With his trademark wit and sharp eye on Canadian life, Rick Mercer is hitting the road this fall for a coast-to-coast Stand-Up for Canada tour, and we caught up with him ahead of the Toronto stop on the tour on Oct. 3, at Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
What inspired you to launch this coast-to-coast comedy tour now?
I feel like the timing is right for a Stand-Up for Canada comedy tour. These are interesting times. My act hasn’t changed. I’ve always taken the line of celebrating the country, celebrating what I love about the country, talking about the country. And it just seems like now is the time for that. It’s about celebrating, not about dunking on the United States. They seem to be doing a good job of that themselves.
What does Stand-Up for Canada mean to you?
It’s a play on the times we’re in. And obviously we’re in a time where, for example, I spent the summer in Newfoundland, and I met so many people not just from Ontario, but from western Canada and from Quebec, that were visiting Newfoundland. We’ve always had those people, but there was way more than ever before. Obviously Canadians are travelling inside of Canada like they never had before. Obviously Canadians are buying Canadian like never before. When I first went out on a national tour many years ago, the tour was called Rick Mercer’s Hockey Comedy Night in Canada. And there were Americans, and there were Brits on the tour, and it was a great tour. And I said — and if I do it again — it’s going to be an all-Canadian lineup. Ever since then, that’s what I’ve done.
What about this lineup of young Canadian comics you have on the tour?
Well, these comedians — this is an A-list. This is not an up-and-coming cohort. I mean, they are young, certainly compared to me. But Sophie Buddle is one of the hottest in demand comedians anywhere in the United States and Canada right now — all the big comedy festivals, all the big night time talk shows. Julie Kim has been working steadily both sides of the border and in England. Mayce Galoni is one of the funniest guys working out there. These are all great comics, and people are going to be really thrilled to see them. And for a lot of people in my audience, they’re not running out to comedy clubs at 11 o’clock at night for a standup show. And I just know that my audience is going to love coming to see this show.
You’ve always blended political commentary with comedy. Will politics play a big role in this tour?
Well, sure. I always talk about the times that we’re in, and these are very interesting times. We’ve just come through an election that had a result that I don’t think anyone expected a year previous. Obviously, the Canada-U.S. relationship is fraught with unknowns right now. Canadians are also anxious, and there’s a lot of unknowns, but now is a good time for a laugh.
Where is your favourite place to send visitors when in Toronto?
Where is your favourite place to send visitors when in Toronto? Allen’s on the Danforth is always a go-to for me, because it doesn’t matter what what you like, you will find it at Allen’s, and everything is top notch. So that’s at the top of my list.
Are you a Halloween person?
I would suggest that I’m almost always here [in Toronto] for Halloween. And many times I’ve gone out of my way to make sure I’m here from Halloween. And I have a pretty busy neighbourhood, and I actually flex my creative muscles exactly once a year and carve a pumpkin, sometimes with success, and sometimes with abject failure. But yeah, I give it a try.
If you remember the decadent glamour of Gossip Girl’s Chuck Bass opening a burlesque club, or Blair Waldorf’s unforgettable performance — you’ll understand the high-class, Manhattanite energy that’s about to descend on Toronto. On Friday, Sept. 26, FYE Ultraclub officially opens its doors, promising to transform the city’s nightlife with a concept unlike anything Toronto has ever seen.
Located at 7 Saskatchewan Rd., FYE is Canada’s first burlesque-inspired ultra club, built around world-class performances, globally inspired dining and immersive design. With shows on the hour, every hour, the venue is designed to be a constantly evolving spectacle, filled with glamour, music and entertainment.
For owner Zlatko Starkovski, the man behind legendary Toronto staples like Muzik Nightclub, Grand Bizarre and Toronto Event Centre, FYE represents a long-time vision realized. “The idea for FYE Ultraclub came from wanting to completely reimagine what nightlife could look like in Toronto. I’ve always believed this city deserves a nightlife experience on par with the world’s great destinations: Miami, Las Vegas, New York,” he says. “FYE is the result of years of passion and dedication to bring something bold, immersive and unforgettable here.”
His inspiration? Burlesque itself. “Burlesque has such a rich history; it’s glamorous, seductive, and full of energy. I wanted to honour the nightlife of the 19th century and bring it into a modern, high-energy setting,” he explains. “Pairing that artistry with international DJs and state-of-the-art production gives Toronto something it hasn’t seen before. Every night will have a spectacular, immersive, unpredictable and larger-than-life experience.”
Set inside a 1907 building with soaring 60-foot ceilings, transformed with state-of-the-art lighting, sound and theatrical design, FYE has been designed as a spectacle in itself. “It’s a space that feels timeless and intimate at the same time,” says Starkovski. “No matter where you stand, you’re immersed in the performance. It’s designed to feel larger than life, a true adult playground for energy and spectacle.”
From sultry burlesque and daring aerialists to surprise tableside performances, no two nights will look the same. “It’s an Ultraclub. Everything is happening at once. The glamour of burlesque, the adrenaline of aerial acts, and the energy of the crowd on the dance floor. It’s an experience in a way Toronto hasn’t seen before.”
At FYE, food brings the energy, too: Chef Robert Rainford is leading the culinary program, with shareable small plates designed for elevated nights: tuna tartare, shrimp cocktail, taco platters and prime beef sliders is just a small look into what you might see at FYE.
The cocktail program balances refinement with energy, offering elevated classics — Manhattans, Old Fashioned, Negronis, martinis and spritzes — served deep into the night.
Beyond nightlife, Starkovski is also known for his philanthropic work in Toronto, including his role as the first-time honourary chair and sponsor of the Healing the Voice Within art gala for The Gatehouse, a nonprofit supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse. His community-driven ethos is part of what grounds FYE in Toronto’s cultural landscape.
“Toronto is my home and it’s one of the most exciting cities in the world. The people here love culture, music and nightlife,” Starkovski says. “My vision with FYE is to raise the standard, to bring a nightlife experience that’s global in calibre but rooted here in Toronto.”
With its combination of grandeur, design, cuisine, and sound, FYE is set to be the city’s most anticipated nightlife destination this fall. And if Starkovski has his way, Toronto’s going to give Vegas a run for its money as the newest contender in the nightlife capital stakes.
Time Out just ranked the world’s 39 coolest neighbourhoods, and a Toronto ‘hood made the list! Davenport ranked No. 26, trailing slightly behind Plateau-Mont-Royal in Montréal, which ranked No. 22 (and was the only other Canadian city to make the list).
The profile gave a shout-out to Geary Avenue’s creative energy (“long home to industrial factories and autobody shops”), as well as the neighbourhood’s indie food scene, lively patios, cafés and warehouse-style art spaces.
If you’re planning a day here, begin your morning with a hit of caffeine. While Time Out recommends Balzac’s Powerhouse (29 Powerhouse St.) — housed in the historic Canada Foundry Company Powerhouse building and boasting soaring high ceilings, exposed brick and a warm ambiance — we suggest stopping over at Three Horses (1250 Dupont St.). A café and speed shop, this place does it all: great coffee, parts for motorcycles and vintage cars and a curated collection of vintage-inspired apparel.
Three Horses Café and Speed Shop, courtesy threehorses.ca
Afterwards, take a short stroll toThe Cardinal Gallery (1231 Davenport Rd.), nestled in the restored storefront of a historic building that sits just north of the Geary Ave strip, anchoring Wallace Emmerson and The Junction Triangle. The space is dedicated to fine-art photography, and it’s the perfect spot to pop in for a quiet browse! Check out the Kensington Market: Getting Over exhibit (through early November), where artist Wayne Salmon captures the Market’s murals, storefronts and passing faces as fragments of a larger narrative about surviving in an urban landscape.
For a delicious lunch, there are many amazing restaurants on Geary. If it’s a Wednesday-Friday, head to Famiglia Baldassarre (122 Geary Ave). The line starts forming early, at about 11:15 am, for the 12 pm opening. Expect a short, chalkboard-style menu of the day and generous dishes. Behind the counter, pasta-makers stand at a large bench; depending on the day, they could be forming perfectly uniform squares of fresh ricotta-spinach ravioli served in bianco or preparing plates of tagliatelle al ragù or in bianco (butter + Reggiano). You’ll be eating pasta minutes after it’s made!
Good Behaviour
Of course, you can never go wrong with Good Behaviour, the sub sandwich and small batch ice cream spot that has taken Toronto by storm. Stop here for lunch instead (we recommend their spicy meatball sub), or grab a sweet scoop of one of their inventive flavours, ranging from bourbon butter pecan to torta della nonna (lemon, ricotta, pine nut, shortbread).
Stop by Amelia’s Market for a wealth of local and Canadian-made goods — this Geary Avenue grocer (shh, it’s not actually on Geary — round the corner to 340 Westmoreland Ave. N. instead) is owned by a Toronto couple and is a neighbourhood corner shop, but better.
Courtesy ameliasmarket.ca
Any day of the week, visit Parallel (217 Geary Ave.) for delicious falafel and hummus, tahini-forward plates and other modern Middle Eastern staples. The restaurant’s relaxed, comfy atmosphere, paired with its white walls, high ceilings and large windows, keeps the space well-lit in what should be an otherwise dim, industrial area.
Settle in at Blood Brothers Brewing (165 Geary Ave.), housed in a renovated, century-old horse stable (sit on the patio if it’s warm enough)! Expect up to 26 beers on tap and Southern comfort foods from the on-site kitchen, like Texas brisket plates and BBQ platters.
The Blood Brothers Brewing patio.
Wander throughout Geary’s creative corridor. Keep an eye out for All Ours Studios(62 Geary Ave.), a cluster of Black-owned, community-shaped shipping-container studios and community spaces. Also in the area is the Bau-Xi Gallery, Vancouver’s oldest commercial gallery known for showcasing Canadian artists. Its flagship Toronto location (1384 Dufferin St.) spans 22,500 square feet and is dedicated to the exhibition of contemporary painting, photography, mixed media, and sculptural works by Canadian and international artists. This neighbourhood is also the site of the Geary Art Crawl (set to take place in March of 2026).
For dinner, head to General Public (201 Geary Ave), named one of our top two best new restaurants of the year. Stroll in and you’ll find an upscale English pub downstairs and peachy ’80s glam upstairs. The menu is steakhouse inspired, but also looks after vegetarians (you have to try the mushroom “schnitzel”). If anything, don’t miss Time Out’s recommendation: malt-powder-dusted fries with beef-fat mayo!
If you can’t dine in, pick up a large “The Keanu” pineapple-glazed pizza for dinner at Big Trouble Pizza (191 Geary Ave.) or try their fan-favourite Butter Jam Jam with raspberry jam, butter cream and balsamic. If you prefer classic pies and slices, head to North of Brooklyn Pizzeria (229 Geary Ave.) just down the street.
End off your night at Standard Time (165 Geary Ave., 2nd floor), a bar and record shop that’s everything that’s good about Toronto. A minimalist interior, up-and-coming DJs and chill ambiance will help you finish the day on a high note.
With the fifth National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coming up next week, orange shirts are in high demand across the country. Orange Shirt Day, as it’s otherwise known, is meant to honour the survivors of the residential school system along with those who died at the hands of the organizers of the system. Orange shirts, inspired by Phyllis’ Story, symbolize one of the many personal items stripped from the students.
Here are a few stores to find orange shirts that are either designed by Indigenous artists, sold at Indigenous-owned businesses or whose proceeds are going to reconciliation efforts.
At the Cedar Basket, the gift shop at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, you can find “Every Child Matters” inscribed on everything from orange T-shirts to hats, patches and flags. One such shirt has the words written beside a braided heart, designed by artist Chippewar. The proceeds for some of the shirts will be directed to the Orange Shirt Society, the B.C. Aboriginal Child Care Association and the new Native Northwest Reconciliation Fund.
The Native Arts Society is an Indigenous-owned art gallery and studio space located at 115 Church St. There are a few different orange shirts available this year, including a limited edition Isaac Murdoch printed T-shirt, with proceeds going to the art gallery’s art drive (which gives free art supplies to Indigenous artists living on the streets or those who are under housed or recently incarcerated and Inuit artists). Another version features an image of jingle dress dancer Brianna Olson-Pitawanakwat, who is also co-founder of Native Arts Society. Proceeds from shirt sales go to Toronto Indigenous Harm Reduction, a grassroots initiative with the goal of reducing the harm and burden that society places on Indigenous people.
Old’s Cool General Store, located in East York, has been supporting Orange Shirt Day before the official declaration of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The shop has a variety of shirts available, including a Sky Dance design by artist Jodi Harrison (Hill) of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte and a new one by Haida, Kwakwaka’wakw artist Yasakw (Shelly Samuels). Proceeds from the shirts go to the Anishnawbe Health Foundation.
Indigenous-owned clothing label Resist Clothing Co. offers a collection of eight different orange T-shirt designs this year, as well as orange hoodies and children’s versions. Options include their 2024 “Makwa” design and their 2023 “Guardians” design, both created by in-house Ojibwe digital artist and designer, Emjee. Proceeds from their orange shirt sales benefit Indigenous-led charities and initiatives that champion residential school survivors and educate the public about the impacts of the residential school era.
Founded in 2021 by Chelsee Pettit, an Anishinaabe member of Aamjiwnaang First Nation, streetwear brand Aaniin currently has a shop location at stackt market, and Pettit’s made-in-Toronto orange T-shirt design will be available for purchase in-store. The shirt features the phrase “gichi apiitendaagoziwag akina abinoonjiiyag,” meaning every child matters, written 94 times and separated into six sections to represent the 94 calls to action and the six categories Indigenous people across Canada are fighting for: child welfare, education, health, justice, language and culture. The shirt also includes a QR code that will link people to more information about the calls to action.
Available for pickup in-store, Sunnybrook Hospital’s gift shop is selling two orange T-shirt designs that were created by local Indigenous artist Animikiik’otcii Maakaai, an Anishinaabe multidisciplinary artist from Toronto. Maakaai’s father, Alex McKay, is depicted in this illustration and survived attending two residential schools. Proceeds from the sale of these shirts will be donated to Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre, a community organization that provides counselling, material assistance and other direct services to First Nations people in Toronto as well as to encourage and enhance spiritual and personal growth.
As Halloween creeps upon us, perhaps one way to get into the spirit is by visiting a ghost town. These towns aren’t actually filled with ghosts, they’re abandoned (or nearly abandoned) areas that still have visibly eerie remains of buildings and infrastructure (so still kind of creepy). As it turns out, there are quite a few deserted towns near Toronto that you can visit — so pack a lunch (since no restaurants will be operating in these settlements) and make it a day trip!
Here are nine must-see ghost towns near Toronto that you should visit:
Speyside, Halton Hills
This once-thriving settlement is now a relic of its former self. You can find the town’s remains in Halton Hills, Ont., at Regional Road 25 and 15 Sideroad, between Acton and Milton. According to the Esquesing Historical Society, this historic settlement experienced its heyday back in the mid-1800s — it had two hotels, a tannery, sawmills, a shingle mill, a few general stores, a blacksmith, a village hall, and even a stone quarry. By 1873, the population grew to 200, which led to the opening of the town’s first post office at the southeast corner of the small district. Shortly after, schoolhouse S.S. #10 Dufferin was constructed one mile south of the village, near St. Helena Rd.
Abandoned business in Speyside (photo: Magnolia677)
A recent profile on the town notes that plans for streets and lots were once laid out, suggesting that there were plans to grow this bustling village (which, unfortunately, didn’t come to pass). Neighbouring communities offered more enticing prospects when it came to jobs and houses, so people began moving out. By 1908, the population dwindled to 40 residents. By 1914, the post office shut down. Today, all that remains commercially are remnants of the corner store and school (and few inhabit the area).
This small lumber town had its heyday in the mid-to-late 19th century. In the 1860s, Thomas Cooper built the area’s first sawmill. Within a decade came a school, two churches, a general store, a blacksmith and even a cheese factory! Much of the town’s economic prowess came from lumber, so when supplies declined, the community dwindled.
The general store closed in the late 1960s, but you can still find its structure standing today, along with the abandoned blacksmith shop, two churches, and a few other ghostly relics. During your visit, make sure to check out the nearby Cooper’s Falls Hiking Trail, accessed on Cooper’s Falls Road along the Black River. Again, be respectful of private property, as the town has a population of about 14.
Dufferin Bridge, Magnetawan
This small town was once located along the Nipissing Road in Magnetawan, Ont., about a 3-hour drive from Toronto. In the late 1800s, it primarily acted as a small lumbering and stopping center, but it still contained a Methodist and Anglican church for Sunday services. A post office was soon built followed by the Dufferin Bridge Store in 1888. According to Ominous Abandoned Places, the town’s population dwindled when the railway service allowed easier access to more suitable farming land up north. By the early 20th century, the town was pretty much abandoned. Today the road has no full-time residents, although you’ll find remains of the Dufferin Methodist graveyard along the Nipissing Road.
Cheltenham Brickworks, Caledon
The Cheltenham Brick Works (25501271614)
This abandoned site in Caledon, between Cheltenham and Terra Cotta, was once home to a thriving brickyard and village in the early 1900s. According to GhostTownPix, in 1914, the Interprovincial Brick Company built massive kilns that enabled the company to boost brick production. The company also built workers’ houses directly on-site (so a lot of the workers lived on-site because rent was cheap, and work was plenty). Unfortunately, by the 1950s, the village of Cheltenham was dying — it was only alive due to brick workers. In 1958, the brickworks were shut down and the houses were demolished. However, the giant kilns remain — although they’re fenced off and inaccessible, they’re a reminder of the area’s industrial history.
Armstrong Mills, Wellington County
Armstrong Mill and grounds 1974.| Wellington County Museum & Archives
This small mill town and hamlet in Wellington County, Ont., near Eramosa Township, was founded in the mid-1800s by the Armstrong family (who first arrived in the area in 1822). According to Rural Routes, in 1845, the family established the Speedside Congregational Church, and in 1856, the family constructed a successful mill. A school was added in 1863, and so, the community was aptly renamed Armstrong Mills! Although the mill was used until 1950, the community didn’t experience much growth. By the 20th century, much of the area was abandoned. Still, people appreciate the town’s history — in the 1960s, the abandoned mill was bought by Ken Danby, an acclaimed realist painter who restored the mill. It still stands today, as well as the remains of a few other early remnants of the town.
This 19th-century mill hamlet is protected as a Heritage Conservation District, so streetscapes haven’t changed much in over a century. At dusk, stroll the scenic river-valley hamlet on West Duffins Creek and you’ll discover narrow, tree-lined streets with open views of eerily silent farm fields and the creek valley. Pause at the historic Whitevale Road Bridge. Its narrow profile and close edges make it feel sort of otherworldly in the evening hours, and you’ll have a perfect vantage point to take in the village core without stepping on private property. From here, you’ll spot wood-framed, close-set clapboard homes with centre-gable façades (they have such a vintage aura that you may feel as if you’ve stepped back in time).
Finish your trip at the Whitevale Cemetery. It dates back to the 1830s and sits just east of the village core on Whitevale Road. This rural burying ground served families from the hamlet and surrounding farms, and it sits exactly where the community first established it nearly two centuries ago! Keep in mind that Whitevale is a small, tight-knit community, so respect personal property. Click here for more info on visiting Whitevale.
Head to Point Anne to explore the ruins of a once-booming cement company town on the Bay of Quinte. In the early 1900s, the hamlet was home to the Canada Portland Cement Company, which was the second-largest cement plant in Canada at the time. In its heyday, there were about 600 people living in this company village! The plant expanded throughout the 1930s-1950s, but closed in 1973 after Canada Cement was bought by Lafarge, and operations shifted to Bath. Many buildings were sold off, and the rest, including most of the plant, were demolished. The hamlet is now part of the City of Belleville.
Head over today and you can view scattered shoreline foundations and industrial remains from public roads (an especially ghostly view in the moonlight!). Remember that people still live in Point Anne (about 55 residents are served by the municipal water system), so be respectful of private property.
Blairton, Peterborough County
In the 1850s, Blairton was an iron-mining company town on the south shore of Crowe Lake. By the 1860s, the town had about 500 residents, roughly 40 company houses, two hotels, a few stores, a church, a school, a post office and several trades. It basically became a full-service village built around the open-pit mine and the Cobourg and Peterborough Railway! Alas, as the mine wound down in the 1870s, so did the population. Municipal services stuck around for a bit longer but eventually shut down too (the church and post office closed in 1929).
Today, many former lots are now private cottages or campgrounds, but the former mine manager’s house survives (it’s private property, so you’ll have to view from the public road only), along with a few derelict structures. Newer homes as well as a trailer park have been built, but the population remains far smaller than at Blairton’s mining peak. Blairton is about a 10-minute drive from Havelock.
This small town started as a tiny crossroad on the Nipissing Colonization Road, serving stagecoach travellers between Lake Rosseau and Lake Nipissing by 1875, and transitioned to a rail-side mill town with boarding houses and the King George Hotel by the late 1890s. Lumber powered the town for decades until the last big mill left in 1926. Another blow came in 1955 when Canadian National abandoned part of the Junction rail line between Falding and Scotia, shutting down Seguin Falls station.
Today, you can still find the old 1921 brick schoolhouse, the cemetery at the old townsite, and remnants of the King George Hotel (the building unfortunately burned in 1989). If you’re into hiking, the former rail bed is now the Seguin Trail, which now runs between Highway 400 and Highway 11.
Toronto’s bar scene is about to go full aperitivo. From Oct. 6–12, 2025, the Italian Trade Agency will launch the city’s first-ever Italian Cocktail Revolution! This week-long celebration will showcase Italy’s finest spirits, bartending craft and cocktail culture across 10 of Toronto’s top cocktail bars.
“This first edition of the Italian Cocktail Revolution brings together 10 of Italy’s finest spirits producers with 10 of Toronto’s top mixologists, creating signature cocktails that showcase Italian spirits,” Carlo Angelo Bocchi, the Italian trade commissioner for Canada, said in a statement, adding that Canada is one of the most advanced and highly regulated markets for spirits. “With this event, we want to give professionals and consumers an experience that celebrates the excellence and versatility of Made in Italy.”
The revolution kicks off on Oct. 6 with the Italian Spirits in Cocktails masterclass, led by award-winning Canadian mixologist James Grant, alongside Toronto bartenders Gianluca Passuello (Bar Compton) and Nick Kennedy (Civil Liberties). In this session, participants will learn what makes Italian spirits unique and exciting in the cocktail world. The class covers everything from techniques and history to flavour profiles, culminating in a guided tasting of premium Italian spirits from the participating producers! The event takes place at 1 p.m., Fairmont Royal York, Confederation Rooms 5 & 6, Main Mezzanine Level.
On Oct. 7, participants can check out the Italian Bartending in the Modern Age Masterclass, led by the head bartender of Locale Firenze, which was ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2025. This session dives into the evolution of modern Italian cocktail culture! Participants will explore innovative ways to incorporate Italian spirits in contemporary cocktails, and will have an inside look at Locale Firenze’s acclaimed bar program. This event takes place at 1 p.m., Fairmont Royal York, Confederation Rooms 5 & 6, Main Mezzanine Level.
Following the launch, from Oct. 7–12, Toronto’s top bars will participate in Italian Cocktail Week. Participating bars will feature bespoke Italian-inspired cocktail menus and immersive speakeasy-style experiences, allowing guests to experience the artistry and craftsmanship behind iconic Italian spirits! Each bar will highlight one premium Italian spirit in a signature cocktail, including Bar Mordecai (Nonino), Mother (Crucolo), Library Bar (Favignana Gin), No Vacancy (Caffo), Civil Works (Cocchi), Crybaby (Luxardo), Cocktail Bar (Compagnia dei Caraibi), Gift Shop (Poli), Vinoteca Pompette (Rupes) and Clockwork (Varnelli).
Packed house for the first live show featuring cover band 'The After Party'
Toronto has sadly been losing music venues over the past few years — so when a new one not only opens but thrives, we need to celebrate that! Ground Control, Queen West’s David Bowie-inspired video dance bar, is coming up on its two-year anniversary, and to honour the occasion, they’ll be hosting a new wave retro party.
The independent music venue has clearly filled a niche in the Toronto music scene — it’s currently Canada’s only music video dance bar. The club features six high-end video projectors strategically placed in both the back and front rooms, synchronizing video playback with live music performances. Since opening, the venue has also hosted countless themed events, from goth bingo night and alternative clothing swaps to Halloween parties.
Two years later, they’re celebrating their success as the city’s newest and coolest music venue the way they know best: with an ’80s/’90s video dance party with a Bowie spotlight. That means around 12 David Bowie songs will be sprinkled throughout the retro mix, as well as the debut of new Bowie artwork by Playdead Cult and the Bowie Magazine wall with over 50 authentic magazines with Bowie on the cover.
Dancers enjoying “Spellbound – Video Dance Party” at Ground Control
The dance party begins at 10 p.m., but if you arrive between 8–10 p.m., you’ll get to enjoy a live Bowie tribute band performance.
The retro music mix promises plenty of new wave, post-punk, classic alternatives, synth pioneers, britpop, shoegaze, madchester, new romantic, classic industrial, ska and more.
When Ground Control launched in 2023, it was on the heels of multiple small music venue closures (including The Beaver, The Orbit Room, The Hideout) — the places where emerging local artists cut their teeth and found new fans. A few more longtime music venues have since closed, including The Velvet Underground and The Dakota Tavern. The pandemic and rising commercial rent and operational costs have all made operating a small venue even more challenging in Toronto, so we’re delighted to see the city’s newest addition thriving and celebrating such an amazing milestone.
If you follow Suresh Doss on Instagram, you may know him as the mango guy. But his reputation in the food industry runs so much deeper — he knows the hidden culinary gems tucked deep into every borough. Doss is the human food encyclopedia you want on speed dial — ready to lead you to immaculate meals of any cuisine, anywhere in the city. Now, he’s bringing that knowledge to the screen: his new show, Locals Welcome, premieres next month on CBC’s streaming platforms. We caught up with Doss to talk about what decades in food have taught him — and how he’s sharing it in a whole new way.
What do you think is the biggest misconception of Toronto’s food scene?
Nobody really understands how deep and culturally rich North Toronto is. Even just walking north of Yonge and Bloor, you can see how Korean and Taiwanese influences have transformed the food scene. People land at Union Station, but your mind really gets blown when you walk in any direction. Most people just don’t know that.
Where would you take someone visiting Toronto for the first time?
I’d take them to Broadview Station and have them walk along the Danforth — with no phone, just looking around. Walk into grocery stores, the Greek place, the Ethiopian spot, the Somali café, the Japanese restaurant. Now there’s also a Syrian place, an Assyrian place, an Iraqi place. It’s about putting your phone down and really observing what’s happening between grocery stores. The way I explore food isn’t just through restaurants — it’s about who’s around grocery stores, commissary kitchens, whatever I find in between, and whoever I run into.
After all these years in food, what’s stuck with you the most?
Chef Matty Matheson joins Suresh on the new show
There are so many really interesting cultures and communities in this country that we still have so much time to explore. If you’re willing to drive, if you’re willing to fly, if you’re willing to walk, that journey is going to be incredible.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’m an absolute introvert. I’m not a social person at all. I’d much rather be at home, cooking for my son and my wife. I don’t like being in the spotlight — for me, it’s really about: can I tell stories, and then come home and lose myself in as many cookbooks as I can? Cooking for my family is my therapy.
What’s your favourite tradition around food?
Especially now, it’s about having hands on the table together. Food itself isn’t always what brings people close — it’s the conversation that follows. For me, I’m happiest when I’m on a food tour or at an Ethiopian restaurant with a big shared platter. We each have our own sections, sure, and maybe we’re not touching fingers, but we’re reaching in together. It’s that shared moment: let’s eat this together.
I think the most important thing for me is that everyone eats—and everyone eats diversely in this country, which I find fascinating. As divided as things are right now, when I walk into a shawarma spot, I see every kind of person there. Food is one of those rare things that cuts through all that; people don’t care about the differences—they just want sustenance, and they want it to be delicious.
(This interview has been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.)
Fall is here, and yet it feels a little more like April with all this rain! But hey, we live in Toronto — there’s no need to cancel plans just because of a little bit of rain! The next time the gloomy weather outside has got you down, here are 10 things to do in Toronto to make the most of the rainy day.
Bad weather doesn’t have to stop you from stopping to smell the roses. Toronto is home to a few greenhouses and conservatories, and they’re possibly even more enjoyable to explore with the sound of the rain hitting the greenhouse around you. Allan Gardens is a classic for a reason — you’ll find six greenhouses filled with everything from cacti to flowers you’d never find in Toronto at any time of year. There’s also the Centennial Park Conservatory, which has two greenhouses — one for tropical plants and fruit trees, the other an arid house for cacti and succulents.
Head to a board game cafe
Turn the perfect at-home rainy day activity into something a little more social — head to a board game cafe in Toronto with some friends in tow and relish in winning at your favourite game in the company of fellow game-lovers. Twilight Café offers not only a selection of over 200 board games, but a menu that includes bubble tea, slushies and bubble waffles. The Guild House has everything from board games to role-playing games and even games workshops. Or head to the classic, Snakes and Lattes for a nice warm drink while you play.
Get your anger out at a rage room
Rainy weather got you in a mood? Take a trip to Scarborough to visit the city’s only rage room, Go Smash. You can book a room with a group or just for yourself, and you’ll have the opportunity to smash everything from dinnerware to electronics, or even your own things if you’ve got a box of your ex’s stuff that you want to get rid of.
Also known as “barcades,” there are a few Toronto bars that are serving up drinks with a side of nostalgia. Packed with arcade games from the ’80s and ’90s, you can play vintage games such as Pac-Man, Donkey Kong and Super Mario Bros. Try Zed*80 for a tiny arcade bar with a lot of heart, Get Well for the perfect rainy date night or The Rec Room if you plan on playing all day.
Belt your heart out at open mic night
Open mic nights are back with a bang in Toronto, and they also happen to make for the perfect rainy night activity. The Painted Lady on Ossington hosts open mic Mondays and cover is free, while Free Time Cafe hosts them on Tuesdays and allows anything from music to spoken word to comedy.
Learn how to make your own pottery
Spend your day inside, honing a new skill that you can show off in your home. Places such as 4Cats, with locations on the Danforth, Leaside, The Beaches, Avenue Road and Baby Point, help you do more than just paint some pottery. The art studio offers workshops to teach you everything from how to make flower imprinted clay plates to the basics of using a clay wheel.
Tour some Toronto breweries
Get a taste of some of the city’s best beer by going on a guided tour of a few of Toronto’s best breweries. Toronto Brewery Tours offers public tours with round trip transportation and will take you to three breweries in the west end, where you’ll get to enjoy a flight of beer at each.
Go on a food crawl
Toronto’s culinary scene is pretty amazing, so take some time on a rainy day to really enjoy it all with a food crawl across the city. There’s something for every palate — you can explore the secret food history of Old Toronto, taste some of the best food in Chinatown and Kensington Market or enjoy the best Italian food in Toronto.
Go rock climbing
Still want to stay active even if you can’t do so outside? Rock climbing is a fun activity to try with family or friends, and it’s great for those who are super active or those who are more into couch surfing since each person can decide how challenging to make their course. Check out Basecamp at Bloor West and Queen West, The Rock Oasis in Leslieville or Joe Rockhead’s Indoor Rock Climbing in Liberty Village.
Sure, visiting museums and galleries might be the classic rainy day activity, but we’ll raise you one better — catching a theatre performance! There are plenty of amazing local theatre shows happening this fall, including The Green Line at Factory Theatre, Steve Martin’s Bright Star at CAA Theatre andSlave Playat Berkeley Street Theatre.
Following the success of locations on King Street and Eglinton West, Oretta is expanding its Toronto footprint yet again, opening a third location in the downtown core this fall.
Oretta’s third outpost will be housed inside the TD Terrace Tower at 160 Front St. W. and, as is the restaurant’s custom, will feel like taking a step into Italy, offering the complete experience in the heart of the city. “The vibe is inspired by 1970s Italy — urban, vibrant and full of energy,” says Salvatore Mele, Principal of Oretta Hospitality. “Think Milano or Rome, with most of our staff being Italian, so you’ll hear the language and spirit throughout your experience.”
Mele hopes to open the restaurant to the public in the first week of October, and to share the unique experiences he’s built into the space with the downtown community. “You can expect a fashion forward interior, authentic food made with care, and genuine Italian hospitality,” he says. “Our new location introduces something truly special: paccheri alla vittorio, a classic recipe cherished for generations, prepared tableside with fresh ingredients imported directly from Italy.” It will join Oretta’s list of modern Italian fare like pastas, pizzas, and more.
Oretta’s cocktail classics will also be available, including the “citrus-forward Catanzaro, inspired by the sun-drenched groves of Calabria, and the Baba Sour, a playful nod to Naples’ iconic Babà al Rum,” Mele says. “Guests will also discover our most decadent pour: the Tiramisu Martini, a velvety blend of espresso, mascarpone and cocoa. It’s dessert and cocktail in one.”
The new location is also introducing a brand new program called “Cocktails della Casa,” a beverage program that’s unique to Oretta Downtown. It will boast a selection of Italian-themed cocktails named after iconic attractions in the country like the Il Colosseo, the Anguriata and the Martini D’Abruzzo, and select beverages can also be made spirit-free for those who want to sip on Italian inspiration without consuming alcohol.
“Oretta Downtown isn’t just a restaurant,” Mele says. “It’s an experience.”
Toronto’s Ossington strip just got a sultry new addition. Small Talk, a modern jazz bar from the team behind Paris Texas, Pizza Wine Disco and Whitestone Ranch, has officially opened in the former Baby Huey’s space— and it’s designed for those who’ve aged out of King Street bottle service but still want a buzzy night out.
“We wanted to create a space for a slightly older crowd — people in and around 30 who are looking for date nights, after-dinner drinks, or really just an intimate spot to enjoy live music,” says Bianca Rossi, general manager of Small Talk. “It’s inspired by timeless jazz bars, but with a modern twist.”
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Designed by Danielle Adams of Block Plan Studios, the interiors lean soulful: deep maroons, rich reds, earthy tiles, and hand-drawn murals set the mood, while cheeky details like custom wallpapers keep things playful. The lounge even comes with its own flirty tagline: “Are you in love? No, I’m in Small Talk.”
The programming pairs live jazz and jazz-house with late-night energy. Guests can expect quartets on Sundays, a rotating roster of Toronto musicians throughout the week, and DJs blending sets with live saxophone or trumpet on Thursdays. “Toronto has such a lively jazz scene that doesn’t always intersect with nightlife,” Rossi explains. “We wanted to merge the two.”
The menu was crafted by Afrim Pristine, maître fromager and owner of Cheese Boutique, who brings his expertise to luxe boards and rotating daily sandwiches. Highlights include artisanal cheeses, Italian cured meats, fresh sourdough baked in-house and even “elevated small bites” (a wagyu hotdog, and house baked chocolate chip cookies paired with a sweetened cream cheese dip being ones I’m most excited for) designed to match perfectly with a martini. “It’s the kind of place where you can come in, have your cocktails, and share a beautiful charcuterie board,” Rossi says.
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If the food is sophisticated, the drinks are downright playful. Small Talk’s bar program is built around three showstoppers: martinis, table-side Mickey Service, and a Moët and Chandon Champagne vending machine—the only one in the city. The martini list mixes timeless staples with playful twists, featuring Pornstar Martinis, Espresso Martinis, classic Dirty Martinis, and bolder seasonal flavours like a rhubarb-inspired martini.
The Mickey service is Toronto’s first and it’s exactly what you think it is: curated vintage ice buckets and decanters arrive at the table with smaller-format bottles — otherwise known as Mickey’s to Canadians alike — making bottle service feel accessible and fun again.
Photo: Nick Lee
Rossi explains. For those who prefer their nights out low-key, Mondays are half-price across the entire menu— a neighbourhood-friendly perk that sets Small Talk apart on a strip where most restaurants are dark at the start of the week.
“We wanted to create a place that feels timeless, where the music, the food and the drinks all work together to create that perfect night out,” Rossi says. “It’s a nod to the classics, but with our own playful twist.”
Small Talk is open Thursday to Monday at 110 Ossington Avenue, from 5 p.m. until late. Reservations are available on OpenTable. Looking to secure your spot after 10 p.m. on the weekends? Send them an email to be added to the guest list.
If you’re looking for a serene, no-fuss autumn retreat surrounded by towering pine trees, granite outcrops and quiet lakes, then head to Hardy Lake Provincial Park in the heart of Muskoka. It’s a small non-operating park, so no camping, washrooms, or staffed facilities, just gorgeous trails that are perfect for hiking, boardwalks leading to a tiny island and a stunning open-sky backdrop.
The park is only a 15-minute drive west of Gravenhurst off Highway 169, so it’s easy to pair with a bakery stop in town or a sunset detour to Torrance Barrens!
If you’re coming from Toronto, it’s about a two-hour drive, making it the perfect distance for a one-day road trip if you’re looking to avoid resort crowds and busy campgrounds. Head out shortly after sunrise to enjoy early-morning light along the journey (and to secure a good parking spot once you arrive). You’ll drive past big-box plazas and flat fields as the city gives way to countryside, farmland and coves on the shore of Lake Muskoka. Make a pit stop in Gravenhurst at Oliver’s Coffee and taste their signature French Vanilla blend, or stop by Don’s Bakery in Bala for freshly-baked muffins.
Once at the park, park in the signed lot on Muskoka Rd. 169 and then head for the trails. For a more challenging hike, try the 9 km full lake circuit (about 2.5–3 hours) and stroll through classic Shield scenery, rocky shorelines and multiple boardwalk crossings. For an easier trek, the 3 km loop from the main trailhead takes about 45 minutes (keep in mind that the trails are pretty wet and muddy, so wear waterproof footwear). These paths are perfect for solo hikes, family outings or even dog walks (your four-legged friends must be leashed).
Pack a lunch or some snacks and find a safe rock shelf along the lake to soak in the scenery (just make sure to pack up your garbage). Afterward, head to the nearby Torrance Barrens Conservation Area and Dark Sky Preserve (about a 10-minute drive from Hardy Lake) to explore its granite-bog landscape by day and dark-sky stargazing opportunities after sunset. If you can stay longer, the reserve offers some of the clearest celestial views in Ontario (and there are often free astro-tourism events).
If one day isn’t enough, then make it a weekend getaway and lodge at a cute inn or B&B in nearby Gravenhurst, Bracebridge or Port Carling.
