Balzac’s Coffee founder launches lifestyle brand Inner Beach

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11:17 am

Life’s a beach, but for the founder of Balzac’s Coffee Roaster Diana Olsen, the beach is a lifestyle. The entrepreneur recently launched a new lifestyle brand called Inner Beach Co. inspired by beach and surf culture with both online and brick-and-mortar offerings.

The brand launched online at the beginning of June, while the flagship store in Port Credit opened its doors to beachcombers June 15. Offering a wide range of beachy products in the realm of home goods, apparel, gifts and wellness products, the launch of Inner Beach couldn’t have come at a better time as Canadians yearn for a tropical vacation following a long winter season of snow, lockdowns and more lockdowns.

Olsen says she was inspired to create the brand while witnessing the cultural changes brought on by the pandemic.

“In my downtime over the past year and a half, I’ve poured my pent-up travel and beach trip energy into imagining something new,” Olsen says. “The pandemic has shifted the way we are living, how we travel, and what we value, and I saw the need for a brand that embodies this new ethos.”

Located on Elizabeth St. South in Port Credit, the flagship store was designed to create an immersive experience for shoppers and a laid-back, good-vibes-only community. With vibrant, colourful, and kitschy designs, the products on offer at Inner Beach can help you transform your home into a tropical haven just in time for a summer staycation.

“With the store in Port Credit, we offer a uniquely immersive brand experience that will transport our customers to that magical place and state of mind we all long for with a tropical holiday,” Olsen says.

To support the local environment and the beaches they’re repping, the brand will be partnering with Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, a charity devoted to protecting all the Great Lakes, sponsoring the water testing of four beaches in the Port Credit area. Inner Beach and Lake Ontario Waterkeeper are set to collaborate on more initiatives in the future to help preserve Ontario’s lakes and keep the area’s beach culture alive and well.

For more information and to shop, visit the online store at www.innerbeach.com or in person at 6 Elizabeth St. South, Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with some extended evening hours.

Inside Stock Bar, Terroni and Cumbrae’s expansive new dining space

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Jessica Huras

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3:29 pm

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The best charcuterie boards in Toronto

By

Dorothy Chudzinski

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10:54 am

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Just in time for Father’s Day and summer picnicking, we tracked down the best charcuterie in Toronto for family sharing.

ANTLER

Chef Michael Hunter is known for his focus on showcasing the country’s best in wild game and culinary delights. With ingredients sourced almost entirely from Canada, Antler prioritizes using local and wild foods that reflect the rural roots of the country. Antler’s charcuterie and cheese board highlight’s the restaurant’s dedication to game meat, featuring house-made charcuterie paired with a semi-soft Bleu d’Elizabeth blue cheese, freshly baked bread, compote, mustard and pickles. The board comes in two sizes.
1454 Dundas St. W.

BARNSTEINER’S

Chef Herbert Barnsteiner worked in restaurants across the globe before settling in Toronto to open his own with his wife Michelle. Barnsteiner’s menu showcases a range of European comfort cuisine from Italy, Germany and France. The house-made charcuterie board features sliced cured salami, assorted meats and pâté and pickled vegetables. Unlike run-of- the-mill charcuterie platters, the bread featured on this board is grilled and paired with fruit chutney mustards. The board can also be topped with an ounce of cheese for an additional $6.
1 Balmoral Ave.

CÔTE DE BOEUF

Bistro and butcher shop Côte de Boeuf takes inspiration from the neighbourhoods of Paris, sourcing its charcuterie from Auvergne, a farming region in Central France known for its cured meats and cheeses. The Les Assiette features a chef’s choice of pork-based salamis, three kinds of cheese, pickles, butter and house-made terrine. The board comes in two sizes to feed two or four people. The picnic tote “grab n go” comes with a tote bag and sealed charcuterie, making it a nice option for those looking to enjoy their platter alfresco as a picnic.
130 Ossington Ave.

CAFÉ BOULUD

Helmed by celebrity chef Daniel Boulud, Café Boulud’s menu highlights the chef’s upbringing in Lyon, France, through its combination of bistro classics rooted in French tradition with modern flair. The brasserie’s authenticity is epitomized by its iconic charcuterie boards, which feature a variety of high-quality house-made meats and accompaniments. For added European flavour, diners can upgrade to the cheese and charcuterie board option, which also includes three chef-chosen French cheeses.
60 Yorkville Ave.

How COVID-19 has changed the way law is practiced in Toronto

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Sponsor

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9:54 am

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The COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the global economy cannot be understated. When the coronavirus took hold, we witnessed the world change overnight, leaving almost all of us facing new workplace realities. The legal profession is no different.

Digital marketing agency dNOVO Group provides law firms with practice management strategies and web design, helping clients as they transition to a virtual way of doing business. According to dNOVO founder Shamil Shamilov, it was important for lawyers to embrace emerging technology in the shift from the courtroom to the video screen.

“The ability for firms and law practitioners to quickly embrace this kind of transition this year came with benefits: videoconferencing saves travel time and costs; meetings can be easier to schedule; and it is also more convenient for clients in most cases,” Shamilov says.

However, for some lawyers, the technological pivot necessitated by social distancing protocols was not the only challenge. Losing clients quickly became a real possibility. Depending on the specialty of law practised, the pandemic either resulted in more business or much less.

Fewer accident claims

For example, when the government’s mandated shutdown went into effect in March 2020, the number of people who were able to work from home increased dramatically, which meant fewer vehicles on the road and a significant reduction in accident claims. These travel and work restrictions also cut the number of slip and fall cases.

Personal injury firms such as Grillo Law were forced to face that reality. As one of the largest personal injury practitioners in Ontario handling a large variety of claims, this firm was able to ride out the storm, but smaller teams found they had to reinvent themselves or flounder.

Postponed trials

The closing of courts also had an impact. The virtual courtroom has become the norm and lawyers have learned to adapt. But there is only so much that can be done online. Without access to jury panels, some criminal and civil trials have been continually postponed. And despite the hope mass vaccinations bring, there is no clear idea when courts can open for all cases and not just urgent matters.

Still, family lawyers – who are among those affected by court closures – found themselves with as many files as before, if not more. That’s because working remotely puts many couples in close quarters for extended periods of time.

Jobs were lost, couples were isolated and forced out of their regular routines. Many came to the realization that their marriages were no longer working. Since the start of the pandemic, lawyers from across Canada have been reporting a significant increase in the number of people looking to end their relationships.

As well, those with shared parenting responsibilities turned to family lawyers to draw up new agreements to meet changing demands, especially when schools were closed.

Real estate roller coaster

Meanwhile, COVID touched off a home-buying frenzy, with real estate lawyers along for the ride. It’s not only closings that necessitate a lawyer’s attention. In commercial leasing, tenants have been seeking advice to determine if the economic conditions brought about the coronavirus crisis entitled them to make an early exit. Residential landlord and tenant issues were also disputed as job losses resulted in some not being able to pay the rent.

Face to face challenges

The pandemic forced many people to take stock and finally take care of an important legal matter – drafting a will. When lockdowns were announced, estate lawyers reportedly were having a difficult time serving clients, meeting them in parking lots where documents were handed over and signed. However, provinces across the country instituted emergency regulations allowing for remote signing and witnessing of wills.

Mediators and arbitrators have also been able to soldier on during the pandemic despite the need for social distancing. While some argue that it is important to meet face-to-face, many mediators and arbitrators say they have learned to adjust to Zoom sessions and find them more convenient.

Employment and labour questions

If there is one aspect of the law that has seen an uptick in business, it is the employment and labour bar. COVID-19 has led to confusion in the workplace with new pandemic-related issues coming to the forefront.

From the right to lay off workers to employee disciplinary procedures, labour laws have received a thorough vetting through the employment lens. Court decisions on cases dealing with the pandemic have led to new precedents that will have a significant impact on employers and their workers. Evolving regulations have led to the need for companies to frequently review their workplace policies to ensure they reflect the ongoing changes.

As coronavirus restrictions ease and courts start to reopen, a surge of litigation is expected. Lawyers who have learned how to diversify will survive in the uncertain times that lay ahead.

Home of the Week: Inside a $2 million ultra-modern townhome with a private rooftop patio

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Kaitlin Narciso

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9:51 am

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Welcome to 850 Richmond Street West, part of Curated Property’s Edition Richmond development. This ultra-modern townhome benefits from a perfect balance of living in a house while enjoying a hassle-free experience that comes with a condominium community. It’s listed at $2, 098, 000.

With a unique floorplan featuring a spacious primary bedroom retreat on the third floor and 1,986 square feet of interior space plus a 453 square foot super private rooftop patio, this home provides abundant living and entertaining space for downtown families.

The main floor features hardwood throughout, and an oversized custom kitchen with high-end, and full-sized, integrated appliances. A generous kitchen island and plenty of storage space makes this an ideal kitchen for avid chef’s.

The kitchen is flanked by a large living room on one side, and a dining room at the front of the home.

The living room includes a custom built-in and floating display shelving and a sleek glass wall staircase. A serene and sophisticated palette throughout, with interiors by Cecconi Simone.

The second level features two generous bedrooms, either or both of which could also serve as a home office or guest bedroom.

The front bedroom includes a large terrace, while the rear bedroom includes an ensuite bathroom.

This full floor features a truly breathtaking ensuite completed with timeless modern finishes and a large walk-in shower, soaker tub and dual vanities.

A custom walk-in closet is also close at hand, with truly remarkable storage. The master bedroom easily accommodates a king-sized bed.

Enjoy a charming private rooftop patio, and the convenience of underground parking as well as a generously proportioned storage locker.

Located within seconds of Trinity-Bellwoods Park, this highly sought-after location is truly one-of-a-kind. Moments away are some of the city’s most celebrated neighbourhoods, from King Street West, to the Ossington Strip, from Queen West to Dundas West. With incredible access to transit, parks, schools and the highways, this urban townhome is perfect for life in the city.

Paddling, hiking and axe throwing adventures across Ontario

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Dorothy Chudzinski

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3:48 pm

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GE-axe-throwing — Long Point Eco Adventures offers outdoor axe throwing

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

My first taste of adventure travel was 14 years ago on a yearlong journey across Asia. From diving to trekking, rafting to Muay Thai, I looked for activities that got my adrenaline pumping.

From there, a need for adventure travel was sparked: I zip lined in Costa Rica, kayaked off the coast of Belize and hiked in Kenya. I love global adventure travel, but continued travel restrictions mean that, once again, I will be spending my summer holiday in Ontario. Luckily, this province is home to spectacular adventure-based getaways and high-octane experiences.

Cycling and paddling

Founded by a former lawyer and venture capitalist, Get Out Toronto was born from “the realization that an urban life with a busy job and responsibilities can also be a life filled with adventure and outdoor exploration.” Get Out Toronto prides itself on the ability to help urbanites integrate adventure travel into their lives. Get Out Toronto has both day trips and weekend getaways that offer several outdoor activities including rock climbing, whitewater canoeing and paddling, and, of course, biking.

The sea kayaking paddling trips take place in several locations such as the Thirty Thousand Islands, Parry Sound and Georgian Bay. Overnight trips start with a meet and greet in the evening and a hearty breakfast in the morning with a chance to explore the surrounding wilderness. Guests can also learn survival skills like fire building, shelter building and animal tracking. Heading onto the water, prepare to discover creeks, rivers and waterfalls as you navigate through some of Ontario’s most picturesque scenery.

If cycling is your thing, spend your day mountain biking through rocky Ontario landscapes, meandering through the countryside or in one-on-one coaching with a professional cycling coach. If you want a taste of it all, Get Out Toronto offers multisport getaways where you can spend the morning paddling and the afternoon on the bike.

Weekends with Get Out Toronto finish with dinner under a sky full of stars, delicious locally sourced food and a couple of drinks, all to cap off a perfect outdoor adventure.

Diving and snorkelling

The Fathom Five National Marine Park is known as the “Shipwreck Diving Capital of Canada,” a freshwater ecosystem of ancient rock formations in Tobermory. Surrounded by grassy cliff-edge forests, these sparkling bodies of water boast 20 fascinating shipwrecks. Some boats, like the two-masted schooner John Walters, were wrecked as long ago as 1883, whereas others, such as the Niagara II, have only been under the water for 20 years. Known as one of the best freshwater dive sites in the world, Fathom Five National Marine Park also has underwater caves, cliffs and overhangs waiting to be explored by both new and experienced divers.

There are numerous dive shops in Tobermory offering guided dives, snorkelling and PADI- certified scuba diving training. Dive companies can advise on the best dive sites to explore based on the day, environmental factors and each diver’s level of experience.

A day under the water in Fathom Five National Marine Park will be unforgettable.

Hiking and axe throwing

Long Point Eco Adventures is the ultimate wilderness retreat in Ontario, with unique accommodations, an on-site winery and brewery, exceptional locally sourced food and a laundry list of exciting activities to keep you and your family entertained.

Try out your lumberjack skills throwing axes while overlooking Turkey Point Marsh, or tour the beautiful grounds, the on-site Honeybee Apiary and Mushroom Foray. Jump on a boat and discover new swimming holes, standup paddleboard across the lake, fish or kayak down Big Creek. Kids can join in a tailored stargazing program or take the interactive observatory tour for a more in- depth constellation, dark sky experience.

When it comes to resting your head at night, the options are many. Safari tents (with hardwood flooring, running water and hydro) are the perfect option for those in search of a glamping experience. The elite pod is a wooden glamping yurt built for two with all the private amenities one would need. Large groups can book a deluxe pod or cabin with a private beach volleyball court and barbecue.

Long Point Eco Adventures is the perfect experiential travel adventure for your Ontario summer getaway.

Toronto clothing brand Encircled embraces slow fashion movement

By

Ron Johnson

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3:33 pm

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encircled-kristi — Encircled founder Kristi Soomer

You’ve heard of fast fashion, but what about slow fashion—its more sustainable, thoughtful and trustworthy cousin? Canadian brands like Encircled are leaning into the idea by using sustainable materials, prioritizing quality over quantity and considering every aspect of the environment (including people) with every design.

Engaging with the slow fashion movement has paid off for Encircled as it became one of just four female-founded apparel brands in Canada to receive the prestigious Certified B. Corp designation, which means that after a thorough assessment, the brand met some of the most stringent business guidelines surrounding environment and human rights.

The founder of Encircled, Kristi Soomer, says she was thrilled to be certified back in 2018 after undergoing the incredibly in-depth process. For Soomer and her team, the certification means she’s among other businesses looking to give back to the world and their community rather than create further destruction.

“For us, it’s an opportunity to be amongst a set of industry-leading brands, all of whom have committed to using business as a force for good in the world so that we can become better and continuously improve our business practices,” she says. “It’s also a measure of credibility for consumers.”

The idea for Encircled came to Soomer as she was getting ready to leave for a yoga retreat in Costa Rica and her suitcase broke, forcing her to use a smaller bag. She realized she had a strong desire for clothes that could be used for multiple situations and purposes, and her first product idea was born.

“I longed for a piece that would transition from a cardigan at the airport to dress during the trip,” she says. “So, I designed it, and that became our innovative 8-in-1 Chrysalis Cardi. From that product idea, I launched Encircled.”

Today, versatility is still one of the brand’s main design pillars. They’ve come out with dozens of convertible dresses, tops, pants, jackets and more since Soomer’s revelation. For example, the dressy sweatpants can be dressed up or down for any occasion, while revolve dress can be worn not one, not two, but six different ways.

“I read this quote once, ‘the most sustainable thing you can do is to wear your closet,’” Soomer says. “Many of us are guilty of having tons of unworn items in our closet. We’re on a mission to change that by creating fewer, but better and well-loved pieces that you can wear more often.”

Now that the pandemic is winding down and people are going to be heading back to the office for at least a few days a week, Encircled hopes to help people retain the comfort they’ve found through loungewear while elevating the silhouettes. Over the next month, the brand will be launching a comfy paperbag short and culotte, which both have a chic look but are made of MicroModal, a soft, high-quality and locally knit material.

Soomer says she hopes sustainable apparel becomes the new norm, but it’s currently not mandated or regulated at all by the government in Canada, meaning there’s little incentive for brands.

“Sustainability is important to me because we only have one world and we need to protect it,” she says. As it has been shown, there are many negative impacts that humankind has had on our planet, and it’s on us—as people—to lead the change in a positive direction and start to reverse the effects of climate change.”

Visit encircled.ca to learn more and shop.

A celebrity chef is opening a new bar in Yorkville

By

Jessica Huras

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4:52 pm

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Celebrity chef David Rocco is unveiling his latest project in the Yorkville neighbourhood. Although a full menu has not yet been released, Bar Aperitivo will focus on its namesake Italian tradition. Derived from the Latin aperire (to open), an aperitivo is a drink designed to open the stomach, or stimulate the appetite, before a meal.

Known for his four successful cookbooks and numerous television appearances, Rocco has produced and hosted five series that cover culture and cuisine: Amalfi Getaway, Dole Napoli, Dolce Vita, Dolce India and Dolce Africa.

In each show Rocco seeks to immerse himself in local culture, highlighting the similarities between regional techniques and those of his Italian heritage but also showcasing what makes each unique. The son of Italian immigrant parents, Rocco’s brand has always revolved around bringing an authentic Italian lifestyle, the dolce vita or ‘sweet life’ for which his shows are named, to Canada as well as his significant international audience.

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Scheduled to open in early July, Bar Aperitivo will feature an extensive front streetside patio with a more intimate indoor space. In addition to an extensive wine list, Bar Aperitivo will also include a tapas-style menu, gelato and a bottle shop. The hybrid nature of the project is becoming increasingly familiar in Toronto, as restaurants seek to find additional revenue streams outside of sit-down, indoor dining.

Despite his renown as a chef and operating his own wine label, this will be Rocco’s first restaurant. With COVID regulations stymying his travels, we might even see Rocco himself in the kitchen at Bar Aperitivo.

Massey Hall announces opening date and slew of new concerts

By

Ron Johnson

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12:16 pm

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Massey Hall concert venue — Massey Hall set to open this fall

After an extensive three-year revitalization (and a pandemic mixed in along the way—small detail), Massey Hall is set to reopen its doors this November. They already have a list of over 40 artists slated to perform in the newly dedicated Allan Slaight Auditorium from November into the end of 2022 including Gordon Lightfoot, City and Colour and Broken Social Scene, to name a few.

In 2018, extensive renovations began at Massey Hall to improve the building’s amenities and accessibility, build two new venues, restore the ceilings and reinstall the original stained-glass windows.

“Today’s announcement feels like a homecoming for many artists whose music helped shape the legacy of this incredible venue, ushering in a new era alongside those announcing their Massey Hall debuts,” says President and CEO of Massey Hall, Jesse Kumagai. “The weeks and months ahead will reveal more exciting news as additional concerts are added to the Massey Hall schedule and we unveil details of Allied Music Centre’s new performance spaces.”

Today, the historic site on Victoria St. near the intersection of Yonge and Shuter Sts. is celebrating its 127th birthday after opening its doors June 14, 1894, when it christened the venue with a performance of Handel’s Messiah as part of a five-concert festival. Businessman and philanthropist Hart Massey built the hall in honour of his late son Charles Albert Massey, gifting it to the city as a space where “public meetings, conventions, musical and other entertainments, etc., could be given.”

The hall remains an iconic piece of Toronto’s history. During over a century of performances, Massey Hall has played host to greats like George Gershwin, Oscar Peterson, Bob Dylan, Neil Young and the list goes on.

The 17th Annual Andy Kim Christmas will also be returning to the hall at the tail end of 2021 on Wednesday, December 8. Created by Canadian artist Andy Kim and with proceeds going to CAMH’s Gifts of Light program, the music and variety show has featured some of Canada’s most beloved performers in the past like Sarah McLachlan, Barenaked Ladies and Russell Peters.

“I have longed to do the Christmas show at Toronto’s historic Massey Hall and with the support of Live Nation Canada, I am excited to be one of the first to perform after their restoration and bring The Andy Kim Christmas back in front of a live audience after many, many long months and hopefully raise an incredible amount of money for CAMH Gifts of Light,” says Kim.

So far, the show has raised a cumulative total of over $1.8 million, with $200,000 raised through the TV performance alone last year.

Gordon Lightfoot was the last performer to play at Massey Hall before it closed for renovations in July 2018, and in a full circle moment, he’ll be the first to welcome the community back on November 25, 26 and 27. The artist has been honoured with 15 JUNO Awards, five Grammy nominations and status as a Companion of the Order of Canada, and this will mark his 170th appearance on stage at the hall.

You can purchase tickets for all upcoming shows at Massey Hall by phone (416-872-4255) or online starting Monday, June 21 at 12 p.m. for the general public and June 16 at 12 p.m. for members. Tickets for the Andy Kim Christmas Show will be available at ticketmaster.ca beginning June 24.

For more information, full concert listings and tickets, visit masseyhall.com/meetatmassey.

A new patio inspired by the French Riviera just opened in Yorkville

By

Megan Gallant

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11:56 am

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To mark the start of summer, today Four Seasons Hotel welcomes diners to a culinary experience inspired by the French Riviera. d|azur is a chic and elegant patio that encompasses the romance, warmth and glamour of the South of France on the corner of Bay Street and Yorkville Avenue.

The patio menu is designed by d|bar sous chef Horatio Macias Leon and features light creations focused on seafood with distinct Mediterranean accents. These delicious dishes include fresh oysters, caviar, burrata, grilled octopus, and ceviche, paired with carefully crafted cocktails.

The dessert menu serves up a taste of French Summers with a collection of seasonal flavours including lemon, orange blossom, apricot, and thyme. The menu will also include the Tarte Tropezienne, a specialty pastry that originated in the French Riviera town of St. Tropez.

Mural at Four Seasons’ new outdoor patio d|azur

Further transporting guests to the Cote d’Azur, the wall on the hotel’s southwest side features a custom art installation from Toronto artist Jason Zante. Named The Riviera, the artwork depicts the azure waters and stunning architecture that is found throughout the region. Zante offers a mode of escapism for customers and passersby who view the vibrant colours and bold contrasts of the mural.

“The Riviera symbolizes the many elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle and landscape through abstracted forms and contrasting colours while fusing subtle textural elements that already live within the design of the Hotel,” Zante says. “It was my goal to offer a feeling of escapism to anyone who views the mural. A moment where their minds can drift to vacation mode where they feel most at peace.”

d|azur is open seven days a week in the heart of Yorkville and is sure to become Toronto’s destination for a French staycation.

Home of the Week: $2.7 million for a home with a pool, gym, and a rec room

By

Marlene Mendonca

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12:08 pm

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The home at 197 Cooks Mill Crescent checks all the boxes of a desirable family home. It comes with tons of living space, large bedrooms and an in-ground pool. The two-storey build is located on a 55-foot wide lot in Vaughan. With four bedrooms and five bathrooms, it’s on the market for $2.695 million.

As you enter the home, the marble flooring and two-storey ceilings create a grand entryway.

There’s plenty of space for a grand piano in the formal living room. It has tons of large windows and an elegant looking fireplace.

It’s also open to the dining room. White wainscotting and rich hardwood flooring spans throughout the main level.

Another fireplace can be found in the family room, which features built-in bookcases and windows facing the backyard.

The marble waterfall island matches the backsplash in the kitchen. Integrated appliances seamlessly blend along the white cabinetry, giving it a clean and modern look. The island also doubles as a breakfast bar.

There’s space for a casual dining set next to the kitchen. Double doors provide easy access to the backyard.

The oversized primary bedroom is located on the second floor.

There’s lots of storage space in the walk-in closet.

A massive double vanity can be found in the ensuite bathroom. It’s designed with neutral coloured tiles and comes with a glass shower.

Each of the other bedrooms are painted different colours, giving it some personality.

They all have high ceilings and large windows which allows for a lot of natural light.

This three-piece bathroom has spotlight lighting and a bathtub.

High ceilings and pot lighting open up the finished lower level.

There’s plenty of space for it to be used as a recreation room, home gym or second family room.

Along with an additional bedroom. There’s also a three-piece bathroom.

The home’s backyard was made for entertaining thanks to the in-ground pool. The stone patio makes for a low maintenance backyard, allowing lots of space for seating and dining sets.

This home is listed with Adam Feldman and Carolyn Feldman of Harvey Kalles Real Estate LTD.

Five west end patios in Toronto that are open this weekend

By

Marlene Mendonca

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8:30 am

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For the first time in months, restaurant owners across Toronto will be reopening their patios to eager residents after the province announced that Ontario will be entering the first stage of its reopening plan today. With the warm weather this weekend, patio drinks are the perfect way to commemorate the return of patio season. Here are five restaurants in the west end that are taking walk-ins or still have some availability to book.

Old School

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Old School is a great place to gather a small group of friends for a relaxing brunch. Located at 800 Dundas St. W, there is still an opportunity to book. Known for their comfort food, Old School’s menu offers classics such as chicken and waffles and eggs Benedict. To wash it down, the menu also has hand-spun milkshakes and alcoholic beverages to beat the heat. Old School screens their staff, enforces the use of protective equipment and keeps sanitization as a high priority for all guests visiting their establishment. They have even revamped their patio for this season!

Queen’s Pasta Cafe

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Queen’s Pasta Cafe serves fresh Italian cuisine at 2263 Bloor St. W and will be serving walk-ins only! Queen’s is famous for their cannelloni filled with ricotta and spinach dish, as well as their chocolate lava cake, marked as the best in the city. Eager to serve Toronto residents, they will be following government guidelines of four people to a table.

Rendezviews

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Presented by The Fifth and Ballroom at 229 Richmond St W, Rendezviews is a parking lot converted into a picnic table patio in downtown Toronto. They will be seating first-come, first-serve in anticipation of a busy weekend! In order to provide cashless transactions, they will be working off a token system in lieu of COVID-19 safety. Serving everything from wings to pad Thai, you’re sure to find a dish to enjoy!

Café Diplomatico

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Café Diplomatico serves up authentic Italian cuisine at 594 College St and will be welcoming patrons on a first-come, first-served basis to accommodate their street side patio. This family restaurant is known for their Dip sandwiches and pizzas, also offers a range of wines, beers and ciders to enjoy in the welcoming atmosphere of their famous patio, while following COVID -19 protocols.

Antler Kitchen and Bar

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With regionally inspired Canadian cuisine, Antler Kitchen and Bar offers a taste of seasonal and wild foods at 1454 Dundas St W. You can book your patio table now, with availability both Friday and Sunday night still up for grabs! Their patio offers a rustic charm while you enjoy their appetizing charcuterie boards and well-known dishes of boar, duck and venison, exclusive to this patio season with proper COVID-19 safety precautions in place to welcome you to a unique Canadian dining experience.