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What the CN Tower would look like as a condo

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When it made its debut in 1976, the CN Tower was the world's tallest freestanding building. And while it's still Toronto's most iconic landmark, buildings such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the Canton Tower in Guangzhou, China have eclipsed it in terms of height.

That's why local architectural firm Quadrangle has re-imagined the CN Tower as a residential building.

cn tower condo torontoQuadrangle added modular units made out of cross laminated timber (CLT), a sustainable material. The units are designed in a way that would withstand wind and would provide those who live there with some of the best views of the 6ix.

“Quadrangle’s proposal reinvents the landmark and in so doing also reinvents the tower as a symbol of Toronto’s ingenuity and progress," says Quadrangle principal Richard Witt in a news release.

"We hope that the design’s versatility inspires similar projects on other large-scale freestanding developments globally, increasing the value they bring to their home cities and environments.”

cn tower condo torontoObviously, this proposal is a pipe dream (or nightmare) for now, but it indicates how the city can adapt and transform buildings as Toronto's needs continue to grow and change.

But even though this probably won't happen, like ever, I don't even want to try to imagine how much one of these boxes in the sky would cost.


Here's a map of all the outdoor skating rinks in Toronto

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Outdoor skating rinks in Toronto are scattered across neighbourhoods throughout the city. One of Toronto's urban gems, our network of over 65 ice pads and shinny rinks ensures that there's outdoor fun even in the midst of the coldest weather. 

Many of Toronto's rinks are located in parks and feature a dual set-up for pleasure skating and hockey, but there are a few facilities out there that break with this model in favour of something more novel like skating trails and covered rinks.

Here are my picks for Toronto's most noteworthy skating rinks followed by a map of every outdoor ice pad in the city.

Christie Pits

If you're looking for a game of shinny while enjoying a remarkable view of the Toronto skyline, head to Christie Pits. It's features a well maintained hockey rink along with pleasure skating and has generous hours.

Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail

The Toronto area only has a few skating trails, and Etobicoke's Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail is arguably the best of them all. It's a figure eight shaped trail that offers a nice change of pace from your basic outdoor skating rink.

Evergreen Brick Works Skating Rink

A trip to the Evergreen Brick Works during the winter will fill your day with great eats, shopping and outdoor fun. One of the highlights is surely the skating rink, which loops around pine trees and makes for a scenic skate.

Greenwood Park

Greenwood Park is one of Toronto's only covered rinks, which makes it the best destination when the snow is falling hard. It even boasts a warming room allowing non-skaters to hang out and watch.

Grenadier Pond

You know Toronto has reached peak winter when you can officially skate on Grenadier Pond in High Park. There are only about a dozen days in a normal winter when the ice is expected to be skate-able, so keep your eyes peeled for updates on conditions.

Harbourfront Centre Natrel Rink

The Natrel Rink's location, shape and amenities make for a thrilling skate. There are plenty of benches along the rink and a large change room to warm up and store your things. You'll also find a cafe with warm drinks and snacks and on Saturdays they host DJ Skate nights.

Mel Lastman Square

For those who live north of the 401, the centrally located Mel Lastman Square is a must-visit. The North York rink is great for day-skating and those who wants to partake in outdoor fun after midnight.

Nathan Phillips Square

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, this rink is often a tad overcrowded. Still, Nathan Phillips Square is one of the best equipped rinks in the city, with change rooms, lots of food options, and rentals. Sometimes the crowd is just part of the fun. 

Ryerson Rink

Ryerson Rink is the closest you'll get to pond skating in downtown Toronto. It's also a great spot for when you're looking for a place to play a late night game of shinny.

Sherbourne Common

If you're itching to go for a skate with a spectacular view, look no further than Sherbourne Common. Lace up your skates and hit this rink, which is flanked with the beautiful backdrop of Lake Ontario and Toronto's skyline. Bundle up, though. It gets windy here!

Note: This map lists only those rinks open for the 2016-2017 skating season. If a rink is closed for maintenance, it has not been included here even though it might be back in service next winter.

The top 10 parties in Toronto this February

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The top parties in February are proof that Toronto is ready to beat the winter blahs! There are huge events in major art institutions as well as a multi-day farewell party for Honest Ed's.

Events you might want to check out:

AGO First Thursday: Shapeshifters (February 2 @ Art Gallery of Ontario)
First Thursday launches its 2017 season with headliner Lido Pimienta. Additional sounds will be provided by DJ DurtyDabz and DJ Ace Dillinger. You can expect surprise pop-ups and projects throughout the entire building.
Harry Potter Party (February 2 @ Phoenix Concert Theatre)
Yup, it's actually happening. At this magical dress-up party, you'll get sorted into a Hogwarts house before dancing the night away. Leave your owls, cats, toads and/or Death Eaters at home.
#FNLROM: Afro Fete (February 3 @ Royal Ontario Museum)
The ROM's Friday parties return to celebration Black History Month. They've partnered up with the producers of Jambana One World Festival and will feature the talents of folks like Exco Levi & High Priest, Lucas DiPasquale, Ammoye, Matthew Romeo, Eyesus, Al-Beeno, DJ Joshua Lucas, Femi Lawson and Alexi Couto.
Long Winter (February 4 @ The Theatre Centre)
Long Winter continues its journey into some of Toronto's coolest event spaces. This month the giant art party moves to the Theatre Centre. The all-ages event will feature music from Devon Welsh, Off World Sandro Perri and Lorenz Peter.
Coming of Age (February 9 @ The Drake Hotel)
The Drake turns 13 and is throwing a coming-of-age party to celebrate. It's a building-wide jam with DJs, emcees, hip hop dancers, a photobooth, party favours more. Dress code is "teen dream" and cover is $10.
Brigitte Bardont, Egyptrixx, Hexzuul (February 10 @ The Baby G)
This is a truly stellar lineup of electronic music for your mind and body. Pay the $10 and check out Brigitte Bardon't, Egyptrixx, Open Fortress and Xuan Ye with visuals by Hexzuul's Philip Baljeu.
Isaac Escalante (February 19 @ Fly 2.0)
Reward yourself on the Family Day long weekend by dancing the night away inside this massive club to a set by Mexico City's Isaac Escalante.
Toronto for Everyone (February 23-26 @ Honest Ed's)
Say goodbye to Honest Ed's with a giant community festival and multi-night party!
Good Night (February 24 @ REBEL)
This is a new monthly party series featuring some of the hottest DJs, artists and celebrities that hip hop has to offer right now. It's going to be a good night, especially as this debut party features hot as fire MC Young M.A. and her hit "Ooouuu."
ReelHeART Oscar Party (February 26 @ CineCycle)
Celebrate Oscar night with this Roaring 20s-themed party... It'll be the cat's meow.

Night markets in Toronto this winter

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Winter night markets in Toronto are a bit of a magical thing since most of them end up being parties in the end. You can shop and meet with local artisans, all while snacking and sipping on a few cocktails. It's a far different shopping experience than a trip to the mall, which is why it's so much fun.

Events you might want to check out:

Winter Midnight MRKT (February 3 @ 2nd Floor Events)
Shop, eat, dance, drink, party or just hang out late at this winter nighttime market featuring indoor food truck pop-ups, a bar with spiked punch, DJs and and an endless list of talented vendors. It's like the ultimate late night shopping party.
Gladstone Love Night Market (February 8 @ Gladstone Hotel)
Get all your Valentine's or Palentine's Day shopping done in one shot at this market packed with local handmade products, artisans, designers, collectables, snacks and a bar in the next room to keep you refreshed. Admission is free.
The Local Night Market (February 16 @ The Den)
Clothing, jewelry, home decor, bath, beauty, and food are brought together at this local night market inside The Den at Bathurst and College. There's also a bar, DJs and the change to hang out and network with local makers.

What Toronto's most stunning new subway station looks like now

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Even though the opening of the TTC's Spadina Extension is a little under a year away, excitement is steadily building as we get more and more glimpses of the progress being made on the six subway stations that'll be added to Line 1.

Last week, we got a peek at the nearly finished Downsview Park Station, which will be the first of the new stops. It's certainly a nice looking addition to the TTC that departs from mid-century stations with a sweeping atrium at the entrance and a design that aims to bring natural light to multiple levels.

york university ttc station

View of York University Station looking east southeast. Photo courtesy of the TTC.

As nice as it may be, however, the real gem of the new crop of subways stops is surely York University Station. Designed by Foster + Partners, not only will this be one of the busiest stops on the line, but it's one of those buildings that goes well beyond mere utility in the hopes of adding to a campus that's in the midst of an architectural awakening.  

york university ttc station

View of west-facing "light scoop" from concourse level. Photo courtesy of the TTC.

The sweeping roof that connects each station entrance provides a dramatic centrepiece in the York University Common, but it's also an environmental feature of the structure as its anodized aluminum panels reflect sunlight and absorb very little heat.  

york university ttc station

Concourse level nearing completion. Photo courtesy of the TTC.

The west-facing "light scoop" provides a stunning view for passengers exiting the station, but also allows for less reliance on electric light sources. Meanwhile the helix-like supports on the concourse level make the station appear futuristic without coming off as hokey. 

york university ttc station

Customer service agent booth. Photo courtesy of the TTC.

For all the design features, perhaps the best feature of all is just how much the new station will change transportation at York. On weekdays, thousands of TTC bus trips are made through the Common each day, many of which will be made redundant once the subway extension opens. 

york university ttc station

Lighting and terrazzo flooring has been installed at platform level. Photo courtesy of the TTC. 

There's been talk of a subway at York for so long, and now that it's almost arrived, it looks better than many of us had ever imagined.

Toronto is making a big push to upgrade its libraries

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Toronto's public library system is in the midst of a major transformation. Already one of the city's most important cultural assets, our network of libraries is being reinvented to incorporate more social and multi-use learning spaces as well as technology hubs designed to keep local branches relevant. 

New libraries added to the system over the last few years have shown off stunning architecture and a whole new way of thinking about the role of the library in urban culture, but the process isn't restricted to new branches.

A number of our aging libraries are in the midst of makeovers that will breathe life into the communities that they serve.

albion library renovations

Interior view of future Albion Branch. Rendering via TPL / Perkins + Will.

Perhaps the most stunning of these upgrades is happening at the TPL's Albion Branch, where architecture firm Perkins + Will have designed a stunning new building immediately adjacent to the existing branch that dates back to 1973.

By using the parking lot as the site of the replacement, it was possible to keep the original branch in operation throughout the construction process, which is entering its final stage. The new building is expected to open in fall of this year.

When it does, it'll feature a far more robust  computer area, a technology centre complete with a 3-D printer, a specially designed kids area, and a social space being dubbed the "urban living room." 

north york central library

View of upgrades to North York Central Library. Rendering via TPL / Diamond Schmitt.

Similar upgrades are coming to another branch that's seen better days. The Raymond Moriyama-designed North York Central branch is still a stunning building with its seven storey atrium, but being the second busiest branch in the system, it was deemed a priority to upgrade its features and some of the finer points of the design.

The list goes on. No less than seven branches are currently undergoing renovation efforts, including Agincourt, Eglinton Square, RunnymedeSt. Clair/Silverthorn, and Wychwood. In each case, the goal is the same: to modify the existing space to serve more as a community hub rather than merely a quiet place to study or read.

It's worth mentioning two other branches with makeovers in store. Bayview will be changing locations from the shopping centre to a new spot in the Bessarion community centre, which will prove a major upgrade and signals the type of thinking that informs the TPL's update strategy.  

299 campbell library toronto

The site of the future Perth branch at 299 Campbell. Rendering via Teeple Architects.

The Perth branch is in for what might be the most significant upgrade of all. Currently the smallest library in the system, it will eventually be relocated to a condo at Dupont and Campbell streets from developer TAS and Teeple Architects

This new branch will be far bigger and prove a major community hub in the Junction Triangle, which could use just such a cultural amenity along the Dupont corridor, especially with an onslaught of other condos on the way. 

If your local branch hasn't been updated, it might seem like the very idea of an extensive library system is outdated. But the TPL has made major strides over the last half decade to modernize its branches, efforts that are starting to show across the network.

5 things to do in Toronto today

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Things to do today in Toronto include a host of Robbie Burns Day celebrations. If celebrating the famous Scot isn't your thing, don't fret, there's a Harry Potter improv show and a Lunar New Year kickoff feast.

Events you might want to check out:

PotterProv (January 25 @ Comedy Bar)
This is an entirely improvised comedy show on Harry Potter, so go see Hogwarts like you've never seen it before.
A Lunar New Year Feast (January 25 @ Kanpai)
Celebrate the year of the rooster with the fine folks at Kanpai Snack Bar who are throwing a week-long food party with cold TEA-Quila, oolong tea eggs, lucky broth and a family-style feast.
Métis Mutt (January 25 - February 5 @ Aki Studio)
Sheldon Elter's acclaimed new show switches between storytelling, comedy, music and multi-character vignettes to expose the impact of family dysfunction, internalized racism and spiritual growth.
Alonso Solo Acoustic Performance (January 25 @ Junction City Music Hall)
This Toronto singer-songwriter has just released his latest seven-song album and he'll be playing an acoustic set to show them off tonight in the Junction.
Lukas Graham (January 25 @ Sound Academy)
This indie, folk-rock foursome from Denmark is led by vocalist and songwriter Lukas Graham Forchhammer and they're blowing up on charts and Spotify lately.

Toronto police caught behaving badly on camera

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Toronto police are once again under scrutiny after a man was threatened and told to stop filming an arrest yesterday.

The incident occurred at Church and Dundas streets. Police were arresting a man after he reportedly spat on a staff member at Seaton House, spat on and punched a female police officer, and bit a construction worker who stepped in.

Waseem Khan, as the Toronto Star reports, began filming the arrest and questioned why the police were using a Taser on the man when he appeared motionless on the ground.

A police officer soon asks Khan to move back, and he replies,"I'm not obstructing your arrest, I'm not involved in the investigation."

Another officer soon asks him to stop filming and threatens to seize his phone after he says he's a witness to the arrest.

A different officer calmly says, seemingly in reference to the man being arrested, "He's going to spit in your face and you're going to get AIDS. Stop recording or I'm going to seize your phone."

What many find troubling about this video, which CityNews posted to YouTube yesterday, is that Torontonians are allowed to film arrests. Many were also dismayed about the comment the officer made about HIV/AIDS.

“Let me be clear: we have told our officers if somebody is videoing them and they are not obstructing and interfering, they have every right to film,” said Toronto Police spokesperson Mark Pugash to the Toronto Star yesterday. 

Here's how Torontonians are reacting to this incident on social media.


How to eat gluten-free in Toronto

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Eating gluten-free at restaurants in Toronto is a challenge. Thankfully, there are more and more options these days where the food isn't only celiac-friendly, it's also delicious.

Here is my cheat-sheet to eating gluten-free in Toronto.

Gluten-free Fried Chicken at Dirty Bird

Dirty Bird uses a signature gluten-free flour blend to coat their chicken, but even poultry connaisseurs won’t be able to tell it’s gluten-free. Not only is their chicken crispy without being greasy, but they also stock gluten-free waffles so we’re not left out of classics like the ODB (fried chicken with a waffle, buttered maple syrup, and dirty sauce).

Gluten-free Pasta at Enoteca Sociale

Enoteca Sociale is perfect for both impressing a first date, and not getting incredibly sick from the quintessential first-date dish. In addition to their fancy appetizers, Enoteca Sociale carries gluten-free pasta that tastes better than the original.

Gluten-free Cupcakes at Prairie Girl Bakery

Finding gluten-free desserts that don’t taste like a blend of gravel and stevia can be a trial. Luckily, Prairie Girl makes gluten-free cupcakes. Though the flavours are limited, the icing is plentiful and the crumb isn’t gritty.

gluten free doughnuts

The gluten-free donuts at Jelly Modern. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Gluten-free Donuts at Jelly Modern Donuts

Like A&Ws, gluten-free donuts are actually more ubiquitous in Toronto than one might expect, but Jelly Modern Donuts are the only ones that actually taste like the real donuts I remember from my pre-diagnosis carefree youth.

Gluten-free Pizza at Magic Oven

Pizza was one of the first foods to take heed when the gluten-free trend hit, but Magic Oven was one of the first and is one of the best. In addition to offering gluten-free crusts, they also have vegan and lactose-free pizzas to accommodate folks with multiple dietary needs.

Gluten-free Poutine at Poutini’s

To me, finding gluten-free poutine felt the way it does when weird kids with hygiene issues find their first improv troupe: like a total and absolute saviour. Poutini’s gluten-free gravy tastes exactly the way I remember real gravy to taste, and the name of their smaller size ( Teeny Weeny Tiny) makes it feel guilt-free.

Gluten-free Pancakes at Fresh

Fresh is known for making dishes so delicious, you wouldn’t immediately pick up on the idea that they’re made with specific diets in mind. Their pancakes are no different. They’re fluffy, light, and customizable with different additions and flavours.

gluten free cinnamon buns

Gluten free cinnamon buns at Bunner's. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Gluten-free Cinnamon Buns at Bunner’s Bakeshop

Cinnamon buns are another thing that can be hit-and-miss in gluten-free form. Bunner’s cinnamon buns definitely hit. Their buns, which are also vegan, pack a big punch of sweet cinnamon sugar, doughy pastry, and generous icing.

Gluten-free Burgers at Holy Chuck

Holy Chuck is a master of burgers. Luckily, their patties are gluten-free and they offer a gluten-free bun that doesn’t fall apart upon the first bite. Best of all, you can wash down your gluten-free burger with one of their shakes- most are also gluten-free.

Gluten-free Rye Bread at Cock-A-Doodle-Doo

Cock-A-Doodle-Doo bakes up their own gluten-free bread in a few different forms, but their rye bread is an absolute standout. They come in compact little loaves that could last a restrained person a week, but don’t make it more than a few days in my kitchen. CADD is also soy-, refined sugar- and dairy-free.

Gluten-free Scones at Sorelle & Co

Sorelle & Co is in the epicenter of fancy and their baked goods definitely reflect their location. Though they have a number of different gluten-free, soy-free, sesame-free, nut-free, preservative-free and vegan treats, their scones are the best. They have a range of flavours and are the ultimate in flaky goodness.

gluten free crepe

The gluten-free crepes at Hibiscus Cafe come savoury or sweet. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Gluten-free Crepes at Hibiscus Cafe

Everything is gluten-free at Hibiscus Cafe, and they offer their delicious crepes in both sweet and savory combinations. Try the brie and pecan crepe if you’re in a savory mood and finish it off with the vegan dulce de leche and kiwi- an unexpected and amazing combo.

Gluten-free Pie at Tori’s Bakeshop

Tori’s Bakeshop makes delicious pies that are dairy-, egg-, and casein- free in addition to being gluten-free. Their perfectly spiced pumpkin pies are the ideal dessert for those of us who feel left out during the holidays.

Gluten-free Carrot Cake at Bloomer’s Bakery

Bloomer’s is one of the first places I recommend to my celiac brethren when asked for gluten-free tips (which happens a lot when you talk about yourself as much as I do). Their carrot cake is insanely good- not too dry, not too fragile, with lots of delicious icing.

Gluten-free Veggie Burger at Live Organic Food Bar

Unfortunately, a lot of veggie burgers are made with glutinous grains, which is not fun for those of us who are both gluten- and meat-free. Luckily, Live Organic Food Bar makes veggie burgers that are free of gluten and animal products without being free of taste.

gluten free bowl

The Cauliflower Tahini bowl at Kupfert and Kim. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Gluten-free Bowls and Kupfert and Kim

Grain bowls are the hottest lunch option for those of us who want to carbo-load under the guise of appearing healthy. Though the grains are usually gluten-free, the toppings can be a minefield of hidden gluten. Kupfert and Kim’s entire menu is gluten-free, and their bowls are delicious and carb-heavy.

Gluten-free Mac and Cheese at The Beet

The Beet’s mac and cheese is over the top in its cheesy goodness. More than just cheese-flavoured water over overboiled flaccid noodles, The Beet combines Quebec cheddar sauce with gluten-free noodles and tops it off with crunchy gluten-free breadcrumbs and pickled jalapenos.

Gluten-free Pan-Asian Cuisine at Riz on Bayview

Pan-Asian food is one of the most challenging genres of food due to the wheat in soy sauce, but Riz on Bayview has us covered. They have a huge gluten-free menu which includes both all-you-can-eat and a la carte.

Gluten-free Grilled Cheese at Cut the Cheese

Cut the Cheese offers variations on the traditional grilled cheese, and use gluten-free bread that doesn’t taste stale or too chewy. Go for the Beet-It with beets, tomatoes, and mushrooms, a curious combination that works weirdly well.

gluten free nachos

The excellent gluten-free nachos at Roxy on King. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Gluten-free Nachos at Roxy on King

I’ve waxed poetic about the nachos from Roxy before, and I will again. The chips and toppings are totally gluten-free (while some places use chips with wheat or include gluten-y queso).

Gluten-free Cookies at Bakerbots

Bakerbots only offers one variety of gluten-free cookie, but it is heads and shoulders above the typical crumbly or anemic-looking gluten-free cookies in the city. It’s packed with chocolate and various sweet accoutrements that make it interesting in each bite.

Gluten-free Wings at H Bar

Wings are another tricky one- sometimes they’re battered, sometimes they’re doused in wheat-y barbecue sauce, sometimes they’re just greasy and gross. H Bar’s wings are none of these things. They wings themselves are gluten-free, and most of the sauces are, too. Try the Coffee BBQ sauce and getting them baked instead of fried.

gluten free bagel

The gluten-free bagels at Almond Butterfly. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Gluten-free Bagels at Almond Butterfly

All of Almond Butterfly’s treats are baked on site, so be sure to get there early to get a fresh bagel and cream cheese. They also serve delicious sandwiches, so kick it up a notch and get some deli meats on that bagel- you deserve it.

Gluten-free Waffles at Starving Artist

Starving Artist is the go-to place for waffles, and thankfully all of us gluten-free folks don’t have to miss out. They come with a variety of options- think everything from eggs to smoked salmon to ice cream.

Gluten-free Dim Sum at Luckee

Though it’s not advertised on the menu, Susur Lee’s Luckee offers gluten-free options to the traditional dim sum menu. When I visited, I was able to have a full dim sum experience with their crafty substitutions and gluten-free soy sauce.

gluten free breakfast

The counter at Impact Kitchen. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Gluten-free Breakfast at Impact Kitchen

Impact Kitchen is the place to go for clean eating, and their breakfast offerings include both savory dishes (think root veg, avocado, and eggs) and sweet treats (vanilla chia pudding). Their weekend brunch also includes paleo waffles and steak & eggs.

Gluten-free Chicken Pot Pie at de Floured

Chicken Pot Pie is incredibly hard to make as a gluten-free dish (gluten is typically in both the pastry and the gravy), but de Floured does it right. Their pastry is flaky and the delicious filling is creamy and wonderful.

Gluten-free Beer at The Rhino

The Rhino is a great place to hit if you miss the foamy, hoppy taste of liquid mistakes. In addition to their selection of ciders, they have a good number of gluten-free beers instead of the usual single variety tacked on the end of the beer list.

gluten free bread

The gluten-free bread from Organic Works, available at The Big Carrot. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Gluten-free Bread at The Big Carrot

Though most grocery stores now have loaves of frozen gluten-free bread hidden somewhere in their icy mazes, The Big Carrot has the best quantity and quality when it comes to gluten-free bread.

Please note that not all of these restaurants have gluten-free kitchens and in cases, there is a possibility of cross-contamination.

The Best New Brunch Restaurants in Toronto for 2016

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The best new brunch restaurants in Toronto have already figured out the wacky combination of breakfast and lunch. House made sausage, toasts piled high with avocado, and of course tons of locally roasted coffee is on the menu at these joints.

Here are the best new brunch restaurants that opened in Toronto during 2016.

11 - Pow Wow Cafe

Bringing fry bread tacos to Kensington, this teeny restaurant also serves up brunch with big flavour. Smoked salmon and poached eggs lounge on top of crusty, steamy fry bread, and stacks of pancakes can be washed down with cedar soda.
10 - YAYA

Dreamy supersized stuffed French toast reigns at this Leslieville spot, along with eggs benny and classic burgers.
4 - Baddies

An Aussie-style cafe right next to Lansdowne station has been stealing hearts this year with its delicious coffee and on point brunch. Instagram-worthy hot cakes swim in powdered sugar, fruit and edible flowers, rustic toasts piled high with avocado.
7 - Hastings Snack Bar

Coffee, pastries...and of course, cabbage rolls and pierogies. If that sounds like your idea of the best brunch ever, head to this revamped Leslieville joint that will serve you all those stick-to-your-ribs treats along with your eggs.
6 - Dirty Food

This Junction destination puts beet juice in their caesars, sweet potatoes in their vegan pancakes, and fried chicken between their waffles. This is where to go to get that indulgent homestyle brunch.
5 - Harry's

This longtime Parkdale institution is under new management with guys from the Grant van Gameren team at the helm, though they’re upholding the rootsy traditions of the place with cheap bottles of beer and simplistic burgers that pack a wallop.
9 - Bodega Henriette

In the quiet Upper Beaches rests the little cafe that could do it all. This place has coffee, cocktails, baked goods and satisfying brunch offerings like waffle benedicts and French toast, as well as your daily groceries.
8 - Janie Jones

Blasting ska and bedecked in black and white checkers, this Gerrard East brunch spot is a blast to the English mod past. Serving up vindaloo caesars along with deep-fried crumpets, there’s never a dull moment.
3 - White Lily Diner

This Riverside joint blasted out of the gate this year with a menu of reubens and house-made sausage, as well as late hours and basic but delightful cocktails. It earns its diner name.

What's next for College Street Bar?

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Toronto Police issued a press release this morning, revealing more information about an alleged incident that occurred inside College Street Bar last year

Both suspects, including bar owner Gavin MacMillan have been charged with several offences.

So where does this leave the once-popular Little Italy bar? According to some of the bar's neighbours, not in a very good spot.

After a brief shutdown following the alleged incident and protest, the bar reopened on New Years Eve. They donated all proceeds from the night to the Dandelion Foundation, a non-profit that spreads awareness about domestic violence and child abuse. Since then, they have remained open on weekends.

While several neighbours didn't want to comment on the record, local record shop Soundscapes said they were surprised to see the bar busy again.

Adrian, a server at neighbouring Utopia says MacMillan frequented their restaurant and alleges he was often rude. "If you work in the industry you kind of know what annoys people in the industry, but they would do those kinds of things anyway."

"He would come in and while [the chef] is making food, he would walk over and order food straight from the kitchen."

"I don’t think they can distance themselves from the situation," says another nearby restaurant owner. "I suspect Gavin will have to sell the bar. He doesn’t have a future here in Toronto."

College Street Bar spokeperson Ulises Martinez tells me the bar is committed to the safety of their staff and wants to make sure they can continue to work.

"College Street Bar has proven to be resilient in these times and is grateful to those patrons who keep walking into our doors," he says.

Martinez declined to respond to any further questions including details about any ongoing or future involvement by MacMillan.

10 free things to do in Toronto this February

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Free things to do in Toronto this February are a thrilling mix of cozy indoor and brave outdoor events. Whether it's huge art installations on the beach boardwalk or an Oscars broadcast, you'll be motivated to get out and leave your wallet at home.

Events you might want to check out:

Soca on Ice (February 4 @ Natrel Rink at Harbourfront Centre)
The Harbourfront Centre's free skate DJ nights continue with what is sure to be the hottest party of the season. You can dance and keep warm with drinks from the rink-side Boxcar Social.
Kuumba (February 3-11 @ Harbourfront Centre)
Explore the themes currently affecting the global community including Black Lives Matter, Women’s Empowerment and The Invisible Majority with musicians, filmmakers and artists .
Spoken Word Poetry Classes and Slam (February 7-28 @ Sony Centre for the Performing Arts)
The Toronto Poetry Project will help you beef up your spoken word poetry skills. Classes begin every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.
Aga Khan Museum Cisit (February 11 @ Aga Khan Museum)
Get free admission to the Aga Khan Museum on February 11 and 12. You'll get access to multiple exhibitions and and pop-up performances by local musicians.
Romance Short Film Festival (February 13 @ Carlton Cinemas)
These films from Sweden, the USA, the UK, and Canada are sweet, funny and totally romantic. They'll make for a great pre-Valentine's Day date.
TIFF Next Wave Film Festival (February 17-19 @ TIFF Bell Lightbox)
The sixth annual Next Wave Film Festival features special guests, young creator workshops, a 24-hour Film Challenge and free movies for those 25 and under.
Winter Stations 2017 (February 20 - March 27 @ The Beach)
Winter Stations is back for its third year, and it once again invites Torontonians to get outside to explore the beach in the winter time with installations that tranform local lifeguard stands.
Bedroom exhibit (February 24 @ Black Cat - Artspace)
Toronto's Burnt Toast art collective presents an interactive show called Bedroom, which explores the contrast between public and private space. Get cozy, walk around the bedroom, eat some toast and check out art from four inviting artists.
Icefest 2017 (February 25 @ Yorkville Village)
The Bloor-Yorkville Village will be transformed into a land of ice sculptures, music, vendors and on this February weekend.
Live Oscar broadcast (February 26 @ Hot Docs Cinema)
Watch the Oscars with a live audience at Hot Docs. Walk down their red carpet before the awards ceremony starts at 8:30 p.m. It's all free and it's also licensed.

A Toronto brewery just created an Honest Ed's beer

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Torontonians who weren't lucky enough to grab a piece of Honest Ed's memorabilia before the store closed on December 31 now have another chance to pay tribute to this landmark thanks to a local brewery.

Henderson Brewery has created a custom brew called "The End of Honesty" as part of its Ides brew series. Each month, it brings Toronto stories to life through a specialty beer.

Past Ides brews have included "Dear Toronto, You Suck, Love Vancouver" and "Poké Mango Find Yourself."

The End of Honesty is an "add junk lager" because the brewers added sugar bought from Honest Ed's to it. According to the website, it's "meant to be a cheap and cheerful, basic beer. One that Ed himself may have stocked on his shelves."

It's currently available in four-packs ($9.34) at the brewery on Sterling Road. 

Why Toronto is so obsessed with Harry Potter

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Toronto might not be part of the Harry Potter universe, but the city is feeling awfully magical nonetheless.

Lately, it seems like the Statute of Secrecy has been thrown out the window here as Harry Potter-related events, shows and trivia nights have become more commonplace in Toronto.

Of course, the new 2016 additions to the Harry Potter cannon - including the first Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them movie and the rather lacklustre Cursed Child script - have helped keep Potter in the public eye. 

But here in Toronto, this newfangled Pottermania started earlier, when The Lockhart, the city's unofficial Harry Potter bar, opened on Dundas West in September 2015. The local watering hole got international media attention and it naturally attracted lineups around the block.

Since things have cooled off a bit, co-owner and general manager Matt Laking says he and his team have been able to introduce magic shows and trivia nights on certain nights of the week.

Of course, these events are popular with Potterheads, but Laking enjoys introducing the Potter universe to the uninitiated too - some patrons walk in without realizing the bar's magical roots.

Laking, who grew up reading Harry Potter, thinks the bar gives Torontonians the chance to tap into something from their past. “People obviously have a very personal connection to the wizarding world, he says.

And he's not the only one celebrating this connection. The Appreciation Society, based in Dublin, is behind the upcoming Harry Potter Party at The Phoenix.

However, it's part of a series of events happening across the globe, from Toronto to Tel Aviv. Turns out that even though the Appreciation Society's based in Ireland, it connects with Irish expatriates to throw parties around the world.

“There are a lot of Irish scattered all over the place, Rory Dinnigan on the phone from Dublin, commenting on the tendency for Irish millennials to leave home.

Dinnigan's been planning events for about six years and lately, he and his team have started producing parties that seem to tap into our collective desire for nostalgia.

In Toronto, and around the world, nostalgic events - such as 90s and early 2000s dance parties and emo nights - have grown in popularity. 

It's this sense of nostalgia that seems to be driving plenty of Harry Potter events forward, as well as a certain 1990s aesthetic that seems inescapable both offline and on social media.

“Nostalgic things seem to work,” says Dinnigan. “You know, where people can kind of be brought back to their youth and then enjoy a modern setting of a party.”

Last year's Harry Potter party, organized by students in George Brown's event management program, sold out and the Comedy Bar bought back its PotterProv improv series for a second season.

Even the popular wizarding sport Quidditch is picking up steam in Toronto. The co-ed Valhalla Quidditch team, which practices at Riverdale Park in the warmer months, is Eastern Canada's first community Quidditch team - the others are affiliated with universities.

Team manager Jessalynn Tsang reveals that not everyone on the team identifies as a Potterhead - she hasn't even read the books, for instance.

“There’s sort of been a push to move away from the Harry Potter association,” she says. But at open practices (the next one is Feb. 19), she notes, Potteraficionados tend to come out.

That's because whether on the Quidditch pitch or at a local bar, you don't need to catch the Hogwarts Express to do magic and relive your childhood in Toronto.

Uniqlo is giving away free clothing in Toronto this week

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It may not be the coldest winter Toronto has ever seen, but these grey days still have a way of getting in your bones, don't they?

So it's a good thing that this weekend (January 27 and 28), Uniqlo will be giving away 30,000 pieces from their HeatTech clothing line.

We all know how wild Toronto went for the store opening, so expect the all-weekend giveaway to end earlier than expected.

With HeatTech, there are three levels of warmth to chose from and Uniqlo reps be giving away Extra Warm level items to passersby at Yonge-Dundas Square between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m both days.

There will also be mobile teams popping up around the city so keep an eye out.


Toronto not happy after American TV show gets named The Six

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Some people in Toronto are getting a little bit worked up after a promo aired for ESPN's show called "The Six."

In a clip posted to Twitter, new hosts Jemele Hill and Michael Hill - who formerly spearheaded ESPN2's His & Hers, called their show The Six.

Some say they've taken on Drake's moniker for Toronto. Here's how it all wen down on social media.

7 things to do in Toronto today

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Things to do today in Toronto include a party with legendary DJ Laurent Garnier, a big neighbourhood birthday bash, and the city's first-ever Italian restaurant week. There's a bit of everything in store this Thursday.

Events you might want to check out:

Italian Restaurant Week (January 26 - February 5 @ Various locations)
This 10-day food event brings together some of Toronto's best restaurants to celebrate Italian cuisine. Each restaurant will serve a four-course prix fixe dinner menu for $45.
Australia Day Party (January 26 @ Gladstone Hotel)
Bring your mates down and celebrate Australia Day with Australian trivia happening from 7 to 8 p.m. Afterwards, there's a top 50 countdown from Triple J as well as kanga pies, sausage rolls and cheap drinks.
Parkdale Village 138th Anniversary Celebration (January 26 @ The Cadillac Lounge)
Celebrate 138 years of Parkdale Village. This neighbourhood-wide event, which features Parkdale stories and photos kicks off today, but runs until Jan. 29.
Laurent Garnier (January 26 @ CODA)
Coda's three year anniversary extended weekend starts with a Thursday night special event featuring the the legendary DJ Laurent Garnier.
Kid Koala's Satellite Concert (January 26-29 @ The Rivoli)
For this show, the audience will be seated at stations with a turntable, effects box and colour -oded vinyl records. Through subtle lighting changes, the audience will be cued to play along. 
Louis CK in Toronto (January 26 @ Air Canada Centre)
Louis C.K. has a lot on his mind, and he returns to Toronto to express his views in front of a live audience. Check out why he's been voted as one of the greatest standup comedians today.
Spooky Bitch: Madonna Edition (January 26 @ The Beaver)
This month's goth drag party is a tribute to Madonna, so grab your cone bra, get a mesh crop top and a blonde wig and get blasphemous.

Toronto Restaurant Openings: Conspiracy Pizza, Tabule, Zante Bistro

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

Open now
  • Tabule has opened a new location inside the Bayview Village Shopping Centre at 2901 Bayview Ave.
  • Zante Bistro, a Greek/Mediterranean spot at 1950 Gerrard St. E., is now open.
Recently reviewed
Opening soon
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Have you seen restaurants opening or closing in your neighbourhood? Email tips to editors@blogto.com

Vote for your favourites in 15 new best of categories

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It's that time of year again. We're opening the polls to 15 new best of categories including Chinese restaurants, samosa, veggie burgers, chocolate, spas, personal trainers and more. Voting closes this Sunday January 29 at 11:45 a.m.

Toronto police apologize for AIDS comment caught on video

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On Twitter last night, Toronto Police issued an apology after an officer from the 51 Division was caught on video making an insensitive comment about HIV/AIDS.

The incident occurred while passerby Waseem Khan was filming an arrest near Church and Dundas. Multiple officers told him to stop, including one who said (presumably referring to the man getting arrested):

"He's going to spit in your face and you're going to get AIDS. Stop recording or I'm going to seize your phone."

Many were dismayed by this comment and at about 10:30 p.m. last night, Toronto Police media officer Constable Victor Kwong addressed it, tweeting that an HIV/AIDS expert would be brought in to educate officers.

There's also a professional standards and internal affairs investigation underway.

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