Toronto Blue Jays ‘voice of summer’ Buck Martinez is retiring

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1:46 pm

Toronto is about to sound a little different this baseball season.

Buck Martinez, Sportsnet’s longtime Toronto Blue Jays broadcaster and one of the most recognizable voices in Canadian baseball, has announced his retirement. This wraps up an on-air career that stretched across more than four decades and thousands of games.

In a statement released by Rogers Media, Martinez reflected on how his relationship with the city began back in 1981, when he arrived as a player, not an announcer.

“It’s hard to believe I came to Toronto in a trade in May of 1981, thinking that would be the end of a very good career. Little did I know that I still would be associated with the Blue Jays through the 2025 season,” he wrote, adding that it’s been an honour to be involved in every game through Game 7 of the World Series.

“After the World Series, my wife Arlene and I had plenty of time to think about the past and look forward to our future. After many heartfelt conversations, we both decided it was time for me to step out of the booth and enjoy the years ahead.”

Martinez singled out the little moments that came with being a public face in Toronto: “I will miss the ‘selfies,’ the handshakes and the welcoming smiles,” he said.

“It has been a fantastic journey with Sportsnet, the Blue Jays and the wonderful Blue Jays fans all over the world. Thank you all for embracing me and welcoming my family and me in a way that has made us feel like we are part of yours.”

The announcement has already sparked an outpouring of tributes.

Sportsnet President Greg Sansone called Martinez “a legend in baseball,” saying “his voice is synonymous with summer,” while Blue Jays President and CEO Mark Shapiro described Martinez as “one of the most prominent figures” in franchise history.

“Buck has connected generations of fans with his passion, insight, and unparalleled storytelling,” Shapiro said. “His legacy extends far beyond the microphone, and he will always hold a special place in the hearts of Canadian baseball fans.”

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Martinez’s on-air story is deeply intertwined with the team itself. After retiring from Major League Baseball in 1986, following a 17-year playing career that included time with the Kansas City Royals, Milwaukee Brewers and the Jays, he moved into broadcasting, joining Blue Jays TV coverage as a colour analyst in 1987. Over two separate stints, he was on the call for more than 4,000 Blue Jays games.

The retirement also lands at a symbolic moment for the franchise. Martinez wrote that he’d hoped to be part of the Blue Jays’ 50th season, but added simply: “it’s time to pass the torch.”

8 Valentine’s Gifts to Say “I Love You” Without Leaving the GTA

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Dorothy Chudzinski

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1:44 pm

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Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate the people who make life special. Whether you are looking for a show-stopping sparkle, a cozy night in, or a little bit of daily pampering, we have something for everyone on your list. Explore these local favourites and find a gift that speaks straight to the heart!

For the Ultimate Comfort Lover

Wrap them in comfort and indulgence with the Baskits Cozy Valentine Bundle ($200). This luxe gift pairs a plush, personalized embroidered bathrobe with The Art of Chocolate Gift Box, filled with artisan chocolates, cookies, and gourmet treats. Thoughtfully curated, it’s the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for him or her. Find the perfect gift for every occasion at baskits.com.

For more information call 416-755-1100, visit them in-store at 74 Railside Road in North York or online at baskits.com

For the Brunch Lover

A Valentine’s Day worth waking up for! Be sure to book your table at Tiarrè’s Brunch and Bistro, where you can celebrate your love with their signature Valentine’s Day Brunch Tower for two. This thoughtfully layered experience features a collection of brunch favourites, from indulgent bites to artisanal sweets made for sharing. Designed for two and priced at $60, it is best enjoyed slowly between sips of mimosa and meaningful conversation. It’s the perfect way to start your day!

Located at 1980 Queen Street East and 1614 Bayview Avenue

For more information, call 416-485-1614 or visit tiarres.com

For the “Night-In” Lover

Experience effortless elegance with the Pret-a-Porter Italian Nightie, available at Beestung Lingerie. Crafted from multi-dimensional floral lace and soft micromodal, its plunge neckline and wireless, non-padded cups offer natural comfort and a flattering fit. Designed to fall at the upper thigh, this pull-on style features adjustable straps for a perfect personalized touch. Ideal for a confident, relaxed evening in.

Located at 2624 Yonge Street

For more information, call 416-481-2849, or visit BeestungLingerie.com

For the Vintage Glam Lover

These Vintage Garnet and Pearl Drop Earrings capture the essence of classic sophistication, and are available at Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques. Set in warm 9kt yellow gold, these earrings feature two oval faceted dark brownish-red garnets (est. 5.74cts), as well as two pear faceted cut dark brownish red garnets (est. 8.35cts) and 48 round faceted cut dark brownish red garnets (est. 2.03cts). The design masterfully balances the deep, moody hues of the garnets with the delicate luster of 48 white pearls, measuring approximately 1.5-1.8mm in size. Sophisticated and striking, these vintage treasures offer a regal aesthetic that makes them a captivating addition to any fine jewelry collection.

By Appointment – 284 King Street West, Toronto

For more information, call 416-260-9057 or visit cynthiafindlay.com

For the Beauty Lover

Experience the refreshing essence of the Irish coast with Inis, now available at Peppertree Klassics. Known for its signature sparkling scent that captures the “Energy of the Sea,” this premium collection is authentically made in Ireland. From luxurious soaps and hydrating body lotions to their iconic cologne, every product is designed to uplift and revitalize. With its clean, ocean-inspired notes, Inis makes the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for that special lady who deserves a little bit of coastal serenity in her daily routine.

Located at 137 Main St. N. Markham

For more information, call 905-294-3882 or visit peppertree.ca

For the Book Lover

A book every month for a year!! Give (or receive) the popular book subscription from Mabel’s Fables Bookstore. Receive a parcel with a wrapped book once a month. Custom chosen by age and interests. Contact our booksellers to register.

Located at 540 Mount Pleasant Road.

For more information call 416-322-0438 or visit www.mabelsfables.com

For the Timeless Lover

Because your love is timeless, celebrate it with a masterpiece. Discover new and classic styles at Van Rijik Jewellers, such as the Ladies Patek Philippe Nautilus in 18k Rose Gold. Lock in the love as the watch comes with a lockable adjustment system that’s integrated with a rose gold bracelet. It comes with a beautiful silvery opaline wave pattern dial with applied numerals and alpha style hands and sweeping seconds. The bezel is surrounded by a halo of 56 x 0.71ct total carat weight of Brilliant cut diamonds (Factory). Case size: 35.2 mm x 8.62 mm (thick). Automatic movement. Calibre: 26-33 SC. Water resistance.

Located at 90 Eglinton Avenue West

For more information, visit www.vanrijkestatejewellers.com

For the Blowout Lover

Give the gift of gorgeous hair this Valentine’s Day! Blowdry Lounge, Toronto’s premier blowdry salon, offers the perfect way to pamper your special someone. Clients experience refined service at any of their three conveniently located salons, known for expert blowouts, styling, and essential beauty maintenance. Ask about their gift cards for the ultimate indulgence in style—it’s a gift they’ll truly love!

Three locations: 1343 Yonge Street 1788 Avenue Road and 181 Bay Street (Concourse Level)

For more information, visit them at blowdrylounge.com

5 Toronto Valentine’s Day restaurants that actually don’t suck

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:28 pm

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SnapInsta Ai 2360019346086278249 — Lake Inez

We’ve all seen the OpenTable “Most Romantic” list by now, and while dining in a marble-clad mausoleum with a $400 bill is certainly a choice, it’s not always the most memorable way to spend Valentine’s Day. If your idea of romance leans more toward warm lighting, thoughtful cooking and a space with real personality, you’re in the right place. We’re skipping the obvious picks and polished clichés to spotlight the intimate spots that locals tend to keep to themselves.

1. Lake Inez

The Vibe: Still the undisputed heavyweight of “weird-chic.” This Little India anchor is a fever dream of stained glass, mismatched furniture, and a kitchen that refuses to be put in a box. It’s the ultimate “I know a spot” restaurant because, despite the acclaim, it still feels like a secret club for people who actually like food.
The Order: Let the kitchen lead. Whether it’s their boundary-pushing snack program or a main that defies geography, you’re here for the surprise.
Where: 1517 Gerrard St. E.
The Damage: $120 to $150 for two.
Pro-Tip: Don’t just order a glass of wine; ask for a mystery beer or wine flight. The staff are true nerds about their cellar and will talk you through some of the strangest, most beautiful pours in the city.

2. Fat Pasha

The Vibe: If other spots are for whispering sweet nothings, Fat Pasha is for laughing loudly over a mountain of schmaltz. Anthony Rose’s Dupont Street flagship is chaotic, vibrant, and unapologetically communal. You sit elbow-to-elbow with strangers, sharing a cauliflower-fuelled feast that feels more like a celebration than a formal dinner.
The Order: The roasted cauliflower is a city legend, but the “Salatim” platter steals the show — a massive spread of dips and pickles that practically begs you to get your hands dirty.
Where: 414 Dupont St.
The Damage: $100 to $130 for two.
Pro-Tip: If you’re a party of two, skip the wait for a table and try to snag a couple of stools at the bar. You get a front-row seat to the kitchen chaos and the best service in the house.

3. The Comrade

The Vibe:Riverside’s moody, taxidermy-filled den is the opposite of a bright, modern bistro. Dark, plush and unapologetically sexy, the lighting does most of the work. It’s a rare spot that stays consistently cool in a city that loves anything new.
The Order: Go for the prime rib burger and a stiff, classic cocktail — like the Sun in an Empty Room. Bonus: It sounds romantic too.
Where: 758 Queen St. E.
The Damage: $100 to $120 for two.
Pro-Tip: The Booth in the Back. It’s the most coveted “date night” spot in the East End. If you can get there early enough to claim the corner booth under the dimmest light, you’ve basically won Valentine’s Day.

4. Oji Seichi

The Vibe: Tucked away in East Chinatown, Oji Seichi is for couples who find romance in precision. It feels more like a curated sanctuary than a restaurant. A steaming bowl of perfect ramen can be just as romantic as a white-tablecloth dinner.
The Order: Start with the small plates like the chicekn gyoza — their attention to detail is legendary — and finish with a bowl of the signature broth that tastes like a hug.
Where: 354 Broadview Ave.
The Damage: $80 to $100 for two.
Pro-Tip: The Chef’s Counter. Watching the assembly of the ramen bowls is mesmerizing. It provides just enough “entertainment” to fill any awkward first-date silences while still feeling incredibly intimate.

5. Bernhardt’s

The Vibe: Located in the heart of Dovercourt Park, Bernhardt’s feels like the dinner party of your dreams. It’s warm, always packed and centred around a massive rotisserie that makes the whole room smell delicious. It’s romantic because it’s effortless — no stiff collars or performative service here.
The Order: The rotisserie chicken is non-negotiable, paired with whatever seasonal vegetables they’ve coaxed incredible flavour out of that week.
Where: 202 Dovercourt Rd.
The Damage: $110 to $140 for two.
Pro-Tip: Check the Chalkboard. The wine list is great, but the daily “off-menu” specials on the chalkboard are where the magic happens. Also, save room for the soft serve — it’s arguably the best in the West End.

A devil of a good time: Soulpepper’s ‘Witch’ casts a spell with performances to die for

By

Ron Johnson

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12:31 pm

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Witch, a new Soulpepper production, isn’t perfect, but it features incredible performances by actors new and legendary that elevate it to must-see theatre.

The play by Jen Silverman takes its cue from a real 17th-century case. In 1621, Elizabeth Sawyer, a poor, disabled woman living on the outskirts of London, was accused of witchcraft and executed after her neighbours—and even her husband—turned on her. Her trial became a public sensation, inspiring the Jacobean play The Witch of Edmonton later that same year.

Silverman’s adaptation takes that earlier text and, with a mix of comedy and tragedy, modernises it. Sawyer, played by iconic actor Tantoo Cardinal, is branded an outcast and a monster, but the play drills down asking questions about how it came to pass and what is says about the society back then and how the balance of privilege and power has never really shifted.

The play lives in two worlds, one rooted in early-modern England, and one, where Silverman puts a model spin on Witch. The playwright uses the old story to poke at contemporary anxieties—power, poverty, ambition, and the quiet despair of everyday life—without losing its sense of humour.

For a play about Satanic bargains and moral collapse, it’s tender and playful and heartfelt, suggesting that love, however warped or withheld, might still be the most radical force onstage and in our very-slow-to-change world.

Does it work? Mostly it is fantastic. At least, up until the ending. The performances were at a breathtakingly high level.

Thomas Mitchell Barnet and Heeyun Park in 'Witch' (photo by Dahlia Katz) — Thomas Mitchell Barnet and Heeyun Park in ‘Witch’ (photo by Dahlia Katz)

On the comedic side of the playbill, Thomas Mitchell Barnet as Cuddy Banks is a revelation. A graduate of the Soulpepper Academy, his performance infused the production with a wonderful energy. It was such a bold and brash performance that had the audience laughing at the slightest of gestures. But, it was so nuanced, and touching.

Another nod goes to Nicholas Eddie as the Devil. A complicated performance, that puts humour front-and-centre in a somewhat cliched bargain-with-the-devil way, but Eddie works hard to push beyond the boundaries of the role to great effect both comedic and otherwise. He really shines when on stage with Tantoo Cardinal as Scratch, the “Witch.”

Here, the Devil tries to strike a bargain with Sawyer so she can exact her revenge on those who have wronged her. But, she is not as easily swayed as others in town who leap at the chance to get what they want and give up their souls. With Cardinal playfully denying the Devil another victim, he is disarmed and falls hopelessly in love with her.

Cardinal offers a wonderful performance full of mischief and mystery, and it’s wonderful to see her on a Toronto stage (more please).

Tantoo Cardinal and Nicholas Eddie in 'Witch' (photo by Dahlia Katz) — Tantoo Cardinal and Nicholas Eddie in ‘Witch’ (photo by Dahlia Katz)

Now the conclusion is where some minor problems arise. There is a sort of double ending. One that ends the main plot line of the Banks family and the elder Banks hoping for a heir that would produce a son and carry on the bloodline.When Sir Arthur Banks realises his son Cuddy might not be up to the task, he looks to his sort of adoptive son Frank Thorney. This is where the Devil does his handy work. And this plot line that also weaves in the house maid Winnifred (played by Park), pregnant with Thorney’s child. Although I won’t give away how this ends, it is an epic scene with full measures of comedy and tragedy.

What happens afterwards is almost anti-climactic. in the aftermath, Park visits the home of Sawyer searching for the Devil wanting to make her own bargain the results of which we are never made aware. And that leads to a passionate and moving speech by Sawyer about society’s failings and how we will never change. It is meaningful and modern and amazing to witness but felt almost out of the place in this play. And this is followed by a speech by the Devil where he tries to resign from his job and wants to find hope. Somewhere. Anywhere. Love has changed the Devil himself.

But with such a dramatic conclusion to the Banks’ story in the previous scene, it is almost like an epilogue. Both scenes are wonderful, one doesn’t belong.

Of course, it was wonderful up until that point. And, the rest of the six-person cast — Shawn Ahmed, Oliver Dennis and Heeyun Park — also give fine performances. Indeed, it is the talented cast that really elevates the production to the next level. In less capable hands, I am not sure the play would be such a success. Here, it is, most definitely worth seeing.

Witch runs at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts until March 1.

Toronto figure skating champion is making a post-injury comeback at the Olympics

By

Alexa Margorian

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5:59 pm

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stephen gogolev — Courtesy @stephen_g___/Instagram

In the days leading up to stepping onto the world’s biggest stage, most Olympians are training hard, getting focused and visualizing success at the Games. Figure skater Stephen Gogolev is doing all that — but he’s also attending class. Three weeks before travelling to Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics, he was still in the process of acquiring accommodations from his professors: he’ll be missing nearly two weeks of class and a midterm. Gogolev studies political science at the University of Toronto. Is this a common occurrence for figure skaters who are not just competing but podiuming at the international level? Gogolev knows a few other skaters who are enrolled in university but he doubts they’re taking a full course load — practice six days a week prevents otherwise. But Gogolev is unflappable, unconcerned with either prospect, participating at the Olympics or securing his accommodations, despite the former being not only a lifelong dream, but the hard-won validation of his talent and dedication.

“It obviously is a very special feeling, and I don’t know if it has really sunk in yet,” Gogolev says. “It was a huge goal and I’m very happy and thankful that I’m able to be going because I feel like this season I’ve had a bit more pressure than maybe the rest of the skaters because this was my first season coming back after so many injuries. It felt like I had to, at every competition, give it my best and kind of prove that I am worthy of going to the games.”

Growing up, Gogolev was something of a prodigy, swiftly earning a slew of titles and setting a number of world records at the junior level. Recurring back injuries stunted Gogolev’s senior competition debut. In 2024, after a stint at the University of California, training with coach Rafael Arutunyan, Gogolev and his team decided he should relocate back to Toronto, citing more affordable medical support in Canada.

“I felt I would get a lot more benefits that I didn’t have in California, such as treatment, doctors, care,” Gogolev says.

Name: Stephen Gogolev

Hometown: Toronto

Sport: Figure skating

Olympic event date: Feb. 10, men’s single skating, short program

Social feed: Instagram

Upon his return, Gogolev began working with Coach Lee Burkell and choreographer Benoit Michaud. Gogolev was supremely motivated to make the 2025–2026 season count — and he has the results to prove it, achieving a podium finish in all but one competition and winning the Canadian Figure Skating Championships in January.

“It felt like if I don’t do this with everything I have then I will probably regret it later on,” Gogolev says. “If I wasn’t able to make the Olympics, I would probably live in regret of the small little details that I kind of missed throughout the season.”

Teams are permitted a maximum of three men and three women for the singles categories in figure skating, but Gogolev is Canada’s only entry for men’s singles. (The same is true for women’s singles: Oakville’s Madeline Schizas will be the only skater representing Canada.)

Figure skaters will typically skate the same two routines during the short and free programs for the entire season, Olympics inclusive. Gogolev is most looking forward to skating his short program at the Olympics, a routine that drops us into the world of 1930s gangsters.

“When we first started choreographing it with Benoit, I was not quite against the idea of this music and the idea of the whole program, but I was skeptical. In the end, it turned out to be…my favourite program so far that I’ve had in my career,” Gogolev says. The program was different from his past routines, with a clear sense of storytelling.

Having grown to love it, Gogolev is more open to taking greater risks moving forward — surely his results from the season thus far have helped, too. Gogolev concurs. “It really helped my confidence because I never really had this much success on the senior level, so that was a really big turning point.”

stephen gogolev skate — Courtesy @stephen_g___/@svenvee, Instagram

It makes me wonder whether Gogolev’s return has maybe perturbed some of his fellow skaters, emerging out of nowhere to sweep medals right out from under them. “I wouldn’t say I really paid attention to that, but maybe some skaters were a little surprised because it’s almost like I’ve been gone for the past few years and I haven’t really been competing.”

For all the pressure he faces on the ice, Gogolev is no different from other guys in university his age. He mostly listens to rap, bringing up British rapper Fakemink during our conversation. He’s most looking forward to eating some good Italian food in Milan, and hoping to catch some freestyle skiing or snowboarding, though he’s yet unsure how he’s going to be able to sneak away to the hills of Cortina and back (it’s almost five hours away by car). There’s no one he’ll be hunting to take a picture with in the Olympic village; Gogolev is focused on results.

Towards the end of our conversation, I ask whether any of his classmates know that he’s going to be skating for Canada in Milan. “I don’t think anyone’s really aware,” Gogolev says with a laugh.

We’ll be profiling more athletes during the 2026 Winter Olympics; refer here for future coverage.

A GTA-raised Doberman just took Best in Show at Westminster

By

Nisean Lorde

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3:41 pm

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A Doberman pinscher born and raised in the GTA has just climbed to the very top of the dog-show world.

On Tuesday night in New York, four-year-old Penny won Best in Show at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show after outlasting a field of more than 2,500 entries and beating the seven group winners in the final round at Madison Square Garden.

If you follow competitive dog shows even a little (or maybe just like playing catch-up through TikTok clips), you’ll know what an epic moment this is: In the dog-show world, Westminster is one of the most prestigious stages there is, and Best in Show is the highest honour a dog can take home!

Penny is only the fifth Doberman pinscher to win the title at Westminster, adding another chapter to the breed’s relatively rare history in the winner’s circle. Her win also has a local connection: Penny was born and raised in the GTA, bred by Toronto-area Doberman breeders Theresa Connors-Chan and Gregory Chan, who are based in Newtonville, Ont.

In an interview with the Toronto Star following the win, Chan called the moment “surreal,” saying the couple felt “overwhelmed by happiness and joy,” while describing Penny as the kind of puppy who always wanted to be the centre of attention.

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According to a press release, Penny was handled by Andy Linton, a veteran in the sport who’s now won Best in Show at Westminster twice with two different Dobermans, nearly four decades apart (his first win was in 1989, when he handled a Doberman named Indy to the same title).

Penny “is as great a Doberman as I have ever seen,” Linton told the crowd on Tuesday.

Early rounds at this year’s show were held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center before the competition ended at Madison Square Garden for the group judging and Best in Show events.

In the final, Penny faced off against the other group winners, including an Afghan hound (Hound Group), Maltese (Toy), Lhasa apso (Non-Sporting), Old English sheepdog (Herding), Chesapeake Bay retriever (Sporting) and Smooth fox terrier (Terrier). The Best in Show judging was done by David Fitzpatrick.

For more on Penny, follow @westminsterkennelclub on Instagram!

Dear Sangita: My wife met my ‘work wife.’ Now she has a lot of questions

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sangita-patel

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1:23 pm

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Dear Sangita: My wife met my “work wife” for the first time. Now, she has a lot of questions. They met at an office party, and my work wife had maybe too many nice things to say about me. I hadn’t ever really mentioned her name to my wife before, but the way she spoke about me, I’m sure my wife picked up on the fact that we’re pretty close at work. I thought I was protecting my wife by not telling her too much about her, but now I feel like it’s making me look suspicious. What do I do? — Wife crossover

Dear Crossover: There’s something called emotional affairs, and I feel this is what’s happening here, even if you may not realize you’re there. I get the sense that you’re getting some emotional needs taken care of with this woman at work, and that’s why you’ve kept your wife in the dark. Women are smart — I’m sure your wife picked up on some things in that conversation with your colleague. And I doubt it’s jealousy on your wife’s part; it’s more the fact that you didn’t have the nerve to tell her. If you had told your wife about this work relationship from the beginning when it started, she would have been fine. Now, you’re right: it looks like you had something to hide. So you have to acknowledge everything that’s happening here and come clean about exactly what the dynamic is like with the woman at work. If your wife feels uncomfortable with it, you should pull away from your colleague. Your relationship is only going to get worse, unless you start doing the things you were doing with your “work wife” (whether that’s leaning on her for emotional support or confiding in her) with your actual wife.

Dear Sangita: My sister’s boyfriend is going to propose on Valentine’s Day. I feel like I have to warn her. She really loves him, but I can tell she’s not exactly there yet, and they’re still pretty young. I tried to allude to that to her boyfriend, but he’s just too eager and excited to notice. Is it my sisterly duty to give her a heads up? — Proposal patrol

Dear Proposal Patrol: I think there’s a reason he asked you, and it wasn’t for advice. He needed some kind of confirmation that he’s doing the right thing. I’m sure he is excited, but a part of him might get the sense that this is not the right thing to do or the right time. He might have been seeking approval from you, and you didn’t say anything. At this point, you should go to your sister and have a heart-to-heart conversation about how serious the relationship is and figure out if she really does love him and wants to make those kinds of plans with him. I know you already think she doesn’t want this, but it’s worth having this check-in. You don’t need to tell her what’s about to happen, but by talking with her, she may end up figuring it out on her own.

More from Sangita:

Dear Sangita: My husband discovered I was having an affair, but since it happened he hasn’t mentioned it at all and is weirdly pretending like everything is the same. We have to talk about it, and I know he’s probably hurt. How do I get him to open up?

Dear Sangita: I’m engaged to a married man. He was supposed to have mailed in the paperwork before he proposed to me, but I found out after that some documents were missing when he did. Was I wrong for calling off the wedding?

Dear Sangita: My mom is going through what some might call a mid-life crisis since divorcing my dad, and it’s giving me a lot of stress! I’ll call her at 11 p.m., and she’ll be getting ready to head to an all-nighter club. I want her to be happy, but I also want her to be safe. What should I do?

1,300 reservations in 48 hours: The Michelin star that blew up a Toronto restaurant overnight

By

Jennifer Schembri

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1:08 pm

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SnapInsta Ai 3724740960694704481 2 — @wok_lobster/Instagram

For those of you wondering, or for anyone who thinks a Michelin star doesn’t mean anything to chefs and restaurateurs in this city: think again.

At the Michelin ceremony in Toronto last September, Eric Chong stood on stage as the man of the hour. His newest venture, aKin, was the only restaurant in the city to enter the guide with a coveted star for 2025, and Chong himself was named Toronto’s Young Chef of the Year. But behind the gold-leaf finishes and the celebratory champagne, the 32-year-old chef was staring down a financial cliff.

Opening a high-end tasting menu concept in Toronto is a massive gamble, and for Chong, aKin was the ultimate one. Speaking recently on the Tasting Notes Toronto podcast, the former chemical engineer and MasterChef Canada winner revealed that the stakes were far higher than just personal pride. Without that star, aKin was likely finished.

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“If we didn’t get a star, I really think that it would be the end of us,” Chong admitted. The restaurant had been two and a half years in the making, and the burn rate was staggering. Chong noted that if the guide hadn’t come through, he would have needed to find another $500,000 in capital just to keep the doors open for another year. Beyond the money, there was the looming threat of losing a world-class team that had pinned their professional reputations on achieving Michelin status.

The impact of the Michelin recognition was a total 180 for the business. Within 24 hours of the ceremony, 700 reservations flooded the system. By the next day, that number jumped to 1,300. It turned a struggling passion project into one of the most secure bookings in the city practically overnight.

The restaurant, co-owned with his longtime mentor Alvin Leung, aims to show Asian cuisine in a new light in a city that often expects it to be cheap. The menu draws from Southeast Asian street food, with dishes like a refined take on Hainanese chicken rice and Singaporean chili crab. A strict tasting-menu format also allows the kitchen to operate with almost no waste, preparing only what’s needed for each night’s guests.

After years of fighting the “home cook” label, the star proved its weight. In the kitchen, that little red book can mean the difference between thriving and closing.

Is Toronto eating its way through the most successful Winterlicious yet?

By

Erica Commisso

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10:56 am

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Screenshot 2026 02 04 at 5 02 27 PM — Maxime's

We’re only a few days into Winterlicious, and the city is already caught up in a total three-course frenzy. While these wallet-friendly menus are usually just a sweet excuse to finally tick off those “someday” spots on your list, this year feels different. Some restaurateurs are reporting this season’s festivities as their most successful yet. It turns out that a little winter indulgence and a prix-fixe deal are exactly what Toronto needed to get back out on the town.

SnapInsta Ai 3824670731536423926 — A dish from REIGN’s Winterlicious menu

“Winterlicious consistently introduces us to first-time guests, many of whom return afterward for regular service, celebrations, or special occasions. It’s often the first chapter in a longer relationship with the restaurant, which makes the program especially meaningful for us,” says chef Roland Torok-Ducharme, the executive chef at REIGN inside the Fairmont Royal York. “Guests today are more intentional about where they dine, and we’re seeing diners choose REIGN not just for value, but for experience. Our focus on refined, seasonal menus and consistent execution has helped us attract guests who are genuinely curious about what we do, rather than simply looking for a prix fixe option.”

Chef Francesco Di Salvo of Cibo is feeling the love this season, calling this year’s Winterlicious one of the restaurant’s most successful runs yet. He sees the event as the ultimate winter spark for the city, much like the approach at REIGN, where the focus is all about elevating the classics.

Glowbal Group CEO Emad Yacoub is seeing a major spike at Black + Blue this season, noting that skipping their usual January promos really paid off by funneling a fresh crowd into their Winterlicious offerings. It’s a smart pivot that’s clearly resonating with diners looking for high-end value. “Especially with the price of steaks right now, it’s an incredible 3-course meal,” Yacoub explains, highlighting that snagging a surf and turf dinner with all the trimmings for just $65 is essentially a steal in today’s Toronto dining scene.

Over at Maxime’s, general manager Nader Merhi ss using Winterlicious as the ultimate “handshake” with the city. Instead of hiding the hits, the culinary team is putting their staple dishes front and center on the prix fixe menu, giving guests a true taste of the restaurant’s soul without the usual barrier to entry. For Merhi, the event is about more than just a deal; it’s about sparking a long-term relationship “It makes dining more accessible and invites more people to participate in Toronto’s restaurant culture during a quieter time of year,” he says. “It spotlights the diversity of the city’s food scene and encourages diners to step outside of their usual spots.”

SnapInsta Ai 3824667780029711907 — Honey’s

At Portland Square, Primadonna and Honey Chinese are making their Winterlicious debut, and general manager Harry Feldman is already calling it a major win. or these newcomers, the festival was the perfect excuse to open their doors to a fresh crowd during the typically quiet winter slump. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive across the board. Guests are excited to experience the menus, and we’ve been receiving really strong feedback on both the value and the overall dining experience.

“I think it’s resonating because it offers genuine value at a time when people are being more mindful of their spending. Guests appreciate being able to enjoy a high-quality dining experience without feeling priced out.”

Winterlicious runs until February 12.

Toronto Raptors get their big, just not the one anybody was talking about

By

Ron Johnson

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10:00 am

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NBA player Trayce Jackson-Davis — Instagram: @Trayce.Jackson

The Toronto Raptors added some much-needed front-court depth Wednesday, acquiring centre Trayce Jackson-Davis from the Golden State Warriors for a 2026 second-round pick, according to ESPN.

It is not one of the many bigs the Raptors were rumoured to be interested in, such as Domantas Sabonis and Anthony Davis. But Jackson-Davis will provide some immediate relief as a big player with a solid touch around the basket.

According to some reports, acquiring Sabonis, a talented big who could have pushed the team to the next level, meant giving up too many assets including crucial first round draft picks.

Jackson-Davis is not the missing piece this team needs to take it to the next level, which might have to wait until next year. He is a serviceable bench player who will add depth and prevent the team from getting pushed around by other well-muscled opponents around the league.

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The move came after an earlier three-team deal that brought veteran guard Chris Paul to Toronto while sending Ochai Agbaji to Brooklyn. Paul is reportedly expected to be moved again or waived.

Jackson-Davis, 25, gives the Raptors size as they continue to play without injured centre Jakob Poeltl. He has averaged 4.2 points and 3.1 rebounds in 36 games this season, shooting 58.8 per cent while playing 11.4 minutes per night. The trade also keeps Toronto under the luxury-tax threshold, saving some much-needed dollars.

During last night’s Raptors loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, announcer Jack Armstrong made reference to Poeltl being back in the gym and looking good. So, a potential return after the break for the NBA All-Star Game is a definite possibility and will give the team and entirely new complexion.

No word yet if Jackson-Davis will be on the bench and available to play when the Chicago Bulls come to Toronto to take on the Raptors at Scotiabank Arena tonight.

This enchanting Niagara wine region is the perfect winter weekend trip from Toronto

By

Nisean Lorde

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9:00 am

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Dobbin Estate winery in the Niagara Benchlands — Instagram: @dobbinestate

If you’re looking for a Niagara escape that’s filled with welcoming communities and the occasional icewine tasting, head to the Niagara Benchlands. It’s a visitor-friendly umbrella for the Town of Lincoln, with vineyard-dotted backroads and tons of cute small-town stops.

The region is about a 1-1.5 hour drive from Toronto, making it perfect for a day trip or a mini-weekend getaway. Explore nearly 50 vineyards, as well as quaint towns like Beamsville, Vineland and Jordan Village, and turn your “wine country” into a full weekend of eating, shopping and wandering.

Winter is the perfect time to attend, as it’s a little quieter, so you can take your time and linger a bit longer.

Check out Jordan Village for its indie boutiques, galleries and amazing food. Head to the Cave Spring Vineyard for wine and small-bite pairings surrounded by breathtaking vineyards. Stop off for a luxe dinner at Restaurant Pearl Morissette, which was recently named the best restaurant in Canada.

Pearl Morissette restaurant — Instagram: @restaurant_pearlmorissette

The Benchlands’ CultivATE Taste Trail highlights the region’s very best farms, markets, garden centres and food-focused stops, including the Grand Oak Culinary Market (they have the most delicious farm-to-fork items, sandwiches made on freshly baked bread and homemade soups), the Upper Canada Cheese Company (for small-batch cheesemaking) and The Watering Can Flower Market (a European-inspired shop bursting with flowers, as well as a bistro with fresh foods).

After a full day of exploring the region, end the night in a stylish guest room (with an on-site spa) at the Inn On The Twenty.

Of course, the area offers a lot more than wine sipping. Make sure to also explore the breweries, cideries and distilleries. The Bench Brewing Company (Beamsville) is a flagship brewery stop in the Benchlands orbit, while Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers serves handcrafted spirits and cocktails using copper pot stills. For a countryside cider stop, make a pit stop at the West Avenue Cider House (at Somerset Orchards).

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If you’re more of an outdoorsy type, head to the Ball’s Falls Conservation Area for the most gorgeous, low-key scenic trails and waterfall views. Experience winter hikes, quiet forest walks and birdwatching once the crowds thin out. The trails are natural and not groomed for winter, but you can still go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (just watch out for icy patches).

After visiting the Benchlands, check out this classic summer vacation destination: it’s filled with sparkling skating trails and is actually best to visit in the winter!

This Toronto pizza spot is serving drum-and-bass with your Margherita

By

Nisean Lorde

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5:00 pm

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SnapInsta Ai 3762954700749125655 — @twohungry.souls/Instagram

Bluffs Pizza Pub has been slinging wood-fired pizzas and Mexican eats since early last year, but lately it’s been drawing new attention for an unexpected add-on: drum-and-bass nights!

It’s the perfect spot to be introduced to this incredible genre of music, all while downing delicious slices and Sanpellegrino Limonata (plus, it lets you support local DJs and artists).

Bonus: The pub has a cozy indoor dining area and a heated patio for colder days!

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Food-wise, begin your meal with a delicious appetizer, like the cheesy garlic bread, laden in mozzarella and garlic butter, and served with a side of the house marinara sauce, or the poutine house fries topped with cheese and gravy.

For mains, the menu ranges from a classic Margherita to options like Honey Diavola (pepperoni and honey with chilli flakes), Mexicana (chorizo and jalapeños), Tres Carnes and Prosciutto topped with arugula and shaved parmigiano. On the Mexican eats side, try the tacos (including pastor, chorizo, and baja fish), quesabirria, burritos and shareables like nachos! End your meal with a two-piece crispy churros combo, coated in cinnamon sugar and served with traditional Mexican milk caramel sauce, as well as Napolitan Flan, finished with a layer of clear caramel.

If you’re deal-hunting, the pub is also promoting a Taco Tuesday special: two tacos for $9.99, every Tuesday, all day!

As for what’s next, we can expect more drum-and-bass nights as well as live programming. As a pre-Valentine’s teaser (Feb 13), there’s an Open Mic night, where singers, musicians poets (or anyone who wants to share their art) can take the stage. And on Feb 20, diners can experience live music by guitarist/composer Mark Sepic in what’s being described as a night of musical creativity and good vibes.

Bluffs Pizza Pub is located at 2496 Kingston Rd. It’s open from Tuesday to Thursday, 4-10 pm, and on weekends from 12 to 11 pm. Visit @bluffspizzapub for more info.