A new bao destination has taken up residence in the old home of Luther's Chicken inside Churchill bar. Fried chicken is still on the menu, but now it comes stuffed inside heaping bao sandwiches.
Read my profile of Almighty Bao in the restaurants section.
How much does it cost to rent a condo right now in Toronto? More than it did last year, says research firm Urbanation.
According to Urbanation, in the first quarter of 2016 (until March 31), the average cost of rent rose to $2.53 per square foot. That's up 6.8 per cent, or $2.37 per square foot since last year, as the Financial Post reports.
The condo-focused real estate firm suggests population growth and increased employment rates may be a factor here. The competitive (and pricey) home ownership market might also be pushing more people towards condo rental units.
It's not surprising then, as the Post notes, that between January and March of this year, applications for new rental developments were up 40 per cent.
Photo by Charles Bodi in the blogTO Flickr pool.
Earth day is set to be celebrated in Toronto on Friday, April 22, but there are loads of lead-up events in support of environmental protection across the city. Whether you want to fill your home and wardrobe with eco-friendly items or to get your hands dirty with a little tree planting, there are more than a few ways to go green.
Here's how to celebrate Earth Day in Toronto this year.
Green Living Show (April 15-17)
North America's largest consumer show dedicated to healthy and sustainable products and lifestyle ideas returns to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on April 15 for a three-day stint. This year is the show's 10th anniversary and they're celebrating it with an impressive lineup of over 40 prominent environmental and health experts sharing their expertise all weekend long.
Drop, Swap & Shop (April 17)
Make your way to the Evergreen Brick Works for an ethical and eco-friendly shopping experience. You'll get the chance to drop off your old electronics, swap in your unwanted items and buy some fresh new goods at the Etsy Maker's Market.
Gladstone Grow Op 2016 (April 21-24)
Head to the Gladstone for an exhibition built to "reframe our understanding of the shifting boundaries between urban and wild, culture and nature." Aside from seeing some thought-provoking works, you'll also get to catch the Alternative Food & Drink Show, which will showcase unique dishes made from alternative ingredients.
Earth Day (April 22)
While you could easily spend Friday throwing back beers in anticipation on a night out, why not get a little eco-friendly for a few hours instead? April 22 marks Earth Day and Torontonians are celebrating by congregating in Nathan Phillips Square. The group will also be marching the streets and picking up trash to keep our city clean and green.
Earth Ball (April 22)
For all you environmentally conscious partygoers, there's the Earth Ball. Get philanthropic at the Mill Street Beer Hall while sampling local eats by chef Michael Stadtlander, networking, and celebrating the year's environmental achievements. On top of that there will be a silent auction, eco gift bags up for grabs and more. Tickets cost $150.
Earth Day film screening: Hadwin's Judgement (April 22)
Head to the Bloor/Gladstone Library on Earth Day for a screening of Hadwin's Judgement. The movie chronicles a logging engineer/survivalist's attempt to stop the destruction of a rainforest.
UNACTO Earth Day Reflections on COP21: A Call to Think Globally and Act Locally (April 23)
Want to learn a thing or two about climate change? Head to Hart House on April 23.The UNACTO Earth Day event spotlights leaders from the government, local community, academic and private sectors. It will feature an exhibit of art and environmental initiatives, a keynote, and panel discussions.
Gladstone Flea Goes Green (April 23)
In honour of Earth Day the Gladstone Flea will be selling goods from local, ethical and environmentally sustainable makers. Vendors include Toronto Bee Rescue, Citchen Candle Co., Samyoga, Foxglove Apothecary and more.
Earth Day Ravine Clean Up (April 24)
While art shows and swap events may be entertaining, sometimes you've got to put in a little elbow grease to see results. Give back to Mother Nature by helping with the Glen Stewart Ravine Clean Up on April 24.
Downsview Park Earth Day Tree Planting (April 24)
Get your hands dirty and join Toronto's amateur arborists at Downsview Park for a day of tree planting. A drop-in campfire with marshmallows and a self-guided park tour brochure will be available while supplies last. If you're feeling even more charitable, bring along a non-perishable food item as a donation in support of the North York Harvest Food Bank.
Walk for Water (April 25)
Put yourself in another persons shoes by joining in on Aveda Canada's Walk for Water. The event is a 6km walk that signifies the distance walked by people in developing countries to collect water. Proceeds from the event go toward WaterAid.
What did I miss? Add more Earth Day events to the comments.
Photo via the Gladstone Hotel on Facebook
The Raptors are coming off of their best season ever with a record of 56-26, but now the big show starts with a first round playoff battle against the Indiana Pacers. With the first game scheduled for Saturday, Raptor fever hasn't quite gripped the city just yet, but it's on the way.
Helping out in that capacity is the first of what will likely be a number of hype videos. This one lays on the melodrama quite thick with its Star Wars theme, skyline shots, and references to the team's history, but it's got that date-with-destiny thing down pat.
The Raps have only made it out of the first round once (all the way back in 2001), so expectations are ready to soar for a legit playoff run this year. It's time to get excited.
Photo by Julia Viola in the blogTO Flickr pool.
Weekend events in Toronto will let you embrace what looks like the beginning of warm weather (finally) and what hopes to be a long Raptors playoff run. When you aren't soaking up the sun on a patio, you can hit up Record Store Day events, the last few days of Fashion Art Toronto and the Images Festival.
For more events this weekend click on over to our events section.
ENTERTAINMENT
Fashion Art Toronto (April 12-16)
The final weekend of |FAT| has an impressive roster of fashion-focused runway shows, photography, art exhibits, installations, performances and films on tap.
Images Festival (April 14-23)
Toronto's annual experimental film and media event is in full swing. This weekend you can catch a bevy of short screenings, installations, performances, art exhibits and more at local galleries.
Sorry Not Sorry Justin Bieber Dance Party (April 15)
Gearing up for Bieber's Purpose World Tour Toronto stop? You are not alone. The folks behind BEY BEY ALL NIGHT are bringing Beliebers new and old to Studio Bar this Friday for a night of shameless JB loving. Expect to hear everything from "Baby" to "Sorry," and be prepared to show off your best dance moves (bonus points if you've mastered the choreography from his videos).
Spring Fling Toronto 2016 (April 16)
The snow might be done for good (fingers crossed), so now's the time to start embracing the outdoors. Trek to High Park to join the Ontario Cosplay Community at its Spring Fling. The event already has over 1k RSVPS (and 4K interested) so expect a big turn out.
SPORTS
Raptors Fan Zone Party (April 16)
Located in front of the Air Canada Centre at Maple Leaf Square, the Fan Zone will be open for both home and away games starting two hours before tip-off. Along with screening the on-court action, We The North parties will feature live DJs, contests and giveaways.
ART
Kevin Drew at Analogue Gallery (April 14-28)
Kevin Drew's art exhibition "Skid Marks Of The Soul" is now viewable at Analogue Gallery on Queen West. The Broken Social Scene co-founder is showing his pieces, which features both words and abstract colourful images.
Super-Duper Show (April 15-17)
The Super Wonder gallery is hosting a "heroes vs. villains" art show all weekend long. What can you expect? Paintings, sculptures and installations by over 80 artists, an interactive city scape Metropolis (perfect for photo ops) and a costume contest. Now's the time to whip out that bargain Superman costume you wore on Halloween six years ago.
FILM
BREW & VIEW: Moulin Rouge Sing-a-long Event (April 16)
Come Saturday, The Randolph Theatre will be filled with Moulin Rouge fanatics. Sip on ice cold brews as you watch Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor fall in love and belt out musical numbers.
POP-UPS AND MARKETS
Green Living Show (April 15-17)
North America's largest consumer show dedicated to healthy and sustainable products and lifestyle ideas returns to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on April 15 for a three-day stint. This year is the show's 10th anniversary and they're celebrating it with an impressive lineup of over 40 prominent environmental and health experts sharing their expertise all weekend long.
Bellwoods Flea's Spring Fling (April 16)
This Saturday, the Bellwoods Flea celebrates spring with a host of art, fashion, food and more from its vendors. If you don't have the cash to support a full-blown shopping spree, you can still spend the day watching classic flicks and dancing. Entry is free and you can bring your dog.
Designer Pop-Up Sale (April 16)
Haven't got thousands of dollars to drop on a new Celine tote from Holts but covet them anyway? Head to The Vandenberg House this Saturday to find deals on designer duds and accessories. There will be pieces by top brands like Moschino, Marc Jacobs, Versace and Armani at heavily discounted prices.
Drop, Swap & Shop (April 17)
Make your way to the Evergreen Brick Works this Sunday for an ethical and eco-friendly shopping experience. You'll get the chance to drop off your old electronics, swap in your unwanted items and buy some fresh new goods at the Etsy Maker's Market.
The Leslieville Flea (April 17)
The Leslieville Flea is bringing a host of vintage, salvaged, upcycled goods, furniture, antiques, collectibles and more to the Distillery District on Sunday. A ton of local vendors will be in attendance, so there'll be plenty to see (and buy).
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.
Photo via by Christian Bobak.
With contributions from Amy Grief.
If you've been dying for a new way to wear your Blue Jays Pride, look no further. Yesterday, the MLB took to Twitter to reveal six new hat styles, all different from your standard blue and white snapback.
Each special occasion design commemorates a holiday or baseball event.
There's one for Mother's Day (red and grey), Memorial Day (pixelated camouflage), Father's Day (blue and grey), Canada Day (maple leaves), the Home Run Derby (retro style) and finally the MLB All-Star Game (an amped of version of the OG style).
If you're more of a jersey-wearing guy or gal, there is a new shirt style to go along with each new hat design.
Proceeds from the sales of both the jerseys and hats will be given to a series of cancer and veteran charities, so don't feel bad about ponying up the cash.
Will you be getting one of the new designs? Let us know in the comments.
Toronto's waterfront redevelopment continues to push east with the announcement of another condo affiliated with the Bayside project. The third phase of this development joins Aqualina and Acquavista, both of which had impressive designs built around the expansion of the waterfront promenade that starts at Sugar Beach.
As has been the case with each of the developments in East Bayfront, the scale of the building is well controlled, and the architecture diminishes the blocking effect that can occur when putting high density condos on the waterfront (see the west side of Queens Quay between York and Bay streets).
Designed by 3XN, the building features stepped terraces to give future residents ample outdoor space and which lessens the impact of the structure on waterfront users and the planned Aiken Park just to the west. Another glass box this is not.
Waterfront Toronto has taken heat in the past for the slow speed at which redevelopment efforts have taken place, but it's crucial to note just how unified the designs for this side of the waterfront are. This building reaches a height of 15 storeys at its peak, but it appears considerably less imposing thanks to its irregular form.
It's been a long time coming, but this section of Toronto's lakefront is shaping up to be very promising.
Uber currently rules the ride-sharing market in Toronto, but that monopoly could soon come to an end as American company Lyft sets its sight on our city.
Toronto's Licensing and Standards Committee is currently discussing the proposed vehicle-for-hire bylaw, which would regulate how both taxis and Private Transportation Companies (PTCs) such as Uber operate in our city. And the Toronto Star reports, Lyft submitted a letter (PDF) to the committee to comment on these new regulations.
"While we have no immediate plans to launch in Toronto," writes Lyft's senior director of federal and international government relations Mike Masserman, "we see tremendous opportunity for ride-sharing in your city, and look forward to collaborating with City Councillors and policy makers on a smart set of regulations that would allow Lyft and the ride-sharing industry to thrive in Toronto."
As we previously reported, city staff recommended different sets of rules for PTCs and taxis. If the Licensing and Standards Committee approves these regulations, City Council will likely debate them next month on May 3. According to the Star, about 101 people are scheduled to speak at today's meeting - representatives from Uber Canada and Lyft are not.
Toronto used to be home to both Uber and Hailo, but the latter left North America back in October 2014. Lyft is enormously popular in the United States, especially its Lyft Line service, which is similar to Uber 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
UPCOMING
Know of a Toronto food event coming up? Email liora@blogto.com
Photo from The Stop's Night Market by Natta Summerky.
The $900 apartment in Toronto is typically an elusive dream of the young renter hoping to find something decent that doesn't break the bank. While such apartments do exist in Toronto, there are almost always a few conditions: 1) you're going to see a lot of basements and 2) the nicest units will be well outside of downtown. No surprises there.
Here's what $900 gets you in six Toronto neighbourhoods.
$880 at Bloor and Dufferin
You'll still need a credit report for this "very cozy" bachelor near Dufferin and Bloor. This one definitely requires a futon if you want to avoid the constant sense that your bed is in your kitchen. On the bright side, a mini washing machine comes with the apartment.
$895 near Christie Pits
Basements are common in this price point, but this one is quite decent with hardwood floors, in-suite laundry, and a cold-storage room. It's advertised as open-concept, but that's just a function of the fact that its a one-room bachelor. Still, there's lots of space to work with.
$900 at St. Clair and Bathurst
This one-bedroom basement near the Wychwood Barns might not be as bright as advertised, but it's proximate to tons of amenities and its legitimately big for its price. Prospective tenants will have to deal with a small kitchen, but a separate bedroom is always nice.
$900 near Coxwell and Danforth
This is a long term furnished rental near the Bloor-Danforth subway line that has good character for a basement. It's obviously well maintained, and a decent square footage given the price. There's not a whole lot not to like here, though it's not going to work if you have all of your own stuff you want to bring along with you.
$889 near the Scarborough Bluffs
You get a lot more apartment for the money in the east end of the city. This Cliffside apartment is big, bright, and close to an array of amenities on Kingston Rd. The drawback, of course, is transportation. If you don't own a car, it's quite a hike to Warden or Victoria Park subway stations. Be prepared to ride the bus.
$875 near Royal York and the Gardinder
Bang for the buck goes up in the west end as well. This above-ground unit has plenty of light and space for under $900 a month. Closet space is minimal, but there's laundry in the building which means you can keep it nicely folded in the bedroom. The Mimico GO station is right around the corner, though you'll be stuck riding the bus when it comes to the TTC.
Would you rent any of these units given the price? Let us know in the comments.
This quaint little cheese shop store has an array of cheeses as well as a small selection of groceries, freshly made meals, salads and delicious, simple sandwiches on locally made Rahier bread.
Read my full profile of Uptown Brie in the grocery section.
As suspected, Drake joined Rihanna for a duet at the Air Canada Centre last night - amping up the crowd and simultaneously disappointing everyone who invested in Wednesday night's show (which sadly lacked a Drizzy appearance).
The duo's brief stint on stage was (obviously) set to the tune of "Work." Similar to their previous live performances, it was embellished with a healthy dose of grinding, twerking and all-around steamy dance moves.
After putting in work, work, work, work, work, work with Rihanna, the 6ix God flew solo, singing "One Dance" (one of his newest releases) and "Jumpman" (from his and Future's collab mixtape, What a Time to Be Alive).
He signed off with a touching shout out to his on-stage collaborator while reminding us of his album's impending release one last time. Right before exiting the stage, Drizzy shouted "Views From The 6. April 29. I put my heart in this shit for you."
Photo by @c.silvess_ via Instagram.
Forget about cortados, flat whites and matcha lattes - this newish cafe has a drink that tops them all. Ice cream sandwich coffee is just what it sounds like - two ice cream sandwiches blended with coffee.
Find out more in my profile of Infuse Cafe in the cafes section.
The Best Taiwanese restaurants in Toronto showcase the region's stunning culinary diversity. From the deep-fried crunch of Taiwanese-style fried chicken to the soothing warmth of the beef soup noodles or the odd scent but delicious flavours of stinky tofu, there's lots to like here.
Here are the best Taiwanese restaurants in Toronto.
Writing by Darren "DKLo" Susilo. When not writing for blogTO he can usually be found tweeting here or pressing words into this blog.
The TTC map has been used to track such divergent things as bars, apartment rental prices, and the time it takes to walk or ride a bike between stations, but this latest mash-up might be one of the most useful. William Davis and Tom Weatherburn have plotted out parks that are located within a five minute walk of each subway stop.
Almost all of our 69 stops feature a decent size green space within about 500 metres of their entrance. Wilson is one of the only exceptions to the rule, located as it is in the midst of a sea of commuter parking lots. On the other end of the spectrum is Old Mill Station, which is surrounded by lush parkland.
Car-less residents of this city might use this map to plan their next picnic, but even in the absence of use value, it provides an intriguing look at our urban environment. It might be surprising, for instance, to note how little parkland there is in close proximity to Bathurst Station. This is a function of the 500 metre radius, of course, but still defies expectations.
Take a look at a high resolution version of the map here.
The traffic forecast isn't looking too pretty for Toronto this weekend. That's because two of the city's major hubs will be closed down at various times, forcing us to take alternative routes as we travel to and fro on what looks like two of the nicest work-free days of the year.
From 11 p.m. tonight until 5 a.m. on Monday morning, for instance, the Don Valley Parkway will be closed for spring maintenance between the 401 and the Gardiner Expressway. With the Raptors first playoff game scheduled for Saturday afternoon, the roads leading to the ACC are going to get mighty busy tomorrow.
On the TTC front, there will be no subway service on Line 1 (the good old Yonge-University-Spadina line) between St. George and Lawrence West station this Saturday and Sunday thanks to scheduled signal upgrades.
As for Line 2, Subway service won't start until noon on Sunday between Pape and St. George stations due to bridge work on the Prince Edward Viaduct. That means you get to experience what the subway system was like at the outset of the 1960s, when there was no Bloor Danforth Line or Spadina Line. Fun!
Luckily, it's supposed to beautiful out this weekend, so if you don't have far to go, take to the sidewalk -- this should come in handy if you're really stuck.
Photo by Keith Armstrong in the blogTO Flickr pool.
Patios will be open in Toronto this weekend - bless you, warm spring - so break out your Ray Bans and get to selecting the ideal spot to usher in patio season. Unless a torrential downpour sneak attacks the city, these restaurants, bars and pubs will be opening their branded umbrellas and unstacking their weather-proof furniture so that you can get a little vitamin D with your drinks.
Here's a round-up of some of the patios you can expect to be open in Toronto this weekend.
For more patio ideas, check out our Toronto Patio Guide or download our iPhone or Android app.
Queen St. Warehouse
The second Warehouse location in the city sports a laid back sidewalk patio that runs along the side of the building. If you're still saving for a summer vacation, the budget-friendly food menu (everything is $4.95) won't let you down.
Black Bull
The Black Bull is a Queen West old and faithful. The expansive sidewalk space offers a prime view of the bustling street and is accented with branded umbrellas and (usually) a large but friendly crowd.
The Drake Sky Yard
One of the best rooftop patios in the city has a relaxed vibe and plenty of drinks to choose from. This weekend the Sky Yard will host its first brunch of the year, so forget indulging in pancakes and eggs benny indoors. As a bonus, the sidewalk patio at the Drake Cafe is right downstairs.
Dundas and Carlaw
Drinks at this Leslieville cafe and bar are best enjoyed on their corner patio. If you're looking for a laid back joint where you can enjoy a beer or latte while soaking up the sun, this is it.
Dominion Pub
This Corktown pub has 24 craft beers on tap and there's plenty of outdoor seating, making it a pretty decent spot to kick back and enjoy the warm(er) weather.
Stratengers
Stratengers may not be the classiest joint in the city, but it's patio is a local favourite for pints and wood-oven pizza.
Williams Landing
This Liberty Village rooftop terrace lets you look out over the hustle and bustle of the neighbourhood while you enjoy your Caesars in the sun.
Victory Cafe
The sidewalk patio at this popular Markham Street spot is a good option for craft beer lovers. The kitchen also serves up decent pub fare including such as their popular mac and cheese. For dinner and drinks, it has the Annex residents' seal of approval.
The Office Pub
This Club District pub has two patios so there's a good chance you'll be able to snag a spot here. Its sidewalk patio is best for people-watching and/or a quick pint, while the back is ideal for kicking back and sipping away the afternoon.
Against The Grain
This lakeside patio sports outdoor sofas and a killer view. There's a mix of lounge and table seating where you can sample beer flights and pig out on pub-style fare.
Lucky Shrike
This Dundas West bar has a secluded back patio complete with hanging grapevines and fairy lights that give the space a little extra something at night.
Hunters Landing
CityPlace dwellers can be found at this massive massive patio that comes equipped with its own wet bar and fire pits.
Amsterdam BrewHouse
The lakeside brewpub boasts a sprawling 300-seat patio overlooking the water. Equipped with Muskoka chairs and plenty of beer offerings, this place will definitely bring back memories of cottage country.
Bar Raval
The corner patio at this Little Italy tapas bar may be hard to snag a seat on (line-ups here often start at two hours) but it's worth the wait. Bonus: It's partially covered so you'll be fine if there are drops of unexpected rain.
What did I miss? Add more patios open this weekend to the comments.
Record Store Day (April 16) is a time to revamp your vinyl collection with vintage picks and limited edition finds. Stores across Toronto are marking the occasion by bringing in new stock, hosting live performances and, in some cases, putting on sales. If you're tired of listening to the same old records on repeat, head to one of these spots on Saturday.
Here's where to celebrate Record Store Day in Toronto.
Tiny Record Shop
This small but mighty Riverside shop has shipped in 15 new crates of vintage records for you to rifle through on Record Store Day. It will be opening its doors at 9 a.m. sharp and you'll want to get there early if you want first dibs. Titles include: Elton John's Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, The Animals' The Best of The Animals and Pink Floyd's A Nice Pair.
SRC Vinyl
SRC is giving Record Store Day a Blink 182 theme this year. The Parkdale shop will be giving away a ton of the band's vinyl and cassettes (including faves like Enema of the State, Dude Ranch and The Mark, Tom and Travis Show) as well as gift cards.
Tonality
This shop is going big for Record Store Day. It will have 150+ record store day exclusives, 10% off all non-RSD vinyl, three live in-store performances throughout the day (by Bénédicte, Squiggly Lines and Fevra) and -- to top it all off -- free pizza.
Pandemonium
Pandemonium is ringing in Record Store Day with a host of new releases (lots of punk rock albums in the newest order) and a 20% off sale on used vinyl.
Dead Dog Records
This Bloordale Village music shop will be celebrating with ticket giveaways and loot bag raffles. Indie88 will be involved in the festivities, but the details are still TBA. Unfortunately, in-store performances won't be happening, but if you can wait until the shop's May anniversary, you'll see one or two.
Neurotica Records
Neurotica Records is keeping its Record Store Day inventory under wraps, but it promises a stellar batch of exclusive RSD finds. As with most places, I suggest heading there early if you want to get your hands on the good stuff.
June Records
This Little Italy music mecca has brought in a number of Record Store Day exclusives for Saturday's event. It has posted its order list online, which boasts titles like David Bowie's The Man Who Sold The World, Chvrches' Every Open Eye and Lil Wayne's Tha Carter. The shop has yet to decide if it will be hosting a sale, so keep your eyes on Facebook.
She Said Boom!
Head to this Roncy shop tomorrow for some free DJ performances and Mint Records swag giveaways. In true RSD fashion, there will be a ton of exclusive titles appearing on the shelves for the day.
Sonic Boom
Sonic Boom always throws a stacked Record Store Day event, and this year is no different. Expect giveaways, live performances by Partner, Eucalyptus, Above Top Secret and ZONES as well as exclusive releases.
Kops Records
Kops has three stores in the city - Queen West, Annex and Danforth - and good news, they're all observing Record Store Day. On top of some exclusive new vinyl records to pick through, there will be a massive sale: $1 and $2.99 Bullet section records will be 50% off, vintage records/45s will be 30% off and new records will be 15% off.
Play De Record
Play De Record has brought in a ton of limited edition vinyl in the name of Record Store Day. You'll find the shelves lined with records by Ed Sheeran, Iron Maiden, The Weeknd and everything in between. Doors open at 7 a.m., so remember to set your alarm clock.
Soundscapes
Soundscapes has opted to show off its special release list for Record Store Day, getting vinyl junkies excited for tomorrow's festivities. If you get there early enough, you could get your hands on James Bay's Chaos And The Calm, Atreyu's The Best Of Atreyu, Justin Bieber's Purpose, Bob Dylan's Melancholy Mood and more.
Rotate This
While Rotate This won't be discounting items or hosting performances, it will have a ton of new titles to check out. The store has yet to release what it has ordered for Record Store Day, but your sure to find some gems.
Did I miss any? Add more Record Store Day events and sales to the comments.
Photo of Tiny Record Shop by Matt Forsythe.
If you're looking for a healthy alternative to ice-cream, this yogurt shop has you covered. Expect to find fresh and frozen yogurt with toppings ranging from almond butter to condensed milk cookie crumbles.
Read my profile of Grk Ygrt in the restaurants section.
Eggs Benedict is a staple at many of Toronto's best brunch restaurants. While the traditional offering usually includes peameal bacon, poached eggs, English muffin and Hollandaise, the creative interpretations on this list employ substitutes like donuts, waffles and cajun spices.
Here are my picks for must-try Eggs Benedict in Toronto.
Starving Artisit
With three locations in Toronto, this popular waffle themed restaurant makes a Waffle Benny ($10) that skips the classic English muffin for two mini waffles which are then topped with poached eggs, caramelized bacon and Hollandaise.
Lady Marmalade
Under a list of signature bennies at this Leslieville brunch spot you'll find the 'Cochinita Pibil' Pulled Pork & Citrus Red Onions ($14.50). An English muffin gets loaded with succulent pulled pork and then drowned in buttery Hollandaise.
Uncle Betty's
This Yonge & Eglington brunch stalwart makes its signature Betty's Benedict ($13) with two poached eggs served on donuts with peamal and then topped with lemon Hollandaise.
Hollandaise Diner
This Danforth East eatery is a shrine to Eggs Benedict. While the menu features numerous variations a standout is The Cajun ($11.95). Baked polenta and sautéed cajun spiced peppers get topped with poached eggs, onions, fresh chives and smothered in cajun Hollandaise.
YAYA
The Avocado Benedict ($14) at this Leslieville joint takes a fresh approach to your classic eggs benny. Two sunny eggs lay on a bed of avocado, potatoes and spicy spinach. Corn tortilla chips and salsa come on the side.
What did I miss? Add your favourite Eggs Benedict in the comments.
Photos by @bar_rebels, @alicia_siow, @gmusa, @thechewreview and @tianygu.
