Toronto’s Most Inspiring Women of 2023- Olivia Chow

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3:16 pm

The politician | Olivia Chow

When John Tory stepped down as mayor earlier this year, it was unclear what was next for our city. A decade of conservative leadership made Torontonians complacent, and many thought it couldn’t get better. That is, until Olivia Chow stepped up to the plate. A longtime community advocate who had attempted entry into municipal politics years ago and partner to the late Jack Layton, no one expected Chow — but, as it quickly became clear as she shot up the polls in popularity, Toronto wanted someone like her in power. When she was elected in June, she became the first Chinese-Canadian mayor in the city and rode her bike to work, wearing a skirt printed with the Toronto skyline, on her first day in office. And she’s begun her first year in power with gusto, reversing service cuts on the TTC, convincing the federal government to provide $97 million in funding for refugees, hiking the vacant home tax, streamlining the CafeTO process… shall we go on? While Chow has been behind a few controversial decisions since then too — including agreeing to acquiesce on the Ontario Place provincial plan despite promising not to in her campaign in exchange for uploading responsibility for the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway to the provincial government — we’re feeling more hopeful for the city with Mayor Chow in power than we have in a long time.

By Kristyn Wong-Tam – Friend, Ontario NDP MPP

I met now-Mayor Olivia Chow as a student who was the first person in my family to navigate Canada’s public education system. Olivia Chow was a fixture in the Chinese Canadian community — she seemed to be at every event and taking on every role, and constantly encouraged young people like me to speak up. As a member of the queer and trans community, the word that comes to mind when I think about Olivia Chow is allyship. She stood shoulder to shoulder with queer and trans Torontonians fighting for spousal and health benefits, HIV/AIDS funding and Pride Toronto funding long before it was widely politically acceptable to do so. She survived a home with domestic violence growing up, and you can see her gut-level rejection of powerlessness in all aspects of her work. From empowering early childhood educators at the Institute for Change Leaders to joining tenant associations facing abusive corporate landlords to advocating for a new deal for Toronto with the federal and provincial governments — Olivia is the most hard-working person I have ever met. After decades of public service, I believe that being the mayor of Toronto is Olivia’s truest calling, and we’re lucky for it.

For more of Toronto’s most inspiring women of 2023, click here.

Toronto’s Most Inspiring Women of 2023 – Diana Matheson

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Julia Mastroianni

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3:13 pm

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The trailblazer | Diana Matheson

Diana Matheson already made a name for herself on the pitch — scoring the bronze medal-winning goal for Canada at the 2012 Olympics (marking the country’s first medal in a summer team sport since 1936) and snagging another bronze at the 2016 Olympics before retiring in 2021. But this year, she made a name for herself off of it: she’s behind the launch of Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league, set to kick off in 2025. For aspiring female soccer players in Canada, the lack of a professional league here has driven many players to the U.S. or European professional leagues, or out of the sport altogether. Matheson’s innovation will change that forever, providing players an opportunity to become the best in the world right at home. So far, there are three founding teams associated with the league, including A.F.C. Toronto City.

By Christine Sinclair – Friend and former teammate, Olympian, record goalscorer

Dee and I started on the national team around the same time, and we’ve been friends ever since. Our teams were predicated on physicality, big strong athletes, but at barely over five feet, Dee still brought it. She’s carried that right along post-soccer: she’s a Princeton grad, she got an MBA, and it’s really cool to see her bring to life the advocacy she talked about during her playing days: bringing a professional women’s league to Canada. I don’t think there’s anyone better than Dee to lead this. She’s the smartest person I know. Sitting in the stands and watching the 1999 Women’s World Cup inspired me to think playing soccer professionally was possible. It’s amazing to see Dee spearhead the creation of a similar moment with this new league. We’ll be inspiring kids across the country. Dee deserves all the recognition for all she does to empower the next generation of female athletes through Project 8, and for the past and current generations, she’s galvanizing us to help drive the sport forward and leave it in a better place than we found it. Dee is a positive inspiration to so many young girls to fight for equality and what they believe in. I think there will be a lot of “thank yous” in order for how she’s paved the way for a women’s professional league in Canada.

For more of Toronto’s most inspiring women of 2023, click here.

Toronto’s Most Inspiring Women of 2023 – Nuit Regular

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Julia Mastroianni

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3:09 pm

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The chef | Nuit Regular

Chef Nuit Regular has built a true empire in Toronto. The chef behind many of the Thai restaurants you love in Toronto, when the Michelin Guide launched in Toronto last year, perennial favourite Pai made the recommended list. And this year, the accolades continue — Kiin was named a Michelin-recommended restaurant on the guide’s latest update. Foodies in Toronto know: we’re lucky to have Nuit Regular around.

By Craig Wong – chef and owner of Patois

Chef Nuit Regular is a fantastic leader. Pai has expanded so many times, and she’s reinvented herself from being in charge of one single restaurant to heading up an impressive restaurant group. Nuit is inspirational, and uncompromising when it comes to quality. She deserves all her accolades and also recognition from the Michelin Guide. Not only is Chef Nuit talented in the kitchen, but she’s also one of the kindest and most humble people I’ve ever met. Chef Nuit is an incredibly talented and all-around person that I feel very privileged to consider a friend. We have a kindred spirit and share a common love for travel. One of my fondest memories happened several years ago, when I was returning home from our restaurant in Dubai,very jet-lagged after travelling overseas. After giving up on sleep for the night, we linked up with Nuit and her husband Jeff — they had also just got back from Thailand and were also jet-lagged. We all hit up a 24-hour dim sum spot in Scarborough at three in the morning!

For more of Toronto’s most inspiring women of 2023, click here.

Toronto’s Most Inspiring Women of 2023- Nelly Furtado

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Julia Mastroianni

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3:06 pm

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The artist | Nelly Furtado

Canadian pop icon Nelly Furtado is ready for her comeback. Before this year, her last album came out in 2017, causing fans to speculate on why she had “disappeared” from the music industry. But the 44-year-old singer was just being a mom, devoting her time to her three kids, now ages 19, five and four. Last year, she surprised fans on stage with Drake at OVO Fest — and this year, she’s exploded back onto the music scene, where her presence has been sorely missed. Her recent collaboration with Timbaland and JT — the first since 2007 — made headlines, and she’s been showing up on stage at music festivals, posing for pictures with other pop icons and, crucially, working on producing her next album. And with plans to host the Juno Awards in 2024, we can say that Nelly Furtado is back for good — and we couldn’t be happier.

By Lido Pimienta- Friend, award-winning musician

Nelly has inspired me since my days in Barranquilla, Colombia, as a teenager aspiring to make long-lasting music, and sometimes I have to pinch myself because not only do I get to help her vision come to life, I also get to call her a friend. Beginning as work collaborators, we eventually switched into mom mode together. Nelly, like myself, gave birth to “pandemic babies” and our kids became “cousins.” While they were in the other room playing together, Nelly and I started creating songs together. Seeing Nelly back doing interviews, dropping new songs, headlining festivals, singing with us and our friends at other festivals, appearing on TV shows, hosting award shows, being first row at Fashion Week, being on the cover of amazing magazines and more feels correct. I am immensely proud because I know how hard she has worked for her career. I know the long break was needed but — as it happens to many women in the world — especially after giving birth, we tend to feel like perhaps our voices are not needed anymore. She is part of this clear shift in music and she is bringing the gifts of love, hope and female empowerment.

Sometime in 2016 I received an email from Nelly saying she liked my ‘Agua’ music video from my album La Papessa. The music video featured my son and was recorded in many spots around Toronto and in front of a green screen. She liked the colors and the layers in it, and she contacted me so that we could brainstorm ideas for new videos for her album The Ride. This was an exciting time in Toronto, as in the city we still had venues and a culture to thrive in — and in that scene, I soared. In 2017, I ended up winning the Polaris Prize for La Papessa. Her validating of my work way before this award gave me the boost and confidence to keep going, in my lane, without worrying about whatever else was happening in the mainstream. From work collaborators, we simply switched into mom mode. Nelly, like myself, gave birth to “pandemic babies” so once we could meet in person again in the city, our kids became “cousins.” While they were in the other room playing together, me and Nelly, unbeknownst to either of us I am sure, started creating songs that are now being developed in the studio. And it all started at her kitchen table! Iconic.

Nelly came to the Lido TV family, appearing on our first episode. She let us dress her and do her makeup and she made everyone feel at ease, as of course everyone on set was freaking out because she was there. Nelly came to the north coast of Colombia where she was introduced to the jungle. She later met me in Barranquilla at a photoshoot in the deep downtown, chilling with the mototaxistas and eating watermelon out of a paper cup with my cousins and an amazing crew of people, musicians and a choir of 13 women whom I “forgot” to tell Nelly would come visit. They simply lost it when she showed up — but again — Nelly has a light from within that makes people feel at home. Soon enough, out of nowhere guitars and ukuleles started popping up and then the choir and Nelly were pretty much writing a new album.

When we came back from the trip, it was pretty much go-time. I started getting texts from Nelly at midnight with voice notes and recordings of new demos. We would send ideas back and forth but then the texts started coming at 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. Eventually I started joining in the studio, and the texts at those late hours started making sense. Nelly gets into the studio at 3 p.m. and is out at 3 a.m. like it’s nothing. She is a melody-harmony-rhythm-lyric-music making machine. Experiencing her in the studio is when one truly understands why she is the musical genius that creates songs that will become part of your psyche, embedded in your brain forever.

Nelly Furtado is not a gatekeeper. Nelly will open doors and introduce you to the top producers and top people in the industry. I always say that I am not meant for the music industry, but somehow always end up in the studio working with incredible people, and since meeting Nelly, my world has opened up. Nelly will introduce me to these established huge producers and artists and say stuff like, “Lido is a real artist,” and those simple words coming from one of the best artists in the world, to me are more validating than any likes or followers and any social media or industry attention.

Working with Nelly feels like a family affair. Her management and glam team, they roll together like a family. And when a new person comes in, one is treated as such; people are taken care of, and I appreciate that so much, because I have been in these spaces before, spaces of big artists or famous people and the vibes can become dark. In the Nellyverse, as I like to call it, the space is all about light, creativity and sisterhood. Nelly is connected to the world, and is a constant student and lover of music. She goes to the big shows and the small shows, and supports you at whatever level. And it is important that people know this, because Nelly deserves all of the praise, all of the awards; she deserves the world, because she gives back so much and she has helped me when I am at my lowest. When I am feeling like I want to give up, she is there with a phone call or video call helping me get back up.

Nelly Furtado is an icon, a musical genius with a young inquisitive soul, always in pursuit of the best sound.

For more of Toronto’s most inspiring women of 2023, click here.

Toronto’s Most Inspiring Women of 2023- Dr. Samantha Nutt

By

Julia Mastroianni

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2:58 pm

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The humanitarian | Dr. Samantha Nutt

An award-winning humanitarian, author, public speaker, doctor and the founder and president of humanitarian organizations War Child Canada and War Child USA, Dr. Samantha Nutt has worked with children and their families at the frontline of many of the world’s major crises. This year has been an especially horrific year of war around the world, and we look to Dr. Nutt as a shining example of what it means to be a true humanitarian. Looking out for the most vulnerable in war — children — she recently visited Yemen and Jordan and has been outspoken about the impact of these disasters on our youngest, reminding us that each life affected by war is precious and worth saving.

By Chantal Kreviazuk – Singer, War Child ambassador

A committed humanitarian, bestselling author, public speaker, mother, Women’s College Hospital staff physician, professor and the founder and president of War Child Canada and War Child USA, Dr. Samantha Nutt’s vision and leadership has transformed War Child from an altruistic idea into one of Canada’s most successful international charities, helping millions of war-affected children and their families each year.

It is not lost on me that being in the War Child family, so to speak, has its perks. Having been a long-time champion of the cause and the work that they do, and the impact they have on our world, disrupting cycles of chronic war, means I get a front row seat at the most irrefutably cutting-edge lessons on the topic of war, geopolitics, history, world issues… you name it. I am a sponge for knowledge and so incredibly passionate about the issues surrounding humanity, so being a cheerleader for the amazing War Child team, led by Sam, allows my love for learning to reign on!

Possibly the perk of all perks is that I have had the privilege of observing Sam in her element, in the field on assessment trips. We have traveled afar together to Africa and the Middle East on several occasions now, where she and War Child’s local teams have carefully implemented programs that give children access to education, protect their legal and human rights, and give their families the tools they need to escape poverty by using a model that is locally driven and led by 99 per cent local staff. War Child’s local partners work towards the betterment of those who are trapped in conflicts through no fault of their own. Betterment that I have learned in turn betters the world for all of us no matter where we live.

Sam is, in my opinion, someone we are all better for knowing, not unlike the programs she creates, because of the traits she naturally inhabits — passion, integrity, gentleness and an intelligence, a sharpness if you will, that could break all hell loose. But it’s the traits she fosters and continues to grow in herself that also blow me away. Sam is a beautiful creature — she embodies humility and a classiness and relatability one rarely sees in one person. She is always in training. She listens. She has measured responses no matter the audience or situation. She is my personal president of the world because she makes time. Like a magician. She makes time out of thin air for absolutely everyone she meets, everywhere she goes even when time is up. The hope is real if she is in the midst. Sam is brave and honest, and her tenacity always prevails. I have seen her surrounded by guards with AK-47s at various checkpoints, but she states her case and perseveres every time. I never flinch. Death by wit. She never gives up. For Sam, giving kids a chance to succeed far outweighs the danger.

Both personally and professionally, I am in awe, and I am continually so inspired by Sam’s compassionate nature, willingness to try and her desire to serve. She is the reason that my belief in a life of service is validated, affirmation that there is something more than being self-involved and ambitious for the sake of self and ego. I have watched her change the world in places where no one else felt there was value. I have watched her humanize and raise up communities that had been forgotten. Sam reminds the world of the good that exists in me and you, and in all of us. She reminds me and everyone whose life she touches that we truly do all matter. I am so lucky that I have been able to grow alongside this phenomenal leader that makes us as women and us as Canadians so incredibly proud.

For more of Toronto’s most inspiring women of 2023, click here.

Toronto’s Most Inspiring Women of 2023- Dr. Rama Khokha

By

Julia Mastroianni

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2:49 pm

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The scientist | Dr. Rama Khokha

Scientist Dr. Rama Khokha at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre has devoted her research to molecular cancer prevention, and this year, Breast Cancer Canada has seen the power of innovation. The organization announced $3 million three-year funding for the cancer centre at the University Health Network for the 3P Precision Prevention Progress Project, led by Dr. Khokha. Her research focuses on identifying new risk factors and developing screening methods to detect cancer at an earlier stage, and will hopefully lead to future prevention strategies for cancer patients everywhere.

By Dr. Brad Wouters – Executive VP Science & Research, UHN

As Senior Scientist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Dr. Rama Khokha has shown the passion that she has for advancing our fundamental understanding of cancer risk and prevention. Using state-of-the-art approaches, her research program is world-renowned for addressing cancer prevention from different aspects — from uncovering the molecules and cells that shape the development of cancer all the way to internationally-run clinical trials to examine new therapies to prevent the disease. This year, the cancer centre received $3 million in funding from Breast Cancer Canada for a molecular breast cancer prevention research project led by Rama thanks to her groundbreaking work in this field of research. Rama deserves to be recognized for the scientific contributions that she has made to the global fight against cancer. She is also committed to inspiring the next generation of researchers — ensuring that Canada’s research talent remains among the best in the world. Dozens of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers have travelled from across North America, Europe, and Asia to train under her illustrious program, and she has helped launched the careers of clinician-scientists, health and science professionals, policy advisors, and founders of multimillion dollar biotechnology startup companies. Rama’s legacy is marked by integrity, quality, and above all a commitment to improving the health of people in Canada and beyond.

For more of Toronto’s most inspiring women of 2023, click here.

You can join a special one-day-only yoga event in Toronto this weekend

By

Julia Mastroianni

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9:08 am

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For six years I gave up every Father’s Day so that I could host OmTO — a full day of outdoor yoga, in celebration of the Summer Solstice. At its height, OmTO had more than 3,000 guests and onlookers with yoga classes averaging more than 150 people. Then the pandemic occurred, and the event became logistically impossible to put on. But I’ve always wanted to bring the event back — because it was always such a special day. I was just waiting for the perfect time.

It turns out that Sunday, Dec. 17 is that perfect time. The holiday season can be so hectic and with so much negativity in the news cycle. I think we could all use a day for ourselves. An opportunity to decompress and move and be part of something bigger — nourishing our bodies and minds at a time of year when we need it most. But I’m also hoping to support my friends and partners in the yoga community who were hit extremely hard by the pandemic.

As yogi, Tonic contributor and OmTO class instructor Tracey Soghrati puts it: “OmTO has always been the best place to connect with teachers and practitioners from all over the city. I encourage students to try a few different class styles — every practice is different and I’m always pleasantly surprised by the quality of teaching I find!”

The event

OmTO is a full day of curated and themed yoga classes taught by the top instructors from the top studios in the GTA. You can reserve your space, online, in advance. There will be music, contests, free giveaways and special offers for our guests. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to charity. All of the classes will be video recorded.

The venue

ZoomerHall at 70 Jefferson Ave., with its high ceilings, ambient lighting and urban vibe, is the main recording studio at ZoomerMedia, located at the ZoomerPlex in Liberty Village in Toronto. The venue can be accessed by car (with free parking on site) or public transit. There are shops, restaurants and bars surrounding the venue in this iconic urban neighbourhood.

The classes

There will be nine curated, specially-themed yoga classes throughout the day. Each has its own unique twist. Commencing at 10 a.m. sharp, and then every hour on the hour, every class will last 45 minutes (with a 15 minute break in between to allow our guests to come, practice and go — without ruining their vibe). For example, the early birds might want to take a 50/50 mat pilates and yoga class at 10 a.m. taught by Chris Pride of Altea Active. Or one might choose to take a hot (and dark) yoga flow class in the late afternoon, taught by Jaybird co-founder Ariel Swan. Julie Watson is teaching a DYNAMIC Power Vinyasa class to a female-featured playlist mid-afternoon.

As Julie puts it: “Think Stevie Nicks meets Whitney Houston meets Miley Cyrus.” Or you might want to take a midday Yang-Yin Yoga class with OmTO favourite Tracey Soghrati — and reeeallllly hooollllddd thosssseee possess. Or for those looking for adventure you might want to “let loose” with Hana Lukac at 6 p.m. to close out our program.

A special class

Yoga is one of the most beneficial complementary therapies for Parkinson’s Disease. It helps to increase flexibility; improve posture; loosen tight, painful muscles; build (or rebuild) confidence; and, through these benefits, enhance quality of life. Parkinson Canada is sponsoring a specially curated class at OmTO at 11 a.m. and welcomes those with Parkinson’s, friends, family and loved ones to join in.

Insider information

If you’re interested in taking a class at OmTO visit www.omto.ca to sign up. All the class descriptions are there for you to choose and reserve your space. All classes are $20, with a portion of the proceeds going to Parkinson Canada. There is an online waiver for you to sign, as the classes involve physical activity and will be recorded and shared with our sponsors and studio partners. Walk-ins are welcome, but will have to sign up and pay online, space permitting. On the day of the event make sure to come with your own yoga mat… and a desire to have an amazing time!

The best appetizers in Toronto according to a Michelin chef

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Jennifer Schembri

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2:51 pm

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Is there anything more festive than a room full of finely dressed guests sipping on cocktails and nibbling on finger foods while a playlist of holiday favourites sets the tone? We asked celeb chef Anthony Rose to sample some of the city’s best appetizers and tell us which two (or three) bite-sized treats takes top prize.

Winner: Charmaine Sweets Studio: Mini Chicken Pot Pies

“This is very delicate and nice and warm. The pastry is spectacular, and visually it looks nice. I like the addition of the egg wash. These taste homemade, and you can really tell that they were made with care.” 115 Vanderhoof Ave.,$4 each

Runner up: Tiny Market Co. Basil Pesto Knots

“These are gorgeousand buttery. They look great, and the layer of flavour is good. They’re nice and green, which is cool. I would like to see a bit more pesto. I love the way they taste: there’s a lot of basil, buttery goodness.” 938 Bathurst St., $2.80 each

Pisces Gourmet Seafood: Crab Cakes

“These crab cakes look perfect. I love crab cakes and these ones are nice and big. When you take a bite you can really taste a lot of crab and there’s so much of it.” 1097 Yonge St., $7.99/lb

McEwan Fine Foods: Truffle Mushroom Arancini

“I can really taste the truffle oil and mush- rooms. It’s pretty good. I don’t love the addition of the truffle oil, but it’s well made. I would eat more of this, but it would be nice if they were a bit smaller.” 38 Karl Fraser Rd., $11 (for two)

Pusateri’s Fine Foods: Beef Samosas

“It’s good, but I want it to be stuffed just a little bit more! I like when my beef samosa is filled with a lot of potatoes and peas. It’s nice and flavourful though and the pastry is golden and flaky.” 57 Yorkville Ave., $2.49 each

Center Street Deli’s Mini Potato Latkes

“It’s not bad. It’s got a nice texture, but it doesn’t really taste like potato. I think they taste pretty good and I like that they’re simple. They’ve got a nice scoop of filling, and they’re deep fried.” 1136 Centre St., $11.25 (12 pieces)

Thobors’ Feuilleté Saucisse (Sausage Rolls)

“Gorgeous! I want to love this. It’s like a hotdog in a blanket but sexy and fancy. There’s a lot of pastry — a little too much for my liking. The hotdog’s nice and smoky, but the pastry is mediocre.” 627 Mount Pleasant Rd., $6.80 each

The best secret bars and speakeasies that opened in Toronto this year

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Jennifer Schembri

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1:40 pm

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In 2023, the trend of opening secret bars in Toronto has taken the city by storm. From hidden entrances and unmarked doors to establishments tucked within other venues, Toronto is buzzing with hidden haunts where patrons can go incognito and savour a delicious drink and eats.

Here are the 5 best secret Toronto bars that opened in 2023.

Bar Bowie

A back alleyway may not seem like the best spot to find a stellar dry martini and late night tapas in this city, but this seems to be the case with Bar Bowie, a new basement-level bar that recently opened on Ossington Ave. in the heart of Trinity-Bellwoods. Bar Bowie was opened by Adrian Juan Jose Joaquin, who is also behind Toronto’s iconic Lakeview Diner, Better Gift Shop and French bistro Milou. Publicly branding itself as “not a speakeasy” given its lower-level, kind-of-secret location beneath a laundromat, Bar Bowie’s snug interior includes mirrored ceilings and a dimly-lit atmosphere that invites guests to sit back and connect with one another over shared cocktails and light bites amidst good music and a good crowd. On the menu, which was designed by Michael Kim (Milou, and previously Uncle Mikey’s Inc.) you’ll find drinks and eats reminiscent of a no frills snack bar — beer choice is limited to a house Bowie lager, Stella Artois and a cider, and guests can have their pick of one red, white, rose, sparkling or skin contact wine by the glass or bottle. 180R Ossington Ave.

Bar Habana

Discover the newest speakeasy-style Cuban cocktail and rum bar on Ossington! Tucked away at the back of La Cubana, Bar Habana is shaking things up in the best way. Thanks to the talented mixologist Josh, who’s been diligently crafting new Cuban-inspired cocktails like the decadently delicious Carajillo Affogato and the smoky, rich, and bold Old Baracoa. The menu features a delicious array of Cuban pressed sandwiches and empanadas. 92 Ossington Ave.

Bar Avelo

Located atop Avelo restaurant in a charming heritage building, Bar Avelo offers a cozy setting with a dramatic arched ceiling inspired by its Victorian origins. The drink menu features a mix of classic and creative cocktails, a thoughtfully curated wine selection, and various beverages. The upscale food menu includes dishes with luxurious ingredients like truffles, green caviar and an assortment of wild mushrooms such as lobster and lion’s mane. 51 St Nicholas St.

Bar Đêm

Located on the top floor of contemporary Vietnamese restaurant Dzô Viet Eatery, Bar Đêm, is adorned with colourful Vietnamese art, while skylights create a night market feel. There’s a spacious bar which creates a lounge-friendly atmosphere. The bar is accessible through a graffiti-covered alley, while the entrance is marked with hanging lanterns. 308 Dundas St. W.

Bar 404

Adding to the city’s diverse collection of speakeasies, Bar 404 invites urban explorers to indulge in an evening of exquisitely crafted cocktails and culinary delights. The menu boasts seafood options like the Tiradito Nikkei, featuring torched ahi tuna, soy citrus marinade, crispy onion, and cucumber. Additionally, there’s a tempting selection of charcuterie, artisan cheese, and truffle flatbread. Among the libations, the Strawberry Short Cake cocktail stands out—a delicious blend of white and spiced rum, Appleton rum, vanilla liqueur, pineapple, lime, strawberry, pecan bitters and cream. 85 John St Level 1.

Festive Holiday Gift Guide – Speciality Gift Ideas

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Jarrod Daley

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9:00 am

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Discover These 6 Outstanding Local Businesses in Forest Hill

By

Dorothy Chudzinski

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3:10 pm

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The Eglinton Way has established itself as a thriving neighbourhood destination that truly embodies the spirit of the holidays. Nestled in the north end of Forest Hill, this stretch of Eglinton Avenue West offers an array of businesses that cater to the diverse needs of the local community and its visitors. From boutique shops to delightful culinary experiences and skilled professionals who are dedicated to providing top-notch care and expertise, the Eglinton Way is the place to be this winter season. Embrace the festive cheer and discover the wonders that await you along this enchanting street.

Here are 6 amazing businesses you can find along the Eglinton Way.

All That Glitters

A keen eye, incredible talent and passion make Mark Lash one of Canada’s most prominent jewellery designers, and this holiday season you are sure to find something exquisite for anyone on your list. Their new holiday collection has arrived – with two-toned pieces, beautiful new drop and hoop earrings and all the chunky link necklaces and bracelets. Or looking for something unique and personal? The Mak Lash design team and on-site workshop specialists can create unique custom designed pieces of jewellery that balance individual style with timeless elegance, and can even recreate precious heirlooms. See their website for extended and holiday hours.

Delicious Holiday Treats

Nestled in the heart of the neighbourhood, Hotel Gelato is a warm and elegant destination for friends and family to share delicious food, delectable treats and great coffee. For the holiday season they are stepping it up a notch with a Meyer Lemon and Olive Oil Gelato for Chanukah. And for Christmas they have Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sorbet, as well as EggNog Gelato, Gingerbread Gelato and Rum Raisin Gelato. Sure to be hit this season, they are now offering a Boozy Affogato – made with a scoop of their Tahitian Vanilla Gelato, a shot of espresso and choice of Baileys, Kaluha, Grand Marnier or Licor 43. Be sure to follow them on Instagram @HotelGelato for upcoming specials and celebrations as they get ready to celebrate their 14th anniversary!

Caring for Our Furry Friends

Put your paws in good hands at Upper Village Veterinary Hospital. With over 20+ years of experience, this full service veterinary hospital offers vaccines and preventative care, nutritional information, dentistry, surgeries, emergency care, ultrasounds and lots of free treats! They are excited to be part of the community and look forward to building relationships and being a source of education and health for the pets in the neighbourhood.

Keeping Smiles Merry and Bright

Midroni Family Dental Care prides itself on providing personal and attentive dental care centred around building lasting relationships. For patients who experience anxiety in dental environments, the clinic offers reassuring instructions on the benefits of laughing gas sedation and deeper ‘Twilight Sleep’ anaesthesia. Dr. Joshua Tordjman is expanding his family-based dental care, adding more hours and accepting new patients. And Dr. Ran Midroni is celebrating 30 years of administering intravenous sedation and general anaesthesia for dental procedures. This winter, the clinic will focus on individual gum assessments and creating custom home oral hygiene programs. Between December 1st, 2023 and February 29, 2024, new patients over 18 years old will receive a complimentary Crest 3D WhiteStrips ‘Whitening’ Kit with a complete dental examination.

Winter Registration Now Open!

Experience the joy of dance in-studio this winter at Groove School of Dance! Winter registration for all dance classes is now open, but spots are filling up fast. Don’t miss out! Camp registration is also available for kids ages 3-12. As a proud member of the Allenby/Forest Hill community since 1999, Groove School of Dance goes beyond just being a studio. It is a welcoming community where everyone feels safe. With dance classes in all styles including Jazz, Tap, Acro, Ballet, Hip Hop and Ballroom, all children and even adults who participate in classes always leave with a big smile and the confidence to come back again. They can’t wait to celebrate their upcoming 25th anniversary with all their students and parents, and thank the community for their continuous support!

Dental Care for the Whole Family

Dr. Matthew Orzech and Associates offers dental care for the whole family! With a commitment to excellence in oral health care and equipped with the latest technology, the clinic offers a wide range of services, that include needless fillings, digital x-rays, crowns in a day, cleanings, mouth guards, root canals, whitening and implants.

The team of skilled and compassionate dentists, hygienists, and support staff strive to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone. As a patient-friendly practice, they warmly welcome new patients and offer extended hours to accommodate busy schedules. Additionally, their clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone has access to quality oral care.

Grab a bite, listen to music and even run into a celeb at this new T.O. shop

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:02 pm

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In Toronto’s lively Dundas West area, Elsie’s is more than a typical record shop; it’s a fusion of nostalgia, music and excellent coffee. This newly established venture reflects Menno Versteeg’s deep passion for music and serves as a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, Elsie.

Most probably know Versteeg from his musical ventures with Anyway Gang and Hollerado. As the owner and co-founder of the indie record label Royal Mountain Records, it’s not surprising that he decided to expand his passion even further.

The inception of Elsie’s wasn’t part of a grand plan. Instead, the idea sparked from a serendipitous encounter at Fattoush, an east end sandwich shop, blending Versteeg’s passion for music with Fattoush’s culinary expertise.

“I just started talking to the guy making my coffee and then I had the food, and it was one of the best falafels I’ve ever had in Toronto,” recounts Versteeg. “I asked him if you can get these in the west side and he said no, but had hopes of opening up a shop there one day. So, then I asked him, how soon?”

Versteeg says that he asked Fattoush’s owners on the spot if they’d like to collaborate on the vacant space beneath his record label office. While he acknowledges that some might have deemed it crazy, Versteeg couldn’t be more pleased with taking the chance.

Now situated beneath the Royal Mountain Records office, Elsie’s has evolved from a space that served as a studio, rehearsal space and storage into a new neighbourhood spot. It’s a place to discover the next addition to your record collection or enjoy a delicious sandwich and cup of coffee.

According to Versteeg, Elsie’s curated collection of records is bound to please fans. Featuring everything from vintage country tunes to autographed gems and releases from Royal Mountain Records, each vinyl is sure to attract enthusiasts and collectors alike.

On the menu, coffee aficionados at Elsie’s can savor classics like an Americano or venture into the seasonal realm with a new gingerbread latte. The food offerings mirror those of the original Fattoush location, featuring breakfast sandwiches, grilled cheeses, and an ever-evolving list of specials to satisfy the craving for comfort food.

Elsie’s is a place where you might unexpectedly encounter celebrities. Past notable visitors include Fred Penner, who treated patrons to a delightful rendition of his hit song “Sandwiches” (quite fitting), as well as members of July Talk.

“We’re not trying to start a sandwich/record store/coffee empire. We just just want to be a place that our neighbours can enjoy while they get something, whether it’s a vinyl or some food,” he says.

“We’ve also had a lot of shows in the back parking lot and we want to do more stuff like that. It’s super family friendly and it’s just a place where art, community, food and coffee meet each other.”

And as for how Versteeg’s grandmother feels about the spot, he says, “She’s so proud. If you look on my Instagram, you can find a photo of her wearing an Elsie’s hat and she’s just beaming.”

Elsie’s is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located at 3365 Dundas St. West.