That didn't take long. Shortly over a month since longtime West Queen West diner Swan packed it in for good comes news that Chef Anthony Rose has acquired the space. Toronto Life reports that the new restaurant will go by the name Swan by Rose and Sons and will feature a similar menu to the original location.

The Queen St. address represents something of departure from Rose, who has been busy building a small restaurant empire on Dupont Street (he now boasts Fat Pasha, Schmaltz Appetizing, and Big Crow in addition to Rose and Sons). That said, the modern diner concept will work just perfectly in this location.

We'll see what Rose does to revamp the space (and whether or not he can incorporate any of the original signage), but the rear patio will be an appealing new addition. The restaurant is supposed to open in the summer, so expect it to busy from day one.

Photo of Rose and Sons

The best AYCE (all you can eat) sushi restaurants in Toronto are all about walking that fine line between quantity and quality. Let's be honest: nobody goes to AYCE sushi places to slowly savour the delicate balance of flavours that the sushi chef carefully prepares. Rather, it's really more about stuffing our collective gullets with as much California Rolls as is legally (and physically) possible.

Here is the list of the best all you can eat sushi restaurants in Toronto.

See also:

The best cheap sushi in Toronto
The best splurge sushi in Toronto
The best sushi takeout in Toronto
The best Japanese restaurants in Toronto
10 great Toronto sushi restaurants north of the 401

Posted by Darren "DKLo" Susilo. He hangs out on the twitter and his own mansion.

Photo by EvidencE in the blogTO Flickr page.

Sexual health clinics in Toronto can help you stay safe, healthy and informed. As spring approaches and all the sexy people in this city emerge from their winter layers and lairs, it's important to know where you can turn if you have questions or concerns about your health and sexuality. Get yourself tested, know your status, then go out and enjoy all the consensual sensual pleasure Toronto has to offer.

Here's a round-up of sexual health clinics in Toronto.

Toronto Public Health
Toronto Public Health operates the city's numerous sexual health clinics where you can find low cost or free birth control, free condoms, emergency contraceptives, HIV and STI testing, and all manners of sexuality and relationship counseling. They also offer workshops in harm reduction, HIV awareness and prevention, and raising sexually healthy children.

Hassle Free Clinic
The Hassle Free Clinic offers services to men, women and trans-identified men and women. The men/trans and women/trans clinics operate at the same premises, but with alternating hours and specializing in different services. Hassle Free is known for providing an open and inclusive space, and is the largest anonymous HIV test site in Canada.

Planned Parenthood Toronto
Planned Parenthood Toronto offers a full range of sexual, general, and related mental health services for Toronto youth aged 13-29. Anonymous HIV testing, general STI testing and information, pregnancy testing, pregnancy options, prenatal services and emergency contraception are all available with or without a health card.

Immigrant Women's Health Centre
The Immigrant Women's Health Centre provides free clinic services, outreach and information on a wide range of women's sexual health issues. The all-female staff offers services in 13 languages, and the IWHC also operates a Mobile Health Clinic to reach their clients where they live and work.

Birth Control and Venereal Disease Information Centre
At Lawrence and Dufferin, this was the first sexual health centre in North York. They were the second location to provide anonymous HIV testing in the province, and they initiated one of the first programs dealing with Female Genital Mutilation. Staffed by health educators, nurses and physicians, they provide free medical and sexual education services to the entire community.

The Crossways Sexual Health Clinic
Low-cost or free birth control, emergency birth control, STI and rapid HIV testing, and sexual health information and counselling are available on a drop-in basis at The Crossways Sexual Health Clinic at Dundas West + Bloor. Drop-in hours are available Monday through Friday.

The Rexdale Youth Resource Centre
Operating out of the YMCA on Albion Rd., the Rexdale Youth Resource Centre provides sexual health services to youth under the age of 28. They are only open Thursday afternoons from 2:45 PM - 5:30 PM by appointment, however no referral or OHIP coverage is required.

The Scarborough Sexual Health Clinic
The Scarborough Sexual Health Clinic operates out of the Scarborough Civic Centre and offers free, accessible sexual health services. They have drop-in hours Monday through Friday.

The Talk Shop
At Yonge and Sheppard, the Talk Shop offers free sexual health services, counselling, and STI and HIV testing on a drop-in basis Mondays and Wednesdays. You can also call for appointments outside of their regular drop-in hours.

U of T Sexual Education Centre
Operating out of all three campuses (downtown, Mississauga, and Scarborough), the U of T Sexual Education Centre's mission is to foster a sex-positive atmosphere on campus. Their resources include an on-site library, peer-to-peer counseling, and special events and sexuality workshops throughout the year. They also provide condoms and safer-sex supplies free of charge.

BONUS

Sexual Health Ontario.ca
This online resource from Ontario Public Health will help you find information all sexuality and health related matters. At the click of a mouse you can find information on STI's, prevention and protection, what to do if the condom breaks, and local clinics and counseling services in your area. Their Ask An Expert section has hundreds of sexuality questions answered by professionals.

What did I miss? Add your suggestion for local sexual health resources in the comments. Photo via Planned Parenthood.

The Dew Underground skate/BMX park and event space has wrapped up its two month run, but that doesn't necessarily signal the end of the aging industrial building that housed it.

The tenants of the sprawling warehouse at 440 Dufferin have been anticipating the impending redevelopment of the site for several years now, but luckily for them, the demolition of the decaying building has been put on hold, pending ongoing OMB mediation between the city, residents association Active18, and the developer.

Should that mediation fail, the matter will then go to appeal, which could potentially drag the process on for even more years.

Like many of Toronto's older industrial spaces, 440 Dufferin entered a new phase in its life after manufacturing left the downtown core. For many years now, it has been a haven for an extremely quirky assortment of small custom wood shops, artists, recording studios, designers, textile shops, decorators, and a wide variety of other artisans.

Unlike most similar buildings, though, 440 Dufferin is one of the few remaining older structures in the downtown to have escaped redevelopment. While it looks rundown, that aspect is part of the charm, as there are increasingly few spaces in Toronto where you can make noise and enjoy relatively affordable rent.

Protecting those activities is a big part of the reason the city turned down the application by SiteLine Communities to build an ambitious three-tower mixed-use development on the site. As local councillor Ana Bailão explains, the city is increasingly concerned about the dwindling supply of employment lands.

"We don't have a shortage of housing in Toronto. There is enough housing. So, if you're going to have an impact on employment, on jobs, and on business, you need to make sure that there's a benefit to the community at large at the end of the day. To make sure that you are able to guarantee those jobs, and that you are able to continue to employ those people."

Bailão recently put forward a motion at city council asking planning staff to review the subject and provide recommendations on the employment issue, as well as other issues related to the site, including park space, massing, height, and traffic.

The original proposal did include two floors of offices and workshops, totaling 5,385 square metres of non-residential space - still a significant reduction from the current 6,400 square metres of work space.

Since the matter is currently in mediation, Bailão couldn't comment directly on what the city is looking for in terms of compromise, but she emphasizes that it's not just about the amount of space allocated for employment and fate of the approximately 200 people currently employed in the building.

"It could be something really special in there, to be honest. It's a big piece of land, and we could actually do something really innovative. I am very much in favour of creating mixed living communities and mixed income communities, and I think there is the opportunity to create something really special in there, and I'm hopeful that with everyone around the table we can get there."

After so many years of seeing buildings like this converted into shiny condo towers with dry cleaners on the main floor, maybe we'll finally see something that doesn't displace all the creative activities that currently make the site special, as well as provides some much-needed affordable housing and green space.

What should Toronto's priorities be when it comes to new developments in former industrial spaces?

Follow Ben Boles on Twitter @benjaminboles

Lead photo by Patrick Cummins via Flickr, 440 Dufferin photos by Denise McMullin

An ex barista at Crafted on Ossington has branched out and opened her own coffee shop a little farther west. The tiny spot serves up excellent cortados and Bunner's baked goods but if you linger, don't expect to settle in with your laptop.

Read my review of Tucana Coffee in the cafes section.

Finding a boyfriend in Toronto without lowering your standards from CN Tower to Lower Bay shouldn't be so hard. If you know what you're looking for, follow my advice to get out there and find Mr. Right (or right-now, no judgements here.) Tuck away your Tinder profile and head out to some of these Toronto spots to find the perfect man for you.

Here's my guide to how to get a boyfriend in Toronto broken down by guy stereotype.

See also:The top 20 ways to meet new people in Toronto

Zuckerburg 2.0
#TechTO meetups are your best bet to meet the tech savvy man of your dreams. The monthly get-togethers feature a line-up of speakers, Q&A sessions, and enough mingling time to help you expand your network. Yahoo Mail and Internet Explorer users need not apply.

Comedy Nerd
"I just want someone with a great sense of humour" said everyone, always. Head to The Second City Training Centre's Monday night improv drop-in class from 6-8 and find your funny guy. Casually mention you're heading to nearby Town Crier Pub for a pint and with your new improv skills and you may be able to "Yes, and" him all the way back to your place.

Hozier-In-Training
If you pop the tab of a PBR and there isn't an indie rocker there to hear it, did it even happen? Head to Dakota Tavern, Ossington's hub for young music talent, for live music, beer, and a rustic southern atmosphere. Late night not your style? Their bluegrass brunch is delicious.

Urban Lumber Jack
Looking for a full beard and a closet of plaid shirts? There's no need to play mantracker. Head to any of the BATL Grounds locations on the last Wednesday of each month with your wingman. Even if you don't find your man, axe throwing is a good skill for any modern dater to have.

Eco-friendly
We all know that farmers feed cities, but they can successfully feed our sex drives too. Evergreen Brick Works runs a year round farmers market every Saturday from 9am-1pm. Fill up your reuseable bags and talk 100 mile diet with Toronto's eco-conscious community.

Party Boy
Want a date for Veld and Digital Dreams this summer? Head to any of the many EDM music nights at Lower Bathurst's The Hoxton. The only downside of this place is that you'll be competing with their stunning bartenders and staff, so make sure you dress to impress.

Competitive Counterpart
Looking for a letterman jacket to borrow? Meet your match at the Toronto Dodgeball Association rec league. Their summer league registration is still open and it's a great way to meet new people with a similar lifestyle. Before you know it you'll be sharing seasons tickets for the Jays.

Bohemian Bae
Get on your best flower crown and high-waisted Jorts combo and head to Trinity Bellwoods. As the warmer weather (hopefully) starts up, day beers and picnics in Toronto's hippest park is your best bet for meeting a free love companion. If your Frisbee happens to land near a group of eligible shirtless bachelors I have a feeling the rest will take care of itself.

Next Prime Minister
Be it resolved you're going to spend your summer with your own personal Trudeau. Head to the recurring Munk Debates at Roy Thompson Hall, and find the master debater of your dreams.

Drake
Want to nab the 6ix's most eligible bachelor? I got you. Head to Forest Hill, work out with his adorable mom, let her talk you up to her son, marry him, and have the time of your life every day forever. If you're reading this, it's not too late.

Let me know about your single's successes and disasters in the comments.

Photo by Johanna Hoffman in the blogTO Flickr pool

Photo by EvidencE in the blogTO Flickr page.

2,000 cherry trees is a big present - even for a city the size of Tokyo. In fact, High Park's forest of sakura, which was shipped from Japan to Toronto and planted during the early months of 1959, was the biggest gift of its kind in the years following the second world war.

It was to be, in the words of Robert Kadoguchi, a man central to arranging the shipment, "a tangible expression of [Japan's] gratitude to [Toronto] for accepting us warmly during the distressing period of the Second World War and the years immediately following the termination of hostilities."

The roots of the gift lie in the plans for the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, which in 1959 was still in the planning phase.

29-year-old architect Raymond Moriyama, who would later design the Toronto Reference Library, Ontario Science Centre, and Bata Shoe Museum, was in charge of the a blueprint for the intricately detailed complex to be built near the Don Valley Parkway at Eglinton Ave.

Part of Moriyama's design was to be a peaceful grove of 2,0000 cherry trees the JCCC organizing committee had secured as a gift from the city government of Tokyo.

Long a symbol of Japan, the trees with their fleeting pink blooms were frequently given as gifts to foreign nations following the second world war. The University of British Columbia received 1,000 for its Japanese garden in 1958. Port Dover, Ontario, was sent 20 saplings the same year as thanks for a bale of clothing sent by the local Lions club after the conflict had ended.

It was decided after Tokyo had agreed to ship the trees that they would be best placed in a public space, like a city park.

Still, Toronto initially didn't know what to do with Tokyo's gift--the largest of its kind in the world since the end of the war. Even as the trees were crossing the ocean from the port of Yokohama, city fathers were still puzzled about where to plant the orchard.

"I think we'll probably make representative plantings in all the parks around the city," city parks commissioner George Bell told the Globe and Mail. "We're not contemplating any special project with the trees."

High Park was selected as the location for all 2,000 trees in March 1959, despite opinions from some city aldermen that the saplings be shared around the city. Bell said his staff had considered locations on the waterfront and North Toronto, but that High Park was the location preferred by Tokyo--"to give a mass effect much as they have in Washington."

Perhaps concerned Toronto wouldn't do a good job installing the delicate forest, the technical chief of Tokyo parks division was sent to personally supervise the planting.

A month later, the cherry trees were officially presented to the city by Japanese Ambassador to Canada Toru Hagiwara during a special luncheon at the Grenadier Restaurant on April 1, 1959. In exchange for the trees, Mayor Nathan Phillips presented Hagiwara with a pair of City of Toronto cufflinks. "I hope you will feel honoured to wear them," he said.

"The flowering cherry trees have long been cherished by the people of Japan as their national flower, and this gift is meant as a gesture of friendship and goodwill," said Hagiwara. "My wish is that the trees will grow as a symbol of lasting cordiality between Canada and Japan."

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Images: City of Toronto Archives and Tom Ryaboi

Toronto film festivals are all the rage. The success of international heavy hitters like TIFF and Hot Docs show that this city has an insatiable appetite for great cinema. As long as the theatres are there and the audiences ask for more, film lovers continue to organize more and more festivals that reflect the diversity of this city's population and interests.

Here are my picks for notable Toronto film festivals you may not have heard of.

See also:The best film festivals in Toronto.

International Diaspora Film Festival - IDFF
The International Diaspora Film Festival builds on Toronto's reputation as a multicultural hub, bringing a program that explores themes of migration, immigration and diversity showcased by films from both emerging and established filmmakers. What sets this festival apart is how it spotlights independent Canadian filmmakers who come from ethnic backgrounds.

ImagineNATIVE Film Festival
For the past 15 years the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival has programmed film, radio and new media works made by Canadian and international Indigenous artists. The festival prioritizes work pushing artistic boundaries and subverting stereotypical ways these communities are portrayed in mainstream media and cultural spaces.

Reel Awareness Human Rights Film Festival
This volunteer led festival showcases documentaries that draw attention to human rights issues around the world. Reel Awareness is guaranteed to give you a crash course on social justice issues on a global scale.

Filmi - Toronto's South Asian Film Festival
Filmi was created to promote South Asian independent films from around the world, and to provide a forum for South Asian artists to showcase their work to diverse audiences, highlighting films that fall outside of the Bollywood system. In its 15 years Filmi has introduced Toronto audiences to many features, documentaries, and shorts.

Scarborough Film Fest
In its third year, the Scarborough Film Festival is making a name for itself as an exciting new project in the city. The festival, presented by the U of T, features a bit of everything including features and shorts made by both Canadian and international filmmakers.

Toronto Japanese Film Festival
From remakes of Lolita and animated cartoons to classic Samurai flicks, the Japanese Film Festival covers various aspects of contemporary Japanese cinema. The fest is organized by the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, who include film screenings as part of their regular programming so you have a place to get your regular fix.

Regent Park Film Festival
If you're short of money but want to see great films, the Regent Park Film Festival is the answer. This free community film festival has a roster of screenings that explore themes connected to inner-city communities. The fest has been active for over a decade and keeps on growing.

TO Web Fest
This is a festival dedicated to celebrating the small screens and videos made to be watched on your laptop or smartphone. With the growth of online series, more and more producers are creating content meant to live exclusively on the web. The fest also offers panels, workshops, awards as well as free public screenings.

Italian Contemporary Film festival
The annual Italian Contemporary Film Festival, takes place during Italian Heritage Month in June. The festivals highlights feature films, documentaries, and shorts from Italian contemporary cinema as well as films made in other parts of the world that grapple with Italian heritage.

Brazil Film Fest - BRAFF
Brazilian cinema is getting more critical attention, and this festival offers Torontonians a chance to see the new wave of filmmakers who are creating ripples with their innovative works. Approaching its 10th anniversary, BRAFF has come a long way to establish itself as hub for Brazilian cinema and culture in Canada.

What are some lesser known film festivals in Toronto you're excited about? Share your picks in the comments below.

Follow Sima Sahar Zerehi on Twitter @SimaSaharZerehi. Photo from TO Web Fest.

Capacity doesn't matter where some Toronto music venues are involved: smaller stages and rooms offer audiences a closer and more intimate experience with favourite artists and emerging talent.

Many established Toronto musicians started off in tiny bars, cafes, and halls, letting fans boast that they not only saw them when, but where. From the Southern Cross at the Tranzac to Castro's Lounge in the Beaches, Toronto has no shortage of enviable music venues with a capacity of 100 or less.

Here are my picks for the top intimate concert venues in Toronto.

Cameron House
The Cameron House has been a fixture on the Queen St. since the '80s. In January, 2015, the front music room (capacity 50+) was made over with a larger stage and new sound system. Prior to that revamp, the back music room (capacity now 60) had its tiered seating removed to offer fans more space. How can you not love a venue that has its own record label?

Smiling Buddha
Though always a live music venue, Smiling Buddha has been thriving since the dive bar's revamp in 2014. Heavy guitar riffs and happy drinkers fill the 100 capacity space nearly every night, while the basement also accommodates live music and DJs. The Buddha hosts film screenings and TV theme nights as well of late.

Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar
Around 2005 the Gladstone Hotel's remodeling included the restoration of The Melody Bar with Victorian windows, exposed brink, new flooring, and generally a much brighter and inviting atmosphere. The rental seating space of 70 converts to a 100 person capacity room for live music, DJ parties, and other events.

Double Double Land
Find Double Double Land by passing through a narrow Kensington Market alleyway. Shows at the second floor non-commercial DIY art-space are carefully curated and vary widely: attendees (up to about 100) venture up the stairs for live music, dance parties, performance art, theatre shows, film screenings, art shows, and more.

Array Space
Array offers Toronto artists a space to not only perform, but to experiment, collaborate, and explore, with synths, multiple, pianos, eclectic percussion instruments, and more on site. The studio loft measures at 1,200 sq. feet with a seating capacity of 60, and hosts concerts, performances, workshops, recording sessions, rehearsals, and more.

Junction City Music Hall
JCMH is no longer one of the city's best kept secrets. Pass a sign over the front door reading, "Live Music & Good Times Downstairs," through a long narrow hallway to a 100 person capacity room filled with wood booths and arcade games. Music features a rotating list of DJs, theme nights, karaoke, and a diverse array of live music.

Placebo Space
Genre spanning events, eclectic furniture, and abstract art make Placebo Space a popular spot for Etobicoke musicians. The City of Toronto Cultural Hotspot 2015 aims to "shine a spotlight" on Etobicoke's growing cultural scene, and Placebo's 55-person capacity room will host several events as part of the initiative.

Not My Dog
By capacity, at 40 or so persons, Not My Dog is certainly one of Toronto's smallest music venues. It's also a favourite among Parkdale residents and indie-songwriters. Along with Asian-themed food you'll find a resident cat, wooden stools, and piano. A back patio offers more space for having a pint.

Belljar Cafe
Named for Sylvia Plath's novel, this Dundas West/Roncesvalles spot is more a place of ideas and "breaking free." During day hours partners Geoff and Lisa serve coffee and a mix of snacks and sandwiches. Nightly, they transform the venue into an entertain spot with movie screenings, indie artists, and DJs.

C'est What
Along with having one of the best sounding music rooms in Toronto, C'est What has impressive list of craft beer, a diverse menu of comfort food, and fireplaces. The venue features a range of music genres nightly with a focus on supporting the local indie-scene for the past 25 years. Its music room is licensed for 100 people.

BONUS

Burdock&Ratio
Though both opened recently, Bloordale venue/restaurant The Burdock (spring 2015) and Kensington DIY art space Ratio (winter 2014) have quickly filled gaps in the city, hosting multiple live music shows and events each week in narrow, cozy spaces for intimate crowds of less than 100 listeners.

What did I miss? Add your suggestions for Toronto's top intimate concert enues in the comments. Photo by Jesse Milns of Burdock.

It's been almost ten years since the New York Times labeled Leslieville "Toronto's hippest place to dine, drink, shop and live" and while the neighbourhood had long ago gentrified, the closing of a local dive bar this week almost literally puts the icing on the cake.

Queen's Bar & Grill, a rough around the edges watering hole we called out back in 2011 as one of Queen Street's notable dive bars, had persevered as third wave espresso bars and high-end baby stores grew up around it. No more. The windows are currently papered over and signs announce the impending arrival of Milky Way Ice Cream Parlour, Coffee and Bake Shop.

The closure leaves nearby Tasty Chicken as one of the few remnants of the Leslieville of the past. Current home owners will no doubt welcome the change amid soaring real estate prices, and somewhere someone is likely pointing out that the view from Te Aro's patio just got less interesting.

Lileo, the high-end fashion and lifestyle shop in the Distillery District, has been shuttered. While we're admittedly a little late to the news, a sign affixed to the front doors dated March 31 indicates the closure was due to rent not being paid. The amount owing is $713,886.

Those who remember Toronto before the current incarnation of the Distillery will likely recall Lileo as one of the high profile, founding retailers of the made-over neighbourhood. Home to hard-to-find and high-end men's and women's fashion brands, the expansive store seemed to struggle to draw shoppers outside of their seasonal up to 70% off sales.

Perhaps it's surprising they lasted this long but a closer look at the lease termination notice gives some hints why. The letter from landlords Cityscape Holdings and Dundee Distillery District suggests Lileo was given numerous extensions to pay up. And why not? Whatever you thought of Lileo, its financial troubles don't do much to suggest the area can be a boon for retailers.

Like most lease terminations the one here seems to have been sudden and unexpected. The shop remains a time capsule with inventory neatly dispersed among the many shelves and racks within. Livia, the salad and juice bar that operated inside the store, is also no longer in business.

Will you miss Lileo? Are you surprised by the closure? Let us know in the comments.

Toronto based Etsy sellers have managed to stand out in the crowded craft scene, taking raw materials and spinning them into retail gold through sheer craftsmanship and vision. Considering that the online handmade-goods marketplace has grown into a business juggernaut (just check out the IPO), that's no easy feat. Look for these vendors at shops around Toronto, at craft sales or, heck, just buy their stuff on Etsy.

Here are my picks for the top Etsy sellers in Toronto by category.

HOME GOODS

Smells Like Canada
Scented candles are nothing new, but this Toronto outfit put a regionally-friendly spin on a gifting classic with scents like Hogtown Peameal, Muskoka Campfire and Cabane A Sucre ($28). They also recently moved into body care products (no peameal scents there, though).

Senay Studio
If you can't keep houseplants alive, a pillow or iPhone case from this shop might be the next best thing. Printed with hand-painted watercolours of wildflowers that burst with bright hues, Senay Studio's pieces just about scream spring.

Crass Stitches
On the other end of the Mother's Day gift-appropriateness scale: This collection of framed cross-stitches, which spell out charming phrases like "boot licker", "donkey punch", and a number of other things we can't repeat on this website ($18-$35).

Jaimie Harris
Need a glittery wedding cake topper that spells out "Mr. And Mrs ____" ($14.99)? Perhaps you just want a garland of gold sparkly pineapples ($20.99). Jaimie Harris does customizeable party decorations that will add a bespoke touch to your next big event.

Nicole Tarasick
If you've ever shopped for throw pillows or tote bags in Toronto, you've come across Tarasick's simple, graphic designs. Between Canadian maps, airport codes, and even paper maps screened with quotable quotes from famous Canucks, Can-con has never looked so stylish.

FASHION

Minnow Bathers
Looking to wow 'em on your next beach vacation (or trip to the lake)? Check out the suits from Toronto's own Minnow Bathers, which range from minimal black-and-whites in fashion-forward cuts to prints like pot leaves and magma (about $200).

Made and Found
The colourblocking and geometric shapes in this local brand's half-moon-shaped totes ($159) make them the perfect weekend accessory; they also make drawstring bags and makeup cases, if by chance you're taking yours out of town.

Brooch Boyfriends
Want to wear Kanye West on your sleeve? How about Harry Potter or Conan O'Brien? Hannah Browne makes little felt pins ($20) of notable pop-culture dreamboats - you can even get one custom-made of your own man of choice.

Pomp & Ceremony
Who doesn't love a good Liberty print? If your wardrobe staples are crying out for a dash of fun, Pomp & Ceremony has all the ditsy florals and quirky patterns you could possibly need, rendered in necktie, bowtie or pocket-square form ($30-89).

Opelle
She may have graduated to a real-deal storefront on College, but handbag designer Amy Malcolm and her lineup of stunning leather bags ($220 and up) still maintain a solid presence on Etsy.

Grace Designs
The perfect mix of minimal, vintage-y and bohemian, Grace Designs' pouches and purses ($49-$299) are crafted from saris collected during designer Alison Gledhill's travels.

CAMP Skincare
This skincare line incorporates some mighty delectable-sounding ingredients into their all-natural products - use matcha cream to soothe puffy eyes, moisturize with vanilla-and-almond body oil, or soften your beard with thyme, peppermint and lavender extracts.

JEWELRY

Spark & Thistle
Rough gems and brass continue to trend in the jewelry world, and Spark & Thistle has that aesthetic on lock, mixing chunky quartz stones with gently weathered findings for staement necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

Moonlight For Violet
A little polymer clay and some brass findings can go a long way. Just ask Shannon Kehler, whose Moonlight for Violet line consists of dead-simple earrings in geometric shapes ($20) that work seamlessly with any basic outfit.

Priestess
Are you into black lace and angsty girl movies from the early '90s? If so, you'll want to try one of Priestess' pieces on for size. Chelsea Jamieson's silver jewelry pieces, featuring spooky stones and motifs like eyes, runes, broomsticks and moons, will add a dose of witchiness to any outfit.

Ania Trica
If you've ever wanted to wear a giant pink macaron as a necklace ($68), Ania Trica's whimsical line of statement jewelry will make that a reality. (The macaron is made out of polymer clay, mind.) Other options include beetles, lychees and cacti; Trica also stocks the store with necklaces strung with irregularly-shaped jewels.

ART

Light & Paper
Ali Harrison laser-cuts paper and wood, with gorgeous results; while her intricate (and customizeable) greeting cards are popular, she also makes coasters, paper art of animals or anatomically correct hearts, and even a lasercut map of Toronto ($212).

Minouette
Minouette's prints and cards feature woodcut illustrations of historical figures, zodiac signs, and fluffy animals. Relevant to Torontonian interests: this high-fiving raccoon ($35).

Gotamago
Oh, yeah, about those puns: Lichia Liu has them covered in her handpainted greeting cards, from "a perfect matcha" to "you're the apple of my pie", but her skill with watercolours also gives way to some impressive art prints.

Diamond Donatello
Punny cards and birthdays go hand in hand already, but Diamond Donatello is filling a much-needed void thanks to their assortment of Drake and Kanye-themed greetings ("Running through your birthday with your woes" vs. "We go together like Kanye & Kanye").

Did I miss any? Leave your favourite Toronto-based Etsy seller in the comments.

Photo via Jamie Harris.

Want to follow along with your favourite Toronto Blue Jays as they navigate the 2015 season? With Brett Lawrie now out of the fold it's time to look for a new bluebird to take on the mantle as the most favourited and re-tweeted player on the social web.

From verified to parody accounts, here's a rundown of the best and worst of the Blue Jays on social media.

THE BEST

@BoringRADickey
This parody account is bringing you the best in the mundane thoughts during and after the game of pitcher R.A. Dickey. A hilarious way to get updates on all your jays news from your favourite fake pitcher.

@KPillar11
Earlier this month Kevin Pillar's incredible catch against Tampa Bay went viral in the baseball community. Since then his Instagram account has really taken off. Adorable pictures of his family paired with BTS shots of the boys in blue make this account a must follow for Blue Jays fans.

@IsTheDomeOpen
Every Jays fan is preoccupied with the daily happenings of the dome, so keep things simple and follow @IsTheDomeOpen. Status updates for every game and any maintenance news is posted so that you can stop worrying about the dome and focus on that hotdog.

@DaltonPompey
One of the Jays newbies, Hometown boy Dalton Pompey is representing on the field and on Twitter and Instagram. Between his adorable #TBT posts and his genuine excitement on being a GTA kid playing for The Jay's, Pompey is a definite follow.

@Encadwin
First baseman Edwin Encarnacion posts the best behind-the-scenes shots of any member of the team. Ever wondered what Bautista looks like on a long plane ride? Check in with this Instagram account and find out. He's also great at RT-ing fan pictures and posts which is a nice touch.

THE WORST

@RADickey43
The real R.A. Dickey is so much less interesting than @BoringRADickey. He only updates his twitter about once a week and his Instagram is essentially non existent. He should stick to the knuckleball and leave the tweeting to some of the younger members of the team.

@BucksHair
I'll be the first to admit that announcer and ex-manager buck Martinez has some legendary hair. That being said, I can't get behind it having its own twitter account. I mean his hair is crazy but it's not exactly Left Shark. You can skip this follow.

@JoeyBats19
You know those blooper reels of athletes all saying "You gotta go out and give 110%" that's essentially what outfielder Jose Bautista's Twitter feed is. So many earnest inspirational quotes. Not worth the follow but I did have a craving for a Booster Juice afterward, so I guess he has that going for him?

@GreggZaun
Sportsnet host and analyst Gregg Zaun actually has a pretty good Twitter feed staying up to date and actively engaged with fans. However, his Instagram is overwrought with very harshly angled selfies. Gregg, I'll gladly go over proper selfie protocol with you but until then I do not need that many double chins on my feed.

@NotKawasaki
Shortstop Munenori Kawasaki has proved to be one of the most charming personalities in the Blue Jays organization but his social media presence does not reflect that. Kawasaki is always an MVP on camera and during interviews, however, his twitter feed falls pretty flat. Skip the follow and go directly to some of his greatest hits on YouTube.

Who did I miss? Add your favourite Blue Jays to follow on social media in the comments.

If your typical 10K has grown a little stale then it's high time to switch things up and hit the road (or mountain) with a race that will not only challenge you physically, but maybe mentally as well. You can spice things up this year with a running event designed to bust boredom and still guarantee the euphoric runner's high.

Here are my picks for the quirkiest running events in and around Toronto this spring and summer.

Fork in the Road 5K - May 2
Navigate the sprawling hills of Uxbridge for this unconventional race of varying distances. Zigged when you should have zagged? That'll add a half a km to your distance. Choose the right way and you just secured the shorter route and all the added glory. For the terribly unlucky (or those with a not so keen sense of direction) you'll max out at 8km.

Mud Hero - May 22
What better way to mark the arrival of spring than by traipsing through mud at Ontario Place (or what's left of it)? Mud Hero will bring a 6km obstacle course to the city May 22 with plenty of ooze to go around. And don't worry, there's no barbed wire or electric shocks.

Colour Me Rad - May 30
You've likely heard of this one. Start the run in shorts and a white t-shirt, and end looking like you've been tye-died (which you have). This is an easy and fun 5K that'll send you home with tons of colourful photos of you and your crew. The run takes place at Downsview Park.

Rugged Maniac- May 30
If the handle maniac seems like a good fit, perhaps tackling the 25 obstacle 5K trek around Chicopee Ski & Summer Resort in Kitchener will do the trick. This 5k is studded with amped up obstacles like leaping over fire and climbing over shipping containers designed to leave you grimy, bruised and feeling like a stunt double in a James Bond flick.

Wanderlust Festival - June 27
This international event touches down on Olympic Island Park (Toronto Islands) combining what they're calling a mindful triathlon with yoga-centric activities. After you run 5K, you'll be led in a 90 min session of chatarungas and downward dogs, followed by an hour of meditative quiet reflection with 15 mins of (mandatory) silence to round things out.

Foam Fest - July 11
This wet n' wild 5K course features over 16 obstacles at Dagmar Resort in Uxbridge. Dash through mud pits, hit up the "Chamber of Foam" and trip through the "spider web forest". Nostalgia-inducing slip n slides will speed things up along the way, and shower stations at the end of the course will keep the ride home a smidge more comfortable.

Warrior Dash- July 18
Another burly team run designed to test your speed and stamina, the Warrior Dash features 3.1 miles of trenches, tunnels and ropes weaving around Horseshoe Valley's scenic hilly resort. Your inner viking will appreciate the horned helmet freebie, as well as the complimentary Shock Top at the finish. Funds raised go towards SickKids.

Tough Mudder- August 15 &16
Tough Mudder dubs itself a challenge, not a race, as you are compelled to stick with your teammates to navigate the hurdles and obstacles in this 10-12 mile course around the rollicking hills of Mount St. Louis Moonstone. Known to be one of the hardest runs of the season, Tough Mudder is a fave amongst military, police and superhero warrior types.

Sunset Shuffle - August 20
If getting up early on a weekend is killing your R&R time, then perhaps it's time to sweat it out midweek with the Sunset Shuffle, a 6K Island run organized by the Toronto Longboat Roadrunners. With registration capped off at 500, this tiny race features homey touches like the handwritten bibs and volunteers cheering you on and keeping time.

The Beer Run- September 27
Based out of Ottawa, and making its first ever pit stop in Toronto, the Beer Run is an 11.5Km run through downtown Toronto weaving through city streets and stopping (and sampling) at a few of our finest breweries along the way, including Steamwhistle, Mill Street, 3 Brewers and Amsterdam Brewhouse. The Beer Run will make 20 minute stops at each brewery.

What did I miss? Add your suggestions in the comments.

Writing by Libby Roach. Photo via Tough Mudder.

Photo by Oscar Flores in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Free events in Toronto this week will overwhelm with Free Comic Book Day, the opening of the Contact Photography Festival, and, naturally, a Smiling Buddha film screening. You can also learn more about the city with Jane's Walk, see the grand opening of both the new Gallery TPW and the Chester Station art kiosk, plus Analogue's Women in Rock exhibit.

Here's what to do to in Toronto this week if you've read all your comic books into unsaleable condition.

Watchers (April 29, Magpie)
Wednesday is National Canadian Film Day, and at 7:30pm Magpie's cult series VCR Meltdown will celebrate with 1988's The Watchers - co-staring Corey Haim and a cool dog - with producer and screenwriter Damian Lee in attendance. There will be free popcorn.

Contact Festival (May)
Beginning on May 1 and covering more or less the whole month of May, depending on the venue, the Contact Photography Festival is the largest photography event of its kind in the world, which is pretty impressive even if only a fraction of it will interest most. Galleries big and small participate. Check out our preview here.

Free Comic Book Day (May 2)
Yes, it's a thing: unlike RDS, on Free Comic Book Day the releases themselves are free to take. Many shops will have in-store events too, including Dr.Comics. (For more free events for comic fans, hit up Pope Hats #4's launch at The Central and TCAF).

Star Wars Day 2015: Empire Strikes Back Screening (May 2, Smiling Buddha)
Of course, a Smiling Buddha event is on here (how was that 5,000 person attending screening last Saturday?) In preparation for May the Fourth, Empire Strikes Back will be screened for free at 2pm. Don't freak out, only 39 people are currently attending on Facebook.

Authors For Indies Day (May 2, Type Books)
At Type on West Queen West this Saturday, 17 authors will be working as "guest book sellers," sharing recommendations and more. Check out the list here, or just pop in for something to read while you're hanging out at the park.

Also check out these regular free events

Elvis Mondays (Mondays, The Drake)
Toronto's longest running indie showcase, William New's free show has put thousands of bands on stage. It's at the Drake Underground every Monday.

Free Nights at the Horseshoe (Monday/Tuesday, The Horseshoe)
The Legendary Horseshoe has a storied history, and hosts free indie rock shows in the early week with Shoeless Mondays and Dave Bookman's Nu Music Night on Tuesdays.

AGO Free Evening (Wednesday, AGO)
The Art Gallery of Ontario's free evening runs from 6-8:30pm. It can be a little crowded, but sometimes the people watching is as good as the art (sometimes).

Aga Khan Free Evening (Wednesday, Aga Khan Museum)
The brand new Aga Khan Museum for Islamic art has launched Free Wednesdays from 4-8pm.

CINSSU's Free Friday Films (Fridays)
The Innis Town Hall is back with free movies every Friday. Follow the Cinema Studies Student Union or check out our event section.

Canadian Opera Company (Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre)
September through to early June, catch free classical shows at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts "most Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon, and some Wednesdays at noon or 5:30 p.m."

MOCCA (Tuesday - Sunday)
While nearly all art galleries in the city are free to enter, it's worth noting The Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art (MOCCA) is always PWYC.

Have a free event you'd like to plug? Submit it using this form.

Photo: Watchers, Seekers, Keepers at Contact: Vanley Burke, Siffa Sound System, Handsworth Park, 1983, Courtesy of the artist

Breweries near Toronto abound, and what better excuse for hitting the highway with the windows down is there than beer? Ontario's burgeoning craft beer scene means there's no shortage of interesting spots making good beer within a couple hours drive of the city. Just be smart and arrange to stay the night somewhere close by when you inevitably overindulge.

Here's a round-up of some of my favourite breweries near Toronto.

Cameron's Brewing Company (Oakville)
Cameron's makes their beer on site using "a combination of craft and chemistry." Go find out what that means. The Signature Tour ($10) includes a tour and tasting and a souvenir bottle opener. The Tour and Brewmaster Series Mixer Pack ($20) nets you a mixer pack with four of their beers to take home and the Tour and T-Shirt ($25) is pretty self-explanatory.

Tours run Saturdays at 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. and they like it if you call ahead.

Creemore Springs Brewery (Creemore)
The now-Molson-owned Creemore brewery was founded in 1987 by a retired ad man who decided the hardware store he owned would make a great brewery. He partnered with a retired bottle manufacturer and a pipe fitter and started making a lager that world famous beer writer Michael Jackson declared one of the two best lagers in North America.

Tours run on the hour 1pm-4pm Monday - Friday and Sunday and 12pm - 5pm on Saturday.

Block Three Brewing Company (St. Jacobs)
Open only since Labour Day 2013, Block Three is the evolution of an informal beer and dinner club founded by a handful of locals. The focus is on small batch beers so what's available may change but their flagship King Street Saison is a great starting point whatever is on tap.

Open seven days a week, tours and tastings are complimentary, but they'd appreciate it if you call for groups larger than 10.

Flying Monkeys (Barrie)
Literally the only thing I know about Barrie....Flying Monkeys Brewery is in a restored building directly in the city's downtown. They make beer there, and it's pretty good beer.

Free tours available daily Monday through Friday at 2pm, Saturday at 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm, and Sunday at 2pm.

Grand River Brewery (Cambridge)
Located in an historic red-brick building that was originally the home of the Galt Knife Company, this brewery features open rafters and huge Victorian trusses. There's also a meeting and event space with slate floors and antique church pews.

Call in advance to schedule a tour. Private tours available for a minimum of 10 people at a cost of $10 per person.

Niagara Oast House Brewers (Niagara-on-the-Lake)
The humbly named brewery and "beer shed" is actually a super cool, big, red barn that's worth the visit alone; but as a bonus, the beer is also stellar. You've probably tried Oast House's excellent Saison available at the LCBO, but the rest of their lineup, served fresh from the brewery is also sure to impress.

Public tours and tastings happened Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30am and 3:30pm.

Nickel Brook Brewery (Burlington)
If your opinion of Nickel Brook is still shaped by their Green Apple Pilsner or their Gluten Free Beer, you haven't been paying attention. In the hands of talented brewmaster Ryan Morrow, Nickel Brook has evolved into one of the best breweries in Ontario. Go see where the magic happens on a free all ages tour that includes free samples of the entire line up.

Call ahead to book tours.

Neustadt Spring Brewery (Neustadt)
Built in 1857, this spectacular brewery was constructed by 40 German stonemasons over the source of one of Canada's clearest spring waters and given the name Crystal Springs Brewery. It closed its doors in 1916 but the current re-incarnation opened in 1997. The spring still runs through a network of caverns beneath the brewery.

Tours are offered 10am to 6pm daily for $7.00 with longer in summer, but tours of the caverns and the original crystal springs are only on weekends.

Sawdust City Brewery (Gravenhurst)
If you find yourself in Muskoka check out Sawdust City's new digs. Built in what was previously a Canadian Tire, Sawdust's 20,000 square foot brewery, retail store, and saloon is now arguably the best part of cottage country. The space is super cool and the beer, including a rotating list of seasonals largely unavailable in Toronto, is ridiculously good.

Tours and tastings are available at various times throughout the week.

The County Cider Company (Wapous)
Because it's not all about beer (OK, it mostly is, but variety is nice, too) why not head out to Prince Edward County this summer and check out an exceptionally scenic cidery? You can eat lunch on the patio in an orchard that's been producing apples since 1850 and sip a variety of great ciders made by the family-owned company.

For $5 you'll get a tutored tasting of five of their ciders and a little history lesson about the area.

Ben Johnson also writes about beer over on Ben's Beer Blog. Tweet him invitations to tag along on beer road trips at @Ben_T_Johnson. He fully embraces a "gas, grass, or ass" philosophy.

Toronto's first lawn games themed bar isn't some kind of adult-sized Goofy Golf course, nor is it a casino-lite arcade filled with sirens and flashing lights. In fact, with its dim, cozy-industrial atmosphere, craft beer lineup and menu of fun cocktails, it's a lot like any other cool new bar in town - that is, except for the shuffleboard and bocce courts.

Read my profile of Track & Field in the bars section.