If you’ve never set foot on Geary Avenue, it’s high time you gave it a visit. On a small strip north of Dupont, between Ossington Avenue and Dufferin Street, you’ll find a little strip of eateries that stray from the businesses on Ossington. But it’s not just the lack of passers-by and tourists that make this one of the best strips to visit — Geary Avenue also offers delicious food, outstanding bars and spacious patios, this street has it all!
Check out our top places to eat on Geary Avenue.
Parallel
@parallel_brothers/Instagram
The relaxed, comfy atmosphere at Parallel is as wide open as it’s garage doors—which, paired with the restaurant’s white walls, high ceilings and large windows make the space well-lit in what should be an otherwise dark industrial area. Openness is this restaurant’s forté apparently, as customers can see right through to the back of the restaurant and into the open kitchen. On the menu, Parallel serves up Mediterranean cuisine with a twist—and Israel’s tahini at the heart. With share plates of falafel and hummus at the forefront of the menu and a lengthy list of wines and beer, this is the kind of space to spend your summer nights with your best group of friends.
Famiglia Baldassarre
@famiglia_baldassarre/Instagram
Okay, so we may have said one of the perks of dining on Geary is that it’s not as busy as other major restaurant strips, but that’s not the case at Famiglia Baldassare, where, if you show up during their lunch service, there is always a line-up out the door. But that’s because they only serve up their handmade pastas ready to eat for a few hours a day—and the Geary locals know it’s worth the wait. There’s a reason Famiglia pastas are used in Toronto’s finest restaurants. Though there are very few seats to dine inside, that just gives you the opportunity to take your pasta out and begin exploring even more of Geary and all the adorable parkettes nearby.
Blood Brothers Brewing
@bloodbrothersbrewing/Instagram
Geary wouldn’t be the next big restaurant strip if it didn’t have a casual welcoming brewpub, but luckily it has Blood Brothers. The warehouse-style setting is complete with an open bottle shop, tap room, and front patio. There’s always something going on in the tap room with games like darts and cornhole often set up, and the biggest spots games broadcasted on the TV. Small bites are on the menu to pair with Blood Brother’s vast selection of some of Toronto’s favourite craft beers.
Paradise Grapevine Geary
@paradisegrapevine/Instagram
Why travel all the way to Niagara for a taste of a winery when you can head to Geary? Paradise Grapevine owns two side-by-side units on Geary: one is a dedicated winery and one is a bar and restaurant. A large patio spanning around the side of the building is supplied with relaxed wooden picnic benches, matching the wooden touches in the interior wine barrels in the warehouse. Though you’re probably visiting for the wine rather than the food, some light and fresh fare is on the menu to keep you steady as you move on to glass two and three. Paradise Grapevine has actually just added some new menu items in time for summer, including a crab dip and melon salad.
Big Trouble Pizza
@bigtroublepizza/Instagram
Between Big Trouble Pizza and North of Brooklyn Pizza just down the street, there’s no limit to the amount of comfort food to be found on Geary Avenue. Big Trouble Pizza serves up pies and smash burgers that are oh-so-cheesy, greasy and delicious. Like Geary Avenue, Big Trouble Pizza is one-of-a-kind pizzas like the fan favourite Butter Jam Jam with raspberry jam, butter cream, and balsamic.
Tragically, last month a young Toronto man plummeted to his death from a tower in the downtown core after what appeared to be a “rooftopping” outing gone wrong. The man’s parents recently spoke to CTV News Toronto to discourage others from doing the same.
The Toronto Police service, in conjunction with Ontario’s Office of the Chief Coroner, confirmed that they are conducting an investigation into the death of Conrad Rybicki, a 22-year-old man who had only just returned to Canada from Poland two years ago.
According to the coroner, no cause of death has been determined at this point and police have not categorized the death as suspicious.
Rybicki, a self-proclaimed “rooftop addict” had been actively engaged in the pursuit of rooftopping for the last six years. A number of photos and videos posted online showed repeated trips to the tops of various towers in Toronto. According to the article, a video shared on a TikTok account last June showed Rybicki’s feet dangled over the edge of a towering building, several stories above Front Street while his camera pans to reveal the CN Tower and the Rogers Centre.
Conrad’s parents, Dorota and Dariusz Rybicki told CTV News that other photos — which were taken from social media sites that are no longer active — show their son posing on a girder with Toronto’s Canada Life building behind him; another photo shows Conrad posing at the corner of a building with the CN Tower in the background, and no railing between him and the street below.
Photo: CTV News Toronto
“We would say, watch out, this isn’t fun. This isn’t entertainment that young people should be interested in. It’s so dangerous,” Conrad’s father, Dariusz Rybicki told CTV News during an interview from Poland. “You cannot compare it with sports or having hobbies. This is so deadly. One small mistake can end your life,” he said.
Since at least 2012, the photography movement known as “sky-high photography” or “rooftopping” has gained popularity. In this trend, photographers, accompanied by their models, venture to great heights in city centres, hoping to capture breathtaking views from elevated vantage points.
Tom Ryaboi, a photographer based in Toronto, gained prominence as a leading figure in the “rooftopping” movement. While it garnered him a substantial Instagram following — surpassing 1118,000 people — along the way he encountered legal trouble to his expeditions, resulting in his arrest on a number of occasions.
The Rybicki’s said they are planning to create a foundation called “Conrad’s Peak” to warn people about the perils of “rooftopping” and to fight the promotion of them.
“It’s not a question of a nice picture of view or whatever. This cost our son’s life,” said Dorota Rybicki.
The long weekend is fast approaching, and with it comes the official start of the summer! There’s no better way to enjoy the weekend and kick off the summer than a music festival in the sun. From the Rhythms of Canada festival to Jazz Fest, get your music fix this weekend with these amazing festivals.
Thank you to this week’s article sponsor, Aga Khan Museum!
Rhythms of Canada festival
From June 30 to July 3, the Aga Khan Museum’s popular Rhythms of Canada festival is returning for a long weekend full of incredible musical performances from local and international artists. Catch evening performances of artists including The Halluci Nation, Balaklava Blues, Salim-Sulaiman, Mas Aya, Borelson, the Mekaal Hasan Band and more. But that’s not all — along with music, the Rhythms of Canada festival also offers an immersive experience including delicious food, activities for all ages, special programming and the Aga Khan Museum’s world-class collection of art from across the Muslim world.
Activities include magic shows, face painting, papermaking, poetry workshops and even a Bollywood workout class. The festival will happen across the Museum, Aga Khan Park and Ismaili Centre Toronto, and you can grab tickets to individual performances here.
TD Toronto Jazz Fest
This weekend marks the final weekend of TD Toronto Jazz Fest! If you haven’t had a chance to head outside and enjoy this festival, now is your chance. There are a few ticketed performances and plenty of free ones, so you don’t have to spend much to get jazzy. On Sunday, grab tickets to The Bad Plus at The Horseshoe Tavern. Or, head out the TD Village Stage for free performances of GARNETTA CROMWELL & DaGROOVMASTERS on Friday, Kate Wyatt Quartet on Saturday and Hameshet and Brekky Boy on Sunday. At the TD Main Stage, enjoy free performances from artists including The Joy Lapps Project on Friday, Begonia on Saturday and Maya Killtron on Sunday. If late nights are more your jam, the festival has been running a Late Night Jam at 10 p.m. every night — this weekend, it’ll be Larnell Lewis X Joy Lapps & Friends on Friday, Krzysztof Baranowski Trio on Saturday and Mike Downes Trio on Sunday. Check out the full schedule and map here!
Electric Island Toronto
@electricislandto/Instagram
One of the most popular electronic music festivals in the world is back in Toronto, and the summer concert and picnic series is happening this weekend! Happening at RBC Echo Beach, techno music lovers will have a blast at this festival — party to techno tunes with views of the Toronto skyline in the background! The lineup this weekend includes Jayda G, John Summit, MK, Crimsen, Eli & Fur, Space 92, Green Velvet and many more. The festival runs from Saturday to Sunday, so you can choose to buy a ticket for the full weekend or just choose one day based on the artists you love. There are also two official after parties happening at Coda both nights — and the festival is teasing some special guests will be visiting both!
This summer, it seems like everyone is traveling to Europe. Whether you’ve got your own European vacation planned this summer and don’t want it to end or are dreaming of getting a taste of Italy or Portugal, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your how-to guide to summer like a European this summer — without ever leaving Toronto, beginning with all things Greece.
Celebrate at T.O.’s biggest Greek festival
The Danforth has kept its Greek roots through the years, but never is it more alive than during the Taste of the Danforth. This year, this annual festival is being reimagined for 2023 to adapt to the changes on the street. From Aug. 11-13, head out to the neighbourhood to enjoy traditional Greek music, authentic food and plenty of entertainment to give you a taste of Greece in Toronto.
Walk among the Greek gods in Toronto
For a delightful combination of Greek mythology and historic Canadian art, visit the Garden of the Greek Gods at Exhibition Place this summer. This collection of 20 sculptures by renowned Canadian sculptor E. B. Cox depicts favourite figures of Greek mythology, including Medusa, Orpheus and Hercules.
Mamakas Taverna’s horiátiki
Get refreshed with a traditional Greek salad
Ossington Avenue, Toronto’s trendiest street, is also home to arguably the city’s trendiest Greek spot — Mamakas Taverna. The modern spot has crafted an authentically Greek menu, but the unmissable standout is their horiátiki: served traditionally sans lettuce, with a sumptuous block of feta to top off the colourful tomatoes.
Meander Ontario’sversion of Nemea wine roads
Wine connoisseurs might recognize Nemea, the biggest wine region in all of Greece. Travellers often spend a full day sampling wines in the area — and you can do the same within the Hillier region of Prince Edward County. There’s a cluster of nine wineries in the area that you could visit all in a day if you’re ambitious. Try beginning at Trail Estate Winery and ending at Sugarbush Vineyards for your DIY wine tour.
Chow down on the best spanakopita in town
Run by Mamakas Food Group, this Greek street food pop-up kitchen in Yorkville serves up the best spanakopita in the city. This handmade phyllo pie, layered with spinach and top-notch feta, is perfectly flaky and flavourful and will transport you right into the streets of Athens.
Enjoy an open-air Greek theatre in the city
Get a taste of Greek theatre at the Guild Festival Theatre this summer — located in Scarborough, this open-air stage is built in the style of a traditional Grecian outdoor theatre. The summer program looks promising: Alice in Wonderland runs from July 12 to 22, Three Men in a Boat from July 27 to Aug. 13 and true crime story The Drowning Girls from Aug. 17 to 27.
Myth Restaurant
Have a Mykonos-style night to remember
For a dinner outing that will give you all the vibes of a Mykonos nightclub, the iconic Myth has officially reopened in June after a devastating fire. The decor, atmosphere, crafty cocktails and shareable dishes emulate that of an upscale dinner spot in Greece — great for girls’ night, date night or a funky drinks spot after a day at the beach.
Skim the skyline in a Toronto funicular
Visitors to Athens looking for the best views of the city will often hop on the Lycabettus Funicular, which whisks travellers up to the highest peak in the city. At Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island, park goers can enjoy sweeping views of their own city from the Sky Ride — a chair lift-style adventure that will have you gliding high enough to glimpse the famous skyline.
Sample a favourite Greek meze on the Danforth
Gigantes, a traditional and deliciously simple dish featuring large white beans baked in a tomato sauce, is an underrated Greek meze that you’ll find on most menus in the country. In Toronto, your best bet is to head to Pantheon on the Danforth — potentially Pantheon’s best dish, they’re served cold and pair well with Greece’s famous skordalia (garlic potatoes).
Popular Vaughan-based vintage shop Batch Vintage has been supplying the dream Y2K wardrobe for some of the city’s most fashionable thrifters.
Arianna Stalteri and Marcanthony Spano are the couple behind the shop, and they’ve been building their business for eight years. The thrift enthusiasts began dating in high school after admiring one another’s unique style in the halls. They turned their shared love of vintage fashion into an Instagram business in 2016, at only 17 and 18 years old.
Since they were always sourcing vintage clothes together and finding cool pieces that didn’t quite suit their personal styles, it made sense for them to sell their extra finds to their peers. They became really serious about the business in 2018 when they started selling at The Deadstock Depot, Toronto’s first ever vintage streetwear flea market.
The couple say they have plenty of fun running their business together. “We both have our strengths — we each bring something different, and I think we work together really well,” says Spano.
Spano grew up skateboarding so his style favours baggy jeans, cool T-shirts and flannels of the ’90s and early 2000s eras. Stalteri’s selection tends to be a mix of new age designers and nostalgic pieces; she doesn’t like to stick to a specific style but rather dresses as the character she wants to be on a given day.
Combined, the Batch Vintage selection is an eclectic assortment of iconic and deadstock vintage. Spano says they’re always looking for pieces they’ve never seen before and they love encouraging customers to try new styles and get out of their comfort zones.
The Batch Vintage showroom
In 2018, they opened their official showroom in the basement of a private residence and quit their shared jobs at the Holt Renfrew Outlet in Vaughan Mills to pursue their business full-time. The private showroom in Vaughan is open on Saturdays and all you have to do is DM the Batch Vintage account to get the address.
The strength of their mutual good taste has intrigued Toronto fashion influencers, who are frequently seen wearing the brand, many of whom Stalteri has personally styled in her dress up series. She uses her expertise to create vintage outfits based on each model’s personality and then sells the outfits by the piece.
Styles by Batch Vintage
Interested parties can also buy wholesale — either by the pound, or by the piece. If the client wants a curated selection, they’re happy to take requests for specific aesthetics and sizes.
Still, some of their hottest pieces get snapped up from their Instagram story sales. You can shop by “Marc’s picks” or “Ari’s picks,” curated based on their individual taste. Dress like the city’s favourite fashion kids by snagging a few pieces of your own.
Considered the heart of midtown, the intersection of Yonge & Eglinton has experienced a boom in development owing to its central location. And as the midtown centre continues to grow, so too does the size of the restaurants taking up space—especially when it comes to eating Italian. It seems Yonge and Eglinton’s many new residents find it more convenient to dine at a large restaurants in contrast to the small, independent storefronts that once lined the streets.
In the last decade, Yonge & Eglinton has welcomed the third location of Cibo Wine Bar, Stock Bar’s 20,000-square foot, three-level restaurant; and, most recently, the opening of the 260-seat Oretta.
While these names are familiar across the GTA, other Yonge and Eglinton Italian restaurants haven’t stuck around long enough to gain such popularity. Amore Trattoria, Bar Buca, Balsamico, and most recently, Five Doors North, are all smaller Italian restaurants that have closed within the past few years.
Does sharing the corner with big-name restaurants push out the independent ones, or is there another force at play?
When asked about the effect of the arrival of the bigger stores on their business, a spokesperson at Sip Wine Bar admitted “things aren’t as they used to be.” An Italian family restaurant, Sip Wine Bar moved into the neighbourhood ten years ago, just as Yonge & Eglinton was beginning its redevelopment. But, though the spokesperson says the arrival of big restaurants do temporarily steal customers, they don’t feel it puts their family-run restaurant at long-term risk.
“A brand-new place is going to entice customers, certainly,” they said. “But, seeing all of that, looking down the road, maybe a year or two when all development in the area is completed, I think there’s an opportunity for all businesses to do much better and grow.”
The new businesses certainly aren’t the only new development coming to the corner. Between increased condo development, the proposed 9.2-acre Canada Square redevelopment plan which would include 2701 units across five towers, and the upcoming Eglinton Crosstown West Extension inviting residents from Mississauga, Yonge & Eglinton will hardly be recognizable in a few years. The population of the midtown centre is expected to double by 2031.
A look at Stock Bar’s 20,000-square-foot three-level space
Angelo Moretti, the owner of Grazie Ristorante, a 30-year-old small Italian spot that’s just across the street from Stock Bar, doesn’t mind sharing the block. “I’m a firm believer that competition is healthy,” he said, explaining he also feels his restaurant offers something different than the new competitor. “It levels up the quality and the neighbourhood. I think competition makes everyone better and makes everyone strive to have a better product.”
However, Moretti characterizes the neighborhood’s growth as a “Catch 22 situation,” recognizing the closure of smaller restaurants. Nevertheless, he does not perceive it as directly tied to losing customers to these larger eateries.
“Small businesses can’t survive because when you get development with condos and a lot more people, the land value goes up and the rents go up and it gets very difficult,” he explained. “You want redevelopment, you want new people in the area, but unfortunately it squeezes the small operator and that’s something I feel for, because the small operator is the heart of the neighbourhood.”
Frank Gargiulo, chef and owner of Roberto’s Restorante Italiano, explained that many of the restaurants in the neighbourhood that he’s seen “come and go” were paying over $10,000 per month on rent alone for spaces barely 1,500 square feet. “Unless you’re working and making some money to carry those expenses, there’s no way.”
@robertosristoranteitaliano/Instagram
Larger restaurants have an easier time fronting these bills, while still dealing with COVID-19 setbacks, the new demand for delivery, and continued labour shortage.
Older restaurants like Roberto’s, are able to rely on a loyal stream of customers, some of which, Gargiulo explains, have been dining at the restaurant for 55 years since his parents first opened the business.
“We have so many regulars that have been literally coming for the last thirty or forty years. They just feel comfortable,” he explains. “Their parents have come for forty years, and now their kids come, and their kids, too.”
With thirty years on Yonge Street, Grazie, too, has built a clientele and continues to cater to “second-generation customers.”
However, building such a reputation takes time and cannot be achieved overnight. Moretti clarified that both big and small restaurants require the opportunity to establish themselves, which is often hindered by obstacles such as rent payments.
“These restaurants don’t have a longstanding legacy or an established connection with the neighbourhood,” said Moretti. “So, they’re in the process of building a fresh relationship, establishing a new identity and ultimately cultivation a loyal clientele.
If they can pay rent long enough to build that identity, that is.
Summer is almost here and the city is alive and well with plenty of arts, shopping, food and more to enjoy! From a special edition of ROM After Dark to a decades-themed dance party, here are 10 things to do in Toronto this week.
See Black Panther with a live orchestra
Black Panther has quickly become one of the most popular superhero movies of all time — and this week, you can enjoy it with an added, musical perk. On Thursday and Friday, The Toronto Symphony Orchestra will be playing the beautiful score while the film plays on the big screen.
Get a taste of Italian film culture
Beginning this Tuesday, the Lavazza IncluCity Festival is bringing an open-air cinema to the Distillery District! Featuring mostly Italian contemporary films with some movies from other countries in the mix, the festival runs until July 1 and you can enjoy everything from horror to comedy to romance.
Enjoy a dog-friendly charcuterie class
If both you and your dog love snacking, there’s an event happening this Tuesday that you won’t want to miss! Head to BFFs & Barkuterie, a dog-friendly charcuterie class, and learn how to assemble a charcuterie board for you and your dog. Plus, enjoy two drinks, photo ops and, of course, plenty of doggy cuteness! And know that 100 per cent of the proceeds from the event will go toward supporting the development of animal wellness booths at Toronto youth shelters.
Celebrate the last day of Pride Month with a queer comedy show
Sure, the Pride parade was last weekend, but that doesn’t mean Pride Month is over yet! On Friday, the last day of Pride, head to Comedy Bar on Bloor West for Gay AF Late Nite: Pride After Party and get in some good laughs thanks to some of Toronto’s top queer comedians — including headliner Kyle Brownrigg, Inés Anaya, Keegan Hawkeswood and more.
Fill up at Toronto Ribfest
@ribfestto/Instagram
For the rib lovers, there is perhaps no greater weekend than this one — the weekend of Ribfest. Happening all weekend long at Centennial Park Road in Etobicoke, the free festival will feature 10 of North America’s best rib teams ready to serve you the best of the best when it comes to ribs, plus some other classic festivals foods such as blooming onions and poutine.
Dance it out at a decades party
@decadesdanceparty/Instagram
If you’ve never been to a decades party, it’s pretty much exactly how it sounds: every hour, you can dance to the music of a new decade with a new DJ! Happening at Handlebar on Friday, you can dance to the music of the 1970s all the way to the 2020s! Dress the part by wearing the clothes of your favourite decade — as long as they’re comfortable enough for a night full of dancing!
Be yourself at ROM After Dark
ROM After Dark has been hosting some of the most incredible cultural events in the city, and this Friday is no exception. Enjoy an end-of-Pride-month extravaganza featuring live performances by queer artists, pop-up interactives, games, art, snacks and a dance floor. And if you want a change of scenery, take advantage of the event’s venue by touring any of the ROM’s exhibitions.
Poke fun at Canada at this comedy roast
Have some grievances about Canada you need to air out? Head to Comedy Bar East on Saturday and get ready to see this country roasted to shreds thanks to Roast Master Sebastiano “Bash” Fazio at the Canada Day Roast. The event promises to roast everything from poutine to prime ministers to convoys, so be prepared to laugh!
Shop the Ontario Artisan Market
@ontarioartisanmarket/Instagram
The Ontario Artisan Market has its first market of the summer happening this Sunday, so get some seasonal shopping in during the long weekend! Happening at Evergreen Brick Works, you can shop over 70 local vendors featuring handmade goods and products, plus some prepared foods to snack on after you’re done shopping.
See the spectacle of the Royal Canadian Circus
The Royal Canadian Circus has been around for over 10 generations, and this year, the family-owned and family-oriented organization is bringing the tour to the United States as well! Touring across North America, they’ll be stopping in Etobicoke from Thursday to Sunday, so grab ticket and bring the whole family along for an evening of fun (and most importantly, no exotic animals).
Those who say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day are undoubtedly the ones who have discovered the extraordinary brunch scene in Toronto.
From upscale establishments serving eggs Benedict adorned with caviar to cozy mom-and-pop shops offering hearty meals that keep you fuelled throughout the day, explore the city’s vibrant brunch scene with this curated list of the 30 best spots in the city.
1. Chica
@barchicatoronto/Instagram
Bottomless sangria meets unlimited Spanish tapas every Sunday at Chica. The sister restaurant of Toronto’s Spanish mainstay Patria, this lively late-night destination transforms into a lovely brunch destination from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with delicious small plates taking centre stage like lamb chorizo empanadas, ham, black truffle and manchego croquetas and snacks like stracciatella with Serrano ham. Brunch including coffee and tea is $55 per person and you can upgrade your meal to include bottomless sangria for $45.
Since 1944, this Toronto institution has been serving up hearty sandwiches, all-day breakfast and made-to-order favourites like pancakes and french toast. It’s become such an icon in the fabric of Toronto’s history that many celebrities have come to dine at Avenue, and their autographed pictures line the walls. It’s been operated by Louis Klasios and his family since 1970, and they’ve kept the warm, retro vibe of the place alive and well.
Oretta’s weekend brunch menu is filled with incredibly delicious options for everyone in the family! From sweets like Italian stuffed donuts known as bombolone, to decadent options like scrambled eggs with burrata and black truffle. Exciting new offerings including the French toast topped with mixed berries, amaro maple syrup and tiramisu flavourings. For those seeking an extra touch of indulgence, Oretta also offers a bottomless mimosa option priced at $28 per person It’s the perfect way to enhance your brunch experience and add a sparkling twist to your meal.
Join Figo every Saturday and Sunday between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to immerse yourself in a delightful Italian-inspired brunch experience. Indulge in a variety of summer plates, delectable desserts, and the opportunity to create your own bottomless mimosas.
If you need a brunch fix everyday of the week, Toronto’s amazing breakfast hub OEB is open daily to satisfy your deepest breakfast cravings. . Indulge in their mouthwatering offerings, such as delightful crostini served on rustic French rye bread. For those seeking something more decadent, OEB presents “blue plate specials” like Canadian lobster and shrimp crepes or pierogis and duck. Whatever your preference, OEB has an array of delicious options to satisfy your deepest breakfast desires.
Located inside the Windsor Arms Hotel, this seasonally-inspired restaurant offers weekend brunch from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The menu features classic eg dishes and lighter fare like protein bowls and fresh fruits and berries.
At this Cabbagetown haunt, along with all the traditional breakfast fixins’ a duo of black and white pudding is on offer. Referred to as drisheen in Ireland, black pudding is a blood sausage made with pork blood and fate, cereal or oats wand herbs, whereas white is similar but without the blood. 221 Carlton St.
Good Fork offers the real good stuff. While this restaurant focuses on Middle Eastern cuisine for dinner, their breakfasts offer a traditional fare but with original twists. The “apply apple” pancake comes loaded with caramelized apples, cinnamon date swirls, and saffron custard. The stack is then sprinkled with a warm Hockley Valley maple syrup and crème anglaise. If that’s not inventive enough, The Good Fork’s “blueberry halva” version is cooked with orange blossom ricotta, lemony blueberry and halva crumble, then drizzled in maple syrup.
If you’re a Shawn Mendes fan, you might recognize George Street Diner from his “Life of the Party” lyric video. In it, Toronto plays backdrop as the Canadian singer sits at one of the vintage red leather booths found in this “wee” Irish-Canadian eatery. But, seeing it on screen isn’t enough. You won’t want to miss the chance to try the signature Ultimate Irish Breakfast, which wouldn’t be complete without Farrelly’s Famous Irish Soda Bread.
TOCA, inside the Ritz-Carlton Toronto, weekday brunch has something for everyone. Served daily from 7 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. the brunch menu is as elevated as the hotel itself. On the sweeter side, chose from lemon ricotta pancakes or bananas foster French toast. Healthy fare includes your choice of an egg white omelette or a blueberry banana parfait. On the menu you’ll also find a selection of frittatas and hash and heartier options like steak and eggs. Whatever your craving. TOCA’s got it and is ready to impress.
This no-frills, uptown diner is nothing if not old school. There’s the neon decor, red vinyl banquettes, and an open kitchen that screams retro. Come for the vintage vibes and stay for the food, where breakfast is served all day, and the food categories are given out-of-this-world names like satellite sides and planet poutine. Lunch and dinner fare, including burgers and hot dogs, are also available.
There’s a few Fran’s locations around the city, and the mini-chain is one of the most famous diner businesses in the city. Open 24 hours, the historic eateries offer up breakfast, lunch and dinner alike, with milkshakes, pancakes, steaks and salads all populating the menu. The first Fran’s was opened at Yonge and Dundas by Francis “Fran” Deck in 1940, and the place has been iconic ever since.
13. Pasaj
@pasajtoronto/Instagram
You can order Istanbul-style brunch every single day from this Turkish cafe. The Pasaj Brunch Menu has been meticulously crafted to offer an extensive selection of delightful brunch dishes, encompassing both beloved classics such as Shakshouka and the Turkish Breakfast spread, as well as an array of homestyle favourites.
If you’re in the mood for a benny, Ramona’s Kitchen has got you covered. Located at 7355 Bayview Avenue in Thornhill, Ramona’s Kitchen serves up traditional breakfast with a non-traditional twist, including 11 unconventional renditions of Eggs Benedict, omelettes, frittatas, French toast, pancakes, breakfast poutine, and an especially intriguing breakfast hotdog dubbed the Morning Frankfurter. Most dishes come with a side of their signature tri-coloured home fries, made up of sweet, Yukon, and Chilean purple potatoes.
Located in Liberty Village, School Restaurant is where you want to rush to on a weekend morning, the name notwithstanding. Recognized as one of Toronto’s favourite brunch spots, School keeps people coming in year-round with its refreshed and cosy industrial interior in the winter and its patio during the summer.
If the name alone sounds like warm summer days, that’s exactly the kind of wholesome atmosphere this diner offers. White Lily Diner displays the best in the region by working with local suppliers and offering a beer and wine list that comes entirely from Ontario. At White Lily, the bread is fresh, the donuts are made daily, and the meats are smoked in-house. The all-day breakfast means you can get the customer-favourite hash browns every time your cravings kick in.
Justin Bella and his team are cooking up some of the city’s tastiest Filipino food at BB’s Diner, a fun, multi-faceted space in Parkdale. rom Friday to Sunday between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., BB’s Diner takes over the basement. There, Bella and the team serve elevated Filipino staples on a first-come-first-serve basis. More than that, the restaurant doesn’t advertise a phone number or digital menu, but posts weekly specials on Instagram to prepare guests for the meal. The fare includes mouth-watering dishes such as sizzling Longanisa and picturesque portions of T-O-C-I-N-O Silog, a play on the classic breakfast item.
18. Sunny Morning
@sunnybreakfasts/Instagram
This GTA breakfast and lunch chain now has four locations to serve up the best in brunch fare. Sunny Morning prioritizes using fresh and local ingredients to make all their dishes, which is why these pancakes are so irresistible. On the menu, customers will find the Sweet Dreams pancakes, made with fresh strawberries, banana, and toasted almonds, and drizzled with Nutella, and Freddy’s Caramel Pancakes which are topped with banana slices and pecans. The stack wouldn’t be complete without Sunny Morning’s own sweet Milk Caramel glazed over top. Freddy’s Sandwich Special includes two fried eggs, bacon and Swiss in a toasted bagel with cream cheese.
Every Saturday from 12 p.m. you can enjoy Fiesta del Sol, a brunch party at Chotto Matte. Soak up the sun on the restaurant’s new, reimagined patio and enjoy an array of Nikkei plates, free-flowing sips and vibrant entertainment, inspired by the Peruvian festival of light. Priced at $65 per person with sips an additional $50, the menu features an array of seafood heavy dishes like sea bass ceviche, salmon tostada and spicy tuna crispy sushi. There are also vegetarian options
The red leather booths, checkered floor print and large front windows definitely show off the retro style of Flo’s Diner. This Yorkville hotspot is the kind of place you stop by for a coffee and end up chatting with the cook all morning. Flo’s is known for making a mean eggs benny, which can be enjoyed while taking in the city views from the rooftop patio.
The name for this eatery in English is “fluffy fluffy” and one bite of their Japanese-style pancakes will tell you exactly why. Fuwa Fuwa is North America’s largest souffle pancake café, and might just be one of the best. Their creations are soft, airy and combine elements of a traditional pancakes with a souffle pancake, making a one-of-a-kind texture. Customers can select a signature fruit option for toppings or choose something more inventive like tiramisu, crème brulee, blueberry and cheese, matcha red bean, cookies & crème, or Nutella banana.
This all-day brunch spot has it all, but one of the menu favourites is the cinnamon bun pancake. Caramelized brown sugar, butter and cinnamon work together to compliment these buttermilk pancakes, which are then topped with a touch of whipped brown butter and maple syrup. The sugar is enough to keep your heart pumping all day long. For something a little tamer, Emma offers classic buttermilk pancakes, banana pancakes with walnuts and toffee, and the Elvis pancake stuffed with walnuts, toffee, chocolate chips, and house-cured bacon.
Long-time Irish pub Tara Inn’s full Irish includes centuries-old quintessential Irish sausage —the banger. Made with lean and fat pork that’s ground and tossed with herbs and spices, it’s then encased in hog casing and packs a hearty punch. The meal also comes with grilled Guinness brown bread, potato scone and is sure to be the only meal you need for the day!
MIA Brunch Bar is just south of Eglinton on Yonge and is serving up some seriously good breakfast. Open seven days a week, the morning and afternoon hangout is a bright and cheerful kind of space. The menu consists of some classic brunch staples with a twist, as well as a slew of great cocktails that are sure to rid patrons of the Sunday scaries.
In a city that loves brunch as much as Toronto, it takes a certain place to really be known amongst the masses. Chances are, you know of Mildred’s Temple Kitchen, the Liberty Village staple dedicated to locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, simply and sumptuously prepared. Perfection on a plate, Mrs. Biederhof’s infamous light and fluffy blueberry buttermilk pancakes are the focal point of the famous Sunday brunch.
The City of Toronto is allowing a more substantial number of storeys at The One, though not quite meeting the ambitious target set by the developer, and getting a new public art gallery as a result.
The City and Mizrahi Developments, the company behind the ongoing construction of the skyscraper situated at 1 Bloor St. W., have settled and are moving forward regarding an appeal for extra height. Under the compromise, which was approved last week at city council, the tower would soar to 91 storeys, and will be accompanied by a new public art gallery that grants panoramic vistas of the city.
Toronto City Council has officially approved a proposal to include the art gallery and public space within The One. The developer, Mizrahi Developments, had been seeking permission to increase the building’s height to compete with a neighboring project. After negotiations, a settlement offer was accepted, resulting in City Council granting approval for a height increase to 92 storeys.
The approval is contingent upon Mizrahi Developments allocating space on or above the 79th floor for the art gallery and public area, in accordance with Section 37 of the Planning Act. This section allows the city to impose a community benefits charge on developers. Artscape Atelier, a prominent organization specializing in creative placemaking and community development through the arts, will operate the designated space.
Dubbed “The One at The One,” the proposed initiative aims to leverage the strengths and expertise of both Mizrahi Developments and Artscape Atelier. The program seeks to showcase the work of local artists, contributing to Toronto’s vibrant arts and culture scene while garnering international attention.
“The One at The One, would leverage the position, capacity, and mandates of both organizations to create a truly unique contribution to Toronto’s Arts and Culture scene,” wrote Artscape in a letter to city council. “This program would aim to provide localized benefits to the Bloor-Yorkville art gallery ecosystem, while providing Toronto’s visual arts sector with a marquee program that will help it gain new international attention.”
According to the settlement offer, the allocated gallery space will host public exhibitions, providing a captivating platform for visitors to engage with the creations of resident artists. The specific details of the space were outlined in a letter from Artscape, which states that approximately half a floor, equivalent to five residential units, will be dedicated to the gallery and public area. While not all of the space will be accessible to the public, it will include furnished short-term rental units exclusively for artists-in-residence. Mizrahi Developments will retain ownership of this designated area, consisting of one studio unit, two one-bedroom units, and two two-bedroom units.
With the approval of city council, Mizrahi Developments can proceed with the construction of the art gallery and public space within The One. This addition promises to enhance Toronto’s arts and cultural landscape, providing both local residents and visitors with a unique destination.
Further details and a timeline for the construction and opening of the art gallery and public space have not been provided in the available information.
Drake fans rejoice, not only has the Toronto musician unveiled plans for a book of poetry, he’s also releasing a new album.
Taking to social media on a Friday, Drake officially announced Titles Ruin Everything: A Stream of Consciousness by Kenza Samir and Aubrey Graham. In a heartfelt message, he expressed his immense desire for fans to support and acquire the book, which will be available through select retailers, including @drakerelated. The poetry book can also be purchased on the Phaidon Press website for $24.95.
Over the weekend, to generate buzz for his upcoming musical endeavor, Drake strategically placed advertisements in prominent newspapers such as the New York Times, NY Post, Toronto Star, Los Angeles Times, and others. Astute fans quickly noticed a QR code embedded within the ad, leading them to a website that made the exciting announcement about Drake’s imminent album release.
Although a specific release date for the album has yet to be confirmed, snippets of information have been shared on the website titlesruineverything.com.
The text on the website reads, “I made an album to go with the book… They say they miss the old Drake girl, don’t tempt me,” followed by the phrase “FOR ALL THE DOGS,” the name of the new album.
Drake’s most recent solo studio album, Honestly, Nevermind, was released on June 17, 2022, delighting fans with his signature style and lyrical prowess. Subsequently, he collaborated with the talented artist 21 Savage on the album Her Loss, which dropped in November of the same year.
As fans eagerly await both the poetry book Titles Ruin Everything and the impending album, the anticipation continues to build for Drake who just embarked on a huge concert tour.
The new Toronto outpost of Brooklyn’s legendary food and drink festival Smorgasburg is returning to the city today for a second year.
The market will take place every Saturday this summer beginning today and will run until Sept. 9 at Captain John’s Pier, 7 Queens Quay East, at the foot of Yonge Street from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Smorgasburg Toronto will feature more than 60 food vendors — some for six-week runs, come for all 12 dates — on Toronto’s scenic harbour front.
Curated to reflect the many cultures found across the city, the mix of vendors is set to represent cuisines from around the world, including West Bengal, Argentina, Tibet, Brazil and the Bahamas. Attendees will be able to expand their palates with the dishes on offer — from Pakistani beef khaose to tandoori chicken and French Patisserie, the food and drink fest offers something for all.
Amongst the vendors, 20 new faces are set to make an appearance, including Fringale, Glory Hole Doghnuts, Islas and Meat on a Stick, along with 40 returning vendors, like Albi Sushi, Birdy’s Daughter and Delicias el Pepe.
Smorgasburg originated in the Williamsburg neighbourhood of Brooklyn, New York in 2011, hence the name. It garnered significant acclaim thanks to its carefully curated vendors that focus on creative, artisanal foods and food purveyors not big-name chefs and restaurants.
There have also been Smorgasburg festivals in Los Angeles and Miami.
Toronto food writer and creative dynamo Suresh Doss was charged with curating the selection last year for the first Smorgasburg Toronto.
“Toronto is recognized around the world as a diverse culinary capital,” said Doss, at the time. “With Smorgasburg Toronto, we will be highlighting this unique food mosaic.”
“I’ve been a long-time fan of Smorgasburg and its proud showcase of international foods presented through the lens of aspiring home cooks. The Toronto market will be a global food tour of regional menus, featuring some of my favourite independent food shops from many of the food-rich communities around the city,” he added.
For more information head to the Smorgasburg Toronto site here.
Ontario is teeming with stunning natural wonders. While some are more famous than others — we’re looking at you Niagara Falls — there are some that are waiting quietly to be discovered.
Below are five natural wonders in Ontario to visit this summer.
A geological treasure, the Cheltenham Badlands are a landscape of rolling rock formed over 400 million years ago at the base of an ancient sea. Located along the Niagara escarpment, the 36-acre site features exposed and eroded Queenston Shale and is red in colour, due to iron oxide deposits. You’ll feel like you’re in a John Ford film, as you take in the sights from a viewing platform and accessible boardwalk.
If the thought of cave exploration is your idea of an adventure, a trip to Eganille, Ontario won’t disappoint. Located 90 minutes south of Ottawa, the Bonnechere Caves were first discovered in 1995 and it is believed they were formed from ancient limestone between 400 and 500 million years ago. Visitors can explore the caves – once the bottom of a tropical sea – on a guided tour, while fossilized coral of ancient sea creatures are also on display.
Situated 6.5 kilometres off the coast of Tobermory, at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Flowerpot Island is known for its clear blue-green waters and naturally occurring sea stacks also known as the “flowerpots.” These giant rock pillars, which are narrow at the base and wider on top, were formed over many years by wind, waves, rain and ice. The softer rock eroded quickly, leaving the harder rock that remained in the shape of flowerpots with trees growing on top. Part of the Fathom Five National Marine Park, this natural wonder is only accessible by boat.
About three hours from Toronto, Bon Echo Provincial Park is a nature-lovers paradise due in part to an abundance of lakes including part of the Mazinaw Lake, the seventh deepest lake in Ontario. But it’s the rock on the southeastern shore of the lake that garners massive attention. Here you’ll find the largest collection of native pictographs in Ontario on the escarpment cliffs. Painted in red ochre, they depict human and animal-like figures and a number of abstract and geometric symbols. There are more than 250 of these rock paintings spread along 2.5 kilometres.
This unique natural wonder dates back to the last ice age when melt-water rivers carved this formation out of the Stoney Creek Escarpment. Now, it’s one of the Hamilton area’s top trails and features two waterfalls: The 5.5-metre Lower Falls and the 33.8-metre Upper Falls. There is a lookout platform providing views of Hamilton should that be of interest. It marks the trailhead for the Dofasco 2000 Trail.
