To celebrate Lunar New Year, taking place on Jan. 22, chefs Anna Chen and Anthony Rose sample one of the day’s most popular dishes — Peking duck. Served wrapped in a pancake or atop a lettuce cup, the dish is known to bring an abundance of good luck.
Winner (pancake): Peking Man
Anthony: “The duck is flavourful and nice and crunchy, and the pancake is nice and thin. I like the addition of the cucumber and the scallion.” Anna: “I feel it could be crispier, but overall the flavours are well-balanced.” 4300 Steeles Ave. E. pekingman.ca $55
Winner (lettuce wrap): Lai Wah Heen
Anna: “Very generous portion and beautiful presentation.” Anthony: “Very pretty. It’s moist and has just the right amount of sauce. I like the simplicity of the flavours and I can really taste the duck.” 108 Chestnut St.laiwahheen.com $88
Tao
Anthony: “The lettuce is a little awkward in terms of its shape, and it’s a bit hard to pick up. I like the
addition of the mango.” Anna: “The duck is nice and chunky, and it’s got a bit of spice, too, which gives it some heat, which I like!” 220 Laird Dr. taobistro.ca $76
Dynasty
Anna: “I got a really nice portion of duck in the pancake, and the skin is nice and crispy.” Anthony: “It’s spiced a little too heavily, but I like the chunkiness of the duck.” 69 Yorkville Ave.dynastyyorkville.com $79.95
Chi Dim Sum
Anna: “There’s lots of flavour in this dish, and the duck is nicely cooked.” Anthony: “I like the duck on this one, very sweet, but not overcooked, and you can really taste the spices that have been used.” 2425 Yonge St. chidimsum.ca $65
Kwan
Anna: “The presentation is pretty, and the lettuce wrap is nice and fresh. The fried noodle adds a nice crunchy garnish, but it’s lacking in flavour.” Anthony: “Presentation-wise the lettuce is gorgeous, but I agree with Anna, more flavour is definitely needed here.” 808 York Mills Rd. kwan-dimsum.com $68
Toronto TV personality and fashion and lifestyle expert Nicole Servinis loves everything fashion, everything fitness and everything local. So when the opportunity to create her own active capsule collection with sustainable Toronto brand Preloved, it was a perfect fit.
For both Servinis and Preloved founder Julia Grieve, this collection is all about supporting local. “I’ve been a big fan of Nicole’s for a long time,” Grieve says. “And the big thing that attracted me to her is that the majority of her career has been based around Toronto and around local brands and initiatives.”
Servinis agrees, saying, “I’ve done a lot of work in the community over the last 10 years, and being in TV, I know the importance of supporting local and what that does not only for us as a community, but for the environment as well,” she says.
Preloved has been around for 26 years, and was one of the first companies in Toronto to focus on sustainability by using vintage, reworked and deadstock fabrics to create clothes. But on top of using preloved materials, the company also manufactures in Toronto — a highly eco-conscious choice that avoids the carbon emissions of outsourcing production or shipping in tonnes of materials.
“One of the biggest elements of Preloved is keeping our manufacturing here because of what that does for sustainability,” Grieve says. “And one of the most harmful aspects of the fashion industry is overproduction — 30 per cent of clothing made is never sold — so one of the things we stand by is that we never overproduce. We just create small batches here, locally.”
The same is true for this new capsule collection with Servinis, which is made with Preloved’s recycled cotton (the fabric itself is composed of recycled yarn). The eight-piece collection, which features activewear items including sweatpants, biker shorts, sports bras, cropped hoodies and more in three colourways, also feature the Preloved signature: a small red heart made out of recycled fabrics to remind the company of the textiles they’ve diverted from landfills.
The athleisure theme for the collection is a trend that is having a bit of a moment right now — or, as Grieve would put it, a mo-o-oo-o-ment. “From a sales point of view, we saw such an uptick [in athleisure sales] over lockdown, and that completely changed how we design all of our collections,” she says. “Gone are the days where we’re going to wear uncomfortable clothing.”
Servinis says she’s seen a shift in her perspective on athleisure over the pandemic. “It’s kind of reinvented itself; it’s not wearing my boyfriend’s ugly track pants, it’s about being comfortable, but also not needing to sacrifice looking good to do it.”
For someone who has grown up in the fitness world, active wear was the obvious theme for this collection. “I danced for about 20 years, I was a figure skater for 15 years, I was on scholarship for a dance team at university, and even after that fitness was still important to me. I used to teach fitness classes at a gym,” Servinis says. “I love it not only for the health reason, but for me, it’s for my mental health. It’s been a big part of what has kept me happy and motivated, so I really wanted to incorporate that into the collection.”
Grieve says having Servinis work on this collection with her was like having a fitness expert on board. “To bring that fitness knowledge to the designs was exactly what we needed; all the small details about where to crop things and how tight to make items came from Nicole,” she says.
The collection, available in sizes XS to XL, can be found at getpreloved.com.
Red Barrinuevo is the Principal Designer at Redesign4More and an award-winning property stylist and interior decorator based in Toronto.
2023 has just begun, and with it comes new resolutions and commitments to improve and upgrade pretty much everything — our lives, our clothes, our food and of course, our homes. Want the scoop on what home decor is here to stay and which new trends will get you a step ahead of the Toronto crowd? Read on for the design trends we can’t get enough of for 2023.
What are some home design trends you think might be on the way out this year?
Neutral colour pallets comprised of beige and grey will not be the dominant trend this year. Hallmarks of the “modern organic” home decor trend, these calm colour schemes were popular as many of us were dealing with the stress of the pandemic and the transition to working from home, needing a serene environment to cope.
While there will always be use for neutrals, I expect more vibrant and charismatic colours will be popular in 2023.
I’m noticing more folks are drawn to eclectic decor, meaning the “modern organic: aesthetic is on its way out. Kitschy accessories and fun patterns will be popular as home decor can be a way to express your personality.
What trends are here to stay?
Vintage furniture is here to stay, especially as eclectic home decor is in. While vintage furniture is timeless to some degree, I expect it to be a dominant trend.
Curved furniture was definitely trendy in 2022 and I see this lasting through 2023. However, I expect this will have more of an art deco feel than the “modern organic” feel. I think art deco accessories and colours will be trending, with many of the colours of the year being red and pink hues reminiscent of this era. I also expect wallpaper will remain popular, drawing from the geometric patterns popular in the 1920s versus the floral and grasscloth designs prominent in 2022.
Fluted walls and panelling are still having a moment. These elements not only add visual interest, but can be used to create hidden storage, concealing televisions, cabling or even toys.
Lastly, dedicated home work spaces are here to stay as working from home has long outlasted lockdowns.
What are the top five new trends you predict will be popular in 2023?
Rich, saturated and dramatic hues and a burst of colour will dominate 2023 in a few ways. However, I expect some contrast as well, such as gothic home decor elements and dark hues being mixed with pastels. You will see a lot of moody rooms and explosions of colour.
I believe multi-purpose interiors will also be a staple. A kitchen is not just a kitchen anymore — on weekdays, it could serve as a homework station and a place for entertaining guests.
Mixing the old with the new will also be popular. I’m passionate about refurbishing and repurposing older and antique furniture pieces. With supply chain issues, reclaimed materials have become popular in home decor. I see this trend lasting as it gives homeowners something uniquely theirs that others won’t have.
Lastly, I see red and pink hues being popular in home decor. From Benjamin Moore’s Raspberry Blush to Pantone’s Viva Magenta, there will be red and pink everywhere, from wall colours to accessories.
What are your thoughts on following home design trends?
Stick with what you love; choose things that make you happy. If you are unsure of where to start when it comes to home decor, take a look at your wardrobe. The clothes you wear every day can tell you a lot about what you are drawn to aesthetic-wise. Are you into patterns or solid colours? Do you enjoy dramatic silhouettes or lush fabrics? Drawing inspiration from what you already like is a good way to ensure you won’t grow tired of your home decor.
What are some of the most cost-effective ways to make small updates to your home that can change the whole look and feel of a space?
Colours can easily change the vibe of a room. I’m telling you — a can of paint can work magic! Rotating small accessories such as pillows, rugs, lamps, wall art or bedding can instantly update the look of a room without having to splurge on big ticket items. Lastly, green never goes out of style. Incorporating natural elements goes beyond plants — colours like emerald green and navy blue can add some life to a neutral base without causing a headache.
What are the best ways for homeowners to keep their home up-to-date, but also classic and timeless?
I recommend using classic pieces throughout your space. Go for clean lines and classic design. Look to furniture schools such as Shaker, mid-century modern or American traditional styles. These pieces will seamlessly integrate into your home as design trends change or you incorporate new pieces.
To avoid impulse buys or home decor decisions, ask yourself the following questions:
Would I buy this if it was more expensive?
Do I have a place for this?
Do I love this, and does it make me feel good?
Don’t just go straight to the pink curve boucle sofa that’s trendy right now.
Update: Is a bagel really anything without smooth, creamy Philly? According to the Kraft Heinz Canada brand, that answer is no.
To compliment Nike’s new Montreal bagel inspired kicks which just dropped on Jan. 17, (and have already sold out), Philadelphia Cream Cheese will soon be launching Philly Schmear Socks, available in three “flavours” including Original, Strawberry and Chive and Onion.
Philly Cream Cheese on Instagram
Adorned with the Philadelphia logo, the socks look like they’ve been covered in schmears of the brand’s delicious cream cheese and will retail for $14.99.
Nike has long been at the forefront of the footwear scene ever since launching the iconic “Moon Shoe” back in 1972. And now, the multi-million dollar athletic brand has added what some consider to be the crown jewel of Montreal cuisine to it’s list of iconic designs.
Set for release on January 17, the Dunk Low Montreal Bagel Sneaker is bringing “fresh-baked style to the streets” according to the description on Nike’s website.
“You know the saying: The sweeter the bagel, the sweeter the Dunk,” the description goes on to say. The shoe features “carb-lover colors plus a pinch of Montreal blue.” The kicks are adorned with fun sesame seed graphics that’s sprinkled atop the overlay panels, while a gum-coloured sole completes the design.
This isn’t the first time Nike has given some love to a Canadian city. Back in 2015, the brand came out with a pair of Toronto-inspired sneakers called ‘The 6.” Designed by Canadian footwear designer Erin Cochrane, the Nike Air Max 1 featured the CN Tower on the soles, sock liners inspired by the Aurora Borealis and “The 6” inscribed on the inside of the tongues.
Photo: Nike
The Dunk Low Montreal Bagel Sneaker retails for $120 US and is set for release on January 17.
Is The Office more your jam than Friends? Have you memorized all of Michael Scott’s funniest lines? Would you love to visit Schrute Farms? This spring, you’re in luck — The Office Experience is coming to Toronto, and you’ll be able to live out all your greatest TV fantasies.
After the success of the The Friends Experience, it’s no surprise that one of the only sitcoms to rival Friends‘ popularity is getting its own immersive experience. Toronto is only the third city to host The Office Experience — the installation started in Chicago and is finishing up in Washington now. Starting March 3 at Yorkdale Shopping Centre, fans can step inside recreated sets from the show, including the Dunder Mifflin Scranton office, Schrute Farms and Scranton Business Park.
The experience offers up some fun photo ops, including pilling Kevin’s famous chili, dancing down the aisle at Jim and Pam’s wedding and stopping by the break room to join the Finer Things Club. You can start your own office romance from behind Pam’s desk, hang out in Michael’s office and take a seat at Dwight’s desk (where you might find a Jell-o surprise in your drawer).
For the mega-fans, you can get a glimpse of some of the original props from the sitcom and learn a bit more about the behind-the-scenes of the show. If you’re hoping to take a piece of Scranton home with you, inside of a replica of the warehouse will be a gift shop filled with exclusive themed items.
Need to prepare yourself for this experience with a full re-watch of all nine seasons? Don’t worry — it’s running until June 4 so you’ll have time to remind yourself of all your favourite moments and plan out which photo ops you need to get.
Tickets are $37 per person and go on sale on Jan. 25. There is currently a waitlist running to notify fans of when the tickets go on sale.
Too early to start making plans for August? Not when the Queen of Pop says she’s touching down in Toronto. Madonna just announced her latest world tour, Madonna: The Celebration Tour, and she’s making a stop in the city! For superfans, it’s going to be an exciting one — she’s planning on playing all her mega-hits from over the years, including “Like a Virgin,” “Lucky Star” and “Me against the Music.”
While Madonna isn’t technically promoting an album with completely new hits, late last year she released the first collection in a planned retrospective package of music. The first edition, Finally Enough Love: 50 Number Ones, highlights 50 songs from her legendary discography. Fans can be sure that the show will be entertainment-packed, featuring Madonna’s greatest hits spanning the star’s incredible four decades-long career and a performance by special guest Bob the Drag Queen.
Die-hard fans might remember the fiasco from 33 years ago when Madonna was booked to come to Toronto on her Blond Ambition tour. The Toronto Police threatened to arrest her on the grounds of “lewd and obscene behaviour” for an X-rated scene in her ever-iconic “Like a Virgin” music video. Pressure to put a stop to her show failed and 30,000 eager fans enjoyed the concert without disruption.
Since then, Madonna has played in Toronto many times, without push-back, three of which completely sold out the Rogers Centre (formerly known as the Sky Dome). Proving she has super stardom staying power, fans were all over Twitter sharing their excitement for her upcoming visit to the 6ix:
If any generous #Madonna fans want to share their presale code, I will gladly dance with you at the Toronto show and buy you a beer #CelebrationTour
@TheAltarOfAndy I have just been advised that for my birthday this year I will be seeing Madonna in Toronto (Aug 13/23)! You are the only person I know who will share my epic level of excitement. Saw her in Toronto in 1985 for her first tour. Will be amazing. ?
Vintage desserts are having a moment. A crop of old-fashioned classics have made their way onto the menus at some of Toronto’s best restaurants, with the city’s top chefs breathing new life into these tried-and-true recipes for the ultimate taste of nostalgia.
The pavlova has a rather aristocratic origin. The dreamy dessert was named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova during one of her tours to New Zealand or Australia in the 1920s — the originating country of its creation has apparently been a source of contention between the two nations for decades. Not to be confused with a similar egg white creation, meringue (which is dry and crisp throughout, whereas the pavlova has a soft, marshmallowy centre), the elegant cake is then topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. At modern Italian eatery 12 Tables, the house-made pavlova ($13) is artfully arranged and served with whipped cream, seasonal berries and homemade raspberry coulis and the perfect ending to any meal. 1552 Avenue Rd.
It was French chef Charles Ranhofer who famously put the baked Alaska on the foodie map when he created the delicious concoction while working at renowned New York eatery Delmonico’s in the mid-19th century. The show-stopping dessert was introduced by Ranhofer (to much fanfare) to celebrate the U.S. purchase of Alaska in 1867. At Harbour 60, the baked Alaska for two ($30) is made with creamy dark chocolate and nocciola gelato, a nutty flourless chocolate almond brownie, and blanketed in toasted meringue. Once it arrives at your table, it’s then flambéed with brandy for the ultimate tableside presentation. 60 Harbour St.
In 1951, a New Orleans restaurant owner challenged his talented chef Paul Blangé to create a dessert using bananas — at the time the city was the major port of entry for the imported fruit, which was being shipped from Central and South America. The result was the deliciously sinful bananas Foster that’s made with a decadently rich sauce and then dramatically torched right at your table. Along with perfectly grilled steaks, the bananas Foster at Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar stays true to the original recipe: ripe bananas are sautéed with butter, brown sugar and fresh orange juice and then flambéed with dark rum and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream ($18.95). 365 Bay St.
The Florida Keys are close enough to our city to make them an easy travel destination for Torontonians; but far enough from the cold weather to provide the perfect warm island retreat. The stretch of islands are connected to the mainland via an over-the-water highway, which is equally as scenic as it is convenient.
With easy, direct flights right into Miami, it makes escaping the Canadian cold and getting to the Florida Keys that much easier. Simply grab a rent-a-car at the Miami International airport and make the road trip a pit stop adventure, exploring the different Keys along the way.
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf
To help you plan your Great Escape this winter, we’ve partnered with The Florida Keys’ Tourism Board and put together an easy 5-day itinerary to get you inspired to plan your adventure.
Day 1: Key Largo
Drive to Key Largo from Miami International Airport.
Key Largo Accommodations: Baker’s Cay Resort
bakerscayresort.com
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf
Baker’s Cay is a 15-acre, 200-room resort, equipped with stunning rooms, two swimming pools with a waterfall grotto, a pool bar and food truck, alongside a winding nature trail lined with hidden beaches, a boat dock, and wellness salon. The beachside taco venue includes house-made hot sauces crafted from peppers grown in Chef’s rooftop garden, as well as over 100 tequilas and mezcals.
Mid-Morning/ Early Afternoon Activity: Sandbar Swim Trip with Islander Girl Tours
Islandergirltours.com
Islander Girl Tours is owned and operated by a mother/daughter duo who grew up in the Keys [DYK: local natives to the Keys are referred to as Conch]. The duo spend their days diving and snorkeling—and have made their passion their career by launching their tour company Islander Girl Tours. Let their knowledgeable captains take you to some of the healthiest and most pristine living coral reefs in the world. The sandbar swim trip takes you to a sandbar where you can enjoy complimentary drinks from your boat, hangout on the sandbar, and visit the floating food truck/boat for some delicious bites.
Afternoon/Evening Activity: Enjoy a pint at Florida Keys Brewing Co.
floridakeysbrewingco.com
This brewery is a must for those who love to enjoy a pint and good vibes. The colourful aesthetic is filled with keyzie fun. Joining in on your night might be the owners’ cats who frequent the taproom and brewery! Located in Morada Way’s Arts and Cultural District, Florida Keys Brewing Co. opened in March 2015 and infuses their brews with local flavours such as Key limes, citrus, and local honey.
Dinner at Calusa at Baker’s Cay Resort
bakerscayresort.com
Back at Baker’s Cay, Calusa welcomes visitors for breakfast and dinner. This indoor/outdoor Creole-Caribbean restaurant hints at New Orleans flavours, while bringing in the fresh flavours of the Keys. Enjoy panoramic views of the crystalline blue waters of the Florida Bay and the most eloquent paint brushed sunsets.
Day 2: Key West
Head to Key West
Key West Accommodation: The Perry Hotel at Stock Island Marina Village
perrykeywest.com
Inspired by the industrial nature from which Stock Island has developed, The Perry Hotel at Stock Island Marina blends smooth wood finishes with rustic metal details. This design references the area’s iconic maritime heritage, while adding an updated touch. Located beside a state-of-the-art 288-slip marina —the largest deep-water marina in the Florida Keys— this boutique hotel’s pool deck overlooks the working waterfront. With three dockside restaurants [Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen and Bar, The Salty Oyster Bar and Grill and Sloppy Joe’s Dockside] you’ll be able to indulge in American coastal comfort food and craft cocktails with an innovative twist. Though not directly located in Key West, the free shuttle service operates hourly and is a great, easy and efficient way to get into Key West’s main streets.
Afternoon Activity: Explore the beautiful streets of Key West, including Duval Street and Mallory Square
sunsetcelebration.org
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf
Sunset Celebration is a nightly “street carnival” at Mallory Square. Overlooking Key West Harbor, the celebration features arts and crafts exhibitors, street performers, food carts, psychics, musicians and entertainers. Crowds of visitors from around the world flock to the celebration each evening to observe the setting of the sun over the water [DYK: The Florida Keys are renowned for their sunsets]. Duval Street is stretches across the island, running from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. With restaurants, cafes, shops, and everything in between, this popular street is one of the most iconic destinations in the Florida Keys.
Dinner at Latitudes on Sunset Key
sunsetkeycottages.com/latitudes-restaurant/
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf
Perched on the exclusive island of Sunset Key, Latitudes is the perfect dinner spot if you’re looking for a scenic sunset meal with sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance—and ensure you buffer enough time to get there as you’ll need to take the Sunset Key’s charter boat over from the mainland. The innovative seasonal menu features local fish, fresh produce, and a variety of island classics, elevating the casual fare with a Caribbean flair.
Day 3: Key West
Cuban Coffee Queen Downtown
cubancoffeequeen.com
With Cuba only a matter of miles offshore from the keys, the Cuban influence can be seen across the island! Cuban Coffee Queen’s downtown stall is a quick and easy spot to grab a morning coffee, café con leche, or Cuban chocolate mocha before a morning activity. Breakfast favourites include the Key Wester and the pork roll on Cuban bread.
Morning Activity: Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Tour with Honest Eco
honesteco.org
The Dolphin Watch tour with Honest Eco features SQUID—Key West’s first electric-powered charter boat. The boat is a lithium ion battery-powered hybrid with electric motors, perfect for four-hour dolphin watching and snorkeling tours. The boat burns only three gallons of diesel fuel per trip, equivalent to about one-quarter of a gallon of fossil fuel per guest. Enjoy watching wild dolphins as they play, sleep, hunt and mate in Key West’s tranquil, turquoise waters in an eco-friendly way.
Afternoon Activity: Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
hemingwayhome.com
For 10 years, Ernest Hemingway called Key West his home. At his Whitehead Street property, guests will take a step back in time, visiting rooms and gardens where the Nobel Prize winner spent the most prolific period of his writing career. Notable features include the island’s first swimming pool and his second-story studio, where he wrote many of his classic works [DYK: Hemingway used Depression-era Key West as the locale for “To Have and Have Not” — his only novel set in the United States].
Evening Activity: Land’s End Sunset Sail with Sebago Key West
keywestsebago.com
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf
Sebago Watersports offers amazing catamaran and schooner sailing tours! One of the most iconic Key West adventures includes the champagne sail, which has you aboard the Marquesa, enjoying the world-famous Key West sunset over drinks, and passed canapés.
Dinner at Milagro Restaurant
milagrorestaurant.net
Milagro Restaurant and Bar is hidden off the beaten path, just two blocks from the Southernmost Point and one block from world famous Duval Street. Run by a husband and wife duo, an award-winning Executive Chef Kevin Montoya and the General Manager Maggie Montoya, Milagro is a labor of love with deep ties to scratch-made food, art, and the community.
Day 4: Key West
Mid-Morning/ Early Afternoon Activity: Southernmost Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour
keywestfoodtours.com
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf
This 3-hour walking tour visits 6 locally owned establishments in the historic old town. Delicious and mouthwatering food tastings, enough for a hearty lunch, are served in ethnic eateries and specialty shops that are unique to the Florida Keys. Between tastings, participants will experience what life is like for a Conch through the stories of the passionate local guides, which share their knowledge of architectural gems, tropical flora, and exciting local attractions and restaurants.
Dinner at Matt’s Stock Island
mattsstockisland.com
Located at The Perry Hotel Key West, Matt’s serves “American coastal comfort food” with innovative twists. Some of the cool menu offerings include iced cold seafood presented in a fisherman’s tackle box. Overlooking a colourful marina, it’s no wonder that Matt’s the winner of OpenTable’s 2018 Diners’ Choice Award for best ambiance.
Day 5: Upper Keys
Head to the Upper Keys
Marathon Accommodation: Isla Bella Beach Resort
Islabellabeachresort.com
At the threshold of the iconic Seven Mile Bridge lies Isla Bella Beach Resort. Framed by a canopy of native plants and tropical greenery, this private oasis features 5 oceanfront pools, a marina, a spa, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a variety of games and activities, like bocce ball, giant chess, and biking. Multiple dining options including Mahina, a world-class Polynesian-inspired restaurant.
Tour the Turtle Hospital
turtlehospital.org
Opened in 1986, the Turtle Hospital treats injured sea turtles and, when possible, returns them to the wild. Educational tours allows you to learn about these beautiful creatures before being introduce to the resident sea turtles. While on the tour, you’ll learn about the hospital’s curative programs for loggerhead, green, hawksbill and Kemp’s ridley turtles. The hospital is believed to be the world’s only state-licensed veterinary hospital dedicated solely to the treatment of sea turtles.
Take in the views from the Old Seven Mile Bridge
Located at Mile Marker 47
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf
The Old Seven Mile Bridge, better known as “Old 7,” was built over a century ago as the centrepiece of Henry Flagler’s Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. In 1938 the bridge was converted for automobiles and in 1982 the Federal government built a new span paralleling the historic one. “Old 7” was then retired and became a fishing pier and walking area.
Dinner at Mahina at Isla Bella Beach Resort
Islabellabeachresort.com
Mahina is a Polynesian inspired restaurant at Isla Bella Beach Resort. Influenced by Executive Chef Pavy Keomaniboth’s birthplace of Hawaii, Mahina features a coastal culinary experience using local fresh ingredients and flavors native to his homeland and the Keys. Mahina, which means “Moon” in Hawaiian, symbolizes the full-circle transformation of the menu.
For more information on the Florida Keys and Key West, visit Fla-Keys.com.
Before Robin Yates was making a name for himself as the co-founder of Toronto luxury outerwear brand Nobis, he had already made his mark on the city’s cold weather fashion as the vice-president of Canada Goose. We spoke with the winter outerwear expert about making the move to his own brand, a new eco-friendly initiative with Nobis and more.
What inspired you to found Nobis?
I needed something that could take me from up north at the cottage to whatever international location I found myself in. Those who know me well know I love snowmobiling in -30℃ and then dining with friends and family. I wanted a product that performed in both environments.
Does Canada deserve its reputation as the gold standard for outerwear?
Canada is one of the best environments in the world to design outerwear, thanks to the cold weather and the range of seasonality and conditions we live through. Canada is recognized as a true leader in this category.
Nobis just created a new peer-to-peer resale initiative — tell us more.
Next by Nobis was created to bring added value to our customers by extending the end-of-life cycle of customers’ products while reducing our carbon footprint. This program will grant customers access to authentic pre-owned products and allow them to sell older products without contributing to landfills.
Why did Nobis close its Yorkville store?
We decided to focus on supporting our key retail partners in Toronto and ensuring our owned retail presence complements the city. Our flagship store on Queen Street West now has a wider range of products and services.
At Old Avenue Restaurant & Bakery, a trio of incredibly accomplished individuals are allowing Torontonians to experience a taste of home by way of traditional and upscale takes on Azerbaijani food.
Located in North York, the restaurant is spearheaded from the business end by Esther Mordecai, a single mother and social activist, who is quick to praise head chef Mahmud Allahverdiyev, who has been working tirelessly to turn his business dreams into a reality.
“I myself am a community advocate,” says Mordecai. “I always advocate for refugees and immigrants. With my best friend by my side, I thought it was a great thing to implement his ideas.”
The menu features an array of rare dishes that showcase the cuisine found in southern Caucasus and the surrounding areas within — a cuisine Mordecai says, only one restaurant was serving when she first immigrated to Toronto.
Shah Plov is one of Old Avenue’s most popular and accomplished dishes. Known as Azerbaijan’s national dish, it translates to “crown pilaf” and is made with basmati rice, dried fruits and chestnuts and a choice of beef or lamb. It’s then wrapped inside a flatbread called lavash.
The robust menu also features traditionally classic dishes like Georgian Khinkali ($25) a meat-filled dumpling made with lamb and beef; assorted pide ($17) and a number of items from the grill like rack of lamb ($36) and salmon ($33).
But it’s the Khachapuri that Mordecai feels is the underrated competitor in the race for the restaurant’s best dish. The traditional Georgian dish is a pie filled with mashed kidney, red beans, onion and cheese ($24) while the Khachapuri Megleskiy ($25) is filled with special cheese and even more cheese on top.
“We use three kinds of cheeses. I can’t even name all of them but it’s incredibly delicious,” she says.
Gulnar Aliyeva heads up Old Avenue’s bakery. On the restaurant’s website they espouse a “deep, spiritual love of bread,” which they say is “ubiquitous, fragrant and essential.”
Within the restaurant’s interior, is a slew of antique collectibles which belong to Mordecai and Allahverdiyev. There’s an array of vintage spoons, each with a unique story, a photo of Allahverdiyev’s mother, and then there’s Goldie, a porcelain doll that acts as the restaurant’s mascot.
Mordecai’s line of work is in the realm of social justice, so it was a no-brainer for her to employ a team of refugees and newcomers to Canada, including some from the Ukraine.
“We made a conscious decision to help marginalized people. When they come here, they’re barely getting financial assistance,” she said.” They get some help at the beginning, then they have to go find a job. Who’s going to hire them? I always felt like it was important to make a difference, and we will be able to help more the more we grow.”
Old Avenue Restaurant & Bakery is located at 1923C Avenue Road, and offers their entire menu for pick-up and in-restaurant dining.
Trying to keep a secret in a city like Toronto is almost impossible. Case in point: these “secret” restaurants won’t remain a secret for much longer.
Check out these six delicious eateries that are waiting to be discovered.
Figures
Cesar Ruana/Google Photos
One minute you’re standing in a comic book shop and the next, you’re walking through a hidden door into an eclectic dining room. Located in Yorkville at 137 Avenue Rd., Figures is an upscale resto-lounge that pays homage to superheroes and comics with decor and drinks inspired by everybody’s favourite characters. The menu features sharing plates and larger-format dishes inspired by the seasons, while deliciously crafted cocktails like the Web Slinging Spider Hombre, the Poison Ivy and the Johnny Blaze will please even the most discerning palette. In the wee hours, the 2,000 square-foot space transforms into a lounge complete with a DJ.
à toi
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King St. West eatery Coffee, Oysters and Champagne is pretty impressive. Along with — you guessed it — delicious coffee, plump oysters and an extensive list of bubbly — it’s also the front to a hidden bar with an extensive menu that’s designed to look like a hotel lobby bar from the 1920s. The story behind à toi is an interesting one. According to the website, it was named after a small boutique hotel that was built in the 1920s by French millionaire Antoine Mercer. While it was said to be a gift to the city of Toronto. But the choice of name — meaning ‘to you’ was really an inside joke between Antoine and his wife Isabel, as it was really his gift to her. Sadly, Antoine died of a heart attack during the hotel’s construction and Isabel became fixated on the lobby bar that bears the hotel’s name. Behind a display of champagne is a secret entrance into à toi where guests will feel like they’ve been transported to another time. On the menu is a curated selection of elevated European flare like mushroom croquettes, beef carpaccio, and tuna tartare. Later, patrons can take a whirl on the carousel, or indulge in champagne shooters & caviar bumps prepared by chef de cuisine Olivia Seymour.
Pastiche
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“No signage, just a door open to the curious,” reads the Instagram profile bio for Pastiche, a noshery located at 59 Ossington Ave. Open from “5:00pm to Who Cares” revelers are invited to step behind the red velvet curtains and into an exotic room filled with stained glass. It’s an outlandish space where “norms are challenged.” The blind tasting menu is organized by category: farm (meat dishes), garden (plant-based) and shore (seafood). Cocktails are $15 a piece and include the barrel aged Nonna’s Negroni, and Bramble On! made with gin and elder flower liquer .
Mira Restaurant
Mira on Instagram
Just follow the lanterns down a set of stairs and you’ll be transported to Mira, a hidden restaurant located at 420A Wellington St. W. Once you hit the neon llama (a motif that continues inside the restaurant’s space) you’ll be transported to a speakeasy in Peru, via Mira‘s tasteful decor and the bold flavours of its dishes. Small dishes like yucca frites, empanadas and ensalade de col reign supreme while delicious desserts including picarones, and the famous el huevo malo chocolate ball will have you coming back for more.
Vatican Gift Shop
Vatican Gift Shop on Instagram
Don’t fall for the ploy of this Catholic themed gift shop. In reality, it’s a hidden speakeasy from the team behind much loved dive bar Poor Romeo. The east-end haunt is serving up an array of cocktails and craft beer along with delicious Neapolitan-style pizza and live music to keep you entertained. The “our daily bread” menu includes nine delicious pie options with holier than thou names like the Augustine and the Vatican 5.0, while Italian small plates inlcude arancini and an antipasti board or platter.
Mahjong Bar
Mahjong Bar on Instagram
Hidden in Toronto’s Trinity Bellwoods neighbourhood behind a pink bodega, you’ll find Mahjong Bar, a gorgeous 2,000 square-foot space serving up Chinese dishes and a bevvy of drinks. Enter through a keyhole-shaped door into a dimly lit space and enjoy a cocktail (or two) like the Rosemary’s Baby or the Pirate Punch along with snacks like the steak tartare with crips, or kimchi fries.
A Toronto bookbinder is getting attention around the world with a new project that sees the Toronto artist create a new series of Harry Potter books that are rebound to remove the name of author J.K. Rowling.
Laur Flom, who is transgender, came up with the idea after learning of Rowling’s views that have been called out as transphobic. Flom started to work on the project last year and has reportedly created approximately 30 books so far.
The project through Flom’s LF Books was reported in the UK’s Daily Mail, in which the artist made his views towards Rowling and Harry Potter clear.
“I was [a fan]. Growing up when I did, it was a given that you would read Harry Potter. After J.K Rowling’s views on people like me came out, it left a bad taste in my mouth,” said Flom, to the Daily Mail. “It raised questions about the ethics of consuming her work. The purpose of this project is to create a safe space for fans to find comfort in the books and critically engage with J.K Rowling’s work.”
A backgrounder on Rowling’s comments can be found here.
Flom sells each of the eight books that make up the Harry Potter series individually for $230 or as a set. Each one is rebound and redesigned with screen-printed covers and end pages. A full set of the books is $1,600.
Flom will also take customers’ existing books to be rebound, restored and “de-Rowlinged.”
According to the LF Books website, Flom is a printmaker, book artist, and Taylor Swift fan based in Toronto, Ontario. They have a BFA in printmaking from OCAD University.
“My practice is largely conceptual, exploring themes surrounding identity, memory, and trans masculinity. I also occasionally rebind Harry Potter books,” it states.
