North Toronto Post May 2025

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GUAC & ROLL OUR TASTE TEST JUDGES ANTHONY ROSE & NUIT REGULAR CROWN THE CITY’S TOP TACO SPOT

MAY 2025

THE CHEF’S KISS LIST

50 chefs pick T.O.’s 50 best restaurants

#9 Osteria Giulia Chef Rob Rossi, 8 hrs before dinner service

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PROJECTS IN PROGRESS: NEW CONSTRUCTION: • 9A Relmar • 9B Relmar • 36 Ava Rd • 160 Castlefield • 450 Glengrove • 77 Bishop • 29 Donwoods

LARGE ADDITIONS: • 8 May Tree • 133 Invermay • 156 McCrae • 95 Allingham • 176 Pannahill LARGE RENOVATIONS: • 100 Yorkville • 61 Ridge Hill • 7 Ridge Hill • 38 Lascelles • 18 Evita Court • 54 Evanston

THE WE L L P A R E N T S CE NT R E

Moms ha ave changed d!

Pamper her with flowers or jewelry, treat her to a he spa, buy her a day at th keepsake.

www.wellparentscentre.com

WH O WE A R E The Well Parents Centre is a virtual and in-person team of registered psychologists, social workers, psychotherapists and more. We support clients and couples through the stages of:

• Trying to conceive • Coping with loss • Pregnancy

• Postpartum • Early years of parenting and beyond

H O W WE C A N H E LP

• Individual

Psychotherapy

• Couples & Family Therapy • Parenting Consultation • Sleep Consultation • Lactation Consultation CONTA CT US 164 Eglinton Ave E. (Suite 100) info@wellparentscentre.com 416-488-9355 www.wellparentscentre.com

DR . S A MA N T H A WA X MA N & DR . J I LL S A T I N

Co-Founders of The Well Parents Centre

• Clinical and Health Psychologists

• Certified Perinatal and Menopause Mental Health Care Providers

Give her chocolat o es or take her for brunch. b All this and morre is available in Yon onge Lawrence Villag ge.

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Raccoon lager is back with new troublemakers!

Join Streets of Toronto (Post City’s online alter ego) — and our neighbourhood-named trash can troublemakers — in supporting T.O. this summer! We’ve teamed up with Daily Bread Food Bank and Brew Aid to raise a glass and give back to those in need.

Learn more by joining our community of over one million social media followers! Follow us @streetsoftoronto.

AVAILABLE THIS JUNE AT THE LCBO & SELECT RESTAURANTS +

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CONTENTS

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©aritzia.com

Welcome to the May 2025 issue of the Post. Sit back & enjoy!

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29 Bo-mom-ian rhapsody Jeanne Beker helped us curate all things flowy, flowery and fringe so you can give Mom a gift inspired by spring’s biggest trend: boho chic

31 A 20-year journey to love Comedy legend Katherine Ryan shares how she reunited with her high-school sweetheart Bobby Kootstra 20 years later — and married him

39 The chef ’s kiss list We asked 50 of Toronto’s top chefs to pick the city’s 50 best restaurants, and the results may surprise you

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| MAY 2025

47 Guac & roll Our judges Anthony Rose and Nuit Regular put a Bib Gourmand taco spot and longtime Mexican fave head-to-head and crowned one the winner

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| MAY 2025

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L-R: Pat MacDonald, Cassie Lueders, Kaitlin Narciso and Ron Johnson at Daily Bread Food Bank

It’s a raccoon city — we only live in it This month, we have been busily prepping for the return of our popular raccoon characters and everyone’s favourite summertime beer, Raccoon Lager.

We love our little masked bandits — more abundant in Toronto than anywhere else on Earth. That love inspired us to create four raccoon characters last year, each tied to a local neighbourhood. This year, we’ve doubled it to eight, now featured on our bold new cans.

Last year, Raccoon Lager helped raise thousands for the Daily Bread Food Bank. This time, we're aiming even higher — $20,000! — and launching June 1 at the LCBO. Don’t see it? Ask for it! Or spot it at top local spots, such as O&B restaurants.

And while you’re sipping, dig into our definitive list of Toronto’s 50 best restaurants —

back and better than ever!

What makes it definitive? Well, we surveyed a slew of the best chefs in the city. Who knows the restaurant scene in the city better than Toronto's best chefs?

A couple of Toronto’s top chefs are pulling double duty as our official taste test team at Post City Magazines. Chef Anthony Rose — known for hits such as Fat Pasha — is joined by the incredible chef Nuit Regular.

Along with her husband and business partner, she’s the force behind some of the city’s most beloved spots, including the iconic Pai. Also this month: Arkells’ Max Kerman, Trump dodgers heading to Toronto, boho style in the city, the best Mother’s Day brunch and so much more.

—Ron Johnson

+ PUBLISHER Lorne London ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER-IT Jarrod Daley NORTH TORONTO POST VOL. 31 • ISSUE 10 VILLAGE POST VOL. 34 • ISSUE 9 BAYVIEW POST VOL. 36 • ISSUE 9 NORTH YORK POST VOL. 26 • ISSUE 8

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Ron Johnson MANAGING EDITOR Julia Mastroianni THORNHILL POST VOL. 30 • ISSUE 10 YORKVILLE POST VOL. 7 • ISSUE 4 ANNEX POST VOL. 8 • ISSUE 5 QUEEN WEST POST VOL. 2 • ISSUE 2 1256 YONGE ST., TORONTO, ON M4T 1W5 TEL 416.250.7979 WEB POSTCITY.COM

The Fine Print: The contents of Post City Magazines Inc. are copyright 2025, all rights reserved, and may not be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the Publisher. The contents of all ads are subject to the discretion of the Publisher.

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POST INTERVIEW

STREETS OF TORONTO

CITY HACKS

You don’t need to travel to cottage country to see incredible wildlife.

River otters

Toronto’s own Alessia Cara loves showing off her city for visitors

10 questions with Toronto pop star Alessia Cara On where she goes to get away from it all, her favourite T.O. restaurants and a fear of clowns Alessia Cara has a new album, Love & Hyperbole, and a big What's your favourite Toronto restaurant these days? hometown show at Roy Thomson Hall this month on May 15. There's so many good ones. I think for a more recent one, I recently went to this place called Martine’s. It's a really beautiful Here’s our interview. wine bar, French style. It's really good. But I love Giulietta. I love Bar Isabel. There's a bunch of great spots.

What was your first job?

Oh, my first job was working at my mom's hair salon, answering phones, getting people coffee, sweeping hair. I never quite Where is the first place you send visitors to town?

I mean, probably to my place. I feel like I always tell people made it to the shampooing. they’ve got to come over because I want to cook people meals and show them around. But it depends on the person. If the What's the worst piece of career advice you've received? person is young and they like thrifting, I always send them to Probably to change the way I look or someKensington. If they love food, I send them thing. I've had people tell me why don't you to Ossington or College. dress like this? Or dress girlier. I was always like, “That's dumb.”

Italy, back to my parents’ hometown. I have a bunch of family still there, and it's a rural area, right by the beach, very small town.

And I definitely go there to reset as much as I can.

“WE'RE KIND OF ON A FIELD TRIP FOR A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF TIME HERE ON EARTH.”

What's your idea of perfect happiness?

I'm wondering if I should get specific in a moment? I feel perfect happiness is like belly laughter around people that you love.

Maybe my dog is there. Maybe we're laughing at a table with a beautiful meal in front of us. That, to me, is perfect happiness.

But on a broader scale, I think living a life that you're proud of, and shaping the life that you want. I feel like that's also perfect happiness.

Which talent would you most like to have?

There's so many things that I would love to be able to do, like play instruments: like shred on guitar or shred on bass, would be amazing. But then I would also love to be one of those people who speaks like a trillion languages. That would be incredible.

That’s a secret goal of mine, to learn as many languages as possible.

The Don blob

Toronto’s waterfront is packed with wildlife both seen and unseen, case in point, the discovery of a jellylike bryozoan at the revitalized mouth of the Don River.

Other wildlife seen along the reviatlized Don include beaver and mink.

No matter where you are in Toronto, there is a good chance wildlife is nearby so be watchful.

What is your most treasured possession?

I have this basket of cassettes from before I was born up until a few years ago. That whole basket is one with all these home videos, all these memories. That's my prized possession.

What is your personal motto?

I think there's a few things that I always tell myself. I guess the most important thing that I always tell myself is, it's all gonna If we're getting existential, death and the afterlife is my biggest go away. We're kind of on a field trip for a certain amount of fear. But then, if we're talking more specifics, I hate clowns. time here on Earth. So make the most of it as much as we can.

—Ron Johnson Super scared of clowns.

What is your greatest fear?

Bald eagles

Two eaglets were spotted along Lake Ontario in Torontolast spring, the first bald eagles in the city, well, ever.

There is ideal habitat for bald eagles in the area along the waterfront, Toronto Islands and large open spaces such as Rouge Park.

| MAY 2025

Where do you go to get away from it all?

River otters, once thought extinct in Toronto, have made a comeback, with recent sightings at Tommy Thompson Park. There have also been sitings in High Park and along the Oak Ridges Moraine.

Bald eagles are back 7

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Details and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Renderings are artist concept. E.&O.E. 2025.

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STREETS OF TORONTO Like this? Find more CeLeBs At

streetsoFtoronto.Com

hidden Gems Douglas Coupland has created some of T.O.’s coolest public art Douglas Coupland’s iconic ‘Big Red Canoe’ at Canoe Landing Park was destroyed, but plans are already underway to rebuild it. Until that happens, here are some other amazing Coupland art works in Toronto.

SPOTTED APRIL 7: Actor Miles Teller, of ‘The Gorge,’ ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and ‘Whiplash’ fame, was spotted across Toronto making appearances in support of a new product launch and checking out the city.

Canoe Landing Park Coupland contributed several other installations including a playful, oversized fishing bobber installation and a sculptural beaver dam.

Monument to the War of 1812 Located at the northwest corner of Bathurst and Front, this monument is a commentary on Canadian history, with a toppled American soldier beneath a Canadian soldier in a golden uniform.

ROBOT HEADS Chef Matty Matheson is reviving his music career, and captain Auston Matthews of the Leafs is revving up our Stanley Cup dreams. But which Matt is the best?

Auston Matthews

NAME

Matty Matheson

San Ramon, California

BORN

Saint John, New Brunswick

Toronto Maple Leaf star

GIG

Celebrity chef and TV star

Baseball star David Ortiz (same jersey number)

INSPIRATION

Won NHL rookie of the year and holds numerous Toronto Maple Leafs scoring records

ACCLAIM

Has numerous Toronto and area restaurants and won an Emmy as part of the TV series ‘The Bear.’

Matthews is besties with Justin Bieber and stars in a series of BMO bank commercials

DID YOU KNOW?

Matty returned to his love of music when his band Pig Pen played a show last month at Sneaky Dee’s.

Auston is set to lead the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Stanley Cup this year! Go Leafs Go!

NEXT BIG THING

A new season of ‘The Bear’ returns to the small screen in June 2025.

Supernova Clock at the Shops at Don Mills Coupland created ‘Supernova,’ a sculptural work that features a series of miniature post-war suburban homes.

| MAY 2025

Chef Rang Nguyen

‘Monument to the War of 1812’ 9

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NEWS 11

Photo: Joni Mitchell/Facebook Photo: NBC

Photo: Neil Young Archives

SECTION

Clockwise from left: Neil Young at an American protest, Joni Mitchell and Mike Myers on SNL

Toronto celebs have not shied away from taking political stands, especially when it comes to opposing Donald Trump and his polarizing policies south of the border. And we are here for it. Comedian Mike Myers, a Scarborough native, made headlines with a recurring SNL appearance as Elon Musk in a cheeky jab at the tech billionaire and Trump buddy. Myers also popularized

the phrase “Elbows Up” while donning a variety of Canadian T-shirts. Music legend Neil Young showed up at a protest with a “Hands Off Canada” sign and later penned a public letter endorsing Mark Carney. And, who can forget the incredible Joni Mitchell who reportedly said, to an audience at a recent concert, “F**k Donald Trump!” Once a hippie, always a hippie.

| MAY 2025

Toronto stars clap back at Trump chaos from south of the border

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NEWS OPINION

BY THE NUMBERS

76

The percentage of Canadians that have “negative feelings” about Trump and his tariffs.

900

Trump-dodging newcomers will be making their way to Toronto As America slides into more authoritarianism and unlawfulness, many Americans and Venezuelans with temporary residency permits could come to Canada. Not as draft dodgers, but as Trump dodgers.

And many will be headed to Toronto.

Toronto has been a safe haven for many different people since the Second World War: from southern Italy fleeing limited life chances, from Hungary, from the draft in the United States, from Vietnam and Southeast Asia, from Iran, from Syria and from Ukraine.

The city has welcomed people fleeing from oppression, making the city such a great success. The challenge is whether we can do it again.

As in the past, many who come will have limited means.

We saw this in the last two years, with refugees sleeping on the streets or in church halls.

Building more new housing is not something that can be done quickly: housing will have to be found in what’s al-

ready there — homeowners agreeing to rent out rooms and small apartments.

But many homeowners look at the laws and regulations and decline to offer any space. They fear they will get a tenant who doesn’t pay or causes trouble and then find it is difficult to get the person out. The provincial Landlord and Tenant

with a lot more staff to provide speedy service — a cost of only a few million dollars. Without that, not many homeowners will be offering empty space to people who need it.

A second problem that must be resolved to accommodate Trump dodgers is education funding in Ontario. Many newcomers will be young, still

“The city has welcomed people

fleeing from opposition.”

Board, which is there to resolve landlord/tenant disputes, is basically dysfunctional. It takes six months or more to have an application heard and then another month or two to get a decision enforced. Tenants can’t get fast action against neglectful landlords, and landlords can’t get rid of problem tenants. The board’s website apologizes for offering such crummy service.

The provincial government needs to provide the board

trying to improve their education. The decline in provincial funding for post-secondary education needs to be reversed.

In 2019 the province mandated a cut in tuition fees for Canadian students by 10 per cent and then froze them. It also froze funding, although in 2024 it provided some new funding, providing half of what had been recommended.

To meet costs, colleges and universities increased enrolment from foreign students

who paid twice as much as residents. But now foreign student enrolment has been severely restricted and postsecondary schools are shuttering all sorts of programs and laying off staff.

This must change. This will demonstrate to Ontario students they can get the best education right here in the province. We don’t need the province expanding strong mayor powers to almost all municipalities in Ontario, allowing one-third of council members to make decisions rather than the majority. We don’t need to spend money on more traffic lanes in the Toronto area.

Fix the Landlord and Tenant Board to provide housing options, and restore the vibrancy of post-secondary education. These are issues city council should be pushing for in these difficult times.

JOHN SEWELL is a former mayor of Toronto.

30

The days Canadian citizens can stay in the United States before the Alien Registration Requirement kicks in.

1.6

The percentage drop in projected real GDP growth for the city of Toronto thanks to Trump’s tariffs (Conference Board of Canada).

15

The date in May that Eric Trump is scheduled to speak in Toronto about cryptocurrency.

| MAY 2025

Americans have been eyeing Canada as a safe haven in the wake of President Donald Trump’s political agenda

The drop, in the thousands, of land border crossings from Canada to the United States compared to last year.

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The late city councillor Jaye Robinson

| MAY 2025

New park to honour beloved councillor

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Toronto City Council is moving forward with plans to name a new park within Lawrence Park Ravine as Jaye Robinson Park, after the late councillor Jaye Robinson.

The naming initiative, spearheaded by councillor Rachel Chernos Lin for Ward 15 – Don Valley West, is a tribute to commemorate Robinson’s life, long-standing public service, activism and lasting impact on the city.

Before Robinson’s political career started in 2010, she spent over 20 years as a senior manager in economic development at the City of Toronto, pioneering initiatives such as Nuit Blanche and Summerlicious.

She then served as a city councillor for the Don Valley West community for over 14 years (and looking at testimonies from fellow councillors, she left a lasting mark on her community and the city).

During her time in office, she championed reforms in planning, road safety, public transit improvements, environmental initiatives and fiscal responsibility and played a crucial role in expanding Toronto’s tree canopy, revitalizing parks and implementing sustainable strategies, like reducing singleuse plastics and textile waste.

As chair of the public works and infrastructure committee, Robinson introduced the city’s Vision Zero Road Safety Plan and Long-Term Waste Management Strategy, and her leadership as chair of the Toronto Transit Commission led to historic investments in public transit, including expanding the TTC’s electric bus fleet.

“Jaye’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment, creativity and community spirit, and she will be deeply missed,” the office of the general manager of Parks and Recreation stated in a recent letter.

Robinson had been in a long-running fight against breast cancer since being diagnosed in 2019, but, unfortunately, she lost that battle in May 2024.

The decision to name the park within the Lawrence Park Ravine after her is perhaps one of the most fitting ways to make her legacy permanent.

The ravine is a lush, serene area — a symbol of Robinson’s commitment to enhancing green spaces throughout the city.

The costs associated with the production and installation of the new park sign have been approved by the chief financial officer and treasurer.

—Nisean Lorde

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NEWS

We are presently not holding open houses.

We welcome you to book a private tour.

Kindly call the school.

In University-Rosedale, with two bike lanes, 8.3% of people commute by bicycle

Yonge and Bloor bike lanes to stay for now following court injunction Toronto’s bike lanes on Bloor, secondary roads.

University and Yonge streets Former MPP for Etobicoke– will remain in place for now, Lakeshore, Christine Hogarth, thanks to a temporary injunc- was one of the Ontario PC tion issued by Justice Paul Scha- party members leading the push bas in April. to remove the bike lanes, espeThe injunction prevents the cially the latest section on Bloor Ford government from pro- Street West in Etobicoke. ceeding with the removal of the The removal became a politlanes until a decision is made on ical issue during the last provina Charter of Rights and Free- cial election campaign, and doms challenge. Cycling advo- although Doug Ford’s Ontario cates, backed by Cycle Toronto PC party won easily, Hogarth and Ecojustice, argue that the lost her seat. removal violates cyclists' charter rights to life and security. “ “The facts are no longer in Countless studies doubt: ripping out bike lanes have shown that won’t solve congestion and will bike lane infrasput people’s lives at risk,” said Michael Longfield, executive tructure saves diretor of Cycle Toronto. “Tues- lives.” day's ruling should make clear to the province to reconsider A provincial report suggests this reckless and arbitrary legislation, and instead work with the first bike lanes to be remunicipalities on evidence- moved would be “500 metres of based solutions to keep all To- the most western section of the Bloor Street bike lane and 400 rontonians moving.”

The Ford government cam- metres of the Yonge bike lane.”

Recently, the Ford governpaigned in February's election on a plan to remove downtown ment announced that it would bike lanes and passed Bill 212, be willing to renegotiate the rethe Reducing Gridlock, Saving movals with the City of ToYou Time Act, in November. ronto.

Cycle Toronto, Ecojustice The provincial government contends that bike lanes con- and bike lane users Eva tribute to congestion and pro- Stanger-Ross and Narada poses diverting cyclists to Kiondo filed their challenge last

December, claiming that removing the bike lanes “puts lives at risk.” In April, the group failed to secure a temporary injunction to stop the lane removals.

However, internal government documents reveal that removing the bike lanes might not alleviate congestion and could increase collisions while negatively impacting local businesses.

“The passage of Bill 212 was an arbitrary and dangerous decision by the Ontario government,” said Bronwyn Roe, a lawyer with Ecojustice. “The provision we’re challenging violates the section 7 charter-protected rights to life and security of the person. Countless studies have shown that bike lane infrastructure saves lives. By removing three core bike lane corridors in Toronto, the province is directly putting the lives of Ontarians at risk.”

Despite the government's stance, Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria expressed openness in April to keeping bike lanes, provided a lane of traffic is also restored.Despite Bill 212, the City of Toronto is moving forward with its bike network expansion, including on key corridors such as Eglinton Avenue.

—Ron Johnson

Celebrating 44 years

| MAY 2025

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Fairgrounds pickleball club

13 pickleball courts for old Mercedes dealer

To pe

Fairgrounds, a growing network of racket clubs focusing primarily on everyone’s favourite new sport, pickleball, is set to open a new facility in Toronto’s Leaside neighbourhood this summer.

Located at the site of a former Mercedes-Benz dealership near the corner of Bayview Avenue and Eglinton Avenue East, the club will offer a mix of pickleball and padel courts, along with social- and wellness-focused services and amenities.

“In the last few years, we’ve seen a cultural shift to activities that offer more social and emotional value,” said co-founder of Fairgrounds Drummond Munro. “Fairgrounds fosters community by providing social spaces for experience seekers through the power of sport. As padel gains traction in Canada and moves into the cultural mainstream, we want to introduce it to more people in an inclusive way that everyone can enjoy.”

The new midtown Toronto location will feature 13 pickleball and four padel courts, designed to accommodate players of all skill levels. The courts will be available for drop-in play, memberships and organized events. In addition to recreational opportunities, Fairgrounds Leaside will offer

Toro Mat take park bew seem for w to a M too m ing resid spac Mat for Tou coun the tion park T mov unne low Toro For lowe "I daug wou than T spar a Su laun play thro hills “Y

coaching, clinics and beginner leagues aimed at expanding access to the sports.

Beyond the courts, the facility will provide a range of features designed to foster community and enhance the playing experience, including social events, training programs and clinics, tournaments, coaching services and much more.

There will also be a sauna and cold rinse shower for post-game recovery, as well as a retail area for gear and a lounge with food and beverage options for that post-pickle hang.

The location is the subject of a massive development application, which will happen in the coming years, which is part of a strategy that Fairgrounds uses to create fun pickleball spaces in locations, some of which are temporary. The brand currently operates indoors out of the Cloverdale location in Toronto, as well as at outdoor spaces that are scheduled to reopen at Stakt market, Assembly Park and at Yonge Street and Rosehill Avenue.

Fairgrounds was founded in 2022 by entrepreneurs Matt Rubinoff, founder of Stackt market, and Drummond Munro, cofounder of Superette.

—Ron Johnson

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Toronto councillor wants more people in parks to ‘touch grass’ Toronto city councillor Josh Matlow is calling for a fresh take on how the city governs its parks after taking a photo of a bewildering sign at a park that seems to disallow most things for which people would come to a park.

Matlow contends there are too many outdated and confusing rules that are limiting how residents use public green spaces. City council passed Matlow’s motion titled Time for Outdated Park Rules to Touch Grass, at April’s city council meeting. It could pave the way for both fewer restrictions and more food options in parks across the city.

The goal? To identify and remove “archaic, burdensome or unnecessary” bylaws that Matlow says no longer reflect how Torontonians use their parks.

For example, kids are not allowed to climb trees.

"I've got a 12-year-old daughter,” Matlow said. “I would rather her climb a tree than spend a day on a screen.”

The push for reform was sparked by a resident’s photo of a Sunnybrook Park sign with a laundry list of bans: picnics, ball playing, kite flying, Frisbee throwing — even cycling on hills.

“You can’t wrap people in a

bubble,” said Matlow. “People need to be able to make responsible risk assessments.”

Many of these activities are only restricted for groups of 25 or more, but that detail isn’t communicated on the signage, leading to confusion. Other rules buried in the bylaw include bans on tree climbing and hot air balloon landings, as well as a surprising restriction on using “profane or abusive language.”

“I would rather

her climb a tree than spend a day on a screen.”

In a city where many residents — particularly those in highrises — see local parks as their only accessible outdoor space, Matlow’s motion argues that it’s time for the city to modernize its thinking. He’s calling on Toronto to embrace a more inclusive, flexible and welcoming approach, where rules focus on safety and respect, rather than arbitrary limits.

Matlow is also asking city staff to explore expanding food and beverage options in parks,

citing successful examples from cities around the world. Think Paris-style cafés, snack huts by ice rinks and picnic-friendly kiosks. Small-scale food options can help turn parks into vibrant community spaces where people gather, linger and connect.

Matlow was one of the main proponents behind the move to allow alcoholic beverages to be consumed in Toronto parks. It has proven to be a success, and not the zombie apocalypse that was predicted by some on city council, according to a recent staff report.

The positive response suggests Torontonians are ready for more progressive policies that balance fun with public responsibility.

The councillor’s motion was considered and passed by council from April 24. A two-thirds vote was required to skip a committee referral and move directly to action. Now that it is approved, staff will report back with recommendations by the end of the year.

For a city craving more accessible, lively and communityfocused public spaces, this may be the moment when the parks of Toronto finally catch up with its people.

—Ron Johnson

535 Eglinton Ave. W. • (416) 322-3127 email: info@ashfordcleaners.com Ashfordcleaners.com

Monday to Thursday 7:30am - 6pm Saturday 8am to 5pm Use our QR code to download our Pickup & Delivery App available on Apple's App Store or Google Play

| MAY 2025

L-R: City councillor Josh Matlow, a Toronto park sign

Reputation for Excellence...

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NEWS MAIN STREET

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A cigar spot, midtown smoothie bar & more Heal Wellness is bringing an elevated smoothie bar to midtown, with a grab-and-go menu that includes superfood smoothies, acai bowls and more! The popular smoothie spot has arrived in the neighbourhood at 1819 Avenue Rd., just in time for the warmer weather.

Forest Hill Cigars recently opened in the neighbourhood, and the premium cigar shop has an expert at the helm — owner Diane Brito-Xibilia has been in the industry for decades. The new shop will offer a variety of cigars, as well as some events planned for the future. Visit the store at 400 Spadina Rd. Just Chicken, a Portuguese bar-

becue chicken spot, is opening soon on Bayview. Not much is known about the new eatery, but signage in the window at 1703 Bayview Ave. indicates that it will be coming soon to the neighbourhood in a spot previously home to the now-closed Academy of Culinary Arts.

shank and pork belly to tofu. The new eatery is located at 4852 Yonge St. Kiokii and…, a one-stop shop for

trending Asian beauty and skin care products, is coming soon to Fairview Mall at 1800 Sheppard Ave. E. K-beauty brands such as Beauty of Joseon and Axis-Y have gone viral on social media, many of which will be in stock at the new shop. The growing retailer is sure to be a go-to for skin care lovers.

Heaven Turkish Cuisine has

opened its doors in Thornhill.

The restaurant, at 7330 Yonge St., offers up an extensive menu with Turkish classics ranging from koftë, donër, lamb chops and kebabs to nine varieties of pides plus an appetizer and dessert menu.

Moore Park Lawn Bowling Club is turning 100 this season.

The club will be marking the important milestone on opening day on May 3. Located in Moorevale Park, anyone is welcome to Unnie has opened its doors in join and try lawn bowling for Willowdale, and the Korean hot free — just bring a flat pair of pot spot is serving up delicious shoes to any game on schedule! and authentic eats. The menu features a variety of hot pot Like this articLe? Find more at dishes — all of which pair well streetsoFtoronto.com with soju — ranging from beef

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BREAK-INS BY NEIGHBOURHOOD

This month 18% of break-ins were from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., 27% from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 55% from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m.

NORTH TORONTO APRIL 2

4 P.M.

DONLEA DR. AND LAIRD DR.

APRIL 4

9 A.M.

MOUNT PLEASANT RD. AND BOWOOD AVE.

APRIL 11

1 A.M.

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BAYVIEW AVE. AND HILLSDALE AVE. E.

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APRIL 13

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APRIL 13

4 A.M.

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APRIL 15

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APRIL 15

1 A.M.

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APRIL 20

7 P.M.

MOLSON ST. AND ROXBOROUGH ST. W

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CRIME NEWS

MIDTOWN & YORKVILLE

BAYVIEW

APRIL 5

1 A.M.

TEXAS ROSEWAY AND GYPSY ROSEWAY

APRIL 10

2 A.M.

BUCKINGHAM AVE. AND WANLESS CRES.

APRIL 15

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MONTRESSOR DR. AND TROON CRT.

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YONGE ST. AND MCKEE AVE.

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7 A.M.

GREENWIN VILLAGE RD. AND ELISE TERR.

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BATHURST AVE. AND BRENTHALL AVE.

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OLIVE AVE. AND KENNETH AVE.

wling

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GOLDTHREAD TERR. AND WINGSTEM CRT.

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APRIL 13

3 A.M.

OLIVE AVE. AND DORIS AVE.

APRIL 15

11 P.M.

BOGERT AVE. AND EASTON RD.

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WOBURN AVE. AND AVENUE RD.

APRIL 4

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THORNHILL LAFAYETTE PL. AND VALLONCLIFFE RD.

APRIL 10

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ANTHONY LN. AND SHAWN PL.

APRIL 12

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STEELE VALLEY RD. AND SPRUCEWOOD DR.

APRIL 20

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WOODWARD AVE. AND JEWELL ST.

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NORTH YORK

| MAY 2025

town

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Th FOR SALE

$6,895,000. 50’ X 151’ LOT, 4+2 BEDS AND 6 BATHS, APPROX. 6,139 SQ. FT. TOTAL LIVING AREA.

491 BROOKDALE AVE.

199 ALEXANDRA BLVD.

50 LAWRENCE CRES.

$4,395,000. 70’ X 134’ LOT, 4 BEDS AND 5 BATHS, APPROX. 5,008 SQ.FT. TOTAL LIVING AREA.

$3,695,000. 45’ X 110’ LOT, 4+1 BEDS AND 5 BATHS, APPROX. 3,465 SQ. FT. + BSMT.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

351 DELORAINE AVE.

23 ROTHMERE DR.

537 DELORAINE AVE.

$2,349,000. 25’ X 150’ LOT, 3+1 BEDS AND 4 BATHS, APPROX 2,793 SQ. FT. TOTAL LIVING AREA.

$2,295,000. 75’ X 94’ LOT, 3+2 BEDS AND 3 BATHS, APPROX. 3,555 TOTAL LIVING AREA.

$1,895,000. 51’ X 107’ LOT, 4+1 BEDS AND 4 BATHS, APPROX. 2,400 SQ. FT. + BSMT.

FOR SALE

SOLD

SOLD

1 YORKVILLE AVE. #4503

65 GLENGOWAN AVE.

210 GOWAN AVE.

Wit loom shou ener of in relat so m has r of th of G main ding local A lyzed and 400 regio more askin twoin M listed Febr from neig over majo askin list w sellin askin of $1

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REAL ESTATE NEWS

These are the areas where homes still sell over asking in T.O. With economic uncertainty looming, a home market that should have bounced back with energy in 2025, thanks to a series of interest rate cuts, has remained relatively subdued in Toronto — so much so that bidding activity has reached a standstill in most of the city. But with 73 per cent of GTA neighbourhoods remaining staunchly in “underbidding” territory, a few Toronto locales are bucking the trend.

A new report by Wahi analyzed the differences between list and sold prices in approximately 400 neighbourhoods across the region to determine whether more homes were selling over asking or under asking. Nearly two-thirds of all sales in the GTA in March sold for less than the listed price, unchanged from February and up 12 per cent from March 2024. But a few neighbourhoods remained in overbidding territory, with the majority of homes selling over asking on average. Topping the list was Little Italy, with homes selling a median $230,444 over asking (and a median sold price of $1,638,116). Following close

L-R: Realtor Rahim Jaffer, Little Italy ranked highest for overbidding neighbourhoods

behind was Davenport, with a median overbid amount of $201,000. St. Clair West, the Danforth and the Junction also made the list, each with median overbid amounts under $200,000.

One such home was 201 Major Street, a Victorian semidetached home near Little Italy that sold on March 31 for $2 million — $311,000 over the asking price of $1,689,000. List-

ing agent Rahim Jaffer said the owners of the home received the offer five hours after it went live.

Despite the fact that Toronto home sales were down monthover-month and year-over-year in March, Jaffer said he wasn’t surprised by how much interest this property generated.

“We do have a pretty big shortage of good quality semidetached homes in popular west end neighbourhoods, and so

when they do pop up for sale, they tend to catch attention pretty quickly.”

There were 432 active listings for semi-detached homes in Toronto in March, according to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board, compared to 2,156 detached homes and a whopping 5,602 condos.

The Major Street home was also a three-bedroom — a quality which may have contributed to

the speed of the sale, if another report from Wahi is any indication. The recent analysis looked at the average number of days that GTA listings remain on the market before selling to determine what type of home sells the fastest. Three-bedroom, singlefamily homes topped the list.

As for neighbourhoods ranking the highest for underbidding, a few central Toronto areas took the top spots — namely, Lawrence Park and Forest Hill. However, with median sold prices well above $2.5 million, underbidding is no surprise.

Economic conditions are also likely to blame for lower bids: “Given all the economic uncertainty, some homebuyers could be holding off on making a purchase,” Wahi CEO Benjy Katchen said. “Those who go ahead with homebuying plans are benefiting from less competition.”

—Julia Mastroianni Like this? Find more reAL estAte At

streetsoFtoronto.Com

An art-covered semi, a fairy-tale cottage & a secret glass cube

A WORK OF ART IN TRINITY BELLWOODS

A STORYBOOK COTTAGE IN FOREST HILL

AN ARCHITECTURAL GEM IN ROSEDALE

Owning the four-bedroom, semi-detached Victorian at 8 Humbert St. means you’ll be living in a piece of art — literally. The custom Jerry Rugg mural on the west facade is part of the house! $1,799,999, Lesli Gaynor and Parimal Gosai at Fridman Toronto

With an ivy-covered, sunny yellow exterior and a quirky, cosy interior featuring a charming stone fireplace, blue accents and two bedrooms and bathrooms, 49 Coulson Ave. is right out of a fairy tale. $1,289,000, Howard Lende at Forest Hill Real Estate

The home at 11 Beaumont Rd. is a marvel from all angles — a modern glass “cube” blended into the original heritage facade, this four-bedroom, four-bathroom is nestled into the Rosedale ravine for complete privacy. $19,995,000, Gillian Oxley at Royal LePage

| MAY 2025

Three of the most unique homes to hit the market this month, from Forest Hill to Trinity Bellwoods

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CURRENTS 23

© Mysteriously Yours

SECTION

Clockwise from left: Tasty Tours’ the Grand Chocolate Flight, Mother’s Day Drag Brunch, City Cruises’ Mother’s Day dining cruise, ‘Murder at Sea’

Scented candles and flowers are great, but this year, give Mom a day to remember with a one-of-a-kind experience in the city. Take her on a brunch date like no other on May 11 — aboard a cruise on Lake Ontario! If comedy and theatre is more her thing, take to the (figurative) waters again on May 10, but this time for Murder at Sea: a Mother’s Day murder mystery dinner and show

at the Chelsea Hotel. Or opt for a brunch and a show at Fantasy Farm on May 11, where drag performers, including Canada’s Drag Race superstar Jada Hudson and T. Swift impersonator Tay Bobo, will dazzle and entertain as you enjoy a Mother’s Day brunch. Or fly sky-high with a new chocolate and wine tasting event — happening above the Toronto skyline in a helicopter tour!

| MAY 2025

4 things to do with Mom that will make you the favourite

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SPRING SHOPPING GUIDE

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STREETS OF TORONTO CURRENTS

CULTURE INTERVIEW Arkells’ singer goes from stage to page In April, Arkells’ lead singer Max Kerman returned to his old high school stomping grounds to celebrate the release of his debut book Try Hard: Creative Work in Progress. We sat down with Kerman to talk about the book and being a “try hard.”

band, I’m so grateful that each member loves and takes their job seriously. When everyone shows up with that mindset, amazing things can happen.

The book is called Try Hard, and you refer to yourself as being a 'try hard.' Can you unpack that term?

I used to feel a little insecure about being too eager or too enthusiastic. Like, should I try to be a bit cooler?

Honestly, it was more similar than you’d think. When But over time, I realized the people who get things we work with a producer, we talk about the feeling we done are often the ones who approach every day with want a song to evoke. We might say, curiosity, wonder and energy. So I’ve “Those drums sound too much like made peace with being that guy. The Metallica — we need more Beatles.” It’s book is also about finding what drives all about references and trying to articyou — and then leaning into that all day long. ulate a vibe.

With the book, I had those same Did anything surprise you while kinds of conversations with my editor. writing the book? Something “This section feels too self-serious.” Or, you learned about yourself?

“How do we get this part to really connect emotionally?” I even shared early drafts of essays Yeah, actually. I always thought I was a “short burst” kind of person. My days usually involve bouncing from with our manager just like I’d share a song demo. one thing to another. That’s the pace of life now —soWhat do you hope a young creative person takes cial media posts, quick creative ideas, little piano sesaway from reading your book? sions. But writing a book requires patience. You need I hope they see that creative work is hard — it can slow to be ready to edit again and again. I didn’t think I’d you down. Being in a band can be hard. Social media like that part, but I really did. There’s something deeply can be hard. Balancing a budget can be hard. But part satisfying about work that requires a slower, more foof the creative journey is figuring out how to make cused rhythm. I’m now trying to make more time in my —Ron Johnson those hard things feel meaningful and even fun. In our life for that kind of work.

How was writing a book like Try Hard different from writing music, either solo or with the band?

“I USED TO BE INSECURE ABOUT BEING TOO EAGER OR TOO ENTHUSIASTIC.”

Bloom into spring with Ontario’s best flower fests this season

A tulip fest with millions of flowers

You can frolic in a field of three million tulips this month as TASC, Ontario’s largest tulip farm, opens for the season. Featuring over 175 varieties, this Niagara flower fest offers countless stunning photo ops and the chance to pick your own bouquet.

1173 Line 3 Rd., Niagara-on-the-Lake

A blooming lilac trail

One of the surest signs of spring is the fragrant smell of lilacs filling the air. Just 90 minutes east of Toronto, the town of Warkworth becomes empurpled with them for the annual lilac festival. Visitors come from all over Ontario to wander the Millennium Trail, lined with 83 varieties of lilacs. May 24–25

A spring floral showcase

You don’t have to travel far for a floral extravaganza.

This month, Fleur de Villes returns to the Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood with a spring floral trail that will feature over 25 incredible fresh installations by local florists. Expect flower mannequins, photo ops, live music and floral refreshments. May 7–11 25 | MAY 2025

daytrpr

Have a petal-palooza this Mother’s Day

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SPRING SHOPPING GUIDE

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STREETS OF TORONTO CURRENTS

STREET STYLE

We asked Toronto’s top fashion influencers to share their hottest looks for spring.

FRonT RoW Get a head start on your spring plans with the biggest concerts and shows in Toronto Nikki Glaser

DEVIN MICHAELS

ASSA CISSE

LIZ KAPRAN

Founder of Devin Michaels Co., @devinmichaels

Fashion blogger, @assacisse

Content creator, @lizzi.mov (TikTok)

What he’s wearing: Leather jacket

Spring style uniform: Wide leg

Fave places to shop in Toronto:

from the Sunday Variety Market, dress shirt from Zara in Copenhagen, thrifted white T-shirt, Weekday Astro jeans, Puma Speedcats.

Spring fashion predictions: A lot

of brightly coloured sneakers!

And a lot less logos.

denim, long sleeve shirt, classic trench coat and flats or sneakers.

Spring fashion predictions: Rich

brown tones, boho-inspired pieces (think: vintage Chloe vibes) and buttery yellow popping up everywhere.

I Miss You Vintage, Mine & Yours, Public Butter, Lucky Charm and the Holt Renfrew sale section!

Spring fashion predictions:

Exaggerated tailoring and bubble hems, unexpected colour pairings (e.g., burgundy and powder blue).

LikE ThiS? Find moRE EVEnTS AT

STREETSoFToRonTo.Com

After resounding success as the host of the Golden Globe Awards and an Emmy-nominated standup special (Someday You’ll Die) under her belt, comedian and roast expert Nikki Glaser will be in Toronto for her Alive and Unwell Tour, May 10–11, at Meridian Hall.

Barry Manilow

American singer, songwriter and the hitmaker behind classics such as “Looks Like We Made it” and “Copacabana (At the Copa)” is coming to Toronto one last time for Manilow: The Last Concerts Tour.

He’ll take the stage on May 31 at Scotiabank Arena.

Shakira

Colombian artist Shakira has been breaking her own records on the historic Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, and she’s upgraded her North American dates from arenas to stadiums — including a May 26 show at the Scotiabank Arena.

MAY 1–31: The Contact Photography Festival isn’t just in galleries this year. Many featured works can be seen on billboards across the city such as this one, from Sunday School’s 2024 installation ‘Feels Like Home’. (contactphoto.com for more.)

| MAY 2025

DETOUR

Nikki Glaser performs May 10–11 27

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BO-MOM-IAN RHAPSODY J. SHEER DRESS, TNT, $768, 2901 Bayview Ave. “ This is a beautiful dress. You could wear this to a summer market, a spring wedding or even a garden party.”

K. EARRINGS, Par Ici, $189, paricijewellery.com L. BANGLE, Rebekah Price, $490, 70 Wingold Ave. M. SNEAKER, Gravitypope, $250, 1010 Queen St. W. “This has a nice, sleek kind of look to it, and I love the sandy beige colour — it'll go with everything.”

N. NECKLACE, Michelle Ross, $264, mnross.com O. BLOUSE, Hilary MacMillan, SALE $50, hilarymacmillan.com “I love this bell sleeve; it's so romantic and voluminous. This would pair beautifully with bell bottom jeans. Those tassel ties are so fun!”

P. FRINGED SKIRT, Maska Mode, SALE $307.30, 55 Avenue Rd.

Jeanne Beker | One of Canada’s most trusted authorities on fashion, now watch her on TSC or tune in to her podcast Beyond Style Matters.

| MAY 2025

A. LACE SKIRT, Smythe, $795, 1116 Yonge St. B. SLOUCH BAG, Poppy & Peonies, $99, poppyandpeonies.com “What a nice colouring, and the little bit of fringe detail on the zippers is so on theme.”

C. WEDGES, L'Intervalle, $138, 220 Yonge St. “I love the studs and the heel height! That dark brown suede is a rich colour, the perfect clog to strut around in.”

D. SUNGLASSES, Bonlook, SALE $69.50, 220 Yonge St. E. RING, Dean Davidson, $275, 145 Berkeley St. F. CROCHET DRESS, Loversland, $279, 215 Ossington Ave. G. CHIFFON RUFFLE TOP, Aritzia, $110, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr. H. HIP BELT, Frock, $95, 97 Roncesvalles Ave. I. JEANS, Tusk, $189, 888 Queen St. W.

@TSC

Give Mom a gift inspired by spring’s biggest trend — boho chic — this Mother’s Day! Featuring all things flowy, flowery, fringe and festival-ready, Jeanne Beker helps us curate the best of this sensational style in Toronto's top shops.

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CURRENTS ADVICE

Toronto's oldest children's bookstore is moving and needs your help!

Since 1988, Toronto's oldest children's bookstore has been a gathering place for local residents and curious visitors.

Now slated for demolition, it's found a new location at 540 Mount Pleasant Road - 2 blocks south - and the store hopes to move by the end of summer. The store will only survive if it can raise enough money to help cover additional expenses required for this huge undertaking -- impossible for a small independent bookstore to finance alone.

Mabel's Fables has created a “Next Chapter Fund” and is asking for the help of our supporters to raise $150,000 to help fund the transition.

Donate to their GoFundMe campaign, shop online at mabelsfables.com and be sure to visit their current location at 662 Mount Pleasant Road before August 23rd 2025 when it will close permanently.

Sangita Patel advises on a fight about money between siblings

I’m in love with my BFF’s brother

| MAY 2025

Dear Sangita: I'm in love with my best friend's brother, but I know it would ruin our friendship if I confessed. Recently, though, I've gotten the sense that he could feel the same. He randomly asked me if I was free for a movie the week that my friend was on a trip. My friend doesn't see eye to eye with her brother, so I know she would feel betrayed if I said I had feelings for him. But I really do believe he's the one. What do I do?

—Best friend vs. brother

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Dear Sangita: My husband got into a huge fight with his sister over money, and they haven't spoken for months. I'm really close to her and her kids, but he isn't letting me have any contact with them. Is there a way to compromise? — Husband gone rogue Dear Rogue: You get to be the adult in this situation and talk to both of them and say, “How do you want me to handle this?” Put the ball back in their court. That could potentially bring a conversation between the siblings, where the three of you try to figure this out. I hate saying side with your husband, but you have to live with him and you have kids with him — that relationship is your foundation, and should be a priority.

But as for the kids — your husband is being an a**hole! This has nothing to do with them; they should be able to see their cousins. At the end of the day, you guys are still family; that relationship with the kids is really important, both for you and your children.

Dear BVB: I think you should go for it — it’s clear you both care for each other, and you already know each other. There’s something special there. As for your friend, you need to be honest with her and have a real talk.

It’s important that you hear from her what worries her about the two of you dating. Maybe it’s a fear that she’ll lose her friend or a fear about what will happen if the two of you break up. But ultimately, it’s her best friend and her brother — she should be happy that you’re both finding someone that you love. I know you say that she doesn’t see eye to Email advice@postcity.com with eye with her brother, but at the your questions for Sangita. same time, she’ll want her friend to be happy — and if that means SANGITA PATEL is our advice and was previously her brother is the one for you, columnist a host on ET Canada. that’s a good thing.

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CURRENTS HOW THEY MET

Comedy star marries high-school sweetheart 20 years later Katherine Ryan may be a comedic icon in the UK, but she got her start in Ontario. From BBC presenter to creator of Netflix’s The Duchess, she’s now back as a Canada’s Got Talent judge (finale airs May 13) and stopping in Toronto on May 17 for her comedy tour.

Now, the comic gives us the scoop on how she reconnected with her husband, Bobby Kootstra, 20 years after dating in high school.

How they met

Katherine: We met at high school in Sarnia, Ontario, in the 10th grade. I had just gotten my braces off and was in the market for a boyfriend and hopefully some eyebrows. I saw Bobby and decided I was going to marry him.

Bobby: I was recovering from a growth spurt so dramatic that it caused episodes of fainting in class. I was finally a man, and the ladies took notice. Katherine had the best bum in the school.

Katherine: We split up at our senior prom (Bobby’s initiative)

The proposal

Katherine: We didn’t have a romantic proposal. We knew we’d have to get married for immigration reasons if we wanted to stay together so Bobby handled the logistics and scheduled a courthouse ceremony in Denmark, for boring admin reasons.

The weekend before, we were biking around Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire, and Bobby pretended to tie his shoe. I got off my bike to see why he had L-R: Katherine and Bobby in the ’90s, the married couple present day stopped and Bobby had a ring and proposed. We’d already and lost touch in university. We me to a private champagne ex- booked the flights, so it was reunited randomly 20 years later perience on the London Eye, more of a gesture than an actual and decided to have a hilarious and I declined because it proposal. one-night stand. Things moved sounded too romantic and I didquickly; we were married nine n’t want to get sucked in. Bobby The kids months later. went alone and shared the ride We have three kids and would with some random tourist always welcome more! Violet The relationship women. They sent photos, and it (15) is Katherine’s daughter Katherine: I was really hesitant didn’t give me FOMO because from a previous relationship, to be in a serious relationship I truly detest the London Eye. and since being married, we because I had a nice life as a sin- Bobby: I thought Katherine was have Fred (3) and Fenna Grace gle woman. When Bobby playing hard to get, but she really (2). Basically, we haven’t slept since we met. landed in London, he invited hates the London Eye.

The secret to success

We have a very easy shorthand between us because we grew up in the same small town. We have a special kind of grace for one another because we remember each other as kids. We are first and foremost best friends, and all we really care about is the safety and happiness of our children. Also, we’re rich, which helps.

The future together

We hope to be physically fit enough to enjoy our grandchildren, but we keep having kids in our 40s, so that seems less and less likely as they are sucking the youth out of us at an alarming rate. We’ll be lucky to be alive by Christmas. We’ve got life insurance, so we imagine the children together one day, bickering over their inheritance over our lifeless corpses. That’ll be nice.

Like this? Find more how they met’s At

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SUMMER CAMPS + PROGRAMS

Bayview Glen Camp

Since 1962, we have been creating unforgettable summer memories for thousands of children as one of Toronto's longest-running day camps. Bayview Glen offers enriched, age-appropriate programs for campers ages 4-6, specialty camps for campers 7-12, and a leadership program for campers 13-15. We also offer an inclusion program for campers requiring additional support. Single- and multi-week registration options are available.

Join us on the centrally located, secure, and air-conditioned campus of Bayview Glen School, where campers can enjoy sports fields, a theatre, tech/robotics labs, art studios, gymnasiums, outdoor spaces, and more. Specialty camps include art, basketball, soccer, musical theatre, dance, magic, coding, and robotics. We even offer off-site specialty camps like sailing and lake days! Convenient bus depot pick-up and drop-off points are located throughout the GTA! Make this summer one to remember with us!

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True North offers weekly summer day camps for boys and girls ages 2 to 14 years old.

With multiple locations throughout the GTA – Forest Hill, Lawrence Park, Leaside, North York, Etobicoke & Oshawa – True North offers a variety of different sports including: Baseball, Basketball, Flag Football, Soccer, Multi-Sport and Hockey. At True North, we believe that recreational sports are an important part of every child’s development and we make it our top priority to deliver a truly memorable experience. Each day, campers will participate in skill-building drills, games, and friendly competitions, with plenty of time for breaks, snacks, and socializing with new friends. Since 2007 our goal has remained the same: to provide the highest quality sports instruction in a fun, safe and encouraging environment. To register, please visit truenorthcamps.com and use the Discount Code “POSTCITY” to receive 15% off any program for all new campers!

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FOOD 37

© @angelajazmin.studio

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Toronto’s Cake Picnic is the sweetest event of the year Toronto’s first-ever Cake Picnic is proof you really can have your cake and eat it too. On Saturday, May 24, frosting fanatics will gather along the West Toronto Railpath for a sweet slice of fun. Whether you’re arriving with a towering layer cake or a cool vegan treat, there’s room for every kind of dessert devotee. Guests will show off their creations with fun name tags before the

cake bell rings — then it’s a free-for-all slice-a-thon as everyone fills their boxes with as many mouthwatering pieces as they can carry. The original Cake Picnic was dreamed up by San Francisco baker Elisa Sunga as a way to bring people together. Toronto’s edition is being whipped up by Le Dolci Culinary Classroom — and yes, it’s going to be delicious.

| MAY 2025

© cakepicnictour.com

© Gary Sexton

SECTION

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THE CHEF’S KISS LIST 50 chefs pick Toronto’s 50 best restaurants

THANK YOU TO OUR JUDGES

CLAUDIO APRILE, VIA ALLEGRO MATT BASILE, CELEBRITY CHEF MITCH BATES, OJI SEICHI MORGAN BELLIS, BLACK+BLUE QUINTON BENNETT, ENIGMA YORKVILLE

o

N 10

CASA PACO

ARNAUD BLOQUEL, LUCIE MICHAEL BONACINI, O&B HOSPITALITY

“Paella Sundays are a must, but really, anything chef Rob [Bragagnolo] prepares is worth savouring. His cooking is a testament to passion and precision.”

ROB BRAGAGNOLO, CASA PACO

JUDGE MICHAEL BONACINI OF O&B HOSPITALITY

MASSIMO CAPRA, BOCCONE

DINESH BUTOLA, PUKKA DANIEL CANCINO, MINERAL ANNA CHEN, ALMA

POST CITY'S TAKE: It’s no longer a secret — Casa Paco is

EVA CHIN, YAN DINING ROOM

becoming one of Toronto’s most beloved dining rooms, with regulars and rst-timers elbowing in for a seat. The everchanging four-course set menu leans into bold, generous avours — traditional at heart, but never stuck in the past. From Thursday to Saturday, the à la carte lineup shifts with the season. It’s beautifully executed, with an eye for indulgence. Portions are hefty, so plan to share. Sundays are built around paella — either rice blackened with squid ink or a choice of loaded with pork or seafood or trufes — served with a tight set of starters. The Tamarack Farms lamb in rosemary–red pepper jus and the grilled Spanish octopus with smoked sweet potato aïoli are knockouts. The staff knows the menu cold and makes everyone feel like a regular. Casa Paco isn’t trying to impress — it just does. 50c Clinton St.

ERIC CHONG, AKIN ZACHARY DARKE, PARQUET EMILIANO DE FRATE, RADICI PROJECT DONNA DOOHER, MILDRED’S MIRIAM ECHEVERRIA, GIA JOE FRIDAY, FRIDAY BURGER COMPANY EDEN GRINSHPAN, TOP CHEF CANADA BRETT HEALY, THE FALL BRIGHT TAVERN CARL HEINRICH, RICHMOND STATION ANDRÉS JARAMILLO, ABRIELLE DIONA JOYCE, KANTO BY TITO FLIPS SUSUR LEE, LEE COLIN LI, HONG SHING

FUN FACT:

Run by five friends who do it all — from cooking to service — and every visit feels like dining in their home.

RYAN LISTER, THE DORSET NICK LIU, DAILO LORENZO LOSETO, GEORGE RESTAURANT

“Everything I've had here has been incredible, and I’m always looking forward to the next time I can come back.”

JUDGE SEB YACOUBIAN OF TALINE

Images: Chuck Ortiz

POST CITY'S TAKE: If you think the city’s Italian scene is all

pizza and pasta, Osteria Giulia is here to prove you wrong.

Chef Rob Rossi’s Michelin-starred kitchen showcases the best of Ligurian cuisine from its charming Yorkville location, with fresh seafood and inventive dishes, like risotto al branzino and tonno crudo. Kick things off with a selection of stuzzichini (Italian appetizers), like briny acciughe e burro — Cantabrian anchovies with grilled sourdough and butter— or formaggio testun di Barolo, a Nebbiolo-washed sheep’s milk cheese with honeycomb and quince. Despite the buzz, Giulia remains grounded, proving it’s a neighbourhood mainstay, where locals return again and again for the kind of authentic experience that even the most discerning foodies nd impressive. The elegance of the space is matched only by the passion on the plate, making this an unforgettable destination that keeps diners coming back for more. 134 Avenue Rd.

DANIEL MEZZOLO, TERRONI STEVEN MOLNAR, QUETZAL CORINNA MOZO, LA CUBANA LONIE MURDOCH, MISS LIKKLEMORE'S RYUSUKE NAKAGAWA, ABURI HANA ALESSANDRO PANATTONI, TOCA ANDREW PICCININ, O&B HOSPITALITY NUIT REGULAR, PAI CAROLYN REID, SCARAMOUCHE KYLE RINDINELLA, ENOTECA SOCIALE ANTHONY ROSE, FAT PASHA ROB ROSSI, OSTERIA GUILIA ADAM RYAN, AZURA SASH SIMPSON, SASH SO SOKATA, DOPAMINA ALIDA SOLOMON, TUTTI MATTI LEAH STEDUTO, HAWKER JON VETTRAINO, VIAGGIO RESTAURANT SCOTT VIVIAN, BEAST PIZZA ANTHONY WALSH,O&B HOSPITALITY CRAIG WONG, PATOIS SEB YACOUBIAN, TALINE

TOP TIPPLE: Siciliana Negroni: Brown butter coffee rum, Marsala, Averna & Vecchio Amaro del Capo.

JIA ZOU, KASA MOTO

| MAY 2025

No 9 OSTERIA GIULIA

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50 CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS

No 8 LAKE INEZ “Super vibrant with a nostalgic, whimsy influence. It's poetry.

Everything I've eaten there is just loaded with flavour and texture.”

JUDGE LEAH STEDUTO OF HAWKER POST CITY'S TAKE: Lake Inez feels like a hidden gem — because it is. Tucked

into Little India, this east-end favourite blends playful pan-Asian avours with a hyper-local beer list and a natural wine program that leans wild and wonderful.

Dishes such as Sichuan-style lamb pappardelle, beef short ribs grilled over Japanese charcoal and mussels in a bonito bouillabaisse show off the kitchen’s knack for both comfort and surprise. The staff are relaxed but very knowledgeable, ready to guide you through the menu for the perfect experience. And if you can snag a reservation for the semi-secret Mystery Patio out back, prepare for a rotating tasting menu that takes the whole experience up a notch. Simply put, Lake Inez is one of Toronto’s best restaurants — full stop. 1471 Gerrard St. E.

FUN FACT: Co-owner Dennis Kimeda also runs Danforth favourites the Wood Owl and the Wren.

No 7 IMANISHI JAPANESE KITCHEN “Always consistent with a great vibe, whether you're stopping by for a quick bowl of ramen or ordering half the menu for a longer dinner."

JUDGE QUINTON BENNETT OF ENIGMA YORKVILLE POST CITY'S TAKE: Expect a sensory dive into Tokyo-inspired, homestyle Japa-

nese cooking at Imanishi. Founded in 2015 by Shori Imanishi, this izakaya-style restaurant brings the spirit of Tokyo street food to Little Portugal, blending food, music and culture. The casual vibe invites guests to unwind, eat and enjoy, with exposed brick walls adorned with skateboard decks and hanging potted plants setting the tone for what's to come. The unconventional menu features small plates meant to be shared — think anchovy potato salad and chips, tako celery and monksh liver pâté. An eclectic list of sakes and cocktails, including drinks made with Japanese whisky, pairs perfectly with the food. The space, with its vintage beer signage and manga, reects the 1970s Tokyo vibe, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. 1330 Dundas St. W. TOP TIPPLE: The Daidaiquiri: Rum, Amaretto, daidai, ginger, ichimi.

No 6 TUTTI MATTI “You can’t go wrong with Italian, and Tutti Matti has been a staple for over 20 years. I always go back for a comforting bowl of Alida’s [Solomon] pasta.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: For over 20 years, chef Alida Solomon has unapologetically championed rustic Tuscan cooking at Tutti Matti. Since 2002, she’s served wild boar pici, summer zucchini owers and ribollita worthy of Siena — no cream-soaked pasta, no chicken cacciatore, no compromises. Solomon’s path to Tutti Matti was anything but typical: a Jewish kid from Toronto living with nuns in Tuscany, falling hard for the landscape and avours. The seasonal, shareable menu features daily house-rolled pastas and rustic plates, like mortadella pizzette, porchetta with tuna mayo, lamb sausage paccheri and honeyglazed short ribs — soulful cooking built for passing around. Inside, it’s all old school warmth with a quiet elegance. No frills — just focused cooking and a Tuscan wine list curated with care and warm hospitality that turns newcomers into regulars. 364 Adelaide St. W. FUN FACT: Solomon traded marine biology for the kitchen when math got in the way.

| MAY 2025

JUDGE DONNA DOOHER OF MILDRED’S

41

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- GRAND OPENING S A T U R D AY , M AY 1 0 T H

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Price d from $2M - $10M+

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INFO@BARRYCOHENHOMES.COM RICHARD WENGLE

Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Illustration is artist’s concept only. E.&O.E. September 2024.

—

A RCH ITECT

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50 CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS

No 5 PAI

#50-26

"It’s flawless, fun, easygoing and full of great energy. With amazing drinks and the best Thai food, it never disappoints."

50. AYLA UPSTAIRS 794 DUNDAS ST. W.

JUDGE MATT BASILE, CELEBRITY CHEF

49. BARBARIAN’S STEAK HOUSE 7 ELM ST. 48. ACTINOLITE 971 OSSINGTON AVE. 47. LA PALMA 849 DUNDAS ST W.

One of 46. MINERAL Nuit Regular’s 1027 YONGE ST. picks

No 4 DAILO “The restaurant has such a great vibe, and Nick Liu is an awesome chef. I never get tired of talking to him, and his food always excites me.”

TOP TIPPLE: Dark rum, Red Bull and Coke — a mini Koh

Pha-ngan vacation in a glass!

JUDGE MASSIMO CAPRA OF BOCCONE POST CITY'S TAKE: DaiLo isn’t your typical Chinese-Canadian

44. SOM TUM JINDA 76 GERRARD ST. E. 43. YAN DINING ROOM 195 DUNDAS ST. W. 42. ADRAK 15 WERTHEIM CRT.

restaurant. A xture in Little Italy, chef Nick Liu leads a sensory expedition, blending Michelin-starred training with memories from his childhood to create a bold reimagining of Asian fusion at its nest. Since opening in 2014, DaiLo has become a must for anyone craving something inventive.

Dishes such as crispy octopus tacos with sambal aïoli and the show-stopping fried watermelon defy expectations — pairings that shouldn’t work, but absolutely do. This isn’t just fusion. It’s Liu’s tribute to the avours of his youth, reimagined through a modern lens. 503 College St.

41. THE DORSET 457 WELLINGTON ST. W.

FUN FACT: Before DaiLo, Liu was throwing legendary comic

36. FAVORITES THAI BBQ 141 OSSINGTON AVE.

book–themed pop-ups — some of Toronto’s first true underground dining events.

No 3 ENOTECA SOCIALE "A neighborhood gem, perfect for any night of the week.

Love the ambience and the warm, welcoming staff."

JUDGE ADAM RYAN OF AZURA POST CITY'S TAKE: Enoteca Sociale has been elevating humble Roman-in-

spired dishes in Little Portugal for 15 years, and it still feels like the city’s bestkept secret. The menu celebrates simplicity, with hyper-seasonal, local ingredients at its core. Chef Kyle Rindinella keeps things classic (think cacio e pepe, house-cured mortadella, ’nduja-stuffed arancini), and the wine list leans deep into Italy, spotlighting bottles you won’t nd anywhere else in the city.

Inside, Enoteca is all warm brick, walnut panelling and vintage lighting — a cosy trattoria vibe with just the right amount of polish. If you’re lucky enough to snag a seat at the four-person chef’s bar, you’re in for a front-row view of the open kitchen and a killer tasting menu. 1288 Dundas St. W. TOP TIPPLE: The Milano: Luxardo sour cherry gin, Aperol and orange.

45. OCCHIOLINO 499 BATHURST ST.

40. JOSO’S 202 DAVENPORT RD. 39. LE BARATIN 1600 DUNDAS ST. W. 38. YASU 81 HARBORD ST. 37. KOH LIPE 35 BALDWIN ST.

One of Susur Lee’s picks

35. RICHMOND STATION 1 RICHMOND ST. W. 34. MUSOSHIN RAMEN 9 BOUSTEAD AVE. 33. GIA 1214 DUNDAS ST. W. 32. ALMA 1194 BLOOR ST. W. 31. DANICO

One of 440 COLLEGE ST. Claudio Aprile’s 30. GIULIETTA picks 972 COLLEGE ST. 29. GREY GARDENS 199 AUGUSTA AVE. 28. MOTT 32 190 UNIVERSITY AVE. 27. PORZIA’S 319A OAKWOOD AVE. 26. LUCIE 100 YONGE ST.

| MAY 2025

POST CITY'S TAKE: One common complaint about Toronto’s Thai scene is the overwhelming number of options, making it tough to nd spots that truly deliver authentic, homestyle avours. But at Pai, people from all walks of life gather for some of the city’s best Thai — whether it’s foodies or families who’ve been enjoying its comforting, avourful dishes since day one.There are plenty of secrets to cooking exceptional Thai food, but the number one rule? It’s all about the quality of the ingredients, and chef Nuit Regular nails it every time. From lemongrass to bird’s eye chilies, every dish at Pai is a bold, authentic taste of northern Thailand, crafted with Regular’s signature touch. 18 Duncan St.

T.O.’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS

43

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50 CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS

No 2 EDULIS

T.O.’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS #25-1

“After 13 years of excellent food and service, it’s hard not to put Edulis at the top of the list.

The dishes continue to amaze.”

25. RASA 196 ROBERT ST. 24. AZURA 162 DANFORTH AVE.

JUDGE SCOTT VIVIAN, BEAST PIZZA POST CITY'S TAKE: Step past the striped awning and

23. BAR PRIMA 1136 QUEEN ST. W.

ower-lined patio at Edulis to nd one of Toronto’s most intimate and transportive dining experiences. This Niagara Street spot, helmed by husband-and-wife duo Michael Caballo and Tobey Nemeth, is a love letter to the seasons, to the sea and to the simple joy of sharing a beautiful meal.

The multi-course menu changes constantly, shaped by what their trusted network of farmers, shers and foragers bring to the kitchen: Quebec snow crab, black locust owers, housemade red fe bread with salted butter. Spanish and French inuences guide the avours, but it’s Caballo’s deeply personal, ingredient-rst approach that makes each dish feel quietly revelatory. Edulis is rustic, rened and resolutely sincere — a no-tipping, no-cellphone kind of place where dinner feels less like a performance and more like a celebration of edible things, served with grace and a glass of cider. 169 Niagara St.

One of 22. DREYFUS Anna 96 HARBORD ST. Chen’s picks 21. MHEL 276 HAVELOCK ST 20. DONNA’S 827 LANSDOWNE AVE. 19. WHITE LILY 678 QUEEN ST. E. 18. LINNY’S 176 OSSINGTON AVE. 17. ALO 163 SPADINA AVE. 16. FAMIGLIA BALDASSARRE 122 GEARY AVE.

FUN FACT: Edulis was one of the first Toronto restaurants to gently ask guests not to use cellphones at the table, keeping the focus on food and connection.

One of Nick Liu’s picks

15. BEAST PIZZA 96 TECUMSETH ST. 14. CÔTE DE BŒUF 130 OSSINGTON AVE.

N 1 QUETZAL “This is a fantastic place that completely changed my perception of Mexican cuisine.”

JUDGE RYUSUKE NAKAGAWA OF ABURI HANA POST CITY'S TAKE: Toronto’s only Michelin-starred

Mexican restaurant isn’t just lit, it’s on re — literally. At Quetzal, every dish is kissed by ame, cooked over a 26foot-long wood-burning hearth that dominates the open kitchen. Chef Steven Molnar, who has been cooking professionally since he was 13, draws inspiration from his Hungarian grandmother, who spent days preparing elaborate family meals, and his mother, whose strength and sacrices shaped his path. Expect dishes such as whole grilled sea bream, bright ceviches dressed with ground cherry, and crispy leek and empanadas lled with lamb barbacoa and salsa de ajo. The energy is palpable: diners seated near the ame are given mini spritzer bottles to cool off. With bold, house-made salsas (some even featuring ants, a nod to pre-Hispanic cuisine) and no separation between kitchen and dining room, Quetzal offers an immersive experience that’s as intimate as it is impressive.

419 College St.

TOP TIPPLE: Dry Clean Only: Agua Santa Mezcal, Guerra Blanco, guava, Cava, spices, soda.

13. SUNNYS CHINESE 60 KENSINGTON AVE. 12. TAVERNE BERNHARDT'S 202 DOVERCOURT RD. 11. TWENTY VICTORIA 20 VICTORIA ST. 10. CASA PACO 50C CLINTON ST. 9. OSTERIA GIULIA 134 AVENUE RD. 8. LAKE INEZ 1471 GERRARD ST. E. 7. IMANISHI 1330 DUNDAS ST. W. 6. TUTTI MATTI 364 ADELAIDE ST. W. 5. PAI One of Steven 18 DUNCAN ST. Molnar’s 4. DAILO picks 503 COLLEGE ST. 3. ENOTECA SOCIALE 1288 DUNDAS ST. W. 2. EDULIS 169 NIAGARA ST. 1. QUETZAL 419 COLLEGE ST.

| MAY 2025

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TASTE TEST

MEXICAN STREET FOOD SHOWDOWN Who says Cinco de Mayo is just one day? We’re celebrating all month long with two of Toronto’s best Mexican spots — Bib Gourmand–awarded Puerto Bravo and longtime fave Playa Cabana — served up to resident tasting chefs Nuit Regular and Anthony Rose.

111 Dupont St. Established: 2011

VS.

PUERTO BRAVO 1425 Gerrard St. E. Established: 2021

ROUND 1 - CORN Playa Cabana: Nuit: 2.5/5, Anthony: 2.5/5 Puerto Bravo: Nuit: 3/5, Anthony: 3.5/5 Chefs Anthony and Nuit thought Playa Cabana’s street corn looked good but tasted a bit flat.

Puerto Bravo’s grilled corn had way more flavour and a better bite.

Both agreed that a hit of cilantro would’ve taken it to the next level.

ROUND 2 - TACOS Playa Cabana: Nuit: 7.5/10, Anthony: 7.5/10 Puerto Bravo: Nuit: 7/10, Anthony: 7/10 Chefs Nuit and Anthony were excited to try three tacos from each spot: beef, shrimp and chorizo. Puerto Bravo’s shrimp taco was a hit — super tender and packed with flavour. Both chefs thought that Cabana’s beef taco had a nice heat to it, and their chorizo taco had a smoky, spicy vibe.

But Puerto Bravo’s vegan chorizo?

Surprisingly rich and indulgent.

ROUND 3 - DESSERT Playa Cabana: Nuit: 3/5, Anthony: 3/5 Puerto Bravo: Nuit: 4/5, Anthony: 3.5/5 Chefs Nuit and Anthony dug into the desserts, and Puerto Bravo’s carlotta (a twist on the charlotte) stole the spotlight with its perfectly tangy kick.

Playa Cabana’s tres leches cake, on the other hand, scored big for its sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth moisture.

FINAL SCORE - Playa Cabana: 26, Puerto Bravo: 28

WINNER PUERTO BRAVO

| MAY 2025

PLAYA CABANA

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FOOD FEATURE

Drake immortalized this Yorkville restaurant And it still serves his favourite dish

By Christine Roberti

Clockwise from left: Joso and wife Angiolina, Drake’s ‘Take Care’ cover, seafood dishes abound

named Joso’s Cafe, soon became the go-to spot for international performers, from Liberace to Nana Mouskouri and Harry Belafonte.

“It was a real happening scene in Yorkville during that period,” says Leo’s wife and co-owner, Shirley.

Joso’s wife, Angiolina, began adding specialties from the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, like fried calamari, octopus and clams to the menu, turning the café into a local sensation with dishes that were a first for Toronto.

“People were going bananas,” Leo says.

In the early ’70s, gentrification crept into Yorkville’s Bohemian corners, and 71 Yorkville Ave. was eventually slated for demolition.

“When the clause came in to demolish the place, they had six months to move out, and we found a new location, where we are now,” Leo says. “It became a full-fledged restaurant, not just a coffee shop.”

When Leo later began working in the kitchen, Joso remained a prominent fixture in his restaurant.

“He’d schmooze with the people, and they loved to chat

with him,” Leo says, noting it wasn’t uncommon for his father to grab his guitar after dinner service ended and serenade the crowd. Joso also utilized the space as another outlet to create art, with a private studio on the third floor where he completed everything from glass-blowing to sculpture projects.

“He produced everything you see in the restaurant by hand,” Leo says. “The restaurant has always been full of art. Women, the sea and the life of the fisherman were very prominent themes in his artwork,” Shirley adds.

Much like its artworks, save for one or two dishes, the menu at Joso’s hasn’t changed a bit since it first opened in 1975. True to its Croatian roots, seafood dominates the menu, with pasta dishes like the alla Leonardo — octopus and shrimp sautéed in white wine and garlic with capers and lemon; the risotto Nero, with cuttlefish ink and steamed clams; and mussels being among patrons’ favourite dishes.

Since the early '70s, Joso's has drawn celebrities, thanks to Yorkville's film festivals and Joso's connections as an artist and musician.The walls on the first floor of the restaurant are

decked out in photographs of noteworthy celeb appearances, from Mick Jagger to Drake, who first visited the restaurant as a kid with his mom and later went on to shoot the album cover for Take Care in a booth on the second floor of the restaurant.

“He had a memory of this place; this must be a nostalgic childhood thing for him,” Shirley says. “At least once or twice between seatings we have people wanting to recreate that album cover photo.” As for Drake’s favourite dish? “We’ve got a picture of him from the shoot eating the risotto Nero,” Shirley says and laughs.

Despite Yorkville and Toronto's many changes over the years, Joso's remains a steadfast symbol of one family's perseverance and vision.

“Joso’s philosophy was ‘We feed your eyes through art. We feed your ears through Croatian music. And we feed your tummy.’

You’re feeding the whole body,” Shirley says. “When it comes to the food, the art and the general service, that never changes here,” Shirley says.

“That’s the beauty of it,” Leo adds.

DRAKE APPROVED PLATES

Scotch eggs

SOTTO SOTTO A celeb magnet for decades, Sotto Sotto has hosted everyone from Oprah to Drake in its cosy, subterranean Yorkville hideaway.

SUSHI MASKAI SAITO Drake name-dropped Sushi Masaki Saito for a reason — it’s one of his go-to spots in the city.

416 SNACK BAR Drake’s love for this spot is no secret. He’s been known to pull up for a late night Scotch egg like it’s a VIP booth at the club.

49 | MAY 2025

Joso Spralja arrived in Canada from Croatia on a three-month visa, never intending to open what would become one of Yorkville’s most iconic restaurants. In the neighbourhood's heyday, Yorkville was a hub for musicians, and Spralja, with his guitar and songs, became a regular performer at local cafés and clubs.

Years later, one of those spots would transform into Joso’s Restaurant, a legendary destination for both food and culture — and a place that would later attract Toronto’s own Drake.

But before Joso’s became a hot spot for celebrities, Spralja’s career took a different turn. In 1962, a talent manager discovered Joso after a performance, launching a global music career alongside local folk singer Malka Himel. The duo recorded three albums for Capitol Records before Joso’s health issues brought his professional music career to an abrupt halt in 1967.

“The owner asked him if he’d like to take over the coffee house, as he was no longer travelling, and he agreed,” says Leo Spralja, Joso’s son and current owner of Joso’s restaurant. Along with delicious coffee, sandwiches and pastries, the coffee house, re-

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FOOD

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iHalo Krunch’s Matcha Nut, Good Behaviour’s Matcha Cookies & Cream

Toronto’s top foodies break the ice (cream) This month, as patios fill and the chill starts to fade, ice cream becomes a must. We asked six of Toronto’s top food influencers where they grab their first cone and favourite flavour. Here’s where they’re headed to kick off the season.

1. Ruru Baked Nat Doumkos’ pick:

“There’s usually a line, but it’s always worth it.”

Scoop of choice: “Sicilia. The texture is so creamy and it actually tastes like real pistachio!”

- @natdoumkos Fiona Robert’s’ pick:

“They do Asian-inspired custard ice cream and the flavours are wild in the best way.”

Scoop of choice: “Miso crumble (salty-sweet perfection) and matcha shortbread (buttery + dangerously good).”

- @nomz_with_fee

| MAY 2025

2. Mizzica Gelateria Mary Sidhom’s pick:

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“Lots of ice cream spots use artificial flavouring, which makes the pistachio taste way too sweet and fake, but Mizzica's has a natural, buttery nuttiness and a smooth, creamy texture that highlights the actual ingredient, not just sugar or almond extract.”

Scoop of choice: “Pistachio

from Sicily is both indulgent and refreshing.” - @piggies_to 3. iHalo Krunch Roya Masouda Baryole’s pick:

“iHalo Krunch has super Instagrammable black soft serve ice cream. They make their signature charcoal waffle cones inhouse and offer multiple soft serve flavours.”

Scoop of choice: “Love the Ube Nut (Ube twisted with Black on Black), as well as Matcha Nut (Ube Nut stacked on Matcha).”- @eatraveldream 4. Bar Ape Marcello Varacalli’s pick:

“I love how they make creative flavours using local ingredients, and it’s only open in the summer making it that much more special.”

Scoop of choice: “I don’t have a favourite flavour. I usually just get whatever their weekly feature is.” - @marcelloeats 5. Good Behaviour Megan Kim’s pick:

“This spot is a new favourite of mine.”

Scoop of choice: “Matcha Cookies & Cream is definitely my favourite flavour.”

- @nourishingmegan

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FOOD

L–R: Blu serves classic Italian dishes, the iconic 80-seat Yorkville patio

Yorkville fave moves to King West Blu Ristorante, a Yorkville favourite for 17 years, is making the move to King West this spring. If you’ve ever enjoyed a glass of wine under its signature grand chandelier while dining on wood-grilled seafood, you know the vibe — elegant and effortlessly romantic. But now, it’s leaving Yorkville behind for a new spot in the heart of Toronto’s Theatre District.

The Yorkville location at 90 Avenue Rd. has officially closed, and the new Blu is set to reopen soon on King Street West, inside a historic 1919 building that once housed General Electric’s head office. It’s a cool piece

of Toronto history, and now it’s giving Blu a chance to bring its classic Italian dishes to a whole new crowd.

With places like Lobster Burger Bar, Il Fornello and Lee Chen Asian Bistro nearby, Blu’s new home is part of a much livelier and more fast-paced scene — one that’s just steps away from Mirvish Theatres, making it a perfect pre- or postshow dinner spot for the King West crowd.

The upgraded space features flexible partitions, a private room for 40 guests and an increased capacity of 170 seats.

Don’t worry — the things

people love about Blu are coming along for the ride. You can still expect the same pasta and rack of lamb from executive chef Eric Bucher, served in a sleek, contemporary setting.

Nearly the entire team is making the move downtown — including pianist John Campbell, whose live music became a signature part of Blu’s appeal.

Blu has earned its spot as one of Canada’s top 100 Italian and most romantic restaurants, and now it’s ready to bring that same energy to King West. The team is gearing up for a grand opening in early June.

—Jennifer Schembri

Weekend Brunch 9am - 3pm

Bayview’s sushi scene levels up On the sushi menu, the hamachi hayashi purēto showcases yellowtail paired with a bold yuzu kosho lemon soy sauce. For something with a bit more kick, the maguro tataki delivers seared tuna with spicy tamari balsamic soy sauce.

If the theatre of teppanyaki is more your thing, you can watch as expert chefs work their magic on the grill, sizzling everything from shrimp tempura and fresh scallops to juicy AAA strip loin steak and tender filet mignon.

The restaurant also features a private dining room for up to 10 guests, perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions. It’s all about the details here, with each dish — whether from the sushi bar or the teppanyaki grill — pushing the boundaries of tradition while staying true to its authentic roots.

—JS

Early Bird Special From 9am-11am, guests will receive a complimentary tea, coffee or fruit juice with their brunch.

Buy One, Get the Second One

50% OFF

Reservation Required

Purchase any brunch entrée and receive a second entrée of equal or lesser value for 50% off.

Show this coupon at checkout or scan the QR code to save it on your phone for your next visit.

Limited time only. Call for details.

865 York Mills Road • 416.222.5487 • paisano.ca

| MAY 2025

There are over 140 Japanese restaurants in Toronto, but Bayview Village’s latest addition, JuRaku, promises something different. This spot brings together a sushi bar, teppanyaki grill and sleek modern vibes for a fresh take on Japanese dining.

With seating for 120, Ju-Raku’s interior is built for lingering over good food and better company.

The design merges traditional Japanese esthetics with Scandinavian minimalism, thanks to its warm wood accents, clean lines and open, airy layout.

One of Ju-Raku’s standout features is its dual approach to Japanese cuisine. The restaurant serves up a sushi bar, where chefs perfect every slice of fish into delicate, precise bites, alongside a teppanyaki bar, where diners get front-row seats to the sizzling action as their meals come to life on the grill.

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Wilson (second from left) with her Tutto Panino crew

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| MAY 2025

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Grammy nominee gets into the sandwich biz Charlotte Day Wilson, the To- legendary skater and entrepreronto-based R & B artist neur; Kaitlyn Lasagna, the creknown for her futuristic sound ative mind behind Paradise and emotive vocals, is venturing Grapevine; and real estate exinto the culinary world. Part- pert Andi Larocca.

If you haven’t heard of Charnering with close friends, she’s opening Tutto Panino, an Ital- lotte Day Wilson, it’s time to ian sandwich shop that is set to give her a listen. She released put a creative twist on classic her debut album ALPHA in 2021, followed by Cyan Blue in flavours.

Tutto Panino kicked off in 2024, which went on to earn a 2024 as a successful pop-up, Grammy nomination. She’s hosting four popular events at even caught the ear of Drake, who sampled her song Burdock Brewery. Along “Mountains” on his with inventive sandCertified Lover Boy wiches, the pop-up track “Fair Trade.” featured creative SONG BIRD And the Drake cannoli flavours, Wilson co-wrote and connection doessuch as Concord performed alongside n’t end there — grape and peaNelly Furtado on the her cousin Oliver nut butter as well 2024 track "All El-Khatib coas rhubarb pistaComes Back." founded OVO with chio, which quickly the Toronto rapper. became fan favourites.

Although the location is Standout panini included the bollito with brisket, salsa still under wraps, there’s no verde and chili oil; the calabrese doubt Wilson will bring her efwith spicy salami, provolone fortlessly cool vibe to the shop. and ‘nduja aïoli; and the capo- It’s set to join Toronto’s grownata, packed with eggplant, Si- ing list of popular sandwich spots, like Lambo’s Deli, Lescilian olives and stracciatella.

Although the menu is still in lie’s Sandwich Room and the the testing phase, Wilson re- recently opened Ariete El Tore, cently started teasing her up- which has been drawing lines coming brick-and-mortar spot out the door. Toronto’s love for on TikTok, giving fans a be- great sandwiches shows no hind-the-scenes look at the signs of slowing down.

—Lauren DiBenedetto process with her crew. Joining her are Paul Liliani, Toronto’s

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FOOD

One of Penelope’s craft cocktails, General Tao Bao

Three brothers, two 905 hot spots ideas and staying rooted in good food and good vibes. Penelope’s community spirit shines through weekly events like $10 Margherita Wednesdays and Sugo Thursdays, featuring rotating pastas and half-price wine.

With summer around the corner, Penelope’s is just getting started. The patio is set to become a rotating hub for local vendors and pop-ups, with an analogue photo booth and block parties in the works.

“It’s not just about the food.

It’s about relationships — how people feel when they walk through the door,” says Giuliano.

—Lauren DiBenedetto

DOORS OPEN

Iconic Queen West bar returns When legendary Queen West spot Squirly’s Bar & Grill closed after 36 years, it wasn’t just the regulars who were heartbroken — the staff felt it too.

Now, one former team member is bringing the beloved bar back to life.

Among the many in the neighbourhood who took the news hard was Brittney Kirby, a resident who spent 12 years working as a server and bartender.

She and her life partner, Patrick Grant — a longtime hospitality veteran who had always dreamed of owning his own space — purchased the business from the former owners and have reopened it with their own spin.

“Squirly’s is such a great place that’s been there for so long,” says Grant. “It being closed caused this Squirly-shaped hole in the neighbourhood.”

Kirby and Grant resurrected Squirly’s in just

two whirlwind weeks this March, starting by repainting the iconic animal print ceiling. New high-top tables up front and local artwork on the walls keep the beloved Squirly’s spirit intact, while adding a fresh twist to the familiar vibe.

Kirby is now running the kitchen, introducing a refreshed menu with rotating entrees, seasonal specials and plenty of new additions. Longtime Squirly’s regulars can breathe easy — the muchloved curry chicken and quesadillas are still staples.

Though only a few months into the revamped Squirly’s, Kirby and Grant have received nothing but positive feedback.

“We’re bringing in a little bit of new clientele, and everyone that lives around here is in almost every day, having dinner four times a week,” says Kirby. “It feels right for us.”

—Megan Gallant

Explore Toronto’s unique buildings for free

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MAY 24 MAY 25

| MAY 2025

by night, one of the GTA’s most popular cocktail bars. The menu features elevated bar bites, like lobster rolls, bao buns and Penelope’s standout sourdough pizzas.

Run by three brothers, it’s the second act to their first big hit, Artigianale Ristorante & Enoteca.

It all started with Vince Stalteri, a former engineer who left his career to follow a passion for food. After stumbling on the perfect space, he brought his brothers Giuliano and Franco on board.

Since opening at 125 Hawkview Blvd., they’ve kept evolving — refining dishes, trying new

St. Lawrence Market North

The sandwiches have been plastered on social media feeds across the GTA — pillowy focaccia stacked with mortadella and other cold cuts. As the Italian sandwich craze takes full effect, Vaughan’s Penelope Social has jumped in with a sourdough version. It wasn’t long before the spot went viral.

“We went from 50 customers to 400 overnight. We were tripping over ourselves trying to keep up,” says Giuliano Stalteri, one of the owners.

But before jumping in the car for that mortadella fix, know this: it’s more than just a sandwich shop. By day, it’s a chic focacceria;

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Ex-Noma chef opens Italian-Japanese spot

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Radici Project is a new Italian- blends Japanese and Italian cuJapanese fusion restaurant from linary philosophies with a focus a dynamic husband-and-wife on seasonality. It is inspired by team to keep on the culinary itameshi, a style of cooking that radar. If that’s not exciting combines Japanese and Italian enough, the restaurant has taken traditions, resulting in inventive over the former space of La yet grounded dishes "In Japan, seasonal menus are Bartola, the Michelin Bib Gourmand–awarded Mexican the norm and for good reason. I love working with ingredients at eatery.

Located at 588 College St., their absolute best,” says Del the restaurant is co-owned by Frate.

The menu is designed to Italian-born executive chef evolve throughout the year.

Emiliano Del Frate — whose With approximately 70 impressive resumé inper cent of the ingcludes a stint at redients sourced Noma (yes, that NAME GAME locally, it changes Noma) — and Radici means “roots” regularly to rehospitality exin Italian — a nod flect what’s in pert Kayo Ito, to Toronto, where season. who serves as Ito and Del Frate Though the manager and has first met. menu is still being worked at some of kept under wraps, the city's top dining diners can expect dishes like establishments, including B.C. Dungeness crab topped Nobu.

Though Toronto is no with Acadian caviar; duck stranger to fusion restaurants — breast cured in beeswax; and with spots like Eric Chong's desserts like honey chamomile R&D and Japanese-Peruvian and pollen — a delicate sponge staple Chotto Matte — Radici cake layered with milk cream, Project introduces a unique chamomile custard and a honey dual-concept layout. The front and pollen tuile. of the restaurant features a more As for the beverage program, casual à la carte natural wine bar, Ito is also a certified sake somand the back is home to an in- melier and has curated a pairing program that includes sake, timate chef's table.

Utilizing high-quality Cana- wine and cocktails. dian ingredients, the menu —Jennifer Schembri

HOMES 55

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Clockwise from left: The Sunday Antique Market, Sunday Variety Market, Cookstown Outdoor Antique Show

Spring into vintage: 5 local markets you’ll love Chase the thrill of the hunt this spring at the city’s best second-hand markets!

The Kensington Flea returns for the first outdoor market of the season, May 3 and 4. Make a full retro weekend of it and head to the Toronto Flea on May 4, taking over the picturesque Ashbridge Estate. Each Sunday in May, visit the Sunday Variety Market at the St. Lawrence Market and shop everything from

antique furniture to vintage designer. On May 11, shop the Sunday Antique Market in Mississauga’s Small Arms Inspection Building for a massive collectibles market of over 80 vendors. Then, make a day trip out of treasure hunting and visit the annual Cookstown Outdoor Antique Show on May 25 — the town is home to one of the best regular antique markets in the province!

| MAY 2025

the eing raps, like pped duck and mile onge eam, oney

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57

HOMES

Spring reno wisdom from Scott McGillivray & Bryan Baeumler city, less traffic and probably the mostly on finished products: last bastion of affordable luxury appliances like a refrigerator or an air conditioner, as well as fixvacation properties. tures, like plumbing and light For people making renovations fixtures.

What’s going on in the vacation home market in Ontario?

What qualities are buyers looking for the most right now?

Scott: Unique designs, waterfront properties, lots of space for friends and family, outdoor options.

Things that can extend the season or give people a great experience no matter what the weather, something like a sauna or a hot tub, are important. Beachfront properties are always popular — that's the most searched keyword when it comes to vacation rentals.

right now, where should they be wary of tariff impacts?

Bryan: Unfortunately, we've spent generations offshoring manufacturing, and there are a limited amount of products that we can purchase that are mined, manufactured and sold here. You can certainly buy lumber, but L–R: Scott & Bryan recommend focusing on outdoor spaces in the home when it comes to a lot of finishes, we have limited options, Ontario cottage country has ronto, and you want a vacation and so those costs are going to seen a slow few years — where home, you have to draw that go up. are the best pockets of value? two-hour commute circle. You Scott: If you are thinking of Bryan: People right now are could do Crystal Beach on Lake taking on a major renovation, willing to travel further. I per- Erie. You could do Wasaga you need to put in a continsonally think there are some Beach in Collingwood. That's gency, because it's going to be a great investment opportunities great for people who are looking moving target on certain proin areas that maybe don't have for dual season; you’ve got ski ducts. Short term, you'll probthe best location — smaller season and summer season. Ka- ably be fine. Most people have towns, more undeveloped areas wartha Lakes is a Muskoka enough inventory for a few — but you can get into the lower look-alike area with some amaz- months worth of orders. But the price point. ing waterfront properties. It’s big impact that my suppliers Scott: If you're living in To- less than two hours from the and I have been discussing is © Home Network

Scott: Usually a vacation home is something people buy when they have confidence and when they have job security, which isn’t the case right now. So we're seeing a decrease in sales and a decrease in pricing. The flip side to that is we are seeing a tremendous uptick in domestic vacations — bookings are up 50 to 60 per cent yearover-year. So if you're in the ownership and rentership space, it's a great opportunity.

Where would you buy right now?

Bryan: I'm a big fan of Georgian Bay. I love inaccessible properties.

I like things in need of a little polishing. I look for places that are off the beaten track, hard to get to, hard to renovate, but worth it.

Scott: I'm in the Kawartha Lakes, so I have a natural bias.

I can get there in an hour and a half, and I don't have to worry about Highway 400 traffic. Boating is also big for me, and there's great fishing and boat sports there. And the waters tend to be a little warmer than the Muskokas.

Bryan Baeumler and Scott McGillivray are back, transforming waterfront vacation homes on season two of Renovation Resort.

Reimagine Your Living Space.

''Del and the team from Bridel Design + Build surpassed our expectations in every aspect of our renovation project.”

- Derrick & Trina Otterman

"What made the experience working with Del unique is that he and his team genuinely cared about every aspect of our project." - Ravi Prashad & Linda Tao "Del and his team at Bridel Design + Build were a pleasure to work with and construction at our house was well planned, organized and scheduled." - R. Rankin

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation for all your construction needs including: • New Builds

• Additions

• Bathrooms

• Full Home Renovations

• Kitchens

• Exterior Renovations

416-885-8549 | info@brideldesignbuild.com | www.brideldesignbuild.com

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SPRING HOME DESIGN

BASEMENTS MADE PERMANENTLY DRY

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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May 20th

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POST CITY MAGAZINES

DEADLINE

| MAY 2025

LANDSCAPING

health

65

65

BEFORE AFTER 66

Before you go... take a look at how much our city has changed over the years.

1960

2025

Like this? Find more t.o. history at

streetsoFtoronto.Com

The Ontario Place Forum became the Budweiser Stage in 1995, cementing its place as a top Toronto music venue.

1930

2025

Since 1912, the Revue Cinema has been bringing classic films and indie hits to the big screen.

| MAY 2025

1980

66

2025

Opened in 1982, Roy Thomson Hall is an architectural landmark, famed for its striking glass dome and acoustics.

NT-MAY-2025-IBC.qxp_Layout 1 2025-04-23 11:54 AM Page 1

#1 In Toronto For Homes Sold $3,000,000 - 35,000,000, Since 2010*

478 MELROSE AVENUE Offered at $2,199,000

3,300+ sq.ft. of elegance, function, innovation & award-winning design.

2 POST ROAD GRAND OPENING SATURDAY MAY 10TH Timeless residences coming soon to the Bridle Path

FULLY RENOVATED IN LEASIDE Offered at $3,395,000

SPRAWLING STRATHEDEN HOME Offered at $5,390,000

Elegant 4-bedroom w/outstanding attention to detail & luxury finishes.

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BLYTH HILL ROAD CUSTOM Offered at $7,180,000

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NEWLY BUILT IN LYTTON PARK Offered at $7,380,000

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LUXURIOUS ANNEX TOWNHOME Offered at $2,380,000

Modern 3-bedrm end-unit w/southfacing city views from rooftop terrace.

LAWRENCE PARK CUSTOM Offered at $5,995,000

Built by JTF & architect Richard Wengle. Fabulous 5+1 bedrm plan.

38 MASON BOULEVARD Represented the buyer

A stunning custom-built home in the Cricket Club neighbourhood.

MODERN MARVEL IN LYTTON PARK Offered at $8,950,000

6,200+ sq.ft. designer home. Open layout. Elevator. Soaring ceilings. Pool.

LAWRENCE PARK GEORGIAN Offered at $9,990,000

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Complimentary Home Evaluation If you would like to have a confidential discussion about the current market and learn how our unmatched exposure, technology and strategies will get the maximum value for your home, call us at 416-223-1818

Realtron Barry Cohen Homes Inc., Brokerage barrycohenhomes.com Each office independently owned and operated. Based on TRREB data for years combined. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.

NT-MAY-2025-OBC.qxp_Layout 1 2025-05-07 1:12 PM Page 1

Belinda Lelli

B.Sc., B. Ed., E M. Ed. 416-457-4 407 | bel.lelli@rogers.com

Sylvia Wolff SRES®

Sales Representative 416 16-206 6-1199 1 | sylviawolff@royallepage.ca

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Belinda Lelli

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B.Sc., B. Ed., Ed M M. Ed Ed. 416-457-4 407 | bel.lelli@rogers.com

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Sylvia Wolff SRES®

Sales Rep e resentative 416 16-206 6--1199 | sylviawollff@ ff@royallepage ll .ca

82 Ranleigh Ave. | FOR SALE

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210 Glengrove Ave. W. SOLD

61 Yongee Blvd.

SOLLD

117 Gerrard St. E 310 FOR SALE

NEW PRICE 9

,

1 Bed, 1 Ba B th With Unobstructed e East View

Grant Allardyce Sales Representatiiv i e

Direct: 416.999.7185 Office: 416.487.4311 Fax: 416.487.3699 grant@allardycehom mes.com allardycehomes.roya allepage.ca

Royal LePage Real Estate Serv vices Ltd., Brokerage 4025 Yo Yonge Street, Suite 103 To Toronto, ON M2P 2E3

ROYAL LEPAGE Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage 4025 Yonge Street, Suite 103 Toronto 416-487-4311

® ™

ILL RH E MM SU / E AL SED O R

36 Birch Ave 102 LEASED