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Nic Cage themed free outdoor movie event during TIFF

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Nic Cage TIFFLast year, TIFF declared September 5 Bill Murray Day. Now, you can celebrate another prolific, yet divisive, actor who rose to fame in the 1980s thanks to a free event running adjacent to the festival.

Minto Westside condos is hosting a Nicolas Cage-themed bike-in movie event on September 17 at the Westside Market on Bathurst, just north of Front. Along with screening the 1983 film Valley Girl, the Nicolas Uncaged evening will include a panel discussion led by Torontonian Lindsay Gibb -- she just finished a book titled National Treasure: Nicolas Cage.

The panel, which will include Broken Pencil Magazine editor Alison Lang and comedians Andrew Barr and Bobby Knauff, will argue whether Cage is the best, or worst, actor of our time. The debate will kick-off at 7:30 p.m. and the movie will start half an hour later.

Still from Valley Girl


Sensorium's big white dome is a feast for the senses

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Sensorium torontoJust in time for TIFF, Sensorium has popped up in a dome erected at King and Brant, and its sold-out run will take place between September 10th until September 27th. Bringing a dash of cinematic panache to Toronto's dining scene, the immersive (heavily branded) dinner experience aims to offer a treat for every sense via a five course tasting menu.

sensoriumThe evening opens with a beer reception in a dome cast in starlight, which unsurprisingly brings all the cameras out for Instagram snaps.

Sensorium TorontoAs diners take their seats at long banquet tables, the dinner service commences as projections from filmmaker Jamie Webster transport diners from field to sea and beyond.

Sensorium TorontoTo open, Dr. Irwin Adams Eydelnanat of Future Foods Studio presents edible clouds in flavours like caramel and citrus. Throughout the evening, aromatic infusions aspire to engage with our most primal sense, that of smell.

Sensorium TorontoThe menu from Michelin-starred Chicago chef Richie Farina opens with a salad course presented two ways. One is shovelled onto the plate, while the other offers the same flavours liquified and clarified then served shooter-style in test tubes.

Sensorium TorontoThe second course features scallops and poached halibut in a dish drawing inspiration from the sea. It's accompanied by coastal scents atomized throughout the room for a subtle and serene effect, while the projections illuminate the room with a crystallized salts that will make diners feel as though they're eating in an hourglass.

Sensorium TorontoThe soup course dubbed "hot sound" is presented by a live drumming performance that causes the broth to dance in the bowl. Nyles Miszczyk of Royal Mountain Records is credited with the sound production that sets the tone and amplifies the experience.

Sensorium TorontoOnce the drumming is over, guests are meant to add crispy rice noodles paired with jalapeños and bean sprouts to the broth before diving in.

Sensorium TorontoNext is a the main entree inspired by woodsy thicketed nature. The dish is presented like a nest comprising braised beef cheek and mushrooms, and it arrives to the table under a cloche encasing a cloud of applewood smoke that diffuses throughout the room once lifted.

Sensorium TorontoTo finish, guests are presented with skewers of chocolate ganache and graham cracker encased in soft marshmallow.

Sensorium TorontoOf course when the centrepieces are lit on fire, everyone already knows what to do.

This isn't just dinner but a collaboration of artistic disciplines, and the production value afforded by the beer brand sponsorship offers a truly unique and ephemeral experience that delivers on its promise to of being a multi-sensory feast.

Sensorium TorontoPhotos by Jesse Milns

Caitlyn Jenner coming to Toronto and you can meet her

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caitlyn jenner torontoCaitlyn Jenner inspired many this year after her 20/20 interview with Diane Sawyer and later, her ground-breaking Vanity Fair cover. As she continues to broaden public awareness of the transgender community, she now stars in and co-produces I Am Cait, a reality show that looks at her post-transition daily life.

Now, Let's Talk Entertainment is bringing Jenner to Toronto. On February 22, she'll speak at Roy Thomson Hall. Tickets are currently available and run from $50 to $500.

While spending hundreds of dollar may seem steep, these tickets will give you VIP access at the event. This includes a reception following Jenner's speech as well as a meet-and-greet with Jenner herself.

Will you go see Caitlyn Jenner speak? Let us know in the comments. Photo of Caitlyn Jenner via Facebook.

Henderson Brewing Co. opening in Junction Triangle

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henderson brewingIt's not hard to find a pint of delicious, locally made craft beer in Toronto. But a new brewery that's slated to open next spring wants to start creating beer that's unique to this city.

"Each month, we're going to pick a story - either from the past or contemporary times out of the newspaper that week - and we are going to endeavor to create a beer to bring the story to life," says Henderson Brewing Company General Manager Steve Himel, who has worked in the beer industry for more than 20 years.

Henderson Brewing will start serving its Toronto-centric beer at its 128A Sterling Road home by April 1, 2016 assures Himel. Its Junction Triangle address is in a rapidly developing neighbourhood that's set to get even more well-known when the MOCCA moves into the nearby Tower Automotive Building a few doors down.

Located in a formerly industrial neighbourhood filled with historic buildings, the name Henderson Brewing itself harkens back to Toronto's past. Back in the 1800, Robert Henderson opened the city's first brewery on a plot of land by what's now Richmond and Sherbourne.

For the brewery's current iteration, Himel notes that the monthly themed beers will be one offs. However, each one will be based off a Toronto event, location, famous person, neighbourhood person or historical moment. "This is an opportunity for us to both bring these great stories to life and create these fun beers," Himel says. A beer called Henderson's Best will be available year round.

Which Toronto stories would you want to see immortalized in a beer? Let us know in the comments.

The top 25 burritos in Toronto by neighbourhood

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burritos TorontoThe burrito business in Toronto is booming. Whether craving traditional Mexican flavours, southwest staples, or novel chow mein-stuffed variations, you'll find burritos on the menus of homegrown chains, thriving independent gems, and international franchises citywide.

Here are my picks for the top burritos in Toronto by neighbourhood.

See also:The Best Burritos in Toronto

ANNEX
The menu at Playa Cabana boasts burritos like the toluca choriza ($16) featuring house-made chorizo that's topped with egg, or the mar y tierra ($18), a surf n' turf style option loaded with sauteed tiger prawns and chipotle-marinated rib-eye steak.

BALDWIN VILLAGE
Mission Burrito in the Village by the Grange food court offers about a dozen different San Francisco style burritos. Prices start at $6 for a veg-friendly bean and cheese, while the "meat lovers" with a choice of any two meats and double cheese costs $10.85.

BEACHES
Gourmet Gringos started as a food truck and now boasts multiple locations across the GTA. Burritos here start with a base of rice, black beans, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese, and are then tailored to order with a choices like beef short ribs, barbacoa, pork carnitas, or chicken tinga.

burrito torontoCLUB DISTRICT
Burrito Bandidos is a staple in this neighbourhood, offering pre-movie meals and post-bar snacking. The menu has the usual assortment of meat, poultry, and vegetarian fillings, plus the ever-popular fried halibut. Prices start at $6.37 and max out at $13.50.

CORKTOWN
Taccorito deals in Tex-Mex favourites and their burritos come in small ($7), medium ($8), and large ($8.79) sizes. Have them stuffed with chicken, steak, chorizo, pulled pork, grilled tilapia, beans or, veggie patties.

THE DANFORTH
Ten different burrito options await you at Grillies where the big bundles are built with a choice of protein including chicken, beef, pork, salmon and sea bass, which can then can be topped with varying degrees of hot sauce and salsa, fresh vegetables, hot peppers, and more.

ETOBICOKE
Fat Bastard does burritos in three ultra-satisfying sizes - li'l, big, and huge, in six classic varieties ($7.39 to $10.89) like ground beef and pulled pork, as well as nine specialty options like butter chicken and sweet chilli Thai chicken ($8.39 to $11.89). Noteworthy toppings here include noodles (instead of rice) and coleslaw.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT
At Z-Teca, the choices start with flour or whole wheat tortillas to which the counter will apply heaping scoops of cilantro-lime rice, and options like black beans, roasted corn or fajita vegetables. From there add grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, beef barbacoa or pork carnitas, then have it finished off with monterey jack cheese and salsa.

HARBOURFRONT
Found in the Waterpark Place Food Court on Queens Quay, Freshwest Grill adds southwest seasonings to its meats via overnight marinade. Once flame-grilled, you'll find options like chicken or steak ready to be wrapped up into bespoke burritos with additions like house-made salsas, sautéed fajita vegetables, rice, cheese, sour cream, and beans.

burrito torontoTHE JUNCTION
The Junction Burrito at La Revolucion is predesigned with rice, refried beans, gaucamole, sour cream, and a mix of cheeses. Of course, you'll still have to decide between beef, chicken, pork, chorizo or veggies.

KENSINGTON MARKET
Big Fat Burrito originated in this 'hood and continues to satisfy local appetites with beastly burritos ($7-$12). Select between fillings like sweet potato, chicken, steak, pulled pork, ground beef, or veg, or take advantage of the unique all-day breakfast burrito packed with scrambled eggs.

KING EAST
Bolet's Burritos dishes out a stellar assortment of overstuffed burritos filled with flavourful meats, seafoods or veggies ($5.25-$7.50). Packed tight with beans, rice, yams, fresh veggies and salsas, these hand held options are hearty and ultra-filling.

KING WEST
The DIY salsa and hot sauce bar is one my favourite features at Wilbur Mexicana on King West. Order the Wilbur-ito ($9) loaded with a choice of chicken, steak, or pork, plus rice, beans, cheddar and jack cheese, guac, pico de gallo, and lettuce - then ramp it up to whatever level of spiciness you can handle.

KOREATOWN
Tacos El Asador is a bustling, no frills taqueria where you can polish off burritos loaded with biftec, chorizo, chicken or beef.

burrito torontoLESLIEVILLE
Chino Locos is hardly traditional, but hey, burritos stuffed with chow mein noodles and General Tso chicken are pretty damn delicious.

LIBERTY VILLAGE
Found inside The Roastery Cafe, Loco Burrito operates only on weekdays between 11am and 3pm. The menu boasts footlong burritos for $8 packed with a choice of sweet potato, bean and cheese, steak, chicken, soy fillings.

LITTLE ITALY
Burro Burrito gets high marks for its burritos ($9.80) stuffed with chorizo con papas (sausage and potato), chicken tinga, and spicy shrimp a la Diabla. Personalize at the counter with white or whole wheat tortillas and the usual array of toppings.

burrito torontoNORTH YORK
In N Out Burrito finishes its tidy tortilla packages on a flat top, so whether you order the mango chicken or plain ol' ground beef, the exterior will be toasted to a perfect golden brown.

PARKDALE
Burrito Boyz offers the option to enjoy any two fillings in your burrito ($5-$10.20) from choices like bean and cheese, veggie soy, chicken, steak, sweet potato, shrimp, or fried haddock or halibut. Have the counter tailor-make your burrito with a rainbow of toppings including the signature chili lime burrito sauce.

QUEEN WEST
Mr. Burrito makes shawarma and burritos available with just one pit stop. The menu bills standard array of Tex-Mex flavours plus unusual cultural mash-ups like the Philly cheesesteak burrito and the falafel burrito.

SCARBOROUGH
Big Bite Burrito isn't tied to tradition, and as a result you'll find the menu boasting fillings like deep fried jerk-spiced chicken with buffalo sauce. There's also the usual contenders including pulled pork, steak, shrimp, and veg. Prices start at $6.50.

ST. CLAIR WEST
Asada Mexican Grill is a family-run, fast food grill where burritos ($8.95) can be customized to order. Try traditional Mexican fillings like carne or pollo asada, al pastor, chorizo and cochinita pibil, plus Baja-style fish or shrimp (add $3).

YONGE & DAVISVILLE
The namesake burrito at Chacho's Fine Mexican Dining is the cochinita pibil with chorizo. It comes loaded with hot red onions, veggies, refried black beans and crema.

YONGE & EGLINTON
Not exactly a local treasure, but still worthy of nod, Chipotle takes this neighbourhood because they do indeed make a good burrito.

YONGE & LAWRENCE
Milagro is sit-down cantina slathers flour tortillas with refritos, then packs them full of rice, crema, guacamole and crumbly panela cheese. There's three varieties to choose from including a standout, Adobado featuring beef and bacon with three chilie adobo.

What did I miss? Disagree with my selections in the comments.

Lead photo from Gourmet Gringos.

Walking at light speed (Billy Bishop tunnel)

Today in Toronto: TIFF, Grolsch Open House X Drake 150, Drake House Party, TIFF Festival Street, AC/DC

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today in toronto TIFFToday in Toronto TIFF is kicking off and bringing a slew of movies and soirees to town. Spend your Thursday evening star spotting outside one of the premiere TIFF parties or get in on the action yourself. There's plenty on tap for film buffs to start the fest off right.

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

grolschThanks to Grolsch for sponsoring this post.

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events section.

Toronto Restaurant Openings: Omaw, The Lockhart, Don Mills Landing, El Arepazo

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toronto restaurant openingsToronto 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

  • Omaw, the new Southern styled spot from chef Matt Blondin (formerly at Acadia) is now open at 88 Ossington Ave.
  • The Lockhart at 1479 Dundas West is now open and serving up a menu of cocktail and tapas.

RECENTLY REVIEWED

OPENING SOON

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

Photo from El Arepazo.


The worst opening night films in the history of TIFF

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tiff opening nightFirst impressions matter. That's why every year the opening night film at the Toronto International Film Festival is a big deal. The 2015 selection, French-Canadian Jean-Marc Vallée's Demolition, promises to be a great beginning to the festival. But over the course of TIFF's 40-year history, it's had a few festivals that started with a big whimper, not a bang.

Here are my picks for the worst opening night films in the history of TIFF.

Creation
There was some excitement when Creation was announced as the 2009 opening film, particularly because it would star real-life husband and wife, Paul Bettany and Jennifer Connelly, as Mr. and Mrs. Charles Darwin. And yet does anyone even remember this film? No. There's good reason for that.

Fifth Estate
The Cult of Benedict Cumberbatch would have you believe the British actor can do no wrong. Fifth Estate would argue otherwise. I'm not even sure his most loyal fans have seen the panned 2013 opening night film in which Cumberbatch donned terrible hair to play Julian Assange, the man behind WikiLeaks.

The Judge
When Robert Downey Jr's The Judge was announced as the 2014 TIFF opening night film, Warner Brothers president proudly declared, "The film is truly deserving, and we believe the always-discerning audience in Toronto will appreciate it as much as we do." The always-discerning audience in Toronto did not seem to appreciate what turned out to be an incredibly ho-hum, giant cliché of a movie.

Score: A Hockey Musical
I love musicals, and it breaks my heart to kick Canadian cinema when it's down, but while Score seemed great on paper, it was less so in execution when we actually got to see it in 2010. "That it was selected to open the Toronto International Film Festival is embarrassing," Toronto critic Will Sloan wrote in his review.

We of the Never Never
The only time an Australian movie ever opened the festival, (with exception of Black Robe, which was a co-production with Canada), there's maybe a reason 1982 was the last time that happened. The New York Times at the time wrote, "If We of the Never Never sounds simple, old-fashioned and as suffocatingly noble as its heroine, it is."

What do you consider to be the worst TIFF opening night films of all time? Let us know in the comments.

Be sure to follow me on Twitter at @alxhuls for all the latest on TIFF 15, including snap reviews. Top image of Reservoir Dogs.

Beyonce dance party in Toronto this weekend

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beyonceIf you're part of the Toronto BeyHive, you're in luck. BEY BEY ALL NIGHT, a Beyoncé-themed dance party, is rolling into Studio Bar this Friday and bringing all of Bey's best jams with it. DJs Sacha Foster, Max Zimmerman, and Jimmy C will be crafting the night's soundtrack, playing B's most danceable songs (which is essentially all of them).

With Bey Day just having passed and her face gracing the cover of Vogue's September issue, there is no better time to celebrate the reigning Queen of Pop. Expect to find die-hard Yoncé fans getting down to her complete discography, from Crazy in Love to Drunk in Love.

As of right now, over a thousand people have RSVP'd, so I'd suggest heading to the bar a little earlier than usual.

Photo via Beyonce on Instagram.

Condo of the week: 380 Macpherson Avenue

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380 Macpherson AvenueThe penthouse suite at 380 Macpherson Avenue is an urban loft listed for just under $1 million. A former Toronto Hydro storage facility, the Madison Avenue Lofts at the foot of Casa Loma was redeveloped in 2009 to a revamped art-deco inspired building with six-storeys and a phenomenal rooftop patio.

A previous industrial area, this stretch between Spadina and Davenport has been revitalized with modern residential buildings including the construction of a second townhouse/loft complex next door and the railway tracks across the street. With the high prices of home buying these days, millennials are opting for the trendy loft lifestyle instead of purchasing a small fixer-upper.

380 Macpherson AvenueThis suite on the top floor features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a solarium and terrace. The space at 1,357 square feet is ideal for a couple or young family, plus the well-used rooftop deck features an instagrammable view of Toronto's favourite Gothic-style castle.

380 Macpherson AvenueSPECS

  • Address: #Ph612 - 380 Macpherson Avenue
  • Price: $999,000
  • Square feet: 1,357
  • Bedrooms: 2+1
  • Bathrooms: 3
  • Parking: 1
  • Taxes: $4,496
  • Maintenance fee: $815.85/monthly
  • Walk Score: 95

380 Macpherson AvenueNOTABLE FEATURES

  • 12 foot ceilings
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Solarium and outdoor patio
  • Fitness studio and locker
  • Large shared rooftop

380 Macpherson AvenueGOOD FOR

Archivists and Toronto history buffs. Right around the corner is the City of Toronto Archives on Spadina Road, featuring an extensive collection of over one million historical photographs, maps and news clippings. If you want to see T.O.'s history in real life, there's also a castle up the hill.

380 Macpherson AvenueMOVE ON IF

You don't want to hear the trains. The area is still a bit isolated with restaurants and retail still a few blocks away, and the railway tracks across the street can be noisy for south-facing units (which this one is). It's a cold trek to Bloor Street especially in the winter.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
380 Macpherson Avenue380 Macpherson Avenue380 Macpherson Avenue

FindLawThanks to FindLaw Canada for sponsoring this post.

Smoke's Burritorie selling $1 burritos for grand opening

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smokes burritosFirst we got a chain of Poutineries and few years later, Smoke's introduced a Weinerie to Toronto. Next up from this home-grown company is a Burritorie that'll help fuel the Entertainment District's late-night and lunch-hour burrito cravings.

To celebrate its grand opening on Monday, September 14, the Burritorie is giving its signature burritos away for just a loonie. The toppings sound pretty typical for a burrito joint and include rice, refried beans, chorizo and pulled pork. All proceeds from the $1 wraps will go towards The Donkey Sanctuary, a 100-acre save haven for neglected donkeys located in Guelph, Ontario.

As we previously announced, Smoke's Burritorie is slated to open up in the space formerly occupied by Burrito Boyz - the Boyz recently moved into a bigger restaurant a few doors down. There's still no word on whether Smoke's latest venture will serve poutine burritos.

Will you be trading a loonie for a Smoke's burrito? Let us know in the comments.

Photo via the Smoke's Burritorie Facebook page.

Neighbourhood pub gets a food and beer makeover

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the grover torontoThis pub is named after Canada's first auto dial telephone exchange, which used to stand in its backyard. Around since 1982, the pub's reputation and quality of food fell by the wayside over the years, but now it's received a revamp thanks to new owners and management. Craft brews, tasty tacos and burgers plus fun events are breathing new life into this old neighbourhood local.

Check out my profile of The Grover in the Restaurants section.

The top 10 kids menus at Toronto restaurants

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kids menus torontoKids menus in Toronto offer more than just sustenance. They have a little something for everyone and choices beyond chicken nuggets. They're save havens for parents to introduce the world to crayon toting forkless tots with no inside voice, without feeling the stinging shame from the gawking onlookers silently judging them.

See also:The Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Toronto

Here are my picks for the restaurants with the top kids menus in Toronto.

Le Sélect Bistro
My favourite out of the bunch, if your kid is in French immersion then this place should be on the top your list. Le Sélect doesn't patronize youngsters - their menu of Duck Confit, Risotto and Steak Frites are elevated and ambitious, at kid sized prices.

The Local Gest
You gotta admire the farm to fork approach to The Local Gest's menus, and the kids menu is no exception. Many ingredients are organically grown, making their kids menu a safe bet with concerned parents. All items clock in at a svelte $7.95.

Barque
Barque's straightforward kids menu is priced at an even $10 per meal, with smoky BBQ faves like their ribs or brisket, broken down into easy descriptions like 'chewy or crunchy' for kids who find texture a main motivator. Sides, dessert and drink included.

Kintako
Kintako's Tadaima Bento Box for kids is like a Japanese happy meal without the toy- the box comes loaded with rolls, teriyaki and tempura. The Eglinton and Laird restaurant has fresh fish and inventive rolls- best enjoyed on their sunny back patio.

Against the Grain
They may have two locations, but lakeside dining is your (seasonal) best bet. Kids will zone out staring at the lake and their pub grub style kids menu (PDF) is kicked up a notch with gourmet nods like aged cheddar and brioche for the Grilled Cheese.

Doug's Public Kitchen
Without getting preachy why not lead by example and nosh a wholesome plant based meal here and there? Doug's got you covered, with ample choices (PDF) on kiddy combos like Club Sandwiches with avocado, or gluten free French Toast all for $9 each.

Drums n Flats
While their kid menu doesn't have chicken wings on it, everything is homemade-fish and chips, burgers or (the only import) Nathan's hot dogs. Sides aren't just relegated to fries - kids will be equally tempted by edamame or veggies and dip, all for $7.

The Ace
The Ace's menu features the standard kiddie fare but is elevated with the veggie based options like or Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crostini ($8) and Spaghetti with San Marzano Tomato Sauce ($7). Kids eat free on Sunday when you order your meal.

Jawny Bakers
Options abound at this O' Connor eatery, with a mixed bag of healthy options like Jumbo Shrimp or Grilled Chicken, but pickier eaters still find their Pizzas, Grilled Cheese (on ten grain) palatable.

Uncle Betty's
Featured on 'You Gotta Eat Here', Uncle Betty's has solid brunch and lunch choices (PDF), like their Nutella and Banana sammies, but the real deal here is the their freshly fried Donuts, courtesy of the Donut Robot.

ritzThanks to Ritz for sponsoring this post.

What places did I miss? Add more restaurants to the comments. Photo of the fish and chips from Against the Grain.

The Corner is Toronto's newest comedy club

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The Corner Comedy Club TorontoIf you miss Speaker's Corner, you'll soon be able to relive its legacy in a brand new comedy club named after the now-defunct Queen Street West video booth.

"When I got the opportunity to take the space, the first thing that came into mind was Speaker's Corner," says The Corner Comedy Club owner Joe Tuccitto of his Queen and John location.

After producing and promoting comedy shows for the past few years, Tuccitto realized Toronto's comedian's needed more places to play outside bars and rented rooms. "It was about time the city had a cool place to come and watch comedy, a place dedicated to stand-up," he says.

The Corner is currently in its soft launch and despite not having booze (yet), Tuccitto is running shows, including one happening tonight called Big Norm and Friends. It'll feature, appropriately enough, Big Norm as well as six additional comics. Tuccitto says his club will have its grand-opening later this month, likely in time for the Just for Laughs Festival.

Just as its namesake, Speaker's Corner, let Torontonian's express themselves in public, Tuccitto hopes to give comedians the same opportunity at his new club. "The whole idea behind the club too," he says, "is to offer raw and uncensored comedy."

Do you think Toronto needs more comedy clubs? Let us know in the comments.


The top weekend events in Toronto: September 11-13 2015

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weekend events torontoThe top weekend events in Toronto will keep you entertained, even if you can't get into an exclusive TIFF bash. If you're not busy stalking James Franco or Sienna Miller outside one of the TIFF hot spots, try out one of these slightly less glamourous events.

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

MOVIES

TIFF (September 10-20)
The Toronto International Film Festival is back again this year and with it comes a long list of parties and movie screenings. As per usual, the fest will feature everything from hard-hitting documentaries to hotly anticipated films. Check out our picks for what to see each day of the festival.

Jason Reitman's Live Read of The Princess Bride (September 12)
For some time now, director Jason Reitman (Juno, Up in the Air) has been regularly putting together live reads of famous movies, but recast with entirely different actors. Over the years he's done everything from The Breakfast Club to Ghostbusters to Boogie Nights. This year he's doing The Princess Bride with a cast he will be announcing via his Twitter account. Get in the Rush line now.

Free Cineplex Screening of Rear Window (September 13)
If the special TIFF screening of Vertigo , with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra playing the score, isn't enough Alfred Hitchcock for you, be sure to check out Cineplex's special free showing of Rear Window to celebrate the film's anniversary. The film remains one of Hitch's best, and is indisputably far more fun on the big screen.

Bloor-Yorkville Film by the Rock Outdoor Cinema: The Imitation Game (September 12)
If you don't want to drop any dollars on a movie ticket, the Village of Yorkville Park will be offering a free screening of The Imitation Game to celebrate TIFF. There will be complimentary popcorn and drinks, so you won't have to spend any cash on snacks either. Unfortunately, you won't have the same luck star spotting here as you would at the TIFF Bell Lightbox.

FESTIVALS

TIFF Festival Street (September 10-13)
TIFF is bringing the festival to the street by closing down King from Peter to University. They've pulled out all the stops for this 4-day event, bringing live music, food trucks and much more out onto the road. The best part? It's completely free.

Cabbagetown Festival (September 12-13)
The Cabbagetown Festival returns for its 39th year this Saturday and Sunday. Expect to find Parliament Street buzzing with buskers, a car show, a dog photo booth, over 30 live bands, and much more. A huge bonus, there will be a free morning of pancakes, so dining won't cost you a dime (providing you get there early).

Veg Food Fest (September 11-13)
If your plant-based diet held you back from attending the many barbecue events this summer, now is your time to shine. 130 meat-free and dairy-free vendors will be serving up bites to eat at the Harbourfront Centre.

Taste of the Kingsway (September 11-13)
Each year, on the weekend after Labour Day, the Kingsway comes alive with midway rides, beer and wine gardens, live performance and samples upon samples of local food. The street festival will run from Prince Edward Dr. to Montgomery Rd.

Kothu Fest (September 13)
Head to the Scarborough Civic Centre to grab some Sri Lankan street food. The fest will feature entertainment provided by Toronto performers and local Kothu roti vendors.

Toronto Bicycle Music Festival (September 13)
Happening in three of our city's green spaces, cyclists will move from location to location to catch some top notch musical acts. Allan Gardens, Grange Park and Christie Pits Park are the destinations, but check the schedule to make sure you'll be at the right place at the right time.

SHOPPING

Midnight MRKT (September 11)
Midnight MRKT is returning to 2nd Floor Events for its first event of the season. After you drop $5 to enter, you'll be met with a world of local retailers, street food, craft cocktails and DJs. The event runs from 9pm to 1am, so you'll have most of the night to sip and spend.

Bellwoods Flea (September 12)
On September 12th Bellwoods Flea returns to Dundas Video for a day of film screenings, drinks, and - of course - shopping. Hunt for treasures or opt to watch The Breakfast Club while kicking back with a $5 caesar.

The Queen West Art Crawl (September 12-13)
The Queen West Art Crawl is a weekend long festival at Trinity Bellwoods. The fair includes a juried selection from more than 250 artists and artisans. If you're planning to picnic at the park during the art crawl, you need to show up early because the event is a huge neighbourhood draw and choice spots go fast.There's also an opening night party.

Bloorcourt Arts & Crafts Fair (September 13)
If you haven't had enough of fairs and festivals this summer, head to Bloorcourt for the Arts & Crafts Fair. Don't worry, vendors are only a part of the event. There will also be plenty of free live music.

ENTERTAINMENT

Friday Night Jazz (September 11)
Friday Night Jazz brings music to Ripley's Aquarium on the second Friday of every month. Making for the perfect weekend event, you'll be able to take in all that Ripley's has to offer while Parkside Drive plays.

BEY BEY ALL NIGHT (September 11)
Get your freakum dress on and head to Studio Bar for an all Beyonce all night dance party. Playing all her greatest hits from Dangerously In Love to Partition, you'll be celebrating Yonce all night with fellow members of the Toronto BeyHive.

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.

With contributions by Shazia Khan, Sima Sahar Zerehi, and Alexander Huls. Photo from last year's TIFF street festival.

Street parking could soon be more expensive in Toronto

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street parking torontoIf you can manage to find an on-street parking spot in Toronto, it may cost you more to leave your car there if council decides to approve a proposal (PDF) drafted by the Toronto Parking Authority.

According to the Toronto Star, the TPA wants to up parking prices because certain areas, such as Dundas between Spadina and Bathurst, are busier now than the last time the city raised on-street parking fees back in 2012.

The TPA wants to increase the hourly rate from $3 to $4 northward in areas such as the Discovery District. Currently, on-street parking on Dundas West and College between Spadina and Bathurst costs $2.25 per hour, but the Parking Authority wants to raise it to $3. It's proposing to do the same on St. Clair West from Yonge to Avenue and on Yonge roughly between Merton Street and Deloraine Road.

Other changes could include a $0.25 hourly increase from the $2 it currently costs you in areas such as West Queen West (from Ossington to Dufferin). The TPA also wants to up prices in parts of Roncesvalles from $1.50 to $2.00 per hour.

Along with the updated fees, the report suggests the city expand its payment periods in certain areas.

Due to an increased number of bike lanes, peak-period parking restrictions and construction there's been a decrease in the amount of revenue the city receives from on-street parking. While the TPA's recommendations would cost $100,000, they'd result in $1.5 million in annual gross revenue for the city, according to the Star.

Yet, before we see any of these changes, the Government Management Committee and City Council would have to approve the TPA's report.

What do you think of these proposed to changes to Toronto on-street parking fees? Let us know in the comments.

Someone added a man bun to the Blue Jays logo

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blue jays logoAs the Toronto Blue Jays head into a nail-biting series against the New York Yankees, all of us fans (and bandwagoners) at home can use a little something to calm our nerves. While there's plenty of Blue Jays-themed beer available, here's a cleverly remixed version of the Jays' logo, created by Tim Spencer, to laugh at.

Now that pitcher Daniel Norris is gone, the Jays' roster desperately needs more man bun (Josh Donaldson represent). And what's next? Maybe Ace can lead the next seventh-inning stretch donning a top-knot, beard and Zanrobes.

What do you think of this updated Blue Jays logo? Let us know in the comments.

This post has been updated to reflect Tim Spencer as the creator of this remixed logo.

Toronto Food Events: Veg Food Fest, Kothu Fest, Taste of the Kingsway, Food Truck Festival Ontario

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events TorontoToronto 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

  • Veg Food Fest is on this weekend from September 11 to 13 at the Harbourfront Centre. Admission is free for access to food vendors, sampling opportunities, cooking demos, expert talks, and a beer and wine garden.
  • The first ever Kothu Fest takes place on Sunday, September 13 at the Scarborough Civic Centre (150 Borough Drive). The celebration is free to attend and revolves around the Sri Lankan dish, Kothu Roti offered by vendors from across the GTA.
  • Taste of the Kingsway runs along Bloor Street West between Prince Edward Dr. and Montgomery Rd., this weekend from September 11 to 13. Look froward to international cuisines, fresh food markets, midway rides and live entertainers.

UPCOMING

  • Chef & Somm presents Hummus & Chardonnay on Friday, September 25 at The Richmond (477 Richmond St. W, Suite 104. The 7-course dinner paired with wines from Southbrook Vineyards will support the Sojourn House Canadaand aims to raise awareness of the Syrian refugee situation.
  • VIP tickets are still available for the Evergreen Asado BBQ happening at the Evergreen Brick Works (550 Bayview Ave.) on Saturday, September 26. The South American-style festival is a fundraiser event promising 40 top chefs barbecuing on open-air parilla barbecues.
  • Food Truck Festival Ontario is fast approaching. The rally featuring sample sized street eats for $6 or less will take place on Sunday, September 27, from 1pm to 7pm at Downsview Park (35 Carl Hall Rd.). Tickets are available now for $10, or can be purchased at the gate for $15.

Photo from Kothu Fest facebook page.

A visual history of Toronto street signs

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toronto street signsThere can be few things more quintessentially Toronto than the acorn-style street sign. Before the famous black-and-white design was adopted citywide, a sometimes confusing mix of wooden and metal designs in an array of typefaces were employed in order to help people find their way around Toronto.

Here's a look back at some of Toronto's street sign history.

toronto street signIn 1928, the signs at Queen and Bay were incorporated into elaborate light standards, as is (kind of) visible in this photo showing the southeast corner of the intersection. The same light standards were repeated elsewhere in the city often without the names of nearby streets attached to the upper bulb.

toronto blue white road signsBefore the acorn design became the city standard, blue and white metal signs fixed to the sides of buildings were the most common wayfinding devices in Toronto. Unfortunately, they were notoriously hard to see, especially at night or during inclement weather. Thanks to benevolent property owners, some still remain, like this one at Woolfrey Ave. Newer street signs spell it "Wolfrey."

toronto acorn signThe famous acorn signs debuted in the 1950s. Prior to the launch, each of the 13 Metro Toronto municipalities used their own designs for everything form parking enforcement notices to signs prohibiting left turns. Some acorn-era signs carried white text on a dark green background.

toronto street signReflective paint was another first for the '50s. In 1958, Scarborough was the first borough to introduce street signs that appeared illuminated under automobile headlights. They were silver with a blue background and could be seen through a windshield at around 150 feet. The signs were rolled out citywide in 1960.

toronto street signsPlastic backlit street signs (visible at far right above) were introduced during Canada's centennial year in 1967. Black text on a yellow background indicated an east-west street; white text on a blue background was used for north-south roads. A pair remained at Queen and Bay until 2013.

toronto street sign saleAfter months of debate, Toronto started auctioning off its massive stockpile of decommissioned street signs in April, 2014. After an initial rush, prices seemed to have settled down somewhat. In Spring of last year the average sale price was $271.30. One signed by Rob Ford fetched more than $2,000.

toronto new street signsIn 2007, Toronto adopted a street furniture program that aimed to consolidated the city's mishmash of street signage. Part of that was the rollout of new blue and white extruded aluminium local and arterial street signs. The design of the former mimics the look of the acorn design and leaves room for neighbourhood customization.

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

Images: City of Toronto Archives (as marked,) Gary Baker, Joanne Dale/blogTO Flickr pool.

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