Vintage lovers, there’s a huge event happening in Toronto this weekend that you won’t want to miss! The Toronto Vintage Show is a mega pop-up sale featuring some of Canada’s top vintage sellers, and it’ll be a full 50,000 square feet of vintage finds and treasures that have been sourced by the top second-hand vendors in the country.
Featuring over 130 vintage vendors and shops and thousands of items, as Canada’s largest vintage sale, be prepared to spend some cash — it’ll be hard to stop by the pop-up without spotting something you love!
And if fashion isn’t your thing or your trying to clean out your closet before buying more, don’t worry — the vintage show will also feature antique goods, including kitchenwares, home goods, barware records, cameras, vintage art and more.
As for the fashion, well, we’re talking true vintage here — clothing will range from the 1920s to the 1990s and beyond.
Courtesy Wild Thing Vintage
Take, for example, this Hudson’s Bay Company coat from the 1970s, available at Wild Thing Vintage. Canadians were devastated when the long-standing department store closed its doors permanently this year, and were desperate to snatch up any last blankets, pillows and more branded by the iconic HBC stripes. This coat is your chance to own a piece of fashion history!
For something a little more unique, all the way from the 1960s is this Christian Dior chapeau. Sourced by Toronto’s Nevada Rose Vintage, stop by the booth this weekend if you want to shop some furs as well!
Courtesy Adawegamig
Port Perry vintage clothing store Adawegamig is bringing a true one-of-a-kind find with them on the weekend: this embroidered Levi’s denim jacket from the 1970s. This purchase will come with its own bit of lore: it was made by a music fan in tribute to a local Toronto musician at the time.
Other gems you can expect include a 400-piece costume jewelry collection, all from the 1920s–1940s (courtesy of vendor Vintage J & J); rare early-2000s Japanese metal sunglasses that are difficult to find, thanks to incredible local company Opticianado Eyewear; and a snazzy collection of 1930s cotton day dresses at Svelte in Deco Vintage’s booth.
Local vendors such as Shop Feelings Vintage, Tell Them It’s Vintage and Vintage and the City are all set to showcase their best pieces there, so you can do a little tour of all of Toronto’s best second-hand shops, all in one place!
The show will take place from Sept. 20–21 at Queen Elizabeth Building at Exhibition Place, and admission costs $15 — but you can snag a discount on the website.
Toronto snack watchers are keeping an eye out for what might be the city’s most epic chip collab yet. According to social posts, Pizzeria Badiali (181 Dovercourt) and Miss Vickie’s chips have teamed up for the Miss Vickie’s “Vodka Sauce Pizza” flavour!
Official announcements and a national rollout haven’t been confirmed, but an Instagram reel shows a “Vodka Sauce Pizza” bag stamped with “Badiali,” hinting at a tie-in to the pizzeria’s cult-fav Vodka Pie. Badiali’s signature pizza features spicy vodka rosé sauce, fior di latte, pecorino, Grana Padano and Sicilian oregano, so we have a good idea about what flavours to expect when the chip finally lands on shelves this fall!
Reddit posts have also revealed two other chef-collab flavours tied to restaurants in Montreal and Vancouver. Miss Vickie’s Spicy Pepperoncini & Focaccia flavour (a collab with Nora Gray in Montreal) has already been spotted on shelves at Costco Canada. Snack influencer @snackjesus posted a taste-test of the limited-edition bag last Thursday to Instagram, and the flavours perfectly align with Nora Gray’s homemade focaccia with pepperoncini and olive oil!
“The ultimate link up @noragrayresto steps into the house of @missvickiesca” @snackjesus wrote in his post. “The fine dining world meets the comfort of your couch. This is a dream come true.”
Keep an eye out for Miss Vickie’s Cacio e Pepe flavour (a collab with Ask for Luigi in Vancouver). The Michelin-recommended restaurant is known for its spaghetti cacio e pepe, which is a classic Roman pasta with Pecorino Romano and black pepper, so the chip will likely have a similar flavour.
According to a recent Reddit thread, the new flavours should roll out at Costco stores across Ontario in October! Looking at the comments, chip fans are already hyped:
“Man I’d move mountains for these”
“Man, anything for a new miss vickes flavour. I’m craving”
Toronto’s sandwich scene has seen a major upgrade this summer with the opening of several players that have earned a quick rise to fame with decadent sizes, cheese flown in from Europe and celebrity ownership.
But the latest, a hole-in-the-wall in Kensington Market called Uncle Pete’s Bread Co., is a new contender on the streets, making waves for its freshly baked focaccia — and partnership with a beloved donut shop.
Now declared “The Focaccia Boys of Kensington Market,” Uncle Pete’s Bread Co. began as an online focaccia delivery service, formed after namesake Pete Petrovic and his three longtime friends, Jules, Leo and Jamie, came together over the love for the bread he perfected.
@unclepetesbreadco/Instagram
“I got a little focused on making focaccia and I created this Frankenstein recipe out of 15I found online, and I came up with a winner,” Petrovic says.
Although he only recently left the corporate world to launch Uncle Pete’s, Petrovic grew up with a love of the kitchen, shaped by his immigrant parents.
“When you’re a ten-year-old and your parents are at work at eight in the morning and they don’t come back until 8 p.m., you have to figure out a way to feed yourself,” he says. “That’s how it started for me — I got good at cooking out of necessity,”
What started as friends and family begging for his focaccia quickly grew into online orders and pop-ups at Black Lab Brewing, where Uncle Pete’s built a loyal following. So when the chance came to open a brick-and-mortar in Kensington Market — less than a year after launching online — in partnership with Dipped Donuts, it was, as Petrovic puts it, a “no brainer.”
“Kensington is a staple of the city — it’s just the perfect spot to be,” Petrovic says. “There’s just something about Kensington that I think makes it completely different from any other part of the city.”
The focaccia, available as full loaves in-store, strikes the perfect balance of crunchy, soft, airy and salty. Delicious on its own, it truly shines when made into grab-and-go sandwiches, making Uncle Pete’s a must-visit spot for lunch.
The lean menu features two sandwiches vying for the spotlight. The OG earns its name, stacked with locally sourced prosciutto, mortadella and soppressata from Grace Meat Market. The cured meats are paired with whipped lemon ricotta, chili crisp, peppery arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
@unclepetesbreadco/Instagram
For the vegetarian diners, the Pesto Pete is similar to a caprese sandwich, crafted with a house-made, vegan, and nut-free pesto that’s combined with the whipped lemon ricotta and heirloom tomatoes.
Another grab-and-go treat at Uncle Pete’s is the focaccia bites, served with the Holy Trinity Dip — whipped lemon ricotta, pesto and a drizzle of chili crisp. They’re perfect for kids or for snacking on the go.
Don’t leave without grabbing some decadent, gourmet donuts for dessert. When you buy from Uncle Pete’s, you get 10 per cent off your Dipped Donuts order — and vice versa!
“It’s a perfect little mix of sweet and savourry,” he says. “It’s a really nice pairing where we’re sharing the space.”
Seth Rogen may be a West Coast kid at heart, but last night at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, all of Canada was cheering him on. The actor, writer, and producer walked away with some of the night’s biggest prizes as his comedy The Studio made history with 13 wins overall — the most ever for a new comedy.
Rogen won Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series while also sharing trophies for writing and directing alongside his creative partner (and fellow Canadian) Evan Goldberg, also from Vancouver. The series, a satire about the chaos of running a Hollywood studio, also earned the top prize: Outstanding Comedy Series.
The sweep is another success story for Canadian comedy, which continues to reign supreme. And Rogen has always been proud of his Canadian roots.
“The Studio won 9 creative arts Emmy’s last night and I couldn’t be more excited for these people and more honored to get to work with them,” wrote Rogen, in a social media post. “Every day I went to work I’d feel like we really put together the most amazing crew so it’s so nice to see them get this recognition.”
Rogen first broke through in Judd Apatow’s cult classic Freaks and Geeks before becoming one of the most enduring and popular comedy masterminds of the 2000s with films such as Superbad (which he co-wrote as a teenager with Goldberg), Knocked Up, and Pineapple Express — all while keeping his signature Canadian self-deprecation intact.
If you’re looking for a cute date-night experience before the cold weather arrives, head to a local drive-in theatre! Watching a flick under a giant screen with the hum of a car radio offers a good mix of nostalgia and novelty. Bonus, you’ll get a sense of privacy and won’t have to deal with long lineups or over-priced concessions! Families love them too: babies can nap in the back seat and kids can talk without annoying the entire theatre (just their parents).
Here’s the perfect lineup of drive-in experiences worth checking out near Toronto.
This theatre still boasts a classic 1952 vibe, and its three giant screens will delight everyone from retro lovers to families. Readers Digest previously named it one of Canada’s hottest drive-ins, as it’s linked to comedic legends like John Candy and even Jim Carrey, who reportedly snuck in screenings during its early days! Just a 1-hour drive from Toronto. Open 5 days (Fri, Sat, Sun, Tues, Thurs). Box office opens at 7:00 pm. 893 Mount Albert Road, Sharon, ON.
The 5 has been a staple in the GTA and a hidden gem in Oakville since 1964! The giant, themed screens play everything from drama to comedy and action flicks. Take advantage of the double-feature nights and reasonably priced in-car food delivery. Reddit users have said that it’s one of their “favourite places to go in the summer!” 2332 Ninth Line, Oakville, ON.
This multi-screen heritage theatre is open five nights a week. It’s known for its delicious snack combos and hot foods, everything from pickles on a stick to pulled-pork sandwiches (bonus: the theatre has an express window for popcorn and ice cream!) With wallet-friendly ticket prices, it’s a great place for couples, families and larger groups. 59 Green Mountain Rd E, Stoney Creek, ON.
This cash-only drive-in is a bit of a drive from downtown Toronto (about 2 hours) but boasts two large screens featuring the latest blockbuster hits. It’s also the only theatre in Canada with a cement screen that sits on top of a giant rock, forming part of one of the screens! Families will be happy to know that there’s a playground (perfect for children) and a grill with burgers and other delicious eats. Bonus: You can even bring your pets (as long as they’re on a leash and controlled at all times). 1001 Theatre Rd, Gravenhurst, ON.
This retro-themed drive-in boasts four giant screens, playing everything from new releases to hard-to-find Indie flicks. Movies with open captions are available on one of the screens on Wednesdays throughout the summer! Just under a 2-hour drive from Toronto. 1956 RR 20, Fonthill, ON.
This is one of the most perfect spots to enjoy blockbuster movies under the stars, especially if you have a carload of people (look out for group discounts!) It’s cash-only and outside food isn’t allowed, but concession stands sell delicious hot foods, classic kettle corn, ice cream and tons of candy. Open weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). About a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto. 5012 Jones Baseline, Guelph, ON.
What better way to enjoy a flick than while surrounded by the scenic views of Lake Simcoe? Expect a more extensive food menu beyond typical drive-in fare, like chili cheese dogs, pulled‑pork sandwiches and fried pickles. There’s even a playground for kids! Open four days a week, Friday-Sunday and Thursday. Box office opens at 7:00 pm. 134 Line 4 S, Barrie, ON.
Georges St-Pierre is a name synonymous with discipline, resilience, and legacy. The MMA icon is stepping off the mat and onto the stage with Instinct of a Champion, a live show that offers fans a rare look beyond the octagon. We spoke to Georges St-Pierre ahead of his upcoming show in Meridian Hall on Sept. 29.
The show is called Instinct of a Champion. What does instinct mean to you?
Every goal, everything you want to accomplish, always starts with a dream. For me, it was instinct — after that, I needed to trust myself. When you say instinct of a champion, it’s also about how to trust yourself. It also becomes how you prepare yourself to go on the journey to achieve your goal.
How does stepping on stage at a soft-seat theatre like Meridian Hall compare to stepping into the Octagon, facing someone who wants to knock your head off?
[Laughs] It’s not as scary to mess up, I guess. But the thing is, I’m at my best when I improvise. I’ll be there with a friend of mine — he’s the one who wrote my book, Justin Kingsley. The book was a best-seller. So when Tony came to me and talked to me about that project, I was all in. You know, when you write a book or make a documentary, you’re not in contact with people. And I feel that nowadays we’re losing that human touch. It’s a world dominated by social media. So we want to offer fans a very unique experience.
What’s one truth about yourself you’ll share on stage that fans might not expect?
There are a lot of things — but one thing is, I never liked to fight. I love to win. I love being with my teammates, my coaches. I love the sport. But I despise fighting. I hate it. It’s unbearable — the stress, not knowing if you’ll be humiliated, if you’ll be hurt, or maybe even if you’re going to die. For me, it’s unbearable.
Georges St-Pierre
You’ve said greatness is built day by day, choice by choice. Can you share a specific choice that changed your life forever?
Every day. It’s not one choice. Every day, you’re confronted with different choices. And sometimes, doing the right thing that gets you closer to your goal — it’s not the easiest thing. The more you force yourself to do things that are hard, the better you get at doing them. It’s like a muscle you activate — it grows.
What do you hope people feel or take away from the live event?
I’m going to share life experience — but also how I deal with fear and stress. How I domesticate fear. I think a lot of people deal with stress and fear in everyday life. I learned how to deal with it and how to use it to enhance my performance. A lot of people roll their eyes — they think it’s esoteric stuff. But it’s true. Mental preparation is very important. In sports, it’s often what separates champions from contenders — the mental part.
What would you say to your Toronto fans to get them to come to your show?
First, it’s a unique experience. It’s personal — stuff they might relate to. They’ll be able to take it and apply it to their life. I lived a very extreme life. Not everyone fights in a cage. So the stress I had to face was extreme, and it required extreme measures. But people can scale it down to their own life and apply the same principles.
You went from being bullied as a kid to becoming a world champion. What part of that kid still lives in you today?
I’m still a kid. I try to keep my heart young. I try to have fun in everything I do. And that’s one thing I wanted for that evening — to have fun. I want people to have fun with me. We’re going to have a great night.
Lauren Ash has made her mark across multiple corners of entertainment. She co-hosts the podcast True Crime and Cocktails, starred as Dina Fox on Superstore, and just released her debut album “Call Me When You Get This” on September 11. Up next, she’s stepping into the kitchen as host of Halloween Bakeshop, a spooky baking show premiering September 14 on Flavour Network.
“I’ve been really excited to start working in the TV hosting space,” Ash says. “So when the offer for Bakeshop came to me, I was excited both at the prospect of getting to host such a fun show, but also at getting to shoot the show in my Canadian homeland! I’ve been working almost nonstop in L.A. for the last 13 years, and getting to come home and work in Toronto was wonderful. Also, I love cake decorating shows, so it all just really felt like kismet.”
On the show, eight bakers compete in weekly spooky challenges, from haunted houses to witchcraft, vying for the title of Halloween Bakeshop champion and a $25,000 prize. While Ash hosts, Jordan Andino and Kareem “Mr. Bake” Queeman took on the judging duties.
“These bakers are insanely talented,” Ash says. “I was blown away every single day! I think viewers are going to get invested in the competition right from the first episode, just like we all did.”
Ash was in the thick of mixing and mastering her debut album while wrapping up the show, and with a tour on the horizon, she hopes both projects will give fans a chance to connect with her in new ways.
“Many listeners to my podcast, True Crime and Cocktails, have given me the feedback that they have liked getting to know me and my real personality as opposed to always seeing me play a character, so I think my hosting on Bakeshop will be a great extension of that same concept,” she says. “I was extremely invested in every challenge, every day on this show. And I hope that people will find my enthusiasm contagious. I also hope they enjoy seeing me being my weird, goofy self.”
There is a unique energy that settles over Toronto just before a long weekend. It’s a collective, palpable excitement for the mass exodus—the annual ritual of escaping the city for the serene landscapes of cottage country, the rolling hills of nearby vineyards, or the quiet solitude of a peaceful campsite. This aspirational feeling, however, quickly meets the practical reality of congested arteries like the 400 and the QEW.
During these peak travel times, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) increases its presence, actively monitoring for unsafe driving to ensure everyone reaches their destination safely. According to reports, the OPP is particularly focused on drivers who fail to prioritize safety on what is one of the busiest traffic weekends of the year. To help you navigate the chaos, the legal experts at Diamond & Diamond have prepared this insider’s guide, a crucial ritual to ensure your journey is as relaxing as the destination itself.
Your first step begins before you even touch your keys. Long weekends often host major city events, like the Caribbean Carnival, leading to significant road closures on crucial arteries like the Gardiner Expressway and Lake Shore Boulevard. A recent bulletin for the carnival, for example, detailed closures starting at midnight and lasting through the weekend. Check the city’s official closure notices and map your exit route from Toronto in advance to bypass predictable bottlenecks.
Understanding the Risks on the Road
This checklist is built on awareness. Understanding the why behind each preparation step is crucial. Recent data underscores the importance of vigilance, highlighting the specific behaviours that lead to the most severe consequences on Ontario roads during high-traffic periods.
The Big Four Driving Risks
During traffic safety campaigns, the OPP consistently focuses on four key areas known as the Big Four. These high-risk behaviours—impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, and seatbelt non-compliance—are the primary contributors to collisions and fatalities on provincial highways.
Driving Risk
OPP Concern & Local Context
Potential Penalties
Aggressive Driving
Speeding and unsafe lane changes are major contributors to collisions on busy highways exiting the GTA. The OPP laidnearly 400 speeding charges over a recent August long weekend.
Fines starting at $490, three demerit points, and potential license suspension.
Fines up to $2,000 and significant demerit points.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a primary cause of fatal long-weekend incidents.
Immediate license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and potential criminal charges.
Seatbelt Non-Compliance
A simple habit that drastically reduces the severity of injuries in a collision. OPP actively ticket for this during safety blitzes.
Fines and two demerit points upon conviction.
A Look at the Numbers
To reinforce the gravity of these risks, the statistics are sobering. Between January and July of this year alone, over 180 people were killed in road collisions in Ontario. The long weekend often sees a spike in serious incidents, with recent tragedies including fatal collisions on the QEW near Grimsby and on Highway 404, underscoring that these dangers are local and immediate.
Your Essential Vehicle Preparation Checklist
A well-maintained vehicle is your best protection against the unexpected. This core checklist covers the mechanical and safety elements that are critical for a long-distance drive on a congested highway.
Tires & Brakes: Your Connection to the Road – Check your tire pressure before you leave—improperly inflated tires affect fuel economy and handling. Visually inspect the tread for wear. As you do your final errands in the city, listen for any squealing or grinding from your brakes, a sign they need immediate attention.
Fluids & Visibility: See and Be Seen – Long stretches of highway driving can accumulate dirt and bugs. Top up your windshield washer fluid. Perform a quick check of your oil and coolant levels. Finally, enlist a helper to confirm all your lights are functional: headlights, high beams, signals, and brake lights.
The Emergency Kit: Prepare for the Unexpected – Ensure your vehicle is equipped with a basic emergency kit. This should include booster cables, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a reflective warning triangle, and a charged portable power bank for your phone.
Secure Your Cargo: Preventing Interior Hazards – In a sudden stop, loose items in the cabin can become dangerous projectiles. Pack heavier items low and in the trunk. Secure any coolers, sports equipment, or luggage to prevent shifting that could distract the driver or cause injury.
Documentation Check: Is Everything in Order? – Confirm your driver’s license, vehicle ownership, and proof of insurance are current and easily accessible in your glove compartment—not buried in a bag in the trunk.
Beyond the Standard Sedan: Specialized Preparations
The classic long weekend road trip has expanded beyond the family car. As Torontonians seek more flexible and immersive travel experiences, different vehicles with unique preparation needs have become increasingly popular.
For the Rv Adventurers
The long weekend road trip has evolved, and for many Torontonians, that means upgrading from a car to a home on wheels. The RV and campervan market is growing rapidly, projected to reach over $82 million in Canada by 2030. This trend allows travellers to explore Ontario’s stunning parks or even the city’s own vibrant neighbourhoods without sacrificing comfort.
For those curious about this style of travel, platforms like Outwander, Outdoorsy, and a range of independent rental companies offer convenient RV rentals in Toronto. With large fleets and flexible booking options, these services make it easy to experience the freedom of the open road. Whether you’re cruising through High Park during cherry blossom season or setting up a basecamp for a weekend festival, renting an RV provides a unique, flexible, and memorable way to explore.
Renting an RV requires its own pre-trip check. Do a thorough walk-through with the owner, understanding how to operate the hookups for water and electricity, and ensure you are comfortable with the vehicle’s size, especially its blind spots, before hitting a busy highway like the 401.
Knowing Your Rights, Whatever You Drive
Meticulous preparation significantly reduces your risk, but it can’t eliminate it entirely. Knowing what to do in the aftermath of an incident is the final piece of a truly comprehensive safety plan. If you are involved in a collision, the initial steps you take are critical for your well-being and any potential claim.
The legal team at Diamond & Diamond provides a clear, actionable guide for anyone involved in car accidents. As top personal injury lawyers like Jeremy Diamond often advise, the confusion following an accident can lead to unintentional but costly mistakes. Having a trusted resource like Diamond & Diamond can provide the clarity and peace of mind you need.
Your Final Check: The Driver
With your vehicle inspected and packed, the final check is on you. A safe journey is impossible without an alert driver. Ensure you are well-rested before getting behind the wheel. Plan your route, including breaks, to avoid fatigue and frustration. Above all, commit to putting your phone away and focusing solely on the road. The beauty of the long weekend awaits—ensure your journey there is as safe as it is scenic.
About Jeremy Diamond
Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.
Queen West is home to a new burger joint that’s already generating a ton of buzz! Gaia Burger (671 Queen St W) opened its doors this past July and serves up delicious halal-friendly smash burgers with fusion-inspired toppings that set it apart from the typical fast-food lineup!
The menu includes classic smash burgers starting at just $9.99, like the popular BOGO Gaia Burger (the restaurant’s top seller on Uber Eats), the Just Gaia Burger, and the Route 66 Oklahoma, a 4-oz beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, grilled onion, pickles and Gaia sauce. Their chefs pile on globally inspired toppings and sauces (your choice of up to eight!), including roasted eggplant truffle, pistachio-basil pesto aioli, strawberry-jalapeno jam and chimichurri!
If you’re feeling particularly bold, try their specialty fusion smash burgers ($11.99), like the Truffle Kiss Burger, consisting of a beef patty with Swiss cheese, lettuce, pickled red onion, fresh mint, roasted eggplant and truffle mayo. Or dig into the Jalapeno S’ Berry Burger, oozing with cheddar cheese, feta cheese crumble, lettuce, fresh mint and strawberry-jalapeno jam-garlic mayo!
And if you’re really hungry, the restaurant runs an All You Can Eat Smash Burger deal every Monday for $21.99! You’ll get one hour to tackle unlimited 4-oz patties (the first two burgers are served together, then one at a time), plus your choice of two dipping sauces. No sharing and no takeout allowed. Gaia has even turned the special into an eating challenge: so far, one hungry customer managed to inhale five burgers in a single sitting!
If burgers aren’t your thing, Gaia also serves classic hot dogs ($6.99), “Messy Bowls” (a base of fries, salad or poutine loaded with protein and toppings), and sides ranging from Cajun-style fries and sweet potato fries to crunchy onion rings.
Gaia Burger is located at 671 Queen St W. Follow @gaiaburgerto on Instagram for updates and deal announcements!
What started as a hobby project for Andrew Golden and his sous chef mom has officially become a brick-and-mortar restaurant. Golden Horseshoe BBQ, a Texas-style barbecue eatery, is officially opening its doors this weekend.
When Doris Golden brought home a pellet barbecue during the pandemic, Andrew — who wasn’t in school and didn’t have much else to do at the time — began messing around with it. And he fell in love. His hobby took off, and he began offering his Texas-style smoked meats at pop-ups at breweries. But he wanted more.
@goldenhorseshoebbq/Instagram
Now, the mother-and-son duo is opening up an official Golden Horseshoe BBQ restaurant space at 657 Dupont Street, and Andrew — who will serve as the pitmaster at an impressive 24 years old — says the space will be outfitted to ensure he’s offering his visitors the best meat possible.
“All the barbecue we’re doing is going to be completely wood-fired, no gas, no electric — unprecedented in the city,” he says. “And all of our smokers have been custom-built, which is super exciting for a barbecue nerd like myself.”
The menu boasts tried-and-true favourites like brisket, ribs and sausage and a smoker that allows them to specifically cook whole pigs will be fired up on occasion.
“The vibe is going to be relatively quick service, that authentic Texas feel,” Golden says. “You’ll be able to watch your meat get sliced and plated — the kitchen will be open.”
Construction on the space officially began at the end of March, and the opening is currently set for this summer. As the grand unveiling approaches, Golden is feeling a flurry of emotions.
“I’m super excited to be able to do this after thinking about it for a while,” he says. “It’s going to be very cool to be working with my mom everyday! But I’m very nervous – I just hope people want to obsess over barbecue like I do.”
Torontonians craving some serious heat are in for a treat. From Sept 23 to 24, Blue Moon and OpenTable are teaming up with acclaimed UK chef Vivek Singh to host Moon & Pepper, a special pop-up at Curryish Tavernthat showcases the amazing flavours and styles of Indian cuisine.
Singh is no stranger to pushing boundaries. Born in a coal-mining town in West Bengal, he trained at the prestigious Oberoi Centre before moving to London, where he built an empire of restaurants under the Cinnamon name. The Cinnamon Club, Cinnamon Kitchen and Cinnamon Bazaar have earned him a reputation as one of the UK’s most celebrated Indian chefs, with critics praising his ability to mix classic techniques with a modern edge. Along the way, he’s cooked everywhere from Salzburg to Abu Dhabi, collaborated on international pop-ups, and become a familiar face on BBC’s Saturday Kitchen.
Chef Singh
But he’s also not afraid of a little drama. Back in 2008, Singh created the “Bollywood Burner,” a dish once billed as the world’s hottest curry. Inspired by the spice-heavy cooking of Hyderabad, the lamb-based curry blended hot Deccan chillies, Dorset Naga seeds, Kashmiri chilli powder, tamarind, sesame and Scotch Bonnet peppers. The Craft Guild of Chefs even described it as one of the fiercest plates ever served.
Now, the Bollywood Burner is making its way to Toronto. Diners can test their limits while cooling off with a perfectly paired citrusy Blue Moon. Best of all, Moon & Pepper is completely free — you just need to snag a reservation. The event runs September 23 and 24 at Curryish Tavern (783 Queen St W). Bookings open Sept 16 via OpenTable, and spots are expected to disappear fast. But good news! You can sign up early to get notified when bookings go live.
Pull out your knit sweaters, light those candles and fill your shelves with all the pumpkin spice you can find, because we’ve (basically) hit the coziest (and also scariest!) season of the year. We have to embrace every minute of fall, so start making the most of the season by enjoying these can’t-miss autumn activities in Toronto!
Journey through a corn maze
@andrewssscenic/Instagram
Just an hour outside Toronto sits a maze of five-and-a-half foot corn stocks surrounded by 165 acres of farm fun at Andrew’s Farm Market & Winery. If you can’t get past the fear of corn mazes instilled by every horror movie, the farm offers animal corrals, wagon rides and walking trails.
Eat a fresh pie (or two)
@springridgefarm/Instagram
With the arrival of fall comes the end of the summer food season, and there’s no better way to say goodbye than with an indulgence of some savoury, mouth-watering warm pie. With apple season now underway, Springridge Farm offers one of the most in-demand, famous and fresh-baked apples you can find, and only an hour outside the city.
Oktoberfest
@canadaswonderland/Instagram
Oktoberfest Toronto has unfortunately been cancelled this year, but you can still take a trip to Europe by travelling just a little north to Canada’s Wonderland! The festival will take over the grounds of the amusements park for multiples weekends of festivities, fun and, of course, plenty of German beer.
Tourists might flock to Muskoka to gaze at the incredible warm colours that decorate the trees during an Ontario fall, but locals know there’s plenty to see even here in the south. For an easy walk, High Park and Evergreen Brick Works have a kaleidoscope of foliage. For longer day hikes outside the city, view the breath-taking Niagara Escarpment from Milton’s Mount Nemo, or walk through a forest of golden sunshine at the Forks of the Credit past Brampton.
Get frightened at Halloween Haunt
As a kid, the most enjoyable part about Halloween is dressing up and asking strangers for candy; as an adult, the best part is watching your friend jump in fear when a bloody zombie grabs their ankle and whispers their name. When Canada’s Wonderland turns into a massive haunted house next weekend, the monsters are truly terrifying.
Take Instagram-worthy pics at Pumpkin Fest
@downeysfarm/Instagram
Put on your best pull-over sweater and high-top boots, drive out to Caledon, and drown yourself (and your Instagram feed!) in a sea of orange. Between the pumpkins of all sizes and the iconic Jack-o-lantern barn, Downey’s Farm is the go-to location for fall photoshoots.
Indulge in a PSL
@milkyscoffee/Instagram
We can’t talk about fall without mentioning the pumpkin spice latte. Whether you love it or not, these lattes have become the trademark of the fall season, and there’s really no fall without it. Luckily, it’s not hard to find, as almost every café you walk into this season will have the “basic” drink on their seasonal menu.
Believe it or not, there are other delicious fall-inspired drinks that are just as warm and just as tasty. For an alternative that’s as sweet as the PSL, try a campfire latte from Versus Coffee, or a Cookie Butter Latte at 10 Dean.
Or, something stronger
After a summer of margaritas and cold beers on busy, loud patios, it’s time for a quieter, more easy-going night out. It’s time for sipping on a negroni, espresso martini or hot apple ciders in a bar with the ambiance of candle light and classical music. This fall, take it easy by checking out some of Toronto’s more sophisticated bars like Bar Poet, Louix Louix and The Parlour.
See jack-o-lanterns come to life at Pumpkins after Dark
@pumpkinsafterdark
There are so many different pumpkin patches and pumpkin festivals worthy of checking out this season, but Pumpkins After Dark is a bit different from the rest. Jack-o-lanterns come to life through this walk-through experience that features over 6,000 pumpkins that have been carved and lit up in some unbelievable images and styles.
What do you wear while you’re picking out a pumpkin and sipping on that pumpkin spice latte? A cozy, oversized sweater, of course! Thrifting is the best way to get stoked for the coming season in both an economic and sustainable way. Luckily, the city has plenty of amazing thrift stores. Might we also suggest stocking up on some plaid for winter?
During the summer months, there’s always the rush of trying to squeeze in as much outdoor fun as possible. But as soon as September rolls around, it’s time to take it easy and enjoy some more soothing indoor activities. Toronto has plenty of entertainment venues with open mic nights to keep you entertained and out of the cold, including Free Times Café, OBJX Studio, Handlebar and The Painted Lady.
Get spooked on a ghost tour
Did you know Toronto has some famous ghosts and spirits hanging about its streets? Between Black Creek, Distillery District and the University of Toronto, these ghost tours are sure to get you frightened and in the spirit for Halloween!
Enjoy a scary movie after dark
The Toronto Indie Horror Film Festival is back this year from Sept. 30–Oct. 4 — horror movie buffs, get excited! All-access VIP passes are also available to purchase so you can get your fill of horror, sci-fi and action movies all fivfoure days.
The picturesque fall colours really pop when you’re strolling down a small, quaint town living your main character moment like Lorelai Gilmore. Imagine sipping a pumpkin spice latte, strolling beneath the golden trees, and looking at the old houses in Port Hope, Elora or Niagara-on-the-Lake. These small towns are only a short drive out of the city!
Soak up the final days patio season
One of the things we’ll all miss most about the summer months is soaking up the sun on some of the city’s coziest patios. But there’s no reason to say goodbye to patio season so soon, as plenty of Toronto’s best are actually heated, including Hemingway’s, Marben and Quadro Restorante.
If it’s too soon to start the pumpkin obsession, take the chance to enjoy something a little fruitier. Enjoy the farm lifestyle, gallivanting through the trees, picking apples like a child again with over a dozen different apple varieties. Try JC Agri Orchards in King City or Albion Orchards in Caledon.
Nothing says fall like a fall fair. Carnival rides, cotton candy, animal farms – it’s a great place to bring the whole family and luckily there are plenty just a few minutes’ drive outside the city, including the Woodbridge Fall Fair from Oct. 11–13 and the Markham Fair from Oct. 2–5.
Shop at a farmers market
@junctionmarket/Instagram
A new season means a delicious change in what you can find at some local farmers markets. And fall has a lot more to offer than pumpkins and apples. This is the season for cranberries, sweet potatoes, grapes, pears and so much more. Farmers’ markets are a great summer weekend adventure, but they’re also a great way to spend a fall afternoon.
Avoid the summer crowds and hiking miles in the heat by visiting the zoo in the fall. Not only do you get to see some stunning fall colours along the way, but there are more animals out in the open, rather than hiding to avoid the heat.
Curl up with a good book
@pageone_cafe/Instagram
September means school is in session, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay locked up in a dingy dorm room instead of venturing out. Page One Café is one of the city’s best study spots with community tables, comfy sofas in the back and inspirational typewriter centrepieces. This café will get your creative juices flowing and keep you focused.
Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about 
