Yorkville Post May 2026

POST INTERVIEW

With the arrival of the Toronto Tempo and its first-ever home game on May 8, the WNBA has officially landed in the city. For Kia Nurse, it’s more than just another chapter in her career. The Ontario native returns home as part of the franchise’s inaugural roster, bringing veteran leadership and a deep sense of what this moment means for basketball in the country.

How does it feel to finally have a WNBA team in Toronto — and to be on it?

Awesome. Honestly, I'm really excited for the opportunity to be at home this season. To see how Canada's already embracing this team, and we haven't even really played a real game yet, has been so awesome. So I think it's gonna be really exciting, and I know it's gonna have such a great impact for years to come on Canadian basketball, for sure.

Tell me about how the opportunity came about.

I was a free agent, so I could go anywhere, and obviously, once the CBA got finalized, it was a sprint to the finish and getting to this date and getting everything signed. And so with conversations with my agent and taking a free agency meeting here in Toronto, it just felt right.

What kind of role do you see for yourself?

BORN: Hamilton, 1996

SCHOOL: University of Connecticut

BIG BREAK: Drafted 10th overall by the New York Liberty

MADE FOR TV: Also a Toronto Raptors analyst for TSN

The WNBA’s Toronto Tempo kicks off May 8 with a familiar face running point

she does a really good job of being a players-first coach. She does a really good job of building relationships with players, and that's a really important part of what we're trying to do.

What have you noticed about the WNBA’s growth?

It's been huge growth and a ton of momentum. And I think that's something that's been really exciting, just filling out arenas and the following on social media, the followings and excitement around the league itself. It's been really fun to be a part of.

What are the biggest differences from early in your career?

CITY HACKS

Don’t want to deal with the High Park TikTokers?

Here are four secret cherry blossom spots.

Centre Island

Why not hop on the ferry and head over for a day on Toronto Island for a mini escape to see the sakura trees in bloom. There is a small grove on Centre Island.

Japanese Cultural Centre

This Don Mills centre has an annual Sakura Cherry Blossom Festival. Or just show up and check out the trees in a serene setting.

Edwards Garden

Just a gorgeous spot for a walk at any time of year, this gem has a small grove of sakura trees and feels more like a curated garden.

“THE SIZE AND THE DESIRE AND HUNGER FOR TICKETS HAS DEFINITELY CHANGED.”

I think, for me, it's just bringing my ability to space the floor and knock down the three ball and then my toughness and kind of getting after it while I'm out there.

Sandy Brondello seems a

coach for this team.

I had the opportunity to play with Sandy in Phoenix, and I think

Just as a player, I think if you look at it, obviously the arenas that we're selling out now and the size and the desire and hunger for tickets has definitely changed. I mean, I flew commercial airlines for the first six years of my career.

How is first-ever draft pick Kiki Rice looking?

Kiki's been awesome. Honestly, she's having a great training camp, and I think she's coming in with this experience and obviously coming off of a national championship. And knowing what it takes to get there and how hard it is, she's already a natural hard worker.

What will that first home game feel like, after such a long wait for this?

Honestly, it'll feel like a full circle moment. I think it'll be hard to put into words as I'm going through it, but just having put so much into basketball and being a role model and trying to help grow the game in this country and having to do that from not inside the country a lot of the time has been really difficult. So it'll be really fun to be able to run out on that court.

—Ron Johnson

UTSC

Worth a trip to Scarborough, this University of Toronto campus is lovely. The parklike setting is one of the most peaceful spots in the city, complete with meandering

THORNHILL DENTAL

ROBOT HEADS

Coachella sets the cultural agenda for the summer, and this year, it was all about Justin. Well, maybe two Justins, as both Bieber and another guy named Trudeau made headlines for very different reasons. Here’s the tale of the tape:

Trudeau Ottawa, Ont.

Bon vivant

Little Potato

Born into a political dynasty, gave a great eulogy, he then followed in his father’s footsteps as Prime Minister.

Trudeau partied with his new girlfriend and music icon, Katy Perry, dancing and living his best life.

Trudeau has hit the speaker circuit, headlining major events such as EuroFinance International and Impact.

The hottest trend in Toronto is all about phone- and camerafree fun

Before the Internet

The OGs of the phone-free movement in Toronto are party planners Before the Internet. And they have two phone-free events coming up in May. First up, on May 9 is Casa Fest at Polson Pier, which is being billed as a summer kickoff event with a slew of hot DJs in the lineup.

Musician

Biebs

Caught crooning this tune entitled “Baby” on the streets of Stratford: the world fell in love.

Bieber reasserted his pop music dominance with two stirring and very different performances at Coachella.

New tour could be announced any day for the pop star, who lives an hour outside of the city in Puslinch.

Turn Off & Turn Up!

This DJ-driven event at the Pint Public House is scheduled for May 30. Expect Top 40 and throwback hits with a strict zero-distraction policy and optional phone check-in.

First no-camera club

A new club is opening at 19 Toronto St., dubbed Complex19, that will come with a strict no-camera policy. You can keep your phone, but they will place a sticker over the lens. If the sticker is removed, then you’re outta there.

Where to eat well in Toronto right now

RON JOHNSON is the editorial director of Post City Magazines.

It’s getting expensive out there — no way around it. And with more gas price hikes looming, there’s little relief on the horizon. Every decision about how we spend our hardearned dollars feels heavier than it used to. When you do decide to go out, you want to know it’s going to be worth it.

Which brings us to this month’s cover story: the best restaurants in the city.

Toronto has evolved into a culinary powerhouse — the best food scene in Canada and one of the most exciting in North America. But like everything else right now, dining out doesn’t come cheap. A night out for two can feel like a splurge, and for a family, it can be a full-on investment.

So we set out to make it easier. We’ve rounded up the very best the city has to offer for those special-occasion meals — but we didn’t stop there. We’ve also highlighted standout spots where you can eat exceptionally well without blowing your budget.

How did we land on our picks? We went straight to the source: the chefs who know Toronto’s dining scene better than anyone. We surveyed more than 70 of them, asking where they go when they want to spend big — and where they go when they don’t.

Think of it as your insider’s guide to eating well in 2026. And just in time, too. Spring is finally making its long-awaited return and patios will soon be buzzing for al fresco dining.

After such a horrendous winter, we need some sun and some fun. And, that also means everyone’s favourite summer charity beer, Street of Toronto’s Raccoon Lager will be returning. This season, order a glass at restaurants such as Fat Pasha and 7 Numbers as well as all those delicious O&B spots such as Maison Selby and Jump.

Our annual fundraiser is in support of the Daily Bread Food Bank. So, cheers.

ULTIMATE CITY GUIDES

TRENDING T.O.

What is making news and who is making us snooze in the headlines this month

Sun No Longer in Hiding

After months of below average temperatures and recordsetting snowfall, the sun has returned and all is right again.

Gravy Plane

Premier Doug Ford is in trouble again — this time for buying a private plane on the taxpayers’ dime, then being forced to sell it, probably at a loss. LOL.

The Iceman Melteh

Drake was a busy rapper in the city blowing up stuff in Downsview Park then creating a massive ice sculpture downtown, flouting city rules all the livelong day.

Car-Free Finally

Toronto has lagged far behind other cities in creating car-free spaces for people. Now, a Church Street pilot project could finally change that.

Jet Ski Just Go-Go

Jet Skis and party boats are dangerous, banning them from some Toronto waterfront areas is smart. Buh-bye.

Ryanair Ain’t Wrong

The European airline took a shot at the fine Blue Jays fare at Rogers Centre, namely cotton candy fries. Sure, they’re cheap and cramped, buuttt, Ryanair might have a point.

Leverage rising fuels toward greener Canada

Rising fuel prices hurt almost everyone — driving up the cost of transportation, food and electricity (even when much of the latter comes from cheaper renewable sources). Rising living costs disproportionately harm those who can least afford it.

Recent price hikes — during a growing affordability crisis — are in large part due to the United States’ ill-advised and poorly planned attacks on Iran. These compelled Iran to choke shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-quarter of the world’s seaborne oil and gas is moved.

Unmoved by the clear advantages of renewable energy over energy from coal, oil and gas — lower costs, less pollution, greater supply and price stability, improved energy independence, reduced conflict — petrostates and fossil fuel–supporting governments continue to impose measures to stall renewable energy development while incentivizing fossil fuel expansion.

The U.S. offers a clear example, but even in Canada, Alberta continues to throw roadblocks onto the renewable path while clearing the way for more oil sands, liquefied natural gas and coal production.

Among other recent restrictions, Alberta imposed a moratorium on renewable energy

development in 2023 and is promoting oil sands and LNG expansion and new pipelines.

The fossil fuel industry is driving up living costs for most people, polluting and heating the planet.

Why do we put up with it?

Switching to technologies like wind and solar with storage will give us a chance of stalling and reversing global heating. It will also give us cleaner air, water and land, increase affordability, provide greater energy stability and reliability, improve energy independence and reduce the bloody disputes over limited fossil fuels.

It’s not a difficult choice.

In support of autonomous driving

Waymo has requested permission to enter the Toronto market and test autonomous vehicles. While some have voiced opposition, I am in favour — and I hope they are allowed to proceed.

I recognize this position is not without complication.

More than 80,000 rideshare vehicles operate in the city, completing over 210,000 rides every day. For many, this is not a side hustle but an essential source of financial stability. That concern deserves to be taken seriously.

And yet, I remain in favour.

My view is shaped by first-hand experience. Several years ago, I was granted early media access to Waymo. What struck me most was not novelty but the precision. It felt very safe.

What was once experimental is now routine. In 2026, autonomous rides are an everyday occurrence in Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Austin. The technology has matured, and the data has followed.

What solidified my view was a New York Times article by Dr. Jonathan Slotkin, a neurosurgeon at Geisinger Medical Center,

who examined millions of miles of autonomous vehicle data. His conclusion: these systems are materially safer than human drivers. Not incrementally. Significantly.

We tend to frame this conversation around convenience or cost. It is neither. It is a public health issue.

After nearly 40 years of publishing in this city, and through a journey that took me from a hospital foundation to a hospital board, I have encountered too many people whose lives were permanently altered by car accidents — severe injuries, fractured families. These outcomes are not rare. They are systemic.

Yes, there will be labour disruption. But new categories of employment will emerge — systems management, remote monitoring and infrastructure. Work will evolve.

Displacing 80,000 workers is not a small thing. It demands serious policy and compassion. But allowing preventable deaths to continue because change is hard — that is not caution. That is a choice. And it is the wrong one.

—Lorne London

City moves to protect Yorkville village heritage

Bloor-Yorkville may be known for its luxury storefronts and highrise living, but the city has now formally moved to recognize some of the area’s historic character too.

on some of its side streets if the city waits too long to act.

In April, Toronto City Council adopted a heritage planning item that identifies 88 properties in the Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood as having potential cultural heritage value or interest, meaning that parts of Yorkville could eventually see stronger heritage protection in the future.

The properties under consideration include apartment buildings and commercial structures, such as the Manulife Centre at 55 Bloor St. W., which, on paper, may sound good, but some feel the list is too “liberal” and would result in excessive restrictions for property owners.

A joint letter from the ABC Residents Association, the Greater Yorkville Residents’ Association and Bloor East Neighbourhood Association strongly backed the staff recommendations, arguing that delays have left heritage resources more vulnerable at a time when development pressure is increasing. They also said that since the “Yorkville Village Core” is a relatively compact area of about 28 properties, it’s manageable to study for possible district protection.

At a March 12 Toronto Preservation Board meeting, Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) Ontario specifically objected to the building located at 69 Bloor St. W. being included on the list, due to the “maintenance costs associated with such a designation and the limitations that would come with such a designation in the future.”

But supporters say Yorkville could lose the low-rise, villagelike character that still survives

“Given its limited scale, cultural significance, and economic importance to the City, there is a strong and compelling case to proceed without further delay,” group representatives said in a joint letter addressed to city council in April.

For now, no new heritage protections have been finalized, but staff is being directed to take the necessary next steps, including public and community consultations, to determine whether the “Yorkville Village Core” (or part of it) should move forward to a formal Heritage Conservation District study.

—Nisean Lorde

Ossington and other west end school lands eyed by province

A fight over a Toronto housing policy has turned into a much bigger debate about the future of public school land in the city. The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) is appealing a City of Toronto decision that excludes active school properties from a new planning policy meant to make it easier to build more housing along major streets.

At the centre of the dispute is Toronto’s Avenues policy, which is supposed to help add more mid-rise housing along major roads. Under the proposal, buildings of about six to 14 storeys could be allowed along portions of Christie, College, Davenport, Dupont, Dufferin, Dundas West, Oakwood and Ossington without going through the usual extra planning approvals first. In theory, that would make it easier and faster to build denser housing.

At first, some school properties were included in the policy but then pushback came from parents and community groups: Making school lands easier to redevelop could make them more attractive down the road, which lowers one of the barriers that helps protect public school sites from development pressure.

“While the intention to add transit-supportive housing is understood, the pilot presents several issues that require further work. Active school sites and quiet residential streets have been redesignated despite not being appropriate locations for mid-rise development,” the Beaconsfield Village Residents Association warns in a letter to

“Active school sites and quiet residential streets have been redesignated.”

Toronto City Council.

“Consultation reached very few local residents, raising questions about whether those most affected had a fair chance to understand or comment. The proposal also contains no requirements for affordable or family-sized housing, no accompanying parkland strategy, and no area-wide analyses of servicing, transit, or school capacity,” the letter states.

After residents raised concerns, council exempted active school lands from those des-

ignation changes. But now, the TDSB wants some of those lands put back in.

In a statement to local media, the board said it’s not currently considering the sale of any school properties affected by this appeal and argued that it wants the sites included in the city’s policy “as originally contemplated” to protect its ability to accommodate future students.

The dispute also highlights the tension facing cities like Toronto: how to balance the urgent need for new housing with the long-term preservation of public land for community uses. School sites, in particular, are often seen as among the last large parcels of publicly controlled land in established neighbourhoods, making them both valuable and politically sensitive.

The outcome of the appeal could have implications beyond the handful of sites involved, potentially setting a precedent for how school boards and municipalities coordinate land-use planning in the future. It may also influence how aggressively the city can pursue its housing targets while maintaining public confidence in how key community assets are protected.

—Nisean Lorde

Gunfire at synagogue prompts hate crime unit

York Regional Police are looking for a suspect after a victim was assaulted at a Vaughan synagogue on April 25.

The incident took place at 7026 Bathurst St., where a suspect tried to force his way into the facility and assaulted a victim, who was not injured.

Recently, a Thornhill rabbi urged authorities to take stronger action against antisemitism after three GTA synagogues were struck by gunfire in the span of a week in March.

Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto, known as BAYT, was struck by gunfire just after midnight in early March, near Clark Avenue and York Hill Boulevard in Thornhill.

According to a local media report, bullet holes and shattered glass were visible at the synagogue’s front door after the shooting.

The Thornhill shooting came minutes before Shaarei Shomayim in North York was also struck by gunfire, and earlier that same week, Temple Emanu-El in North York was damaged in a separate shooting.

No injuries were reported in any of the three incidents, and police have been investigating whether the shootings are connected.

Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca also condemned the attack in March and on April 25, saying he was “disgusted and angered” and calling on other levels of government to take specific action to make clear that antisemitism will not be tolerated.

In response to this and a growing number of incidents in the area, Michelle Cooper, MPP has introduced and unanimously passed a Private Member’s Motion calling for the creation of a specialized Hate Crime Prosecution Unit.

“Hate crimes strike at the very foundation of our society,” said Cooper.

“They fracture communities, erode trust and make people feel unsafe simply for who they are. Addressing them requires action, expertise and coordination.”

Since the incidents, there have been intensified calls for stronger protections around places of worship.

York Regional Police has increased its presence around synagogues in the city, and a mobile command post was also stationed at Promenade mall in Thornhill

—Nisean Lorde

Mirvish Village is finally back with Badiali and Book Bar

With high-profile newcomers, such as Pizzeria Badiali, set to open in May, Mirvish Village is on the cusp of a shift — from construction project to a destination neighbourhood that will draw visitors from across the city.

Along Markham Street, finishing touches on the public realm are lining up with the arrival of these early tenants, offering the clearest signal yet of what this reimagined stretch of the Annex is about to become.

“We’re very excited,” said Ryan Baddeley, of Pizzeria Badiali, about the opening. “[The new location] takes inspiration from old European cafés and restaurants, with lots of beautiful tiling and wood accents. It will be the same concept as our Dovercourt location but will have more indoor and outdoor seating.”

Another exciting opening on the way soon is Book Bar, a twostorey bookstore and bar housed in one of the original Victorian homes along Markham Street.

“The development itself is so unique, and I think it's just going to be a gem in the city,” said Tom Freeman, one of the founders of Book Bar, along with his partner Robin Storfer. “So we're just so excited to be a part of the community, and we

just think, with the level of retail that's coming into the place, it's going to be just amazing.”

The Mirvish Village project replaces the former Honest Ed’s site with a five-building, mixeduse community.

Rising between 13 and 26 storeys just west of Bathurst Street and south of Bloor Street West, the development brings more than 900 rental units together with retail, institutional space and a network of pedestrian-oriented streets and courtyards.

“It takes inspiration from old European cafés and restaurants.”

Markham Street at street level will be the focal point. But, it is taking time, and city councillor Dianne Saxe has been working on it.

“I’ve been pushing very hard to get this project finished and opened,” said Saxe. “I passed some motions at TEYCC and today [April 22] to implement the site plan changes for traffic control. Markham Street should open in the next few weeks, and the [Honest Ed’s] park later this spring.”

The rebuilt streetscape prioritizes pedestrians, with pavers replacing traditional asphalt, raised planters installed along the edges and a shared-street design intended to slow vehicles and encourage foot traffic.

The row of heritage storefronts — long associated with the old Honest Ed’s block — has been carefully restored, with repaired brickwork, updated windows and subtle contemporary interventions that prepare the spaces for new retail.

Within the site, the public realm is in place. Curving walkways connect Markham Street to the interior courtyard, where new trees, planting beds and timber seating areas have been installed.

A glazed market hall beneath the towers is also nearing completion and is expected to open later this year, adding even more retail and food offerings.

What happens next will depend largely on the tenants. With independent operators like Badiali and Book Bar leading the way, the early signs point to a mix that leans local.

If that approach holds, Markham Street could quickly establish itself as a destination and more organic extension of the Annex.

—Ron Johnson

*Acted as buyer agent

Contact me today for your free, no obligation market analysis at 416.494.7653 or jamie@jamiedempster.ca!

French café, massive yoga spot & more

Well Played Fitness recently opened its doors in Leaside. The modern Pilates and yoga studio is located inside the Fairgrounds pickleball club and features both classes (including yoga, meditation and mat Pilates) and recovery offerings such as red light therapy, IV drips and compression. You can try out the new fitness spot at 849 Eglinton Ave. E.

Galleria Supermarket has opened its largest store in Thornhill, featuring a new flagship “KTown” concept at 300 Steeles Ave. W. The new location blends grocery retail, dining, and cultural experiences. The store has an expanded grocery selection, Galleria’s largest deli kitchen, and Galleria Avenue food court with vendors such as Kenzo Ramen and Woojoo Bunsik, plus the first Canadian Ediya Coffee and Paris Baguette.

Bready Cafe, the hybrid patisserié and café cooking up Instagrammable croissants and piles of bread, just opened a new location at Yonge and Eglinton. The new café at 2433 Yonge St. has plenty of seating and an extensive coffee, smoothie and even food menu on top of the esthetically pleasing pastries, making it a go-to spot for remote work and coffee dates.

Buzz ’A’ Beat recently launched at Yonge and Lawrence, bringing a one-of-a-kind music experience to the neighbourhood. Starting as young as newborn, with Buzz Babies, a pianooriented class for babies and caregivers, up to age eight for group piano lessons, the music school is located at 3285 Yonge St.

Bello Italian Sandwich Co. is about to be Toronto’s latest and greatest sandwich concept. Signage went up for the new eatery at 3305 Yonge St. in midtown, and although their online presence is sparse, an Instagram account notes that the shop will soon be serving up premium sandwiches on house-made schiacciata.

Seen Kitchen and Lounge is bringing mystery and intrigue to Vaughan! Not much is known about this new restaurant at 4101 Rutherford Rd., but their Instagram presence suggests it will be an upscale lounge featuring fine dining, craft cocktails and a live DJ, with some late-night offerings as well.

BREAK-INS BY NEIGHBOURHOOD

Last month the highest percentage of break-ins were between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (44%). The day of the week with the most incidents was Wednesday (15%) and the majority of incidents occurred on weekdays (77%).

ANNEX & QUEEN WEST

15

APR. 15

Condo king Brad Lamb spills the tea on the Toronto market

What’s your market prediction for the year ahead?

Unbeknownst to people, the condo market is slowly getting better. It’s all about excess inventory, and if you look at the amount of inventory in the central districts, last year at this time there were around 3,400 properties for sale. Now, there’s about 2,700. So we’re just kind of turning a corner now; we’re seeing rental rates going higher too.

What’s changed?

Part of the goal of the government’s new HST move [removing HST for first-time buyers of new builds under $1 million], was to help builders sell their excess inventory and not get demolished. By removing the HST on builder inventory, we can now compete and sell our product at the same price as the resale and not have to pay a 13 per cent tax. Condos sold are going to go up, and builder inventory will go down. That will stabilize the market and turn prices higher.

That will all happen this year? This is probably a year where in-

ventory will fall, and prices will creep up but not by much. The other part of the HST equation is that the government wants builders to build again. But most of the people who buy new condos are investors, and they’re losing $100,000 to $300,000 a unit on condos that are closing right now, so they’re not exactly happy, and they’re not dying to get back into the market. With how the government packaged the HST move, an investor will have to still

pay that extra 13 per cent on closing, rent the apartment and then get the money back. I don’t think they’ll like that.

Do developers fear that investors won't return to the market in the same numbers as years past?

That’s definitely a major concern of mine. I think we’ll have to fight harder for buyers. You have to do more work for buyers, more incentives. We'll have to be kinder

to buyers. I don’t think we’ll be going back to 25,000 condos sold in a year. This year, we’ll probably see 6,000 to 8,000 sold, which is better than zero. And we’ll probably get up to 12,000 or 15,000 at the max, but I don’t see us going back to that frenzy yet. That’s a while away, probably five, six, seven years away.

Does being kinder to buyers mean moving away from the shoebox condos?

Are there any deals on Muskoka’s biggest lakes?

No, we build based on what you can afford: a first-time buyer with a combined income of $120,000, they can afford $3,000 a month, and we reverse engineer from there. So no, that’s not going to change; it’s actually going to get worse.

If someone is looking to buy right now while the market is down, where would you advise them to go?

West of Yonge Street, east of Strachan Avenue, down to Front Street and maybe up to Bloor Street. And I’ve already heard some people are going to launch at $1,000 a square foot, which is a bargain. People should buy them, if they’re smart. Developers are going to give you lower down payment schedules. They’ll probably give you incentives: no taxes for a year or no condo fees for a year or 5,000 free upgrades.

SUMMER CAMPS + PROGRAMS

Bayview Glen Camp

Since 1962, we have been creating unforgettable summer memories for thousands of children as one of Toronto's longest-running day camps. Bayview Glen offers enriched, age-appropriate programs for campers ages 4-6, specialty camps for campers 7-12, and a leadership program for campers 13-15. We also offer an inclusion program for campers requiring additional support. Two week block registration options are available. Join us on the centrally located, secure, and air-conditioned campus of Bayview Glen School, where campers can enjoy sports fields, a theatre, tech/robotics labs, art studios, gymnasiums, outdoor spaces, and swimming in our brand new indoor pool! Specialty camps include art, basketball, soccer, musical theatre, dance, magic, coding, and robotics. We even offer off-site specialty camps like sailing and lake days! Convenient bus depot pick-up and drop-off points are located throughout the GTA!

Prestige School

Prestige School’s Summer Camp Program is just the fun, activity-filled, yet educational summer that your children are looking for! Our camp, which offers a wide variety of exciting activities that keep all kids engaged, educated, and entertained, starts on July 6th and ends on August 28th, 2026. Our sports program includes Outdoor Games, Basketball, Volleyball, and Soccer. We also offer educational programs such as English, French studies, Spanish, English as a Second Language, and Logic Boosters. We also provide activities such as Fun Science, Computer Design, Computer Animation and 3D Modelling, Drawing, Painting, Sculpting, Chess, Baking and Nutrition. Campers attend exciting weekly Field Trips throughout the summer and visits to the Swimming Pool/Splash pad. The camp runs from Monday - Friday from 8am - 6pm. Hot lunch is provided daily. Door-to-door transportation is available. Summer School Credit Courses for gr. 9-12 now offered.

CAMP TYPE: Day Camp

AGE RANGE: 4-13

TOTAL ENROLMENT: N/A

CAMPER/STAFF RATIO:

CAMP TYPE: Day Camp

AGE RANGE: 3-19 years

TOTAL ENROLMENT: 50-70

CAMPER/STAFF RATIO: Varies

SESSION LENGTH: July & August

SESSION COST: $450 per week

CAMP DIRECTOR: Olga Margold

CONTACT: 416-250-0648 prestigeprivateschool.ca

Alessia Cara on life in T.O., a new album & Norah Jones

At Noble Studios, where 29-year-old Alessia Cara recorded her sensuous new jazz album Love or Lack Thereof, we talked candidly with the Grammy-winner about Toronto’s food scene, jazz inflection and her go-to cocktail spot.

This album marks something of a departure from your usual R & B pop. Was the new direction brewing for a while?

We wrote the song “I’m in Trouble” one day before we went into Noble to record, and it changed the direction of the entire project. With jazz, it’s, like, do you go New Orleans swing? Bossa nova? How do we best represent the sound that we love? And with “I’m in Trouble” we found it: bluesy soul, and it solidified the entire record.

You’ve been vocal about your own mental health journey and struggles with insomnia. What do you hear from your fans, especially young women?

Using my actual voice to share real experiences and let people know they’re not alone and dive deeper into feelings, feelings we all share but especially young women like your daughter, is everything. Trying to stretch each one of these feelings into three-minute sketches is the thing about being an artist I most love.

You blew up quickly on YouTube at 13 and have been recognizable for most of your life. What do we get wrong about the life of child stars?

It’s just not something human beings are accustomed to, and I’m certain it — fame — changes your brain. It does something to your chemistry, and just having access to everyone’s opinion of you while you’re forming your own opinion of yourself can be overwhelming. You have to grow up fast and develop a strong sense of self.

How does your diaristic approach to songwriting marry you to your fans?

I feel like that’s the gift I’ve been given. As I get older, my openness, honesty and ability not to be scared of sharing my feelings has helped me artistically mature and open up. Being vulnerable has always been not only how I write, but how I live. The same goes in my personal life.

It’s cool that you record, write and live in Toronto and haven’t decamped for L.A. What’s your go-to spot?

Shout out: Forno Cultura bakery all day. That’s my comfort spot for a pastry and oat milk latte.

It’s Saturday night and you have [album collaborator] Norah Jones to take around in Toronto. Where do you go?

Either Ossington or College Street. Everyone says that, but what can I tell you? They’re the best spots.

What advice do you have for people digging your vibe?

Cut people slack — and be nice.

—Ben Kaplan

Do go chasing waterfalls

May just might be the best time of year to go with the flow and discover Ontario’s hidden falls with big thrills

Cascade in cottage country

Burleigh Falls in the Kawarthas delivers a nostalgic summer escape. The rapids draw swimmers and sun-seekers who perch on rocks or float in the current, while the ice cream shop across the street keeps things sweet. Nearby Lakefield offers a charming detour dotted with boutique shops. 4834 Hwy 28, Concession 1, Lot 5, Burleigh Falls

Niagara Falls’ little sister Ball’s Falls in Niagara, a quieter, more intimate counterpart to its world-famous neighbour, is tucked into the scenic Twenty Valley. Offering that same rushing water magic without the chaos, the conservation area is a short drive away from Jordan — a village with a quaint main strip that feels straight out of a postcard. 3292 Sixth Ave., Lincoln

Hike with a view

Inglis Falls is where the landscape starts to feel wilder and the pace a little slower. A short jaunt from Tobermory, it’s an ideal stop on a Bruce Peninsula road trip, with dramatic views of the Sydenham River. The surrounding trails wind through forests, making it easy to turn a quick visit into a full day outdoors. 237785 Inglis Falls Rd., Owen Sound

From the ranch to ‘Rodeo’ Drive

Giddy up, Toronto this month, we’re turning Bay Street into a barn dance. Western vibes have taken over runways this year. Whether it’s fringe, bolo ties or suede details, everyone is dressing like they’re heading to the ranch or the rodeo. And as anyone in this city can attest, the cowboy boot has inexplicably become staple summer footwear. This stampede of Western style has translated into real-life rodeos, saloons and more in the city. Yee-haw!

A country music moment

If the main selling point of the Western life to you is the music (and the outfits), then take a trip to El Mocambo on May 23. The music venue will transform into El Mo Rodeo, a summer kickoff party featuring live country music all night long. Artists include Ontario singer-songwriter Connor Wicklum, Toronto’s own Lara Simonot and country music singer Gillian Hay. Although all you need are tickets to enter, a cowboy hat and some fringe couldn’t hurt!

Ontario’s travelling rodeo

If you’re looking for a rodeo experience, no need to travel to

Texas: Ontario has our own rodeo tour every year, and it starts in May! Events here include barrel racing, pole bending, bull riding, trick riding, saddle bronc, a rescue race and even junior competitions. This year, the RAM Rodeo tour starts in Grey Highlands (about a two-hour drive from Toronto) from May 23 to 24. This will be the sixth annual rodeo here, and there will even be a cowboy buffet breakfast and photo and meet-and-greet opportunities with real cowboys and cowgirls. Always curious about the inner workings of rodeos? Take part in a VIP behind the chutes tour to learn the secrets of the pen!

Bull riding at the bar

Enjoy all the fun of Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway in one place in Toronto: Rock ’N’ Horse Saloon. Country bands are always playing, moose heads hang on the walls (don’t say we didn’t warn you!), the snacks feature Nashville hot chicken and cowboy butter, and bolo ties are always a good idea. But on Saturdays, the bar gets just a little more country, thanks to Saddle Up Saturdays. The night begins with dinner,

followed by bull riding, a bull riding competition and then a late-night DJ party where you can test out those new line dancing skills.

A night at the cowboy museum

There’s plenty to love about Western style, but the most universally beloved article of clothing (at least in Toronto) is definitely the cowboy boot. What functions now as a trendy wardrobe piece that can somehow take you from Queen West to a music festival in Toronto has a long and more complicated history than you might think. And at Bata Shoe Museum, you can uncover all of that. Rough and Ready: A History of the Cowboy Boot is on now until Sept. 20, and it takes you further back than even their invention in the 19th century (the design has roots as far back as the 10th century). The exhibition also delves into Canada’s connection to the cowboy boot, starting with Calgary Stampede and ending with current popcountry icon Orville Peck.

Ontario’s own stampede Calgary Stampede sounds great, but it turns out you don’t have

CURRENTS FEATURE

Everyone in Toronto is dressing like they’re heading to the ranch or the rodeo.

to hop on a plane to join in on the fun. On May 23 is the firstever Oshawa Stampede, a rodeo complete with bulls, broncs and barrels! According to organizers Black Creek Rodeo Co., professional cowboys and cowgirls will travel from across the nation and ride for a chance to qualify for the 2026 NRCA (Northern Rodeo Cowboy Association) Finals. Hosted within the Tribute Communities Centre, it’s recommended visitors make a reservation at the Pro-

dream for owner Fred Cahill, who connected with cattlemen in Kansas and Texas and brought in Texas Longhorn cattle. Still operating as a working cattle ranch to this day, the Cahills also open up their ranch to visitors beginning in May until September. Offering adult getaways on one of six unique covered wagons, expect barbecue dinners, private nightly campfires, mini golf and a “Texassized” pool. And of course, expect regular sightings of cows and horses.

T.O.’s boot boutique

spects Bar & Grill in advance where you can snack on some very on-theme dishes, like a brisket grilled cheese and tequila lime chicken wings.

A Texas ranch, Canada style Yes, Ontario has a few ranches of our own — including our very own Texas Longhorn Guest Ranch. This three-generation cattle ranch began as a

The fastest way to get your cowboy on? A pair of boots. And there’s one storefront in Toronto that might catch your eye: shining big and bright on Yonge Street is a larger than life red cowboy boot parked in front of the one and only Bootmaster (609 Yonge St.). Open since 1988, the shop stocks all the top cowboy boot brands out there — as well as handmade sterling silver from Navajo and Zuni artists in Arizona and New Mexico, Western shirts, suede vests and all kinds of leatherwear that will have you rodeo ready.

—Julia Mastroianni

TIGER BRIDE, KINKY BOOTS AND BIF NAKED

The biggest and best concerts, events and shows this month, from Yungblud and A$AP Rocky to Courtney Barnett, eco-thrillers and brassy musicals By Ron Johnson

YUNGBLUD

British alt-rock disruptor and Ozzy Osbourne hanger-on YUNGBLUD brings his ‘IDOLS’ – The World Tour to Coca-Cola Coliseum on May 2, promising a spectacle complete with anthems and serious energy featuring one of rock’s fastest rising stars.

A$AP ROCKY

On May 31, A$AP Rocky brings his ‘Don’t Be Dumb’ World Tour to Scotiabank Arena. Expect a high-energy night of hits, hype and headline-level production as one of hip hop’s most unpredictable and enjoyable live performers hits the stage.

CICADAS

From May 5 to 24, the eerie eco-thriller cicadas takes over Tarragon Theatre. Created by David Yee and Chris Thornborrow and directed by Nina Lee Aquino, the play is set in 2032 in a haunted Trinity Bellwoods home and blends live music and mystery.

FLEURS DE VILLES

From May 6 to 10, Bloor-Yorkville transforms into a free, open-air floral gallery as Fleurs de Villes FLORA celebrates Mother’s Day with more than 30 floral installations supporting Breast Cancer Canada.

FRAN LEBOWITZ

On May 8, writer and cultural satirist Fran Lebowitz appears at Toronto’s Roy Thomson Hall for ‘In Conversation with Fran Lebowitz’, hosted by CBC’s Mattea Roach. Expect her trademark sharp, unscripted commentary on modern life and culture.

COURTNEY BARNETT

Australian singer-songwriter

Courtney Barnett brings her

‘We Are In The Future Tour’ to History on May 22, delivering her signature deadpan storytelling and slacker-rock energy that put her on the musical map following the release of her 2015 debut album.

BIF NAKED

Beloved music icon Bif Naked hits the Paradise Theatre on May 9 as part of the Departure Festival + Conference, with the Toronto premiere of her documentary Bif Naked, followed by an intimate acoustic performance and Q & A.

THE HIDDEN CAMERAS

Beloved Toronto band the Hidden Cameras, which turned the city on its collective musical head in the early 2000s, is back with a rare show at the amazing Longboat Hall on May 21, with very cool special guest Sook-Yin Lee.

KINKY BOOTS

From May 12 to 31, the feelgood musical Kinky Boots struts into Toronto’s CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre, bringing high kicks, higher heels and even higher energy to the stage.

This true story musical — set to Cyndi Lauper’s infectious score — delivers on all levels.

JESSI CRUICKSHANK

On May 9, Canadian comedian, TV host and DJ Jessi Cruickshank takes a turn on the wheels of steel creating a feel-good, no-pressure dance floor takeover with ‘Evening Club – A Dance Party’, running 7–10 p.m. at the historic

TIGER BRIDE

From May 29 to June 14, the world premiere of Tiger Bride transforms Soulpepper into a punk-infused reimagining of Angela Carter’s dark fairy tale, starring one of the city’s finest stage performers, Hailey Gillis, in a show that blurs theatre, cabaret and concert.

The Mira Goddard Gallery is hosting an exhibtion of the works of legendary artist Takao Tanabe in celebration of the Canadian abstract artists’s 100 birthday. This special exhibition of collected works is scheduled to run May 2 to June 27 at the Yorkville gallery.

Who You Gonna Call?

I’m an experienced family law lawyer. I know the system. I understand the rules. And yet, when I went through my own divorce, I wish my very first call had been to a divorce coach. Not my lawyer. Not even my therapist of ten years, who knew me deeply and held space for my emotions with care and compassion. A divorce coach. Here’s why.

My lawyer did exactly what a good lawyer is supposed to do: she protected my legal interests. She analyzed risk, explained my rights, drafted documents, and advocated for me within the framework of the law. Her focus was necessarily narrow - legal strategy, outcomes, and protection.

My therapist did exactly what a good therapist is supposed to do: she helped me process grief, fear, anger, and uncertainty. She held my story, helped me understand my patterns, and supported my emotional well-being.

emotional journey. It’s a maze. And when you’re inside it, every path feels urgent, overwhelming, and unclear.

A divorce coach stands outside that maze. They see it from 10,000 feet above. They understand the legal landscape, the emotional terrain, the financial considerations, the parenting dynamics, and, most impor-

you, not just any lawyer, not just any therapist, not just any financial professional, but the ones who are the right fit for you at the right time. And just as importantly, they help you use those supports well, so everything is working together, not in silos. They connect the dots.

But neither could answer the question I was quietly asking over and over: How do all of these pieces fit together, and what should I do next?

Divorce is not just a legal process. It’s not just an

A divorce coach doesn’t have to replace your lawyer or your therapist. They make those professionals more effective. They help you build the right team around

A lawyer protects you. A therapist supports you. A divorce coach guides you.

If you are even beginning to think about divorce, you don’t need to have everything figured out. But you do need a clear starting point. Start with a conversation that helps you understand the road ahead so the decisions you make early on don’t unintentionally shape outcomes you never wanted.

484 AVENUE ROAD, TORONTO 647-262-4557

MARLENESHINERLAW.COM

MARLENE@MARLENESHINERLAW.COM

TOTE-ALLY MADE FOR MOM

Move over Gucci and Louis Vuitton: these local handbag designers are making gifting easier than ever for Mother's Day. Jeanne Beker searched the city for the best bags with purse-onality that Mom will love.

IN

A. FRINGE BAG, Brave Leather, $375, braveleather.com, “This is a great casual, slouchy bag, and it's fun to see suede in the summer. The fringe detailing is so playful and boho chic.”

B BUCKET BAG, La Canadienne, $650, 138 Cumberland St., “A bag like this makes such a strong statement. It's very artisanal, and from a distance it looks like raffia!”

C. HAND-BRAIDED POUCH, Eleven Thirty Shop, $360, eleventhirtyshop.com, “I love the tassels and I love the cord. It's a bucket, but the drawstring makes it very interesting. And that braided strap is beautiful.”

D. LITTLE BLACK BAG, Sonya Lee, $274, sonyalee.co, “This is a very sleek, gorgeous little bag to just throw over your shoulder. It's very elegant and understated.”

E. WOVEN CROSSBODY, Espe, $98, espe.ca, “I love a crossbody especially in the summer and spring months, and this faux leather has such pretty texture with the way that it's woven.”

F. SLOUCH ZIPPERED BAG, Opelle, $655, opellecanada.com, “I love the little zipper compartments and that you can wear it as a crossbody or over your shoulder.”

G PEBBLE BUCKET BAG, Ela, $108, elahandbags.com, “What a splash of colour! Bucket bags are hot and happening, and you can really fit a lot into this one.”

H BAGUETTE SATCHEL Uppdoo, $345, uppdoo.com, “This has a retro vibe; it almost looks vintage! It's so beautifully made, so classic and gorgeous. And I love the hardware.”

Fabulous New Listing on a Cul-De-Sac in Cedarvale

Absolutely

Style MVPs: Where T.O.’s top athletes shop

The Toronto Maple Leafs might have missed their shot at the playoffs, but one of their players still received a notable award. In April, the results from the National Hockey League Players Association (NHLPA) Player Poll, which surveys 348 NHL players across all 32 clubs, were released and the Leafs’ very own William Nylander received a nod for being the league’s most fashionable.

The nickname says it all: Willy Styles received 32.9 per cent of the votes from the poll, compared to 9.7 per cent for runner-up David Pastrnak of the Boston Bruins and 7.1 per cent for Auston Matthews of the Leafs.

There must be something about Toronto! Here are the city’s most fashionable athletes and where you can shop to emulate their style.

William Nylander Nylander’s game day fits have been turning heads, often pairing well-tailored suits with a pair of Nike sneakers. He’s previously shared that his go-to spot in the city for suits is Garrison Bespoke (26 Wellington St. E.). The team there is known for their ability to match even the most unique

styling requests — like an allpink suit that can take you from the ice to dinner at Sugo. The shop is known for dressing Leafs players, including Matthews and Joseph Woll.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

He may play for Oklahoma City Thunder, but GTA-born Shai Gilgeous-Alexander still calls our city home — especially when it comes to shopping.

The multi-time Met Gala attendee has been spotted shopping at archival vintage store 20 Maud (20 Maud St.) with a few OKC teammates in tow.

Sarah Nurse

Toronto’s Sarah Nurse was recently stolen away from the PWHL’s Toronto Sceptres to play for the Vancouver Goldeneyes, but her style is all Toronto! The Olympian sports a lot of Ganni, Adidas and leopard print, but she’s also been spotted in outerwear from Yorkville brand Sentaler (55 Avenue Rd.) and pieces from VSP Consignment (1410 Dundas St. W.). And she made sure to rep Toronto when she took to the red carpet at this year's Junos, wearing a dress by Toronto designer Lucian Matis!

Julia Mastroianni

Queen West spot opens mini department store in Summerhill

Right in the heart of the Fashion District on Queen West, nestled in between vintage shops and fabric and bead stores, is an elegant white brick storefront called Absolutely Fabrics. Since opening in 2023, the clothing boutique has carved out a singular identity in the city’s fashion scene, offering Toronto’s most stylish a way to shop up-and-coming and hardto-find designers in person alongside trending brands and vintage pieces. And this fall, founder Kaelen Haworth is bringing the ultra-fashionable concept to Summerhill.

“A lot of our clients who came downtown actually live in the Rosedale area,” Haworth shares.

She says Absolutely Fabrics already does a lot of consignment, physically taking in-store product to those who can’t make it downtown.

“So we just thought it would be easier and more efficient if we had a location here and people could just pop in.”

Although the SummerhillRosedale area has been establishing itself as a shopping and nightlife destination as of late, the upcoming launch of Absolutely Fabrics signals a shift for the area: it’s cementing itself as a true fashion district in the city.

Absolutely Fabrics houses established designers such as Marni and Simone Rocha alongside emerging and independent brands such as mesh-forward line

Diotima and Korean label Recto many of which Canadian shoppers would struggle to find elsewhere online, let alone in the city. Vintage selections range from a head-to-toe zippered leather, cobalt blue dress, by Michael Hoban, circa the ’80s ($1,995), to tweed Chanel jackets ($7,895) and a Prada brocade dress ($995). Haworth is aware people might view bringing in more experimental designers as a risk.

“But it's also the reason that I think people really love to come into the store — because it is such a place of discovery,” she says. “You can find things that not everyone has. A lot of people don't want to be out in their neighbourhood wearing the same thing as everybody else.”

And the way the team positions the brands in-store is all part of the discovery process: new brands are hung next to big ones on the same rack. “It gives people an indication of, ‘OK, this is the same world. I know what I’m doing.’”

The new store at 1091 Yonge St. is taking over the space formerly occupied by Sleep Country and Running Room, and at 7,000 square feet, it will be significantly larger than Absolutely Fabrics’ Queen Street store. Haworth is taking that as an opportunity to create more of an instore experience.

“We’re trying to create a space where people can come in and

hang out, even if you’re not actively shopping,” she says.

The Queen Street location already plays host to many events, something which Haworth intends to carry into Summerhill: “We want to do more community engagement in uptown, so we’re thinking about that as we renovate the space.”

There are plans to build a conversation pit, a central table for events and the ability to transform all areas in the store as the old fashion adage goes “from day to night.” And, for the first time, Absolutely Fabrics will be expanding into menswear.

Haworth notes that, clients aside, the neighbourhood itself was a big selling point for the new store — pointing to Seahorse, Manita and the upcoming Mamakas and Nutbar as examples.

“There’s a lot that would attract people to that area anyway.”

—Julia Mastroianni

Admit it: you’re having an emotional affair CURRENTS

NEED A DOCTOR?

Dear Sangita: My “work husband” and I have a LOT of chemistry. My actual husband is starting to notice. I haven’t crossed the line, nor has my work husband, but that’s almost made it worse — it’s like there’s tension simmering underneath our interactions sometimes. There are a lot of work socials, and so my actual husband has seen us together quite a bit now, and he’s starting to notice there’s something there too. I’m very happy with my work situation and home situation, and I don’t want anything to change. But for some reason I’m feeling a little guilty now…

Can’t a girl have both?

long time and our first together since having a kid, and I was mostly just looking forward to a few days of relaxing and sleeping in. She said she’d have to “adjust her expectations” going forward if this is “how I’m going to be.” I thought it would be obvious that we wouldn’t be having sex if my parents were next door like that. And I’ve frankly been too tired for sex these days anyway. Was she being fair? No sex on the beach

Dear CAGHB: You know exactly what's going on: you’re having an emotional affair. You’re already in it! When you say you both haven’t crossed that line, I assume you’re talking about the physical line, but you know you’re in the wrong already. If your husband is starting to notice, it’s because you’re getting caught in the way you’re acting toward this guy. The fact that your husband hasn’t said anything about it yet makes me think that he just doesn’t want to ruffle any feathers, but you’ve already done that by engaging in this emotional affair. I think you need to acknowledge that you have feelings for this guy. It could just be flirtatious infatuation — in fact, it probably is! — but it’s not fair to your husband. If you want to save your marriage, you may have to leave this job or step into a different department at the company, because it’s difficult to have a clean slate with someone when you’re seeing them nine to five every day.

Dear Sangita: My wife got mad that I wouldn’t have sex with her on a vacation with my entire family. But my parents were in the connecting room next door! This was our first vacation in a

Dear NSOTB: If you guys always had sex on vacation before this, then I’m sure she did have an expectation. This was your first trip together after having a kid, and maybe the expectations and pressure you put on yourself were high too. Yes, your family was there, but is it possible you used that as an excuse because you didn’t feel up for sex? You mention how tired you are. Clearly this part of life is taking a toll on your own health but also on your relationship’s health. Your wife should be sensitive to that. If she hasn’t picked up on that, that’s kind of concerning to me. It’s time to have an honest conversation about how your desires might be misaligned right now and how you can help each other through this. Scheduling sex can help!

Have a relationship or life question for Sangita? Send it to advice@postcity.com.

T.O. marathon champ on a marriage that goes the distance

We caught up with Rachel Hannah, six-time Canadian champion distance runner and last year’s Canadian Marathon Champion, at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. She’s gearing up for marathon season, which kicks off with the highly anticipated Toronto Marathon on May 3 followed by the Ottawa 10K, May 23–24. She shared the details of finding chemistry on and off the track with her husband, runner and endurance coach behind Chappell Racing, Joe Chappell.

How they met

Joe and I met through the running community. I lived in Guelph before, and he would volunteer a lot with the running club there, doing volunteer races and things like that. I ran with New Balance for a while, and they used to support the team there, so I think it was at one of those events that he saw me.

The first date

Joe grew up in Saugeen Shores, and he’s based in Port Elgin, so I came up for a weekend in the summer. We did a tandem bike ride at sunset!

The relationship

I was actually injured when we first started dating, so I wasn't

able to run. So we were doing some cycling together, and I swam here in the lake, too, so that was nice. When I made my return to running, he was involved in that, and we’ve been able to travel to a lot of big races together — a couple of world majors, Boston, New York, Chicago. And of course, one of our most memorable moments as a couple was Joe being at the finish line at the TCS Toronto Marathon when I won the championship last year.

The proposal

I raced the Glass City Marathon, which is within driving distance, so we drove down with friends and both raced it. I won the race, and I got the course record, and that was awesome. It was my first official marathon win, and then we drove back home, and he proposed at our home in Saugeen Shores, just because it was such a happy day. I think he was waiting for a race like that. He wanted to do it on a day where I was very happy, and you can’t really top that, finishing a marathon and feeling really good! I remember that night he went for a run while I was calling some family and friends to share the news. We run a lot even just to celebrate and reflect on things.

The wedding

Our actual ceremony was at Joe’s parents’ house. It’s a really nice lot with lots of space, and it’s a road that we use on our long-run training route. It was just a small ceremony with family present, but we had to change the location from the forest on their land because it was raining all day and the ground was all flooded! We had a reception about a block away from the shores of Lake Huron, along our running route in a town called Southampton.

The secret to success

You have to support each other; otherwise, it’s hard to accomplish things. And good communication is key!

Balancing careers and a relationship

I think we share the same mindset and are driven by the same goals. I train a lot as an athlete, 15, 16, hours a week, plus working full time doesn’t leave a ton of free time, and not everyone understands that, but he does, especially as a coach himself.

The future together

It will probably look similar to right now but maybe a bit slower. We’ll still be moving and exercising together but maybe not with the same competition lens.

Kortney Wilson spills her spring design secrets

House-flipping expert and real estate designer Kortney Wilson knows everything about home makeovers. And this she joined renovation expert Brain in helping homeowners stressed by major life Home Network’s new Messy Here, she gives to help you spring into and give your home makeover.

What’s the biggest home design trend this year?

The biggest trend I’m seeing is a total nature-inspired palette. We’re ditching the grey for "earthy" tones, like terra cotta, olive green and muted blues. It’s all about bringing the outdoors in to create a sense of calm. You’ll also notice a lot of soft curves and rounded sofas, arched mirrors and circular tables replacing sharp, aggressive edges to help energy flow more easily through a room.

What do you sense is going to be big by the end of this year?

There are three big shifts we’re going to see everywhere by winter. There’s the “greige detox”: we are finally seeing the end of the all-grey-everything era. It’s being replaced by deep, "jewel-box" colors — think cabernet reds, plum browns and deep peacock teals. There’s the rise of modern heritage: as technology takes over, we’re craving

things that feel human. This means mixing super-modern layouts with modern heritage details like ornate crown molding, checkered marble floors and vintage furniture. And then there’s hyper-functional hidden luxury, where people are using things like the butler’s pantry and appliance garages to hide the coffee maker, the toaster and the “mess” behind beautiful fluted panels or hidden doors.

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T.O.’s housing market is still slow. For sellers who choose to hold onto their homes instead of moving up, what renos would you recommend? If you’re hunkering down in Toronto right now, stop renovating for a "hypothetical buyer" and start renovating for the life you’re actually living. In a slower market, the best ROI is making your current footprint work twice as hard.

One of the smartest moves is creating a high-functioning secondary suite. Whether it’s for rental income to offset those Toronto carry costs or a private spot for aging parents, that flexibility is the ultimate futureproof play. Beyond that, focus on rooms like a mudroom that actually handles the chaos of boots and backpacks.

If this is your "forever" spot, lean into personal luxuries like a spa-inspired primary bath or a soundproofed flex-office.

Spring cleaning can be fun, but overwhelming. Where’s the best place to start? I’ve realized that the smallest design fixes can shift the entire emotional energy of a household. It’s not always about a sixfigure renovation. Sometimes it’s just about having a place for the sneakers and the keys to live. I’ve started prioritizing "microdecluttering" — simple things like adding hooks at kid height or labelled baskets to remove those daily points of friction. It has taught me that a home should lower your blood pressure, not make you afraid to sit on the couch. I’m finally leaning into a space that reflects who I am now, rather than clinging to a version of who I thought I should be.

Kortney Wilson and Kenny Brain are hosting Home Network’s newest show, Life Is Messy, where they’re helping families regain control from clutter in their homes.

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70 CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S

“Think delicious shareable appetizers, some of the best pasta in the city and soft serve ice cream to finish.”

Pasta that won’t cost ya

OUR TAKE: When the team behind two of the city’s most mourned favourites — Bacchanal and Campagnolo — takes over a mechanic’s garage, the result is bound to be sharp. Occhiolino ("wink") is a collaboration between Luke Donato — once Drake’s personal chef — and Nick Manzone of the elite wholesale brand Pastificio Double Zero. They’ve stripped the space back to its bones — less flour and eggs, more wood, steel and concrete. The result is a light-filled concrete piazza that feels like a deliberate gallery, while the soul of the place remains unmistakably unpretentious “cucina povera.” Manzone’s pasta is the star split between “fatto a mano” (handmade) and “al bronzo” (extruded) varieties. A must-try is the zucca fritti paired with an Amaretto Sour — a sweet, and salty combo that perfectly anchors the restaurant’s balance of city edge meets Italian warmth. 499 Bathurst St.

THE TEA: The restaurant is basically a front for a factory. Partner Nick Manzone runs Pastificio Double Zero here, supplying fresh, handmade pasta to many of Toronto’s top-rated Italian dining rooms daily.

Like a first-class trip to Italy

PASTA PRIVATO

OUR TAKE: The latest, most personal project from the powerhouse team behind Notte Ristorante and the Berczy Tavern is a radical departure from the high-volume buzz of Toronto’s typical hot spots. With only 30 seats, Pasta Privato acts more like a chef’s private workshop than a traditional dining room. Walls lined with chef Michael Angeloni’s process notebooks and a 40-year-old recipe card from his grandmother set a stage rooted in storytelling. This intimate scale allows Angeloni to "scratch a creative itch," focusing on artisanal, technically driven pastas that are impossible to execute at scale. The current menu, Un Omaggio (“an homage” in English), is a deep dive into the global influences that shaped him. You’ll find the spizzulus — a pan-braided noodle inspired by Mexico City and finished with Hokkaido uni —and an Ibérico pork and rabbit agnolotti enriched with Quebec foie gras. It’s easily the most exciting pasta program in the city right now. 9 Church St.

THE TEA: True to its “Privato” (“private”) name, there’s no street entrance. You must enter through Notte Ristorante and slip past a heavy red velvet curtain at the back into a dimly lit, entirely separate dining space.

“This intimate dining room is a true hidden gem. Thoughtful and intentional menu, delicious pasta and wine pairings.”

70 CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S

“Think delicious shareable appetizers, some of the best pasta in the city and soft serve ice cream to finish.”

Pasta that won’t cost ya

OUR TAKE: When the team behind two of the city’s most mourned favourites — Bacchanal and Campagnolo — takes over a mechanic’s garage, the result is bound to be sharp. Occhiolino ("wink") is a collaboration between Luke Donato — once Drake’s personal chef — and Nick Manzone of the elite wholesale brand Pastificio Double Zero. They’ve stripped the space back to its bones — less flour and eggs, more wood, steel and concrete. The result is a light-filled concrete piazza that feels like a deliberate gallery, while the soul of the place remains unmistakably unpretentious “cucina povera.” Manzone’s pasta is the star split between “fatto a mano” (handmade) and “al bronzo” (extruded) varieties. A must-try is the zucca fritti paired with an Amaretto Sour — a sweet, and salty combo that perfectly anchors the restaurant’s balance of city edge meets Italian warmth. 499 Bathurst St.

THE TEA: The restaurant is basically a front for a factory. Partner Nick Manzone runs Pastificio Double Zero here, supplying fresh, handmade pasta to many of Toronto’s top-rated Italian dining rooms daily.

Like a first-class trip to Italy

PASTA PRIVATO

OUR TAKE: The latest, most personal project from the powerhouse team behind Notte Ristorante and the Berczy Tavern is a radical departure from the high-volume buzz of Toronto’s typical hot spots. With only 30 seats, Pasta Privato acts more like a chef’s private workshop than a traditional dining room. Walls lined with chef Michael Angeloni’s process notebooks and a 40-year-old recipe card from his grandmother set a stage rooted in storytelling. This intimate scale allows Angeloni to "scratch a creative itch," focusing on artisanal, technically driven pastas that are impossible to execute at scale. The current menu, Un Omaggio (“an homage” in English), is a deep dive into the global influences that shaped him. You’ll find the spizzulus — a pan-braided noodle inspired by Mexico City and finished with Hokkaido uni —and an Ibérico pork and rabbit agnolotti enriched with Quebec foie gras. It’s easily the most exciting pasta program in the city right now. 9 Church St.

THE TEA: True to its “Privato” (“private”) name, there’s no street entrance. You must enter through Notte Ristorante and slip past a heavy red velvet curtain at the back into a dimly lit, entirely separate dining space.

“This intimate dining room is a true hidden gem. Thoughtful and intentional menu, delicious pasta and wine pairings.”

70 BEST RESTAURANTS

CHEF TOMER MARKOVITZ, ROMI’S

“Flawless from start to finish — an impeccably designed room, polished service and perfectly executed dishes.”

The premier cut

OUR TAKE: Rob Rossi and David Minicucci have officially landed downtown, bringing the same sharp, obsessive quality that made Osteria Giulia a titan. Sammarco skips the predictable Bay Street steak house vibe for something far more interesting: a high-performance Italian operation. The room is a massive mood, with custom leather seats that take cues from vintage Alfa Romeos and an amber glass entrance that makes the Front Street noise disappear. The space is effectively a gallery, filled with a massive collection of Canadian art and hand-poured floors meant to look like an aerial map of an Italian village. Although the prime beef (dry-aged 60 days on site) is the big draw, the fettuccine alla scrofa is impeccable. It’s a 100-egg dough pasta tossed at your table with 24-month-aged Parmigiano —a dish so rich it holds its own against a prime rib-eye. Sammarco is a restaurant rooted in storytelling that just so happens to serve a world-class steak. 4 Front St. E.

THE TEA: Michael Carlevale, a legend of Toronto’s dining scene in the ’80s and ‘90s, previously ran a restaurant in this very building. The owners kept his name on the room as a nod to the space’s history and its original soul.

No beef with the bill

CÔTE DE BŒUF

OUR TAKE: Stepping into Côte de Bœuf is an immediate escape from the Toronto grey. Part butcher shop, part pintsized bistro, this Ossington staple ignores the trend cycle for something far more durable: a zinc bar, a tiled ceiling and the heavy scent of dry-aging beef. Chef Teo Paul, an alum of Michael Stadtländer’s Eigensinn Farm and the Parisian kitchen circuit, has built a space that feels like it’s been there for 50 years. The menu is a tight list of French hits that rely on high-quality sourcing rather than kitchen gymnastics. The steak frites are finished with a peppercorn sauce that’s pure silk, but the duck fat fries are the actual obsession here. They’re crisp, rich and probably the best thing you’ll eat all week. For a bigger group, the 48-ounce Côte de Bœuf is carved tableside with beef tallow butter. It’s walk-in only and usually packed, so show up early, grab a glass of Burgundy and snag a spot at the window to watch the neighbourhood go by. 130 Ossington Ave.

THE TEA: If you want to reach Côte de Bœuf, they’ve got one of the most on-brand phone numbers in the city. 416-532BEEF (2333). A small detail, but it speaks to their commitment to being the go-to authority on all things carnivorous.

CHEF CAROLYN REID, SCARAMOUCHE

“I love old school French bistro cooking, and there aren’t many places doing it like this anymore.”

70 CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S 70 BEST RESTAURANTS

“I’ve been going here for years; everything is made from scratch.”

Guac on the wild side

OUR TAKE: There’s something special about a kitchen that treats food like it actually means something. At Comal Y Canela, “made from scratch” isn’t a tagline — it’s just how they do things. They grind their own nixtamal masa inhouse — a labour-intensive process akin to a bakery milling its own flour — and you can taste that dedication in every hand-pressed quesadilla. Owner Yasmen De Leon has cultivated a space that feels like an extension of an abuelita’s dining room. The energy is easy and lived-in, born from a genuine commitment to the neighbourhood that saw De Leon running a food bank out of the back during the pandemic. The birria tacos are the undisputed stars here — balanced, meaty and paired with a consommé widely regarded as the city’s best. However, skipping the shrimp tacos or the complex, chocolate-noted artisanal mole would be a monumental error. Come hungry and trust the kitchen; you’re in expert hands.1692 Jane St.

THE TEA: If a specific ingredient isn’t available from Mexico, they’ll remove the dish entirely rather than substitute it, so the menu shifts depending on what can be sourced from the home country.

The whole enchilada

OUR TAKE: Toronto’s only Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant is anchored by a 26-foot wood-burning hearth that commands the room. At Quetzal, every dish is transformed by flame, creating an immersive experience where the boundary between the kitchen and the guest simply vanishes. Executive chef Steven Molnar brings a deeply personal perspective to the line, inspired by the quiet strength of his mother and the culinary patience of his Hungarian grandmother. The menu is an exercise in firedriven precision, from the delicate Hokkaido scallop ceviche with crispy leek to the rich lamb barbacoa empanadas. For the curious, house-made salsas even feature chicatana ants — a nod to pre-Hispanic traditions that honoured insects as a vital, nutrient-dense delicacy. Whether you’re devouring the black garlic mole negro or cooling off with a prickly pear cocktail, the energy here is palpable. 419 College St.

THE TEA: The ceiling is the architectural star: glass-fibre gypsum swells that resemble a bleached ribcage or drifting snow, cleverly concealing the heavy-duty air system for the 26-foot wood-fire grill below.

“Their immersive open-fire dining experience makes it one of the most exciting restaurants in the city.”

CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S 70 BEST RESTAURANTS

“The

team delivers one of the warmest, most cohesive nights out in the city. Every dollar at 20 Victoria feels well spent.”

A major production

OUR TAKE: The departure of a chef like Julie Hyde usually triggers a mourning period for a room as small as 20 Victoria. For years, the 20-seat Financial District spot was known for a certain quiet — simple, stripped back and closely tied to the seasons. But the transition to Rafael Covarrubias isn’t a eulogy; it’s a vivid debut. The space still has that easy, approachable cool, but the food has moved in a more global, confident direction. Covarrubias has retained the restaurant’s soul — the meticulous sourcing, the streetside white tents in summer — while layering in a new, daring vocabulary. A kampachi tartlet is sharpened by salsa macha; beef arrives alongside cassava and sweet onion. Even the scallop, paired with artichoke custard and mole verde, reads like a conversation between the restaurant’s seafood past and its more vibrant, Mexican-leaning future. It’s a rare thing in a city that’s always turning over: a second act that could possibly outshine the first. 20 Victoria St.

THE TEA: True to its name and address, the restaurant is incredibly small, with just about 20 seats. That near oneto-one ratio is intentional, allowing the chef and his team to keep a laser focus on every plate leaving the pass.

Small plates, small talk

OUR TAKE: If 20 Victoria is high-art tasting menus, Bar Isabel is its cooler Mediterranean cousin.This Grant van Gameren stalwart has spent over a decade proving that "tasting menu" doesn't have to mean white tablecloths and minuscule portions. Here, the experience is bespoke, built on a conversation with your server rather than a preprinted card. The ritual is simple: name your price point (starting around $85), point out your must-trys from the chalkboard and let the kitchen take over. While not typically known for its value menu, the sheer volume of food provided at this price point is a genuine surprise. Highlights include Iberian essentials — hand-cut jamón Ibérico, patatas bravas and the legendary grilled octopus that arrives citrusy and chorizo-spiced. To finish, there is only one answer: the Basque cake, a dessert alone enough to justify the restaurant’s Michelin-recommended status. 797 College St.

THE TEA: That beautiful mismatched mosaic floor is made from 10,000 pounds of hand-poured encaustic tiles imported from Mexico and assembled from 20,000 hand-cut glass pieces over 200 hours.

“It's consistently great, and I usually go for the tasting menu when I visit. I really like it as a way to experience the kitchen at its best.”

70 CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S 70 BEST RESTAURANTS

FRENCH

A postcard from Provence

MAISON T BISTRO

OUR TAKE: Maison T is the definition of a "hidden gem.” A neighbourhood bistro that trades on decades of high-level experience rather than trend chasing. Opened in 2020, the restaurant is a partnership between chef Masayuki Tamaru, a veteran of Jamie Kennedy’s kitchens, and his wife Carolina Avaria, a former Four Seasons head concierge. Together, they’ve created a space where the service is as polished as a five-star hotel, but the vibe remains as relaxed as a Sunday dinner. Chef Tamaru’s French classics are infused with subtle Japanese hints that elevate the familiar. The Japanese fried chicken in dashi broth and the maitake mushroom tempura sit comfortably alongside a textbook French onion soup. For mains, the duck confit with sauce diable delivers crisp skin and tender, slow-cooked meat. In the summer, Maison T’s pooch-friendly patio is the place to be, but year-round, it’s the warmth of this husband-and-wife team that makes Maison T feel like home.1071 Shaw St.

THE TEA: Chef Tamaru was once crowned “Chef of the North” by Joanne Kates, the former Post City Magazines food critic whose word could make or break — a reputation and careers alike.

CHEF ANNA CHEN, ALMA

“Great service, classic French food and a dining room view that’s hard to beat: my all-time favourite go-to spot.”

$$$ FRENCH

A private jet to Paris

CHEF JACKIE LIN, SHOUSHIN

“I frequent this husband-and-wife-run bistro with a simple, affordable menu and, most importantly, delicious food.”

Moeen Abuzaid Arbequina

Sergio Abrunho Taberna Nacional

Camillo Acosta Henry’s

Nao Akutagawa Minami

Giovanna Alonzi Terroni

Michael Angeloni The Berczy Tavern

Claudio Aprile Via Allegro Ristorante

Coulson Armstrong Prime Seafood Palace

Romain Avril Private chef

Ryan Baddeley Badiali

Daniel Barna Danny’s Pizza Tavern

Martine Bauer Bar Allegro

Julien Bentivenga Ten

Hemant Bhagwani Naari Thai BBQ

Jeffrey Bovis Richmond Station

Rob Bragagnolo Casa Paco

Aldo Camarena Antylia

Massimo Capra Capra's Kitchen

THANK

Andrew Carter The Oxley

Ricky Casip Ricky + Olivia

Anna Chen Alma

Eva Chin Yan Dining Room

Evan Davis La Banane

Emiliano Del Frate Radici Project

Jordan Diniz est Restaurant

Alexander Fields Rhyz

Esau Garcia Ficoa

Federico Garcia Seahorse

Shauna Godfrey Maven

Lina Hatem Morellina’s

Carl Heinrich Richmond Station

Michael Hunter Antler Kitchen & Bar

Daisuke Izutsu Yukashi Japanese Cuisine

Jeff Kang Takja BBQ House

Karen Kim TONO by Akira Back

Felipe Kwan Casa Morales

SCARAMOUCHE

OUR TAKE: If Toronto has a culinary home base, it’s Scaramouche. Tucked into a Casa Loma area apartment complex, it bypasses the flash of downtown for something far more valuable: 40 years of unflinching consistency. When you walk in, the immediate payoff is the view — a glittering, unobstructed panorama of the skyline that remains one of the city's best-kept secrets. Although the Michelin Guide might have bypassed Scaramouche, the kitchen, led by Keith Froggett and Carolyn Reid, remains unbothered. Their focus is on "bums in seats" and impeccable French-leaning technique. The menu is a collection of sophisticated hits, from the legendary peppercorn fettuccine with Madeira cream to the pan-seared halibut with morels and fava beans. Every meal kicks off with a bread service that supports community food centres, and it should end with the coconut cream pie — a rich, airy slice that’s become a bit of a Toronto rite of passage. 1 Benvenuto Pl.

THE TEA: During one service, a woman was seated with a live duck tucked inside her coat, which she said was her pet. Known for its quiet elegance, the staff handled it so discreetly that most of the room never noticed.

Tara Lee Eastbound Brewing

Takayoshi Li Alder

Jackie Lin Shoushin

Remo Lobo Bindi's Burgers

Lorenzo Loseto George

Rosa Marinuzzi 7 Numbers

Tomer Markovitz Romi’s

Danny McCallum Jacobs & Co

Eric McDonald Jamil’s Chaat House

Ashley McKay Antylia

Taylor McMeekin Cluny Bistro

Mike Medeiros Lyla

Andrea Nicholson Butchie's

Basilio Pesce Porzia’s

Jonathan Poon Taberna LX

Ciprian Gabriel Porumbacean Noyaa

Afrim Pristine The Cheese Boutique

Carolyn Reid Scaramouche

Jon Rennie Odd Duck Wine & Provisions

Kyle Rindenella Enoteca Sociale

Gianluca Ruggieri Private chef

Masaki Saito Sushi Masaki Saito

Olivia Simpson Ricky + Olivia

Mona Sleiman Quench Catering

Martina Soos The Rabbit Hole

Roderick Tomiczek Canoe

Lauren Toyota Hot for Food

Thanos Trippi Mamakas

Kane Van Ee Auberge du Pommier

Cory Vitiello The Frederick

Taylor Walls The Carbon Bar

Jonathan Williams Park Hyatt

Craig Wong Patois

Ronnie Xu Favorites Thai

Seb Yacoubian Taline

HIP, HIP CHURR-AY!

Cinco de Mayo is basically an excuse to eat your weight in cinnamon sugar. To help you choose wisely, chefs Nuit Regular and Anthony Rose tackle Toronto’s fried dough hybrids. From cheesecake to mochi spirals, these treats aren’t a churro-ble mistake.

NACHO AVERAGE

The reaction to the churro chips was a bit of a mixed bag. Anthony admitted he’s just “not a chip person” and felt they were a little plain. Nuit enjoyed the crunch and said they’re definitely something she’d order again.

Blanco Cantina, 384 Bloor St. W., Churro Chips, $5

BATTER UP

Both chefs were genuinely shocked by how much homemade custard was packed inside the waffle. Nuit let out a happy laugh after the first bite, and Anthony was surprised by how much he liked the sweetness.

Craque [de] Créme, 1360 Bathurst St., Mini Churro Liege Waffles, $10

RING LEADER

CHEESY DOES-IT

"I'm not usually a sweets person," Anthony admitted, but this cheesecake actually hit the spot. Both chefs loved the creamy, high-quality filling, and Nuit said she’d love a bit more crunch in the crust.

Pancho’s Bakery, 214 Augusta Ave., Churro Cheesecake, $60

NUIT REGULAR’S WINNER

FLAKE NEWS

Nuit was obsessed with how light the layers were and thought the sweetness was spot on. Both chefs loved the dulce de leche drizzle, though they definitely thought more was needed.

Cafe 295, 295 The West Mall, Etobicoke, Churro Cruffin, $6.95

When Anthony spotted these cinnamon doughnuts from Cops, he was immediately reminded of the Tiny Tom’s carnival treats. Nuit loved the flavour and found them soft and fluffy, and she lamented the fact that she wouldn’t be able to eat just one.

Cops, 445 Adelaide St., Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts, $14/twelve

Chef Anthony Rose runs Fat Pasha; Nuit Regular leads the new Tha Phae Tavern.

BOUNCY BITES

The chefs loved the bouncy, chewy mochi texture, though Anthony did admit he missed the classic churro crunch. Nuit was a huge fan, though, calling it a total must-order for anyone looking to try something a little different. Mochi Mochi, 210 Augusta Ave., Mochi Churro, $5

DOUGH-MESTIC BLISS

"I love stuffed cookies," Nuit said, and she definitely dug the flavours here. Anthony wasn't as convinced — he found it a bit too sweet and overpowering for his taste. Bocados Bakeshop, 923 Queen St. W., Snickerdoodle Dulce de Leche Churro Grand Cookie, $6.40

For a full roundup of Cinco de Mayo food events across the city, visit streetsoftoronto.com

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The

4 new finds from one of T.O.’s top foodies

Digital creator Jordan Shore (@jordshore) has been busy navigating Toronto’s latest restaurant openings so you don’t have to. From high-drama steak houses to tucked-away pasta bars, Jordan is pointing the way to the city's most essential new tables.

1. Riley’s Fish & Steak

The new luxury steak house from the team behind Black + Blue is already shaping up to be one of the city’s most talked-about tables. The spot leans into tableside service with a bit of flair. 155

menu of elevated Italian dishes.

392 Roncesvalles Ave.

On the table: The ravioli — spinach pasta stuffed with ricotta, finished with parmesan and served over ragu is a must.

3. Bar Etc.

MORE THAN

JUST A FOODIE

Unlike your average influencer, Jordan is a trained actor and comedian.

Wellington St. W. On the table: Start with the sourdough stuffed with cream cheese and finished with garlic and parmesan butter. The steaks are a safe bet, but the lobster tail pot pie is the one to order.

2. Proper Roncesvalles is now home to this New York–style Italian spot in the former La Cubana space, and it’s an easy pick for date night. Expect low-lit, intimate vibes; strong cocktails (don’t skip the Wax Poetic with bee pollen); and a seasonal

Tucked away in Leslieville, Bar Etc. is a tropics-inspired cocktail and snack bar from T.O. bartender extraordinaire, Sasha Siegel. The space is perfect for a casual night out with elevated drinks and bites. 1036 Gerrard St. E. On the table: Sasha’s Daiquiri is worth the visit alone, but don’t sleep on the fried chicken with papaya de gallo or the hamachi crudo either.

4. Marugame Udon

This famous Japanese udon chain has made a serious splash since landing in Toronto, with lines that look long but move fast. Pick your bowl, then build out your tray with tempura on the side — it’s part of the fun. 494 Yonge St.

On the table: Try the Nikutama udon, then skip the gyoza and go for the pumpkin croquettes and zucchini tempura. The portions are huge.

A snap of ‘Ginger’ in the 905

Thornhill’s dining scene just got a major glow-up, and it’s tucked away in a spot you might have once visited for a quick caffeine fix. Ginger By Chillax has officially moved into the airy, highceilinged bones of the former Café Login at 100 Steeles Ave. W., and the vibe shift is impossible to miss.

This isn't founders Allen Li and Ning Jia’s first rodeo — they’ve already built a bit of a suburban empire across Richmond Hill and North York. But while their previous spots (like Chillax Eatery & Mart) leaned into "Instagrammable" whimsy with things like Thailand’s

Teddy House bears, Ginger is the sophisticated older sibling.

The space is the perfect blend of modern meets boho-chic.

Sunlight floods through floorto-ceiling windows, hitting a palette of warm, earthy tones and plumes of pampas grass. Crucially for the neighbourhood, it’s actually spacious. You can bring a group here without feeling like you're sitting in your neighbor's lap.

In the kitchen, Jia runs a dual menu that moves between casual brunch and dinner-date territory. By day, it features the dishes that built a loyal following, like the Korean fried

chicken burger and bulgogi beef eggs Benedict. By night, Ginger shifts into a more refined gear, with plates like sous-vide Teochew-style braised duck leg finished with bordelaise and 24-hour sous-vide short ribs glazed in BBQ honey, served with charred honey corn ribs. Gingers is a polished step forward for a team that started with a single coffee shop back in 2019. Li and Jia have created that rare hybrid. It’s a neighbourhood local where you can grab a casual bite, but it’s sophisticated enough to feel like a proper "night out" destination.

—Jennifer Schembri

Manhattan meets Dublin in midtown

Midtown residents who spent years passing the corner of Eglinton and Redpath can finally stop wondering. After a long stretch of “coming soon” signs and endless local Reddit threads, the Harp Tavern officially opened its doors in April. The team is headed by the Quinn family and Shaun Ruddy — the man behind Toronto’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade creating a hospitality hub that feels like the neighbourhood spot for which people have long been waiting.

The vibe is “Manhattan meets Dublin,” polished for a date but relaxed for a post-work pint. The room is defined by antique whisky mirrors, woodpanelled walls and a massive bar built by Irish-Canadian carpenters using wood from a local black walnut tree. Dark and solid, it feels like it’s always been there, perfectly matched to a new state-of-theart draft system pouring creamy pints of Guinness

and Harp Lager alongside a full selection of whisky and cocktails.

In the kitchen, seasoned chef Paul Pisa (Scaramouche, Irish Embassy) skips greasy fare for a thoughtful, dual-concept menu. One kitchen handles upscale tavern staples like smoked salmon on soda bread, cottage pie and slow-simmered Beef & Guinness stew. The second kitchen houses Angels Pizza, which launches in the coming weeks. Beyond thick Detroit-style pies, Angels will serve ovenbaked wings, Italian sandwiches and pasta, all available to order right in the tavern.

The reception from the community has been humbling, and the experience is set to expand with a weekend live music program in May.

The Harp Tavern is located at 180 Eglinton Ave. E. Everyone loves a good Irish pub, and midtown finally has a new one to call home.

Adventure Paws

Dog Walking

Fiery new BBQ spot lands in Little Italy

Little Italy's reputation as one of the best food spots in the city is well-known, and there's a new concept debuting on College Street: Naari Thai BBQ. The College Street space was previously home to Oro, a rotating concept designed to stay fresh, but owner Hemant Bhagwani continues his focus on evolution with Naari as its latest chapter.

crispy shallots; and the avocado Som Tum, a chilled Thai avocado salad with fruits and toasted peanuts.

The decision to have both menus shine as the stars of the show at Naari was deliberate, Bhagwani says.

DUAL CONCEPT

“It’s a different lane from my Indian-forward projects, but it keeps our core DNA: craft, ingredient respect and bold, balanced flavours,” he says. “Naari is the next chapter in that same address focused and fire driven but still playful and seasonal.”

"The à la carte gives guests freedom to build the table — graze on snacks, go heavy on the grill or lean into curries. Our omakase menu is a curated walk through the kitchen’s techniques and flavour map, great for first-timers or anyone who wants the chef to steer."

Diners can curate their own menu or let the chef steer with a $65 omakase.

The omakase option is walletfriendly, priced at just $65 per person a choice Bhagwani says was also deliberate.

On the menu, expect modern Thai cooking built around shareable plates, alongside two distinct ways to dine: a guided omakase experience or an à la carte menu, depending on how curated or flexible you want the night to be. Diners can enjoy a truly bespoke and memorable culinary journey. Highlights include the BBQ coconut chicken satay with turmeric, soy and tamarind; oysters with orange chilli nam jim and

"Tasting menus shouldn’t be a special-occasion-only thing," he says. "We priced ours so more people in the neighbourhood can discover Thai barbecue through a guided experience — on a weeknight, before a concert or as a casual date — then come back to explore the ever-changing omakase menu."

Naari Thai BBQ is located at 501 College St.

—Erica Commisso

Montreal’s iconic diner opens first Toronto outpost

POST CITY X DIAMOND & DIAMOND

For more than 40 years, a family-run spot in Montreal’s West Island has quietly set the tone for nostalgic, simple dining in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. Now, that same comfort is making its way to Toronto. The opening of Spano’s Diner at Keele and Lawrence marks just the second location in the brand’s long history, bringing a mix of Greek warmth and Italian-American classics to North York. The original restaurant has long operated in Montreal’s Sunnybrooke neighbourhood, where it’s become a go-to for locals over generations.

the oversized portions that made the place popular. The Meat Lover pizza is the draw, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, ground beef and slow-cooked Montreal smoked meat. It’s meant for sharing, but if you’re up for it, you can take on the Pizza Challenge and try to finish a full extra-large in 45 minutes on your own to get it for free.

FREE PIE

The foundation of the restaurant goes back decades, built on sauce and dough recipes developed in the 1960s. It started as an unlikely but natural partnership between a smoked meat specialist, Mr. Spano, and a Greek cook who brought a Mediterranean touch to the menu. Today, that legacy is carried by Chris Dessilas — who started as a delivery driver in 1986 before becoming owner in 1996 — and his son Kevin. Chris Dessilas first worked at the restaurant before taking it over, keeping the business in steady, handson ownership ever since. For the Toronto outpost, the goal is simple: stick to the from-scratch approach that made the original a multi-generational staple. The menu skips small plates and goes straight to

Finish the 18-inch Meat Lover pizza in 45 minutes and the tab is on the house.

Even Guy Lafleur, one of the most iconic players in Montreal Canadiens history, was a longtime fan of the restaurant. The NHL legend reportedly requested one last Spano’s pie before he died, asking it to be delivered by the owner himself.

Alongside pizza, the kitchen turns out deli classics like the Spano Special Submarine, loaded with steak and premium cheese, and the Ninja Burger, topped with crispy bacon and tangy mayo. The Greek side of the ledger is equally robust, featuring juicy chicken souvlaki platters and gyro pitas dressed in a thick, homemade tzatziki.

By ditching modern minimalism in favour of old school diner vibes and massive, slow-cooked meals, this North York newcomer is proving that some traditions are worth the four-decade wait.

Spano’s Diner is located at 1 Hafis Rd. —Nisean Lorde

Institutional Sexual Assault in Ontario: What Survivors Need to Know

Tips from Sandra Zisckind of Diamond & Diamond Lawyers

SANDRA ZISCKIND

Sandra Zisckind is a lawyer who was called to the Bar in 2003 and practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation in Toronto

When sexual assault happens inside an institution, a school, university residence, place of worship, hospital, foster home, or workplace, the harm does not end with the person who committed it. Institutions meant to protect people can also enable harm by ignoring warning signs or failing to supervise. For many survivors across the GTA, the criminal system can feel like a closed door. Convictions are difficult to secure because the Crown must prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. A civil claim is different: it proceeds on a balance of probabilities, and the rules on admissible evidence are broader. That opens a route to accountability the criminal courts often cannot provide.

What Counts as Institutional Sexual Assault

Institutional sexual assault is a civil claim brought when the assault occurs in a setting involving trust, authority, or dependence: teacher and student, clergy and parishioner, coach and athlete, medical professional and

patient. Survivors can pursue civil claims for sexual assault against the perpetrator and, in many cases, against the institution. An institution can be held directly negligent if it knew, or ought to have known, about a risk and failed to act, and vicariously liable when the role it gave an employee enabled the harm. The Supreme Court of Canada set out this framework in Bazley v. Curry (1999).

A Civil Claim Is Independent of Criminal Charges

A survivor can pursue a civil lawsuit whether or not police were involved, whether charges were laid, or whether a criminal trial ended in conviction. In a civil claim, the survivor is the plaintiff deciding whether to proceed and what outcomes they want.

As Sandra Zisckind, Managing Partner at Diamond & Diamond puts it: “A civil lawsuit gives power back to the survivor. It’s a process they control, focused on accountability and the profound harm they’ve suffered.” Everything shared with a lawyer is pro-

tected by solicitor-client privilege.

No Time Limit to Sue in Ontario

Many survivors take years, sometimes decades, to come forward. In March 2016, Ontario amended the Limitations Act to remove the limitation period for civil claims based on sexual assault, and the change applies retroactively. Whether the assault happened last year or forty years ago, Ontario courts will hear it.

Where These Claims

Commonly Arise

Settings that appear repeatedly in institutional sexual assault litigation: abuse within religious institutions; abuse in Ontario schools and universities; abuse within the foster care system; and medical sexual abuse by regulated health professionals. In each, the institution has a duty to put reasonable safeguards in place.

Practical Steps for Survivors

Prioritise your safety and wellbeing. The Toronto Rape Crisis Centre, the

Assaulted Women’s Helpline, and Victim Services Toronto offer confidential support across the GTA. Preserve anything that may serve as evidence: text messages, emails, journal entries, and names of anyone who witnessed concerning behaviour or received a complaint at the time. In institutional cases, patterns matter, earlier complaints, HR files, and warning signs can all become relevant.

When You Are Ready to Talk

The lawyers at Diamond & Diamond have experience in handling institutional sexual assault claims across Canada. Survivors can reach the firm through the 24/7 injury hotline at 1800-567-HURT or at diamondlaw.ca. Consultations are confidential and you will speak with a lawyer directly.

LOOKING BACK

Before you go... Drake’s stuntin’ in the 6ix again

The ‘Iceman’ cometh: Drake’s wild Toronto album drop

Toronto is Drake’s playground, and honestly, we’re here for it. In April, the city turned into a frozen launching pad as the hype for the Iceman album this month took over. The centrepiece was a 25-foot ice pyramid of frozen blocks that drew steady attention for days. Fans gathered at the site, using blowtorches and hair dryers in an attempt to uncover the release date inside. The stunt escalated when streamer Kishka broke into the sculpture, reportedly receiving a cash reward from Drake, with figures ranging from $50 to $100K circulating online. But looking back, this

kind of spectacle is exactly how Aubrey shows his love for the city. It wasn’t the first time he turned the 6ix into a living mood board: from the The 6 God is Watching billboards that once loomed over the Gardiner in 2015, a viral teaser campaign for Views from the 6, to the ice cream truck with his face emblazoned on the side promoting Nothing Was the Same. Whether it’s a birthday giveaway at Dave’s Hot Chicken or the candlelit glow of Joso’s on the Take Care cover, he doesn’t just release music but creates moments that sit in the city’s memory long after.

ELISE KALLES

proven performance makes the difference!

To maintain a consistent multi-million dollar production for over 40 years requires not only exceptional expertise and diligence but also the fine art of negotiation and the utmost discretion. If you’re contemplating selling your home now or in the near future, I would be delighted to meet with you in the strictest confidence to offer a comprehensive market evaluation of your property.

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A name you can trust since 1957