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Toronto neighbourhood finally gets city approval to open new restaurants

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After years of limiting the number of restaurants allowed to operate in Parkdale, City Council has finally lifted its eating establishments cap

Adopted in 2013, the bylaw limited the number of restaurants to 25 per cent of the businesses making up the stretch of Queen between Dufferin and Roncesvalles.

The cap was imposed to curb the drunken damage that was being wrought on the neighbourhood by late-night crowds, who according to a City Council staff report in 2012, were frequenting Parkdale for its abundance of licensed restaurants.

Splitting Parkdale into four zones, the bylaw restricted nearly all the areas to 25 per cent restaurant allowance, except for the eastern area closest to Dufferin, which was allotted 33 per cent. 

Apparently the number of eating establishments has declined from 71 to 64 over the past years, but it's unclear as to whether that has anything to do with the cap or if it's due mostly to increasing commercial rents and land value. 

Certain rules from the bylaw will still apply to Parkdale restaurants, however: no backyard or rooftop patios are allowed, and floor space is restricted to 200 square-metres. 

What this all means for already existing businesses in terms of rent, competition and rising property value has yet to be seen. According to City Council the bylaw will be revisited in five years.

Until then, we can expect to see an increase in Parkdale areas – hopefully more momos and fewer restaurant chains. 


10 things to do in Toronto today

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Events in Toronto today make for an exciting Sunday from start to finish with a punk rock flea market and the last day for Field Trip. You can also pick yourself up a piece of Yoko Ono's installation as well.

Events you might want to check out:

Toronto Cactus and Succulent Show (June 3 @ Allan Gardens Park and Conservatory)
Plants are friends and now is the time to pick up one (or ten) ultra low maintenance succulent and cactus buddies to brighten up your space.
Diplo (June 3 @ Cabana Pool Bar)
Producer Diplo is here to take fun in the sun to another level and bring the tunes to Cabana for the day.
Bruno Major (June 3 @ The Great Hall)
The British singer has a knack for lighting a fire inside the heart, in part due to his silky voice, sweet harmonies and lovely love songs.
Punk Rock Flea Market (June 3 @ Lee's Palace)
The first of its kind in Toronto, 28 makers from Montreal to Windsor present a day of old tunes, cold brews and good finds.
Nite Comfort (June 3 @ Handlebar)
Take a trip through the far regions of spacey synth and experimental ambient music with sound projects by Tendencyitis and Bachelard.
Toronto Taste (June 3 @ Corus Quay)
Over 60 Toronto chefs come together to serve up a variety of dishes during this fundraiser for the Second Harvest Food Rescue
Cleaning Piece for Gardiner (June 3 @ Gardiner Museum)
Pieces from Yoko Ono's installation, The Riverbed, will be made available for visitors to take home in hand-decorated boxes for safekeeping.
Field Trip (June 2-3 @ Fort York National Historic Site)
This downtown music festival of food, music and art wraps up with a final day of tunes from Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Alvvays and Japandroids.
Slumber Party Stand Up Comedy (June 3 @ Comedy Bar)
Finish your weekend off with some laughs, with host Hisham Kelati and comedians Lucy Gervais, Mike Carrozza, Surer Qaly Deria and more.
Ride for Heart (June 3 @ Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place)
The annual run, walk and ride on a traffic-free Gardiner and DVP goes down today in support of the Heart & Stroke foundation.

5 places to find custom shoes in Toronto

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Finding places to get custom shoes in Toronto isn't easy. Maybe people just don't think of custom shoes, or maybe they really do like their brand names. Despite any reservations, customized shoes are definitely an underrated way to achieve great style and comfort.

Here's a round-up of places to snag custom shoes in Toronto.

Nick's Custom Footwear and Shoe Repair

This family-owned shop at the corner of Dupont and St. George in The Annex do almost everything: riding boots, golf shoes, cowboy boots, hiking boots, dress shoes, penny loafers... the list goes on. 

Rogues Custom

Near the corner of Huntley and Linden streets, a few minutes from Sherbourne Station, you'll find this custom shoemaker who makes shoes in all sizes and widths. Within 8 to 10 weeks of ordering, they'll have a pair delivered to your door.

Hand Made Shoes (Nasser Vies)

A true and seasoned artist, Vies constructs shoes out of canvas, leather, snake skin, suede, linen, you name it. He's designed shoe-weapon hybrids for the TV series Nikita, leatherwork for Pacific Rim, and tango shoes for Robert Duvall.

Tanya Heath Paris

Calling all heel-wearers, this Yorkville boutique definitely has something for you. They sell beautiful shoes that have the ability to transform — literally — with the click of a button: pick your shoe and then pick a few different heels that you want to wear for a look that is completely unique. 

Hi Tech Canadian Custom Shoe Lab

These guys in Mississauga, near the intersection of Britannia and Tomken roads, will make your tootsies more comfortable than ever before. Although they do take style into consideration, they specialize in relieving sensitive feet — even taking a 3D cast of your foot to get the perfect fit.

The top 10 kids furniture stores in Toronto

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Kids furniture stores in Toronto offer innovative and stylish options for the little humans in your life. With special consideration given to durability and practicality, these retailers carry an array of options that remain child-friendly without sacrificing esthetics.

Here are my picks for the top kids furniture stores in Toronto.

ella+elliot

The high-end store at Strachan and Queen beloved by parents, with an eye for modern design, is on the pricey side, but definitely hard to resist. Your tot probably doesn't need a $500 high chair, but it sure is pretty!

kids at home

This stylish shop at Carlaw and Queen has a great selection of  unique kids furniture. It's on the pricier side, but the stock is expertly curated, ranging in pieces for newborns to (hard to please) tweens and teens. 

Pottery Barn Kids

Carrying their own exclusive line, Pottery Barn Kids in Yorkdale or Sherway Gardens offers good quality furniture in classic styles. Their selection of kids seating is especially fun and they offer personalization on select pieces.

West Coast Kids

After establishing themselves out west, this stylish shop expanded to Toronto with a shop on Bayview at Manor Road East, and a soon-to-be open shop in Richmond Hill. Here you'll find stylish kid-sized furniture like mini-me vanities and cube couches. 

Ikea

This household name (literally) is a go-to for many parents looking to furnish on a budget. Their extendable beds — that grow as your child does — means your little one will have a bed that fits, from toddler to teen.

BB Buggy

This shop near Davenport and Yonge carries stylish and innovative (and sometimes pricey) lines like Oeuf and Stokke. You'll be hard-pressed to find a better selection of quality kids gear in the city.

Li'l Niblets

This shop near Lawrence and Bathurst carries three high quality furniture collections: Natart, Oeuf and Dutailier where you can snag some really beautiful pieces — at a higher cost bracket. 

Advice from a Caterpillar

The high-end boutique carries a handful of pieces, but the prices are definitely reasonable — especially in the sale section. If you're thinking about a kids-sized Panton chair from Julien Armand or a Bloomingville Bamboo side table, add this Summerhill shop to your visit list.

The Bunk House

This shop has been in business for over 50 years and is an institution of sorts near Landsdowne and Glencairn. Whether traditional or modern, their bunk beds are high-quality and wonderfully functional: stairs that double as drawers, a pullout trundle bed for sleepovers, or bunks that un-stack into two singles.

Macklem's

This family-run business (since 1945!) at Dundas and Roncesvalles is known for their huge selection of baby stuff, but they've also got some fantastic furniture for kids on offer as well. For a fee, they will even deliver and assemble furniture (and take away all the boxes).

The top 5 free events in Toronto this week

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Free events in Toronto this week means you can catch a lot of free music, either at the block party in YDS or at Open Tuning. Meanwhile, you can walk through a forest of art or join in a big bike party bash.

Events you might want to check out:

Play the Parks (June 4 - October 1 @ Multiple Venues)
Another season of free outdoor music kicks off for the year in and around the downtown core, starting at 777 Bay Street with singer Sabrina Soares.
15th Anniversary Block Party (June 8 @ Yonge-Dundas Square)
In celebration of Yonge-Dundas Square's 15th anniversary, a huge and free party is going down with a concert by The New Pornographers.
Open Tuning (June 9 @ Seaton Village)
Seaton Village is transforming into a giant stage for live music, with musicians performing in the streets.
Liberty Village Art Crawl (June 9 @ Liberty Village Park)
Liberty Village gets overtaken by local artists during this big art party featuring live music, interactive demos, food and family-friendly activities.
Bike Party (June 9 @ Christie Pits Park)
One bike, one sound. Bring your bike to the party and join in creating one, big speaker box, covered in lights, rolling down the street.

The top 10 beaches in Toronto

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Beaches in Toronto are sandy getaways for sunny days. Whether you're fixing to do a little sunbathing, partake in a volleyball game or bare it all in a nude-friendly zone, the city has plenty of destinations lining Lake Ontario for your summer needs.

Here are my picks for the top beaches in Toronto.

Sunnyside Beach

It may no longer be the amusement park wonder of pre and post-war eras, but this stretch of sand just south of High Park is still drawing crowds to its famous bathing pavilion. The water isn't always pristine, but the boardwalk and waterfront trail are the real reasons to visit.

Hanlan’s Point Beach

Let it all hang at this clothing-optional beach on the westernmost tip of the Toronto islands. Only one of two official nude beaches in Canada, you can check off skinny dipping in broad daylight here or lounge on Hanlan’s smooth, rock-free sand.

Cherry Beach

This beach is a surprisingly refreshing getaway in the industrial Port Lands area. Sitting at the foot of Cherry Street, you’ll be hard-pressed to find parking on the weekends but you might be rewarded by the appearance of retro food truck.

Woodbine Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the city, Woodbine is the go-to for major celebrations like Victoria Day and Canada Day. While the sand isn’t as soft here as the beaches on the islands, there’s a whole stretch of volleyball courts here for competitive and lesiurely play. 

Kew Balmy

More rugged around the edges than others, it’s a little rocky at this beach though you’ll find some nice patches of sand here and there. There’s a cute snack bar here and it’s in close proximity to tennis and volleyball courts, a baseball diamond, and an off-leash dog.

Ward's Island

Located on the opposite end of the islands as Hanlan's Point, you'll have to walk abut five minutes through a cottage country-esque community before emerging on a very intimate beach that's gets busy but never packed. 

Bluffer’s Park Beach

For views unlike any in the city, head to Bluffer’s to sunbathe while surrounded by the lush greenery of the escarpment towering overhead. It’s not a big beach, water is almost always in Blue Flag condition, and there’s a full service restaurant and bar for when you get hungry.

Rouge Beach

This sandy beach is the easternmost beach of the Toronto, and the furthest you’ll get from city life. Perfect for bird watching and canoeing, it lines the country’s first national urban park and is less about lounging on the sand (it’s kind of rocky) and more about escaping into nature.

Sugar Beach

This adorable little block of manmade beach is most recognizable for its cluster of giant pink umbrellas. You won’t be able to access the water from here but you’ll get a great view of the lake and enjoy the super fine quality of sand. If sun tanning is your M.O., head here.

HTO Park

It’s Muskoka chairs galore at this little strip of sand by the Harbourfront Centre. Just like Sugar Beach, you can’t access the water from here but you can snag a sweet spot under a yellow umbrella dotting this urban beach.

The best and worst Starbucks locations in Toronto

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The best and worst Starbucks locations are really only differentiated by interiors and overcrowding. The city has so many great independent coffee shops, but if you're opting for the convenience of big chain 'Bucks (and their Venti iced waters), some are better than others.

Here are my picks for the best and worst Starbucks in Toronto.

Best

Starbucks Reserve

This one's a no-brainer since it's the first and only Starbucks in Toronto to brew small lot coffee. Aside from the fact you can order flights of coffee brewed with a Modbar pourover system and affogatos, the curvy bar at this Don Mills shop is worth visiting at least once. 

Dupont and Christie

Even if you're not a fan of SBux, you can appreciate the regal decor here. There's tons of historic-esque details to appreciate here, from the chandeliers to the repurposed doors and granite tables. There's even an old vault you can reserve for private meetings.

King and Bathurst

As with most anything on King, this Starbucks is designed to be sleeker than your average. If you're a work-from-home type of person but need the occasional people-watching break, there's plenty of places to set up here, from the bar to the single-seater bench lining the window. 

Eglinton and Laird

Located in a former TD Bank, this corner coffee shop is spacious, equipped with a cozy – if not a little worn – sofa, red plushy chairs and a decent patio. It's also got a larger than average windows to check out the one-in-a-lifetime view of the Canadian Tire across the street. 

Adelaide and Peter

With glass windows stretching up to the ceiling, this skinny but spacious Starbucks is an industrial-style location that boasts tons of natural light. Weekday mornings you can expect a crush of people, but in terms of mobile orders, this team is pretty reliable. 

Worst
Eaton Centre across from La Senza

It's a mall, and Toronto's busiest one at that – what do you expect. Almost always hoarded by shoppers bogged down by bags, desperate for a kick of caffeine to spur round two of the shopping spree, there's a good chance your order here might come out less than satisfactory. 

Maple Leaf Square

It's hard to put your finger on why this Starbucks is so bad: maybe it's because this location's just an afterthought to the Longos, or maybe because service here is so infamously lacklustre. Either way, the only reason you should get your caffeine fix here is if you live in the condo.

Church and Shuter

It's always drafty in this Starbucks (probably because there are two doors placed right next to each other) which sucks when you're trying to get a good study session going. Also seating is limited and oddly arranged: as far as Feng Shui goes this place gets two thumbs down.

Bloor and Prince Edward

A cramped seating area and staff who seem like they'd rather be elsewhere make for a less than pleasant experience here. Despite its westerly location, this location also has lineup troubles during the morning rush.

The top 25 restaurants for a first date in Toronto by neighbourhood

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Restaurants for a first date in Toronto are casual enough to keep it non-committal, but interesting enough to possibly warrant a second go. These days there's no need for both dinner and a movie, a lot of these restaurants are entertainment enough for one outing. 

Here are my picks for the top restaurants for a first date in Toronto.

Annex

Take your date to Playa Cabana Hacienda for Mexican snacks like lobster tostadas and tacos. These bites are small, but the tequila list is large: good if you're the type who gets pre-date nerves.

Bloordale

Classic Italian with a modern flare, Sugo is the closest thing you'll get to a nonna's kitchen-style Italian meal — checkered table cloths included — minus nonna's judgmental stare.

Bloorcourt

Sit side-by-side in front of the open kitchen at Vit Beo for some tasty Vietnamese eats. This place is open until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Sundays, in case you're planning a super late night meet.

Chinatown

The decor at Jackpot Chicken Rice is sure to put you and your date in a good mood. That, plus delicious plates of Chinese chicken and rice along with strong cocktails will only add to the night.

Church Wellesley Village

Food is surprisingly pricey at Si Lom, but everyone really just goes for the cocktail buckets: 32-ounces of sparkling, super sweet booze concoctions that will definitely give you both a sugar high.

top first dates toronto

Campechano is a cosy little tacqueria serving guac, tequila drinks, and tacos. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Danforth East

If you’re both the simple type, but don’t want to feel drab on the first date you can hit up Borrel for a Dutch twist on hot dogs and finish with poffertjes: adorable little mini pancakes.

Dundas West

Fairly inexpensive and definitely delicious, Imanishi is perfect for Japanophiles — or at least anyone who likes little bites of Japanese food and traditional dishes like the katsu curry rice.

Entertainment District

It seems like Khao San Road will always be the go-to Thai spot in the Entertainment District, with dependably tasty pad gra prao and the favourite khao soi noodles.

Financial District

The Gabardine is the kind of place that lets you go both ways. Just like their meals, this place is the perfect blend of cosy and fancy (think fries and steak) — meaning you have the option of showing up dressed-up or totally casual.

Junction

The narrow space that is Hole in the Wall is so charming, there’s no way you can lose (unless you’re absolutely horrible company). This little spot is all brick, wood and tight spaces: the ultimate intimate getaway.

King West

Campechano is a sweet little taqueria where you can dine on tacos, guac and refreshing hibiscus tea in a colourful, fun setting. They also have some tequila drinks to really liven the mood.

first date restaurants toronto

Vibrant murals make Jackpot Chicken Rice a fun and upbeat spot for a first date. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Leslieville

If you both decided to go to Descendant Pizza on a first date, you already have something in common. Meant for the deep dish pizza lovers, these Detroit-style pies are huge (and pricey), so sharing is definitely caring here.

Little India

Meals at Godspeed Brewery aren’t the biggest, but they’re definitely tasty. The main attractions here are obviously the draft beers, brewed onsite, and a chill outdoor patio.

Little Italy

With a small Asian eats-inspired menu, Pray Tell is a hip, cozy spot from the people behind Track and Field and Montauk (both potential second date options, if all goes well).

Ossington

If dining on pizza while bathed in neon lights sounds like a great time, head to Superpoint. Despite being a lowkey spot, they’ve also got a great wine list and some potent cocktails too.

Parkdale

Snag a table at Chantecler for French eats in a lively night-time atmosphere. Sit at the bar with your date and slurp down a dozen oysters sensually with unwavering eye contact for sure-fire seduction.

Riverside

What better way to awe your date than take them to see one of the best views in town: The Rooftop at the Broadview Hotel. The vista from this third-floor restaurant will make just about anyone look spectacular.

top first dates toronto

For a traditional Italian spot with a more refreshing feel, head to Sugo. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Rosedale

If you both enjoy the European romanticism of sitting side-by-side for dinner, then the bar at Terroni Bar Centrale is very much the place to be. Head here for traditional Italian eats and a great wine list.

Queen West

The snug little 416 Snack Bar is always bumping, and for good reason. The menu of small tapas dishes is always unique and the soundtrack is regularly on point. It can get loud, which means you’ll have to lean in a little closer to each other (if that’s okay).

Roncesvalles

The booze at Tuk Tuk Canteen is great — highly recommended is the rum punch, which comes in a pitcher to share between two. Pair your drink with some Cambodian eats like crispy tofu and red curry on rice.

St. Clair West

The lean menu of rotating daily specials at Annabelle is charming and definitely cuts down on decision-making time. That means more time to chat, or rave about Annabelle’s housemade pasta.

West Queen West

Head to Otto’s Bierhalle to share a feast of German classics like sauerkraut, weisswurst sausages and spätzle, downed with pints of German beer beneath a ceiling of lush greenery.

Yonge & Dundas

Lovers of Japanese soup noodles will appreciate the deliciousness of Sansotei Ramen: a narrow space which gets busy, but whose spicy tan tan and tonkotsu black ramen are absolutely worth the wait.

Yonge & Eglinton

The most northern location of La Carnita is just as tasty as its southern counterparts. As usual, it’s all abot tacos here, but unlike the locations on John Street or College this one has a fantastic outdoor patio.

Yorkville

Reigning for quite a while as one of the best in Yorkville, Bar Reyna isn’t cheap but hey — it’s Yorkville. Despite the price, the menu will one hundred percent be a hit: you can’t go wrong with delicious Mediterranean and heavy-handed cocktails.


The top 10 patios in the Entertainment District

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Patios in the Entertainment District are some of the most sought after outdoor seating spaces in the city. Whether you're heading over post-theatre, pre-night club or for regular ol' happy hour, expect an abundance of city views and drinks at these coveted watering holes.

Here are my picks for the top patios in the Entertainment District. 

El Patio

The backyard patio at El Caballito is a secluded getaway, equipped with a beautiful mural and hanging lanterns that'll light up a late night feast of tacos and tequila shots. 

Figo

Clean and pristine, the elegant 80-seater sidewalk patio at this upscale Italian spot offers the quintessential Entertainment District outdoor locale for cocktails and prix fixe lunches. 

oasis patio toronto

The Oasis patio on top of Wayne Gretzky's comes with rooftop views. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Oasis

Sitting atop the Wayne Gretzky's bar is where you'll find this aptly named rooftop. It's definitely still a sports-focused destination, but with cushions and greenery galore it draws in crowds of non-sports fans too. 

Bar Hop Brewco

Look up from Peter Street and you'll be able to spot glimpses of this rooftop destination. Decked out in hanging lights, it also has its own massive bar for easy access. 

patios toronto

Find this sprawling patio on the roof of Bar Hop Brewco on Peter Street. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Crocodile Rock

The exterior of this bar may seem a little off-putting, (unless you're a college student or someone who's into old-timey saloons) but the rooftop patio here is pretty sweet — with booze that's unbeatably cheap for the area. 

Kost

For a luxurious night out, head to the Bisha Hotel and ascend 44 floors to access Kost, its Baja-inspired restaurant. Post up on a pool chair by the infinity pool to admire a killer view of the CN Tower. 

patios toronto

The Mascot Brewery patio comes with plenty of seating and lots of beer. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Mascot Brewery

This rooftop patio feels really big, with plenty of seating and space to stand when it gets crowded on weekends. It's also pretty great during the day for imbibing on a craft beer or two.

District Eatery

Healthy eats and great vistas: a rare find around these parts. You can indulge on gluten-free crostinis and vegan bowls to the sounds of a live DJ on the roof or on the sidewalk patio. 

patios toronto

The rooftop patio at The Porch comes with epic skyline views. Photo by Jesse Milns.

The Porch

The patio at Rock 'N' Horse Saloon has everything you could want from a rooftop: amazing views, a barbecued snack menu and down-to-earth  party vibes, even when you're situated a couple storeys above ground.

Ja Bistro

For fresh air, and even fresher sashimi, hit up this narrow and woodsy backyard spot for an intimate evening away from the hustle and bustle of the club district.

Pizza Nova is replacing iconic burger joint Dangerous Dan's

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The signs are up at Queen and Broadview confirming what we knew all along - that a Pizza Nova will be replacing Dangerous Dan's at 714 Queen St. East.

The prime corner spot was home to the iconic burger joint for 18 years before it closed just over a year ago today. 

They were forced out amid escalating rent when Pizza Nova bought the building.

Owner James McKinnon said at the time "Basically they wanted an 80 percent rent increase and repairs. I've renewed my lease four times before and I can tell the difference when a landlord wants you to renew and when they don't."

The vacated spot has sat empty for 12 months while renovations have been underway. Signs have come down (and now gone up), there's been a fresh coat of paint and the interior has been gutted.

Pizza Nova now joins a Pizza Pizza and a Pizzaiolo as one of three pizza chains in a two block stretch along Queen East.

15 things to do in Toronto this week

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Events in Toronto this week will see NXNE take over venues across the city with live music and parties all while Italian food, shawarma, beer and food truck festivals take over the city. There's also lots of free stuff to do, too!

Events you might want to check out:

Trampoline Hall (June 4 @ Garrison)
One of Toronto's favourite speaker series is back with guests Matt Cully, Marjie Francis and Shellie Zhang. Limited rush tickets available at the door.
Combustionfestival (June 4-9 @ Bad Dog Comedy Theatre)
This festival brings together comedians from all over for a week of boundary-pushing performances, workshops, exclusive projects and shows.
The Wonder Woman Show (June 5 @ Social Capital Theatre)
This show featuring Toronto's best female-identifying comedians will include character monologues, puppetry, physical comedy and more.
Luminato 2018 (June 6-24 @ Various Venues)
This annual festival starts today transforming theatres and public spaces across the city.
Artisan Cheese Night Market (June 7 @ St Lawrence Market, North Hall)
The first of its kind in Canada, this night market has cheese and charcuterie from artisan cheese makers — plus drinks and live music.
True Crime Film Festival (June 8-9 @ Royal Cinema)
True crime is a hot topic that's now reached film festival status with shorts, docs and features screening over two days.
A Tavola (June 8-10 @ Ontario Place)
All things Italian are on the menu at this giant food celebration featuring drinks, music and authentic Italian flare.
NXNE (June 8-17 @ Multiple Venues)
Taking over venues across the city is this 10-day music festival that includes a club and game portion, plus a free festival during the last three days.
Collectif NUDE's Block Party (June 9 @ Drake Commissary)
Back again is this annual block party with a day of live art, food, performances and a skate installation hosted by Canadian skateboarder Tj Rogers.
Session Craft Beer Festival (June 9 @ Dundas Square)
Ontario Craft Beer Week kicks off with a celebration in the heart of downtown with Ontario-Made suds, food, workshops and live entertainment.
Jack White (June 9 @ Budweiser Stage)
White Stripes frontman Jack White, hot off the release of his newest project Boarding House Reach, is stopping by for a night in Toronto.
Wild Things Fest (June 9 @ Propeller Coffee Co.)
New this year is a beer, wine and cider festival dedicated to only the earthliest delights made from indigenous and wild yeasts.
Shawarma Festival (June 9 @ Canary District)
Chicken, beef, falafel and every other kind of shawarma imaginable get a festival this summer.
Foodalicious (June 9-10 @ Downsview Park)
Two days of food trucks is lined up this weekend, bringing together over 30 vendors from all over for food, live music, drinks and activities.

The top 5 restaurants for a power lunch in Toronto

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Restaurants for a power lunch in Toronto are guaranteed to make an impression when quality food and service is key and a business deal hangs in the balance.

Here are my picks for the top restaurants for a power lunch in Toronto.

Constantine

This stylish restaurant inside a boutique hotel near Yonge and Bloor wows with an open kitchen in the middle of the dining room and various types of seating arrangements where you can dine on their Mediterranean-Italian fare.

lbs.

Indulge everyone with swanky seafood meals at this Financial District restaurant near Yonge and Adelaide. Prices climb as high as your ambitions for serious seafood towers, lobster rolls, claw-garnished Caesars, burgers and lamb.

The Chase

You'll need to take an elevator to this Financial District spot on Temperance with killer views. Nothing makes a power lunch like gorgeous tartare and ravioli, or a classic oyster platter.

Buca Yorkville

True bosses know that there’s only one cuisine powerful enough for them, and that’s red-blooded Italian. This restaurant at the base of the Four Seasons Residences in Yorkville might be pricey but there's no denying they're serving up an elevated take on lunch.

The Shore Club

Right next to the Ritz Carlton near University and Wellington, this steakhouse serves up crowd favourites like fish and chips, filet mignon and club sandwiches along with a serious wine list and cocktails.

Toronto to build permanent memorial for van attack victims

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It was exactly six weeks ago today that Toronto was rocked by a tragic van attack that left 10 people dead and 16 more injured along the sidewalks of Yonge Street in North York.

Enormous collections of flowers, candles, handmade signs and photographs have since accumulated at both Olive Square and Mel Lastman Square — the approximate sites where the attack is believed to have started and finished.

The pain of what happened on April 23 is still fresh in the hearts of many locals, but time and weather are taking a toll on their beautiful makeshift tributes.

In an effort to preserve the memories of those whose lives were lost and the touching mementos set out to honour them, Mayor John Tory has announced that a permanent memorial will be established near the site of the attack.

Tory said this weekend that the city would be working with survivors, victims' families and different community groups in the coming months to determine what this permanent memorial will look like.

In the meantime, the city has taken any written tributes and cards left at the site of the attack to be catalogued by the City of Toronto Archives. These items, according to Tory, will be placed in storage until the city can figure out how best to display them.

"They should form part of the historical record of Toronto because this was such a tragic event," he said to the Canadian Press on Saturday. "And the reaction to it was an important part of the history of Toronto."

A ceremony on Sunday saw the makeshift memorials at both Olive Square and Mel Lastman Square dismantled and replaced with temporary plaques.

"The pain this attack caused will be slow to heal, but the response of love in the midst of tragedy will always be remembered," reads a portion of what's written on the temporary plaques.

"Our cries of sorrow are slowly being transformed into a song of healing."

This Week on DineSafe: Tim Hortons, Mascot Brewery, KFC, Figo, Subway, Rolltation

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This week on DineSafe a number of chains got busted by Toronto health inspectors. Tim Hortons, KFC and Subway were all slapped with multiple infractions resulting in conditional passes.

Learn what other Toronto spots got busted by city health inspectors this week on DineSafe.

Coffee Time (2288 Dundas St. West)
  • Inspected on: May 28, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 2 (Minor: 1, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to maintain hazardous foods at 4C (40F) or colder.
Impact Kitchen (444 Adelaide St. West)
  • Inspected on: May 28, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 4 (Significant: 3, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to maintain hazardous foods at 60C (140F) or hotter.
Eva's Original Chimneys (3401 Dufferin St.)
  • Inspected on: May 29, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 4 (Significant: 3, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator failed to wash hands when required.
Mascot Brewery (31 Mercer St.)
  • Inspected on: May 29, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 7 (Minor: 2, Significant: 5)
  • Crucial infractions include: N/A
MyMy Chicken (394 Bloor St. West)
  • Inspected on: May 29, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 7 (Minor: 3, Significant: 4)
  • Crucial infractions include: N/A
Tim Hortons (481 Danforth Ave.)
  • Inspected on: May 29, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 1, Significant: 2)
  • Crucial infractions include: N/A
Chongqing Laojiumen (4771 Steeles Ave. East)
  • Inspected on: May 30, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 2, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator failed to maintain hazardous foods at 4C (40F) or colder.
Rolltation (3 Carlton St.)
  • Inspected on: May 30, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 2, Significant: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: N/A
The Bar With No Name (1651 Bloor St. West)
  • Inspected on: May 30, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 4 (Minor: 2, Significant: 2)
  • Crucial infractions include: N/A
Love Chix (1588 Dupont St.)
  • Inspected on: May 31, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 4 (Minor: 1, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to maintain hazardous foods at 60C (140F) or hotter.
Me Va Me Kitchen Express (240 Queen St. West)
  • Inspected on: May 31, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 7 (Minor: 3, Significant: 3, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to maintain hazardous foods at 4C (40F) or colder.
Randy's (1569 Eglinton Ave. West)
  • Inspected on: May 31, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 3, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator failed to ensure food is not contaminated/adulterated.
Subway (15A Finch Ave. West)
  • Inspected on: May 31, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 2 (Significant: 1, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to maintain hazardous foods at 4C (40F) or colder.
Figo (295 Adelaide St. West)
  • Inspected on: June 1, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 3 (Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to maintain hazardous foods at 4C (40F) or colder.
KFC (5109 Sheppard Ave. East)
  • Inspected on: June 1, 2018
  • Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
  • Number of infractions: 1 (Crucial: 1)
  • Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to maintain hazardous foods at 4C (40F) or colder.

Note: The above businesses each received infractions from DineSafe as originally reported on the DineSafe site. This does not imply that any of these businesses have not subsequently corrected the issue and received a passing grade by DineSafe inspectors. For the latest status for each of the mentioned businesses, including details on any subsequent inspections, please be sure to check the DineSafe site.

Home prices continue to fall in Toronto

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Toronto's real estate market is still on a downward slide in terms of both home sales and home prices, new data from TREB shows, but the decline is starting to get less steep.

In its monthly market figures report, the Toronto Real Estate Board shows that the average selling price for all home types across the GTA was down by 6.6 per cent, year over year, in May of 2018.

Compared against the month previous, however, the average selling price was actually up 1.1 per cent, from $804,584 to $805,320.

Home sales, on the other hand, were still lower in May than they were in April, but not by much; only 0.4 per cent.

Year over year, we saw a decline of 22.2 per cent last month, with only 7,834 sales reported through MLS — but that actually marks an uptick in market activity, as the annual rates of decline were more than 30 per cent in February, March and April.

Analysts believe that a lack of home supply (new listings were down by 26.2 per cent, year over year, in May) is driving up competition between buyers

This, says TREB's Director of Market Analysis, Jason Mercer could boost home prices overall in the coming months.

"Market conditions are becoming tighter in the Greater Toronto Area and this will provide support for home prices as we move through the second half of 2018 and into 2019," said Mercer in a press release on Monday.

"There are emerging indicators pointing toward increased competition between buyers, which generally leads to stronger price growth."


Adelaide Eats outdoor market is not returning to Toronto this summer

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Lunchtime is taking a bit of a hit in the Financial District this summer with the absence of Adelaide Eats: an outdoor food court and market that's been giving office workers an al fresco option since 2016.

The culinary oasis, originally known as Front Street Foods Market at Adelaide Place, was known for bringing some of Toronto's best chefs, bakers, artisans and restaurants together on the second floor terrace of Adelaide Place at 150 York Street.

Last year, local vendors could be found serving up such delicacies as fried chicken, paella, empanadas, brisket, bao, burgers, jerk chicken, ice cream sandwiches and more.

Every weekday, all June and July. It was glorious.

For those of you wondering when the market will finally open for 2018, well... it won't.

Toronto Market Co., the organization behind Adelaide Eats, says the outdoor food court "will not be on this summer."

Instead, the group is working on "a number of other great markets with local participants in that area of the city."

Details will be available soon, according to organizers, but no word yet on whether the prime location at 150 York Street will still be in the mix. 

In the meantime, I suppose you could buy something from The Path and bring it outside to eat. Good luck finding stuff like fried plantains from La Fiesta down there, though. The Path isn't exactly food truck friendly.

Fancy condo to replace another Toronto rooming house

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A luxurious new 36-storey condominium could soon be rising from the ashes of an extended-stay hotel on Jarvis Street, just south of Gerrard Street East.

Minto Communities Inc. is seeking permission from the city to tear down and replace the Inglewood Arms Hotel — a three-story long-term lodging facility at 295 Jarvis Street.

Unlike the Palace Arms and Waverly Hotel— two other low income, long-term rental buildings recently slated for redevelopment — there's not a whole lot of information readily available about the Inglewood, save for reports of a 1985 murder and some serial arson activity

Inglewood arms toronto

The building that is now the Inglewood Arms Hotel on Jarvis Street was built in the early 20th century, according to documents submitted to the City of Toronto. Image via Google Maps.

A housing issues report indicates that the building currently consists of 95 private rooms, 28 of them with private bathrooms. It has a rooming house license from the City of Toronto and is said to operate "almost entirely on a walk-in basis."

If all goes well for developers, they will proceed with a tower containing 352 units: 14 studios, 224 one-bedrooms, 97 two-bedrooms and 16 three-bedrooms. 

When finished, they hope that the building will add additional liveliness and vibrancy to the historic Garden District.

295 Jarvis Toronto

With 36 storeys, the proposed condo tower at 295 Jarvis will be significantly higher than anything else in the immediate area. Image via CORE Architects/City of Toronto submission.

The Inglewood is not listed in the City of Toronto's Heritage Register, but one property adjacent to it is: A three-storey row housing dating to 1890, built in the Romanesque Revival style using brick, sandstone and terra cotta, at 285-291 Jarvis Street.

This means designers will need to be extra careful in making the new building fit nicely into the surrounding area — an area, I might add, that includes Toronto's most-storied Harvey's location.

It's also just steps from Allen Gardens, which should prove a popular draw for residents who move into this increasingly dense part of downtown Toronto.

These are the worst roads in Toronto

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With a provincial election now just days away, the CAA has released its annual list of the worst roads in Ontario — and there appears to have been an upset, of sorts, in the Toronto region.

Dufferin Street, long thought to be the most-busted street in all the land, was ousted this year from its spot atop Toronto's list of crappiest roads.

In its place stands Eglinton Avenue West, which was voted the worst road in Toronto for 2018, and the fifth-worst road in Ontario. Dufferin is now ranked the second-worst road in Toronto and comes in at spot number seven province-wide.

Here are the worst roads in Toronto this year, according to CAA voters:

  • Eglinton Avenue West
  • Dufferin Street
  • Yonge Street
  • Eglinton Avenue East
  • Steeles Avenue East

As you can see, both Eglinton Avenue West and Eglinton Avenue East joined the list this year at spots one and four, locally.

CAA attributes their presence on the list to potholes, crumbing pavement and "the fact that Eglinton Avenue is undergoing one of the largest transit expansions in North America." In other words, construction.

The good news coming out of today's announcement is that only two Toronto streets managed to crack the provincial top 10 for 2018.

Aside from Eglinton West and Dufferin, that list is comprised entirely of roads in Hamilton, Prince Edward County, Barrie, Belleville, St. Catharines and Niagara Falls.

That's something we've not been able to say in quite some time, so cheers either to the City of Toronto for all of its hard work, or to cities like Barrie and Hamilton for sucking so bad that Dufferin Street is now only the seventh-crappiest road in Ontario.

I'm happy either way.

The Best Italian Restaurants in Toronto

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The best Italian restaurants in Toronto are known not only for their food, but their atmosphere as well. From pizza, pasta, antipasti, seafood and good wine, these spots have all the favourites.

Here are the best Italian restaurants in Toronto.

9 - Sugo

Dressed-down Italian sells like hotcakes at this Bloordale red sauce joint complete with checkered tablecloths. A tight menu of pastas, hot sandwiches and smaller items like meatballs, stuffed peppers and fried calamari can be enjoyed here along with Italian beer and economical cocktails.
3 - Buca (King West)

At this King West powerhouse, plates composed like works of art elevate standard Italian ingredients of tomato, eggplant and radicchio. Pasta is topped with caviar, their famous elongated pizzas with wild boar.
6 - Enoteca Sociale

This Dundas West mainstay from the same people behind Pizzeria Libretto serves up Roman style cuisine including house made pasta and salumi.
4 - Gusto 101

This Italian heavyweight near King and Portland does pizza and pasta as well as a lot of Nonna’s favourites from the old days in an always bustling space alongside street side and rooftop patios.
10 - Il Covo

Hide away at this Little Italy spot from a chef formerly at Buca, where precious handmade fresh pastas are stuffed with cheese or piled high with caviar, veggies are wrapped in lardo and there’s a cellar packed with rare wines and amaros.
5 - Piano Piano

The Italian heart of Toronto beats within the kitchen of this Harbord Village restaurant. Classic luscious carbonaras join pizzas with perfect leoparding on the crust and silver platters of salumi on the menu.
7 - Terroni

Reigning champ of the Toronto Italian scene, one of multiple locations with idyllic patios can be sought out for feasts of meat, cheese, olives, pizzas and pastas, as well as their beloved DIY gin and tonic menu.
11 - Giulietta

This Brockton Village spot in what used to be Bestellen puts out spicy sopressata woodfired pizzas, wholesome Italian veggie sides and must-try scarpinocc in a supremely designed space with top notch service.
8 - Campagnolo

From the deep maroon interior to the open kitchen at this Dundas West restaurant, everything in here screams Italian. Seasonal ingredients influence lovingly put together plates of agnolotto, burrata, pasta and more.

U of T is the top Canadian school in latest world rankings

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They've done it again, folks! The University of Toronto has been ranked the best school in Canada, according to the Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings.

U of T tied for 22nd with Switzerland's ETH Zurich — a small improvement on last year when they were ranked 24th. The next Canadian school in the rankings was the University of British Columbia sitting at 38th, followed by McGill University in 41st.  

In these rankings U.S. schools dominate, with Harvard, MIT and Stanford taking the top three spots. Closely following, however, are U.K. schools University of Cambridge and University of Oxford. 

The survey is conducted on an invite-only basis where it asks senior, published academics "to name no more than 15 universities that they believe are the best for research and teaching in their field, based on their own experience."

Closer to home, in the Maclean's national reputation rankings, U of T is ranked first and trailed by other Toronto universities Ryerson and York at 13th and 21st, respectively. 

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