Toronto’s vanishing diner culture

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12:36 pm

The era of Toronto’s diners appears to be winding down. On December 31, 2023, The Rosedale Diner, a local institution for 45 years, closed its doors, adding to the list of cherished diners bidding farewell to the city. Just weeks ago, Flo’s in Yorkville announced its closure by the end of March due to a denied lease extension. The challenges facing old-school diners, from shifting consumer trends to evolving tastes and the rise of fast-casual dining and food delivery services, seem to be mounting.

Toronto’s diner culture traces back to early establishments like The Senator Restaurant, founded in 1929, which paved the way for the city’s diner scene. Over time, these establishments evolved into iconic landmarks like The George Street Diner (1954) and The Avenue Diner (1944) adding to Toronto’s food scene and cultural identity.

In 2023, the closure of OK OK Diner, in operation since 1952, marked another loss. The owner expressed the difficulty of the decision, acknowledging that every run must come to an end.

The year 2021 saw the heartbreaking closure of two of Toronto’s oldest diners. Motorama, a beloved breakfast spot on the Danforth for over 40 years, shut its doors. Housed in a historic 1922 building, the diner was known for its exceptional service and reasonable prices. Shortly after, the Bloor Jane Restaurant, serving Torontonians since 1972, followed suit. Frequented by hockey legends like Borje Salming and Tie Domi, as well as members of Blue Rodeo and Jeff Healy, the diner boasted a vintage 1950s cash register and a cozy retro counter encircling the grill. For 30 years, they served the same brand of coffee, offering free refills with every meal.

But miraculously we have a few of the old diners left. Here are five that are definitely worth saving.

Fran’s

There’s a few Fran’s locations around the city, and the mini-chain is one of the most famous diner businesses in the city. Open 24 hours, the historic eateries offer up breakfast, lunch and dinner alike, with milkshakes, pancakes, steaks and salads all populating the menu. The first Fran’s was opened at Yonge and Dundas by Francis “Fran” Deck in 1940, and the place has been iconic ever since.

Patrician Grill

Family-owned and operated, Patrician Grill has been a staple in Toronto’s diner scene since the 1950s. “Eat here. Diet at home” is the company’s slogan, and they stick to their word. There’s an assortment of jams that make the restaurant unique, but the massive menu is exploding with hearty options, like homemade soup, fried eggs, fish and chips and meatloaf. There’s also soda floats and milkshakes, perfect for washing down a slice of homemade apple pie.

George Street Diner

If you’re a Shawn Mendes fan, you might recognize George Street Diner from his “Life of the Party” lyric video. In it, Toronto plays backdrop as the Canadian singer sits at one of the vintage red leather booths found in this “wee” Irish-Canadian eatery. But, seeing it on screen isn’t enough. You won’t want to miss the chance to try the signature Ultimate Irish Breakfast, which wouldn’t be complete without Farrelly’s Famous Irish Soda Bread.

Mars Uptown Diner

This no-frills, uptown diner is nothing if not old school. There’s the neon decor, red vinyl banquettes, and an open kitchen that screams retro. Come for the vintage vibes and stay for the food, where breakfast is served all day, and the food categories are given out-of-this-world names like satellite sides and planet poutine. Lunch and dinner fare, including burgers and hot dogs, are also available.

The Senator

Whether you call them trinkets, knick-knacks or tchotchkes, The Senator is full of them and diners at 2 p.m. on a weekday. Not bad for the oldest restaurant in T.O., built in 1860, with several incarnations since. Coffee is perfectly bold, and for a reduced price before 11:30 a.m. daily, try the special of butter-fried eggs, perfectly crisp bacon, homemade jam and a side of beans (on the sweet side) with challah toast. What a deal! If you’re planning a long walk, try the hearty chili cheddar omelette. Sit in classic vinyl diner booths and enjoy the jazz-inspired decor in an old school place with a decidedly new school food feel.

Toronto’s CaféTO program expanding to new areas but Leaside BIA says no thanks

By

Ron Johnson

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10:54 am

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As spring approaches, Toronto anticipates the return of the CaféTO program, which allows restaurants across the city to set up expanded patios along selected streets. Along Bayview Avenue, CaféTO signs still exist in front of businesses from last year even though the local business improvement association is dead set against the idea.

“The existing parking-related signs on Bayview (see below) are from last year. They were installed by the city in order to dissuade people from parking in the curb lane during rush hour peak traffic periods on blocks where there were curb lane patios,” said Henry Byers, of the Bayview Leaside BIA.

“These signs are not an indication that curb lane patios have been applied for by operators again this year (as BlogTO suggests in a recent article). I have asked the City to remove these signs asap.”

No parking sign for CaféTO on Bayview Avenue from 2023

Bayview Avenue, a major thoroughfare connected to the 401 highway, experiences heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. Concerns have been raised about the potential exacerbation of congestion and parking issues on side streets linked to Bayview due to the addition of CaféTO patios.

While some residents welcome the idea of supporting small businesses and reducing vehicle congestion, others are apprehensive about the impact on traffic flow and street parking availability, including the local business improvement association or BIA.

When contacted, Byers, a spokesperson for the Bayview Leaside BIA provide three reasons for this objection as follows:

restaurants and cafes in the BIA already enjoy large sidewalk patios;
the history of curb lane cafes in the area over the past two years is a very negative one: they went unimproved and unused, offering nothing to the area other than fewer parking spaces for our customers and clients, increased traffic congestion and negative visual impacts upon our streetscape;
last year, the BIA received many complaints from member businesses and local residents regarding curb lane cafes.

“Restaurants and cafes in the area have been advised of the Board’s position on the matter and the Board hopes operators will consider these matters when deciding whether to apply for a curb lane cafe this year,” added Byers.

However, following a challenging year for small businesses and restaurants, many view an expanded CaféTO program as a much-needed boost for struggling establishments this summer.

“Last year, CaféTO became a permanent city program and city council endorsed improvements to make it even better this year,” said Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow. “We welcome new restaurants to the program and look forward to seeing more Toronto residents and visitors than ever experience our city’s amazing outdoor dining options.”

Plenty of room for sidewalk cafés on Bayview Avenue

CaféTO, which was made a permanent City program this year, has transformed Toronto’s commercial main streets, revitalized neighborhoods, and supported hundreds of local restaurants and food suppliers, while protecting thousands of jobs during a very challenging time for the hospitality industry.

In 2023, CaféTO delivered approximately 1,000 places to dine outdoors in Toronto, including more than 330 curb lane cafés, 500 sidewalk cafés (which can remain in place throughout the winter), as well as dozens of patios on private property.

In 2022, CaféTO patios delivered approximately $203 million in economic benefits to the city (per a TABIA-led economic impact study).

Looking ahead to 2024, city staff are planning for a better and more streamlined CaféTO experience for restaurant operators and their patrons. Efforts will include fast-tracking approvals for returning restaurants, ensuring consistency with installation plans, and providing easier, faster approvals for new establishments. The goal is to have at least 90% of approved CaféTO curb lane patios ready to open by the Victoria Day long weekend, with preparations beginning as early as May 1.

Roman-style pizza is having its moment in Toronto

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Jennifer Schembri

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1:57 pm

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Diavola Pizza might be a newcomer to midtown, but it has already made itself at home in the neighbourhood and has big
plans for the future. Serving Roman-style pizza with all dough, sauce and toppings made in-house, the takeout joint is a “passion project” between two local entrepreneurs who have already found success in the neighbourhood on differing ventures.

Aldi Cibuku of Slayer Burger and Fabiana Del Bianco of Padaria’s Bakery have come together for the new adventure focused on the one food item that can unite us all.

“Pizza is my favourite food on the planet, and I think it’s a very versatile food,” says Del Bianco. “You can have it for lunch or for dinner; for a warm meal or just a snack — whatever you want.”

As to why they chose to serve the focaccia-style pizza characterized by square slices? Del Bianco suggests that Roman-
style pizza, more than any other, offers more opportunities for experimentation. Alongside classic pizzas, available by the slice or whole, such as pepperoni and margherita, Diavola offers unique options that complement Del Bianco’s Brazilian-Italian roots. One standout is the chicken and cream cheese pizza, frequently featured on Diavola’s rotating specials list.

“Brazilians put cream cheese everywhere,” Del Bianco jokes. “It’s one thing we have to be doing, and we have a lot of Italians in Brazil, so pizza is one of Brazil’s favourite foods as well.”

Del Bianco’s namesake pizza features zucchini and goat cheese, while the Diavola pie, named after the Italian word for “devil,” is a spicy delight with nduja (a southern Italian spicy pork sausage), pepperoncini and chili flakes. In the short time since its opening, the Diavola has become one of the most sought-after menu items.

Can’t decide on just one? Diavola encourages slice experimentation. With the purchase of a party box, customers can choose between six or eight slices, mixing and matching as they please.

With its close proximity to Slayer Burger right next door, the two venues have teamed up to open a private bar space above Slayer called Stranger Bar. Accommodating groups of up to 50, the venue offers a comprehensive menu, featuring burgers, pizza and beer, ideal for events and parties.

Diavola will debut an updated summer menu coinciding with the opening of the patio space. The refreshed menu will feature expanded dessert options, including ice cream, along with offerings beyond pizza such as salads and sandwiches.

In the more distant future, Del Bianco hopes to collaborate with other businesses to bring their unique touches to Diavola’s special pizza offerings.

“In the midtown area, we have a very diverse neighbourhood, so we have a lot of Lebanese, Japanese, Chinese restaurants,” she says. “We’re wanting to do some collaborations with them, so the business can make a pizza that high- lights what they offer.”

Diavola is located at 3 Glebe Rd E.

A hungry throng from Arby’s Army plan massive me(a)t-up to demand Toronto location

By

Nisean Lorde

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11:52 am

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Hundreds of people who prefer eating roast beef sandwiches to burgers will descend upon Arby’s’ Oshawa location this Saturday at 2 pm to pressure the fast food chain to open a Toronto location.

“Arbys doesn’t have a Toronto location, so we are taking the Arbys Army to them”, the self-proclaimed “Arby’s Army” group wrote in a Facebook post. “The last time we invaded their Burlington location but this time its Oshawa !!!! Get ready for the Meatssss!”

The group added a disclaimer that Saturday’s gathering is “not a protest” and that the Army always aims to be respectful and, of course, “obtain the Meatssss!”—referring to the classic Arby’s slogan.

“Yeah I’m also part of the Arby’s Army and the whole thing is a huge joke. We are going to Arby’s but there’s 0 protest involved. It’s just fun,” one member noted on Reddit.

Hundreds of people going to Ontario Arby’s to protest lack of Toronto location
byu/Jaded_Promotion8806 intoronto

To date, there are 56 Arby’s restaurants in Canada, with Ontario boasting the most locations nationwide (29). There used to be a few locations across Toronto, including a small hub in the Toronto Eaton Center food court, as well as locations in Yorkdale, and Yonge and Eglington, but the chain ended up closing underperforming locations.

So far, more than 515 people have responded to the ‘Arby’s Army’ Facebook page, and—apart from the opportunity to make a roast beef sandwich roast—some are using this issue to highlight the lack of other popular fast food chains in Toronto.

“I wish people can feel this way about Krispy Kreme. They got 1 location in Mississauga that basically serves all of southern Ontario and GTA,” one Redditor said. “Like can they not open more? I don’t want to wait hours in line.”

Just For Laughs is now cancelling Toronto festival as part of debt restructuring

By

Ron Johnson

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11:19 am

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The company behind the biggest comedy festival in Canada is filing for bankruptcy, and that’s bad news for the Canadian arts community.

Just for Laughs Group, an entertainment company based in Montreal, made the announcement on March 5, revealing its decision to initiate formal restructuring proceedings under Canada’s Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.

According to a news release from the company, the move comes after extensive deliberation by JPR’s board of directors, who faced the daunting reality of the organization’s challenging financial circumstances. Despite exploring various avenues, it became evident that restructuring was the only viable option to address the pressing financial challenges and chart a path forward for the company.

In light of the decision, JPR states that it aims to leverage the restructuring process to seek potential investors or strategic buyers for its business segments, with the overarching goal of maximizing value for its stakeholders. While navigating through the restructuring phase, the company intends to sustain its operations albeit in a scaled-down capacity.

One notable consequence of the restructuring is the cancellation of the 2024 edition of the Just for Laughs / Juste pour rire festival. However, the company says there is optimism for the festival’s return in 2025 once the restructuring process is completed.

Although a festival representative initially said both the Toronto edition of Just For Laughs and the Ali Wong shows a running at Meridian Hall later this month would not be cancelled , a statement from the company on March 6 confirms the festival will in fact be shut down for 2024. Although there is no mention of other shows such as Ali Wong.

“Once the restructuring of the organization is completed, JPR hopes that the festival will take place in 2025,” the statement read.

Since 2012, JFL in Toronto has showcased top stand-up artists, supported emerging talent, and boosted local tourism. The 2023 festival marked significant growth, including the addition of a new outdoor street festival.

The decision to pursue restructuring was not taken lightly and was prompted by a series of challenges that JPR has encountered in recent years. The impact of the global pandemic looms large, having forced the organization to halt operations for two years while grappling with reduced revenues and ongoing overhead costs. Moreover, the economic inflationary pressures have further exacerbated the financial strain on the company, necessitating a reevaluation of its operational strategies.

Despite the challenges, the company is aiming to restructure its position to achieve long-term success, ensuring the preservation of its 40-year legacy.

Luxury streetwear shop PLUS unveils flagship store at Yorkdale

By

Nisean Lorde

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3:48 pm

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PLUS, a Canadian luxury streetwear shop, opened up a new flagship store at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto last month. The flagship Yorkdale store is the brand’s largest of its eight locations in Canada.

Liam Blackadder, the retailer’s Creative Director, told Retail Insider that Yorkdale was a natural for the company’s expansion.

“Ever since we opened our first flagship at that mall in September 2020, that was our first time opening a flagship there, it was evident how impactful that mall is, especially footprint wise,” Blackadder said regarding the company’s first Ontario location, which was a temporary store in Yorkdale.

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“Traffic at that shopping centre definitely is a step above the rest in terms of retail in Canada. Definitely wanting to stay in that mall. That mall obviously has a lot of renovations and changes going onto there. So with that, we wanted to increase our footprint into a larger space to kind of show our growth as a company and kind of make sure we keep that Yorkdale location as one of our staples.”

Blackadder told the publication that the floor plan was changed in the new PLUS store, encompassing a large digital display video wall as well as a lounge.

Looking at their viral TikTok posts, the retailer is massively popular.

♬ original sound – plus

The mall’s larger flagship store is situated across from Vans. The new location boasts a refined design, offering a vast selection of over 200 items (everything from footwear to streetwear to vintage tees), as well as popular brands like Anti Social Social Club, OVO, Kanye West merch, and Revenge.

Toronto’s biggest trend: Little Thai restaurants

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:31 pm

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Despite Toronto’s small Thai population, their restaurants dominate the city’s culinary scene.While big names like Pai have long been prominent, it’s the cosy, bespoke eateries with 30 to 50 seats that are stealing the spotlight.

Nana

Nana’s cosy 60-seat setup mirrors Bangkok’s street eateries, boasting shared tables and colourful plastic stools. Diners can sample an array of dishes inspired by Thailand’s street food culture, creating a lively and enjoyable dining atmosphere reminiscent of various regions across Thailand. “Nana” is the part of Bangkok where people meet to dine and socialize, and although many of the dishes at this Queen West eatery are for the more adventurous, either in their flavour profiles, lesser-known ingredients or spice level, there are plenty of options for even the most discerning palates. 785 Queen St. W.

Som Tum Jinda

Although it arrives Michelin recommended from Thailand, among Toronto’s array of Thai restaurants, it had much to prove — and prove itself it did! Open for just under a year, the unassuming basement-level restaurant aims to offer Torontonians a unique Thai experience. Specializing in northeastern Thai dishes, the restaurant is best known for Som tum, a zesty papaya salad prepared using a mortar and pestle. In its cosy intimacy, an open concept kitchen is at the heart of the restaurant, adding to the overall atmosphere. 76 Gerrard St. E.

Favorites Thai BBQ

A Bib Gourmand recipient, this Trinity-Bellwoods establishment, owned by Jonathan Poon (of Khao San Road and Paris Paris fame), opened to acclaim in 2019. The cosy 40-seat restaurant occupies the rear part of the storefront, with Sam
James Coffee anchoring the front. Like Jonathan Poon’s other Toronto eateries, it encourages diners to enjoy the company and atmosphere as much as the food. Breaking tradition, it focuses on Thai-inspired salads and grilled dishes using local ingredients. Chef Ronnie Sue ensures each dish, from salads to grills, bursts with spicy umami and smoky tones. 141 Ossington Ave.

Maya Bay

Step into Maya Bay, and you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to Thailand, not Cabbagetown. The late-night Thai snack bar, from the mind behind Koh Lipe, draws its name from the iconic island featured in The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The small 40-seat venue is embellished with artwork by Thai artist Aoe Girard, and the menu bears the mark of Iron Chef for Chef Prasopchok “Art” Trakulphat, renowned for his modern interpretation of traditional Thai cuisine. Try the flavours of the tom yum linguine and the leng saap, a Thai spicy pork bone soup. 252 Carlton St.

Dine on green eggs and ham and peanut butter chips at Toronto’s newest sandwich shop

By

Megan Gallant

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11:50 am

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For those who prefer not to pack their own lunch, Leslieville boasts a new talk-of-the-town sandwich shop. However, Leslie’s Sandwich Room offers more than just grab-and-go options—it serves elevated sandwiches to add pizzazz to your office lunches.

Inspired by owners Katherine McCallum and Nora Smith-Beckett’s travels around the world, the menu at Leslie’s Sandwich Room includes a list of salads, sandwiches and desserts where nearly everything — down to making the dressings, chocolate chips, chip seasoning and roasting the beef — is done in house.

Hence, the aroma of the fluffy focaccia bun, available for purchase by the loaf, permeates the shop. Unlike other lunch spots in town, Leslie’s Sandwich Room boasts minimal wait times, with sandwiches prepared fresh throughout the day.

This includes the 7 E 11, a unique sandwich inspired by the best egg salad sandwiches found in Japan.

“In Japan, the best egg salad is available at the 7/11 and it’s just so rich,” says McCallum, who is also the pastry chef and general manager. “It’s just an unreal egg salad experience so we wanted to do the same here, but with a little bit of a twist.”

The Leslieville version features kewpie mayo sandwiched between fresh Pullman’s loaf, adorned with thin green onions, and given a dash of heat with house-made togarashi sauce.

Another already popular choice that combines the classic with a twist is the La Morta, a unique mortadella sandwich featuring custom cilantro pesto and pistachio nuts for added texture and crunch against the soft focaccia.

“With all of our sandwiches, we really thought about all the senses,” says McCallum. “So, when you bite into the sandwich, you have softness, crispiness, acidity creaminess — you get everything in one bite.”

Mixing approachability with innovation, the menu also boasts a stacked roast beef sandwich, a Yellowfin Tuna option, prosciutto, and the intriguing Green Eggs and Ham, which is more than its name suggests, featuring bacon and pate as toppings.

Even the pickiest eater won’t turn down the grilled cheese on the menu, served crustless with apple slices and plenty of ketchup—a nod to McCallum’s own three-year-old.

While sandwiches take the spotlight, the salads at Leslie’s Sandwich Room are equally enticing. Choose from three generous options, including Mediterranean, a hearty grain salad and a vibrant chopped salad featuring corn, napa cabbage, and pickled onion.

Whether you’re headed to the office or grabbing a bite on the way home, Leslie’s Sandwich Room offers convenient to-go order combos packaged in cardboard lunch boxes.

“It’s just inspired by childhood and having your lunch box to bring to school with everything you need in there, and everything fits,” says McCallum. “It’s convenient and a fun idea you don’t see anywhere.”

Make your lunch break extra fun by pairing your combo with a limonata, rosé bubbly non-alcoholic wine, or a non-alcoholic Italian bitter. Both combo options also come with a side of chips—with the option for a one-of-a-kind house specialty flavour: peanut butter and vanilla.

“I got the idea from a war-time treat called peanut butter candy,” says McCallum. “They would mix mashed potatoes with peanut butter and sugar and that was their candy then.”

In the future, as Leslie’s Sandwich Room settles in, McCallum. plans to expand the sandwich selection, experiment with chip flavours, and introduce weekly specials.

“We really want to have fun in the kitchen, brainstorm new sandwich concepts, and experiment with chip flavors,” McCallum enthuses, expressing gratitude for the warm reception from the community. “The neighborhood has been fantastic, and we’re thrilled to share our sandwiches here in Leslieville.”

Leslie’s Sandwich Room is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days per week at 969 Queen Street East.

How They Met: Fate brought these National Ballet dancers together

By

Julia Mastroianni

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1:16 pm

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AFTR+2022+41+(300) — Photo by Karolina Kuras

Hailing from Boston and Tokyo, on opposite sides of the world, it was fate that Brenna Flaherty and Kota Sato met in Toronto as professional dancers in the National Ballet of Canada. Now, the soloists will have the chance to demonstrate their synchronicity in not only love but onstage in the upcoming performance of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, running from March 6 to 17. Here, the couple share the story of how they met and their fairy-tale wedding in Japan.

How they met

Brenna: We met at work at the National Ballet of Canada in 2016. I was an apprentice with the company, and Kota was on his third year in the company.

Kota: I thought she was the cute new girl.

Brenna: He seemed to be everybody’s friend who didn’t hesitate to introduce himself to the new people and make all the younger people feel comfortable — it’s intimidating coming into a new company but he was a real friendly face.

The first date

Kota: We got very close during the company Christmas party. She was injured during The Nutcracker, so she wasn’t around, but I saw her waiting to check in for the party, and I was right behind her, so I started talking to her. After that, we just sort of hit it off. That was our first date — I asked her to have a drink after the show, and we just kept talking.

Brenna: And we’ve had probably 1,000 dates since!

The courtship

Kota: Our actual second date, we decided to go see a movie, La La Land. It was a late night show, and I didn’t know at the time that she was such a sleepy mouse. So the first movie we saw together, on our second date, she fell asleep! But to me, that was a good sign that she could get comfortable next to me.

The proposal

Kota: I proposed to her with a surprise on June 12 of 2022. We were doing Swan Lake, and secretly, I was talking to her friends and family, and they all organized a flight into Toronto. I surprised her at the rooftop bar at Broadview Hotel. She thought she was having a girls night and then we were all there. It was a cloudy day all day, and suddenly the sun came out right as I proposed.

Dancing together

Brenna: During COVID, the company paired us together for a new ballet that was going to be premiering soon. That was our first time working together, and I think any couple who dances together can tell you that it’s not the easiest thing to work with your partner. But when we dance together, it’s always really rewarding when we perform. Getting to share the moments and the eye contact onstage are some of my favourite memories.

The wedding

Brenna: We were married on Jan. 6, 2024, and we got married in Tokyo. It was very special because my immediate family all came to Tokyo, and they got to experience Japan and get to know Kota’s family, which doesn’t happen very often because they’re so far away. We didn’t do a traditional Japanese wedding, but they do have different customs and traditions, and it was the best day of our life. I wouldn’t change one thing.

Shared hobbies and interests

Brenna: We both really love musical theatre, and although we don’t perform because we’re too busy with our ballet careers, we love seeing shows and listening to the music together. And we both love exploring new restaurants in Toronto. We’re both big foodies, which is another huge reason why we’re together. We love all the same sorts of foods — Imanishi is our favourite spot.

The secret to success

Brenna: We agree on a lot of things, but I think our ability to compromise when we don’t agree is something that we’ve acquired over our seven plus years together.

The future together

Kota: I’m hoping to build a happy family with a lot of joy and singing and dancing.

Brenna: Maybe one day moving to Japan and exploring Kota’s side of the culture. We’ll see what the world has in store for us; I can’t wait to make the most of our careers together.

Join 20 strangers for dinner and four other secret Toronto supper clubs

By

Jennifer Schembri

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11:30 am

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Dinner with strangers — Photo: @rochellebragg

For Torontonians, venturing out of one’s comfort zone to meet new people isn’t typically high on the excitement list. However, writer Jess Janz is aiming to change that narrative with her distinctive supper series, Dinner with Strangers.

The dinner will bring together 20 guests from diverse backgrounds for a three-hour gathering, featuring a family-style 3-course meal curated by chef Jill Hiller. The meal will be accompanied with paired wines, beverages and indulgent desserts.

“… there is no work talk, just great food and good, gutsy questions that get us talking about where we come from, what we’re learning, and what we care about,” says a caption on Janz’ Instagram post.

A Dinner with Strangers event in Brooklyn. Photo: @jessjanz/Instagram

At the dinner events, guests are encouraged to engage in meaningful conversations beyond the realm of their professions. While the topic of work is strictly off-limits, Janz orchestrates guided discussions centered around specific themes chosen for each gathering. This approach allows participants to delve into personal experiences, values, aspirations and shared interests, fostering deeper connections and meaningful interactions among the group.

Janz has hosted hundreds of Dinners with Strangers and one of her takeaways is “Humans are fascinating. Every single one.”

“Whether they live in the suburbs or downtown, if they’ve moved a million times or stayed in the same place, had a million jobs, don’t have a job, have an impressive job, whether they’re regimented or spontaneous, everyone is a limitless trove of stories, experiences, and preferences,” she captioned an Instagram post.

Grab your wallet because tickets to the event come with a price tag of $190! The upcoming Dinner With Strangers gatherings are set for March 6 at W Toronto from 7 to 10 p.m. and March 14 at Summerhill Event Boutique from 6 to 10 p.m.

But if engaging in deep conversations with strangers isn’t your cup of tea, here are four other secret Toronto supper clubs to check out.

k.dinners

Artwork, storytelling, and quality food have combined for a one-of-a-kind supper club in Toronto’s east end. Goji Studio offers an unparalleled dining experience — going beyond the flavours of the food— in the heart of a ceramics studio and gallery. Located on Gainsborough Road, Goji Studio is hidden behind an unassuming garage door. Inside, the space has been transformed by the studio owners chef Ken Yau and illustrator Ashley Tse. As life and business partners, they crafted every element in the studio, from the extended harvest table to the shelves showcasing their handmade creations. Joining the waitlist for k.Dinners may be a challenge, but guests can also explore, purchase studio items, or participate in various ceramics workshops. The dinners, happen around five to six times monthly with seating for up to ten guests, feature a “multi-sensory” blind-tasting menu crafted by the chef, typically comprising 10 to 12 courses.

Jeudr3di

Toronto’s hidden gem, Jeudr3di, revolutionizes dining with its elusive, rotating supper club. Revealing little until the last moment, guests embark on a journey of discovery. Led by former creative producer Alexandra Francis and fashion designer Brutalé, Jeudr3di’s intimate dinners boast diverse culinary talent, each themed and hosted at unique, undisclosed locations. With attention to detail, from custom crockery to surprise menus, Jeudr3di elevates dining to an art form.

Oui Aïa

Oui Aïa offers a clandestine supper club experience, inspired by Chef Ayah Hanafieh’s Palestinian heritage. Guests discover the venue upon ticket purchase, engaging in tapas-style dining, forging genuine connections over shared plates and cocktails. Oui Aïa’s evolving menus and intimate ambiance unite strangers, fostering friendships with every meal.

Mystery Eats

Mystery Eats, founded by Samihan Rai and Shilpa Kotamarthi, orchestrates intimate gatherings at hidden venues, adding an element of surprise by revealing the address just 24 hours prior. Imagine indulging in saffron gnocchi stuffed with brie or savoring mezzi rigatoni tossed in kale pesto—all while surrounded by the thrill of the unknown. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the anticipation, the adventure, and the surprise that awaits around every corner. In a world where reviews often dictate our choices, Mystery Eats challenges the norm by offering an unparalleled dining experience that leaves guests buzzing with excitement.

How to shop the mob wife trend in Toronto, from leopard to leather

By

Julia Mastroianni

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12:58 pm

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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.

Draw inspiration from Connie Corleone and Carmela Soprano for the hottest look of the season! Jeanne Beker has selected all the mob wife trend essentials, from leopard print to gold hardware.

A. RED FRAMES

“I love these; they’re so fun and make a great colour statement.” Zane, $119, visitzane.com

B.CHEETAH BELT

“This cheetah print makes for a great wraparound belt, especially to go with an all-black outfit.” Good Neighbour, $79, 935 Queen St. E.

C. CIRCLE STUDS

“I love what Biko does: these are going to give you just that right flash of gold.” Options for Her, $135, 163 Cumberland St.

D. CHAIN BRACELET

“It’s kind of chunky, it’s detailed, and it looks rich and a little over the top, perfect for the trend.” Leah Alexandra, $175, 188 University Ave.

E. LEOPARD DRESS

“This silk dress has such a classic shape, with a trendy twist, thanks to the leopard print.” Reformation, $648, 87 Yorkville Ave.

F. TUBE TOP

Thursdays, $695, 1130 Yonge St.

G. GOLD HANDBAG

“You don’t get more mob wife than a Gucci bag with the Gucci hardware on it!” Gucci, $1,560, 130 Bloor St. W.

H. LEATHER SKIRT

“I like the asymmetry of this and I like how it can ride low on the hips; this shows off the knee in a flirty way.” TNT, $825, 2901 Bayview Ave.

I. KITTEN MULE

“I love the pattern and these look fun and sexy — almost like little foot jewelry.” Reformation, $398, 87 Yorkville Ave.

J. LEATHER GLOVES

“These long leather gloves are fabulous; they make such an elegant statement.” Thursdays, $195, 1130 Yonge St.

K. PATENT PANTS

“These patent leather leggings are a trip! The shiny look is a step up from a classic leather legging.” Hilary MacMillan, $125, hilarymacmillan.com

L. LEOPARD COAT

“You can never go wrong with leopard print, and this looks awfully cosy. What a statement piece!” Guess, $180.60, 55 Colossus Dr.

M. STILETTO BOOT

“It’s sexy, it’s a little evil looking, and it’s edgy, very appropriate for the trend!” La Canadienne, $312, 138 Cumberland St.

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

Talking a new season of Big Brother Canada with host Arisa Cox

By

lindsaylow

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12:18 pm

0

Big Brother Canada is back this month premiering on March 5 on Global and StackTV. Along for another wild ride is legendary host and executive producer Arisa Cox. Big Brother Canada isolates individuals from the outside world and immerses them in a fully monitored house documenting their every action. It’s a curiosity to some, a lifelong obsession to others, and to Arisa Cox it’s better than Christmas.

What are your thoughts on the return?

It’s better than Christmas, it’s better than my birthday, it’’s better than New Year’s. Very few things are more fun to me than knowing we’ve got an incredible season in store. nd that it’s going to be surprising. We don’t have the end in sight when we start. Every single player could win and the season could go a million different directions. And that’s what’s so exciting about it for me.

What makes the show click?

I think that it’s without all the bells and whistles. You know, some people have described Big Brother as a couple of people having a conversation in their room. Even without the layer of the competition because we’re dealing with real people and all of their flaws and brilliance.

It never gets old?

I mean, if you’re interested in game theory that’s a whole level that the show exists on. If you’re interested in romance, if you’re interested in strategy, if you’re interested in how humans make connections and why and how quickly and what the layers are, all of that stuff is so fascinating. It never gets old.

What are you most proud of in terms of your own work on the show?

I think I’m really proud of being part of a really exceptionally thought out social experiment that clearly has stood the test of time. I’ve been in television a long time and shows come shows go. But it is a rare thing to be working on a show with people that you respect, who love the product as equally as I do. And that strives to be better and improve and be more clever and be more inclusive and give our audience more every single year.

Who do you think people will love or just love to talk about in the new season?

Well, I’m thrilled about this cast. When auditions come around, we tend to find more than a few people who are like, ‘Oh, I’m just like, XYZ, I’m just like, so-and-so from season two,’But we want originals. And I’m so thrilled by the number of absolute originals, who are absolutely going to be stars, whether you love them or hate them, because, you know, Big brother is on for two-and-a-half months. And they is this incredible arc that you see that fans are used to right? There could be someone who you absolutely despise at the beginning of the show and by the end you’re rooting for them to win. So I’m very, very happy with the the number of extremely unique people we have playing the game this year.

Is the show’s audience still growing?

I don’t think we’ve hit the ceiling. I think every year there’s new people who just have never seen it. And yes, the hardcores can recall every detail back from season one right up until now. Then there are people who just dipped in and they’re like, where has this been this whole time?

Any fave memorable moments?

One is the finale of season one, which was quite spectacular because of a voting mistake. It was a very, very dramatic ending because it was going to be a close five-four vote for the win. And someone we love to death Topaz [Brady] made a mistake when she voted for the wrong person. But again, the best part of every season is that you have no idea where it’s going to go. And last season was so dramatic and all the ways I never would have known it would be in an interview preseason. So that’s why I never want to say too much because I want to be able to be wowed.