Open since the summer, this underground live music venue has been drawing crowds for more than just its regular programming of live music from local bands and DJs. With classic arcade games, craft beer and themed entertainment nights (with food and cocktails to match) there are plenty of reasons to stop by.
Read my profile of Junction City Music Hall in the bars section.
The TTC will soon accept credit and debit cards at subway fare booths for sets of 10 tokens or more, the transit commission has announced. It was reported earlier that payments over $10 would be accepted, but that appears not to be the case.
Right now, credit and debit cards are only accepted for weekly or monthly passes. Under the new rules, riders will be able to purchase day passes and tokens in quantities of 10, 20, or 50 with a Mastercard, Visa, American Express, or Interac card.
Cash, token, or Presto (downtown only) will remain the only way of paying a single fare. Tokens in sets 3, 4, 5, and 7 will only be available with cash.
There were concerns when the TTC first installed credit and debit card machines in 2013 that opening up all fares to electronic payments would lead to long queues at the fare box.
"If you could buy a single token with a credit card that would just mean we'd have enormous lineups, so that would be somewhat of a shot in the foot, that would be counterproductive," Byford said. "There is a science behind what we're doing, but ultimately what we really want to do is get rid of tokens, get rid of transfers, get rid of tickets and move to Presto as soon as we can."
Mayor John Tory and TTC CEO Andy Byford said "wave and pay" technology, which allows faster credit and debit transactions, could be installed some time in the next year as an interim measure before the arrival of Presto.
Byford said the TTC had to design and build a cash register system to use with the credit and debit card machines, slowing down the launch.
The changes, which will cost about $1.5 million over the next five years, will take effect Jan. 1 2015.
What do you think? Is this a step in the right direction for the TTC?
Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.
Image: Mike Campbell/blogTO Flickr pool.
A new chapter is being written in the long history of troubled beer ventures at 75 Victoria Street. Sources report that, by the end of the year, The Beer Academy, the brewery and event space run by Six Pints Specialty Beer Company, will close its doors permanently.
In its place, Molson, who owns Six Pints, apparently plans to open a Creemore Springs brewpub.
The news will probably be neither heartbreaking nor overly-exciting to Toronto's craft beer fans given that the location had and will retain its connection to a big corporate brewery, but those who had a chance to try the beers coming from the small and talented team at The Beer Academy (and were capable of looking past the brewery's corporate overlords), will know that this is a loss of a frequent source of some entirely respectable small batch offerings--regardless of who was footing the bill.
Indeed, it seemed as of late that The Beer Academy, long a confused hodge-podge of tasting room, brewery, and event space, was arguably just starting to find its legs.
Sources have also conveyed to me the fairly shitty news that almost the entire staff of The Beer Academy--including all the retail staff, the General Manager, the on-site chef, and the tour guides--have been unceremoniously fired just in time for Christmas.
The space at 75 Victoria was previously Duggan's Brewpub, which closed in 2007, and before that it was Denison's Brewing Company, which closed its doors in 2003.
I'm told the last official day for The Beer Academy will be December 31, 2014 and, while details still aren't entirely clear on the Creemore Brewpub, Molson allegedly hopes to open it in mid 2015.
Ben Johnson also writes about beer over on Ben's Beer Blog. Follow him on twitter @Ben_T_Johnson.
Photo credit: Paul Aihoshi
Open since the spring, this Ossington bar is more than a one trick pony - they serve craft beer and coffee along with an extensive desserts menu. They host DJ nights and they also provide a destination for those wanting to play board games with a group of friends.
Read my profile of The Well in the bars section.
It sounds like Streetcar Developments is keeping things local when it comes to the redevelopment of the Broadview Hotel. With major plans in place to renovate and rebrand the historical structure into an east side entertainment destination, a huge component is the restaurant that will eventually occupy the former home of Jilly's.
A report from Spring Realty indicates that the ownership team behind Table 17, Hi Lo, and Ascari Enoteca have been awarded the lucrative contract. A formal announcement has yet to be made, so details pertaining to the scope and concept of the space are still forthcoming.
It would be fair to characterize this as something of a surprise given the marquee nature of building -- one suspects some major players were in the running for the contract -- but it also makes sense given the Table 17 group's knowledge of the neighbourhood and comfortability with different concepts (from Italian dining to dive bars). That diversity should prove an asset when putting together a restaurant that is already being heralded as an east side heavyweight.
Gift ideas for fashionable guys in Toronto are everywhere - with the retail game in this city growing by leaps and bounds, you can't swing a Red Wing boot by its artisanal shoelace without smacking some deadly-looking piece of clothing. The sky's the limit (in this case, "the sky" = "your budget") - start with these suggestions, and you'll have those dapper Dans ticked off your gift list in no time. Try not to buy 15 things for yourself while you're at it.
Here are my picks for 10 holiday gift ideas for the male fashionista in Toronto.
So, so many socks
Fancy socks are back in a big way - and, contrary to your childhood Christmas morning disappointments, they make great gifts. Assemble a gift basket from the scads of sock companies that launched in Toronto over the past year or so: Huely, WeSell Socks, YoSox and Socking Behaviour (the latter two also offer sock of the month clubs).
A toasty, warm flannel
Every Toronto man needs a great flannel shirt (hell, with winters this long, they need at least a dozen). I'm partial to the Portuguese Flannel shirts ($130) at Toronto-based e-tailer Park & Province. They've got a pop-up running all month at 104 Ossington St. - go pet these kitteny-soft things for yourself.
A monthly subscription
Know what's better than one gift? Twelve gifts (obviously). The aforementioned sock subscriptions aside: Pochetti, a brand-new pocket square purveyor, offers monthly, bi-monthly and quarterly "squarescriptions" ($150-380) - specify favourite and least favourite colours, and they'll send a new style each month.
Wear-everywhere basics
Frank & Oak's new Toronto location on Queen West is a perfect destination for gifts - their clothing is basic and tasteful enough for any dude to love. I'm partial to their incredibly economically-priced merino sweaters ($55); on the higher side of things, there's their classic leather weekender bags ($335).
Spiffy shoes
Do you know the shoe size of the person you're shopping for (or can you somehow social-engineer them into revealing it in conversation)? Loding's calf-leather shoes ($330), available in Yorkville or at their new First Canadian Place location, are a worthy splurge - the finishing on the leather is always stunning.
Locally-made grooming products
Crown Shaving Co. makes shaving products (including a "tobacco, leather, bay rum and barber's talc"-scented aftershave) using natural ingredients, while Rebels Refinery leans toward the skincare side - gift picks include handy starter kits ($58) and this rad skull-shaped lip balm ($7.99). (If you spend any time in close proximity to this person's facial hair, look at this as a personal investment.)
The perfect patterned bowtie
The trend for dandy, dapper menswear accoutrements is holding steady, with tons of Toronto designers ready to help you get in touch with your inner Bill Nye. A few favourites: The Common-Folk, who uses Japanese fabrics; Just Sultan, whose ties are all reversible and adjustable; Pomp and Ceremony, whose designs feature a garden of Liberty prints; and Dickie Shoppe, a brand-new arrival whose bowties just landed at Gotstyle.
A Toronto-designed parka
Uncle Otis has paired up with Canada Goose to create a custom parka that's just as at home in Yorkville as it is up at the cabin. Not looking to plonk down $1,100 for a gift? Pick up a "Toronto" down-filled puffer from local brand OSC Cross ($320) instead.
A little quality time
Plenty of gents are averse to spending money on themselves, so even though they might not think to book themselves in for a hot shave or a mini-massage, they'll probably thank you for making it happen. A few ideas: Beard-friendly facials at Saul's or haircuts with mini-facials and hand massages ($39) at ManCave Barbers Lounge. Check out our list of salon and spa treatments for men for more ideas.
A Toronto snapback
Get Fresh Co. does the "YYZ" hat ($40) that's fast becoming a new classic, while Thank You Toronto throws in a charitable element by donating a meal to the homeless for each $39.99 hat sold (very holiday-appropriate). And, of course, there's a store on Dundas West selling "the 6" hats that's run by some famous dude, I don't know.
What amazing items did I miss? Leave your ideas in the comments.
Thanks to the LCBO for sponsoring our 2014 Gift Guide.
Photo via The Common-Folk website.
Restaurants for sale right now in Toronto span from tiny takeout joints to sprawling two-floor affairs, with many still operating while they look for a new owner (good news for those of you who don't want to see a neighbourhood joint go under). If you've ever dreamed of starting your own business (or if someone on your gift list really wants a 20-seat sandwich shop for Christmas), this is it.
Here are 10 restaurants you can buy right now in Toronto.
Weezie's
The Corktown lunch and dinner spot, while still kicking, has been put up for sale (for just $35,000). While they do boast that they've been "well reviewed in all medias" and are ideally positioned for the upcoming Pan Am Games and new office developments on King East, the recent Corktown construction has almost certainly been tough on the restaurant.
Rakia Bar
Technically, this one's a twofer; both the Annex and Leslieville locations of the Eastern European bar are up for sale. The latter spot ("ideal for all day breakfast") is up for $75,000, while the former, which features a large back patio, is available for $59,000.
Ginger
The Annex location of the popular Vietnamese chain, occupying some prime real estate on Bloor, is available for $99,000.
ZeZe
Sadly, it looks like after less than a year in business, ZeZe has already run into some speed bumps. The Parkdale lunch and brunch spot is up for sale for $49,000, with the sellers noting it would be ideal for a family business or new operator.
Mangiacake
This OCAD-area Italian sandwich joint is available now for $100,000 (which seems steep, but includes a 1-2 bedroom apartment upstairs).
John's Italian Caffe
The entire building that houses this Baldwin Village spot is up for sale -- restaurant and all. The whole shebang ("ideal for owner-operator) will set you back a cool $1,199,000.
Coppi
Coppi, at Yonge and Lawrence, has been open for 22 years and recently underwent a renovation. Now, they're selling the Italian ristorante (which includes a 44-seat party space on the second floor) for $299,000.
Pho Huong
Located on "the best block of College St." (in the real estate agent's humble opinion) is the former Pho Huong, which sits between Grace and Clinton streets. The "recently renovated" 72-seat restaurant can be yours for $99,000.
Le Ti Colibri
The tiny French/Caribbean crossover spot in Kensington Market is now available for $55,000. The space seats just 10, but the back patio eases some of the congestion in the summer.
La Croisee
This now-empty space at Bayview and Eglinton was once home to a candlelit, cozy French restaurant. For $79,000, it can be whatever you want it to be; there's plenty of space, including 53 seats on the bottom floor, 74 seats up top, and 10 more on the patio.
Know of any other restaurants for sale? Let us know in the comments.
This super-modern home at 6A Brockton Avenue is back on the market after making the rounds roughly four years ago. Noteworthy as the residence of well-known interior designer Elaine Cecconi, the house has now been re-listed at the same asking price as it was before -- $2,250,000 -- after initially being posted at $2,400,000. Given the rise of Brockton Village, the flat-lined asking price is probably worth a raised eyebrow.
It's surprising because there's not much to dislike here. While the house is listed well above what neighbouring properties go for, it's obviously unique to the neighbourhood and a contemporary design lover's wet dream. Perhaps the whole all-white thing bothers some people, but it's not without a touch of class.
SPECS
Address: 6A Brockton Avenue
Price: $2,250,000
Lot Size: 44x90
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 4
Parking: 4
Taxes: $5,839.89
Walk Score: 88
NOTABLE FEATURES
GOOD FOR
Fans of contemporary design, duh. This is also a great home on account of its walkability (Walk Score of 88) and its proximity to multiple neighbourhoods with enviable restaurant and bar scenes. Brockton and Dundas doesn't feel like the heart of it all, but it most certainly feels close to everything. That's actually a really nice combination.
MOVE ON IF
This would probably not be a great place for a burgeoning family though, unless the plan was to just bleach the place a couple times a year to get ride of the all the stains that would accrue. If you're a clumsy wine drinker, this place is also probably not a great fit -- but if vodka is your drink, buy away!
ADDTIONAL PHOTOS
Read other posts in this series via our House of the Week Pinterest board.
Thanks to Bosley Real Estate for sponsoring our House of the Week.
Today in Toronto there's a free public opening at the AGO for rarely seen works from Art Spiegelman's career - and the Maus comic artist will be in attendance himself. Not to be missed. Then in Kensington Videofag gets my coven and I, and this free screening of cult teen sensation The Craft should be a carol-free zone (wear your blackest, least ironic sweater). Speaking of sweaters, donate yours on Queen West today here. For more events, click on over to our events section.
Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events calendar or contact us directly.
Bands get their names through a combination of crafty word association, meaningful moments, and serendipity. Toronto bands are no different, and we often take our own unique streets, sites, landmarks, and neighbourhoods as name inspirations. From Yorkville to the Junction to the TTC, there remain no shortage of possibilities for municipal band names.
Here are my picks for the top bands named after Toronto neighbourhoods and landmarks.
Toronto
The name Toronto was actually a pre-showtime name change from Sass. Holly Woods, Brian Allen, Scott the Mott Kreyer, Nick Costello, and Jimmy Fox were Sass until a Toronto bar manager re-named them in the late 70's. Juno nominations followed along with hits "Your Daddy Don't Know", and Girls' Night Out". They went on to change their name to Holly Woods and Toronto.
The Beaches
Since we caught up with The Beaches in 2013 they've gone on to international success. Hailing from the east end (once Rosedale HS), and aptly named, sisters Jordan Miller and Kylie Miller with friends Eliza Enman McDaniel and Leandra Earl have toured extensively and featured at SXSW.
The Birds of Bellwoods
Four-piece band Birds of Bellwoods made headlines in 2014. After our February interview, they were kicked off NXNE for violating the 45-day radius clause for playing a charity event 38-days before the festival. Taking their name from Trinity Bellwoods Park, they'll be bringing their folk sound to CMW 2015.
The Leslie Spit Treoo
In 1989, the trio of Laura Hubert, Pat Langer, and Jack Nicholsen went from busking to being featured in Bruce McDonald's Road Kill. Their name came from the Leslie Spit in the Port Lands area. There are some mentions the Treoo is a reference to "trees" and their dog manager-mascot Tag, and not a three person collective.
Kensington Market
Alex Darou and Keith McKie of Sault Ste. Marie, previously of the Vendettas joined Eugene Martynec (Bobby Kris & the Imperials) to form Kensington Market in 1967. With guidance from Bernie Finkelstein, lineup additions, and shows in Yorkville, they went on to release Avenue Road and an NFB soundtrack for Ernie Game. An album reissue in 2008 saw a reunion at Hugh's Room.
The Mynah Birds
Fact: Rick "Superfreak" James and Neil Young were in a r&b band. Bobbi Lee and the Scepters were the house band at Yorkville coffee house The Mynah Bird in the 60's (known for Rajah the bird). Re-named after the venue, Rick Matthews (James) was added, and Neil on 12-string acoustic. The recordings for a Motown contract in '66 were reportedly lost/mislabeled. Other members were Bruce Palmer (Buffalo Springfield with Neil), Goldie McJohn, and Nick St. Nicholas (Steppenwolf).
The James Clark Institute
James Clark gives a wink and a nod to "The Clarke Institute of Psychiatry" (now CAMH). The original Clarke hospital on College St. is part of a the CAMH four hospital amalgam and documented in the Coach House book: The Clarke and Its Founder. Indie pop-rock JCI have regular showcases throughout the city.
Mimico
Listed as "Canadian post-punk to watch" by AuxTV, Mimico take their band name from the southwest neighbourhood of Toronto. Psychedelia fans will enjoy their live shows as well as their 7-inch recording with Fresh Snow. Incantation, their full LP is set for January 2015 release. Catch them at Class of 2014.
Bathurst Station
On the Toronto indie scene for just over a year, Bathurst Station have played two Indie Fest showcases, and the Reel Film Fest, along with regular shows at the Bovine Sex Club. Their video cover of "You're The One I Want" (Grease) on Youtube is near 120,000 views. Bathurst Station is a full band playing rock duets.
Deuce Springsteen and the Queen St. Band
One of city's favourite cover bands was on hiatus for part of 2013-2014. Deuce Springsteen and the Queen St. Band are named after both the Boss' E Street Band (E street in Belmar, NJ) and Toronto's own Queen St. The band features TWO Bruces: Joel "Badlands" Battle and Dave "Born To Run" Borins.
Honourable mentions
What did I miss? Add your suggestions for bands named after Toronto neighbourhoods and landmarks in the comments.
No neighbourhood in Toronto has undergone a more seismic aesthetic and ideological shift as Yorkville over the the last 50 years. What started as an independent, working class village north of Toronto became Canada's Greenwich Village, a mecca for hippies and alternative lifestyles in the 1960s. A few decades later, the bare feet and cafes had been replaced by designer clothing stores and high-end hotels.
Here are 10 quirky things you didn't know about Yorkville.
Yonge and Bloor used to be the site of a pauper's cemetery
Officially known as the Toronto General Burying Grounds, the Strangers' Burying Ground or Potter's Field (a biblical name given to a number of nondenominational cemeteries around the world) was a place where anyone could be buried, regardless of religion. Between 1826 and 1855, 6,685 people were interred in the then-rural location near Yonge and Bloor. The bodies were exhumed and relocated to the Necropolis and Mount Pleasant Cemetery in the two decades after the cemetery closed.
Mr. Sub was founded in Yorkville
The first store in the Canadian hoagie empire opened at 130 Yorkville Ave. in 1968 under the more formal title of Mr. Submarine. Barefoot hippies gathered outside its entrance in the late 1960s, strumming acoustic guitars. Four years after it was founded, under the guidance of former dishwasher Gus Boulis, the business opened its first franchise location in 1972. By 1977, there were 200 Mr. Submarine stores in Canada.
The Toronto International Film Festival was first held on St. Thomas St.
The glitzy film festival has migrated south over the years, but it was first held at the Windsor Arms Hotel in Yorkville as the "Festival of Festivals," In 1976, its first year, organizers Bill Marshall, Henk Van der Kolk and Dusty Cohl showed a selection the best movies from other festivals around the world to an audience of around 35,000. Dramatically growing in size and scope over the ensuing decades, the event was renamed the Toronto International Film Festival in 1994.
Joni Mitchell made her musical debut on Yorkville Ave.
The Penny Farthing cafe at 112 Yorkville Ave. was a weird sort of a place. Out the back of the converted home owner John McHugh installed a swimming pool and patio that in summer was serviced by waiters clad in bikinis. Inside, the cafe hosted performances by noted jazz and blues musicians, including Mitchell, but it McHugh was never much of a fan of the musical culture he helped nurture. Folk music was banned from his high-end stereo, he told Eric Veillette in the Star this year.
Yorkville nurtured Toronto's first cafe culture
When The Coffee Mill closed its doors this summer, it marked the end of Yorkville's once-vibrant coffee scene. In the 1960s, the neighbourhood was home to numerous European-style cafes, many of them with large outdoor patios at a time when most Canadian coffee drinkers preferred to remain inside. The Riverboat, Chez Monique, Village Corner, Mynah Bird, New Gate of Cleve, Café El Patio, and the Flick also doubled as music venues, nurturing the early careers of beloved acts like Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and Gordon Lightfoot.
Yorkville hippies demanded the neighbourhood be pedestrianized at Queen's Park and City Hall
As Yorkville's legend grew, the neighbourhood became increasingly popular with tourists who jammed the narrow streets with cars. Locals sought to have vehicles banned, organizing to a "love in" protest at Queen's Park in 1967 and a sit-in on Yorkville Ave. that resulted in more than 60 arrests. There were other mass protests in Nathan Phillips Square, but the city refused to budge, eventually leading to a crackdown on local drug dealers and users.
The neighbourhood was also home to the city's first drug culture
In its countercultural heyday, Yorkville was known as much for its drugs as it was its music scene. The CBC ran concerned news reports about long-haired shoeless slackers smoking marijuana, taking LSD, and generally loafing around, while the local government viewed the neighbourhood with more than just suspicion. In 1967, the police presence was dramatically increased and a 10 p.m. curfew imposed.
A motorcycle gang provided security for Yorkville in the hippie days
The Vagabonds, "Vags" for short (that's a hard "g,") arrived in Yorkville around 1966, bringing with them hard drugs like heroin, Jake Schabas recalls at Spacing. The gang, led by the long blonde-haired "Jesus," formed an alliance with local hippies that allowed them to continue selling drugs in exchange for providing security. The Vags had a similar agreement with the residents at Rochdale College, an alternative university near Bloor and Spadina, and were once headquartered at 127 Hazelton Ave.
No-one is quite sure why Bloor isn't spelled Bloore
Poor Joseph Bloore. The only known photograph of the brewer who co-founded the Village of Yorkville is truly awful, and even today the name of street that bears his name is, for reasons historians have been unable to definitively explain, possibly misspelled. Local historian Stephen Otto thinks Bloor added the "e" to perhaps add a little flair to his last name, but that the correct spelling remains the one Toronto put on its street signs.
The developer of Hazelton Lanes helped end Yorkville's counterculture days
Developer Richard Wookey began buying up Yorkville property in the late 1960s, renting out space to The Vagabonds (see above) and appearing to be hospitable to the local culture. Wookey converted numerous homes into upscale boutiques and built the York Square and Hazelton Lanes shopping centres, pioneering the principles of adaptive reuse with architects Jack Diamond and Barton Myers.
Over the decades, the resulting idealogical shift helped turn Yorkville into the kind of tony neighbourhood where one can find a $28 million condo.
Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.
Image: Toronto Telegram fonds, F0433, ASC00589, ASC00590, ASC00615, ASC00639, ASC00600, ASC00063, ASC00640.
As the year comes to a close, it's time to bid a fond (in most cases) farewell to some of the businesses that shut their doors in Toronto this year. Rising rents and tough times claimed numerous Toronto businesses this year; some had been open for decades, while others were just starting to find their feet.
Here's a roundup of some of the notable Toronto businesses that closed in 2014.
See also:The 10 biggest restaurant flops in Toronto for 2014
Scarpetta
The Italian restaurant at the Thompson Hotel shuttered in March and was promptly replacedby August with Colette Grand Cafe from The Chase Hospitality group.
Jilly's
The Queen and Broadview strip club shuttered in March; it's set to return to its old roots as the New Broadview Hotel, with a makeover courtesy of Streetcar Developments.
Neutral
For years, gothic and industrial types descended to this basement club, located at the northern edge of Kensington Market, for dancing, live tunes and karaoke. Neutral shut down in January after the owners announced the business was no longer sustainable.
Ursa
Shortly after its debut in 2012, this West Queen West restaurant earned raves from food critics for its health-focused ingredients and techniques - but the appetite waned for their fanciful dishes, and the owners pulled the plug in October.
Global Village Backpackers
The popular destination for backpack-toting travelers shut down abruptly in January, and the building - formerly the Spadina Hotel - was put up for sale over the summer.
Cookbook Store
After 31 years in Yorkville, this food-focused independent bookseller closed, due to become part of One Yorkville's redevelopment into condos. Luckily for Torontonian gourmands, the final chapter has yet to be written as the Cookbook Store lives on in a corner of All The Best Fine Foods.
Balisi
All of the local shoe chain's locations - including spots on the Danforth and Queen West, in Little Italy, and at Yonge and Eglinton - abruptly closed their doors in April of this year.
Yours Truly
This three-year-old restaurant and bar toyed with a la carte and tasting menus to great acclaim on Lower Ossington before shutting down over the summer.
Penrose Fish & Chips
After 64 years in business, owners Dave and Rosemary Johnston of this beloved chippy on Mount Pleasant have retired.
Andy Poolhall
The decade-old retro lounge on College St., a longtime home for queer dance parties like Cherry Bomb, shut down over the summer; though the owners hinted at a possible second life for the club, there's been no visible movement since.
The Bickford Flexitarian
With the aim of accommodating vegetarians and meat eaters alike, it's a wonder that this Christie Pits-area spot with mass appeal didn't survive - but the Flexitarian closed its doors at the beginning of the summer.
Zorba's
Greektown institution, Zorba's called it quits this summer after 23 years at Danforth and Pape. Taking over the space, The Court Jester is moving in and dividing the space into a pub and a deli.
Strada 241
Lasting just under two years, this rustic Italian eatery focused on casual comfort foods closed its doors in Chinatown in July.
Theatrebooks
The long-running bookstore focused on the dramatic arts launched in 1975, and folded just two years after a big move to King and Spadina.
The Grove
While their reverential but refined take on British cuisine proved a hit with diners and critics alike, this innovative restaurant closed for business after almost three years in November.
Little Bean N Green
The "infant-friendly" cafe, which catered to Leslieville families with a play area and an in-house babysitting service, went under in October (much to the chagrin of local parents).
Fusia Dog
Globe trotting haute dogs are out and handheld Aussie meat pies are in at the corner of Duncan and Queen this niche hot dog outfit replaced by Kanga.
The Pie Shack
The location on Annette shuttered in April leaving but an empty shell in its prime corner lot.
Hammersmith's
After a respectable three-year run, this remodelled diner in East Chinatown has already replaced by the Saturday Dinette.
Big Daddy's DVD Shop
The Junction DVD shop was a favourite for its well-edited selection of film-buff classics, as well as its quirky vibe (thanks to a liberal smattering of robot statuettes and film projectors).
Ortolan
With Brockton Village booming in recent years, it's a shame this seasonally-driven eatery that opened in 2011 couldn't hang on just a little longer to see the neighbourhood's dining landscape mature.
Cake Opera Co.
The retail outlet for fanciful cakes and confections closed this year, and while sadly the bakeshop is no longer accepting orders, it's likely not the last we've heard of now-renowned owner and cake artist Alexandria Pellegrino, who's now taken her skill-set on the road.
Zocalo
The buzz about this locavore-friendly restaurant couldn't be sustained after the departure of opening chef, Joel MacMillan who branched off to open his own eatery, Me & Mine.
Brockton General
Opened in 2010, this pioneer of Dundas West's thriving dining scene earned much acclaim for its ever evolving menus though sadly it served its last supper in March of this year.
Remy's
The longstanding Yorkville restaurant closed its door this year only to reopen as Montage, a multi-story establishment featuring rooftop patio, member's only green room and first floor dining room.
Swish By Han
This Wellington restaurant from owners Leemo and Leeto Han is now closed, though the creative mashup up of Korean-American bar foods can still be found on Ossington at Oddseoul and upcoming venture, Han Moto opening in the new year.
Red Tea Box
The West Queen West fixture for fancy tea services and ornate confections closed this fall after 14 years in business.
Preloved
A West Queen West stalwart, this reconstructed-clothing company caved to rent pressure at the beginning of 2014, vacating their storefront opposite Trinity Bellwoods and moving online.
Huntsman Tavern
First Mitzi's, then Red Fish - the curse of this College St. address continues with the demise of the woodsy Huntsman Tavern, which lasted barely a year.
Aria Entertainment Complex
The massive Entertainment District mega-club (which really, really wanted you to think it was four separate clubs) lasted just over a year before closing over the summer.
Which businesses will you miss the most? Add your condolences to the comments.
Writing by Liora Ipsum and Natalia Manzocco. Photo of Remy's rooftop patio.
A reader tipped us off to this subversive bit of street art spotted in the Financial District last night. Located at Commerce Court, the quirky intervention is appended to Derrick Stephan Hudson's bronze sculpture Temba, Mother of Elephants, which was installed in the courtyard in 2002.
The update is small but telling. Two ball and chains adorned with gold dollar signs are affixed to the young elephants, which serves as both a reminder of the area's fundamental purpose -- this is the Financial District, after all -- and as a subtle critique of this particular brand of public art.
Sculptures installed at semi-public spaces in and around King and Bay aren't exactly art for art's sake. While all significant artwork is tied up in the exchange economy, that which is found in the courtyard or the lobby of a bank is rather different from what is hung on a collector's wall. It's purpose is, often, to confer status upon the institutions that rise above it.
Lest we forget that, there are anonymous artists out there all too happy to provide a reminder. A brief reminder, that is. As of 9:30am, the little elephants had been freed of their shackles.
One of Toronto's newest brunch spots is serving up morning staples starting at $7 with boozy cocktails and $6 draught beers...on weekdays, no less. As the restaurant name suggests, the kitchen prides itself on making every delicious menu component in house, from fresh baked breads, cured meats, and fat pancakes.
Read my profile of Scratch Kitchen in the restaurants section.
Winter cocktails in Toronto will help you get into the festive spirit and shake off those cold-weather blues. As far as I'm concerned, winter means only one thing: That most gloriously decadent of tipples, eggnog. You can find it made fresh to order here at a few bars in Toronto, but make sure to stop at Civil Liberties for the last word on the drink.
Otherwise, there's a range of classic seasonal flavours to get into, like salted caramel, spiced vanilla, Drambuie (not just Granddad's favourite anymore), anise and cranberry. There's even a cracking toddy to warm you up when that snow comes back for revenge.
Here are my picks for the top cocktails to drink this winter in Toronto.
Humo Santo - El Caballito
Erin Petty (Carbon Bar) recently joined the agave aficionados buried down at this basement bar beneath much-vaunted Mexican resto Los Colibris, and she's been bringing a touch of refinement to the cocktail program. This complex tipple ($14) is comprised of smoky mezcal, fino sherry, Benedictine, spiced vanilla syrup, and both lapsang souchong and peach & pear teas. Perhaps the star of the whole thing though, is the beautiful candied pear garnish that adorns each one.
Flannel Pants - Drake One Fifty
Bartender Warren May has been riffing with one of Canada's great winter treasures, ice cider, to create a terrific bourbon sour ($16) with Four Roses Small Batch bourbon, lemon juice, and a syrup comprising allspice, vanilla, and star anise.
Salted Caramel Vermouth - The Good Son
Moses McIntee has been mixing drinks all over town for the last few years now. From his stint at the celebrated cocktail joint Lucid, to the Museum Tavern, Rock Lobster, and just about everywhere else in between. He's recently popped up at West Queen West's pizzeria-cum-taverna The Good Son, where he's mixing up cocktails like this one, featuring caramel, saline solution, apple bitters, Punt E Mes, and an elaborate dehydrated apple lattice as garnish.
Kentucky Campfire - Mr. Flamingo
Recently opening above popular DuWest hangout Bambi's, Mr. Flamingo has been developing a strong cocktail program with the addition of James Taylor (Montecito) to the team. Stirring together Booker's bourbon with Benedictine, Cocchi vermouth, demerara syrup and a house campfire bitters, the whole drink ($16) is then lifted with aromatic sage to lend an herbal quality.
Hot Spiked Cider - The Gaslight
The Gaslight, at Bloor and Symington, is the perfect place to hunker down over the cold winter months. The great hospitality that owners Tim Pritchard and Megan Jones provide is just as inviting and warm as this apple cider toddy. Made with Drambuie, bourbon, apple cider, ginger, lemon grass syrup, and garnished with a bay leaf. Grab a glass for $8.50, or share a thermos for $30.
Maple and Balsam Fir Flip - Barchef
I'm a huge sucker for a flip. They're rich and smooth, and when made right, are like enjoying a light and boozy custard. Frankie Solarik's effort ($14) combines bourbon, maple syrup, madeira wine, and star anise, shaking the mixture up with a whole egg.
Navidad Espiritu - Civil Liberties
In fairness, I dropped into Bloor and Ossington's Civil Liberties only to see what Nick Kennedy, Cole Stanford, and David Huyhn have been up to all these months since they departed from Salt. When I asked for a good winter drink, David shuffled off down the bar before returning with a perfectly executed, fresh-made eggnog from a recipe he'd been working on. Featuring Havana Club, cream, whole egg, cayenne, Mexican cinnamon, cardamom, and a grated nutmeg top, this one is fabulously deep and rich, and David promises to make them all winter for $14.
Winter Daiquiri - Mamakas
Opening on Lower Ossington in the summer, this modern Greek tavern has been a welcome addition to an already outstanding neighbourhood for restaurants. The Winter Daiquiri sees another cocktail relying on the fabulously smoky properties of lapsang souchong tea. Shaking those up with dry white rum and lime, it also gets a health dose of fig syrup for a fruity note to balance the whole thing out.
Lost in Translation - Ki
The folks at top sushi spot Ki, on Wellington and Bay, aren't just sticklers on how fresh their fish is. They have a pretty serious cocktail program to match all that maki and sashimi. The Lost in Translation cocktail ($13) is a great example, combining Woodford Reserve bourbon, Havana Club rum, Drambuie, Chartreuse, brown sugar and Angostura bitters. All ingredients are then barrel-aged for 21 days, before being served in a chilled martini glass and being garnished with brandied cherries.
Early Frost - D Bar
If you're up in Yorkville, the new Four Seasons has a very pretty cocktail lounge adjacent to Cafe Boulud. It's worth stopping by for this light and sweet winter tipple ($18), with a honey and chamomile-infused gin, a pomegranate-infused Lillet Blanc, and pear juice.
Did I miss any? Leave your picks for winter cocktails in the comments.
In the heart of the Entertainment District, this club opened over the summer - just in time to make the most of their split-level roof area, which they bill as "Toronto's hottest patio". As for the inside of the club: If you aim to be around the "beautiful people", get #RichGirlWasted and/or use the word "cute" a lot while taking selfies, this is your kind of spot.
Read my review of Gilt in the bars section.
What do you get the Toronto-lover on your list? We've already covered wish lists for music fans and fashionistas, home cooks, boozehounds, and sweet tooths, but this one is for the local geeks who drool at the thought of TTC merch and vintage maps that still show the traces of Garrison Creek. Even if you have someone who's only passingly interested in the city on your list, the design work on display here is sure to make them happy.
Here are 10 holiday gift ideas for the Toronto lover on your list.
Toronto skyline screenprint
These skyline screenprints comes with a bit of a twist -- they're not just about iconic buildings, but also classic cocktails associated with a series of cities. For Toronto, Dublin-based design team me&him&you chose the Caesar to represent the city, which is an accurate if predictable selection. Mostly I appreciate the slick minimalist design of the print. 60 Euros.
Official TTC merch
The TTC continues to expand its official merch offerings (finally), which means the transit geek on your list might be brought to tears with vintage posters, authentic subway maps, and some spiffy as hell cuff links. Word to the wise: you can also get free stuff like cardboard streetcar cut-outs at Davisville Station.
Abstract Map of Toronto
Maps of Toronto are a dim a dozen on Etsy, but Emily Tu's abstract takes on our cartography manage to offer a novel take on the streetscape. The city is both obscure and recognizable at once -- certainly worth some attention when guests pay a visit to your place.
Spacing hand-drawn art prints
The Spacing Store is a treasure trove of Toronto-themed items. With all there is to choose from, these hand drawn city prints stick out from the rest for their artistic provenance (courtesy of Erica Brisson) and their quirky take on Toronto icons. $25 of a set of 6.
Fallen Toronto calendar
If post-apocalyptic imagery floats your boat, this recently released calendar will get you in the holiday shopping spirit. Featuring artists like Matthew Borrett, this set of images will remind you what life might have been like had Rob Ford been re-elected mayor of Toronto. $25 at the Spacing Store.
Books all about Toronto
From fiction set in Toronto to studies of the city's past, a little reading material is a great gift for Torontophiles. If new-ish offerings sound like the ticket, check out Jordan St. John's Lost Breweries of Toronto and Allan Levine's Toronto: Biography of a City.
Laser cut wood maps
Hands down my favourite map of Toronto released in the last few years, this intricate lasercut take on the Toronto streetscape is as beautiful and it is reasonably priced (considering what you get). Artist Ali Harrison usually works with paper, but the lasercut process allows her to make something lasting that would well grace any Toronto-lover's wall. $180.
Vintage Toronto map reproductions
Not everyone loves modern map designs, and even fewer can afford to buy authentic vintage versions. This is an easy problem to solve. Navigate to Etsy, type "Vintage Toronto Map" into the search bar, and voila! -- you're present with a variety of options, of which the offering above is but one example. Prices range from $20 and up.
Nicole Tarasick YYZ pillows
These simple pillows from designer Nicole Tarasick will add a dose of TO to your home decor without it seemingly like your pounding your chest with pride. Subtly is the order of the day when it comes to adornments like this, and these pillows are just right. $65.
Toronto neighbourwoods coasters
If you love woodcut pieces, but aren't interested in a large map, these neighbourhood coasters might just be the ticket. Sold in a set of four ($45), they're a bit like an Ork Poster but in wooden form. Your coasters will be the envy of the neighbourhood -- better make a good Old Fashioned to do them justice.
What amazing items did I miss? Leave your ideas in the comments.
Thanks to the LCBO for sponsoring our 2014 Gift Guide.
The best pizza slice in Toronto is hot from the oven and ready for immediate consumption at take-out counters, family restaurants and Italian bakeries around the city. Whether your personal slice of heaven is a greasy foldable slice of pepperoni, or a smorgasbord of authentic al taglio squares, this list recognizes classic street foods alongside some exotic and gourmet highlights.
Here are the best pizza slices in Toronto.
See also:
The best pizza in Toronto
The best pizza delivery in Toronto
The best calzone in Toronto
The best Italian restaurants in Toronto
