Queen West Post May 2024

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647-366-9853 832 College Street, Toronto, M6G 1C8

Happy Mother’s Day From

CONTENTS

Jeanne Beker and her daughters Bekky and Joey model the hottest trend of the season — denim on denim for Mother's Day 25

CBC anchor Aarti Pole gives us the scoop on her very modern meet-cute and spoiled proposal with husband Gavin Pais 31

We asked 30 of the city’s Michelin-recognized and star chefs to share their picks for Toronto’s best new restaurant of 2024 37

Just in time for Mom’s special day, chef Anthony Rose samples the city’s best scones with Scottish design duo Colin and Justin 43

Caitlin Cronenberg joins the family business

Making movies must run deep in the Cronenberg clan DNA. First, the legend himself, David Cronenberg, followed by son Brandon, and now daughter Caitlin just released her first film, Humane

There are three film directors in your family now. What’s that like? It makes pretty much no difference to me whatsoever. Apart from just sharing, lamenting moments about, oh, casting is really hard, or someone is taking a really long time getting back to us, or something fell through and kind of bitching about it together — everybody is doing their own kind of thing. Their art is very different from mine. And I think people will be trying to find comparisons, but it won't be that straightforward because I’m not really thinking about what they're doing or what they've done, as I'm kind of moving forward into this.

Did your dad want to get in there and help or was he chill?

Oh, he's so chill. I mean, he's not the kind of person who offers advice unless he's asked for it. And I only ask for it if I really feel that I need it. You know, I've been working long enough. But I think that he just trusts that I know what I'm doing enough to ask for help when I need it. And he's not the kind of person who would step in and try to interject if he doesn't think I need help. And I appreciate that because, as you know, nobody likes someone who oversteps.

What do you think the biggest lesson is that you learned from him?

I think that the biggest lesson that I learned from watching him work is that you can enjoy your career, you can love what you're doing and just respect every single member of your cast and crew. Not that I wouldn't have already. But everybody deserves to be working on a set that feels good to work on. If the director is in a good place then everybody else has the opportunity to feel like they're in a good place and that they're in good hands. And I learned that from working on his sets. I hope that my crew would say that our set felt like a very calm and fun place to work.

Has he or Brandon seen the finished film yet?

Neither of them has actually seen the final cut. I definitely showed both of them earlier cuts, like I did with many artists who I trust, and I really wanted to share. And I know that they will be honest with me.

What’s the origin story of Humane? So funnily enough, Michael Spraga, who wrote it, I actually met him taking his photo for Post City [Yes, Caitlin was our photographer back in the day.—Ed.]. I was given an assignment to go to his house because he had made a movie called Sidekick. I went to his house to take a portrait. He had all these DVDs, and he had DVDs of Veronica Mars. And I loved Veronica Mars. And I didn't know a lot of other people who loved it. So

we started talking about it. We hit it off and became really good friends. And then I worked on another of his films, doing stills, called Servitude. And then he sent me this script.

And he said you were the only one he wanted for this film. Quite the vote of confidence.

Oh, he was the first of many votes of confidence, which was an amazing way to step onto set on your first day, like our distributors had already bought the movie before we even shot a single frame. So confidence all over the map, and that really set me on a path of hoping that I would make everybody proud.

What makes you the perfect person to direct Humane?

I think that my photography style probably lends itself to some dark visual storytelling, and he knew I wouldn't be scared of the gore.

What are you hoping people take from the film?

I just want people to have a good time. It's meant to be a fun and entertaining time at the movies. I’m not trying to teach people about climate change. They should know what's really going on in the world. So really, this is just meant to be a fun, fun film — to make you laugh, make you gasp, make you close your eyes and then leave and say, ‘Wow, I really enjoyed that.’

45

The number of city parks that will allow alcohol this summer, up from 24 last year.

The number of streams, in the millions, for Taylor Swift, eclipsing the previous record of Toronto rapper Drake. 799

110

The new speed limit, in kilometres per hour, that drivers will be breaking en masse on select GTA highways.

3

The age in years of Toronto Zoo snow leopard Jita, pregnant for the first time.

125

The number of parking violations that will see a fine increase starting this summer.

L-R: Caitlin Cronenberg, a scene from ‘Humane’

$3,545,000

SPADINA ROAD

Mayoral report card: How would you grade Olivia Chow?

A look back at key issues as Toronto’s civic leader nears the end of her first year leading city council

Mayor Olivia Chow was elected close to a year ago in an election jam-packed with notable candidates. Many understood she was ready to advance the needs of the city’s more vulnerable residents but were skeptical of how she would handle the big issues like housing and crime. But she seems to be making a habit of proving people wrong. Given schools are finishing, we decided to give her a report card on what she’s done . Overall, we give her a solid B, which could be improved with more experience. Here’s how we broke it down.

Housing

More than any other issue, the success or failure of Mayor Chow’s first term may come down to how she and the city perform when it comes to housing. And not just building homes, but getting truly affordable homes built as well.

Throughout her term, Chow has continued successful initiatives like the Housing Now and Modular Housing programs, which saw early success.

"She has been able to break ground on the first Housing Now site in August, like maybe three or four weeks after she'd been sworn in," said Mark Richardson, technical lead at advocacy group Housing Now.

Looking forward, there are expectations for commitments on crucial sites such as Downsview and Villiers Island.

Many of Chow’s early wins were programs begun under John Tory, but where Chow diverges is her success working with other levels of government. In addition, she has a plan to test out a public builder model in the city.

"Right now, it's a relatively small program. I think, across the five Housing Now sites, they're only talking about 700 units in total,” said Richardson.

Summing up Chow's first year, Richardson said it’s been positive. “I think it's been a heck of a learning curve," he added. “This year, it is more about execution, execution, execution. We need to get shovels in the ground, and people need to get moved in.”

We gave her a B+ because she

hasn’t been battle tested yet.

Budget & financial model

One of the most notable achievements of Chow’s brief tenure thus far has been the ability to solicit additional funds from both senior levels of government to help with the city’s crushing financial deficit. It’s been huge, although it has come at a cost, including giving up the city’s management of the Gardiner Expressway and Don Valley Parkway to the province and supporting the development of a private spa at Ontario Place. That being said, it was a tough and big move. Kudos to her for making it.

Another big move was jacking up the property tax rate by a whopping 9.5 per cent, the biggest spike in a decade. But given our crushing shortfall, someone had to do it. And, if previous mayors had been more prudent, it would have lessened the damage. Chow did what she had to do, and it’s been a long time coming.

“This budget protects services from painful cuts, responsibly addresses the almost $1.8 billion

shortfall and directs funds to key affordable housing, transit and community safety,” said Chow.

We gave her an A because these moves took serious guts. If it backfires, that’s on her too.

Active transportation

Toronto likes to consider itself world class, but when it comes to active travel initiatives, such as the city’s bicycle network, it is falling behind. Just look at other major cities, like Paris, London and New York City, building out massive bicycle networks and other policies designed to protect vulnerable road users and minimize car use, cleaning the air in the process.

Mayor Chow's efforts to improve bicycling infrastructure and safety have come under scrutiny during her first year in office. Michael Longfield, executive director of Cycle Toronto thinks the city can do more. Much more.

"It still seems like it's business as usual at city hall,” said Longfield. He added that for Toronto to keep pace with other major cities, we need to be targeting 50

kilometres a year.

We gave her a C because the city needs ambition, not status quo.

Crime

Last summer, after her election, Mayor Chow spoke out against violence in the city.

“People in our city deserve to be safe, they deserve to feel safe,” Chow said, at a press conference following a shooting that claimed two lives. “The challenge before me, when I became mayor, is to find ways to end gun violence.”

But major crime indicators suggest an increase in violent crime following a rather benign end to 2023. In addition, Chow appears at times to be struggling with walking the line between Toronto Police Service demands and the demands of some in the city interested in fundamental change to policing and the police budget. So far, again, she is not doing anything differently from her predecessors, but she is also not getting the benefit of being seen as supporting the police. Something has to give.

—Ron Johnson

L-R: Toronto’s Mayor Olivia Chow, a rendering of the first Housing Now site

Congestion costs the city $11 billion a year

The Toronto Region Board of Trade has taken on the issue of congestion, mainly because the cost to the region now nears $11 billion annually, negatively impacting business in multiple ways. Last month, TRBOT hosted a transportation symposium to examine the long-term trends toward transportation, transit and urban mobility in the region. If building transit is the region's way out of gridlock, we might be in trouble.

The symposium hosted several presenters. One of them, Dan Gardner has spent considerable time researching major infrastructure projects and provided some insight.

Of the more than 16,000 major infrastructure projects that were studied, only 0.5 per cent were delivered on time, on budget and met expectations. Given those results, it is not surprising that the Eglinton Crosstown LRT was in the 99.5 per cent of projects that didn’t suc-

ceed.

There are a few themes that emerged, explaining why large infrastructure projects fail.

One of the major themes is accountability, and this has been a significant issue for the Eglinton Crosstown. Metrolinx insisted that it could manage projects better, faster and more efficiently than the TTC so made it clear from the outset that it was going to deliver the project. However,

fails for transit construction. Since the public-private partnership model rewards timelines, not planning, work begins when the contracts are awarded. Inevitably something goes wrong, and when it does, all parties start arguing about who is accountable instead of how it is going to get fixed.

complicated by the fact the city had jurisdiction over issuing permits for a provincial construction project that interfaced with existing subway stations, complicating approvals and scope.

before the project was even planned out, Metrolinx decided to use a public-private partnership model. This shielded the project from public scrutiny.

The idea of a public-private partnership model is that the private sector assumes the risk to the project and is incentivized to deliver more efficiently because that is how the money is made. This model might work for building a hospital but utterly

This happened repeatedly during the construction of the Crosstown and continues to this day. There is still no date for when the line will open. What is known is that the budget is blown, the original timelines are long forgotten, and absolutely none of the expectations of the project were met.

Clearly defined expectations are also crucial for the success of an infrastructure project. In the case of the Eglinton Crosstown, political interference began immediately after the project was approved with the addition of a new underground station at Oakwood. The project was also

Ontario Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria was at the event and confirmed that the Eglinton Crosstown had been a learning opportunity for Metrolinx. With $80 billion of transit infrastructure in various phases of development, it might be interesting to hear how the construction of the Ontario Line, the Eglinton Crosstown West extension, the Scarborough subway extension and the Yonge North subway extension will be different from the Eglinton Crosstown.

It might also be interesting to learn if the Eglinton Crosstown is ever going to open.

A new task force is examining traffic solutions for Toronto

KAREN STINTZ is a former city councillor and was a chair of the TTC.

Desperately seeking new city planner

A hotbed of cold feet. That’s the comment by the late Roy McMurtry, former attorney general and chief justice of Ontario, about the federal government. But it applies to all bureaucracies, public and private, which take forever to make a decision and resist making change when it is needed.

It certainly applies to Toronto. If you apply for a change of zoning and official plan to build a large residential structure, city hall takes 500 to 600 days to make a decision given departmental consultations, public hearings, committee meetings and so forth. The cost of delay is thought to be $2,500 to $3,000 a month per unit for carrying costs on the land purchase, lawyers’ fees, inflationary construction costs and more. This delay can add $50,000 to the cost of a single unit. To cover delay costs, developers often apply for bigger buildings. They lose nothing by applying for more than they really want and they often get a large portion of that extra height.

Premier Ford’s government suggested a simplistic fix to the problem: it said that if a council decision was not made in a reasonable period of time then the city would have to rebate a portion of the developer’s application fee, which is significant. To not lose this fee, the city often

refused these applications, then the developer would appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal — and a long delay would result in large lawyers’ bills.

(The provincial government has developed an expertise in reversing its bad decisions and has agreed to rescind this rule with its new legislation Cutting Red Tape to Building More Homes.)

Apart from the time problems, this kind of process does nothing to assure local residents of what will be permitted. It’s basically a crap shoot, with the question being how high the new structure will be. We need a new approach, and with city hall beginning a process to hire a new chief planner, maybe we can have one.

A useful precedent was established 25 years ago in the King and Spadina area, using the provocative thinking of Jane Jacobs. She suggested a good approach would be to carefully plan for what could be built on a particular street so there is certainty of what new structures would be like. She suggested that for each area of the city, city hall should establish a maximum building height, a setback from the street line and from the rear lot line and make it clear that no variances would be considered. Any developer proposing a structure that met those guidelines would

get a permit automatically without having to go through a rezoning process. And city hall would not permit any variances to those height limits.

She also said city hall should not specify the uses in the building: the developer could decide how much to offer as retail, commercial, residential and office space, taking a cue from the market. These ideas were adopted for King and Spadina to considerable acclaim.

This process is known as asof-right zoning. It means the planners actually plan in advance as to what should be permitted in an area rather than sorting it out building-by-building. Everyone would save time and money. The concept of four units on a lot is a kind of as-ofright zoning, but few homeowners are willing or financially able to do this on their own, and most developers think the scale is much too small: more comprehensive planning is needed.

Planners and politicians generally do not like as-of-right zooming since they are no longer the gate-keepers: they are in the hot spot with cold feet. Maybe city council will have the courage to seek a new role.

Urban planning guru and Annex legend Jane Jacobs

JOHN SEWELL is a former mayor of Toronto.

Queen West gets crucial bike corridor

Toronto is gearing up for a significant expansion of its cycling infrastructure, with a particular focus on the Queen West neighbourhood.

West and Portland.

Alison Stewart of Cycle Toronto said the more protected bike lanes the better in the long run.

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Approved last month by Toronto City Council, the updates to the city’s Cycling Network Plan aim to enhance cyclist and pedestrian pathways throughout the city, ushering in rapid improvements.

Highlighted among these proposals is the installation of a variety of new bike lanes, including uni-directional cycle tracks, contra-flow bicycle lanes and bidirectional cycle tracks. Specific cross streets, such as Rochefort Drive, Blackthorn Avenue and Portland Street, are slated for these enhancements.

One notable addition for Queen West is the Portland–Dan Leckie Cycle Connection, a key component of the Cycling Network Plan. This new bikeway will link Queen Street West to Queens Quay West, traversing Portland Street, the Puente De Luz pedestrian/cycling bridge and Dan Leckie Way.

“Every new kilometre of protected bike lanes brings Toronto one step closer to achieving its climate action goals,” said Stewart. “It also helps encourage Torontonians to live healthier and more sustainable lives by providing them with safe infrastructure. The lack of safe infrastructure remains the biggest barrier to people biking.”

To address these concerns, the proposal suggests a thorough analysis of the Portland–Dan Leckie Cycle Connection postimplementation, alongside potential impacts on surrounding streets such as Front Street, Bathurst Street and Spadina Avenue.

Despite support for this connection, concerns have been raised regarding potential impacts on vehicular traffic, particularly with regard to one-way traffic conversions and the traffic diverter at Wellington Street

“This important new connection has been through much debate and consultation in my community” stated Ausma Malik, city councillor for Ward 10, in a letter to the members of the infrastructure and environment committee ahead of the approval of the plan.

Additionally, traffic control measures, including compulsory stops and reduced speed limits, are proposed to mitigate potential disruptions. — Ron Johnson

Rendering of the approved bike lane on Portland Street

Flower shop row to be razed

A proposal for a mid-rise condo in Yorkville, midtown Toronto, has been revised and resubmitted for rezoning. But a neighbourhood fixture is still at risk under the new plan.

Taheri Development is looking to develop an 11-storey, mixed-use residential mid-rise condo building at 126 Avenue Rd., which will include 60 residential units (11 of which are replacement rental units).

The property is located at Avenue Road and Davenport Road, near the northwest corner of Avenue and Bernard Avenue, on the edge of the city’s historic Annex neighbourhood. The site is located within the East Annex Heritage Conservation District. Although the city hasn’t designated the property as having heritage significance, the developers have noted that the heritage elements at the site will be retained and incorporated into the overall design.

However, of importance to the community, the project could see the end to the beloved row of flower shops that characterize the area.

"I haven't been briefed yet on the new proposal," said city councillor Dianne Saxe. "I get briefed and make a decision. And I'm not at that point yet."

Expressing optimism tempered with practical concerns, Saxe remarked on the beloved

flower shops.

"I certainly am very hopeful that the flower shops will be able to return if they wish. I have made sure that there is going to be commercial space at grade,” she said.

However, Saxe acknowledged the challenges faced by small businesses, having run one herself for 25 years.

"What I don't know is whether that's in the best interest of the flower shops," said

“I’m very interested in having appropriate spaces for the flower shops.”

Saxe. "Moving is immensely disruptive and expensive. And doing it twice is not appealing."

Speaking to the potential disruptions posed by relocation, Saxe highlighted the risks faced by businesses during periods of transition.

"They can’t reasonably expect to shut down for the period of construction and then get back to business: you lose all the momentum that you've built up in your entire career," Saxe explained.

Saxe empathized with the challenges confronting small businesses, particularly those in rented premises.

"This is a nightmare sce-

nario," she said. “But it's not within the city's power. I reinforced with the planning staff that I'm very interested in having appropriate spaces for the flower shops to come back. I can't do any more than that."

According to a March 21 letter submitted to the City of Toronto by Taheri’s planning consultants, the revised building height will reach 34.17 metres, exclusive of the mechanical penthouse. It will feature a total gross floor area of 4,133.2 square metres with 219.30 square metres set aside for retail use

Of the 60 residential units, 21 will be studios, 17 will be onebedrooms, 17 will be two-bedrooms, and five will be three-bedrooms.

Developers are planning for 120 square metres of indoor amenity space (on the third floor along the southern face of the building) and 83 square metres of outdoor amenity space, which will be linked together. There will be 18 residential parking spots (increased from the 13 proposed last year), contained within two underground parking levels, as well as 60 bike spaces located on the ground and first underground levels.

A public meeting will be scheduled by City of Toronto Planning, to gather input from the community.

— Nisean Lorde

Rendering of proposed condominium on Avenue Road near Davenport

Gladstone patio plan sees opposition

The proposed sidewalk patio by the Gladstone Hotel on Queen Street West has ignited discussions among residents and businesses alike. Concerns over potential noise disturbances have prompted the Beaconsfield Village Residents Association (BVRA) to inform nearby residents about the implications of the proposed patio.

“The Gladstone Patio application is still being discussed. The BVRA has been spreading the word to the condos on the west side of Gladstone that will be most affected by noise,” said Randy Kerr, of BVRA. “The actual application was anticipated over a year ago with the cycling expressway that the city transportation department [the Bartlett-Havelock-Gladstone Cycling Connections] was promoting.”

Kerr pointed to Gladstone's western flank as an example of other initiatives hindering area traffic. “In the end, the city has committed to traffic gridlock in the area and it’s getting worse every year,” he said. “The generous redesign of the west side flankage of the hotel for the hotel … just adds to pinched intersections and parking and delivery problems.”

Historically, the Gladstone Hotel has played a significant role in the community, serving as a cultural hub and gathering place for locals and visitors alike. As one of Toronto's oldest hotels, the Gladstone has been a prominent fixture in the Queen Street West neighbourhood for over a century, hosting a diverse array of events and fostering a sense of community.

“The City of Toronto’s CaféTO program provides important support for local businesses still recovering from the pandemic and animates our streets,” said local city councillor Alejandra Bravo.

“All patios are required to comply with applicable bylaws, including for noise and hours of operation. My office hopes to find solutions with the applicant and local residents that balance the interests of our community.”

As discussions surrounding the patio proposal continue, stakeholders emphasize the importance of addressing the concerns of residents impacted by potential noise disturbances. The deadline for public comments is fast approaching and residents should respond to the city by May 6.

— Ron Johnson

Gladstone Hotel

Yorkville supertall wins approval

A proposed development by Reserve Properties and Westdale Properties at 15–19 Bloor St. W. will become one of Toronto’s new supertall structures after Toronto City Council adopted a recent settlement offer.

The property (an assembly of two properties currently occupied with two-storey buildings at 15–19 Bloor St. W.) is located within the Bloor-Yorkville area, at the southeast corner of Bloor Street West and Balmuto Street, about 50 metres east of Yonge Street.

A redevelopment proposal for the property resulted in a plan for a 99-storey tower with 1,290 residential units.

The settlement will allow the tower to be 317.4 metres, which will be a “step down” in height from Yonge–Bloor’s “The One” structure (328.4 metres) located next door. According to the statistics laid out in the settlement letter, made public on April 3, the building’s gross floor area will drop to 74,842 square metres, with a revised density (gross floor area/site area) of 59.5. The revised proposal still features eight elevators, but a few more units up from 1,262.

City councillor for the area Dianne Saxe shed light on the significant changes unfolding in Yorkville, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities presented by these towering

residences.

“We certainly have been witnessing extremely tall buildings going up on our main streets," said Saxe.

With Bloor and Yonge streets serving as a focal point and a hub of transit activity, the area is experiencing a surge in demand for residential spaces.

"The federal and provincial governments, together with the city, are spending $1.5 billion to expand the capacity of the

“We have a lot of people who want to live in this sector of Toronto.”

Yonge station to handle larger crowds," explained Saxe. This investment in transit infrastructure underscores the importance of accommodating the growing population in the area.

As Yorkville continues to attract residents seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle, there is a pressing need to provide housing options and enhance transit accessibility.

Saxe highlights the balancing act between residential intensification and transit development, emphasizing the importance of creating livable spaces.

"We have a lot of people who want to live in this sector of Toronto. It's a wonderful place to

live, and we need to give people places to live," she said. “The challenge lies in ensuring that development is accompanied by amenities and public spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents. We are working with the applicant, city transportation and residents groups in the area to improve public space at the foot of the building," she said. Enhancing pedestrian and cyclist access, as well as creating inviting public realms, are integral aspects of the development process.

She added that she was pleased with the commitment of developers to adhere to the Toronto Green Standards.

"This will be the first supertall tower to achieve level two of the Toronto Green Standard version four," she said.

With multiple construction projects underway, there are challenges associated with congestion and disruption to the urban fabric. Nevertheless, Saxe said she’s optimistic about the positive impact of development, including increased local patronage for small businesses and the creation of new parks and amenities.

“There's just an enormous amount of construction coming in that Yonge and Bloor to Bay area,” she said. “It's going to be transformational.”

— Ron Johnson

City councillor Dianne Saxe, another supertall condo tower is approved

Queen West goes holistic, Mandy’s invades Yorkville & more

Saint Laurent and Bulgari are both opening their flagship Canadian stores on the Mink Mile this spring, contributing to the ongoing transformation of Bloor Street into a global luxury fashion hub. The new Saint Laurent store at 110 Bloor St. W. features a new design concept that only exists in a few locations worldwide, including Paris. Bulgari will be occupying a 2,969square-foot boutique space at 131 Bloor St. W., where the luxe jewelry brand will be neighbours with other flagship locations for major brands including Prada, Ferragamo and Dior.

Mandy’s is bringing gourmet salads to Yorkville with a new location at 110 Bloor St. W. for the Montreal-based company that has found great success in the Toronto market so far. Beginning as a create-your-own salad bar started by two sisters, the brand has since expanded into a

hearty and healthy salad empire.

Trove officially opened its doors near the Queen West neighbourhood in April, bringing a first-of-its-kind wellness concept to the area. The new facility at 426 Adelaide St. W. is centred around holistic wellness and offers a laundry list of trending services, including reiki, lymphatic drainage, hypnotherapy, sound baths and vitamin drips. With a goal of addressing both physical and energetic equilibrium, amenities include a salt cave, infrared sauna, journalling nook and cold plunge offerings.

Doner State is taking over the Little Italy space formerly occupied by Felichia Bridal. Not much is known about the new eatery, but it will be serving up casual Turkish food, including shawarma, gyro and doner kebabs when it opens at 601 College St. in June.

Nutbar is popping up in the spring and summer on Ossington, operating a takeout window out of popular athleticwear shop Permission. The 100 per cent organic cafe is known for its superfood smoothies and energy bars, including the eponymous nutbar. The window will be open daily at 127 Ossington Ave. And don’t forget about the upcoming Ossfest, happening this summer and transforming the entire Ossington strip into a street festival.

Mira Godard Gallery is unveiling a new and exciting Richard York collection on May 4 named The West Wind: New Woodblock Prints. The exhibition at 22 Hazelton Ave. will feature new woodblock prints highlighting the beauty of the natural world from the British Columbia–based artist. There will also be an artist talk at the gallery on opening day.

A rendering of Mandy’s Yorkville location

TORONTO BREAK-INS

Equity ever after: T.O. couples opt for prenups

Home ownership is a dream for many wanting to get into the pricey Toronto real estate market, but some are also finding it comes with strings attached when one half of a couple contributes significantly more to a property.

As the owner of a two-bedroom downtown condo, Elizabeth Smith (not her real name) is worried about what could happen to her investment if she marries her fiancé — who doesn’t have a stake in the unit — and the relationship later goes south.

“I’m finding it difficult to navigate,” said the 37-year-old, who asked to remain anonymous for privacy reasons. “It’s [a source of] awkward conversations for

sure,” she said of her current living arrangement, one where her partner pays her a below-market amount of rent to help out with monthly expenses.

“I make more money than him — he has some savings but not significant enough to contribute meaningfully to a down payment.”

As a result, she’s considering holding off on marriage — there’s no date set, she said — or proposing a contract stipulating that, in the event of a breakup, she maintains her full interest in the primary residence. Smith is not alone. The high value of Toronto real estate has more couples in situations like Smith and her fiancé’s signing

so-called prenuptial agreements before tying the knot.

“I’m dealing with it on an ongoing basis. Because of the economy and for various reasons, people appear to be taking more care to protect their right or their interest in real estate or the family home,” Mathew Fordjour, a family law lawyer, said.

Fordjour noticed the trend during the pandemic, and it hasn’t slowed down since.

“I’ve seen a notable rise in doing what people call prenuptial agreements, which are basically cohabitation agreements or marriage contracts,” Fordjour said.

Although such domestic agreements can lead to awkward conversations for

couples, they’re by far the most effective way for individuals to maintain their interest in the matrimonial home should a relationship end in separation — especially if they contributed more financially than their partner. That’s because the matrimonial home, or the couple’s primary residence, is divided up by the courts during a separation. In these cases, it doesn’t matter whether only one partner is on title or contributed more towards the down payment, mortgage or insurance payments when buying a home.

Sometimes, Fordjour said, concerned parents approach him to draft a contract for their kids, when they’re buying a home, because if the parents help out with the down payment, they want to make sure that whatever they contribute stays in their family — regardless of what happens with a marriage.

“Even if the property is in one’s own name alone, that doesn’t guarantee that, if there’s a split, you’re going to be able to call all of the equity your own,” he said.

If she marries her partner, another option Smith is considering is the two rent a separate place together so that her twobedroom unit isn’t technically the matrimonial home under Ontario law. “I’m more than happy to be engaged for a while,” she added.

The high cost of housing in the city certainly plays a role in the rise of domestic contracts: if a Torontonian loses substantial equity in their current home, it’s going to present challenges. “It makes it more difficult to re-enter the housing market,” Fordjour said. —Josh Sherman

Luxury GTA home sales soar but not as high as rest of Canada

The luxury housing market in the GTA is on the rebound in 2024, with an April report finding a 14.4 per cent increase in sales in January and February compared to the same period last year. But the surge in sales pales in comparison to other Canadian markets — Montreal, Saskatoon and Calgary saw sales increases above 50 per cent.

The widespread improvement in luxury sales across the country is to be expected, according to Barry Cohen, the president of Re/Max Realtron Barry Cohen Homes and a top carriage trade agent in the country. “January and February couldn’t have been anything less than stellar, because January and February of last year were so poor due to interest rates rising,” he said.

In December of 2022, the Bank of Canada announced a rate hike from 3.75 per cent to 4.25 per cent, and in January of 2023 that was hiked again to 4.5 per cent. The BoC has held the rate at 5 per cent through six announcements since July 2023, including one in April. Already, Cohen said the market for homes under $2.5

million is “on fire” in the GTA, with many homes seeing multiple offers and buyers going well beyond asking price.

“There is anticipation that the rate is going to be coming down — and if it does, I think the market, including the luxury market, will be on fire,” Cohen said. “A 0.25 per cent change isn’t going to be significant, really, to anybody. But it is going to signal to the population that if interest rates are already down, prices are on their way up, and they’d better get off the fence.”

The 14.4 per cent increase in sales in the GTA referred to sales of all homes over $3 million, increasing to 167 sales from January to February compared to 146 sales in the same period in 2023. But the uber-luxe market — referring to homes sold over $5 million — has been particularly hot: there were 32 sales in January and February of 2024, compared to 18 in 2023, a 77 per cent increase. However, with additional numbers for March provided by Cohen, there were a total of 52 sales from January to March in 2024 and 40 sales in 2023, which is a more

modest but still significant 30 per cent increase.

The ultra-luxury market for homes over $7 million, on the other hand, saw just four sales in the first three months of 2024. The stark difference in sales is something Cohen credits in part to the new “luxury tax” land transfer tax, which was implemented on Jan. 1, 2024, and applies to houses over $3 million.

The Re/Max report noted that luxury buyers in larger markets such as Toronto have migrated to more affordable mid-size cities. “Some luxury buyers looking to expand their purchasing power are moving over into markets such as London (drawing buyers from the Greater Toronto Area), Halifax, Calgary, Edmonton and Saskatoon (drawing buyers from Ontario and British Columbia).”

Ontario saw a net loss of over 40,000 people to other provinces and territories in 2023, the biggest loss in interprovincial migration in the country.

—Julia Mastroianni

Even with unequal contributions, a couple’s primary residence would be divided up equally in a divorce

CURRENTS

T.O.’s top shows from Neil Young to Cirque du Soleil

1. Go to Cirque du Soleil

Toronto is buzzing with anticipation as Cirque du Soleil’s latest original big top production, ECHO, prepares for its grand debut on May 8. Nestled under the Grand Chapiteau at 2150 Lake Shore Blvd. W., this captivating spectacle promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. ECHO isn’t just another show. At its heart is a massive 23-foot cube, a mesmerizing centrepiece that sets the stage for a journey into a world of wonder. The narrative of ECHO is a tapestry woven with vibrant characters, inspiring music and never-before-seen acrobatic feats.

This production of ECHO represents several milestones for Cirque du Soleil. It marks its first original big top creation since 2018’s BAZZAR. Additionally, the show features an impressive ensemble of six live vocalists. ECHO also features 10 video projectors illuminating the cube, the stage and the performers, setting a new standard for Cirque du Soleil productions.

For more information, go to Cirquedusoleil.com.

2. Go to Contact

The Contact Photography Festival, running May 1 to 31, in the Greater Toronto Area presents 36 curated exhibitions and public art displays, offering a rich tapestry of visual narratives through photography. Highlights include Nuits Balnéaires: United in Bassam, at the Meridian Arts Centre; Body/Armour, by Ruth Kaplan & Claudia Fährenkemper, at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre; and Arielle Bobb-Willis: Furiously Happy, at Davisville subway station. The festival extends into public spaces like Yonge-Dundas Square with Joyce Joumaa: Untitled and billboards showcasing Holly Chang: How to Disappear When No One is Looking.

For more information, go to contactphoto.com

3. See Hadestown

Experience the enchanting world of Hadestown as it arrives in Toronto at the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards, including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album, Hades-

town is a captivating tale created by celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and visionary director Rachel Chavkin. This acclaimed show weaves together two mythic narratives: that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice and the story of King Hades and his wife Persephone. As it takes you on a journey to the underworld and back, Hadestown explores themes of industry versus nature, doubt versus faith and fear versus love. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this haunting and hopeful theatrical journey, as Hadestown makes its mark on Toronto running May 15 to 26.

For details, go to mirvish.com

4. Go to Neil Young Iconic musician Neil Young will be performing at Toronto’s Budweiser Stage on May 20. With a legendary career spanning decades, Young’s concert promises a night of unforgettable music and powerful performances. Known for hits like “Heart of Gold” and “Rockin’ in the Free World,” Young’s influence on rock and folk music is unparalleled. At the scenic Budweiser Stage, fans can expect a journey through Young’s extensive catalog and a rare opportunity to witness

a living legend in action, making it an event not to be missed for music enthusiasts of all ages.

For details, go to livenation.com

5. Go to Comic Arts Festival Toronto Comic Arts Festival is back at the Toronto Reference Library running May 11 to 12. TCAF is an annual celebration of comic books held in Toronto since 2003. It has grown into a premier festival for comic arts, showcasing creators, publishers and organizations from around the world. This weekend promises a vibrant array of panels, workshops and more!

For further information, go to torontocomics.com

6. See Teenage Fanclub Iconic ’90s band Teenage Fanclub hits the historic Concert Hall on May 3 for the Nothing Lasts Forever Tour. Emerging in 1989 from Bellshill near Glasgow, Scotland, Teenage Fanclub quickly gained acclaim for its melodic guitar pop and harmony-laden vocals. Should be an unforgettable night of alternative rock in this iconic venue.

For details, go to 888yonge.com

L-R: The legend himself, Neil Young; Cirque de Soleil’s new show ‘ECHO’ is opening this month

THEATRE

MUSIC

FESTIVAL THEATRE

DENIM DYNASTY

Jeanne Beker brought in her daughters, Bekky and Joey, to model her top Toronto picks for spring’s hottest trend — denim on denim. From jumpsuits to Western shirts, there are so many ways to style this iconic look!

logo print d ign

relaxed fit

Bekky

INDIGO JUMPSUIT

TNT, $688, 2901 Bayview Ave.

“This jumpsuit is just fabulous, and it doesn’t look like a jumpsuit at all depending on how you style it! It’s a great piece for travel that can be dressed up or down just because it has that very classic denim styling to it with a beautiful faded look.”

OVERSIZED JACKET

Good Neighbour, $540, 1212 Yonge St.

Jeanne

“I love that it's oversized and very worn in. This looks like the kind of thing that you’ve had in your wardrobe for a million years that always remains cool, and it has a great generosity of fit."

HIGH-RISE JEANS

Good Neighbour, $358, 1212 Yonge St.

W tern moment

Joey

CLASSIC SHIRT

Levi’s, $98, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

“This classic denim shirt is such a timeless piece, and this is exactly the kind of piece you want when we talk about investment dressing. The fabrication of it just feels like the real deal.”

FITTED FLARES

Levi’s, $118, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

“I love the cut of these jeans; they’re really beautifully fitting — there’s a really nice wide leg, a high waist and classic styling. There’s a beautiful fullness to the shape of the legs.”

“The pants are such a beautiful wash with a nice wide leg — but not overly wide! Very comfortable with a nice amount of stretch; just a great all-round jean.”

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

LEARN DEVELOP GROW

Two vintage hot spots open in the west end

Vintage lovers will have two new spots to visit in the west end this month as two second-hand market favourites have found permanent homes in Toronto.

Batch Vintage, originally based in Vaughan and founded by couple Arianna Stalteri and Marcanthony Spano, has been serving up contemporary and deadstock vintage pieces, inspired by fashion shows, movies and TV, skate and rave culture and Y2K fashion, for eight years. With their growing Instagram presence, the brand has had repeat customers from all over the world — including some in Toronto who couldn’t travel to their Vaughan showroom to shop.

ments for your inner beach goddess. Shop owner Silvina Antunes is part vintage curator and part crochet designer. With long mermaid-esque hair and an ever-rotating wardrobe of bright, whimsical outfits, Antunes perfectly suits the vibe of her brand, On the Map.

Her colourful, detailed creations fill the tiny shop at 454 Ossington Ave. — from bucket hats, shrugs and sweaters to festival tops and full-length dresses. The rest of her shop is stocked with her favourite vintage pieces, including everyday Y2K apparel, ’70s bell bottoms and bohemian tops and ’80s sequined party dresses.

“We already had people come in who’ve been customers for years that we’ve never met,” says Spano.

“We’re going to try to figure out what specifically people in Toronto want more of, but we have an idea from our Instagram story sales,” Stalteri adds. She intends to use the new space at 1110 Dupont St. to its maximum advantage, collaborating with Toronto creatives she has long admired and hosting various styling initiatives within the space.

And just in time for summer, there’s a new shop on Ossington where you can buy all the adorn-

“I had this vision for the store being somewhere that you go for the clothes you’re going to wear on vacation,” she says. “Very colourful, very standout.”

The shop is a long way from its humble beginnings as a solely crochet Etsy shop Antunes named Mudança (meaning “change” in Portuguese), which she quickly replaced with her own website. Since doing the Toronto market circuit, including Hippie Market, she’s found her place in the vintage and local vendor scene — and her new On the Map boutique is an extension of that.

—Emma Johnston-Wheeler

Batch Vintage’s new Toronto shop is on Dupont Street

Luxe Spanish brand hits Yorkdale

Spanish luxury brand Loewe has chosen Yorkdale for its first Canadian stand-alone store, and the new location is the fashion giant’s second largest in North America.

The newly opened store is a part of Yorkdale’s luxury expansion — the mall is re-tenanting the main floor’s centre strip to bring in all the top luxury brands. The new wing is said to be the most significant clustering of luxury brands in Canada, and by the time the Yorkdale team is finished with it, it may become one of the largest in the world.

The clothing and accessories brand has skyrocketed in pop-

ularity over the past year, briefly overtaking Prada as the hottest fashion brand in the world mid2023, according to fashion tech platform Lyst’s quarterly ranking. Celebrity appearances in notable Loewe looks helped bring the brand more attention, with Beyoncé sporting a now-iconic bodysuit with Loewe’s signature hand motifs on her Renaissance tour and Rihanna wearing a custom jumpsuit and breastplate from the brand at her Super Bowl halftime performance.

Loewe, led by creative director Jonathan Anderson, has also created some viral fashion moments, thanks to its unique de-

signs: think pixelated T-shirts, heels stacked on top of almostpopped balloons and gravity-defying draped dresses.

The Yorkdale store, spanning 3,922 square feet, features several rooms, a wooden design that transforms the space into a highfashion gazebo and contemporary ceramic accents.

Loewe has existed in Canada since 2015, with a presence at former Nordstrom stores and Holt Renfrew locations. That includes the Yorkdale Holt Renfrew, which currently offers some leather goods and ready-to-wear pieces.

—Julia Mastroianni

Step into spring: T.O.’s top shoe trends

For those who put comfort first and style second, you’re in luck — these ultra-comfy shoes slip on like a glove and are as flat as the name implies. Opt for a Mary Jane silhouette for extra style points. Where to buy: Maguire Shoes, 760 Queen St. W.

Slingbacks on point

They’re elegant, they’re sultry, they’re chic — the slingback heel is a classic. Add a pointed toe to that and you’ve got a timeless yet trendy shoe that can play well with maxi skirts, ’90s jeans and everything in between. Where to buy: TNT, 394 Eglinton Ave. W.

Colourful kicks

Sneakers are always in style, but the sneaker of the season seems to constantly change. This time, it’s

slim, sports-style ones, ideally in a bold colour — and there’s plenty to choose from. Where to buy: Livestock, 112 Spadina Ave.

Micro heels

So-tiny-you-might-miss-them heels were all over the runway this season, spotted on boots, mules, slingbacks and more. These kitten heels are the antithesis to platforms, and they’re pretty practical as far as heels go. Where to buy: Reformation, 87 Yorkville Ave.

Mesh to impress

We saw sheer dresses, sheer skirts, sheer blouses, now get ready for… sheer shoes? Mesh is the superbreathable new accessories trend for spring, particularly in the form of fishnet ballet flats. Where to buy: Heel Boy, 773 Queen St. W. —JM

Loewe is opening its first Canadian stand-alone store in Toronto

Minimalist flats

Thirst for profit is fuelling water scarcity

People can only survive a few days without water. Given water’s importance to our health and survival, you’d think we’d take better care of streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, glaciers and the one, interconnected ocean. Earth’s surface is 70 per cent water, but only three per cent of that is freshwater and most is inaccessible or polluted.

munities in Canada lack clean drinking water, with some on boil-water advisories for years.

In the Tyee, Andrew Nikiforuk writes that researchers from the University of California, Santa Barbara, who spent three years collecting and analyzing data on some 1,700 aquifers around the world, found “groundwater is dropping in 71 per cent of the studied aquifers” and “levels have dropped by one metre in central Alberta and Saskatchewan too.”

Because our current global economic system values money above everything we need to survive, we’ve been polluting, destroying and depleting water sources at alarming rates, in part so the wealthy corporate class can profit. With accelerating climate change causing increasing droughts, we’re putting water and ourselves at even greater risk.

In some cases, the devastation is in the name of development: wetlands destroyed for urban sprawl, waterways polluted for oil extraction, rivers dammed for hydro and irrigation.

As a Guardian article says, “Across the US west, private investors have been scouring rural communities in search of highpriority water rights.” Large multinationals such as Nestlé and PepsiCo are paying a pittance to drain clean water from public sources to bottle and sell back to the public at exorbitant profit. Many Indigenous com-

It’s not that we didn’t know what was coming in time to do something. Many experts, including my late friend David Schindler, one of the world’s leading water ecologists, predicted for decades that areas such as southern Alberta would experience prolonged water scarcity unless something was done to address the climate crisis. But governments in Alberta and Saskatchewan keep going in the opposite direction.

We can’t continue to ignore the experts. We must take back power from those who greedily destroy the planet’s life-support systems for short-term financial gain. There’s a better path.

Most of the Earth’s limited fresh water is inaccessible or polluted

DAVID SUZUKI with files from senior editor Ian Hanington.

Dear Sangita: The guy I’m dating slept with my sister

Dear Sangita: I just started dating someone new, and I found out he slept with my sister in the past. I really like him, but this is really bothering me, and I'm finding it hard to see a future with him now. Am I overreacting?

—Tired of hand-me-downs

Dear Tired: If you feel like this now, it's going to bother you forever. I don’t know how much information you have about the situation — whether your sister had feelings for him or whether it was a one-night stand, for example — but at the core of it, you feel icky about it, right? Even though you like him, if you can't get over it, maybe it's time to cut your losses.

Some people could get over this; I don't think I could. I couldn't imagine being with a guy who has been with my sister. But I think you need to be honest with him and leave. Don’t beat around the bush, just be straight up —

“You slept with my sister, and I just can’t get over it.” He can’t argue with that — it’s just how you feel. If you aren’t honest now, this is unfortunately a story that’s going to linger with you forever.

Dear Sangita: All is great with my boyfriend. Except for the fact that he doesn’t love my dog. We’ve been dating for a year now, and he’s getting … weird. He ignores her when she begs to be pet at the door

and has made mean comments about her “yipping.” I think it’s a deal breaker if he hates my dog! Do I confront him?

—Dogs before dudes

Dear Dogs: I think you just need to say, “Do you not like my dog?” I think it’s fair for him to say he’s not a dog lover. But if your dog is a huge part of your life, you want your partner to be part of that experience. If it's getting to the point

where your boyfriend is not even enjoying the pet, and you’re already feeling that something is off, how do you think this will eventually affect your relationship? The worst thing would be if you started changing the way you take care of your dog because of the way your partner is behaving. So you need to confront the situation now, before it gets any worse.

Dear Sangita: I’ve become best friends with someone at work, and now I’ve just found out from my boss that she’s being laid off. My boss told me not to tell her, but I’m finding it impossible to be around her — especially because she just told me she’s going to sign an expensive lease for a house. What should I do?

—Workplace gossip gone wrong

Dear Workplace: I would tell her. She's your best friend at work, and this is going to be heartbreaking for her. Yes, there’s confidentiality,

but in this case, she is your best friend and you have information that's going to really impact her. Hopefully your friend doesn't tell your boss that you told her. There are ways to say it, especially with the lease — you can tell her that maybe don’t lease that house right now, jobs aren’t stable here right now. Or you can say that you heard people are getting laid off so to hold off on any big decisions. Or you can just be straight up — our boss is laying people off, and I know it includes you.

And as a side note: I don’t know why your boss told you this information; that’s something very confidential and you should have never been put in this situation.

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

SANGITA PATEL is our advice columnist and was previously a host on ET Canada.

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FAST FACTS

NAME: Don McKellar

GRADUATED: Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute

GO-TO RESTAURANTS: Patois, Bar Vendetta, Hamers Coffee

FAVE T.O. MEMORY: Sneaking into movies at the U of T cinema club

Star-studded series taps T.O.’s Don McKellar

There’s something about Toronto filmmakers: they have a tendency to feel so local. Take, for example, Don McKellar, director, writer, actor. You might know him from Atom Egoyan’s Exotica, David Cronenberg’s eXistenZ or Crimes of the Future or his own films, like Last Night. You might also know him, simply, from the line at your neighbourhood coffee shop or sitting in the next seat over at a downtown movie theatre.

Still, he’s no stranger to Hollywood. Particularly with the April premiere of HBO’s bigbudget drama The Sympathizer starring Roberty Downey Jr. and Sandra Oh, based on Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize–winning 2015 novel.

The production took the cast and crew from California to Thailand, and McKellar cocreated it with legendary Korean director Park Chan-wook. Despite all these high-wattage factors, McKellar wrote pretty much the whole show at home.

“This is a global project, but I wrote it in my backyard in Little Italy,” says the filmmaker, who was brought on by Nguyen as co-showrunner along with Park. Born and raised in North Toronto, McKellar’s a life-long theatre kid. He co-founded Toronto touring company Child’s Play Theatre early on and arts collective The Augusta Company in

1989. He made his first international splash with 1998’s Toronto-set Last Night when he won the Prix de la Jeunesse at the Cannes Film Festival. His frequent collaborators include Cronenberg and Egoyan. It doesn’t get more Toronto than that.

Naturally, then, jumping onto a Hollywood production marked quite a shift. He says, “It takes a while just for you to realize, ‘OK, I can blow up helicopters, I can build giant sets.’ You have to overcome your independent film Canadian thriftiness, and it helps to surround yourself with writers who tell you to go for it.”

Working as a kind of mentor for new, inexperienced Vietnamese actors on set was star Sandra Oh, a fellow Ontarian who provided McKellar with a dose of home.

“She’s a really good friend of mine, and I love her as a person and as an actor. It was actually Viet [who] said, ‘My dream actor for Ms. Mori is Sandra,’” McKellar says.

Now, he is itching to shift gears again. “I want to do something more controllable. I have an urge to do something in Canada,” he says. “After we finished, Chan-wook said, ‘I’ve got to go to Korea and make a little film, on my home turf, and in my language.’ I understand that impulse.”

—Sadaf Ahsan

Don McKellar is the co-showrunner of HBO show ‘The Sympathizer’

Award-winning CBC anchor finds love that makes headlines

You might recognize Aarti Pole from your morning news. As the host of CBC News Network with Aarti Pole, she’s been delivering live and breaking stories from across the country every weekday since 2022. And with a newborn baby this year transforming her family from three to four, she and her husband Gavin Pais have plenty to celebrate. The awardwinning journalist gives us the scoop on her and her husband’s very modern meet-cute and spoiled proposal.

How they met

Believe it or not — we both swiped right! I never thought I’d meet my future husband on an app, but after our first date, we didn’t miss a day of either speaking with each other or messaging or seeing the other person.

The first date

We went to Zaza Espresso Bar in Yorkville and ended up just chatting for hours. He was late (as he

always is now too). But once we started talking, things just clicked.

The relationship

On our third date, we went to the Reservoir Lounge, which has live music. After dinner, Gavin took me to the dance floor — he could really dance, swing and jive, and I’ll admit it, I was impressed. Dance has been a big part of my life, and I always hoped I’d be with someone who loved it too. After

that date, we didn’t see each other for about a month because I was travelling to Costa Rica for two weeks and he was leaving for Croatia the day I returned. A month later, when the fourth date came along, we decided to head to the Bahamas! The following month we went to Bermuda — and then I moved to Washington, D.C., for work. We had only known each other for five months but decided to try a long distance relationship.

The proposal

We had been dating for two years, and we were going on a trip to Jamaica to celebrate the mini milestone. I did not suspect a thing, but just as we were checking into our hotel, someone accidentally spilled the beans! We were both in complete shock, but they made it up to us! What was going to be a proposal during a candlelit dinner on the beach ended up being much more extravagant. He proposed on a private dock, with a live saxophone player and singer, followed by a sunset cruise.

The wedding and honeymoon

We got married in Cancun — can you tell we’re beach bums? It was a full five-day affair, and both of our families got to spend so much time together. The Catholic ceremony was in a glass chapel overlooking the water, and the Hindu ceremony was on the beach at sunset. The honeymoon was two months later in Spain. We drove up and down the country, stop-

T.O.’S LEADING PROFESSIONALS

Whole body MRI scans have become increasingly popular in preventive healthcare due to their advanced capabilities and comprehensive approach. Let’s explore the top five reasons behind their rising prominence:

1. Early Detection: Early detection is crucial in preventing and treating various health conditions, and whole body MRI scans excel in this regard. With high-resolution imaging, they identify potential issues like cancers and other diseases at their earliest stages, improving treatment outcomes and potentially saving lives.

2. Non-Invasive and Painless: The whole body MRI scan is non-invasive, painless and utilizes no radiation. Using magnetic fields detailed images are generated for review. Newer MRI scanners have a larger patient space enhancing comfort and easing any claustrophobia concerns.

3. Comprehensive Assessment: whole body MRI scans provide a holistic view of the body, unlike targeted scans. This comprehensive assessment helps detect potential health issues across organs and systems in a single session,

ping in San Sebastian, Rioja, Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Venice and back to Barcelona.

The kids

We have two! — our three-yearold daughter, Kinaara, and threemonth-old son, Rivaan. We just became a family of four this year.

The secret to success

We really try to make sure we’re in a partnership where we support each other. We take turns sitting in the driver’s seat. We definitely never go to bed angry with each other. Who likes to wake up with a grudge. Also laughter — there’s no better way to get through the stresses of marriage with young kids than laughter.

The future together

I hope we continue to explore the world together and expose our kids to different cultures and places. No matter what the future holds, it’ll be an adventure.

facilitating early intervention for better outcomes.

4. Tailored Healthcare Plans: Insights from whole body MRI scans enable personalized treatment and prevention plans. Healthcare providers understand each patient’s unique health profile and risks, offering tailored interventions that maximize effectiveness and promote better outcomes.

5. Time-Efficient: In today’s fast-paced world, efficiency is key, and whole body MRI scans deliver. Capturing comprehensive data in a single session saves time and resources and allows for quicker diagnoses and timely interventions. Overall, whole body MRI scans offer a compelling combination of early detection, comprehensive assessment, personalized healthcare planning, and time efficiency. They have emerged as a valuable tool in preventive healthcare, empowering individuals to proactively manage their health and well-being.

Aarti Pole and Gavin Pais were married in Cancun

MAY HOMES & INTERIORS

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There are many potential health risks that lurk in a wet basement. The goals of Royal Waterproofing are to stop the water-flow into your home, eliminate mold, mildew and possible allergy triggers and repair and prevent further damage to your home's foundation, resulting in a dry basement. Whether the water seepage is due to deterioration of existing materials, blockage of foundation drains, breakage, clogging or lack of weeping tiles, we tackle the problem where it begins - outside your home. Lifetime guarantee! Since 1985.

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Northern Stone Design Inc., a family run landscaping company, gears itself every season to making landscape dreams a reality for hundreds of GTA customers. The staff at Northern Stone Design Inc. have a combined trade experience of over 50 years, specializing in stone work and softscape for any residential or commercial property. If quality of workmanship and customer satisfaction are your top priorities, look no further than Northern Stone Design Inc. Northern Stone Design Inc. gives at home estimates and consultation for free and looks forward to a great 2024 season with its GTA customers.

Scott McGillivray on making waves with a lake house reno

Cottage season is approaching — meaning it’s the perfect time to make those much-needed renovations while you can. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your recreational property to increase value or you’re harbouring dreams of additional rental income, Scott McGillivray, real estate investor and star of the upcoming new season of Scott’s Vacation House Rules, has all the tips and tricks you need to make your reno a success.

What should cottage buyers look for this year when it comes to future rental potential?

You want to look at the things that are always going to be valuable, which is, number one, waterfront. In most cases, you’re going to want to look at the distance to a major city or urban centre — anything over two hours, the income potential drops significantly. And consider the opportunity for what I call a

double peak rental season or at least extended rental seasons — so a property that’s on the water and close to a ski resort, so you can get your peak summer rental rates, and then you get a nice little extra boost in the winter.

If you can’t afford waterfront, what’s the next best thing?

The next best option is to go off water, but with water access. If it’s a big beach or a very well-known vacation town, you might be a block away from the water,

which is still very rentable.

What’s a more lucrative bet: a complete fixer-upper or turnkey property?

Doing the work yourself is typically a better return on your investment. A property that is distressed and unrentable holds less value than a turnkey property, but I look at it as a blank canvas. You can turn it into any theme; you can go low-budget, high-budget or mid-budget; you can take your time. A property

that's completely turnkey, you're pretty much stuck with what they have. And I always say, if somebody is selling a turnkey, cash-flowing rental property, there's something wrong with it because nobody sells a perfectly good cash-flowing property.

In the new season of your show, you help a family transform their family cottage into a rental property. With the new capital gains tax, might this be a more popular option for parents passing down a property?

For sure — the capital gains tax is going to deter the average individual from making investments for the future in this capacity. For folks who are already in this space — they've had a cottage in their family for 40 or 50 years, and it's getting passed down to the next generation — there's a little bit of protection, if it is under $250,000, but some of these cottages are now worth a

million. You still have a tremendous amount of exposure as a tax burden. So you'll either have to sell it or rent it out. Renting might be the only way to keep it.

For a complete newbie to the vacation property reno game, what are your top three pieces of advice? Do your research — find out what the attractions are to the area, what the rental rates are going to be, how much your renovation is going to cost. You have to do some math. You want to be able to cover all of the expenses within 10 weeks of rental income. Next, plan your design — what's your theme and colour? Marketing? What's your brand? You want people to be invested in the experience before they even get there. And then the last piece of advice is to be your guest — put yourself in the guest’s shoes: Is this a great experience? Or am I cutting corners?

Scott McGillivray says waterfront gives you the most income potential

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Navigating the Trails: Spring ATV Safety Tips

Tips from Jeremy Diamond and Sandra Zisckind of Diamond & Diamond Lawyers

SANDRA ZISCKIND

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

As we wave goodbye to the winter months, outdoor enthusiasts eagerly begin dusting off their ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) for some springtime adventures. Although off-road riding can come with many thrills, it can also come with the potential for accidents.

According to Isaac Zisckind, Founding Partner at Diamond and Diamond, “ATV accidents can result in serious injuries, including fractures, head trauma and spinal cord injuries. It’s essential for ATV riders to understand the risks involved and take necessary precautions to stay safe.”

At Diamond and Diamond Personal Injury Lawyers, we prioritize safety above all else. Below are several ATV safety tips to keep in mind this spring.

Prioritize Proper Gear

Before you hit the trails, make sure you're equipped with the

proper safety gear. This includes an approved helmet, goggles or a face shield, gloves, long sleeves, pants, and footwear. As Isaac Zisckind says, “Wearing the right gear can protect you from serious injuries while out on your ATV. Be prepared, and stay safe.”

Inspect Your ATV

Perform a thorough inspection of your ATV ahead of each ride to ensure it’s in proper working condition. Check the tires, brakes, lights, fluid levels and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. “Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent mechanical failures that may lead to accidents,” says Isaac Zisckind.

Know Your Limits

ATV riding can be exhilarating, but it's essential to know your skill level and ride within your limits. As Isaac Zisckind says, “Avoid taking unnecessary risks or attempting maneuvers bey-

ond your abilities. This is one of the most common mistakes that we see that is easily preventable. Know your limits, and stay within them.”

Follow Rules & Regulations

Familiarize yourself with local ATV laws and regulations before hitting the trails. Respect trail closures, speed limits, and other posted signs. Stay on designated trails and avoid trespassing on private property. “Local laws and regulations regarding ATV use are in place for a reason. It’s important to ensure you do your homework before heading out on your ATV,” says Zisckind.

Avoid Riding Alone

Whenever possible, ride with a group of friends or family members. Riding alone decreases the risk of getting stranded or injured without anyone to assist you. “The buddy system is something that can

apply to ATV riding as well. We strongly recommend that you ride with friends while out on an ATV so there is someone there to help in the event of an accident,” says Zisckind.

By following these ATV safety tips, you can make the most of your springtime adventures while minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries. At Diamond & Diamond, we're committed to promoting safety and protecting the rights of ATV riders who have been injured due to negligence or misconduct.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an ATV accident, contact Canada’s largest personal injury law firm at 1-800-567-HURT.

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THE BEST NEW RESTAURANTS

12. THE FALL BRIGHT TAVERN

J UDGE CRAIG WONG, CHEF AT PATOIS

“I first met [co-owner] Brett when he worked front of house at Edulis. His warm welcomes always resonated with me.”

P OST CITY'S TAKE: Brett Healey’s mini anchovy sandwiches — featuring Pujado Solano anchovies, mashed potatoes and just the right amount of garlic to fend off any more Robert Pattison films — are 2024’s Bite of the Year, or at least the bite you’ll likely devour before your next fast. For fans of the Oxley, this bistro nestled in the reflection of the delectable Paradise Grapevine, offers a blend of wit and warmth, serving up dishes both hot and cold, such as duck cake with turnip and brussels sprouts ($36) and pastrami onion with dill ($14). Nestled between exposed brick walls in cosy booths, Fall Bright is another neighbourhood watering hole where creativity shines through in both the cocktail menu and dessert offerings (fennel ice cream sundae, fennel marshmallow, $18). It’s warm and welcoming and boasts a menu that’s a treasure trove: simply, you want everything. Notably, the chicken sausage with pine nuts in lentil vinaigrette ($32) earns high praise, a dish that could wow any table in the world.

840 Bloor St. W.

Led by two

the

a diverse wine selection from classics to natural and orange wines.

11. RICKY + OLIVIA

JUDGE

LAURA MAXWELL, CHEF AT AVLING

“The pinnacle of warm hospitality paired with locally curated wines with fun playful spins on timeless classics.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: This new Leslieville restaurant is delectable — a tasty, fun night on the town. It’s a bar + lounge where you can order a steak tartare ($18) and a hand-held Caesar salad ($16) created by husband + wife who might just supplant Fonda Balam’s Kate + Julio as the dewiest new chef-owners in town. Here, their enthusiasm is infectious: clearly the chicken salad sandwich ($18) is a labour of love. Roast pork — served with charred cipollini yogurt and honey mustard pan sauce — is tangy, flagrant, revitalising, and the glazed tofu ($17), spiked with Boy Bawang pesto + crumble, delivers a burst of flavour reminiscent of street food indulgence. The unique offerings, including a deep-fried, saltine-infused vodka martini ($17), may be unconventional for some, but for Leslieville locals, it adds to the area's charm. Along with Eastside Social, Ricky + Olivia makes this stretch of Queen East a fun spot for Leslieville cocktail crawling, just forget about Sunday brunch: the joggers will eat you alive. 996 Queen St. E.

THANK YOU TO OUR CHEFS/JUDGES

GIOVANNI ALONZA SUD FORNO

CLAUDIO APRILE VIA ALLEGRO

JULIAN BENTIVEGNA TEN RESTAURANT

HEMANT BHAGWANI BAR GOA

MICHAEL BONACINI O&B RESTAURANTS

ANDREW CARTER THE OXLEY

ANNA CHEN ALMA

MARC CHENG CLIO

BRADEN CHONG

MIMI CHINESE & SUNNYS

DAVIDE CIAVATTELLA

DON ALFONSO 1890

TABITHA CRANNEY

THE WOOD OWL

LA-TOYA FAGON TWIST CATERING

JORGE FIESTAS BUCA

MICHAEL HUNTER ANTLER

SEONGLYONG JO AKIRA BACK

NICK LIU DAILO

LORENZO LOSETO

GEORGE RESTAURANT

SOLOMON MASON

AUBERGE DU POMMIER

MARC MCEWAN THE MCEWAN GROUP

DANNY MCCALLUM

JACOBS & CO. STEAKHOUSE

STEVEN MOLNAR QUETZAL

LAURA MAXWELL AVLING

LAURA PETRACCA CIBO WINE BAR

NUIT REGULAR PAI

KYLE RINDINELLA

ENOTECA SOCIALE

DAVID ROCCO BAR APERITIVO

ANTHONY ROSE FAT PASHA

DAVID SCHWARTZ

MIMI CHINESE & SUNNYS

ALIDA SOLOMON TUTTI MATTI

CRAIG WONG PATOIS

sommeliers,

restaurant offers

The Kalimotxo, a Spanish classic, blending red wine with Coke for a refreshing twist reminiscent of cherry cola.

9. AZURA

“Blind tasting menus are my kind of place. I love surprises, and this red brick wall vibe with green velvet seating is magical.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: They said tasting menus were dead. And then Toronto met chef Adam Ryan. Way out in Greektown, Ryan’s blind Mediterranean tasting menu ($128 for the whole experience, $72 for two-thirds), is turning Toronto dining on its head. Azura, the east side's gastronomic offspring of Alo and Patrick Kriss, serves up halibut, chickpea fritters and other French- and Spanishinspired dishes with Turkish and African twists. The dynamic creations feature unexpected flavour pairings, each dish uniquely described in just 10 words. Dining at Azura isn't just about filling the belly — it's an exploration of the senses. The open kitchen adds a dramatic flair, while ambient lighting bathes the space in a captivating glow. With the arrival of warmer weather, the expansive windows open wide, infusing the atmosphere with the lively energy of the Danforth. The concept is fun and daring, and the room has that unmistakable frisson — look around you, we're all foodies here. 162 Danforth Ave.

10. THE DORSET

JUDGE NUIT REGULAR, CHEF AT PAI

“The food was so comforting and delicious, and I really loved the focus on fish and seafood.”

P OST CITY'S TAKE: Ryan Lister has a hit on his hands: comfortable, out of the ordinary — yum. By the time you sidle up to Lister’s bar at the Dorset for a Dorchester’s Pimm’s ($17), you’ll have earned it. Despite the glee emanating from the latest Oliver & Bonacini assembly line, the proximity to Front Street and the Gardiner still evokes shivers. Gussied up British pub fare (cottage pie, $26; Atlantic salmon, $34) is fresh, innovative and cracking, plus a whole new world unfurls itself around the Dorset inside the Well, which is like the Eaton Centre as reinvented by Frank Gehry, which is why you haven’t yet been. Lister is a bonafide British culinary celebrity, and his seaside, Dorset-inspired menu is evocative of a freer, less shopping mall–enclosed world, where the cooking is still able to reach beyond King Street and splash us with English Channel dreams. The Sunday roast, the English breakfast ($24), the Scotch Dutch egg ($18) — the satisfying and satisfyingly served British favourites line up before diners like Adele, Fleet Street and so many English things (but not Brexit) that we love. Eat casually on the main floor at the bar or venture upstairs for something more refined. 457 Wellington St. W.

Comfy and cosy like sitting in your grandfather’s favourite chair.

8. BAR ARDO

JUDGE MARK MCEWAN OF THE MCEWAN GROUP

“It's not just a meal, it's an experience that's both familiar and excitingly new.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: Tucked just moments away from the Michelin-acclaimed Ardo, Bar Ardo emerges as Jacqueline Nicosia and chef Roberto Marotta's audacious third venture. Combining their Sicilian roots with global inspirations, their Bar Ardo pulsates with an eclectic fusion, housed in an Old World–meets-art deco space adorned with captivating works by Italian painter Sergio Fiorentino. From zesty Spanish paprika to exotic North African seeds, the menu dances with diverse flavours, featuring highlights like the Muffaletta sandwich and the vegan-friendly centriole. Marotta's ancestral roots shine through in dishes like the cavolfiore, a nod to his grandmother's cherished recipe from his childhood. Keeping the vibe electric, Bar Ardo offers late night bites without the hefty price tag. Alongside an Italian-heavy wine selection, the restaurant is serving up original spins on classics and a wide selection of zero–per cent drinks. Revamped favourites, like the Penicillin and margarita, pack a punch without the morning fog. As a tribute to their journey, Nicosia and Marotta hope Bar Ardo becomes a part of many cherished stories, much like its sister restaurants. 169 King St. E.

MUST-TRY DISH:

The classic costata for two, served with frites and lemon mayonnaise.

VIBE:

JUDGE HEMANT BHAGWANI OF BAR GOA

6. PORZIA’S

JUDGE MICHAEL BONACINI OF O&B RESTAURANTS

“The food at Porzia’s is exquisitely simple. Just homey, Italian favourites featuring fresh, quality ingredients and executed perfectly.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: No reservations, and walk-ins are only accepted for parties of six or fewer — this is a buzz restaurant, the kind of place that’s trendy, yet cosy and warm. The mid-price-range revolution of luscious red sauce dishes, from Danny’s Tavern on College Street to Sugo at Lansdowne and Bloor, has brought comfort food like Porzia’s thick, thick lasagne bolognese ($28) and crisp, moist eggplant Milanese ($26) all over the 6ix, making this the season of comfort food. Inside Porzia’s, it's electric, scrumptious and fun — diners share knowing looks over calamari fritte ($26) like members of a secret club, reviving Corso Italia just north of St. Clair with chef/owner Basilio Pesce’s pandemic pop-up success. It’s still harder to get a table on a Thursday night than Stanley Cup tickets, and Pesce’s loving culinary attention — all the pastas are housemade, the Italian cheeses imported with care — reflect our need for more such spots. The tagliatelle ($29) is mouthwatering, and the Barese sausage ($34), with lamb and pork, is a dish from Pesce’s youth. The room thrums, the red sauce tangs and it feels like big 2011 Enoteca Sociale vibes. Try the Sancerre, then have one more. You won’t be able to get back in until fall. 319A Oakwood Ave.

7. LA PLUME

J UDGE LAURA PETRACCA, CHEF AT CIBO WINE BAR

“They focus on fresh coastal flavours, slowcooked classics and seafood, executed simply.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: Le Sélect Bistro reopened in Toronto in the summer of 2022, and the city rejoiced. Frenchy, which opened in February at the Hilton, brought bouillabaisse closer to Bay Street than ever before. Now, La Plume, situated inside the Well, offers Giannone chicken ($36) and spaghetti vongole ($32), charming diners with its southern French cuisine. Bringing Marseille a breeze up the block from Union Station is no small feat, but Oliver & Bonacini — from Canoe to Canteen, Auberge du Pommier to the Rabbit Hole — know experiential dining and how to pull the gastronomic trick of making you forget where you are. La Plume’s kitchen, offering trout tartare ($32) and Hudson Valley duck breast ($49) succeeds at making itself destination dining. It would be a shame to make the journey and not explore its surroundings: perhaps start with a drink at the Dorset, another new Oliver & Bonacini bistro at the Well? Either way, attention to detail on the plate and in the light fixtures, combined with energy from the front of the house to chef John Horne’s knife, has created something sparkling — the terrace at La Plume is the coveted dusk reservation this spring. 453 Wellington St. W.

FUN FACT:

Through a washroom stall is a boudoir-style speakeasy named Bonne Nuit.

The restaurant is named in honour of chef Pesce’s mother, Porzia.

4. RISTORANTE SOCIALE

JUDGE ALIDA SOLOMON, CHEF AT TUTTI MATTI

“The food is amazing and the lively entertainment makes the experience. Chef Rocco and Kyle are a magic duo.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: If it’s not the best new restaurant, it’s certainly the most happening spot. As the sister restaurant of Enoteca Sociale, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition winner for two consecutive years, this King Street establishment exudes coolness. The branzino ($30), octopus ($49) and rigatoni al ragu ($27) taste delightful; you can taste their familial bones. Chef Kyle Rindinella consistently elevates unpretentious Italian cuisine, creating the kind of neighbourhood bistro you wish existed everywhere. A little loud? OK. But this is King Street, so the DJ comes with the territory, as does the $140-per-person family-style menus for tables of more than eleven — perfect choice for celebrations like bat mitzvahs if Piano Piano is already fully booked. From the rib eye ($100) to the porterhouse ($300) and the albacore tuna ($24), the menu offers a taste of Vegas without the distance, all while enjoying episodes of Seinfeld with Larry David on TV. 545 King St. W.

VIBE:

On weekends, dancers perform table side, and later, the dining room transforms into a party with DJs spinning.

5. SOM TUM JINDA

J UDGE ANNA CHEN, CHEF AT ALMA

“If it was closer to the west end, I would order it at least once a week.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: This Allan Gardens basement is one of Toronto’s best new restaurants. Far from the watereddown Momofuku iterations still hawking ramen to tourists, Som Tum Jinda feels like the real thing. Ladies and gentlemen, we’re not in Laos anymore. Gerrard Street East vibrates with Som Tum Tod ($16, fried papaya salad) spicy enough to cloud your eyes against all the local cannabis dispensaries. Som Tum Jinda, which earned a Michelin recommendation in Thailand, is a result of familial connections. Wassawan Chansopa, the scion of a famous Thai and Cambodian cooking family, came to Toronto to attend George Brown, stayed and then things got spicy. Chansopa is 26 and his place looks it — slapdash, corny, inventive — and his duck, fried wings and inventive Thai finger food will make you wonder what else in life you missed, all those years wasting time ordering pad Thai at all those other restaurants.You’re more likely to order Som Tum Jinda through Uber Eats than to experience its tom zab ($14, pork rib, lemon grass soup) in the eclectic Gerrard East basement — but either way, it's a win. 76 Gerrard St. E.

FUN FACT:

salad.

3. MSSM YORKVILLE

ANTHONY ROSE OF FAT PASHA

“So much fun to have your own personal sushi chef and watch the action. I love dinner and a show all in one.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: The longawaited offshoot of Sushi Masaki Saito has finally arrived, just in time. When we spoke to the chef — the Michelin stars’ winningest wiz in this country — he derided Toronto sushi and pitied us for our bento bowls. “The food in New York is so much better than the food in Toronto,” he told us last February after scoring two Michelin stars for his eponymous Yorkville boîte, where dinner for two is $1,360 (and that’s forgoing fizzy water for tap). “In Toronto,” he continued, “There are too many fake chefs.” Saito mentioned that he had five more restaurants planned, and the first of these, MSSM Yorkville, offers his Hokkaido scallops and fatty tuna with pickled radish for $75 at lunch (the menu is prix fixe). Although the chef is not personally working the line at these prices ($98 for dinner), the room is vibrant — pop art, Vegas style. Since it doesn't cost as much as a llama, each bite doesn't need to transcend but merely impress — which it does, every time. 154 Cumberland St., 2nd floor

TOP TIPPLE:

You won't find a cocktail in sight; instead, try one of the many sakes, like the elegant Dassai 23 Junmai Daiginjo.

Som Tum Jinda features nine variations on the traditional papaya

J UDGE

1.

BAR PRIMA

JUDGE CLAUDIO APRILE, CHEF AT VIA ALLEGRA RISTORANTE

“Every detail from the staff wardrobe to the playlist was considered. And the food — pitch perfect from conception to execution.”

2. CAFE RENÉE BAR

JUDGE MARK CHENG, CHEF AT CLIO

“I found the beef tartare to be excellent, and the ricotta and spinach gnudi showcased bright flavours that hit the mark.”

POST CITY'S TAKE: Another notch on this stretch of Portland, this is possibly the best half-block for dining in the province. With spots like Sara, Chubby’s and Gusto, there are so many great places to eat. And now Nick Liu rolls into downtown, bringing his fusion hipness to French cuisine. The neighbourhood is in for a treat — shrimp cocktail ($16), steak au poivre ($77) and $10 martini happy hour 5 to 7 p.m.? This half-block, already impressive, just got even better this spring. Meanwhile, Liu, Toronto's most thrilling chef, emerges as an overnight sensation after a decade of hard work, rivalling Janet Zuccarini in her own domain. Late night bites like oysters ($36) and Pilsner Urquell ($12), plus spritz cocktail specials at 1:30 a.m., will leave you enchanted. One moment you're savouring the escargot ravioli ($21), and the next you're envisioning this block bustling when TIFF returns in September. It's like Jurassic Park meets the 2019 Raptors, but swap basketball shoes for Manolo Blahniks and Kawhi Leonard for Nick Liu. 100 Portland St.

MUST TRY DISH:

The viral ravioli Dauphiné: a single sheet of ravioli pockets filled with Comté cheese and chives.

POST CITY'S TAKE: Nick Iaboni’s Italian kitchen serves up laid-back opulence, pristine. Upon entering the wonderful new restaurant, the aromas rising from his scallops Rockefeller ($30) or chicken liver and caviar maritozzi ($22) make you feel like you are someone, in some place, special. The greetings are as warm as the food. It's the attention to culinary and design detail that creates such buzz, and it’s infectious — from the server’s snappy outfits to the rose-coloured lighting, dim enough to hide wrinkles, yet sparkly enough to illuminate the smiles across tabletops of twos, fours and sixes. Try the swordfish piccata ($46), creamy and dense, and save room for the Instagrammable tiramisù di altamura ($14) for dessert. Quite a fuss has been made of Iaboni’s roots in Buca’s exacting kitchen, but it’s his windblown Santa Monica experience that gives his enterprise its effortless chic. Fun to see a little King Street outlandishness this far west on Queen Street, in the shadows of the Drake Hotel. 1136 Queen St. W.

VIBE:

“Get dressed up! After all that we have been through in the last few years, it’s time to celebrate!” says co-owner Craig Harding.

1.

4. RISTORANTE SOCIALE 5 45 KING ST. W.

5. SOM TUM JINDA 76 GERRARD ST. E.

6. PORZIA'S 3 19A OAKWOOD AVE.

LA PLUME

8.

12. THE FALL BRIGHT TAVERN 840 BLOOR ST. W.

13. DOTTY'S 1588 DUPONT ST.

14. CONTRADA 537 COLLEGE ST.

15. MHEL 276 HAVELOCK ST.

16. À CÔTÉ 1 158 YONGE ST.

17. KAPPO SATO 575 MT. PLEASANT RD.

18. SUPREME TASTE 351 BROADVIEW AVE.

19. CONEJO NEGRO 838 COLLEGE ST.

20. BAR BOWIE 180R OSSINGTON ST.

21. CASA PACO 50C CLINTON ST.

22. TAKJA BBQ HOUSE 962 COLLEGE ST.

23. TAVERNE TAMBLYN 1426 DANFORTH AVE.

24. DOC'S GREEN DOOR LOUNGE 3106 DUNDAS ST. W.

25. KINKA SUSHI BAR IZAKAYA 11O HARBOUR ST.

SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS

Prestige School

Prestige School’s Summer Camp Program is just the fun, activity-filled, yet educational summer that your children are looking for! Our camp, which offers a wide variety of exciting activities that keep all kids engaged, educated, and entertained, starts on July 2nd and ends on August 23rd, 2024. Our sports program includes Outdoor Games, Basketball, Volleyball, and Soccer. We also offer educational programs such as English, French studies, Spanish, English as a Second Language, and Logic Boosters. We also provide activities such as Fun Science, Computer Design, Computer Animation and 3D Modelling, Drawing, Painting, Sculpting, Chess, Baking and Nutrition. Campers attend exciting weekly Field Trips throughout the summer and visits to the Swimming Pool/Splash pad. The camp runs from Monday - Friday from 8am - 6pm. Hot lunch is provided daily. Door-to-door transportation is available. Summer School Credit Courses for gr. 9-12 now offered.

Headwaters Wilderness Program

We offer something different. At Headwaters, we’re interested in the kinds of human experiences that are needed today, for tomorrow. Our programs utilize traditional wilderness travel by canoe – disconnected from digital technologies – to discover our world and our own unique place in it. We value reflection over speed, finding meaning and purpose in the quiet moments just as much as the long portage. What sets us apart is our intentionality and our care. More than guides or camp counsellors, all of our staff are devoted, professional educators. More than canoe trips, our programs are informed by research and designed to nurture an authentic connection to nature and to community. Founded in North Toronto, we facilitate canoe trips for teenagers and for families across Ontario’s most magical wild places. Please feel welcome to contact us, endless possibilities are out there, and our doors are always open. We hope to see you soon!

CAMP TYPE: Day Camp

AGE RANGE: 3-19 years

TOTAL ENROLMENT: 50-70

CAMPER/STAFF RATIO: Varies

SESSION LENGTH: July & August

SESSION COST: $430 per week

CAMP DIRECTOR: Olga Margold

CONTACT: 416-250-0648 prestigeprivateschool.ca

With intention and adventure, Headwaters offers

ROMANCING THE SCONE

Spoil mom on Mother's Day with scones fit for royalty, curated by Scottish design duo Colin and Justin, hailing from the land of the scone, alongside Michelin-recognized chef Anthony Rose.

SALTED CARAMEL

C+J: “Now this is a great scone — look at those layers! There’s so much good flavour here and the moisture level is perfect.”

A: “The caramel flavours are vibrant — it’s a nice change from the fruit.”

Baker & Scone, 693 St. Clair Ave. W., $12.15/tri-pack

CRANBERRY LEMON

WILD BLUEBERRY + LEMON

C+J: “This is remarkably flaky, and the lemon really comes through.”

A: “I like how the texture is crumbly, and it’s just the right amount of sweetness.” iQ Food Co., 55 Avenue Rd., $3.95/scone

LEMON CRANBERRY

C+J: “I love icing! The sweetness here is really a nice addition to the cranberry.”

A: “This is not my favourite of the bunch, but I like that they’re not overly sweet.”

5th 6th 1st 3rd

C+J: “This is a bit on the dryer side, but the combination of lemon and cranberry is delicious.”

A: “I really enjoy both the tart and sweet flavours.”

Mabel’s Bakery, 1156 Queen St. W., $4.49/scone

BLUEBERRY

C+J: “This is a maverick scone! It’s a brave scone! They’ve done a really nice job here.”

A: “I really like the amount of blueberries; they’re soft and buttery once you get inside.”

Bomou, 1636 Bayview Ave., $7.25/scone

2nd

4th

Balzac’s, 200 Apple Mill Rd., Concord, $3.85/scone

PLAIN WITH CLOTTED CREAM AND JAM

C+J: “The cream and jam enhances the flavours of the scone.”

A: “These are light and fluffy, and you can’t go wrong with clotted cream and jam!”

Another Land Coffee, 4714 Yonge St., #2F, North York, $9.50/scone

Three new Thornhill spots redefining the 905

With its growing restaurant scene, Thornhill offers plenty of options to explore. Here are three of the latest and most exciting additions.

Chris Jerk Caribbean Bistro

Known for serving the finest Caribbean fare in Scarborough for over a decade, this cosy spot has now opened in Markham, much to the delight of locals. Just like Chris Jerk’s Scarborough locations, the star dishes are the jerk chicken and jerk shawarma — juicy, tender, with a hint of scotch bonnet and allspice. A must-try for first-time visitors, it can be enjoyed wrapped or with rice and peas, but for a unique twist, try the shawarma on a poutine. Owned by Christopher Taylor — a Jamaica native who immigrated to Toronto at the age of 13 — the jerk chicken shawarma sells out daily, so arriving before 3 p.m. is probably a good idea. 7220 Kennedy Rd.

Moon Pasta

beverages, introduces an array of distinctive dishes. From green curry rigatoni with smoked duck to butter gochujang fettuccine with smoked bacon and shiitake mushrooms, Moon’s offerings are as unique as they are delicious. The sake rose rigatoni with salted egg yolk is already a crowd favourite. With generous portions and flavourful sauces, Moon Pasta is quickly becoming a must-try for pasta lovers in the area. And don't forget, Kekou's delicious gelato is still available, so be sure to save room! Commerce Gate 505 Hwy. 7

SWEET SURPRISE

Current Kekou gelato flavours include jasmine tea and Vietnamese coffee.

This new pasta spot, operating out of the former Kekou Gelato locations, is creating a buzz with its inventive wafu or Japanese-style pasta dishes infused with Asian ingredients. Moon Pasta, founded by the dynamic duo Yik Sin and Elissa Pham, the same creative minds behind Kekou known for its Asian-inspired gelato and

Momo Koko Sushi

Momo Koko Sushi is the newest premium AYCE Japanese restaurant, offering guests a feast of Japanese dishes. The standout feature is Momo Koko Sushi’s seasonal tasting menu, where diners can choose three refined dishes, elevating the experience into fine dining. Alongside this option, the restaurant also provides an extensive all-you-caneat menu with more than 80 dishes to choose from. What sets it apart is its premium selection of items in the standard AYCE menu, featuring A5 wagyu and duck breast, ensuring there's something for every palate. From fresh sashimi to teppanyaki, aburi sushi, tataki and more, guests can indulge in a wide variety of Japanese cuisine. 7050 Warden Ave.

— Jennifer Schembri

Introducing your next home.

8 Hillsdale Avenue, Unit 1526

Rental available June 1, 2024

$2575 per month 416.262.7979

Located at the Art Shoppe condominiums at Hillsdale and Yonge, this one plus one unit has a full upgraded kitchen with a beautiful island with seating for two, a south facing balcony, in suite laundry, a large amount of cupboard space and the list goes on. It's located on the 15th floor and comes with a storage locker.

is prestigious building has a rooftop pool, party rooms, full exercise facilities, concierge and a lobby designed by Karl Lagerfeld.

Momo Koko is an AYCE sushi spot with a variety of dishes

Top chefs pick Avenue Road for new venture

Three of the world ’s most esteemed chefs have joined forces to soon open what promises to be one of the most anticipated new restaurants in Toronto.

Named after Didier L eroy, Masaki Saito and Christian Le Squer, LSL Restaurant is poised to become renowned for its “grand French traditions with unique Japanese techniques and ingredients,” according to a recent Instagram post.

Hailing from France, master chef Leroy is renowned globally for his expertise in French cooking and techniques. Leroy will helm the team in the intimate jewelbox dining room, which accommodates just nine seats for guests.

As Toronto’s onl y two-star Michelin chef, chef S aito will offer the team in-

struction and daily consultations. His close connections with premier food suppliers in Japan will ensure that LSL guests enjoy dishes unavailable elsewhere.

Lastl y, Paris-based Le Squer, a threestar Michelin chef at Restaurant Le Cinq, will contribute his “creative genius and global perspective.” He will apply his expertise to ongoing menu refinements, ensur ing culinary excellence at LSL. Le Squer is lending his name for the first time to a project in Canada.

Although the opening date hasn’t been confirmed, some of the restaurant ’ s signature dishes have been unveiled. Among them is LSL’s tomato creation, a fusion of just three ingredients: hand-pic ked seasonal Japanese tomatoes, medium fatty

tuna and the pièce de résistance, luxurious French caviar.

Another standout dish is the steamed barracuda fish c ake, crafted with fish paste, shallots and button mushrooms, accompanied by a sauce made from vin blanc and barracuda bones.

Finally, the lobster cabbage features Périgord truffles in a savoury cabbage pouch, topped with white wine truffle sauce and red coral pear ls.

LSL restaurant will be located at 2066 Avenue Rd., North York.

Keep an eye on the restaurant ’s Instagram for reservation updates.

—Jennifer Schembri

Yorkville café has hour-long queues

Toronto, a city that runs on coffee, boasts a sea of shops catering to both locals and tourists. But one new spot in Yorkville — Cafe x Bica — stands out, not just for its exquisite coffee but also for its stunning interior that draws queues of eager patrons seeking Instagram-worthy snaps.

The café, situated in a design showroom, features a collaborative design by Elviano design firm and furniture brand Atriani.

It's arguably the most TikToked and Instagrammed café in Toronto, with bloggers raving about its unparalleled esthetic appeal, making it a must-visit spot in the city. On the weekends, if you have the time (and the patience), you'll wait for hours just to grab a seat inside.

“Cafe x Bica was born with the intention of providing a haven for people to relax, savour delightful moments and let their imag-

inations wander, all while enjoying a delightful cup of coffee,” reads a caption on one of the cafe’s Instagram posts.

Bica, a term commonly used in certain areas of Portugal for a café (meaning “coffee” in Portuguese), offers a fine selection of premium coffee beans from Brazil, Ecuador and Kenya. Specializing in pour-over coffee, the café prioritizes ethical sourcing, supporting farmers and sustainability

Cafe x Bica has also recently introduced a selection of matcha, including lattes, iced matcha and shakes. Additionally, the menu features a delicious assortment of twice-baked croissants, cookies, muffins, pastries and pain au chocolat from French bakery Goûter.

Cafe x Bica is located at 160 Pears Ave., Unit 100.

Gateau Ghost floats into Little Italy

When it comes to madeleines, prepare to redefine your expectations. Gateau Ghost, the brainchild of Toronto chef Jayden Park, is revolutionizing these classic treats. With the recent announcement of a brick-and-mortar location in Little Italy, fans of these hauntingly delicious creations can now enjoy them beyond the realm of pop-ups.

Park’s journey to Gateau Ghost began in some of Toronto's most prestigious kitchens, including Alo, Buca and Joe Beef. But it was during the pandemic, that he felt the urge to strike out on his own. And so, Gateau Ghost was born. With a focus on creativity and quality, Park set out to create madeleines like no other. Each bite is an explosion of flavour, with toppings and fillings that push the boundaries of traditional pastry making.

Fans of Gateau Ghost’s delectable Madeleines previously had to wait for pop-up events or track down pickup locations. However, with the opening of its new location, they can now indulge in a variety of baked goods, brunch choices and even natural wines.

This long-awaited debut promises to put an end to any “ghosting” concerns, providing fans with a permanent destination for their beloved treats.

Gateau Ghost is located at 974 College St.

—Jennifer Schembri

L-R: Didier Leroy, Masaki Saito and Christian Le Squer, LSL’s signature tomato creation

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LOOKING BACK

Every spring when warm weather arrives, Torontonians have long enjoyed outdoor movies

So many fond memories are created at drive-in movie theatres, and there are still a few close by, not to mention movie nights in local parks to keep the tradition alive.

Northeast Drive-In Theatre at Sheppard Avenue and Victoria Park closed in 1976. In the summers, the shows started at 9:30, after sundown.

One of the oldest drive-in theatres in Canada is the Starlite Drive-In, dating back 80 years and still in operation an hour from Toronto in Stoney Creek.

Scarboro Drive-In Theatre opened in 1952 with the biggest screen in Canada. The first film was Mickey Rooney and Gloria DeHaven’s ‘Summer Holiday.’