NBA stars are obsessed with this Toronto artist’s unique jersey designs

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caseybannermandesign — @casey_bannerman/Instagram

Casey Bannerman’s Zoom background is much better than mine — he’s seated in a brown leather club chair, flanked by his own framed illustrations of various NBA stars, and wearing a gorgeous mohair cardigan which I later learn is part of an upcoming drop of his new clothing line Butter For The Bread.

Bannerman’s work has floated around the corner of the Internet that is the intersection between the fashion, entertainment and sports for a while, where basketball players get the superhero treatment and jerseys are love letters to the city of Toronto. But it was his knit, retro logo-inspired Raptors jersey that stopped me in my scroll. It’s arresting, jaw-dropping. But who could be surprised once you learn that Bannerman has been building to this moment his entire life?

His designs have been worn by some of the same athletes whose jerseys he uses as inspiration, including Fred VanVleet, Danny Green, Scottie Barnes and Andrew Wiggins. But the roots of his success might be traced back to his childhood in a clothing shop in Peterborough.

“Shoutout to Peterborough Square,” Bannerman says. “It’s a graveyard now but it used to be a mall.” It also housed his parents’ growing clothing business. Back then, before it became the success it is now, Bannerman’s parents didn’t have a lot of money.

“I didn’t have babysitters or anything, so I just grew up in the back of a storeroom with a bunch of clothes. All I had around me to really entertain myself was a bunch of pens and what are called style sheets,” Bannerman recalls. “I would just sit there and I would draw and draw and draw to the point where I would actually cut out my little drawings and those would be my toys, paper toys.”

This was around the same time that the NBA finally brought a franchise to Toronto. Bannerman knows that his Raptors fandom is partly a byproduct of good marketing: a cartoon, red and purple raptor is far more appealing to a small child than an adult man. Soon, he had a basketball net in his driveway, the easy accessibility of the sport another driving factor of his interest.

“That’s one thing that’s so cool about basketball — anyone and everyone can play it. We find that with the Toronto Raptors fanbase, it’s a very diverse fanbase for a reason,” he says. “And I don’t mean just diverse from what we visually can see but diverse from what we can’t see. It’s people from all different thought patterns and walks of life. I think that’s pretty cool.”

Growing up, illustration was a passion but Bannerman never believed that it would be his Plan A. “People in my life thought [it was] a good idea to go to university to get your bachelor’s and then go to law school because that’s a good meal ticket. So I went to university to just get my Bachelor of Arts in political science — what a waste of money that was!” Bannerman jokes.

He continued on the course that was prescribed to him — law school, cushy law job. “I tried to follow that path, and it led to a life unfulfilled, which led to substance abuse with alcohol, and eventually just sort of not living my own life,” he says. “At a certain point, right about when I was turning 30, I made a decision: Okay, I’m gonna kick that type of stuff out of my life but the deal is that I have to do what I love, and what I love to do is design and create things.”

His life change slowly led him to his now iconic designs. “I decided that I was going to follow art, and I didn’t think it was going to be this. I decided that I needed to get my chops up in drawing, and I was watching so much basketball — that’s when I was doing it — so I thought, ‘I’ll just draw these players,’ and slowly but surely some of the players took notice.”

Since then, Bannerman’s career has taken off, between prints and shirts to jerseys and knitwear. There’s more on the horizon: many drops under his own brand, as well as for his aforementioned Butter For The Bread, which is in collaboration with Aly Jamal of Northern Touch Vintage and Andrew Thompson.

Casey Bannerman is excited for the future, but he is also one to always appreciate what he’s got now. “If you can’t ever stop for a moment to see where you are, then you won’t ever know where you’re going.”

A first look at the wild new immersive Arcadia Earth exhibit at The Well

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Ron Johnson

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Arcadia Earth Toronto is set to open its doors to the public on Dec. 1 in The Well, the city’s newest mixed-use complex. This 17,000 square-foot art exhibit and extended reality experience aims to inspire a greener future, utilizing interactive projection mapping, augmented reality, and virtual reality across 10 stunning rooms.

The experiential journey transports visitors from underwater coral reefs to beehive interiors and LED screen tunnels featuring Canada’s wildlife. The exhibit, after successful runs in New York, Las Vegas, and Saudi Arabia, makes Toronto its first permanent home.

“After seeing the exhibit in New York, my desire to bring Arcadia Earth to Canada only grew after learning about founder Valentino Vettori’s passion and vision to activate positive change,” says Craig Perlmutter, president of Arcadia Earth Toronto. “The intention of Arcadia Earth is to change the approach we take in learning about the challenges facing our planet. Opening the exhibit permanently in Toronto gives us the incredible opportunity to captivate a new audience and inspire them to be stewards of our planet’s future through the power of art and innovation.”

Notably, Arcadia Earth Toronto supports non-profit organizations combatting wildlife loss and climate change, partnering with WWF-Canada for the Regenerate Canada initiative. The highly interactive experience foresees a future impacted by nature loss and climate change while empowering visitors to play a vital role in changing the trajectory.

The exhibit collaborates with global and local artists, featuring installations from renowned Canadian multimedia artist Benjamin Von Wong, addressing the growing issue of electronic waste.

Here’s a look.

Arcadia Earth immersive exhibit at The Well

Located at The Well, 486 Front St W, Toronto, tickets for Arcadia Earth Toronto are on sale, ranging from $24 to $39, with $2 from each ticket donated to WWF-Canada. Group rates and buyouts for private events are also available.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit arcadiaearth.ca.

Toronto just got a glam new restaurant with banana splits and foie gras PB&J

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Jennifer Schembri

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Get ready for a journey that’s playfully nostalgic with the opening of The Joneses, a retro-inspired restaurant at Yonge & Wellington.

Opening its doors on Friday, November 17, this fusion of old-meets-new promises to whisk Toronto diners away to a time when dinner parties were elegant affairs with a touch of vintage glamour.

At the culinary helm is Oliver & Bonacini district executive chef Andrew Piccinin, the creative mind behind Parcheggio, Leña and Jump. Chef Piccinin crafts a menu at The Joneses that pays homage of the sophistication of a bygone era, featuring retro-inspired shared plates, Detroit-style pizzas, handmade pasta, pressed sushi, prime steaks and grilled fish.

“The Joneses represents your happy-go-lucky champagne-popping neighbours who are known for throwing the best dinner parties,” says chef Piccinin. “From the menu to the decor, The Joneses is where comfort, style and fun converge to create a truly delightful experience that exudes retro charm.”

Expect classic crowd-pleasers on the menu, such as stuffed mushroom caps with Maryland-style lump crab and herbed breadcrumbs, foie gras PB&J with seared foie gras, scratch-made peanut butter, blueberry preserve and brioche, and lobster gnocchi alla vodka with rose sauce, tarragon, and creme fraiche. The pizzas, baked to perfection in deep blue steel pans, pay homage to Motor City’s culinary legacy. The steak program offers a selection of premium cuts served with housemade sauces and classic steakhouse-inspired sides. Cap off your meal with a nostalgic treat like the Banana Split Mess or the iconic Oliver’s carrot cake.

The Joneses’ bar is a playful nod to cocktail classics, offering 30 handcrafted concoctions, featuring house signatures, vintage recipes and a noteworthy martini section. Classic American cocktails come with a side of history, like the Tuxedo with Hayman’s dry gin, vermouth, luxardo maraschino, absinthe, and orange bitters, and the Clover Club with Tanqueray dry gin, vermouth, lemon, raspberry and egg white – each named after private members clubs in New York and Philadelphia.

The space, designed by Solid Design Creative, is a funky mix of old meets new. The bar, lounge and a 132-seat dining room feature warm wood tones, mid-century modern-inspired furniture and custom art graphics, creating an atmosphere that’s both whimsical and welcoming.

The restaurant also boasts three private dining spaces — Eastwood, Kitts and Hepburn — which can accommodate up to 60 guests for seated events and 70 guests for reception-style gatherings.

The Joneses, located at 33 Yonge St., unit 1oo is open for lunch and dinner from Monday through Friday, with dinner-only service in Saturdays.

From tamales to tres leches: Michelin recognizes T.O.’s Mexican hot spots

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Jennifer Schembri

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Snapinsta.app_80015784_156394139034637_2481627586278820002_n_1080 — @quetzaltoronto/Instagram

Toronto, not traditionally a hot spot for Mexican cuisine due to its distance, has burst onto the scene with five Michelin-recognized Mexican restaurants. These picks highlight both plant-forward eateries and establishments led by industry veterans.

PUERTO BRAVO

Nestled in Little India, this spot is a local gem, credited to Luis Bautista and Viridiana Cano. They swiftly gathered a follow- ing for their succinct menu, inspired by the flavours of Tampico on the Gulf of Mexico. The current menu is refresh- ingly uncomplicated yet inventive, featuring a mix of botanas, tacos, tostadas and expertly crafted desserts. Recently venturing into brunch territory, the restaurant now offers more of the same goodness all day long. MUST-TRY DISH: The Wera tostada, packed with octopus, shrimp, macha mayonnaise, pico de gallo, avocado and a kick of salsa macha. 1425 Gerrard St. E.

QUETZAL

In Toronto’s food scene, Quetzal stands as the lone Mexican eatery with a coveted Michelin star. Led by chef Steven Molnar, the restaurant is rooted in Oaxacan traditions and beautifully merges authentic Mexican ingredients with local flair. The wood-burning fire at the chef’s table adds a touch of romance, while each dish —from ceviche to tres leches cake — showcases Molnar culinary prowess. Quetzal remains a beacon for authentic and elevated Mexican cuisine. MUST-TRY DISH: The empanada Oaxaqueña, a tantalizing blend of lamb barbacoa, salsa molcajete, Valentine radish and salsa de ajo. 419 College St.

FONDA BALAM

Matty Matheson strikes culinary gold once again with Fonda Balam, a Toronto hot spot that effortlessly lures in the city’s laid-back crowd. In
collaboration with life and business partners, Kate Chomyshyn and Julio Guajardo, the trio has curated a menu featuring diverse tacos and a
concise but standout dessert menu. The vibe is easygoing, with outdoor picnic tables, plastic tray service and a noreservations policy. MUST-TRY DISH: The birria taco, a fresh corn tortilla gen- erously topped with succulent beef birria, onion, aromatic cilantro and both red and green salsa. 802 Dundas St. W.

LA BARTOLA

Calling all vegan enthusiasts! La Bartola, led by chef and owner Ivan Castro, is a meatfree haven that’s anything but simple. Drawing culinary
inspiration from his mom and grandma, acclaimed as his world-class cooking teachers, Ivan crafted a menu that pays homage to the incredible Mexican women revolutionizing the kitchen. Despite being meatless, La Bartola doesn’t compromise on flavour, offering favourites like herbed guacamole and sweet or savoury tamales. MUST-TRY DISH: The braised hibiscus taco featuring wild mushrooms, caramelized onions and salsa Macha. 588 College St.

CAMPECHANO

True to its roots since Daniel Roe and Raina Fisher founded it in 2015, Campechano has stuck to its mission of delivering simple and authentic Mexican food. They import corn from Mexico, grind fresh masa daily and grill each tortilla to order, ensuring top-notch tacos. The menu is simple — tacos, guac, ceviche and dessert, complemented by margaritas, fun cocktails and a selection of classic and craft beers. MUST-TRY DISH: The Pescado, a crispy and delicious beer-battered fish taco filled with haddock, red cabbage and salsa morita.
504 Adelaide St. W.

The five best grab-and-go-sushi spots in Toronto

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Jennifer Schembri

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When the sushi craving hits but time and budget are tight, Toronto’s grab-and-go sushi spots come to the rescue. These quick, affordable options ensure you don’t sacrifice taste for convenience.

Here are the five best grab-and-go sushi spots in Toronto.

Tobiko Express

At Roncesvalles’ Tobiko Express, enjoy the freshness of dine-in meals without the wait. Along with a selection of rice bowls and udon, they also carry a number of affordable sushi & maki sets like the 10-piece Rainbow ($15.90) which includes rainbow roll, salmon sushi, unary sushi, avocado sushi, tuna sushi and shrimp sushi as well as special rolls like the Veggie Dragon ($12.50) a 10-piece set that includes yam tempura, cucumber, avocado, oshinko and topped with avocado. 67 Roncesvalles Ave.

Sushi-Q

A trailblazer in the realm of sushi grab-and-go cuisine in Canada, originating in 1997 with a mission to offer a healthy and delicious alternative to fast food for those leading busy lives. Sushi-Q has expanded its reach across Canada and the United States. A whopping total of 20 sushi and sashimi sets are available for pickup including green dragon, salmon nigiri and avocado cumber rolls. 199 Bay St.

Sushi & Bento

This takeout focused spot offers poke bowls, sushi pizza and bento boxes, but it’s there grab-and-go sushi that keeps people coming back for more. Reasonably priced sushi sets include the 6-piece spicy salmon roll priced $9.95 and at just $10.95, the crispy roll features fried salmon and cream cheese for a flavourful crunch. 187 Dundas St. W.

Sushi on the Run

This humble sushi counter nestled within College Park offers a straightforward menu of both raw and cooled rolls. Boasting the freshest sushi in town, this hidden gem even offers BOGO after 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday. 444 Yonge St.

CJ Lunch Box

Experience lightening-fast service at this Richmond Street gem. Serving up the most popular options, they eve offer a miso soup bar. The food is not only fresh and budget friendly, but the no-frills counter even allows the customizations of sushi toppings. 409 Richmond St. W.

These are the most popular Ontario rentals perfect for a winter getaway

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Julia Mastroianni

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With the unpredictability of the holiday season fast approaching, you might be hoping to plan a vacation from your vacation. There are plenty of ideal winter destinations in Ontario, but these five rentals might take the cake. Ranked the top guest favourites on Airbnb, there’s a ’70s-themed oasis, an off-the-grid cozy cabin and more.

Curious to explore? Check out these popular Ontario rentals this winter.

Beau’s, The Portico Room, Niagara-on-the-Lake

A brief stroll to everything that makes this historic town famous, Beau’s, The Portico Room is situated in the heart of downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake. Enjoy a sunny queen bedroom with a private ensuite in a picturesque neighbourhood dotted with 19th-century homes. This petite B&B offers a private entrance, access to a shared garden, wifi, Netflix and a home-crafted breakfast. You might even score some homemade cookies.

To do:

Wintertime visitors will love meandering the historic town during the holidays. It’s a magical place filled with twinkling lights, evergreen garlands and lots of cheer. Explore the many restaurants and boutique shops, and catch a stage production of A Christmas Carol at the Shaw Theatre. In January, come for the Icewine Festival, and in February, take a Chocolate and Cheese tour through wine country.

The Woodland Escape, Marlbank

Have you ever wondered what living in a pioneer-style cabin in the woods might be like? With the exception of a handy propane cooktop and BBQ, The Woodland Escape in Marlbank will make you feel like you’ve found a portal to a past century. Offering an off-the-grid experience, guests will enjoy cozy evenings by a wood-burning stove, meals by candlelight and days filled with outdoor activities. You can’t get more rustic (or charming) than this.

To do:

In the winter, admire starry nights above bare trees and sip hot drinks around a comforting campfire. Try pond skating, or explore the 40 acres of pristine nature trails by snowshoe.

The Hudson Loft, Kingsville

On the northern shores of glittering Lake Erie, discover Kingsville — Canada’s most southerly town. Less than half an hour from the famous Point Pelee National Park, The Hudson Loft offers lake views and proximity to several renowned wineries. Spacious, tidy and thoroughly delightful, this country-modern loft is the perfect home base for those wanting to explore Essex County’s wine route.

To do:

In December, enjoy Friday night concerts in the park, enjoy the town’s annual Fantasy of Lights, or drop by a local winery for seasonal events. In midwinter, take an ice fishing excursion to nearby Lake St. Clair or explore the otherworldly ice formations at Pelee Point National Park.

Groovy Glebe, Ottawa

Book a stay at the Groovy Glebe in Ottawa for a throwback experience that’ll leave guests saying, “Far out, man.” With no small detail overlooked, this ’70s-inspired pad will make you wonder if you walked into Eric Foreman’s house (minus the smart screen TV and high-speed internet). Spin some records on the turntable, play some vintage arcade games and cozy up this winter amid shag rugs, mid-century modern furniture and so many orange accents you might forget what decade you’re really in.

To do:

Come to Canada’s capital during winter for a snow-filled getaway with plenty to do. Rent skates and glide along the frozen Rideau Canal, build a snowman on Parliament Hill, or holiday shop at Byward Market. In February, Winterlude festivities include ice sculpture competitions and tons of carnival fun.

Tranquil Nest, Kitchener-Waterloo

Conveniently close to several universities and a short trip to St. Jacobs Farmers Market and historic Mennonite town, Tranquil Nest in Kitchener-Waterloo offers a warm and welcoming place to rest your head. With two comfortable bedrooms on the upper floor of a traditional family abode, this child-friendly rental is the perfect choice for your next visit to Ontario’s twin cities. What’s more, you’ll be treated to a scrumptious continental breakfast every morning with piping-hot tea or coffee.

To do:

Visiting this region in the winter is a delight. Explore the St. Jacobs Market or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the nearby town. Drop by the Waterloo Central Railway for a Christmas-inspired journey aboard a steam train, or explore the many family-friendly Winterloo activities across the city. In Kitchener, check out the Christkindl Market in early December.

These are the best unique boutiques in Toronto

By

Julia Mastroianni

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Whether it’s browsing cute trinkets, poring over records, perusing unique jewelry or finding your new favourite beauty brand, we’re lucky to have our pick of super cool spots to shop in the city. We’ve rounded up some of the most unique boutiques in Toronto, from a sustainable refillery to a mercantile that showcases local small businesses.

BEST HOUSEWARES STORE

If you live in the Annex, it’s difficult to pass by JUXTAPOSE HOME without taking a peek inside. With a curated, well-priced selection of kitchen goods and linens, cozy home accents and more, you’ll find you’ll end up convincing yourself that you actually do need to add another mug to your collection! 616 Bloor St. W.

BEST RECORD SHOPS

SONIC BOOM is Canada’s largest independent record shop, housing new and used vinyl along with books, apparel and music accessories across its two floors. Sonic also hosts rockin’ events for music lovers! 215 Spadina Ave.

ROTATE THIS is where the vinyl collectors and music enthusiasts know to go. With a used record collection that is stocked with rarities and genuinely helpful staff, set aside a few hours to dig through the stacks. 186 Ossington Ave.

BEST KIDS’ BOOKS

With sections for babies, young adults and everyone in between, MABEL’S FABLES will delight any young reader and have them coming back to discover more great reads. 662 Mt. Pleasant Rd.

BEST BOOK STORE

WIth three glorious floors filled wall-to-wall with bargain books, it’s hard not to spend hours at a time at BMV every time you visit. Check the sticker prices for deep discounts even on new releases. 471 Bloor St. W.

Serious readers and casual chapter sloths alike will love TYPE indie bookstore, with three locations in town, including one in Forest Hill village. 427 Spadina Rd.

BEST NEW REFILLERY

There aren’t many places in Toronto to sustainably refill detergent, disinfectants and more. THE GREEN JAR is looking to change that. One visit might be enough to make you a refillery convert! 1061 St. Clair Ave. W.

BEST BEAUTY SHOP

Started by Miriam Gee and her daughters, GEE BEAUTY brought cult beauty brands, like Tata Harper, to Canada and this beauty boutique has been making skin care and makeup a luxurious experience ever since. 2 Roxborough St. W.

BEST GAME STORE

For game lovers, card collectors and fantasy fans, HAIRY TARANTULA knows its stuff. Shop Pokemon cards and Dungeons & Dragons collectibles, and visit for weekly game nights. 3456 Yonge St.

BEST LOCAL JEWELRY

With unique and funky finds, VICKY’S JEWELLERY is always a fun shopping experience. You never know what you’ll leave with — a frog brooch or a floral statement necklace? 404 Eglinton Ave. W.

BEST BOUTIQUE

Family-owned shop ED’S MERCANTILE features local small businesses and has a little bit of everything — perused vintage clothes, handmade pottery and bath bombs all in one trip. 605 Bloor St. W.

BEST NEW REFILLERY

There aren’t many places in Toronto to sustainably refill detergent, disinfectants and more. THE GREEN JAR is looking to change that. One visit might be enough to make you a refillery convert! 1061 St. Clair Ave. W.

BEST ANTIQUES

An antique shop that’s home to everything from vintage diamond rings to props from Guillermo Del Toro’s Nightmare Alley, CYNTHIA FINDLAY FINE JEWELLERY AND ANTIQUES is a treasure trove — and staff are as knowledgeable as they are friendly! 284 King St. W.

BEST PLANT SHOP

This Toronto store will be there for all your plant care needs. CHIVE has made the Queen West storefront its Canadian headquarters. You won’t be able to resist stepping into the shop after passing by the floor-to-ceiling windows displaying some of the store’s coolest greenery, including tiny succulents and massive monsteras. 837 Queen St. W.

BEST FOR GIFTS

Whether it’s holiday shopping, birthday gifts or souvenirs, everyone needs a go-to gift shop. And for many Torontonians, that’s SCOUT. With two locations on opposite sides of the city, this boutique is dangerous to step in if you have no clear shopping goal in mind — you’ll probably emerge with a puzzle, locally-made mug and some other cute trinket in hand! 405 Roncesvalles Ave. and 1140 Queen St. E.

For more Best Of 2023 lists, click here.

Six of the most unique coffee shops Toronto has to offer

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Megan Gallant

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2:43 pm

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299195406_624342692369990_818419379816194346_n — AM Coffee Studio

With November’s chill setting in, it’s tempting to want to brew your own morning coffee to avoid the cooler weather. But, not only does Toronto have plenty of trendy, dreamy and cozy cafes that brew up a great cup of joe, some of them are situated in unique spots that you just can’t get from your own home.

Check out these unique places to get coffee in Toronto.

Bebop Joes

Bebop Joes offers the perfect setting for a coffee date, combining great coffee, music, and company. From its edgy storefront on Queen Street, you sense the shop’s unique vibe. Inside, it’s cozy, casual, and a fantastic spot to connect with fellow music enthusiasts. Spend your afternoon exploring vinyl records amid the aromatic influence of Moonbeam Coffee Company. As night falls, Bebop Joes transforms with regular live music. 960 Queen St. W.

AM Coffee Studio

The best kind of morning coffees are the ones that clear your mind and put you in a good place for the rest of the day. That’s exactly what AM Coffee Studio does. The wellness studio (which is available for rent) puts you in a totally relaxed and zen state of mind as you sip your pumpkin spice latte. There’s even a flower bar to put your mind totally at ease! There’s no mystery to why this studio is called AM—who wouldn’t want to start their day sipping a peppermint latte in a studio that’s all about wellness? 2233 Dundas St. W.

Good Company

If you want a cappuccino with that haircut, you’ve come to the right place. Queen Wests’ Good Company is a cafe/barbershop that’s welcoming guests with a range of hot and cold coffee from De Mello Coffee, along with delicious sandwiches, tempting toasts and amazing vegan pastries from Bad Attitude Bread. 498 Queen St. W.

The Sidekick

This Leslieville café is nerd heaven. Every Wednesday, the shelves at The Sidekick gets stocked full of new comics from both big names and local indie publishers, while the cafe serves up a rotating selection of fresh roasted coffees. The fun, trendy café—which has a fireplace for added comfort—hosts regular trivia night and guest speakers, making it easier to meet fellow Marvel addicts. 1374 Queen St. E.

Brewing Brokers

On Yonge Street north of Lawrence, you’ll find Brewing Brokers, a real estate agency that doubles as a coffee shop. After fifteen years in real estate the shop’s owner and broker of record Rudy Reznik came to the realization that most of his deals were closed over coffee, and Brewing Brokers was born. Along with lattes and macchiatos, the shop serves up signature drinks like espresso tonic, as well as bowls, pastries and sandwiches including the quiche Lorraine. 3153 Yonge St.

Toronto duo dropped out of school to sell $1,500 designer finds full-time

By

Julia Mastroianni

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2:32 pm

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alex-and-christian — L-R: Christian Ferguson and Alex Maxamenko

There’s something thrilling about finding the perfect vintage, designer wardrobe piece after searching through racks of clothes and eBay listings. And for a pair of Toronto best friends, chasing that thrill is now a full-time job.

Twenty-year-old Alex Maxamenko and 18-year old Christian Ferguson are archival fashion resellers with nearly 200,000 Instagram followers between them. Last year, they dropped out of university to move in with each other and pursue their businesses full-time, where they sell rare pieces like a $1,485 Dior biker jacket and a 2001 Jean Paul Gautier sweater depicting Marlene Dietrich.

Their mutual interest in clothes collided when they first met at the ages of 11 and 12. Ferguson had just spent the entirety of his bank account on his second archival purchase ever and had secured a trade for a piece of even higher value. But then he realized he was given a fake. Maxamenko reached out, when he heard what had happened, and the pair began swapping insights about sourcing practices and market prices. “Eventually we were texting almost every day about business,” says Ferguson.

They’ve been best friends ever since. In their teenage years, they often sourced inventory in Toronto and would meet up with stylists, but they found that people in the industry didn’t take them seriously because of their age. “They respected our work but didn’t respect the fact that we were 15- and 16-year-old kids at the time,” Maxamenko says.

A $1500 Kiko Kostadinov sweater for sale on Archive Threads. @archivethreads/Instagram

When it came time to pursue post secondary education, Maxamenko enrolled in a business degree program, to appease his parents, and Ferguson deferred. They continued sourcing pieces together until they took the leap to do it full-time. Maxamenko dropped out of his program after the first year, the pair found a place, and since then, their businesses have grown exponentially.

“The amount of time we put into sourcing is unholy,” says Maxamenko. “We’re doing auctions and bidding four to six hours a day, every day.”

They both sell on Grailed, and Maxamenko sells his collection on Instagram (with a website in the works), and Ferguson has his own website, Archive Threads.

“Together, we hit a broader audience,” Maxamenko says. “I lean more toward vintage and streetwear, but Christian really hones in on hyper niche designer pieces and sometimes more expensive gear than I sell. It’s a balancing act, and it helps draw in the majority of our overall audience.”

A 2008 Maison Margiela jacket for sale. @alexmaxamenko/Instagram

They’ve hosted multiple pop-up events at Messy House in Toronto this year, with 1,500 pieces for sale at their last one. As for shoppers, Ferguson and Maxamenko have seen a larger and larger turnout at each event. And they’re not surprised — the pair say there is no other vendor in Canada selling rare archival and designer pieces at this scale. Pieces can sell as low as $20, while more rare items, such as a 2008 Maison Margiela leather jacket, reach five figures.

Their next goal is to use the profits from their pop-ups to open a retail storefront in Toronto. For now, they offer shopping and rental appointments out of a private studio and accept bookings and inquiries through Instagram.

A hot new Spanish restaurant from a Michelin-starred chef opens in Yorkville

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:17 pm

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Toronto’s Yorkville neighborhood is now home to St. Thomas, a new Spanish-inspired restaurant and wine bar led by Michelin-starred chef Quinton Bennett (Enigma Yorkville).

Staying true to the culinary traditions of northern Spain’s Basque Country, the restaurant embraces simplicity and robust flavours. It sources high-quality, local ingredients to craft a menu that authentically captures the essence of the region.

Scallop, nori pesto and pickled wild salmon roe

“In my decade of living in London I would often frequent Spain, particularly the Basque region. It has one of the best food cultures in the world and I love their approach to dining out, especially Tapas, Pincho and small plate styles. Being able to eat your way through a whole menu and experience the entire restaurant cuisine if you wished,” says Bennett. ” I enjoy eating like this and always wanted to create a restaurant with this style in mind.

The seasonal A la Carte menu at St. Thomas highlights a carefully selected variety of fresh, seasonally changing dishes. Crafted by a Michelin-trained team, the menu offers small plates that are served when ready, creating a quick and relaxed shared dining experience. Diners can expect a selection of hot and cold dishes ranging from Hamachi crudo with mandarin jelly and pickled ginger to slow cooked Iberic pork neck with peach mint chilli jam and smoked aubergine chamoli.

Inspired by the charm of San Sebastian in then Donostia Region, Pinxtxo hour is available daily from 5 to 6 p.m. The experience offers a glass of champagne and a selection of seasonal pintxos for $45 per person. Pinxtos, small snacks enjoyed in northern Spain, are somewhat less recognized globally compared to their tapas counterparts.. Served on skewers or toothpicks, they offer a diverse range, including meats, fresh seafood, olives and peppers.

While the Pinxto menu changes as the week goes on, there are some staple including Wagyu beef tartare, toasted brioche with truffle emulsion or marinated goats cheese with red onion and orange marmalade. “It’s where the chef gets to be creative and create small daily dishes,” says Bennett.

Wine enthusiasts can look forward to St. Thomas’s monthly exploration of global wine regions, complemented by delicious small bites. Curated by beverage and wine director David and chef Bennett, this experience includes table-side tasting notes and explanations. Kicking off the series is a focus on Catalonia, promising a firsthand journey into diverse wine regions.

Additionally, St. Thomas offers a private wine lounge for those seeking a more intimate setting. Guests can reserve the lounge for private gatherings, complete with a bottle of champagne and a selection of luxury savoury and sweet pintxos, served in an afternoon-tea-style setting.

St. Thomas is open Tuesday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m and reservations can be made through OpenTable.

Where to find the best chilli in Toronto

By

Christine Hogg

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11:22 am

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We’re about halfway through the month of November, and there’s a definite chill in the air. With it comes everything that we feel is comforting—a hot cup of cocoa, a warm blanket, and of course, tempting meals! There is nothing like sitting with a steaming hot bowl of chilli while winding down on a cold day. Here are some of the best restaurants to grab a bowl of chilli from in Toronto.

Leslieville Pumps

Leslieville Pumps serves up a host of pure culinary comfort dishes. You’ll be thankful for their versatile menu that contains many indulgent sandwiches, soups and poutine. Their brisekt chilli is a steaming bowl of goodness, and you get a generous amount for only $10. Made with delicious smoked brisket, red, white and black beans, celery, bell peppers and onion, its perfectly balanced flavours will have you asking for more.

Twisted Indian Wraps

Located in midtown Toronto at 60 St. Clair Ave. E., this fast casual restaurant serves up Indian food in a unique way featuring an array of bowls, burritos, burgers, and poutine — cooked slow but served fast in under five minutes. Their house-made chili bowl is made with a base of shredded lettuce, rajma (kidney beans), keema (ground beef) and topped with shredded cheese, yogurt, chutney & chips!⁣ Give it a try for only $14.50 for yourself, or share it with your friends and family.

Fancy Franks

Known for its fully-loaded hotdogs, Fancy Franks, a staple on College St., also sells their Original chilli poutine, made with squeaky cheese curds, gravy and scallions. If you’ve got your heart set on a good old-fashioned chilli dog, Franks Coney Island will do the trick, with house-made chilli, mustard, and onions.

Black Camel

Black Camel is a small and cosy restaurant that bases many of its menu options around base sandwich choices and thus personalized meals. Their chilli is just as delightful as the rest of the menu, with a bonus of shavings from their slow-roasted brisket. Try the small for just $4.50, or upgrade to $6.50 for the large. This delicious delight also contains tomatoes, corn, red and black beans, chipotle peppers and Black Camel’s unique spice rub.

10 picturesque small towns just a short drive from Toronto

By

Nicole Richie

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10:30 am

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galt-picturesque-towns — @shafaqz/Instagram

Small towns in Ontario are some of the best places to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. You don’t need to spend the whole day in the car to get to these scenic escapes from Toronto — most of them are within a couple hours of downtown. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway or a quick jaunt with the kids, these stunning spots are the perfect place to enjoy beautiful architecture, delicious food and charming accommodations.

Elora

This picturesque small town is perched on the eponymous gorge and offers beautiful views of the Grand River. You’ll want to start your visit on Mill and Metcalfe Streets where the roads are lined with beautifully preserved 19^th century limestone buildings that operate as galleries, restaurants, and independent shops. For a memorable experience, stay at the recently restored Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, which is located within the river and offers stunning views. When it’s time to eat, try The Evelyn for its French-inspired cuisine or the Elora Brewing Company for its great list of beer on tap. Don’t forget to take a hike through the Elora Gorge Conservation Area and to stop in nearby Fergus to complete your journey.

Goderich

Located on the southeastern shore of Lake Huron, Goderich is often referred to as “Canada’s prettiest town.” If you’re staying the night, you’ll want to check-in to the cozy Samuels Boutique Hotel where each room features a fireplace and a private terrace with scenic views. A visit to the famous Cuthbert’s Bakery—originating in 1877—should be on every visitor’s to-do list. Take a stroll across the octagonal square which will shuttle you back to the early 1900s. Don’t forget to check the events calendar for a list of activities and things to do. End your night with dinner at Thyme On 21 or indulge in some comfort food at West Street Willy’s Eatery.

Stratford

Come for the Shakespeare, stay for the food. While Stratford is well known as a festival town and arts hub, it’s also home to a budding dining scene. Those with a sweet tooth will want to explore the Chocolate Trail, while those with savoury palates will enjoy the Bacon and Ale Tour, a self-guided jaunt that offers a peek at the area’s culinary offerings. You can stay at one of the many charming B&Bs or at the cozy Parlour Inn, which is located near the historic Avon theatre. Stratford is also the hometown of pop-star-turned-bad-boy Justin Bieber, and the proud town has even created a map of all his favourite places to go.

Port Hope

Located at the mouth of the Ganaraska River, this small town is the picturesque entry way to Northumberland County. When you arrive, take a stroll along Walton Street, which is lined with restaurants, cafes and one of the last restored atmospheric movie theatres in Canada, the Capital Arts Centre. This small town is known for its preservation of its 19th century architecture, which is on display at the Hotel Carlyle & Restaurant, an old bank branch built in 1857. There’s also plenty of cute B&Bs that operate out of beautifully preserved Victorian homes. The town’s burgeoning food scene is marked by restaurateurs who offer locally grown produce.

Cobourg

Located about 10 minutes east of Port Hope on Lake Ontario, this adorable town is worth a visit in its own right. There’s a cute beach, some great cycling trails to explore in the surrounding area, but if consuming calories is a bigger priority than burning them, check out one of the many self-guided tasting tours. There’s an array of quaint pubs and restaurants in town to try before spending the night at the historic Woodlawn Inn or at the Breakers, a charming lakeside resort.

Creemore

Nestled amidst the stunning Niagara Escarpment this town is known as the “little village with a big heart.” Take a stroll along Mill Street to see what the hype is all about. Don’t forget to stop at the Old Mill House Pub for a pint, as it’s located next door to the Creemore Springs brewery. This small town is also home to North America’s smallest jail, now a historical landmark. Surrounded by woods, there are many trails to hike, choose from Bruce Trail or atop the Nottawasaga Bluffs, where the vistas are particularly gorgeous. You’ll want to stop at Eigensinn Farm where Chef Michael Stadtlander offers an exquisite eight course meal. If you plan to stay the night, Sequel Inn Creemore the “urban chic country retreat”, is the perfect spot.

Cambridge/Galt

This town with two names seems like it could be plucked right out of Europe. The blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture turn Galt into a unique gem worth visiting. The town provides an old-world vibe. Visiting its farmers market, one of the oldest in Canada, will transport you back to its opening in 1830. Stay at the beautiful luxury hotel, Langdon Hall in Cambridge and dine at the beautifully restored 19th century industrial building-turned restaurant, Cambridge Mill for the exquisite food, panoramic views of the river, and warm up with a cocktail by the fire.

Paris

This municipality stands out thanks to its variously Victorian, Edwardian, and Gothic architecture. You can spend the day exploring the quaint restaurants, bakeries and shops along the river as well as some of the last remaining cobblestone buildings in Ontario. For dinner, Stillwater Plate & Pour is the ideal spot for elevated pub fare and a spectacular view. If you plan to stay overnight, there are a few B&B’s operating out of historic homes as well as the beautiful chateau-style Arlington Boutique Hotel, an Ontario Heritage Site, situated right downtown.

Aberfoyle

Take a trip back in time by visiting this Wellington County town, home to the Aberfoyle Antique Market, the oldest of its kind in Canada. With over 90 vendors, you’re sure to spot a gem or two, whether you’re seriously shopping or just soaking in the scene. If antiques aren’t your thing, you can explore the old town or check out the farmers’ market. When you’re hungry, head to the Aberfoyle Mill Restaurant, where the cozy country charm and the mood lighting makes for a romantic night out. For the more adventurous, there’s also Murder Mystery Theatre Dinner. For accommodations, check out Airbnb listings in town or head to Guelph for a hotel stay.

Uxbridge

Located in the Durham Region, just northeast of Toronto, this small town is considered to be the trail capital of Canada. It’s the perfect spot to go for a hike and take-in all the historic charm. There are several B&B options available if you want to stay the night and a beautifully renovated guesthouse, Century Schoolhouse Gymnasium Loft in the Country, a cool-looking hanging bed. Sit by a roaring fire and enjoy the serenity of this country loft. Before you head back to the city, play a round of golf and enjoy a post-game drink at the Wooden Sticks.