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Students want to be reimbursed for Ontario college strike

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The students at Ontario’s various colleges are starting to get frustrated.

That's because the faculty of 24 different post-secondary schools have been on strike for about a week and a half now. As a result, hundreds of classes have been cancelled and students are stuck out of school.

Many of the upset students have signed onto a petition that has been making the rounds.

The petition, which now has over 100,000 signatures, calls for reimbursement of tuition if a strike should occur, and now it has.

The striking faculty rallied outside government buildings across the province starting this morning. Parts of some streets in Toronto, including the intersection of Bay and Wellesley, were shut down by hundreds of faculty protesters.

Students are growing concerned about missed class and placement time, and faculty is growing upset that there has not yet been talks about ending the strike.

Anger is directed toward different parties involved. Some blame the faculty for striking and ending classes, while others blame the College Employers Council and governing bodies for not coming to the table for talks.

There is currently no end in sight for the strikes, and the petition for tuition reimbursement continues to gain traction with no bargaining or agreement to talk from the CEC.


Say goodbye to weekend closures of the Gardiner Expressway

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Good news for commuters!

Toronto has announced that the Gardiner Expressway will no longer close all weekend for maintenance. Instead, the city is going to try a new method to accomplish its necessary upkeep. 

This fall, the Gardiner will only close at night — specifically on November 13-14 and 27-28.

And in even better news, the Don Valley Parkway will not have to close at all.

The announcement was made from Mayor John Tory’s Twitter account. It also included a statement from the mayor that 2018’s closures will be examined to reduce the amount of disruption as well. 

Should the overnight experiment go well, it's possible that the city will do away with weekend-long road closures for maintenance on both the Gardiner and DVP. 

The overnight closures will take place from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. to reduce congestion during peak hours.

If you’ve ever tried to navigate the city while the DVP and/or Gardiner are closed, this is surely great news.

Rental of the week: 795 College Street

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While the steel and glass condo has become ubiquitous in Toronto, some of us love the idea of living in a renovated unit in an old building. Something about these space just exudes the type of character that's so often lacking in new buildings.

795 College Street TorontoThis apartment near College and Shaw streets isn't for the cash-strapped, but it sure is envy-worthy. When you're not eating at neighbouring Bar Isabel, there's a beautiful kitchen and dining room combo to go along with three full bedrooms and ample living space.

795 College Street TorontoIn addition to luxury touches like stainless steel appliances (and a gas range), the unit is outfitted with radiant heated floors and high end air conditioning to ensure that the typical heating/cooling issues in old Toronto apartments don't diminish the renter's comfort level.

795 College Street TorontoSo, you can have your cake and eat it too. But, it'll cost you $4K a month to get it.

795 College Street TorontoSpecs
  • Address: #1A - 795 College St.
  • Apartment type: Apartment
  • Rent: $4,000
  • Furnished? No
  • Utilities: Unspecified
  • Air conditioning? Yes
  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Bathrooms: 2
  • Parking: Not specified
  • Laundry? In suite
  • Outdoor space? Porch
  • Pet friendly? Not specified
795 College Street TorontoGood For

This could work very well for three professionals or an ex-pat family who gets some corporate help with the rent.

795 College Street TorontoMove On If

For this rent, you might fancy an apartment with more outdoor space. It's also possible that the amenities offered at new condos will make them more attractive in this price range.

795 College Street Toronto795 College Street Toronto795 College Street Toronto795 College Street Toronto795 College Street Toronto795 College Street Toronto795 College Street Toronto

Toronto is currently being swept up by mega developments

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Nowhere is the rapid pace of Toronto's growth more obvious than in blueprints for future developments.

Within five years, Toronto is expected to see dozens of new master-planned communities built around the city by powerful consortiums of architects, developers and urban planners.

The construction of condo buildings is something we're used to – the sky almost looks weird without at least a few cranes in it now – but these forthcoming mega-developments are something else.

Quayside Toronto rendering

Alphabet released a series of renderings with the news that Sidewalk Labs had won a contract to redevelop 12-acres of Toronto's Waterfront. Image via Sidewalk Toronto.

Unlike, say, CityPlace, which was approved more than 15 years ago, the most exciting future developments we've seen aren't so much residential complexes as they are full-on neighbourhoods.

Take Quayside for instance. The recently-announced development by Alphabet's Sidewalk Labs will transform Toronto's eastern waterfront into what's been described as "a living laboratory for urban technology" – Google's own little "smart city" within a city.

East Harbour Toronto

East Harbour will feature plenty of outdoor retail space and a massive, integrated transit hub. Image via First Gulf / City of Toronto.

Just a hop, skip and a jump down the street is where a "second downtown" is expected to rise on the former Unilever site at the foot of the Don Valley Parkway.

The proposal for First Gulf's East Harbour development calls for a whopping two million square feet of retail space and 11 million square feet of office space spread across several towers.

The Well Toronto

The Spadina gateway of the well as it appears in development plans from earlier this year. Image via The Well.

Over on the west side of downtown Toronto, an ambitious mixed-use development called The Well promises to turn what's now a rather drab strip of Front Street between Spadina and Draper into a vibrant thoroughfare.

The community by RioCan and Allied will be comprised of residential, office and retail space, as well as many restaurants and – most interestingly - a cat-themed park.

New Mirvish Village

A rendering of the revamped alley beside the site of the now-closed Honest Ed's. Image via Westbank.

Renderings by Westbank for the redeveloped Mirvish Village at Bloor and Bathurst look like something out of minority report. Again, this area is being constructed as a full community as opposed to a collection of buildings. 

There will be plenty to do and buy for those who live and work in the area, with a 20,000-square-foot market and food hall, a "micro retail corridor" in the old Honest Ed's Alley and lots and lots of green space.

Bloor Dundas development

A rendering looking southeast from 2280 Dundas West towards the Junction Triangle. Image via Choice Properties.

Mirvish is one of three mega-developments scheduled to pop up along Bloor Street over the next 10 years, if you can believe it. Just last week, Choice Properties unveiled preliminary plans for a new mixed use community on a 10-acre site near Dundas West that's currently occupied by a 1960s-era strip mall. 

Bloor Dufferin redevelopment

A view of the planned public space at Bloor and Dufferin on a starry winter evening. Image via Capital Developments.

Down the road, a highly anticipated revitalization of Bloor and Dufferin will radically change the area, turning what used to be home to multiple schools into a futuristic public square.

A recently-submitted development proposal from Capital Developments and Metropia suggests that the development will be divided into seven blocks and involve the creation two, brand new, north-south streets.

wynford glen

This rendering shows the scope of the massive Wynford Green development at Don Mills and Eglinton. Image via Diamond Corp.

The mega development trend isn't confined to downtown, either. 

Looking toward the forthcoming Eglinton Crosstown LRT line, we'll eventually have Wynford Green– a 60-acre development slated for the site where IBM Canada originally built its headquarters in 1951.

A mixture of residential, commercial and office buildings, as well as bike paths, parks and low-rise townhouses, Wynford Green is described as a "transit-oriented" development and projected to house roughly 10,000 new residents and workers.

Go big or go home, am I right? I guess we'll see.

12 things to do in Toronto today

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With Halloween around the corner things are getting creepy in Toronto. A haunted bazaar, mask show, and Goosebumps marathon are all holding down the haunts. It's not all scary though, Google brings its Mini Home donut shop to town today as well.

Events you might want to check out:

Google Home Mini Donut Shop (October 26-27 @ Yong-Dundas Square)
Google is giving away free donuts at Yonge-Dundas Square today as part of a push for their Home Mini. Get there early to avoid big lineups.
Vintage Crawl (October 26 @ Multiple Venues)
This Queen Street crawl lets you roam from shop to shop in the city's west end finding treasures along the way. Stores are open way later, have huge deals, and some have even been known to give out free cocktails.
Fall Harvest Feast (October 26 @ The Tempered Room)
Hit up Parkdale's Tempered Room for for a fall harvest feast of magnificent proportions. Think luscious fondue, truffles and caviar, harvest veggies, local game and tons of freshly baked breads.
Best of Horror Short Film Festival (October 26 @ Carlton Cinemas)
This free film festival guarantees 8 bone-chilling horror shorts from around the world.
Vance Joy (October 26 @ The Danforth Music Hall)
Australian darling Vance Joy performs at the Danforth Music Hall with Amy Shark and Chappell Roan.
Goosebumps Marathon (October 26 @ D-Beatstro)
Get into the Halloween spirit by watching classic episodes of the scariest show of your childhood.
Fall in Love with Food Again (October 26 @ Lemon Water Wellness Clinic)
Bored of the same old recipes? Feeling stressed about what to eat? Come learn what nutritional powerhouses are in season right now and what foods will help you detox and reset.
Gladstone's Boozaar: A Vintage Night Market (October 26 @ Gladstone Hotel)
Dig through heaps of clothing for the perfect vintage turtleneck, or pick up a new old china set at this spirited bazaar.
Halloween Mask Massacre Art Show (October 26 - November 1 @ Northern Contemporary Gallery)
Come check out spooky hand-made Halloween masks made by artists across a variety of disciplines and maybe even purchase one for your costume ideas.
Riverdale: Improvised (October 26 @ Social Capital Theatre)
Witness an improvised version of your favourite TV program loaded with all the needlessly shirtless drama you could hope for.
Little Terrors Vol. 56 - Hallows Eve (October 26 @ Imagine Cinemas Carlton)
This monthly showcase of horror shorts saved its spookiest picks for Hallows Eve, offering two full hours of gore and frights.
Ex Libris: New York Public Library (October 20-26 @ Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema)
It's the last night of Hot Docs' latest feature, one that explores every inch of the world renowned New York Public Library from newspaper archives to photo collections.

Famous Tokyo ramen stand opening first overseas location in Toronto

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Straight out of Shibuya and into The 6ix comes comes a world-famous Japanese ramen joint for the first time ever in North America.

Get ready to fall in love with Konjiki Ramen, Toronto.

Tokyo chef Atsushi Yamamoto has announced that he will soon be opening an overseas outpost of his Michelin-endorsed ramen restaurant, Konjiki Hototogisu, at 5051 Yonge St. in North York.

Founded in 2006, Konjiki has grown to become wildly popular among ramen lovers, food critics and top chefs from all over the globe.

People have been known to line up for hours to get a taste of the Tokyo restaurant's unique shellfish broth, and, being that this is Toronto, we can expect much of the same behaviour from customers when Konjiki opens here. 

A post shared by 遠藤 (@yutaii29) on

"Concept ramen will be served in our North America joints," reads a website announcing the new location, which is just a few blocks north of Yonge and Sheppard. "An adventure blend of Japanese originality crossover fresh local ingredients will surely pleasure your taste buds."

Konjiki Ramen aims to be up and running by the end of November, so... start lining up now, maybe?

Toronto's promised sunset turned out to be a big letdown

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Sometimes, you just can't get what you want. 

Last night's Torontohenge sunset turned out to be a huge failure. 

This rare event occurs when the sunset (or sunrise) aligns perfectly with the east-west corridors of Toronto's streets. It showers the city in golden yellow tones and provides a stunning display for photographers and onlookers alike. 

Unfortunately, what was supposed to be the best sunset of the year was completely blocked by cloudy and overcast weather. 

People were frustrated that their photography hopes were dashed. 

Luckily, Torontohenge happens about four times a year: twice for the sunrise and twice for the sunset. So those looking for a chance won't have to wait too long for another. 

Toronto Restaurant Openings: Omai, Trecce, Terre Rouge, Convenience Bar

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

Open now
  • Japanese temaki (hand roll) and sake bar Omai is now open at 3 Baldwin St.
  • Hot-pot spot Sichuan Ren has opened a location downtown at 460 Dundas St. W. in Chinatown.
  • ELXR Juice Lab has opened inside Yorkville Village at 55 Avenue Rd.
  • As has a third downtown location of Mi’hito Sushi Laboratory.
  • Sushi burrito joint Su & Bu now has a location in the PATH under the Bay Adelaide Centre in the Financial District.
  • Pizzeria 850 Degrees has opened a second location, this time at 1566 Bloor St. W., just a few blocks east of High Park.
  • Mediterranean restaurant Trecce is now serving fresh seafood, pizza and pasta at 1792 Danforth Ave. between Coxwell and Woodbine.
  • French-inspired restaurant Terre Rouge opens today at 162 Enterprise Blvd. in Markham.
Recently reviewed
Opening soon
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Have you seen restaurants opening or closing in your neighbourhood? Email tips to editors@blogto.com


Susur Lee's kids are opening a restaurant in a food court

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It looks like Levi and Kai Bent-Lee are taking another page out of their famous father's (cook)book by opening up a new restaurant in downtown Toronto.

Kai, who is the second-oldest son of celebrity chef Susur Lee, shared a series of images on Twitter and Instagram Stories Wednesday showing food court cladding that reads "Kid Lee. The Slaw is coming."

"Kid Lee at First Canadian Place opening soon," he then tweeted, confirming the restaurant's location. 

We don't know much else about Kid Lee at this point, but we do know that it's far from the first restaurant venture for Susur's sons.

A post shared by Levi Bent-Lee (@levibentlee) on

Kai and Levi, now best known for wearing Louis Vuitton and Supreme on Instagram, are experienced restaurateurs.

The young men worked closely with their father to open and run the now-defunct Bent Restaurant on Dundas West and reportedly still manage Fring's on King Street. Sometimes they take pictures there with Drake.

A post shared by k👁 (@kai) on

It is not yet clear whether this is a solo project for Kai or if the brothers are working as a team, as is often the case.

Levi, as I'm sure you know, has been hard at work selling his "Salmon Bro Gang" merchandise and making YouTube videos about buying $40,000 jackets.

Either way, we're stoked to see what Kid Lee is serving when it opens in First Canadian Place's food court. Something tells me there will be coleslaw. 

This might be the most beautiful new building coming to Toronto

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Many of Toronto’s newer developments come under criticism for their bland, repetitive design of glass towers with concrete podiums.

new development at 489 to 539 King St. West is looking to change that.

Modelled after a mountain range, the Bjarke-Ingels design features a terraced, pixelated ziggurat with peaks. The inner-courtyard, which basically functions as a valley, would be used as a common space for pedestrians and public events.

The daring design has been working through a series of changes at the behest of several parties, including the community and the city. 

New designs have been released this week by the designers and developers, Bjarke-Ingels, Westbank, and Allied Reit, which show off a more polished version of the iconic structure initially proposed in early 2016.

This render of a view of King Street from the inner courtyard shows off one of the heritage buildings, which will be used for retail space. Image from Westbank, Allied REIT, and Bjarke-Ingels.

The original plan featured five “peaks” in the mountain range. Now, that has been reduced to four.

At the base of south and north sides, there were gaps that allowed public movement into the courtyard. The south gap has been redesigned as an archway, and one of the four peaks has been shifted slightly to be over top of the archway.

The former design facing north featured a gap on the south side of the building. Image from Westbank, Allied REIT, and Bjarke-Ingels.

The number of residential units has been reduced significantly, from around 624 down to 514.

Several heritage buildings are encompassed by the site where this building will go, and have been worked into designs from the earliest stages. New massing and shifting of the shape have allowed the building to show the heritage sites off a little more from previous designs.

The new design shows the peak overtop of a new archway, rather than a gap. Image from Westbank, Allied REIT, and Bjarke-Ingels.

The development is good news for the city, rather than just those looking to purchase a unit. This is because the architects hope to use the buildings as a fixture in the community.

The plan is for the inner courtyard to serve as an event space, with a park and mixed retail use along the base of the building. The openings into this courtyard, and the building's pyramid-like shape are both meant to allow sunlight into the area, rather than being blocked by tall towers.

The "glass brick" design is an upgrade from the former grey concrete, which was disliked at a planning meeting by many. Image from Westbank, Allied REIT, and Bjarke-Ingels.

Early and current designs all feature significant green space. Aside from the park and courtyard, the building will feature stacked terraces, akin to a Mediterranean mountain-town. This will allow for trees and other foliage to dominate the facade of the building.

These new and improved designs have been submitted by the developers. The building may undergo more changes, but it’s clear that this development is quickly shaping up to be a groundbreaking addition to Toronto.

There are road closures across Toronto this weekend

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Brace yourself for another weekend filled with road closures in Toronto. Events like the final Pedestrian Sunday of the year will be taking over Toronto's streets, and if that's not enough, there's also a TTC subway closure on Line 1. 

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

Pedestrian Sunday

The following streets will be closed for this event in Kensington Market on October 29: 

  • Augusta Ave. from Dundas St. West to College St., but the intersections of Augusta Ave. and Nassau St., and Augusta Ave. and Oxford St. will be open to traffic.
  • Baldwin St. from the west side of the Green P parking garage to Augusta Ave.
  • Kensington Ave. from Baldwin St. to Dundas St. West.
  • St. Andrew St.from the west side of the Green P parking garage to Kensington Ave.

All of the above street closures will be in effect from 12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Sunday with the exception of Kensington Ave., which will be closed from 12 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Greek Parade 

On October 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Danforth Ave. will be closed in both directions from Donlands Ave. to Broadview Ave. Chester Ave. will be closed from Danforth Ave. to the first laneway will also be closed for this parade.

St Joseph's Toronto West Halloween Fest

Bloor St. West will be closed from Willard Ave. to Runnymede Rd. on October 29 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for this Halloween festival.

Dorothy Ley Hospice Halloween Bed Race 

Two westbound lanes on Bloor St. West from Royal York Rd. to Montgomery Rd. will be closed on October 29 from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the event. 

Queen & McCaul

The intersection of Queen St. West and McCaul St. will continue to be closed in all directions until November 6 at 6 a.m. as the city replaces the TTC streetcar tracks. 

Halloween on Church Street

While not technically the weekend, it's important to know that Church St. from Wood St. to Gloucester Street, including the intersection of Church St. and Wellesley St. East, will be closed on October 31 from 6 p.m. to November 1 at 2 a.m for the annual street party.

TTC Subway Closure

In addition to these road closures, this weekend will have a TTC subway closure. There will be no subway service between St. Clair and Lawrence stations on October 28 and 29 due to track work.

It's also important to note that trains on Line 1 will be bypassing Queen Station both ways starting at 11 p.m. each evening until late November due to fare gate construction. 

Google just opened a free donut shop in Toronto

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Google just opened a donut shop in Toronto and they're giving away free donuts today and tomorrow. There's a been a line snaking out of the pastel pink pop-up that takes centre stage at Dundas Square all day.

Google Donut shop

Those patient enough to queue up for the experience have the chance of winning a little pink house-shaped box containing either donuts or a Google Home Mini.

Google Donut shopThe idea is that their new Google Home Mini, Google’s version of a Siri or Alexa type product, is even smaller than a donut and remarkably somehow capable of delivering as much enjoyment.

Google Donut shopNo one walks away empty handed: even boxes of donuts come with a coupon for a percentage off the purchase of a mini.

Google Donut shop

The “Donut Shop” performs a trompe l’oeil by placing black Google Home Minis near chocolate foam “donuts,” red ones near pink donuts, and white ones near vanilla donuts.

Google Donut shop

Step inside the futuristic pop-up and be confronted by a booth that’s part 2001: A Space Odyssey and part fifties diner.

Google Donut shopRing a bell and the Google Home Mini turns on, and you can ask it anything you like: whether you should wear a jacket today, where to find the best poutine or coffee in Toronto, or whether dogs can eat donuts.

Google Donut shop

While the Google Home Mini is answering one of the little pink boxes drops down a chute, ready to be opened so its sugary or tech savvy contents can be discovered.

Google Donut shop

Donuts were made locally at College Street's Jelly Modern Doughnuts shop, which specializes in gourmet versions of this classic treat.

Google Donut shop

Flavours don’t get as extravagant as the s’mores or maple bacon offerings at the College bakery, but you do have a chance at sampling an Instagrammable vanilla pink or blue marble donut.

Google Donut shopThere are free vanilla donuts topped with pink sprinkles and chocolate ones topped with chocolate shavings too.

Google Donut shop

The pop-up shop is only giving away free donuts and Google Home Minis Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Google Donut shop

Toronto's favourite butcher shop is opening a second location

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A good butcher is the perfect addition to any neighbourhood.

Sanagan’s Meat Locker, a staple in Kensington Market, has just announced its expansion.

The Toronto-favourite is opening a second location on Gerrard Street, nestled between Coxwell and Greenwood.

The Little India neighbourhood has been building up with new shops in recent years, and Sanagan’s hopes to bring its butchering expertise and locally sourced meat to the area.

In a post on Sanagan’s website, the announcement notes that the new east-side shop will be smaller than the flagship, and similar to the original store in Kensington.

An opening date has not been announced yet.

Toronto's most important streets could get a total makeover

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Toronto is in the midst of an unprecedented growth spurt that shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

A report from the city's planning division projects that by 2041, the number of people with jobs downtown could explode from about 500,000 (as it is right now) to as many as 915,000.

The number of people living in the downtown core will almost double within that same period, according to the report, going from 240,000 to approximately 475,000 residents over the next 24 years.

TOCore university

How University Avenue could eventually be laid out as city planners work to accommodate Toronto's growing population in the next 25 years. Image by PUBLIC WORK, for TOcore Parks and Public Realm Plan.

In an effort to prevent the chaos before it starts (or gets any worse, I guess,) The City of Toronto has embarked upon a comprehensive, interdivisional study called TOCore that looks at how we can best plan ahead for the next 25 years of life downtown.

One key project under the TOCore umbrella is a complete re-imagining of 12 "great streets" in Toronto to improve how they serve and connect our city.

"I'm particularly excited about this idea," says Lorna Day, Director of Urban Design in Toronto's City Planning department. "Streets are part of our image, who we are. Each are unique and work together to make the city what it is."

University Ave is the first great street we're seeing potential plans for this week thanks to a series of renderings released by the city.

Day cautions that the city is still "at a very aspirational stage" in the process of redesigning the busy downtown street, but that there is significant opportunity to make what's there now work harder for Torontonians.

"Each generation has kind of stopped to re-imagine 'what is University Avenue for us?'" she continues. "It looked different in the 1890s, the 1900s, the 1960s… this is our chance to re-imagine it."

So far, the vision includes moving all lanes of traffic to the west side of the grand boulevard and opening up park space to the east.

University Ave Toronto

Image by PUBLIC WORK, for TOcore Parks and Public Realm Plan.

Currently, about three acres of green space runs through the middle of University in the form of medians between Queen and College Streets.

Those medians are actually a city park, Day tells me – one of the least utilized parks in the city despite its beauty and abundance of historical monuments.

"What if we could take that parkland, push it to one side of the street and start to connect it with the landscaped space and setbacks that are already there?" says Day.

According to the TOCore project, about 7.7 acres of potential mixed use public space would be created if University's medians were extended to meet its eastern boulevards, sidewalks and setbacks.

"It starts to become something that’s greater than the sum of its parts," says Day. "Part of the idea of making a good park is making a people move efficiently, but also actually wanting to linger and stay."

There is, of course, the issue of traffic to work through.

The number of lanes for vehicles on University Ave. would decrease if the plan is implemented as it's currently designed – but nobody is trying to block off access to the hospitals and legislature.

"This is not a proposal to limit lanes," says Day, noting that traffic flow is important and needs to be studied very carefully. "It's a diagrammatic idea – a principled idea about adding parkland.

City staff is still working on plans for the other great streets: Spadina, University, Yonge, Jarvis, Parliament, Bayview, Bloor, College (including Carlton and Gerrard,) Queen, King, Front and Queens Quay.

Torontonians will have a chance to view the renderings, learn more and weigh in on these plans at a public meeting scheduled for Dec. 2 (check the website for more details).

13 must-see concerts in Toronto this November

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Must-see concerts in Toronto this November contain many Canadian darlings, American icons and even the dude who made Halloween (yer a little late, buddy!) all hoping you’re still willing to venture out despite the cold deciding to show up after all.

Look out for Indie Week returning November 7 to 12, unleashing swarms of unsigned bands who’ll keep bars open until 4 a.m in search of their big break. And elsewhere, Macklemore, Lil Yachty, Slowdive, Silversun Pickups and King Surly himself (Liam Gallagher) are expected to pop up.

Events you might want to check out:

Primitive Man (November 1 @ Coalition)
The month gets off to a cheery start with an onslaught of soul-crushing doom from Primitive Man, Bell Witch, Vile Creature and Intensive Care. At least half these bands just put out punishing, hour-plus recordings, so don’t expect a short night.
Janet Jackson (November 2 @ Air Canada Centre)
Though the other half of Nipplegate is inexplicably being welcomed back to the Superbowl, don’t worry about Janet - despite a couple postponements, her well-received State of the World tour is back on track and will at last make its way to Toronto.
Arcade Fire (November 3 @ Air Canada Centre)
If your love of these indie superstars somehow survived #InfiniteContent madness, congrats! Your reward is two glitzy ACC shows (which probably won’t have a dress code after all, but who really knows).
Tegan and Sara (November 6 @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre (Toronto))
The Quin sisters are celebrating the tenth anniversary of The Con, their much-extolled fifth album, by revamping it. After tapping fellow musicians to interpret each song for a covers version, they’ll perform a revised acoustic arrangement here.
Ibeyi (November 7 @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre)
Speaking of twin sisters, this French-Cuban duo just released their widely praised sophomore effort, and take their culturally eclectic jams live to the Phoenix.
L.A. Witch (November 8 @ The Garrison)
Still in the mood for gothy vibes a week after Halloween? Head to the Garrison for the sinister desert-rock sounds of this trio, who just debuted their first LP on Suicide Squeeze.
John Carpenter (November 12 @ The Danforth Music Hall)
Not sure where this trend of film composers moonlighting as rock stars came from, but let’s enjoy until Michael Bay inevitably ruins it. This horror master is the latest to perform compositions in the flesh in honour of his new anthology.
A Perfect Circle (November 15 @ Air Canada Centre)
They certainly are taking their sweet time getting back together, but finally, the alt supergroup’s dropped a new single after 13 years of quiet and booked their first tour in ages.
Jay-Z (November 22 @ Air Canada Centre)
The 4:44 Tour (code name: the Bey Apology Tour?) is off and running across North America with Vic Mensa opening. Unsurprisingly, there's enough demand in the 6ix for the addition of a second show at the ACC.
Horseshoe 70th: 54-40 (November 22 @ Horseshoe Tavern)
The Horseshoe’s anniversary bash rolls on with a Can-con giant settling in for a four-night residency. Depending on the date, you could find openers like singer-songwriter Nefe or the recently reunited Joydrop.
Stars (November 23 @ The Great Hall Toronto)
Nearly two decades of lovestruck pop now on the books for this Montreal quintet, and they show no signs of slowing down. Check out tracks from their latest effort, produced by indie-rock connoisseur Peter Katis, over two nights.
Duchess Says and Yamantaka // Sonic Titan (November 23 @ The Garrison)
Sonic and visual weirdness awaits with this exciting pairing. Montreal punks Duchess Says have stayed consistent since last year’s Science Nouvelles, but this’ll be the first big showing for the revamped YT//ST lineup.
Grizzly Bear (November 27 @ Massey Hall)
Emerging from a lengthy hibernation (bear pun!) earlier this year, the guys who take the term “lavish soundscape” to new levels will return to fill the air at Massey towards the end of the month.

Weekend events in Toronto October 27-29 2017

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This weekend in Toronto Halloween parties are all the rage, but there's plenty more for those who are averse to scares and spookiness. The TTC is offering a sneak peek of its three new stations, Google wants to give you free donuts, and it's the final Pedestrian Sunday of the year. 

Events you might want to check out:

Art Toronto (October 27-30 @ Metro Toronto Convention Centre)
Art Toronto is Canada's only international fair for modern and contemporary art. It's kind of like our version of Art Basel, and it all goes down at the Metro Convention Centre.
TEDxToronto (October 27 @ Evergreen Brick Works)
The annual TEDxToronto conference explores the theme of legacy this year with talks, workshops, and inspiring presentations from some of the city's greatest thinkers. There willl also be snacks and drinks.
Night of Dread (October 28 @ Dufferin Grove Park)
This is an evening of fearful pageantry, revels and mockery in a park. It's basically a parade of amazing freaks with music, dancing and mind-blowing costumes from 4-7 p.m.
TTC Open House: Line 1 Extension (October 28 @ Multiple Venues)
From 1 to 5 p.m. explore the three most northerly subway stations on the Line 1 extension, seeing how they were built, taking photos, and chatting with the project staff and designers.
Last Pedestrian Sunday (October 29 @ Kensington Market)
Kensington's final, car-free gathering of the year happens this week. Expect pop-up performances, vendors and a street party.
Fort York After Dark (October 25-27 @ Fort York National Historic Site)
Take this rare opportunity to wander the grounds of Fort York at night, being told gruesome stories from the haunted lighthouse to the bloody Battle of York.
Prism Presents Shea Coulee (October 27 @ Fly 2.0)
Season 9 Runner up of RuPaul's Drag Race lands at Fly 2.0 for a meet and greet followed by two glamorous performances throughout the night.
Traditional Day of the Dead Celebration (October 28 @ Artscape Wychwood Barns)
Join the liveliest celebration of death for a traditional Day of the Dead celebration. Enjoy traditional food, Aztec dance, Aboriginal hand drum songs, and a wide variety of performances.
Canada's Baking and Sweets Show (October 28 @ International Centre)
A lineup of North America's best artisan bakers, care makers, and celebrated pastry chefs will teach you the skills you crave through live demonstrations and hands-on classes.
Dark Waters (October 27 @ Ripley's Aquarium of Canada)
Explore the dark side of this underwater nightmare at Ripley's Aquarium's first ever 19+ splash.
Scream Whistle Brewery (October 27 @ Steam Whistle Brewing)
If you're looking to dance in a beer filled factory, this is the party for you. The only thing scarier is the FOMO.
FNL: Wicked (October 27 @ Royal Ontario Museum)
Friday Night Live at the ROM's Halloween offerings include weird and wicked Earth based exhibitions, plus beats by DJ ESP.
Dragonstone Hotel (October 27 @ Gladstone Hotel)
All Seven Kingdoms are invited to the Gladstone's Game of Thrones themed party.
Burroughes Haunted Mansion (October 28 @ Burroughes Building)
The Burroughes building on Queen West is getting its spook on for Halloween. Tickets start at $20.
Prozzak Presents: Forever '99 Halloween Freakout (October 28 @ Toronto Mini Indy)
Three rooms of classic and cutting edge sound, featuring Prozzak, Green Velvet, Culture Shock, and more, plus a 19-foot high fire breathing metal dragon stage straight from Burning Man.
Snailoween (October 28 @ 99 Sudbury)
Silver Snail's annual Halloween bash is a must for comic book and pop culture diehards, this year featuring Matt and Jay from Nirvanna the Band the Show on DJ duties.
Unsound Toronto Halloween Special (October 27 - November 3 @ Bluma Appel Theatre)
Unsound is back in Toronto with two special seated weekend events around Halloween at The Bluma Appel Theatre.
alt-J (October 27 @ Massey Hall & Roy Thomson Hall)
British art pop tri alt-J are in town to tour their 2017 album, Relaxer. Tickets have sold out online but it's not impossible to grab from someone on site.
Cybertronic Spree VS Homer Simpson's The Be Sharps at The Horseshoe Tavern (October 28 @ Horseshoe Tavern)
The band comprised of transforming robots is on stage up against Homer Simpson's acapella quartet in the most animated concert of Halloween weekend.
Guns N' Roses (October 29 @ Air Canada Centre)
Classic rock juggernauts Guns N' Roses want to bring you back to the 80s and 90s during the Toronto stop of their massive arena reunion tour.
Google Home Mini Donut Shop (October 26-27 @ Yong-Dundas Square)
To celebrate the launch of the donut-sized Google Home Mini, the tech juggernaut built a pop-up donut shop and are setting up at Yonge and Dundas Square. Inside you'll nab free donuts plus a chance to win a brand new Google Home Mini.
After-Hours Sip & Shop Pop-Up Market (October 28 @ STUDIO by the Nooks)
Shop for hand-made, local goods while sipping artisanal, hand-crafted beverages in what should be a perfectly cozy way to enjoy an autumn evening.
Clothing Swap: Masquerade & Martini's (October 28 @ Women on The Move)
Embark on a fabulous evening of shopping, networking, music, and last minute costume developing, with complimentary martinis and plenty of appetizers.
Macedonian Film Festival (October 28-29 @ Carlton Cinema)
The 12th edition of this annual film fest will screen feature films that contain a Macedonian connection by over ten filmmakers from around the world.
The Room (October 28 @ Imagine Cinemas Carlton)
Bring your spoons, folks, you won't want to miss "The Citizen Kane of bad movies" on Halloween weekend. If you've never seen the infamous flick, take this chance to catch it before James Franco's mockumentary on the making of it releases later this year.
Vampyr (October 28 @ Fox Theatre)
Catch a screening of the 1932 silent classic accompanied with a live band at the 100+ year old Fox Theatre.
Elvira Mistress of the Dark (October 29 @ The Royal Cinema)
Don't miss out on the goth horror cult classic Elvira Mistress of The Dark, with live (and possibly drunk) commentary by the hosts from Screen Queens.
The Phantom of the Opera (October 29 @ Imagine Cinemas Carlton)
The weekly October-long film series Silent Sundays saved the best for last, screening the 1925 horror classic on the weekend before Halloween.
E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (October 29 @ Revue Cinema)
Halloween isn't just about horror and blood. Revisit the magic of childhood with Spielberg's E.T., playing at Revue Cinema.

Toronto transfixed as hostage situation unfolds on King West

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Toronto has been glued to Twitter this afternoon after heavily armed police appeared on the scene at a King Street business.

Reports have come in that a person with a gun is currently inside of the former Cannabis Culture marijuana dispensary in the King and Charlotte area.

Some are saying that a hostage was pulled in by the suspect, but this has not yet been confirmed by police.

Foot traffic and vehicles are being turned back, and King is closed between Charlotte and Blue Jays Way.

The 504 streetcar is being rerouted and turning back at Church in the east and Spadina in the west.

The 501 and 514 Cherry streetcars have also been re-routed.

Local media have arrived on the scene and it seems the entire city is transfixed, watching to see how the events are going to unfold.

The area around King and Charlotte would typically be packed with a mix of office workers, residents and tourists on a Thursday afternoon.

The area is home to a number of condos, office buildings, popular retail stores like MEC, restaurants and bars including Calii Love and the Underground Garage, and is also close to many tourist attractions.

Update

Toronto police have now announced that the situation was a false alarm. No person with a gun was found inside the building. King Street is being reopened and streetcars are resuming normal service. 

Condo of the week: Robert Watson Lofts

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Loft lovers will swoon for this recently listed space in the highly regarded Robert Watson Lofts. Located in Roncesvalles Village, this former warehouse is home to some of the nicest hard lofts in the city. 

Robert Watson Lofts TorontoSpread over two floors, this unit boasts 1,200 square feet of living space to go along with a pretty terrace for all your barbecuing and outdoor dining needs. All this for $850K actually sounds like a pretty good deal in today's market (which is good or bad depending on your perspective).

Robert Watson Lofts TorontoThe elements that make this space feel special is the loft-style master bedroom, all the exposed brick, and the original wood beam ceiling. The ceilings in the living room come in at 17 feet, which gives the entire unit an airy quality.

Robert Watson Lofts TorontoA set up like this isn't the best for couples who have different sleep schedules, but it sure looks nice. There is a second bedroom, of course, though it's on the basic side. It'd work well for kids or as a guest room and/or work space. 

Robert Watson Lofts TorontoThe maintenance fees are a tad high at nearly $850 a month, but overall this one is a winner.

Robert Watson Lofts TorontoSpecs
Robert Watson Lofts TorontoGood For

If you like lofts, this one is sure to impress. While it's not completely open concept, the living space is smartly designed.

Robert Watson Lofts TorontoMove On If

You want a bedroom with four walls. Not everyone loves this kind exposure, even if it looks slick.

Robert Watson Lofts TorontoRobert Watson Lofts TorontoRobert Watson Lofts TorontoRobert Watson Lofts TorontoRobert Watson Lofts TorontoRobert Watson Lofts TorontoRobert Watson Lofts Toronto

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

The Best Tap Rooms in Toronto

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The best tap rooms in Toronto give beer geeks a chance to try the most experimental concoctions their favourite brewers have to offer, fresh at the source. Such rooms often give drinkers a transparent view of the brewing process, and also incorporate bottle shops so you can purchase the best local beers direct from their producers to enjoy at home, too.

Here are the best tap rooms in Toronto.

5 - Henderson Brewing

This industrial tap room on burgeoning Sterling Road is filled with the oaty aroma of brewing. Bare bones industrial design, tons of events, and fridges full of tall cans, growlers and bottles of their popular Food Truck and Best beers as well as a monthly experimental “Ides” brew can all be found here. Don’t forget to play a quick game of pinball while you’re there as well.
10 - Saulter Street Brewery

This standalone space in Riverside has a small but very independent and thoroughly Canadian range of beers for right now on draft and in cans and “howlers” (miniature growlers) in their barn-like, cottagey tap room.
3 - Left Field Brewery

This brewery in an alley south of the Danforth is so hardcore baseball-themed there's even a vintage scoreboard on the wall, and every Jays game plays here. Even if you have no interest in the action on the TVs at this little tap room that’s accessible to strollers and dog-friendly, anyone who loves beer will be happy sampling a pint of their reputable oatmeal stout.
7 - Junction Craft Brewing

This brewery takes its name from the neighbourhood it resides in. Though their popular Conductor's Ale can be enjoyed at spots where fine beer is poured across the city, in their tap room you can drink it surrounded by old-timey wallpaper.
4 - Bellwoods Brewery (Hafis)

The Castlefield Design District location of this well known brewery is not nearly as crowded as the Ossington one. It's also a tap room only so a good spot to sample their lineup of brews. The Jelly King sour and Witch Shark beers are best sellers.
11 - Muddy York Brewing Co.

Operating out of the industrial area in East York, this small tap room with a steampunk vibe decked out in antiques serves their already popular porter, bitter, IPAs and more as well as nitro cold brew on draft and shrub sodas for non-drinkers or the designated driver that got you all the way out there.
6 - Blood Brothers

This teeny weeny tap room on Geary Avenue is inside a garagey space that opens to a makeshift patio of picnic tables when it’s warm. Samples on tap are typically limited but the vibe in this white brick space is beyond cool. Their highly reliable bottle fridge is the best place to find some of the funkiest, most sour, and fullest flavoured beers in the city.
8 - Kensington Brewing Company

Finally, a tap room and bottle shop right in the market. This long and skinny concrete space breathes fresh air into the Kensington area, already with over half a dozen beers on tap and regular experimental bottles.
9 - Halo Brewery

Located on quiet Wallace near Symington right next to a set of train tracks, this little brewery has been making a big name for itself with powerful saisons, tart fruity sours and sarsaparilla-inspired stouts. The small space is comfy, bright and often packed, and on point branding mesmerizes with hypnotic abstract shapes and bright colours.

Toronto food events: Chocolate Festival, Google Donuts, Free Philly Cheesesteak

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Food fans have a number of sweet treats to look forward to this week, between a mini donut pop-up and a luxury chocolate show. Free Philly cheesesteak, poutine, and strawberry mochi all await those who can brave the inevitable lineups. 

Events you might want to check out:

Google Home Mini Donut Shop (October 26-27 @ Yong-Dundas Square)
To celebrate the launch of the donut-sized Google Home Mini, the tech juggernaut built a pop-up donut shop and are setting up at Yonge and Dundas Square. Inside you'll nab free donuts plus a chance to win a brand new Google Home Mini.
Canada's Baking and Sweets Show (October 28 @ International Centre)
A lineup of North America's best artisan bakers, care makers, and celebrated pastry chefs will teach you the skills you crave through live demonstrations and hands-on classes.
After-Hours Sip & Shop Pop-Up Market (October 28 @ STUDIO by the Nooks)
Shop for hand-made, local goods while sipping artisanal, hand-crafted beverages in what should be a perfectly cozy way to enjoy an autumn evening.
Free Strawberry Mochi (October 30-31 @ HCafe Unionville)
HCafe Unionville is giving out free strawberry mochi as a trick or treat gift to customers ordering any other dessert or drink on October 30th and 31st.
Halloween FoodFair (October 31 @ Peter Pan Bistro)
If handing out candy isn't your thing, FoodFair is offering an unforgettable five-course dinner and wine-pairing on Halloween night, designed by five of Toronto's leading chefs. Yes, costumes are encouraged.
Chau Pop Up x Radical Road Brewing (October 31 @ Radical Road Brewing)
Once a month, Chau takes over the Radical Road Brewing Company's kitchen to serve up modern asian bites paired with craft beer and live music. For Halloween, they're featuring a scare-themed menu, with items like Death by Bao and more.
Free Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches and Poutine (November 3 @ Philthy Philly’s)
In celebration of their new Yonge Street location's grand opening, Philthy Philly's is giving away 100 free Philly cheesesteak sandwiches and 100 free poutines to the first people in line starting at 6 PM.
Syrian Refugee Community Dinner (November 3 @ Paintbox Catering & Bistro)
Six Syrian Refugees are coming together at Paintbox to present an open buffet, bringing the beautiful delicacy of Syrian cuisine to Toronto. The event looks to help the many Refugees better integrate into Canadian society and help with their employability problems.
Toronto Luxury Chocolate Show (November 4-5 @ Toronto Public Library - Toronto Reference Library, Salons)
A hallmark of the annual Toronto Chocolate Festival, the 7th Toronto International Luxury Chocolate Show will bring hourly demonstrations and free samples of diverse, fine artisan and imported chocolate products, as well as purchasable treats to take home.
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