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In a time when Canadians could use some distraction from global conflicts, Trump, ongoing economic concerns and a global climate crisis, the country has been blessed with a new and truly ridiculous cultural moment: Drake has started a beef with Jagmeet Singh. Yes, that Jagmeet Singh — the former federal NDP leader and, now, apparently, Drake’s sworn political enemy — for, wait for it, going to a Kendrick Lamar concert.
Yes, the man who breathed new life into the failing federal NDP, the first non-white politician to lead a major political party, found himself in the pop star’s naughty books after he was spotted at the concert.
Drake found out about it and did what any reasonable adult who has become a global brand and can basically buy whatever he wants on the planet would do: posted a direct message screen-
shot on Instagram where he called Jagmeet a “goof.”
Of course, Singh, for some misguided reason, came back at Drake with an apology. Why Singh, who has spent the last dozen or so years of his life in public service working for Canadians, would feel it necessary to apologise to this guy’s rude and, let’s face it, egomaniacal comment is beyond me. But he did.
I guess it’s a lesson in the power of turning the other cheek. Maybe that’s a lesson we could all use right now. Everything isn’t a personal attack on you and your space. Maybe it’s better to reach out and try to understand the perspective of the person on the other side of the phone or the other side of the world.
More champagne and less Champagne Papi please.
—Ron Johnson
He got his first go-kart at age five and hasn’t looked back
Toronto professional racecar driver Devlin DeFrancesco is revving up for his hometown return to the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy, July 18–20.
How does it feel to come back home to race?
I'm very excited. I'm pumped for it. Our team has had some success there, back in 2023. And a bunch of family and friends are coming. I think it's going to be a great weekend.
How has the season been going so far?
We had a very strong showing at the Indy 500. It's a shame the strategy played out the way it did. But I have no doubt in my mind: we've got a few strong tracks coming up and some good results coming our way.
What is the atmosphere like in Toronto on race day?
You know, the crowd's amazing there. There's always so much to do around Toronto, walking around, on and off the track. There's just not really many events like this street course on the calendar that has the atmosphere like Toronto does.
What piqued your interest in racing originally?
What was your first job? Racing. Racing is all I’ve ever done.
Where do you go to get away from it all?
I live between Miami and Indianapolis right now. When I'm back in Miami, I generally go on the water. I like going on the water, just for quiet, alone time. It really helps me process things on my own and unwind.
What does perfect happiness look like to you?
I would say winning the Indy 500 with a group of people that you know and work with, day in and day out, striving for results. That would be my idea of perfect happiness.
“FOR CHRISTMAS, HE WENT BEHIND MY MOM’S BACK AND BOUGHT IT.”
My dad ended up buying me a go-kart when I was five years old. For Christmas he went behind my mom's back and bought it. And you know, while all the other kids were going to hockey practice on the weekends, we went to the kart track, and here we are, 20 years later.
Who has been the most influential mentor in your career?
My dad for sure. Without him through the good and the bad times, I wouldn't be where I am now.
What is your greatest fear? Not achieving what I'm capable of. That's why I don't leave anything on the table and work every day from morning to night. It’s my objective in life.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I'd say, mathematics.
What do you most treasure?
I’d say my golden retriever, Tony. He goes with me everywhere, to all the races.
Do you have any fave Toronto restaurants you go to when you’re back?
There are two in Yorkville, a Japanese place called Yamato, amazing, and Sotto Sotto is always very good when you want nice Italian.
How to find a private club to avoid the crowds and not break the bank
Westwood Sailing Club
One of the best things about living in Toronto is the lake, only most people never use it. Join Westwood for about $650 a year, learn to sail, get out on the water for some peace or chill at the clubhouse and have a BBQ.
Balmy Beach Club
At the eastern edge of the Beach, you’ll find the modestlooking Balmy Beach Club, which is home to the best patio in the city. Members and guests flock here every summer to get a prized table overlooking the beach volleyball courts and Lake Ontario. And it’s affordable at around $700 a year, if you can get in.
Soho House
Soho House Toronto is a private club set across three floors of a beautiful Georgian building. The space oozes history with modern sophistication. Members can enjoy a rooftop bar with sweeping views of downtown and the islands. It’s under $500 quarterly.
Shania and Shaggy go head to head this month. Twain is one of our greatest and plays two big shows this month. Meanwhile, Shaggy plays Toronto and Muskoka. But who rules the sonic roost?
This summer, share a ship or a backyard pool
Set Sail With Skipperi
Skipperi is a subscriptionbased boating service giving you access to a whack of sweet motor boats. You can cruise to the Toronto Islands or Scarborough Bluffs without worrying about anything but the UV index. All you need is a boating licence, the app and your sea legs.
Get My Boat
Windsor, ON
Left Timmins to join a cover band called Flirt and took singing lessons in Toronto.
Her self-titled debut album, released April 20, 1993 helped her gain an audience beyond Canada.
Shania’s 1997 album, Come On Over, produced 12 singles and sold more than 40 million copies.
Shania plays the Great Canadian Casino Resort in Toronto on July 15 and 16.
Shaggy
Kingston, Jamaica Singer
Looking for something splashier like a gorgeous sailboat or maybe a sporty Jet Ski? Then Get My Boat is a great option. For instance, there is a 35-foot sailboat up for grabs at just $250 per hour.
Make a Splash With Swimply
Did you know you can book a private pool in a lovely treed backyard for less than $100 per hour? A little day party, a romantic sunset swim or just need to cool off on a scorching afternoon, Swimply is the splashy escape you need.
Burrell honed his distinctive "toasting" voice during his time in the Marine Corps.
His first hit in 1993, "Oh Carolina," was a dancehall remake of a ska hit by the Folkes Brothers.
Shaggy’s biggest hit, “It Wasn’t Me,” sold more than a million copies and was the top U.K. pop song in 2001.
Shaggy plays History in Toronto on July 2, and the Kee to Bala in Muskoka, on July 6.
Get on a boat, with Skipperi
The big question bothering me in the middle of the night: What to do about civic leaders who refuse to ensure that the departments they manage behave in a reasonable fashion?
It particularly arises for me with the Toronto Police Service.
In late May a teenager was shot, and a bystander made an emergency call to 911 and was put on hold for almost nine minutes. There was abundant public criticism at this delay, and councillor Shelley Carroll, chair of the Toronto Police Services Board, which manages the police service, rushed to say things were well in hand: improvements were being made to the 911 service, the police are working to hire more staff, and a new system for 911 calls is being put in place.
The 911 problems have been around for more than a decade, which is why the city auditor studied the problem with a report in 2022. Almost 60 per cent of calls to 911 were not emergencies, and the auditor asked for programs so 911 was not used for non-emergencies, amongst other recommendations, such as improved management.
Three years on, we’ve got the same 911 problems. When will the Toronto Police Services Board ensure the necessary changes are made?
In another incident, Jennifer Johnson was reported missing July 23, 2023. Police found her body in the Nordheimer Ravine on Aug. 18, identified her and located the police file documenting intimate partner violence. Then the police set the case aside. Fourteen months later and only after her friends pushed did the police service look at the cellphone found with her body and do a serious investigation about how she might have been killed.
We learned how poorly Toronto police treat missing people when they dismissed concerns about gay men disappearing in 2016 and 2017, which led to the appointment of Judge Gloria Epstein. Her report “Missed and Missing” was released in 2021 and was endorsed by police authorities.
Yet four years after that report, police still made a mess of Johnson’s tragic death. The police service board again assures us changes are being made.
Then there’s the court case involving detective Guy Kama. The recent decision of Judge David Porter concludes in the case of an accused child predator: “Considered as a whole, the sheer number of breaches, and the seriousness of the police subversion of Mr. Patel’s Section 7 Charter rights,
the willingness of the officer-incharge to give evidence, which I found to be misleading or untruthful, and the cumulative disregard for Mr. Patel’s Charter rights in the police conduct in this case, in total amounts to conduct which would shock the community and offend the community’s sense of fair play and decency.”
The board has stated in writing (to me) that the public will learn nothing about any discipline for Det. Kama lying under oath or the officers who breached Charter rights. The board takes a similar position in the Zameer case in April 2024 in which the credibility of three police officers’ witness testimonies was questioned by the judge.
Police Chief Myron Demkiw is silent on all these cases. Maybe he shares the position of the police service board that there’s no real problem.
Complaining to the Toronto Police Services Board, the body responsible for the police service and its billion dollar budget, gets nowhere. What to do?
Pink slips all around?
A garbage idea: Toronto eyes incineration as landfills hit capacity
We’re making too much garbage. Now the City of Toronto is consulting residents on a tough choice: either find more landfill space or burn our garbage in a polluting incinerator. One option is the least bad — the landfill.
Some context. Toronto owns the Green Lane Landfill near London, where it sends our garbage. City staff tell us that it could fill up in as soon as 10 years. They are now assessing options, including expanding this landfill (they own the surrounding land), finding another landfill or sending it to an “energy-from-waste” incinerator.
These are all environmentally destructive, costly and toxic options. But evidence shows that modern, responsible landfill is cheaper, less hazardous and less environmentally destructive when compared to modern incinerators in Ontario.
Incineration often emerges as an exciting option because it promises to spin our garbage into gold. But this falls apart when you look at the numbers. In “mass burn” facilities, everything in the garbage — plastic, organics, textiles and the odd battery — is tossed in without sorting (when most of this could be sent to organics or recycling). This isn’t green energy; it’s a toxic and inefficient way to make electricity. Reports show this emits more carbon pollution than burning gas. Sometimes they even have to pour gas into the mix to get it to burn properly.
Incinerators also release known carcinogens, which harm our health even with the special filters added. Some will never break down naturally in the environment. Peel’s medical officer of health recently raised concerns about the health impacts of expanding Brampton’s incinerator.
It’s also just plain more expensive than landfill and much more expensive than reducing waste in the first place. In the U.S., at least 31 municipal solid waste incinerators closed between 2000 and 2020, largely due to the cost burden.
Some say that they want European-style incinerators. Sadly, this isn’t a model to follow. Even with strict E.U. air pollution controls, recent studies have shown accumulation of toxic pollution around European incinerators — to the point that people have been warned off consuming backyard chickens or dairy from some areas.
Some super-high tech options like pyrolysis and plasma gasification often promise clean energy with no downsides. These are unproven at scale with mixed residential garbage.
Don’t get duped by companies who will take our money and leave us holding the (garbage) bag. Let’s focus on getting organics collection in all multi-residential buildings and send what’s left to landfill.
After months of speculation, the mystery surrounding the future of the former Pusateri’s location in Yorkville has been resolved: Stock T.C, the upscale food and dining concept from the creators of Terroni and Cumbrae’s, is set to move in.
The high-profile corner at 57 Yorkville Ave., a nearly 11,000square-foot space once marketed by Pusateri’s as a “food art gallery,” will soon undergo a transformation.
Stock T.C — a hybrid grocery store, butcher shop, bottle shop and bistro — has officially signed a lease with Minto, as first reported by Retail Insider. The deal was brokered by JLL’s Brandon Gorman.
Pusateri’s, a staple in the neighbourhood since 2003, closed the Yorkville store in March 2024 after more than 20 years in operation, citing increasing operational costs and evolving retail challenges. The closure sparked widespread speculation about what would come next for the sought-after location.
It was part of a wider reorganization for the luxury grocer, which also saw the closure of its Bayview Village shopping centre location and the cancellation of a planned expansion into the
Little Italy neighbourhood. Stock T.C launched in 2020 by industry veterans Stephen Alexander (Cumbrae’s) and Cosimo Mammoliti (Terroni, Sud Forno). Since that time, it has become a destination in midtown for high-end groceries and Italian-inspired dining.
Its flagship near Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue blends a curated grocery section with a butcher, wine bar, restaurant and rooftop patio. The new Yorkville outpost is expected to be similar to that model, offering everything from housemade pasta and Roman-style pizza to gelato, rare wines and a full-service bistro.
The founders have previously described the concept as a place that caters equally to casual weekday visits and upscale dining occasions — where customers might grab a mortadella-and-pistachio pizza slice at lunch or sit down for steak frites and a negroni in the evening.
Construction is already underway at the site. Although an official opening date has not been announced, anticipation is high for what could be a major culinary addition to the Yorkville area.
—Jennifer Schembri
New plans for a major facelift at the Canada Square complex in midtown Toronto have emerged as plans for the massive redevelopment of the greater site have yet to be finalized.
Last month, developers Oxford Properties Group and CT REIT, in partnership with the Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC), announced that two older office towers at Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue will receive a major upgrade, to the tune of $200 million.
The interconnected towers at 2180 and 2200 Yonge St., originally constructed in the 1960s and 1970s, sit adjacent to the entrance of the Eglinton subway station, making them a major part of midtown Toronto’s infrastructure.
The $200 million retrofit will deliver 680,000 square feet of modern, energy-efficient office upgrades, with more than 80 per cent of this space to be leased by CTC under a 20-year agreement. For transit riders, a new, more accessible TTC entrance on Yonge Street will improve public transit access to Eglinton station.
"This is a proud milestone for Canadian Tire and a major reinvestment in a neighbourhood we've called home for more than half a century," Greg
Hicks, president and CEO of the Canadian Tire Corporation, said.
"We're excited to help transform this vibrant corner of the city. Our employees will be among the thousands who come here each day — for work, for play and for the ease of new transit connections in every direction."
“We’re building for today, while setting the stage for the decades to come.”
Renovations will begin later this year, starting with the 18storey building at 2180 Yonge St., which will undergo internal upgrades and a complete facade renewal, followed by a full renovation of the 17-storey tower at 2200 Yonge St.
The retrofit will add new employee amenities and about 15,000 square feet of modern retail space facing Yonge Street, which should help improve the streetscape.
"This substantial investment at Canada Square is part of Oxford's deep conviction that well-
located, high-quality and sustainable workplaces that focus on the employee experience will continue to outperform," Daniel Fournier, executive chair at Oxford Properties, said. "Not only is this an environmentally friendly approach to revitalizing one of the most transit-connected sites in the city, but it brings a substantial amount of employment to the neighbourhood and will benefit Torontonians for generations to come as we continue to advance our long-term plans for Canada Square."
This initiative marks the first major step in the redevelopment of the huge and crucial 9.2-acre Canada Square site. As Post previously reported, Oxford and CT REIT plan to eventually add rental housing and public space, as well as a huge new park and a much-needed school.
"This major reinvestment exemplifies our commitment to enhancing our assets and providing reliable, durable and growing results for our unit holders. We're building for today while setting the stage for the decades to come,” said Kevin Salsberg, president and CEO of CT REIT.
—Nisean Lorde
The City of Toronto is moving forward with plans to improve Pricefield Road Playground. But a flyer was distributed in the area outlining an exhaustive list of neighbourhood concerns, including parking, that shows not everybody is on board.
According to the flyer, which is anonymous, the park redesign and improvements will “support unwanted and illegal behaviour.” There is also a reference to a 2021 shooting that left one person dead and one injured.
But the local resident association, ABC Residents Association (ABCRA), supports the project, as outlined in a letter to city council.
“The creation of a new park at 819 Yonge Street offers a crucial opportunity to introduce green space in a dense urban environment, which will benefit current and future residents,” the letter reads, in part.
Located near Yonge Street and Summerhill Avenue, Pricefield Road Playground has long served as a green space for local families and residents. An “inkind” donation from a local developer helped kick-start the rejuvenation.
“In March, 2025 city council authorized the general manager, parks and recreation to accept an in-kind donation of up to
$620,000 from Scrivener Square Nominee Inc.,” said a City of Toronto spokesperson.
According to the city, the plan is to upgrade and enhance the park to better meet the community’s needs as the neighbourhood grows with new condo development. Proposed improvements include new pathways, seating areas, lighting, signage, an upgraded multi-sport court, a water feature and additional landscaping.
Students from Toronto Metropolitan University’s School of Urban and Regional Planning collaborated with residents to gather feedback and develop two design options, “The Web” and “Gathering Hub.” These proposals were shared with the public through surveys, town halls, workshops and pop-up events.
Feedback gathered during these events identified several priorities for local residents, including increased recreation opportunities for all age groups, better visibility and safety through lighting improvements, more seating and shaded areas and enhanced connections to nearby trails and green spaces.
More detailed design work is scheduled for fall 2025, followed by construction in summer 2026, with completion expected by fall 2027. —Ron Johnson
Toronto’s first suburban shopping plaza at Bathurst Street and Lawrence Avenue West is set to be demolished and replaced by a major mixed-use development.
A formal planning application has been submitted to the City of Toronto to transform Lawrence Plaza, which has stood since 1953, into a new residential and retail community. Developer RioCan and property owner Milestone Group are partnering on the project.
Plans for the site located at 534 Lawrence Ave. W. call for seven towers as well as a six-storey mid-rise building, ranging from 12 to 39 storeys, providing nearly 2,700 new homes, potentially including rental units.
The development will also include over 11,800 square metres (127,000+ square feet) of retail space to maintain the site’s commercial importance.
Additional features include a daycare as well as a nearly 4,000-square-metre public park. The goal is to create a walkable, transit-friendly community at this key intersection.
“This proposal presents an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the city’s housing supply, leverage a prime location along two Avenues at
Bathurst Street and Lawrence Avenue West, and deliver public realm improvements, including a new park,” read a cover letter accompanying the development application submitted.
“It reimagines Toronto’s first auto-oriented suburban retail plaza as a transit-oriented community, responsive to ongoing urban change while preserving its historic role as a community gathering place.”
“We view this as an opportunity to further evolve our brand.”
To address community concerns, including the future of long-standing tenants such as United Bakers Dairy Restaurant and Camp Connection, the project will be built in six phases.
New retail spaces will be constructed before the full demolition, allowing businesses to remain during redevelopment.
Since opening its doors in 1984 at its current location, United Bakers Dairy Restaurant has grown into a cherished fixture of Toronto’s Jewish com-
munity.
Now, as the plaza enters a period of major transformation, the future of this iconic eatery is top of mind for many.
Nathan Ladovsky, owner of United Bakers, spoke about what’s ahead for the restaurant as redevelopment plans move forward.
“We want to assure you that RioCan, the landlord, has expressed a desire to ensure that United Bakers remains a vital part of the plaza, both during and after the redevelopment,” said Ladovsky, for a previous Post article when the development was first announced.
A community institution for more than 112 years, United Bakers is looking ahead to how the restaurant might continue serving generations to come — possibly in a new and reimagined space.
“While we continue to operate in our current location, we are in talks with RioCan to realize a position within the new development and will continue to explore all available options. United Bakers has been in continuous operation for over 112 years, and we view this as an opportunity to further evolve our brand.”
—Ron Johnson
Peplum Boutique recently opened its doors in North York, and the evening wear shop focuses on sophisticated and elegant dresses. With a large collection curated from designers from around the world, there’s something for every generation. Book an appointment to visit the new shop at 69 Wingold Ave.
Ms. Potato’s Market has opened its doors in Davisville Village, and this charming little grocery market features a logo of Ms. Potato herself, complete with a sun hat. The small shop is packed with fresh produce and specialty grocery finds, handwritten fruit labels and rustic wooden shelves that give the space a homey touch. You can find the new market at 2001 Yonge St.
Helvaci Ali, a Turkish dessert café, has opened its doors in the Vaughan Mills plaza. The menu at the new spot is filled with unique, au-
thentic sweets — including its signature tahini helva, which comes in mouth-watering flavours such as cocoa & walnut and pistachio & tahini. Other highlights include Turkish cakes, cheesecakes, Antep baklava and an extensive drinks menu. You can find the new dessert spot at 3175 Rutherford Rd.
Maison Margiela and Creed are both launching in Yorkdale at 3401 Dufferin St. A Paris-based fashion house that has only grown in popularity in recent years, this location marks Maison Margiela’s first boutique in Canada. Creed, a luxury fragrance brand, will also be making its retail debut, when it opens in the fall — and it will be one of only a select few standalone stores globally.
Epos Cafe Couture, a mysterious new spot, is coming soon to the space formerly occupied by French restaurant Chabrol. Lo-
cated in a small laneway at 90 Yorkville Ave., recent signage for Epos promises pastries, coffee, cocktails and brunch. No opening date has been shared just yet.
Cafe de Flore Patisserie is an elegant new French coffee shop on Eglinton Way. The recently opened spot features green-andwhite-checkered chairs reminiscent of a Parisian patio. With an ice cream bar on offer alongside a pastry section filled with freshly baked bread and sweet treats, the new spot at 465 Eglinton Ave. W. will likely be a popular one in the neighbourhood.
Casa Mezcal has opened its doors in the spot formerly occupied by Anthony Rose’s popular Fet Zun restaurant. The lively Mexican restaurant lived in the Entertainment District for four years before abruptly closing down — but it has quickly found a new home at 252 Dupont St.
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Last month, the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board reported some shocking statistics: active listings reached a record high not seen in years of 30,964, an increase of 41.5 per cent yearover-year. Sales, too, were down 13.3 per cent year-over-year. But not all Toronto markets remain soft — signs point to a resurgence of interest in the luxury sector. We asked president of Re/Max Realtron Barry Cohen Homes and top luxury agent, Barry Cohen, for his take.
Is the high-end market back?
I’ve done three sales over the $10 million bracket in the most recent 45-day period but only one before that in 2025. I asked the buyers I represented: why now? They all told me a similar story. First interest rates went up, and they didn’t want a mortgage at that level, but they thought if mortgages go up people aren’t going to buy and prices will come down. But no one dropped their prices. Then the land transfer tax came, which tripled in the over $10 million category, so they thought there’s no way people
will pay for that — prices have to come down. But they didn’t. Then Trudeau announces his resignation. The market was poised for a rebound, until Trump came in with his tariff talks. So they didn’t jump in. Then May hit, we had a new government, and they said, “We don’t want to wait until our children are having grandchildren to enjoy our home.” And so they decided to stop waiting and just did it.
What do the numbers show?
They told a similar story — sales of homes over $10 million increased from two in 2024, January to June, to seven in 2025 during the same period. In the GTA, sales increased from two to 11. That didn’t reflect as much in the $5 million to $10 million range. There have been just 35 of those sales in the first half of 2025, versus 57 in 2024 in central Toronto.
All those instances your buyers mentioned have historically been enough to drop prices. What changed?
In past markets you’d have the sellers who would go with the trends in real estate and would drop their price. But this time, sellers are deciding, “This isn’t going to happen to me. I’ll wait it out.” They just won’t drop their prices. And so the buyers are ultimately paying for it.
All the same drivers of real estate haven’t changed: a lack of supply, immigration. The only difference has been sellers holding back for fear that they won’t sell. But now it’s been two years of that, and there’s this pent up demand. In the luxury market, there’s been plenty of wealth inheritance — boomers passing on trillions to their kids — so people are finally spending it.
Why is the high-end market differing from the low-end?
The lower end marches to a different beat. They’re more susceptible to headlines and interest rate changes. In the high end, prices aren’t generally going up, but they’re holding their own, and I don’t foresee in the near future that they’ll come down. People took a wait-and-see approach, and it’s shown them that they can’t wait out price drops any more.
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SMOKIN’ BIRDS
Jennifer Dewasha and Jane MacDonald serve up generous plates of smoked brisket, pulled pork and smoked turkey breast with standout sides like pineapple coleslaw and smoked beets, from their food truck in Bala. The brisket sammie could be the best you’ve ever tried.
This race was too close to call!
SMOKIN’ HOT BBQ
In Huntsville, a great new addition to Muskoka is located in the old train station, and offering all the southern BBQ classics, including a standout beef brisket, in a wonderful rustic atmosphere with a slew of picnic tables to eat outside. Larry’s signature ribs for the win!
Yes, there are great breads here, and the lemon meringue pie is drool-worthy, but we like nothing more than grabbing a couple dozen raspberry oatmeal and Florentine cookies from Huntsville’s WINDMILL BAKERY for those cottage sweet cravings we know are coming up fast.
THE OAR in Gravenhurst could easily be considered the hidden gem eatery in all of Muskoka, thanks to its incredible consistency, friendly vibe and just all-around excellence. And it’s home to one of the best burgers you’ll find in all the land.
Muskoka is blessed with incredible ice cream options, but Huntsville’s KAWARTHA DAIRY ticks all the boxes — incredible quality, range of flavours, massive portions.
Every Friday, Muskoka cottagers hit the ROSSEAU FARMERS MARKET along the lake in this charming town. There is plenty of food, both fresh and prepared, arts, crafts and everything else. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time.
EL PUEBLITO has been serving up authentic and drop-dead delicious tacos in downtown Bracebridge for a few years, amassing quite the following, especially for the delicious beef birria and shrimp tacos.
A 75-year Muskoka institution in Bala, DON’S BAKERY is beloved for its butter tarts, comforting savoury staples, like quiche and chicken pot pie, as well as their pillowy scones that keep people coming back for more.
Quickly becoming famous for incredible salads and other incredible options to takeaway, THE PEARL also offers a lovely sit-down service. Fantastic for a delicious lunch, and please trust us when we say the chicken ricotta meatball sammie and Singapore Slaw are OMG-worthy.
JACK & STELLA is oozing charm, offering everything from cottage decor to cocktails and sandwiches. But the best? Savouring a delicious latte from the shop’s dock that extends into Lake Muskoka offering an incredible view.
Berta “Mrs. H” serves what many call the best fish and chips north of the South Pole from her often lined up little shop MRS. H’S FISH AND CHIPS at Wahta Station, with Torontonians picking up incredible halibut and chips on their way to the cottage. Don’t sleep on the shrimp and chips. Trust us.
BEST PIZZA
Muskoka is not exactly swimming in quality ‘za. Thankfully there is PIZZA ON EARTH which offers up top-drawer pizza from its charming Dorset outpost. We love the Firetower and the Tower of Baysil, but you can’t go wrong here, unless you don’t call ahead. Busy.
TULO’S TAQUERIA is a Port Carling hot spot that offers fresh, flavourful tacos, like the tuna tostada and creative veggie options, all enjoyed on their dockside or rooftop patio with a refreshing Surfboard cocktail. Yes, Harry Styles may be back.
Muskoka is home to some of the best craft breweries in Ontario, but SAWDUST CITY in Gravenhurst is our fave thanks to the flagship and very northern-forward Lone Pine IPA.
Run by T.O. chefs Julie and Richard Lalonde, Rosseau’s CROSSROADS combines an upscale yet homey ambience with a chefdriven seasonal menu that highlights fresh pastas and seafood. When the summer weather hits, get into that garden patio.
One of those hidden gems in Muskoka, GANGNAM KOREA in Huntsville offers seriously tasy fare and some fine bubble tea at great prices. Fantastic fried chicken not to be missed.
Since its opening in 1939, this gorgeous inn has become a cherished Muskoka landmark, offering a perfect blend of elegant rooms, upscale dining and serene views of the tranquil Lake Joseph. Sherwood’s charm and intimate setting make it a standout destination. Daily bonfire anyone?
This race was too close to call!
Affectionately known as "The Lady of the Lake," this beauty has been an iconic Muskoka retreat since 1870. Steeped in Victorian elegance, this historic hotel has a rich heritage, offering guests a luxurious and one-ofa-kind escape on the shores of Lake Rosseau. The spa is pure magic.
Lined with modern lake houses that come with two-storey boat houses, LAKE ROSSEAU is known for its luxury accommodations. Stay here for your best chance at doing some celebrity spotting during your vacation — including Toronto’s own Martin Short, whose summer home even inspired a commemorative $3 coin.
The largest of the big three lakes, LAKE MUSKOKA is an ideal destination if your dream cottage escape involves plenty of boating, fishing and recreational activities. While you’re there, you might spot the Beckhams — they often stay at their friend Jamie Salter’s cottage, located on this lake.
Known for its crystal clear waters, the real selling point of LAKE JOSEPH is the abundance of privacy its residents enjoy. With cottages on long, concealed shorelines, stay here and you may end up neighbours with Lisa Rinna & Harry Hamlin, whose family has owned a place on Governors Island for over a century.
AUX BOX near Huntsville offers a secluded and off-grid retreat in the woods near Huntsville, featuring a cosy wood-burning fireplace, private hot tub and outdoor shower, making it the perfect getaway for a peaceful, nature-filled couple’s escape.
A cool eco-luxury glamping experience, MUSKOKA DOME near Bracebridge features a dome-style lodging with a stunning glass ceiling for stargazing. It combines nature with modern comforts, like heated floors, a towel warmer and a fully equipped kitchen.
Tennis, golf, water sports — plus excellent dining is the perfect balm for tired parents at DEERHURST RESORT in Huntsville. This place has it all from stunning golf to a beachside playground with paddleboards and kayaks for all. Plus, you can even fish from the property.
The renovated motel, DUDLEY INN near Bala, offers a surprising blend of rustic style and modern amenities, with clean, spacious rooms, thoughtful touches like heated floors and mini fridges and a perfect location to launch Muskoka explorations.
The four-star resort TABOO MUSKOKA RESORT & GOLF in Gravenhurst features a beautiful, challenging golf course alongside lakeside luxury amenities, and with a new Mark McEwan restaurant the post-game fare just got much better.
The charming FERN GLEN INN in Emsdale is set on 120 woodland acres and has just five cosy rooms with ensuite bathrooms and daily hot breakfast. Enjoy hiking on 10 kilometres of private trails. We love the rustic cabin guest lounge.
The family-owned resort CEDAR GROVE LODGE on Peninsula Lake in Muskoka has become a beloved tradition for many Toronto families by keeping it simple. Cosy log cabins, wood-burning fireplaces, delicious home-cooked meals included in the price, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Offering waterfront rooms, great meals and recreational fun, SEVERN LODGE is a fantastic resort for families in Muskoka. We love the old school family entertainment, and idyllic Trent-Severn Waterway location.
Bracebridge’s charming old cinema hasn’t changed much over the decades, and that’s just how we like it. Fantastic snack selection, great popcorn and cavernous auditoriums. Sit close to the front.
This race was too close to call!
MUSKOKA DRIVE-IN
Located just outside Huntsville, it’s hard to beat a movie under the stars with this nostalgic drive-in experience. This little charmer is secluded and incredibly dark with great snacks, bug spray highly recommended.
Discover rescued animals and conservation efforts while exploring beautiful trails at ASPEN VALLEY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY a hidden Muskoka gem in Rosseau.
Every Tuesday night in Bala, enjoy spectacular SWS BOATWORKS SKI SHOWS featuring national athletes — a festive, silly and fun time for all ages.
Enjoy lakeside vinyasa classes and retreats in a rustic boathouse overlooking Lake Rosseau at Port Carling’s BOATHOUSE YOGA, perfect for all skill levels.
BEST RIVER ADVENTURE
Experience a full day of fun with MUSKOKA RIVER ADVENTURES near Baysville, featuring canoeing, kayaking, tubing, hot tubs, lunch and scenic waterfalls, with a customizable seven-hour outdoor escape.
BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL
Held at Gravenhurst waterfront, the TALL PINES FESTIVAL features big names, like Blue Rodeo and Sloan, in a magical setting.
HARDY LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK, between Gravenhurst and Bala, is overrun with hikers every weekend, so plan accordingly. The prize? After a forest walk, hikers arrive at a stunning boardwalk leading to a picturesque island to make it all worthwhile.
Three stunning Bracebridge area falls — HIGH, BRACEBRIDGE and WILSON — are just minutes from downtown.
Saunter up a cute forest path at Milford Bay’s HUCKLEBERRY ROCK to a massive rocky outcropping to the giant Muskoka chair and bask in the incredible views.
The DORSET LOOKOUT TOWER offers breathtaking panoramic views of Muskoka's forests and lakes from 142 metres above Lake of Bays, making it a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Float down the lower Oxtongue River from Algonquin to Lake of Bays for an unforgettable journey on the OXTONGUE CLASSIC route.
The legendary venue KEE TO BALA hosts a summer concert series, featuring top Canadian acts, including Metric, the Sheepdogs and Sam Roberts.
Although also a great place for a hike anytime, this unique slice of Muskoka is home to TORRANCE BARRENS, Canada’s first dark sky preserve with epic night sky views.
Huntsville’s ALGONQUIN THEATRE combines a great soft seat auditorium with fantastic programming, from comedy to music to variety, offering cottagers a great option for an evening out and away from the kids. Serena Ryder performs July 3!
BEST WATERY FUN
Try your hand at the old-timey sport of log rolling or rowing at Port Carling’s HATCHET ROWING CENTRE for a fun, unique water-based adventure.
ROSSEAU GENERAL STORE
Open since 1874, this historic gem at the centre of town blends groceries, cottage gear and Muskoka swag for a true local experience.
This race was too close to call!
ROBINSON’S GENERAL STORE
A Muskoka landmark, this Dorset outpost offers cottage essentials, fresh produce and top-rated ice cream with a charming rustic vibe.
BEST BOOKSHOP
With stacks and stacks of used books teetering around every corner across two floors and even a small vinyl collection, THE OWL PEN in Bracebridge has some serious Harry Potter vibes. Prepare to leave with some gems in tow.
BEST BEACH VIBE
The Mactier sisters’ boutique CURATO offers sun-kissed clothing and chic home accents to create that perfect Musoka vibe of your dreams.
BEST WOODEN BOATS
Where traditional wooden boats meet modern artisan skills in Huntsville, ALLMAN BOATWORKS creates timeless classics.
A treasure trove for music lovers and collectors, featuring vintage instruments, paintings and more, CURRIE’S MUSIC AND ANTIQUES in Gravenhurst is a vibe.
A favourite at Toronto pop-up markets, CLUTTER PORCH has found a home in Muskoka with a seasonal brick-and-mortar shop in Port Carling. Expect funky finds, beach vibes and a killer denim collection.
The adorable TEENY WEENY BIKINI CO. in Rosseau is a breath of fresh air — colourful, creative and dramatic, just like you. Check out this hidden gem off the main street, look for the Vespa always parked out front.
BEST ANTIQUE MALL
Spanning 6,000 square feet with over 50 vendors, Severn’s ANTIQUES ON 11 NORTH offers an exciting hunt for nostalgic and unique finds.
Elegant cottage-inspired furniture and cosy home accessories in Rousseau, HILLTOP INTERIORS is perfect for creating a lakeside sanctuary.
BEST COTTAGEINSPIRED JEWELRY
Find timeless, locally-crafted jewelry and clothing inspired by lakeside living in Port Carling at the gem L’EAU.
Beautifully curated and offering top beach-approved brands, including swimwear favourite LSpace and Australian resort brand Boteh, upscale boutique MUSE in Port Carling will give your Muskoka style a major upgrade.
BEST FOR FUNKY SWIMWEAR
BATHER, with a shop in Port Carling, is a Toronto-based brand known or stylish, locally made men’s swim trunks that combine beach-to-street versatility with quality, comfort and ethical production.
BEST FOR TRENDS
Port Sandfield’s AUGUSTINA BOUTIQUE offers a curated collection of premium bags, jewelry, cashmere, dresses and accessories, focused on high-quality, stylish pieces for every wardrobe.
BEST FOR SERIOUS STYLE
Upscale women’s fashion MUST BOUTIQUE in Port Carling offers a curated selection of trendy, handpicked European private-label clothing and accessories.
BEST FOR BOHO
Port Carling’s SNAPDRAGON offers a curated mix of luxury cashmere, resort wear and unique jewelry, blending style, comfort and sustainability for that perfect Muskoka look.
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When Dejon Brissett was drafted by the Toronto Argonauts in 2020, he recalls his first time driving down the Gardiner to the BMO Field, seeing the Argos logo come into view.
“That was a pretty cool experience,” he says. It’s definitely not something a young Brissett would have ever imagined — considering he grew up playing basketball in Toronto (as did his younger brother, Oshae Brissett, who went on to play for the Toronto Raptors) and excelled at track.
It was only when he got some NCAA D1 interest for football that he made the switch.
Cup’s Most Valuable Canadian. “That was really rewarding for me, especially because my mom, my dad, my brother and my sister were there, my friends were there.”
Mindset is everything for Brissett. After a knee injury almost took him entirely out of the season at the start of 2024, he says he saw it as an opportunity to focus on other things — and to attack his rehab.
“AFTER A WIN, WE CELEBRATE AND THEN WE FORGET ABOUT IT.”
He played football in Virginia during his collegiate career — which made his call from the Argos even sweeter. “At the time, my brother was playing for the Raptors, and my family hadn’t seen me play for a while because I was in [the U.S.] for so long, so it was a cool moment, not just for me, but for my family as well,” he says.
Since Brissett joined the Argos, he’s helped the team score two Grey Cup wins, including most recently in 2024.
His performance earned him a coveted award: the Dick Suderman Trophy for the Grey
“I would watch YouTube videos of bones healing, sped up times two, training my mind to heal my bones,” he says.
It helps that he’s part of a team with what he describes as “top-tier culture,” noting the locker room is tight knit. “After a win, we celebrate and we forget about it. After a loss, we watch and we learn and then forget about it,” Brissett says.
That impressively even translates to a Grey Cup win: “We’ve already flushed the fact that we won last year; we don’t even talk about it.”
But that doesn’t mean they don’t get frustrated at a loss, including a few tough ones at the start of this season.
“We expect to be great every single week. So we’re figuring out what we’re doing wrong, and we’ll fix it for the weeks to come.”
—Julia Mastroianni
Have a scent-sational adventure at these themed experiences on Ontario’s top lavender farms
Paint ’n’ sip in the fields
Enter the fragrant fields of Lavender Valley Farm and get to work painting the purple masterpiece of your dreams. Paint supplies, lavender mint tea or prosecco, a themed gift, light snacks and field admission are all included in this artistic adventure. July 6, 27; 5505 6 Line, Cookstown
A purple picnic series
Enjoy a luxury picnic set between colourful bushes at Purple Hill Lavender Farm. An Evening in the Fields: Picnic Series offers a romantic setup, featuring pillows and candles, charcuterie, live music and drinks as the sun sets. Wednesdays & Saturdays; 7484 6/7 Sideroad Nottawasaga, Creemore
Outdoor sunset yoga among the flowers
Head to the picturesque Stonewell Farm for an outdoor sunset yoga experience, run by Crystal Tree Yoga. Be among the lavender fields as you find your inner peace, with only the birds and the sky to distract you. Wednesdays; 9762 Wellington Road 42, Erin
High Park Zoo
High Park Zoo welcomed an adorable new Highland calf last month. After a naming contest with 550 respondents, the park unveiled the cute calf’s official moniker: Molly McMoo! She is the first baby born at the zoo this season. Her parents, Heather and Fergus, are longtime residents at the park. You can visit Molly every day from 9 to 7 p.m.
Tiny paws and hooves make a big debut as these adorable arrivals hit Toronto’s top zoos and farms
The arrival of spring brought more than flowers to Riverdale Farm. There were also some new births! Baby animals are one of the best parts of this working farm, and these newcomers are no exception: a lamb and a baby goat, names to be decided, have joined the ranks of Riverdale’s next generation. Visit the babies every day from 9–5 p.m.
Toronto Zoo
Last year, the Toronto Zoo welcomed two spotted little snow leopards, Zoya and Minu, and an endangered baby red panda Poppy. The fun continues: the eleven-and-a-half-year-old Masai giraffe (also an endangered species), Mstari, is expecting! You can visit the calf from 9 to 4:30 p.m. daily when it arrives in spring 2026.
Get a head start on summer with these three incredible July shows
Cyndi Lauper
See pop icon Cyndi Lauper for what just might be the final time in Toronto this July. She’ll be bringing the Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour to the city on July 27, at Budweiser Stage.
Coldplay
Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres Tour is finally coming to an end, and what better place for a big finale than Toronto’s latest and greatest music venue, Rogers Stadium. The band will take to the outdoor stage there for a whopping four shows, July 7, 8, 11 and 12.
The Weeknd
The Weeknd is playing two back-to-back hometown shows at the Rogers Centre, July 27–28, on his After Hours Til Dawn Stadium Tour. Expect hits from his latest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow (yes, he also wrote a psychological thriller, starring himself, by the same name).
JEANNE’S FAVE
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A. PUFFED SLEEVE TOP, Mala Boutique, SALE $273, 97 Joseph St., Port Carling “I love the smocking; this looks very retro and feminine. It's a little folkloric, and there's so many different ways you can wear it.”
B. KICK FLARE JEANS, Tusk, $190, 888 Queen St. W.
C. RUNNER, Gravitypope, SALE $69.99, 1010 Queen St. W.
D. BIKINI, Sandpipers, Top: $145 Bottoms: $132, 87 Yorkville Ave. “I like this little two-piece, it looks so cute and it's a really nice cut.”
E. SKIRT, Gravitypope, $435, 1010 Queen St. W. “I love the big check and the length is great — this looks nice and cool for the summer.”
F. TOTE, Ela, $110, elahandbags.com
G. ONE-PIECE, Visual Mood, $159, visualmood.com
The picnic-perfect pattern has emerged as this season's winning trend. From plaid to gingham, checks with a super-summery twist are everywhere, so Jeanne Beker helped us source the best of these criss-crossed and cool prints for the ideal warm weather wardrobe refresh.
H. HEADBAND, Lululemon, $22, 9350 Yonge St.
I. SHORTS, Muse, $225, 111 Medora St., Unit 5, Port Carling
J. SHEER SOCKS, Frock, $58, 97 Roncesvalles Ave.
K. NECKLACE, Philistine, $38, 928 Queen St. W.
L SCRUNCHIE, ARMED Jewelry, $15, upandarmed.com
M. MAXI DRESS, Frock, $218, 97 Roncesvalles Ave.
N. MINI DRESS, Aritzia, $98, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr. “It's flouncy; it's a really sweet little sundress. The cut of it looks really feminine and romantic and flirty.”
O. SHOULDER BAG, Te Koop, $79.99, 421 Queen St. W. “The design of this bag is so unexpected, and it looks nice and roomy.”
P. MARY JANES, 100% Silk Shop, $235, 1558 Dupont St.
Step into Bananas, and you’re instantly hit with a riot of colour, candy and chaos — in the best way possible.
Located at 2582 Yonge St., this new midtown gem is the brainchild of best friends and next door neighbours Joanna Stern and Lauren Shulman, who describe their eclectic, maximalist shop as “a one-stop shop” of whimsy and one-of-a-kind items.
Walk through the doors and you’re met with a full-blown sensory carnival: checkerboard tile floors, flamingo-print wallpaper, a claw machine and shelves brimming with everything from pastel Adidas to retro board games to leopard print dog leashes.
“It’s just a bananas experience,” says cofounder Shulman. “People walk in and say, ‘This is chaotic — but in the best way.’ And we’re like, ‘Yep, that’s us.’ ” Shulman and Stern describe their esthetic
as “white tee, jeans, killer accessories” and maybe a fart button. (Yes, they sell those too.) Collaborators in the custom invitation and event design world, the duo pivoted to retail after realizing people were always asking where they got their stuff. Their answer? Make a store that has all of it.
That place became Bananas — part general store, part nostalgic fever dream, part third space. “It’s like what’s inside of our heads at all times,” says Shulman laughing.
And while the merch is maximalist — think candy walls, cheeky trinkets and neonbright lounge sets — the mission behind it is heartfelt. “I’m a huge gift giver,” says Stern. “These days, everything’s gone digital — people just send gift cards. I wanted to go back to the days of going into a trinket shop with your mom and begging her to buy you something.”
The women have dubbed it their “happy place,” and they’re proud to offer a break from doom scrolling and algorithmic shopping. “We wanted to create a place where people could make connections, find something fun and feel good,” says Stern.
And that connection starts with their community. The shop is located on what Stern calls the “Sporting Life strip” in midtown, the street their very own two feet walked up and down as a teenager, now a pocket of Yonge Street that’s become a haven for beloved small businesses. “We’re in such good company,” says Shulman, in reference to both the neighbouring community as well as the soon to be bustling neighbouring stores — Mandy’s Salads and Andrea’s Cookies. Bananas fits right in.
As Shulman puts it: “We’re just here to spread joy.” — Lauren DiBenedetto
Toronto’s retail environment has faced some challenges over the past years; even iconic department store Hudson’s Bay Co. shuttered. But one type of shop has bucked the trend: vintage. Check out the city’s latest openings.
A new go-to shop for freaks only
Former owner of longtime Dundas West vintage shop Good Habits, Meaghan Harris, ventured off to open a new vintage store in Little Italy. The name? Freak Vintage. Harris says the word “freak” is one she’s used for a long time to identify things that she really loves or that are particularly unique. Expect a shop full of interesting staple pieces and conversation starters. 581 College St.
The motherland of vintage
Legacy vintage shop Public Butter, sister shop of Black Market, just opened a new thrift store in gift shop emporium Blue Banana’s old spot in Kensington Market. Filled with hundreds of deadstock vintage pieces, it will also feature market vendors in homage to the previous shop’s general store vibe. 250 Augusta Ave.
Toronto’s first vintage department store
A trio of fashionable entrepreneurs launched the city’s first vintage department store. The lower level is Cameron Alastaire Vintage, focused on men’s suiting, and the women’s department, Ca.ke Vintage, is upstairs. Shop mall brands under $50 and designer pieces upwards of $1,500. 662 Queen St. W. —Emma Johnston-Wheeler
Toronto is heating up! Here’s how to stay cool from the heat, while dressing cool on the streets.
Silk scarves have been a trending accessory for a little while now, but this summer, we’re kicking it up a couple notches. Full scarf print looks are all the rage, from matching sets to flowy caftans. Often in silk, this trend will do the heavy lifting to keep you cool. Check out Maje’s summery green take on the trend at the Eaton Centre.
Lots of lace
A natural progression of the recent boho resurgence, lace and eyelet are having a moment. Lucky for us, these fabrics are also super breathable, thanks to the open knit and light colouring. Pair with more gorpcore shoes or edgy accessories for a bit of contrast. Lace-trimmed silk skirts are especially in — like Danish fashion brand Sofie Schnoor’s Sarai skirt at the west end’s Frock boutique.
Pop of poplin
If you prefer staying a little covered up in the summer to stay safe from the sun, enter poplin pants. Fluid, breezy and light as air, they’re as comfortable as your favourite sweats and yet stylish enough to take you from the office to after-work drinks. Try on Left on Friday’s version at thier Muskoka pop-up this summer.
Dear Sangita: I've been single for a while and have been asking my friends to set me up. The problem is that they keep setting me up with the absolute worst picks, men who are frankly ugly and boring. Do my friends really think these people are my physical and intellectual matches? I'm considering nicely asking them to stop, please... or being up front with them and asking them why their matches are such duds. — Doomed dating diaries
friends. If we get married, I know we're only going to spend even more time with this one pair, and I don't think I can stand it. My boyfriend seems to have no issues with them at all, and I don't want to hurt his feelings by insulting his friends. What do I do? — Fourth wheel
Dear Doomed: It's a new dating world. I’m sure your friends think highly of you; there just aren’t a ton of options out there! You should appreciate that they’re trying to help. They likely just don’t have that many friends that they have an abundance of choice when it comes to looks or personality. I think, as you get older, you have higher expectations — you want a certain look or a certain quality, and you’re not willing to try other things. Sure, a guy might be ugly, but he also might be the nicest guy in the world! Loosen up a bit on your standards, because you might meet someone who isn’t what you were expecting but is the right match for you.
Dear Sangita: I love my boyfriend, but I hate his couple
Dear Fourth: I've been in this scenario too. If you do get married or end up having kids, relationships often evolve, so don’t panic about having them in your life forever just yet. I do think your boyfriend should be noticing that you’re not having the best time with these people and not force the relationship on you. You can say to him, “I think they’re great people, but I don’t want to spend all our time with them.” When you marry someone, you have a life together, and then you have your own life. In this situation, you can figure out how to deal with them once in a while and do the occasional couple things that you don’t want to do, but the rest of the time focus on your own friends.
Email advice@postcity.com with your questions for Sangita.
This spring, a new face joined Canada’s morning TV lineup as co-host on Breakfast Television: Tim Bolen, former radio host on CHCH. The TV personality, who now hosts alongside BT vet Dina Pugliese, shares the very Toronto story behind his more than a deacde of love with his wife, Elizabeth Davies.
How they met Liz had just moved to Toronto and started working at the Keg on York Street (where I worked as well). She was hoping to go by Elizabeth in her new city. She is such a people pleaser, every person she was introduced to as Elizabeth, they said, “Can I call you Liz?” As she says, I was the only one that said, “Hi Elizabeth,” and alarm bells went off in her head. I was a confident curly haired lad who had no thoughts of settling down at the time. Luckily, she gave me a chance anyway — and here we are.
The first date
Our first date was at a place called Cluck Grunt Low. It was at the corner of Bloor and Spadina and actually a few years after we met. We had spent time together as friends, but this was our first date. It was planned but ended up being thrown together last minute as I was just starting my broadcasting career and needed to cover an on-air shift. Liz understood but had to change our
date location, so we popped into the first restaurant we saw after getting off the subway. It sure wasn’t a fancy spot and would have been a great place to crush a beer and watch the game with a buddy … maybe not the best first date spot with my future wife!
When they realized the other was ‘the one’ This sounds so cheesy, but it was that first date at that sports bar.
Nestled between the city’s esteemed and historic neighbourhoods of Forest Hill and Rosedale, Bradgate Arms Retirement Residence offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and community for those seeking a vibrant retirement lifestyle. With the charm of tree-lined streets and historical architecture, Bradgate Arms stands as a beacon of modern convenience and classic elegance.
Stepping into Bradgate Arms feels like taking a journey back to a more graceful, simpler era. Built in 1914, the same year Casa Loma was completed, and the First World War began, the residence stands as a timeless landmark in the heart of Toronto. It's fascinating to imagine how different life was at the corner of St. Clair and Avenue Road when The Bradgate Arms first opened its doors. Over the course of 65 years, Bradgate Arms was home to a variety of colourful tenants, including none other than Sean Connery, who stayed there in 1961 while filming in Toronto. In 1984, the building entered a new era with the opening of the Bradgate Arms Hotel. The elegant dining room became a favourite among Imperial Oil executives and visiting film stars alike. Over the next two decades, the hotel welcomed many notable guests through its doors, including Christopher Plummer, Mickey Rooney, and Tom Cruise. During the Toronto International Film Festival, the Bradgate offered a discreet and peaceful retreat—an ideal hideaway from the spotlight and red carpet of TIFF.
In the late 1990s, Bradgate Arms underwent another
We had such a great time that I knew I was in trouble!
The kids and pets
We started with a dog — the best dog, in fact. Liz started asking for a dog the second we moved in together. She was persistent, and eventually I cracked as we got Alfy – a snuggly Bernese Mountain dog. Alfy was with us when our first two kids were born, Pippa and Gabriel. Unfortunately, we had to put him down before Ophelia, a.k.a. Phee, was born. Alfy was the first member of our family. The kids are everything for us.
Balancing careers and a relationship
We are maybe a little different than the norm. We are ships in the night. I work early mornings. Liz works evenings/nights as a lead sommelier. Most days, Liz crawls into bed after a long day of work moments before I am getting up. We've been doing
transformation, becoming a retirement residence. Today, it remains a proud and enduring fixture in the neighbourhood, a place where history and community continue to thrive.
of Comfort and Care
Bradgate Arms understands that retirement should be a time of relaxation and fulfillment. The residence provides a sanctuary where residents can enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle while receiving personalized care tailored to their individual needs.
The spacious and beautifully appointed independent and supportive living suites are designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring a variety of amenities and easy access to the surrounding neighbourhood.
Beyond the comfort of your own suite, the residence
that for the better part of two decades. We don’t generally prioritize date nights, but we always look forward to time spent together as a couple and time spent with all five of us as a family.
The secret to success
We just do our best every day. Maybe that sounds lame, but it's the truth. Some days, our best is a “world record” performance, and other days, it's literally just getting through the day. If either of us falls short of our responsibilities, we do our best to lift ’em up!
The future together
Is it terrible that we haven’t really talked about this — or even thought much about it? With younger kids, we’re really at a stage in life where we’re just trying to focus on what’s right in front of us. If we’re dreaming a little, it would be amazing to have a cottage or a home where our kids — and hopefully their families — keep coming back to.
offers an array of world-class amenities that make every day enjoyable. Stay active in the fitness center or join a group wellness class to keep your body and mind sharp. Enjoy chef-prepared meals in our elegant dining spaces, where fresh, nutritious cuisine brings people together over good conversation and great food. Visit the Library for some peaceful time or enjoy some classic cinema in the Movie Theatre.
Experience elevated living, where personalized concierge service and town car transportation make every day effortlessly luxurious.
With a dedicated team of caregivers and healthcare professionals, residents and families can rest assured knowing that their needs are always our top priority.
Your
Discover why Bradgate Arms is the premier choice for retirement living in Toronto's historic neighbourhood. Join us at Bradgate Arms, where every day is an opportunity to embrace a fulfilling and enriching retirement lifestyle.
We can’t wait to welcome you home. For more information about Bradgate Arms, or to schedule a tour, call (416) 968-1331, or visit cogirseniorliving.ca/bradgatearms
You may not know it, but there is a Pelvic Floor Revolution happening around the world. For years pelvic health was a taboo subject and not well understood. You can blame this on a historical lack of funding and interest in women’s health. This is now changing. There are articles in major women’s health magazines, podcasts, and even a new industry called FemTech – where women’s healthcare and technology are converging to solve unmet needs. Isn’t it about time?
Bladder leaks and urgency have been normalized as “part of being a woman”. This is simply not true. These issues are common, but not normal. Your body should not leak urine. Ever. Wearing bulky pads or diapers should not be something we settle for. These issues can be a sign of dysfunction in your pelvic floor and you deserve to have that problem solved.
Numerous surveys show many women have little idea what the pelvic floor is or its purpose.
We love cycling! We do it for exercise, we commute to work, we pick up the kiddos at school and grab groceries on our bikes. Riding a bike is an incredible way to explore Toronto, while doing your part to fight climate change. That said, in our busy city it is not without some risk.
Collisions with motorists happen more regularly than we would like. In our experience this is often due to distracted and dangerous driving, as well as impatience of those behind the wheel. The results can be quite serious for people on bikes. We see concussions, broken bones, and even psychological trauma regularly.
Our hope is that it never happens to you, but it is always best to be prepared. Who knows, maybe you’ll be able to help someone as a witness to a collision. In either case, here are critical post-collision steps to take:
1) Get off the road and to safety if your injuries permit.
Ensure that you seek help from a pelvic health centre that is passionate about education. There are private urological focused clinics that combine technology, education and health coaching to help women (and men) say goodbye to bladder leaks, urgency, prolapse and other pelvic floor issues. The best part is you remain fully clothed and the treatment is 100% non-invasive. Nothing goes in your body, and no one is touching you.
The pelvic floor is made up of a group of muscles at the base of your core. A weak pelvic floor is an issue, but so is a pelvic floor that is too tight,which can cause problems such as pain during sex. The goal is to balance the tone of these muscles so they can do their job properly.
You deserve to be surrounded by professionals coming together to help you. Ensure that your care is provided by an interdisciplinary team that is focused on pelvic health; a care team that consists of Nurses, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists, OBGYN and Physiotherapy Assistants. Another key part of an excellent care model is the Kegel Throne, a medical chair, approved by Health Canada. As you sit comfortably, the chair not only reboots the connection between your brain, bladder and pelvic floor, but it also does 11,000 contractions of the pelvic floor muscles (you know these as kegels) to help strengthen the muscles.
The level of education we provide is world class. “Why did nobody tell me this 10 years ago?” is a common question asked by clients
2) Contact authorities at the scene by dialing 911 or asking a bystander to do so.
3) Take pictures of the driver’s license plate, property damage, bike lane blockages, etc. 4) Seek medical attention even if you think you’re just a little banged up.
If you’ve been struck by a motor vehicle and injured, no matter who’s at fault you have access to Accident Benefits through auto insurance for lost wages, physiotherapy and associated medical costs. You may even be able to seek additional compensation through a lawsuit to provide for longer term recovery needs.
Of course, always contact a lawyer who can advise you of your rights. Be sure it is one who specializes in cycling law!
Ride bikes, have fun, be prepared and be safe. See you out there.
exposed to the education throughout their care. With a fit and healthy pelvic floor, people should feel confident and free. Booking a complimentary consultation is a great first step toward improving your quality of life.
“Finding this program was the best thing to have happened to me. I had become pretty reclusive, and now I feel free and liberated from my circumstances. I have learned so much about my body that I didn’t know before – it’s a wonderful blessing”.
Erin Craven, Founder & CEO
Erin combined her entrepreneurial drive, passion and empathetic leadership to build UROSPOT; a leadingedge company disrupting the way bladder leaks, urge issues, prolapse and sexual dysfunction are
www.urospot.com
(416) 874 6268
uptowntoronto@urospot.com
3080 Yonge St., Ste 5033 Toronto ON M4N 3N1
Most investors consider returns to be a yardstick for assessing portfolio performance. Investors also benchmark returns against a preferred index to measure the value-added contribution(s) of their wealth managers. A manager providing higher returns compared to the benchmark is far more likely to retain clients than another who is behind. However, after twenty-five years on Bay Street and Wall Street, we have learnt that investors and the rest of us underestimate the risks in our lives.
Medium- to long-term wealth creation is dependent on understanding, forecasting, and managing these unknown and unknowable risks. Astute portfolio managers not only manage money proactively, but they also counsel clients in advance about the risks – foreseen and unforeseen – they are managing.
For example, the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 was a significant and unexpected event. It was both sudden and unexpected to most partici-
pants in capital markets and various political capitals worldwide. The emergence of COVID-19 in December 2019 and its rapid spread globally in early 2020, creating a pandemic and chaos worldwide, was an unknown, unknowable risk. The rise of global inflation post-pandemic to levels not seen by the G-7 since the early 1990s was an unforeseen risk post-pandemic that caused significant capital market dislocation. The current slump in the condominium market in the Greater Toronto Area, slowly spreading to single-family homes across the GTA, was always a risk, but the timing was unknown. Speculators caught amid this downturn have nowhere to run, while those who feared missing out and jumped in blindfolded are finding it difficult to find a footing. Finally, President Trump and his various policies have unleashed a new level of global risk.
We could go on with additional examples of underestimating risk, including personal tragedies such as sudden healthcare issues, divorces, family exigencies, job layoffs, and the rise of new technologies that can harm professions overnight. Does anyone know that the rise of Fax Machines and then FedEx significantly hurt Toronto taxi drivers in the mid-80s, as Bay Street law firms and banks stopped using their services to send urgent packages from Toronto to London, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Ottawa? We are all familiar with what Uber did to the modern taxi service circa 2020 and the impact of Google Search on Yellow Pages
over the last decade.
Risk is a constant companion in life, if you don’t have a risk manager managing your money, then your long-term financial stability and independence could also be at risk. An essential aspect of managing and constructing portfolios for clients involves understanding asymmetrical risks and outcomes not recognised by the equity markets. We construct winning equity portfolios that deliver financial benefits for clients under all circumstances. For the five years ended March 2025, ANTYA 20-20 equity portfolio returned 17% annualised over five years. That puts ANTYA 20-20 in the top 1% of its category in North America, as per the SPIVA report card for 2024. For advice on portfolios from $1M-$100M please call or email
Neeraj Monga is a global expert in corporate governance, forensic accounting & asymmetrical investing. Netflix Inc. created the Bad Boy Billionaires documentary series inspired by Neeraj’s work.
Neeraj Monga, MFM, MBA , Founder ANTYA Investments Inc. ANTYA Investments Inc. 117 Chaplin Crescent, Toronto, ON 416-301-0322 • www.antya.ca Neeraj@antyainvestments.com
Wills made today actually speak from the date of your death. With our explosive markets, assets and debts you had yesterday may not be the same today or the next or even next year. That will apply also when you die. Your assets and debts may be more or less, and some assets and debts may not even exist at all.
It is common for people when creating a Will to want to tailor it to the assets you have now. For example, you have a house worth $1,500,000.00; $1,000,000.00 in investments which may be bouncing up, down or sideways; household furnishings; and a car. You provide a lawyer with instructions that you want to leave $10,000.00 to each grandchild (there are 10), $25,000.00 to 5 charities and $100,000.00 to one of your children. You then leave the remainder (or residue of your estate as it is called) to your spouse or children or both.
Well that’s fine for today. Maybe you have enough money if you die tomorrow for the Estate Trustee to pay your debts, your funeral expenses, income tax, cash legacies and
residue. But as life goes on as it is today in these volatile times, and you sell your house, you spend significant money on health care costs or just on your own personal enjoyment, your assets may dwindle. Or you may be lucky enough to see them even increase.
Some people guided by the provisions in their Will don’t live their lives fully afraid to spend their money because of it. Others could care less and spend it all. You forget to update your Will which is now clearly outdated. You die. There may not be enough left to pay for all those cash legacies, your funeral expenses, debts and income tax and certainly nothing is left for your spouse or children.
So you should, if not right now in these volatile times, review your Will at least every 5 years. Pull out your list of assets and debts with current values. Look at the economic climate and ask yourself: Does everything that I said in my existing Will make sense now. If not, do a new one. This applies no matter how old you are.
Hearing plays a vital role in how we connect with people and the world around us. It supports communication, builds relationships, and helps us stay engaged in our communities. When hearing becomes difficult, those connections often start to fade. Conversations require more effort. Background noise makes it harder to follow along. Over time, this strain can
lead to reduced participation in social settings and feelings of disconnection.
In Canada, nearly two-thirds of adults aged 40 to 79 experience some form of hearing loss, but many do not realize it. Even mild hearing challenges can quietly affect emotional well-being. As hearing becomes harder, it can. impact our confidence, independence, and sense
of belonging. The ability to hear is closely tied to how we feel and function every day.
What effects can hearing loss have on our mental health? Hearing loss doesn’t just change how we hear the world. It can change how we feel in it. Communication is a core part of our everyday lives. It helps us build relationships, express emotions, and stay connected. When hearing becomes difficult, even simple conversations can feel exhausting. A person with hearing loss may struggle to follow what is being said, feel unsure of how to respond, or miss out entirely.
This disconnection can lead to a range of emotional responses. Some may feel embarrassed, frustrated, or disappointed. Others may start avoiding social situations altogether. What begins as a way to manage discomfort can slowly lead to isolation. Over time, this isolation can create lasting feelings of loneliness or sadness.
Mental fatigue is another common issue. Constantly working to follow conversations or guessing at missed words takes effort. Both children and adults with hearing difficulties may start avoiding large or noisy gatherings simply because it is too tiring to keep up.
Some individuals describe feeling like an outsider in their own lives. They may be physically present in family or social settings but feel disconnected and uninvolved. This emotional distance can impact self-esteem and overall
well-being.
Environmental noise also plays a role. Even for those with good hearing, loud or constant noise can cause stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that exposure to ongoing noise pollution can affect mood, concentration, and even a child’s cognitive development.
As more attention is given to the mental health impacts of hearing loss, one message stands out: good hearing health supports emotional wellness. Recognizing the signs early and seeking help can make a real difference.
Katie Koebel, Audiologist, M.Cl.Sc., Reg. CASLPO
Since joining HearingLife, Katie has served in various roles, from Client Service Administrator, Audiologist, to Regional Manager, overseeing multiple clinics and supporting her colleagues in delivering top-notch care. Currently, as Senior Manager of Audiology, she provides clinical support to 350 clinics.
More than 60+ clinic across Toronto and the GTA. (888) 319-5735
What does a big-city chef know about lakeside eats? Turns out, plenty. Mark McEwan — the name behind Diwan, Bymark and Top Chef Canada — is revamping the Boathouse Restaurant at Taboo Muskoka, a storied resort with postcard views and a top-ranked golf course. With a résumé that spans fine dining and gourmet markets, McEwan’s new menu is laid-back, lake-friendly and still hits above par.
What does “elevated dining” mean in cottage country?
Cottage country means different things to everyone. We have two restaurants in Thornbury, my longtime cottage spot. Muskoka is new for us — we’ve catered there for years but never had a full-time spot. Consistency is key, and typically a less fussy approach is best. Home-style cooking has always been our vision when dining in cottage country!
is “boots on the ground,” and the McEwan team has been brought in to complement and elevate an already successful location. We look to put the resort back on the culinary map as a true Ontario dining destination.
Do you approach a seasonal menu differently than a year-round city restaurant? The season is short, that's for sure! I'd say it's the same approach: highlight seasonal ingredients where you can but most importantly deliver a product people want to return for.
“WE LOOK TO PUT THE RESORT BACK ON THE CULINARY MAP.”
You’re dining at the Boathouse. What’s the one dish you’d order for yourself and what are you pairing it with?
You’ve said Muskoka has always been on your radar. What made this the moment? Great Gulf is the perfect partner;. Their vision and excitement was exactly the relationship we were looking for. The team behind Taboo
Freshly made pasta and pizza [the new Margherita pizza, made with fior di latte, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil, baked in the wood-fired oven, perfectly captures the spirit of the menu] overlooking Muskoka Bay, I couldn't think of a better combo — and of course, a glass of Pinot Grigio in hand.
—Jennifer Schembri
blink-and-you’ll-miss-it
Gelato on the go
This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it gelato shop has just enough room for two customers at a time. 00 Gelato may be tiny but it churns out big flavour, with a rotating menu of inventive gelatos and sorbets. It’s been a downtown secret for over eight years — though not too secret: pop star Camila Cabello once dropped by for a scoop. 370 King St W.
A latte in a little
Coffee Pocket has been packing big flavour into Koreatown long before pocket-sized cafés were trendy. This ultra-compact spot — decked out with quirky art and just enough seating to call it cosy — runs on Sam James beans, proudly on display for all to see. A decade in, it remains one of Bloor’s tiniest, tastiest coffee stops. 688a Bloor St W.
Standing room only
Oklahoma Burgers is a 75-square-foot burger spot with barely enough room for three people at the standing bar, but the Canadian-owned spot still draws big crowds for its killer smash burgers. Snag your order and head across the street to David Pecaut Square, where there’s plenty of space to sit and people-watch. 214 King St W.
Swirled, sugared and ready for their close-up — cinnamon buns are the unofficial pastry of cottage season. Our resident tasting chefs Anthony Rose and Nuit Regular ate their way through the city’s best rolls, from Toronto’s trendiest trays to two Muskoka sweeties that buttered their way into the lineup.
Breadhead
“The top is beautiful, and it’s a little more vanilla-y. The flavour is slightly tangy and soft and totally different from the other buns,” says Anthony.
346 Westmoreland Ave. N., $5.25
Phipps Bakery
“The bun is a little dry, but the amount of cinnamon they added really hits you — it brings that cinnamon flavour straight to the front,” says Nuit. 420 Eglinton Ave. W., $4.89
Café Cuervo y Marquis
“This is the perfect size — more of a small, European style,” says Anthony. “I’m tasting cardamom — maybe even more than cinnamon!”
132 Ossington Ave., $5
Cinnabon
"I like the cream cheese icing quite a bit,” says Anthony. “But the buns seem almost overworked — like they didn’t get enough time to proof.”
1 Bass Pro Mills Dr., Concord, $7.99
2nd
Bakerbots
“This one looked a bit like a muffin — but it’s beautiful. It’s soft and pillowy, the icing is good and the spices are interesting,” says Nuit.
1242 Bloor St. W., $5.25
Mabel’s Bakery
“This is a good looking bun and I love the icing,” says Anthony. “I just wish there was a little bit more junk in the middle of it.”
1156 Queen St. W., $7.50
Don’s Bakery
“I like the size of these buns; they are perfect,” Nuit notes. “The icing is a little too sweet for my taste but the bun is nice and fluffy.” 3119 Muskoka District Road 169 #2, Bala, $12.95/six
EXPERTLY
Windmill Bakery
“Love the glaze on this — it’s sweet but not too sweet,” says Nuit. “The dough is fluffy and it’s spiced just right.”
99 Hanes Rd., Huntsville, $12/six
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From the team behind Lucia and Local Kitchen & Wine Bar, Sal’s Pasta & Chops is a new Italian-Canadian spot opening this month in Little Italy. It takes over the former home of Wolfie, which surprised diners when it shut down in May after less than a year.
Michael Sangregorio and Fabio Bondi have happily swooped in to fill the hole left by Wolfie, with homemade pastas, nostalgia-inspired meats and international wines. Nestled between the CHIN Radio building and the Royal Theatre, Sal’s is named after both of their fathers — each named Sal. After years of searching, Sangregorio says the Little Italy space just made sense.
make salumi together every year.”
To honour their namesakes, the owners have collected old photos of their dads from their early days in Canada. The images will be enlarged and framed as a personal tribute on the walls.
“There’s going to be hundreds of photos of them in the restaurant,” Sangregorio says.
Sal’s serves classic meats, like lamb, veal and pork chops, rarely seen on Italian menus in T.O.
Fans of Lucia will recognize some of the “greatest hits” on the menu — like the hand-rolled ziti — alongside new antipasti and a lineup of handmade pastas. One throwback favourite even gets the full tableside treatment, served straight from a parmesan wheel.
“When they first immigrated to Toronto, like many other Italians, our fathers settled on College Street, so we just thought it was a very fitting location, like a coming home of sorts,” says Sangregorio. “My dad is still active with Sunday lunches and dinners, and both of us get excited to cook together. We built a pizza oven together from scratch, and
As for the chops side of the menu, expect to find no shortage of mouth-watering lamb, pork and veal.
The spacious eatery will seat 70 guests inside, as well as an additional handful of diners on the back patio and CaféTO sidewalk patio.
Sal’s Pasta & Chops is located at 614 College St.
—Megan Gallant
After nearly a decade at one of Toronto’s hottest Italian restaurants, chef Justin Friedlich is finally stepping out on his own — and he’s doing it with serious style. The former chef de cuisine at Buca Yorkville is launching Shay, an Italian-inspired bistro and wine bar in Rosedale named after his daughter.
Shay is moving into the former Freshii spot at 1055 Yonge St., joining a stellar lineup on the block that includes Manita’s new sister location and the acclaimed Mineral. Just down the block from Terroni and a quick walk from Summerhill TTC station, this stretch of Rosedale is already a serious food destination. The restaurant itself has posted on Instagram calling Shay “Rosedale’s newest hot spot” — and that’s before it even opens. With the spot’s history of restaurant comebacks, Friedlich is set to bring a fresh vibe to an area long dominated by the old guard like Sorel.
team behind Buca). Adam Ryan of Halpern Enterprises, a longtime figure in Ontario’s fine wine and spirits scene, is also involved in the project.
Though the menu details remain under wraps, Friedlich’s background suggests a focused, thoughtful selection of Italian plates that draw from local ingredients while honouring tradition. Naming the restaurant after his three-year-old daughter, Shay, adds a personal touch, showing how much this project means to him.
After Buca, Friedlich hosted virtual classes, private dinners and launched a hit pasta delivery service.
Known for helping put Buca Yorkville on the map with its coastal-inspired, hyper-seasonal dishes and effortlessly cool vibe, Friedlich’s new venture promises a tight, thoughtfully crafted menu of Italian plates paired with a world-class wine list curated alongside Luli Lavdari, general manager and sommelier at the King Street Food Company (the same
The exact opening date remains unconfirmed, but an Instagram post hints that “great things are worth waiting for.”
Back in May 2023, when Friedlich announced his departure from Buca — “a place I called home for almost a decade” — he gave a shout out to mentor Jorge Fernando Fiestas and left fans with a simple teaser: “Stay tuned.” Well, now we know what he meant.
With a team of seasoned industry pros and Friedlich’s personal touch, Shay feels like a genuine passion project. Though the opening date is still under wraps, the excitement is building — and for those who know Friedlich’s work, it’s safe to say Rosedale is about to get a serious upgrade.
—Jennifer Schembri
A new “MediterrAsian” restaurant opening in Toronto’s harbourfront, at 245 Queens Quay W., this month is bringing a whole new meaning to lakeside dining.
“Queens Harbour is more than a restaurant,” says restaurateur Kevin Jazexhi. “Queens Harbour is going to be a landmark in the city of Toronto.”
That might sound like a high bar to reach, but with its lakeside location, views of the CN Tower and a Rogers Centre–style retractable roof, Queens Harbour is undoubtedly swinging for the fences.
“We’re excited to give Torontonians what they deserve and that is a place they can all meet, hang out, celebrate — whether it’s a date night or anniversaries or a work function — and not break the wallet,” says Jazexhi. “
23,000-square-foot restaurant opening in a 140year-old building that seats over 800 guests. The northern wall has been replaced with a glass facade, offering unbeatable views of the CN Tower.
The partners — joined by Iris Jazexhi and chef Robert Balint — promise marble slabs and “massive” trees throughout the space. A sushi bar and three cocktail bars anchor the dining room, complemented by private dining rooms, a spacious front patio and two side patios.
The retractable roof transforms the restaurant into an indooroutdoor garden space year-round.
In 2020, Jazexhi and his partner Ali Badreddine opened Taps Public House in Mississauga, already envisioning their next project: to “do something revolutionary for Ontario’s waterfront.
“We travel to Miami, Bangkok, Singapore, Dubai — all these cities with the restaurants everyone dreams about. We want to create that experience right here in Toronto,” says Badreddine.
That could soon be reality, with a massive
B.Sc., B. Ed., M. Ed.
416-457-4407 | bel.lelli@rogers.com
But the real showstopper at Queens Harbour might just be the four-seasons retractable roof, covering 30 per cent of the space in what they’re calling “Queen’s Garden.”
Guests can expect Balint’s menu to blend Mediterranean and Asian flavours, with a strong emphasis on shareable plates like wagyu sliders, steak platters and sushi platters. Balint teamed up with world-class chef Julien Laffargue (of Ricarda’s), whose resumé includes serving as the personal chef to former French president Jacques Chirac.
“We’re ready to be busy and to be a playground where people come to make and share memories,” Badreddine says. “We want to be that canvas for them to create moments that matter in Toronto.”
—Megan Gallant
The Belinda Lelli Team stands out as one of Lawrence Park’s most accomplished and community focused real estate groups. As a Royal LePage Chairman’s Club National Top 1% team from 2022 through 2024, the team has set the bar for real estate excellence, combining deep local expertise with a passion for giving back. Living and working in Lawrence Park, the Belinda Lelli Team’s commitment to the neighbourhood extends well beyond real estate transactions. As proud sponsors of the beloved BWRA - Wanless Park Spring Fair, they delight neighbours with community celebrations and complimentary ice cream, creating memorable moments for families year after year. The team is also a steadfast supporter of Bedford Park Public School and Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute, contributing to fundraisers that help enrich educational opportunities for local families. Their ongoing involvement reflects a deep belief that thriving schools and vibrant community events are truly the heart of a strong, connected neighbourhood.
“As a long time resident and real estate professional, Lawrence Park is more than just where I work—it’s where I’ve raised my family, built friendships and found a true sense of be-
longing,” says Belinda Lelli. “Giving back to this neighbourhood is a privilege and I’m proud that our team can help make a positive impact, whether it’s through supporting local schools or bringing neighbours together at community events.”
With nearly two decades of experience and a background in education, Belinda brings a thoughtful, service driven approach to every client interaction. The team’s record setting sales and constant presence at community initiatives are a testament to their dedication.
Whether you’re buying, selling or seeking advice about the neighbourhood, trust the team that calls Lawrence Park home. The Belinda Lelli Team combines award winning results with a heartfelt commitment to making a difference—where community and excellence go hand in hand.
Toronto summers move fast — one minute it’s May, the next your Aperol spritz is freezing over. So we asked some of the city’s top social media influencers where to eat outdoors while the sun’s still out and the peoplewatching is at its peak.
Patio paradise
“We love the College Street location of Bairrada Churrasqueirat for the hidden backyard patio with the beautiful trees and greenery, lots of space, perfect for a big group, and who doesn’t love Portuguese food?” 1000 College St. Junior & Gisela @_foodyesplease
Lakeside vibes
“Simona is right by the lake, so the views are beautiful and it feels super calm. The vibe is chic summer boho, their patio is dogfriendly, and the vegan/vegetarian menu is great.” 59 Merchants’ Wharf. Shriya Agnihotri @missfoodieto
Picnic perfect
“Bar Neon is my favourite spot for date night. I plan our visit during happy hour for double the fun — bread with Greek dips and fantastic drink specials. You walk through the restaurant to reach a picnic-style patio.” 1226 Bloor St. W. Alice Phan @meetandeats
Party place
“Mexico FS makes the cut with its lively performances and warm hospitality that make every visit feel like a celebration. Highly recommend the traditional tableside guac.” 26 Baldwin St. Sid @foodie_dinks
Sushi in the sky
“Valerie’s upscale rooftop comes with unreal city skyline views. Once you’re up there with their sushi and cocktails, you won’t want to leave.” 111 Princes Blvd., 28th Floor Hrishi @allfoodiesnamaste
A few months into its opening, Mar’aa is beginning to find its place in Yorkville. The Middle Eastern restaurant sits on the 51st floor of the Manulife Centre and is operated by Scale Hospitality. The group behind Byblos, Lapinou and Miss Likklemore’s.
The space previously housed AP, a high-profile collaboration with Montreal chef Antonio Park that opened in late 2022. Known for its pan-Asian and Latin-inspired menu, AP launched with big expectations but closed earlier this year, less than two years in.
In its place, Mar’aa offers a more grounded concept, drawing from Middle Eastern traditions with a modern, polished presentation, the name means “mirror” in Arabic — a reference, the restaurant says, to reflecting both heritage and contemporary refinement.
The menu includes duck confit hummus, lamb manti dumplings and a charcoal-grilled strip loin with baharat jus. Larger dishes, like a 24-hour braised wagyu short rib, are designed for sharing, and sides like crispy saffron rice and lentils with golden raisin purée add depth.
Sunday brunch brings a lighter tone, with options like breakfast hummus, pistachio croissant knots and a wagyu brunch burger with halloumi and ajvar.
The drink list includes a few playful twists on brunch cocktails, including one made with cereal milk.
The room still features its signature floor-toceiling windows and skyline views, but the overall feel is quieter and more focused.
Mar’aa is located at 55 Bloor St. W.
—Jennifer Schembri
Before you go... take a look at how much the Muskokas have changed over the years.
From
for nearly a century.
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Extensively & exquisitely remodeled 17,000 sq.ft. estate set on 3 acres.
