January in Toronto can feel a bit blah. The holidays are over, so the decorations come down. It’s too cold for patios, and way too early to start counting down to spring. The antidote can be quite simple: a board game café night! These spots let you trade the winter blues for warm drinks and some friendly competition. Here are some of Toronto’s best board game cafés for a mid-winter reset.
Snakes & Lattes
Snakes & Lattes is the perfect spot for a classic board game café experience. There are two central locations: the College outpost (489 College St) and the Annex outpost (600 Bloor St W). Both charge a $20 game admission that includes unlimited non-alcoholic drinks like coffee, tea, pop, and juice, and free admission for kids 12 and under. There are hundreds of board games and an on-site team to help match you with something you’ll enjoy. Throughout the winter, expect weekday specials, like $10 Margarita Mondays and Pasta Lover Thursdays. As a bonus, combine any daily drink special with their game admission discount and get 50% off game admission.
For The Win Board Game Cafe & Bar
For The Win (3216 Yonge St) has a collection of over 1,000 unique game titles, with recommendations organized by mood (think two-player, family, party, strategy, co-op and more). Pair your game with some bubble tea, specialty coffee, or something stronger if the night calls for it! Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended on weekends to guarantee seating. If you’re commuting, the café is only about a 5-minute walk from Lawrence Station, so you won’t have to trudge too long in the January snow.
The Guild House
The Guild (579 St. Clair Avenue West) is part café, part game store, and the perfect pick if your idea of beating the winter blues includes browsing shelves between game rounds. Expect curated collections of kids’ games like Ticket to Ride: First Journey or Hedge Mage, or create a character and go on an adventure in a role-playing game (the Guild has extended game campaigns that can go on for years). For in-store play: $10 table fees for adults and $5 for kids for unlimited use of the game library and wargaming tables. Make sure to check out the D&D winter/spring programs for 2026.
JuJu Cafe & Board Games
Head downtown if you’re looking for a hangout where board games meet Asian cuisine. Juju Café (191 Dundas St W, second floor) has an $8 play pass for 2 hours, then $4 per additional hour. Expect a library of more than 250 games, everything from pop culture-inspired party games like Squid Game or Stranger Things: Attack of the Mind Flayer to classics like Wheel of Fortune and Toronto-Opoly. The café is also a sanctuary for food lovers, although diners are expected to order at least one item per person every two hours. Head over with a group of friends and try shareable options like karaage okonomiyaki while sipping on fruit tea.
Bampot House of Tea & Board Games
In Harbord Village, Bampot (201 Harbord St) boasts a more modern take on the board game café idea: expect a three-in-one tea house, board game room and hookah lounge. Their Anti-High-Tea afternoon experience includes a shared platter, unlimited tea and coffee, and access to their large board game collection ($50/person plus tax and a 20% service charge). Check their Eventbrite page for up-to-date events.
Twilight Cafe & Bar
This board game café and bar chain (multiple locations, including Yonge and Dundas and Yonge and Bloor) is the perfect spot to play classic games (everything from UNO to Yahtzee) while sipping on tasty drinks, or just a cozy place to hide away from the January cold. The downtown locations also include mahjong tables, karaoke rooms and sports TV. Booking is easy: $3/hour per person, with a minimum of 2 hours for board game seating (food and drinks are optional and extra).
If you’re craving a forest fix this winter but don’t have the time (or budget) for a full-on cottage weekend, the Dundas Valley Conservation Area is one of the most scenic quick getaways you can take from Toronto. Imagine rolling forests, ice formations along terraced rock and about 40 kilometres of trails, all tucked into a glacial valley on the Niagara Escarpment. The best part is, it’s only about a one-hour drive from the city!
The conservation area is anchored by Dundas (now part of Hamilton). The area kind of feels like a little storybook village as it’s filled with hills rising around a downtown core lined with indie cafés, restaurants and galleries.
The trail system links almost every corner of the valley and connects directly to the Bruce Trail and the Hamilton-Brantford Rail Trail, which is part of the vast Trans Canada Trail. The valley is open year-round, generally from sunrise to sunset, making it a perfect destination in every season. It’s a bit quieter in the winter, so bundle up and explore the ice-covered landscape on snowy paths!
Most visits kick off at the Dundas Valley Trail Centre near the main parking lot on Governors Rd. The building is a modern replica of a Victorian railway station, complete with a short stretch of track and historic rail cars.
If you only do one trail, make it the 3-km Main Loop. It starts right at the Trail Centre and rolls through meadows, creeks and old orchards.
Along the way, you can detour to the Hermitage Ruins and explore the atmospheric stone ruins of an 1850s estate, surrounded by local folklore and now partially restored with boardwalks and lookouts. Or check out side trails like the Sawmill Trail or Headwaters Trail if you want to extend the hike. Headwaters is a 7.6-km loop and is one of the longest trails in the valley; it passes through forest and meadow habitats, so it has a bit more of a backcountry feel.
If you think that waterfalls are scenic during the warmer months, they’re surreal in late winter, when they freeze into delicate ice formations along the terraced rock. Sherman Falls has year-round flow from Ancaster Creek, so there’s usually water running even in the cold months. In winter, it often turns into a curtain of ice with icicles hanging off the rock face, sometimes with a stream of water still pouring through the middle, so very Instagrammable. Canterbury Falls also has year-round flow, and because it’s a smaller, lower-flow cascade, it can partially freeze over, too (definitely worth a visit).
Beyond the waterfalls, Dundas is packed with history and culture. Stop by the Dundas Museum & Archives to explore more than 16,000 artifacts and documents covering everything from ancient geological specimens to contemporary local stories that trace the history of the Dundas Valley.
If you’re an art lover, pop into the Carnegie Gallery: it’s housed in the 1910 Carnegie library building in the heart of town! The non-profit, artist-run gallery is all about regional art and crafts created by contemporary Canadian artists, with monthly exhibitions and a curated shop featuring pottery, jewellery and textiles. If you’re heading over during the festive season, make a beeline for the Carnegie Holiday Market for handmade fine art and seasonal ornaments (they make perfect Christmas gifts!)
Stop off for a midday coffee and wander along King St W — you’ll literally smell the coffee before you see it! Detour Café roasts its own beans and serves breakfast, brunch and lunch built around homemade baking, sandwiches and locally sourced ingredients. For a special festive treat, try their “cozy, warm, and nostalgic” Holiday Espresso, which features hints of fresh apricots, toasted mixed nuts and cacao nibs.
In the evening, after a day of roaming the trails and town, check out Collins Brewhouse. The restaurant’s origins trace back to an 1830s saloon on the same downtown strip, and today it’s a go-to for tasty burgers, fish-and-chips and post-hike pints.
For a bit of a splurge, Quatrefoil Restaurant serves contemporary French cuisine in a Victorian-style house! The Michelin Guide currently lists it as a recommended restaurant, so reservations are a good idea.
There are many cute and affordable inns and B&Bs to stay at if you want to make it a weekend trip. For something more upscale, The High Acre is a boutique inn where you’ll have your own private ensuite spa, while The Barracks Inn is a century-stone building boasting 18 luxury suites in the Ancaster Heritage Village.
Former Marilyn Denis Show consultant and professional organizer Michele Delory knows everything you need to know about decluttering and organizing. As a certified KonMari consultant in Toronto, Delory follows the tidying method popularized by Marie Kondo. Heading into the new year, you may be looking to start fresh — including with your space. Here are Delory’s top tips for decluttering for the new year and figuring out what will “spark joy” for you in 2026.
What are your top five tips for decluttering?
Choose the right day and time to use the most energy to declutter. When you start your day in the morning to declutter your home, you will be able to achieve more than when you choose to do it after a long day of work. Sacrifice a day off to invest your time into your home and you will gain more time to do what you love instead.
Visualize the kind of home and life you want to live, in order to be motivated to get through all of your stuff. Create a vision board and write what you want in life… just like manifesting your life and goals.
Declutter by categories and not location, as this will allow you to identify and know everything that you have instead of missing things that may be in another space. In the KonMari Method there are five categories: clothing, books, paper, komono (miscellaneous) and sentimental and follow in that order.
If you don’t have time to invest in decluttering, start small and try it out with a junk drawer first and when you gain momentum, you can continue it with taking on more.
Gather your items all in one place and choose what to keep that “sparks joy,” which is what you love and go from there. Organize items back where they make sense for you to use and find.
Why is organizing at the start of the new year so popular?
@modernandminimalist/Instagram
When the new year comes, everyone wants to feel a reset and get inspired to create new goals to achieve for the new year. Your home environment plays a big part in the way you feel and if your home is affecting your well-being, then the home is where you want to start. Decluttering and getting organized has many great benefits for your mental health, from having less stress and anxiety to more focus and improved sleeping. The home is something you can have more control over, so it’s best to start here.
What small but mighty changes can be made without the effort of renovating?
Creating a home with less things will help to decrease the visual stimuli that you get when you have too many knick knacks, tchotchkes and just stuff surrounding you. By removing stuff on window sills, table tops and counters, you will feel a difference in the way you feel but also it will be easier to clean these areas. You can also move furniture and art work around, which I do myself when I get bored of my space every few months, and it will feel like it’s a totally different space. A space may be limited, but moving where tables or chairs face can feel like a new space without having to do any renovations.
What are some of the main reasons homes get too cluttered?
The home can be a reflection of a person’s life and what they are going through at the moment. Sometimes it’s hard to find the motivation to maintain the home when you don’t feel like it, which can lead to things getting cluttered or disorganized. When you accumulate many things, it gets more difficult to maintain and control and if you’re not in the mood, you won’t be focused on your home, but instead will be trying to find joy in other ways. When things get overwhelming, be gentle with yourself and do what you can.
January is the month for setting and then breaking resolutions. How can you get organized and stay organized this year?
The best thing to do to stay organized is to return items to where they belong and make it a habit every day. Once you organize your home in the first place, you want to maintain it by bringing things back to their designated spot or zone. If you take the time to do that, you will keep the mess and disorganization from creeping up on you. Remember the health benefits that come when you maintain your space and you will be sure to feel a difference as soon as you do it.
When it comes to the Marie Kondo method of “sparking joy,” what should you keep in mind when organizing?
@modernandminimalist/Instagram
Once you declutter your items, you will know what items spark joy that you want to keep, then you can organize them into your space. You want to organize “like” items together and create a home for everything. Use organizing items that spark joy or re-purpose items for organizing if you want to save money on what you contain things in. Vertical items in drawers make items easier to find and that will spark joy for you when you need to find and choose what you need.
If your ideal getaway is equal parts lakeside tranquillity and small-town charm, there’s one charming Georgian Bay town near Toronto that deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Meaford is nestled in the heart of Ontario’s apple country, but you don’t have to wait until harvest season to visit; it’s a surprisingly solid all-seasons trip! Expect warm-weather marina energy, pick-your-own orchards in the fall, and snow-kissed winter walks where the bay looks especially magical.
The town is just over a two-hour drive from Toronto, making it perfect for a weekend trip. There are multiple stay options, from charming countryside B&Bs to natural campgrounds and trailer parks.
After settling in, head to the municipal marina and harbour complex, which includes parkland and a community pavilion (a great spot for slow loops with a latte in hand).
In warmer months, expect a scenic harbour, with boats coming and going, as well as sweeping sky views. The downtown core is lined with historic brick buildings and a mix of indie shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants, so you’ll want to browse slowly (even if you’re just looking!).
Grab a bite at Ted’s Range Road Diner if you’re looking for a more rustic meal; they serve heartier options like seafood, wild game, chicken and pork. If you stroll in early enough, indulge in the Big Breakfast: three eggs with sausage, peameal bacon, home fries and toast! The Leeky Canoe Pub & Eatery and Gio and Fran’s are great starting points if you’re craving delicious comfort food. These joints serve everything from fish & chips to chicken parmesan and homemade focaccia.
Although Meaford is a small town, it has some serious culture. The historic Meaford Hall Arts & Cultural Centre is just steps from the Georgian Bay, with year-round live entertainment, gallery exhibitions, films, events and social gatherings. The Meaford Museum (also open year-round) focuses on local history, including military heritage and early settlement — great if you’re looking for an indoor culture break.
If you’re visiting from spring through fall, the Tom Thomson Trail is a go-to for nature lovers. This multi-use trail runs between Owen Sound and Meaford, with popular trailheads like Fred Raper Park. If you’re more into escarpment views, Meaford has nearby access to the Bruce Trail, including a section that starts through the Bighead River valley.
While Meaford makes for perfect warm-weather strolling, it’s worth a visit in the winter!
The cold season in this small town is all about adrenaline (think cold, crisp air and winter sports). For budget-friendly winter plans, the Meaford arena offers free public skating during the winter season, along with shinny and family skate times. And waterfront walks aren’t solely meant for the summer season!
Meaford’s harbour area and Georgian Bay shoreline stay open year-round, making them perfect for cold-weather walks, quiet bay views and stunning Insta photos (seriously, the snow-covered docks and ice formations at Georgian Bay set against a wide-open sky = chef’s kiss).
For downhill skiing and snowboarding, head to nearby Blue Mountain (about a 25-minute drive), or to the Beaver Valley Nordic Ski Club (about a 27-minute drive) for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Winter may seem like the season for hibernation, but we live in Toronto — there’s still so much to do! While the weather gets colder, the culture gets cooler. From musical showcases to film fests and more, check out these amazing winter festivals happening in Toronto this season.
The 26th edition of Toronto’s annual Wavelength Winter Festival will be bringing an era-spanning lineup of incredible indie musicians to the city! With three days full of programming, performances this year include Sook-Yin Lee, Ada Lea, Ebril, Dumai Dunai, Melissa Auf der Maur and so much more. With a focus on supporting emerging and under-recognized artists across diverse genres, this non-profit organization’s annual festival may help you discover your new favourite musician.
The highly-anticipated Toronto Black Film Festival going to be the place to be for cinephiles when it returns to the city this winter! Past iterations of this event have often featured star-studded lineups, welcoming stars such as Pam Grier, and have been the genesis of movies that have gone on to win many awards. We can anticipate even more excitement for the 2025 festival — the programming usually includes live performances and panels on everything from diversity in the industry to crafting strong characters for budding screenwriters alongside film screenings.
Every year, beer lovers descend upon Roundhouse Park in their best and warmest ski gear for a craft beer festival to remember. Visitors can enjoy craft beer, wine, ciders and more from breweries across the province, along with a live DJ and an après ski dance party, handheld food stations, photo stations and costume prizes. For those who can’t stand the cold, warm up at the campfires or at the indoor warming areas and experiences.
Running for over 45 years, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre’s iconic Rhubarb Festival is a favourite in the city for those looking for a thought-provoking and unconventional theatre experience. Canada’s longest-running new works live arts festival has featured everything from wrestling and space opera to chainsaw-wielding teddy bears and bathroom Shakespeare, and though the lineup hasn’t been confirmed for 2026 yet, festival director and multi-disciplinary artist Ludmylla Reis is sure to bring spectacular digital experiences, installations and performances for this year’s attendees.
The Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival is back, and it will be the place to be for music lovers looking for a laidback and casual festival atmosphere showcasing an array of talented performers across the blues, roots and folk genres. Prepare for a rich blend of live music, highlighting both local and renowned artists in a vibrant community atmosphere — this year’s lineup so far includes Donne Roberts Band, Jessie Greene, Toney Springer, Brian Gladstone Band, Clela Errington and so much more.
Celebrate the 16th birthday of Toronto’s annual design festival, DesignTO! Canada’s largest non-profit design festival features 100+ free events and exhibitions, both online and in-person, across Toronto over 10 days. The schedule of exhibitions looks more interesting and creative than ever this year, including an exploration of upcycled plastics and an interstice two-day symposium on death and dying.
Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival comes at the perfect time — happening at the tail end of winter, it’s when we all need a laugh most! Featuring more than 60 sketch comedy troupes from across North America, TOsketchfest will include over 60 showcases along with the annual Tosketchfest Film Festival. Celebrating its 21st anniversary this year, get ready for even more laughs than usual!
Join the city in a celebration of Toronto’s 192nd anniversary! Happening at Nathan Phillips Square, you can enjoy live performances, a fireworks show, a Toronto-made market, a beer garden, outdoor ice skating if weather permits and some interactive art installations.
Toronto Comicon is the ultimate celebration of sci-fi, horror, anime and gaming at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Over three action-packed days, from Friday to Sunday, fans can meet celebrities, attend panels, watch Sketch Duels and shop for unique gifts. This year’s celebrity guests haven’t been announced yet, but past guests included Jared Padalecki, James Marsters and Ruth Connell. It’s the perfect place to indulge your pop culture passions!
After a one-year hiatus, Toronto’s maple-themed festival is back! Sugar Shack TO will take over Toronto’s waterfront with interactive activities, live entertainment, maple-infused comfort foods and tons of maple taffy. Get your sweet fix at two different sugar shacks, enjoy a maple sugaring demonstration, stay comfy at the warming station and indulge in all things maple.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken has crossed into Canada, opening its first location just outside Toronto inside the newly renovated TD Coliseum. The restaurant marks the brand’s first step north of the border.
Big Chicken launched in 2018 at Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay, built around O’Neal’s love of loud non-apologetic comfort food done right. The brand has since expanded across the U.S., often inside arenas and entertainment venues. Canada is next, with more Ontario locations already in the pipeline.
The Hamilton menu sticks to most of the hits, built around brioche sandwiches with grilled or crispy chicken, all available as meals with fries and dunkable in Nashville Hot or Holy. The Original is made with crispy chicken, BC sauce and pickles, while The Ultimate goes all in with mac n’ cheese and onion rings. There’s also the Shaq Attack with BBQ sauce and slaw, plus snacks, tenders, plates, crinkle-cut fries, shakes and a full lineup of sauces.
Big Chicken joins a growing food roster at TD Coliseum. Options include Sugar and Salt, Fizzy Feathers, Matty’s Patty’s Burger Club, Dip City, Mister Softee, Slice Society, Casa Escobar and Rizzo’s House of Parm.
Big Chicken is located on street level in Section 106. Also new to the building is Iron Cow,the latest opening from celebrity chef Matty Matheson.
Toronto is a brunch city. Every weekend, restaurants fill with families, those nursing hangovers, and those gearing up for one with a boozy brunch. The new year might have lightened wallets, but there’s always room for pancakes, eggs Benedict or a side of jazz while you eat. Whatever you’re craving, the city has a spot to start your weekend right.
Here are the 26 best places to brunch at in Toronto in 205.
1. MICHELIN: WHITE LILY
@whitelilydiner/Instagram
Enjoy all-day brunch at White Lily Diner, a Riverside hangout with a menu featuring high-quality dishes like Steak n’ Eggs and those mouthwatering doughnuts. Run by Ben Denham and Ashley Lloyd, the place, adorned with mustard-yellow booths, not only collaborates with local farms but also operates a 10-acre farm in Uxbridge. Must-order dish: Biscuits and gravy. 678 Queen St. E.
2. FRENCH: LE SELECT BISTRO
@leselectbistro/Instagram
Le Select Bistro offers uniquely elevated French cuisine in a cozy setting. With 46 years of legacy, this chic and romantic brunch spot features a diverse menu, including crowd-pleasers like salade niçoise and croissant au chocolate. When the weather permits, the greenery-filled patio becomes the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a leisurely day. Must-order dish: Croque madame. 432 Wellington St. W.
3. GTA: RAMONA’S KITCHEN
@ramonaskitchenca/Instagram
A Thornhill favourite, Ramona’s Kitchen’s dishes are as homey as the vibes, with a brunch menu featuring a lineup of com- forting classics. A standout includes the burger benny featuring three-ounce burger patties and poached eggs topped with spicy Havarti and a choice of ham or chorizo. Must-order dish: Breakfast poutine with signature tri-coloured potatoes. 7355 Bayview Ave.
4. DRUNCH: ORETTA
@orettamidtown/Instagram
This fiercely Italian restaurant boasts two locations, but there’s something truly magical about Oretta in Midtown. This 200-seat gem, adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows, is designed for special occasions. Its bottomless brunch reigns supreme, priced at $40. You can leisurely sip unlimited mimosas while indulging in delicious plates of pasta, pizza and fritto di calamari. Must-order dish: Uova burrata e tartufo. 2131 Yonge St.
5. PANCAKES: MILDRED’S TEMPLE & OLD SCHOOL
@oldschoolyyz/Instagram
Mildred’s Temple Kitchen in Liberty Village is always buzzing, with a line that speaks to its popularity. The food, especially the cheesy savoury tart, is a hit. A visit to Mildred’s just isn’t complete without an order of Mrs. Biederhof’s Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes. Extra fluffy, they’re stacked high and served with a wild blueberry compote, drizzled with Lanark County organic maple syrup and topped with whipped cream. In Little Italy, pancakes take centre stage at Old School, especially the standout Blueberry Hill. Served in a cast-iron pan, these pancakes come loaded with blueberry compote, bacon and a generous ice cream–sized scoop of brown sugar butter — pure indulgence at your table. 85 Hannah Ave.; 800 Dundas St. W.
6. WON’T BREAK THE BANK: LIGHT CAFE
@nourishingmegan/Instagram
Light Cafe is a cosy Taiwanese-style eatery and a bucket list brunch spot. While affordability can be elusive in the brunch scene, the prices here are fantastic the plates come stacked with drool-worthy options like freshly baked butter crois- sants, eggs cooked to perfection and your choice of side and potatoes. Must-order dish:Mini buttermilk pancakes. 23 Baldwin St.
7. BAGELS & LOX: SADELLE’S
@sadelleskith/Instagram
If you find yourself shopping at Kith in Yorkville, a visit to Sadelle’s is a must. This NYC-style eatery is serving up some of the finest upscale diner fare in town. Brunch features a standout dish, the salmon tower. Served on a signature three-tiered dish, it includes sliced-to-order, house- cured salmon, tomato, cucumbers and a choice of Sadelle’s famous bagels with plain and scallion cream cheeses. 78 Yorkville Ave., Floor 2
8. DRAG BRUNCH: THE DRAKE
Brunch at The Drake gets an extra dose of fun every Saturday with Toronto’s brunch queen, Miss Moço. Accompanied by a rotating cast of guest performers, hit songs, unexpected surprises and mimosas, the showtimes at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. elevates the brunch experience. Must-order dish: Wild blueberry mini scones. 1150 Queen St. W.
9. FRENCH TOAST: GLORIA
Gloria in The Great Hall
Gloria, a French-American bistro inside the Great Hall, serves thick-cut brioche French toast filled with blueberry compote, soaked in batter and pan-fried until golden. Each portion is topped with whipped vanilla cream, Biscoff cookie butter, pistachios, cocoa and maple syrup. Executive chef Shivam Munjal trims loaves and fills each cube before cooking. Brunch is served weekends, and the historic Queen West space blends nostalgic brasserie style with modern touches. 1087 Queen St. W.
10. AYCE: NORD LYON
Nord Lyon
This is perhaps the best spot in the city for authentic French cuisine, and their all-you-can-eat weekend buffet is a must-try for every foodie! The brunch menu will allow you to dive into an array of authentic French delicacies, everything from traditional pastries to sandwiches and desserts (each dish reflects the heart of French gastronomy). Takes place Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m.-2.30 p.m. Limited to a 90-minute seating. 250 Queen St W.
11. BELGIAN WAFFLES: ONE STOP WAFFLE SHOP
One Stop Waffle Shop serves Belgian waffles with a range of toppings, from Nutella and fresh fruit to toasted marshmallows and pistachio cream. Signature options include the Pumpkin Spice waffle and Dubai Chocolate waffle. The menu also features milkshakes made with Kawartha Dairy ice cream and waffle pops. 3140 Dundas St. W.
12. HOTEL: CAFÉ BOULUD
@cafebouludto/Instagram
Inside the Four Seasons Hotel is Daniel Boulud’s chic spot where visitors can enjoy a truly five-star brunch. Unwind on one of Café Boulud’s wraparound banquettes and then indulge in the three- course menu which includes indulgent options like East coast oysters. For an extra dose of luxury, enhance your meal by adding caviar for an additional $200-$210. Must-order dish: Octopus carpaccio. 60 Yorkville Ave.
13. EGGS BENEDICT: LADY MARMALADE
@ladymrestaurant/Instagram
Torontonians have a soft spot for this restaurant that started off in Leslieville, because it never disappoints. The menu at Lady Marmalade covers pretty much anything anyone could ever crave for brunch, but we love the seven signature eggs Benedict that range from braised beef and salmon to pulled pork and mango. For the adventurous, there’s the option to create your own. 265 Broadview Ave.
14. JAMAICAN: CHUBBY’S
@chubbysjamaican/Instagram
For a mouthwatering change-up from your standard omelet, head to Chubby’s, a popular restaurant dishing out classic Jamaican cuisine. The 100-seat eatery offers a warm tropical vibe with modern touches like palm tree murals and pineapple fix- tures. The menu boasts mouthwatering options, like eggs Beenie Man and quiche. Must-order dish: Fried jerk chicken and pineapple waffles. 104 Portland St.
15. VEGAN: HAWKER
Catch your breath and relax at the hip and cosy art-lined eatery Hawker, where the mellow space is decked out in an earthy palette of dark wood and moss. The menu salutes chef Merkel’s naturalistic world- view, with a six-course Indian-inspired tapas-style brunch featuring beautifully composed plant-based small plates. Must-order dish: Ras malai ice cream with chai tea. 291 Augusta Ave.
16. DIM SUM DYNASTY & KWAN
Dynasty dim sum
Dining on dim sum makes for the perfect weekend activity, and Dynasty Chinese Cuisine in Yorkville has maintained its appeal for over 20 years. This upscale restaurant offers a variety of delicious dim sum dishes, such as silky har gow and well-seasoned sui mai with juicy shrimp. For another top choice head to York Mills where Kwan Dim Sum is a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine. On weekend afternoons, the bustling space feels like a neighbourhood clubhouse, and the lively atmosphere just adds to the overall experience. They serve a good variety of dishes, and the standouts include deep-fried shrimp dumplings with wasabi aïol and the barbecue pork buns with the crunchy sweet toppings. 69 Yorkville Ave.; 808 York Mills Rd.
17. JAZZ BRUNCH: RICARDA’S
@ricardas.to/Instagram
Immerse yourself in the soulful tunes of jazz atRicarda’s, a massive Mediterranean restaurant led by executive chef Julien Laffargue. Every Sunday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Let the fabulous music serenade you while your stomachs are sated with one of the many cocktails and delicious plates including the salmon confit. Must-order dish: Beef short rib hash. 134 Peter St.
18. IF MONEY IS NO OBJECT: LOUIX LOUIS
Located on the 31st floor of the St. Regis Toronto, LOUIX LOUIS offers a luxurious Sunday brunch experience. The Royal Brunch, priced at $80 per person, starts with welcome mimosas, includes indulgent dishes like truffle eggs Benedict and wraps up with a sweet finale featuring honey yogurt panna cotta and classic strawberry shortcake. Must-order dish: Steak frites. 325 Bay St.
19. BRADY BRUNCH: LAZY DAISY’S
@lazydaisysto/Instagram
Hungry bellies will be satisfied at Lazy Daisy’s, a cheery laid-back eatery in the city’s east end. On the menu are kid-approved creations like Lazy mac ‘n cheese. In the warmer months, take a seat on the vibrant patio. Adorrned with playful colours and daisy-painted picnic tables, it provides a whimsical setting for a family meal. Must-order dish: Banana & chocolate chip pancakes. 1515 Gerrard St. E.
20. OLD-SCHOOL DINER: AVENUE DINER
@theavenuediner/Instagram
At the corner of Avenue and Davenport and open since 1944, the Avenue Diner is a family-owned eatery which has drawn celebs over the years as evidenced by the autographed photos that line the walls. The tiny space maintains a nostalgic charm, with a menu, focusing on pancakes, omelets and sandwiches, which remains a testament to tradition. Must-order dish: Hot sandwich plate. 222 Davenport Rd.
21. WORTH EVERY CALORIE: OEB
@oeb_breakfast/Instagram
With two Toronto locations, OEB Breakfast Co. is a destination for an epic brunch spread. They’ve won diners over with playful dishes like scramblettes and breakfast poutine, but the real star of the show are the sweet hits. We dare you to choose between the Belgian waffles and the French toast trifle. Must-order dish: The French-style crepe with berries and whipped cream. 125 East Liberty St.
22. COMEDY BRUNCH: SECOND CITY
@thebentwoodto/Instagram
It’s never too early for a belly laugh! Gather the gang for a blend of comedy and food at The Second City’s Improv Brunch. Enjoy a scrumptious meal care of the folks at the Bentwood and hilarious performances by the city’s finest comedians. The menu offers a variety, like breakfast wraps to sweet treats like New York Cheesecake and churros. Must-order dish: Jacked nachos. 1 York St.
23. HIGH TEA: TIARRÉ’S BRUNCH ‘N CAKES
@tiarresbrunchncakes/Instagram
Indulge in a tranquil afternoon tea in the heart of bustling Leaside at the revitalized former Sophie’s Kitchen. Revel in decadent brunch options while luxuriating in a regal high tea experience, priced at $59 per person. Featuring unlimited tea, the three-tiered cake stand comes with an array of tiny crostini, fruit scones with thick whipped cream and pretty cookies and cakes. 1614 Bayview Ave.
24. MIDDLE EASTERN: FAT PASHA & MAHA’S
@fatpasha/Instagram
Fat Pasha in the Annex, led by Anthony Rose, serves delicious Middle Eastern cuisine in a lively atmosphere. The menu, designed for sharing, includes classics like shakshuka and the Lil’ Salatim platter. Keep in mind, weekends can be busy, so expect a wait. On Greenwood, just north of Gerrard, Maha’s is a rare find for authentic Egyptian brunch. Chef Maha Barsoom’s innovative take on Egyptian soul food shines through in dishes like the Mind-blowing Chicken Sandwich and the Sakalance, a sweet treat with halvah, clotted cream, fresh fruit and hot balady bread. 414 Dupont St.; 226 Greenwood Ave.
25. IMMERSIVE: CHOTTO MATTE
Every Saturday, Chotto Matte turns brunch into a jungle. Guests sit amid plants and live South American music while exploring a $59 menu of starters, mains, and dessert. Options include Udon Carbonara, Chicken and Waffles, Wagyu Sliders, Sushi Doughnuts, and Dulce de Leche Pancakes. Bottomless cocktails, premium beers and add-ons like miso soup or yuzu truffle yellowtail make it part meal, part show and an unforgettable experience.
26. BREAKFAST BURRITO: MASA DELI
At Masa Deli, the breakfast burrito is built for cold Toronto mornings. It’s stuffed with chicken chorizo, cheesy scrambled eggs, chives, beans, guacamole, tallow-fried tater tots, corn mayo and pickled jalapeños, all wrapped in a flour tortilla and served with salsa on the side. The friendly neighbourhood spot also turns out breakfast sandwiches, tortas, salad bowls and a solid lineup of espresso and tea drinks, making it an easy go-to for a no-nonsense brunch that still delivers.
2026 is upon us, so instead of looking back, we’re looking forward — and who better to ask to do that than the city’s top psychics? From the Jays to the mayoral election, find out what these soothsayers have to say about the future of Toronto.
Who she is: A psychic consultant who is part of a line of 10 generations of readers in her family. She is the author of psychic question and answer column Ask Miki, has done real estate and economic forecasts for The Globe and Mail and has been featured on various radio, television and print outlets in Canada and the U.S. over the last three decades.
Who she is: A tarot reader, psychic, palm reader and astrologist who comes from a family of multi-generational readers and mystics. She does private readings as well as corporate events, weddings and academic events.
Who she is:Angel is a renowned psychic, medium, and animal communicator celebrated for her 25-year journey. With global acclaim, she connects with loved ones passed, communicates with animals, and taps into spiritual guides both onstage and through private sessions.
Looking for that perfect holiday distraction to get your mind off of all…that. Well, pinball arcades offer a perfect escape — all flashing lights, clacking flippers, and muscle memory. These arcade bars deliver unlimited play, great drinks, and just the right hit of nostalgia to keep your reflexes sharp and your blood pressure down.
Zed*80
This cosy, nostalgia-packed arcade bar proves that bigger isn’t always better. For just five bucks, you get unlimited access to a tightly curated lineup of classic arcade games and pinball machines, all set against a backdrop of neon glow, synth-heavy playlists, and pure ’80s-and-’90s vibes. The space is small but perfectly dialled in, making it feel like a secret clubhouse for vintage-game obsessives. Add solid drinks and a relaxed crowd, and Zed*80 becomes the kind of place you pop into “for one game” and accidentally stay all night.
Antisocial flips the typical arcade-bar formula on its head by catering almost exclusively to pinball purists. With an impressive lineup of 70-plus impeccably maintained machines — ranging from golden-age classics to modern, tournament-ready tables — this is a serious player’s paradise. The vibe is intentionally low-key, with a smart selection of canned craft beers, pizza for refuelling between games, and zero unnecessary distractions. It’s less about flashy cocktails and more about chasing high scores, mastering flippers, and losing track of time in the best possible way.
A west-end staple, Tilt is pure throwback comfort for anyone craving uncomplicated fun. Five dollars unlocks unlimited play on a rotating roster of arcade classics, including Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and a solid selection of pinball machines. The crowd skews adult, the drinks are dependable, and the food hits the right greasy-snack notes for a long gaming session. It’s not fancy, it’s not precious, and it doesn’t try too hard — which is exactly why it works as a spontaneous, no-planning-required night out.
Tucked away and often overlooked, Cabin Fever combines retro arcade energy with a distinctly dive-bar edge. Expect a handful of well-loved pinball machines, vintage arcade cabinets, and a crowd that’s equal parts neighbourhood regulars and curious newcomers. The drink prices are friendly, the atmosphere is unpretentious, and the pinball feels refreshingly old-school — perfect if you prefer your games served with a side of grit and character.
Part retro arcade, part craft-beer destination, Get Well (pictured at top) nails the sweet spot between neighbourhood bar and grown-up playground. Alongside classic arcade cabinets and a rotating selection of pinball machines, you’ll find one of the city’s better tap lists, plus solid bar food that makes it easy to settle in for a long session. It’s lively without being chaotic, nostalgic but not kitschy, and ideal for anyone who wants their pinball paired with good beer and that cool Ossington vibe.
In 2025, the food scene in Toronto focused on substance over hype. Chefs experimented, bars got inventive, burgers grew thick and caviar went mainstream. These eight trends show what people really wanted to eat — and what was worth trying.
Italian fusion becomes the norm
Radici Project
Fusion is the new standard in Toronto’s Italian scene Radici Projectin Little Italy pairs pasta with Japanese umami, like cappellacci in smoky dashi. N.L. Ginzburg filters the trattoria through a Jewish lens with charcoal-grilled comfort food and chopped liver crostini. Liliana on Queen West wows with Italian-Filipino mashups, including deboned chicken wings stuffed with black truffle risotto.
Savoury (and sweet) martinis
@belleisle__/Instagram
Martinis went sweet, savoury and a little wild. Toronto split its martini obsession down the middle. On the playful side, Small Talk on Ossington served Pornstar Martinis and Rhubarb Cosmos, cocktails as fun as the jazz that fuels the bar. Belle Isle went viral with its ‘This Cold Pizza is Curing My Depression’ martini, a savoury mix of tomato water and Aleppo oil that tastes exactly like a late-night slice.
Elevated bar snacks
@barromatoronto/Instagram
Toronto bars ditched plain peanuts for snack plates worth sharing. Bar Roma serves salmon crudo with red caviar and lamb puri tacos with chili crisp. Hidden inside Eloise, Bar Cart plays with ricotta-honey mortadella skewers and warm pão de queijo. Lonely Diner is a fan of high-low nostalgia with their viral caviar fish filet and shrimp-stuffed shishitos.
The return of the big burger
Dotty’s
The city’s burger obsession shifted from paper-thin patties to the return of the “big burger,” where thick, juicy stacks are on the most-wanted list. Susie’s Rise & Dine in Little Italy has gone all-in with its Cheeseburger Royale, a dry-aged beef patty cooked perfectly rare and served with a side of burger sauce for dipping. Even the city’s smash-burger king, Matty’s Patty’s, has gone big with a seven-ounce Italian Burger buried under marinara and mozzarella. Meanwhile, Dotty’son Dupont keeps it classic with a chunky brisket-and-chuck blend cooked medium-rare.
Dubai Kunafa goes viral
Machino Donuts
The pistachio-filled Dubai Kunafa chocolate dominated feeds this year. Glossy cross-sections, crunchy kataifi pastry and that perfect mix of indulgent and slightly unhinged made it TikTok gold. Toronto bakeries quickly jumped on board, turning a niche Middle Eastern sweet into a citywide obsession — from doughnuts and cookies to ice cream and lattes.
Steak houses everywhere
@sammarcosteak/Instagram
Toronto is back on beef. Bisteccheria Sammarco stacks dry-aged Ontario prime with Italian panache. Animl turns the steakhouse up to Studio 54, with Wagyu flights and dark-glam vibes. Sal’s Pasta & Chops in Little Italy keeps it approachable, serving lamb chops, veal parm and house-made sausages. Meat is king, again.
Matcha mania
@himalayancoffeehouse/Instagram
Toronto went green in 2025. Matcha isn’t just for health nuts anymore — it’s lattes, soft serve, cakes and even cocktails. The Camellia Matcha Latte at Icha Tea keeps it bright and earthy, while Forget Me Not Coffee twists it with a banana bread and vanilla cream latte. On the dessert side, Uncle Tetsu’s matcha cheesecake and Kream dessert’s matcha Kream bomb show the trend has moved well beyond drinks, turning green tea into a full-on citywide obsession.
Caviar craze
General Public
Toronto closed 2025 with a glittering obsession: caviar. The One Caviar Barin Yorkville lets you sip Champagne while popping Imperial Crystal sturgeon on blinis, all while people-watching in the city’s most polished postal code. Powder Room turns late-night bites into theatre — Wagyu pups, truffle lobster and 100-egg-yolk tagliolini, each crowned with a touch of caviar. And for the casually decadent, General Public offers mini Yorkshires stuffed with 30g of caviar or the mischievous Bubbles and a Bump — 2g of caviar with 1oz of Champagne.
One of the joys of the holidays is outdoor skating while surrounded by dazzling lights, festive music, and family and friends. Toronto has tons of beautiful outdoor skating, but if you’re willing to travel slightly further over the winter break, many other Ontario towns offer enchanting rinks and charming trails where you and your loved ones can create lasting memories! Here are some of our favourites.
The ice trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park is probably one of Southern Ontario’s best-kept secrets. Nestled in the heart of Muskoka, just north of Huntsville, this 1.3 kilometre ice-skating trail literally winds through the dense Muskoka Forest. Bonus if you go skating after a snowfall — as you glide past snow-covered trees, you’ll feel like you’re in a winter wonderland! The best time to visit the trail is mid-week as there’s less traffic on the ice (so it’ll be in considerably better condition).
The trail typically opens from the first week of January to the second week of March, as it takes over 100,000 litres of water just to get enough ice built up before they can open the trail! Check the Arrowhead Provincial Park’s X page for trail updates. Once open, purchase your Ontario Parks day-use permit online up to five days in advance and you and your family can hit the trail as soon as you arrive! (451 Arrowhead Park Rd, Huntsville, Ont.)
This 1.2 kilometre skating trail loops around 12 acres of frozen cranberry fields in Bala, a small rural community in Muskoka (aptly dubbed the Cranberry Capital of Ontario). The trail is perfect for families, solo travellers, groups of friends, or even for a romantic winter date (bonus: it’s the only ice-skating trail with an on-site winery!) Check out the Light the Night skating events on Saturday nights — the farm illuminates the trail with over 400 torches for a magical night of gliding under the stars. End the evening by warming up by an outdoor fire and sipping on hot mulled wine. The ice trail typically opens from the end of December to March Break, but check their website for booking options and updates. (1074 Cranberry Rd, Bala, Ont.)
Blue Mountain is known for its sick hills, but it also has the perfect place to skate mountainside! You and your family can cruise at the top of the resort’s 1.1 kilometre ice-skating loop while enjoying extraordinary views of the magical Niagara Escarpment (you’ll literally be surrounded by a magical wintery forest). Perfect for skaters of all levels — they even offer red stabilizing guides for beginners! You’ll have to pay for a single-use attraction ticket to access the ice. The trail usually opens in late December and runs until March. (201 Scenic Caves Rd., Unit AW2, The Blue Mountains, Ont.)
This outdoor rink is a hidden gem to the people of London and the perfect spot for a really unique festive adventure (especially if you have young kids)! Enjoy a magical wintery experience as you glide along a 250-metre skate trail that loops around the enchanting grounds of the storybook-themed park. You’ll be surrounded by charming characters, glowing lights, music, and a rink-side Beavertails concession. This cute trail is the perfect spot to create lasting memories with family and friends. (1958 Storybook Ln, London, Ont.)
This is one of Port Elgin’s best-kept secrets — glide through the woods and natural forest of MacGregor Point Provincial Park on a 400-metre looped trail nestled along the shores of Lake Huron. For an even more magical experience, the park turns on the trail lights for skating under the stars until 10 p.m. each day, making it the perfect spot for a winter date! The trail usually opens in late December, depending on the weather. Visitors only have to pay a daily vehicle permit fee to access the park (1593 Bruce Road 33, RR#1, Port Elgin, ON).
Remember that most outdoor rinks are subject to weather conditions, so check the rink’s status (and if any reservations are needed) before you head out!
If you’ve been wondering what fellow Torontonians have been reading on their TTC commutes (or maybe you’re seeking recommendations for your next late-night “one-more-chapter” binge-read), the Toronto Public Library (TPL) has your answer. Earlier this month, TPL unveiled its list of the most borrowed books of 2025, and the big takeaway is that Torontonians are serious genre-hoppers.
Collectively, the top 10 titles (and one blockbuster series) were borrowed more than 195,000 times across the system, jumping from romantasy and contemporary romance to thrillers, literary fiction and self-improvement reads.
For the second year in a row, Rebecca Yarros’ Empyrean series kept readers hooked, with Torontonians following dragon-rider heroine Violet Sorrengail as she navigates love, danger and self-discovery. Meanwhile, Emily Henry landed two spots in the top 10 with Funny Story and Great Big Beautiful Life, underscoring the city’s appetite for witty, heart-fluttering modern love stories (with perfectly happy endings, of course).
But romance wasn’t the only thing flying off the shelves. Torontonians were also checking out darkly comic novels, like The Wedding People, summer-camp mysteries like The God of the Woods, historical fiction novels like The Women, and literary fiction like Intermezzo.
“What stands out in this year’s list is just how eclectic Toronto readers are,” Matt Abbott, Senior Manager, Collection Development, TPL, said in a statement. “One week they’re devouring fantasy, the next a thriller or a historical novel. It’s clear that our community is following stories that captivate them—regardless of category.”
On the nonfiction side, the list was all about practical guidance, insight and tools for navigating modern life (think habit-building, letting-go strategies, and books that try to make sense of modern stress).
“Nonfiction continues to resonate strongly with our readers,” Abbott said, noting that it reflects “a city that is curious, thoughtful and eager to grow.”
According to TPL, these were the top borrows of the year!
The Empyrean series (Onyx Storm, Fourth Wing, and Iron Flame) by Rebecca Yarros
