Brian Gluckstein on tackling a bathroom reno in one weekend

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12:52 pm

bathroom reno — GlucksteinElements Larson vanity, Westbury pivot mirror, and Ashbury light and GlucksteinHome Hammam robe and Aegean cotton towels © A Plus Creative

Catch Brian Gluckstein on Cityline, where he is a guest expert, and shop his GlucksteinHome collection of furniture and decor at Hudson’s Bay and GlucksteinElements collection of fixtures and finishes at Home Depot. Follow him @briangluckstein on Instagram for more.

A bathroom remodel can boost your home’s value while improving the esthetics and functionality for a happier space. It also happens to be one of my favourite rooms to design, since I know people love spending time there. Here are my guidelines for an effective mini-makeover that can have a powerful and much-needed impact.

Set your budget and stick to it

In addition to setting a financial budget, you should also set a budget for the time your project will take. Be realistic with your expectations, especially if you’re doing most of the work yourself. This will help you understand how involved the process will be.

Begin with the vanity

Start planning your bathroom update by choosing the vanity. As likely the biggest piece of furniture in the space, it can help set the tone for the rest of the design. Whether you’re looking to go more modern with light oak drawers and matte black hardware or transitional with a classic dresser-inspired piece paired with polished nickel hardware, pick something you love and have it connect with each decision you make.

Next up is the walls

Wrap your room in a beautiful new hue that sparks joy, whether that’s a soothing neutral colour or a bright, bold option. Since paint is relatively easy and affordable to change, there’s an opportunity to have some fun here. Purchase tester pots to see how the colour reads in your room rather than under the fluorescent lighting in the store. If you want to add texture to the walls, consider a wallcovering made from vinyl which will stand up to the room’s humidity and high traffic.

Hang a statement mirror

Go beyond builder basic with your mirror and opt for something exciting with a graphic matte black mirror, modern round version or a pivoting option that tilts up or down to the right height, improving the functionality of your space. Like art, I consider mirrors to be the finishing touches of a space that add an alluring quality to the room.

Swap out lighting

Updating the lighting alone can have a profound impact on the space. I love using sconces on either side of the mirror above the vanity, or horizontally above the mirror, creating a focal point and soft glow that draws your eye in. Tie the lighting’s metal into the hardware on your vanity or frame of your mirror, or create contrast by mixing finishes for a more eclectic look.

Know when to hire a professional

Even for the most enthusiastic of DIYers, there are some things you shouldn’t do on your own. Hire someone who is both licensed and insured to handle the electrical work for lighting or the plumbing work for changing out a vanity. Beyond sheer peace of mind, a professional can handle certain tasks more efficiently and will yield better results.

Give Mom a solo getaway that she can enjoy this summer

By

lindsaylow

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12:05 pm

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solo getaway mom — A glamping tent at Whispering Springs

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

This month we celebrate mothers, and after the year we’ve had, this day is more deserved than ever. Mothers have spent a lot of time with their family over the past 365 days. And while it has been lovely to have all of this family time, I think many moms would agree that solo time would be a welcome change. This year, instead of flowers, why not give Mom something to look forward to when the lockdown ends — time away, by herself. Here are three solo getaways to gift Mom this Mother’s Day.

Wellness and wine

mom solo getaway — Whispering Springs Pavilion

Whispering Springs is a luxury glamping destination in Northumberland County where moms can indulge in ultimate relaxation. The owners of this stylish and sophisticated outdoor experience were former contributors of Ste. Anne’s Spa and spent years chartering yachts in The Bahamas.

Glamping tents come equipped with a bed, an in-tent washroom with hot and cold running water, electricity, luxe linens, towels and robes. When it’s time to eat, meal options include purchasing pizza from The Watering Hole guest bar or ordering a cook-your-own barbecue dinner basket to be made over a private campfire. The resort sources as much of its food from local suppliers as possible and guests can also pair their meals with a glass of Prince Edward County wine or a custom craft cocktail.

Mom can spend her days reading by the saltwater pool or lazing in the hot tub while overlooking spring-fed ponds. She can explore 200 acres of beautiful Canadian forest, take part in a yoga class or head out for a paddle and end the day with a soothing massage.

Glamorous wind-down

Just outside of Cambridge, award-winning country house hotel Langdon Hall sits on 30 gorgeous acres of pristine garden. Winner of many accolades, this lavish property is the perfect spa getaway.

Each elegant room features luxury linens, therapeutic soaking tubs, toiletries from luscious the White Company, and most come with a wood-burning fireplace.

Throughout the pandemic, Langdon Hall has been providing each guest with a wellness kit on arrival, consisting of hand sanitizer, a face mask and information on all the COVID safety protocols used throughout the property.

The menu at Langdon Hall is unique and inspired. Each meal reflects the season, all ingredients are sourced from local farms, fields, waters and forests. Whether Mom is looking for lobster and champagne eggs for breakfast, smoked beef short rib for lunch or lime crème topped with honey from the property for dessert, every single bite will be beyond delectable.

Between heavenly meals, Mom can unwind in the award-winning spa with a lavish facial, a rejuvenating body wrap or relaxing massage from an experienced RMT, complete with aromatherapy oils and exclusive certified organic botanicals. A glass of bubbly on the spa’s outdoor terrace is a must as well.

At Langdon Hall, your mother will be guaranteed an enchanting experience that leaves her feeling renewed, refreshed and revitalized.

Active escape

Blue Mountain Village © Jeff S. PhotoArt at HDCanvas.ca

If your mom is a fan of active travel, a weekend at Blue Mountain is the way to go. With an abundance of lodging options from self-catering apartments to the glamorous Westin (and everything in between), home base can be anything she needs it to be.

During the day, the activity options are endless. Mom can spend a day with Free Spirit Tours, paddling the Beaver River in a canoe, kayak or on a standup paddle board. Either with a guide or on her own, she can hike the tranquil forest, scale the steep ridges of the escarpment, explore the Scenic Caves or cycle along the crystal-clear shores of Georgian Bay. Along the way, Mom can stop at local wineries or cideries, such as the famous Coffin Ridge Cidery & Winery or Spy Cider House & Distillery, for some local, tasty refreshment. If you’re lucky, she may bring you home a sample or two.

Blue Mountain Village also has many delicious food offerings, which will satisfy any craving from mouth-watering Firehall Pizza Co. to the festive Tholos Greek restaurant, upmarket fare at O&B Café Grill to the ultimate pub grub at Northwinds Brew Pub. Then she can top it off by enjoying some live music in the village.

Toronto restaurant openings, closings and coming soons: May 1-7

By

Jessica Huras

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11:40 am

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Toronto restaurants that closed this week

Maiz Arepa’s Queen West location has permanently closed. In what has become a sadly familiar type of Instagram post, chef Fernando Sequeda shared “unfortunately, our restaurant has not been approved for many of the government support[s] and it’s almost impossible to keep running out of our pocket with all the current restrictions.” You can still support chef Fernando and his team (and stuff yourself with their signature tequeños) at their three remaining locations: 2901 Dundas West, 3220 Yonge and 403 Roncesvalles.

Family-run Pape favourites Serano Bakery and Serano Café are temporarily closing after several staff members tested positive for COVID-19. The popular European bakery and Greek-style café currently plan to re-open on May 19th.

Toronto restaurant openings/coming soon

Atai Bistro, a French-Moroccan fusion restaurant, is now open for delivery in the Junction. While the pop-up’s menu is currently small, they plan to open brick-and-mortar locations in the Junction and Summerhill plus expand to a full menu when lockdown restrictions are lifted. Until then, you can order through UberEats, DoorDash or SkipTheDishes. Check out one of their mezze platters or the smoked eggplant flatbread featuring pickled zucchini, pomegranate and tahini.

Board game café Snakes and Lattes is now hosting Blissful Bird, a plant-based, fried chicken alternative. A rebranding of Lovebird, which was a Parkdale favourite until their recent COVID-prompted closure, the pop-up also offers gluten-free and halal options. Blissful Bird builds on Lovebird’s menu, with new additions including Bao Chicky Bao Wow (fried chicken, cucumber, pickled carrot and hoisin sauce on a bao) and the Clucket Bucket (a cruelty-free answer to your traditional KFC bucket, fries included).

Earlscourt BBQ is finally reopening after a fire forced them to close nearly 17 months ago. The popular Corsa Italia neighbourhood spot serves up locally sourced, Southern BBQ favourites with seasonal ingredients.

Night Owl is now hosting BBQ joint Matt’s Smokehouse at 647 College. After popping up at a few different locations across the city, most recently Tuck Shop, Matt and co are now settled in Little Italy.

Palgong Tea has a new location at 53 Bloor St. The popular Korean bubble tea chain has partnered with Jakeman’s Maple Products, so you can rest assured that’s genuine Canadian maple syrup in your next maple milk tea.

Sweetie Pie now has a second location at 654 Queen St. West. Serving handmade both sweet and savoury pies, they also offer vegan goodies, Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream and cake jars.

Dream in High Park returns with summer of amazing outdoor arts programming

By

Ron Johnson

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12:58 pm

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Canadian Stage has unveiled an ambitious summer of outdoor arts programming at the High Park amphitheatre. Usually the staging ground for the annual summer tradition Shakespeare in High Park, the Toronto theatre company is set to open the space up to the broader arts community with a stunning lineup of productions and one-night events from concerts and stand-up comedy to full theatrical productions and films.

Everything is, of course, tentative and subject to public health measures. But for a city starved of culture, the announcement is huge.

“This summer brings us to a critical moment for arts and culture in this city,” says Canadian Stage artistic director Brendan Healy. “We hope to be entering a period of recovery and healing from the pandemic. We are all feeling tentative and yet are yearning for art and connection. What we wanted to do with High Park this summer is share it — share it in a way that meaningfully takes action on commitments we have made in the last two years and share it in a way that facilitates the beginning of this recovery period — not just for us but for the community at large. The result, we believe, will be a really thrilling and inspiring summer season that will offer something for everyone.”

The traditional summer season at the amphitheatre will be extended from June until the end of September with programming under the Dream in High Park banner, a throwback to 1983 when the annual summer theatre event got underway.

“The name really encapsulates the fundamental spirit of the park,” Healy says. “The amphitheatre is a space for our city’s imagination and dreams: a space where stories come to life and a space where we get to dream up worlds together while surrounded by this stunning natural environment.”

The full line-up right now from Canadian Stage is listed below with all pertinent details. Tickets will go on sale once outdoor performances are allowed to resume, and prices will vary.

LULAWORLD IN THE PARK (June 29-30)

A Canadian Stage and Lula Music & Arts Presentation
Lula Music brings the sound of Lula Lounge and their annual Lulaworld festival to the beauty of High Park to record performances by local Latinx, Brazilian, Caribbean and Indigenous artists.

25 FOR 25 (July 1-3, 8 p.m.)

Small World Music in association with Canadian Stage
Celebrate Canada Day weekend and the launch of Small World’s 25th anniversary festivities with three evenings of the finest culturally diverse sounds from around the globe and around the corner.

MADE IN EXILE: OUTDOOR SHOWCASE (July 4, 8 p.m.)

Presented by Canadian Stage
In celebration of the first Tibetan Heritage Month in Ontario and the fifth year since its inception, Made in Exile will be screening short films created by emerging filmmakers from their 2020-21 Made in Exile x Charles Street Video’s Film Intensive Program. Canadian Stage is hosting this event to celebrate and showcase Made in Exile’s work in the community to date. We invite you to celebrate this historic month by witnessing the work of young emerging Tibetan artists.

FOREST DREAMS (July 5-10)

Canadian Stage welcomes Theatre Direct
Using High Park as inspiration, this week-long creation workshop for children will explore nature myths and stories through the magic of theatre. At the end of the week the children will perform their creation, Forest Dreams, at the High Park Amphitheatre for an invited audience of friends and family.

BAT NIGHT (July 6, 8:30 p.m., Aug. 3, 8 p.m., Sept. 14, 7 p.m.)

High Park Nature Centre comes to the amphitheatre for a 30-minute interactive presentation where they’ll cover all things bat — behaviour, habitat and favourite foods. Audiences will then leave the amphitheatre and explore High Park’s trails using handheld bat detectors and, if lucky, may even hear the bats’ ultrasonic calls as they swoop and loop during their evening, mid-air forage and spot their silhouettes.

STORY FUSION CABARET! (July 7, 8 p.m.) & STORYTENT (August 21-22, 10 a.m.)

Storytelling Toronto in partnership with Canadian Stage
Toronto’s hub for all story enthusiasts, Storytelling Toronto, will take over the amphitheatre twice this summer with two unique programs.
Enjoy some of the city’s finest dream weavers, when Storytelling Toronto presents, Story Fusion Cabaret!’s Making Images with Words, hosted by CBC’s Ali Hassan. Then it’s StoryTent, the family-friendly program led by the exuberant host, Donna Dudinsky.

BAROQUE & BEYOND CHAMBER CONCERTS (July 8-10)

Tafelmusik in association with Canadian Stage
Experience the beauty of music of the past with these intimate chamber concerts featuring two or three members of Tafelmusik orchestra. Presented in an informal style with introductions from the musicians, a different program will be offered each night.

BOX CONCERTS (July 10-11 & 17-18, 3 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.)

Tapestry Opera in partnership with Canadian Stage
Tapestry Opera’s joyful travelling pop-up stage returns with a brand new show for 2021. Tenor Asitha Tennekoon performs your favourites from opera and musical theatre together with new songs, to tell a magical story of connection and belonging.

TORONTO OUTDOOR PICTURE SHOW (July 11, 9 p.m.)

Toronto Outdoor Picture Show in partnership with Canadian Stage
Dedicated to sharing high quality, diverse, and engaging outdoor film programming with communities across Toronto, Toronto Outdoor Picture Show will present a one-night-only secret screening in the Canadian Stage High Park Amphitheatre, signalling the kick-off to the festival’s 2021 summer season.

STAND-UP COMEDY (July 12, 7 p.m. & 9 p.m.)

In partnership with Canadian Stage
Under the open skies of the High Park Amphitheatre you’ll find local, renowned comedians emerge with fresh stand-up comedy. Join them for an evening of laughs and storytelling in partnership with Canadian Stage.

MAGGIE & ME: A Healing Dance (July 15-18, 8 p.m.)

A Friday Creations Production in partnership with Native Earth Performing Arts, presented by Canadian Stage
Created and choreographed by Indigenous artist Christine Friday, Maggie & Me explores community, family, history and the power of a healing dance as moments weave through the dream realm, spirit realm, and present realm.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, BOYS AND GIRLS (July 17-18, 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.)

Roseneath Theatre in partnership with Canadian Stage
Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls follows the story of nine-year-old Fiona who comes out as a boy and wants to be called Fin. Fin has always had this feeling — knowing something is different but not knowing what it was or how to say it. As Fin cuts his hair short and changes his name, his family works to understand and adjust to Fin’s gender identity. Dad is accepting of the change right away, but Mom doesn’t quite get it at first. Always from a place of good intentions, we see Fin’s family struggle with this change and through the course of the play ultimately begin to accept and embrace Fin for who he is. Suitable for ages 9 to 14.

BLACKOUT (July 23-Aug. 15, 8 p.m.)

A Musical Stage Company production in association with Canadian Stage
Originally slated for premiere as part of the 2020-21 season, The Musical Stage Company’s BLACKOUT will premiere under the stars on the High Park Amphitheatre stage. Set on the evening of the northeast blackout of 2003, this thrilling new work depicts three stories of connection that unfolded when the city was dark, and strangers banded together to find the light. A new Canadian musical by two of Canada’s most exciting voices — Anton Lipovetsky and Steven Gallagher — BLACKOUT is a story of hope, resilience and community.

NOWHEN (Aug. 5-15, 3 p.m.)

A Canadian Stage Production in collaboration with The Department of Theatre, School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design at York University, presented in partnership with SummerWorks
Created and directed by Alison Wong, Nowhen is a collaborative creation reflecting one’s connection to place, dramatizing seven stories that weave across High Park before converging in the amphitheatre for a collective experience.

A NEW WORK PERFORMED BY CASIMIRO NHUSSI OF NAFRO DANCE AND PULGA MUCHOCHOMA (Aug. 19-22, 8 p.m.)

dance Immersion & Canadian Stage: Curatorial and Presenting Partners
Canadian Stage partners with dance Immersion — a company dedicated to producing, promoting, and supporting dancers and dances of the African Diaspora — on a new work to be choreographed and performed by Casimiro Nhussi and Pulga Muchochoma.

IS MY MICROPHONE ON? (Sept. 2-19, 7:30 p.m.)

A Canadian Stage Production by Jordan Tannahill, directed by Erin Brubacher
This generation will no longer be able to avoid the consequences of climate change. In this Canadian premiere of Governor General Award-winner Jordan Tannahill’s newest play, a group of young people speak directly to the adults in the audience, holding them to account, questioning the choices that have not been made, the ones that children will be forced to make, and what kind of future they stand to inherit.

BEYOND TORONTO TAIKO FESTIVAL (Sept. 4-5)

Canadian Stage presents Raging Asian Womxn Taiko Drummers and Toronto Taiko Festival
Make some noise for this showcase of incredible Pan-Asian drumming groups, women drumming groups, qtbipoc drumming groups and others.

AN EVENING WITH JEREMY DUTCHER (Sept. 6-8, 8 p.m.)

Presented by Canadian Stage
Polaris Prize-winning performer, composer, activist, and musicologist Jeremy Dutcher comes to the High Park Amphitheatre for three intimate concerts. A member of Tobique First Nation of New Brunswick and trained in the western operatic tradition, Dutcher’s music playfully integrates classical influences into traditional songs of his Wolastoqiyik Nation people. An intimate evening under the stars, this will be a rare opportunity to commune with one of the most exciting and essential artists in the country.

inTO FOCUS (Sept. 23-25, 7 p.m.)

Dance: made in Canada/fait au Canada festival in partnership with Canadian Stage
Canada’s biennial contemporary dance festival, dance: made in Canada/fait au Canada, will present inTO Focus, a dynamic mixed program featuring five Toronto-based contemporary dance artists.

Little Italy community rallies around popular ramen restaurant after a robbery

By

Jessica Huras

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11:07 am

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The staff of Tondou Ramen have been staying positive and working together to keep their spirits afloat since early Tuesday morning, when the beloved College Street restaurant was broken into.

Although no one was injured, a stranger did smash through the restaurant’s front door and emptied the register.

In an Instagram post, which included security footage of the stranger – who has yet to be identified or apprehended – the staff wrote, “This person seems like already know where to find money! This money is from our staff’s hard work…This is very disrespectful. We are very mad, sad and disappointed.”

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In the wake of the break-in and robbery, the community has banded together to offer help to the restaurant, which arrived in Little Italy in 2018 to provide some of the best Okinawan dishes in the city.

But Kota Uechi, Tondou Ramen’s owner, has declined any crowdfunding and, instead, has asked that people order from the restaurant to help it stay in business as the pandemic continues.

If you live outside of Little Italy or don’t need the food for yourself, Uechi encourages ordering a meal online and choosing the “pay it forward” option, which allows the restaurant to send the meal to someone else who needs it.

In another Instagram post, which includes a photo of Tondou Ramen’s smashed door, the staff wrote, “We don’t know what the story is behind the person who robbed us, but one thing is for sure – they were not acting from a place of fullness (in both stomach and heart). So let’s work together to keep everyone full and everyone safe.”

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Uechi said the restaurant has received many donations, with customers hoping to indeed pay it forward. Which you can do too, by the way, through UberEats, Skip the Dishes, DoorDash and Ritual.

“It’s been very hard,” he says. “But we’re lucky because nobody was there [at the time of the robbery] and nobody was hurt. That’s the important thing.”

Uechi added that he hopes customers will continue to place orders, as then “we can keep our staff working, keep the business alive and fix our door soon.”

He and his staff remain hopeful that the business will continue to thrive, especially as so many in the Little Italy community and beyond have been eager to help.

“I am surprised at all of the kindness everyone has given us,” he says. “That’s why I like Toronto, everybody helps each other.”

The Toronto chef that cooked for Michael Jordan and Michelle Obama

By

Ron Johnson

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10:46 am

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It’s hard enough running one restaurant kitchen during the pandemic. Try three. That’s exactly what the staff at Flor Mexicana are doing with three different businesses with three different menus operating out of Lula Lounge at Dundas and Brock. Chef Javier Romero and his team run Pizza Azul, fried chicken sandwich shop Bird Box along with Mexican restaurant Flor Mexicana.

The empire began in London, Ont., where the first Bird Box was opened by the same group behind Lula Lounge. A second location followed, and then a move to Toronto, where the Lula Lounge team had an empty kitchen waiting to be filled, and wanted to expand the Bird Box name.

Enter Romero, the Mexico City transplant with a larger-than-life resume, and an inspiration straight from the heart.

“I worked for the Charlotte Hornets for 17 years,” Romero explains. “I cooked for Michael Jordan, for NASCAR, and for the Carolina Panthers.” Oh, and he cooked for Barack Obama’s re-election campaign, where Michelle Obama had a meal request he wasn’t exactly expecting.

“Our menu had top of the line stuff, like filet mignon steaks,” he says. “She asked for a veggie burger.”

When he moved to Toronto, he got a job with Bird Box and began developing new menus, helping to evolve the brand by crafting, for example, pizza with a unique sourdough crust.

“The owner of Lula Lounge had a dream of running a pizza place,” Romero says. “He always wanted to have one.”

And so, Azul Pizza was born, a few months after Bird Box opened its doors in Toronto.

One of the most popular pizzas, Romero says, is Mary’s Pizza, which features bacon and candied jalapenos, among other toppings.

Another day, while playing around in the kitchen, Romero and his team came up with more ideas for what would become Flor Mexicana, inspired by the woman who taught him everything he knows about food: his grandmother.

On the menus, the words “inspired by Leonor” offer a glimpse into the food passed down to Romero from his grandmother.

“I’ve cooked with hundreds of chefs from all over,” Romero says, “but she’s the best cook I know.” And so, he built an authentically Mexican menu at Flor Mexicana complete with tacos, quesadillas and horchata, cooked with ingredients directly from Mexico. But, they made it their own with a pizza al pastor, a creation borne out of kitchen experimentation.

“I wanted to have something on the menu for everyone,” Romero says. The desserts are twists on classics, including a tres leches cake and a cheese flan.

When the pandemic is over, Romero says, they will keep operating Flor Mexicana’s menu out of the Lula Lounge space at 1585 Dundas St. W., because the group feels the tacos and handheld cuisine matches the Latin-inspired vibe of the late-night lounge. But, that doesn’t mean the end of Pizza Azul and Bird Box.

The pandemic, the chef says, was great for a few things: it allowed the team to become more like friends and family than co-workers, allowed them to experiment in the kitchen and craft the menus, and afforded them time to find a space that allows them to run all three menus on a more permanent basis.

Toronto Vintage Finds: Three must-have luxury pieces from I Miss You Vintage

By

Nikki Gill

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3:27 pm

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With a background in fine art history and museology, the owner of I Miss You Vintage Julie Yoo always had an eye for fabulous vintage pieces. She opened her brick-and-mortar store on Ossington Avenue in 2005 after building an impressive collection of eye-catching pieces her friends couldn’t help but notice.

“I’ve always had an eye for thrifting and second-hand fashion,” Yoo says. “My friends would come over and see my stash and say, ‘you need to open a store,’ so I did.”

Sixteen years later, I Miss You continues to carry one-of-a-kind vintage and haute couture items, with pieces by big names like Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton being some of the most coveted. Here are three accessories from the shop Yoo is currently loving:

Chanel Hula Hoop Bag

“It was originally a runway piece, and obviously it’s fun, it’s exaggerated — it’s not something you’d wear walking down the street,” Yoo says. “Eventually a couple of them were produced for the market and it’s incredibly rare, there are probably under five in the world. Karl Lagerfeld talked about having designed it as a beach bag, so you’re supposed to dig it into the beach sand standing up, and you have your towel in there and you can even dry out your bathing suit by hanging it on the hoop.” The bag is currently available online for $34,999.

Hermes Clic H Bracelet

“Hermes is another brand people always love,” Yoo says. “Bracelets like this one are fun and everyone loves to show the H label. It’s called the Clic H and the name makes sense — when you stack them and walk around it makes a clicking sound. They’re always popular but especially now that we’re not wearing occasion wear like gowns and dresses, people are looking for things that you can wear with jogging pants for everyday wear if you’re just going to grab a coffee.” The bracelet is available online for $475.

Louis Vuitton Multicolore Bag

“Louis Vuitton has been making monogrammed bags for decades and they’re still highly in demand,” Yoo says. “The coloured bags are a special edition collaboration with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami called the Multicolore. They were produced in the early 2000s and they’ve become quite the collectible piece, with prices ranging way higher than they were before. They’re reminiscent of the whole early 2000s Paris Hilton look, which has come back as a trend.” The bag is currently on sale online for $1,599.

Toronto comedian co-founds new virtual comedy club

By

Harriette Halepis

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2:35 pm

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The pandemic has hushed the packed houses and pricey drinks comedy clubs usually rely on. Many clubs have been shut down temporarily or shuttered permanently leaving a void in the industry.

Sensing this void, comedians and entrepreneurs, Toronto-based Daniel Woodrow and Montreal’s Rodney Ramsey have created the Unknown Comedy Club, a virtual club with regularly updated and live performances.

The Black-owned Unknown Comedy Club was founded in March 2021 and has enjoyed success in both Montreal and Toronto. The virtual club includes a 3D set, live performances from comedians worldwide including performances by DeAnne Smith, Nick Reynoldson, Keesha Brownie and many more, pre-show DJ sets, and interaction with audience members. The full-immersion experience even includes a host in the form of an avatar that keeps the show moving while cracking jokes.

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It’s hard to replicate the comedy club atmosphere virtually but Ramsey and Woodrow have come very close, and, perhaps more importantly, they’ve given comedians a stage to stand on.

“We didn’t want to start a club, but we felt that we had no choice,” says Ramsey. “We created Unknown Comedy Club to give comics a professional stage to continue their craft and grow their fan bases, and to give audiences the authentic comedy club vibe.”

The Unknown Comedy Club’s next performance is on May 8 ( the ‘Yo Mama’ Mother’s Day Show) headlined by comedian Kate Davis (12-time nominee at the Canadian Comedy Awards) and hosted by comedian Crystal Ferrier. In addition, the Underground Comedy Railroad Tour goes down on May 16, co-headlined by Aliya Kanani and Salma Hindy, and much more.

This virtual experience is donation-based currently and tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day of the show through the Unknown Comedy Club’s website.

For more great local laughs, check out our recent feature here.

Chef Mark McEwan picks Toronto’s best tres leches

By

Jessica Huras

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12:57 pm

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Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with the city’s best elote

By

Nikki Gill

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11:34 am

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mexican street corn elote — Chef Mark McEwan

It may be a gloomy day in May, but there is still reason to celebrate — it’s Cinco de Mayo. So we looked back at our Taste Test with chef Mark McEwan where he sampled the city’s best-known purveyors of Mexican street corn — or elotes. Whose kernels rule supreme? Read on to find out.

Winner: La Carnita

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“The charring is right. The level of spice is right. The creaminess with the combo of sauce and cheese is really nice and well seasoned. I like the way they’ve kept the husk on the corn and wrapped it so you have a handle,” says McEwan. 130 Eglinton Ave. E., $11.95

El Pocho Antojitos Bar

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“This is very tasty. I like the addition of the cilantro. It’s not too overpowering. The spice level is nice too,” says McEwan. “The piece of corn is smaller than the others, but it has been grilled well and the seasoning is good.” 2 Follis Ave., $6

Playa Cabana

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“The grilling is good, as is the creaminess. I like the other elements as well, from the cheese to the spice level, and it has a bit of lime on it. I prefer my corn to be small or large, and they’ve cropped off the ends of this one,” says McEwan. 111 Dupont St., $11

Smoque N Bones

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“It’s tasty. The grilling is good, and the smoked cheddar on top is quite rich and pretty powerful,” says McEwan. “I find the chipotle to be a little bit overwhelming. It’s spicy. The overall flavour is quite intense.” 869 Queen St. W., $9

Mr. Corn

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“The spice is good, and I like the presentation of this one. The Parmesan cheese is an interesting choice. It’s different from the others. I’m missing the grill marks on it though, so it doesn’t have that roast feel to it,” says McEwan. Food Truck, $7

Support local for Mother’s Day gifts in Toronto

By

Marlene Mendonca

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11:04 am

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Buying a Mother’s Day gift in Toronto doesn’t have to be difficult. These local shops are offering unique, local, and one-of-a-kind gifts to celebrate the mother-figure in your life.

Caribou Home

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Celebrating its very first anniversary, Caribou Home was born out of the pandemic so that Canadians can buy handcrafted goods from local artisans, makers, and entrepreneurs (many female), from all across the country! You’ll find great ideas for the Mom in your life, from stunning, one-of-a-kind jewellery to calming scented candles, from luxury creams and self care items to home decor and premium accessories. Caribou brings an original point of view to everything it offers in custom, small batches for the discerning eye.

Gidon Aesthetics

Gidon Aesthetics has some great skin care products that make a great Mother’s Day gift – with the purchase of a medical grade eye cream, antioxidant serum or neck cream, you’ll receive a free tinted sunscreen compact (while supplies last.) Treat yourself this Mother’s Day and book a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Martie Gidon, Board Certified Dermatologist. Express your cosmetic concerns and receive an in depth discussion about a personalized treatment plan.

Quarantine Club

This female owned and operated company is offering 25% off for Mother’s Day with code CLUBTO. This small business offers cozy hoods in black and white that say “Toronto Quarantine Club,” perfect for working from home. Made locally, Quarantine Club‘s hoodies are 100% Cotton Brushed Back Fleece, pre-shrunk and washed. Delivery is free in Canada.

Rock’N’Karma

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Rock’N’Karma specializes in modern fashion and is launching their new spring collection this month! Designed to frame the shape of your body and provide a gorgeous stretch with the brand’s signature “miracle fabric” – which is unparalleled! Receive a free Mother’s Day gift with every purchase, while quantities last.

Van Rijk Jewellery

Diamond studs never go out of style and are a timeless expression of love and beauty. This family owned bricks and mortar store, which had been around since 1985, has beautiful diamond studs in all sizes and price ranges. Even in lockdown, Van Rijk Jewellery is responding to emails regularly and fulfilling online orders, and is offering free overnight shipping.

Winston

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Winston is a luxury home décor and couture shop in midtown that is offering potted plants and ceramic or porcelain platers and saucers all wrapped up and ready for you to give to your ‘special person’ on May 9th. They’ve recently introduced their own private label products which are developed and manufactured in Canada.

Cynthia Findlay

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to give mom a gift of love and appreciation from Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques‘ extensive collection. From lockets, charms, earrings, beautiful floral vases or vintage cups, you can check out their collection online to find that special gift for your Mom! Available for curb-side pickups and delivery, appointments must be made ahead of time.

T.O.’s own Roxy Earle launches a size inclusive swimwear line

By

Nikki Gill

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4:32 pm

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roxy earle joe fresh — Roxy Earle sporting her Joe Fresh swimwear

You might recognize Roxy Earle from her days as a Real Housewife of Toronto, or from her #MySizeRox online movement dedicated to promoting body positivity and encouraging women to love themselves no matter their shape or size.

Now, Earle — who is also a fashion designer — is launching a limited edition swimwear capsule collection with Joe Fresh, one of Canada’s leading fashion retailers. Co-designed by Earle and the Joe Fresh team, the collection will feature five pieces, including a one-piece swimsuit, two-piece bikini, tunic cover-up and sandals, available in sizes XS to 3X. It will be available online and in select retail stores beginning May 13, 2021.

“In collaborating with Joe Fresh, I was able to create elevated, stylish and luxurious swimwear pieces at an affordable price point,” says Earle. “From my personal shopping experience, if you’re above a size 10, shopping for swimwear can be extremely difficult, expensive and draining. For this collaboration, I wanted to bring a positive shopping experience to customers, designing pieces that were cost-effective, on-trend and, most importantly, pieces that women would feel incredible wearing.”

The pieces are crafted with fabrics and cuts that allow the wearer to move freely, and that highlight their curves. While sketching them out, Earle says she had many open conversations with Joe Fresh, and each design was carefully made with great attention to detail. She also connected with her Instagram followers, many of whom follow the #MySizeRox movement, to gather feedback on what they might want in their swimwear.

This isn’t Earle’s first foray into plus-size fashion. She also served as the collaborating creative director of Roxy Earle x Le Château, a line made in partnership with the retailer in 2018, and for women from size 0 to 22W. In 2019, body positive company Knix launched its swimwear line with four styles, including one in collaboration with Earle.

Her latest line, in particular, comes at a time when the subject of size inclusivity has only grown more contentious, with many brands being criticized for offering limited ranges in sizing, and heightening the discussion on what it actually means to be an inclusive fashion brand.

After all, 68 per cent of American women are plus-size and, according to a 2013 report from the NPD Group, two-thirds of plus-size women in Canada reported shopping for clothes that fit their size was stressful due to limited options and greater prices.

“The state of inclusivity has moved forward, however there is room to grow,” says Earle. “When brands do not produce clothing that fit curvy women or charge a premium, we strip women of their confidence and make them feel unworthy and that they don’t belong. These women receive the message that you shouldn’t be going swimming, you’re not worthy of going swimming. When brands become more inclusive, it’s extremely powerful for women. [In my Joe Fresh collection], the extended size piece is the exact same price as their regular sizes and are merchandised in the same section.”

Having built a brand on empowerment, Earle is finding other ways to help women find their confidence, too, and will be soon launching an app called Ana to accomplish just this.

“It’s a digital evolution of my ongoing mission to inspire a generation of women to feel happier and more confident,” says Earle. “The app is as much a positive mindset coach as it is a robust tool for understanding and tracking a woman’s unique gynecological health. For me, I see clothing as a way to make women feel confident, and Ana is a tool that they can use for their mind to feel free – it all goes together.”