Queen West Post June 2024

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BONJOUR TORONTO

JUNE 2024

THE GREAT STEAK-OUT CHEF ANTHONY ROSE BITES INTO THE CITY’S BEST RIBEYES FOR FATHER’S DAY

CELEBRATING THE FOOD, FASHION & PANACHE OF THE UPCOMING PARIS GAMES RIGHT HERE IN T.O.

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New Build ds|Renovations|Additions More and moree Toronto homeowners are a choosing Andon UNDER CONSTRUCTION T

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CONTENTS

Welcome to the June edition of the Post. Sit back & enjoy!

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Ooh la la! Our guide to celebrating the food, fashion and panache of the upcoming Paris games right here in Toronto

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Give Dad a gen Z–approved makeover with the coolest picks from Jeanne Beker and fashion editor Julia Mastroianni

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Sarah Blackwood and Gianni Nicassio tell all on how they went from bandmates to soulmates

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Chef Anthony Rose fired up the grill to discover which Toronto ribeye reigns supreme just in time for Father’s Day

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CITY

BY THE NUMBERS

$225 The cost, in millions, for which Ontario taxpayers are on the hook to sell beer and wine in corner stores.

L-R: Jim Creegan, Kevin Hearn, Ed Robertson and Tyler Stewart

Barenaked Ladies making a racket

Tell us about christening this new music venue with this big show.

Well, the bowl at Sobeys Stadium, formerly known as a great tennis venue, is enjoying a reinvention as a rock ’n’ roll venue. We're pretty excited to be able to be the first band to play there in a long time. And we are looking forward to it. We got a chance to go and see the venue last week. And it's cool, you know, very intimate, and you're surrounded by seats on all sides. If it's a beautiful summer night, it's going to be a fabulous place to see a show.

And you’re bringing along some special guests?

We have our friends Sam Roberts Band coming to join us, which is great. And also a good friend of ours from Scotland, KT Tunstall is opening the show too. And I don't know if people have seen her before, but she is an amazing live performer, very dynamic.

The band celebrated 35 years recently. What’s your secret?

What I'd love to say is that it has something to do with a supplement like grapefruit seed oil. But I don’t know. I think it comes down to mutual respect and striving to always communicate with each other. Make sure that we understand each other and also continue to inspire each other.

What are some fond memories?

Well, this past fall, we celebrated our 35th anniversary with a show at the El Mocambo, which we recorded live for Sirius XM. And we played songs from the entire span of our 35-year career. That was a really special night because all our friends and family were there. And also I would say that playing Royal Albert Hall in London in 2022 was amazing.

cause we played at The Forum back in the day. We always loved going down to the water and hanging out down there and seeing movies at the cinemasphere and feeling like you're flying. These are indelible and very Toronto moments. I'm really sad about Ontario Place. Unfortunately, it fell into disrepair over the years, and now it's going to be a spa. So maybe I'll go for a massage.

I know you’re a big hockey fan. How long do you think Mitch Marner will be here?

Poor Mitch. I mean, the guy can't catch a break. He gets his cars stolen at gunpoint, and then they let the guys go. He does nothing all year, but set up plays and have a good time on the ice and then the playoffs come and he starts to struggle. And then everyone gets mad at him. But something's Where is your favourite place gotta gotta give. We had eight years with to catch a show in Toronto now? those four guys. And you know, they're Nowadays? Well, it depends if you're talking great. They're all great players. But someabout a club show — then I really love the body's got to move. And it's probably going Dakota. It's small. It's intimate. It's cool. to be him.

They make a nice Margarita. I love that Thirty-five years ago, when you place.

What did you enjoy most about the city when you were growing up?

I loved The Ex when I was a kid. I also started taking my own kids over the years.

You still have that little bit nostalgia, you know, for sure. It's something that you've been doing for a long time and obviously, you know, Ontario Place was a huge place for us and a huge place for the band to be-

The year new Leafs coach Craig Berube coached the St. Louis Blues to a Stanley Cup championship.

26 The date in June that a new musical inspired and funded

by Tim Horton’s hits the stage at the Elgin Theatre.

10 The months T.O. tennis star Bianca Andreescu — returning to action at this month’s French Open — has been off.

crammed into Speakers Corner to play, did you think it would come to this?

I think that was the dream. I have always wanted to do this. I’ve always wanted to be in a band or be on stage performing. I met the right guys, you know. I met these incredibly talented dudes in Ed Robertson and Jim Creegan, Kevin Hearn and Steve Page. I mean, these guys changed my life.

—Ron Johnson

$500 The value, in thousands, of more than 100 kilograms of live eels seized by Toronto police last month.

| JUNE 2024

Fresh off serving up a new album and celebrating 35 years in music, Barenaked Ladies open the swanky new outdoor music venue Sobeys Stadium June 27 for a smashing concert dubbed the Big Racquet (the stadium is home to the city’s largest professional tennis tournament). Post City caught up with ace band drummer Tyler Stewart to get the scoop.

2019

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FEATURE

NEWS SECTION Main street shops in Toronto are cherished by the neighbourhoods surrounding them and also face numerous challenges including skyrocketing rents

Finally, the city takes action to protect small retailers Commercial rent control, small business property tax, and some business owners just want the street garbage emptied and develop standard leases. This initiative comes in response to a 20 per cent increase in commercial retail rent between 2021 and 2023, which has placed financial strain on these businesses.

Matlow voiced concerns about the distressing trend of landlords hiking rents to outrageous proportions, often putting small businesses in jeopardy.

"I've heard from far too many business owners of their landlord hiking their rent that has either put them out of business or they've been struggling," he said.

Matlow pointed out instances where small businesses have faced existential threats due to exorbitant rent increases. “They just want a fighting chance to stay alive,” Matlow said. “We don't want to just be left with a bunch of big corporate brands or U.S. franchises or pot shops. We want a diverse, active, vibrant main street in the heart of our communities. And these mom-andpop shops are what make our communities great places to live.”

The motion seeks to enact commercial rent control and es-

tablish mechanisms for dispute resolution between commercial tenants and landlords. Matlow emphasized the need to ensure that rent increases are reasonable and do not drive businesses out of the city.

Anything such as rent control would need provincial approval, so the motion if approved or referred still has a long way to go.

“This is about supporting small businesses and vibrant main streets in the heart of our communities,” Matlow said. “And that’s something that I hope the premier would agree with.”

When Maureen Sirois, of the Eglinton Way Business Improvement Area (BIA), heard the term “rent control,” she was not impressed. She said that, although high rents are a major issue facing the shops along Eglinton, there could be other ways to help these businesses beyond rent control.

"The small business property tax exemption is a mechanism already in place to support small businesses," Sirois explained.

"However, it's very restricted. For example, businesses in small strip

malls may not qualify because of the overall footprint of the property. Expanding these qualifications could provide much-needed relief to a greater number of small businesses."

Beyond tax relief, Sirois highlighted other critical areas where the city could better support businesses, such as proper infrastructure maintenance, including snow removal, cleanliness and the upkeep of sidewalks and roads.

"Businesses are resilient. We can thrive, but we need the basic services in place," she explained.

Although the city is working to get more creative with public roads and sidewalks, such as complete street projects with bike lanes, CaféTO patios and other similar initiatives, the garbage cans still need to be emptied, and in the winter, the city can’t just let the snow pile up.

"If you're going to have reduced lanes for cars, bike lanes and sidewalks, where is the snow going to go?" she said.

That’s something that West Queen West BIA spokesperson Rob Sysak would like to see im-

prove as well. “You can't keep adding stuff; they can't enforce what they have,” said Sysak. He adds that business and foot traffic is on the way up, and there is a feeling of optimism pervading the area. But after a busy weekend, there is always garbage overflowing from the bins, the streets are filthy. There is an opportunity for growth, to get back to where the area once was, but the city needs to focus.

Sysak said the idea of rent control is already baked into the system.

“There is so much foot traffic right now. So again, that's balancing out the rents. You may be able to charge a little more, but if you go too high, no one is going to come. You don't want a vacant building,” he said. “But yes, I am optimistic. I'll say that, for sure. I'm optimistic because there's a little positive energy, and there's a community feel starting to happen.”

As the motion advances at city council, the spotlight remains on the critical role of main street shops in our communities that need to be supported.

—Ron Johnson 7

| JUNE 2024

Toronto's main streets have long been vibrant arteries of the city's economic and cultural life, and as they go, so goes the city to a large extent. The mom-and-pop shops that line streets like Eglinton Avenue, Bayview, Ossington, Queen West and more provide essentials for communities, places to eat and shop but also a source of jobs. These stores sponsor our baseball teams, they put up signs for school fundraisers. They serve a purpose far greater than simply selling goods or services.

And, let’s face it, it has been a challenging decade so far with a global pandemic and then inflation, combined with the ongoing battle with other factors such as the growth of online shopping.

What can the city do? Well, for one, city councillor Josh Matlow thinks there should be some form of rent control for these spaces.

Matlow moved a motion at last month’s Toronto City Council meeting to request that the Government of Ontario implement commercial rent control, establish a dispute resolution tribunal for commercial tenants and landlords

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NEWS OPINION

Why suspending car thieves licences for 10 years will not work Everybody knows someone who has had their car stolen, and now we are all paying for it. For the last several years, there have been over a billion dollars in car theft claims annually nationwide, causing car insurance rates to rise by an average of 25 per cent. Various levels of government have kicked into high gear, so to speak, to combat car theft.

The Canadian government has joined forces with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to track the cars leaving Canada. Since February, more than 1,500 vehicles that have been stolen from Canada have been identified around the world.

Premier Ford is also feeling the pressure to take a tough stance on auto theft because 50 per cent of all the cars stolen are from Ontario. The latest is a proposal for an automatic licence suspension of 10 years for anyone convicted of stealing a car and then 15 years for reof-

sale of stolen vehicles. The thieves are smarter, more organized and have better technology than those who are trying to catch them. Car theft and money laundering have become a billion-dollar enterprise.

Those who steal the cars are the most dispensable part of the operation. If one or 20 lose their licence, there are plenty more to take their place.

Communities have felt the need to take their own precautions to protect their vehicles.

Some have organized private se50 per cent of all Canadian cars stolen are from Ontario curity patrols, while other individuals have taken to installing fenders. For law-abiding citizens are not secure, which makes for disabling devices on their cars or that rely on their driver’s licence, easy passage of stolen cargo ac- anti-theft barriers on their this sounds like a good ap- ross the pond, and when some- driveways.

This approach works on an proach. one is eventually caught and The reality is that it is un- convicted, the consequences are individual or community level likely to make a dent in the relatively minor because car but doesn’t get to the crux of the problem. theft is a property crime and matter because now the criminals have started to change There are many reasons that deemed to be victimless.

Canada has become a low-risk, These conditions have created their tactics. Cars are now being high-reward haven for criminals an opening for organized crime stolen in broad daylight from that want our cars. Our borders to move in and profit from the gas stations and mall parking

lots. As long as there is a market for stolen cars, and an effective distribution method, we are still at risk.

The good news is that government agencies have started to share information and work together. The borders now have better security, and there are steps in place to start following the money.

Although these are good steps, the goal is not just to stop the car theft but to disrupt the criminal enterprise that has been allowed to flourish. The intelligence gathering needs to be more sophisticated and get ahead of those who are undermining our security; otherwise, it is like trying to stop a storm by shouting at the clouds.

Although the government is doing something, it is not really making a difference.

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

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NEWS OPINION

We are presently not holding open houses.

We welcome you to book a private tour.

Kindly call the school.

Olivia Chow has done well but more needs to be done to fix city finances

Toronto’s shocking $26 billion hole else. The province seems uninterested in providing the funds to repair and enlarge existing schools — something that our school boards did on their own before the province grabbed control 25 years ago. That problem is compounded by the province reducing teaching staff.

Then there is the extraordinary crunch facing renters in the city as landlords have a pretty free hand. There’s the sad conditions of the roadways — unpleasant for drivers, dangerous for cyclists. Many arts organizations are stressed financially.

I keep looking for the good news and can’t find it. I was hopeful that at a recent meeting city council would agree it wanted to negotiate an agreement with the province to give the city a charter with more revenue tools — some of the HST, among other possibilities — and more legislative powers. I was astounded when not one councillor spoke in favour of the idea and the staff report was simply received. There wasn’t even a motion supporting that councillors could vote on.

Where’s the leadership that we need on big issues like getting the city more revenue sources and more powers?

JOHN SEWELL is a former mayor of Toronto.

Celebrating 44 years

We Fit Kids

From Crib to Big Kids

UPPER OAKVILLE SHOPPING CENTRE 1011 Upper Middle Rd E (905) 337-9393

CF SHOPS AT DON MILLS 39 Karl Fraser Rd (416) 390-9998

BLOOR WEST VILLAGE 2252 Bloor St W (416) 766-8882

CF FAIRVIEW MALL 1800 Sheppard Ave E, Lower Level (416) 225-7770

EXCHANGE TOWER 130 King St W, Concourse Level, Unit C34 (416) 306-9992

THE DANFORTH 613 Danforth Ave (416) 466-4444

SUMMERHILL 1234 Yonge St (416) 962-8662

CF SHERWAY GARDENS MALL 25 The West Mall (416) 695-7777

| JUNE 2024

To be honest, most days I feel demic, and it now is a regular stuck: I don’t see how Toronto daily occurrence to find people can get out of the hole it is in. on the streets, on transit, in liA recent staff report advises braries, with nowhere to call that the city needs $26 billion home. Many of those without a over the next 10 years just to keep place to live suffer from addicthings in a reasonable state of re- tions and mental illness, and it is pair — libraries, housing, fire sta- estimated that 500 people died in tions, roads, transit and so forth. the last year in the city from In some cases, facilities are in overdoses. The city’s desire to such poor condition that putting take a public health approach to off repairs isn’t advisable. the drug issue and decriminalize This sum doesn’t include any possession of small amounts of new facilities the city needs. It is drugs is being opposed by the a whopping financial hole and province and ignored by the feds. the city has no way to raise this kind of money on its own. Slicing “Where is the back programs will hardly make leadership that a dint in this amount.

The city can beg the province we need on big and the feds for this money, but those governments are hardly in- issues?” terested in throwing money at Toronto, particularly since other All the evidence shows that the cities in Ontario and Canada are first step to addressing these isfacing the same problems — it is sues is to ensure people are well a nationwide urban problem that housed, but that’s not a priority for the province or the feds. cities are starved for money.

What is the city to do when it Mayor Olivia Chow managed to do some good footwork in doesn’t have the legislative augetting the feds to support much thority to manage these probof the expenditures needed to lems, and of course does not have keep immigrants and refugees the funds to address them? Do from living on the street — but things just continue to get worse?

I wince every time I see a sign only after they had lived in the open — in late winter — for sev- on hoardings from school boards eral months. Who knows what (public and separate) advising will happen during the next 12 prospective residents of the new building that the local school is months?

It’s not just raw money. oversubscribed and that children Homelessness has become en- must find a school somewhere

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NEWS

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The city is getting into women’s pro sports in a big way, and the west end of Toronto will see plenty of benefits. Last month, the news was made official that the city will be home to a WNBA team that will begin play in 2026.

For most of its schedule, the team will play out of Exhibition Place, with the opportunity to move to Scotiabank Arena on occasion if extra space is needed. The CocaCola Coliseum is the current home of the Toronto Marlies, the farm team of the Maple Leafs. And team owner, Larry Tanenbaum said there will be upgrades to the facility so the WNBA team can practise and train at the site as well.

In addition, at Toronto City Council last month, it was announced that Lamport Stadium, a key recreational hub in Toronto's west end, could be in for a major transformation.

The move is planned as a legacy project for the FIFA World Cup coming to the city in 2026 as well as the new women’s professional soccer league.

AFC Toronto City, a women’s pro soccer team, is a founding club in the new, asyet-unnamed league.

"It’s an exciting time for Ca-

nadian soccer, and on behalf of our League ownership group, we are thrilled to have our League be a key pillar of the vision of Canada Soccer going forward," said Diana Matheson, CEO and co-founder of Project 8, which is the organization behind the new league.

Situated in Liberty Village, Lamport Stadium serves a high-growth urban neighbourhood and is one of the few premier, all-season multi-purpose fields accessible by transit.

Currently, it caters to various sports teams and community users, with a seasonal winter bubble providing additional recreational opportunities. However, the aging infrastructure is in dire need of significant capital investment to remain functional.

The city council motion calls for city officials to seek proposals for a strategic operating tenant to undertake the necessary improvements. This includes upgrading field conditions and bringing the stadium to modern standards.

AFC Toronto City is one of the founding clubs in the new Project 8 women’s professional soccer league set to kick off in 2025.

— Ron Johnson

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NEWS

Kathy was our calm in the eye of this stormy market.

As first time buyers, she spent time educating us on what to expect, walking us through the process with kindness, and coaching us through the ups and downs with her years of reassuring experience.

Site of an earlier crash (nobody was hurt) that led Brock Howes to advocate for a safer Avenue Road

Is Avenue Road deadly for cyclists?

A 39-year-old cyclist was fatally Stintz wrote that, according to a struck by the driver of a flatbed traffic study that was conducted truck on Avenue Road in mid- before the pandemic, the 2.1town Toronto on May 21, ac- kilometre stretch of Avenue cording to police.

Road carries 30,000 vehicles per The incident occurred around day, and 85 per cent of drivers 1:23 p.m. near Avenue Road and exceed the 50 km/h speed limit.

Elgin Avenue, on a stretch of Compounding the problem is city road that some residents that the sidewalks are less than have long advocated for ad- two metres wide. ditional protections for vulnerAnother cyclist, who was 18 able road users, including years old, was killed by the driver separated bike lanes and wider of a dump truck in Yorkville in sidewalks. A plan has been in 2019. the works, literally, for years.

The cyclist was rushed to the “ hospital but was pronounced The Avenue Road dead shortly after. The driver of study has identified the truck reportedly remained at serious unsafe the scene. Police reported that the truck was making a left turn conditions.” into a loading dock when it Former city councillor Mike struck the cyclist. Avenue Road, closed from Lowther Avenue to Layton also called for a serious Davenport Road, has since re- fix for the road in 2022, stating: opened. Investigators are urging “We need to grow and evolve. witnesses or anyone with dash- Do we have to wait until someboard camera footage to assist in body dies?”

In 2022, Brock Howes was hit their inquiries. Charges have not been announced. It was the city’s at Avenue Road and Cottingham Street while riding his bifourth cyclist death this year.

Converting a six-lane down- cycle with a trailer attached after town motorway into a safer road dropping his kids at school.

“I was seated with one foot on with wider sidewalks should be the ground, one foot on a pedal. easy, right?

The Avenue Road Safety Co- Usually I’d … pull out and use alition has been calling for a re- the road on the other side, but I vamp for seven years. Streets of saw the bus coming and was able Toronto first started writing to fully dismount and jump away about it in 2020. In that year, from the bike as he hit me,” said former city councillor Karen Howes.

In 2017, Henry Wiercinski, of the Annex Residents’ Association, remembers the City of Toronto hosting a meeting about Avenue Road at Timothy Eaton Church.

“When the residents looked at it, it was basically a traffic survey for cars. I don’t think they ever mentioned the word ‘pedestrian,'” said Wiercinski, for a Post article in 2022.

Since that period, the Avenue Road Safety Coalition has continued to press the city, as well as new city councillor Dianne Saxe to do something. But it is taking a long time.

“The City’s Avenue Road study has identified serious unsafe conditions along this perilous stretch of Avenue Road and has indicated these conditions need to be corrected,” said Arlene Dejardins, of the Avenue Road Safety Coalition (ARSC), for a 2023 Post article. “We are looking forward to the implementation of Phase 1 of the plan as soon as possible. These existing unsafe conditions need attention now and, with some adjustments, the city’s plan is a very positive and much-needed step forward.”

So the big question remains: How long will it take for the city to get serious about protecting vulnerable road users along Avenue Road?

— Ron Johnson

With her patience and quiet persistence on our side, we found a new home that’s perfect for us! We’re over the moon with happiness and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to our friends and family.

Thank you Kathy!

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NEWS

Photo credit: Screenshot from video on Youtube.com @CTVNews

Fireworks battles on Bloor spark fear for next long weekend

News footage shows people shooting fireworks along Bloor Street

People might be asking what it is with the city of Toronto and fireworks displays that continue to cause problems.

Last year, it was during a long weekend in the Beach neighbourhood at Ashbridge’s Bay when a number of high-profile incidents took place including people shooting fireworks at each other.

This year, with an increased police presence down at Lake Ontario, the antics migrated to the Christie Pits area where people were left shaken after a chaotic fireworks battle that took place along crowded Bloor Street.

The serene atmosphere of the holiday was shattered by a reckless display of fireworks amidst passing cars and pedestrians.

Deafening bangs disrupted the tranquility of the night, accompanied by alarming sights of smoke and fireworks. It was reported that groups of teenagers and children darted across Bloor Street, launching fireworks at each other

and unsuspecting passersby.

The disturbance reportedly began around 9 p.m. and persisted for over an hour. Images captured from the scene depict pyrotechnic problem children darting about, some even targeting vehicles with their fireworks. Despite the mayhem, the initial police response was notably absent.

“People don’t un-

derstand that they can’t bring their own fireworks.”

However, reinforcements eventually arrived, with officers seen confiscating fireworks and dispersing the unruly crowd. Toronto Police Service (TPS) later confirmed the confiscation of "several bags of fireworks" and asserted that the park was cleared out by 11 p.m., without any reported injuries or property damage.

Though authorities managed to quell the disturbance, concerns linger among residents who questioned the adequacy of preventive measures. Despite the city's annual fireworks display at Ashbridges Bay, the unauthorized use of fireworks in parks remains prohibited. TPS reiterated this stance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations for public safety.

“For many, people don’t understand that they can’t bring their own fireworks. They don’t understand the dangers of shooting fireworks off at each other, so in those incidents, we address it with public education,” said superintendent Kim O’Toole, of 55 Division, in a press conference leading up to the May long weekend.

According to TPS, anyone who sets off personal fireworks at a beach/park is subject to a $1,000 bylaw fine.

—Ron Johnson

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City stamps rejection on postal plan Toronto's architectural heritage and the future development of the historic Postal Station C on Queen Street West have sparked significant debate in the city. Toronto City Council just voted on the preservation of the historic property at 1117 Queen St. W., rejecting alteration and demolition permits proposed for the site.

City staff cited the importance of preserving its cultural significance, aligning with Sections 33 and 34(1)1 of the Ontario Heritage Act. The property, nestled within the vibrant West Queen West neighbourhood, holds considerable historical value. Recognizing the imminent threat posed by proposed alterations, city council swiftly moved to safeguard its heritage attributes, setting a precedent for responsible urban development.

Acknowledging the potential for an appeal by the property owner, city council took proactive measures, directing the city solicitor and relevant municipal staff to prepare for potential legal proceedings at the Ontario Land Tribunal hearing. This preemptive action underscores the city's steadfast dedication to upholding heritage preservation efforts and defending its cultural heritage against encroaching urbanization.

In reaffirming its commitment to maintaining Toronto's cultural tapestry, city council sends a clear

message: heritage preservation is paramount. The rejection of alteration and demolition permits not only safeguards the integrity of the property, but also underscores the city's ethos of responsible urban development.

For over a century, the iconic Beaux-Arts-style building has stood as a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. However, plans for a 29-storey residential tower threaten to reshape its storied legacy. The proposed

“The potential loss has galvanized the community here in Davenport.” tower, which reaches a height of 102.4 metres and includes 272 residential units, is complemented by 919 square metres of community space within the preserved Postal Station C building.

“On Feb. 8, 2024, [Toronto City] Council adopted the staff recommendation to refuse the owner’s application filed under the [Ontario] Planning Act for a 29-storey tower,” said city spokesperson Deborah Blackstone.

It’s not just this building; the neighbourhood is experiencing a shift toward higher density, evidenced by numerous new residential buildings. Nearby, a 23-storey development is proposed at 1266 Queen St. W. Ac-

ross the rail corridor, XO and XO2 Condos, standing at 14 and 19 storeys respectively, are currently under construction.

Provincial member of parliament Marit Stiles, NDP leader, has emerged as a vocal opponent decrying the potential loss of Postal Station C. “The potential loss of 1117 Queen St. W. Postal Station “C” has galvanized the community here in Davenport,” Stiles said, in a statement. “I hear about it not only from residents near that area, in the extreme south end of my riding, but all across the riding.”

Despite its listing on Toronto's Heritage Register within the West Queen West Heritage District, formal heritage designation remained elusive, owing to its federal status. In a bid to safeguard its heritage, the city moved to designate the property under the Ontario Heritage Act. However, the owner's subsequent appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) set the stage for a battle between preservation and development.

As the dispute unfolds, the city grapples with a pressing question: can progress coexist with preservation? With precedents of successful integration of heritage properties into development schemes, Toronto faces a critical juncture in balancing growth and conservation.

— Ron Johnson

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14

MAIN STREET NEWS

Queen West gets viral candied fruit, a Harbord brewery & more Tanghulu Tanghulu has opened at 252 Queen St. W., bringing the viral candied fruit sensation to the west end. The traditional Chinese snack features rock sugar–coated fruits on a stick, and Tanghulu Tanghulu offers everything from candied orange slices to grapes for visitors to try. The shop also offers coco cups — Belgian milk chocolate melted over fresh cut strawberries and other fruits.

Gateau Ghost has opened on College Street, offering an exciting new brunch and café option for Little Italy residents. Founded

by Jayden Park, formerly of Alo, Buca and Joe Beef, it began as a madeleine pop-up with unique flavours. Now the café at 974 College St. will offer a brunch menu, including croque madames and a sticky madeleine toffee pudding, alongside Parks’s signature pastry.

Find rock sugar–coated fruit at Tanghulu Tanghulu

the Mexican spot is already receiving rave reviews from residents. The quick service restaurant’s extensive menu includes burritos, tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas and bowls, all with choose-your-own protein options such as shrimp, pork, chicken and sofritas. Friendly staff and large portions make the restaurant at 839 Queen St. W. a contender for favourite new lunch spot in the area.

Arc’teryx, a technical high-performance apparel and equipment company, just opened a new “Alpha” store concept on Bloor Street West, now the brand’s largest space in North America.

Spanning 9,274 square feet at 50 Bloor St. W., a major focus of the new location is the brand’s ReBird service centre — a home for initiatives in care and repair, resale and upcycling. Emphasizing cirLa Rio’s Fresh Mexican Grill is cularity and sustainability, there now open on Queen West, and will be two full-time, on-site

WHAT DRIVES TORONTO.

technicians for repairs, including full panel replacements, in-store washing and hands-on education.

Fresh has made some big moves on Bloor Street, bringing its signature all-vegan menu of bowls, salads, sandwiches and more just a few blocks down the street from its original Fresh on Bloor location. The new restaurant, at 386 Bloor St. W., has an expanded patio that will be perfect for the upcoming warm summer days.

Bickford Brewing has officially found its permanent new home, all the way from its humble beginnings in founder Andrew McCready’s basement. The Toronto brewery has been supplying its beer to a select few bottle shops and bars in the city, but soon you’ll be able to enjoy it at 292A Harbord St., where there will be a taproom, a bottle shop and a front patio, plus some snack options.

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CRIME NEWS

TIME OF DAY

WHEN

WHERE

MAY 1

QUEEN ST. W. AND PETER ST.

12 A.M.

YONGE ST. AND ORCHARD VIEW BLVD.

7 A.M.

OLD YONGE ST. AND LOWER LINKS RD.

1 P.M.

MAY 3

BELMONT ST. AND SARAH ST.

12 A.M.

PHOEBE ST. AND SOHO ST.

8 P.M.

BLOOR ST. W. AND SHAW ST.

7 A.M.

CECIL ST. AND BEVERLEY ST.

11 P.M.

BLOOR ST. W. AND ST. THOMAS ST.

2 A.M.

AVENUE RD. AND ELGIN AVE.

9 P.M.

MAY 7

MOUNT PLEASANT RD. AND BELSIZE DR.

12 A.M.

MAY 8

PENDRITH ST. AND CHRISTIE ST.

4 A.M.

BROOKE AVE. AND HADDON ST.

5 A.M.

UPPER HIGHLAND CRES. AND FENN AVE.

4 A.M.

SPADINA AVE. AND CECIL ST.

6 A.M.

MOUNT PLEASANT RD. AND INGLEWOOD DR.

12 A.M.

MANNING AVE. AND OLIVE AVE.

2 A.M.

HARWOOD RD. AND MILLWOOD RD.

11 P.M.

NIPIGON AVE. AND WHITMAN ST.

12 A.M.

YONGE ST. AND ASQUITH AVE.

6 A.M.

BLANCHARD RD. AND BLYTH HILL RD.

6 P.M.

DUPONT ST. AND SHAW ST.

10 P.M.

CLINTON ST. AND PAGE ST.

4 P.M.

YONGE ST. AND COLLIER ST.

10 P.M.

MAY 13

PENDRITH ST. AND ROBLOCKE AVE.

4 A.M.

MAY 15

DELAWARE AVE. AND DEWSON ST.

3 A.M.

AVENUE RD. AND MCMASTER AVE.

12 P.M.

BRUNSWICK AVE. AND SUSSEX AVE.

11 P.M.

ST. LEONARD’S AVE. AND POLE AVE.

4 A.M.

BAYVIEW AVE. AND MEADOW LARKWAY

10 A.M.

MAY 4

MAY 6

MAY 9

MAY 10

MAY 11

MAY 12

MAY 16

MAY 17

MAY 18

MAY 19

BURNDALE AVE. AND BANGOR RD.

1 P.M.

SHEPPARD AVE. E. AND CLAIRTRELL RD.

11 P.M.

CAMERON CRES. AND SHARRON DR.

9 P.M.

EGLINTON AVE. W. AND BRAEMAR AVE.

10 P.M.

ROTHMERE DR. AND BRAESIDE DR.

1 A.M.

EGLINTON AVE. E. AND REDPATH AVE.

2 A.M.

YONGE ST. AND ROSEHILL AVE.

3 A.M.

| JUNE 2024

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REAL ESTATE NEWS

Cottage country rebound After price drops up to 60 per cent in 2023, Ontario cottages are making a comeback. Here’s how much prices are forecast to increase by the end of 2024.

33% Peterborough 2024 year-end average price estimate: $1,194,340

33%

Top banker predicts three rate cuts this year Benjamin Tal, CIBC deputy chief economist, tells us where interest rates are headed ahead of the Bank of Canada’s (BoC) June announcement.

What are you expecting in June?

Things are moving in the right direction; inflation is now at 2.7 per cent. This has major implications regarding the timing and the magnitude of the cut by the BoC. There is a more than 60 per cent probability now that June will be the first move. We expect a 25 basis points cut in June, and if they move in June, then maybe another cut in July and another in September. So we will see two or three moves this year, before the interest rate bottoms out in 2025 at around 3 to 3.75 per cent.

isn’t much inventory in the condo market right now. Over the next year, there will be If we see a repeat of spring 2023, that will be an opportunity for condo buyers because the problematic for the BoC. Back then, the condo market will remain relatively soft. Two BoC was tweeting about the possibility of years from now when the demand is still pausing the interest rate hikes, and the mar- there, but supply is not, condo prices will ket immediately heated up. I doubt that the start rising.

BoC will do one cut and stop — usually that Once interest rates bottom out, I don’t see doesn’t happen. But it’s possible that they the market booming, but it will be much will announce two rate cuts and then stop. healthier than it is now.

That would be if the housing market starts waking up too much after the first two cuts. How will mortgage-holders respond?

What we’re seeing more and more people How do you think the doing now is focusing on the one- to threemarket might react to the first cut? year rate. People basically don’t touch the I think the market will wake up, but it will five-year rate because they want to make sure be more in the detached segment of the that they’re around to refinance when mortmarket, not the condo segment. There just gage rates are down. — Julia Mastroianni

What could impact the BoC’s decision to keep cutting?

Toronto’s summer market is heating up Toronto was experiencing a cooler spring real estate market this year than the season usually warrants, data shows, but there are signs of a market upturn.

The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) reported that home sales were down in April compared to the same time last year, new listings were up “strongly,” and there was little movement in prices. TRREB counted 7,114 sales in April in the GTA, down five per cent from April 2023.

John Pasalis, president of Realosophy Realty, said that the market is “cooling down quite a bit.” He said for the first two weeks in May sales for low-rise houses are down about 40 per cent from where they normally are, and condo sales are down 27 per cent.

“High [interest] rates are obviously a big factor in that,” he said. “[With] prices and rates this high, a lot of buyers are sitting on the sidelines.”

However, another realtor says that most of the cool down this

spring has been in condos, and that houses are seeing some action.

Jamie Dempster said that he’s seeing houses still get sharp competition and sell for over asking, although possibly with only five offers as opposed to 10. Condos, though, are not selling as well as the city faces a glut of supply, he said.

That lack of action with condos is creating a “domino effect,” according to Dempster, where the demand for houses is lessened from those who would otherwise trade up.

“If one piece of the domino isn’t functioning well, then you’re going to see a slowdown,” he said. “It’s a chain reaction.”

Dempster predicts that the housing market will remain strong through the summer but the condo segment will still be relatively cool. Pasalis predicts that it will be a “sluggish, boring” market over the summer, with no chance of prices accelerating. He said even with two or three interest rate cuts, the rates will still be too high and won’t —Eric Stober be enough to rebound the market.

6%

Haliburton 2024 year-end average price estimate: $1,026,922

5%

Manitoulin & French River 2024 year-end average price estimate: $430,071

5%

Sudbury 2024 year-end average price estimate: $606,755

5%

Kenora & Lake-of-the-Woods 2024 year-end average price estimate: $379,945

3% Muskoka 2024 year-end average price estimate: $1,454,604

3% Grand Bend 2024 year-end average price estimate: $864,660

Data from the Re/Max 2024 Cottage Trends Report

| JUNE 2024

L-R: Economist Benjamin Tal, the Bank of Canada will make another interest rate announcement in June

The Kawarthas 2024 year-end average price estimate: $1,026,922

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BONJOUR TORONTO!

OOH LA LA! CELEBRATING THE FOOD, FASHION & PANACHE OF THE UPCOMING PARIS GAMES RIGHT HERE IN T.O. HOME SWEET HOME

Why jet off to Paris when Douce France delivers a taste of the city right to your door? With gourmet delights sourced straight from the heart of France, expect unparalleled quality and authenticity. From buttery croissants to decadent cheeses and, of course, that delicious hot chocolate, the staff, completely bilingual, ensures an authentic French experience.

CREPE EXPECTATIONS SAVOURY OR SWEET IT CAN’T BE BEAT

Apérochic

COURAGEOUS CUISINE FOR THE TORONTO FOODIE WHO’S BRAVE ENOUGH

VIVE LA CREPE

For those with a savoury tooth, bow down to La Crepe's Salmon King, a crepe fit for royalty, filled with smoked salmon, chive, cream cheese and arugula.

FROGS' LEGS

Once, frogs’ legs prepared with butter and garlic were a French bistro staple. Times change, but at Cluny Bistro, they're fried in buttermilk, served with fermented black bean sauce and citrus aïoli.

GRAND DEJEUNER

HAUTE ANTIQUES

Created by two French transplants in Toronto, Apérochic (French for “people meeting people”) is an answer to the duo’s search for a European-style social event in the city. Attendees can enjoy the classic French tradition of l’apéritif among francophones and anglophones alike. Upcoming events include the signature Bastille Day party at Cabana Pool Bar on July 17.

Nord Lyon, the renowned classic French bakery, isn't just killing it during the week — it’s ramping it up on weekends with a $30 allyou-can-eat brunch buffet, from fresh crepes to customizable omelettes and a spread that includes salads, pastas, fruits, cheeses, pastries, bread, croissants and desserts. Plus Nord Lyon has a beverage station with an array of juices and coffee.

Import a little je ne sais quoi right into your living room with A Room in Paris

by Belle Epoque Furnishings. The owners of this Queen West antique shop are particularly knowledgeable about French vintage pieces, and a visit here is like stepping into a hidden gem on a Parisian side street filled with darling French mirrored vanities and elegant dressers.

ROQUEFORT

Legend has it, Roquefort originated from a forgotten cave sandwich, later discovered mouldy, stinky, yet delicious. Explore Cheese Boutique's vault for Roquefort Papillon Noir, aged in limestone caverns.

ESCARGOT

Part of French cuisine since the Middle Ages, at Toronto's stripped-down bistro, Le Baratin, escargot gets a modern twist: sautéed with forest mushrooms, cream sauce and puff pastry, it’s a dish not to be missed.

HORSE TARTARE

It’s said that tartare's original meat wasn't beef but horse. No wonder at Queen West's La Palette, on offer is a choice: beef strip loin or horse top sirloin, served with crostini and pickles. 21 | JUNE 2024

OH, SO SWEET

Feeling a tad exotic?

Try the Saint Martin from Yorkville Crepes — crafted with banana, butter, sugar, cinnamon and a dollop of mouthwatering dulce de leche!

FRENCH CONNECTION

22

COVER STORY BONJOUR TORONTO

LA DIFFERENCE

CROISSANT MY HEART THE FLAKY PASTRY GETS A SWEET NEW LIFE

Triangle D’Or

D'ECLAIR YOUR LOVE

SO SQUARE A culinary rebel decided to cube up the classic croissant, and Kream Dessert is owning it with its Kream Bombs, ranging in flavours from Earl Grey to matcha crème brulée.

CROFFLE

| JUNE 2024

Dessert Fox in the Annex specializes in South Korean–inspired croissant waffles, blending a breakfast staple with syrup-holding capabilities.

22

PARISIAN PIZAZZ MUST-HAVE IT-GIRL ESSENTIALS

REIGNS SUPREME

Geste Bistro & Boulangerie is creating waves with their Supreme Croissant, a round, cream-filled or cream-topped variation of the classic pastry.

CRUFFIN Circles & Squares elevates breakfast with its ever-changing cruffin lineup, akin to a cinnamon roll's dreamy offspring.

Matcha strawberry and PB&J are a few favourites.

Éclair translates to “flash of lightning,” perfectly capturing how quickly these pastries vanish. At Nügateau, helmed by Le Cordon Bleu– trained Atul Palghadmal on Queen West, this couldn’t be truer. This sweet spot offers a dazzling array of handmade éclairs in flavours like La Banane, Blueberry Violet and Coconut Cream Pie, all crafted to disappear in an instant.

SATINE IN THE SIX

Transport yourself into one of France’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods with Triangle D’Or — new to Toronto, this cabaret experience is inspired by Le Crazy Horse de Paris, a famous Parisian cabaret. Expect a body-positive and glamorous experience that diverges from the traditional burlesque, with 19 different themed acts and special guests promised.

COMING UP ROSES From the vibrant explosion of flowers in market stalls to sweet smelling bouquets on café tables, nothing says Paris like fresh blooms. Step into Blossom Moments in Richmond Hill, and you're not just inhaling the scent of stunning flowers; you're also discovering a hidden Parisian café.

Here, the delightful aromas of coffee and exquisite florals await, transporting you straight to the heart of Paris.

In Paris, French waiters are all business. No chit chat or sharing names: just order, serve and let you enjoy.

They rock the classic uniform: black pants, vest, white shirt, bow tie and spotless shoes. Meanwhile, Café Boulud in Toronto sticks to French tradition but adds a smile, as the servers dish out the most heavenly warm madeleines we bet you'll ever savour.

GET SCENT-IMENTAL

SPEA

Take your cues from the city of fragrance and craft your very own eau de toilette with Orris Labs. The perfume-making workshops will give you a comprehensive history of perfumery, an introduction to the art of scent blending and a summary of the different fragrance families before you get the chance to create your own signature scent with the help of an expert.

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STRIPED SHIRT

FLATS

SILK SCARF

WOVEN BAG

The marinière — the iconic striped shirt popularized by French sailors and artists — can be found in abundance at Ossington’s Annie Aime, which stocks many top made-in-France brands.

Elegant, stylish flats are a must-have in France.

Maguire Shoes has French-approved footwear for everyone, from the classic ballet flat to Mary Janes to pointed slingback mules.

On the streets of Paris, scarves are a year-round accessory. Trade in your wool for silk with this patterned foulard at Gaspard Shop — tie it around your bag, your neck or your hair.

A woven straw or raffia bag is a summer style staple in France, and this Gerard Darel one at Snapdragon Designs will fit nicely on your bike basket with enough room for a baguette.

Give Paris Hom form Fren furni one secre comm Wiw finish sign drea cial t

IM

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23

COVER STORY BONJOUR TORONTO

FRANCE'S FINEST

Sous Sol

Only about three per cent of cognac is enjoyed in France. The rest is exported, much to the delight of discerning Torontonians. For an immersive experience,180 Drinks offers a cognac master class, featuring a tasting kit with five to six samples, cognac-specific glasses and optional chocolate or snack pairings to elevate your experience.

SPEAKEASY DOES IT

BAGUETTE ABOUT IT

CONQUER THE PASTRY

For midnight tête-à-têtes. try a French-inspired speakeasy. There’s Sous Sol, a tiny cocktail bar located — bien sûr — on Maison Selby’s lower level. George Restaurant’s Secrette features surprising off-menu cocktails. And Toronto’s newest addition, Bonne Nuit, requires you to stumble into the right bathroom stall in La Plume to find its boudoir-inspired speakeasy.

When you think of French food, the baguette tops the list. It's as iconic as the Eiffel Tower and a musthave in Paris. Head over to Thobors Boulangerie, where French-trained master baker Marc Thobor and his team whip up six types of this legendary loaf.

From multigrain to poppyseed, they've got your baguette cravings covered, all while chatting in French.

Learn from the best and become a pâtissier in your own right with Nadège Nourian’s masterclasses all summer long. Get a wellrounded education with the French classic desserts session, covering lemon meringue tarts, Paris-Brests and eclairs. Or pick a specialty and spend the day conquering the croissant, or a Nadège specialty — the fickle macaron.

ARMOIRE AMOUR

A LASTING IMPRESSIONIST OUI LOVE THESE EVENTS

THE ULTIMATE COMFORT SANDWICH

OUI, MADAME Indulge in Le Select's unbeatable croque madame — loaded with ham, Gruyère, béchamel and crowned with a sunny side up egg. It's considered one of the best in town!

FRENCH COMFORT

Mom certainly knows best! At Maman, the childhood favourite is made with Parisian ham, Comté cheese and homemade béchamel on sourdough bread.

GOURMAND GARÇON Who says the croque monsieur can't get a modern upgrade? At boulangerie Bisou, they're shaking things up with pear onion chutney, mushrooms, brie, Swiss and béchamel.

STUFF OF LEGENDS

At Milou, the madame is simple and hearty, yet achieving simple excellence is often the hardest feat: served creamy and delicious on perfectly crusty bread.

Nadège Nourian’s macaron masterclass

ALL ABOUT MONET

LOVE AT FIRST NOTE

BE IMPRESSED

JAZZ IT UP

Take a deep dive into the dreamy landscapes of Claude Monet at the Art Gallery of Ontario on July 5 in a talk with Caroline Shields, the gallery’s associate curator and head of European Art.

Close your eyes and you’ll be walking hand-in-hand along the Seine thanks to Kindred Spirits Orchestra’s Romantic Evening in France on June 22, featuring classic French symphonies.

See Impressionist works

by Quebec artists who trained in the birthplace of the art movement at McMichael Gallery’s River of Dreams: Impressionism on the St. Lawrence, on from June 22.

Rock out with French jazz band Cortex at its first-ever Toronto show on June 29 and 30. Titled Le Jazz Est Mort, the band will be performing its seminal album, Troupeau Bleu, in its entirety.

| JUNE 2024

Give your home a bit of Parisian flair with Châtelet Home. Specializing in transforming vintage pieces into French-inspired gems, this furniture and decor shop is one of Toronto’s best-kept secrets. Customers can even commission owner Teresa Wiwchar to remodel an unfinished item after the design esthetic of their dreams, from French provincial to Paris pied-à-terre.

CROQUE IT TO ME

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ROSEDALE’S SECRET GARDEN

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THE BIG TICKETS

CURRENTS

CURRENTS SECTION L-R: The musical ‘Wicked’ returns ahead of a huge film release; The Art of Banksy opens this month

The top June shows with Banksy, Wicked and André 3000 Witness André 3000’s unparalleled talent at Massey Hall on June 28. Known for his groundbreaking work with Outkast and as a seven-time Grammy winner, André 3000’s return to the stage with his first solo album in two decades, New Blue Sun, has captivated audiences worldwide. Presented by TD Toronto Jazz Festival, this event promises an unforgettable evening celebrating André 3000’s multifaceted artistry, spanning music, film, fine arts, fashion and more.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the transformative power of André 3000’s performance live.

For more info, go to Masseyhall.com.

ART 2. See the The Art of Banksy

Prepare for the much-anticipated revival of The Art of Banksy exhibition at Lighthouse Artspace Toronto, commencing on May 29. Showcasing more than 140 original and authenticated Banksy artworks, including rare treasures like Banksy’s Mona Lisa and an exquisite gold rendition of Girl with Balloon, this immersive experience cele-

brates Banksy’s profound influence on art and activism. Presented by Starvox Exhibits and GTP Exhibitions, the exhibition invites audiences into Banksy’s world, offering a mesmerizing journey through iconic pieces and unseen creations. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to delve deeper into the thought-provoking and captivating universe of Banksy’s art.

For more info, go to Banksyexhibit.com.

THEATRE 3. See Wicked

Everything’s coming up Wicked in 2024, with a huge movie starring Arianna Grande and the Broadway musical weaving its spellbinding tale at the Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto, from June 5 to July 21. Long before Dorothy’s iconic journey, another story unfolded in the Land of Oz — a story of friendship, rivalry and the power of perception. Wicked reveals the untold saga of two remarkable young women: one born with emerald green skin, misunderstood and endowed with extraordinary abilities, and the other a bubbly blonde, seemingly perfect in every way.

As their paths intertwine, their initial ri-

valry evolves into an unlikely friendship, defying the expectations of a world quick to label one as “good” and the other as “wicked.” From the captivating opening note to the breathtaking finale, this acclaimed musical captivates audiences with its inventive storytelling and unforgettable characters.

For more info, go to Mirvish.com.

written and performed by Haley McGee, at Soulpepper. Running until June 16, this captivating show delves into our relationship with mortality, urging audiences to seize the moment.

With a run time of 75 minutes and a content warning for mature language and themes, this production is recommended for ages 16 and up. Charting the milestones and reflections of an adult life, Age is a Feeling celebrates the MUSIC 4. See Charlotte Day Wilson complexities and uncertainties of Mark your calendars for June 6 as Char- human existence. lotte Day Wilson takes the stage at HisFor more info, go to Soulpepper.ca. tory in Toronto for a rare hometown show. The acclaimed Toronto-born singer-songwriter, known for her soulful COMEDY 6. See Rachel Feinstein melodies and captivating performances, Get ready to roar with laughter as will showcase tracks from her upcoming Comedy Bar presents the incomparable album, Cyan Blue. Don’t miss this excluRachel Feinstein.

With her razor-sharp sive opportunity to experience Wilson’s mesmerizing vocals and unique sound wit and knack for creating unforgettable characters, Feinstein promises a night of in an intimate setting.

For more info, go to HistoryTo- comedy gold that’s not to be missed.

Feinstein has solidified her place as one ronto.com. of comedy’s brightest stars. She checks into the Danforth Avenue location of THEATRE 5. Go to Age is a Feeling the Comedy Bar on June 28, at 7 p.m., Experience Age is a Feeling, a poignant for an evening of hilarity.

For info, go to Comedybar.ca. and thought-provoking performance

| JUNE 2024

MUSIC 1. Go to André 3000

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28

SUMMER SHOPPING GUIDE

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FASHION CURRENTS

GIVE DAD A GEN Z MAKEOVER This Father's Day, give your dad the best gift of all — an upgraded sense of style! Whether he plans to spend the summer by the grill or at the beach, Jeanne Beker (and her gen Z consultant, Post City fashion editor Julia Mastroianni) will have him dressed to impress.

SUNGLASSES Oscar Deen, $235

JEANS Re/Done, $435

PANTS James Coward, $450

SHORTS Save Khaki United, $135

T-SHIRT 18 Waits, $125

BUTTONDOWN Maison Labiche, $260

POLO NN07, $375

SNEAKERS Jordan, $165

DAD ON VACATION

LOAFERS Aldo, $69.98

DAD AT THE BARBECUE

BUCKET HAT Lite Year, $47.50

DAD IN THE CITY

POLO, TNT, $375, 2901 Bayview Ave., “I love the hand

BUTTON-DOWN, Good Neighbour, $260, 1212 Yonge

T-SHIRT, 18 Waits, $125, 990 Queen St. W., “I like this

stitching and the embroidery on the pocket. These types of knit polos are very in right now.” SHORTS, Lost & Found, $135, 12 Ossington Ave., “These are a nice, relaxed pair of shorts that would look great with the polo shirt, and they’ve got pockets — you could definitely hang out in these.” SANDALS, Gravitypope, $185, 1010 Queen St. W., “This is a great, slip-on, easy shoe, really cool and literally cool too — you want as much air as possible in the summer.” CROSSBODY BAG, Aldo, $30, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

St., “This is a great colour that would look great with any pants or shorts; the seersucker is a pretty cool fabrication, and I love the two little pockets.” PANTS, Lost & Found, $450, 12 Ossington Ave., “I like the pleat down the middle to elongate the leg, and the black twill is such a nice, strong fabric for a year-round pant.” LOAFERS, Aldo, SALE $69.98, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr., “These are a great, basic loafer with a heavier look — that lug sole is very on trend, and these look great for sportier occasions.”

SUNGLASSES, Good Neighbour, $235, 1212 Yonge St.

little bit of tie-dye; it’s hand dyed and looks kind of artisanal. It’s a very artful approach and has some great colours.”

JEANS, Good Neighbour, $435, 1212 Yonge St., “These have that worn-in look. They look really comfortable, not too tight, just a classic denim styling with a relaxed fit.”

SNEAKERS, Foot Locker, $165, 1 Promenade Cir., “I like the grey colouring. It’s an unexpected shade, and they’re a nice high top — they have pretty classic styling, but there’s something modern about them.” BUCKET HAT, Lost & Found, SALE $47.50, 12 Ossington Ave.

*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.

| JUNE 2024

SANDALS Camper, $185

CROSSBODY BAG Aldo, $30

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30

CURRENTS ENVIRONMENT

Lawns should be treated as biodiverse habitats

| JUNE 2024

Stop the trims for T.O.’s 80 km of lawns

30

The saying “the grass is always rather than sterile monocultures. greener on the other side” encapRooted in colonial history, sulates the eternal, often futile these barren, thirsty, high-mainquest for something better. tenance landscapes have become When it comes to the vast ingrained in our culture and swathes of turfgrass lawn that communities.

Enter the LawnShare camcarpet Canada, the phrase takes on deeper significance. Beneath paign (and its French-language their seemingly innocuous ap- partner Partage ta pelouse), a napearance lies the troubling reality tional effort to reimagine turfthat lawns consume excessive grass lawns as vital habitat. Led water, rely on harmful chemicals by the David Suzuki Foundation, and offer little ecological value. Dark Matter Labs and NouAlthough the exact extent of veaux Voisins, this initiative seeks lawns in Canada remains uncer- to revolutionize our relationship tain, new research analyzing with lawns. No longer mere seven communities indicates that patches of green to be meticubetween eight and 22 per cent of lously manicured, lawns present each is covered in lawn. To put opportunities for creating habthis into perspective, Toronto has itats, sanctuaries for native plants nearly 80 square kilometres of and animals.

Studies have shown that relawns. That’s 50 times more area than High Park, one of the city’s ducing mowing frequency can largest green spaces. Similarly, yield substantial cost savings. By Montreal’s 97 square kilometres replacing traditional lawns with of lawns are approximately 43 habitat, communities can entimes bigger than Mount Royal hance ecological resilience and Park. Even densely urbanized reduce maintenance expenses cities boast significant lawn cov- over the long run.

Whether it’s through reducing erage.

Given the pervasiveness of mowing frequency or embracing lawns, it’s difficult to argue with alternative seed mixes, every acthe wisdom of horticulturalist tion, no matter how small, conRebecca McMackin in her re- tributes to a better, more cent TED talk “Let your garden environmentally friendly future. grow wild.” She suggests lawns should be seen as area rugs, not DAVID SUZUKI with wall-to-wall carpeting, outdoor files from Jode Roberts. spaces as havens for biodiversity

amuage a naturfLed tion, Noueeks ship mere ticuesent hablants

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cing cing y acconmore ture.

Dear Sangita: My mom’s mid-life crisis is freaking me out Dear Sangita: My mom is going through what some might call a mid-life crisis since divorcing my dad, and it's giving me a lot of stress! I'll call her at 11 p.m., and she'll be getting ready to head to an all-nighter club. She’ll stay over at a random guy’s place.

What should I do?

—Mid-life mom

better. But for now I would just suck it up or figure out a way to cook before they get to it! You could also suggest that you both cook together as a reconnection opportunity, and then you’ll at least be in charge of one of the dishes, and maybe with time your partner will learn a bit from you too.

Dear Mid-Life: I had a friend

Dear Sangita: Growing up, my

who was in a great relationship with a great husband, but their relationship was mundane. She felt kind of lost and bored, and she decided to leave him. She started living to the extreme, similar to the way your mom is.

She felt she was missing something, so she went out and experienced it — and now she’s done with it. For your mom, this is a woman who’s already a mother. She’s experienced life, and she's doing what she feels is fun for her now, but I can’t see this lasting that long. You can

definitely have a talk with your mom and tell her you feel fearful for her and you want to put some logistics in place with her, such as asking her to let you know when she’s home. But she's going to have to go through this.

Dear Sangita: I live with my partner and they love cooking — but they’re really, really bad at it.

I’ve tried to offer to cook more myself, but they always insist they

love cooking for me. How do I have this conversation without breaking their heart?

—Kitchen catastrophe Catastrophe: They’re doing it out of love; you really can’t say anything. I think your partner probably knows they’re not great at cooking — they have to eat the food too. So they’re doing it from the heart, and maybe with time they’ll get Dear

parents always seemed to have lots of money. Now that I’m older, I’m starting to realize that it might be for nefarious reasons.

I’m scared to f ind out what they’re involved in, and I’m even more terrif ied that they’ll lie to me if I ask. What do I do?

—Parents in peril

that your parents are making money in unethical ways, what will you do? Are you going to leave the house or sever ties with your parents? If you’re scared that they’ll lie to you, perhaps you know that you’ve already been lied to. That would mean that your parents have lied to you all your life about something important, so you need to be prepared for that too. As a parent, I think it’s likely you may learn they were doing this to protect you from the truth and to give their kids their best life. You need to decide whether you’re going to be comfortable with that answer.

Have a relationship or life question for Sangita? Send it to adDear Peril: Do you really want vice@postcity.com. to know? That’s the ultimate question. Before you ask, you need to think about the possible SANGITA PATEL is our advice outcomes and decide if they’re columnist and was previously a host on ET Canada. worth it to you. If you find out

LD

ures. tory, mainome and

CURRENTS ADVICE

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208 DUNVEGAN ROAD

CURRENTS GROWING UP T.O.

­

­

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¢ £

FAST FACTS NAME: Sabrina Jalees GRADUATED: Earl Haig

Secondary School FAVE VENUE TO PLAY:

Comedy Bar FAVE FAMILY SPOT:

Good Neighbour (owned by her brother and uncle) TOP T.O. MEMORY: Taking

CONT TACT US TODAY AY FOR MORE DETAILS!

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32

her son up the CN Tower to the glass floor

RICHARD MAR RKOWITZ

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Sabrina Jalees is a talented writer, actor and stand-up comic

Toronto comedian is farming for love For most millennials who grew up in Canada, comedian, writer and actor Sabrina Jalees is a household name.

Since her early days as a TV regular on MuchMusic, Roast Battle Canada and more, Jalees has become an accomplished triple threat. She was a writer on clever comedies Search Party, Big Mouth, Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock and Baroness Von Sketch Show. She has also had a few notable acting and hosting stints, including on the 2019 CBS sitcom Carol’s Second Act. And now she’s taken on her favourite hosting job yet, as the face of CTV reality dating show Farming for Love (the second season premiered May 29).

Busy writing, acting and doing standup in L.A., Jalees had to be convinced to host by the reality show team at first.

“But the proof is in the pudding,” says Jalees. “If I can be a part of really connecting people and setting them up for the next chapter of their lives — because marrying my wife and having our kids has truly been a mindblowing experience — and take credit for having people falling in love? I love that.”

The Canadian version has also been relatively inclusive, featuring people of colour, male and female farmers and, this season, a gay farmer looking for love.

“Oh my god, I am so excited

about that,” she says. “If something like that was on TV when I was younger, I would certainly have felt more comfortable to say, ‘I’m in love with Jennifer Love Hewitt’.”

When she’s not playing matchmaker, she’s working on Benefits with Friends, a podcast she co-hosts with fellow Toronto comic and childhood friend Mae Martin. And she’s busy shopping her own new show with Ally Pankiw, the writer and director of the film I Used to Be Funny, in which Jalees co-stars.

Moving forward, the goal, too, remains being able to work at her first home, Toronto, and her second, in L.A. The differences, though, remain stark.

“Comedy, oftentimes, comes from this fish out of water viewpoint,” says Jalees. “Growing up half-brown and half-white gave me that, as did growing up in Canada. We are this fanny pack on top of this machine that’s making strange decisions and going into weird wars. We get to talk like no one’s listening. That sharpens a comedic viewpoint.”

“Even with super-inflated U.S. budgets, I will never not want to work on Canadian projects. I still view myself as Canadian first, and I’m super proud to be from Toronto and have grown up in North York,” she says. “In the evolution of me, that was the nucleus.”

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33

CURRENTS HOW THEY MET

Award-winning musicians go from bandmates to soulmates Walk off the Earth, the indie band with multiple Juno awards to its name, has a romantic history.

When Sarah Blackwood and Gianni Nicassio met, both as artists in different bands in Ontario, they didn’t know it would lead to an entire life together — not only as bandmates, but as life partners and parents. Ahead of their Canadian Music Week-headlining concert in Toronto, the duo talks balancing work and love and their (controversial) tip for relationship success.

ating unforgettable memories sound unconventional, but it works for us. Having our own space alalong the way.

Every day is our honeymoon! lows us to maintain a sense of inWe haven’t tied the knot officially, dividuality while also nurturing but our life together feels like an our relationship. It’s all about reongoing celebration. We enjoy lit- specting each other’s needs. tle getaways and make everyday Balancing careers moments special. and a relationship

We just do! Honestly, there’s no seWe have three amazing boys: cret formula. We’re just awesome Giorgio, Luigi and Romeo. They together, and we support each bring so much joy and chaos into other in every aspect of our lives. our lives, and we wouldn’t have it We prioritize communication and any other way. They’re our little make sure to carve out time for How they met ourselves amidst our busy schedGianni Nicassio and Sarah Blackwood met as artists in different bands rock stars!

The music gods brought us toules. It’s a team effort, and we’re The relationship Shared hobbies and interests gether! We were both active in the The first date both committed to making it same music scene growing up and Gianni took me to get a pedicure, We were both super passionate Obviously, music is our biggest work. eventually crossed paths. Gianni believe it or not. It was a com- about music and art, and we had shared interest. Beyond that, we was helping me produce my solo pletely unexpected choice for a similar creative visions. One stand- both love exploring new forms of The future together album at the time, and we in- first date, and it turned out to be out moment was when we stayed art, travelling and spending quality Just exactly the way it is now. We’re stantly clicked. I was also a huge perfect. I had never had a pedicure up all night working on songs to- time with our boys. We also enjoy incredibly happy with our life and fan of what he was doing with before and I was 28! We got nice, gether. Our shared projects and cooking together and experiment- wouldn’t change a thing. We see Walk off the Earth, so we natu- soft feet and had a fantastic time. late night studio sessions are some ing with new recipes, which often ourselves continuing to create music, raising our boys and enjoyrally started collaborating there We laughed a lot and it set the of our fondest memories. We've turns into a fun family activity. ing every moment together. Our too. Our mutual passion for music tone for many more adventures also had the incredible opportunity to tour the world together, experi- Secret to success future is just a continuation of the and creativity just brought us together. encing amazing places and cre- Separate bedrooms. It might beautiful journey we’re already on. closer.

The kids

POST CITY X DIAMOND & DIAMOND

Diamond and Diamond’s Guide To Cycling Safety Tips from Jeremy Diamond and Sandra Zisckind of Diamond & Diamond Lawyers JEREMY DIAMOND Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation.

While much emphasis is placed on educating drivers about safely sharing the road with cyclists, it's equally important for cyclists to understand their role in promoting safety. Diamond & Diamond Lawyers recognizes the importance of proactive measures to prevent accidents and protect cyclists' rights on the road. In this article, Isaac Zisckind discusses essential safety considerations for cyclists, including proper equipment, road etiquette, and navigating traffic alongside motor vehicles.

Gear Up: Cycling Safety Equipment First and foremost, it’s important to equip yourself with the right safety gear. Below are a few essentials to cycling safety that should not be overlooked: ● Helmet: Wearing a properly fitted helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injuries in the event of a crash. While a hel-

met is a great place to start, it’s important to ensure that the helmet you are wearing meets minimum safety standards and is not broken or outdated. ● Reflective Clothing: Simply put, one of the best ways to prevent accidents is to be seen. As such, reflective clothing while out on your bicycle is a must. Reflective vests, bands, and accessories can help drivers spot cyclists from a distance. ● Lights and Reflectors: Another important element of cycling safety is lights and reflectors. If you plan on biking in dimly lit areas or in the dark, it’s important to install lights on your bicycle for enhanced visibility.

Sharing the Road Safely “As a cyclist, it’s essential to understand how to share the road safely with vehicles,” says Isaac Zisckind. Below are several tips to consider the next time you head out on your bike:

● Ride Safely and Predictably: As a cyclist, it’s important to maintain a straight line and signal your intentions clearly when turning or changing lanes. In addition to this, it’s important to avoid sudden movements and ensure that you do not weave in and out of traffic. ● Obey Traffic Signals: Generally speaking, cyclists are subject to the same traffic laws as motorists. As a result, it’s important to follow all signals, adhere to all stop signs, and follow all rightof-way rules to help prevent collisions. ● Be Visible At All Times: It’s very important to ride where drivers can see you, especially at intersections. In addition to being visible, we strongly recommend making eye contact before proceeding at an intersection. ● When Possible Always Use a Bike Lane: Simply put, bike lanes are meant to be used. If there is a bike lane, avoid driving on the

roads and be on the lookout for pedestrians cutting across the bike lane. ● Be Aware: This may sound like common sense, but when you’re biking it’s important to scan the road for potential hazards and anticipate the moves of other people on the road.

Acting as stewards of proper road safety, cyclists can play a vital role in reducing the risk of accidents and fostering a harmonious coexistence with drivers. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, it’s important to speak with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. Contact Canada’s largest personal injury law firm today at 1-800-567-HURT.

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HOMES

Scott McGillivray on the Goldilocks renovation rules It’s home reno season, and whether you’re planning to sell in the next few years or you’re just looking to add some value to your property, renovation expert Scott McGillivray has got you covered.

How do you make sure to invest enough in renovations to increase value without overshooting?

It’s really about what are the value-adds that are going to maintain the equity in your home, and what are things that might not be worth spending money on.

If you’re going to be living in your house or your cottage for less than five years, you should be considering all of your renovations as value-adds because you’re going to go sell it. Those are things that should stand the test of time and should be fairly personality agnostic — you want to appeal to the most people, keeping things in the neutral palettes. If you’re going to be there for 10 years or more, you not only want your return on in-

secondary suites, they’re allowing fourplexes. Those properties are in massive demand because they’ve got income potential. It becomes a home and an investment for people. So the biggest trend when it comes to value-adds right now is laneway houses and apartments.

As much as that’s probably not what you’re dreaming about when you’re thinking of doing some renovations, with the ongoing housing crisis, that will just give you a massive return on inScott McGillivray says tech is a big renovation topic right now vestment. vestment, but you also want to think about your return on lifestyle. These are the choices that you make such as: “I want this specific wallpaper and I want this wild pattern on my floor.” You may not, in the long term, get your money back on those items when you go to sell, but if it’s going to improve your life and you’re there for several years, then you have to consider that lifestyle return as well.

What renovations are going to give you the most bang for your buck?

There are some that are obvious — kitchen upgrades, bathroom upgrades, painting, updating fixtures and flooring, those are all popular. But right now, in most major cities across Canada, the number one way to add true value to your home is by adding a second unit. Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, Ottawa, they’re allowing

What are the most popular renovation trends you’ve seen over the past year or two?

Integrated technology is definitely the first thing that people are talking about. That is not just home automation, but it’s smart home and even AI technology being integrated into homes. That could be security cameras with trip wires and notifications or remote access door locks and door hardware and thermostats, alarm systems. It’s

quite the topic in the renovation sphere.

Why do you think that may be?

I think people just want that sense of security that comes with it, when you’re not there, especially with the increase in car thefts and break-ins. I just did some of those security renovations to my own home! It’s something you want to consider, when you’re doing the renovation, because, when we talk about value-added renovations to your home, home security and efficiency are always in the top five.

How has the increase in car thefts impacted home and reno trends?

If you’ve got somewhere you can store your vehicle inside, it significantly reduces the chances of it being stolen. A house with a garage, if you can afford it, is a big perk. And if you’re building new, you’re definitely going to want to consider a garage space.

36

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FEATURE

FOOD

Long live the King of College Grant van Gameren brought Bar Isabel, Bar Raval and Michelin-starred Quetzal to Little Italy. Now Martine's joins the scene

By Ben Kaplan

SECTION

Clockwise from left: Grant van Gameren, handmade garganelli, Martine’s interior

unusual times and though everyone was affected, few businesses dissolved overnight like restaurants, and Grant van Gameren owned or co-owned nearly a dozen of them (and a catering company too). Talented, irascible, famous, the 42-year-old dad says he’s opening Martine’s in the old Woodlot space on Palmerston because he believes dining in Toronto could use a course correction.

“I’m old. I’ve done this dozens of times, but food has become so complicated over the years — this is the opposite,” says van Gameren, who opened Martine’s in the building he also rents for Bar Raval, has chef Luke Haines in charge of both kitchens and his partner, Hailey Burke, managing both rooms.

“Luke is chef de cuisine at Bar Raval and extremely talented, but I told him, ‘If I give you an ingredient and it takes you more than three minutes to come up with a dish, you’re probably overthinking it,” says van Gameren, who grows the vegetables for Martine’s at his home garden in Prince Edward County, sometimes going from ground to plate in a day. “From the Black Hoof to everything I’ve done, food is only one part of what we’re selling. The experience has

to be awesome, and if we get accolades like a Best New Restaurants’ list or a Michelin star, amazing — but it ain’t paying our bills.”

Oyster mushrooms with razor clams and wild leeks is the Martine’s dish that has tongues wagging. And the after-party for Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants, “reminded me of the Black Hoof days,” says van Gameren. When chefs crowded into his tight new space, it was an affirmation that Toronto’s original cooking influencer still has support from inside the biz.

“It’s never been about the money. It’s about: what do we want to do? We can make economical sense of it later,” van Gameren says.

We sampled his branzino, tuna butter with turnip and radishes and skate wing in an amatriciana sauce that was tangy, crisp, simple and sweet.

“What’s important is that we’re doing food that we like and understand and can evolve frequently so people will come back and, because of it, keep us in business.”

Martine’s is located off College Street, and gives off cool in-theknow speakeasy vibes. (When we visited, the owners of Ardo occu-

pied the adjoining bar stools.)

With a kitchen occupying 30 per cent of the dining room, a small submerged bar opposite the wood-burning stove and an upstairs area seating 16 beneath a skylight, Martine’s is a tucked away Little Italy snack bar — a place to add to the half block confection backstopped by DaiLo and Bar Raval.

“Chefs have been raving recently about our oyster mushrooms with clams, and that’s the beauty of cooking simply — it tastes good and doesn’t have any pretension,” van Gameren says.

“It’s been awhile since I’ve been in the kitchen. My family misses me and I won’t be in there forever, but I see myself doing more cooking over the next little while.”

The other night, after a few glasses of sparkling Italian red, we perched at the bar, watching over the heads of diners — many standing, just like at Bar Raval — while van Gameren did his thing.

It’s been lots of long hard years since the Black Hoof helped transform dining in Toronto, and van Gameren has carried each win and loss like the tattoos covering his arms. Before leaving, I told the star chef to enjoy his journey.

“Absolutely,” he says, with a grin.

3 MUST-TRY GRANT VAN GAMEREN DISHES

A Bar Isabel favourite

BASQUE CAKE Dive into Bar Isabel's crowd-favourite Basque cake, topped with a sherry cream sauce.

PECHUGA DE PATO At Quetzal, experience the mastery of dry-aged duck breast seared to perfection on the grill before undergoing a meticulous cooking process.

MUSHROOM TOWER Elevated to urban legend status, feast on the city's apex from Bar Raval: shrimp first, followed by mushroom, there's no one way to devour the mushroom tower.

| JUNE 2024

Grant van Gameren is shaving pecorino cheese on dishes and working the line, tattoos sticking out from his black T-shirt like a rock ’n’ roll star superimposed in a kitchen. He’s wearing a black baseball cap and apron, and while he pumps out crudites and fish, the restaurateur as responsible as anyone for elevated hipster dining in Toronto reveals a new flourish — a grin.

“COVID was hard for me, man. Laying off 400 staff, fighting with landlords, selling my house in Toronto. To be honest, coming back has taken years,” says van Gameren, whose 11 revenue streams include luminary hot spots Bar Raval, Bar Isabel, Quetzal and El Rey, three Harry’s locations and an Airbnb on his vegetable farm in Prince Edward County.

Alongside Jen Agg, van Gameren was responsible for launching the Black Hoof on Dundas Street in 2008, and his roller-coaster ride through commerce and cooking has produced some of the city’s best bites, biggest fallouts and legendary nights on the town. You don’t need to watch The Bear to know the restaurant business is dicey — big egos, huge overhead, tight margins, and that’s during usual times. The pandemic was

39

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41

FOOD TASTE TEST

THE GREAT FATHER’S DAY STEAK-OUT If you're looking to make Father’s Day a sizzling success, skip the run-of-the-mill and head to your local butcher shop for some prime inspiration. With Anthony Rose firing up the grill, we're about to settle the score on which ribeye reigns supreme. Let the meaty showdown begin!

ANTHONY’S BBQ TIPS

2nd

Up your BBQ game and master the tongs like a pro!

Cumbrae’s “This is juicy, slightly fatty and has a delicious charred taste. Flavour-wise, it's really nice.”

714 Queen St. W., $37.99/14–16 oz.

1st

WHERE’S THE BEEF?

Fire it up: High heat gives killer grill marks and amps up the taste.

Spice it up: Season both meat and grill for an explosion of flavour.

Sanagan’s Meat Locker “This is incredibly tender, with a fantastic distribution of fat that enhances its rich, beefy steak flavour.”

176 Baldwin St., $40.99/lb.

3rd

MAKE NO MIS-STEAK Côte de Boeuf

“I'm loving the thickness of this cut, and despite that, it's still wonderfully lean.” 130 Ossington Ave., $39/lb.

5th

HOLY COW The Butcher’s Son

4th

“Fantastic marbling!

The umami is spot on, cooked to perfection (you can thank me later!), and the meat's leanness really stands out.”

2055 Yonge St., $34.99/14 oz.

GOT THE MOOVES Grace Meat Market

“This is incredibly tender and smoky. It practically melts in your mouth.”

644 College St., $21.75/12 oz.

Don’t play with your food: A good sear will help seal in the juices.

6th

STEAKS ARE HIGH Olliffe

Heighten your senses: Place the meat on an elevated rack for even resting.

“It's pretty lean with minimal marbling. The steak's flavour is good, but I think it could use a bit more fat to really enhance it.”

1097A Yonge St., $39.49/14 oz.

7th

UDDERLY DELICIOUS Nortown Foods

“It's excellent — tender, juicy, and that sear is just perfect.”

1 Promenade Cir., Thornhill, $33.99/lb

| JUNE 2024

Let the meat do a warm-up: It'll stay juicier if it's at room temp.

A RARE TREAT

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43

FOOD

Queen West gelato comes to Yonge & Eg

L-R: Chef Takuya Matsuda and his team; one of the 20 courses guests can expect

Yorkville’s omakase war heats up Yorkville boasts renowned omakase eateries like Sushi Masaki Saito, Aburi Hana and MSSM. Recently opened, Okeya Kyujiro has already earned glowing reviews in just a few weeks.

The Michelin-starred restaurant, which currently has locations in Vancouver and Montreal, offers a theatrical experience along with the finest and freshest ingredients sourced from Japan.

Open on Bellair Street in Yorkville, this restaurant stands out among the plethora of omakase or "chef 's choice" eateries in Toronto. What sets it apart is its aim to transport diners to Japan with its immersive dining concept, promising an authentic Japanese culinary journey.

From the moment guests are greeted with rising curtains and a warm welcome to the final notes of a tea ceremony ac-

companied by dramatic music, every aspect of the experience captivates.

Chef Takuya Matsuda, from Mie Prefecture, Japan, brings 25 years of culinary expertise to Okeya Kyujiro, ensuring topnotch quality by sourcing the finest fish from Japan and around the world.

Though there’s no menu posted online, based on the Montreal and Vancouver locations, guests can expect approximately 20 courses, predominantly featuring sushi.

The experience also includes dessert and a tea ceremony, lasting around one and a half hours.

Highlights include crab chawanmushi, crispy tempura sandbar fish, spicy firefly squid on a bamboo skewer and two different Japanese uni petals served with seaweed jam.

From the Michelin Guide's “Point of

View,” the Vancouver location promises an intriguing evening ahead: “Hosts dressed in stunning traditional clothing guide you to a dark room, lit only by the faintest glow from votive candles. A black curtain is raised ceremoniously only when the clock strikes the precise minute of your seating.”

The Guide goes on to say that the omakase experience immediately stands out as anything but typical thanks to the restaurants use of premium, hyper-seasonal fish and the demonstration of traditional Japanese bamboo leaf carving (sasagiri).

Reservations are now open on OpenTable for two seating times, 5:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m., and priced at $300 per person.

Okeya Kyujiro is located at 26 Bellair St., second floor.

—Jennifer Schembri

Nothing screams summer like devouring sweet, frosty ice cream on a scorching day. And now, residents of Yonge and Eglinton can savour the pleasure of indulging in the award-winning Mizzica Gelateria & Cafe right in their ’hood.

Paolo Di Lallo and Denise Pisani, the owners, launched their first location on Queen West in 2021, and it was an instant hit — lines all day, every day. Perhaps it's Di Lallo's passion for crafting gelato from scratch that draws the crowds. And, of course, the delicious flavours keep them coming back for more. Their gelato menu changes weekly, featuring unique ingredients sourced from Italy.

Promising more seating than the Queen West spot, along with ample parking, the owners assure that the menu at the new location will remain unchanged — except for one small twist: "No drip coffee — there’s a Tim Horton’s next door!"

Bringing an authentic taste of Italy to Toronto, expect their same creamy, light gelato in fanfavourite flavours like cassata Siciliana, hazelnut nocciola, limone and stracciatella.

On the menu, discover other Italian goodies, including housemade cannoli, cassata, cakes, cookies and more.

Mizzica’s new shop is located at 2375 Yonge St. —JS

Toronto is getting another Italian upgrade with the opening of Eataly’s third location at CF Shops at Don Mills, 1090 Don Mills Rd., on May 30. This expansion makes Toronto the only city in North America with three Eataly locations.

Since its debut on Bloor Street in 2019, Eataly has become a beloved destination for Torontonians seeking authentic Italian groceries, grab-and-go meals and luxurious dining experiences. The recent opening of Eataly Sherway Gardens in November 2023 only added to the city's excitement, with eager foodies lining up to get a taste.

Now, the Don Mills neighbourhood gets to experience the Eataly magic in a sprawling 10,000-square-foot space, featuring a dinein restaurant, café and various food counters offering pizza,

sandwiches and baked goods. This new location is also packed with both local and Italian specialties, from pasta and bread to cured meats and sweets — perfect for any home-cooking adventure.

At the heart of Eataly Don Mills is a 180-seat restaurant offering indoor and patio dining. The menu is a love letter to Italian cuisine, featuring classics like tagliatelle alla bolognese and rigatoni all’amatriciana, authentic pizza Napoletana and premium seafood dishes.

The wine list boasts over 85 selections from across Italy.

Eataly’s CEO of North America, Tommaso Brusò, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion: “Toronto has embraced us from the very beginning, and with the opening of two stores in less than a year, we are committed to serving new audiences here and pro—JS viding a taste of the authentic Italian lifestyle.”

| JUNE 2024

Eataly says buon giorno to Bayview

The gelato is creamy and light 43

44

FOOD

$19 multi-course dining comes to Queen West

From top: Il Postino; Chop Steakhouse & Bar

Five 905 patios as good as anything downtown From charming sidewalk patios to sprawling restaurant terraces, the GTA boasts an array of alfresco dining options that promise to elevate your summer dining experience to new heights.

Il Postino

On OpenTable's list of Canada’s 100 best restaurants for outdoor dining year in and year out, this cosy Italian spot in a converted house in Unionville is a standout. Even Vancouver-born actor Ryan Reynolds has dined here, splitting a variety of house-made dishes with friends. The restaurant offers modern takes on Italian classics, which are best enjoyed on the versatile patio, complete with a canopy and twinkling lights.

186 Main St., Unionville

this Greek spot will have you feeling like you’ve jetted off to Europe. With ingredients sourced from Greece, the menu is packed with homemade dips, classic mains and, of course, all of that delicious seafood. Though you’d be happy to nosh in the dining room with its relaxed, Greek garden vibe, there's plenty of wiggle room on the recently renovated sunny and spacious patio, and there are heaters for when there’s a chill in the air.

288 John St., Markham Chop Steakhouse & Bar

Celebrated meat denizen Chop Steakhouse & Bar is a neighbourhood hot spot, thanks to its mouth-watering steaks and spacious patio.In the evenings, take in the romantic vibe of the outdoor setup, where you can dine beneath a sprawling pergola adorned with twinkling lights.

Santorini Estiatorio The gardens and sleek, upscale elegance of 41 Colossus Dr., Woodbridge

Locale

This Italian gem is tucked into a charming more than 150-year-old building at the four corners of King City. With two dining floors and a seasonal patio, it’s the perfect escape from the city grind. Expect rustic, seasonal dishes that pack a flavourful punch, making it a go-to spot for a cosy, memorable meal.

12981 Keele St., King City Terra Restaurant

This Italian hot spot in Thornhill is a true gem, where indulgent dining meets starlit elegance on Terra’s white-tablecloth patio.The Italian menu boasts plenty of dishes perfect for sharing, from wild mushroom risotto to Australian rack of lamb and the deluxe seafood platter. Since ‘95, Terra has conquered the culinary scene, not just in northern Toronto but citywide. 8199 Yonge —Jennifer Schembri St., Thornhill

Amid Queen Street West's vibrant food and shopping scene, a new family-owned eatery is offering fantastic fare at shockingly affordable prices.

Ngogo Restaurant serves up a multi-course tasting menu brimming with delicious French-inspired dishes for just $36 a person.

Chef and owner Bob Park, whose impressive resumé includes stints at acclaimed Toronto spots like the now-defunct Globe Bistro, keeps it fresh with a monthly changing prix-fixe menu, plus an à la carte option for specific cravings. The prix fixe offers three choices in each category — appetizer, entree and dessert — catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians.

The menu boasts Asian cuisine prepared with French finesse, yielding mouth-watering, Instagram-worthy dishes that excel in both flavour and presentation.

Think Hokkaido scallops, tagliatelle, a daily sorbet and more.

Those seeking a grander experience can opt for the $74, fivecourse menu. À la carte options include beef tartare, parmesan frites, red snapper strip loin, risotto and surf and turf, ranging in price from $19 to $39.

Ngogo is located at 646 Queen St. W. and is open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends.

—Erica Commisso

Hands off this Little Italy BBQ spot

| JUNE 2024

Takja means “table,” and though Little Italy may seem like an unexpected place for a Korean BBQ house, the idea of gathering around a meal to create memories is a perfect fit for the area. And that’s exactly what Takja BBQ House, College Street’s newest restaurant, brings.

On the menu, decadent meats meet stacked seafood towers with fermented sauces, and cold noodles and stews provide a hearty punch to round out the food selection.

At Takja, patrons need not concern themselves with tgrilling their own meats, a departure from the norm at other Korean barbecue establishments. Here, the responsibility of expertly cooking meats falls on the capable shoulders of the waitstaff. by adding B.C. uni or caviar 44 Upgrade your appetizer experience

to any dish for an extra charge. Indulge in seafood pancakes, cocktail shrimp or oysters paired with banchan-like egg souffle and scallion salad.

For those indecisive diners, Takja offers a Hansang option, meaning “a table full of food,” priced at $125 per person. Along with toptier selections, like A5 wagyu rib-eye and kanpachi from New Zealand, it includes the signature dessert found on the à la carte menu: sweet potato bingsoo, complemented with caramel and pound cake.

With its location, Takja has a clever advantage: The west end restaurant is connected to the sushi spot Oroshi Fish Co., owned by the same proprietors. seafood-focused dishes.

—EC TakjaBBQ House is located at 962 College St.

Pan-seared shrimp

45

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FOOD

MasterChef stars to open new eatery

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L-R: Bridgette Bar’s eggplant fries; Jr. Stargazer cocktail

Calgary spot for celeb spotting opens in T.O. Bridgette Bar, voted as one of the best restaurants in Calgary, just opened at the Well. This chef-driven bar-restaurant hybrid blends premium eats with cool midcentury vibes.

At Lulu's sister restaurant, expect exposed brick, wood beams and split-level layouts, all jazzed up with a Scandinavian fireplace, long banquettes and plants in macramé hangers. Whether you're in for a chill lunch or a lively evening with cocktails and wine, Bridgette Bar sets the scene perfectly.

The menu at Bridgette Bar keeps it fresh and exciting. Small plates, like oysters, crab toast and grilled octopus, kick things off, and large plates showcase wood-grilled beef strip steak and farm

chicken. Veggie lovers aren't left out — think roasted carrots with tahini and chili heat or eggplant fries with garlic aïoli.

The team certainly worked to ensure they were sourcing from Ontario/Toronto businesses in terms of the food and beverage. Examples include various lettuces from Clearwater Farms, King Cole ducks from Ontario, plenty of beer from local breweries, etc. The head chef is also participating in an event called Farms for Change on June 15 in partnership with 100km Foods and the New Farm.

There are also a number of delicious pasta dishes, from Italian pork sausage and rigatoni to shrimp and calamari to a lamb ragu tagliatelle with snow peas, ramps, Calabrian chili and pecorino.

But it’s not just about the food. Bridgette Bar's cocktail and wine lists are a dream for enthusiasts. Expect classics with a twist and innovative drinks featuring ingredients like chili-infused tequila and champagne vinegar. Plus a solid selection of local beers and sakes are sure to keep everyone happy.

Amanda Jansen from Concorde Entertainment Group sums it up: “Our culinary team has put together an incredible lineup of dishes that brings new twists to old favourites, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to experience our menu!”

Bridgette Bar is located inside the Well at 423 Wellington St. W. —Jennifer Schembri

Popular Matty Matheson restaurant closes Fonda Balam, the Mexican restaurant that has been a fixture in Trinity Bellwoods for the last three years, will soon be closing its doors.

Brought to life by partner's in business and life Kate Chomyshyn and Julio Guajardo in partnership with celebrity chef Matty Matheson, the concept evolved through their friendship and shared love for authentic Mexican food.

The couple took to Instagram to share the news.

"To everyone who shared a meal, laughter, and love with us at Fonda, thank you. It has been a truly special place, and we are grateful for the memories we've shared. We are forever thankful for your unconditional support and love."

In the Toronto food scene, Chomyshyn and Guajardo are con-

sidered royalty. They’ve been behind some of the city’s best Mexican restaurants, including Quetzal, Rosalinda and the pop-up Birria Balam. The inspiration for Fonda Balam came from their many trips to Guajardo’s native León, Guanajuato, and throughout Mexico. The couple explored regional ingredients and cooking traditions, aiming to bring those authentic flavours to Toronto.

But before you cry into your cerveza, the couple announced on their K&J Cocina Instagram page that new things are on the horizon.

“Stay tuned as we plan our next move,” they captioned an Instagram post. “Thanks for all the love and support, we love you —JS all!!"

| JUNE 2024

up a im-inson.

Park, udes pots Bisthly s an ravhree ppeterand

Famed restaurateurs and MasterChef Canada TV personalities Alvin Leung and Eric Chong are opening a new restaurant called aKin at 51 Colborne St. in Toronto’s Church-Yonge corridor this summer.

Details are still scarce, but we know that the restaurant will feature Asian fine dining.

“Akin means of similar nature or character, which helps describe the food, as it will have elements that are similar to what the dish is inspired by but modernized in our own way,” the restaurant’s new Instagram page notes.

Leung and Chong first met on the set of the popular CTV cooking show MasterChef Canada a decade ago, where Leung was a judge and Chong was crowned the first-ever winner of the series.

Leung, who holds two Michelin stars at his restaurant Bo Innovation and one Michelin star at Bo London, became Chong's mentor in the industry. A year later, in 2015, the two teamed up and opened R&D restaurant at Spadina and Dundas.

The restaurant is listed on the 2023 Michelin Guide Toronto Bib Gourmand restaurants, which is a recognition awarded to restaurants with good-value cooking.

So with two master chefs at the helm of aKin, it's possible this restaurant will be listed in the Michelin Guide 2024 one day as well.

—Nisean Lorde

L-R: Chomyshyn and Guajardo 45

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Garages rebuilt at substantial savings over replacement (single/double)

t No Permit Required t No Tax Reassessment t No Set Back Issues Just a nice garage at a fraction of the cost of replacement Of course we also do General Home Renovations

&ULLY )NSURED ,IC 4

ROOF REPAIR EXPERTS ROOF REPAIR

Call Peter:

416-554-3517

Bathtub Caulking

MINOR/MAJOR LEAKS RACCOON PROBLEMS SQUIRREL & BIRD PROBLEMS

Repairs to Leaky Skylights New Installations High Quality Workmanship & Excellence Free Estimates • Licensed Seniors’ Discount

FREE ESTIMATES NO JOB TOO SMALL SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT LICENSED

416 820 3852

AYLEN ART ROOFING INC.

Quality Workmanship Guaranteed

5” Seamless Eavestrough Soffit / Fascia & Siding Free Estimates Seniors’ Discount Licensed

416-820-3852

Shower & Bath Clean & Grout Tile Repairs Sealing & Caulking Bathroom Remodeling

416-826-0574

WILDLIFE EXPERTS

Eavestroughing & Siding Experts

Squirrels Raccoons Free Estimate All Work Guaranteed

Licensed & WSIB Insured

30 Years’ Experience

Call Fred

COMPETENT RELIABLE SERVICE

Multifaceted Tradesman 25 Years Experience Complete Building Envelope Residential & Commercial Innovative, Quality Work, Competitive Prices Customer Satisfaction is Paramount!

Call: GREGORY

416-409-4503

EAVES & DOWNSPOUT REPAIR

416-820-3852 Dorith Cooper Ph.D, A.R.C.T

416-819-8888

MISSING SHINGLES

SPANISH Lawrence Park Piano Studio

YONGE / EGLINTON

ROOF MAINTENANCE

MUSIC LESSONS

Have fun learning Spanish with Nelly, Duolingo & former Spanish Centre Instructor

• Renovation • Repair • Electrical • Plumbing • Carpentry • Drywall • Demolition • Painting • Gardening • Disposal • Decks and Fences

Renovations and Repairs

Birds sProfessionally Repaired sRoof Repairs Free Estimates s Licensed Seniors Discount

647-522-2030 416-248-0211

A/C Services

Heating & C Heating Cooling o mmerrccial sidential

TSSA Licensed ed * Air Conditioners * Furnace * Boilers and Radiators * Hot Water Tanks * Commercial Roof Top Units

10% Se Seniors Di Discco ount

David: 416-830-6492

PROFESSIONAL

ROOF REPAIRS • Roof Repairs • Roof Maintenance • Missing Shingles • Major/Minor Leaks • Eaves and Downspout Repair • Raccoon Problems • Squirrel and Bird Problems

416-248-0211

Handy Man t RenovaUJPO Repair t PainUJOH Drywall t PMVNCJOH &MFctrical t LO8 RA5&4 t 4enior’T EJTcount

CBMM %aWJE

416-830-6492

LICENSED Electrical Contractor t PBOFM 4ervice 6QgrBEFT t PPPMT BOE )PU UVCT t Troubleshooting t AppliancFT )PPL 6Q

'3&& &45*MA5&4 4JMvFSIJMM &MFcUSJD 4ervice &4" &$R"

| JUNE 2024

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CLE Experi hard-w maidfo Tanya

IT'S All ki you clean,

| JUNE 2024

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A Woman's Touch Landscape Design Spring Cleanup & Landscape Design.

Overgrown, Out of Control Gardens!

SHINY CLEAN HOUSE

APPLIANCES REPAIRS

An Experienced European cleaning lady will keep your house clean.

Our company is fully Insured & Bonded.

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Call Inna or Inga,

416-929-5777

www.shinycleanhouse.ca.

Awtl.ca or call 416-427-3367 Beaches & Midtown Toronto

PET SERVICES

Hendrik

Adventure Paws Dog Walking

Tree Service ISA Certified

TREE REMOVAL Tree Trimming DEEP ROOT FERTILIZING

services

647-238-2661

Over 28 years experience.

Repairs of all brands of refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, dishwashers, dryers, washers, heating and air conditioners.

416-266-6122.

FASHION & BEAUTY

IT'S TWINKLE TIME FOR YOU! All kinds of Cleaning Services. If you want your areas to be shiny clean, then call me, 647-867-6144 www.twinkletime.ca praimroze@yahoo.com.

Tibor: 647-866-5040

SENIOR SERVICES

Professional & Courteous 30 Years Experience Call David

416-231-9948

647-957-6997 -6997 ext. 201

Heavenly Placements

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HEALTH PROGRAMS

Call: 519-853-2157

1-800-947-0393

FOR SALE/WANTED

WANTED A Collector Trying To Recreate An Old Time General Store is looking for items found in a General Store before 1960. Eg. Tea tins, tobacco tins, post cards, bottles, magazines, old paper items, comic books, signs, toys, advertising, old store stock, etc.

CASH PAID 416-745-4981 or 416-953-6219

Yoga Classes LIVE on ZOOM A $20 membership gives you access to 7 LIVE yoga classes weekly, plus taped classes on YouTube. Be part of it.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

WANTED & Asian wares � Bronze � Paintings � Old jewellery, watches, coins & medals � Military items � Teak Furniture � Fancy cups & saucers

t 13 $BSET t 8PSL 1FSNJUT t $JUJ[FOTIJQ t 4UVEFOU 7JTB t 7JTJUPST 7JTB $BOBEB 6TB 6, t (SBOEQBSFOUT BOE 4VQFS 7JTB t 'BNJMZ BOE PS 4QPVTBM 4QPOTPSTIJQ t 1FSNBOFOU 3FTJEFODF t 1/1 t &YQSFTT Q &OUSZZ t #VTJOFTT $MBBTT t #VTJOFTT 3FHJTUSBUJPO

t ."$*/504) t ."3"/5; t '*4)&3 t 5"/0: t )"..0/% 03("/4 t 3&$03% $0--&$5*0/4

ART & DESIGN

� Quality antiques � Sterling, Silver Plate � Chinese, Japanese,

GENERAL SERVICES

EMAIL TCW1068@GMAIL.COM TEXT OR CALL 647-637-4341

@adventure.paws.walking

Life gets better when you find the right stylist...

POSH

Commissioner C i i of Taking Oaths & Affffidavits

CLEANING LADY AVAILABLE Experienced, insured, honest and hard-working. Attention to detail. maidforyoutorontoltd.com. Call Tanya at 416-897-6782.

• Gold • Silver • Coins • Porcelain • Figurines • Paintings • Bronze • Watches • Jewellery • China • Instruments

Immigration Pl Inc Plus I

CLEANING

Old Tube Hi Fi Components and Speakers. 40 Years or Older.

PAID

HAIR TO THE THRONE

647-242-9757

LOOKING FOR

TOP CASH

Serving the Midtown, East York/Leaside & Central Areas of Toronto

Group Dog Walks & Boarding Cat & Small Animal Visits Over 7 years of Experience

COLLECTOR

UPHOLSTERY REPAIR

MARCANTONIO

FURNITURE

Restoration & Repair Restoration of antique & modern furniture.

In-home touch-ups of dining room sets, bedroom sets & kitchen cupboards.

Gluing & general repairs.

35 years’ experience

416-654-0518

WANTED! FINE ART &

ANTIQUES Chinese, Japanese & Asian - Porcelain, Jade, Bronze etc.

Canadian Art & Fine Paintings Sterling Silver, Jewellery

POST CITY MAGAZINES

NEXT ISSUE

call Andrew Plum

DEADLINE

416-669-1716

June 18

English Gentleman Buyer

plumsfineart.com

harmonyupholstery.ca

416-250-7979 x270 classifieds@postcity.com

| JUNE 2024

LANDSCAPING

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LOOKING BACK

Before you go... we highlight Toronto Pride, running June 1-30, and its trailblazing history!

JUNE 2024 EDITION

| JUNE 2024

The evolution of the Toronto Pride from a bucolic island gathering in 1981, to protest the Toronto bathhouse raids, to a breathtaking celebration of diversity, equality and love, symbolizing the enduring power of the LGBTQ+ movement.

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In the 1980s, the AIDS Crisis took centrestage at Toronto’s Pride festivities as people witnessed the relentless struggle for recognition and change, shaping groundbreaking initiatives and igniting hope.

Gay fathers proudly march in 1991, banner boldly proclaiming ‘closets are for kids’ toys,’ challenging stereotypes and inspiring a generation with their powerful message of love and acceptance.

Pride Parade and politics: Activism combines with celebration as anti-war protests of Queer Nation in 1991 usher in a new wave of gay activists that continues to this day with groups such as Black Lives Matters.

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