vibrant memories and shared experiences,” says Hamel. “Each person who dined here was — and still is — part of the Flo’s Family.”

Flo’s Diner will officially close its doors on March 24.

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