12 new shops and stores opening in Toronto this month that you have to visit

10:31 am

There are plenty of changes coming to the city! From Bayview to Queen West, find out what new restaurants, shops and studios are opening in your neighbourhood this season.

Tobbi, a first-of-its-kind blind box cafe in Toronto, recently opened its doors at 678 Bloor St. W. Referring to a concept that originated in Japan, where “lucky bags” are filled with mystery toys, Tobbi offers a basement full of of blind boxes featuring a surprise collectible toy — alongside delicious drinks and treats, of course. From Labubus to Peach Riots to Skullpandas, prepare to leave with a cute new toy and some pastries to go.

JD Barbers is bringing its expertise to Eglinton Way. The Queen West precision cuts spot has a new midtown location at 424 Eglinton Ave. W., where customers are already complimenting their detail-oriented barbers who clearly are doing what they love.

The Blowology Method has opened at 270 Eglinton Ave. W., and it’s focused on all things hair and wellness. The head spa and blow-dry bar offers lymphatic facials, scalp massages, a defrizzing nanoplastia treatment, extensions and a classic blowout.

DANI, a charity dedicated to supporting neurodivergent adults, just opened its first brick-and-mortar gift store. Honouring the senior volunteers who made the idea possible, the store features hostess and holiday gifts, housewarming presents and original artwork created by the neurodivergent adults served by the charity. Visit the gift shop at 401 Magnetic Drive, Unit 25.

Sam’s Ristorante has already made its mark in Vaughan despite opening just a few months ago. An upscale dining experience with a menu approved by even the most critical Italian food lovers, its highlights include black truffle ravioli; the meaty, European Spigola fish; and braised beef short rib. Taste it for yourself at 200 Marycroft Ave.

Blondies Pizza has been delighting Torontonians across the city, and now pizza lovers on Dupont can get a taste. With a new, signature pink location at 16 Dupont St., you can enjoy its thick crust pizzas with inventive names.

Ellie Mae, a luxury lifestyle brand worn by the likes of Taylor Swift, quietly closed its doors at 1096 Yonge St. a few months ago. Now, we finally know what’s taking its place — Roots is returning back to its roots.The Canadian classic opened its first store just a few doors down in Rosedale in 1973.

leftonfridayqueen — The new Left on Friday Queen Street store.

Left on Friday has officially opened their permanent Toronto flagship. While swim season may be over, the Vancouver brand also makes stylish and simple activewear, loungewear and resort wear — so you can start planning for your next vacation now. The new shop is now open at 884 Queen St. W.

Vozara Food Factory is new to the Bayview neighbourhood, and the Persian restaurant is offering every kebab, skewer and stew of your dreams. Choose from marinated tenderloin veal, grilled minced meat or the gheimeh bademjan, a stew of yellow split peas, beef and fried eggplants. You can visit the new spot at 858 Eglinton Ave. E.

supernatural yorkville — Rendering of the new Supernatural space in Yorkville.

Supernatural, a fascinating new wellness lounge, has fittingly opened in Yorkville. A “personal optimization space” founded by Toronto-based health performance expert John Kozman, the hybrid spa-gym-clinic offers unique treatments like full-body cryotherapy, lymphatic drainage, red light therapy, metabolic and biomarker testing and Canada’s only group Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber (which the clinic says support cellular regeneration and brain optimization). Get a wellness makeover at 55 Avenue Rd.

Simons has opened its doors in Yorkdale, offering a new kind of Canadian department store experience for shoppers who are missing cornerstones like Hudson’s Bay (which shut down this year) and Nordstrom (which exited Canada in 2023). The Quebec retailer spans 118,000 square feet and offers everything from clothes to home decor to digital installations at the 3401 Dufferin St. space.

Läderach is set to open its first standalone Canadian store on Bloor Street this year. The Swiss chocolatier is taking over a space that was originally set to be occupied by Parisian luxury fashion brand Anne Fontaine. Known for their premium, gourmet chocolates, shoppers will be able to enjoy chocolate slabs, truffles, pralines and more when the shop opens at 110 Bloor St. W.

A massive yellow oasis mural is bringing new life to this Toronto neighbourhood

Ron Johnson

9:51 am

Yellow Oasis mural on St. Clair Avenue from a distance

A once-blank wall in Toronto’s Hillcrest Village has been transformed into a stunning landmark thanks to Yellow Oasis, a new community-engaged mural led by Iranian-Canadian artist Yasaman Mehrsa.

Stretching eight storeys on the west façade of 840 St. Clair Ave. W., the mural is said to draw inspiration from Garrison Creek, a buried waterway that once flowed through the neighbourhood. The artwork evokes the creek as a symbol of continuity, connection, and memory—linking past and present, nature and city, and the diverse communities who now call Hillcrest home.

“Yellow Oasis is a celebration of what lies beneath and beyond what we see, the creek that once flowed here, the trees that grew tall, and the animals that still move among us,” says lead artist Yasaman Mehrsa. “I wanted to show how nature continues to breathe life into the city, offering beauty, guidance, and renewal.”

The project was produced by STEPS Public Art with support from the City of Toronto’s StreetARToronto program, Eight Forty condo residents, Councillor Josh Matlow, Toronto Friends of the Visual Arts, Bulmash-Siegel Foundation, Ontario Arts Council, Canadian Heritage, and TD Bank Group through the TD Ready Commitment.

Local city councillor Josh Matlow calls the mural an expression of community, creativity and leadership.

“I was excited to partner with STEPS in their mission to make our streets safer and more welcoming,” he added.

Residents of Eight Forty say the mural has made a difference in their daily lives as well.

“Residents feel safer, more connected to the neighbourhood, and proud to be part of a lasting cultural contribution,” says condo board member Terry Winston.

To celebrate the Yellow Oasis mural and its collaborators, a community gathering will be held on, Sept. 11 from 5-6 p.m. at 840 St. Clair Ave. W.

A Toronto restaurant made famous by Drake just closed its doors overnight

Jennifer Schembri

5:30 am

snapins ai 3296439168559950088 — The Real Jerk

Toronto just lost an award-winning restaurant —along with a slice of Drake history. The Real Jerk, the Caribbean restaurant immortalized as the backdrop of Drake and Rihanna’s steamy Work video, has suddenly closed its College Street location.

The news broke on September 1 in a brief Instagram post.

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“Thank you to Little Italy, our staff and the Real Jerk family for supporting us,” ready the caption. “Unfortunately we are closing our doors at the College Street location. Stop by if you can, have a last drink. and say goodbye.” By the time customers got the message, it was already too late.

The west-end outpost only opened in 2023, a move that indicated success and a strong move for a brand rooted in Toronto’s east end. Founded in 1984 by Ed and Lily Pottinger, The Real Jerk spent 30 years at Queen and Broadview before being pushed out by development and relocating to Gerrard and Carlaw in 2013. A Kingston Road location followed in 2015.

It was the Gerrard Street spot that became a cultural landmark in 2016 when Drake and Rihanna filmed Work there, instantly putting the restaurant on the global map. Fans swarmed the street during the shoot, and eagle-eyed viewers later spotted owner Lily Pottinger in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameo as flames flare in the background.

But Drake and RiRi aren’t the only stars to show love to The Real Jerk. Over the years, the restaurant has welcomed everyone from Samuel L. Jackson to Steph Curry, along with musicians like T.I. The food — jerk chicken, oxtail, roti — has always been the real draw, with recipes inspired by the Pottingers’ Jamaican roots.

The closure of the College Street location ends a short-lived westward expansion, but the family’s legacy isn’t going anywhere. For anyone chasing that Work nostalgia or just a plate of oxtail, the original Real Jerk is still open at 842 Gerrard St. East.

Everything you need to eat, shop, play and party like a movie star during TIFF

Julia Mastroianni

4:39 pm

The best season in Toronto is here — TIFF season. When the Toronto International Film Festival descends upon the city on Sept. 4, Toronto will transform into a star-powered, cinematic hub. Confused where to start? We’ve compiled an ultimate guide to everything you’ll ever need to know to make your TIFF 2025 experience a success.

Celebrity spotting

There’s a high-wattage lineup arriving in the city for the festival this year, including favourites such as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Catherine O’Hara, Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba and more. If you want to figure out exactly where to find them and where your best chances are to do some celebrity-spotting, check out our guide to finding 20 of the top celebrities at TIFF.

Don’t forget about the 2025 TIFF Tribute Awards — this year, celebrities including Catherine O’Hara will be honoured. While the event is closed to the public, it’s sure to attract a whole host of stars, including fellow recipient Idris Elba and honorary chair Brendan Fraser. Hang out around the Fairmont Royal York Hotel on Sunday, Sept. 7 and you may catch a sighting of a celebrity or two.

Food and drink

Part of the TIFF experience is the food, of course — we live in a world-class restaurant city for a reason! From fancy restaurants with special TIFF menus to nearby spots that you’re almost guaranteed to spot a celebrity at, there are plenty of delicious places to fuel up at before taking your place in a rush line!

Nearby Louix Louis is running a special TIFF50 menu — check out the star of the show here.

Click here for some of the best places to eat and drink near the festival, including an incredible Dutch-Indonesian spot and a restaurant with a super chic patio that’s perfect for people-watching.

Check out all the best TIFF-approved hot spots for celebrity-spotting — these are restaurants that A-listers often frequent. Reservations highly recommended!

For nearby bars where you might spot a movie star getting a little tipsy after their premiere, click here.

Navigating the festival and insider tips

Spanning 10 days and sprawling across the city in multiple venues, TIFF is a mammoth festival to navigate — if you don’t have the right insider tips. We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the festival, from booking tickets to rush lines to ticket discounts and after parties, as well as a special secret weapon to help make your festival experience a success.

The movies

christy — Sydney Sweeney in Christy, courtesy tiff.net.

Of course, we can’t forget about the reason why all these celebrities are coming to Toronto: the movies. This year, TIFF is celebrating its 50th year with a whopping 291 films, including 209 new features, six Classics, 10 Primetime series, and 66 short films.

While the entire lineup looks incredible, we’ve rounded up the top 10 must-see films at TIFF, from buzzy soon-to-be blockbusters to local gems.

You can find out about some more festival movie highlights here.

Other highlights include the Canadian-led opening night film, John Candy: I Like Me. The life and legacy of one of Toronto’s and the entire country’s most beloved comedians will take centre stage at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival in a documentary directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds.

And don’t forget about a documentary about another Canadian legend. Degrassi: Whatever It Takes is a new feature-length doc exploring the legacy and impact of the iconic TV franchise, which comes at a time when it’s been rumoured that Drake and his creative team are planning on moving ahead with a new Degrassi series.

This is how you do a burger crawl on Ossington

Nisean Lorde

3:38 pm

snapins ai 2908618728229103649 — Bar Habana

Ossington Ave is one of Toronto’s trendiest food corridors, offering everything from wine bars and Michelin-recommended restaurants to cute cafes, pop-up snack shops and backyard BBQ joints. So, naturally, a burger crawl along this street feels like strolling through some sort of culinary anthology! Whether you’re looking to devour the ultimate smash burger or a Korean Big Mac, here’s your guide to the best burger stops along Ossington Ave.

1. Union

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This eclectic French restaurant channels the classic Paris bistro and the French desire for good cuisine, so expect menus that are updated daily to accommodate the freshest local and seasonal ingredients. If available, sink your teeth into the Union Burger: a fresh ground beef patty layered with double-smoked bacon, Emmental cheese, spicy aioli and frites. 72 Ossington Ave.

2. Oddseoul

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This late-night Korean ‘small plates’ eatery serves some of the tastiest Korean-fusion tapas, cocktails and comfort foods on the strip! A neighbourhood fav is “The Loosey,” a Korean Big Mac served on Texas toast with lettuce, onions and pickles ($13). 90 Ossington Ave.

3. Bar Habana

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This Cuban-inspired speakeasy is nestled behind La Cubana and serves pressed sandwiches, cocktails and one of the street’s most creative burgers: the Bar Habana Burger is topped with slaw, special sauce, and Gruyère cheese on a House-made bun; served with matchstick potatoes. 92 Ossington Ave.

4. Central

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This intimate happy hour hangout spot opened on the Ossington strip earlier this summer and has already become a fav with locals! If you’re craving meat, try their classic cheeseburger sliders: three certified angus beef sliders topped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and house sauce on toasted potato rolls ($18.50). They also offer classic cheeseburgers ($23), Impossible Burgers ($22.50) and Fully Loaded Burgers ($24.50), all served with your choice of shoestring fries or house salad. 114 Ossington Ave.

5. Bellwoods Brewery

snapins ai DJXTlV7PUOx — @bellwoodsbeer/Instagram

This brewpub and bottle shop is mostly known for its huge selection of sour and seasonal beers, but its food menu shouldn’t be ignored! The standout is the Ranch Burger, topped with smoked onion jam, crispy jalapeño, lettuce and buttermilk ranch on a brioche bun, served with salad ($26). Enjoy your burger on the second-floor mezzanine (you’ll have a great view of the brewhouse) and pair it with an ultra-premium lager. 124 Ossington Ave.

6. Paris Paris

snapins ai CrvyhsJLWPL — @parisparisbar/Instagram

This unpretentious wine bar is nestled inside a converted auto shop in the centre of the Ossington Strip, and offers seasonal, bistro-inspired plates, everything from highly curated cheese and charcuterie to fresh seafood. At lunch, try their delicious beef patty melt burger, topped with bacon, caramelized onion and Gouda on a sesame bun (the brunch menu also offers an Impossible Meat version). Comes with your choice of salad or fries ($22). 146 Ossington Ave.

7. Bonito’s

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This late-night Korean-Ecuadorian hangout serves signature burgers with a tangy bodega sauce, paired with fries and kosher pickles. Dig into the classic cheeseburger, layered with lettuce, tomato and cheese ($10), or the Oklahoma Burger, a patty smashed over onions and pickles ($11). For a more flavourful option, try the Korean Chicken Sando, topped with gochujang honey butter glaze, pickles and coleslaw ($24) or the Chop Cheese 6 oz beef patty burger, oozing with American cheese, bell peppers and onions ($22). Pair your burger with an ice-cold beer or an Amaretto Sour! 180 Ossington Ave.

8. Manita

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This neighbourhood resto-bar combines delicious comfort food, café culture, wine and cocktails. Head over for lunch and dig into the medium-rare beef & bacon “Manita Burger,” topped with American cheese, onions, pickles, remoulade, and served on a sesame bun, served with your choice of fries or green salad ($31). For a vegetarian option, try the Maitake Mushroom Veggie Burger, with American cheese, onions, Dijon, aioli, ketchup, pickles and lettuce on a sesame bun ($31, contains nuts). Save some money and head over during Happy Hour, where you can munch on both versions for $19. 210 Ossington Ave.

9. Bar Banane

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This chic bar, located directly above La Banane, is known for its refined cocktails and sophisticated small plates, but it also serves up a generous A5 Wagyu Slider ($28). It’s more of a luxe take on a burger slider, but super delicious, made with kuromame nagi wagyu, Brillat-Savarin cheese and dijonnaise! 227A Ossington Ave.

Everything you need to know about Veronika Slowikowska, SNL’s new cast member from Toronto

Nisean Lorde

3:36 pm

veronikaslowikowska — @veronika_iscool/Instagram

NBC announced its newest Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast members on Tuesday, and one of them has ties to Toronto. Canadian comic Veronika Slowikowska, 29, will join the sketch comedy show’s 51st season this fall, along with four other new cast members (Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall and Kam Patterson), making Slowikowska the only Canadian and the only woman in this incoming group.

“dream come true ? see you Saturdays” she wrote in a recent Instagram post.

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Here’s everything you need to know about Slowikowska.

Where is Slowikowska from, and what is her connection to Toronto?

Slowikowska hails from Barrie, Ont., but graduated from Toronto’s Randolph College for the Performing Arts in 2015. The private career college near Bathurst and Bloor specializes in singing, dancing and acting (and has other notable alumni like actors Lisa Berry, Morgan Kohan and Paul Alexander Nolan), so perhaps her Toronto schooling helped with her craft!

After Randolph, Slowikowska graduated from Toronto’s Second City Conservatory program before completing a six-month Canadian Film Centre Actors Conservatory program in North York in 2019.

Although her Instagram page states she’s based out of New York and Toronto, she posts most of her sketches out of her New York apartment.

Where you’ve spotted her

After graduating from Randolph, Slowikowska began landing small TV roles, including a 2017 episode of Degrassi: Next Class. In 2018, she scored her first big break on the cult comedy What We Do in the Shadows, where she had a recurring role as Shanice.

After the pandemic hit, Slowikowska’s acting career (along with the rest of the industry) was put on hold for a bit. According to a recent Maclean’s article, in 2022, Slowikowska was working at Craig’s Cookies in downtown Toronto while building her viral sketch comedy content online. As it turns out, her surreal, oddball style of comedy resonates with the public! She soon amassed more than one million followers on Instagram and 700,000+ followers on TikTok, with 48.1 million likes.

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This year, Slowikowska won the 2025 Canadian Screen Award for Best Performance in a Children’s or Youth Program for her portrayal as Davey in Davey & Jonesie’s Locker, a flick about two teens who discover their locker is actually a portal to a Multiverse.

In the past decade, her other acting credits included Homeschooled, I Like Movies, EXmas, Baroness von Sketch Show, Poker Face, Murdoch Mysteries (she played Roberta Haycroft in Season 13), and a six-episode run as Kelly in the Netflix hit Tires.

We could definitely expect to see Slowikowska’s absurdist, off-beat type of comedy in SNL this fall!

Who else is joining SNL this fall?

Alongside Słowikowska, four other members have been added to the cast for this upcoming season. One notable addition is Ben Marshall — who spent several years on SNL as part of the “Please Don’t Destroy” trio, both as a performer and writer. Other cast additions include Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane and Kam Patterson.

Who is Veronika Slowikowska replacing?

Quite a few SNL cast members have confirmed their exits, including Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker and Emil Wakim, the latter of whom is leaving after only one season. Another surprise departure is Heidi Gardner (who was the longest-running female member of the recent cast) — though she hasn’t commented publicly yet, Variety and other outlets have reported on the departure. Marshall’s “Please Don’t Destroy” collaborator John Higgins is also leaving — the third member of the trio, Martin Herlihy, is remaining on SNL as a writer.

These are the best Ontario towns for a magical fall weekend getaway

Nisean Lorde

1:19 pm

With cooler weather settling in (and before the cold winter snap arrives), it’s the perfect time to embrace a little autumn magic. Grab a sweater and head to one of these charming towns near Toronto, whether you want to immerse yourself in local theatre or explore colourful walking trails.

Stratford

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This theatrical paradise is a charming spot for evening strolls and autumn charm. As Stratford is only a two-hour drive from Toronto, it makes for a perfect weekend escape! Head to the downtown core and take in the crisp autumn air as you stroll along Victorian-style streets dotted with chic boutique shops, cafes and art galleries. Walk through the Shakespearean Gardens alongside the Avon River before exploring the T.J. Dolan trail for a backdrop of golden and amber leaves flush with fall foliage. Head to the Stratford Farmers’ Market (open year-round) for fresh meats and produce, and stop off for some South African-influenced cuisine at Braai House. Before you leave, catch a show at the world-renowned Stratford Festival (running until October) and catch classics like Sense and Sensibility and Annie.

Huntsville

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This town is a gateway to fall hikes and Algonquin’s gorgeous scenery. Head to Lion’s Lookout for panoramic views of the Muskoka River and Fairy Lake (it’s also a favourite spot to take in the fall colours). Venture into Algonquin Park via Highway 60 to explore walking trails and lookout points, surrounded by red, gold and orange foliage (it looks especially pretty at night). For something more adventurous, try treetop trekking! As you enter Huntsville Park, you’ll find rock outcroppings, bubbling streams, as well as wooden platforms and giant trees that are perfect for ziplining and aerial games. For delicious eats and a fun night out, try Smokin’ Hot BBQ (located in the old train station), or grab a partner and head to Huntsville’s Muskoka Drive-in for an intimate movie under the stars. For a modern-yet-rustic stay, check out Aux Box Muskoka for peaceful, nature-filled accommodations.

Picton

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Head to Prince Edward County for a satisfying weekend filled with wine, food and fall foliage. Picton sits at the heart of wine country. During the harvest season, explore vineyards brimming with autumn colours as well as wine and cider tours and tastings, where you can wander vineyard grounds while sipping on artisanal wines made from estate-grown grapes. Head to the downtown core and dine on wood-fired pizza and small-batch beers at 555 Brewing (you’ll have a gorgeous view of Picton’s downtown strip, and you can even sit on the patio if it’s warm enough outside). For seasonal and Spanish-inspired food, visit Bocado and dine on everything from Argentinian red shrimp to Ibérico pork chops, paired with cocktails and regional wines.

Kingston

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Kingston’s the perfect spot to visit if you’re looking for historic charm with a spooky twist (just in time for Halloween!). The streets are super walkable, so you can easily explore the town’s 40+ museums, galleries and historic sites that date back hundreds of years! The infamous Kingston Penitentiary is worth a visit. It’s one of Canada’s oldest and most infamous maximum-security prisons (as well as a filming location for the Canadian drama series Murdoch Mysteries). In the evening, choose from eerie adventures like the Ghost and Mystery Trolley Tour or the Haunted Walk to uncover the secrets of haunted hotels and hidden burial grounds. If you’re feeling a bit brave, “Fort Fright” at Fort Henry will transform into one of Ontario’s most unique haunted experiences! The best part is, Kingston is easily reached by a VIA Rail train! You’ll have the most picturesque route with a stunning view of the Lake Ontario shoreline. Kingston is just over two hours from Toronto by train and costs $82+ for a round trip.

Pelee Island

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Looking for a little warmth this fall? Pelee Island is Canada’s southernmost inhabited point, so it offers the warmest autumn temperatures in Ontario! Head over for a weekend getaway and you’ll experience longer frost-free periods, gorgeous sunsets and temperatures that are gentle enough to linger comfortably outdoors (so, it should be warm enough to visit the Island’s top tourist attractions, including its historic lighthouse and scenic cycling and hiking trails). For delicious comfort food, visit The Dog and Goat Restaurant for tasty burgers, chicken Caesar wraps and poutines. End your stay with a private tour of the Vin Villa, Canada’s first commercial estate winery!

Schiacciata happens: Toronto’s hottest sandwich trend, ranked by the city’s top chefs

Jennifer Schembri

11:04 am

If you’ve never met a schiacciata, you’re in for a treat. This Florentine flatbread, made famous at All’Antico Vinaio in Florence, is having a moment in Toronto. Chefs Anthony Rose and Massimo Capra sampled five of the city’s best — and yes, it was as fun as it sounds.

Anthony’s Pick: Ariete e Toro

Massimo called Ariete e Toro’s Enzo “bubbly and oily and just the right size,” and Anthony admired the
bread as “tender, chewy, perfectly balanced.” Both agreed the Canadian mortadella stacks up surprisingly well against the Italian original. 12 Keewatin Ave., $18

Massimo’s Pick: Stack’d Deli Kitchen

With burrata, artichoke spread, eggplant, sundried tomatoes and arugula, Anthony described Stack’d Deli Kitchen’s burrata schiacciata as “well balanced.” Massimo thought the flavour was “awesome,” adding the sandwich stayed “nice and fresh.” 93 Front St. E., Upper Level 14, $14.95

David Rocco Bar Aperitivo

Massimo singled out the truffle cream and arugula on David Rocco Bar Aperitivo’s Firenze, which also includes prosciutto cotto, sliced truffles and stracciatella, saying, “The truffle really shines.” Both chefs agreed the sandwich didn’t need both, as each ingredient is bold enough on its own. 95 Cumberland St., $23

Scaccia Restaurant

At Scaccia Restaurant, the sausage schiacciata stacks Italian sausage with sweet peppers, onions and mozzarella. Massimo pointed out the bread is store-bought, but both chefs agreed the classic combo felt like an old school Toronto throwback, reminiscent of Commisso’s or California. 55 Bloor St. W., $14

Moto Via

Moto Via’s schiacciata layers porchetta with pear, Gorgonzola crema and arugula. Massimo and Anthony found the bread overproofed and soft and the porchetta, sliced from deli meat rather than a proper roast, left the sandwich underwhelming. 7600 Weston Rd., Woodbridge, $16.75

The best dog-friendly things to do in Toronto this month

Julia Mastroianni

10:30 am

Summer may be ending, but in Toronto, the fun has just begun — there are so many exciting events and things to do in the city this season. The best part? Many of them are totally dog-friendly. So let your dog dictate your social calendar this month and try out one of these amazing things to do in Toronto with your pup in September.

Canadian Pet Expo

When: Sept. 13–14

Bring your pup (and the whole family) to the 2025 Fall Canadian Pet Expo! This event doesn’t discriminate: reptiles, aquatic animals and even plants are all welcome here. The weekend brings together four shows: the Canadian Pet Expo, the Canadian Reptile Breeders Expo, the Canadian Aquatic Expo and the Plant Expo. Expect interactive activations, the TICA Cat Show, creative grooming demonstrations, celebrity pet appearances and a huge marketplace showcasing some of the top pet product vendors in the industry. Your dog will leave with a whole bunch of new friends!

Catch Me Outside: Dog-Friendly, 3K Social Walk/Run

When: Sept. 13

Take your hyper-active dog on a walk alongside hundreds of others this month, thanks to Catch Me Outside — a 3 km dog-friendly walk/run hosted by Take it Offline, designed to bring together dog lovers and wellness seekers. The pup-friendly route is great for pets of all energy levels, and there will be both dog treats and post-run treats for the humans.

BYOD Yoga

When: Sept. 13

Help your pooch gain some inner peace at BYOD (Bring Your Own Dog) Yoga! Hosted at the Waterfall Garden at the Sheraton Centre, you and your pup will enjoy a relaxing 60-minute guided outdoor yoga class for all levels. A juice and your choice of coffee or tea will also be provided, as well as a swag bag.

Underdog Strong: Dog-Friendly Fitness and Adoption Event

When: Sept. 6

Fitness lovers and adoption hopefuls, this one’s for you! Visit dog-friendly gym Stay Gold for a day of movement, adoptable rescues, a dog training demo, free physiotherapy treatments and fun fitness challenges! There will also be raffle prizes — so who knows, you may leave with a prize and a new pup in hand!

Air Bud Lookalike Contest: Toronto’s Golden Retriever Appreciation Day

When: Sept. 6

Prepare your pooch: there’s an Air Bud lookalike contest taking place this weekend, and your dog can win, if they can perform some cool tricks just like the titular dog of the iconic film! The event will also be a Golden Retriever Appreciation Day, so even if your pup isn’t the best at shooting slam dunks, bring them anyway for plenty of pets and love. A three person panel of judges will pick the winner, who will take home a $25 gift card. And if your dog isn’t a golden retriever, well… bring them anyway and they can join in on the fun!

Riverside Dog Lovers’ Market

When: Sept. 21

The free annual dog market has returned! The paw-some outdoors event is co-hosted by the Riverside BIA and Toronto Dog Moms, and will feature live music, pupachinos, freebies of all kinds, pet vendors and services, incredible rescue organizations and even the opportunity to pre-register for a micro-chipping service. Bring your pup and join your fellow dog lovers for plenty of fun!

Paws Walk

When: Sept. 13

Toronto Dog Moms has been running some of the best pup-focused events in the city, and this month they’re back with their popular Paws Walk series. On Sept. 13, explore Old Town with your dog and other canine-loving friends as you stop into the top art, food and dog-friendly spots in the neighbourhood!

New’Bark’et 2025

When: Sept. 6–7

Head just north of the city for a family-friendly dog festival! With exciting events and vendors, there will be plenty of fun for pups and humans alike. Then, head back to the neighbourhood on Sept. 21 for Pooch Plunge — the last chance for your dog to cool off in the Gorman Outdoor Pool before it is closed for the year.

Berczy Park Dog Fountain

berczyfountain — Berczy Park Dog Fountain. Courtesy rom.on.ca

An underrated spot in the city, Berczy Park Dog Fountain is pretty magnificent. Honouring the four-legged friends that visit this neighbourhood gem, the fountain is made up of three tiers of dog sculptures, all with their eyes glued to the bone at the top. See if you can spot your own dog’s breed on the fountain; there are 27 featured in the design, including a Dalmatian, Great Dane, Jack Russell Terrier, Golden Retriever and Pug. The whimsical fountain is located in the very charming Berczy Park, littered with benches and tables and just steps from St. Lawrence Market. Bring your dog here and see if they try to play with one of the pretty realistic looking sculptures. Don’t worry, they won’t be disappointed — the park is always teeming with dogs on their walks!

Trivia Escape Rooms’ Escape the Pound

escaperoomdog — Courtesy triviaescaperooms.com

An escape room that not only welcomes, but needs a dog to operate? Sign us up! Trivia Escape Rooms hosts a room called Escape the Pound that requires a furry friend to help your team navigate the pound by sniffing out codes to locks, retrieving balls and more. The premise: your pet has been snagged by the villainous Dog Catcher, and it’s your job to break your dog out of the pound before they put them to sleep forever! The escape room company notes that even if your dog isn’t the sharpest when it comes to sniffing out smells, it will still be plenty of fun. Just be sure to bring treats your pup is familiar with!

Now that the CNE is over, here are the 5 best fall fairs close to Toronto worth a trip

Nisean Lorde

5:47 am

We’re almost through the summer season, and as we move into crisper autumn weather, there’s no better way to celebrate your remaining vacation days than by visiting a succession of local fall fairs! These fairs pop up between September and October, and feature everything from Ferris wheels and prizes to delicious fried foods and craft vendors — so there’ll be activities for the whole family! The Canadian National Exhibition, one of the top agricultural fairs in North America, is officially over. Still, there are plenty of other local fairs in Ontario worth a visit as we head into the fall season.

The Western Fair (London)

The Western Fair features indoor displays and competitions, animals, attractions, and some of the best traveling midway rides and games found in North America — crowd favourites include the Ring of Fire carnival ride and the 120′ “Mega Drop” drop tower. Snack on tasty corn dogs and candy floss while listening to live music! This year’s fair also promises a full outdoor concert series, including an opening-day performance by Gowan.

When: Sept. 5–14, 2025
Where: Western Fair District, 845 Florence St., London, Ont.
Tickets: $15 for general admission, $42 for a super pass, free for kids 10 & under and seniors 65+

Caledonia Fall Fair

The Caledonia Fair hosts tons of family-friendly activities and exhibits! Patrons can showcase their talents at the Exhibition Hall or livestock shows, enter their child in the annual baby show, check out cool and classic cars at their annual car cruise, participate in a delicious pie-eating contest, and smash and crash at the Demolition Derby! Live music will also be playing each day, everything from Neon Rain to Tianna Woods Band and a karaoke session.

When: Sept. 25–28, 2025
Where: 151 Caithness St. E., Caledonia, Ont.
Tickets: $10.00 or $5.00 with a non-perishable donation to the Caledonia & District Food Bank. Free for children aged three and younger and grades K-8

Milton Fall Fair

The Milton Fall Fair is a celebration of rural life and has been held on the same 26 acres of land since 1864. Munch on freshly spun candy floss at the midway, before checking out the rides and games and taking a stroll through the exhibitor barns for an intimate visit with farm animals. Popular attractions include midway games and rides, equestrian events, a pet show, a baby contest, tractor pulls (including a children’s pedal tractor pull), a demolition derby, and a ton of vendors. Display areas for competitions will be packed with entries in various categories from fruits and vegetables, needlecraft, baking and preserved goods, and antiques/collectibles. This year’s theme is “A Patchwork in Time” (a few of the competitions and activities will focus on this theme)!

When: September 26–28, 2025
Where: Milton Fair Grounds, 136 Robert Street, Milton, Ont.
Tickets: $15 for adults, $5 for kids 5–12; free for children under 5

Markham Fair

There’s something for everyone when it comes to the Markham Fair, including a children’s pet show, an ambassador’s contest, a miniature butter sculpture contest, truck & tractor and heavy horse pulls, interactive “Farm to Table” demonstrations at the Agri-Food Tent, agricultural and home-craft demos, pony rides, monster truck rides, and even a demolition derby! This year, animal lovers can also see newborn farm animals at Old MacDonald’s Barn. Don’t forget to check out the midway rides and sample some delicious treats from the dozens of food vendors and commercial concessions.

When: October 2–5, 2025
Where: Markham Fairgrounds, 10801 McCowan Rd, Markham, Ont.
Tickets: $25 for adults, $10 for kids 12 and under, $15 for seniors 60+

Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show (Simcoe)

This fair runs a bit later than others, but with over 15,000 entries in their competitions, including equine, art, livestock, poultry, giant pumpkins, home crafts, and even photography — the Norfolk County Fair is a favourite in Ontario, drawing more than 120,000 visitors annually. In addition to competitions, patrons can also enjoy lively outdoor concerts, motorsports, midway rides, and a bunch of games. Last years, attendees shopped from over 100 commercial vendors selling everything from jewelry to dog treats. Don’t forget to snack on your fave culinary treats, like fries and poutine, mouthwatering chicken and traditional pirogies cooked to perfection.

When: October 7–13, 2025
Where: 172 South Dr, Simcoe, Ont.
Tickets: $10–$60 (depending on age, one day admission, or one week admission)

This ‘Lonely’ new diner is anything but. Meet the star team reviving a Toronto classic

Megan Gallant

5:00 pm

snapins ai 3708831856159733467 — @lilfoodiejj/Instagram

Despite its name, the team behind Lonely Diner is not working in isolation. In fact, behind the bar at this newest College and Bathurst cocktail spot are some masterful mixologists who hail from some of the city’s top establishments.

Lonely Diner is the latest vision from Andrew and Christine Pham, the brother-sister duo behind the neighbourhood’s Midnight Market and Big Trouble.

“This is a project we’ve had in the works and in our minds for a very long time,” says Andrew. “We’ve always wanted to get into doing something where our style is represented through the drinks and the food, and to do a cocktail style is something that we always wanted to venture into.”

snapins ai 3703363256270001566 — @talricci/Instagram

Joining the duo again is Lonely Diner’s bar manager, Jon Kim who worked at Big Trouble for a number of years. Behind the bar and the menu, he’s joined by veteran mixologists Kaleb Hansen — of BarChef fame — and Sasha Siegel, formerly of Bar Banane and the now-closed Overpressure Club.

“We were luckily able to pick them up to join our team and what we’ve created has come from those three bartenders working together alongside us,” says Andrew.

Lonely Diner pays homage to the original Lonely Bar, a speakeasy at Midnight Market curated and managed by Kim, which Andrew calls their “baby step” into launching the new concept. As for the “Diner” part of the name — that pays tribute to Mars Food, which previously stood at 432 College Street and was one of the oldest diners in Toronto, having opened in 1951 before closing in 2021.

“I know a lot of our diners were patrons and they understand the historical significance of this old-school diner that used to exist here,” Andrew says. “When we were given the opportunity to take over this space and bring up on the next chapter, that’s the opportunity we hoped on.”

snapins ai 3708831856159743476 — @lilfoodiejj/Instagram

Nostalgia buzzes through Lonely Diner, too, which evokes a 70s retro vibe that’s clad in walnut. Though it looks like everything was made for the space— which was the case for the custom woodwork from Toronto’s Studio 83 — Andrew says much of it was sourced through Facebook Marketplace and given a makeover. From reupholstered retro booths to revamping old plush chairs, every last piece of the space has a story.

On its food menu, Lonely Diner takes a shot away from typical bar fare with caviar fish filet, strachiatella toast and shrimp shishitos. Despite the cocktail bar’s name, the dishes are meant to be shared amongst friends — and so far, Lonely Diner has collected many of them.

As for the real reason to step inside the Lonely Diner, the famed mixologists have crafted an eclectic menu that is wide-ranging and which Andrew says he hope captures a “nostalgic” taste of Toronto.

A must-have on the menu is a Forbidden Fruit, a durian-based cocktail that combines rum and a Chinese liquor called baijiu and rounded out with a soy milk punch with honeydew. Another claim to fame — and not only for the creative name — is the Bohemian Raspberry, a cocktail with a base of vermouth, pineau des charentes, and mezcal, with a banana milk cheese foam rounding out the top.

“It’s been great support from the community,” Andrew says. “So far the reception has been very good, and we’re just happy to be open and have people come in and experience the space and our cocktails and our food — it’s a very wonderful experience.”

Where to find the top 20 celebrities at TIFF 2025, from Scarlett Johansson to Sydney Sweeney

Nisean Lorde

3:17 pm

Scarlett Johansson 293 — Scarlett Johansson attends the "Vie Privée" (A Private Life) red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival, courtesy YantsImages/Wikimedia Commons

The 50th anniversary of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) officially kicks off this week, and that means celebrities will be strutting the red carpet at movie premieres as well as checking out local restaurants! One of the best ways to spot your fave A-lister is to head to the TIFF venue where their movie is premiering and huddle near where the photographers are standing (the stars won’t be far behind). Check the runtime of the film you’re interested in, and time your arrival for just before the screening starts or ends (of course, this is just one of many tips and tricks on navigating TIFF 2025).

We have an idea about who will attend this year’s festival by looking at the film premieres as well as the list of stars being honoured at the 2025 Tribute Awards Gala, which takes place Sunday, Sept. 7, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel.

Here’s a list of the top stars you can look out for (and where to find them!).

Brendan Fraser

The Academy Award-winning actor and 2022 Tribute Performer Award recipient will return to the Awards gala this year as its Honorary Chair! The gala takes place this Sunday, Sept. 7, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, and although this event is invite-only, it’s the perfect area for celeb-watching. Fraser also appears in the HIKARI-directed flick Rental Family (premieres Sept. 6, 8:45 p.m., Royal Alexandra Theatre), about an American actor in Tokyo who takes a job with a Japanese “rental family” agency. Head to the theatre a bit earlier to spot the stars, including Fraser, Hikari (who’s receiving the 2025 TIFF Emerging Talent Award) and more!

Jodie Foster

The Academy Award-winning actress stars in the dark comedy A Private Life (premieres Sept. 4, 12:45 p.m., Scotiabank Theatre), about a suspicious death that yields a series of twists! Foster is also receiving the “Share Her Journey Groundbreaker Award” at the Tribute Awards, so look out for her around the Fairmont this Sunday.

Idris Elba

The former Luther star wrote and directed the 20-minute short flick Dust to Dreams, a Nigerian-set tale about a fractured family who finds healing through music (the film also stars soulful singer Seal). The world premiere takes place Sept. 7, 12:30 p.m. at Scotiabank Theatre as part of the Short Cuts 2025 programming, so you’ll likely spot Elba on the red carpet! If you lurk outside the Fairmont this Sunday, you might also catch him as he’s receiving the Impact Media award.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Johnson and Emily Blunt team up in The Smashing Machine, a powerful story about the pioneering mixed martial arts/UFC fighter Mark Kerr (the North American premiere takes place Sept. 8, 9:45 p.m., VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre). Next Monday, get intimate with Johnson in his “In Conversation With…” segment (Sept. 8, 2:30 p.m., Royal Alexandra Theatre), where he has an exclusive conversation with TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey about his journey from the WWE to Hollywood megastar.

Catherine O’Hara

The Toronto-born legend is the recipient of this year’s TIFF Norman Jewison Career Achievement Award, which recognizes Canadians in the film industry who have made a global impact with their careers (so look out for her this Sunday around the Fairmont!). Some of O’Hara’s former Schitt’s Creek stars might also appear at this year’s festival: Dan Levy co-produced Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery (Sept. 13, 3 p.m/, Roy Thomson Hall) and Eugene Levy did some voiceover in TIFF’s opening night movie, John Candy: I Like Me.

Scarlett Johansson

Johansson directs Eleanor the Great, which has its North American debut on opening night (Sept. 4, 3:45 p.m., Scotiabank Theatre). The flick is about a 90-year-old woman who befriends a 19-year-old student. In addition to Johansson, you might spot the likes of film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, June Squibb and Erin Kellyman on the red carpet.

Guillermo del Toro

The “part-time Torontonian” is receiving the Ebert Director Award at Sunday’s Tribute Awards! The Oscar-winning director is also bringing an adaptation of Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece Frankenstein to this year’s festival (Sept. 8, 6 p.m., VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre), so you’ll likely spot him along with Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac and Christoph Waltz on the red carpet at the North American premiere.

Ryan Reynolds

The Deadpool star produced the opening‑night documentary John Candy: I Like Me (Sept. 4, 6 p.m., VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre), which celebrates one of the most beloved comedic actors of our time. Reynolds will likely appear on the red carpet since it’s the opening-night flick. He’ll also appear in an “In Conversation With…” segment this Friday, where he’ll discuss his work as a producer on the documentary, as well as the influence Candy had on his own career (Sept. 5, 2:30 p.m., Royal Alexandra Theatre).

Lee Byung-hun and Park Chan-wook

Lee Byung-hun has become internationally recognized for playing Front Man in Netflix’s uber-popular Squid Game series! You can find the South Korean star in Park Chan-wook’s latest black comedy, No Other Choice. The flick follows a newly unemployed man (Byung-hun) who, desperate to land a coveted position, hatches a ruthless plan to “dispatch” his competition (the North American premiere takes place Sept. 5, 1:50 p.m., Scotiabank Theatre). Chan-wook is considered one of the most prominent South Korean film directors of all time, and you can be part of an intimate conversation with him as part of his In Conversation With…” segment (Sept. 10, 3 p.m., TIFF Lightbox).

Sydney Sweeney

The actor will likely make a red-carpet appearance for her role as a pioneering boxer in Christy (Sept. 5, 2 p.m., VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre). The film deals with themes of misogyny, domestic violence and sexual identity, and includes a “career best” performance by actor Ben Foster.

Channing Tatum

The former Magic Mike star will receive a Tribute Performer Award along with German actress Nina Hoss this Sunday at the Galas! Fans can also look out for the world premiere of Tatum’s latest flick, Roofman (Sept. 6, 5:30 p.m., Roy Thomson Hall), about the real-life story of Jeffrey Manchester, the “Rooftop Robber,” and his efforts to evade capture. Oscar nominee Kirsten Dunst also stars in the film, so you might spot her around town as well.

Keanu Reeves

The actor, who was born in Beirut and grew up in Toronto, stars as a celestial figure alongside Aziz Ansari in Good Fortune, which marks Ansari’s feature directorial debut, and is set for its world premiere at the festival (Sept. 6, 9:30 p.m., Roy Thomson Hall). The film also stars Seth Rogen, Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh, so there’ll be multiple chances of celebrity sightings across town!

Tessa Thompson

Look out for Thompson in the world premiere of Hedda, about a newly married woman trapped in a loveless marriage, in a reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s infamous 1891 play (the world premiere takes place Sept. 7, 9:30 p.m., VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre). Fans can also enjoy a more intimate conversation with Thompson and director-screenwriter Nia DaCosta as part of their In Conversation With… segment next Monday (Sept. 8, 12 p.m., TIFF Lightbox).

Angelina Jolie

Jolie stars in Couture, a compelling new film from Alice Winocour, about an American film director who arrives in Paris to helm a video for a fashion event (Sept. 7, 3:15 p.m., VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre). It’s the film’s world premiere, so perhaps we’ll see an appearance by Jolie?

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