Toronto’s Canada Goose needs to fly home for the winter

By

-

10:30 am

This summer, Canada Goose was soaring with better-than-expected sales — but now the outerwear company, among Toronto’s most recognizable brands, is weathering a gloomier outlook just as the holiday shopping season gets underway.

“With Canada Goose, one of the biggest concerns is the lockdowns in China and not being able to predict it,” says Jessica Ramirez, senior research retail analyst at Jane Hali & Associates.

Earlier this month, Canada Goose announced it was downwardly revising its full-year revenue forecast from a range of $1.3-$1.4 billion down to $1.2-$1.3 billion in response to lockdowns and travel bans related to China’s zero-COVID policy.

“We … see a long runway ahead to drive profitable growth by increasing our direct-to-consumer mix, expanding our penetration in key markets, and expanding our product offerings,” said Dani Reiss, Canada Goose’s chairman and CEO, in a news release.

Reiss’s confidence may not be misplaced. Second quarter sales totalled $277.2 million, up 19 per cent compared to the same period last year.

However, the cut to the fiscal outlook is “significant,” Ramirez says — though Canada Goose is not alone. Many other global brands are also struggling to reach Chinese consumers amid the lockdowns and are experiencing manufacturing challenges too.

“Canada Goose doesn’t have that issue because they actually do manufacture in Canada, so it really is just an issue with consumers,” Ramirez explains.

The downgraded outlook follows a successful first quarter, when Canada Goose was surpassing revenue targets as sales of upscale products flew in the face of inflation.

“Luxury in general has been very strong,” says Ramirez. “I mean, Canada Goose still did — in the last quarter — very well with North America and even with Europe, so that consumer is still shopping.”

What’s driving the general resilience in the luxury goods market? Ramirez credits renewed enthusiasm from shoppers who want new outfits to wear now that they’re going out again and are returning to the workplace.

Looking ahead, the weather is in Canada Goose’s favour. Winter is a strong time for sales, given that many of Canada Goose’s most popular items — including the iconic down parkas — are made for freezing temperatures.

“Outerwear is still pretty strong, skiing has really taken off, [and] they’ve done a good job doing pop-ups in these luxury resorts in the past year,” adds Ramirez. “I expect that to continue.”

However, if the lockdowns persist, Ramirez suggests companies like Canada Goose, which have been relying on the Chinese market for growth, will need to make strategic changes.

“At the moment, it’s actually North America offsetting a lot of those numbers that have been lost in China, so there could be more of a strategic approach to North America as well.”

Make a day of it at one of these Ontario Christmas tree farms

By

Nikki Gill

-

12:33 pm

0

Cricket Creek Christmas tree farm — Cricket Creek Farm

Natalie Preddie is a travel and lifestyle writer, speaker and guest expert on Cityline, Your Morning and Global’s The Morning Show.

When I was young, my family always cut our own Christmas tree. We would trudge through the snow until we all agreed on the perfect tree and watch my dad struggle with the “too small saw” he always brought. He would eventually drag it back to the car, cold, annoyed and covered in pine needles. We watched my dad struggle to strap the tree to the top of the car while my mum shouted unhelpful instructions from the ground. Inevitably, the tree would fly off the car the moment we reversed. Regardless of the annual holiday lampoon, we all looked forward to our family Christmas tree adventure.

Since then, the cut-your-own Christmas tree experience has evolved — it is less of a trek through the tundra and more of a winter wonderland getaway. Christmas tree farms offer wagon rides, hot chocolate to warm your hands, a place to buy gifts and even unique accommodations. Here are a few Ontario Christmas tree farms offering guests a truly original holiday adventure.

Downey’s Farm

Whether you are looking to pick your own apples, pumpkins or attempt the corn maze, this Caledon family-friendly farm is popular all year round. When it comes to Christmas trees, Downey’s offers firs, balsams or pines from Nov. 25 onward. The farm is open Nov. 25-27 and every day in December until Christmas Eve. In addition to trees, Downey’s also sells free-range turkeys, garlands, holiday decorations and gift baskets full of fresh jams, jellies, honey and maple syrup in its market. Downey’s also operates a winery with traditional reds and whites, fruit wines, dessert and ice wines, all available for purchase on-site.

This year, Downey’s will be offering a Christmas on the farm experience for little ones which includes visiting farm animals, cookie decorating, scavenger hunts and meeting Santa himself.

Elliot Tree Farm

Elliott Tree Farm was built in 1890 in Hillsburgh, Ont. Daily from Nov. 19 to Dec. 23, the farm offers fir, spruce or pine trees from six feet up to a towering 14 feet tall. With either fresh cut or cut-your-own trees available, the farm offers curbside pickup or delivery and set up.

For those looking for a full day at the farm, there are many festive celebrations ready and waiting. Warm up with gourmet hot chocolate from the custom hot chocolate bar. Sip your decadent drink next to the bonfire and have a chat with the farm horses. If you visit on a weekend, Horse Barn Canteen is on site serving both breakfast and lunch. Explore Heritage Barn, a gift shop that highlights local holiday decor and treats such as farm fresh wreaths, greens and pure maple syrup and local handmade gifts.

Elliott Farm also offers two rustic getaways should you want to extend your stay all weekend long. The circa 1850s settler’s cabin (wood-burning stove and all) and rustic beach house (outhouse included), offer the perfect social distancing private mini-break away from the day trippers. Both can be booked on Airbnb.

Cricket Creek Farm

Located in Hockley Valley, Cricket Creek Farm looks to provide guests with a quiet and peaceful holiday experience on their Christmas tree farm. The farm primarily offers firs up to 12 feet in height but also has a few spruces for those who are particular. The farm takes great care in nurturing its land and crops, every year planting hundreds of trees and new species, all certified organic. Visit from dawn to dusk every weekend in December to grab your own, or call ahead for an appointment on weekdays if your weekends are too full of holiday parties for you to make time to visit!

The farm sits on a large wooded property with a number of trails for families to explore either before or after they’ve chosen their tree. The farm also offers apple cider and hot chocolate beside a cosy fire. Cricket Creek prides itself on offering families a fun and relaxing day out and real, natural trees that will brighten homes over the holidays.

Famous South Korean chicken chain to open first-ever Toronto outpost

By

Jennifer Schembri

-

11:30 am

0

NeNe Chicken, South Korea’s largest and most popular fried chicken chain has arrived in Toronto. The restaurant is holding a grand opening party on Dec. 10 and to celebrate, they’ll be giving away free chicken for two days!

NeNe Chicken was founded in South Korea in 1999. The word “Ne” is the Korean word for “Yes,” hence their name means “Yes! Chicken”. With more than 1,200 stores throughout South Korea, NeNe Chicken is renowned for their original and sweet and spicy chicken, which is largely due to a secret batter-tip technique that keeps the meat super juicy and its coating exceptionally crispy.

The batter for the fried chicken has several “ruffles” that help the sauce adhere to the surface, preventing it from falling off. NeNe Chicken offers a variety of crunchy fried chicken options, coated in a mouth-watering array of secret recipe sauces. Various chicken options include bone-in, boneless, wings and drumstick fried chicken, four different chicken burgers (including the Hawaii-Terri with pineapple), fries, onion rings, and more. Flavours include soy garlic, sweet and spicy, “snowing” cheese, “snowing” chilli, hot bling, and more.

On Dec. 10, NeNe Chicken will offer a series of deals including free tasting boxes for the first 50 purchases in store, wing specials and additional discounts. The store’s grand opening party runs from 12 to 8 p.m.

NeNe Chicken is located at 4891 Yonge St. Toronto and will be open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

What to do if you’re still experiencing setbacks from an injury

By

Jarrod Daley

-

10:00 am

0

See all posts by Diamond and Diamond Lawyers

Recovering from an injury is always a serious matter. After an injury, you might be eager to return to your pre-injury lifestyle, but pushing yourself too quickly can exacerbate the injury and make your recovery longer.

It is important to remember that some injuries need some extra assistance. At Diamond and Diamond, the personal well-being and health of others are at the top of the priority list. “Our team of lawyers rely on their reputation in the field and extensive experience in personal injury to provide clients with an unmatched and dedicated support system over the duration of their case,” says Sandra Zisckind, managing partner at Diamond and Diamond.

Physical Health First

Even if an injury initially seems minor, health issues can persist after the original injury has occurred. Whether it’s a car accident, brain injury, dog bite, birth injury, or even a common slip or fall, lingering health issues can happen unexpectedly.

In these circumstances, it is important to track which health issues persist and the general symptoms. Maintaining a log of these occurrences can help you keep track of any health changes that need to be communicated to either a lawyer or a doctor.

“If you’re looking for a great way to keep track of any health changes, I recommend logging the date and your symptoms in a centralized place. This allows you to keep track of these changes and includes important details about how you feel and when the change occurs,” says Zisckind.

Maintaining a log of personal health changes is a great way to understand how your body changes and notice any patterns that might help healthcare professionals understand and treat your injury.

Ignoring Mental Health Issues Can Make Them Worse

While not always visible, mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental health issues can seem easy to brush off, but they can lead to bigger problems down the road if they aren’t addressed early on. If you are still experiencing issues related to mental health that stem from your initial injury, be sure to reach out to a licensed healthcare professional with relevant experience.

“There are serious consequences to ignoring mental health issues such as untreated anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and chronic pain, which can all lead to suffering in your daily life,” Zisckind said. It’s important to look at the bigger picture when considering your health, including both physical and mental health.

Speak Up – Your Health Matters

Putting your health first is the best way to prioritize yourself. In some instances, individuals can feel guilt or shame for injuries they are coping with. Never forget that getting back to your pre-injury state involves prioritizing your needs. The faster you get help, the faster your recovery will be.

“Having a personal injury can be a very challenging experience that sometimes leaves people feeling embarrassed to speak up. Always remember to prioritize your needs and advocate for your well-being,” stressed Zisckind.

While you might be tempted to rush back to work, hobbies, and your pre-injury lifestyle, it won’t make your recovery go any quicker. Taking an active approach to your healthcare is the best way to overcome injuries and live your happiest, healthiest life.

If you’re looking for a personal injury law firm in Canada or Florida, USA, don’t hesitate to reach out to 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.

Tis’ the season for elegant beef Wellington

By

Christine Hogg

-

3:57 pm

0

hy's-beef-wellington — Beef Wellington from Hy

A classic English dish, beef Wellington is a great addition to any holiday party. Here are three spots in Toronto where you can find this fine dining classic.

Stock-in-Trade

Stock-in-Trade’s beef Wellingtons are made from pasture-raised, hormone-free beef, which is painted with Dijon mustard, then wrapped in mushroom duxelle. The puff pastry is also made and folded in-house by hand and brushed with butter to give the crust a golden, flaky glow. All of the beef Wellingtons are decorated with a slightly different design each time. Stock-in-Trade’s beef Wellingtons come in various sizes and can feed anywhere between two and six people. They can be purchased via the restaurant’s online retail shop or for pickup at the store, 1324-A Gerrard St. E.

$50–$125, stockintradeto.com

Olliffe Butcher Shop

Olliffe Butcher Shop has been serving up fine cuts of meat to customers and chefs in Toronto since 1975. Along with selling cuts “from nose to tail,” the butcher shop also sells gourmet meals to go. Olliffe’s beef Wellington uses a centre cut of beef tenderloin that is sourced locally at a farm in Norfolk County in southern Ontario. The tenderloin is then wrapped in a savoury green onion crepe with duck foie gras and mushroom duxelle. Olliffe’s beef Wellington can be ordered online or picked up at the store, 1097A Yonge St.

Prices at $121.28/kg, olliffe.ca

Hy’s Steakhouse

Beef Wellington is a staple on Hy’s menu. Hy’s beef Wellington features a filet of beef tenderloin, with foie gras and oyster mushroom duxelle, baked in a buttery puff pastry. Hy’s beef Wellington is served with a red wine reduction, which offers an intense, complementary flavour to tie together the delicacy of the pastry, the earthiness of the mushrooms and richness of the foie gras and prime filet. Hy’s beef is sourced from farms in High River, Alta. The filets are aged a minimum of 28 days and are hand butchered at the restaurant, 365 Bay St.

$67.95, hyssteakhouse.com

Five tasty food-themed holiday markets taking place in and around Toronto

By

Jennifer Schembri

-

2:56 pm

0

Grab your toque and bundle up and don’t forget a pair of comfortable walking shoes because food-themed holiday markets are popping up all across the GTA. While there, make sure to grab a cup of something warm to take the chill off and get ready to eat to your heart’s content! Here are five festive food-themed holiday markets taking place in and around Toronto.

Distillery Winter Village

Until Dec. 31. you can take a stroll down the cobblestone streets at Toronto’s historic Distillery District and enjoy food from the more than 20 food cabins placed all around the area! While year-round staples like Balzac’s and Brick Street Bakery are always a good idea, take this opportunity to visit the cabins serving up Venezuelan pies, authentic Mexican churros from Pancho’s Bakery, Swiss raclette, Atlantic lobster, and much more. There will even be a Japanese food truck serving authentic chicken Karaage.

Fair in the Square

Nathan Philips Square is one of the most iconic photo ops in the city. And this year, enjoy loads of extravagant food while enjoying the delightful view. The list of food vendors is endless, ranging from Korean corn dogs and poutine to tiny donuts and cream-filled baked delights. Take a break noshing on the delicious eats to browse artisanal and local jewelry, art, and so much more. Fair in the Square takes place from Dec. 2-23.

Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest

Canada’s Wonderland certainly knows how to ring in the holidays! This year, everyone’s favourite amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland full of gourmet eats, including fried chicken sandwiches served up on two waffles and poutine covered in the burnt ends from a brisket. The most unique addition is the Christmas dinner turkey ball, which serves up all of your holiday favourites inside of a deep-fried ball on a stick. The Fest runs until Dec. 31.

Burlington Holiday Market

From Dec 8-11, embark on the journey that is the Burlington Holiday Market! With over 400 restaurants around the main market area, there truly is food for everyone. Try out ethnic dishes from Mad Mexican, or prepare your cooking for when you get back home with rubs from BBQ Rubs or caesar mix from Singers. If beverages are more your thing, Osobelle Tea has you covered.

Niagara Falls Christmas Market

The Niagara Falls Christmas Market is one of the premier holiday festivals open right now Until Dec 18, enjoy delicate chocolate cake from Moodie’s Bakery after a night of fish & chips, and maybe a few too many pints, at Taps Brewhouse. Take time to peruse some of the small business owners and vendors who will be offering tons of tasty sauces, treats, and festive spices.

5 Christmas events happening in Toronto to get you in the holiday spirit

By

Julia Mastroianni

-

1:22 pm

0

As the Christmas season ramps up, so does the number of holiday events around the city. Many local organizations, committees and businesses are hosting inclusive fun this coming weekend! Read about five different events coming up in Toronto that you don’t want to miss.

Thank you to this week’s article sponsor, Black Creek Pioneer Village!

Festive nights at Black Creek Pioneer Village

Experience the warmhearted festivities of the holiday season with a frosty frolic across Black Creek Pioneer Village. Kick back in front of a fire and enjoy an enchanting Yuletide ball while creating old-fashioned homemade ornaments. Grab a piping hot chocolate and enjoy a whimsical puppet show in an environment filled with twinkling lights, cozy fires and old-fashioned oil lamps. To finish your night, even if you were naughty, head over to Santa’s Cottage and say hi to Kris Kringle himself. The opening weekend of Festive Nights is this weekend, and it will be open every Saturday until the week before Christmas.

Learn how to decorate festive cupcakes

People’s Pint is hosting a hoppy cupcake decorating event on Sunday, Nov. 27 for those of legal age to enjoy! The Baker’s Bar will teach attendees how to make their own buttercream along with beginner piping techniques. Enjoy some solid brews while flexing your creative muscles and crushing a bunch of cupcakes. Each ticket includes a live demo and tips for a buttercream recipe, a box of four cupcakes that have been baked with People’s Pintbeer, piping materials and a drink token.

Head over to the Riverside Common Sunday Market

This Sunday, Nov. 27, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., enjoy a holiday market right at the Riverside Common Park! Enjoy free happenings and activities presented by the Riverside BIA. Some of these happenings include a meet & greet with Santa, cookie decorating, carollers, a window wonderland scavenger hunt for prizes, hot drinks, holiday shopping from local vendors and more! Take the opportunity to enjoy a stress-free weekend before the liveliness of the holiday ramps up.

Get some Christmas drip at the Nostalgic Market vintage event

On Saturday, Dec. 3 from noon to 9 p.m., head to 1153 Queen St. W. to snag some new vintage clothing. The new event is built around building a community of vintage clothing lovers who prioritize sustainable buying habits and nostalgic pieces. Over 30 vendors will be in attendance, along with a live DJ and free giveaways for the first few people in line. All payment methods are accepted, and social media shoutouts are encouraged.

Say hello to Santa at his Village

Head back to Black Creek Pioneer Village and say hello to Santa! But before you say hello, try your hand at toy making holiday magic with elves, and sing jingles in the Jingle Bell Jam Session. Santa will come around to let you sample some of his favourite sweets while watching a whimsical puppet show. Kids will have the chance to create traditional Christmas cards before competing in the Reindeer Carnival Games. Before you leave, make sure you snap an ‘elfie’ with Saint Nick himself. Opening weekend for Santa at the Village is this weekend and will stay open until Dec. 18.

Where to get the best croque monsieur in Toronto

By

Erin Neilly

-

12:38 pm

0

French chef Didier Leroy searches the city’s finest bakeries in his quest for the perfect croque monsieur, a delicious Parisian breakfast staple that’s made with ham, Gruyere cheese and buttery béchamel sauce.

Winner (tied)

Thobors

“Everything was nicely balanced and it tasted very good. They did an excellent job on toasting the bread.”

thobors.ca, $8.50

Winner (tied)

Gouter

“The balance between the cheese, ham and bread was very good, and the melted cheese on top had great flavour.”

gouterstore.com, $7.25

La Bréhandaise Market

“The addition of the tomato makes this one more like a sandwich than a traditional croque monsieur.”

labrehandaisemarket.com, $7.50

Jules Cafe

“This croque monsieur looks very good. They could have used a different bread, but overall, they did a really great job.”

julescafe.ca, $12.37

Chef Didier Leroy is one of five Master Chefs in Canada and one of about 550 worldwide.

Nathan Phillips Square ice rink is back with a spectacular opening weekend

By

Julia Mastroianni

-

2:34 pm

0

Nathan Phillips square opening — DESIGNECOLOGIST/Unsplash

The wait is over! As the weather cools and the holidays quickly approach, you can finally lace up and hit the ice at Nathan Phillips Square – one of Toronto’s most iconic destinations – this Saturday, Nov. 26.

The quintessential Toronto spot is the perfect outdoor excursion for a little extra festive cheer in the heart of the city and this year the city of Toronto has really upped the ante. Kicking things off on opening night and running daily until Jan. 7 is the Cavalcade of Lights, an installation featuring a light-up tunnel, a stunning 55-foot Christmas tree and more.

Skate circles with your group, set against a backdrop of twinkling lights, a picturesque holiday tree and the iconic glowing “Toronto” sign and then step off the ice for a stroll through the lunar lanterns with sparkling ice sculptures to awe at. You can also enjoy Holiday Fair in the Square, happening from Dec. 2-23 from Tuesdays to Sundays and featuring an artisan marketplace, fireside lounge and more.

Need more of a reason to come out this Saturday? The list of activities is absolutely stacked and features something for every age, making this a versatile outing perfect for families, couples, friend groups or even those looking to pop by solo and see what all the fuss is about.

The outdoor rink officially opens Nov. 26, weather permitting, and will offer rentals until March 19 starting at 10 a.m. But don’t get carried away zooming laps around your friends and family – skates have to be returned by 9:45 p.m.

Opening day events

Join the crowd at at 100 Queen St. W. this Saturday and see below for some of the highlights of the exciting events and performances happening throughout the afternoon and early evening. The Christmas tree lighting is set for 8:30 p.m.

Lunar Lanterns of Indigenous Lights, in partnership with Lunarfest GTA, connecting Asian traditions and Indigenous cultures
Global Vision by artists Nargiza Usmanova and Maxim Zinchuk, embodying the theme of immigration from Europe and Asia to North America
The ECHO, an interactive installation that will allow participants to explore the power hidden behind their voices produced by Desjardins
கோலம் (Kolam): A Parallel Coexistence featuring a glowing mandala of thousands of illuminated threads
Collective Dreams, a collection of lanterns created by Toronto locals
The Barricade Cover Project, where artists transform barricade covers into stunning works of art

Performances on and off the rink

Ice-skating performances by North Toronto Skating Club, Forest Hill Figure Skating Club, Trinity A1 synchronized skating team, Toronto Metropolitan University varsity figure skating team, Central Toronto skating club and Olympic gold medalist Canadian figure skater Gabrielle Daleman
Canada’s top a cappella talent Countermeasure Holiday Singers
Contemporary African dance music with Asiko Afrobeat Ensemble
Performances by Indigenous artists: Hoop Dance by Theland Kicknosway and Abenaki and Franco-Ontarian folk music by Mimi O’Bonsawin

This restaurant brings the heart of Afghanistan cuisine to Toronto

By

Kaitlin Narciso

-

2:27 pm

0

The beloved Afghan restaurant, Naan Kabob, has reimagined their menu and experience to bring the heart of Afghanistan—the community atmosphere and delicious cuisine—to the streets of Toronto. With dishes adapted from home cooked recipes, the Naan Kabob experience showcases central Asian flavours in an amazing menu packed with shareable dishes.

The Naan Kabob Experience

Naan Kabob has rediscovered itself to offer an experience that is more than taste, attention, and ambience. It is an experience that offers something deeper and uplifting. Inviting guests to explore, discover and feel at home, all while in the comfort of their restaurant.

New All Love Menu

With a new “all love menu,” each dish matters. The chefs have carefully curated and reimagined their menu, which is inspired by childhood memories and influenced by exotic spices from the heart of Afghanistan.

The Story

Naan Kabob was born from a family dream of a new home away from home—a family who followed the footsteps of the spice route merchants on a journey of a lifetime. From Afghanistan in the East, to Canada in the West, and through other central Asian countries, Naan Kabob celebrates a world of flavours and a legacy of homemade recipes.

Annual Food Drive in support of Toronto Daily Bread

Paying homage to their community inspired traditions, Naan Kabob hosts an annual Food Drive in support of Toronto Daily Bread. This year, the food drive will take place at Kennedy Commons on November 26th from 12PM until 4PM. With the hope of combating food hunger, Naan Kabob invites people to bring in any non-perishable food items.

Their previous Food drive saw over 500 lbs of food donations, a number which they hope to exceed at this year’s event.

For more information about the restaurant, visit nandk.ca.

You can now pay up to $100 for premium seating at select Toronto restaurants

By

Jennifer Schembri

-

1:11 pm

0

300859414_397070709182402_5118658965659029906_n — Amal Toronto on Instagram

With the introduction of the Michelin Guide and the holiday season fast approaching, snagging a reservation at one of they city’s top restaurants is about as impossible as getting pre-sale tickets to Taylor Swift. Even if you do manage to land one, there’s no guarantee that you won’t end up sitting in the “nosebleed section” of the restaurant — next to the kitchen, near the restroom or close to a drafty window.

A Toronto-based company has started a platform which will allow diners to purchase premium seating at peak times at some of the hottest dinner spots in the city — similar to what airlines, sports arenas and hotels are already doing.

Called Tablz, consumer’s who opt-in can take 3D walkthroughs of a restaurant’s dining space and then pay anywhere from $5 to $100 to upgrade to a table of their choosing when they make a reservation —whether they choose a seat with a view or one that’s far away from the bar.

The price per table is determined by the platform’s algorithm which allows them to find the right price during the right time based on the time of day (or night) and the number of diners currently in the restaurant.

“I don’t get angry at Air Canada for having first-class and comfort-plus, nor do I get angry at the Raptors for having courtside seats or Enterprise for offering me a BMW over a Honda,” said Tablz co-owner Frazer Nagy in an interview. “I know these upgrades exist and I personalize my selection based on my budget and preferences.”

The platform is aiming to become a new revenue stream for restaurants by giving them 70 per cent of the fees that are paid to book premium tables.

Toronto restaurants that are currently using the platform include Madrina Bar y Tapas and Amal with new restaurants regularly being added.

A guide to watching the World Cup in Toronto’s Little Portugal

By

Dorothy Chudzinski

-

3:00 pm

0

Rosa Branca Sports Bar in Little Portugal — @rosabrancasportsbar/Instagram

Little Portugal is recognizable for its standout street art, with many of its brick walls decorated with colourful murals. Little Portugal runs with Lansdowne Avenue to the west, College Street to the north and Ossington Avenue to the east. Little Portugal can be accessed easiest by hopping on the 505 or 506 streetcars, which both serve Dundas Street West, or by riding the Bloor-Danforth line and exiting at Lansdowne Station. And with the 2022 FIFA World Cup underway, Portgual fans might be looking for places to celebrate the beautiful game within the neighbourhood.

Catch the team play their first game in the group stage against Ghana at 11 a.m. on Thursday, and again at 2 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 28 against Uruguay.

Watch

Looking to be surrounded by Portugal fans while you watch? Amigos da Dundas Sports Bar is right in the heart of Little Portugal and will surely be teeming with soccer fans throughout the World Cup. Enjoy Portuguese classics including bifanas, a marinated pork sandwich, while cheering on your team.

Rosa Branca Sports Bar is also in the neighbourhood and ready to cheer on Portugal (and maybe a few other teams too). Open until 2 a.m. every day and home to a pool table for those who like to stay entertained while they watch, it’s the perfect place to host your unofficial World Cup watch party.

There’s plenty more to choose from; Little Portugal is home to all kinds of sports bars that will definitely be showing the World Cup over the next few weeks. Try The Dock Ellis for beer, large-screen TVs, foosball and pool, Opera Bob’s Public House for a place that’s accustomed to being descended upon by sports fans come game day, or Man of Kent if you’re ok with English pub fare while you’re cheering on Portugal. Or, try Nossa Casa Sports Cafe for those morning and afternoon games thanks to that pesky eight-hour time difference.

Eat

Funky bars with Brazilian and Portuguese wine lists and family-run Portuguese-style bakeries all serve traditional pastries, sandwiches and freshly-baked breads and cookies. If you can’t book a trip to Portugal just yet, Toronto’s Little Portugal neighbourhood is the next best if you’ve been craving pasteis de nada or custard tarts.

Along Dundas Street West, which is the centre of Little Portugal, Brazil Bakery serves old-school specialties at prices normally unheard of in a city as big as Toronto. From behind a modest glass service counter, you’ll find authentic, indulgent Portuguese treats like chocolate drizzled or plain pasteis de nada, traditional Portuguese biscuit cookies (biscoitos) and a selection of cakes and tarts. The bakery also does a hot table, where foods like bifana, a pork sandwich simmered in sauce, can be ordered, along with a selection of other custom-made sandwiches to go.

If it’s classic Portuguese chicken you’re after, go for dinner at the humble Bairrada Churrasqueira Grill. The establishment specializes in traditional grilled meat and seafood entrees, as well as quick to-go bites including fried calamari. For a fine dining experience, don’t miss Chiado Restaurant, which pairs Portuguese wines with refined, old-world recipes and is run by one of North America’s leading chefs, Albino Silva.

Explore

One of the best ways to explore Little Portugal is by walking. Although the area is largely residential, located in Toronto’s “Old City,” Little Portugal is always a hub of activity, with events taking place year-round. Dundas Street West is also home to many art galleries, some established, and some up-and-coming, where visitors can view a mix of everything from modern art to fine art.

The neighbourhood is also home to the Little Portugal on Dundas BIA, which is a small and independent business collective located on Dundas Street West, between Shaw and Lansdowne Avenues. This eclectic mix of small boutiques, bars, venues and galleries makes it easy to see a lot of Little Portugal all at once, and also makes it easy to shop local, as big box stores and chain restaurants are scarce here.