Annex Post December 2022

ANTHONY ROSE SAMPLES HOLIDAY HORS D’OEUVRES + JOANNE KATES BITES INTO MICHELIN STAR

SARAH NURSE

OLIVERJEWELLERY.CA

THE DANCE QUEEN & THEATRE KING Ross Petty and Karen Kain on their immediate spark and iconic careers

’TIS THE SKI-SON Own a weekend retreat to relish the best in winter sports Ontario has to offer

HOLIDAY APP-STRAVAGANZA

Michelin-recognized chef Anthony Rose samples the best hors d'oeuvres

Jeanne Beker has selected the city’s best

©George Pimentel Photography

©George Pimentel Photography

21 questions with Heather Reisman

Canada’s grand dame of books is being honoured with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame this month. We check in with the Indigo founder about her latest accomplishment, her philanthropic efforts and her business and books mantra.

What books do you most often find yourself recommending? It depends on who's asking.

If I wanted a book to understand the ethical side of AI, what would you recommend? That's a good question. Maybe a book called The Shallows [What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains].

Who is your favourite fictional character? Jo from Little Women

What book have you read the most times? I would say a poetry book of Leonard Cohen’s for sure — Book of Longing. I love that book. I've read the poems so many times.

What is your most important daily ritual? My Wordle. My second one is that I do a 14minute meditation in the morning.

Were you surprised to hear? Well, not this year, because I had been approached before. So it wasn't a complete surprise this year. But still, it's still pretty meaningful.

What living person do you most admire? My husband.

Who would you most like to hang out with? I have to pick two: Drake and The Weeknd.

The jersey number of the late, great Toronto Maple Leafs legend Borje Salming who passed away last month.

The day in November when Toronto music icon Drake was the subject of a lawsuit over his fake Vogue cover.

The weight, in kilograms, of a meteorite that crashed in Ontario last month between Toronto and Hamilton.

What does this honour mean to you?

I'm touched. I'm deeply humbled. Being a private person, I'm always a bit ambivalent, but I'm going with the flow.

What is your business mantra?

To do something I truly believe in is at the core. I have to believe in it myself and to be in a business where, in addition to it being financially effective, I really feel we're doing something of value. And I've always felt that about Indigo. Books have always been the core of our business, and they always will be. And I just believe that books and reading are so fundamental to the human endeavour.

Philanthropy is one of your personal pillars. Where does that generosity come from?

I've always derived great joy from being able to give back. And so it's really a win-win. I think we are making a difference for other people. And I've always derived great joy from that.

Why did you decide on U of T as one of the focuses?

One, when we were initially approached with

the idea of in some way contributing to the creation of the two big buildings that will be the Innovation Centre, we were hugely taken with the ambition of the project. Not just the beauty of the design, but the notion of anchoring in Toronto the advances we've made in the areas of artificial intelligence. And the second part is that we were pleased to have an opportunity to do something that supported and advanced the work in particular of Geoff Hinton, who is the father of AI, and it's great for Canada to be able to claim him and a few others as being so significant in what is the fundamental technology of the 21st century.

So instead of just progress without boundaries more the ethical side? Exactly. It's not technology for technology's sake. At the moment, I think technology is galloping ahead a bit. We need to harness it for the better of humankind. That was a big motivation. The opportunity to support that.

What would you like your legacy to be? Family with good values that continue to include making the world a little better place — that's at the very core — and just to be perceived as a good human being.

What item do you have multiple versions of? My lululemon leggings.

What is the worst piece of career advice you’ve ever received? The worst piece of advice I ever received, and I will leave nameless who gave it to me, was ‘you're nuts to think of starting Indigo?’

What is your prized possession? I have a first edition, very first edition, of The Diary of Anne Frank

What talent would you most like to have? To sing.

Where do you go to get away from it all? The beach in Malibu.

What is your greatest fear? I think my greatest fear would be losing my cognitive ability.

What is your idea of perfect happiness? A three-week vacation with all of my children and grandchildren and no cellphones.

—Ron Johnson

The seating capacity of a new soccer stadium slated to be built in Rexdale in time for the 2026 World Cup.

The point differential when the Toronto Argonauts won the Grey Cup last month, beating Winnipeg 24–23.

Indigo founder Heather Reisman

© Joy von Tiedemann

Development threatens the vibrancy of Mink Mile

As a contentious proposal for a 79-storey residential highrise in Yorkville heads for an appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT), the local business community maintains that the towering development falls short of what’s expected for a world-class shopping district.

“We feel that the retail space is very significant and it needs to [be] treated as such. It should not be an afterthought,” said Briar de Lange, executive director of the Bloor-Yorkville BIA.

Real estate developer Parallax proposed replacing several low-rise mixed-use commercial buildings — stretching west from 83 to 95A Bloor Street W. — with a 271-metre-tall tower encompassing 1,118 residential units.

The proposal retains a portion of the Georg Jensen Store, a listed heritage building at 95A Bloor St. W. with ties to former prime minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau’s brother, Charles Elliott Trudeau. In the mid-1950s, the latter Trudeau’s architecture firm, Rother, Bland, Trudeau remodelled the building located on the southeast corner of Bloor and St. Thomas Street.

History buffs may appreciate the preservation of the heritage building’s facade. However, the BIA cites other concerns — particularly the amount and format of the 1,153 square metres of new retail space planned for the ground floor and mezzanine level of the tower.

“As much Bloor Street frontage as possible should

be retained for retail,” reads a letter the BIA sent to City of Toronto Planning staff in May.

As proposed, the entrance to the building’s residential lobby would be right in the middle of the Bloor Street frontage, eating away at prime storefront potential on a strip that has come to be known as the Mink Mile for its high concentration of luxury shops.

City staff question the development’s scale. The staff report to council advises the city to oppose the application in its current iteration at the future OLT

hearing. Developers, the document adds, are required to create four square metres of amenity space per unit, whereas the tower, as proposed, features 2.34 square metres per unit for a total of 2,619 square metres.

Like the BIA, city staff has qualms about the proposal’s commercial components, as well:

“The applicant is required to replace the total amount of office space, as well as commercial and retail uses currently on site. Currently, the application is not providing the required replacement office gross floor area,” the report reads.

Yorkville BIA wants more retail added to 79-storey condo plan by Josh Sherman

Rendering

“We feel that the retail space is very significant and it needs to [be] treated as such.”

Summerhill building could be razed

Compromise is possible for 130-year-old historic site by Ron Johnson

The building at the northwest corner of Yonge Street and Birch Avenue tells an important story in the history of north Toronto. Now, a development company is hoping Toronto City Council approves an application to level it to make way for residential condos. City heritage staff recommend a no, but a local councillor is hopeful that a resolution can be found.

“Heritage planning staff determined that this property should be preserved, and they're recommending to council that the demolition be denied,” said Josh Matlow. “And from what I gather from planning staff who are handling this application, they believe that they're going to be receiving a resubmission from the applicant.”

In November, 2021 Woodcliffe Landmark Properties Limited applied to construct a 15-storey tower with 56 residential units on the site comprising the municipal addresses 1196–1204 and 1206–1210 Yonge St.

According to a report to city council on the demolition, the properties at 1196–1204 Yonge St. “comprise a main street commercial block building constructed in 1889. The adjacent three properties at 1206–1210 Yonge Street contain 2-storey main street commercial row buildings constructed together in 1907–1908.”

What makes the buildings special beyond the age and representation is that they were repositioned when Yonge Street was lowered to create a railway

overpass, demonstrating an understanding of the evolution of the Summerhill neighbourhood and how the streetscape evolved.

Looking closely at the southeast and southwest corners of the buildings, there is still evidence of entry doors on the second floor that were once on the ground level.

“In July 2022 council stated its intention to designate these buildings under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, which gives them the heritage protection offered by the Ontario Heritage Act,” said Anne Fisher,

“It is with great disappointment that our client found that Heritage Planning staff were not prepared to engage in meaningful and informed consultation,” the letter continues. “This was further exacerbated by public statements made during community consultation by City staff very early in the process, and prior to the City having undertaken any independent assessment.”

City staff has stated a willingness and history of working with development companies on projects that preserve some heritage value, and that could be where this site is headed.

program manager, Heritage Planning, City of Toronto. “The owners have however appealed the designation to the Ontario Lands Tribunal [OLT].”

The reason for the appeal is outlined in a letter of objection from Aird & Berlis LLP, lawyers for Landmark Properties, which indicates that their own heritage study by its consultants “concluded that the integrity of the buildings on the Site had been severely compromised and that the limited cultural value was associative in nature only.”

The letter also indicated some miscommunication between the applicant and city staff.

“There are many examples of heritage properties in Toronto that have included intensification and new development within increased density that also conserves the heritage value of the property,” said Fisher. “City planning staff try to work with developers to ensure that new development taking place allows for intensification and new housing but respects Toronto's history, culture and unique neighbourhoods.”

Matlow agreed. “If I were to look at a crystal ball to see where this is heading, it will probably end up being something quite wonderful,” he said. “Which is that many of the most important elements of the buildings will be preserved, but there'll be a redevelopment that will grow out of it.”

L-R Councillor Josh Matlow and historic Summerhill building

“It will probably end up being something quite wonderful.”

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From Inn on the Park to flatiron fantastic

A five-tower condo community is being proposed at Leslie Road and Eglinton Avenue East, near the Ontario Science Centre.

The site now holds two car dealerships and is surrounded by green space, including Sunnybrook Park and Wilket Creek Park.

The proposal submitted in September by Rowntree Enterprises, which has a background in car dealerships, calls for five towers ranging from 13 to 29 storeys, totalling 1,846 residential units.

At the northwest corner, an 18-storey tower would be atop a flatiron podium. At the south end of the development site, two towers 49 and 45 storeys tall would share a five-storey podium. At the northeast side there would be a 49-storey tower with a 14- and nine-storey stepback podium.

The shortest tower, located in a northeast offshoot, would be 13 storeys.

A 2,734-square-metre public park — about 10 per cent of the total site area — is included in the centre of the towers, and two new public roads from Eglinton and Leslie would be created that would go into the site.

The proposed complex would be just to the south of Tridel’s Auberge on the Park development, a three-tower complex currently under

construction that ranges from 45 to 29 storeys. It would also be north of the upcoming Sunnybrook Park light rail transit stop, although the completion of the LRT was recently delayed until 2023.

City of Toronto Planning staff said in a statement that the focus will be on the configuration of the new public streets, the orientation and size of the parkland and the height and the density (measured in units per acre) of the site, which is projected to be nearly five times what has been historically allowed in the area.

“[These considerations are to] ensure a pedestrian sense of scale is maintained,” said city planner Michelle Charkow.

Residents, meanwhile, are somewhat concerned about the density but admit that it could be worse.

“We think the density is a bit much and the site planning will need some tweaking, but it isn’t too bad,” said Brian Story, VP of Don Mills Residents Inc. in a statement. “A recurring theme with all recent developments is that the local community loses services (car dealership and service centre in this case) in favour of residences. A balance is needed in this regard.”

Massive new development slated for Leslie and Eglinton on Crosstown route by Eric Stober

New development features a flatiron-style building

Broker BrokerSales Representative

Sales Representative

Businesses in big time battle for parking

Midtown and North York projects getting pushback by Ron Johnson

Throughout the pandemic, public spaces that put people first were very popular, in particular places for pedestrians and new pilot bike lane projects. But that’s changing as familiar questions are being raised by multiple business associations amongst others regarding complete street makeovers on midtown’s Eglinton Avenue and Yonge Street in North York

The Korean Canadian Business Association (KCBA) in North York has teamed up with newly minted Willowdale city councillor Lily Cheng in its battle to reopen the approved and once hotly debated REimagining Yonge plan.

The Toronto City Council–endorsed plan, the approval of which dates back to Dec. 16, 2020, would see traffic lanes on Yonge Street between Florence Avenue/Avondale Avenue and the Finch Hydro Corridor reduced f rom six to four lanes. In the approved complete street makeover, the pedestrian realm would be greatly enhanced with wider sidewalks and boulevards, and improved pedestrian crossings

But what seems to really be sticking in the craw of local businesses is the inclusion of separated and safe cycling infrastructure and the perception that it is bad for business.

Cheng said that, when the plan was originally proposed, some local businesses didn't feel included as a result of language barriers and other issues. She said that she hopes to correct this by proposing REimagining Yonge as

a pilot project, study the data and arrive at a plan that the local community can get behind.

"I don't want to cancel REimagining Yonge because we do want that beautification investment enlarging our sidewalks. But do we inc lude parking? Because right now, the design does not include street parking," said Cheng. "And I know, for instance on the Danforth for their bike lanes, they have still maintained some parking for local businesses. We need data."

In midtown,

Eglinton from Mount Pleasant to Oakland,” said Maureen Sirois, of the Eglinton Way BIA.

“Now, I don't know if it's on the south side. I don't know if it's on the north side. I don't know if it's alternating. But the plan is to eliminate one side of the parking along that entire swath. And it's the biggest, deepest, darkest secret. Nobody's talking about it.”

Cycle Toronto spokesperson Maggie Crawford is OK with the idea of pilot projects as a way to separate fact from fiction. Namely, that bikes are actually good for local business. Crawford points out that the recent makeover of Danforth Avenue has been a success and is being extended further east. It started as a pilot project.

the complete street project on Eglinton Avenue is getting pushback from local BIAs representing businesses that have been suffering through a yearslong, way-past-dead line Crosstown LRT construction fiasco. Again, street parking is an issue.

But the project is unique in that Metrolinx is already constructing the cycling infrastructure that it was pegged to create under the Crosstown LRT plan, whereas the City of Toronto still seems to be figuring things out.

“They want to eliminate parking on the south side of

“It seems like she's [Cheng's] proposed a pilot project that would involve bike lanes," said Crawford. "And I think that's always a great start for a project like this because it gives people time to give feedback and it gives the city time to make potential changes. But also usually, once it's there, people realize that it's not just OK, but, actually, it's often better."

Cheng said a new process with a pilot version of REimagining Yonge and greater consultation is key And that might be helpful along Eglinton as well where businesses seem to be uninformed.

"The journey is that we pilot the bike lanes with a clear feedback loop: with businesses, the people who are car dependent as well as people using bicycles to come up with the best modified design," she said.

L-R: Lily Cheng, a rendering of the approved REimagining Yonge plan

CITYWIDE BREAK-INS

NOVEMBER 2022

WHERE WHEN TIME OF DAY

NOV. 1

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Group classes are available at specific times during the week and newcomers first class is FREE! Or try 1 week of classes for $50

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NOV. 2 NOV. 4

NOV. 8

SHEPPARD AVE. W. AND FENNELL ST.

BEECROFT RD. AND POYNTZ AVE.

YONGE ST. AND ALBERTUS AVE.

YORK MILLS RD. AND BAYVIEW AVE.

BENTWORTH AVE. AND GROTON ST.

EASTVIEW CRES. AND MASON BLVD.

MOORE AVE. AND BAYVIEW AVE.

SPADINA RD. AND LONSDALE RD.

TIME OF DAY

10 P.M. 11 P.M. 4 A.M. 2 A.M. 2 A.M. 9 A.M. 7 P.M.

NOV. 10 NOV. 11 NOV. 12

BROADWAY AVE. AND BESSBOROUGH DR. CARIBOU RD. AND SAGUENAY AVE.

ELMHURST AVE. AND SENLAC RD.

AVENUE RD. AND FAIRLAWN AVE.

EGLINTON AVE. E. AND COWBELL LN.

YONGE BLVD. AND FELBRIGG AVE.

8 P.M. 12 A.M. 3 P.M. 6 P.M. 4 A.M. 3 P.M. 5 P.M.

HIGHLAND CRES. AND BEECHWOOD AVE. 7 P.M.

HORSHAM AVE. AND ABBOTSFORD RD.

OWEN BLVD. AND FENN AVE.

NOV. 13 NOV. 16

NOV. 15 NOV. 17

422 North Rivermede Road Unit 8 In T

NOV. 19 NOV. 20

BLOOR ST. E. AND SHERBOURNE ST.

MADAWASKA AVE. AND DUMONT ST.

DUDLEY AVE. AND CHARLEMAGNE DR.

PORTFOLIO CRT. AND PINEWOOD DR.

PRINCESS AVE. AND KENNETH AVE.

MOORE AVE. AND POTTERY RD.

8 A.M. 11 A.M.

2 A.M.

SHEPPARD AVE. W. AND SENLAC RD. 3 A.M.

AVENUE RD. AND ST. CLEMENTS AVE.

MAPLEHURST AVE. AND WILLOWDALE AVE.

DAVENPORT RD. AND BEDFORD RD.

LAIRD DR. AND INDUSTRIAL ST.

YONGE ST. AND ROXBOROUGH ST. E.

ALBERTUS AVE. AND DUPLEX AVE.

YONGE ST. AND FRICHOT AVE.

GLENGROVE AVE. W. AND WESTGROVE CRES.

COPELAND ST. AND WICKSTEED AVE.

10 P.M. 11 P.M. 7 P.M. 9 A.M. 3 A.M. 8 A.M.

NOV. 22

CARTWRIGHT AVE. AND CALEDONIA RD.

ORFUS RD. AND PAUL DAVID ST.

MOOREHILL DR. AND RED OAKS CRES.

MONTRESSOR DR. AND TOBA DR.

4 A.M.

2 A.M. 4 A.M. 9 A.M. NOV. 21

12 A.M. 5 P.M.

1 A.M. 2 A.M. 3 A.M. 2 A.M. 12 A.M. 8 P.M.

With temperatures plunging below zero, biting winds ripping through layers of clothing, those experiencing homelessness in the city are at risk like no other time of year. People die. And that begs the question whether or not the city is doing enough to protect them.

According to recent Toronto Public Health (TPH) data, there's been a spike in deaths of people experiencing homelessness in the city. The report, which surveyed the deaths of homeless individuals from 2017 to 2022, indicates deaths have nearly doubled over the past few years.

In 2017, the city reported 101 deaths amongst people experiencing homelessness in the city. In 2021, that figure doubled to 221. The average deaths of those individuals on a week-to-week basis have tripled, rising from 1.9 deaths a week in 2017 to 3.5 this year.

A factor in those figures could be that people are being turned away at overburdened Toronto shelters.

Where can the city improve?

Although the City of Toronto’s Winter Services Plan notes that

Toronto shelters are currently accommodating 8,200 a night, the figure shows that numbers have been higher than ever before. Last year the figure was 1,600 less, and now shelters are closing without any alternative.

One example is 45 The Esplanade, the site of Novotel. In Feb. 2021, the city leased the space in response to the pandemic. The site has been used to create additional space for people to move indoors from encampments. It’s also slated to be closed by the end of the year.

As per a report from the city's Shelter, Support and Housing Administration, an average of 63 people per night could not be matched to a shelter in April 2022. By October, the number jumped to approximately 186.

In the previous year, those numbers were at less than half of what they were projected at in 2022 — showing that the average number of unhoused people is on the rise.

Bethelihem Lemma is a manager at Homes First Society, a homeless shelter in Toronto. She

agrees that there’s a huge demand for shelters in Toronto at the moment. But as data shows, it can be difficult to find accommodation for people. She said if a queue gets long, they send people away to another shelter location. But sometimes, they don’t get beds.

“I see that there’s a huge demand for it, and then we don’t have enough spaces to accommodate homes,” Lemma said.

Hotelling spaces, similar to 45 The Esplanade, could help keep people off the streets — if the city doesn’t close them down. Lorraine Lam, a Toronto-based community worker, said starting there is a good idea. But sometimes, the city doesn’t keep them open for long.

“They don't need to close those, keep those open," she said. "That's one practical thing they could do."

Lam also said that in order for affordable housing to be an option for those seeking it, all three levels of government must make a stride towards the issue. Affordable housing is not a priority to the mayor or the premier, according to Lam.

"They look at housing as a

commodity and not actually as a human right,” she said.

Recently, a vacant lot at 214–230 Sherbourne St. was set to be expropriated - but the city was outbid by $3 million.

Lam said that’s a number that’s “pennies” compared to other projects the city invests in. “What they prioritize is the development of luxury condos … suburban architecture and big houses.”

What is the city doing right?

In 2020, a request by the city was put in to gain provincial and federal funding support in creating 3,000 affordable housing options.The Housing and Homelessness Recovery Response Plan promised to help create those homes over the course of 24 months.

Some of those promises were reached: this past November, Mayor John Tory announced the opening of 59 modular housing units at 540 Cedarvale Ave., with support included for those experiencing homelessness — a move he said is a “key priority.”

“Investing in innovative construction methods like this Modular Housing Initiative means

that we can get more affordable, permanent, rental housing built faster and deliver it to the people who need it most,” he said in a statement.

Additionally, throughout 2021 approximately 111 supportive homes were acquired and converted from non-residential buildings. The following year, an additional 250 supportive homes were added to that roster.

The city stated in a press release that the majority of new housing will be created by the end of 2022.

Through the Rapid Rehousing Initiative, which allowed vacancies to be made available to people experiencing homelessness in Toronto, an additional 550 homes allowed the city to reach a total of 1,000 homes over two years. But better short-term solutions could also be managed if the city offers them.

Lemma said respite programs (which shelter people for a 24-hour period) could help accommodate those who are turned away.

“Maybe opening temporary respite programs could be a solution for now,” she said.

Lemma said she regularly sees the same faces from shelter to shelter. Although the number of deaths has increased from homelessness, she said many are still facing the same issues. “Covid has in some way helped to house people from the streets, but the demand is still the same,” she said.

The Winter Services Plan states that 1,000 spaces will be used to expand capacity in existing shelters, as well as in the refugee-specific system and permanent affordable rental housing homes. Toronto will spend $647 million in order to fund emergency shelter and wraparound support.

What’s next?

In 2022, deaths of shelter residents are 88 and counting. At the moment, Lam points out that the situation is “steadily worsening,” especially during a time of inflation and the cost of living rising.

“There are a lot more people now who can’t afford to live,” she said. She also said that many people who are homeless are affected by the opioid crisis, a statistic that may be reflected in how people die in shelter systems across Toronto. In 2022 alone, drug toxicity contributes to the death of 54 per cent of those who die in shelters.

“There are things we can make very quick fixes to," Lam points out. "Even social assistance, so people can afford housing; actually build housing and not just condos."

Too many unhoused are being turned away or left out in the cold: we are good at building condos; what about shelters? by Keena Al-Wahaidi

Deaths amongst Toronto's homeless have doubled in recent years. This city needs a plan now.

Clockwise from left: Central intake chart showing the rise in the number of people unmatched to a shelter, community worker Lorraine Lam, and Toronto's homeless memorial

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A voice of reason in an uncertain T.O. market

The city’s top economist talks recessions, mortgage refinancing and more

Canada’s inflation rate finally stalled for the first time in October at 6.9 per cent after major surges in the past months. Interest rates are still rising. A recession has been hinted at. This city and country are in a state of worry heading into 2023, but upcoming panellist on Post City’s 2023 Real Estate Roundtable and CIBC deputy chief economist Benjamin Tal has some of the answers.

Is another rate hike coming?

Yes, probably to about 4.25 per cent, another 50 basis points. We’re close to it levelling out. I think 4.5 per cent would be the end of it.

What about a recession?

I think it’s going to be what we would call a wannabe recession, in the sense that it will not involve in any significant way the labour market. But if the Bank of Canada overshoots, and you have not a 4.25 per cent but a 5 per cent to 5.5 per cent, then you have a real recession. That would have a significant increase in the unemployment rate, with more negative implications for the real estate market. That’s the riskiest scenario.

How are home values faring?

Some people are using the average number for home values, which is

-20 per cent since the peak in February. But if you compare apples to apples, what we call the Composite Index, prices are down by roughly nine to 10 per cent since the peak, but I believe that will continue to fall. What's preventing it from falling even more is the fact that this is the first correction in the housing market that doesn't see supply rising — in fact, supply is going down. And that's actually buffering the damage as far as price is concerned.

What do you predict for people renewing their mortgages soon?

The most vulnerable segment is what we call the COVID cohort: people who bought and took mortgages when interest rates were almost zero: right now they're facing a significant increase. Now if they had a variable rate, they’ll see the impact now, and some will see the impact later. I think that you will see more and more people taking one- or two-year fixed rate mortgages, basically just to ride the wave and then reassess the situation two years from now when interest rates will be falling. Given the environment, that's not an unreasonable move. You don't have to go variable or fixed, you can go somewhere in between, buy some time and then reassess.

Benjamin Tal predicts the rising interest rate will level out in 2023

’TIS THE SKI-SON

A weekend getaway to relish the best in winter sports Ontario has to offer is always a good idea. These three seasonal retreats are well equipped for those who hibernate and those who thrive in the snow. See which one is more your style!

HUNTSVILLE

Minutes away from the Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, 51 Clubhouse Dr. is a true Muskoka manor. With four bedrooms, four bathrooms and a family room featuring retractable window walls for three-season use, this bungalow is perfect for a weekend ski retreat or a quick golf trip (it backs onto the Deerhurst Highlands Golf Course). It’s listed for $1.695 million with Coldwell Banker Thompson Real Estate, Huntsville.

BLUE MOUNTAINS

CRAIGLEITH

A vacation spot that combines a cosy ski chalet with a modern mansion, 112 Happy Valley Rd. features four bedrooms, five bathrooms, old-fashioned cabin touches and unbeatable mountain views. Warm up with the heated Douglas fir flooring in the morning before heading out to the Blue Mountain Resort just a hop, skip and a ski away. It’s listed for $5.188 million with Royal LePage Locations North.

VS. VS.

Situated in the middle of mountainside greenery, 158 Alexandra Way is within walking distance from Craigleith Ski Club and minutes from Alpine Ski Club, for those who desire a bit more privacy. This five-bedroom, three-bathroom chalet features a two-storey stone gas fireplace, renovated bistro-inspired kitchen, heated floors and a hot tub–ready backyard. It’s listed for $2.25 million with Re/Max Four Season Realty.

t.o.’s most inspirational

JOURNALIST

LISA LAFLAMME

She has witnessed and reported on humanity at its worst, shining light from dark and dangerous corners. Still, I would describe Lisa LaFlamme as an optimist. Only an optimist would seek to uncover the unique nugget that makes each person she encounters the most interesting in the world, whether it’s the United Nations secretary general or a war refugee in Iraq, Afghanistan or the Ukraine-Poland border. A brave and accomplished journalist, she is perhaps Canada’s most recognizable broadcaster, with enough awards and accolades to fill a room, and yet, she still has the tenacity of a cub reporter. Truth is her currency and compassion is her driving force. She has changed perceptions through her reporting, changed the world through her humanitarian work and changed lives, including mine. About a decade before we met, I saw Lisa in action, reporting from a political convention. I was working for a competing network and saw her criss-cross the room, questioning candidates, getting the scoop, then getting it on the air. At the time, I thought: “I would love to work with her some day.” Having travelled to more than a dozen countries together as her producer, spending hundreds of hours with her in the newsroom and sharing countless meals and meaningful conversations over the years, she is more than just someone I worked with. She is my sister. The public trust she has earned does not come from titles and it’s not just for what she does, but for who she is.

BY ROSA HWANG, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER WITH CTV NATIONAL

DOMEE SHI ANIMATOR

SARAH NURSE

I remember the opening day of training during centralization for the 2018 Olympics and thinking, “Sarah Nurse is going to be a force to be reckoned with.” She has always been a strong, dynamic player who can do it all: win faceoffs, kill penalties and, of course, score. Female hockey players face a ton of obstacles, and for Sarah the path was even harder — as she was often one of the only Black players on her team. In true Sarah fashion, she never let this hold her back and ultimately became the first Black woman to play hockey in the Olympics. Sarah didn’t let her opportunity go to waste, and at these past Olympics, we saw her breakout by setting a record for points in a single Olympics. Coming out of the Olympics, Sarah used her success to open doors and make even more space for women in hockey — becoming the first-ever female cover athlete on EA Sports NHL 2023! She’s a true trailblazer, paving the way for so many young Black girls, not just in Canada but around the world. Because of Sarah, there are new kids putting on skates and picking up sticks, experiencing the game so many Canadians love as she opens the door for a more diverse future in hockey. She continues to be a key part of Team Canada, and I can’t wait to watch her add to her list of accomplishments as she continues to carve her path toward the next Olympics. So I guess the 2018 me was right, because Sarah Nurse is a force to be reckoned with.

BY NATALIE SPOONER, NATIONAL WOMEN’S HOCKEY

Domee Shi is part of Pixar’s new generation of filmmakers, and as such her impact on the industry is already being felt. In 2018 Domee directed a short, Bao, about a mother’s all-consuming love for her child. Bao then won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short. In her acceptance speech, Domee urged “all the nerdy girls out there” to not be afraid to “tell your stories to the world.” Domee herself continued to do just that with the 2022 feature film Turning Red, a story of intergenerational trauma framed around a mythical tale of a young Chinese-Canadian girl who turns into a giant red panda when she becomes emotional. Turning Red was a smash when it was released on Disney+, earning the highest-ever viewership from any premiere on the service. Domee has used her platform as a filmmaker to tell stories that are diverse, inclusive and don’t shy away from subjects not often tackled in mainstream commercial animation. Turning Red is an unapologetically Domee film, featuring period jokes, pop-music jams, girl-power righteousness and a cast of characters that feel grounded in the real world. With the release of Turning Red, Domee became the first-ever female director at Pixar to direct a feature on her own. She led with a confidence and boldness that defied expectation. She didn't politely open the door for future firsttime directors at Pixar; she exploded the door so that the possibilities for them are endless.

BY LINDSEY COLLINS, PIXAR’S SENIOR VP OF DEVELOPMENT

Drew Canada’s attention to sexism and ageism in the journalism industry

from artists to journalists to activists, we asked the people who know them best why they deserve to be our 20 2 2 women of the year.

Put Toronto on the map with the release of Pixar’s record-breaking Turning Red

TEAM PLAYER

Led Team Canada to a gold medal win in the 2022 Olympics

© George Pimentel

& influential women

IMAN VELLANI

Iman and I both work in the Marvel Universe and our producer, Victoria Alonso, connected us when we were both shooting scenes for Doctor Strange. We are both very proud to be part of the next wave of Marvel superheroes. Every time I see fans connecting with Ms. Marvel, I feel so proud because I know what that means for young Muslim people to see themselves onscreen and portrayed in a positive way, and Iman is the perfect person to be that role model. I see first-hand how important my character, America Chavez, is as a representative for the Latino and queer communities. Iman and I both have the same experience of fans coming up to us literally shaking with joy because they are so happy that someone who looks like them and shares a similar cultural background is an onscreen superhero. It’s moments like that when you realize what a big deal it is that we are there in these roles, helping brown people be seen in mainstream entertainment. Much like her onscreen character, Iman has incredible courage when facing the unknown. Without film credits to her name, Iman took the leap of faith and answered a random casting call. She went all-in, believing in herself despite the odds not being in her favour and rising to the challenge to bring Kamala Khan to life. Young women like Iman are the modern role models we all are looking for. We are enough and our stories matter.

BY XÓCHITL GOMEZ, MARVEL ACTOR

DESIGNER

LESLEY HAMPTON

Leading the way for Indigenous representation in the fashion industry

When we think of authentic representation, body positivity and mental health awareness within fashion, Lesley Hampton is the name that will forever be mentioned in communities across Turtle Island. From bringing an all-Indigenous cast to the Toronto fashion runways, to winning two Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards and being named as the number one designer to watch by Vogue Magazine, Lesley Hampton is the Anishnaabe artist the industry needed to shine light on the colonial perspectives that were set in place within fashion. And she was back on the runway this year headlining the Fashion Art Toronto Fall Fashion Week with one of the most diverse model lineups ever seen. Lesley and I first became acquainted through our mutual love and support for Indigenous businesses, where we worked together on helping create more space for Indigenous voices and artists. She has always had a way with bringing such important messages and conversations to the forefront with the use of art, fashion and media. Mentoring Indigenous youth such as myself shows us that we no longer have to sacrifice any parts of our identities or personalities to fit within colonial standards. The way she carries herself as a strong Anishnaabe woman and continually uplifts her communities should be celebrated. She has paved a path for many others to follow, showing that Indigenous voices are not only welcomed within fashion, but are now honored and valued thanks to her presence and impact. Chinaskimitin nimis!

BY SCOTT WABANO, FASHION STYLIST

SUE JOHANSON ACTIVIST

Like many Canadian millennials, I grew up with The Sunday Night Sex Show, and Sue Johanson as my only form of meaningful sex education. In Catholic school, I was taught sex was something a man and a woman did, to make a baby, after marriage. In contrast, little old Sue shuffled onto the set of her call-in show with her hot stuff bag that she pulled vibrators, butt plugs, anal beads and, of course, the Fukuoku out of. Sue talked about sex in a way I’d never heard of before. She was open, honest, shameless and pleasure focused. Sue’s legacy spans decades and mediums. She opened the first birth control clinic in Toronto, taught sex education in high schools and universities, had a call-in radio show on Q107, a Canadian television show and an American television show. Sue’s American show was broadcast internationally across South America, Europe and Asia. It’s hard to fully summarize Sue’s impact. She helped millions understand their desires, accept their sexuality, learn how to achieve pleasure and how to have safe sex. In the 1980s and 1990s, she provided essential sex information throughout the HIV/AIDS epidemic and supported the LGBTQ community when politicians were openly condemning them. Sue was pro-choice and sex positive before these were mainstream ideas. Sue has not only made our sex lives better, she has helped us accept ourselves and in turn made the world a safer place.

BY LISA RIDEOUT, DIRECTOR OF SEX WITH SUE

A lasting legacy of progressive sex education for Canadians and the world

Broke barriers in Ms. Marvel as the first Muslim-Pakistani superhero

© Ryan Emberley

JEANNE BEKER

From style icon to a moving lesson in openness with her cancer diagnosis

Ah, the utterly unsinkable Jeanne Beker. Our hearts swell when we think of Jeanne, a woman whose social and professional reputation remains as buoyant now, having sailed into her 70s, as it did when her media career kicked off in the 1970s. Our paths crossed, for the first time, some 15 years past when we were hosting Fashion Cares, an HIV and Aids fundraiser, at the Distillery District in Toronto. Having arrived in Toronto only a few weeks prior, we hadn’t properly established our social chops, but Ms. B’s friendly demeanour set us at ease as we navigated the after-show party. We established a fast friendship thereafter, regaling our new pal with our affection for Fashion Television, which we watched — somewhat religiously — via cable broadcast. Lately, we’ve watched Jeanne face off against her biggest challenge to date: a breast cancer diagnosis that crashed into her life earlier this year. Rather than deal with the news sotto voce, the crusader chose to share her journey in the public arena. In doing so, she brings attention — and indeed hope — to others battling similar circumstances. This, as we see it, illustrates the kind of “engagement” that typifies Jeanne: via unquestionable pedigree across the Canadian media firmament or via her numerous charitable attachments, she deploys personal experience to help whomever she can, wherever she can. And so, dear Jeanne, we salute you. We’re beyond relieved to note that your cancer treatment is proving successful: this world, quite simply, needs you.

BY COLIN AND JUSTIN, INTERIOR DESIGNERS

SARAH POLLEY

I met Sarah when I auditioned for Women Talking. A few months later, I was contacted and told that I didn’t fit the part that I auditioned for, but Sarah wrote a character specifically with me in mind. Now, we’ve become really good friends — she’s a mentor to me and she encourages me in my acting as well as pushes me to expand into writing and directing. In filming Women Talking, she created a safe space, which allowed us to be vulnerable and bring our best performances because we were surrounded by a group of people who took care of each other. It was never just about what Sarah wanted. She had a very clear vision about what she wanted, but she always listened and collaborated with her actors, which sets her apart. Sometimes I feel like the only reason I’m in a room is because I’m disabled. I can be the person they point at and say, “See? We have representation.” Sarah showed me that she saw me as an actor first, and she trusted me to go to these emotional and vulnerable places. What I find inspiring about Sarah is that she doesn’t go looking for her next project, so when she does find it, she really believes in it and puts her whole heart into it. She takes on a project because she believes it has something to say. She is pushing the bounds of storytelling and inspiring future generations of female directors, and she is the most collaborative director I’ve worked with and the most giving person I know. She is also very politically active and outspoken and has inspired me to do the same.

BY SHAYLA BROWN, ACTOR IN WOMEN TALKING

mattea roach

The 23-year-old won the hearts of trivia fans when they secured the fifth-longest winning streak in Jeopardy! history and became the most decorated Canadian player of all time, earning $560,983.

iakoiehwáhtha patton

liliya ianovskaia

After being inspired by her daughter to take up climbing at aged 50, Liliya became the oldest woman in history to summit K2 in Pakistan at aged 62 and the first Canadian woman to climb the mountain.

CHEF

ANNA CHEN

One of the only women to be recognized by the new Michelin Guide in Toronto

I met Anna after reaching out to her about collaborating for Lunar New Year 2021. We put together a takeout menu of main dishes and sides for the holiday through virtual meetings because we collaborated during a very strict period of lockdown. I only got to really cook with Anna together once, when she and her sous chef came to Kojin (where I worked as the chef de cuisine at the time) to try out our Lunar menu together. That was a memorable time, learning about Chef Anna and exchanging our different Chinese backgrounds. I admire how much Chef Anna balances on her plate — running her own restaurant, getting groceries at the food terminal, being a mom — and her food and her space still generate such consistent high level execution. She does it with grace. This recognition is so well-deserved. There is consistency and creativity in her food that continues to make you feel warm and comforted. The experience at Alma is always a good time, and I always feel like I am eating in her home. And as a chef, I admire the balance she weaves between her European training through cooking her heritage. As one of the only women to be recognized by the Michelin guide in Toronto on either the Bib Gourmand list or with a star, it’s inspiring to see her succeed in this way with her Bib Gourmand recognition for Alma. It makes me hopeful for more recognition in the future for our community.

BY EVA CHIN, HEAD CHEF AT AVLING

patricia jaggernauth

The longtime CP24 anchor shed light on racism and sexism in the journalism industry after filing a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission against Bell Media.

Surviving through a catastrophic fire and the ups and downs of COVID, the owner of beloved restaurant Sotto Sotto is heading into the restaurant’s 30th anniversary in 2023 and is stronger than ever.

DIRECTOR 9

INSPIRATION GOES ON AND ON... MORE OF THE CITY’S MOST INSPIRING WOMEN

The fourth-year University of Toronto art history student made history this past month when she was named a Rhodes Scholar and became the first female First Nations person to join the select group.

marisa rocco

DEBORAH COX

history as the first Black woman in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame

Growing up, Deborah Cox was a staple in my household. I was enamoured with her work and her ability to really be a powerhouse, power ballad–type singer from our city. And to have someone like Deborah take up space in an American capacity when we were teenagers was a big deal. Deborah has been a household name for a long time, and her leaving the city was huge. It showed that she was always serious about her voice and her craft. She’s such a professional person; everything that she’s done has been about acumen and elegance and success. Deborah Cox is not just a Toronto starlet. She's a worldwide recognized vocalist, and also, her vocals are incomparable — not everyone can do that! Everyone loves her: she’s loved in the mainstream scene, she’s loved in the gay scene. In terms of inclusivity and unification, she is that girl. And this year, she was the first Black woman to enter the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, something which is disrespectfully overdue. Why did it take so long for us to acknowledge her greatness? It speaks volumes to how out of touch the Toronto music scene is in terms of Black excellence. I think she’s our Whitney. Had Whitney Houston had the opportunity to be surrounded by the right people, I think she and Deborah Cox would be side by side. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that she did The Bodyguard on Broadway! These are not light accolades. In terms of her artistry, the mastery, that legendary aspect of who she is, it's bar none. She's a legend. She's a queen.

BY TIKA, TORONTO MUSICIAN

DOCTOR

MODUPE TUNDE-BYASS

Inspiring racialized medical students through her mentorship

Dr. Tunde-Byass completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology in the United Kingdom, then at the University of Toronto after coming to Canada. She is a fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in both Canada and the United Kingdom. With a wealth of experience, she is a well-rounded academic physician with a balance between clinical, teaching and research duties. She has an outstanding commitment to mentorship. Dr. Tunde-Byass has received numerous teaching awards for her involvement in teaching medical students, residents, fellows, nurse practitioners and nursing students. She also provides formal and informal mentorship to many of her trainees. Currently, she is actively involved with the University of Toronto’s Summer Student Mentorship Program and works with a group of (mostly racialized) medical students to promote women’s health education through online resources. She is a consultant, a counsellor and a cheerleader. She is graceful, elegant, compassionate, eloquent and truly believes in the importance of mentorship. Dr. Tunde-Byass is an exceptional female Black physician and mentor. She goes beyond her role of leading by example and provides mentorship to others by building self-reliance, leadership skills and honing one's potential. She has also contributed to the development of mentorship advocacy at the regional, national and international level. She is incredibly deserving of this award.

BY HADAL EL-HADI, BLACK PHYSICIANS OF CANADA FOUNDER

joanne dallaire

An Indigenous elder and senior Indigenous relations and reconciliation advisor at former Ryerson University, she co-chaired the task force to rename the school in light of Egerton Ryerson’s legacy of cultural genocide.

POLITICIAN

AUSMA MALIK

Changing the face of Toronto as the first hijab-wearing Muslim councillor

I’ve known Ausma Malik for a very long time. From her early days as a student association leader at the University of Toronto to her time as a Toronto District School Board trustee, at all times I’ve known her to be a principled, effective and empathetic leader. However, what truly amazes me about Ausma is her bravery. As the first hijab-wearing Muslim woman to hold elected office in Toronto (first as a school trustee and now as a city councillor), I’ve seen first-hand how Ausma has had to deal with hateful rhetoric. In our joint 2014 municipal election campaign, I witnessed an anonymous hate campaign — complete with leaflets, posters and even protests — targeting Ausma and her faith. Her bravery in the face of such brutal behaviour is a testament to her remarkable character. Ausma knows what she believes — she is deeply committed to building a more fair and just society, and she won’t back down. She is truly a remarkable woman. Toronto is the most diverse city in the world. It’s even our city’s motto: Diversity Our Strength. Nevertheless, diversity is simply a fact. Inclusion, that’s a choice. In electing Ausma Malik, residents of Toronto chose a vision for — and a leader committed to — inclusion. Toronto will be better off for Ausma Malik’s emerging presence at city hall.

BY JOE CRESSY, FORMER WARD 1 0 COUNCILLOR

INSPIRATION GOES ON AND ON... MORE OF THE CITY’S MOST INSPIRING WOMEN

monika myers

The 14-year-old model became the first with Down’s syndrome to rock the Fashion Art Toronto runway this year and is thought to be the first Canadian model with Down’s syndrome at New York Fashion Week.

shahaddah jack

Spoken word poet, activist and author of Underrated Royalty, a book about her east Toronto neighbourhood, the 18-year-old was named BGC’s (formerly Boys and Girls Club) 2022 National Youth of the Year.

zoe keary-matzner

Along with six other young people, the Torontonian is taking the provincial government to court for weakening Ontario’s 2030 climate target and discriminating against young people as a result.

devery jacobs

A true rising star, the Reservation Dogs actor made her mark at TIFF this year in the moving This Place, showcasing her acting and writing chops and being a champion for queer Indigenous voices.

Made

©

George Pimentel

Authorized

BEST EVENTS IN TORONTO THIS MONTH

THE BIG TICKETS

The most unique holiday shows this season from hip to hello

1.

Go to The Andy Kim Christmas

Massey Hall is the place to be on Dec. 7 for some serious holiday spirit served up by Toronto’s own Andy Kim and a host of topnotch musical talent. This year, special guests for the show include Broken Social Scene, Metric, the Sadies, Molly Johnson, Ron Sexsmith, Dan Hill, Scott Helman and High Flyer.

2. See Little Dickens

Acclaimed Canadian puppeteer Ronnie Burkett returns to Toronto for a randy little holiday treat this year. Canadian Stage is welcoming Ronnie Burkett and the Daisy Theatre to the Berkeley Street Theatre for the special holiday show Little Dickens. This is an adults-only (in this case 16 and over) puppetry take on the classic A Christmas Carol story. The Daisy Theatre’s Esmé Massengill is Esmé Scrooge, a fading actress wallowing in spiteful self-pity and a tart tyrant who viciously berates her mildmannered backstage assistant, Bob Cratchit. The show, with a decidedly vaudevillian flair, runs until Dec. 18.

3. Visit the Shaw Festival

Although Toronto’s own production of A Christmas Carol isn’t happening this season, it presents the perfect opportunity for fans of Dickens to get into the holiday spirit by

visiting one of the province’s most picturesque Victorian villages: Niagara-onthe-Lake. Here, the Shaw Festival is presenting two seasonal classics: A Christmas Carol and White Christmas A Christmas Carol is playing at the Royal George Theatre, and White Christmas is setting up shop at the Festival Theatre. Both are running throughout the month until Dec. 23.

4. See Mariah Carey

The undisputed queen of holiday music, Mariah Carey is set to perform her Merry Christmas To All holiday concert at the Scotiabank Arena on Dec. 9.

5. Go to Peter’s Final Flight

One of the best and most beloved of Toronto holiday traditions is the annual Ross Petty panto at the historic Elgin Theatre. For 25 years, Petty has orchestrated a delightful production where generations of families can let loose, boo the villainous characters, cheer the heroes and, well, just delight in the wonder that is Plumbum von Botox. If you know, you know. But all great things come to an end, and this is it for Petty. The farewell production Peter’s Final Flight: The PAN-Tastical Family Musical opens Dec. 2 and runs until Jan. 7. Don’t miss it, as Petty himself will return to the stage in the role of Captain Hook.

6. See Jack Armstrong’s Holiday Sing-A-Long

You know and love Jack Armstrong for his role on the television broadcast team of the Toronto Raptors. But if you’ve watched enough basketball games, you also know that Armstrong has a penchant to sing a little ditty now and then, often around the holidays. Now, Armstrong has put some of his seasonal favourites to tape for Hellooo and Happy Holidays, arriving Nov. 18 via Comedy Records. Better still, Armstrong will hit the stage at the Danforth Music Hall on Dec. 6 for a special holiday sing-along extravaganza. Hellooo!

7. Go to Basement Revue

Jason Collett’s annual holiday happening is, well, happening again this month over four dates at the Paradise Theatre on Bloor Street. The Basement Revue is a very cool event of music and literature that pairs one author and one musician for an artistic collab live onstage, curated by Broken Social Scene singer-songwriter Collett. For instance, Margaret Atwood once worked the stage alongside the Sadies. It’s a unique and very Toronto holiday event that happens every Thursday in December.

8. Visit the Krampus Ball

Looking for a Christmas event that is

nothing like you’ve ever been to before? The 10th annual Krampus Ball is set for Dec. 10 at the Opera House on Queen Street East. The event is billed as an alternative Christmas party where people dress up in crazy, sometimes dark costumes and get the holiday stress out in a healthy way. The evening includes a short parade of costumes on Queen, as well as a full slate of live bands, DJs, circus artists, burlesque and more. Check your inhibitions at the door.

9. See Kenny & Spenny

Infamous Canadian comedy duo Kenny & Spenny are back for one-night only in the How The Jews Stole Christmas Comedy Show. The performance is scheduled for Dec. 11 at the Phoenix Concert Theatre and will include video clips, special guests, Christmas competitions and more.

10. Go to A Charlie Brown Christmas

A Charlie Brown Christmas is a beloved holiday tradition for many families who gather around the TV for the familiar animated classic. But the program is also known for its incredible jazz soundtrack. And that particular gem is being performed live at the Dakota Tavern on Dec. 10 by Vince Guaraldi Trio-bute, a trio of Toronto-born musicians.

Kenny & Spenny, Mariah Carey, Jack Armstrong’s Holiday Sing-A-Long, and even a Little Dickens by Ron Johnson

L-R: Mariah Carey, Ronnie Burkett’s ‘Little Dickens’ — a raunchy new puppet show

HOLIDAY TIME

orkville is Y Yorkville -loorB tination f des one on eor lisouryone on

Bloor-Yorkville is your holiday destination for everyone on your list.

JEANNE BEKER'S FESTIVE FAMILY FASHION GUIDE

FOR MOM

TNT, $410, 394 Eglinton Ave. W.

"Plaid is huge this season, and this is a beautiful colour combination. It's huge and could be worn almost as a shawl! It looks absolutely sumptuous and I love the coloration in it."

FOR GRANDMA

Freda's, $365, 45 Elm St.

"This is beautiful. It's got a bold graphic design, really luxurious. And it just looks comfy, cosy and really chic. Any stylish grandma would love that, I'm sure!"

FOR DAD

Moncler via Holt Renfrew, $2,240, 50 Bloor St. W.

"This spiderweb design is really unusual and different from a typical puffer. You know you're getting incredible quality with Moncler. If you're going for a high-end jacket that can be worn skiing, this is the one."

FOR THE BEST FRIEND

Judith & Charles via Nordstrom, $484, 260 Yonge St.

"It looks absolutely cosy and is a timeless piece that you will always have in your wardrobe. Sweater vests might be a trend, but this doesn't look trendy. It's a classic with this fine merino wool."

FOR THE DOG

Dogfather & Co., $56, 1007 Yonge St.

"It's classic chunky knit, like the old sweaters that your mom or your grandmother used to make — a real homemade feel. With the reindeer on it, it's so seasonal. I just think it's adorable."

FOR THE KIDS

H&M, $32.99, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

"This is great to wear après-ski or just hanging out. It's a pullover and it's fleece, so it's nice and cuddly. I love this gorgeous, dreamy graphic scene with all those great colours in it."

The perfect thing for everyone from moms and dads to grandmas to kids and pets (and even your bestie!): Jeanne has selected the city's best gift-ready finds from this season's biggest fashion trends.

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

©dogfatherandco.com

Canada Goose needs to fly home for winter

The T.O. brand must now rely on North America to bolster its revenue by Josh Sherman

This summer, Canada Goose was soaring with better-than-expected sales — but now the outerwear company, among Toronto’s most recognizable brands, is weathering a gloomier outlook just as the holiday shopping season gets underway

“With Canada Goose, one of the biggest concerns is the lockdowns in China and not being able to predict it,” says Jessica Ramirez, senior research retail analyst at Jane Hali & Associates.

Earlier this month, Canada Goose announced it was downwardly revising its fullyear revenue forecast from a range of $1.3-$1.4 billion down to $1.2-$1.3 billion in response to lockdowns and travel bans related to China’s zero-COVID policy.

“We … see a long runway ahead to drive profitable growth by increasing our direct toconsumer mix, expanding our penetration in key markets, and expanding our product offerings,” said Dani Reiss, Canada Goose’s chairman and CEO, in a news release.

Reiss’s confidence may not be misplaced.

Second quarter sales totalled $277.2 million, up 19 per cent compared to the same period last year.

However, the cut to the fiscal outlook is “significant,” Ramirez says — though Canada Goose is not alone. Many other global brands are also struggling to reach Chinese consumers amid the lockdowns and are experiencing manufacturing challenges too.

“Canada Goose doesn’t have that issue because they actually do manufacture in Canada, so it really is just an issue with consumers,” Ramirez explains.

The downgraded outlook follows a successful first quarter, when Canada Goose was surpassing revenue targets as sales of upscale products flew in the face of inflation.

“Luxury in general has been very strong,” says Ramirez. “I mean, Canada Goose still did — in the last quarter very well with North America and even with Europe, so that consumer is still shopping.”

What’s driving the general resilience in the luxury goods market? Ramirez credits re-

newed enthusiasm from shoppers who want new outfits to wear now that they’re going out again and are returning to the workplace

Looking ahead, the weather is in Canada Goose’s favour W inter is a strong time for sales, given that many of Canada Goose’s most popular items — including the iconic down parkas — are made for freezing tem peratures.

“Outerwear is still pretty strong, skiing has really taken off, [and] they’ve done a good job doing pop-ups in these luxury resorts in the past year,” adds Ramirez. “I expect that to continue.”

However, if the lockdowns persist, Ramirez suggests companies like Canada Goose, which have been relying on the Chinese market for growth, will need to make strategic changes

“At the moment, it’s actually North Amer ica offsetting a lot of those numbers that have been lost in China, so there could be more of a strategic approach to North America as well.”

The rise of the ugly shoe in Toronto

From UGGs to Moon Boots, this trend might be perfect for winter by Marcus Mitropoulos

The winter season across Toronto warrants some frosty new trends. In recent years, we’ve seen the emergence of balaclavas, and other seasons have made us obsessed with long-standing trends like puffer coats and leather pants. This season, “ugly shoes” have dominated.

The trend is generally defined by traditionally unflattering shapes and styles. A natural spinoff of the 2020-era dad sneaker: think everything from high-heeled Crocs to Moon Boots to the famous Maison Margiela Tabis.

This season, UGG has ruled the scene and came back into style after being deemed off trend (cheugy, anyone?) for years. Spotted on the runway and on street-style icons such as Bella Hadid, the low-cut, flatform sole and slipper styles have made a comeback — and we’re willing to bet it’s because they’ve leaned into the ugly shoe trend.

Ugly shoes embody a developing fashion ethos that embraces the ugly in a subversive way, along the lines of “so bad it’s good” thinking. Styles that are traditionally considered unappealing have taken over the runways, from clashing patterns to “grandpa” sweaters to ill-fitting shapes, and ugly shoes are next in line. The best part? Some of the ontrend ugly footwear out there is perfect for winter.

Local designer talks trends & his The Godfather tribute collection

Christopher Bates, a designer who has worked with the likes of Harry Rosen and Nordstrom, put down his fashion roots in Toronto last year with his new showroom. Now, he has designed a capsule collection in tribute to the 50th anniversary of The Godfather. He shares the details of the new line, his top trends right now and his favourite Toronto shop.

What drew you to this collection?

The Godfather is a brilliant movie. Sartorially, it really is a period piece, set in New York in 1945, so the influence is very classic: suits, waistcoats, topcoats. But it’s hard to sell tailored clothes off the rack, so the core of the collection is elevated basics — T-shirts, hoodies, bomber jackets. And then we did one very special Don Vito Corleone tuxedo, where I remade the one he wore in the film.

What current fashion trends are you loving?

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but the ’90s style is back, and I’m actually feeling it. Oversized track jackets, sheer and mesh for women especially under a blazer — it’s all a really cool look. Bomber jackets are totally in. They’re almost always in, but I’m seeing a lot of different silhouettes, fabrics and styles now.

Two that you aren’t a fan of?

I don’t like the really wide leg pant trend we’re seeing right now. I also don’t like loud logos — a lot of high-end designer brands are putting way too many logos on their clothes right now, and it’s just distracting.

Your favourite Toronto store?

I love George C. in Yorkville, and Gotstyle in the Distillery — the owner gave me my first purchase order back in 2009!

Rosset

We’re looking at you, Moon Boots! Snag your own at TNT Fashion, or slip into the perfect ugly UGG at SoftMoc or Sporting Life to wear around the house or out and about all winter. Or stray off the beaten path and visit Getoutside to find the ugly shoe that works for you — the Malvados puff daddy mule might be a strong contender or Hunter’s insulated short puffer-style boots. This season, stay on trend by staying really, really off trend. Your feet will thank you.

L-R: The famous Canada Goose parka; company chairman and CEO Dani Reiss

The

Environmental racism or discrimination can take many forms. To find an urban example, look to the trees.

Research shows wealthier neighbourhoods usually have better tree and shrub cover than poorer, more diverse neighbourhoods. That’s important for a number of reasons. First, most of us live in cities — 80 per cent in Canada. Beyond the fact that they look nice and increase property values, trees and shrubs reduce pollution and noise, keep air cooler, decrease flooding and runoff, make cities more resilient, improve mental health and wellbeing and provide shelter and habitat for numerous animals.

Giving more people better access to treed green spaces is something everyone can get behind. David Suzuki Foundation studies in Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto found residents in all three cities are willing to invest in “an urban forest with a higher density of trees, a wider diversity of tree species, the presence of street shrubs.”

The studies — conducted by researchers at the University of Quebec in Outaouais and University of Montreal — noted that “the distribution of vegetation over a city’s territory is generally uneven: poorer or more multicultural neighbourhoods often have a thinner canopy than their richer or white neighbours. These well-documented inequalities can be seen in cities around the world.”

Dense urban canopies are

especially important as research shows urban areas are heating faster than rural areas — on average about 29 per cent. A study by scientists at Nanjing and Yale universities found planting trees along streets, creating rain gardens and removing pavement can create a cooling effect and reduce the rate of urban warming. Increasing trees and green spaces in urban areas has already reduced heat in cities in Europe and the U.S.

A recent study in Nature found that “more than two-thirds of tree species across cities worldwide are facing severe climate risks, undermining their roles in climate adaptation and other ecosystem services they provide.” The researchers recommend cities everywhere take immediate measures such as planting more trees and shrubs, especially climate-resilient ones, and channelling rainfall into rain gardens or tanks.

Greening cities is a crucial part of resolving the climate crisis, but it also offers ways to address the many inequities that poor urban planning has created and climate disruption has exacerbated.

Treed green spaces in urban areas can reduce heat in cities

David Suzuki is the host of the CBC’s The Nature of Things and author of more than 30 books on ecology (with files from senior editor and writer Ian Hanington).

DAVID SUZUKI

New year, new Ontario travelling traditions

Four amazing ways to celebrate New Year’s, from elegant getaways to polar plunges by Kaitlin Narciso

New Year’s Eve can be one of the most exciting days of the year — if you know where to go to celebrate! Luckily, Ontario is home to all kinds of traditions and events to make the last night of 2022 a great one. With 2023 fast approaching, we’re rounding up some of our favourite New Year’s celebrations around the province.

Skate the night away in Niagara Sure, you could head to Niagara for the Niagara Falls annual New Year’s Eve celebration featuring a fireworks display and live music series. But why not try something new this year just 20 minutes down the road in Niagara-onthe-Lake? Wayne Gretzky Estates rings in the New Year in the most Canadian way: hockey, skating and food. The hockey game is played on an inflatable screen that overlooks the rink and patio so guests can cheer on as they drink, eat and skate. With twinkle lights shining bright over the rink, skate the night away — or at least until you need to warm

up! The Whisky Bar Patio will provide this warm escape, in addition to delicious food and drinks. gretzkyestateswine.com

A very merry Hogman-eh celebration

“Hogmanay” is a Scottish word for the last day of the year and is the word most commonly used for all kinds of New Year’s Eve

celebrations that happen in Scotland. Lucky for us Canadians, the Scottish Society of Ottawa takes its Hogmanay very seriously, and for over a decade, it has hosted its trademarked “Hogman-eh!” celebration. The largest New Year’s Eve celebration in eastern Ontario and the largest Hogmanay celebration outside of Scotland, Hogman-eh! features live music, fireworks, skating and

more at Lansdowne Park in Ottawa, along with some great Scottish food and drink. Ring in the new year the Hogman-eh! way — twice! The party celebrates midnight in Scotland at 7 p.m. our time and then again at our official midnight. ottscot.ca

Make it a New Year’s to remember in Muskoka Deerhurst Resort in Muskoka hosts a New Year’s Eve celebration for resort guests that is filled to the brim with activities fit for kids, families and couples! Every year, the resort transforms into a holiday haven for New Year’s celebrations. There are two special dinners available by reservation at the resort: the Eclipse New Year’s Eve Dinner Experience, ideal for adults, and the Family New Year’s Eve Buffet and Celebration. The Eclipse dinner features live food stations of bison, lamb, duck, fish, pasta, desserts and more served by Deerhurst’s chefs. The family buffet features roving entertainers,

magic tricks and stations full of all the best child-friendly eats. Both dinners are followed by the Great Canadian Dueling Pianos show and celebration until it’s time to ring in the new year. deerhurstresort.com

Plunge into the new year

Whether you’ve spent New Year’s Eve falling asleep on the couch or took the trip to enjoy one of these Ontario events, there’s no better way to kick off the new year with a refresh — literally! The Courage Polar Bear Dip for World Vision sees hundreds of people gathering in Oakville to plunge into the icy cold waters of Lake Ontario on New Year’s Day — all in support of a good cause. The funds raised from the dip support World Vision’s fight to provide clean water in developing nations. The tradition has been around for 37 years. Since then, over $2 million has been raised to support clean water projects around the world. Register online at polarbeardip.ca

Watch hockey on an inflatable screen while skating at Wayne Gretzky Estates

Sort of a television star

Amanda Cordner has quickly become an actor to watch in Canada. With the Nov. 15 season two release of CBC’s Sort Of, Cordner has made an even greater impression. Playing best friend 7ven to Bilal Baig’s Sabi, Cordner shines on screen in the hilarious and heartfelt award-winning TV series.

But when Cordner was a kid growing up in the GTA, she grappled with the question almost every aspiring artist asks themselves — do something practical or follow my passion?

“I was in my first play at age 12. And I was like, wow: ‘What is this life onstage?’” she says. “I used to journal about how I wanted to be an artist.” But Cordner says, even approaching university, she was on the fence about pursuing an art, debating doing something more “practical” like psychology instead.

“It's funny, my trajectory has been trying to do these things that I thought I should be doing, and then always choosing art,” she says.

As a kid, Cordner tried all kinds of arts, but when she got to St. Elizabeth Catholic High School, she joined the school’s first year of the regional arts program for drama.

“I had an amazing teacher there who challenged us, and I still hold a lot of her teachings in my craft today,” she says.

Cordner then attended York University’s theatre program, and from there, trying to make her way into the world of acting was “slow, steady and consistent,” she says. “I did a lot of indie theatre. I did a ton of student films, just trying to get as much practice as possible.”

It was through those indie theatre experiences that she landed

REPORT CARD

STUDENT: Amanda Cordner

GRADUATED: St. Elizabeth Catholic High School

BEST SUBJECT: Drama

WORST SUBJECT: Math

CURRENT JOB: Actor

the role on Sort Of — creator and star Baig asked Cordner if she wanted to play 7ven, telling her that Baig wrote the role with her voice in mind.

“Bilal was like, ‘Hey, I'm shooting a pilot, do you want to play my best friend?’ And I was like, ‘Nah, I'm really tired. I feel really burned out,’” Cordner says. “Then I went to bed that night, and I woke up and I was like, ‘Oh, my God, you're crazy. You can’t say no to a pilot!’”

Sort Of, which follows Sabi, an gender-fluid and non-binary South Asian millennial navigating relationships, work and family in Toronto, received three Canadian Screen Awards and a Peabody Award since its debut.

7ven may be a supporting character, but the gender-fluid art curator fills the screen with her big personality in every scene.

“It’s a chance to be an unapologetic clown,” Cordner says of the role. “But especially in season two, she’s someone who is so vulnerable and shields herself with her comedy, and we’re similar in that way.”

Season two is the show’s “season of love,” including for 7ven, which Cordner could not be more excited about. “I love that I get a mom and a partner this season,” she says. “I love love scenes. Actually, the first thing I look for in a script is like, ‘Am I kissing anyone?’”

Currently, Cordner is acting in Young People’s Theatre’s Snow White until Jan. 7, directed by Aurora Browne. Of acting, Cordner says consistency is the only way to do it. “If you want this, do not stop. It will cause a lot of discomfort, but if you love it, it can also be really fulfilling and fun.”

Amanda Cordner plays best friend to main character Sabi

Amanda Cordner, actor in the awardwinning CBC series Sort Of by Julia Mastroianni

When the dance queen met her theatre king

Petty and Karen Kain on their immediate spark and iconic careers together

Ross Petty and Karen Kain have been the titans behind Toronto’s most popular stage productions for decades. Kain has spent 50 years with the National Ballet of Canada, first as a principal dancer and then as an artistic director of the company. Petty created his annual pantomime theatre tradition, Ross Petty Productions. Now, Kain has announced her retirement, and Petty has an announcement of his own — after 25 years, this season’s Ross Petty Production, Peter’s Final Flight, at Elgin Theatre, will be the final one. Ahead of the Dec. 2 debut of the musical, Petty shared how he and Kain met and how they’ve supported each other throughout their careers.

How they met

The year was 1982. I had been living in New York for eight years, and was cast in the title role of Stephen Sondheim’s brilliant musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. We played all

through the U.S., and the final stop of the run was Toronto’s Royal Alexandra Theatre. I had heard that Karen Kain was a wonderful ballerina, and, through a mutual friend, I called to invite her to see the show. She was leaving to dance in Italy the next day, but something about our conversation convinced her to come to the Royal Alex that

night. She came to the theatre, left for Italy, and the Sweeney Todd run ended in Toronto. I left a message on her voice mail: “I’m still in Toronto for one reason only. Call me.”

The first date She did and we had our first date at the former Fenton’s Restaurant.

We travelled between New York City and Toronto for the next few months and were married within the year on May 28, 1983.

The wedding and honeymoon

The marriage was at St. Clement’s Church in Toronto, and the reception was at the Windsor Arms Hotel. The honeymoon was in a villa about half an hour outside Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, overlooking Mismaloya Beach.

Careers and marriage

A theatre producer from the U.K. saw the amount of media that our wedding attracted and asked Karen and me to be the guest stars in a family musical (English pantomime) at the Royal Alex Theatre in 1984. That was the first time we worked together and fell in love with the wonderful entertainment that provided as much enjoyment for adults as for children. We did several shows at the Royal Alex over the Christmas holidays with stars such as Honor

Blackman (Pussy Galore in the Bond film Goldfinger) and Andrew Sachs (Manuel from the TV series Fawlty Towers). I’m still producing these shows at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre 25 years later. Karen continued her brilliant career as prima ballerina of the National Ballet of Canada and went on to become the artistic director of the company for 15 years. This past June, her version of the classic Swan Lake was a major success for the ballet, and Karen celebrated her 50th anniversary with the company. Now retired, she remains the artistic director emerita. With this December’s family musical at the Elgin Theatre, I have announced that it will also be my farewell production and that I’ll return one last time as Captain Hook.

Looking to the future

The future is always an unknown, but finally we’ll be able to fully enjoy our home in north Toronto and our cottage in Caledon.

Ross

Ross Petty and Karen Kain met in Toronto in between performances

© George Pimentel

JEWELLERY

Van Rijk Jewellers

Diamond studs are a timeless expression of love and beauty, and are the perfect gift to show that special someone that you care. Available in many sizes and price ranges, diamond stud earrings are the perfect accessory that will go with everything. Diamond Stud Earrings. Price available on request.

90 Eglinton Ave. E. 416 440 0123 vanrijk.com

William Ashley

For the perfect gift, William Ashley carries the finest selection of world renowned brands. Dinnerware that has become a Christmas tradition as much as Christmas itself, this service set for 4 from Spode has 12 pieces sure to make your holiday table merry and bright.

Christmas Tree by Spode, Service Set (12 pieces) $149

131 Bloor Street West - 416 964 2900 - www.WilliamAshley.com

JEWELLERY

FOOD

Pusateri's Fine Foods

Traditional naturally leavened enriched dough flavoured with brown butter, Piemonte hazenuts, candied Sicilian orange peel, candied apricot & gianduja glaze. Nutty and rich toasted hazelnut notes. Fresh and locally made in Toronto, available in very limited quantities. Made with the highest quality ingredients, no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Pusateri's Hazelnut Panettone - $59.99

1539 Avenue Road / 57 Yorkville / Bayview Village Eaton Centre / Sherway Gardens 416 785 9100 - pusateris.com

Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques

This very special ring features a rare oval purple sapphire, est. 3.48ct, set in 14kt white gold, that is surrounded by 14 round brilliant cut diamonds, est. 0.56ct. Call for details.

416 260 9057

Shop online at www.cynthiafindlay.com

FASHION

Linea Intima

Everybody wants to look good (shopping for yourself or for gifts). Foundations make a building stand! Undergarment foundations, even when you think nobody will see, will make the difference between okay to amazing! The right fitting bra will improve your posture, your confidence and of course your looks! Linea Intima will take care of all your lingerie needs! Improving women’s lives one bra at a time!

Prima Donna - Deauville Collection Bra - $187 & full brief $102

Head Office: 416 913 7991

www.lineaintima.ca for all locations and online shopping

FASHION

Beestung Lingerie

Beestung's amazing selection of luxe lines includes Eberjey, Hanro, PJ Salvage and more. Classic pajama styles like Eberjey’s iconic Gisele Pajama or fun holiday sleepwear from PJ Salvage that’s sure to please her. Beestung also carries pjs for the guys in your life too.

Lounge & sleepwear from $99-299

2624 Yonge Street - 416 481 2849 www.beestunglingerie.com

JEWELLERY

Marquis Jewellers

After 49 years in business, Marquis Jewellers is closing its doors forever on December 31, 2022 and everything must go! Put some sparkle in your holiday gift-giving. A wonderful assortment of beautiful gold, diamond and coloured gemstone jewellery is still available, so hurry in now for holiday savings! 50-70% Off As We Countdown To Closing.

2 Bloor Street West - 416 964 7773 - www.marquisjewellers.com

HOME DECOR

JEWELLERY

Secrett Jewel Salon

18K white gold chain and pave set pink sapphire butterfly pendant with a total of 0.89cts sapphires. Necklace is 18" long and weighs in total 4.2 grams. Visit us Tuesday to Saturday 11am. Pink Sapphire Butterfly Necklace - $1775.00

162 Cumberland Street, Toronto 416 967 7500

Hopson Grace

There's nothing like a warm hug from a hot water bottle. Made in Germany of Merino Wool, it’ll be there for you whether it's muscle pain, cramps or a headache from that regrettable extra glass of red wine. Little ones might love this warm cozy on a cold day or when they’re not feeling their best. Penguin Hot Water Bottle - $80

200 Dupont Street HopsonGrace.com

DECOR

Does Matty Matheson ever take a night off?

OPENINGS & HAPPENINGS

There’s no stopping Matty Matheson. The celebrity chef and actor extraordinaire recently opened Rizzo’s House of Parm in his hometown of Fort Erie, Ont., featuring a menu of old-school Italian plates in a charming family-friendly space. True to its name, the restaurant is serving up a trio of parm dishes, including chicken, eggplant and veal as well as classic pasta dishes and traditional sides.

Chef Brandon Olsen — founder of Restaurant Le Melon, La Banane, Brando’s Fried Chicken and a chef in many of the city’s top kitchens, such as Bar Isabel and the Black Hoof — has opened a new fried chicken joint, Grateful Chicken , inside Chef’s Hall. Along with familiar favourites such as buckets, sandwiches and sides, Olsen has kicked up traditional fried chicken fare a notch by offering buckets and champagne to go.

Jean Darlene Piano Bar is a new speakeasy spot that melds the chicness of a piano bar and camaraderie of an open mic. You can swing by for drinks and stay for the regularly scheduled live performances that range from pianists, drag shows, live samba and themed singalongs. If you have a flair

for the dramatic, there’s tons of opportunity to hop on stage and show off your own singing and performing chops, too. And who knows, maybe the owners will like you enough to invite you downstairs, where they have a full-fledged recording studio. Take a date or bring a group of live music aficionados to the 1203 Dundas Street West spot, located in the laneway behind the building.

Michelin-starred chef Patrick Kriss is at it again with the opening of Evangeline, an intimate rooftop bar at Ace Hotel Toronto. Sitting 14 storeys high, the 80-seat lounge features a menu inspired by cocktail parties with a focus on small plates such as charcuterie boards, shrimp cocktail, and freshly shucked oysters.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of tasting the rasa chopped, executive chef Adrian Niman’s addictive take on the traditional chopped salad, which many Torontonians consider to be the best in the city, here’s another opportunity to do so. Niman, founder of the Food Dudes, along with partners Adam Minster, Derrek Wasser and Lindsay Klein, have opened Chop Hop in Commerce Court, serving up delicious salads, a selection of artfully crafted soups and energy balls.

The folks over at Donna’s, the unpretentious Junction triangle eatery known for its deliciously simple down-to-earth menu, have announced their latest venture, the Golden Peacock, will soon be making its debut at 2102 Dundas St. W. If the new spot is anything like its often- heralded predecessor opened in 2019 by Momofuku alumni — Ann Kim, Peter Jensen and Jed Smith — expect reasonably priced small plates, like sandwiches and salads, and, of course, an impressive selection of craft beer, wine and cocktails.

Three years after Parkdale eatery Chantecler was destroyed by a three-alarm fire, the much beloved French restaurant is set to make a long-awaited comeback at Bloor and Dovercourt in January.

SAD TO SEE YOU GO

After more than 40 years in business, Corso Italia deli and grocery store Centro Trattoria & Formaggi announced it will shut its door on Dec 3. The family-run institution was known as having one of the best hot tables in the city, and the store was even featured in the 1980s Oscar-nominated film Moonstruck, starring Cher and Nicolas Cage.

THE HOT LIST

The 10 hottest reservations in and around town

AP Direct from Montreal, Antonio Park’s unique spin on Japanese fusion has arrived in Yorkville.

Osteria Giulia

Authentic Northern Italian cuisine is on the menu at Rob Rossi’s Michelin-starred gem.

Rizzo’s House of Parm (See story on this page)

Alo Reservations at this sophisticated Patrick Kriss spot are booked two months in advance.

Danny’s Pizza Tavern

This upscale pie tavern is ushering in a new era of family-style pizza parlours.

Sushi Masaki Saito

$680 per person isn’t enough to deter sushi enthusiasts from dining at this Yorkville hot spot.

Donna’s The relatively simple menu at this Lansdowne and Wallace eatery packs a lot of heart and soul.

Jean Darlene

(See story on this page)

Lapinou

King West’s hip French neo-bistro is offering a limited-edition fivecourse truffle tasting menu until Dec. 31.

Sunny’s Chinese

King West’s hip French neo-bistro is offering a limited-edition fivecourse truffle tasting menu until Dec. 31.

From left: Dishes from Grateful Chicken, Matty Matheson and family ouside Rizzo’s House of Parm

ANTHONY ROSE

This Michelinrecognized chef is the creative force behind Fat Pasha, Schmaltz and Fet Zun.

HOLIDAY APPS-TRAVAGANZA

Is there anything more festive than a room full of finely dressed guests sipping on cocktails and nibbling on finger foods while a playlist of holiday favourites sets the tone? We asked celeb chef Anthony Rose to sample some of the city’s best hors d'oeuvres and tell us which two (or three) bite-sized treats takes top prize.

RICH AND EARTHY

CHARMAINE SWEETS STUDIO

Mini Chicken Pot Pies

“This is very delicate and nice and warm. The pastry is spectacular, and visually it looks nice. I like the addition of the egg wash. These taste homemade, and you can really tell that they were made with care.”

115 Vanderhoof Ave., $4 each

TINY MARKET CO.

Basil Pesto Knots

“These are gorgeous and buttery. They look great, and the layer of flavour is good. They’re nice and green, which is cool. I would like to see a bit more pesto. I love the way they taste: there’s a lot of basil, buttery goodness.”

938 Bathurst St., $2.80 each

PISCES GOURMET SEAFOOD

Crab Cakes

“These crab cakes look perfect. I love crab cakes and these ones are nice and big. When you take a bite you can really taste a lot of crab and there’s so much of it.”

1097 Yonge St., $7.99/lb

McEWAN FINE FOODS

Truffle Mushroom Arancini

“I can really taste the truffle oil and mushrooms. It’s pretty good. I don’t love the addition of the truffle oil, but it’s well made. I would eat more of this, but it would be nice if they were a bit smaller.” 38 Karl Fraser Rd., $11 (for two)

PUSATERI’S

FINE FOODS

Beef Samosas

“It’s good, but I want it to be stuffed just a little bit more! I like when my beef samosa is filled with a lot of potatoes and peas. It’s nice and flavourful though and the pastry is golden and flaky.”

57 Yorkville Ave., $2.49 each

CENTRE ST.

DELI

Mini Potato Latkes

“It's not bad. It’s got a nice texture, but it doesn’t really taste like potato. I think they taste pretty good and I like that they’re simple. They’ve got a nice scoop of filling, and they’re deep fried.”

1136 Centre St., $11.25 (12 pieces)

GLAM PIGS IN A BLANKET

THOBORS

Feuilleté Saucisse (Sausage Rolls)

“Gorgeous! I want to love this. It’s like a hotdog in a blanket but sexy and fancy. There’s a lot of pastry — a little too much for my liking. The hotdog’s nice and smoky, but the pastry is mediocre.”

627 Mount Pleasant Rd., $6.80 each

WINNER RUNNER-UP

BATTLE OF T.O’S CELEBRITY BAKERS

We asked three of the city’s top glam bakers to share their most festive, show-stopping Christmas creations and they didn’t disappoint! From delectable holiday-infused biscuits to a macaron tower reminiscent of a Christmas tree, these lip-smacking treats are almost too pretty to eat.

To celebrate the season, “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro has been up to his elbows in cake mix and frosting in order to bring you a selection of the most delicious sweet treats. Wow your guests with the cookie-inspired cannoli cake ($29.99), filled with Carlo’s signature cannoli cream, layered with light and fluffy vanilla sponge and covered with festive sprinkles and cannoli shell pieces.There’s also a selections of gingerbread and fondant sugar cookies ($5.99) adorned with a selection of the most adorable polar bear, penguin or snowman. To sweeten the holidays a little bit more, three holiday cupcakes decked out in festive decorations (Santa hat, Christmas tree, snowflake) and topped with a luscious vanilla buttercream are available for $5.99.

24 Bellair St.

VS

PIKE NADÈGE NOURIAN

Pastry chef extraordinaire Nadège Nourian never disappoints, and her macaron tower in the shape of a delightful Christmas tree, is no exception. Available in four sizes with prices ranging from $175 to $850, the delicious French cookies are filled with layers of flavoured buttercream, ganache or jam. The famed T.O. patisserie has also added four Christmas desserts to its menu with each more instaworthy than the last. First up is the holiday mendiant chocolate tree ($22), adorned with almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts and candied fruit. Next up, Santa’s Workshop ($38) is made with milk, dark and white chocolate. A Classy Affair ($55) is a modern bûche made with the most decadent flavours like vanilla mousse and chocolate whipped ganache Last, but not least, Nadège’s limited-edition snow globe ($85) features Santa and his reindeers flying over the Toronto skyline.

VS

.

Multiple locations including 494 Bloor St. W.

These aren’t your boring old chocolate chip cookies! This year, Craig Pike is kicking off the holidays with a heaping selection of Christmasthemed cookies. The 2022 Holiday Mix includes seven exquisite festive flavours, including candy cane shortbread, cranberry bliss, holiday M&M’s, Terry’s Chocolate Orange, gingerbread white chocolate and mint brownie. The cookies are available at all of Craig’s Cookies’ five GTA locations. If you don’t live in the Toronto area or you’d like to spoil some lucky friends and family members with a delicious holiday gift, you’re in luck — national shipping is available! The Holiday Mix is $16.50 for a half-dozen box or $32 for a full dozen. Multiple locations across the city including 1581 Bayview Ave.

.

BUDDY VALASTRO

CRAIG

Michelin Star takeout reaches for the sky

At $65 per person, does Patrick Kriss’s take-away live up to the hype?

Thanks to the pandemic and rising inflation, our dining habits have changed. Takeout has become a mainstay for many and in our new series, T.O.’s top foodie Joanne Kates will explore the new higher-end offerings.

Oh the butter! Alo’s insanely rich sweet butter. The stuff of which Michelin stars are made. It comes in a little plastic container. Were I a better person I would have transferred the butter to a small but expensive china dish. But this being takeout at home, we rip into the butter, spreading it way too thickly on the trademark Alo warm Parker House roll. To be eaten with the raw salmon swimming in charred sweet/hot poblano relish.

The nice white bag had a menu card, with easy-to-follow instructions to heat, lid off at 275°F. OK, we can do that. But must one haul out fancy dishes and decant every item onto bone china? Clearly Michelin-starred takeout requires that respect. But what happens in my house stays in my house. We ate it all straight from the containers it came in. Even though we had to pick it up at the uncivilized hour of 5:15, because, when Alobar got its Michelin Star a few months ago, all

were off about reserving — even to pick up dinner!

Starting to

where is the

explicating the taxonomy of every dish for us, whisking away dirty plates and constantly filling my wine glass. For example, the Alobar wedge salad. What’s Maytag blue cheese? Apparently little balls of blue atop iceberg wedge with chunks of pedigreed bacon and sweet oven-roasted tomatoes.

Then we pulled out the shrimps from the oven: slightly overcooked shrimps with big oilsoaked crispy sourdough croutons and brown mushroom caps in garlicky parsley butter. Workmanlike. I’ve had similarly underwhelming food in too many Michelin one-stars in Paris.

We paid $65 per person plus tax, tip and extras, for a total of $211.85 for takeout dinner for two. You get their fixed price menu. No subs. Was it worth it?

I did not have to order the $12 fries. But I’ve got my feelings about fries. A good French fry, to me, is like first love: mindblowing, compelling. Irresistible. These takeout fries travel tolerably well; their accompanying aîoli is rich and tasty. I barely mind their inevitably encroaching sogginess.

Next course is confit duck pappardelle with black kale and chili-garlic oil. Rich duck sauce is salty. Gorgeous al dente pappardelle. Lovely black kale. Tender duck. Does the sum of the parts add up to an impressive whole? Not quite.

I want to love this dinner. As a devoted fan of chef Patrick Kriss and all things Alo, I yearn for this dinner to be fabulous. I fondly recall a takeout dinner from Alo at the height of the pandemic. It was quite spectacular.

But all restaurants were desperate then. Not so much now.

I didn’t have to order the $18 add-on dessert. Could not resist. Mille feuille! The most classic of French desserts. More important to the French cooking lexicon than soufflés and charlottes. Mille feuille is, figuratively, a thousand leaves of crispy puff pastry layered with whipped cream and other delectables. I’ve eaten this raspberry mille feuille prepandemic at Alobar and been seduced by its sensual creamy crispness. At home? Not quite as crisp — inevitably — but still magnificent. Whipped cream, pastry cream, raspberry coulis and raspberry cream, layered with mostly still-crisp pastry.

Was Alobar takeout good enough? Compared to what? Most takeout sucks. It was better.

PRIX FIXE TAKEOUT

ALMA

Three options available including pork wonton and noodles ($45), squid fried rice ($47) and gunpowder cod ($57).

FAVORITES THAI BBQ

Four set menus, including the combo for two with four-piece wings, gail lan, northern Thai sausage and a choice of main ($67).

BAR ISABEL

Dinner for two includes fan favourites like shishitos peppers, grilled octopus, patatas bravas, basque cake and more ($100).

Joanne Kates trained at the Ecole Cordon Bleu de Cuisine in Paris. She has written articles for numerous publications, including the New York Times, Maclean’s and Chatelaine.

JOANNE KATES

Pork wonton and noodles from Alma

Clockwise from left: Mille feuille, Alobar takeout bags, bread and butter

A glamorous dessert shop opens in Yorkville

Luxury dessert brand Delysées has announced a new location that’s set to open next month in Yorkville.

Following last year’s reopening on Ossington Avenue, Delysées’s latest project features the intricate and dazzling macarons and mini cakes that the brand is known for but with a slight twist: a high-end tea bar and an upscale croissant-centric b runch experience that are exclusive to the Yorkville location.

The new location has been something of a revolving door for businesses over the last year and a half. At one point, gluten-free cake company S orelle & Co. occupied the space, as did the Russian-themed restaurant Moscow Tea Room.

But for owner Fred Naggard, the corner spot at 161 Yorkville Ave., made up of a sprawling 2,600 square feet, is the perfect space to expand the brand.

Having recently finished gutting the interior, Naggard says one of the focal points of Delysées will be the garden ceiling, done by Fred’s wife and interior designer, Khariz Naggard, where 28,000 dried florals in shades of light pink, deep violet and muted neutrals will hang. As far as the displays go, Naggard says this will be Delysées’s largest ever, with 600 miniature cakes out at all times.

Like your typical afternoon high tea, the version

at Delysées will include bite-sized cakes and French pastries, like eclairs and those famous macarons. But unlike the traditional three-tiered tower that accompanies most high tea, all of the offerings will be served on stacks of genuine marble.

As far as the brunch menu goes, every item is centred around the flaky and buttery croissant, which Delysées has been expertly baking for the last decade.

“You won’t be able to order bacon and eggs here, for example, but you’ll be able to order a croissant eggs Benedict,” hints Naggard, who is still in the middle of executing the final menu. For those l ooking for a quick bite on the go, Delysées Yorkville will also feature an exclusive croissant bar with 18 varieties.

New desserts include a modern take on the baba au rhum (a traditional French cake soaked in rum) finished in gold. Delysées’s mini sandwiches will also return to the Yorkville location and will all be served on freshly baked brioche made to order.

Like any scrumptious brunch, Delysées Yorkville will also serve handcrafted cocktails, including several specialty tea-based cocktails. The cocktail bar will remain open past brunch hours and well into the afternoon and evening, making this new spot the perfect place to enjoy a sweet treat and wind down with a drink.

Macarons and mini-cakes stars of the show at sweet new spot by Christine Hogg

French pastries at Delysées

Forest Hill Farmhouse puts down roots in midtown

A range of salads for those with a busy schedule by Christine Hogg

Fast-food chains exist all across the city, but a healthy alternative can be trickier to find.

Forest Hill Farmhouse is a new, fast casual salad concept that caters to those who want to live an active healthy lifestyle while juggling a busy schedule.

The brainchild of Blair Bitove, the space officially opened on Dec. 5 at 2 Lola Rd. in midtown just off of Yonge Street and south of Eglinton Avenue. Bitove is currently the vicepresident of Obelysk Foods Ltd., where she oversees the development of American fastfood fried chicken chain Dave Hot Chicken’s expansion into Canada. In September 2021, Bitove’s father and businessman, John Bitove (founder of the Toronto Raptors), opened the

third location of the franchise in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood.

Alongside a lineup of 10 signature salads, Forest Hill Farmhouse offers a variety of nutritious build-your-own bowls and refreshing beverages from local suppliers, including Two Bears Coffee, makers of flashbrewed non-dairy frothed lattes, and calorie and sugar-free nonalcoholic sparkling water from City Seltzer.

All salads will be priced between $14 and $19 and are created using fresh, local ingredients, like grilled eggplant, sweet cherry tomatoes, avocado, kale, chickpeas, quinoa and more. The chicken found in several of the salads and bowls is marinated and oven roasted in-

house.

“I found it very hard to find a salad that I enjoyed eating in the city,” Bitove says. “I would make my own salads at home, which is always time consuming for one person and leaves you with a lot of leftover ingredients. That’s when I came up with the idea for FH Farmhouse. I wanted to create a place where it was easy to find a quick delicious salad.”

Forest Hill Farmhouse is currently open for pickup and delivery.

In 2023, Forest Hill Farmhouse will launch a members-only Salad Club, which will allow subscribers to purchase a monthly subscription for a set amount of salads.

Rosedale icon opening something new

Sorrel restaurant is opening a sister space next door. The owners recently leased the adjacent space and are working on renovations with a plan to officially open by March 2023.

A mainstay in the Rosedale neighbourhood, Sorrel is known for its casual yet elegant French Mediterranean–inspired menu accompanied by an extensive wine list. It boasts the distinction of being included in OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurant from 2016 to 2020. And now, the award-winning neighbourhood gem is expanding.

Although few details have been finalized at this point, Sarah Pearson, Sorrel partner, general manager and sommelier, has confirmed that the new space will work with the same team currently backing Sorrel, including executive chef/owner Faro Chiniforoush and chef du cuisine Jacob

Chowdhury. Both chefs bring a wealth of industry experience with resumés that boast Windsor Arms Hotel, Prego Della Piazza, Esco Pazzo and Rosewater.

“We have needed extra seating for some time now, so when the space became available, we took it,” says Pearson.

Although the new restaurant’s menu is still being finalized, the plan is to offer up a variety of small plates.

“We do have a sense that we would like the space to be more casual: no reservations, a place to start or finish an evening,” says Pearson.

With room for just 28 guests, the spot will most likely be an intimate, cosy space perfect for small group outings or a romantic date night.

—Raquel Farrington

L-R: A signature salad from Forest Hill Farmhouse; Blair Bitove, vice president of Obelysk Foods Ltd.

We are not amused by the Canadian crooner’s antics at a Buffalo concert donning a Sabres jersey and mocking the Leafs. Oh, and it’s bubly.

MICHAEL BUBLÉ

The much-maligned Tesla and now-Twitter boss complained about our streetcars as a reason for the lack of self-driving cars in Toronto. Streetcars rule!

The Friends star landed permanently in Toronto’s bad books for attacking beloved hometown hero Keanu Reeves in his recent memoir. Don’t buy

Ontario’s chief medical officer of health got in hot water for failing to wear a mask at a swanky party right after telling us all we should.

Photo credits: Matthew Perry: Yahoo.com; Ross Atkins: Chris Young CP; MPP Robin Martin: Sarkik via wikipedia.org; Michael Bublé: Eva Rinaldi via wikipedia.org; Kieran Moore: health.gov.on.ca

ELON MUSK

MATTHEW PERRY

ROSS ATKINS

ROBIN MARTIN

KIERAN MOORE

DOUG FORD

DAVID CHANG