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Sold! Toronto period home goes for 207K above asking

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Built in 1880, this Cabbagetown Victorian semi-detached house is filled with beautiful original period elements.41 amelia street torontoThe double living room has soaring 10-foot ceilings, and the original white marble mantle with a wood burning fireplace. There’s also beautiful stained glass windows, crown moldings and medallions throughout.

41 amelia street torontoThe house has some interesting decor that may have been difficult to look past for some. The brightly coloured walls and the interesting rainbow wood panelled basement ceiling remind me of circus tents and clowns. So anyone with a clown-phobia could be triggered.

41 amelia street torontoThe kitchen is pretty standard. There’s plenty of storage and counter space. My only gripe with this room is the pitiful backsplash which looks like stick-on tiles.

41 amelia street torontoThe kitchen walks-out into the lush shaded backyard. While it looks a bit overgrown with the fall photographs, you can easily imagine how nice it will be in the summer.

41 amelia street torontoThe bedrooms are upstairs, as is an office. The rooms are spacious and bright.

41 amelia street torontoThere’s one bathroom to share among the three bedrooms on the second floor. So, there might be some traffic jams in the morning, but the double sink will help.

41 amelia street torontoOn the third floor is the master bedroom. It has a balcony that has a view of the treetops but no en suite bathroom. But, the bathroom on the third floor is shared with the family room, so it’s almost like an en suite.

41 amelia street torontoThe family room is just off the master bedroom. It has a wood stove fireplace which will be nice in the brutally cold winter months.  41 amelia street toronto

The Essentials
  • Address: 41 Amelia Street
  • Type: House
  • Bedrooms: 4
  • Bathrooms: 3
  • Size: 21.35 x 120 feet
  • Realtor: Ron Reaman, Sotheby’s International Realty
  • Hit the market at: $1,798,000
  • Sold for: $2,005,00041 amelia street toronto
Why it sold for what it did?

The original historical interior has been preserved marvellously, from the white marble mantle to the delicate ceiling medallions, they’re all still intact which is difficult to find and so the price reflects that.  41 amelia street toronto

Was it worth it?

Definitely. This house only lasted two days on the market. Circus interiors aside whoever bought this place knows the value of a well maintained old home.41 amelia street toronto


Toronto sets new record for lack of sunlight in November

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It's not just you, friend.

Toronto has been atypically dark and dreary over the past 30 days, setting what the Weather Network calls a "startling record for a sun-starved November" with an average cloud cover of 88 per cent during daylight hours.

In fact, there's been just one single day since the end of October in which cloud cover fell below 50 per cent in Toronto. That day was Thursday, November 22, and it was freezing outside with a recorded high of -5 C and a low of - 12 C.

A full nine days were 100 per cent cloudy this November, according to a Weather Network analysis, meaning the sun was not visible at all.

And the story gets sadder yet!

Twenty-four days over the past month saw at least a "trace amount of precipitation" at Toronto International Airport.

This steady onslaught of light rain, drizzle and snow, mixed with a lack of sunlight, created what meteorologists call a negative feedback cycle.

"More moisture was available to be evaporated, which formed even more clouds," explains the Weather Network. "And made it that much harder for the sun to break through."

Vancouver, on the other hand, saw an average cloud cover of just 79 per cent this November, which, while still pretty gloomy, sounds lovely compared to Toronto's measly 88.

You know the weather is acting a fool when Vancouver's less grey than Toronto.

Fingers crossed for a better December, though with lots of rain in the immediate forecast, the Weather Network advises us not to get our hopes up.

"This is a sober reminder to not expect too much to change as 2018 draws to a close," reads the network's analysis. "November and December are notoriously southern Ontario’s cloudiest months of the year."

Toronto is going crazy for the BTS pop-up

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The highly anticipated pop-up for BT21—a collaboration between K-pop megastars BTS and Korean brand Line Friends—was only just announced yesterday, but Toronto is already going nuts. 

There's hundreds of people waiting inside the mall to get their hands on some merch featuring the cute characters from the BT21 brand, designed by the Bangtan Boys themselves. 

There's no doubt The Toronto Army (BTS megafans) showed out.

The line up opened officially at 6 a.m. and apparently some people travelled hours to get there on time. 

But the Dedication Award goes to the first person in line, who says they got there at 12 a.m. The mall was definitely not open then. That's real love.

It's basically a BTS-dedicated party: there's even people blasting the boy band's favourite hits from portable speakers.

People are even Airdropping their fave BTS memes to each other. 

The store officially opened at 10 a.m., and people are finally getting a glimpse of what kind of merch they'll be able to buy. 

The first 700 people got free posters of the adorable characters like Chimmy and Tata. 

Those who didn't get their poster of choice are free to join the trading zone, where Army members are swapping Cookys for Mangs.

Meanwhile, the store has officially been flooded with people trying to purchase whatever BT21 merch they have in stock, like plush pillows and long sleeves.

While The Army will stan no matter what, some people are noting the merch isn't quite what they expected. For one, they don't have the standing plushies. Apparently they're also lacking in holiday merch and full-body keychains.

It doesn't look like they have too much on the shelves, hopefully they have more in the back?

If not, the rest of the Toronto Army better make it down to STC while supplies last.

Drake just had the most action packed night in Toronto

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It's Aubrey's world, guys, we're just living in it.

Toronto's very own international rap superstar took the stage as promised last night at Château Le Jardin in Vaughan, for the launch of an exclusive member's only dinner concert series called Après Noir... albeit a little bit later than expected.

Hey, the event had already been postponed by months — what's a few more hours?

Billed as "a night out for Toronto's indulgent urban-dwelling elite class," the event also featured performances by Jessie Reyez and Mia Martina, art by Daniel Mazzone, and a menu curated by Chef Michael Punzo.

Cool for sure, but it's pretty safe to say that most of the people who shelled out nearly $1,000 a piece for tickets to the event were there to see Drake.

Drake, meanwhile, was at the Scotiabank Arena for a high-profile matchup between the Toronto Raptors and Golden State Warriors.

The Raptors ended up winning the game 131 - 128, with Kawhi Leonard scoring 37 points and Warriors superstar Kevin Durant scoring 51.

Durant and Drizzy "have a long history built on both trash talk and mutual respect," according to NBC Sports, so all eyes were on their cute court-side interactions.

At one point, the NBA All-Star gave Toronto's favourite son an over-the-jacket purple nurple.

Later, he gave the recording artist the jersey off his back.

Later still, Drake managed to get out of the stadium and into what I assume was some sort of vehicle.

Once on site, though, Drake delivered, showing plenty of love for Toronto and his fans.

"Damn, I thought this sh*t was a dinner, I didn’t even know people were turnt up in here like this," said the artist when he got on stage at the Château Le Jardin. 

"I didn't know if I should come out to, like, some slow jams or some sh*t, but I see you wanna go all the way up tonight," he laughed. "I'm ready. I like this."

"I go by the name of Drake in case you didn't know," he continued.

"I spent the past 5 months of my life going around the United States of America and telling everybody every night that I'm from the greatest city in the world: Toronto."

Nicely played, sir.

And if that wasn't sweet enough, the Grammy-winner invited a little kid up on stage with him while performing God's Plan.

"Yeah, put your Snapchat on, we gotta get turned up!" he said to the little boy, who he later referred to as "big OVO boss."

You can see more from the event last night on Instagram via the many brave fans who hoofed it out to Woodbridge just for Drake.

Another one of Susur Lee's restaurants is closing in Toronto

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Lovers of Nouvelle Chinoise will soon no longer be able to indulge their desires for lengthy upscale dim sum meals at Luckee.

The Susur Lee restaurant, stationed at the SoHo Metropolitan Hotel, will be closing its doors for good on December 23.

Operating in the location for five years, the extended lease the restaurant had at the hotel has ended. It’s enjoyed a reputation as one of the best hotel restaurants in the city, as well as one of Toronto’s best Chinese restaurants and best places to get dim sum downtown.

This marks the third closure for a Susur Lee restaurant in the past two years, following Drake collab Frings six months ago and Bent in April 2017.

There is a silver lining though: starting December 4, a special blowout menu of signature favourites from over the years will be served. Sweet and sour crispy sea bass, soft shell crab “Harbour” style, Luckee Duck and char siu beef short ribs are all on the menu.

As for what’s to come from the space and the people behind Luckee, that remains a mystery for now. In the meantime, looks like this as one Asian restaurant you definitely won’t be able to head to for dinner this Christmas. 

Toronto Food Events: Hangover Pizza Battle, Hoppy Holidays, Rose Beef, Filipinoesque

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Food events in Toronto this week waft forth the scent of cinnamon buns on the cheap as Cinnaholic opens up a new location. Hoppy Holiday is back with a festive offering of seasonal brews and a Golden Girls-inspired dinner series would like to thank you for being a friend.

Events you might want to check out:

Cinnaholic Grand Opening (November 30 @ Cinnaholic)
Winter is cinnamon season and the city's newest vegan c-bun chain is opening another location on the Danforth, where there'll be buns for a buck.
Fire Noodle Challenge (November 30 @ Galleria Supermarket)
Cold weather brings hot noodles and this challenge will see contestants battle it out during this free noodle eating contest with lots of prizes up for grabs.
Rainhard Brewing Holiday Party (December 1 @ Rainhard)
Celebrate the holidays in the Aleyards with Rainhard during this holiday party with plenty of brews on tap and a catered selection of yummy comfort food.
Beer. Diversity. (December 1 @ Muddy York Brewing Co.)
Craft beer connoisseur Ren Navarro is on hand to speak about representation and diversity in the industry and serve up a speciality brew.
Brunch Brunch Comedy (December 1 @ Comedy Bar)
A big spread of scrambled eggs, sausage, bagels, fruit and coffee is on alongside standup comedy, drag, improv and poetry.
Grand Bizarre Grand Opening (December 1 @ Grand Bizarre)
A new player in the social dining game arrives by way of the Food Dudes and 10tation as this massive new hall opens with the world’s first food currency.
Filipinoesque Pop-Up (December 1-2 @ IN | A Lifestyle Space)
Traditional Filipino treats are on at this mini-market and ice cream bar courtesy of Filipino Fusion Desserts, talks and a mixer.
Rose Beef (December 2 - January 6 @ Glad Day Bookshop)
Rose and the gang once again take centre stage at this new Golden Girls-inspired dining series with curated comfort food, trivia and performances.
Hoppy Holidays (December 4 @ Berkeley Church)
The holidays are for hops and this annual beer festival is back with lots of brews and other libations on tap for the tasting.
Six Hands Dinner (December 5 @ R&D)
Chefs Alvin Leung, Eric Chong and Christopher Siu are coming together for a four-course dinner with an array of canapés, pairings, and a meet and greet.
Big Reds Wine Tasting (December 5 @ D.W. Alexander)
Winter is all about big bodied red and the Toronto Wine Club is leading a tour through a selection of wines to keep you warm all season long.
Discover the Wines of Hungary (December 6 @ IWEG Drinks Academy)
Master Sommelier John Szabo is on hand to explore the wines of Hungary with wines supplied by the Hungarian Embassy in Ottawa.
Free Chocolate Lava Souffle Pancakes (December 7-8 @ Fuwa Fuwa Japanese Pancakes)
Fuwa Fuwa is opening a second location and celebrating with a two-day give-away of their raspberry chocolate lava shuffle pancakes.
High Park Zoo Beer Launch (December 8 @ High Park Brewery)
A new brew inspired by the cuties at the High Park zoo is launching with a party featuring food by Mad Mexican, drinks and beer samples.
Hangover Pizza Battle (December 9 @ Village Pizza)
We've all been there and Blondie's and Village Pizza are battling it out to create the best pizza that soaks up everything from the night before, even the regrets.
Regent Park Multi-National Holiday Market (December 13 @ Toronto Centre for Community Learning and Development)
Foods from over ten countries around the world can be found at this big holiday market that includes tasting stations and a makers market.

Toronto's massive indoor obstacle course is back open

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Attention, lovers of physical fitness: Pursuit OCR has reopened at long last. 

The indoor obstacle course closed earlier this year due to development plans involving its previous location at 444 Dufferin Street.

Fortunately, its owners were able to find a new, even bigger home at 75 Westmore Drive in Etobicoke. 

The new 10,000-square-foot obstacle course is a high-adrenaline but fun physical workout. The course is a mix of barriers, walls, gymnastic fixtures, ball pits, and more. It tests your ability to sweat, basically. 

The staff want you to get a good workout and get your body moving, without the mundane slog through a gym that some people hate. 

Pursuit OCR also offers classes, including ketteball, and a cryosauna. 

Currently, the space is in a soft launch, with reduced hours. But, it will be opening for full service soon. 

Toronto's neighbourhood of the future will include 40% affordable housing

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Data privacy, schmata privacy.

Sidewalk Labs just released its first draft plan for the futuristic mini-city it plans to build along Toronto's eastern waterfront—and if this is what an Orwellian nightmare looks like, well... pass the Ambien.

Quayside, as the forthcoming neighbourhood is set to be called, looks impressive on paper so far. Controversial data storage and intellectual property practices aside, it almost looks like the beginning of a perfectly inclusive and sustainable world. Looks like.

"For starters, it won't be all condos," wrote the company's public realm and 307 director Jesse Shapins in a blog post announcing the proposal. 

"We're proposing that Quayside be made up of 50 per cent purpose-built rental, 40 per cent below-market rate housing, including a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing," he continued, "making sure that this community reflects the full diversity of Toronto."

In that vein, the California-based Google affiliate says it intends to address "the housing gridlock facing the city today" with new, ultra-efficient living technologies that optimize space.

Actual gridlock will be tackled with such innovations as waste-collecting robots, self-driving cars and underground truck tunnels, as well as by building exceptional bike, pedestrian and public transit infrastructure.

Shapins says that more than 9,000 jobs will be created during the construction phase of Quayside, with another 3,900 in office, retail, production and community expected to be located on site once the build is complete.

Also, all of the buildings at Quayside will be made of wood (or rather mass-timber, an increasingly popular style of development that's championed for its sustainability.)

A total of 12 mixed-use buildings are proposed in this version of the plan, all of them less than 30 storeys tall.

"This will be the greatest concentration of mass timber buildings in the world," reads a press release from Sidewalk Labs that also promises a 75 to 85 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, compared to standard developments.

Of course, few things ever happen as planned, and this is only the very first public draft of a much larger "Master Innovation and Development Plan."

That master plan, when ready, will be reviewed by all levels of government, Waterfront Toronto, Alphabet, and the public before it is approved and even then, it could take another three to five years to build after that.

We also don't know who's going to own all of this stuff, as The Canadian Press points out, so don't go penning love letters to your personal garbage robot just yet.

We're still only just scratching the surface of what this experimental 'smart city' will be, but you can give Sidewalk Labs your input at the organization's fourth public roundtable on December 8.


The top 10 gourmet gift baskets in Toronto for Christmas

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Gift baskets in Toronto for Christmas presents don’t need to be boring, stuffy, old-fashioned wicker hampers wrapped in too many layers of cellophane, filled with weird stuff no one wants wasting away in the corner of an office. Modern bundles can contain anything from fancy cheeses to gourmet macarons to artisanal chocolate.

Here are my picks for the top gift baskets in Toronto right now. 

Cheese Boutique

This revered Etobicoke specialty foods shop custom-designs every single gift basket, working with your personal selections or making recommendations. Of course, specialty cheeses are in no short supply here, but panettone is an especially popular inclusion for Christmas.

Pusateri’s 

For a splurge, head to one of multiple locations of this boutique grocery store to splash out on a gift basket of anything from Brandon Olsen chocolates or Chuck Hughes products to a $330 caviar basket.

Farm Boy

Go for the Sweet Bounty fruit basket with pineapple, oranges, grapes, apples and pears, or the slightly more indulgent Gourmet Country Picnic with Farm Boy brand crackers and chocolate bars, chocolate hazelnut spread, snacks and cheeses from this organic grocery store with an Etobicoke location.

McEwan

Themed gift baskets take all the guesswork out of giving with options like a sweet and savoury basket, office sharing basket, festive basket and more from this gourmet grocer with multiple Toronto locations.

The Candy Bar

Design a custom curated candy basket based around your price point, rather than the other way around when you order from this darling College Street store.

SOMA

Gift baskets are themed around Christmas, drinking chocolate and love from this artisanal chocolatier in the Distillery and on King West.

Nadege

Colourful gift baskets oozing modern style are sure to impress, and the macarons and bonbons inside follow up on the promise of the pretty packaging from multiple Toronto locations of this patisserie.

The Rolling Pin

Epic gift baskets from this showstopper bakery near Avenue and Lawrence include a chocolate chip cookie mix, hot chocolate stick, cookies, jam, candy, a Rolling Pin mug, a popcorn lollipop, meringues, and (wait for it) chocolate-covered Oreos.

Stubbe

Gift baskets have lasting use beyond their original purpose from this Annex chocolatier, with a modern red non-denominational bowl or cute Christmas basket filled with items like truffles, bonbons, marzipan pine cones, chocolate ginger, orange peel and caramelized hazelnuts. 

Sorelle & Co.

Pastel gift askets from this allergen-free bakery with locations in Yorkville and Saks Food Hall might include items like biscotti and teas.

The Toronto Zoo is getting a monorail

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Visitors to the Toronto Zoo will soon be able to ride from one section to another in style, as the construction of a magnetic levitation train in Scarborough moves closer to reality. 

The Toronto Zoo board voted unanimously this week to move forward with plans for a magnetic levitation (maglev) train as proposed by zoo staff earlier this month. Now, it's up to the developers, Magnovate Technologies, to secure funding. 

The company, based out of Edmonton, has to raise about $25 million. It also has to secure approval from the city and the zoo in a more finalized manner, but this should happen quickly if all goes according to plan. 

Once approved, the maglev train will become the first in North America to utilize the technology. It is currently used in parts of Asia at whopping speeds of up to 600 km/h. 

The futuristic train will definitely be an improvement to the zoo's notorious monorail, which caused headaches both literally and metaphorically for years. 

Tickets will cost approximately $12 to $15, and will be split among the zoo and Magnovate for about 15 years, after which the ride will belong to the zoo. Magnovate is building the train at no cost to the city. 

Uber might start delivering groceries in Toronto

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Uber Eats is killing it right now, if you haven't noticed every single condo building in Toronto at all hours of the day and night.

Why go out to grab a burger when you can get one delivered straight to your door? Especially when it's raining or you don't feel like putting shoes on?

Aside from the obvious ill-effects on our health, bank accounts and society at large, food-delivery apps have been a godsend to busy young urbanites who now "order in" on an almost daily basis .

That's what Uber does. It revolutionizes human behaviour, for better or for worse, before we even know what's happening—and it looks like the ride hailing app-turned-global tech juggernaut is ready to move beyond taxis and restaurants.

A new job posting on Uber's Linkedin page states that the company is working on "a brand new product offering which will fundamentally evolve how people purchase their groceries."

"This is a newly formed team whose focus is developing a new business segment within the Uber portfolio," reads the listing, which was first spotted by Business Insider.

That team will be based right here in Toronto, where Uber has been on somewhat of a hiring spree for technical and creative workers lately.

It is not yet clear how the company plans to change the fresh food game, though one might venture to guess that grocery delivery is involved, given how fast that industry is growing.

Whether Uber plans to partner with supermarkets to deliver groceries for them, a la Instacart or Inabuggy, or set up a warehouse to sell its own grocery products, like Amazon, remains to be seen.

"Our Eats team is always looking to expand into new areas where our technology can help people get food more easily and efficiently," said an Uber Spokesperson when asked about the rumours.

Well, okay then. Stay tuned.

The Best Late Night Korean Restaurants in Toronto

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The best late night Korean restaurants in Toronto will satisfy your cravings for fried chicken and BBQ into the wee hours of the morning. There’s nothing more wholesome than a bowl of pork bone soup after the party, and luckily for us, there’s spots scattered across the city serve it 24 hours a day—or at least, very , very late.

Here are the best late night Korean restaurants in Toronto.

3 - The Owl

This Koreatown classic (once part of the The Owl of Minerva chain) has long been a reliable spot for generous portions of Korean comfort food, but the best part about it is that it’s open 24/7.
4 - Lim Ga Ne

An order of blood sausage at 4 a.m. might strike your fancy, it might not. Either way, this popular chain location by Finch station serves Soon Dae Gook and other traditional favourites 24 hours a day. There's another location in <a href="https://www.blogto.com/restaurants/lim-ga-ne-toronto/">Koreatown</a> too.
9 - Mapo Korean BBQ

This Korean spot near Christie Pits can oblige cravings for spicy kimchi stew until 2 a.m. seven days a week. Aside from the steaming bowls of stew, menu highlights include bibimbap, roasted rice cakes with honey, and spicy pork hock.
8 - Doo Roo Ae

This anju bar at Yonge and Eglinton can be found bustling until last call nightly. The menu boasts an array of small plates and shareable platters including classic late night munchies like kimchi fried rice, toasted rice cakes, fried chicken and bo ssam.
5 - Huh Ga Ne

Take a seat on the floor at this 24-hour restaurant by at Yonge and Finch for their amazing PBL and table cooker. You’ll probably have to wait for a seat, but the short line is usually worth it.
6 - Kayagum

Yet another go-to in Koreatown North, this restaurant has a massive selection of Korean eats. Kimchi pancakes and bento boxes are all available at this 24-hour restaurant by Finch station.
7 - Oh Geul Buh Geul

Located on Yonge halfway between Finch and North York Centre stations, this boisterous restaurant gets packed with people hankering for late night Korean eats, available until 4 a.m.
10 - Ehwa Restaurant

The original Ehwa on Yonge may not be open anymore, but its newer counterpart on Isabella St. has become a hotspot for late night Korean. It’s mostly about getting drunk here, but they do have some killer food combos available until 2 a.m. every day.
11 - MyMy Chicken

Cheese and fried chicken: what more do you want after a night of drinking? This popular franchise from Korea has a location in the Annex and by <a href="https://www.blogto.com/restaurants/mymy-chicken-spring-garden-toronto/">North York station</a> to fulfill those cravings for crispy, cheesy, chicken.

10 things to do in Toronto today

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The weekend is just getting started and events in Toronto today have Casa Loma transforming into a winter wonderland, plus a designer makers' market you can take your gift list to. Artist Thrust Holmes is showing his neon light paintings and there's a Polar Bear Dip for charity.

Events you might want to check out:

11.5 Years of Neon (December 1 @ 116 Geary Ave)
Toronto artist Thrush Holmes is showcasing his collection of large-scale paintings that combine traditional illustration with shaped neon lights.
Polar Bear Dip (December 1 @ Cherry Beach)
For all the brave souls out there, the Brainfreeze polar bear dip is back to put the cold in perspective and raise money for mental health.
Kiki's Delivery Service (December 1 @ Revue Cinema)
One of director Hayao Miyazaki's most acclaimed works gets a screening for anime fans to get in on Kiki and Jiji's witchy adventures.
Michael Jackson vs. Prince (December 1 @ Revival)
The power of the biggest names in 80s pop are combined for this big dance party with all the classics, visuals and surprises all night long.
The Last Pogo Jumps Again (December 1 @ Revue Cinema)
Toronto's punk scene comes alive once gain with a screening of this doc that chronicles the movement and a special art installation made of old bills.
J Mascis (December 1 @ The Great Hall)
Indie folk rock singer J Mascis has embarked on a solo journey that has brought his down to earth sound to Toronto.
The Citizens Collective Holiday Market (December 1-2 @ 9 Ossington Avenue)
Over 35 local makers and travelling brands will be on hand for a two-day curated pop-up market with decor, jewellery, skin care, clothing, art and more.
Pixel and Bristle (December 1-2 @ The Drake Hotel)
Toronto artists will be on hand for a special design and typography market with prints, cards, gifts, signage, coasters, wall art, bags and more for sale.
Evergreen's Winter Village (December 1-31 @ Evergreen Brick Works)
Evergreen Brick Works is once again turning into a winter wonderland with an outdoor skating rink, food, drinks, a holiday market and lots more.
A Nutcracker Christmas at the Castle (December 1 - January 6 @ Casa Loma)
Like something out of a fairy tale, Casa Loma is hosting its annual Christmas celebration with dazzling lights, performances and an evening series.

The top 15 places to buy a Christmas tree in Toronto

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Christmas trees in Toronto are now on sale across the city as the advent calendar countdown is on. The city already feels pretty festive, what with the the largest tree in Canada now on display in the Eaton Centre, so the time is right to get your own.

Here are my picks for the top places to buy a Christmas tree in Toronto.

Ikea

Beyond producing furniture put together only by an allen key, this Swedish chain with locations in North York, Etobicoke and Vaughan has arguably the best Christmas tree deal around. Buy a tree for only $20 and receive a $20 coupon to the store. You can celebrate with meatballs!

Fiesta Farms

Everything from tiny two foot Charlie Brown-esque Christmas trees are available at this lot north of Christie Pits as well as huge 14 foot trees. The grocer offers a variety of tree types and will also deliver and install your tree for you.

St. Lawrence Market

Christmas trees as well as mistletoe, holly and wreaths are available at the St. Lawrence Market on Saturdays from Jeff the Christmas Tree Guy. Jeff has been selling trees at the market for more than 25 years and is open for business until December 24.

Dufferin Mall Parking Lot

The best thing about this tree lot is its location. It's a central place for folks on the west side and the parking is plentiful. Christmas Trees by Lou Miceli carries about a thousand trees, so finding the perfect one won't be trouble at all.

Sheridan Nurseries

There are six types of trees to choose from here to ensure you have the right tree for your Christmas presents to sit under. From table top cuties to 12 foot beasts, there's a fresh cut tree ready to be taken home.

Plant World

This store in Etobicoke carries all sorts of plants and holiday decorations as well as seven types of Christmas trees. Find a variety of tree types that start at $44.99 and go up depending on the type of tree and its size. They also offer a delivery service.

Evergreen Garden Market

There are thousands of Christmas trees at the this garden market in the Brick Works. They have six species of locally grown, fresh-cut trees including Fraser Fir and Balsams, traditional White and Scotch Pines and Norway and Serbian spruces. Sizes range from 2.5 feet all the way up to 14 feet.

Lions Christmas Tree Lot at Woodbine Beach

This big ol’ Christmas tree sale used to happen at Kew Gardens Park but can now be found at Woodbine Park where there’s free parking available. It's one of the largest independent tree lots in North America and trees range vary in price depending on size.

Davenport Garden Centre

At the corner of Davenport and Dupont, this store really gets in the holiday spirit with wreaths and other decorations along with a well-stocked back lot of Christmas trees available in a variety of types and sizes, though pricing tends to be on the luxury side of the spectrum.

East End Garden Centre

Leslieville and Beaches residents can shop for Balsam and Fraser Firs, Scotch Pine and Kris Kringle trees at this garden centre on Queen East. There's also plenty of wreaths, wooden deer, and other seasonal decor.

The Scouts of Canada

Many of the local Scouts Canada groups conduct Christmas tree sales around the Greater Toronto Area. Proceeds go to Scouts Canada support, and a list of locations can be found on their website

Tom's Dairy Freeze

This popular Toronto fan-favourite sells soft serve and other cold treats most of the year, but winter arrives, it converts to a full Christmas tree extravaganza. Situated on the Queensway, Tom's has various sizes and shapes for your holiday pleasure.

KING Winter Market

One of the more unusual art exhibits to visit the city is the Serpentine Pavilion, and its made even more unusual by hosting a holiday market. Visitors can pick up a tree for $50, with all proceeds going to West Neighbourhood House. They'll be available weekdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sonny's Christmas Trees

Long-time locals know one of the best places to grab a Christmas tree is at one of Sonny's three locations. This small vendor has donated over $350,000 to charity from tree sales, and can help you find that perfect living room fixture this season.

The Beech

It might sound strange to say you're going to the beach to buy a tree, but this is actually a beautiful plant nursery in Toronto's Port Lands. The wonderful staff here can help you pick out the perfect tree, under which you can store all your presents.  

The Best Custom and Picture Framing Stores in Toronto

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The best custom and picture framing stores in Toronto will fit your favourite artworks, paintings, and prints to a T. Not only that, these stores can also help preserve any other precious paraphernalia in custom shadow boxes, help you mount something on the wall, and print fine art too.

Here are the best custom and picture framing stores in Toronto.

3 - Akau Framing

This popular framing store on West Queen West has long been an essential pit stop for local artists and collectors looking for a pro to help preserve their pieces, from the matting down to the frame.
4 - Superframe

Head to Geary Ave. for a variety of custom framing options that range from hardwood mouldings to frames for your photos, or paintings encased in seamless metals or woods.
5 - The Gilder

Located in Roncy, this framing store’s creations have held some of the country’s most prestigious pieces, like works by the Group of Seven in the AGO. Artists and photographers flock to this spot for jobs of all kinds.
6 - Archetype Custom Framing

This office building-looking framing store in the Junction Triangle will help you preserve and mount your piece of art, plus they also offer reasonable prices for fine art printing.
9 - Darrell Kobza Art Services

Though his main and most well-known trade is bringing old movie posters back to life, Darrell Kobza also offers framing services from his Brockton Village shop, where he’ll work with you to frame even the most delicate pieces to perfection.
10 - Telegramme Prints (Ossington)

This Ossington store has been framing since 2006. Staff here will help you with a number of services, including canvas stretching, matting, and glazing. They also source acid free and UV protected materials for ultimate conservation.
11 - Toronto Image Works

It's a print studio first, but this space near King and Spadina offers all the services an artist could need. From custom frames to shadow boxes (regular, deep, or floating), canvas stretching, and frames with matting—this place does it all.
8 - Akasha Art Projects

There’s over 400 framing samples available at this Cabbagetown art studio, which specializes in framing, fine art printing, and art installation. If that’s not enough, you can design your frame from scratch.
7 - The Framing Depot

Sitting on Lawrence by the DVP, this spacious store is known for their quick custom framing service, even offering pick-ups, deliveries, picture hanging and in-house consultations.

The 10 worst lineups you'll face in Toronto this holiday season

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It's almost inevitable during the holiday season you'll spend an exorbitant amount of time waiting your turn doing whatever popular past-time you've signed up to do. Waiting to buy that special something or getting into the popular new bar, restaurant or event — it's all part of the festivities, I suppose. 

Here are some of the worst lineups you'll face in Toronto this holiday season. 

Toronto Christmas Market

It won't take you long to get into the Distillery District's sprawling Christmas Market, but expect a wait in the cold outside the majority of stalls inside selling poutine, ramen cups, and glasses of negroni. 

Miracle on Queen

Considering the place looks like a Christmas bomb exploded inside of it, this little pop up bar on Queen West will be the hottest destination to revel in the holiday spirit. At least you can leave your name with the doorman, who'll call you when your table's ready. It'll be a while. 

Muji Atrium

The newly re-opened flagship of this Japanese lifestyle might be the one-stop-shop for Christmas gifts. No doubt the embroidery and printing stations will be a hit: who doesn't want a customized tote bag or tee with their name or face on it? 

Canada Goose at Yorkdale

As usual, wait times to get into this Goose location can be outrageous. If you're willing to wait around half an hour to buy, exchange, or repair your pricey winter wear at the mall, then head on over—just beware the added wait time trying to find parking outside.

Nordstrom Rack

At 38,600 square feet, this Nordstrom Rack is the largest in the whole country, meaning shoppers can shop endless looks and homeware pieces for their loved ones (or themselves). That being said, expect lineups at cash out to be insanity.

BT21

Toronto Army—assemble. Megafans of the K-pop boy band BTS have been lining up for hours since this pop-up store opened at Scarborough Town Centre, selling the BT21 Line Friends collection of adorable merch. 

Parts & Labour

This ten-year-old Parkdale mainstay is closing in the new year, so no doubt diners and live music lovers alike will be scrambling to get into whatever events are left to attend here. Time to squeeze into that basement for one last banger.

Christmas Market at Unzipped

Toronto's coolest installation will soon be a pop-up Christmas market too. Unzipped on King West started selling Christmas Trees today and by December 7, festive little wares. The glass box structure isn't huge, so you definitely won't get in right away.

Lady Marmalade

The original Leslieville location of this popular brunch spot was always overflowing with people, especially on weekends. It's recently re-opened in East Chinatown in a larger space, but given the deliciousness of those Eggs Bennys, just waltzing in probably isn't an option.

FAO Schwarz on Queen

This iconic New York toy store of Big fame has finally landed in all Hudson's Bay stores, and the flagship store at Yonge and Queen has something especially worth waiting for: a picture with the massive, seven-foot teddy bear.

The top 5 new restaurants on the Danforth

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New restaurants on the Danforth offer a wide range of cuisines utilizing ingredients that range from the local to the Mediterranean. Greek, Tibetan, and something called “bi-coastal” food are on just some of the new menus that have popped up in this area of town.

Here are my picks for the top new restaurants on the Danforth.

Soula’s

When only mezes, flaming saganaki, and hearty Greek entrees will do, head to this lively restaurant near Logan.

Momo Hut

Nothing is more comforting than steamy Tibetan dumplings smothered in spicy gravy, otherwise known as momos. Now the Danforth has this new place to get them right across from Chester station.

The Ellery

A stone’s throw from Woodbine station resides this go-to for elevated bar food like charcuterie boards and burgers.

City Betty

The east and west coast come together in elegant plates that gather ingredients like Ontario ribeye and Fogo Island crab and shrimp at this spot near Greenwood.

Cumin Kitchen

Upscale takes on authentic Indian are always welcome in any neighbourhood, and now this neighbourhood has a new spot for them near Glebemount.

This Toronto artist can't stop painting junk food

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I found my first snack painting in Smash, a salvaged furniture store in the Junction: a print of a bag of Miss Vickie’s Sea Salt and Malt Vinegar chips. On a smaller scale, it resonated with me just as much as Infinity Mirrors or Anthropocene at the AGO. I had to have it. 

I still do, to this day. Art related to food captures a special part of our imaginations: Andy Warhol’s paintings of Campbell’s tomato soup, for example. Perhaps this is why Ashley Smallwood’s snack paintings are blowing up.

Cheezies, cans of Crush, Doritos: these are the snacks we grew up on, and it often takes just a glimpse of a logo to bring back memories, and Smallwood capitalizes on this. 

“A few months into it I had a little collection of classic snacks going and they seemed to make people happy,” she says. “If I can paint a bag of Cheezies and it makes someone smile, then my job is done.”

Starting out painting mostly to make Christmas gifts for friends and family, the first snacks Smallwood chose to depict were staples from her Newfoundland childhood like mustard pickles, hard bread and pineapple Crush.

All paintings are done in watercolour, mostly on birch panels right here in Toronto in what Smallwood calls her “one-human snack factory.”

snack paintings toronto

Smallwood now also makes enamel pins and patches featuring some of her most popular snacks.

She’s been painting snacks for about five years now, has painted hundreds of custom paintings and has about 100 classic snack designs in rotation that are available at stores throughout town at Crywolf, Community 54 and The Future of Frances Watson, as some stores in St. John’s and of course, online. 

She also does pet portraits, saying “If snacks and dogs could make me happy, then I was sure I wasn’t alone. Custom paintings, whether of snacks or pets, are the ultimate because you can choose every aspect of it and end up with a piece that you truly love and feel connected to.” 

Smallwood does every single painting herself, so orders take anywhere from three to six months to arrive. 

“My goal is to make you feel like a kid again,” she says. “I want people to remember their favourite childhood snack and to ultimately feel that sense of nostalgia for the good old days when picking your favourite treat from the corner store was your biggest dilemma.

“People might not be able to relate to an abstract or uptight piece of art, but people get snacks!”

Yonge and Bloor was total chaos because of the TTC

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Everyone knows the commute between Bloor station and Eglinton is usually torture—what with signal upgrades and constant delays—but yesterday's shenanigans might have topped it all. 

Line 1 seemingly erupted into chaos yesterday after an injury on St. Clair's track, disrupting service between Bloor and Eg completely at the height of rush hour. 

Massive crowds formed on the corner of Bloor and Yonge as hundreds of disgruntled passengers waited to hop on a shuttle northbound. 

According to TTC officials, there were between 85 and 95 shuttle buses running during that time. 

For anyone who thought they could outsmart the delays: no luck. There seemed to have been major delays on Line 1's west side too, effectively souring everyone's TGIF mood.

Not surprising considering that portion between Finch West and St. George stations is closed. Looks like the TTC doesn't have a shuttle bus operator shortage anymore. 

10 things to do in Toronto today

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If you're already longing for the lush greenery that accompanies summer, you're in luck because events in Toronto today include the start of the Winter Flower Show. A stellar lineup of stars are here for the iHeartRadio Jingle Bell and there's lots of great markets happening.

Events you might want to check out:

iHeartRadio Jingle Ball (December 2 @ Scotiabank Arena)
A star-studded lineup of artists are in Toronto for this big concert featuring The Chainsmokers, Khalid, Dua Lipa, Alessia Cara, Loud Luxury and lots more.
Japanese Winter Festival (December 2 @ Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre)
Fuyu Matsuri, the JCCC's annual winter festival, returns with a full day of Christmas shopping, activities, food and a special wellness room.
Women in Food (December 2 @ Revue Cinema)
Bechdel Tested is back and ready to take a look at women in food films with a screening of Julie & Julia starring Meryl Streep as the iconic Julia Child.
Liberty Village Holiday Market (December 2 @ 99 Sudbury Glass Factory)
Over 50 local artisans are coming out for this huge market with tons of unique works by craft-makers, photographers, designers and foodies.
Best Short Films of 2018 (December 2 @ Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema)
Fifteen short films from the year are screening with works by directors from all over the world and across different genres.
The Eco Lifestyle Holiday Market (December 2 @ The Great Hall)
Conscious consumers can pick from huge range of sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle and wellness products by local artisans.
Cult Leader (December 2 @ Hard Luck Bar)
No rest for the wicked on this fine Sunday as this hardcore punk and metal band is growling and screaming out the Devil's music on the Lord's day.
Merry Moose Market (December 2 @ ildsjel Collective)
Norwegian flair with some Toronto soul comes together for a curated market of local creators selling handmade wears alongside food, drinks and tunes.
Rose Beef (December 2 - January 6 @ Glad Day Bookshop)
Rose and the gang once again take centre stage at this Golden Girls-inspired dining series with curated comfort food, trivia and performances.
Winter Flower Show (December 2 - January 9 @ Multiple Venues)
It may be getting colder but that's when some plants thrive and the winter flower show is ripe with blooms, vines and lush plants from around the world.
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