If you've already downed a phorrito and have tried the new activated charcoal-infused ice cream, the next Toronto food trend on your bucket list ought to be cookie dough scoops - baked, or regular cookies, are so 2016.

While Junked Food Co. has been topping waffle cones with cookie dough for a few months now, twin sisters Hana and Farrah have opened Dough T.O., a cookie dough pop-up at 206 Augusta Ave., in the heart of Kensington Market.

A post shared by doughli$h (@dough.to) on Jun 21, 2017 at 1:35pm PDT

Dough T.O. soft launched a few days ago and will have their official launch this Saturday, June 24.

The pop-up sells cups ($5) and waffle cones ($6) filled with various flavours of cookie dough, including Oreo and chocolate chip. They plan to introduce Pop Rocks, Lucky Charm and even the charcoal-infused dough too.

A post shared by doughli$h (@dough.to) on Jun 18, 2017 at 1:42pm PDT

There's no dairy or eggs in the dough and each cup or cone comes with a shot of regular or almond milk - bottoms up. 

Birthday cake-flavoured goodies never seem to go out of style; who doesn't love a good funfetti chimney cone, soft serve-filled cone or cupcake? 

The latest birthday cake-inspired treat comes from Below Thirty2, a catering company run by a group of five women that lets you order liege-style waffles to private parties. They launched in May and have also appeared at food events, including last week's Taste of Toronto.

A post shared by Below Thirty2 (@belowthirty2) on Jun 19, 2017 at 6:41pm PDT

Each waffle comes dipped in chocolate and the birthday cake version gets topped with a funfetti cake crumble and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The waffles cost $7.50.

A post shared by Below Thirty2 (@belowthirty2) on Jun 21, 2017 at 11:12am PDT

Below Thirty32's owners say they're testing the market this summer and hope to open a storefront in the future. 

Toronto had a bit of a scare last night when rumours started circling that Fiesta Farms, the beloved grocery store near Christie Pits, might be replaced by condos. 

Anxious shoppers and neighbourhood dwellers took to Twitter to lament the potential loss of this food store and garden centre that stocks lots of organic produce and local brands.

Is the land @fiestafarms is on being sold? pic.twitter.com/BLBcE6c9gm

— Jess Whyte (@jesswhyte) June 21, 2017

However, the folks at Fiesta Farms reassured everyone that they're not going anywhere, yet.

"We have every intention of being the ones doing the buying," says the post on Fiesta Farms' site. "Fortunately, our lease gives us first right of refusal over any offers. In the worst case scenario, we have an iron-clad lease that will keep us rooted in this community for years to come."

We aren't going anywhere https://t.co/rsoVOOXKWr

— Fiesta Farms (@fiestafarms) June 22, 2017

This doesn't guarantee that they'll be able to secure the land, but it suggests good odds along with the owner's strong desire to remain a presence in the neighbourhood.

OH THANK GOD FIESTA FARMS ISN'T GOING ANYWHERE https://t.co/n2qCWKW2kU

— Rebecca Tucker (@RebeccaTee) June 22, 2017

As for the prospect of condos, it's far too early to know what they'd even look like if a developer purchased the property. There are a variety of density restrictions in place for the area around Christie Pits that would have to be addressed before a project could move forward.

A promising update from @fiestafarms about rumours of land sale - "We love this neighbourhood" We love you to.
https://t.co/MV5500EwCs

— Mike Layton (@m_layton) June 22, 2017

Yet, it's easy to see why everyone got nervous last night. Fiesta Farms sits on a huge chunk of land in a residential neighbourhood that's yet to feel the brunt of the Toronto condo boom even as major development takes place nearby.

This news about Fiesta Farms is what I get for being utterly indifferent to the closing of Honest Ed's.

— Michael Healey (@healeytypes) June 22, 2017

It's only one of the few big, independently owned grocery stores in the city, so people love the place and would be devastated to see it close. 

Last night's panic over @fiestafarms shows just how much the grocer is loved. Warms my heart. Now go give Vito a kiss on the cheek!

— Andrea Chiu (@TOfoodie) June 22, 2017

If you're a fan of meat and cheese, you might want to check out a new restaurant opening soon in Toronto.

That's because we're slated to get our first James Cheese Back Ribs, a Korean restaurant chain, at 409 Spadina Ave., in Chinatown.

A post shared by JAMES CHEESE BACK RIBS (@jamescheeseca) on Jun 20, 2017 at 12:51pm PDT

Franchise owner Tim Hu says the restaurant will open sometime next month and he's working with The Gabardine's Graham Pratt to develop his menu.

A post shared by K (@thisiskik.j) on May 6, 2017 at 11:00pm PDT

However, like at other James locations, diners will get to dip ribs into cheese that they melt at their table.

A post shared by JAMES CHEESE BACK RIBS (@jamescheeseca) on Jun 5, 2017 at 4:14pm PDT

You'll soon know where to head if you're looking for an ooey, gooey cheesy meal. 

Road closures will be rolled out across Toronto tomorrow and Pride weekend begins in earnest. In addition to the festivities along Church and Yonge streets, there's also Jazz Festival closures, Pedestrian Sunday, and a TTC closure to boot.

Here's what you need to know to navigate the city this weekend.

Pride

The biggest event in Toronto this weekend features multiple marches and the main parade plus a street fair and a whole bunch of other events. We've already outlined the various parade routes, but here's the brass tacks on road closures:

Church Street Pride Festival, June 23-25 

Church Street from Carlton Street to Hayden Street will be closed from Friday, June 23 at 6 p.m. to Monday, June 26 at 6 a.m. for the street festival. 

Trans Pride March, Friday, June 23

The march will start at Church Street and proceed from Hayden to Bloor Street, west on Bloor Street, south on Yonge Street and east on Carlton Street to Allan Gardens. Roads along the route will be closed from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Pride and Remembrance Run, Saturday, June 24  

Wellesley Street between Jarvis Street and Queen's Park Circle, and Queen's Park between College and Bloor Streets, will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to noon for the run.

Dyke March, Saturday, June 24

The march will start at the intersection of Church and Hayden Streets, proceeding north to Bloor Street, west on Bloor Street, south on Yonge Street and east on Carlton Street to Allan Gardens. Roads affected will be closed from noon to 6 p.m., with the march itself from 2 to 5 p.m.

Pride Parade, Sunday, June 25

The parade will start at Church Street and Bloor Street East, proceed west on Bloor Street, south on Yonge Street and east on Dundas Street East to Victoria Street. A number of roads in the area will be closed for periods between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., with the parade itself taking place from 2 to 7 p.m. 

Jazz Fest

The Toronto Police have release the following info in relation to Jazz Fest road closures:

On Saturday, June 24, 2017, the Jazz Festival will be moving their outdoor concerts to the Yorkville area until Sunday, July 2, 2017. 

From Friday, June 23, 2017, 11:59 p.m. until Monday, June 26, 2017, 6 a.m. the following roads will be closed: Yorkville Avenue, from Bellair Street to 101 Yorkville Avenue and Bellair Street, from Yorkville Avenue to Cumberland Street.

From Monday, June 26, 2017, 6 a.m. until Monday, July 3, 2017, 6 a.m. the following roads will be closed: Hazelton Avenue, from Scollard Street to Yorkville Avenue.

Pedestrian Sundays

Being the last Sunday of the month, Kensington Market will be closed to vehicular traffic between 12 p.m. and 7 p.m. for Pedestrian Sundays.

TTC Closures and Diversions

There's also a scheduled TTC subway closure this weekend. There will be no service on Line 3 Scarborough (McCowan to Kennedy stations) on June 24 and 25 due to life extension, track and infrastructure work.

Shuttle buses will operate between Scarborough Centre and Kennedy stations during this closure.

The TTC has also compiled a list of surface route diversion taking place this weekend. Leave a little bit of extra time to get around town this weekend, and happy Pride!

The gentle density offered by townhouses is something that tends to suit Toronto very well. Even as this city grows ever upward, some of the most choice condo spaces are of the low-rise variety. Case in point, this townhome near Queen and Spadina.

There's no grassy backyard, but outside of that, this space feels adequately house-like, with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a lovely terrace just seconds from one of Toronto's most vibrant intersections. 

In fact, you'd never even know that there was a row of townhouses here from walking by along Spadina. The cul de sac that opens behind the main condo facing Cameron St. is wonderfully private despite its proximity to bustle of two busy retail corridors.

Given what many two bedroom high-rise units go for in the  vicinity, I suspect the increased privacy of a separate entrance will be appealing to those who looking for a true hybrid between a house and a condo. Alas, those condo fees are a major bummer at over $1,000 a month.

Specs

• Address: 188 Spadina Ave. Townhouse 4
• Price: $1,198,000
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 3
• Parking: 1
• Maintenance Fees: $1,027.15
• Walk Score: 99
• Transit Score: 100
• Listing agent: Linda Drope and Leanne Weld
• Listing ID: C3849879

Good For

This is a perfect spot an urban family who just needs to be close to the heart of the action but doesn't like the idea of living on the 22nd floor of a high-rise. 

Move On If

How much is the prime location really worth? If you don't need to be right downtown, there are plenty of very nice semis that you can get on Toronto side streets for this price — and those don't come with pre-set maintenance fees.

Toronto Food Events rounds up the most delicious festivals, pop-ups, wine maker dinners, supper clubs and other food related happenings in Toronto this week and next. You can find us here every Friday morning.

After a night of heavy rainfall, with more expected throughout the morning, the Toronto Region and Conservation Authority issued a flood watch for the city.

The TRCA says that in the early hours of the morning, we got between 20-40 millimetres of rain and we could get 20-25 millimetres more.

TRCA #FLOODWATCH - beware of potential flooding adjacent to rivers and transportation impacts. Details: https://t.co/uq0PHRosOs#onstormpic.twitter.com/v15Fkwd5aU

— TRCA Flood (@TRCA_Flood) June 23, 2017

"Water levels within TRCA’s watercourses are rising due to the rainfall and there is the potential that water levels will exceed its riverbanks resulting in riverine flooding," says the TRCA.

Already, Bayview Avenue has been shut down between King and River streets due to an influx of water.

Part of Bayview closed due to flooding. #toronto@Kevintwnpic.twitter.com/VukFnx5lmN

— Meg (@MegsTweetToday) June 23, 2017

Trains on the Richmond Hill GO Transit line are diverting around a portion of the route. "Passengers at the Old Cummer and Oriole GO stations may use their GO Tickets or Presto Card on the TTC at a staffed entrance at the Finch, Sheppard or Leslie subway station(s)," says GO on its website.

CityNews reports that the afternoon commute might also be affected.

Thanks to heavy rainfall this spring, the Toronto Islands remain closed to the public, several city beaches are not yet operational and the Scarborough Bluffs remain off limits because they're currently unsafe.

The best custom cakes in Toronto can make your wildest dreams come true in the form of layers of moist, spongy cake and dreamy buttercream frosting or picture-perfect fondant, topped with decorations or completely outfitted in your custom vision or design.

Here are the best custom cakes in Toronto.

Toronto has an influx of new ice cream and gelato shops that will make cooling down this summer even tastier. From black soft serve in black cones to unique Asian flavours, there’s a frozen treat with your name on it at one of these new shops.

Here are my picks for the top new ice cream and gelato shops in Toronto.

iHalo Krunch

Making waves across the internet with their charcoal-infused cones and soft serve, this shop serves ice cream as black as your Torontonian heart without any bitter or ashy taste. Activated charcoal only changes the look of coconut-flavoured soft serve, and they also have matcha, vanilla, and ube varieties.

Hollywood Cone

A true Ontarian ice cream shop, this West Queen West destination started out as a food truck and soon exploded into a mini-empire with epic shakes and sundaes topped with whole lollipops, donuts, sour belts, or pop tarts.

Wong’s Ice Cream

This humble East Chinatown shop may be somewhat understated aesthetically compared to others, but delivers big on flavour where they don’t. Asian-inspired flavours include black sesame and salted duck egg, rosewater white chocolate jasmine, wasabi honey, or Vietnamese coffee.

Brett's Ice Cream

This Beaches ice cream parlour is dishing up artisanal flavours by Belly like key lime pie, cinnamon bun and chocolate dipped strawberry, all in Konery cake batter cones with wild options like creamsicle, fruity cereal and matcha, as well as gluten-free cake batter cones.

The Gelato Shop

This Yorkville spot is an extension of Coco Espresso. They offer dozens of authentic Italian flavours, like orange, amarena cherry, blackberry, stracciatella, amarettoa, lemon and coconut.

In 2016, Justin Trudeau became the first sitting prime minister to march in the Toronto Pride parade. And it looks like history will repeat itself.

This morning, Pride Toronto announced Prime Minister Justin Trudeau would be participating in the parade along with Perry Bellegarde, the national chief of the Assembly of First Nations.

Last year we made history when #PrimeMinister #JustinTrudeau became the first Prime Minister to participate in Pride. Not only are we #proud to announce that he will be joining us again this year, but also to announce that we are marking another historical first in 2017: #AboriginalFirstNations Chief #PerryBellegarde will be the first National Chief to ever participate in any #Pride event. We are so excited to have them join #Premier #KathleenWynne and #Mayor #JohnTory and the rest of the incredible groups marching in the parade this year! +#parade +#firstnations +#leadership +#PrideTO

A post shared by Pride Toronto (@pridetoronto) on Jun 23, 2017 at 6:07am PDT

The 2017 parade is on Sunday, June 25 at 2 p.m. It starts at Church and Bloor and runs down Yonge Steet towards Yonge-Dundas Square. Around 150 groups are slated to march this year.

You might not know it, but the country around Toronto is dotted with fascinating cave systems that date back tens of thousands of years. There are merits to exploring the most popular caves in the province, but one system in particular promises an epic adventure.

The entrance to one of the caves. Photo by Paul McGoveran.

Grieg's Caves are located in Lion's Head, just north of Owen Sound on the Bruce Peninsula. The caves here date back roughly 7,000 years and were formed through varying rates of erosion between mineral-rich dolomitic limestone and the softer variety that gave way to waves from the post-glacial Lake Algonquin.

Movie buffs will recall that this was one of the key settings in the 1981 film Quest for Fire. For a while that gave this natural attraction a bit more of a following, but it remains something of a hidden gem now.

There are plenty of rock formations to explore for those who are claustrophobic. Photo by Paul McGoveran.

The thing that makes a trip to Greig's Caves so incredible is that you're allowed to go on self-guided tours. In other words, you can really go exploring while you're here. So many of Ontario's caves only permit access with a tour guide.

One of the reasons why you'll want to see this surreal natural attraction on your own is that the landscape surrounding the caves is so dramatic. You might even say the stunning cliff formations are more impressive than the caves themselves.

They're certainly better for claustrophobic people, who still have plenty of reasons to pay a visit even if they never enter any of the truly cavernous areas. A hike through the craggy wilderness to the soaring lookout over Georgian Bay is worth the price of admission. 

The view from the 250-plus foot high lookout. Photo by Paul McGoveran. 

For those who do fancy the idea of subterranean exploration, there are 10 caves on site. These range considerably in size, but you'll need a flashlight to get your bearings in the biggest ones, where you might even spot a fossil or two.

Inside one of the 10 limestone caves. Photo by Paul McGoveran.

Greig's Caves is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in peak season (July/Aug), and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the low season (May/June and Sept/Oct). On occasion, inclement weather will close the attraction. Fees are $10 for adults and $5 for kids, which includes parking.

Events and activities in Toronto this summer will certainly keep you busy during the warmest months of year with festivals, concerts, outdoors movies and so much more. 

Here are 50 things to do in Toronto this summer.

Witness the future at a drone show

The first show was cancelled and people were upset, but there will be more drone shows happening by the water this summer. See them on July 1, August 5 and September 2 after 11  p.m. at Ontario Place. 

Feel like a kid inside a massive new gaming complex

Does Toronto have an unofficial fun zone? It seems like we might after the Rec Room, a giantgamingcomplexandsportsbar, opens up by Steam Whistle, the CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium this summer. 

Shop Toronto's new crop of local stores

Summer is the perfect time to shop at new stores like the locally-obsessed Hart & Hive on College, West Queen West's Kotn, the always on trend Ace/Five and the just opened Everything is Ease.

Discover the city's best kept secrets

We all know Toronto has hidden bars, but we also boast some stunning secret parks, streets, lookout points and tunnels. If you really want to get your Nancy Drew on, there are also some impressive secret spots just outside the city too. 

The free movies every Sunday in Christie Pits are part of of the many outdoor film screening series this summer. Photo courtesy of the TO Picture Show.

Catch a free movie

There are free outdoor movies in parks and in parking lots all over Toronto this summer. Bring a chair or a blanket to places like Yonge-Dundas Square or Christie Pits Park and settle in under the stars. 

Get sporty

Toronto's major sport teams are playing this summer, so head to a stadium to cheer on the Argos (don't miss the pre-game tailgate parties), the Wolfpack, the Jays, the TFC or check out the Honda Indy (July 14-16) or the Rogers Cup (Aug 5-13).

Discover your inner cyclist

To help you make the most of your bike or whatever you're renting, there are some great paths and trails to check out and a handful of bike shops to keep your wheels running smoothly. This essential bike map will lay things out clearly for you. 

Sign up for a summer run

There are lots of running events in Toronto this summer that will take you all over the city. Get in shape at Chinatown's new running hub or Nike's no longer secret running space on Richmond Street.

The Drake Commissary is the newest addition to the Junction Triangle. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Explore the Junction Triangle

Take a day and explore this tiny, but thriving neighbourhood. Stroll along Sterling Road and visit Henderson Brewing and then soak up those suds with food from the Drake Commissary. Grab a pick-me-up at Station Cold Brew and then hit up some contemporary galleries. 

Be a pedestrian

Exercise your pedestrian power at events like Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market or at the major street closure event Open Streets happening on August 17 and September 20. 

Go swimming

Take a dip at one of Toronto's always popular outdoor pools or get a day pass for a dip at a local hotel. Got wheels? Head out of town and check out a naturally occurring swimming hole. 

Have a staycation

Just because you're stuck in the city this summer doesn't mean you have to do the same old things. There are lots of fun things to do in own backyard, even if it's super touristy. Book a staycation and see the city in a whole new light. 

Trillium Park at Ontario Place is a great place to take in the lake and the skyline. Photo by Derek Flack.

Hang out at Ontario Place 

After In/Future blew our minds last summer, many were left wondering what would happen to Ontario Place. Thankfully, it's been taken over by a series of festivals and it features a brand new park, making it a hot spot for events all summer long. 

Get lit

It's a good thing this city is willing to help make magical campfires happen. There are parks with outdoor grills, fire pits and the new park at Ontario Place even has an open flame gathering spot. 

Explore Rouge Park

At Toronto's national urban park, you'll feel like you've escaped to another world. With wetlands, a beach, trails and camping, it's a nature lovers' dream. You can get there easily with the free Rouge Express that runs from downtown all summer long. 

You don't have to go stargazing to appreciate the skies above Toronto. Photo by Isla Alshanetsky at the Leslie St Spit.

Chase the sky

There's a major solar eclipse happening this summer on August 21, but there's a lot more going on in the sky. There are some amazing star gazing spots just outside Toronto, as well as some key areas to watch the sunrise and sunset right in the city.

Festivals

Celebrate Canada, big time

Canada Day is usually a big deal in Toronto, but this year, thanks to Canada 150, you can visit the ROM and the AGO for free or see a giant rubber duck at the Waterfront Festival to celebrate. 

Witness an explosive fireworks festival

Nathan Phillips Square is going all out this year and throwing a big Canada 150 Fest with four nights of fireworks. There will also be fireworks at the CN Tower, so don't forget to look up on July 1.

Pedestrian Sundays take place throughout the summer in Kensington Market. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Stroll along a street festival

Toronto loves to shut down streets in the summer and there's a big festival pretty much every weekend. Expect food, vendors and rivers of people to bump into at events like Big on Bloor (July 22-23), OssFest (July 22) or Taste of the Danforth (Aug 11-12).

Escape the heat at a summer film festival

TIFF is just around the corner, but there are other film festivals this summer, like ReelHeart (July 3-8), CaribbeanTale (July 6), the Open Roof Festival and the Korean Film Fest (July 12-16).

Feed your inner nerd

Fan Expo (Aug 31-Sept 3) is always a hugely anticipated event for film and TV lovers. This year's lineup includes Tim Curry, Lena Headey and Nathan Fillion. There's also a Sailor Moon celebration (June 24) and a Legends of Zelda concert (Sept 15) on this summer. 

Music

Hear free music all over the city

There is a free live concert happening somewhere in Toronto pretty much every day this summer. You'll find a genre for any mood, all at the very low prices of $0.

WayHome is gearing up for another big year just north of Toronto. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Set yourself free at a huge summer music festival

There are some fantastic music festivals across Ontario. Some of them, like WayHome (July 28-30), offer camping for the whole weekend. There are local festivals happening as well such as JazzFest (June 23-July 2) and SummerDaze (July 28-30).

Catch an epic summer concert

You don't need to travel very far to hear some of the biggest bands and artists on the planet. Some take over the ACC and the Rogers Centre and many will sing under the stars at the Budweiser Stage. Gaga? Bieber? Coldplay? Kendrick? They're all coming for you. 

Veld highlights a busy summer of electronic music fests. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Bounce around at an electronic music fest

Toronto's top dance music festivals will feature stunning light shows and an impressive roster of DJs. Bud Light Dreams (July 7), Veld (Aug 5-6) and Camp Wavelength (Aug 18-20) all require plenty of hydration and ear plugs. 

Arts

Take in some summer theatre

The Fringe Festival (July 5-16), Summerworks (Aug 3-13) and Shakespeare in High Park let you see local artists taking risks on stage. As per usual, Fringe hosts an outdoor party, this time in a new location (RIP Honest Ed's alleyway).

The Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition highlights a busy summer of art fairs. Photo by Mary Crandall.

Browse some art outdoors

Toronto's art galleries are great, but there's something special about seeing artwork under a sunny sky. There are some major outdoor art fairs this summer, as well as Artspin, all out in the open air.  

Stretch it out at a dance festival

Toronto's dance scene is pretty amazing and our summer festivals help beef up that reputation with events like Unity Fest (July 14), Dusk Dances (Aug 7-13), the brand new Your Dance Fest (Aug 25-27) and the Dancing on the Pier lessons series. 

Stomp the runway at a fashion event

Maybe you won't be walking the runway, but you can get a good seat on the sidelines at the Toronto Fashion Academy show (July 7), the Toronto Plus Size Fashion show (July 29) and the fifth anniversary of Toronto's African Fashion Week (Aug 6-20).

Food and Drink

Fill up at a new summer food market

Step away from your desk and take a quick lunchtime adventure at a food market during the day. New markets like Adelaide Eats and the Yorkville Village market will give you an alternative to leftovers. 

The CNE always offers a chance for artery-clogging indulgence. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Eat everything at the CNE

It's a tradition Toronto never grows tired of. The CNE is back this year from August 18 to September 4 with rides, concerts and lots of strange snacks. Don't forget it's cheaper to get in after 5 p.m. on weekdays. 

Cheers at a brand new bar

There's no shortage of classic bars and watering holes to visit this summer. Try some new cocktails at the mysterious L'Absinthe Bar, or play games while you drink at the new pub near the Scarborough Bluffs.

Light things up at a summer night market

There's something magical about shopping and eating under the stars at a night market. Try something new at Night it Up! (July 14-16), the Junction Night Market (July 22) or the Waterfront Night Market (Aug 11-13) at the Hearn. 

Discover Toronto's craft beer scene

Toronto's beer scene is overflowing with new brewpubs and tap rooms like Eastbound Brewing Company, Rorschach and Lake Wilcox. Bandit Brewery is a go-to for its sweet patio and Left Field always seems to have a project on the go.

Quench your thirst at a beer festival

It feels like there's a beer festival happening every weekend this summer, so get out there and try the best suds from Toronto and around the province.

The Waterfront Night Market heads to the Hearn Generating Station this summer. Photo of a past event by Hector Vasquez.

Fill up at a summer food festival

It seems there are more food festivals than ever for summer 2017. Not only is Jamie Oliver's Big Feastival coming, but we've also got T.O. Food Fest (July 9), Food Truck Fest (Aug 4-7), JerkFest (Aug 11-13) and many, many more.

Shop local at a farmers' market

The city is bursting with farmers' markets and there are some new ones worth checking out at Lisgar Park, Regent Park and at Greenwood Park. It's the best way to truly shop local and meet your neighbours. 

Dine at a new restaurant

Try something new this summer at one of the hottest restaurants in Toronto. Or simply download our app and search for the best places nearby to play a game of restaurant roulette.

Take your own Indigenous food tour

The city now has a handful of unique and popular Indigenous restaurants this year, so why not make your own food tour of places like  NishDish, Pow Wow Cafe, Borealia and Ku-Kum. 

Trinity Bellwoods is always a popular spot for a summer picnic. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Go for a picnic

There are some key spots for the perfect picnic in Toronto, but not 0nly that, there are some big picnic events like the Rosé Picnic and the Summer of Love event in Trinity Bellwoods Park. The always sold-out Diner en Blanc will also likely be back.

Eat all the ice cream

Towering piles of ice cream, gelato and ice cream sandwiches are still all the rage in Toronto this summer. Discover new spots for charcoal ice cream or visit Wong's and Brett's on the city's east side. 

Grab a cheap drink outdoors

You can find cheap drink on patios on what feels like every day of the week in Toronto. Since you can't legally drink in public parks, this is the next best thing.

Reserve a table at a prix fixe fest

All those pricey restaurants you've wanted to try create special menus for Summerlicious. The two-week prix fixe extravaganza runs from July 7 to 23. Italian Restaurant Week returns on July 20, but you can start making reservations on July 8. 

Chase down a food truck

There are dozens of new and exciting food trucks worth chasing down this summer. Find Mr. Pierogi, Pronto, Alijandro's Kitchen, Little Havana, Curb Crave and Get Skewered serving curbside.

Outside the city

Dive into a massive new water park

American chain Wet 'n Wild bought Brampton's Wild Water Kingdom. If you're not into this 45-acre, tropical-themed park, check out some of the tubing rivers near Toronto.

Sneak into a secret swimming hole

There are five quarries and swimming holes near Toronto that will cool you down, but there is one abandoned quarry an hour outside Toronto that tops them all. 

Hang off a suspension bridge

There is a truly epic suspension bridge just two hours outside of Toronto. The Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge hangs 300 feet over a rushing section of the Trent River in Ferris Provincial Park. 

It'd be a shame not to visit the hundreds of waterfalls near Toronto. Photo of Tiffany Falls by Nicoli OZ Mathews.

Cool off under a waterfall

There are so many waterfalls to visit just an hour outside of the city, but tucked away in Ancaster is the hidden gem known as Tiffany Falls. If you had to paint the perfect waterfall, it would probably look just like this.

Get out of the city, on the cheap

If you can't afford a big ticket trip out of the country this summer, don't fret! There are some cheap escapes in our backyard. Hit up a beach, do Muskoka on the cheap (it's possible) or see what all the Hamilton buzz is about. 

Rent a cottage just outside the city

Need a quickie escape that won't break the bank? Or a romantic weekend away that won't cost you a month's rent? Check out these cheap cottage rentals near Toronto. If you'd rather be deep in the bush, these cozy cabins might do it for you too. 

With an LCBO strike looming before the Canada Day long weekend, there's never been a better time to remind you that there are a whole whack of places to buy booze that aren't the LCBO (or even the beer store). Sure, you can wait in line to stock up this weekend, but you don't really have to.

Here are my picks for places to buy booze that aren't the LCBO.

Breweries and Bottle Shops

Thanks to an influx of craft breweries, we're blessed with bottle shops all over the city. Many of these independent businesses stay open until 11 p.m. seven days a week, so you can visit places like Burdock, Bellwoods, Bandit, Halo, Hendersons, Shacklands, Left Field and more in a pinch.

Ontario Wine Shops

Between the Wine Rack, The Wine Shop and Magnotta stores, there are plenty of places to get wine fix without hitting up the LCBO. Sure, the variety tends to be meh, but it's certainly not all plonk.

Grocery Stores

Since grocery stores across the province now sell wine, beer and cider, you can get everything you need for your Canada Day festivities all in the same place. Cheers to that.

Local Distilleries

Spirits might be harder to find if the LCBO goes on strike, but luckily Toronto's home to a couple of distilleries, including Yongehurst (currently selling rum, grappa and vodka) and Spirit of York (gin).

Get out of town

Use a potential strike as an excuse to leave the city and visit the picturesque wineries, cideries and breweries that really aren't that far away. If you're looking for a super quick trip, hit up Beamsville for an afternoon away. 

Fewer homes might be attracting bidding wars for the time being in Toronto, but rare properties still sell way over asking. This deceptively large Casa Loma home fits that bill, coming in at more than $650K over the list price.

Whether this is the result of it being under-valued or merely the appetite of buyers for a big house in neighbourhood with low turnover is a question worth considering. Though it seems most likely that a combination of both was at play here.

In any case, this house does pose a few issues. While it's really big — there are five legitimate bedrooms — the decor is just dated enough that you can see a new owner itching to update it, especially when it comes to the master bedroom.

Still, the bones are very good here. This is a stately old Toronto home with multiple living areas, a big lot size and garage space. If you've got a stable of kids and want to live in midtown Toronto, it's pretty much ideal. Hence the sale price.

The Essentials

• Address: 75 Wells Hill Ave.
• Broker: Debra Feldman, Forest Hill Real Estate
• Hit the market at: $1,998,000
• Time on market: Four days
• Sold for: $2,658,000

Why it sold for what it did

This is one of those areas in which homes don't come to market that often. It has that lovely balance of seclusion and proximity to a main transit and retail corridor in St. Clar West. And it's just plain big. 

Was it worth it?

Yup. Regardless of the listing, the closing price still fits the stature of the home. This would have been an absolute steal at $2 million.

Toronto's hottest food trends currently consist of black ice cream, phorittos and over-the-top milkshakes. While these offerings are certainly setting Instagram aglow, there are plenty of other epic food trends that have yet to grace the city.

Here are some food trends that belong in Toronto this summer.

Spaghetti donuts

If you've ever wanted to make your pasta handheld, the spaghetti donut is what you need in your life. Pop Pasta in New York is taking the city by storm with its three flavours of spaghetti donuts and we can only wish someone brings them here.

A post shared by EatingNYC: Food & Travel (@eatingnyc) on Jun 17, 2017 at 4:35pm PDT

All-avocado restaurants

Avocado toast is all the rage in Toronto, but we have yet to have an entire establishment dedicated to the creamy green stuff. Instead, you can find all-avocado restaurants in cities around the world, including in Amsterdam and Brooklyn.

A post shared by foodbeast (@foodbeast) on Jun 19, 2017 at 5:15pm PDT

Ice cream burritos

This viral summertime treat was created by the Ontario-based Sugar Sugar. The burrito consists of three scoops of ice cream, topped with unicorn dust, all wrapped in cotton candy. The shop is located in Sarnia, so if you can't wait for it to come to Toronto, just plan a day trip.

A post shared by Pressed Juicery (@pressedjuicery) on Jun 18, 2017 at 1:33pm PDT

Cold pressed soft seve

Toronto has no shortage of both cold pressed juice and soft serve ice cream. Can someone please combine the two? American chain Pressed Juicery has already done it, so we can too.

A post shared by Max Brenner (@maxbrennerusa) on May 16, 2017 at 6:51am PDT

Churro taco waffles

This carb loaded mash-up can be found at Max Brenner locations in the United States. It features a churro waffle folded in half and filled to the nines with toppings. This is what desserts dreams are made of.

Toronto will soon feel a lot more connected thanks to the number of transit-related projects in the works for the city. However, one such project might not come to fruition.

According to the Toronto Star, the future of the Sheppard East LRT is in jeopardy after $300 million in federal funding that was earmarked for it was relocated to the Finch West LRT line.

The 11-kilometre Finch LRT, which is slated to be complete in 2021, will connect the Toronto-York Spadina Subway Extension to Humber College's North Etobicoke campus. It'll include 18 stops. 

As the Star reports, the province has a finite time to use the funding, so it asked the federal government to move it to a project that was ready to proceed. The Sheppard East LRT, writes the Star, doesn't have strong support at both the provincial and municipal levels.

Like the debate around the Scarborough subway, it looks like we might be talking about the Sheppard LRT for a long while. That's bad news if you rely on public transit in Toronto and don't live near the Line 2 extension.

The Port Lands might have once seemed overlooked, but this area by the water is getting new life thanks to myriad arts and music festivals.

This weekend, NXNE takes over a lot in this neighbourhood with three days of music and later this year, we'll see the Design Exchange's inaugural EDIT festival at an old detergent factory nearby. 

Now there's even more in store. Since the Toronto Islands are flooded, the lot at 51 Commissioners in the Port Lands will also become home to the popular Electric Island festival on July 1, over the Canada Day long weekend. 

🍃⚡️Our team has been working hard to secure a new venue due to the sustained flooding on the Toronto Islands, and we’re excited to announce that we’ll be celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday at 51 Commissioners Street in the Portlands! ⚡️🍃 Get ready for the full "Electric" experience you’ve come to expect, with @richiehawtin @maceoplex, @_recondite_ @roman_fluegel @chaimmusic & @atishmusic all performing as scheduled on July 1st. Thank you for your patience and see you all next weekend! 🇨🇦🎉😎🙌🏽🙉 Tickets 🎟 Available!www.electricisland.to #ElectricIslandTO #Canada150 #CanadaDay #Toronto #FestivalSeason #Summer2017

A post shared by Electric Island (@electricislandto) on Jun 23, 2017 at 11:22am PDT

Electric Island pops up on each summer long weekend. It moved its Victoria Day event to Woodbine Park. It's still on the city's east side, but this time, it's even closer to the water.

The Toronto Islands remain closed to the public until at least July 31. 

Electric Island tickets are still available, starting at $50.

Escape room games have taken Toronto by storm. With so many different themes, variations, and options, they've grown into a must-try experience.

Here are my picks for the top escape room games in Toronto by neighbourhood.

Annex

Visitors have three different missions to choose from at Mysterious Minds Escape. Follow the clues, solve the puzzles, open the locks and beat the clock to earn bragging rights. 

The Beaches

Escape Station on Queen East boasts four different escape rooms that range in difficulty. There's Spaceship Command, Police Interrogation, Museum Heist, and Secret Agent-themed rooms. 

Bloorcourt

The Great Escape has rooms with intriguing themes that range from theatrical (The Da Vinci Code) to lifelike (The Hangover). For added excitement, TGE offers the option of playing while fully costumed with themed attire.

Chinatown

With four different rooms, Escape Zone is a solid choice if you're going with a group of friends that want to get competitive. Word to the wise, the staff gives hints if you're really stuck (but don't tell the other group!).

Danforth East

Looking Glass Adventures is a family-friendly escape room, with kid-appropriate puzzles for little ones. The immersive and interactive game is perfect for any skill level and is played in groups of four.

Markham

With eight rooms, ESC-IT is the best option if you have a huge group. They have fun, well-produced games and offer a discount if you pay in cash. 

Mississauga

Not only does DeCode have multiple themed rooms, but they regularly host special events and partner with charities like the United Way to give back to the community. 

North York

Located near Downsview Station, Escape Games bills itself as the largest escape facility in North America, at 10,000 square feet. It may also be one of the most intense, with a heavy focus on realistic props and settings. 

Queen West

Lost Canada is a great pick for those looking for a variety. They have upwards of seven rooms ranging in difficulty. If you're a beginner, opt for The Gallery Codex or if you're looking to impress your friend give The Lost Den a try. 

Richmond Hill

In addition to their six rooms with escape games ranging from 45-60 minutes, Freeing Canada has a large lounge with free board games and popcorn to decompress after the adrenaline wears off and the hunger sets in.

Scarborough

Not only does Mayze offer three different immersive escape rooms they also have a variety virtual reality games. So once you've escaped you can get your VR on. 

St. Clair West

Escape Casa Loma scores points for being located inside Toronto's famous castle. The fun story line with integrated characters as well as the novelty of being in a historical building make it a game worth trying.

West Queen West

Real Escape Game was one of the first escape rooms to hit Toronto and remains one of the best. Each new game is consistently engaging, with high-quality puzzles and stories.

Yonge and Dundas

Roundabout uses high-tech props and intricate sets to create a convincing, realistic vibe to complement each room's theme. It's definitely your best bet if you're looking for a full immersive experience. 

Yonge and Wellesley

In addition to multiple escape rooms, Riddle Room has an attached cafe that offers board and video games along with food and drinks. This is an ideal spot if you're looking to make a full day out of competing with your friends and family.

Strawberry picking in and around Toronto is a summertime tradition and a source of nostalgia for anyone who grew up in southern Ontario. In most cases, you'll have to leave the city proper to go pick your own berries, but it's a totally delicious and fruitful experience.

Here are my picks for the top farms to go strawberry picking near Toronto.

Brooks Farms

Just an hour drive from Toronto, this farm has a great selection of strawberries to pick. The season runs from mid June to mid July and the pick your own pricing will set you back $2.55/lb.

Downey's Farm Market

Head to the fields for strawberry picking at this Caledon farm from mid-to-late June. It'll cost you $3 to enter the patch, but that fee is deducted from the price of your strawberries when you cash out.

Brantwood Farms

While you'll find strawberries in this farm's market from spring to fall, the strawberry fields are open to the public from about mid-June into July. Bring your own containers or buy or borrow when you're there.

Stonehaven Farms

This picturesque farm is found in Campbellville, Ontario. Pick you own strawberries typically runs from mid June to mid July and containers used for berry picking must be pre-purchased before picking.

Reesor's Farm Market

At this farm, market, and bakery on Ninth Line in Markham, you can pick your own berries when they're in season or just select the perfect pint at the market. You should also check out the strawberry pies and crumbles featuring the season's best.

Forsythe Family Farms

Pick-your-own strawberries are the big draw at this family farm in Uxbridge. But strawberries are just the beginning; as summer progresses, peas, beans, tomatoes and pumpkins are all available for DIY harvesting.

Organics Family Farm

This Markham farm opens to the public annually at the beginning of strawberry season. It went organic back in 2001 and now grows crops free of pesticides and inorganic fertilizers.

Watson Farms

Call the "crop report" to check picking conditions and hours of operation before heading out this U-Pick farm in Bowmanville. It's open for strawberry picking starting in mid-to-late June each year.

Andrews' Scenic Acres

Nestled southeast of the Niagara Escarpment, this Milton farm boasts 35 acres of strawberry fields. While you're there, pick up a bottle from the Scotch Block Winery to sample berries in wine form.

Applewood Farm & Winery

Strawberry picking season at this Stouffville farm begins in mid June. The farm is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until all the strawberries have been picked.