Photo by Ronnie Yip in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Mattress, beds and bedding stores aren't in short supply in Toronto, but let's be honest, not everyone can be as lucky as Goldilocks when it comes to finding just the right bed. Tastes vary when it comes to finding the perfect place to rest your head at night. Luckily, the city has some great options whether you're on the market for a mattress, a bed frame or some new bedding.

Here are my picks for the top mattress, beds and bedding stores in Toronto.

MATTRESSES

Foamite
Foamite are self proclaimed "comfort and sleep experts" that carry 45 different grades of foam mattresses. Their exclusive selection of foam is used to make their custom made mattresses. As a bonus, they offer factory direct service which means customers will pay half of regular retail prices for their products.

Essentia
Essentia is the only store in Toronto to sell memory foam mattresses made from natural ingredients. Their products are manufactured within Canada and customers can sleep easy knowing that their purchases will not be contributing to the landfill problem. All of their mattresses are biodegradable.

Mattress Mall
Mattress Mall is a family owned and run business with 3 GTA locations (Scarborough, Richmond Hill and Yonge and Lawrence).They sell top brand names - Sealy, Serta and Tempur-Pedic for significantly less then their competitors.

Sleep Country
Sleep Country is Canada's largest mattress retailer, with over 185 locations including 11 in Toronto. The chain carries a number of brands, styles and sizes that all come in one of three options: soft, medium or firm. They also offer a recycling program where they donate customer's old mattresses to women's shelters.

IKEA
IKEA is a cheap and cheerful choice for buyers on a budget. The shelf life of their products may not last as long as their competitors, but for the low price you can probably afford to buy a new mattress every few years. The store also offers a a 60 day trial for those who want to test out their purchase before committing to a full buy.

BED FRAMES

Elte Market
Elte Market products are meant for first-time home buyers who are in the market for quality products at an affordable price. They carry 25 different bed styles on their show room floor at any given time. If you walk into Elte Market and happen to find your dream bed and they don't have it in stock, you have the option to purchase the floor model at a discounted price.

Casalife
Casalife carries a selection of contemporary bed frames that would fit perfectly in any modern home. Though the store does not carry stock of all beds, many of their suppliers are local and can be delivered in 1-2 weeks. They also have many US and Canadian manufacturers who complete custom orders between 6-8 weeks. Included with all full service deliveries is the set up of your bed.

West Elm
West Elm carries an array of bed sets (headboard and bed frame sold together) in a wide range of styles. Many of their pieces have decorative accents like nailhead upholstery and mid-century design. Pricing depends on the size, but the range is between $839 - $2000. West Elm also has plenty of small-space solutions, making it appealing to Toronto's condo dwellers.

Pavilion
Pavilion has been in the design game for the last 20 years and offers a wide range of Canadian products. Their sleek wooden and upholstered beds add an androgynous chicness to any bedroom.

EQ3
EQ3 is a contemporary home furnishing store that specializes in clean and functional designs. All products are customizable and are proudly manufactured within Canada (as much as possible). There are two Toronto locations: one on King Street East and the other on Hanna Ave. in Liberty Village.

BEDDING

Au Lit Fine Linens
Au Lit moved from Montreal into Mid-town Toronto 15 years ago in hopes of "changing the way you sleep." They import their fabrics from Portugal and hand sew their 100% cotton bedding within Canada. As a plus, all of their bedding can be customized in color and size (if your mattress is not a traditional measurement).

Beddington's
Beddington's is open 7 days a week and sells an overwhelmingly large selection of quality bedding at affordable prices. The store offers traditional sized bedding in solid colours, or if you fancy, bold patterns.

Ethan Allen
Ethan Allen is an American company with over 300 design centres worldwide, including 8 in Canada. Most of their bedding is available in all sizes from twin to California king. They also offer a custom bedding program. It is not the most budget-friendly option, most duvets will set you back over $200.

CB2
CB2's exclusive products, self describe themselves as "affordable modern". Their bedding is made mostly in India and is relatively inexpensive. For example, linens start from $24.95 and go up to $269.00.

Anthropologie
Anthropologie House and Home offer high-end, beautifully designed bedding that reflects the store's signature look. Each product tells a story and delivers an exotic essence inspired by Mediterranean, bohemian, flare. These hippie-chic options are trendy, but will also cost you a pretty penny.

What did I miss? Add your suggestions for mattress, beds and bedding stores in the comments.

Photo of EQ3 by Morris Lum.

Propane in Toronto is a hot commodity now that barbecue season is here. For those not fortunate enough to be endowed with an outdoor gas hook-up, propane is the fuel for a a good steak, and finding the closest and cheapest supplier is sure to come in handy.

What's most remarkable about propane is that the price is wildly inconsistent across the city, even from location to location of the same chain. Calling ahead is advised, as tank exchanges can run out during peak BBQ season, especially approaching long weekends.

Here are your best bets to fill up on propane mapped out across Toronto.

Metro Grocery Stores
Only select stores (mapped below) offer the Tank Trader program and you'll find that prices are inconsistent by location. A tank exchange was quoted to me as low as $22 (on Front St. and St. Clair & Keele, and Yong & Eg.), while other locations are charging $24+ (looking at you Little Italy and Liberty Village). Buying the tank canister outright starts at $55.

7-Eleven
The convenience stores with the gas bars are most likely to sell propane too. Select locations stock trade-in tanks for $26, while new tanks cost $60+.

Walmart
While Walmarts are plentiful in the GTA, they happen to be scarce in Toronto proper. The propane swap at Dufferin Mall keeps the tanks caged outside, but you'll still have to visit customer service to pay. Tank exchange costs $23.60, while a new canister goes for $55.

Canadian Tire
Find new propane tanks at pretty much every Canadian Tire, where new 20lb canisters start at $36 and you can check which locations are in stock. Propane fill or swap options are searchable in the store locator.

Petro-Canada
This prolific chain of gas stations (and propane purveyors) makes it easy to search which locations offer propane via exchange program, and even, a handful that still do refills by volume the old school way. All in, exchanges cost $29.37, while new tanks are $55.55

Esso
Plenty of Esso gas stations offer tank exchanges too. Expect exchanges to run between $26 and $30, while new tanks hover around $70.

Shell
Propane availability is spotty at Shell locations. Calling ahead is advised. Prices for a refill were quoted on the high end at $25, but picking up a new canister is especially pricey - The location at Birchmount and St. Clair sells the whole shebang for $74+.

Home Depot
You won't find a Home Depot in the city's core but on the outskirts and throughout the GTA swap your empty canister for a full one for $27, or start from scratch for $55.

RONA
Found only in a handful of neighbourhoods in Toronto, RONA offers trade-ins for $27, while new tanks cost $38.

Costco
You can't get any cheaper than this members-only club. Propane exchanges for members hover around the $10 mark.

Independent retailers
A smattering of independent gas stations and hardware stores do trade-ins too. For great value, head to Orion Technologies (4270 Weston Rd.), the one off gas station might be the best deal in town sans Costco membership. The BYO-Tank refill is just $15. New canisters are not available.

Where do you fill up on propane? Let us know in the comments.

Cheap eats in Markham will help you dine on a budget, satisfy a late night snack craving or just lead you to a hole-in-the-wall hidden gem. In Markham, a cheap meal usually involves bold and authentic flavours from across the globe, and in a variety of settings.

Here are my picks for the top cheap eats in Markham.

Malay Thai Famous Cuisine
The food court at First Markham Place boasts some great eats and this place may be the crown jewel. The menu consists of traditional Malaysian and Thai dishes. Most meals ring in under $10, with a heaping bowl of Curry Laksa being the best of the bunch.

Sam's Congee Delight
There is nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of congee, and Sam's does some of the best around. Congee with things like chicken, seafood or even pig's blood, can be paired with fried dough sticks for a traditional Chinese breakfast at extremely reasonable prices.

Babu Takeout and Catering
Babu serves up traditional Sri Lankan and Indian fare - the spice level here is not for the faint of heart. Giant take out containers full of kottu roti, spicy curries, mutton rolls and samosas are enough to feed you for several meals for under $10.

Ginger and Onion
One of the last surviving push-cart dim sum places, Ginger and Onion is a throwback experience. This place is doing solid dim sum at cheap prices. Come with a large group and you can easily feast for under $10 per person.

Papa Chang's
Papa Chang's is a Taiwanese/Japanese small plates concept showcasing some amazing flavours. Their crispy popcorn chicken is legendary and a must-order. The menu is expansive and should fit anyone's palate and budget.

Sun's kitchen
Hand pulled noodles are the name of the game at Sun's kitchen. Located in the Pacific Mall food court, they offer a wide assortment of noodle soups and other Chinese favourites with the majority of dishes ringing in at less than $10.

Nichiban Sushi
Located on the southern Markham border, just off Kennedy Road, Nichiban is a mostly takeout sushi joint offering great deals on fresh sushi platters. Their lunch specials are hard to pass up, but this should be your go to for decently priced sushi anytime.

HK's BBQ and Noodle House
Another heavy-hitter in the First Markham Place Food court, HK's is making traditional Chinese BBQ. For about $6.50 you will get a big box of steamed rice with succulent, fatty, BBQ pork, duck, and/or chicken.

Federick Restaurant
Federick restaurant is a legend for Hakka food in the GTA. This place is serving up their take on Indian-Chinese at extremely reasonable pricing. Spicy, fried goodness like chilli chicken and manchurian beef will leave your wallet and taste buds jumping for joy.

Phoenix Restaurant
This Hong Kong style café boasts several locations and with good reason. Whether you are after more traditional Chinese fare, or a Hong Kong twist on western classics the expansive menu will have something for you with most dishes costing less than $10.

Did your favourite cheap eat make the list? What did I miss? Add your suggestions for the best cheap eats in Markham in the comments.

An institution at College and Bathurst, this live music venue and cheap drinks destination seems to have discovered the right formula for attracting Toronto patrons. Hordes pour in the door in search of pitchers of beer and sangria, heaping plates of nachos, and one of the better hangover breakfasts around.

Read my review of Sneaky Dee's in the bars section.

Dundas West is full of great restaurants and bars, but with so many new places it's hard to choose where to go on any given night. From dive bars to wine bars, the street exploded with nightlight activity about a decade ago and has never looked back. While establishments keep opening all the time, I'll freeze time for a moment and concentrate on my favourite spots at present.

These are my picks for the top bars and pubs on Dundas West.

Get Well
Cure those blues with one of the many craft beers on Get Well's list and enjoy the eclectic and casual atmosphere. The vintage games machines like Tetris and pinball add to the character and upbeat vibe. They also have a custom cask beer that's worth a try.

Communist's Daughter
This Dundas West hole in the wall is a laid-back and funky hangout. The jukebox alone is worth the trip. The mismatched vintage tables and chairs paired with the old crokinole boards will remind you of hanging with your grandma. Get there early; this cozy little spot will fill up fast.

Cocktail Bar
This place pretty much speaks for itself, amazing cocktails and a speakeasy vibe. Although this place is run by the Black Hoof, the food is kept to a minimum so that the cocktails are in the spotlight. Go here for the best Negronis and Manhattans in Toronto.

Northern Belle
This new bar near Trinity-Bellwoods is a standout in a neighbourhood that's over run with quirky cafes and bars. With coffee, bar snacks, draught beers and great cocktails, Northern Belle has taken the success of Northwood, its sister cafe/bar to the north, and built on it here on Dundas West.

Montauk
Montauk is a casual cocktail bar that can't be missed. With inventive cocktails and a small bar snack menu (including some really cool jerkies, trust me), it's populated with people who really know their drinks. There's also a loft-style stage space that hosts DJ's and live music.

Hole In The Wall
If you find yourself in the Junction with a craving for craft beer and live music, the Hole In The Wall is one of your best bets. They've got music events booked almost every night of the week. The bar is also joining the masses by adding a brunch menu that rotates every week to keep things interesting

Henhouse
From dancing to drag show, this friendly little dive is a great pick. It's the type of place to order a few tall cans, play some tunes on the jukebox and settle in for the night.

Unlovable Don't let the name fool you; there's lots to love about this place. This basement level bar is a true hidden gem. From its chalk board beer list and quotes, quirky decor, all Smiths DJ nights, and Jamacian beef patties, there's plenty of reasons for multiple visits.

Wallflower
Hanging out at Wallflower is kind of like getting drunk at your zany aunt's house. Wallpaper, mismatched chairs and Christmas lights all year round make for a quirky and comfortable experience. The low-lit room is a good spot for a date.

3030 Dundas West
Stop what you are doing and go get some blue cheese mac and cheese at 3030. It's a game changer. While you're there, you can wash it down with one of the craft beers from their extensive selection. This bar is all about supporting local breweries. Live music is also on offer here many nights of the week.

What are your favourite hang outs on Dundas West? Let us know in the comments. Photo of 3030 by Jesse Milns.

There's tons of amazing fashion inspiration to go around in Toronto - as our most gifted photographers, designers and bloggers prove. But Toronto boutiques might run some of the city's best Instagram accounts - after all, if you've got tons of awesome stuff in stock, why not stage a mid-afternoon photo-shoot montage? (I might only have a vague idea of what running a store is like.)

Here are my picks for the top Toronto fashion stores to follow on Instagram.

Victoire
A little girly, a little fashion-forward, and not-so-secretly Canadian - this Ossington boutique uses Instagram as an opportunity to show off their latest finds from indie designers from around the country. Expect cute prints, whimsical jewels, and the odd wacky prop.

Opelle
If aesthetically-curated Instagrams are your bag (pun intended), look no further than this indie handbag designer, whose feed is a flawless sea of geometric images in black, white and metallic gues. (Oh, yeah, and the bags are pretty gorgeous, too.)

Nomad
Here's one for the fellas. It's not tough to make Raf Simons and Comme Des Garcons pieces look good, but the West Queen West menswear store takes it to the next level with crisp photography and gorgeous street style images.

North Standard
There's something soothing about this Parkdale shop's Instagram feed - maybe it's the wooden floors and soft, warm lighting, or the cozy-Canadiana feel of their merch (lots of Bay blankets, macs and Wellingtons).

Penny Arcade Vintage
This Dundas West vintage shop's Instagram is a mix of the store's own recent finds, hazy '90s-style photography, and moody modern art - in short, the perfect mood board for vintage lovers.

Parloque
Parloque has never shied away from the avant-garde, but the West Queen West shop has grown into showing at FAT, hosting in-stores and working with local brands - all of which means even more inspiring images of what they're up to.

Philistine
The ultra-laid-back vibe of this half-new, half-vintage shop on Queen comes through in their Instagram posts, which might show off patch-encrusted jean jackets in one frame and an action shot of vintage L.L. Bean boots in the next. (If you don't already want to plaster Explorers Press pins on everything you own, you will now.)

Canon Blanc
Do you slavishly read every "how to get French-girl style" blog post that comes past your eyeballs? This all-French, all-the-time boutique on Queen is a must-follow - feast your eyes on chic, pastel-hued snaps of the latest imports from Petit Bateau and Anniel.

A Homerun
Yeah, clothes are great and all, but sometimes you just want a photo of mid-'90s Mariah Carey and Will Smith hugging it out. Even when they're showing off their latest vintage pieces, this Kensington vintage shop isn't afraid to get weird - lots of reflective visors, socks with slogans on them, and weird party decorations.

Kind Exchange
As far as eye candy goes, Toronto's resale mega-chain is hit or miss - there's staffers at different stores all taking pics, after all - but it's a surefire way to learn about that dope new pair of shoes or leather jacket that just popped into your neighbourhood location, and grab it first. Think of it as your secret weapon.

Did I miss any? Leave your favourite Toronto-based store Instagram account in the comments.

Photo via Philistine.

Cheap drinks in Toronto can be even cheaper than you might expect -- as in, three bucks. While there are happy hour specials galore, these $3 drink deals are the best booze for your buck in town. Now you can party like Drake on a Jimmy Brooks budget. Economic misfortunate can't stifle your weekend plans!

Here are my picks for the top $3 cheap drink deals in Toronto.

See also:

The best cheap drinks in Toronto
The top 10 patios for cheap drinks in Toronto

Wide Open
This dive bar on Spadina just south of Richmond is very proud of its amazing daily drink specials. Each day of the week they offer a deal for their budget conscious clientele including $2.75 drinks on Thursdays and $3 bottles on Tuesdays.

The Lakeview:
This Dundas and Ossington diner is a favourite among the neighbourhood's late-night crowd. If you can manage to roll out of bed a little earlier on the weekend, you can take advantage of The Lakeview's $3 mimosas until 5pm. The drinks and the price will make that hangover disappear.

Weldon Park
This hip College St. spot rocks $3 Drinks until midnight at their Strangelove @ Weldon Park event Thursdays. Great music, cheap drinks, good times.

Insomnia
Bloor and Bathurst's Insomnia has a $3 drink special for almost every day of the week. Pick your poison: Monday- Skyy Vodka, Tuesday - Whiskey, Wednesday - Jager, Friday and Saturday - Candy Apple shots and Jameson. Feel free to hit it hard because their brunch menu will get you out of bed the next morning.

Cam's Place
This midtown favourite has drink deals all week long, though you may have to make some concessions for taste (their specials are pretty Jager heavy). But if it's cheap you're after above all else, this is the spot.

Crocodile Rock
No need to break the bank at Croc Rock on Richmond.There are $2.50 drinks all night on Wednesday and that same $2.50 deal until midnight on Friday. Ladies, get your girls together because there's no cover for women on Friday nights.

Bar 244
Regardless of the day of the week, Bar 244 has $3 mixed drinks and domestic bottles. So, whether you're drinking away the blues on a Friday or got the club going up on a Tuesday Bar 244 will keep you liquored for cheap.

Labyrinth Lounge
The Lab is a favourite among U of T students on a budget and for good reason. $3 mixed drinks Thursday through Saturday, $3 Jameson on Tuesdays, $3 PBR on Wednesday, $3 bottles on Thursday and $3 flavoured vodka on Saturday. They've got you covered every day of the week.

The Hideout
This Queen West spot has two bars, a live music venue and patio, what's not to love. Oh, did I mention $3 Jameson Sunday through Thursday? That helps too.

Green Room
If you're willing to push your budget by a few cents, you can take advantage of The Green Room's unheard of $3.25 Martini's and $3.50 bottles. But if you need to keep your budget nice and tight you can always stick to the bar rail for a solid $3.

Bill Hicks Bar
Domestic bottles are only $3 at this Leslieville tiki/dive bar. The Jameson is cheap too, but usually just above the three buck mark.

What are your favourite spots for budget friendly booze? Let us know in the comments.

Photo of Bill Hicks by Jesse Milns.

Photo by Dominic Bugatto in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Free events in Toronto this week will have you exploring the city with Doors Open Toronto. Check out some historic buildings and take a couple snaps; it's sure to be an Instagram-worthy event. If you'd rather see a movie, there's a free screening of Cold as Ice. Yes, that would cold as Vanilla Ice. So grab some popcorn and get ready for some 90's movie magic.

Here's what to do in Toronto when you're on a budget this week.

Doors Open Toronto (May 23 & 24)
You know the deal: Toronto's historical or otherwise closed-access buildings will open the doors to the public. Ready your neck for looking up, and don't forget to bring a DSLR or you'll feel left out. AJ

Cool as Ice (May 24)
Too broke to take your date to the movies? Head to the west end to see Vanilla Ice flex his acting muscles on the silver screen. Cold as Ice may be the cheesiest movie ever, but who cares when you don't have to drop a dime?

Quiet Company (May 19)
INDIE88 and Audio Blood are teaming up to put on a free Quiet Company show at The Horseshoe this Friday.

Monster Rock Orchestra (May 22)
Ever wanted to hear "Livin' On A Prayer" played by a symphony orchestra? Now's your chance. Orchestra musicians will be playing all your favourite rock hits from Bon Jovi to Guns N' Roses this Friday at Dundas Square.

GO TO YOUR ROOM Comedy Show and Karaoke (May 20)
Hit up 120 Diner for some good old-fashioned stand up comedy. If you feel like embracing your inner Celine Dion, there is karaoke following the show.

ONGOING FREE EVENTS IN TORONTO

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 to our event calendar using this form.

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events calendar or contact us directly.

With contributions from Aubrey Jax.

The Toronto Public Library has been steadily expanding over the last decade. Since 1998, when the TPL was formed by merging the public libraries of the various pre-amalgamation cities, three new branches have opened: Burrows Hall, St. James Town, and Fort York, and several others have undergone impressive renovations, including Mount Dennis and Bloor/Gladstone.

This month, Toronto Public Library branch number 100, at Scarborough Civic Centre, will be ready for use. Despite budget cuts and attacks by Doug Ford, one of the world's biggest book lending systems has continued to grow, handling roughly 18 million visits and 32 million checkouts a year.

Here's a look at some of the TPL's best recent work.

Mount Dennis
Located near Eglinton and Weston, the Mount Dennis library was given an extensive, $4.07 million makeover in 2011. Out went the timber frame and brick facade completed in 1985 and in came a modern structure designed to capture natural light. In 2013, the makeover won the Toronto Urban Design Award, Award of Excellence for Public Buildings in Context

Bloor/Gladstone
The original library building at Bloor and Gladstone cost $60,000 when it was commissioned in 1911. The grand brick structure with large arched windows featured a reading garden when it was completed in 1913 as the first library fully funded by the City of Toronto. In 2009, a $9.1 million renovation and expansion project added a new wing, nearly doubling the size of the facility. The upgrades earned numerous awards, including a 2010 international prize presented by the Chicago Athenaeum.

St. James Town
Bright and airy, the $3.2 million St. James Town facility opened in October 2004, replacing a weekly visit from the TPL's mobile book mobile for the neighbourhood of some 25,000 people near Sherbourne and Wellesley. The branch is connected to a gym within the Wellesley Community Centre and big westward windows allow passers by to peek in on the classes happening inside. Reflecting the cultural diversity of the surrounding area, books and magazines are available in a wide variety of languages.

Fort York
The Toronto Public Library's 99th branch opened in May 2014. Designed by KPMB Architects, the 1,486 square metre space was strategically placed to service the growing neighbourhood near Bathurst and Lake Shore Blvd. The initial offerings included 35,000 books, a computer lab, and a digital innovation hub with 3D printer--the first one in the TPL system outside the reference library at Yonge and Bloor.

Scarborough Civic Centre
Toronto's latest library branch will be impressive. Inside the wood-framed structure designed by LGA Architectural Partners and Phillip H. Carter Architects will be 40,000 books, audiobooks, magazines, and DVDs in a range of languages, including English, Chinese, Gujarati, and Tamil, free wi-fi, 18 public computers, and a digital hub that will include a 3D printer.

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

Corktown is booming with new restaurants, bars, coffee shops and businesses. Thanks to the Pan Am Games and new Canary District developments, the neighbourhood has had a bit of a renaissance in the last twelve months.

Here's a round-up of new stores and restaurants to check out in Corktown.

Roselle Desserts
After having the "Loco Coco" cake I now know what I want for my death row meal. This adorable new bakery has the prettiest dessert options in the neighbourhood. Bonus: they have sweet (and soon savoury!) crepes on the weekends for all you brunch goers.

Odin Cafe
Odin is a cool "Nordic Canadian" style coffee bar with a bold architectural design. It has state of the art espresso machines and an impressive drink menu. It's also fully licensed and plans to roll out a regular weekend brunch menu soon.

Cocina Economica
The brainchild of Taco fanatic and restaurateur Dave Sidhu has taken over The Berkeley Cafe's cozy space and transformed it into an aesthetically pleasing tribute to homestyle Mexican cooking, with a tortilla press, molcajetes and clay cookware as part of its rustic decor.

Corktown Kitchen
The former Weezie's location has been completely renovated for an intimate and casual dining experience. With moderately priced Canadian fare, it's a nice new addition to the neighbourhood.

Schnitzel Queen (New Location)
Neighbourhood favourite, Schnitzel Queen, has recently re-opened their new location after a short-lived crowdfunding campaign. This old staple has a totally new vibe and new menu items such as dessert schnitzel.

The White Elephant
This restaurant had me at "Thai street food", however, their sleek design elements and live music solidified my enjoyment of this Corktown restaurant. Their Guay Teow street noodle dish is a must have. Plus you can add your own stamp of approval on their chalkboard wall.

Made Design
Need to furnish your home with cutting edge contemporary design? Made has got you covered. Their Canadian-designed furnishings may not be budget friendly, but the pieces are sure to be the envy of all your friends.

Studio Pazo
Recently relocated from Queen and Broadview, Studio Pazo is a 20th century design lovers dream offering everything from vintage chairs to Art Deco-esque mirrors and custom headboards.

Leaves of Trees
If you like your beauty products clear of parabens and harmful preservatives, Leaves of Trees will be right up your alley. Featuring a wide range of all natural skin and body care items, this modern apothecary is a welcome addition for Corktown beauty junkies.

Taccorito
Taccorito, as the name implies, specializes in mexican fare. If you're on the market for a budget friendly burrito, it's the place to go in Corktown. They also offer vegan options, making life easy for the those who choose soy over chorizo sausage.

With contributions from Hannah Jack and Alice Prendergast. Photo of Cocina Economica by Jesse Milns.

Torontonians have been enjoying the Victoria Day, May Two-Four weekend for 170 years. As the first long weekend of the summer (well, technically spring,) it's often the first real chance to hit the beach or the park under the splendour of a warm sun.

Victoria Day celebrates the birth of Queen Victoria on May 24, 1819. It was declared a public holiday in 1845 and in 1952 the federal government decided the day should be taken on the first Monday before May 25 (hence why this year's day falls on May 18.)

These candid photos cast our forebears in a different light. Instead of the staged, often rather serious portraits often found in the city archives, these images show the people of the 1910s, 20s, 30s, and 40s at play: goofing for the camera, fishing, enjoying games, and generally relaxing.

In honour of the Victoria Day long weekend, here's a look at how Toronto used to take time off work.

Boy with fishing catch, 1934.

Miss Marjorie Laing at lunch. June 1, 1930.

Miss Marjorie Laing drinking from a water jug.

Chinese family at a picnic, June 17, 1927.

Families relaxing at Crowes Beach on the Humber, circa 1926.

An elderly couple dancing in 1934.

Obligatory picture of the dog ("Tinker") wearing a hat. May 11, 1930.

Tinker the dog jumping for sausages, May 11, 1930.

Boyd family picnic at Islington. 1926.

Unknown group on a fishing boat. Exact date also known.

Girl fishes from a bowl to promote the sale of Ontario fishing permits. 1930s.

Kids paddling at Hanlan's Point in 1907. Hanlan's Hotel and regatta in the background.

Roadside picnic in High Park. July 1, 1942.

Bathers in the lake at Sunnyside near the Humber River in 1912.

The Sunnyside swimming pool, nicknamed The Tank and reportedly the largest in the world when it opened, in the 1940s.

Clowns handing out prizes to all the participants in the Tiny Tots race at the annual TTC staff picnic in 1928.

Nail hammering competition (of all things) at the 1928 TTC picnic.

Clowns Sam Hill and Sam Cohen stage a pillow fight for the children of TTC staff.

Kids line up for a race. Hamburgers and frankfurters for sale in the background.

Italian women during a tug-of-war. August 1, 1932.

On Wasaga Beach. July 4, 1926.

Louie Holdsworth eating watermelon at Lennox picnic

Photographer Nat Turofsky (far right) and his family on a fishing trip to the French River region.

Woman and fish smiling in the 1940s.

Margaret Reycraft of the Globe and Mail at lunch. May 11, 1930.

Women fishing off a jetty, 1908.

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

Images: City of Toronto Archives

Wallpaper stores in Toronto offer an array of brands, products, hues and patterns ranging is size and price options. Whether you're in search of simple and soft pastels, bright and bold patterns or customizable handmade wall murals we've got your walls covered.

Here are my picks for the top wallpaper stores in Toronto.

KENDALL & Co.
KENDALL & Co. is both a showroom and a store open to the public and by appointment. All wall coverings are specially ordered from their books of samples. If the brand of wallpaper you're in search of is not currently in their shop, their rep can order it by request. The store also offers installation services for those looking to have the job done for them.

RADform
RADform exclusively sells one European brand, imported from Italy in over 500 different designs. Email your wall measurements to them, and they will send you a rendering of the wallpaper of your choice to scale of your exact wall size for free. Once approved, the wallpaper is produced in Italy and ships within 20 business days.

Primetime Paint & Paper
Primetime Paint & Paper is Toronto's largest wallpaper store. They offer 36 different wallpaper brands, plus 120 in stock patterns retailing from $28.99/roll. In addition to their low to mid range priced products Primetime carry wallpaper options that commonly are only available to designers - Cole & Son, Osborne & Little, William Morris & Schumacher.

Y & Co.
Y & Co. exclusively carry Kreme Wallpaper, Galbraith & Paul, Madison's & Grow, Lulu DK and Christopher Farr Cloth. They offer "unique products" and a "fun design that cannot be found anywhere else." The Gailbraith & Paul and Kreme Wallpaper collections are available to be colour customized - all products retail from $250 - $400/roll.

Are & Be
The Are & Be showroom is open to the public on Thursdays and by appointment only on all other days. They carry nine different brands imported from Italy, Netherlands and England as well as one brand from Brooklyn, New York called Flavor Paper. Wallpapers are printed to order with 4-6 weeks time.

Industrial Storm
This West Queen West shop offers three brands of wall coverings - Anya Larkin made from Japanese rice paper, Carolyn Ray, a painter who creates beautiful texture and colour nuances and Trove, who is inventive with the unique combination of imagery and environmental sound. Visit the store for a consultation and pricing.

ROLLOUT
This Toronto design studio and print shop takes orders for wallpaper online and then ships it to you. They create premium, commercial-grade latex-based inkjet wall coverings come in 36" wide rolls that can be digitally printed to fit any square foot. They use non-toxic, eco-friendly inks that are washable.

Macfab
Macfab carries 20+ brands of wallpaper starting at $129/per double roll. They offer everything from traditional to contemporary and modern; floral to geomentric; funky to elegant as well as murals. Macfab's inventory includes a number of high-end designer brands, Christian LaCroix is their most popular.

Farrow & Ball
Farrow & Ball sell paint from their showroom and wallpaper can be special ordered. Though Farrow & Ball wallpaper is the only brand they offer, it comes in 45 different styles and each style comes in many colour options. The most popular are Lotus, Ocelot, Acanthus and Broad Stripe. Their prices range from $170.00 to $260.00 per double roll.

New Wall
New Wall is a showroom that is by appointment only. They offer 7 different brands retailing from $125/11 yard roll. Their styles range from bold geometric patterns to whimsical free form designs to marbleized artisanal murals.

What did I miss? Add your suggestions for where to buy wallpaper in the comments.

Photo via Are & Be on Facebook.

Cheap eyewear and sunglasses in Toronto don't necessarily mean skimping on quality - though, as with anything involving your eyes, you want to exercise some caution. Still, there's often a good deal of markup at play in the optical world (especially where mass-produced Luxottica frames are involved) - and if you know where to go, you might be able to get good service and a cute, well-made pair of specs at a discount.

Here's a round-up of where to buy cheap eyewear and sunglasses in Toronto.

See also:

The Best Sunglasses in Toronto
The Best Eyeglasses in Toronto

312 Optical
This shop at College and Augusta, headed up by optician Andrew Laderman, deals mostly in high-end brands from around the world - but as a way to compete with the cheap guys, he's begun offering deadstock vintage frames, with lenses, for a bargain $100. Not only will your lenses be made with care, but you'll sport something no one else in town has (bonus).

Optical Thirty 8
Designer sunglasses are a big draw at this optical chain, which includes a location on Queen West, but you can also grab a pair for $38 (hence the name), or a package deal with five lens coatings for as low as $88. They have a licensed optometrist on-site, and you can save $100 on your specs if you get an eye exam there.

LF Warehouse
The Toronto-based LF Optical chain maintains a discount depot in a strip mall in North York, where you can get last season's brand-name frames at a discount - some for around $100, though they can go as high as $400.

Clearly Contacts
The online eyewear giant's pop-up shop has stuck around on Queen West, so you can still try on all those plastic cat-eye frames you've been coveting in person. You can get prescriptions from their on-site optometrist - and the brick-and-mortar store has a licensed optician on staff, unlike buying online (a major drawback to the current boom of online eyewear stores).

Discount Optical
This Bloor and Lansdowne optician's shop lives up to the name. It ain't much to look at, but their opticians and optometrists don't skimp on the service, and the savings are solid - glasses are as low as $180 for a complete pair with basic, single-vision lenses.

Bright Eyes
This Chinatown shop has earned some loyal customers over the years thanks to friendly, knowledgeable service from owner Kim, as well as some ultra-low pricing - complete pairs of glasses can go as low as $80. (Insert joke about plastic emo glasses here.)

Mega Save Optical
Mega Save is a long-standing family-run shop located a block or so from Jane station. If you're operating on a super-tight budget, they maintain a section where you can grab a complete pair of glasses, all-in, for about $45.

Sherbourne Optical
Located in the Rosedale Medical Centre, this neighbourhood-oriented optical shop strikes a balance between brand names and cheaper frame options. (Bonus: They also do some of the most inexpensive eye exams around.)

Specs and Specs
A Queen West favourite for decades (still managing to hold its own despite the arrival of Clearly down the street), Specs and Specs is known for offering deals on boutique eyewear frames that sell for as much as $200 elsewhere. If there's a designer pair you've been lusting after, check if they have 'em here first.

Economy Optical
This Yonge and College shop walks the line between low-budget and high quality, offering some competitive pricing on designer frames - frames range from $80 to $200, plus lenses - while still having two optometrists and three opticians on staff.

A quick disclaimer: Some cheaper shops tend to cut corners by not employing licensed opticians, meaning the tradeoff for that low price is running the risk of not having your prescription filled accurately. As awesome as that new pair of glasses might make you look, they're also a medical device - do your homework before buying.

Did I miss any? Leave your favourite Toronto stores for cheap eyewear and sunglasses in the comments.

Photo of 312 Optical by James C. Lee.

This new meat-focused spot does a bustling brunch service that deals in wonderfully rich classics like eggs Benny and omelettes as well as more novel creations like an egg-topped brisket poutine that'll surely sop up whatever hangover remained in your system.

Read my review of Little Schmiddy's Hot Meat House in the restaurants section.

Victoria Day 2015 in Toronto will have you celebrating to the fullest. Kick off your festivities by heading to Hanlan's Point for Electric Island to dance to some of your favourite DJs. Headliners include Tuskegee, Steve Lawler, and Lee Burridge. If you'd rather skip the ferry ride, get tipsy at the Brewer's Backyard annual Queen Victoria's Secret event.

For more events, click on over to our events section.

• Electric Island (Hanlan's Point)
• Brewer's Backyard: Queen Victoria's Secret (Evergreen Brick Works)
• Bubble Ball Fest (Crawford Academy Field)
• The Expat Show (Bad Dog Comedy Theatre)
• Perfect Match (The Social Capital Theatre)
• Love Scene & GREX (Burdock Music Hall)

For information on Victoria Day fireworks, check out this post.

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events calendar or contact us directly.

Photo of Electric Island by Michael Mrowetz in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Shopping for home decor in Toronto? Maybe you're planning to hit some of the major design districts - King East, Leslieville, the Castlefield Design District and Rosedale all come to mind - or pay a visit to old standbys like Elte, Umbra, or, uh, IKEA (meatballs = necessary shopping fuel). But if you're looking for a truly unusual piece - or just love to brag about where you bought stuff - then these lesser-known spots are worth checking out.

Here's a round-up of home decor stores in Toronto you might not know about.

General Tao
This shop occupies a sizeable storefront in Bloorcourt, yet somehow manages to evade the consciousness of most of the city's design geeks. Stationery hoarders and gift-seekers will love the place, but you'll also find cute little touches for the home: Paper garlands, whimsical ceramics, and a menagerie of cardboard "taxidermy" animal heads.

Len
If you didn't know this tiny spot off the Danforth was there, you'd stroll right by it - but it's packed to the brim with home goods and gifts, made by crafters and artisans from across the country. Funny greeting cards aside, there's also gorgeous hand-turned cutting boards, tea towels, slogan pillows, and anything else you might need for that homemade touch.

Green Light District
This Ottawa-based shop opened their Roncy outpost in 2011 and have been supplying the neighbourhood with contemporary furniture finds ever since. The owners, David and Deborah Peets, have crisscrossed the world, discovering small designers and bringing their wares back home to Canada.

Small Space Plus
You're a little short on space, right? Thought so. Luckily for you and everyone else in Toronto, there's this store in Mount Dennis which features compact, gorgeously modern pieces - many of which do double duty - at reasonable prices.

Birch & Co
Their selection of Pinterest-worthy gifts, ceramics, art and tchotchkes is so well-curated, you'd swear this place was in Rosedale or Leslieville, but its Little India location gives the spot a little extra breathing room.

Le Tablier Blanc
Le Tablier Blanc landed on College last fall, stacking the space's shelves with rows of cards and stationery, quirky art prints, patterned glassware, punchy cooking and serving items, and - of course - novelty bookends.

Torp
Torp might be able to give your place the cool Scandinavian touch it so craves, without necessarily hitting a high price point. (Pieces start as low as $29, though large pieces from named and famed furniture designers can reach into the thousands.)

Rowan Homespun
Newly arrived in the Beaches, Rowan is out to get your home and your body looking their best. Small-batch skincare products feature prominently in the store's lineup of handmade goods, which otherwise includes artisan-made pottery and a host of vintage items for the home.

Lab Studio Design
When is a chair not a chair? When it's a piece of freeform, sculptural seating from this Summerhill boutique, which specializes in avant-garde, big-ticket items that take traditional notions of furniture design to new heights. Bargain-hunters need not apply - these are true works of art.

Black Rooster
This Leslieville shop has a huge selection that skirts the line between whimsical and glamorous. Their wide scope means you can pick up a tiny accent, like a $12 ceramic owl - or all-out with a $3,500 mirrored headboard.

Did I miss any? Leave your picks for under the radar home decor stores in the comments. Photo of Rowan Homespun by Hector Vasquez.

Coffee shops for a first date in Toronto should provide an ambiance that suits your personalities. They may even reveal a bit about you or your potential hook-up and lend topics of conversation to save you from awkward silences.

Here are my picks for the top coffee shops for a first date in Toronto.

See also:

The top 10 restaurants for a first date in Toronto
The top 10 dessert spots for a first date in Toronto

Rooster Coffee House
Rooster on Broadview is just a lovely place for hanging out in general, but since it's also situated on the edge of Riverdale Park East, the bonus is a nice view of the city's skyline - always a good gateway to romance. And if you're feeling a mutual attraction post-coffee, you can also saunter down to Chester Hill lookout - one of the best make-out spots in town.

Early Bird Espresso & Brew Bar
This happening cafe near Queen and Bathurst boasts a sweet rooftop patio that many people aren't even aware exists. While offering a bit of quiet respite from the bustle of the city, it can also provide a secluded space for the two of you to get to know each other sans other distractions.

Boxcar Social
If you're looking for an interesting convo-starter, this Summerhill cafe/bar with curated coffees offers tasting flights of its brews, pour-overs and espressos. There's also a more-than-decent selection of wine, beer, scotch and bourbon should you feel so inclined to transition over to booze.

Odin
Contemporary design fans will love this space in Corktown, so suggesting this cafe to anyone with a subscription to Dwell guarantees you'll leave a good first impression. With an appealingly Nordic influence, if your date doesn't win you over (or vice versa), the place itself will at least. Great coffee, snacks and a 15-seat licensed patio totally seal the deal.

Cabin Fever Collective
Are you and your date music snobs who only listen to vinyl? Bond over caffeine while browsing LPs at this cute cafe/record shop/art gallery by High Park, and find out whether your tastes align and you're a musical match made in heaven. (Sublime in Kensington is a good option for this as well.)

Milano Coffee
A bright but narrow space, this is Toronto's first location of a well-known West Coast coffee brand that began in Vancouver. Proposing Milano for a meet-up might make your date feel more at ease with a familiar flavour of home if s/he's from that part of Canada. You may even win some brownie points for such a considerate gesture.

El Almacen
For some South American flare, you can do no better than this cafe on West Queen West that specializes in yerba mate. Get to know each other as you swap stories of trips to Buenos Aires or Montevideo (or at least your desire to travel there) while also swapping spit - drinking a shared mate, and don't forget to try the empanadas and alfajores.

Istanbul Cafe
Transport yourselves to Turkey at this inviting Yonge & Eglinton coffee shop that's filled with exotic and enticing eats and beverages that are sure to engage the interest of both you and your date - and possibly even lead to a mutual interest in each other. Cozy up to the fireplace with some Turkish coffee and baklava for an instant touch of romance.

Clafouti
You and your date can pretend you're both in Paris, the city of love, at this institution across from Trinity Bellwoods. Set the perfect mood as you sip your cafe au lait and split a namesake clafouti (or Crookie, if you must) while spouting très chic repartee at each other, and if things seem promising, keep things going with a romantic walk in the park afterwards.

Youngplace Coffee Pub
Artscape Youngplace, housed in a former public school near Shaw and Dundas, is a must-see for the artistically inclined, and there's no better spot to kickstart your possible love connection than at its coffee pub. If you hit if off, exhibits in the building are a fun way to determine if you're also on the same wavelength art-wise.

Thanks to Lavalife for sponsoring this post. Enter their contest for a chance to win a dinner and a movie night out for two.

What did I miss? Add your favourite coffee shops for a first date in the comments. Photo of Early Bird by Morris Lum.

Photo by Peter Crock in the blogTO Flickr pool.