Recipe for Change, the annual fundraiser in support of FoodShare Toronto, took place last night in the south tent at the St. Lawrence Market. The evening of all inclusive eating featured dishes from top Toronto restaurants, students and specialty shops which made for an especially fun night of roaming feasting for a good cause.
Check out all the deliciousness in this photo gallery.
Craving hand-torched and box-pressed takes on your favourite raw fish servings? There's all that and more at this high-end sushi destination in the Distillery District.
Read my profile of Boku Sushi in the restaurants section.
Moss Park is set to get a major overhaul in the coming years, spearheaded by a massive new development planned for a site just to the east of Queen and Sherbourne streets. WAM Development Group currently owns a parcel of land that stretches from McFarrens Lane to Ontario street between Queen and Richmond. On it, they propose to build three towers with over 1,600 units.
The project is in the earliest stages and thus subject to a lengthy review by the city, but there's a number of take-aways from the application documents that have been filed. Perhaps the most significant of these is that the plan includes ample public/retail space at the ground level with a sprawling courtyard at the heart of the development.
Also noteworthy is the fact that the developer is looking to make the majority of units in the project rental properties. Current documents suggest a breakdown of 1,100 rental units against 535 condos. Presumably the rentals would go in the double-towered building, while the condo would be a standalone structure.
The architect behind the project is the Miami-based firm Arquitectonica, which has an impressive international resume and experience designing mini-communities of this type in other cities, along with major commercial properties.
This is a huge plot of land to redevelop at over 15,000 square metres. There are, however, numerous challenges ahead. Will any of the units in the development be earmarked for affordable rent? It's unlikely, but the neighbourhood could certainly use such a stipulation. At 45 storeys, the height of the towers might also be deemed to much for the neighbourhood.
In any case, something very ambitious is in the works for the Moss Park area. Regardless of the the tweaks to come to the project, the neighbourhood is set for a massive transformation.
What do you think of the designs for the development. Let us know in the comments.
Toronto's North by Northeast (NXNE) conference and music festival is turning 22 this year. And after more than two decades spent proliferating culture in the city, it looks like it may be cooking up something new for 2016.
Today, the city's Economic Development Committee voted in favour of helping support the annual festival as it moves forward. It also recommended that the Committee's general manager report back on how Austin supports South by Southwest (SXSW) to see if we could emulate similar programs here. City Council will now consider this item on March 30.
Yet, this all becomes increasingly relevant because, as NOW reports in its most recent print edition, NXNE is looking to move outside of centrally located areas - such as Yonge-Dundas Square - to the Port Lands.
"This year," reads a letter from Councillors Paula Fletcher and Josh Colle to the Economic Development Committee sent prior to today's meeting, "The NXNE festival is proposing to transform 155 Cherry Street in the Port Lands into a festival venue to produce two days of shows on June 17 and 18, 2016 and to draw 10,000 people to the venue."
Colle and Fletcher asked the Committee to support the festival because NXNE in the Port Lands, as they write, "will spur tourism and create jobs and is in-line with the city's goal to show that Toronto is a leading music city in the world."
Photo by Matt Forsythe.
Ontario is a province packed with natural wonders and surreal places to explore. Alas, for many of us, the drive way north to Thunder Bay and beyond is too daunting for a mere weekend trip. Fortunately, there are some out-of-this-world places within a reasonable drive of Toronto. From waterfalls to grottos, there's plenty to astound within a short trip of the city.
Here are five surreal wonders to explore near Toronto.
The Grotto at Bruce Peninsula Park
It takes a bit of work to access the Grotto at Bruce Peninsula Park, but is it ever worth it. Carved out over Millenia by the waves of Georgian Bay, the cave is one of the most beautiful places in the country. Sunlight illuminates the interior water, which takes on an impossibly cerulean tone. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Cheltenham Badlands
Access to the Badlands themselves was restricted last spring as a plan is hatched to protect this natural wonder while also allowing the public to enjoy it as much as possible. Even though you can't walk on them for the foreseeable future, the drive around the Badlands remains breathtaking. At less than an hour from Toronto, it still very much worth the trip.
Tews Falls
The Hamilton area is blessed with numerous dramatic waterfalls, but my top choice is always Tews Falls. Not only is it just 10 metres shy of the height of Niagara Falls, the dome-like setting makes for a surreal setting that feels more Amazonian than it does Hamiltonian. You can also check out the nearby Webster Falls while in the area.
Bon Echo Provincal Park
The Mazinaw Pictographs are located on a soaring 100 metre cliff at Bon Echo Provinicial park that's stunning enough in its own right. Close exploration reveals over 260 pictographs spread across the rock face, which make it one of the largest collections of its kind in Ontario. There's also a dedication to Walt Whitman carved into the rock almost a century ago.
Bonnechere Caves
Ontario isn't exactly short on caves, but few match Bonnechere for pure aesthetics. This is a photographer's playground, with layered rock walls shaped by millions of years of erosion. The cave system is quite extensive, which allows you to explore the fossilized passageways for hours.
What did I miss? Add your suggestions in the comments.
Photos by Ontario Provincial Parks, Trina, Nimeral1, Ontario Trails, Ontario Highlands.
Mumbai, India created 16 selfie-free zones in order to quash selfie-related deaths and injuries. Since 2014, the Associated Press reports today, 49 people have died taking selfies and 19 of these tragic incidents happened in India. As AP writes, this could be attributed to the size of the country's population (1.25 billion) and the fact that it's home to one of the fastest growing smartphone markets.
While thankfully, selfie deaths are rare - though are of "national concern" in other places, such as Russia - these photographs rarely fail to spark debate, especially among those who think they're a narcissistic representation of a technology-obsessed culture.
By-products, like selfie-sticks, are already unwelcome in many concerts and stadiums, including at the Rogers Centre. And, you can't bring them into places such as Versailles, all Disney parks, the Colosseum and the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
In Mumbai, it's more about public safety; you can't take selfies near the coastline if there's no barrier.
At home in Toronto, there are some obvious spots you should avoid if you're a selfie snapper - like the Scarborough Bluffs or the top of a skyscraper, for instance. We reached out to our followers on Twitter to see if they had any suggestions for no-selfie zones in Toronto.
Photo by Michael Monastyrskyj in the blogTO Flickr pool.
Grassroots on the Danforth closed down last weekend after spending 22 years helping Torontonians lead more eco-friendly lifestyles. And while customers may miss the east side mainstay, owner Rob Grand knows it was time to pull out of the eco-industry.
"This isn't a bad news story," he says. "This is actually a good news story." That's because, as he explains, green products are more mainstream these days; they appear on shelves at big-box retailers such as Loblaws, Walmart and Metro.
"The market changed," says Grand, describing how his business evolved since he opened Grassroots back in 1994. Most notably, shoppers started going online to find environmentally friendly and ethically sourced goods.
Along with increased competition, bigger outlets started to see a demand from those looking to lessen their carbon footprints. "Grassroots was no longer unique," says Grand. "And that had been one of our competitive advantages in the marketplace."
Despite this, former customers overwhelmed Grand with calls, emails and store visits after they found out Grassroots was shutting down. Some young people told him how they first learned about environmental issues at his store back when he had a filing cabinet filled with information - students used to come in to do research before Google was big.
Educating locals about these issues was all part of Grand's original game plan. Though, he wasn't alone. Numerous other stores that branded themselves eco or green-focused in some way, including Pistachio, Left Feet, Fertile Ground, Green is Black, Heart on Your Sleeve and The Zero Point have opened and closed over the past decade.
"Perhaps there isn't a need for a specialty green store any more," muses Grand.
With retail now behind him, he hopes to continue in the environmental field. For now though, he's proud of how he and his team - at both his Annex and Danforth stores - helped create more of a demand for green products.
While looking back on his 22 years at Grassroots, he remembers a conversation he had with a reporter back when he first opened. "I'm basically in business to go out of business," he said. "That's my goal."
Mission accomplished.
Photo by ecoSanity on Flickr.
International Women's Day events in Toronto will have you celebrating the ladies in style. Whether you want to get a lesson on the city's greatest female trailblazers or have some laughs with local comediennes, there's plenty to do to honour the big day.
Here's a round-up of events taking place to celebrate International Women's Day 2016 in Toronto.
Art Feminism Wikipedia Edit-A-Thon (March 5)
As we all know from school guidelines, Wikipedia is not a credible source - but that doesn't stop people from using it. On March 5 celebrate International Women's Day by taking to your laptop to bulk up Wiki pages on art and feminism with actual facts from the AGO's artist files and books.
All Women Rise Up: Rally, March & Fair (March 5)
Organized by the Centre for Women and Trans People, this event promotes equality on all fronts (the event's mantra is no to violence and hate, no to racism and islamophobia and no to poverty). Once you've finished rallying, head to Let's Be Frank on Spadina for an after party.
2nd Annual International Women's Day Talks (March 7)
On March 7 a handful four tech-savvy women, Dominique DeGuzman, Julia Nguyen, Sylvia Ng and Helen Zeng, are heading to the Masonic Temple to give talks. The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, will also be stopping by as a special guest.
Premier Kathleen Wynne: A Special Event for International Women's Day (March 7)
Join Premier Kathleen Wynne at the Toronto Reference Library for a discussion on "women in governance, a new era at Queen's Park and inspiring young women to become future leaders". Advance tickets have sold out, but you can still get rush seats on the day of.
International Women's Day at the Mod Club (March 8)
The Mod Club is celebrating International Women's Day by bringing a handful of local and international female performers to the venue for a show. You'll get to see Little Simz, Tanika Charles, Nitty Scott and LAL take the stage.
DAYBREAKER TO // International Women's Day (March 8)
The DAYBREAKER team is taking over the Basecamp Climbing Gym for a early morning dance party on March 8. Expect yoga, dancing and enough breakfast bars and cold brew to get you through the work day.
International Women's Day: Rupi Kaur (March 8)
Toronto-based author and artist Rupi Kaur is hitting Ryerson's Student Campus Centre on the big day to showcase her writing and art. Tickets to see the poetess are not yet available, but they'll be running for $5-$10 with all proceeds going to charity.
Stand Up 4 Sistering II DARIA DANCE PARTY (March 8)
Theresa Isis Ramirez and Alaina Kelsey are hosting Comedy Bar's Women's Day bash. The event will bring comedians Dawn Whitwell, Natalie Norman, Lauren Mitchell, Chantel Marostica, Courtney Alysse Skye and Kye Fox to deliver some laughs. The event is PWYC with 100% of the proceeds going to Sistering.
Toronto the Just: Stories of Women and the Struggle for Equality (March 8)
Heritage Toronto and Women in Toronto Politics are teaming up to present Toronto the Just: Stories of Women and the Struggle for Equality. The exhibit will showcase the stories of eight local women (past and present) who've challenged inequality and discrimination. At the event you'll also get to hear speakers discuss current and historical social justice issues.
FAC, CWSE, and WIAprojects Celebrate International Women's Day (March 9)
Feminist Art Conference, The Centre for Women's Studies in Education and WIAprojects have banded together to honour the occasion with a panel discussion on historical and contemporary graphic design for the Women's Movement in Toronto. There will also be an exhibition featuring feminist organizing posters from the 1970's and on.
What did I miss? Add more International Women's Day events to the comments.
Photo of Little Simz via Facebook.
Toronto may have a reputation for being mild mannered, but we still like to get feisty once in a while. Sports rivalries aside, our city has gotten itself in heated feuds with other metropolises, both near and far. From literal trash talk to Grammy-nominated diss tracks, our battles are usually fought in the limelight.
Here are five memorable feuds between Toronto and other cities.
Toronto vs. Detroit
Peace Collective's Toronto Vs. Everybody shirts are enormously popular. But some say they're a little too similar to the Detroit vs Everybody shirts. In fact, the Michigan brand accused Peace Collective of plagiarism last year. Peace Collective, however, denies this and has expanded its reach - you can now buy its apparel in mainstream stores such as The Bay.
Toronto vs. Michigan
From 1998 to 2010, Toronto sent its garbage - up to 142 trucks per day - to the Carlton Farms landfill in Michigan. Naturally, many south of the border raised a stink and eventually, the city bought another landfill closer to home near London, Ontario. Recently (like this week), Michael Moore implicated Toronto's outsourced garbage program in the ongoing Flint water crisis.
Drake vs. Meek Mill
This wasn't just a fight between two hip hop artists. Rather, last summer's feud riled up Toronto, mostly thanks to Norm Kelly's involvement in this massive rap battle. Drake came on top after releasing a series of diss tracks, including the Grammy-nominated single "Back to Back."
Toronto Public Library vs. Kansas City Public Library
During the American League Championship Series between the Jays and the Kansas City Royals, the Toronto Public Library got into a literary tiff with Kansas City Public Library. After the Blue Jays lost 14-2 to the Royals, the American city's public library fired off some feisty book-spine poetry. Naturally, we responded in kind, despite losing the ALCS.
TIFF vs. Telluride
TIFF and the Telluride Film Festival aren't the best of friends. That's because Telluride happens right before TIFF. To ensure Toronto gets prestigious North American premiers, our local festival decried that films screened at Telluride wouldn't be allowed into TIFF's opening weekend. Now these movies are merely restricted from certain high-profile venues during the festival's coveted first few days.
What would you add? Suggest more feuds to the comments.
Photo by Greg Patterson in the blogTO Flickr pool.
The top concerts in Toronto this March are playing it a bit more low-key - I imagine a lot of bigger acts are saving themselves for the impending summer blitz, but there's still plenty of punk, indie rock, electro and pop to look forward to as spring officially gets underway.
On the other hand, the Wacken Battle gets underway with qualifying rounds throughout the month, offering one lucky group a chance to rep Canada at the world's largest metal gathering. But it's not all sunshine and blood sacrifices for heavy music fans: there's an Abandon All Ships reunion, plus brokeNCYDE and Twiztid shows on the dark horizon. It's been pointed out to me that this is essentially one Mudvayne gig short of a four horsemen situation for music, so beware.
Anyway, enough pessimism. Here are the better options for live music in Toronto this month.
Wintersleep (March 4, Lee's Palace)
The day their sixth album, The Great Detachment, officially hits stores, Halifax indie darlings Wintersleep will be playing a sold-out show at Lee's Palace. The local branch of Dine Alone is putting it out, so it's apt that the release party of sorts can take place in T.O.
Fucked Up (March 4, Workman Arts)
Back in 2011, hardcore luminaries Fucked Up connected with the Images Festival to perform a live original film score for the 1928 silent film West of Zanzibar. It worked out so well that the band decided to commit it to record - it comes out on vinyl April 15, but they'll perform this encore sooner.
Ty Segall (March 4, Danforth Music Hall)
Yes, another one on March 4 -- I promise I will get to the rest of the month soon -- but before that, garage rocker Ty Segall, who is really committed to this whole lo-fi-retro thing, must grace the stage of the Danforth in honour of new solo release Emotional Mugger.
Beach House (March 5 and 6, Danforth Music Hall)
Dream pop is so big and good right now that this Baltimore duo struck while the iron was hot, releasing not one, but two acclaimed albums last year. A big tour similarly affords us a double dose over two nights at the Danforth. if you couldn't get tickets, try to sneak into the just-announced "installation" show.
Bell Witch (March 6, Soybomb)
The doomiest calendar entry, Soybomb's next party is the best bet for 20-minute songs, down-tuned everything and a general sense of suffocating, impending dread. Fun! Headliners Bell Witch are joined by Chicago's Wrekmeister Harmonies and Toronto's own one-man doom factory, Gates.
Daughter (March 7 and 8, Danforth Music Hall)
A secret part of me loves knowing someone searching for the dreamy, soft melodies of Daughter may accidentally download an acid-trip noise masterpiece under an almost identical name. But seriously, the English trio's new album is a stunner, and you can hear it at the Danforth over two nights.
Leon Bridges (March 10, Massey Hall)
The young Georgian crooner with retro charm generated a quiet positive buzz upon release of his debut LP last summer, but a Grammy nom and SNL appearance have pushed him swiftly towards next-big-thing status. And Massey Hall is an ideal setting for his nuanced, soulful sonics.
BADBADNOTGOOD (March 12, Danforth Music Hall)
Ghostface is sadly not in tow this time, but Canada's coolest (or only cool?) free jazz band - recently expanded to a four-piece with saxophonist Leland Whitty - are set to play as they wind down off of a Polaris/Juno nominated album cycle.
Tortoise (March 12, Lee's Palace)
Across town that night, fellow jazz-tinged instrumental genre-hoppers Tortoise have just ended a seven-year drought with new LP The Catastrophist, which features a variety of new sounds including (gasp!) vocalists.
Metric and Death Cab for Cutie (March 23, Air Canada Centre)
Two indie bands who steadily worked their way from late-90s obscurity to chart-topping success are teaming up for a key milestone in their music-industry mastery: a co-headlining arena tour. "Lights on the Horizon" will swing through the biggest venues in 10 Canadian cities, including the ACC.
Godstopper (March 23, Handlebar)
On the opposite side of indie notoriety, we have Toronto's own Godstopper, who released their second album last fall so quietly, I'm betting half their fans didn't even know it happened. But if you like stuff that sounds loud, and weird, and somewhat Melvins-y, you should be here.
Bane (March 26, Hard Luck Bar)
The veteran hardcore act is legit serious this time about ending their tenure, claiming this to be their "final final final and last tour." If true, this gig could be your last chance to hit up their merch table for hoodies and cement yourself in extremely niche tumblr history.
What shows are you most looking forward to this March? Let us know in the comments.
Photo of Metric by Matt Forsythe.
The top vegan poutine in Toronto allows the city's plant-based community to get in on the classic Canadian dish. These eateries have swapped out cheese curds and beef gravy for meatless and dairy-free alternatives that don't disappoint.
Here are my picks for the top vegan poutine in Toronto.
Fresh
While poutine is usually an indulgent affair stacked with artery-clogging ingredients, Fresh's rendition includes plenty of veggies, making it a slightly healthier option. The bed of french fries is topped with steamed baby bok choy, kale, swiss chard, roasted mushroom gravy, faux cheese sauce, green onions and sunflower seeds.
Poutini's House of Poutine
Poutini's plant-based option is made with a gluten-free vegetable gravy and topped with Daiya cheese shreds. And good news for all you vegans sad about not being able to indulge in late night "drunk food," the shop is open until 3:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday (hallelujah).
Fresco's Fish & Chips
If you've been craving Quebec's most coveted fare, Fresco's has got you covered. Their two locations (in Kensington and on St. Clair West) offer a no-frills option that looks pretty similar to the real deal. It's composed of three ingredients: Daiya cheese, mushroom gravy and (of course) fries. If you feel like going for something a little different, you can sub in vegetarian chili for gravy.
Apiecalypse Now
This Koreatown pizzeria is known for making some of the best vegan pizza in town. If you look past the vast array of pies on the menu, you'll find a selection of poutine that'll quash your craving for the standard variation. There's both a traditional take on the dish - made with a veggie gravy and faux cheese curds - and supreme version stacked with add-ons like buffalo "not-chicken" and pineapple.
Off The Hook
If you're an east sider, this Danforth fish and chip shop is your best bet for vegan poutine. While it excels in pescatarian-friendly fare, its dairy-free take on poutine is far from disappointing. The dish itself is simple yet effective, composed of fries, veggie gravy, and Daiya cheese.
What did I miss? Add your favourite for vegan poutine in the comments.
Photo of Fresh's poutine via their Instagram feed.
Brunching outside Toronto is the thing to do when visiting family in the 'burbs or making a pit stop en route to cottage country. These Southern Ontario eateries range from fancy buffets and boozy taverns to old-school diners and roadside grills. They couldn't be more diverse, and yet they're all top notch spots to get your brunch on.
Here are some of my favourite brunch spots found just outside Toronto's city limits.
Breakwater Restaurant, 15 Stavebank Road South, Mississauga
The Sunday brunch buffet at the Waterside Inn in Mississauga features a chef-manned carvery, omelette, and waffle stations, along with selections of sweet and savoury breakfast and lunch fare, antipasto and desserts.
Kravingz, 1710 Lakeshore Road West, Mississauga
This all-day brunch spot serves up a cross-cultural array of eats. Highlights include The Flip Side ($11), a take on a Filipino favourite featuring house-made longansia with garlic fried rice and a fried egg, The Islander ($12) comprising jerk corned beef hash over cheddar grits with a poached egg, and The Polski Benedict ($14), which features smoked salmon or peameal on a potato placki.
The Water Street Cooker, 2084 Old Lakeshore Road, Burlington
This Burlington restaurant does a Sunday brunch buffet where the vast spread of delectable edibles includes breakfast standards along with a stations devoted to waffles, roast meats, chilled seafood, bagels and lox, a salad bar and more.
Papa Leo's, 638 Concession Street, Hamilton
Highlights on the breakfast menu at this Hamilton eatery include the all-day biscuits ($14) available in three variations. There's the Mr. Lee loaded with double smoked bacon, back bacon, cheddar, tomato, slaw and ranch, the Mr. Hack loaded with crispy chicken, kimchi and mozzarella, and Cid's, a veggie version loaded with roasted red pepper, avocado, cheddar and mayo.
Aberdeen Tavern, 432 Aberdeen Avenue, Hamilton
Another solid brunch spot in Hamilton is this tavern where weekend brunches are a boozy affair. On the menu you'll find BBQ beef hash ($17) topped with a poached egg, and stuffed French toast ($13) paired with coffee toffee, banana jam, fresh berries and bourbon whipped cream.
Caledon Family Restaurant, 16560 Hurontario Street, Caledon
Formerly the Flapjacks Family restaurant, this casual diner on Hurontario Street in Caledon is famous for its specialty pancakes offered in nine different varieties including chocolate chip, Dutch apple, or Pigs in a Blanket-style wrapped around breakfast sausages.
Plank Resto Bar, 67 Bronte Road, Oakville
The brunch menu at this Oakville restaurant boasts tempting selections including a bourbon Benny ($12) featuring poached eggs and lime infused hollandaise over pulled pork, and chicken and waffles ($13) smothered in maple gravy.
Michael Kelly's, 93 Winchester Road West, Whitby
Head to Brooklin (Whitby) to partake in brunch served week-round at this casual family restaurant. On the menu you'll find fluffy pancakes and thick Texas-cut French Toast for just $5.95. I dare you to try to find prices like in downtown Toronto.
PORT, 1289 Wharf Street, Pickering
This restaurant in Pickering serves brunch on weekends and holiday Mondays. The menu is well stock with sweet and savoury fare and includes standouts like soufflé pancakes, huevos rancheros in a cast iron pan, buttermilk fried chicken and Halifax donair.
Mercury Diner, 165 Wellington Street East, Aurora
This roadside diner in Aurora isn't fancy, but it's brimming with retro charm. Here you'll find classic Hungry Man Breakfasts, pancakes, waffles, and all the standard eggy dishes at very fair prices.
Lazy Tulip Cafe, 29 Maple Avenue, Barrie
Breakfast is served week-round at this cozy cafe in Barrie. Notably the menu is pork-free (though turkey bacon is present) and offers ample vegetarian selections including crepes florentine, huevos rancheros and tofu scrambles.
Cottage Canoe, 453 Dunlop Street West, Barrie
This brunch spot in Barrie is the place to find local and road-tripping hockey teams. Highlights on the menu include a breakfast club sandwich ($11), mushroom, bacon and cheese omelettes ($12), and meaty three-egg breakfast ($15) with bacon, ham and sausage, home fries, toast and house-made jam.
Share your go to brunch destinations outside of Toronto in the comments.
Lead photo from PORT restaurant.
Toronto is basking in new cafes that make great study spot and offer free WiFi so it's easy to get connected. If you're tired of campus study options, opt for one of these new spots the next time you need to dig into your notes.
Here are my picks for the top new cafes for studying and free WiFi in Toronto.
Krave Coffee
Krave Coffee has quickly become a fan favourite for working and studying on St. Clair West. Its two-person tables are ideal for solo caffeine-fuelled cram sessions.
Quantum Coffee
This streamlined King West spot offers few distractions (decor elements are minimal) and ample space for studying. Head to the large back room if you're with a group or are touting a bounty of books.
5 Elements Espresso
This Italian-inspired cafe in Yorkville offers two floors of study-friendly space. There's a mix of solo seating and large tables, so it's conducive for tackling everything from essays to group work.
Zavida Coffee
Located on the ground floor of Aura at Yonge and Gerrard, this cafe is a great alternative to Ryerson's ever-crowded Student Learning Centre. Bonus: the coffee beats the offerings from the university's Tim Horton's kiosks, and the space is much more inviting than its library cubicles.
The Shmooz
If you're in full-blown study mode, chances are your cafe session will take a few hours - so you're gonna get hungry. If you need more than biscotti and lattes to fuel your learning, this Pape Avenue cafe has got you covered with its robust lunch menu.
Jimmy's Coffee (Ossington)
It should come as no surprise that the newest Jimmy's makes this list. Its three other locations - on Portland, Gerrard and Baldwin - are already favourites of the city's student population. This offshoot boasts comfy leather armchairs, table seating, and the usual selection of caffeinated beverages.
Creeds Coffee Bar
Creeds is a triple threat for all the things you don't want to do at home: your laundry (it offers a dry cleaning service), cleaning off your desk, and making your own food and beverages. There's plenty of seating and the baristas have really honed their craft; all that's left for you to do is to stop procrastinating.
Rooster Coffee (Jarvis)
If you find the fluorescent lights and questionable scents of school libraries less-than-inspiring, hit up Rooster Coffee's newest cafe on Jarvis. The shop has high ceilings, masterfully brewed bevies, and tons of seating more comfortable than plastic chairs.
Coffee Public
Located in close proximity to both Ryerson and U of T's campuses, Coffee Public is a welcome retreat from school for students of both universities. The space is bright and makes for the perfect essay-writing spot. There aren't large tables, so if you're with a group you're best to head elsewhere.
Constantinople Bakery
Need a sweet escape from the stacks? Head to this bakery/cafe hybrid on Queen West. It has a homey vibe and enough seating that you'll likely find a table. If you spend to much time at the pastry counter, I can't promise that you won't pack on the freshman/sophomore fifteen.
What did I miss? Add your new study haunts to the comments.
Photo of Krave Coffee by Jesse Milns
The bar/bat mitzvah is a rite of passage well beyond the confines of Toronto, but it's undeniable that local celebrations conjure a particular set of memories and nostalgia. There are a number of quintessential experiences that are pretty universal for these coming-of-age affairs in Toronto during the 1990s and early aughts.
Here are 10 signs you went to bar/bat mitzvah parties in Toronto back in the day.
1. You helped smash a giant chocolate cake from Balloon Bash.
2.Mandell Entertainment Group was your DJ company of choice, and you still have a closet full of oversized t-shirts to prove it.
3. On rare occasions, you got to party at the Ontario Science Centre and the AGO after hours before First Thursdays and the #empty movement were a thing.
4.Little Miss Henna gave you your very first tattoo.
5. You rocked a spiffy outfit from Kids Treat or Le Chateau Jr. Girl.
6. You knew you were at a fancy affair when the grand prize was Leafs, Raptors or Blue Jays tickets.
7. Marnie and Rena taught you the Dr. Jones and Cotton Eyed Joe before they opened Vibe Dance and Fitness Studio in Thornhill.
8. A rare summertime party meant a boat cruise around the Toronto Harbour.
9. Three-course meals consisting of Caesar salad, pasta and red sauce, and chicken fingers and fries were standard.
10. You brought woolies (from Marky's or Camp Connection) because you would never be caught wearing shoes on the dance floor.
How do you remember the bar/bat mitzahs of old? Add your suggestions in the comments.
Don't think you have time for your next yoga work out? Just hop on the TTC. Well at least that is what Mark Slater, Brandon Tralman-Baker and JP Spanbauer have been illustrating through a series of hilarious Instagram posts.
These posts highlight how uncomfortable riding the TTC can truly be. From being stuck next to a child to squishing your way onto the streetcar during rush hour, these cartoons depict the crazy positions we find ourselves in while riding the rocket.
Here is your unofficial guide to doing yoga on the TTC.
Pose #1 The "I'd kick you if you weren't a kid" pose.
Pose #3 The "Vomit Comet" pose.
Pose #4 The "FML" pose.
Pose #5 The "I should've taken an Uber" pose.
Photos via Mark Slater.
March break activities and events in Toronto will have you hitting family-friendly spots around town. Whether you want to take a kid to a sporting event or check out the Toronto Zoo's latest additions, there's plenty to keep you busy when school is out.
Here are a few things to do over March Break in Toronto.
Sugar Beach Sugar Shack (March 12-13)
Sugar Beach is being transformed into a Québec-style sugar shack for the first weekend of March Break. It will feature family-friendly events like maple syrup tasting, performances by Stef Paquette, Mélanie Brulée and Amélies et les Singes Blues and a Choir!Choir!Choir! sing-a-long. If you need a break from sugary treats, you can grab some savoury fare at one of the local food trucks on site.
March Break at the BSM (March 12-20)
If the winter blues are starting to set in, hit up the Bata Shoe Museum and get in on some 'fun in the sun' drop-in activities. You'll get to decorate your own visor and sandal box, add to the community puzzle, try on sandals, play games in the galleries and more.
March Break at the Hockey Hall of Fame (March 12-20)
Got a mini Gretzky on your hands? Head to the Hockey Hall of Fame this March Break to celebrate their love of the game. Try everything from goaltending to hosting a sports broadcast and check out the brand new exhibit: The Changing Face of Hockey: Diversity in Our Game. The Hall of Fame is giving away prizes to kids all week, so you may even walk away with some game-themed swag.
AGO March Break Drop-In Family Fun (March 12-20)
Skip terrorizing your home with glitter, PVA glue and acrylics and let the AGO handle your budding artist. The gallery is hosting drop-in creative days all week where your pint-sized Michelangelo can practice printmaking, painting and constructing.
Oh Baby - It's March Break at the Toronto Zoo (March 12-20)
Are you obsessed with the Toronto Zoo's youngest residents? Me too, and chances are so are kids. On March Break see the white lion cubs, polar bear cub and Canada's first giant panda cubs. There will be info stations and keeper talks if you're down for a little animal education, as well.
Enchanted March Break at the ROM (March 12-20)
The ROM has more than a few activities planned for March Break this year. Catering to all interests, there's a Toronto Fringe puppet performance of Hamlet, a Silk Road experience, a banquet-style feast and much more.
TIFF Kids Presents: Treasures from DreamWorks Animation (March 12-20)
From the 12th to the 20th TIFF will be showing new and old DreamWorks films. The line up includes favourites like Shrek, The Croods, How to Train Your Dragon, Madagascar, Over the Hedge, Bee Movie, Rise of the Guardians and Megamind.
Raptors 905 March Break Madness at Air Canada Centre (March 14)
Raptors tickets may be sold out, but that doesn't mean you can't see a quality game during the break. March Break Madness is hitting the ACC on the 14th and you can cheer on the Toronto Raptors' NBA D-League affiliate, Raptors 905, as they face-off against the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. Aside from b-ball, expect performances from the Raptors 905 mascot, t-shirt tosses, dance cams, contests and more.
March Break at Evergreen Brick Works (March 14-18)
Instead of spending March Break kicking it in PJs by the TV, get outside. At the Evergreen Brick Works you'll get to indulge in local eats, try woodworking, go on tours, see child-friendly performances all while getting some fresh air.
Family Favourites: March Break (March 14-18)
For five days participating Cineplex theatres in the GTA will be screening family friendly movies including Minions, Paddington and The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water for only $2.99.
March Break Mystery Fun (March 14-20)
In honour of March Break the Black Creek Pioneer Village is hosting a mystery game: Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Stolen Sheep. Dig around the village for clues, question characters on the scene and find your way through mazes to solve the case. Once you've finished, get in on the Maple Syrup Adventures and sample syrups and take part in maple-themed activities.
Toronto Marlies March Break Games (March 18-19)
During March Break the Toronto Marlies have two home games (one Thursday and another Friday) at the Ricoh Coliseum. Tickets for both games start as low as $10, making it an extremely affordable option.
What did I miss? Add your March Break plans to the comments.
Photo via the Raptors 905 on Facebook.
Today in Toronto head to the Drake for the ultimate breakfast sandwich throwdown. Tuck Shop Kitchen,Portland Variety, Dundas Park Kitchen and more will face off for the title of top sammy in the city. If you're not a breakfast for dinner type of person, head to The Great Hall for the latest instalment of Art Battle.
For more events, click on over to our events section.
Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events section.
Toronto Men's Fashion Week (TOM) returned to College Park for its third season of runway shows. Despite many logistical issues, TOM has become a platform for both emerging and established Toronto menswear designers to showcase their latest collections to the public.
Here are some of my favourite looks - and the wackiest ones - from the latest edition of Toronto Men's Fashion Week.
THE BEST
Joao Paolo Guedes
Infusing his Brazilian aesthetic into Canadian design, Joao Paolo Guedes' kaleidoscope inspired print is just one example of how he creatively constructs pieces that capture attention on the runway yet still remain wearable in everyday life.
Hip and Bone
This elongated quilted bomber is just one example of how Hip and Bone have perfectly captured the aesthetic of Toronto street style yet evolving it through the use of luxurious material.
Zane Barläs
Barläs' suits glided down the runway exuding an aura of elegance while still remaining contemporary.
Nabeel
Nabeel Sheikh brought his eye for well-designed suits to the runway by creating a collection of luxury pieces made from high-end fabrics in mesmerizing patterns.
Jaan Choxi
With his second collection at TOM, Jaan Choxi added his own unique flair to traditional cuts and pieces.
Caffery Vanhorne
A newbie to the TOM scene, Caffery Vanhorne stole the show on the last night of fashion week with this confident and fearless approach to fashion.
THE BIZARRE
Dalla
Dalla created a collection that I can only describe as having a Woodbridge meets Westeros vibe - these gaudy piece contradicted modern day minimal aesthetics.
Hendrixroe
While Hendrixroe created a well-constructed collection of Victorian inspired silhouettes, I can't help think that Shaggy from Scooby Doo found himself on the TOM runway in this one look.
L'Momo
Designer Muhammad Alamgir featured architectural and futuristic elements in most of his latest collection but the Star Trek inspired eye bands were distracting and added little to his designs.
What do you think of these pieces? Let us know in the comments.
Writing by Caleigh Alleyne. Photos by Shayne Gray.
It may have felt like spring in Toronto yesterday, but don't put away your parka just yet. That's because we could see a lot of snow tomorrow.
Earlier this morning, Environment Canada issued a winter storm watch for the city. We could see between 15 to 30 centimetres of snow tomorrow as well as freezing rain and ice pellets.
Environment Canada is predicting that the storm will hit some time on Tuesday and could continue into the evening - brace yourself for a messy commute home.
Get your toboggans ready. We might finally be able to hit the hills this week.
Photo by Kevin Konnyu in the blogTO Flickr pool.
The best cooking classes in Toronto range from fun recreational workshops for home cooks to serious instruction geared towards budding chefs. Whether you want to reconnect with food sources by learning how to break down a whole beast or simply want to impress your guests at your next dinner party, there's a class for pretty much everything.
Here are the best cooking classes in Toronto.
George Brown College
The GBC Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts offers a wide array of semestered evening courses and certificate programs for basic, intermediate and advanced level cooks. Highly specialized classes focus on subjects like pasta, charcuterie, and sauces and marinades while others zero in on the regional culinary traditions of France, Italy, and Mexico.
Dish Cafe
This recreational cooking school on College helps cooks brush up on basic techniques like knife skills and how to produce specific dishes like gnocchi, paella and pho.
The Healthy Butcher
From basic knife skills to the art of cooking a roast, this butcher shop with locations on Queen West and Eglinton West is the place for carnivores to brush up on their culinary prowess.
The Edible Story
Interactive classes hosted by this cooking studio at Richmond and Sherbourne lead students through the steps of creating a complete meal, from appetizers to the dessert course. Intimate classes capped at 10 feel like a kitchen party as students are greeted on arrival with an amuse bouche and set up at a fully equipped work station.
The Cookery
This high end kitchen supply store and cooking studio on Roncy sells everything aspiring cooks need in the kitchen and dispenses the know-how to get started. The course calendar offers beginner level Cookery 101 classes, which cover subjects like pasta making, whole fish butchery and bread baking.
My Place for Dinner
Held at the Market Kitchen in Historic St. Lawrence Market, this cooking school led by Debbie Diament hosts three-hour hands-on cooking classes that include a full meal, a glass of wine, and a take-home recipe booklet. Scheduled classes delve into subjects like sushi, Tuscan cuisine and the flavours of Thailand, while private and team building classes can be booked as well.
The Big Carrot
Vegetarian cooking classes are held every Monday night at this Danforth grocer. The introductory classes are geared toward novice cooks and cover topics like Cajun & Creole cuisine, Spring Detox recipes, and how to make fermented drinks.
Nella Cucina
This kitchen supply store at Bathurst and Bloor offers a variety of hands-on classes and interactive demos designed to inform and educate home cooks. Learn tips and tricks from top Toronto chefs while sprucing up knife skills or delving into subjects like holiday baking or classic chowders and quick breads.
Pitchfork Company
Multi-week courses and one-off workshops for kids, teens, and adults are on the itinerary at this cooking studio in Little India. Youth can enrol for classes covering kitchen fundamentals and pastry making, while adults can partake in hands-on workshops led by experts on subjects like pasta-making, naan baking, and dumplings.
Aphrodite Cooks
Whether looking for one-on-one instruction, couples classes, or recreational group classes, this cooking school on Weston Road can accommodate any skill level or set of tastes. Classes range from interactive group demonstrations to hands-on sessions and cover subjects like Chinese dumplings, empanada making, and sushi 101.
Marni Wasserman
Certified natural chef and holistic culinary nutritionist Marni Wasserman offers classes rooted in healthy eating. Hands on classes focus on topics like clean eating and Mediterranean cuisine, plus Wasserman offers one-on-one instruction, workshops and retreats.
The Depanneur
The informal open kitchen on College Street hosts hands-on workshops on Monday evenings. The topics of interest are always changing, but recent workshops have covered whole hog butchering, marmalade-making, cheese making and more.
Cirillo's Culinary Academy
Chef John Cirillo's cooking school in Etobicoke offers a comfortable class geared towards budding cooks from all backgrounds. Brush up on basic knife skills or tour the world with two-hour classes focused on Thai, Italian or Latin cuisines.
Hooked
Seafood-centric learning is the specialty of this fish monger on Queen East. Practical hands-on classes cover special interests like oyster shucking, fishmongering 101, grilling, sushi-making and more.
Sushi Making for the Soul
Currently hosted at the same location as Aphrodite Cooks, these recurring cooking classes from Sang Kim teach beginner students how to make makimonos while intermediate classes delve into the art of cut fish for both nigiri and sashimi.
Photo of Dish Cafe by Jesse Milns.
