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Stunning new sky bridge coming soon to the Eaton Centre

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The Toronto Eaton Centre has gotten a lot of nifty upgrades within the past year, including a shiny new Nordstrom, Canada's first Uniqlo and it will soon be home to the country's biggest Samsung Experience store.

But this fall, it's getting another new feature.

In honour of the mall's 40th anniversary, the pedestrian pathway that links the Eaton Centre with Hudson's Bay/Saks will be replaced with a swanky new bridge designed by London-based architectural firm WilkinsonEyre.

The bridge is supposed to visually connect the historic Hudson's Bay building with the more modern-looking Eaton Centre.

bridge toronto eaton centre

"This meeting and blending of the two building's form and materials becomes a beautiful and metaphorical 'handshake' extending out over Queen Street," said Dominic Bettison, designer of the bridge and director at WilkinsonEyre, in a news release.

Construction on the project starts this month. The bridge will be built on nearby James Street and will eventually be lifted into place. It should open sometime this fall.


Jian Ghomeshi launches comeback attempt

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Jian Ghomeshi is making a comeback attempt, though it seems like no one is much interested in his return. 

The former CBC radio host, who was acquitted on four charges of sexual assault last year, resurfaced on Twitter today to announce his latest venture. 

The Ideation Project is a podcast/YouTube series that describes itself as a "creative adventure with the aim of taking a bigger picture view on newsworthy issues and culture, with the goal of asking questions and starting conversations."

The first episode "Exiles" was released today, and many Torontonians were less than pleased to wake up to it being online.

Maple Leaf Square will be party central for Raptors and Leafs

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For the first time since 2013, the Toronto Maple Leafs are in the NHL playoffs, and to say the city's excited would be an understatement.

To up the ante, the Raptors are in the NBA playoffs (winning 50 games this year — nicely done), so we all have lots to cheer for. And the folks at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment know it.

That's why they're planning to host tailgate parties in Maple Leaf Square for both teams. There going to do things a bit differently this year with both teams in the post season, and have just released the logistics about how it's all going to work.

In addition to tailgate parties before home games, there will be tailgate parties for all away games for both teams so long as there's not a home game going on at the same time. If that happens, the team with the home game takes precedence.

On days with two games, Maple Leaf Square will make the transition from one tailgate party to the other. But, if the Leafs and the Raptors are playing away games at the same time, the giant video board will show both simultaneously (thank goodness for split screens).

There will also be smaller screens on site so everyone can see what's happening. The square will open for tailgating and parties two hours before either the puck drop or tip off.

The Leafs kick this off on April 13 against the Washington Capitals at 7 p.m. while the Raptors playoff schedule is still TBD as the season doesn't conclude until Wednesday.

High Park cherry blossoms peak bloom set for early May

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The High Park Cherry Blossoms are expected to reach peak bloom in early May this year, with early signs promising a much better display than witnessed a year ago. 

Right now, the consensus is that the sakura will bloom between May 3 and May 10. Both the High Park Nature Centre and Sakura in High Park have pegged this as the peak window for 2017, though they're also quick to note that it's still too early for definitive predictions. 

The exception to these early May forecasts is High Park's website, which is calling for an earlier date of April 23-26

Last year the cherry blossoms failed to reach peak bloom on account of variable weather through early spring that robbed the city of what has become a rite of passage each year. In the previous three years, peak bloom was reached on May 6, May 14, and May 4, respectively.

Forecasting peak bloom depends on observation of the trees' blossoming process, which is typically broken down into six stages.

Right now, the cherry blossoms appear to be on the cusp of stage two. Warm temperatures accelerate the blossoming process, while cool temperatures slow it down. Frost during the later stages can severely damage the vulnerable blossoms.

The good news is that Toronto's mild winter should bode well for a good display this year. Cold weather could still be damaging, but fingers crossed that the blossoms come along unharmed over the next few weeks.

The top 10 bedding stores in Toronto

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The top bedding stores in Toronto offer a wide selection of sheets, duvet covers and fancy throw pillows. Dress your mattress up in Egyptian cotton, jersey or even satin at these stores that'll satisfy all budgets and thread counts.

Here are my picks for the top bedding stores in Toronto.

Anthropologie

If you dream of quirky decor, like duvet covers and pillow with pom poms and fringe, Anthropologie's the store for you - but beware of sticker shock here.

Au Lit Fine Linens

For luxurious sheet sets that'll make you feel like you're sleeping in a five-star hotel, head to this store on Yonge near Davisville.

Beddington’s

It's name says it all. This bedding superstore has a slew of products and affordable prices to keep you warm and cozy.

CB2

Shop for your bedroom furniture and bedding at the exact same time in this giant store at the corner of Queen and Bathurst.

Elte Mkt

This huge store in the Castlefield Design District has everything you need for your home, including lots of minimalist bedding to keep your place looking simple, but chic.

EQ3

Wander around EQ3's big, bright Liberty Village store and shop for on-trend bedding to outfit your condo.

Ethan Allen

Those with an unlimited budget shouldn't be afraid to step into Ethan Allen, or order online, to find lots of lux bedding, including sheets, duvets and decorative shams.

H&M

The home line at this global retailer is super affordable and extremely trendy, so you can switch up your bedroom look seasonally, if you're into that sort of thing.

Hudson's Bay

Wait for a sale and snag a high-quality sheet set (or whatever you need) at a discounted price. Be patient, these sales are usually worth it.

Simons

Like H&M, Simons has stylish bedding that's extremely well-priced, especially when it's on sale.

18 great finds at Toronto's Coffee & Tea Expo

The top 20 lunch restaurants in Liberty Village

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Lunch options in Liberty Village range from healthy take out joints to sprawling breweries. Whether you're looking for a sit down lunch or a quick grab and go, there's plenty of options. 

Here are my picks for the top lunch options in Liberty Village.

3 Brewers

The microbrewery is a great option if you're looking for a boozy lunch. Everything is brewed on-site and they offer a menu of pub favourites. 

Caffino

The long standing dining destination can be found hidden next to the Carpet Factory. The menu is Italian with fresh pizza, pasta and antipasti. 

Fat Bastard

The popular burrito chain has a location in Liberty Village too. Get stuffed on your lunch with menu offerings of pulled pork, steak and chicken.

Freshii

The Canadian chain dedicates their menu to healthy fast food options. Chow down on burritos, wraps, soups, salads and frozen yogurt.

In Japan

Hankering for some sushi on your lunch? You're in luck. In Japan opens for lunch at 11:30am during the week and has a menu of bento boxes, sushi, maki, tempura and sashimi. 

Island Foods

Some of Toronto's best roti can be found at this West Indian spot on King Street. It's been around for over 35 years and remains a favourite for both people in the area and outside of it. Be prepared for lineups.

Koja Restaurant

Big letters spelling sushi and bibimbop grace the front of the restaurant and that's exactly what it serves. 

Liberty Commons

This massive restaurant is bringing the brewing power of Big Rock into an urban gastropub environment. On the menu you'll discover flights of beers, cocktails, jerk chicken platters, burgers and more.

Liberty Village Market and Cafe

Grocery stores meets cafe at this Jefferson Ave. spot. It has been popular joint amongst Liberty Village lunchers for years thanks to its made-to-order sandwiches, wraps and salads. They also have ready-made spring rolls, soup and other options.

Liberty Village Rotisserie

Chicken is the speciality at this restaurant in Liberty Village. Order up rotisserie combos, souvlaki, salads, sandwiches and more.

Live Organic Food Bar

Healthy lunch fare doesn't get much better than this. Load up on veggie burritos, thai noodle salads and bowls. If you're in a rush they also have plenty of prepackaged lunches and salads available.

Local Public Eatery

If you're looking to have some fun of your lunch break, this is your spot. The restaurant gives off a rec room vibe complete with shuffleboard tables and over a dozen TVs. Grab a pint and enjoy a menu of pub food.

Maizal

Mexican for lunch? Yes, please! The menu only boasts about a dozen offerings including tacos, cactus salad and quesadillas. 

Maurya East Indian Cuisine

Satisfy cravings for East Indian cuisine on your lunch break at this location of Maurya. See if you like the roti better than Island Foods.

Merci Mon Ami

Sandwiches are the forte at this Liberty Village take out joint.  All are made fresh daily and served on baguette or other specialty breads. Options include steak, roast turkey breast and honey chicken range.

Mildred’s Temple Kitchen

Monday to Friday the popular Toronto brunch restaurant is serving what they've coined b'lunch. Available is all your favourite weekend brunch offerings like blueberry pancakes and huevos monty.

Naomi

On the menu at this local lunch spot is basic North American fare like egg salad and BLT sandwiches as well as decent Korean offerings like bibimbap, miso soup and teriyaki.

School

Super cheesy bacon french toast, blueberry pancakes, bacon cheeseburgers, kail ceasers and chicken and waffles grace the menu at this popular brunch spot during the week.

The Craft Brasserie

You can find the largest selection of draught beers in the city here. Along with an unimaginable amount of brews available they also have a menu of beer-friendly snack foods, flatbreads, burgers, and an eclectic list of entrees.

The Roastery

Both caffeine and lunch fixes can be fulfilled at this Liberty Village cafe. Classic sandwiches and wraps range from smoked turkey breast to egg salad. 

This plan would have changed the Toronto Islands forever

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There have been persistent schemes to connect the Toronto Islands with the mainland over the years, each of which sparked intense debate.

As early as 1894, plans were tabled to bring streetcar service to the Islands, and the federal government even promised to put aside a lump of cash for a pair of bridges in 1909 as part of widespread changes to the harbour.

Remarkably, a plan to build a tunnel across the western gap in 1935 even broke ground with $1 million worth of federal funding before it was ultimately killed by freshly elected Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King.

These projects would never really go away, though. An ambitious if ultimately misplaced, plan from the city's influential Board of Control in 1950 called for a looping extension of Lake Shore Boulevard through a tunnel across the western gap and a bridge back to the mainland spanning the eastern channel.

As Marc Osbaldeston notes in Unbuilt Toronto, the idea of a "ring" around the Island actually dates back to plans prepared for the Harbour Commission in 1921. The 1950s plans were just a reboot of an idea that had been bouncing around for decades.

Toronto island tunnel

Cropped view of the 1950 plan to redevelop the Toronto Islands. Image via the Toronto Archives.

Debates about the merits of building a fixed link to the Islands were as similar in the 1920s as they were in the 1950s and ultimately hinged on the same issues all the way up to the early 2000s, when a key facet of David Miller's mayoral campaign was his opposition to an Island bridge.

At the turn of the century, the Harbour Commission believed such a connection was key to building an airport. Even if this didn't end up being the case, calls for better access to the Island airport persisted from its founding in 1939 to the opening of the pedestrian tunnel in 2015.

Throughout this more than 75 year period, voices of opposition pointed out that the construction of any bridge or tunnel might risk spoiling the natural setting of the Islands by encouraging the arrival of mass automobile traffic.

What's so remarkable about the plan of the early 1950s is that the Board of Control wasn't exactly shy about its desire to completely redevelop the Islands.

In fact, this plan unabashedly called for the reduction of parkland in order to make the area a tourist hub with entertainment, accommodation and even retail.

While through traffic on the Islands was to be discouraged thanks to enormous parking lots near Hanlan's Point (one with room for 5,000 cars), the presence of new hotels, housing, and a shopping mall were guaranteed to dramatically shift the way the Island was used.

toronto islands 1950s

This lovely scene would have been endangered by the 1950s plan to build a tunnel to the Islands.

In the end, the plans didn't receive widespread support and they were scrapped. The Harbour Commission again pitched a tunnel in 1965, but that too was shot down.

One of the primary reasons the existing pedestrian tunnel to the Island Airport was built is that it came without the risk of increased vehicular traffic to the Islands.

Is the idea for a vehicular link to the Islands finally dead? Given how many proposals there have been over the last century, that's doubtful. It is, however, difficult to imagine a shopping centre in the middle of what is one of Toronto's nicest urban escapes.


Someone is using Honest Ed's as a temporary art gallery

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Honest Ed's closed at the end of 2016 and it quickly got covered in graffiti. However, the latest street art to grace the building's facade seems to making passersby stop and stare for all the right reasons.

Ani Castillo's Imaginary Friend exhibition features highly relatable and sometimes uplifting illustrations that seem to infuse a bit of much-needed positivity to the corner of Bathurst and Bloor.

Castillo's work has previously been featured in Metro and she currently has an exhibition up at Full of Beans cafe.

A post shared by Nathalie Kati (@nattykati) on

While some aren't happy to see any street art on the Honest Ed's building, it looks like this project serves to animates the vacant and now-darkened space as it awaits demolition.

Toronto is getting a summer food market with lawn games

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Today's warm weather gave us a preview of what the summer might have in store. And that includes a brand new summer market and burger joint.

Madame Boeuf and Flea is a new venture from restaurateur Anthony Rose. Like his other two-in-one outposts - including Rose and Sons on Queen and Big Crow But Little and the original Rose and Sons and Big Crow - this spot will also be attached to another restaurant. This time it's behind Bar Begonia on Dupont Street.

It's all getting started around the first week of May. There will be burgers, classic lawn games, and it'll also host a flea market on one Saturday per month. 

5 things to do in Toronto today

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Today in Toronto, Blue Jays fans should be pretty happy because it's time for the home opener and a bunch of Toronto sports bars are celebrating. If baseball isn't your thing, there's also a Buffy the Vampire Slayer trivia night. 

Events you might want to check out:

Home opener (April 11 @ The Contender)
Head to this home opener screening with pitcher specials. Expects lots of screens, lots of snacks and hopefully lots of cheers.
Buffy Pub Quiz (April 11 @ Beaver Cafe)
The stakes are going to be high at this Buffy pub quiz. Relive the best moments of the show with Buffy and her motley crew of watchers, witches, vampires and, well, Xander.
Beats, Rhymes & Life (April 11 @ Toronto Reference Library)
See actor Michael Rapaport's documentary about A Tribe Called Quest and their rise from a group of childhood friends in 1980s-era Queens to global popularity.
Lil' Peep (April 11 @ Velvet Underground)
Lil' Peep covers some pretty deep themes, so go see this 20-year-old perform live at the Velvet Underground.
Toronto Lit Up Presents Trevor Cole (April 11 @ The Emmett Ray Bar)
Trevor Cole's latest book "The Whisky King" tells the story of Canada’s first celebrity mobster Rocco Perri and the man who pursued him.

Pink moon and Jupiter will soar across Toronto skies tonight

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A beautiful celestial event will soar over Toronto skies tonight. Weather permitting, you'll be able to see it just by looking up. At around 8:27 p.m. the full pink moon will rise in the east. As it does, you'll be able to see it follow Jupiter across the sky.

While the moon won't shine pink—this is just the name of the April full moon— the conjunction with Jupiter and the star Spica should make for a gorgeous trifecta that's easy to spot with the naked eye.

For anyone who owns a telescope but rarely uses it, this might also be a good night to dust it off and focus in on Jupiter's moons, as the planet will be very easy to find. You might even manage with a good set of binoculars.

moon jupiterIn the early evening sky, you'll find Spica above and to the right of the moon. Jupiter will be directly above the star, and the three will move along the night sky together (which means you don't have to look up at a precise time).

The celestial threesome will reach their highest peak around midnight and hang low in the western sky until sunrise. So even if we have cloud cover for a portion of the night, there will still be plenty of chances for you to see the show.

The top 37 restaurants near the Rogers Centre

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Restaurants near the Rogers Centre will keep all your bases covered as you head to your next Jays game. If the idea of eating overpriced ballpark grub holds no appeal there are a number of options in the area for both pre and post-game food and drinks.

And don't forget! You can bring your own food into the Rogers Centre as long as it's wrapped, bagged or inside a container. 

Here are my picks for the top restaurants near the Rogers Centre.

Quick bites
 
Belly Buster Submarines

Not game for a ballpark dog? You'll find this sub shop on King West serving up another kind of foot-long for under $10. Order hot or cold subs to stay or go.

O & B Canteen

With tons of experience serving pre-theatre crowds, and a quick-service grab and go counter for the really impatient, this Oliver & Bonacini establishment inside the TIFF Bell Lightbox on King West often has a game day special.

IQ Food Co.

On the hunt fot healthy, vegan or gluten-free? If you're coming from Union Station this is your best bet. Find rice and quinoa boxes, smoothies, avocado toast and good coffee.

Royal Meats BBQ

This Eastern European grill in CityPlace offers a meat-centric menu where everything is cooked to order.

Carver

When you're in a time crunch this little sandwich shop on Peter Street will fix something up for you right away. Choose between their porchetta or chicken sandwich along with a rotating menu of sides.

flock toronto

Photo of Flock by Jesse Milns

Flock

Found just a short walk away from the Rogers Centre near Peter and Adelaide is this quick service joint devoted to chicken and salad.

Burrito Boyz

The popular burrito chain boasts a location along Adelaide near Simcoe. They offer a long list of burritos, bowls, nachos and quesadillas.

Burger's Priest

Also near Adelaide and Simcoe, Toronto's most popular burger joint is here to load you up on epic burgers and fries. Make sure to order off the not so secret, secret menu. 

Su & Bu

Sushi burritos and poke can be yours just a short distance from the Dome. Other offerings include sushi burgers, sushi bagels and an interesting take on fish and chips.

Calii Love

Coffee, smoothie bowls, poke bowls and grain bowls is what's on the menu at this fast casual spot on King West.

Z-Teca

Fill up on steak or shrimp burritos on King West. There's ample seating here but you can also get your food to go.

T Sushi

This teeny tiny sushi shop on Wellington near Blue Jays Way is where to go if you want to get some sushi to take into the Rogers Centre.

Roywoods Toronto

Photo by Hector Vasquez at Roywoods

Roywoods

Whether you like your jerk in coco bread or on a platter, this joint has it all. It's also open late night if you're looking for some post game grub.

Indian Roti House

If you're coming from south of the stadium this takeout joint on Queens Quay is a good option. They offer both veggie and meat roti as well as samosas and veggie biryani.

Sports bars and pubs
 
Amsterdam Brewhouse

The waterfront brewpub is a prime spot for kicking back with a beer before or after a game. Here you'll find the whole lineup of house brews on tap, plus a menu of pretzels, pizza and wings.

Wayne Gretzky's

This restaurant dedicated to the Great One is super close to the Rogers Centre so it isn't a bad bet for a pre or post game drink or eats. If the weather is nice head upstairs to the Oasis rooftop patio.

The Loose Moose

Boasting an impressive draught selection with over 50 different beers on tap, this is another good spot to stop in for a cold one as well as snacky foods like nachos, garlic fries and mini bacon donuts.

macho radio bar

The guacamole and chips at Macho Radio Bar. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Macho Radio Bar

The casual Tex-Mex joint in CityPlace is massive and boasts an extensive menu of both food and drinks. If it's a nice day make sure to ask for a seat on the patio.

Bar Hop

Beer aficionados will appreciate the 36 craft brews on tap, 2 rotating casks and 100-plus bottles, plus a menu of upmarket pub grub and bar snacks at dark and cramped King West pub.

Hunters Landing

Make your way to this CityPlace pub on game day and see the place decked out in blue and white. Food offerings include pizza and burgers.

Real Sports Bar

Toronto's biggest sports bar is conveniently located just a short walk from the Rogers Centre. It's essentially a mammoth man-cave complete with TVs than you could possibly want, hundreds of taps and a menu full of pub favourites.

mascot brewery

Photo of Mascot Brewery by Jesse Milns.

Mascot Brewery

If the sun is shining before or after the game this rooftop beer garden on Mercer Street is a good option. Order a beer and enjoy some beer friendly snack foods.

Wahlburgers

The US based chain pairs cafeteria style seating with big screen TVs and a wide variety of burgers, fries and shakes.

Roxy on King

The King West bar is perfect spot to meet up with some friends before or after the game. The hangout boasts pool tables, ping pong and really good nachos.

Coffee and dessert
 
Quantum Coffee

Beer ain't your thing? Quantum at King and Spadina will caffeinate you instead. They serve coffee, lattes and unique offerings like creme brulee cappuccinos.

Dark Horse Espresso

The John St. location of the Dark Horse mini-chain has a small front patio making it a good place to grab a drink to stay or to go.

Strange Love Coffee

The artisanal coffee shop near King and Spadina has a ton of specialty drinks and even more special baked treats and bon bons. 

Sweet Jesus Toronto

Photo by Hector Vasquez at Sweet Jesus

Sweet Jesus

Follow the trail of melted ice cream and miscellaneous toppings along John St. to discover this epic ice cream purveyor that also serves hot chocolate and coffee based drinks.

Millie Patisserie

If you want a little sweet treat before or after the game this might be your best bet. The cafe and bakery hidden away between Charlotte and Spadina specializes in French-inspired pastries with Asian flavours.

Milano Coffee

Hot beverages and delicious baked goods is what's on offer at this slightly hidden coffee shop near Adelaide and John. There's also a selection of soups and sandwiches if you're looking to grab a quick bite.

The best of the rest
 
Khao San Road

The Charlotte St. Thai restaurant doesn't take reservations so you know you can always get a seat as long as you're prepared to wait.

Figo

The Italian restaurant at John and Adelaide offers a menu of pizza and pasta to go along with its sprawling patio.

El Patio

El Caballito offers the perfect backyard location, just off of Pearl Street. Find an open seat and order tacos and drinks from the bar.

Pai

You can also satisfy cravings for some of the city's best Thai at this restaurant on Duncan. Make sure to book a reservation ahead of time so you won't have to wait in line.

La Carnita

Photo by Jesse Milns at La Carnita

La Carnita

Dubbed LC Central this location of the Mexican chain at King and John is a favourite for tacos, Mexican street corn and cocktails.

Yuzu No Hana

This restaurant near Duncan and Adelaide does fresh sushi and other Japanese favourites. You can eat-in or take the food with you to the Rogers Centre.

Ricarda's

The menu at this Richmond and Peter restaurant, bakery and cafe boasts items from Morocco, France, Italy and beyond. There's pasta, flat beard and a number of sharing plates great for groups.

10 free things to do in Toronto this spring

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Free things to do in Toronto this spring include major film and art festivals, Doors Open, and the first Pedestrian Sunday in Kensington Market. It's time to get out your spring kicks, wrangle your friends and have fun again... without spending a dime. 

Events you might want to check out:

National Canadian Film Day (April 19 @ Various locations)
National Canadian Film Day 150 is a massive one-day, coast-to-coast celebration of Canadian cinema with free screenings all over the city.
Contact Photography Festival (April 28 - May 31 @ Various locations)
Throughout the month of May, Contact takes over the city with more than 200 photography exhibitions and events all across Toronto.
Grad Ex (May 3-7 @ OCAD University)
More than 900 promising young artists and designers are exhibiting at this five-day event spread across three OCAD buildings.
Jane's Walk 2017 (May 5-7 @ Jane's Walk)
Take a free, community-led walking tour inspired by Jane Jacobs to explore Toronto with new friends and neighbours.
Toronto Comic Arts Festival (May 13 @ Toronto)
The two-day Toronto Comics Arts Festival is a wonderful weekend of comic artists, vendors, discussions and meet-and-greets.
Doors Open 2017 (May 27 @ Various locations)
Ever wanted the keys to the city? That's what you basically get during Doors Open on May 27 and 28, which gives you access to loads of typically unseen Toronto buildings.
Pedestrian Sundays (May 28 @ Kensington Market)
Cars are given the boot for streets filled with food, performers, dancers, music, vendors and hundreds of happy people on the first PS Kensington of the season.
Dundas West Fest (June 3 @ Dundas Street West)
This is one of the city's coolest neighbourhood street festivals featuring local restaurants, vendors, coffee shops, antiques and a couple small stages. 
Open Tuning 2017 (June 10 @ Seaton Village)
Musicians from all genres are invited to perform on porches and in parks, alleyways, garages and on street corners from 2 to10 p.m.
Luminato 2017 (June 14-25 @ Various locations)
Find music, photography, film, performances, and so much more in venues across the city. Numerous installations throughout the festival are free.

Happy hour drink deals in Toronto by day of the week

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Happy hour drink deals in Toronto can be found all over the city, any day of the week. It's the short period of time where drink prices are slashed and you're really getting a bang for your buck. Whether you want beer, wine or cocktails you have plenty of options.

Here's a round-up of happy hour drink deals in Toronto.

Multi Day
  • The Beaconsfield offers food specials from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday for $10. Each special includes either a pint of beer or glass of house wine. 
  • Crown & Dragon does happy hour specials from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily featuring domestic pints for 4.50, house wines for $5 and 1/2 price apps.
  • Duke of Devon has half priced bottles of wine from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday.
  • Duke of Richmond has half priced bottles of wine from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday.
  • Duke of Kent has half priced bottles of wine from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday.
  • Duke of Somerset has half priced bottles of wine from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday.
  • Duke of Westminster has half priced bottles of wine from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday.
  • Duke of York has half priced bottles of wine from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday.
  • Emmet Ray offers $6 pints daily from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Goods & Provisions holds their cocktail hour everyday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. 
  • Pravda does weekday Martinis for $6 between 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Roux hosts their happy hour Monday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Get $7 cocktails, $5 wine and $4 draft beer.
  • Sauce on the Danforth has two happy hour specials throughout the week. From Monday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. you can score a $5.09 pint. Seven days a week they offer 2oz house cocktails for $6.19 before 6 p.m.
  • The Shore Club offers drinks specials between 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Find a rotating menu of $6 beers and $8 and $10 wines.
  • Prohibition offers hooch hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. then again from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. It features various deals on draught beer, house wine and premium spirits. 
  • Home of the Brave offers drink specials everyday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. There's $5 mugs of beer, $4 pickle backs and $9 old fashions.
  • Beast Restaurant offers Beast 120 Wednesday to Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. There's a variety of $5 cocktails.
  • Milagro runs happy hour daily from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Score deals on shots, margaritas, sangria and pints.
  • No One Writes to the Colonel offers 2 for 1 drinks from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
  • The Citizen offers $4 drinks specials Tuesday to Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Northwood has $2 off all beer from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
  • Luma offers their magic hour from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and features $6 drink specials.
Monday
  • Einstein offers $3.50 bar rail on Mondays from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m.
Thursday
  • Cibo Wine Bar serves 1/2 wine on Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Wide Open has happy hour on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Get your fill of $2.75 drinks.
Sunday
  • Farmhouse Tavern's F*ck Mondays happen every Sunday night offering rolling hourly specials. $3 mimosas from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $4 Ceasars from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., $6 drafts from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., $7 cocktails from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. and $8 open wine from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.


House of the week: 99 Farnham Avenue

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Rosedale, Forest Hill and the Bridle Path might get the most attention when it comes to luxe neighbourhoods in Toronto, but let's not forget Summerhill, where there are plenty of stunning homes spread across streets like Walker, Woodlawn, and Farnham Avenue.

99 Farnham Avenue TorontoThis house at 99 Farnham was a vaguely Tudor-looking residence when I was renting an apartment down the street over a decade ago. It wasn't much to look at then, but it always seemed a bit odd thanks to the boxy two-car garage facing the street.

99 Farnham Avenue TorontoIt's now received a complete overhaul that's replaced the old home with a modern building that actually pairs better with the garages. I quite like the new minimalist design, but I bet you more than one person has thought it resembled a bunker.

99 Farnham Avenue TorontoThe inside of this home is where you can find the real wow-factor. The staging is immaculate, but so too is the interior design, which achieves a nice balance between cool simplicity and just enough warmth to make the place feel livable. 

99 Farnham Avenue Toronto$5-plus million is a lot to ask for just three bedrooms, but the finished basement and huge workout area add space that's not accounted for in that tally. In any case, I doubt this one will sit on the market for too long.

99 Farnham Avenue TorontoSpecs
  • Address: 99 Farnham Ave.
  • Price: $5,670,000
  • Lot Size: 30 x 166.83 feet
  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Bathrooms: 6
  • Parking: 4
  • Walk Score: 86
  • Transit Score: 88
  • Listing agent: Andy Taylor (broker), Robert Nelson (salesperson)
  • Listing ID: C3756412
99 Farnham Avenue TorontoGood For

This seems like the type of place that might interest those in the upper crust of Toronto's arts and culture scene. Its design is perfect for showing off a significant art collection, but the house is also family friendly.

99 Farnham Avenue TorontoMove on If

Most people will be moving on because of the price, but for those who are in the luxury market, a possible deal breaker could merely be its newness. At this price point, a renovated home with historical character is easily attainable in prime neighbourhoods.

99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto

99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto

99 Farnham Avenue Toronto99 Farnham Avenue Toronto

Thanks to Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage for sponsoring our house of the week. All editorial written and selected by blogTO.

Watch police use helicopter to stop Canada's Wonderland candy heist

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Everyone's favourite Toronto-area amusement park doesn't open for another few weeks. Perhaps that's why a trio of sugar-seeking teenagers tried to sneak in on Saturday night.

However, the York Regional Police quickly swooped in (literally) to stop them.

The York Regional Police released a video on Twitter today showing how they used a helicopter equipped with thermal cameras as well as a canine unit to catch two 16-year-olds and one 15-year-old who were allegedly trying to steal candy from a store at Canada's Wonderland.

As the Globe and Mail reports, the helicopter was already on patrol and wasn't called out just to respond to this incident.

The Globe writes that the three teens won't face charges if they complete a community service program.

Regardless, on video, their arrest looks pretty dramatic, or at least it does in the black and white video posted to Twitter. 

The top 10 apartment rental websites in Toronto

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Apartment rental in Toronto is a lot easier when you know where to look. Finding a decent website is a good first step. While Craigslist and Kijiji should be on every renter's list, there are other options too.

Here are my picks for the top apartment rental websites in Toronto.

View It

Enabling the savvy apartment-seeker to search by rental company, neighbourhood, price, and preferred type of residence makes View It an easy online option. Most listings come with photos, and the site allows you to save queries and receive email notifications.

PadMapper

The intuitive map-based design really helps when your apartment search is neighbourhood-driven. Like View It, Padmapper allows you to filter by number of rooms, price, and type of accommodation. Listings are pulled from other sites like Craigslist and Kijiji.

Toronto Rentals

Filter searches by price range, property type, bedrooms, bathrooms, furnished and even pet friendliness. From their you can browse hundreds of units in either a list or map format.

Bunz Home Zone

While not necessarily a renter website per se, this Facebook group is an excellent place to find apartments. Request to enter the group and prepare to be bombarded with posts of different units available. Once you spot one you like DM the poster.

Rent Seeker

Not only does the website show you the average rent for different types of units in Toronto it also highlights three property details of each unit as you search. Once you select one you like browse through photos, floor plans and other details.

Condos.ca

For those looking to a rent a condo this website can help you narrow down your hunt by allowing you to draw your desired area and searching for a unit within its location. The website is free to browse as long as you sign up.

Walk Score

What sets this website apart from the others is that you can find apartments by using a variety of different filters. Search apartments by commute time, walk score, distance from public transit and desired neighbourhoods.

Casalova

Search through hundreds of Toronto condo listings available through this website. Narrow down your search by selecting your budget, size and availability date.

4Rent

Browse different units around the city through either their list view or map view. You can save units you like and read through their tenant tips which is great for first time renters.

Realtors

If you're condo hunting with a realtor chances are they've guided you to this website. Find your dream home by narrowing down your search with preferences of budget, bedrooms, bathrooms and number of days on the market. 

Yorkville is getting an outdoor market this summer

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One of Toronto's swankiest neighbourhoods is getting a new addition this summer that'll bring the farm to Mink Mile. 

Yorkville Village has announced the Yorkville Village Market, a summer-long farmers' market that'll take place every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m in the outdoor courtyard of Yorkville Lanes (136 Yorkville Ave. to be exact) just east of Avenue Road.

The market will run for 13 weeks starting on June 7 and will feature local produce, fresh bakery goods, artisan cheeses, VQA wines, jams and preserves and other "upscale farmers' market treats," according to the website.

You can bet the tomatoes will be shining as local farmers will focus on "high end quality products," in keeping with the "personality of the neighbourhood."

This latest farmers' market in Toronto is spearheaded by the folks who behind the Union Station Holiday Market and the Scotia Plaza Farmers Market.   

This is Toronto's first outdoor film screening of the year

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The race for the first outdoor film screening of the year is on, and we can now officially declare a winner.

We already know when movies will start down by the lake, but who will be the first to galvanize Toronto under the stars for a screening? It will be Hot Docs as part of their Docs at Dusk series

On Thursday, May 4 at Innis Courtyard, the festival will screen the Canadian premiere of Give Me Future, a documentary about how Major Lazer made history when they were the first major American act to play in Cuba. 

Perhaps the best part is that this event is free!

The evening starts at 8 p.m. with live music and the film to follow, weather permitting. Get there early to ensure you find seats.

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