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Refugees could find permanent home at Toronto restaurant

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The Depanneur TorontoToronto restaurant The Depanneur opened up its kitchen earlier this year to give Syrian refugees - many of whom lived in hotels when they first came to Toronto - a place to cook for their families.

After a few months, they began to sell their food online and at pop-ups, including most recently at Luminato's Neighbourhood Food Market last weekend.

Now, however, The Dep's Len Senater and a team of affiliated organizations want to make this so-called Newcomer Kitchen a permanent, stand-alone non-profit. So they're crowdfunding to make it all possible.

The Newcomer Kitchen hopes to raise $25,000 by July 19 in order to kickstart the Toronto initiative, while also setting up a model that would enable other restaurants across Canada to open up their doors to newcomers too.

It's worth noting that today is World Refugee Day, so take a look at the Newcomer's Kitchen crowdfunding page.

Photo by Jesse Milns.


Expect Toronto ferries to be more crowded this summer

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toronto ferriesLike Derek Shepherd (may he rest in peace), Toronto has a thing for ferry boats - mainly because they transport us from the mainland to the beautiful Toronto Islands.

But your journey from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal might seem a little squishier this summer because the city's upping the capacity on these lake-faring vessels, reports the Toronto Star today.

Instead of carrying 750 passengers, the ferries will now take 950 people to and fro. This will hopefully cut down on wait times and lineups, which are known to be quite long during peak summer months.

Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Popular Toronto brunch spot closing for bigger things

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emmas country kitchen torontoToronto has its fair share of excellent brunch spots. But one humble restaurant on St. Clair West has captured the city's attention (and bellies) with its comforting menu and assortment of donuts and freshly baked good.

On Sunday, July 3, however, Emma's Country Kitchen - the popular eatery at 1108 St. Clair Ave. W. - is shutting its doors for good. But don't worry because it's reopening nearby later this summer. It'll move into 810 St. Clair Ave - in the space currently home to La Creole.

Luckily, it'll be bigger than the original space so hopefully the brunch-time lineups won't be too long. But if they are, you can drink away your waiting-time woes because the new Emma's will be licensed. Bottoms up!

Photo by Jesse Milns.

Super rare strawberry moon to rise over Toronto tonight

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strawberry moon torontoThe Strawberry Moon is the name given to the first full moon of June. It's a yearly occurrence, much like the Pink Moon of April and the Flower Moon of May. But tonight is special for skywatchers because for the the first time since 1967, June's full moon corresponds with the summer solstice.

It's also a special tonight for looking up at the moon because Toronto has been blessed with perfect evening weather to welcome summer. If you've ben paying attention, there's been some spectacular moon rises for the last few days, but tonight's will be even better as it reaches 100 per cent fullness.

Despite its name, however, don't expect a strawberry red tone to emit from the lunar surface. The etymology relates to the start of strawberry season rather than some physical characteristic of the moon itself. Still, if the lead-up has been any indication, we should get a lovely yellow-tinged moonrise tonight in Toronto.

Make sure to look up. The full moon won't rise on the summer solstice again until 2062.

Photo by Phil Marion in the blogTO Flickr pool.

50 things to do this summer in Toronto 2016

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summer toronto 2016Events and activities in Toronto this summer range from soaking up the sun at a music festival to enjoying warm summer nights watching movies under the stars. The city comes alive when the mercury rises with more events, wild food creations, and lakefront activities to enjoy than at any other time of the year. Plan early and enjoy it all!

Here are 50 things to do this summer in Toronto.

EVENTS AND PARTIES

Discover your inner '90s child with Sailor Moon cosplay
If you were a 90's kid, chances are you've seen Sailor Moon at least once or twice. Well, the Ontario Science Centre is supplying you with a healthy dose of nostalgia by hosting the Sailor Moon Celebration on July 9. You'll find everything from cosplayers to a themed dance party.

Embrace all your senses at an outdoor party
Saturday, July 9 there is a music festival happening at the Evergreen Brick Works called Senseless. Music, art, technology, food, scents, architecture and innovative design come together with DJ sets from people like Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs. Check all the deets at their Facebook page.

159 ManningHit up Toronto's best annual house party
159 Manning is known to host some pretty epic bashes and its summer BBQ on July 16 should follow suit. Though details are still TBA, you can expect standard shenanigans like grilled meats, live music and plenty of beer.

Get wet and wild at Slide the City
Slide the City is making its grand return to Downsview Park on July 16. Stock up on pool floaties now and brace yourself for a lengthy wait in line.

Get fat at the CNE
The CNE is rolling back into town at the end of August and bringing with it a ton of deep-fried delights to indulge in. While there's sure to be a few healthy options available, who really wants salad when there's battered Oreos available?

Watch the world's best hockey players duke it out for glory
It's not quite as big as the Olympics, but the World Cup of Hockey is one of those rare chances to watch the world's best players represent their country in hopes of being draped with gold. Canada, as always, is a favourite. But this year is special because the tournament takes place in the most hockey-crazed city of them all (sorry, Montreal).

FESTIVALS

PrideCelebrate Pride Month, louder than ever
The recent tragedy in Orlando has really put Pride into perspective for the city's LGBT community and Toronto as a whole. Celebrate our beautiful diversity with the two final weekends of Pride month and an onslaught of fantastic parties, performances and events.

Make new friends at a street festival
When the temperature begins to skyrocket street parties begin taking over the city. If you want to save your pennies, but still get in on the festival action, I suggest hitting one of these. There's a bounty of cultural and culinary celebrations to choose from.

Discover Klezmer music
Featuring some pretty amazing Klezmer musicians from around the world, the Ashkenaz Festival is the "largest and most prestigious showcases of Jewish music and culture anywhere in the world." It all goes down August 30 to September 5 and there's a promo video to see what you'll get up to.

Toronto Music FestivalsCrowd surf at a music festival
No matter what your taste there's a Toronto music festival that fits the bill. Into EDM? Digital Dreams and VELD are back. Down for more indie vibes? Camp Wavelength should do the trick. Sadly, Riot Fest will not make a grand return, but there are still plenty of others to take advantage of.

Toronto Food FestivalsIndulge at a summer food festival
As per usual, summer is bringing a roster of drool-worthy food fests to our fair city. There's everything from a 100% vegan affair to a food truck fest springing up between now and mid-September.

Nerd out at Fan Expo
Fan Expo Canada (September 1-4) goes Star Trek crazy this year as the franchise turns 50. William Shatner, George Takei, Nichelle Nichols and Brent Spiner will all be there. In addition to this, Sigourney Weaver! Christopher Lloyd! Stan Lee! And a bunch of people from Daredevil. This is the be-all and end-all for popular comic lovers.

Star spot at TIFF
The Toronto International Film Festival, happening September 8-18, will close out the summer in the classiest way possible: with A-listers, upscale soirees and movie premieres. Though we don't know who's coming to town just yet, I can assure you that you'll want your iPhone fully charged during the festival's run.

THINGS TO DO ALL SUMMER LONG

Get out on the water
While some would brand Lake Ontario's waters as untrustworthy, it's actually quite safe to take a dip in them. Instead of fearing that you may meet an undocumented three-eyed water beast, spend your summer sailing, canoeing, stand up paddling, or just swimming the days away.

Listen to free outdoor music
There is literally free music outside happening all the time this summer in TO. From free lunch concerts, to great big concerts and smaller neighbourhood jams, you won't need to spend a dime to see some very talented musicians from all the place entertaining us, gratis.

Cool down and wake up with novel takes on iced coffee
A great and easy way to cool off and snap out of your summer haze, there are many great takes on iced and cold brewed coffee in the city right now.

Christie Pits Film FestivalSee a movie under the stars
Skip heading to your local Cineplex and take advantage of the many outdoor movie screenings around Toronto this summer. Sure, there's no luxury option that involves cushy seating and bar service, but you won't have to spend a dime and you can BYOB on the low.

Expand your mind at the new virtual reality cinema
If 3D movies just aren't cutting it anymore, try Toronto's new virtual reality cinema for a totally immersive experience. The theatre is opening its doors on July 16 and you can book your slot now.

Start an art collection at an outdoor fair
From June all the way into September the city's neighbourhoods play host to all types of outdoor art fairs. You already know the Trinity Bellwoods art crawl and the mega art beast that is the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit at Nathan Phillips Square, but explore seven more you maybe didn't even know about!

Dance on a Beach
Sunday Promise dance parties at Cherry Beach are out of this world. It's kind of like jumping into a real life Where The Wild Things Are, but with lots of wonderfully loud EDM music and red cups. There's not a lot of communication about the dance days, but judging by last year, there's no need to worry. It's going to be a good time, so just go for it.

Soft ServeTry Toronto's new crop of soft serve shops
Running after an ice cream truck is a thing of the past, now you can snag yourself some souped-up soft serve from some of Toronto's eateries. Junked Food Co. has started serving up Sweet Jesus-esque cones, Seven Lives Paleteria is slinging vegan options and Nanashake is offering guiltless banana ice cream.

Fall in love with Toronto on a bike
A car-free fantasy! Check out these 5 bike rides that will make you fall deeply in love with Toronto. Ride peacefully in the woods or closed-mouth along the water (getting a mouthful of flies while zooming at high speeds is not a pleasant experience).

Front Street FoodsTry the new Front Street Foods outdoor market
The name Front Street Foods doesn't quite fit the bill - as the festival has moved from last year's spot at Union Station to Adelaide Place - but the food is still worth braving the lunch lines for. Vendors include Holy Chuck, Fresh, Chimney Stax, The Rolling Pin and many more.

Explore your inner cowboy/cowgirl
Just because you live in the big city, doesn't mean you need to lose sight of your backwoods upbringing or cowboy fetish. There are some really great country music events this summer that will plant your westerns firmly back in the ground, all while staying close to home.

Take in some summer theatre (indoors and out)
The summer theatre season is always a fun one. The Fringe Festival (June 29 - July 10), Shakespeare in the Park (June 30 - September 4) and Summerworks (August 4 - 14) offer an astounding level of shows in both traditional theatre settings, oddball spaces and smack dab in the middle of High Park.

secret beach torontoHideout at a secret beach
If a vast stretch of sand strewn with half-naked bodies baking the sun, playing loud games and generally having a great time without a care is not your vibe, then you've got to check out these secret beaches. Tucked a bit out of the way, usually quiet and sometimes next to a nuclear power plant, they're an easy way to impress your friend.

Hang out in a Toronto laneway with all your neighbours
Avoid socializing with tourists at massive festivals and get to know your neighbours at this summer's laneway crawl series instead. Events will be held across the city on various weekends between June and September.

Explore Toronto's newest neighbourhood
Take in the awesome legacy of the Pan Am Games by exploring the now-brimming-with-life Canary District. There's a new YMCA is open, cool new stores, and even a new streetcar route that'll take you into the heart of it all.

Have a picnic in a park
Get your blanket out, wrap up your food, pack some travellers and head to these city parks, ideal for a picnic. Some are big stretches of grass, others are more private with a view. Just eat outside while you can, ok? It won't be an option before you know it.

The SlipCheck out a brand new patio
With new patios popping up all over the city, you'll have no trouble finding a place to drink or dine outdoors this summer. New kids on the block include Belfast Love, The Slip, Bar Reyna and El Rey.

Party in a parking lot
There's something about partying in parking lots that feels so wrong, it's right. You know? Having drinks and fun food under twinkling lights behind Honest Ed's, down by the water, all over The Village or doing things tailgate style near Ontario Place just gives you that bad ass teen summer feeling. Except now you're not a teen, and you can drink legally and responsibly.

Fill up at a night market
Forget spending summer hitting up hip and happening restaurants, there are night markets to be conquered! There are events that cater to Asian food lovers, locally-sourced meals and more.

Toronto SunsetWatch the sun set (and rise)
While sunsets and sunrises happen year round (no surprises here), summer is one of the best times to enjoy them because getting outside doesn't involve layering up. Head to one of these spots at dawn or one of these at dusk for a great view of the 6ix.

Take refuge from the heat at an outdoor pool
Tragically, very few of us are blessed with a pool in our backyard or apartment complex. Instead of hitting up Walmart in search of an inflatable alternative, head to one of the city's outdoor pools. If you aren't a fan of crowds you can always try to sneak your way in after hours ;).

Try a new food truck
Some of Toronto's best eateries are on wheels and a few new ones have hit the streets in 2016. Sushi burritos from SUSHITTO On the Road are already a Instagram favourite.

See what the city's new breweries have to offer
If you're not a fan of waiting in line at festivals to sample itty bitty portions of craft beer, get your fix at one of the city's new breweries. Halo Brewery, Henderson and Bandit Brewery have recently opened their doors and are slinging their own fine ales, IPAs and lagers.

Line UpGet a sun tan while waiting in line
Waiting in line may seem like the worst suggestion in the world, but hear me out. Some of the hottest food and drink destinations garner line ups when the weather's nice - so if you want to get your hands on Tsujiri's matcha ice cream or Doomie's vegan Big Mac, you're gonna have to stand in a queue.

Get drunk on cider
If you're a fan of sweet boozy beverages, you're in luck. One of Harbord Village's newest residents is Her Father's Cider Bar and Kitchen, an eatery/bar that serves up over 75 domestic and international ciders. Of course, if you want to try even more local options you can always hit Cider Fest at the end of August.

OUT OF TOWN

Take a day trip for an out of town festival
If you're up for a little adventure, head to one of the many fests happening just outside of city bounds this summer. There are options for beer lovers, foodies and music fanatics.

Explore surreal wonders near Toronto
Enjoy a David Attenborough-narrated flick every now and again? Well good news, you don't need heaps of cash to explore some Planet Earth-worthy wonders. There are a few breathtaking surreal sights in Southern Ontario that are definitely worth travelling out of Toronto for.

quarries swimming torontoTake a dip in a quarry
Public pools and Lake Ontario's waters are less-than-desirable to many a Toronto resident. If you're not a fan of sharing water with summer camp kiddies or want to forgo ingesting even the smallest amount of polluted water, take a trip to one of these quarries or swimming holes for a dip.

Go for a beach day trip
You have no excuses not to bum around a beach this summer if you live in the city. There are some pretty impressive sandy spots for day tripping close to downtown, and then there are a few just a stone's throw (or car rental) away that'll blow your bathing suit off. There are 25 such places in fact.

Enter the darkness in an epic cave
Within a few hours of Toronto you can find your inner Batman/Batgirl/Tomb Raider/Indiana Jones and go deep into some pretty wonderous caves. See fossils, hidden bodies of water and rock formations while walking, hiking or zip lining your way through these underground gems.

ghost towns ontarioGet spooked at a ghost town near Toronto
You don't have to wait until Halloween to get your fill of the weird and the wonderful. Make the pilgrimage to one of these ghost towns to commune with the spirits, get a history lesson or just snoop around old buildings.

Spend a lazy day tubing down a river
Sit yourself down in the middle a big ol' tube and float down these five lazy rivers. Is there anything more relaxing? OK, a few of these rivers have patches of excitement and slight speed, but you'll mostly get splashed a bit, and not flip over, bouncing your way home.

small towns ontarioSoak up the charm of small town Ontario
Rent a car or phone a friend with one and appreciate small town Ontario like never before. We've made handy lists of small towns to visit two and three, andfour hours from Toronto. Ontario -- it's yours to discover.

Forget city life at a hotel or inn near Toronto
If you really, really need to get out of the city, these 10 hotels and inns close to Toronto are an easy way to escape. Upgrade with spots that also feature spa's or local theatre... otherwise, just rent a stunning room in the middle of nowhere and unwind.

Test your mettle by climbing a cliff
For all you adrenaline junkies, there's climbing to be done. These stunning cliffs and rock faces will treat you to some awesome views and do your body some good.

tropicanaThanks to Tropicana for sponsoring this post.

Writing by Alice Prendergast, Derek Flack and Phil Villeneuve.

Today in Toronto: Open Roof Festival, Art Battle, Paul Simon, Dixie Chicks, Smash at the Gardiner Museum

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Open Roof FestivalToday in Toronto is a great day! Why? Because the Open Roof Festival returns fir another year. Now in its seventh year, the film, beer and music summer series opens with a show from Toronto robot band Matrox, followed by a screening of Everybody Wants Some!! That's the sequel to Dazed and Confused.

There are also a handful of other worthwhile things to check out below.

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.

Photo from Open Roof Festival's Instagram.

Massive lego event coming to Toronto

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lego torontoIf you're feeling nostalgic in Toronto, it's easy to harken back to your childhood by colouring, playing with Lego (and sipping on beer) and by taking on an indoor obstacle course.

But you'll be able to make your inner 10-year-old even happier this fall thanks to the Lego Imagine Nation Tour that's taking over the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from October 14 to 16.

This cross-country Lego-themed fair will feature 13 pavilions and digital installations, including 20 life-size Lego models, including some of the eight-foot tall Marvel Avengers. You'll be able to learn from Master Builders as you look at blocks from the Star Wars, Elves and City sets.

Everything really is awesome.

House of the week: 835 Royal York Road

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835 Royal York RoadThis mid-century bungalow listed for $2.2 million is one of the most intriguing properties in its neighbourhood. Located at 835 Royal York Road, the split-level home has an interesting back story. Purchased in 2007, the new owners loved the retro architecture and teamed up with LGA Architects to revitalize the 1950s home, instead of demolishing it.

835 Royal York RoadThe vintage style is apparent from its brick exterior and slanted roof, which boast a Mad Men vibe. Enter through the former carport and inside you'll find wood panelled ceilings, exposed roof beams and the original brick fireplace. Angular windows wrap the house and the back wall is floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking the landscaped courtyard and ravine.

835 Royal York RoadAt 2,600 square feet, it isn't the largest house on the block, but perhaps the only one with a master bedroom converted from a former garage. The renovated suite features french doors, a large bathroom, and an artist studio.

835 Royal York RoadSPECS

835 Royal York RoadNOTABLE FEATURES

  • Approx. 2,600 square feet
  • Skylights
  • Sloped roof
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Original wood-burning fireplace
  • Landscaped courtyard

835 Royal York RoadGOOD FOR

A secluded cottage in the city. Who needs the long haul to Muskoka when you can buy an urban oasis in Etobicoke? It would be easy to channel your inner creativity in this re-imagined space, overlooking a serene winding pathway and babbling brook.

835 Royal York RoadMOVE ON IF

You'd rather a modern detached home that blends into the neighbourhood. It's a stand-out property and one of the few remaining bungalows in the area. Expect a few nosey neighbours or onlookers to need a second glance.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
835 Royal York Road835 Royal York Road835 Royal York Road835 Royal York Road835 Royal York Road835 Royal York Road835 Royal York Road835 Royal York RoadThanks to Bosley Real Estate Ltd, Brokerage for sponsoring our House of the Week. All content and editorial selected and written by blogTO.


Bite Beauty Lip Lab opening in Toronto this summer

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Bite Beauty TorontoToronto-based cosmetics brand Bite Beauty is a bestseller at Sephora and is well-known for its natural (i.e. edible), hand-made lip products. And soon, makeup enthusiasts will get to whip up their own customized lipsticks at the incoming Bite Beauty Lip Lab, which is slated to take over the old Czehoski space on West Queen West.

Bite, which is under LVMH's Kendo beauty incubator, already has a lip lab in Manhattan's SoHo neighbourhood. At this swanky location, anyone can create their own lipstick in 20 minutes by personalizing its colour, scent (or flavour) and lustre for a cool $45.

And that experience will soon be available right here at home. A representative from the commercial real estate group CBRE says the Bite Beauty Lab should open some time late this summer.

Bite Beauty, which Torontonian Susanne Langmuir founded back in 2013, already makes its products in the GTA so it's fitting that it's finally bringing its Lip Lab home.

Photo via @biteliplab on Instagram. (This is the NYC store.)

One of Toronto's top vegan restaurants is shutting down

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vegan restaurant torontoToronto's all-vegan, British-style pub is closing its doors at the end of this week. So act quickly if you're craving a meat-free lentil and ale pasty or shredded jackfruit sandwich from Porter House.

The Dundas West-area pub first opened in 2014 and gained a following thanks to its craft beer selection and hearty vegan comfort food.

The cozy public house will pour its last pint on Sunday, June 26. It announced its closure on Facebook a few weeks back, writing:

Hey friends. We don't want to make you cry, but we have some pretty big news. Porter House will be going on a permanent vacation at the end of this month. Like, we are closing. For good. Never to return. But that doesn't mean we don't love you. Come visit us in the next 2 weeks, and let's have some fun. Our last day will be Sunday June 26th. xoxo

Photo by Jesse Milns.

20 restaurants to eat at during Summerlicious 2016

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summerlicious 2016Summerlicious 2016 in Toronto runs from July 8 to 24 and it's almost time for you to book your table. Reservation lines open on Thursday, June 23 for the citywide restaurant promotion and with over 220 restaurants participating, there's surely something here to whet your appetite.

This year, Summerlicious spotlights three-course lunch menus for either $18, $23 ot $28, and dinner menus priced at $28, $38 or $48. Reservations are strongly advised, especially at the most popular venues.

Here are my picks for the top restaurants to try at Summerlicious 2016.

NEW THIS YEAR

Summerlicious welcomes two dozen first-time participants this year, including these notable newcomers.

  • Beaumont Kitchen (menu) - Take this opportunity to try out the newest O&B restaurant at Saks Sherway Gardens.
  • R&D (menu) - Enjoy an eclectic menu spotlighting modern Canadian-Asian dishes in Chinatown.
  • Rose & Sons (menu) - See what all the fuss is about at Anthony Rose's restaurant on Dupont.
  • Ufficio (menu) - Discover the meatless Italian menu at this Dundas West restaurant where pasta and fish are the stars.

HOT TICKETS

Considering their usual prices, reservations are highly recommended for these sought-after spots.

Canoe (menu) - Book a table at this iconic restaurant on the 54th floor of the TD Tower.
Cafe Boulud (menu) - Indulge at this Yorkville restaurant from an internationally renowned chef.
Momofuku Daisho (menu) - Discover Momofuku's second floor restaurant.
Nota Bene (menu) - Outstanding food from Chef David Lee should be on every Toronto foodie's bucket list.

OLD FAVOURITES

These Summerlicious veterans return for another year.

  • Bestellen (menu) - Participating in Summerlicious for its sophomore year is this always impressive College Street steakhouse.
  • Edwards 1290 (menu) - No need to leave Leslieville to take advantage of this year's prix fixe promo.
  • Frida (menu) - Modern Mexican food in Midtown.
  • Lamesa (menu) - The Filipino kitchen will be offering selections like duck lumpia and chicken adobo.
  • Lee (menu) - Dine at Susur Lee's eponymous restaurant and enjoy options like spicy jerk ribs, grilled octopus and more.

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

This year's prix fixe program offers an abundance of options for meatless eaters.

  • District Oven (menu) - This Middle Eastern restaurant on College can accommodate both vegetarian and vegan eaters.
  • Diwan (menu) - Lunch at the Aga Khan Museum can easily be a meat-free affair.
  • Mata Petisco Bar (menu) - Cassava gnocchi with wild mushrooms, reggiano cheese and truffle oil is one tempting, veg-friendly main.
  • Pukka (menu) - An impressive collection of hearty veg dishes are available at this modern Indian restaurant on St. Clair Avenue West.

CHEAP BUT GOOD

The most reasonable Summerlicious price range of $18 and $28 (for lunch and dinner, respectively) is hardly lacking in excellent options.

  • Bar Buca (menu) - Chef Rob Gentile's $18 lunch menu and $28 dinner menu is a steal.
  • Hawker Bar (menu) - The $28 dinner menu from this Southeast Asian snack bar on Ossington won't break the bank.
  • Windup (menu) - Modern Caribbean cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Bryan Birch is on for $18 at lunch and $28 at dinner.

Photo of R&D by Jesse Milns.

Where to eat Japanese rice bowls in Toronto

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donburi restaurantWith a secret menu and inventive drinks there's lots to like about this Japanese restaurant. But a visit here still wouldn't be complete without digging into one of their popular rice bowls.

Read my profile of Donburi in the restaurants section.

Toronto police to finally apologize for bathhouse raids

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toronto Bathhouse RaidsMaybe it's thanks to Pride season, or maybe it's the fact that this year marks 35 years since the Toronto Bathhouse Raids took place.

Whatever the case, on June 22 police Chief Mark Saunders will formally apologize for the raids and the behaviour of Toronto police officers during the despicable events of 1981.

It was February 5th, 1981 when hundreds of police officers stormed four gay bathhouses armed with crowbars and sledgehammers, dragged men outside in their towels, arrested them and threw them into trucks to be held in custody, effectively publicly outing them and treating them like dirt.

According to a story in the Toronto Star, Saunders will also apologize for the 2000 Pussy Palace raids where six male officers invaded a one-off Club Toronto event.

Working with the community to make sure he gets this right, the police chief took aid from Rev. Brent Hawkes when composing the apology. Hawkes was a key player in the protests that erupted in Toronto after the initial raids.

Saunders will make the announcement at the annual Pride reception at police headquarters, and will also be marching in this year's Pride Parade on Sunday, July 3.

Image from the Pride Toronto Facebook page.

Big Carrot opening second Toronto location

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big carrotThe Big Carrot is a Toronto institution. The health-focused grocery store has been on the Danforth the past 33 years and is a thriving centre for locally grown and non-GMO fruits and veggies as well as juice and freshly prepared foods.

And now this local business is getting ready to expand. It's opening up a new location at the incoming Streetcar Developments building, The Southwood at Kingston Road and Southwood Drive in the Upper Beaches.

The new store will be 6,300 square feet and is slated to open some time next year.

Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Toronto to get four new GO Train stations

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go station torontoThe transit gods and goddesses are smiling on Toronto today. That's because we're getting four new GO stations, all of which will be located in the city's west end.

Mayor John Tory made this transit-related announcement in Liberty Village earlier today, which is appropriate considering one of the stops will be located there. The other locations are: Bloor and Landsdowne, St. Clair Ave. West and Keele, and Spadina and Front.

The Liberty Village and St. Clair stops will be part of Tory's SmartTrack. They'll also be running on the Kitchener and Stouffville lines. SmartTrack will come with six new lines

The remaining two stops will be on the Barrie line.

Photo by Ben Roffelsen in the blogTO Flickr pool.


10 must-see events at Pride Toronto's all night art crawl

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Nuit Rose TorontoJust alongside the behemoth, month-long festival that is Pride Toronto is a tiny but mighty sidebar festival called Nuit Rose. Think Nuit Blanche, but gay. Running from 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 25 to way late, this queer-focused art and performance event happens both in West Queen West and Church Wellesley Village. For the third year of the festival, the theme is Night Shift.

Here's a quickie guide of the highlights.

Barbara Hall Park exhibitions (Barbara Hall Park, 519 Church Street)
Since 1975, Barbara Hall Park Park has been an important space in queer Toronto's nightlife history as a gathering space for activism, celebration, socializing and cruising. Tonight curators place interactive works, light sculptures, textile displays and digital media in the parks's winding paths.

Artscape Youngplace exhibitions (180 Shaw St.)
Nuit Rose transforms the hallway galleries and Flex Studio Platinum of Artscape Youngplace into a queer art lover's dream-scape. This is 3,000 square feet of art space covered in works exploring queerness.

Forgotten Selves (Paul Petro Gallery, 980 Queen St W)
From 7 p.m. until whenever, step inside this west side gallery and see Canadian ceramic and drawing artist Zachari Logan's Forgotten Selves: Suite in Pink.

Akasha Exhibitions (Akasha Gallery, 511 Church St)
This intimate gallery in the heart of The Village is showing a photography show called Randy the Stripper. Photographer Gun Roze captured Randy and his process for stripping for both women and gay men in 1996. Legendary NYC club kid scene photographer John Simone will also show his photo Fashion Cares Retrospective.

Glad Day Bookshop exhibitions (Glad Day Bookshop, 598 Yonge St,)
Check out Montreal art collective Never Apart's Colour by Icons exhibit and then stay to watch the Coal from Hades: The Story of Les Mouches Fantastiques at 7 p.m.

RAID: Operation Soap (Alexander Parkette, 16 Alexander St)
Happening just off of Church Street, watch this dramatic reading that that tells the unconventional love story about two of the men that were arrested and how their horrific experience changed the course of LGBT history, marking the birth of Pride day. 

That's So Gay (Gladstone Hotel,1214 Queen St W)
The west end art hub explodes with gayness during Nuit Rose with the That's So Gay exhibit, and the 10X10 photography show, which collectively take over the entire hotel.

Night Shift Stage (Corner of Church and Maitland St)
Happening during the Circus So Gay street fair, Nuit Rose takes over the main stage with a Bureau of Power and Light showcase and a DJ set from director/button pusher Bruce LaBruce starting at 10 p.m.

Through the Looking Glass: In Search for Identity (Propeller Gallery, 30 Abell St)
Yup, this is an art exhibit examining Alice, still searching for herself... but the twist is how we all identify with that crazy kid who fell through the rabbit hole.

Light Parade (Norman Jewison Parkette, 13 Isabella St)
When the sun sets, Nuit Rose really starts with the Light Parade down Church Street. At sundown (9 p.m. to be precise) meet your people at Norman Jewison Parkette, between Gloucester and Isabella Streets. Make your own lantern or carry a light-emitting object and float down the street.

Head over to the official website for more information about this year's festival.

Photo of Artscape Youngplace by Andrew Williamson.

The 20 most popular summertime treats in Toronto

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Eva's Original ChimmeysIt's summer in Toronto so, naturally, photos of epic ice cream creations and other summertime treats are taking over Instagram feeds city-wide. Every week it seems something new has arrived - from ice cream tacos to doughnut cones or Filipino sundaes.

Here's a round-up of popular summertime treats in Toronto right now as seen on Instagram.

Doughtnut cones from Eva's Original Chimneys
These delicious morsels debuted this April. Hunt one down at this food truck by scooping out their schedule on Toronto Food Trucks.

Arctic BitesThai ice cream rolls from Arctic Bites
You can finally chow down on Thai ice cream rolls in Toronto. Since opening its doors this spring, the Baldwin Village shop has seen steady lineups so prepare for a wait up to two hours.

Bang BangHong Kong style waffle ice cream cones from Bang Bang
These monstrous cones are a hold-over from last summer. Load up these freshly baked Hong Kong style waffles with your choice of ice cream.

Dolce 21Soft serve from Dolce 21
Find this ice cream parlour inside Pacific Mall. Pick an ice cream flavour before settling on one on many toppings ranging from cotton candy to red beans.

The Red BenchIce cream sandwiches from The Red Bench
This bakery and ice cream shop on Yonge St. continues to draw crowds for its ice cream sandwiches made with freshly baked cookies, ice cream and rim of toppings.

Sweet JesusSoft serve cones from Sweet Jesus
If you visit Sweet Jesus and don't take a photo of your ice cream cone did it ever really happen? That seems to be the case as this has been one of the most Instagrammedtreats in Toronto since last summer. Now with two locations.

Junked Food CoSoft serve cones from Junked Food Co.
Sweet Jesus isn't the only purveyor of epic soft serve cones in Toronto. Head to Dundas West for one of these Willy Wonka-esque cones topped with everything from Nerds to Lucky Charms.

BooyahIce cream tacos from Booyah
Booyah entered Toronto's ice cream game last year but this summer they are dishing out a new treat. Their picturesque ice cream tacos come with three scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, toppings and chocolate or caramel sauce.

Dutch DreamsIce cream cones from Dutch Dreams
After you're done taking photos of your ice cream taco walk a few doors over to Dutch Dreams for one of their tricked out cones stuffed with ice cream, fruit, whipped cream and cotton candy. Yum!

TsujiriMatcha soft serve from Tsujiri
Toronto's matcha obsession is in full force thanks to the arrival of this global chain to Toronto. Matcha flavoured soft serve gets perfectly laid into a waffle cone and the result is both stunning and delicious.

Bar ApeGelato bars from Bar Ape
Toronto's favourite gelato food truck has gone brick and mortar. Bar Ape's new storefront is dishing out their famous gelato bars in all sorts of intriguing flavours.

Woofles & CreamHong Kong waffles and ice cream from Woofles & Cream
This Markham food court staple knows how to please a crowd with their freshly baked Hong Kong style waffles filled to the nines with soft serve and toppings.

Seven Lives PaleteriaDole Whip floats from Seven Lives Paleteria
Don't miss out on the frozen treats from taco purveyor Seven Lives' new offspring. The thing to get here might just be the Dole Whip floats that come with dairy-free pineapple-flavoured Dole Whip soft serve, pineapple juice, a maraschino cherry and a cocktail umbrella.

Pancho's BakeryChurro ice cream cones from Panchos Bakery
The Mexican bakery has taken churros to the next level, shaping them into cones and filling them with ice cream.

WrestlersPaletas from Wrestlers
This Mexican cafe dishes out a very colourful menu of paletas that can be dipped in chocolate and topped with coconut flakes, peanuts, granola or Rice Krispies.

RoselleSoft serve from Roselle Desserts
This Corktown dessert joint makes a creamy soft serve in unique flavours like Earl Grey.

Scoop ShopMacaron ice cream sandwiches from Scoop Shop
Ice cream sandwiches go next level at this ice cream parlour on Dundas West. Here, ice cream gets sandwiched in-between two giant macaron shells. It's almost too pretty to eat.

Bake ShoppePop tart ice cream sandwiches from Bake Shoppe
The College Street bakery's delicious homemade pop tarts get filled with ice cream in the summer months.

Kekou GelatoSoft serve from Kekou Gelato
On the hunt for unique soft serve in Toronto? Look no further. Here you can get your fill of flavours like jasmine tea, almond tofu, tangy yogurt and passion fruit.

Tito Ron'sSundaes from Tito Ron's
The Filipino restaurant in Kensington Market makes their sundaes with jackfruit and ube ice cream, deep fried spring rolls stuffed with plantain and ube, condensed milk mango sauce, plantain chips and ube cookies.

Photos by @camerasncupcakes, @iamsamcheng, @smileheejoo, @pekopekolife, @racheldinh_, @ccarmen__, @junkedfoodco, @sange85, @jaundce, @vincelaooo, @girlthursday, @morisdizon, @corey_chinyick, @victor_nguyen, @tarochipz, @budybang, @gnuelanivla, @littleblackpearls and @anneborja.

Valdez to re-open as Baro with all-season patio

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baro torontoToronto's Valdez doled out delicious Latin American street food from its 90-seat restaurant and glorious roof top patio. While it closed its original location at 606 King St. W., it'll soon be reborn as Baro at 485 King St. W. in late August.

Baro won't be a carbon copy of Valdez. Chef Steven Gonzalez will still be at its helm, but he'll serve up a more refined menu along with an expanded cocktail program.

The multi-storey space will feature a second floor raw bar, a 2,200 loft space suitable for events and private functions and best of all, an all-season patio.

While you'll have to wait a bit to try Gonzalez's new restaurant, you can try to eat at the Baro food truck in the meantime.

It might soon be illegal to text and walk in Toronto

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text and walkHow many times have you gotten stuck behind someone who's texting and walking? It's certainly annoying, but come on, you've probably done it too.

Yesterday, however, Toronto city council voted in favour of a motion asking the provincial government to make it illegal for pedestrian to use cellphones while crossing the street.

City council was debating the road-safety plan and Councillor Frances Nunziata moved this amendment, which passed 26 to 15. As the Toronto Star reports, some councillors thought it was a joke.

And more specifically, council is asking the province to change the Highway Traffic Act to forbid people from "actively using a handheld wireless communication device or handheld electronic entertainment device while on any travelled portion of a roadway."

Torontonians reacted to the news with snark and many seemed concerned about what this ban could mean for new-fangled PokéMasters.

Photo by Sanjin Avdicevic via the blogTO Flickr pool.

The top 5 small bars for live music in Toronto

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live music torontoThe top small bars for live music pack plenty of sound into pint-sized spaces. And speaking of pints, these places will keep you happy whether you want to catch a show or are just looking to grab a casual beer with friends. These venues will introduce you to local bands and artists as well as tasty food and drinks.

Here are my picks for the top small bars for live music in Toronto.

Painted Lady
This long and narrow bar on Ossington features kitschy decor, a great draft list and teeny tiny stage that's perfect for intimate shows. Sit at the bar and knock back a few drinks as you get settled in for a night filled with music.

Junction City Music Hall
Despite its name, this Junction-area watering hole (it's literally underground!) is a destination regardless of whether you're seeing a show or not. With lots of craft beer on tap and plenty of vintage arcade games, it's easy to entertain yourself here.

Communist's Daughter
This cozy bar has a super friendly atmosphere that'll charm you and your friends any day of the week. Music-wise, a tiny space by the front window is often occupied by solo artists playing folk, jazz and blues as you sip on your drinks.

Burdock
Burdock's a brewery, music venue and restaurant. Naturally, it has a stellar selection of beer, including a rotating roster of one-offs, as well as an eclectic concert lineup. Start your night off at the restaurant and then mosey on over to the concert hall for some tunes.

Dundas Video
If you're into vintage video games and indie music, this recently revamped Dundas West bar is for you. The small space is ideal for intimate shows when you want to feel up close and personal with the band.

grolschThanks to Grolsch for sponsoring this post

Photo of Junction City Music Hall by Jesse Milns.

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