This week on DineSafe, a number of popular chain restaurants in Toronto landed in hot water with city health inspectors. Freshii, Tim Hortons and Ali Baba's were just a few of the spots who received conditional passes upon inspection. 

Here's a look at the other Toronto restaurants that got busted by city health inspectors.

Caribbean Queen of Patties (1294 Bloor St. West)

• Inspected on: July 30, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 7 (Minor: 3, Significant: 3, Crucial: 1)
• Crucial infractions include: Failed to protect food from contamination or adulteration.

Freshii (53 Bloor St. East)

• Inspected on: July 30, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 2 (Minor: 1, Significant: 1)
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Rancho Relaxo (529 Bloor St. West)

• Inspected on: July 30, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3)
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Ali Baba's (357 Yonge St.)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 1, Significant: 3, Crucial: 1)
• Crucial infractions include: Distributed potentially hazardous foods at internal temperature between 4°C and 60°C.

Congee Wong (10 Ravel Rd.)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 9 (Minor: 2, Significant: 4, Crucial: 3)
• Crucial infractions include: Failed to ensure food handler in food premise refrains from conduct that could result in contamination of food, failed to protect food from contamination or adulteration and used compromised container to re-serve low-risk food.

Crown Princess (1033 Bay St.)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 4 (Minor: 3, Crucial: 1)
• Crucial infractions include: Failed to protect food from contamination or adulteration.

Dark Horse Espresso (416 Front St. East)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 2 (Significant: 2)
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Freshii (382 Bloor St. East)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 3 (Significant: 3)
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Grapefruit Moon (968 Bathurst St.)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 4 (Minor: 2, Significant: 2)
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Tim Hortons (3270 Eglinton Ave. East)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 2 (Significant: 1, Crucial: 1)
• Crucial infractions include: Failed to protect food from contamination or adulteration.

Tinuno (31 Howard St.)

• Inspected on: July 31, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 3, Significant: 2)
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Green Grotto (832 Bay St.)

• Inspected on: August 1, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 1, Significant: 2)
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Grodzinski Bakery (3437 Bathurst St.)

• Inspected on: August 1, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 7 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3, Crucial: 2)
• Crucial infractions include: Maintained potentially hazardous foods at internal temperature between 4°C and 60°C and failed to protect food from contamination or adulteration.

Hakka Wow (1433 Gerrard St. East)

• Inspected on: August 2, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 7 (Minor: 4, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
• Crucial infractions include: Failed to protect food from contamination or adulteration.

Second Cup (518 Eglinton Ave. West)

• Inspected on: August 2, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 1, Significant: 2
• Crucial infractions include: N/A

Sushi Delight (461 Danforth Ave.)

• Inspected on: August 2, 2018
• Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
• Number of infractions: 2 (Significant: 1, Crucial: 1)
• Crucial infractions include: Failed to protect food from contamination or adulteration.

Note: The above businesses each received infractions from DineSafe as originally reported on the DineSafe site. This does not imply that any of these businesses have not subsequently corrected the issue and received a passing grade by DineSafe inspectors. For the latest status for each of the mentioned businesses, including details on any subsequent inspections, please be sure to check the DineSafe site.

When Doug Ford's PC party ran a campaign with basically no platform during the recent provincial election, one of their only promises was to lower the price of beer to a buck. A seemingly trivial platform issue is shaping up to be quite the political debate. 

Some breweries are starting to come out against the buck-a-beer initiative, stating they refuse to lower their prices.

@GreatLakesBeer on why they won't participate in the Buck-a-Beer challenge that the Premier will announce tomorrow. #onpolipic.twitter.com/j0Ji9rN9wi

— Colin D'Mello CTV (@ColinDMello) August 6, 2018

Many are protesting that the government is funding $1 beers when the funding should be directed to better places: mental health initiatives, environmental issues, and the basic income pilot―all of which have been cut by the new government. 

Our brewery will not be joining this #buckabeer race to the bottom. We are committed to making a quality product that we are proud to serve and that means it will always cost more. We firmly believe that you really do get what you pay for. #qualitymatters#craftbeer

— People's Pint (@PeoplesPintTO) August 7, 2018

While Barley Days Brewery (which was conveniently featured in an official statement video posted on Ford's Twitter account) says they will be offering a new brew that sells for $1, other breweries are not down with the controversial policy. 

You definitely won’t see #FreshGLB take part in this. We believe in our brands, take pride in our quality and firmly feel that are current prices are very fair.

— Great Lakes Beer🇨🇦 (@GreatLakesBeer) August 5, 2018

Great Lakes Brewery has announced on Twitter that they will not be participating in the program, stating that they do not see the advantage of lowering quality and devaluing their product. 

Join me in boycotting breweries who take government hand outs to sell cheap beer when @fordnation is cutting education, mental health services, clean energy, government accountability and oversight, and just plain decency. #onpolihttps://t.co/p08c1SPZQw

— Cory Judson (@CoryJudson) August 5, 2018

The provincial government has held firm that there will be no punishments for those who do not participate.

We will absolutely not participate in the “buck a beer” exercise. Our beer is well made, high quality and award winning — and its price reflects that. There are a lot of things that our province needs, but “buck a beer” isn’t one of them.

— The Napanee Beer Co. (@napaneebeer) August 6, 2018

They have also said that there will be no financial advantage (ie. subsidies) to those who do participate, but that LCBO stores will offer small incentives like free advertising or premium shelf placement.  

Is $1 beer really a priority for this government? Why? Is it because you have to be drunk to support them? I don’t get it.

— Heather Burch (@hburch73) August 6, 2018

The PCs say buck-a-beer will be implemented in the province by the time Labour Day arrives. 

Get ready to salsa, samba and rumba this summer because Toronto is getting a massive Latin block party.

Latin Sparks Block Party is transforming the parking lot at 222 Cherry Street in the Port Lands into a huge celebration of Latin American culture on August 18.

The festival began in Ottawa in 2012 and has since grown to become a summer favourite. Now it's made its way to Toronto for the first time to feature a full day of dancing, traditional Latin food and drinks, and live performances.

For anyone curious to see what Latin culture is all about, the festival emphasizes an inclusive atmosphere "centered around engaging Canadians from all backgrounds in Latin American culture."

Not so hot on your feet? The festival also offers free dancing workshops to get you up and shaking your hips in no time.

Sports fans in Toronto will soon have a new destination for food, drinks, and watching the Blue Jays. 

Sportsnet, the sports channel owned by Rogers, just announced the opening of Sportsnet Grill.

Get ready sports fans! Say goodbye to Arriba Restaurant and hello to the Sportsnet Grill! Join us for the official grand opening on August 8th starting at 1pm🎉pic.twitter.com/TctutpiEqo

— Sportsnet Grill (@sportsnetgrill) August 7, 2018

The 220-seat restaurant will be located in the Marriott City Centre Hotel, overlooking the Rogers Centre field.

The space was formerly known as Arriba and was popular with sports fans who wanted to watch the game through its large windows. 

Expect a menu stacked with standard pub fare including sliders, tacos, wings, nachos, burgers and salads.

On game days, fans will be able to reserve window table seating during either batting practice or the game. Other tables in the restaurant won't have as stellar views.

If you're itching to get away this summer, you'll be happy to know that less than four hours from Toronto is the ultimate getaway.

Located on the Bruce Peninsula just South of Tobermory, Lion's Head resembles a tropical paradise because of its calm, clear, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush parks with countless trails.

A post shared by Melanie Lynne Wiersma 🌳 (@melly.beee) on Jul 31, 2018 at 10:56am PDT

It's the perfect spot to head for a weekend, or an entire week away. The only problem is that you might never want to come home.

A post shared by em🐝 (@emoostdyk) on Jul 30, 2018 at 2:49pm PDT

The town gets its name from the resemblance of a lion's head along the Niagara Escarpment. The abundance of limestone rock formations make it the ideal backdrop for canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing. 

A post shared by Marjan Delshadi (@marjandelshadi) on Aug 5, 2018 at 11:48am PDT

One of the most iconic attractions in Lion's Head is the picturesque Lion's Head Lighthouse. Set beneath the Niagara Escarpment, this small but mighty lighthouse was built in 1903 and has been rebuilt several times due to harsh weather conditions.

Although the lighthouse that stands today is merely a replica of the original, it's still a must-see gem.

A post shared by David Vr (@david_vr) on Jul 31, 2018 at 7:52pm PDT

Hitting one of the many white sandy beaches is mandatory. Lion's Head Provincial Park is a large nature preserve on the shores of Georgian Bay and has gorgeous views of the escarpment. The Bruce Trail also runs right through the park, so you can easily get a hike in too. 

A post shared by daisy j (@daisyjiang) on Aug 1, 2018 at 7:16pm PDT

Singing Sands Beach is also a great alternative located along Lake Huron, known for its long stretch of sand and warm, shallow waters. It's the perfect spot for a dip. 

A post shared by Grizel Andrea (@grizelgallivants) on Aug 4, 2018 at 4:53pm PDT

If you're a bit more of an adrenaline junkie and want to skip the beach altogether, Greig's Caves might be a little more your speed. This surreal cave system is self-guided, so you can create your own adventure once inside. 

A post shared by Ryan Farr (@the.duke.of.lambton) on Aug 3, 2018 at 5:00pm PDT

After working up an appetite, be sure to stop in at the local favourite Rachel's Bakery and 50s Diner. This local spot will transport you back in time with their nostalgic menu of home-cooked comfort food.

New Toronto food trucks for 2018 are going far above and beyond standard street food offerings you're use to. This summer, prepare to stuff your face with loaded tater tots, Greek donuts, pulled Jackfruit tacos and much more.

Here are my picks for the top new food trucks in Toronto.

Get Your Own Taters

Yes, Toronto is now home to a food truck that's all about your favourite childhood snack - tater tots. Get 'em plain with an assortment of dipping sauces, or be more adventurous with tots topped with bulgogi and kimchi. 

A post shared by Get Your Own Taters (@getyourowntaters) on Jun 27, 2018 at 1:50pm PDT

Andiamo Italian

Italian sandwiches, fresh pasta and an assortment of salads and snacks is what you'll find on this brick-wrapped food truck.

A post shared by Andiamo Italian Food Truck (@andiamoitalian) on Jul 22, 2018 at 11:07pm PDT

Aegean Honey Balls

This orange truck is all about traditional Greek loukoumades (also known as honey balls). However, that's not all they serve. Find other Greek treats like bakalava or spinach and feta pies when you visit.

A post shared by AEGEAN HONEY BALLS (@aegean_honey_balls_loukoumades) on May 26, 2018 at 11:07am PDT

Betty Lou's

If you're hankering for BBQ, but are also vegan or vegetarian, this is your dream truck. Prepare to chow down on pulled Jackfruit tacos, veggie burgers and deep fried Buffalo cauliflower.

A post shared by Michelle (@mkacarpediem) on Jul 26, 2018 at 4:34pm PDT

What A Jerk

Get a taste of the Caribbean when you visit, as this truck specializes in authentic Jamaican-style jerk chicken. They are also doing jerk chicken poutines, jerk pork burgers and even jerk ribs. Yum!

A post shared by What A Jerk TO (@whatajerkto) on May 17, 2018 at 10:56pm PDT

To find out where trucks will be each day, visit Toronto Food Trucks or download the Food Trucks app for iPhone or Android.

In today's fast-paced world, convenience is the name of the game, and a Toronto startup has developed a new way to make making coffee as easy as possible.

North York's Bean Post Coffee began with a belief that "people should be able to enjoy coffee without sacrificing their free time or the quality of their drink." The startup has now created a way to package coffee into small, individual filters that need only be dropped into hot water.

A post shared by Bean Post Coffee (@beanpostcoffee) on Aug 2, 2018 at 1:49pm PDT

Bean Post is seeking to create convenience with their product by simplifying coffee-making into a one-step process, basically exactly like tea.

This also eliminates the need for a lot of fuss with the coffee maker, relying instead on hot water, a vessel of some sort (like a mug), and one of Bean Post's specialty coffee packets.

A post shared by Bean Post Coffee (@beanpostcoffee) on Aug 1, 2018 at 7:22am PDT

Bean Post offers bags of coffee in addition to the packets, all sustainably-sourced from places around the world. Each product is accompanied by a rundown of exactly where the bean comes from and the conditions that surround its harvesting.

A post shared by Bean Post Coffee (@beanpostcoffee) on Jul 18, 2018 at 6:13am PDT

Bean Post's coffee is currently available through online ordering, but if the new method proves popular, we may see more coffee packets popping up in mugs everywhere.

One of Toronto's most beloved brunch spots is on the move this month and now we know what's going to take its place.

Lady Marmalade announced last year they'd be vacating their home at 898 Queen St. East in favour of 265 Broadview Avenue on the border of East Chinatown.

They'll be officially closing down their current location on August 15 and then if all goes to plan re-opening in their new location before the end of the month.

In their place will arrive the third location of local Thai chain Eat BKK.

The Thai favourite's first two locations are at Yonge and Steeles and Yonge and Sheppard, making the new Queen Street spot their first foray south of the 401.

Eat BKK has said they expect to open by mid-September of this year. 

The best nachos in Toronto satisfy all cravings for anything cheesy, crunchy, melty and loaded with toppings, whether it’s late at night or any other time of day. Ideal for sharing, nachos in this city come creatively piled with everything from pulled pork to tofu, chorizo, and calamari.

Here are the best nachos in Toronto.

Cheap beer is coming to Ontario. Or is it? Doug Ford's campaign promise to lower the minimum price of a bottle or can of beer from $1.25 to a buck will take effect this Labour Day weekend but does it actually mean beer will be more affordable at the local LCBO or beer store?

Toronto's craft brewers say they won't be playing this game. In the latest episode of the Only in Toronto podcast we speak to three local breweries and take to the streets to see what Toronto thinks of the buck-a-beer initiative.

Background information on this episode:

• Toronto brewers say they won't sell their beer for a buck
• Doug Ford says buck-a-beer coming to Ontario next month

Articles referenced in this episode include:

• Sportsnet is opening  a restaurant in Toronto
• A dog took a joyride on the GO train and ended up at Union Station
• Lebron James and Shaq spotted in Toronto for Caribana

Places mention in this podcast:

• People's Pint
• Henderson Brewing
• Burdock

Ways to subscribe to the Only in Toronto podcast.

• Apple Podcasts
• Google Play Music
• Stitcher
• Tune In
• Libsyn

You can also listen to the Only in Toronto podcast on Alexa. Just ask Alexa to play the podcast Only in Toronto.

It's always fun to check out a place downtown with a great view. This condo is a fully-furnished one-bed-plus-den in the heart of the Entertainment District.

The open concept living and dining room are elegant with gold accents, a plush royal blue sofa, and a fancy chandelier.

The living room walks out onto a balcony that overlooks the lake. It’s the perfect place to have a glass of wine or coffee while soaking in the scenic views.

The kitchen is small but functional, and has the very on-trend marble counters and backsplash.

The master bedroom is small and simple but the wall of windows overlooking the water might just make waking up early not-so-terrible.

There’s a tiny den that’s currently set up as a second bedroom. There’s just enough room to fit a single bed.

While I’ve seen larger places go for less, the beauty of this place is that you don’t have to worry about anything. Rent includes utilities, internet, phone, cable and Netflix. Plus you have access to all the building amenities including a pool, gym, party room, concierge, sauna, guest suites and pool tables.

Specs

• Address: #2612 - 11 Brunel Court
• Type: Apartment
• Rent: $4,650 / month
• Listing agent:  James R. Tasca
• Furnished? Yes
• Utilities: Yes
• Air conditioning? Yes
• Bedrooms: 1 + 1
• Bathrooms: 1
• Parking: 1
• Laundry? In suite
• Outdoor space? Private balcony
• Pet friendly? Yes ($100 pet fee)

Good For

Those who can't stand being bored. You’re right in the thick of it, with the Rogers Centre and the waterfront steps away. Plus CityPlace transformed the downtown core. Now, there are loads of retailers and coffee shops, making sure you’ll never need to leave the ‘hood.

Move On If

You want a more permanent home. This place seems more suited toward nomads or visiting executives with the month to month rent, fully furnished space and all your utilities, cable and internet needs taken care of. It’s hard to put your own stamp on a place when there’s literally nothing to do but add your clothes to the closet.

Dozens of homes, cars and public structures were seriously damaged in Toronto last night when an entire month's worth of rain hit the city over just two hours of an intense storm.

Came out of 2 hours of great live music at #ShakiraToronto to this flood🙃 just outside of the #ScotiabankArena on Bay St. (My fav part is everyone’s surprised reactions as they exit the venue in the bg😂) @blogto#onstorm#torontopic.twitter.com/rPK7YbloWZ

— is (@isabelcontin) August 8, 2018

Environment Canada issued a special weather statement on Tuesday night around 9:50 p.m. warning of "heavy showers" in downtown Toronto, particularly near the waterfront.

It was a nightmare scene for this #Toronto driver last night who had to abandon their car and swim for safety #stormTO#Toronto#torontofloodhttps://t.co/u1wgkVrW3vpic.twitter.com/nmSZVlGjrz

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 8, 2018

By 11 p.m., the federal weather agency reported that 64.3 mm of rain had fallen at Billy Bishop Airport — just a little bit more than the average local rainfall for the entire month of July. Other parts of the city are said to have received closer to 20 mm.

TTC changing their slogan to “The Wetter Way” #Toronto#TorontoFloodpic.twitter.com/PpV3XwizpW

— Graham Rowlands (@beachrockinc) August 8, 2018

The localized weather system moved out over Lake Ontario around midnight, but not before turning the city's downtown core into a waterlogged, dangerous mess.

Flash floods turned roads like Front Street, Lake Shore Boulevard and even King Street West into rivers faster than cars could manage to get out.

Just when you think you’ve had enough time in a boat this weekend, now you can boat in downtown Toronto too! #StormTOpic.twitter.com/P3tM1mfsjm

— Morgan Todd (@mogtodd) August 8, 2018

Public transit services were shut down on account of, well, look at Union Station:

Union Station last night. Much better today I understand but please be careful wherever you’re walking especially on platforms. pic.twitter.com/eL0TupJ8re

— Anne Marie Aikins (@femwriter) August 8, 2018

Streetcars and buses had a particularly rough time getting through the surprise waterways under highly-trafficked overpasses like those at Queen and Dufferin.

Watch a #TTC streetcar drive through the flooded tunnel at Queen and Dufferin last night during the #stormTO#Toronto#Torontofloodhttps://t.co/sQmTBLknkLpic.twitter.com/akF7QhrTt3

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 8, 2018

And near King and Atlantic.

11:05pm, king looking west just past sudbury. theres a car to the left of the streetcar you cant even see. absolute madness. #onstormpic.twitter.com/Aho42vfevI

— charlie randall (@earthisanocean) August 8, 2018

A ruptured fire hydrant in the latter location saw some streetcars almost go underwater, with customers reporting they "basically had to swim home."

Picture via Reddit of a super soggy new streetcar in the King Street underpass at Atlantic. pic.twitter.com/5iuGgkTpHz

— I'll be Frank w/ you (@syncros) August 8, 2018

Condos from Fort York all the way up to Queen West were evacuated on account of rising waters in hallways...

Oh look, my condo has a new swimming pool. #stormTOpic.twitter.com/Jw0A2ZFim2

— Pedro Marques (@MetroManTO) August 8, 2018

Lobbies...

@CP24 condo building at 33 Bay Street flooding from heavy rain #onstorm#torontofloodpic.twitter.com/OF1hAMi6OY

— Madge Rumman (@rummanm) August 8, 2018

And parking garages...

Our underground parking at Fort York & Bathurst #onstorm#torontofloodpic.twitter.com/6pgrS8K41G

— Jenny Bersinic (@JBersinic) August 8, 2018

People who had been attending the Shakira concert at Toronto's Scotiabank Arena got soaked on their way home from the venue.

#torontoflood Quite the adventure coming out of the #Shakira Concert tonight. pic.twitter.com/QdNy26kBOv

— Amanda Usher (@AmandaFireFox) August 8, 2018

In some cases, they got soaked inside the venue, too.

A friend sent me this video of Scotiabank Arena (Formally known as Air Canada Centre/ACC) flooding tonight. This happened after the Shakira concert. @CP24#ONStormpic.twitter.com/YZ91tKUv4F

— Kris Pangilinan (@KrisReports) August 8, 2018

Blue Jays fans were no luckier.

It was like a scene out of an apocalypse last night when fans tried to cross the street after the Jays game at the Rogers Centre #Toronto#torontofloodhttps://t.co/Rt90YsyLEPpic.twitter.com/lDh574cxmn

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 8, 2018

Toronto Police say that marine unit officers had to rescue the occupants of at least four cars near Lower Simcoe Street and Bremner Boulevard. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

This aerial view of the driving conditions at Bathurst and Lakeshore last night during the #stormTO is something else #Toronto#Torontofloodhttps://t.co/ZmlIlQblmMpic.twitter.com/jzYbi4g9IQ

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 8, 2018

The rain has slowed down significantly, but some parts of the city remain dangerously (or at least uncomfortably) water-logged.

Storms could return to Toronto on Wednesday afternoon and evening, according to Environment Canada, though not nearly as much water is expected. 

#Toronto got totally flooded last night #TorontoFlood#stormTOpic.twitter.com/erEAU0u2sA

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 8, 2018

Toronto Hydro continues to restore power to areas of the city affected by outages, and warns anyone with a flooded basement to "please remember that electricity and water don't mix."

The best Mexican restaurants in Toronto have the ability to make you feel as if you’ve taken a flight somewhere with warm sun and warmer hand-pressed tortillas, where the fish tacos are crispy and the margaritas are cold. Whether it’s an exotic food experience or a taste of home, your next Mexican meal could be just a streetcar ride away.

Here are the best Mexican restaurants in Toronto.

The heavy downpour Toronto received last night is creating some headaches this morning, as routes are flooded and subway service is suspended.

Everyone who’s been stuck with me for an HOUR on the Yonge-University line better believe in climate change because floods like these aren’t normal. #TTC

— Jasmine Denike (@jazzdenike) August 8, 2018

Currently, there is no service between Wilson and Finch West Stations, as the TTC is pumping large amounts of water out of the tunnels and off the tracks. 

Line 1: No service between Finch West and Wilson due to flooding. Shuttle buses are running. An accessible shuttle bus is on stand by at Wilson Station. Additionally, customers can utilize GO transit at Downsview Park to Union Stations.

— TTC Service Alerts (@TTCnotices) August 8, 2018

As with any delay, there are of course huge lines and crowds forming on station platforms and stops. 

when i got here the roof of that car was not visible. street car driver says he stopped his train after the car floated in front of him. then he got them out. #onstorm@StormhunterTWN@AnthonyFarnell@TorontoStar@CBCTorontopic.twitter.com/YXXplg7fKR

— charlie randall (@earthisanocean) August 8, 2018

Flooding precautions and fixes are also in short supply, as the system is stretched to its limit trying to keep up. 

Just witnessed crowds trip/leap frogging this state-of-the-art @TTChelps system for dealing with heavy rains... might want to think about putting signs on the top of the stairs so the people at the back of the crowd don't fall... #justsaying#ttcfail#safetyhazardpic.twitter.com/wbEkPglfiw

— Abby Radovski (@AbbyRadovski) August 8, 2018

Last night, a torrential downpour soaked Toronto with an insane amount of water. Close to 70 mm of rain was measured at Billy Bishop Airport, and Environment Canada issued a heavy rain warning for many parts of the city.

It feels like the #Titanic in Osgoode station #ttc #onstorm #flood #toronto

A post shared by Indigo Carson (@indybleu) on Aug 7, 2018 at 7:45pm PDT

As a result, many TTC services, roads, sidewalks, underpasses, buildings, and even the PATH are afflicted with flooding and dangerous conditions, making commutes a hazardous minefield. 

#onstorm#torontoflood aftermath continues AND unfortunately there is more storm risk for #toronto#yyz tomorrow. @weathernetworkpic.twitter.com/gq2sYBdbx7

— Saphia Khambalia (@SaphiaTWN) August 8, 2018

Be careful out there, Toronto! More rain is expected Wednesday night. 

Last night'sToronto storm left Union Station looking more like Ripley's Aquarium than the city's central transit hub.

Nearly 70 mm of rain ravaged parts of the city, causing massive floods inside Union Station and the surrounding area.

Union Station last night. Much better today I understand but please be careful wherever you’re walking especially on platforms. pic.twitter.com/eL0TupJ8re

— Anne Marie Aikins (@femwriter) August 8, 2018

Inside, one of the newly-constructed moats saw water rolling down the steps like it was trying to catch the last train of the night.

Stairway of rainfall at the east end of the Union Station moat. #onstormpic.twitter.com/6EWQRbXuNd

— Chris Drew (@chrisjamesdrew) August 8, 2018

The underground streetcar tunnel that leads to Queens Quay was also flooded, halting streetcars at the platform over the waterlogged tracks.

Meanwhile, in Union Station, everything is fine #ttcpic.twitter.com/iSdffQcoFg

— Joe Rayment (@Joerayment) August 8, 2018

Meanwhile, the area outside was equally saturated, especially the York Street underpass to the west. 

Flooding on York St. near Union Station during torrential downpour in #Toronto (and yes, I’m soaked.) 😞pic.twitter.com/tn0ka0EBB1

— Laura Stone (@l_stone) August 8, 2018

The scene wasn't much better along Lower Simcoe, where many had to wade their way through the fast-moving downpour.

Tonight was borderline chaos at union station terminal. Our major cities are not equipped for storm water management and extreme weather events that will only become more prevalent due to climate change. #onstormpic.twitter.com/u2IAkH0FBa

— Jacob Brodka (@JBrodka) August 8, 2018

As of this morning, Metrolinx spokesperson Anne Marie Aikins reported that the damage had mostly cleared, save for a few leaks here and there.

Union Station has puddles but otherwise good this morning. Rain continues though. Please be careful & take your time pic.twitter.com/wJoJGuaS6H

— Anne Marie Aikins (@femwriter) August 8, 2018

Despite the flooding, regular service continues in and out of Union, while other parts of the system are still being sorted out.

Two people got to live out a scene from the movie Titanic last night, right here in Toronto — though given the circumstances, it probably felt more like a scene from Saw III.

Toronto Police reported on Twitter early Wednesday morning that two men had become trapped in the elevator of a commercial building near Rockliffe Boulevard and Alliance Avenue, just south of Eglinton Avenue and east of Jane Street.

As if the "trapped in an elevator" situation wasn't scary enough on its own, that elevator happened to be in a basement, without power, as heavy rains sparked severe flooding across the city.

"Flooding rescue," wrote the TPS Operations account just after midnight. "Two people stuck in an elevator in a basement building —water was 6 feet high inside."

One more foot, and the men would have drowned.

Flooding rescue: Alliance Ave / Rockcliffe Blvd
-2 people stuck in an elevator in a bsmt building
-water was 6 ft high inside
-Police rescue 2 men with only 1 foot of air space left
-injuries reported, non life threatening
-TFS/EMS on scene#GO1452695
^ka

— Toronto Police OPS (@TPSOperations) August 8, 2018

"As the water was rising very, very quickly, they only had about a foot of airspace left inside the elevator and it was completely closed," said TPS spokesperson Katrina Arrogante to Global News. "Officers pried the elevator open and rescued the two men."

The men had called 911 just after 10:50 p.m to report that they were trapped in a basement elevator and that it was filling up with water. They were lucky to have even been able to call at all, according to Arrogante, as phone reception was weak.

One police arrived, they had to find a crowbar and swim through the basement to access the elevator. It took about six minutes for officers to free the people inside, both of which are said to have sustained "non-life threatening" injuries.

This is the ramp to basement of building where men were rescued by Toronto Police from a flooded basement elevator. Water almost reaches top of the door. pic.twitter.com/XaER0YZk04

— Kevin Misener (@Misener680NEWS) August 8, 2018

No word yet on who the men, or the officers who saved them are, but it's safe to say the public is loving this story right now.

People on Twitter and Facebook are praising Toronto Police for their swift action and sympathizing with what must have been a horrifying ordeal for the people trapped inside that elevator.  

"Amazing work guys," responded one user to what might be the scariest Toronto Police tweet in almost a month. "So when does the movie come out?"

Doug Ford's buck-a-beer initiative has been controversial since its inception, and most brewers are removing themselves from the situation. Well, all but one. 

Barley Days Brewery, located in Prince Edward County, is so far the only manufacturer that has agreed to participate in the program. 

The Twitter account Ontario 'Buck A Beer' Tracker is keeping running lists of which breweries are for, and against, the program. So far, the "against" list contains 21 members ― and counting.

We're tracking beers, breweries, businesses as part of the Ontario #BuckABeer Challenge.
Our list of participating breweries: https://t.co/YyzHXfUvML
Our list of breweries actively speaking against it: https://t.co/fKPaATa6jH

— Ontario 'Buck A Beer' Tracker (@ontariobuckbeer) August 7, 2018

Many brewers have come out against the policy, stating that they refuse to lower the quality of their product or take on the costs of the program, since they will not receive any subsidies. 

"We are not reducing the tax level," says Vic Fedeli... which essentially says "we are encouraging breweries to eat the cost to participate in the 'challenge'.

No thanks. pic.twitter.com/r5HxkrF9MH

— Great Lakes Beer🇨🇦 (@GreatLakesBeer) August 7, 2018

Barley Days, the one participating brewery, was also featured in a promotional video posted to the Twitter page for Doug Ford's publicity service, Ontario News Now. The product placement may indicate that a previous deal had been struck between the two parties. 

Buck-a-Beer is returning to Ontario! Remember the days of $1.00 beer in Ontario? Premier Ford does, and that’s why brewers across the province are being encouraged to take the ‘Buck-a-Beer Challenge.’ #BuckABeer#onpolipic.twitter.com/A3Yv638moi

— Ontario News Now (@OntarioNewsNow) August 7, 2018

Bandit Brewery, based in Toronto, also asked Ford to remove a tweet image where he showed their logo. Ford's tweet has since been deleted. 

Hi there, the image being used here is of our brewery and we did not authorize its use. Could you please remove it right away? https://t.co/mqu55GblXd

— Bandit Brewery (@banditbrewery) August 7, 2018

The Ontario PC government announced buck-a-beer would be in effect by Labour Day. The policy lowers the minimum legal selling price of beer from $1.25 to $1, both of which are far below the regular price of an average beer. 

Last night's Toronto storm could serve as an excellent metaphor for the province's current political climate—if only because of a tweet from an Ontario MPP.

Ontario PC cabinet minister Lisa MacLeod tweeted out a picture early this morning from an unspecified location in "the Provincial capital" to show that, despite what the NDP would tell you, she can't see anything wrong.

Still can’t find the chaos in Toronto the NDP is claiming. Beautiful morning in the Provincial capital. pic.twitter.com/pdugGc2nLZ

— Lisa MacLeod (@MacLeodLisa) August 8, 2018

It wasn't immediately clear what the minister meant by "chaos", but many interpreted the tweet as an attempt to politicize the rainstorm that has caused widespread floods across the city.

Are you serious? Peoples homes are flooding and you are saying it’s a beautiful morning.

— Kevin Glover (@glover_kevin) August 8, 2018

It wasn't long before the memes rolled in.

And now, a flood update from Ontario cabinet minister Lisa MacLeod.#onpoli#TOpolipic.twitter.com/8nUIMu0jdA

— Richard Feren (@RichardFeren) August 8, 2018

Many weren't hot on the minister's attempt to make the situation a political one and ignoring the damage it had caused, calling MacLeod out for using the storm as a way to undermine the NDP.

@MacLeodLisa we can disagree on political ideology and still respect each other. As Canadians, that's how we treat each other. Making everything political and ugly is not a good look!

— C Louzado (@Cheryl_Lo) August 8, 2018

Others responded that they must have dreamt the storm, like something out of the Wizard of Oz, despite video and photographs, rescue efforts and some very, very real transit delays.

Mocking the floods to own the Libs... I'm sure Toronto Police and Fire are thrilled to have their provincial leaders making fun of their jobs.#ONpoli#TOpoli

— T.O. Resident (@TO_Resident) August 8, 2018

In addition to MacLeod's attempts to influence us, the Ontario PC party also came under fire recently after launching its own "news" network.

The publicity service is largely dedicated to highlighting its party's own accomplishments, and many saw it as a propaganda disguised as a legitimate broadcast. 

Video footage is going viral today of Shakira — global pop superstar and all-around wonderful human being — leaving the flooded Scotiabank Arena in Toronto following last night's stop on her El Dorado World Tour.

Two clips were posted to the artist's own Instagram Stories feed around 1 a.m. on Wednesday. In them, Shakira can be seen in the back of a car that is partially submerged in the concert venue's parking lot.

Shakira waves to fans through the open window and makes a funny nervous face as the car rolls through about a foot of water.

Here's @Shakira leaving Scotiabank Arena after performing last night in #Toronto.. 😂#ShakiraToronto#ElDoradoWorldTour#stormTO#torontofloodpic.twitter.com/LJ3lS4E0bB

— KevinNoel (@KevinNoel) August 8, 2018

"Wowww, look at this! Flooded!" she can be heard saying in the second clip. "The whole venue was flooded."

The recently-renamed Scotiabank Arena was indeed filled with plenty of undesired water last night, thanks to heavy rains that wreaked havoc across the city.

Water was just pouring into the Scotiabank Arena during the @shakira concert last night #Toronto#torontofloodhttps://t.co/cebZx06qfLpic.twitter.com/lQP5ABcxmY

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 8, 2018

The Shakira show went on, but those who stayed until the end had to endure a messy journey home.

This is what #Toronto streets looked like last night for concert goers coming out of the Shakira show at the Scotiabank Arena #stormTOhttps://t.co/Qco1jEMOyqpic.twitter.com/5hBocskogW

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 8, 2018

Fortunately, the Colombian singer and songwriter made it out of the stadium unharmed, as did all of her fans.

Some in the city have been worried today, however, that damage caused by last night's rain storm could affect the Smashing Pumpkins concert planned for Scotiabank Arena this evening.

Hey @ScotiabankArena - you guys *good* for tonight’s Smashing Pumpkins show? Like, dry and stuff?

— Balm Real Estate (@balmrealestate) August 8, 2018

Fret not, Billy Corgan stans — the show will go on as planned on Wednesday at 8:15 p.m., with Toronto's own Metric performing as openers.

A rep for Scotiabank Arena confirmed by phone on Wednesday afternoon that doors will open at 6 p.m. as scheduled.

"We're still open," she said. "We're still good."

TONIGHT: Smashing Pumpkins are here! Doors: 6PM, @Metric: 7PM & @SmashingPumpkin: 8:15PM. See you soon! #ScotiaArenapic.twitter.com/YehltwFFbZ

— Scotiabank Arena (@ScotiabankArena) August 8, 2018

It seems the former Frings space has found a new tenant, and it comes in the form of a popular Vancouver restaurant and lounge. 

West Oak and Pierre's Champagne Lounge, both hailing from Vancouver, will take over the spot on an unannounced date. 

Pierre's is an upscale drinks lounge, and bills itself as Vancouver's "most exclusive room." Meanwhile, West Oak is a very popular restaurant that opened in Vancouver's Yaletown neighbourhood about seven years ago.

The Toronto locations will be the second for both businesses.

Frings was a joint venture between Drake and Susur Lee (and his kids) that shuttered earlier this year after a string of controversies. Frings was only open a short time, having taken over the space from Crush Wine Bar before that. 

Perhaps the new ventures for two Vancouver staples will have better luck in the space.