Toronto's favourite greasy spoon, Vesta Lunch, has just launched their very own food truck. Currently stationed behind their Bathurst and Dupont area diner, the truck is expected to hit the road regularly dishing out food that takes their brand beyond the all day breakfast and burger offerings their brick and mortar location is known for.

In a surprise twist, Vesta Lunch on Wheels will be serving up what they're referring to as classic diner food with Korean fusion. Menu items will include bulgogi tacos, bulgogi burgers and bulgogi wraps. Poutine and sweet potato fries will also be available.

To find when the truck will be at a street corner near you be sure to stay tuned to the Toronto Food Trucks website or download their iPhone or Android app.

Photos by Derek Flack.

Toronto Restaurant Openings highlights the latest restaurant openings and closings in Toronto and also gives a preview of what's coming soon. Find us here every Thursday morning.

OPEN NOW

• Popbox MicroMrkt is a new bodega in Bloorcourt and it's serving coffee, salads, sandwiches and a curated assortment of local and organic treats.
• Debu's Biryani House, from chef Debu Saha has opened at 365 King St. West where Agra Indian Cuisine used to be.
• Refinery Public House is now open at 3039 Lakeshore Blvd. West and it's outfitted with a live stage and giant Jenga.
• Braiseryy, a new Brazilian chicken joint has opened at 2364 Lakeshore Blvd. West.

RECENTLY REVIEWED

• Origination Noodle House
• Booyah
• Abokichi
• A3 Napoli

OPENING SOON

• Top Gun Burgers, presumably an extension of the steak sandwich shop, is in the works at 251 Augusta Ave. in Kensington Market.
• Rob Bragagnolo of Marben is opening a sit down sandwich shop called Carver in a yet to be announced location.
• Good new for sweet tooths; AG Macarons is setting up shop at 647 Dupont St. near Christie.

Have you seen restaurants opening or closing in your neighbourhood? Email tips to liora@blogto.com

Photo of Popbox Micromrkt

The massive Hearn Generating Station in the Port Lands was decommissioned in 1983, after which time it became a playground for urban explorers and photographers obsessed with ruins. Now it's coming back to life in a major way for the Unsound Music Festival as part of Luminato 2015.

Film shoots and private parties have taken place here over the years, but this is the first major event that will showcase the majestic industrial relic, which still bears loads of tangled steel, dangling wires, and row upon row of girders. The space is mesmerizing in both its scale and the potential it has to host something like Unsound.

Crews have cleared out many of the most dangerous hazards and obstacles, but the building still feels completely raw. In fact, it seems remarkable that the Luminato folks were able to get the city of Toronto on board with hosting events here. This might be the most intriguing music venue the city has ever seen.

Have a peek inside the Hearn Generating Station as it looks today in this photo gallery.

Diner en Blanc is coming back to Toronto this summer on Thursday, August 27. The secret dinner party (the location isn't revealed until just prior to the event) has a loyal following in Toronto, where its taken place in various settings over the last three years.

In its first year in Toronto, the white-clad dinner party took place at Fort York, followed by stints at a parking lot at Queen and Mutual and Echo Beach. Organizers estimate that 1,500 people participated last year, and expect 2,000 to come out this year.

Guests are required to bring their own table, chairs, and white table setting (complete with proper stemware) as well as food and drink (no beer or hard liquor allowed!). It's certainly quite the spectacle, and designed to be almost tribalistic with a participation policy that encourages guests from a previous years to extend an invitation to newbies who would otherwise be placed on a waiting list.

But, hey, what better chance is there to bust out your best white attire a week before Labour Day? For updates on Diner en Blanc 2015, check out the official website.

Photo by Natta Summerky

Weekend events in Toronto prove that festival season is in full swing, and neighbourhoods across the GTA are embracing the warm weather by hosting block parties. If you'd rather spend your weekend in the company of celebrities, head to the MMVAs on Sunday try and snap a selfie with a member of the A/B/C-list. You may just become insta-famous.

Here are my picks for the top events happening in Toronto June 19-21, 2015.

For more events this weekend click on over to our Events section.

FESTIVALS

Toronto Wine & Spirit Fesitval (June 18-21)
The Toronto Wine & Spirit Festival takes over Sugar Beach with drinks, music, food and entertainment. Head there for a few days of booze and beach fun.

Shorefront Festival (June 19)
This free family event will showcase everything that the Lakeshore Village has to offer. featuring a beer tent, carnival entertainment, live music and more, there's something for everyone.

Redpath Waterfront Festival (June 19-21)
The Redpath Waterfront Festival boasts a roster of events fit for the entire family. Check out the pet parade and Revitalized Waterfront Party.

Taste of Little Italy (June 19-21)
Taste of Italy will surely be the busiest spring festival of the bunch, with roughly 50 restaurants serving up a variety of Italian (and decidedly non-Italian) fare. College will be closed to traffic between Bathurst and Shaw as the roving masses devour food on sticks, gelato, and even whole-roasted pig. Live music will also be on offer.

Beach BBQ & Brews Festival (June 19-21)
If you want to kick off summer with a barbecue, here is your golden opportunity. Head to Woodbine Park part for a three-day fest of music, food, and beer hosted by boom 97.3.

Toronto Jazz Festival (June 19-27)
Though many of the Toronto Jazz Festival concerts require tickets, there are a smattering of performances that do not. On the 19th three separate performances will be open to the public: George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, Dumpstaphunk, and Morris Day & The Time.

Luminato (June 19-28)
The Luminato Festival will once again explode through the streets, cinemas, theatres and concert halls of Toronto from June 19 to 28. This festival highlights the diversity of Toronto's rich arts and culture landscape by bringing the best of the world to showcase their work. Expect the unexpected and bring your dancing shoes. One of the big events for this weekend is Unsound Toronto.

Toronto Pride (June 19-28)
Toronto's biggest LGBTQ event kicks off this Friday and the weekend has no shortage of events. On offer: no masc, LGBTQ Rock Placebo Place, Pride at the Gaystone and more.

Live Art Festival (June 20)
For a day of family-friendly activities and art-centered events check out the Live Art Festival in Underpass Park.

Fairbank Village BIA Multicultural Festival (June 20)
If you're north of the downtown core and are in the market for a day of free concerts, food and fun, head to the Fairbank Village BIA Multicultural Festival. There will be a number of live performances, including one by Danny Fernandes.

Junction Summer Solstice Festival (June 20)
See what The Junction has to offer this Saturday when they host their annual Summer Solstice Festival. There will be a ferris wheel, movie screening, vendors and plenty of food.

MUSIC

MMVAs (June 21)
An impossibly long list of celebs will be rolling into town on Sunday to walk the red carpet, present, or perform at the Much Music Video Awards. If you can't stand the sound of screaming teenage girls, I suggest purchasing some ear plugs or staying far away from the downtown core.

ARTS

Souls of St. Clair (June 19-20)
Get to know the community through portraiture when Souls of St. Clair kicks off on Friday. This one of a kind photography exhibit features portraits of customers of Tre Mari Bakery photographed by Franco Deleo.

Tensions Launch Party (June 20)
If you feel like mingling with Toronto's cultural elite this weekend, head to The Gardiner Museum. Tensions is throwing a giant art-centered bash this Saturday featuring food & drink, art, dance and music.

Northern Ink Exposure (June 19-21)
If you are a fan of body art, this event will not be a let down. Northern Ink Exposure brings hundreds of tattoo fanatics to Westin Harbour Castle for seminars, shows and the opportunity to get some new ink.

SPORTS

Dragon Boat Festival (June 20-21)
Dragon Boats will take to Lake Ontario this weekend for the International Dragon Boat Race Festival. Get to the island bright and early if you want to catch the action, races begin promptly at 8am.

ENTERTAINMENT

Italian Contemporary Film Festival Closing Party (June 19)
Celebrate the ICFF coming to a close at the Ritz Carlton. The party will feature guest stars, Italian fare, and an open bar.

M for Manning (June 19)
There is nothing like a good,old-fashioned house party, and M for Manning does it right. One of the most anticipated NXNE bashes this year, you can expect a night of music, booze, BBQ and the usual house party shenanigans.

Opening Party at the Power Plant (June 19)
Who doesn't like a good party, especially when it's free? The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery is kicking off the summer season by throwing a bash filled with music, drinks and, of course, an art exhibition.

Battle of Black Creek (June 20)
Head to Black Creek Pioneer Village to witness over 100 soldiers take part in an epic battle re-enactment. There will also be an number of activities and beer sampling to take part in.

NXNE Block Party (June 20)
This Saturday the East Room and NXNE are hosting a block party. The outdoor bash will be filled with food, music, and art.

Chin Picic (June 20-21)
The world's largest multicultural picnic is coming to Little Italy for a two-day event filled with live music, midway games, and fireworks to cap it all off.

For more events this weekend click on over to our Events section. Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit it for free using this form.

Contributions from Sima Sahar Zerehi, Derek Flack and Sarah Ratchford

Photo by Matt Forsythe

The 28th annual Toronto Jazz Festival kicks off with a rat-a-tat today, bringing hundreds of jazz, blues, funk, world and fusion performers to 54 venues in and around the city until June 29th. This year's fest offers a solid amount of free public programming in addition to paid concerts.

Here are my top picks for shows at this year's Toronto Jazz Fest.

George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic / Friday June 19 / Nathan Phillips Square / 9PM / Free
Depending on how old you are, this is either the man who revolutionized funk or the guy who Snoop Dogg ripped off. He's been creating hits since the 70s, is one of the most sampled artists of all time and always puts on a good show. We need the funk.

Count Basie Orchestra / Sunday June 21 / Nathan Phillips Square / 8:30PM / Advance $43.50
One of the most renowned big bands of all time, the Count Basie Orchestra is a musical experience we don't usually get to witness in Toronto. Get transported back to the heyday of swing with the tight sounds of some of America's best jazz musicians.

Branford Marsalis / Wednesday June 24 / St. Lawrence Centre / 8:00PM / Advance $65.50
It ain't a jazz fest unless there's a Marsalis in the mix. If classic New Orleans jazz is your thing, come to this show and you'll be bragging about seeing the Branford Marsalis Quartet for years to come.

The Boxcar Boys / Wednesday June 24 / The Painted Lady / 8:00PM / $5.00 cover
This Toronto-based fusion of gypsy, old-style jazz, klezmer and folk music is fun, intimate and quirky. Come to The Painted Lady wearing your finest Dixieland era outfit and enter a simpler time.

Booker T. Jones / Wednesday June 24 / Nathan Phillips Square / 8:30PM / Advance $34.00
Booker T is one of the greats, and revolutionizing blues and soul music will forever be his legacy. Here to perform songs from his most recent album Sound The Alarm (and no doubt classics like Green Onions), Booker T is proud to present some of contemporary R&B's most gifted young voices, including opener Shakura S'aida.

Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra / Thursday June 25 / Nathan Phillips Square / 12:30PM / Free
Montreal-based jazz composer and saxophonist Christine Jensen is joined by her sister Ingrid in this free lunchtime performance that is sure to be the highlight of your workday. Described as one of Canada's most compelling composers, her orchestra showcases a classic and complex jazz style that sounds full of lively improvisation while being smooth and introspective.

Lula All Stars / Thursday June 25 / Shops at Don Mills / 7:00PM / Free
Toronto's Lula Lounge is host to many a salsa dance party, and this free show features the best musicians to have graced that stage. This multicultural salsa big band performs original, all-Canadian salsa compositions for a high-energy crowd.

Malika Tirolien / Friday June 26 / Nathan Phillips Square / 6:30PM / Free
One of the top picks from last year's fest, Guadeloupean singer-songwriter Malika Tirolien is back, this time with members of her highly acclaimed Montreal group Groundfood and artist collective Kalmunity. Known for their collaborative style and improvisational jazz-funk hip-hop fusion sound, I'm not sure what's going to happen, but I do know it's going to be awesome.

Raoul and the Big Time / Saturday June 27 / Nathan Phillips Square / 6:30PM / Free
Raoul brought the history of the blues to Theatre Passe Muraille last fall for his concert-theatre hybrid Life, Death and the Blues. His playful homage to the greats results in a Canadian version of American blues. This show is a good bet for families, swing dancers and lovebirds alike.

Gary Clark Jr. / Saturday June 27 / Nathan Phillips Square / 8:30PM / Advance $59.50
Grammy award winning blues singer and guitarist Gary Clark Jr., originally from Austin Texas, is touring extensively this summer, much to the delight of big crowds everywhere.

What did I miss? Add your Jazz Festival picks to the comments.

Writing by Evelyn Shaller-Auslander / Photo by Beaver on the Beats via Flickr.

Summerlicious 2015 is fast approaching with reservations for the annual prix fixe festival being accepted as of today, Thursday, June 18. The citywide restaurant promotion runs July 3 to 26 this year having been extended an extra week in celebration of the Pan Am and Parapan Am Games.

More than 210 restaurants will participate in Summerlicious this year offering three-course lunches priced at $18, $23 and $28, and dinners for $25, $35 and $45. Reservations are advised, especially at the most popular venues, and can be made directly with each restaurant or via OpenTable (when available).

Here are my picks for the top restaurants to try this year at Summerlicious.

NEW THIS YEAR

This year's lineup of restaurants includes 22 first-time participants, including notable newcomers like the following.

• Nuit Social (menu) - Look forward to fried artichoke hearts, potato gnocchi, and P.E.I. Mussels from this first timer.
• Thoroughbred (menu) - The multi-level restaurant in the Entertainment District is offering highlights including brussel sprout caesar salad and mushroom wellington.
• Peter Pan (menu) - The newest incarnation of this iconic Queen West restaurant participates at dinner.
• Mata Petisco Bar (menu) - This Parkdale snack bar will debut a little South American flair.

HOT TICKETS

Considering usual prices and popularity, you might want to book your table ASAP for these highly sought-after spots.

• Canoe (menu) - Snag a highly coveted reservation at Oliver and Bonacini's 54th floor hot spot.
• The Fifth Grill & Terrace (menu) - The rooftop grill offers an elevated dining experience.
• Splendido (menu) - Expect luxe dishes like foie gras parfait, and salmon sashimi from Chef Victor Barry's restaurant on Harbord.
• Cluny (menu) - If you haven't checked it out already, now is the time to enjoy this French bistro in the Distillery District.

OLD FAVOURITES

Popular restaurants returning for another year include these well-versed eateries.

• Bymark (menu) - Mark McEwan's restaurant in the Financial District is a pretty sure thing.
• Marben(menu) - The Spanish inflected restaurant on Wellington boasts a patio as enticing as its menu.
• Chiado (menu) - This upmarket Portuguese restaurant will be serving up plenty of seafare.
• Momofuku Daisho (menu) - Look forward to Asian fusion on the top tier of the Momofuku complex.

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

Meatless eaters can partake in this year's prix fixe program too.

• Tabule (menu) - The Middle Eastern restaurant on Yonge can accommodate vegetarians, vegans and meat-eaters alike.
• Pukka (menu) - Modern Indian cuisine on St. Clair offers almost entirely veg-friendly apps and desserts, plus select entrees.
• Banu (menu) - The Iranian restaurant on Queen West will offer a predominantly meat-free menu.
• Aprile Bambina Cucina (menu) - Expect at least a couple veg-friendly options for each course at this eatery on Gerrard.

CHEAP BUT GOOD

Here are some top picks in the most reasonable Summerlicious price range of $18/$25 (for lunch and dinner, respectively).

• Pizzeria Via Mercanti (menu) - The Elm St. outpost is serving up hearty pizzas and pastas in part of the promotion.
• Lamesa (menu) - This Queen West kitchen celebrates Filipino favourites at dinner.
• The Chefs' House (menu) - Dine at this relaxed bistro run by future culinary stars at George Brown College.
• SpeakEasy 21 (menu) - The resto-bar in the Financial District is offering a menu including Bloody Mary gazpacho, and potato cheddar pierogi.

Stephen Harper has announced that the federal government will cough up $2.6 billion in funding for John Tory's SmartTrack transit plan. It's a rather big win for the Toronto Mayor, who finds himself the beneficiary of the Conservative party's need to butter up local voters with a federal election looming.

The funding, which is contingent on the approval of a formal application outlining SmartTrack, would come from the recently founded Public Transit Fund. If only a Downtown Relief Line was actually on the table. Alas, the degree to which SmartTrack is aimed at the GTA rather than just Toronto makes it a more useful project for the Conservatives to endorse.

SmartTrack is estimated to require about $8 million in funding, so this still leaves a long way to go, but it's still a significant infrastructure promise from the feds for Toronto. The mayor's office would do well to shore many of the feasibility questions that surround the proposal sooner rather than later.

The Stop Night Market transformed a vacant lot on Sterling Road into a vibrant night market this week and we were on site to sample the goods. Revelers at this fundraiser event dished out $100 to get in, but once through the gates it was an all-you-can-eat affair catered by Toronto's top culinary talent.

Here are 40 of the best things we ate and drank at The Stop Night Market.

Photo by Leo Li in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Toronto Food Events rounds up the most delicious events, festivals, pop-ups, winemaker dinners, supper clubs and other food related happenings in Toronto this week and next. You can find us here every Friday morning.

THIS WEEK

• Taste of Little Italy closes off College St. from June 19 to 21 this weekend for three days of patio extensions, food vendors, bands, and crafters.
• Beach BBQ & Brews takes place at Woodbine Park over the weekend from June 19 to 21. The family friendly event will feature competitions, grilling demonstrations, beer and beverage vendors, live music, and a children's midway.
• Mata Petisco Bar (1690 Queen St. West) celebrates its first year in business with a party on Tuesday, June 23. Stop in from 7pm on for Brazilian sweets.
• Aiyoku Fitness (77 Mowat Ave. Suite 001) hosts a fundraiser for Nepal Earthquake Relief happening on Thursday June 25 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Donate $25 to help yourself to the spread of food from Nana, Khao San Road, Caffino, and Patois. Want seconds? You'll have to donate another $25.

UPCOMING

• Toronto's Beringer Brunch presents The Island Brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 27 outdoors near the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse. Geared towards young professionals, tickets range from $55 to $75 and include a spot on one of three private boats plus a brunch with optional champagne tastings.
• Diner en Blanc has announce details of its return. The pop-up white party will take place at a secret location on Thursday, August 27. Guests are required to BYO-Everything including table, chairs, and and place settings, as well as, food and drink.

Photo from a previous Taste of Little Italy

The top concerts happening during Pride Toronto showcase a range of musical talent from around the globe. Even after the show-stopping World Pride festival, there's plenty in this year's lineup to get you out onto the streets reveling in the city's diversity.

Here are my picks for some of Pride Toronto's top concerts.

Todrick Hall (June 19 / BIA Stage, Church Street / Free)
YouTuber, American Idol semi-finalist (season nine) and MTV-star Todrick Hall kicks off Pride's opening party, happening at the BIA Stage on Church Street. Whether you're a fan of his elaborate videos or not, Hall's magnetic stage presence is sure to entertain.

#DYKEVERSITY (June 27-28 / Bud Light South Stage, 423-425 Church Street / Free)
The after-party for the annual Dyke March features 12 hours of music on Church Street and features artists such as Ana Rezende from Brazilian band CSS and headliner DJ Irene. The L Word's Kate Moennig is also set to appear.

Blockorama (June 28 / TD Wellesley Stage, 15 Wellesley Street / Free)
As the longest-running Pride Toronto event, Blockorama celebrates the city's black and Caribbean communities with a party presided over by 20 performers including Sharaya J and Destra Garcia.

The Final Play ft. LIGHTS and Pussy Riot (June 28 / Yonge-Dundas Square / Free)
On June 11, Russian authorities detained Nadya Tolokonnikova for staging a protest in Moscow. Let's hope she can join the other members of Pussy Riot as an international grand marshal of the Pride Parade. LIGHTS is also performing at the post-parade party, alongside a lineup that includes Carole Pope, The Mounties and The Last Year.

Alterna-Queer (June 28 / Alexander Street Parkette / Free)
If you want to escape the corporate branding that pervades much of Pride, head to Alterna-Queer, an all-day music fest in the Alexander Street Parkette beside Buddies in Bad Times theatre. Chicago-based band My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult is headlining the eclectic roster of musicians and performers.

What did I miss? Add your most anticipated Pride concerts in the comments.

Photo from LIGHTS Facebook page

The top patios on Dundas West will have you drinking and dining just blocks from Trinity Bellwoods. If the weather is on your side, these eateries offer the perfect outdoor retreat to indulge in both pre and post park drinks. With everything from casual sidewalk spots to the perfect dinner date destination, the neighbourhood has plenty to choose from.

Here, in no particular order, are my picks for the the top patios on Dundas West.

For more patio ideas, check out our Toronto Patio Guide or download our iPhone or Android app.

Campagnolo
Making for the perfect dinner date destination, this patio sets the mood with string lights and floral accents. Opt for some expertly made spaghetti and you've got all the makings for a Lady and the Tramp moment.

Black Hoof
Black Hoof's backyard patio is the perfect indoor-outdoor hybrid. The fully enclosed space features a heavy dose of wood and just enough greenery peaking through to remind you that you're outdoors.

Bent
Head to the patio at Susur Lee's Bent to enjoy everything from lobster tacos to braised short ribs. The eclectic menu mimics the outdoor decor. It sports mismatched chairs and a fresh colour palette, perfect for a hot summer day.

Old School
If you're looking for a sun-drenched spot to enjoy some American fare, look no further than the patio at Old School. With very little shade and a menu filled with diner classics, opt for this when you're craving a stack of pancakes and need a bit of vitamin D.

Northern Belle
Looking out onto Dundas West, Northern Belle offers a first-class people watching patio. Drenched with sun and only a small walk from Trinity Bellwoods, this is the perfect place to grab a post-park coffee or cocktail.

Cocktail Bar
The modest-sized patio at Cocktail bar boasts an air of exclusivity. With enough seating for 15, you'll need expert timing to snag a spot. For those that do, you'll find a menu filled with top notch cocktails.

Churchill
This sidewalk spot has a refined but relaxed vibe. The sleek, no-frills outdoor seating area has little by way of decor, allowing the food from Luther's Chicken, beer and cocktails to take centre stage.

Wallflower
The laid back patio at Wallflower features picnic table seating, touches of greenery and string lights for ambiance. Expect to find a jovial crowd sipping on budget-friendly pints and sharing an array of upscale bar snacks, like oyster a la king.

Loveless
The sidewalk patio at Loveless is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy an expertly-made cocktail or coffee when the sun is shining. Featuring picnic table seating and a relaxed vibe, this low-key spot it where to go on Dundas when the weather is nice.

Midfield Wine Bar & Tavern
For wine on a patio try Midfield. Their laid back sidewalk patio is the perfect place to share a charcuterie board or indulge in lemon shortcake with chantilly cream. They also boast the best wine list in the area.

Thanks to Strongbow for sponsoring our 2015 Toronto Patio Guide.

Did I miss any? Add your favourite Dundas West patios to the comments.

This might be the biggest garage sale of all time. Once the Pan Am / Parapan Games wrap up this fall, organizers are already hosting a massive auction to liquidate furniture and appliances used in the Athletes Village.

You better be interested in buying in bulk, though. The auction, which has already started (pick up is post-games), features lots of sofas, night stands, and bean bag chairs that range from 80 to 250. Interpol fans rejoice.

The idea is to raise $2.5 million via the auction. Sporting goods purchased for the games will not, however, be sold off this way. Although there's about $10 million worth of equipment, the plan is to distributed it to community groups and leagues, which is a nice touch.

The exodus of art galleries from West Queen West to the lower tip of the Junction Triangle has reached its culminating point as MOCCA announces that it will take over the first two and half floors of the the iconic Tower Automotive Building on Sterling Road. How they accomplished this feat, I'm not exactly sure, but it's very exciting news for contemporary art and architecture fans.

The Globe broke the news in a report today which details the size and features of the new space. When the gallery opens in late 2016 (or early 2017), it will be almost three times the size that it is now, with the option of expanding to over 5,000 square metres in the future.

I suppose it's time to stop mourning the move from Queen St. and to start thinking of names for Toronto's new gallery district. While tons of renovations need to be done to get the space to exhibition level, the plans already sound enticing. The first level will include a cafe, lounge-like area for performances and talks, a boutique, and exhibition area.

As for the rest of the Tower Automotive building, it will be renovated for commercial use rather than made into a condominium (that was the original plan, but it fell apart). A number of other buildings will be constructed on the site by developer Castlepoint, but none will exceed the height of the existing structure.

One gets the sense that something good is brewing in the Toronto arts scene right now, at least as pertains to exhibition/event spaces. Somehow Luminato landed the Hearn as the site of its opening gala and the Unsound music festival, and now news breaks that MOCCA has found a near-perfect home in an abandoned industrial building in a growing gallery district.

Please let the trend continue.

Photo by Vic Gedris

They say you eat with your eyes first, but in tech savvy Toronto it seems that cameras get first dibs. So what makes a restaurant Instagrammable? It's a combination of jaw dropping dishes, stunning decor, and lighting.

Here are my picks for Toronto restaurants that'll have you pulling your phone out at dinner.

Maha's
For such a small eatery, Maha has a big presence on Instagram. Perhaps it's because Egyptian brunch is a beautiful sight to behold, and mind-blowing sandwiches are guaranteed to garner likes.

La Cubana
It's almost impossible to take a bad photo in this sunny lunch spot on Roncy. Graphic placemat menus from Pablo Mozo (co-owner and principal designer at Arcade Agency) make for the perfect backdrop to enjoy brightly coloured plates of eggs, grilled corn, and guava-glazed short ribs.

Rock Lobster
Want a photo that screams Canadiana? Head to the Queen West outpost and beeline to the back patio for the perfect setting to shoot some HBC stripes and a lobster tail-garnished Caesar cocktail in a single shot.

Sud Forno
The pastries look as delectable as they taste, and everything about this place (from floor to ceiling) is photogenic. Fans of #ihaveathingwithfloors will understand.

Bellwoods Brewery
Congrats! You scored a spot on the patio. Now get snap of some charcuterie surrounded by beers, fresh cut flowers, and a pair of sunglasses.

Fresh off the Boat
This is one mighty fine looking quick-service eatery, decorated with jewel tones, graphic patterns and nautical flourishes. Not to mention, there's just something about a sandwich with claws that looks super impressive. #sriracha

La Societe
The restaurant looking over the Mink Mile is the place to see and be seen, and that includes plenty of page views by your legions of envious followers. Let them feast their eyes on seafood platters and luxe brunch plates before you dig in. #cameraeatsfirst

Colette
Scrolling through the stream of photos taken at this Parisian cafe and you might think only professional photographers eat here. The brightly lit room and beautiful plates make it easy for pretty much anyone to take a great photo.

The Burgers Priest
It hardly matters which location you visit, Instagram just loves photos of burgers - just ask @burgersTO. Prepare to juggle your phone in one hand while the other stretches itself around a prime beefy specimen a bun.

Buca Yorkville
Capture the artful plating in the brightest of Buca's three restaurants. The dishes are as beautiful as they are delicious and the room is stunning and sunny - especially over brunch and lunch.

What did I miss? Add your favourite restaurants to take Instagram photos in Toronto to the comments

Photos (in order) by Jesse Milns, macyhehehaha, alohaimsharlyn, mky629, purnachoudhury, vickynanowski, compulsivecook, love_ezy, abhishekdekate, rachaviva, hypebelly

Growing up in and around his grandparents' bakery and deli on St. Clair West, Franco Deleo was surrounded by Italian-speaking adults on both sides of the counter. Part of the great wave of immigration to Canada after the Second World War, they'd made the family bakery and the streets outside a community - a place where they felt comfortable as they shopped and socialized.

These are the same people that Deleo turned to years later, as a photographer, and who fill the walls of his studio behind the bakery for Souls of St. Clair, a show of portraits featuring the customers and employees of Tre Mari Bakery, the Deleo family business.

"My grandparents helped to build a strong community on St. Clair," Deleo tells me. "The subjects have been a part of this community for over 50 years and are a reminder of where my brothers and I have come from and what my grandparents had built. It felt natural to want to document a generation of people that are woven into my family's and the bakery's history."

"The subjects in the exhibition simply caught my eye. I wanted to take them out from the environment that I regularly see them, and place them in a studio setting where they are the only focus - where they could share their stories without distraction."

After the death of his father eight years ago, Deleo was drawn back to the family business after studying photography at Humber, working as a commercial photographer and living in Mexico. He now runs the bakery with his brothers, and it was while working there that he discovered the older people - many regulars at Tre Mari for decades - who he would invite to his studio, just off the alley behind Tre Mari, in the back of what was once a seafood store.

"It wasn't always easy approaching the subjects. Sometimes I would be stuck at the cash register with the long lineup as I try to bag bread, give change at the same time ask and 88-year-old Italian man if he wouldn't mind having his portrait taken."

"Before photographing the subjects, we began with conversation and I would simply listen. I listened to their stories and their past experiences, coming to Toronto and shopping in Tre Mari. The bakery helped to connect us and break the barrier of shyness."

"For the first few shoots I would set up the studio beforehand in anticipation that on that day, I would bump into one of my subjects and walk with them into the studio during my work shift. Not having to setup and move around lights made the process of photographing them swift and smooth."

The public face of Souls of St. Clair - featured on posters and postcards all over the neighbourhood - is Nicola, striking an elegant pose, his hand on his cocked hip, as he stands in front of Deleo's camera.

"One day after Nicola finished shopping I asked him if I could take his photo. He followed me into the studio with his bread and cheese, and after five minutes he innocently walked off set when he had enough. Anna (wearing the long coat) said 'okay Franco that's enough!'"

"The reactions were mostly positive and I found the women were more open than the men. Sometimes they we're very confused. 'Why do you want to take MY photo?'"

""My success to failure ratio is about 50-50. One of the men I approach said yes, but then changed his mind because his wife said no. I found that really cute."

Unfortunately, Nicola passed away two weeks before the opening of Souls of St. Clair this weekend, and the passage of time - and the slow eroding of the once-vibrant Italian-Canadian community on St. Clair - has made continuing the series a mission for Deleo.

"Nicola Pallota's passing was a huge reminder of how important this project is to me. The fragility of age is one of the reasons why I started photographing them."

"My goals with Souls of St. Clair are to eventually produce a book of portraits. I want to continue shooting my long-time customers and I hope that this exhibition and body of work grant me more access to subjects that previously said no. I feel proud to document these incredible people that are a time capsule. They came to Toronto with traditions that continue with them."

Souls of St. Clair opens tonight (Friday June 19) from 6-10pm, and continues tomorrow (June 20) from 1-9pm. Enter through Tre Mari Bakery (1311 St. Clair Ave. W.)

A group of over 100 cyclists stage a dramatic protest this morning at city hall, as they collectively staged a die-in, playing dead in an attempt to shock the municipal government into better funding for cycling infrastructure and protection for riders.

The protest was spurred by the spat of recent cycling deaths in Toronto. The gathered cyclists urged the city to adopt a Zero Vision policy and to more than double the city's cycling budget. It was a spectacle, to be sure, one that was startling and visually impactful as those passing made their way to school and work.

Have a look at the die-in protest at city hall in this photo gallery.

Looking for restaurants near Humber College? I know it's hard being a student, trying to find good food that won't break the bank - good thing that area around the Humber College North Campus has a variety of spots serving up tasty dishes.

Here are my picks for the top restaurants near Humber College North Campus.

Ackee Tree, 205 Humber College Blvd.
The Jamaican restaurant that use to call Queen West its home; Ackee Tree is filling student's stomachs all over Humber North. This is probably one of the best restaurants in the school with delicious jerk chicken and amazing sandwiches. Get there early as they often run out during the lunch rush.

Popular Pizza
No one understands the struggles of a student better than Popular Pizza. They know you have to search the couch cushions for change. That is exactly why they have deals like 2 medium pizzas, 3 toppings and 2 dipping sauces for just $20. Get your pizza fix on Rexdale Blvd across the street from Woodbine Race Track.

Al Meezan's Spicy Grill
Want to switch things up instead of eating frozen dinners all the time? Head down to Al Meezan's Spicy Grill with some of the best shawarma's around. In the same plaza as Popular Pizza, Al Meezan's is serving up Middle Eastern Dishes like it's nobody's business. Where else are you going to get a chicken shawarma around here for $5?

Kiwi Rice & Noodle Bar
Near the airport, Kiwi Rice & Noodle Bar serves up some of the most authentic Asian food in the area. Tucked away on Dixon road you can find crispy calamari and pho that will make you wanting more.

Tucker's
Buffets are one of the greatest inventions of all time. And Tucker's is changing the buffet game one roast beef at a time. Probably one of the more expensive places on this list but it's well worth it. And if it's your birthday you get a free meal, if that's not enough they have a build your own sundae bar!

Pizza Hub
You don't need to worry about packing a lunch with Pizza Hub just steps away from Humber College. What sets this place apart is their quick service and amazing cheese-stuffed panzos. Open most days until 11pm but on Fridays and Saturdays they keep their doors open till midnight perfect for a mid-party snack.

Golden Wok
More cheese on toast? Switch things up at Golden Wok. $20 will have you walking out with noodles for days.

Ginko Japanese Restaurant
This Japanese restaurant is hidden inside the International Plaza Hotel. It's a little more expensive than the usual sushi spot but if you're going out to celebrate passing all your classes this is the place to go to.

Steak Queen
The myth and the legend that is Steak Queen is only about a 15 minute drive from Humber College. Open 24 hours a day this is a decent place to cure a hangover with their all day breakfast and burgers.

The Humber Room
The fanciest restaurant at Humber gives culinary students a chance to practice their chef skills on fellow students. It's going to cost you more than $20 for a dinner here but you get to eat food like Pan Seared Cuban Spiced Boneless Chicken Thighs and Humber Steak on Yukon Gold Frites.

What did I miss? Add your favourite restaurants near Humber College to the comments. Writing by Andrew Uyeno. Photo of Steak Queen.

Road closures in Toronto for the weekend of June 19-21 rounds up the key transportation shut-downs affecting the city, including street and TTC closures.

KEY ROAD CLOSURES IN TORONTO

Taste of Little Italy
College Street is closed between Bathurst and Shaw from 6:30 p.m. on Friday to 11:59pm on Sunday (though it often opens a little earlier). In addition to College, a number of streets in the area will be closed, including Grace (between Harbord and College), Manning (between Ulster and College), as well as Palmerston, Clinton, and Montrose (just north of College).

Church Street Summer Festival
Church Street is closed between Wood and Gloucester streets from 6 p.m. on Friday to 2 a.m. on Monday.

Journey to Conquer Cancer
The area within McCaul, Bloor, Bay and Gerrard streets will be shutdown to traffic from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Sunday.

MMVAs
The area around 299 Queen St. West will be closed on Sunday from 4 p.m. until late for the MMVAs.

NXNE
NXNE will close Yonge between Dundas and Queen Friday, Saturday, and Sunday between 7 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.

Toronto Triathlon
The eastbound Gardiner will be closed from the Humber River to Carlaw Avenue on Sunday from 2 a.m. to noon. Ditto for the northbound DVP from the Gardiner to Eglinton.

TTC CLOSURES

Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) will be shutdown between St. George ad Pape stations from 11 p.m. Saturday to around noon on Sunday.

Line 3 (SRT) will be shutdown on throughout the day on Saturday for track work.

ONGOING CLOSURES

Over and above the special closures this weekend, construction projects across Toronto result in numerous other road restrictions across the city. For a comprehensive list of such closures, you can consult the official map maintained by the City of Toronto (also available as a PDF.)