‘Barbie’ star Simu Liu’s 10-year Muskoka love affair revealed

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10:40 am

It turns out that Simu Liu’s love affair with celebrity-haven Muskoka has been blossoming for an impressive 10 years, unbeknownst to the public eye before sharing pics of his cottaging vacay alongside his girlfriend over the Canada Day long weekend.

The Shang Chi star recently took to Instagram to unveil the secret he had kept under wraps. Sharing picturesque snapshots from his idyllic retreat on Goshulak Island, Liu fondly recalled the countless memories he has cherished in this hidden gem of Ontario’s cottage country.

“This is the cottage that raised me, made me curious, and gave me the gift of the water,” he wrote, in a post on July 3. “Forever grateful to the family that always welcomes their ‘adopted’ son with open arms and a fresh set of sheets. I love you guys always.”

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According to Liu, for the past decade the actor has sought solace and rejuvenation in the tranquil embrace of Muskoka’s pristine beauty. Whether slicing through the glassy waters at golden hour or sharing stifled laughter during late-night board game arguments, the cottage on Goshulak Island has been a cherished sanctuary, probably more so now that Liu is a serious Hollywood star.

And that star wattage is about to get even bright as Liu is set to share the silver screen alongside Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in the new Barbie movie. The movie had a special premiere event in Toronto last week, which Liu attended alongside Gosling.

The movie is set to premier worldwide on July 21.

Liu is also set to play some basketball and co-host the Canadian Chinese Youth Athletic Association’s Celebrity Classic fundraiser on July 8.

The top five Ontario parks for a hiking day trip this weekend

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Ron Johnson

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10:30 am

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There are plenty of beautiful Ontario parks close enough to Toronto for a no-muss, no-fuss day trip to enjoy a leisurely hike. Here are our top five within a couple of hours of the city.

Mono Cliffs

This beautiful slice of forest and cliff sits on the Niagara Escarpment about an hour north and slightly west of Toronto near the town of Mono Centre. There are lovely woods here, water features, and all manner of rocky formations that are unique. It is just far enough away from the city that it isn’t always overrun by city dwellers, but it does get busy on the weekends so choose trails that lead furthest away from the central area to avoid those just out for a quick stroll with the dog. There is a great inn with a delish restaurant and patio for a refreshing drink or snack after the hike.

Short Hills

Located between St. Catharines and Pelham, Short Hill is the largest Ontario park in the Niagara Peninsula. It gets its name from the short steep hills that are sliced through by the Twelve Mile Creek that make up the defining topography of the area. This is a non-operating park, which means there is parking but no facilities. Not that they’d be open at this point anyway. It’s got plenty of space and plenty of great hiking as well as many waterfalls. There is a lot of mountain biking in the park as well, so be sure to choose a trail that is exclusively for hiking such as the Hemlock Valley or Terrace Creek trails. Get your hike on in the morning, then tour a couple of wineries in the afternoon. That’s a win-win.

Pretty River

This stunning location lives up to its name as the trail winds through a beautiful forest alongside a scenic little waterway. This is not an immensely popular park since there is no parking lot or facilities. Park-goers must park alongside the road and access hikes at various points along the way. There is a wide variety of trails from which to choose, but watch out for mountain bikers who also enjoy the area. The park includes portions of the Bruce Trail and the Niagara Escarpment system and is included in the Niagara Biosphere Reserve. Try the nine-kilometre Pretty River and Bruce Trail loop.

Awenda

Located along Georgian Bay in Tiny Township near Midland, this lush green space is likely festooned with trilliums about now, with incredible opportunities for bird and nature watching. The park is home to 120 bird species. Try the 13-km Bluff Trail, which should take three to four hours of moderate and quite stunning hiking through woodlands up to the bluffs that offer great views, especially this time of year before the trees are still somewhat leaf-free.

Forks of the Credit Provincial Park

This gorgeous Ontario park is located in Caledon and is part of the Niagara Escarpment biosphere. It is a popular spot for picnicking thanks to the scenic Credit River. But there are also some nice hikes available as it offers loops off the venerable Bruce Trail and the Trans Canada Trail. Try the 6.6-km trail to Cataract Falls, which should still be lively this time of year. Be sure to go early and get on the trails before the crowds show up.

Step into a virtual wonderland at game-changing venue coming to Toronto

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Jennifer Schembri

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9:30 am

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Snapinsta.app_356611918_1922971808070946_4989055535636305008_n_1080 — @distilleryto/Instagram

Get ready Toronto—the city’s about to get one its most high-tech venues and experiences!

Illuminarium, in partnership with Toronto-based Secret Location, has announced the grand opening of its first Canadian location in Toronto’s Distillery District.

Joining Atlanta and Las Vegas as the third Illuminarium location in North America, the Toronto location will occupy the neighbourhood’s former Fermenting Cellar, a sprawling 13,500 square-foot complex at 28 Distillery Lane.

This partnership will showcase the fusion of cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling.

Through state-of-the-art technology, including pure laser projections, LIDAR sensors for interactivity, scent machines, a unique digital sound space, and programming utilizing the latest video game engines, guests will be fully immersed in a world that blurs the lines between cinema and reality.

In fact, Illuminarium aims to place visitors “inside” the narrative, allowing them to see, hear, feel, smell, and even influence the environment around them. This “Virtual Reality, without the glasses” experience promises to be unlike anything seen before.

And Ryan Andal, President and Founder of Secret Location, is excited about the upcoming collaboration.

“Every space in The Distillery District whether it’s a retailer or a restaurant is a Canadian small business. In our minds it’s the perfect location for us to have a venue that will collaborate with and support local talent,” he says.

“I also love the juxtaposition of this ultra, high-tech venue inside of this old fermenting cellar. Toronto has a long history of mixing old and new and I love that we’re adding to that tapestry.”

Known for being a ground-breaking global experiential entertainment company, Illuminarium was founded by industry leaders in cinematic and interactive content, architecture, and theatrical design. Partnering with Secret Location, who is renowned for its Emmy award-winning interactive VR and AR experiences, the venue will host and create digitally-projected experiences.

“Illuminarium is doing for immersive entertainment what IMAX did for film, they’re innovating at scale and providing an unparalleled canvas for creators like us. Our partnership opens a range of possibilities to create and push boundaries,” adds Andal.

For its grand opening, Illuminarium will feature two incredible experiences. Visitors can enjoy “Space: A Journey to the Moon and Beyond” where they’ll be taken on an extraordinary galactic adventure, offering interactive and visually stunning imagery captured by the James Webb Telescope.

They can also enjoy “Waking Wonderland,” which was created by Secret Location, that takes visitors on an interactive journey inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. It’s here, guests can get a chance to interact with the infamous Cheshire Cat, stir up mischief in the Mad Hatter’s tea factory, and even try to awaken the Queen of Hearts.

And with plans to introduce future spectacles, such as a WILD Safari Experience, Lite Brite Worlds of Wonder, and Virtual artist residencies featuring globally recognized musicians, Illuminarium will aim to continue, push the boundaries of immersive entertainment.

Illuminarium is set to open on August 25.

7 amazing events taking place in Toronto on Canada Day

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:30 pm

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Canada Day weekend is finally here and while there won’t be any fireworks at Nathan Phillips Square this year, there are a slew of fantastic events still taking place around the city. Whether you’re looking to laugh your heart out or dance the night away, here are seven amazing events taking place in Toronto on Canada Day!

Canada Day at Little Canada

A celebration of all things Canada, on July 1, Little Canada is giving away free 100 ml bottles of Little Batch Maple syrup and Canada Day pins to the first 1,000 people who visit. You can also share a story on what makes Canada special to you for a chance to have it built in miniature. As if that wasn’t enough excitement, you can take a pic with Maurice the Moose, and have the e opportunity to make a miniature version of yourself. The venue will be open all weekend long from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Fireworks at Canada’s Wonderland

You may be bummed that there’s no fireworks taking place at Nathan Phillips Square this long weekend, but this year there is another awesome location you can go to! Canada’s Wonderland will be holding fireworks when they close at 10:00 p.m. on Canada Day. The show will take place for approximately 15 minutes and guests will witness more than 6,000 colourful explosions, reading heights of over 800 feet.There is even a VIP option that offers a gourmet meal on the Lazy Bear Lodge patio.

Canada Day tribute to Shania and Avril

For all of you Canadian music lovers, there is going to be a free tribute show to two of our country’s biggest artists. “All Shania Twain & Avril Lavigne and only Avril Lavigne & Shania Twain. Multiple-video and audio and lights, a full multi-media show. BIG SOUND.” say the promoters. The event will take place at the Cat’s Cradle Spirits and Sports, on 1245 St Clair Ave W., from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on July 1st.

50 years of funny

If you’re looking to have a good laugh this long weekend, The Second City, located at Theatre ’73 at 1 York St, is presenting what they are calling a “comedy show 50 years in the making!” The 50th year anniversary of The Second City just so happens to fall on the Canada Day long weekend and to celebrate they are going to be featuring sketches created by Canadian comedy icons like, Mike Myers, Catherine O’Hara, John Candy, Colin Mochrie and more.

Nathan Phillips Square festivities

Celebrate everything you love about Canada from noon to 6 p.m. Hosted by Amanda Martinez, you can immerse yourself in the rhythm of Toronto’s diverse communities with live music and circus acts, and let your creativity soar with interactive arts activities for all ages.

Canada Day at Downsview Park

This amazing event at Downsview Park is free to attend. On the schedule is live entertainment, games for kids, inflatables, vendors like Pierogi Me! and Captain Cone and so much more including fireworks and food trucks too!

Celebrations at Mel Lastman Square

From noon until 6 p.m. on July 1, Mel Lastman Square will host performances that celebrate our diversity including Brazilian music by JER, Iranian music by the Canadian Gohla Orchestra and Celtic music by Alana and Leigh Cline. Around the square you’ll find roller skating performances, stilt walkers, comedy and music as well as dance lessons and airbrush tattoos by Picasso Painters.

Michelin chefs pick T.O.’s best new restaurants: the duo from Fonda Balam

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Jennifer Schembri

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12:34 pm

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The last year was a a busy and exciting one for the Toronto food scene, in which we saw electric openings that ranged from highbrow to low, including modest local joints and grand, attention-grabbing eateries.

To highlight the standout newcomers, we asked Michelin-recognized chefs Kate Chomyshyn and Julio Guajardo, recently awarded a Bib Gourmand for Fonda Balam— a restaurant inspired by a love for travel and the authentic cuisine and culture of Mexico — to tell us what she thought was the best new addition to the city’s dining scene. Read on to find out which exciting spot they selected.

Chef Chomyshyn and Guajardo’s pick: Sunnys Chinese

“The dish that really stood out for us was the Husband and Wife Beef,” the chefs recently told us. “Also, both of their desserts were awesome.”

Sunny’s Chinese

Born as a wildly successful pandemic pop-up, Sunnys Chinese’s brick-and-mortar locations has become one of the most coveted tables in the city, thanks to enviously cool vibes and food that feels both adventurous and comforting. Tucked in the former Cold Tea space within a small mall in Kensington Market, Sunnys’s out-of-the-way location, moody lighting, groovy beats and playful little details (like tiny panda chopstick rests) set the tone for an exciting dining experience. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe belie chefs David Schwartz and Braden Chong’s earnest and thoroughly researched approach to regional Chinese cuisine. Touching on dishes spanning from Sichuan to Hong Kong, the menu offers something for diners with varying palates and preferences. Fans of Chinese takeout can devour near-perfected versions of American-Chinese classics like orange chicken, and those looking for a deep dive into China’s culinary culture can tuck into shareables like the Husband and Wife Beef, a Sichuan dish featuring braised beef shank, tendon and tripe covered in fiery house-made chili oil and finished with crunchy peanuts. Cocktails that play with Chinese spirits and ingredients bring the whole experience together. 60 Kensington Ave.

To find out which new restaurant Michelin chef Eric Chong selected, click here, if you’re curious about what new spot Tobey Nemeth and Michael Cabello of Edulis chose, click here, And you’ll find chef Anthony Rose of Fat Pasha’s favourite new restaurant here.

Here are the best cheap and cheerful places to eat in Muskoka

By

Ron Johnson

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11:15 am

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Muskoka burgers — Weber's (photo Instagram @morganrachelk)

Cottage areas are not always big on the foodie options, but Muskoka is different. Here, in Toronto’s official cottaging mecca, local food purveyors turn out some seriously gourmet eats on the daily. Every summer, there seems to be one Toronto chef or another setting up in Muskoka with a cool new restaurant or takeaway food operation. It makes for a fun weekend road trip. Here are six of our favourite cheap-and-cheerful food options.

Smokin’ Birds

Founders (and birds, as they call themselves) Jennifer Dewasha and Jane MacDonald (ex-Café Boulud, Sofia) serve up heaping plates of smoked brisket, pulled pork or turkey breast with delish sides, like pineapple coleslaw, and much more from their parking lot perch in Bala. We can attest that the brisket is incredible, but one of the best-kept secrets is that the burgers are actually made from the brisket and are the best in Muskoka. The smoked beet side is also a must-have.

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Mrs H’s Fish and Chips

From her always-busy spot at Wahta Station, Mrs. H, or Berta as she’s known around town, claims to have the “best fish and chips north of the South Pole” and the accolades to prove it, earning the title of “the best fish and chips in Muskoka” five years in a row.

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Tulo’s Taqueria

This place was once run by the fellas from Toronto’s Grand Electric, and it continues to this day as Tulo’s. We’re not sure if it’s the tequila or the tacos, but this Port Carling hot spot is always buzzing come summer, with its picturesque dockside patio overlooking the lake. Check out the tuna tostada and the intriguing veggie options, then wash it down with a cocktail, like the Surfboard, with tequila, grapefruit juice, agave and soda.

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Well Fed

Well Fed in Gravenhurst, a historic stable transformed into a deli and bakery, offers comforting home-cooked foods passed down through generations. Annette Gillan and her team create delicious lunch boxes, sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked goods, making it a favourite spot for take-away meals and picnic lunches.

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Bass Lake Roadhouse

This place is a welcoming and warm pub-style restaurant located on Hwy 169 in Mactier, just west of Port Carling. It offers delicious food and a wide selection of beers in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. It’s a rarity in Muskoka in that it is enjoyed by locals and cottagers alike, open all-year, and is always busy. It’s nothing fancy, but the classics are always good quality at affordable prices and the service is friendly. Their specialties include beer-battered fish and chips, shrimp, and local beers from Lake of Bays Brewing and Muskoka Brewery.

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Weber’s

Okay, we had to mention this gem on Hwy. 11. Yes, everyone knows and loves Weber’s (pictured at top) and it’s easy to see why. It’s an ideal location just inside cottage country for a stop on the way north or back down to the city. There is ample parking for the hordes who descend here on the daily with parking on both sides of the highway and a pedestrian bridge that used to be part of the original Skywalk in Toronto connecting Union Station to the SkyDome. These guys stick to what they are best at, cooking up a ton of tasty burgers and fries for cottagers to enjoy in the park-like setting with additional seating in the train cars that have been transported to the site over the years.

For more great stories check out the StreetsofMuskoka.com.

Take a road trip to these tranquil island retreats a few hours from Toronto

By

Ron Johnson

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10:09 am

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Escape the bustling cityscape of Toronto and embark on a remarkable island adventure just a few hours from the city. These unique islands can provide a serene getaway, showcase stunning natural beauty and an array of exciting activities. Here are five of our favourites:

Pelee Island

Tucked away in Lake Erie, Pelee Island is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known as Ontario’s southernmost inhabited island, it offers an idyllic escape with its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking vistas. Nature enthusiasts will delight in exploring the lush vineyards, forests, and wetlands, home to a diverse range of bird species. Take a bike ride along the island’s scenic trails, savor local wines at the vineyards, or simply relax on one of the serene beaches. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness stunning sunsets over the lake, creating a captivating backdrop for a memorable evening.

How to get there: From Toronto, drive south to Kingsville and catch the ferry to Pelee. The ferry operates from April to December.

Manitoulin Island

Venture further north and discover the enchanting Manitoulin Island, nestled in Lake Huron. As the largest freshwater island in the world, it offers a vast expanse of untouched natural beauty and a rich Indigenous heritage. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance as you explore its numerous hiking trails, including the famous Cup and Saucer Trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forests and cliffs. Visit Bridal Veil Falls, cascading down limestone cliffs, or embark on a canoeing adventure on the serene waters of Lake Manitou. For a deeper cultural experience, engage with the island’s Anishinaabe communities and partake in traditional ceremonies and storytelling.

How to get there: From Toronto, drive north to Tobermory and board the Chi-Cheemaun ferry to South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island.

Wolfe Island

Situated at the convergence of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, Wolfe Island offers a peaceful escape just a short distance from Kingston. Known for its expansive farmlands and wind turbines, the island exudes a rustic charm and is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the island’s charming villages, cycle along scenic routes, or venture out for a bird-watching expedition at the internationally recognized Important Bird Area. The area also boasts beautiful beaches, perfect for picnicking or simply unwinding amidst the serene surroundings. Don’t forget to catch a captivating sunset over the water, painting the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors.

How to get there: Drive east from Toronto to Kingston, and from there, take a ferry from the village of Marysville to Wolfe Island.

Christian Island

Nestled in Georgian Bay, Christian Island offers a serene and secluded retreat with a rich Indigenous history. Accessible by ferry, the island is home to the Beausoleil First Nation and showcases pristine beaches, clear waters, and scenic hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the island’s cultural heritage by visiting the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation and partake in traditional activities and workshops. Enjoy fishing, canoeing, or kayaking along the island’s shoreline, and take in the breathtaking views of Georgian Bay from Christian Island Lighthouse.

How to get there: Drive north from Toronto to Penetanguishene and take the ferry from the mainland to Christian Island.

Amherst Island

Situated in Lake Ontario near Kingston, Amherst Island is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Declared an Important Bird Area, the island provides a sanctuary for numerous bird species, including owls, hawks, and waterfowl. Explore the island’s scenic roads by bike or take a leisurely walk along the shores, enjoying the tranquility and stunning views. Visit the Amherst Island Museum to learn about the island’s history and agricultural heritage. With its unspoiled beauty and peaceful ambiance, Amherst Island is the perfect place to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in nature.

How to get there: Drive east from Toronto to the town of Bath, and from there, take a short ferry ride to Amherst Island.

Should I hire a lawyer or a paralegal? Explaining the differences.

By

Jarrod Daley

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9:00 am

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See all posts by Diamond and Diamond Lawyers

Lawyer vs Paralegal: What’s the Difference?

When researching how to proceed with a legal matter, you may come across both lawyers and paralegals providing legal services in your area if you live in Ontario. In most jurisdictions within Canada, a paralegal is a professional who works under the supervision of a lawyer to assist with cases and provide support. However, in Ontario, paralegals are licensed professionals who are able to practice law independently for specific types of legal matters. While lawyers and paralegals are both licensed legal professionals, there are a lot of key differences between the two professions to consider when determining which is the best fit for your own legal matter. Here are some of the main differences between a lawyer and a paralegal in Ontario:

Education and Training: Lawyers in Ontario must complete a law degree from an accredited law school, and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. Paralegals, on the other hand, must complete a paralegal diploma or degree program from a recognized college or university, and pass a licensing exam in order to practice.
Scope of Practice: Lawyers in Canada are authorized to provide a wide range of legal services for a wide range of matters, including providing legal advice, representing clients in court, Notary Public services and negotiating legal agreements. Paralegals are authorized to provide legal services for certain types of legal matters, such as drafting legal documents, representing clients in some legal proceedings (such as small claims cases, Provincial Offences Court violations, some Ontario Court of Justice cases, or Tribunal cases), and providing legal advice on specific Ontario laws.
Responsibility and Licensing: Both lawyers and paralegals in Ontario are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario and are required to carry professional liability insurance in order to maintain their license to practice law.
Cost: Lawyers complete extensive education and training, and as such are licensed to take on cases with greater monetary damages and higher personal stakes than paralegals are licensed to. Paralegals typically offer services at a lower fee than lawyers, allowing Ontarians to access support and representation for certain legal matters at an affordable cost.

Which Should I Hire?

Whether you should hire a lawyer or a paralegal will depend on the nature and complexity of your legal matter. For certain legal matters such as criminal matters, marriage and family matters, wills, powers of attorney, estates, or litigation with money owed or damages over $35,000, you will only have the option to hire a lawyer, although individuals can also choose to represent themselves in all circumstances.

If the cost of hiring a lawyer is keeping you from taking legal action and your matter falls under a paralegal’s scope of practice in Ontario, then a paralegal might be a great option for you. Alternatively, if cost is a concern, many personal injury lawyers in Ontario work on a contingency basis – meaning that no professional fees are owed unless your case is won or settled. “Contingency fee arrangements allow Ontarians to access quality legal support without having to worry about paying off costly legal bills if their case isn’t successful. We would never want the cost of obtaining legal representation to hold someone back from seeking the compensation they deserve after being injured, so we don’t charge unless your case is won or settled,” says Sandra Zisckind, Managing Partner at Diamond and Diamond Lawyers.

If you or someone you love would like to explore your legal options after experiencing a personal injury, contact Canada’s largest personal injury law firm, Diamond and Diamond, today at 1-800-567-HURT to schedule a free consultation.

About Jeremy Diamond

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

Sue Johanson, groundbreaking Toronto sex educator, dies at age 93

By

lindsaylow

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12:35 pm

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Sue Johanson, Canada’s beloved and renowned sex educator, passed away at the age of 93. According to a family representative speaking to CTV News Toronto, she peacefully departed in the company of her loved ones at a long-term care facility in Thornhill.

Initially a nurse, Johanson established a birth control clinic at Toronto’s Don Mills CI high school in 1970. Her pursuit of knowledge in family planning and human sexuality led her to further her education at the University of Toronto and the University of Michigan, ultimately launching her illustrious career as a sex educator.

Johanson gained widespread recognition as the host of the highly popular Sunday Night Sex Show, which began as a radio program in the 1980s and later evolved into a TV show on Rogers in 1985.

In 2022, Johanson was named as one of our most inspiring women, and her influential role served as the central focus of the acclaimed documentary Sex with Sue, directed by Canadian filmmaker Lisa Rideout. Below, Rideout shares her personal insights and reflections on Johanson and the profound impact she had on her documentary.

The Activist | Sue Johanson

In the late 1980s, Sue Johanson’s TV and radio program, Sunday Night Sex Show, was one of the only sources for accurate and inclusive sex education in Canada. Talking about everything from sex within the queer community to sex toys and fetishes, Johanson’s show led her to international press coverage, including appearances on Arsenio Hall, David Letterman and Conan O’Brien’s late-night talk shows. Now, a feature-length documentary that premiered this year called Sex With Sue has examined her impact with appearances from people including George Stroumboulopoulos and sex columnist Dan Savage. Though she decided to stop her show in 2008, Johanson has created a lasting legacy of progressive sex education for Canadians and the world that can still be felt to this day.

By Lisa Rideout, director of Sex with Sue

Like many Canadian millennials, I grew up with The Sunday Night Sex Show, and Sue Johanson as my only form of meaningful sex education. In Catholic school, I was taught sex was something a man and a woman did, to make a baby, after marriage. In contrast, little old Sue shuffled onto the set of her call-in show with her hot stuff bag that she pulled vibrators, butt plugs, anal beads and, of course, the Fukuoku out of. Sue talked about sex in a way I’d never heard of before. She was open, honest, shameless and pleasure focused. Sue’s legacy spans decades and mediums. She opened the first birth control clinic in Toronto, taught sex education in high schools and universities, had a call-in radio show on Q107, a Canadian television show and an American television show. Sue’s American show was broadcast internationally across South America, Europe and Asia. It’s hard to fully summarize Sue’s impact. She helped millions understand their desires, accept their sexuality, learn how to achieve pleasure and how to have safe sex. In the 1980s and 1990s, she provided essential sex information throughout the HIV/AIDS epidemic and supported the LGBTQ community when politicians were openly condemning them. Sue was pro-choice and sex positive before these were mainstream ideas. Sue has not only made our sex lives better, she has helped us accept ourselves and in turn made the world a safer place.

See our full list of Toronto’s most inspiring women of 2022 here.

Grab your Dancing Queens Toronto is getting a Mamma Mia-inspired restaurant

By

Jennifer Schembri

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11:55 am

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Snapinsta.app_329737577_553238696760071_1286731928489854466_n_1080 — @dancingqueendiningofficial/Instagram

Although a summer getaway to Greece may not be on the horizon, there are plenty of ways to have a Greek vacation without ever leaving Toronto, including a Mamma Mia-inspired restaurant that’s coming to the city later this year.

Prepare to be whisked away to the enchanting island of Skopelos, where you can indulge in the delights of dancing, dining, and experiencing the time of your life! As night falls, you’ll find yourself seated at Nikos’ family-owned taverna, where guests will be served a mouth-watering three-course Mediterranean dinner that’s sure to make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a Greek island.

As you dine on delectable dishes, you will be serenaded by performers singing all the ABBA classics where you’ll be encouraged to sing along too!

Make sure to pack your dancing shoes because later in the evening, you can dance the night away at the ABBA disco.

If you’re not familiar with the 2008 smash hit, Mama Mia! the movie tells the tale of a mother, a daughter and three possible dads on a Greek island, all unfolding to the magic of ABBA’s timeless songs. Based on a play, the movie starred Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried and went on to earn US $611 million worldwide.

You’l need some Money, Money, Money because the theatrical dining experience will cost you $99 per person but at the end of the evening, you’ll be sure to say Thank you for the Music

The immersive dining experience will take place at a still to be announced venue on Church Street. Two shows per evening are set to take place from Friday November 10 to Sunday November 12 . Showtimes are at 5:30 p.m. and at 8:30 p.m.

For more information and to book your tickets, visit Explore Hidden’s website.

Reservations for Summerlicious open today

By

Julia Mastroianni

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9:12 am

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Snapinsta.app_286500961_808016600180381_6321593881555823640_n_1080 — @maisonselby/Instagram

Summerlicious is back in full effect this summer! Between July 7 and 23, over 200 restaurants in the Toronto area will be offering lunch or dinner pre-fixe menus for all to enjoy.

Participating restaurants offer their pre-fixe menus at six different price points, ranging from $20 lunches to $75 dinners.

Among the affordable luxury experiences offered, restaurants have also been sorted by their unique features. Some restaurants offer wholly vegan or vegetarian menus, while others are featured for their locally sourced menu options or their accessibility.

Just under 60 cuisines are represented across restaurants located in 28 different Toronto neighbourhoods. From Argentinian to Vietnamese, there’s undoubtedly a new dish for everyone!

The pre-fixe lunch menus are priced at $20, $27, $34, $41, $48 and $55, with dinner priced at $25, $35, $45, $55, $65 and $75.

Reservations for Summerlicious open today — June 29, so make sure to book your favourites before spots fill up!

Here are the 190 restaurants participating in Summerlicous 2023

est Restaurant
Brickworks Ciderhouse
Gare de l’Est Brasserie
Maple Leaf Tavern
Maple Leaf Tavern
The Chefs’ House
Mengrai Thai Restaurant
Amano Trattoria
The Miller Tavern Downtown
Bier Markt Esplanade
Le Papillon on Front
Biagio Ristorante
The Sultans Tent & Cafe Moroc
Hothouse Restaurant & Bar
Pravda Vodka Bar
Biff’s Bistro
Biff’s Bistro on Instagram
Cantina Mercatto
Wildfire
Aria Ristorante
Nami Japanese Restaurant
Amano Italian Kitchen
Jump
The Carbon Bar
Reign Restaurant + Bar
Reign Restaurant + Bar
The Rabbit Hole
King Taps
Azure Restaurant & Bar
Cactus Club Cafe
Leña
Sap
Stages
EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace
TOCA
Morgans on the Danforth
Little Anthony’s
Rosalinda
Rosalinda
Estiatorio Volos
Lobster Burger Bar
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Bosk
Minami Restaurant
Aanch Modernistic Indian Cuisine
F’Amelia
Soula’s Modern Greek Cuisine
Hey Lucy Café
Butter Chicken Factory
The Met Dining Room
District Eatery
Canteen
Luma
Victor Restaurant
La Fenice Tuscan Chophouse
Papyrus
FIGO
figotoronto/Instagram
Petros82
King Street Social
Adega
Bangkok Garden
Tapas at Embrujo
Rodeo Brazilian Steakhouse
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This adorable Toronto business caters only to bunnies

By

Julia Mastroianni

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2:50 pm

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At Funny Bunny Services, dogs and cats take a backseat to another furry friend that’s growing in popularity — rabbits. As the only pet grooming shop dedicated solely to bunnies in Toronto and also one of the only in Canada, owner Morgan Black has cornered a (floppy, furry) niche in the market, and she says it’s only growing from here.

“A lot of people got pandemic pets, and a rabbit for a lot of people was that quick, easy, kind of household rabbit in a chill environment. They’re often good first time pets before going for a dog,” she says. “There certainly were people impulse buying and then abandoning their pets to shelters. But the ones that that went into it doing their research, they fell in love with the lifestyle of owning bunnies.”

That’s something Black can relate to; in high school, she impulsively bought a rabbit, realizing quickly how much work they can be when it comes to grooming. “I’ve always been a give it your all kind of gal. So I taught myself the A to Z on bunnies, including how to groom them. And then a year later, I opened the business,” she says.

She started out helping friends who had bunnies with grooming, then started posting her services on sites such as Kijiji, all while still in high school. Black was performing grooming services on the side while studying to be a pharmacy technician and working another part-time job. “Eventually it just took over my life. And I did not even see it coming,” she says.

Morgan Black, left and Toronto store manager Natalia, right.

Black notes that because rabbits are prey animals, they’ve been evolutionarily programmed not to like being picked up, and generally only like to give affection on their own terms. That can make grooming these animals very difficult compared to dogs, for example. “They’re very fragile, they’re very small — their skin is literally like tissue paper,” she says. “And at regular groomers, it can be a very stressful environment; all the dogs are barking, there are all these loud blow dryers and it’s a really hectic environment.”

That’s part of the reason why Black offers rabbit-only services. “Having a home-like environment where it’s just one-on-one with the rabbit and the groomer, it does wonders,” she says. “I wanted to provide that safe, comfortable experience for them.”

Funny Bunny offers a variety of rabbit-specific services, including a molting blowout, an ear clean and full spa treatment packages for each type of rabbit. The Scarborough shop (they also have a location in New Brunswick) also offers a bunny hotel, with 24/7 care that includes daily play time, cuddles and regular photos sent to owners.

For now, Black says Funny Bunny has their hands full with two locations, but in the future, she hopes to open a location on the west side in Toronto. “We have hundreds of clients that venture out every single day to get their rabbits groomed, but it’s a long trek, and with rabbits, like I said, they can get stressed,” she says of the 30 French Ave. location in Scarborough.