North Toronto Post September 2024

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Our 35th annual primer to the top private schools & programs

back & enjoy!

Jeanne Beker scoured the city and chose the best plaid blazers to give your fall wardrobe a preppy upgrade

29

Singer Amanda Marshall talks growing up in North Toronto and her return to the stage after 20 years

37

Our 2024 best of the best explores everything from burgers and cold plunges to tailors and tattoo parlours

40

Bite into the city’s best smash burgers and see how Shake Shack stacks up against the local competition

49

1.

A.

B.

C. Matthew McConaughey

D.

2.

A.

B. Huskies

C. St. Pats

D. Ragamuffins

3.

A.

B. David

4.

A. Rochester Rocket

B. Niagara

C. Al Gore

D. Paul Watson

C. Sir John of the Peninsula

D. Maple Leaf

T.O. icon Sook-Yin Lee takes on TIFF

Chester Brown’s graphic novel Paying For It is a Toronto classic, born in the vibrant 1990s when the city was finding its edge. Sook-Yin Lee, an iconic Toronto artist and former VJ at MuchMusic in that beloved era, was right there with him. Now, she has adapted this provocative comic novel into a film, set to premiere at TIFF this month.

I love that it’s such a Toronto-in-the’90s vibe — bands like Thrush Hermit and places like Sneaky Dee’s. This whole movie is built on relationships. Ian McGettigan [guitarist/singer of Canadian indie rock band Thrush Hermit] is my next door neighbour. I can just open my back window and yell, “Ian, can I use your video?” I wanted, especially in a city that is like so many cities getting gentrified and knocked down and built up in ways that we cannot recognize, I wanted to show there are small pockets of the city that were there in the ’90s that I could draw upon. And they're beautiful, you know. They’re unconventional spaces, and they’re not the spaces that we normally see, but they really capture a kind of scrappy Toronto that I know and love.

Was the movie shot partially in your house? The house where some of this story took place three decades ago? Yes, I shot in my house where the real life events unfolded. I called up my neighbours half a block away, up, you know, up the street. I have two neighbours who live in what was a brothel.

How was it to direct a younger version of yourself?

It was enjoyable to look back at that time. Chester was a very formative love relationship for me, and also, my job at MuchMusic was my first legit job after moving from Vancouver to Toronto. So it was fun to revisit and see myself as a younger person.

You’ve been working on this for 12 years. How does it feel to finally have this film out?

It feels great. Every movie has its development period, and this one was particularly challenging. I love Chester’s graphic novel. It’s brilliant, and he’s a brilliant storyteller. It’s really a memoir that explores his views on the decriminalization of consensual sex work. It touches on human rights, with parallels to gay rights, POC rights, women’s rights and so on. But adapting it into a movie was complicated.

How so?

The graphic novel isn’t a movie in itself. It’s an episodic comic that meanders into various zones and is also a very academic, political exercise. Plus it’s myopically from Chester’s perspective because he was protecting the real-life details of the sex workers he had relationships with. I didn’t want to make a movie that was only from Chester’s perspective. I wanted to broaden the canvas to bring the women, the sex workers, to life and explore more dynamics.

Including your own as Chester’s former girlfriend who inadvertently kick-started this process, right?

We were in a relationship that, like many, became non-sexual over time. That coincided with me being very young, not being able to get past the four-year mark in my romantic relationships, and just starting my job at MuchMusic. Meanwhile, Chester was a very nerdy, quiet, introverted cartoonist, and I was in the eye of the storm, going to concerts, being very expressive and communicative. I would drag him out to shows, and he’d end up in the corner reading a book. We were on very different trajectories.

What are you hoping people take from the film?

There are these political undertones, but I try to tell a good story. You know, a good story is important. All of those ripples are beneath it, under the scaffolding. To me, it’s about relationships.

How does it feel to get Paying For It into TIFF?

Well, I’m so happy. You know, the industry, it became progressively harder to get a movie in TIFF. And I was very happy to hear that it got in, and they told me that the program is very special: the platform program. It’s the only Canadian movie in the program, and it highlights films with a bold directorial vision. So I feel so happy to be included in that group.

— Ron Johnson

25

The number of homes the provincial government is expropriating for the Ontario line subway.

The value, in millions, of billionaire Jay Schottenstein’s superyacht docked in Toronto in August. $75

20

The speed, in km/h, that Toronto traffic is expected to slow to in the coming years, even with more highways.

The listing price, in millions, of the former Toronto home of actor and Prince Harry’s spouse, Meghan Markle. $1.89

26

The rank of the University of Toronto on a list of the 50 best schools in the world.

L-R: Sook-Yin Lee; Lea Rose Sebastianis and Dan Beirne in ‘Paying For It’

Adventure Paws Dog Walking

Post City celebrates 35 years & counting

An incredible 35 years ago, Post City Magazines published its first edition — Bayview Post. It started around a kitchen table, the same origin story as many a great idea. Although a lot has changed, with us, and with the media landscape across the country, part of what makes Post City unique is that we carry around a slice of that kitchen table with us everywhere we go.

The company moved into a Willowdale office paying out a whopping $740 a month for our 340-square-foot space. It grew again and again and again, adding more magazines across the city, the latest in the Queen West neighbourhood just this year.

We locked up the paste-up boards and went digital. We decided the Internet might not just be a fad and decided to go online. We added an amazing social media presence ‘Streets of Toronto’ that has grown to an incredible million followers (check it out!). We even have a popular live event at the Rotman School of Business!

We’ve worked with some incredible people along the way. Former “Posties” can be found in the best magazines across the country. People such as Malcolm Johnston at Toronto

Life, Charlotte Herrold at Canadian Business, and Scott Stinson at the National Post.

The list of people who contributed to our success over the years is long and wonderful and includes many beloved local businesses. And thanks to them, and to you, our beloved readers, we’ve managed to not only survive where so many of our peers in our industry have not, we have continued to grow and evolve.

Maybe it’s because of that kitchen table. We weren’t born of printing presses and corporate boardrooms. In fact, our current “boardroom” is literally a ping-pong table. We’ve been that scrappy media underdog since day one.

We understand, in some way, what gives us our media superpower is that we don’t take ourselves too seriously. We want to create a community. We want to be of service. And we want to tell interesting stories about the city we all love.

It’s not always easy. But we are still here. So here’s to another 35 years of stories, growth and community.

Editor Ron Johnson photo bombed by publisher Lorne London (circa 2005)

Toronto's summer has been marked by record-breaking extreme rains and severe flooding, overwhelming the city's infrastructure and turning streets and the Don Valley Expressway into lakes and rivers splashing across social media feeds and making headlines across the country. Torrential downpours have caused flash floods, pouring into homes and triggering emergency

Flood of concern over extreme weather

responses across the city. Experts warn that this pattern of extreme weather could become the new normal, raising urgent concerns about the city's preparedness and the impacts of climate change. The repeated flooding has also sparked debates over the need for more resilient infrastructure and better urban planning to mitigate future risks. (See full story on next page.)

Toronto faces catastrophic costs as extreme weather hits

Toronto is no stranger to extreme weather, but the July 2024 storm and subsequent follow-ups in August brought a new level of urgency to the conversation about the risks the city faces due to the climate crisis. The storm's heavy rainfall flooded streets and homes, causing widespread power outages and disrupted lives.

The climate crisis is causing extreme weather around the world. Out west it might come in the form of devastating wildfires, in other areas hurricanes and tsunamis. In Toronto, we flood.

The events serve as a stark reminder of the profound impacts and the incredible costs associated with extreme weather events that run in the billions of dollars.

James Nowlan, executive director of the Environment & Climate Division, City of Toronto, noted that the city is experiencing higher levels of precipitation.

Lst month, a record was set of 123 millimetres of rain on a single day recorded at Pearson Airport.

“We’re seeing storms with increased magnitude and frequency,” Nowlan explained.

“This has significant impacts on our infrastructure, on public safety and on the environment.”

But it’s not just the flooding that comes with extreme rain events. The city is also grappling with rising temperatures and more frequent heat waves.

According to Nowlan, the number of days with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius has more than doubled since the 1950s, jumping from an average of eight days a year to 18.

The effects of these heat waves extend beyond just uncomfortable temperatures. Sharon Lam, an intermediate research scientist at Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), stressed that health should be at the forefront of climate change talks.

"Climate change is already impacting local communities in the GTA, and at the top of the list is people's health and well-being," Lam said. She explained that extreme weather events such as flooding, heat waves and forest fires pose both direct and indirect threats to public health.

"Extreme heat, in particular, has

been called a silent killer. It puts everyone's health at risk but especially seniors, young children, people with pre-existing conditions and those who spend long hours outdoors."

As temperatures rise, the demand for air conditioning surges, putting a strain on the power grid. Nowlan pointed out that this increased demand can lead to power outages.

“Extreme heat, in particular, has been called a silent killer.”

"When you have flooding, extreme heat and power outages all happening at the same time, it creates a perfect storm of challenges," Nowlan said. "For vulnerable communities, the inability to access cooling during these events can have severe impacts."

This is especially problematic when combined with other climate impacts, such as flooding. For example, when the recent

flood occurred, some of the city’s transformer substations were affected, leading to power outages. Without electricity, air conditioners stop working, and elevators can become inoperable, trapping people in tall buildings.

Both Nowlan and Lam referenced the 2021 heat dome in British Columbia, which resulted in over 600 deaths, as a sobering example of the lethal potential of prolonged heat waves. The change in climate is also threatening Toronto’s green spaces and natural systems, which play a crucial role in mitigating climate impacts.

Lam highlighted the risks to the city’s biodiversity and trees,

“The loss of tree cover can exacerbate the heat wave and reduce the city’s capacity to manage storm water,” said Lam.

Another growing concern is the decline in air quality as a result of climate change, particularly due to an increase in wildfires.

To address these mounting challenges, the City of Toronto is conducting a Climate Change Risk and Vulnerability Assessment. It aims to identify the most

critical threats posed by climate change and to develop strategies to enhance the city's resilience.

“We need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to limit future warming while simultaneously preparing for the changes that are already happening,” said Nowlan. This includes investing in resilient infrastructure, protecting ecosystems and enhancing emergency preparedness. Residents also play a crucial role in this effort. Lam encourages individuals to take tangible actions, such as installing rain barrels, switching to energy-efficient appliances and creating pollinator or rain gardens.

Lam also pointed to the TRCA’s Sustainable Neighborhoods Action Program (SNAP) as a model for how communities can take steps to adapt to climate change.

“Climate change is a global issue, and it’s easy to feel small or helpless in the face of it," she said. "But there’s power in each of us. One of the most impactful things we can do is talk about climate change with those around us.”

— Jemicah Colleen Marasigan

L-R: Mass flooding, forest fire smoke and extreme rain are results of a climate crisis that is only beginning

Why Toronto is pedalling a $150 million tiny bike path plan

The recent announcement that the city will spend $150 million yes million — extending a bike path 2.1 kilometres along the West Toronto Railpath had some city councillors questioning the project.

There are quite a few questions to answer namely: What is included in the budget? Why is Metrolinx building the path extension? And how did the project come about in the first place?

Interestingly, this project has been on the city books for the past 15 years. When the UnionPearson Link was being constructed, it opened the opportunity for the city to create a path along the rail corridor. The West Toronto Railpath extension project was born. From 2009 to now, there have been at least five motions at Toronto City Council and multiple reports at various committees.

In 2016, federal funds became available for infrastructure proj-

ects, so the city made an application for $23 million, which is the only reference to cost of construction that is easily available. The rest of the costs are still being protected by the city.

In 2017, the city entered into an agreement with Metrolinx to construct the extension and then started to expropriate lands adjacent to the path. There have

been at least three reports to council approving land expropriations for the project.

Metrolinx held a community meeting in 2018 on the project with a 25-page slide presentation that covered everything from lighting, draining, bridge construction to design elements. The 2.1-kilometre trail will include bike parking, wayfinding

signage, benches, bollards, noisewall vine planting, chainlink fencing, Indigenous planting, privacy screens, public art, corten terracing, interpretive signage and waste receptacles.

The only thing that wasn’t included in the presentation was a budget.

Now there is a budget at $75 million per kilometre, and there seems to be some confusion about what the budget contains.

The local councillor, Alejandra Bravo, suggested that this number is an upper limit and the actual costs won’t be known until Metrolinx contracts for the work. The construction of the bridges was also a factor, so we are told. Then there was a reference to land expropriation.

Hopefully, the city doesn’t have to pay money to buy land from Metrolinx for the rail path. If that is the case, then the city should be managing the project since Metrolinx doesn’t have any track record for delivering on

Explore our newly renovated store at Bayview Village, opening September 5.

time or on budget.

The public really deserves to see a breakdown of the costs. It is great that the federal government gave $23 million toward the project, but the city is on the hook for the rest. In the past two months, with the purchase of the ferries and now the extension of the bike path, the city is proposing to spend $240 million on 4.3 kilometres of transportation, assuming everything comes in as stated in various budgets. It is not sustainable. It is also completely ridiculous that a project 15 years in the making that was approved by city council on at least five separate occasions with three separate mayors never had a budget attached to the initiative. It is no wonder that the city is in its current financial state.

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

Effortless luxury since 1990

West Toronto Railpath could get a very pricey expansion

Life in a city on the rocks

Despair about the state of the city is palpable. The big systems, like transit and housing, are broken. City hall seems incapable of fixing small things, such as the way parks are managed or traffic control. Community facilities — cultural venues and the Science Centre — are being shut down. The city hasn’t the money to address basic responsibilities. City hall doesn’t listen.

One example of the problem is the renaming of Dundas Square. Without any consultation, city council suddenly renamed the square. It was as though people in the city were excluded from decision making.

Reversing the despair can only come about by finding ways to engage people directly. We need to stop pretending that the bureaucracy and elected officials have all the solutions. We need to reduce the distance between people and a remote city hall and begin to restore local democracy.

The city could start by holding community meetings where there is meaningful consultation. At current meetings most everyone knows the decision-makers are not listening but simply hold the meeting because it is required by law. The city should stop the open house approach and instead meet with the community, set up a steering group and find a good solution to the issue at hand and take those

ideas back to the larger community for discussion. Experience shows that this kind of process results in better decisions and community buy in.

There’s nothing like engagement to counter despair. If you know you are valued, you’ll feel much better about the world.

Canadian philosopher Charles Taylor calls our current system of government “soft despotism.” He writes, “A sense grows that the electorate as a whole is defenceless against the leviathan state the idea that the majority of people might frame and carry through a common project comes to seem utopian and naive. And so people give up.”

Decision-making is focused at the top. We can participate in elections, but that’s all. No wonder barely a third of electors bother to vote.

City hall should engage members of the public beyond community concerns to larger city issues. Currently, when there’s a big-city issue, city council asks staff to report as though bureaucrats will have the answers. Instead, it should carefully select a diverse group of Torontonians to meet, and their conclusions should then be taken to several larger public meetings.

This might be a good way to find ways to address the homeless crisis, supervised drug sites, traffic congestion, city parks, the

Science Centre and on and on.

Start by creating committees of people from different parts of the community. Choose one or two representatives of each sector that should be involved. If you want a property developer, make sure that person is well respected by other developers. Same for social service workers or teachers or neighbourhood members.

You’ll want people with strong opinions, but you don’t want people who know they are right and others are wrong: that is not helpful for good discussions. And choose people who can come to the first three meetings. This approach requires humility on the part of the politicians and the bureaucrats. They must be up front about the fact they don’t have all the answers. They must be willing to trust the process, and that’s often not an easy thing to do. Yet it will start to dissolve the despair and open up a hopefulness that the city can be better.

Introducing democratic practices into decision-making creates innovative solutions. It is not expensive, makes for faster decisions with broad appeal and creates a constituency for action. It’s an easy thing for city council to do. Much better than soft despotism.

L-R: Mayor Olivia Chow, and Toronto city hall

JOHN SEWELL is a former mayor of Toronto.

your loved ones to age safely at home & always be aware

Toronto Glam grocer declares bankruptcy

Toronto’s beloved upscale grocer Pusateri’s has confirmed that its Bayview Village location has closed. It has begun bankruptcy proceedings for that store along with two other operations.

According to bankruptcy documents, the three operations owe creditors $37 million. The highly anticipated Little Italy location, which was slated to open this summer, will no longer be opening.

“The Bayview location has closed. We’re still fully operational here at Avenue Road, and the Eaton Centre location operates as a food hall,” a spokesperson from Pusateri’s Avenue Road store told Post City.

Regarding the Little Italy store, the spokesperson added, “That one is not opening. They just want to do some consolidating, and that’s all the information I have.”

The first Pusateri’s shop was a small produce market located on St. Clair Avenue West, which opened in 1963. The closure of the Bayview Village store comes after Pusateri's previously announced plans to focus on their remaining locations and a new 10,000-squarefoot store in Little Italy. The sudden decision to halt the Little Italy opening has left many customers and industry

watchers surprised by the news.

Ida Pusateri announced the news on social media. “While not an easy decision, certainly no one is more disappointed than us to see years of work come to an end, but we know it to be a necessary step to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of our brand so we keep all our attention and focus on serving you, our customers, with the best products and service around,” the post read.

The closure of the Bayview Village store and the cancellation of the Little Italy location mark significant shifts for Pusateri's, which has been a cornerstone of Toronto's gourmet food scene since 1963. Despite the setbacks, the Avenue Road and Queen Street locations continue to serve customers, but the abrupt changes raise questions about the future of Pusateri's expansion.

In contrast, Italian retail giant Eataly is forging ahead with its expansion plans, announcing the opening of its fourth Toronto location at the Eaton Centre. Although the exact opening date remains unconfirmed, the new location is anticipated to launch in early 2025 and will be the largest of the four Toronto locations.

— Jennifer Schembri

Pusateri’s closed in Bayview Village

Residents battle condo on a hill

A proposal to expand the size and height of a mixed-use development at Bayview Avenue and Broadway Avenue faced significant pushback from local residents, but is going ahead. Both the Leaside Residents Association (LRA) and the Broadway Area Residents Association (BARA) have expressed strong opposition to the plan, and what they are calling “bad faith bargaining,” by the developer.

Back in 2021, an application was made for a highrise mixeduse building for 1837–1845 Bayview Ave. Residents associations opposed the proposal by the Gupta Group, stating that a 25-storey development on the top of a hill would tower above existing and proposed developments, setting a dangerous height precedent for the area.

The proposal was appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT), but a mediated settlement was reached with the City of Toronto and Bayview Broadway Good Planning Inc. residents group last year in July (and approved by the OLT).

Toronto city council approved this settlement earlier this year, but one key provision from the OLT settlement was to reduce the height of the building from the originally 25 storeys to 22. Now it gets really interesting. Just two weeks following a settlement that was approved by

the city, Bayview Broadway Developments Inc. (by the Gupta Group) submitted a committee of adjustment application to go back and add five storeys to the development (making it 27 storeys), which is above what was approved in the settlement.

In June, the application was reduced to a total of 25 storeys that is the same number of storeys as the 2021 submission.

According to a July 12 letter

“They want to maintain their 15 per cent profit margin.”

submitted by the LRA to the North York Committee of Adjustment, the developer indicated that this amendment was made “further to discussions with city planning.”

In their letter, the LRA called out the developer for “bad faith bargaining” and abuse of the committee of adjustment process, as well as the developer’s failure “to meet the established planning tests for variances” to be considered “minor” variances.

“For the Committee to accept a 27 (or 25) storey height for the subject proposal would run counter to the … approved Official Plan policies,” the LRA letter, penned by Geoff Kettel,

co-president of the association, states. “If 20–35 storeys is accepted as of right within the Bayview Focus Area, the result would be excessive density.”

The letter adds that the unit increases above what was already permitted are similar to the number of units expected from a six-storey building on a major street, which is hardly “minor.”

“[T]he variance is NOT ‘minor.’ We recommend and request that the CofA refuse the application,” the letter states.

According to Kettel, the LRA also made other appeals.

“We filed a complaint with the with the ombudsman's office, the Toronto ombudsman.

And they said, Oh, we won't get involved until you’ve exhausted all the bureaucratic complaints,” he said. “So we submitted that in August and got a standard response.”

Kettel added, this tactic from developers is being used throughout the city to add height and density after approval, including nearby at 589595 Eglinton Ave. E.

“The argument is that because of the increased construction costs and inflation, it's just becoming more expensive to build and they want to maintain their 15 per cent profit margin,” he said. “So the city is is helping them out.”

— Nisean Lorde

L-R: Geoff Kettel, co-president of LRA; rendering of proposed development at 1837–1845 Bayview Ave.

Councillor slams midtown café over patio

Josh Matlow, a midtown Toronto city councillor, is calling out restaurant Aroma for its patio use and allegedly attempting to prevent the public from using the space.

Recently, Matlow highlighted the importance of this area in a statement that invites residents and visitors alike to reclaim their right to this shared space. Matlow’s message, particularly regarding the tables set up by Aroma Espresso Bar, reinforces the notion that this space is for everyone’s enjoyment, regardless of whether or not you purchase a coffee.

“If you find yourself at Yonge and Eglinton and are looking for a place to sit and enjoy the world around you, feel very welcome to ignore this sign on the table. In fact, it’s your right to,” stated Matlow. Aroma’s tables are part of the larger

public area at the northeast corner of Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue, which is designated as a POPS — a privately owned public space. This means that although the space is privately owned, it’s subject to a bylaw that mandates public access and use.

Such spaces are crucial in densely populated urban areas like Toronto, where green spaces and seating can sometimes feel scarce amidst skyscrapers and busy sidewalks. Matlow’s encouragement to “ignore this sign on the table” — if it implies restrictions on who can sit there — reflects a broader push to ensure these spaces remain inclusive and accessible. It’s not that Aroma has to close its patio.

Matlow seems to be implying that they simply cannot restrict general public use.

But, as one commenter on social media

pointed out, if the general public takes up all the space and just sits there it is detrimental to a business that people appreciate, and those wishing to patronize the establishment would be out of luck.

According to prior news reports, Aroma has had a patio on the space at Yonge Eglinton Centre almost since the site was redeveloped and opened almost a decade ago, and there is no indication of an ongoing issue. But a condition of that redevelopment, which included enclosing some outdoor space to add to the mall, is that the remainder is accessible to the public via the POPS.

RioCan, the building owners, did not respond to a request for comment. Aroma also failed to respond.

— Nisean Lorde

Condo proposed for street in upscale nabe

A new development application seeks to construct a seven-storey condominium building on a small residential street near the hub of Forest Hill village.

Recently, Batory Planning + Management submitted a site plan application to the City of Toronto for the redevelopment of properties at 1–19 Thelma Ave., which is just north of Spadina Road and Lonsdale Road.The proposal includes replacing a mix of 10 existing and vacant detached and semi-detached houses with a new seven-storey apartment building, featuring 24 three-bedroom units. The street has no other buildings above three storeys. There is a three-storey apartment at the corner of Thelma Avenue and Spadina.

The site is located on a street with a neighbourhood designation,

Toronto to close safe injection sites

Ontario has banned supervised drug consumption sites within 200 metres of schools and daycares, citing concerns over community safety. The province is also investing $378 million in 19 new Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hubs, which will provide addiction recovery services.

The ban will result in the closure of 10 consumption sites by March 2025. The move has drawn both praise and criticism, with some concerned about the impact on harm reduction efforts. “Communities, parents and families across Ontario have made it clear that the presence of consumption sites near schools and daycares is leading to serious safety problems,” said Sylvia Jones, deputy premier and minister of health.

Kirsty Millwood, president of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 5115, a composite local representing workers at Regent Park Community Health Centre, said that the safe sites save lives. "This decision will result in countless unnecessary deaths," said Millwood. "It is unconscionable to cut life-saving services in the midst of a health-care crisis that has taken over 45,000 lives across the country. Closing safe consumption sites will not make substances disappear from our communities.

— RJ

which permits residential low-rise residential uses, and is within the St. Clair West Protected Major Transit Station Area.

“The inclusion of new apartment units in this area provides additional housing opportunities for people to remain in their community at different stages of life as their housing needs evolve,” reads the planning rationale submitted with the application.

Thelma and Spadina is also home to a Forest Hill Green P parking lot, a site that was the subject of much cantankerous debate just over a decade ago when a mixed-use building was proposed on the site, followed by the parking lot. Both were debated thoroughly. So it will be interesting to see if this project sails through, given it has a neighbourhood designation from the city and might set a precedent in the area.

— Ron Johnson

L-R: Sign on seating at Aroma, patio on corner of Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue

Sylvia Jones, deputy premier and minister of health

A luxury kids boutique, pizza hot spot & more

Zzavia Pizza is open on Bayview Avenue. Choose from Neapolitan-style pizza or Romana, or opt for street food sandwiches, such as the soppressata marmalade or meatball provolone. Zzavia’s pizza oven uses very high temperatures to cook the pizzas in under 90 seconds, Neapolitan style. The restaurant is located at 1597 Bayview Ave.

Signage for the new shop appeared in the window of the former storefront of Caesar Salon Hair Design at 1960 Yonge St., promising a September 2024 open date.

Moda Kids officially opened its doors on Sept. 1 in Bayview Village. This one-stop mini luxury department store for kids features high-end brands from Europe and beyond, including Moschino, Bonpoint, Petit Bateau and Paul Smith Junior. The shop also offers baby gear, parental necessities, gifts and toys and more, with plenty of selection throughout the 2,376square-foot space at 2901 Bayview Ave.

Impact Kitchen is expanding its nutrition-focused restaurant and café with a new location at Yonge and Eglinton. Serving a fully gluten-free menu with plenty of vegan options, the eatery is known for its power bowls, salads and toasts. The new location will be at 2555 Yonge St.

Lecécé Fleur and Garden is opening in midtown this month.

Must Boutique is moving locations after years in the Leaside neighbourhood — but don’t worry, it’s not going far! This popular women’s boutique focused on Italian fashion announced that an “outrageous rent increase” prompted it to seek another spot for lease and luckily found one just down the road at 1673 Bayview Ave., just in time for 10th anniversary celebrations this September.

Ala Antioch Turkish Cuisine opened in the Vaughan neighbourhood recently and has been getting rave reviews from visitors since then. Serving up authentic Turkish dishes, including kebabs, pides, a massive spread of cold meze and manti (or Turkish ravioli), Ala Antioch’s expansive menu has something for everyone. Not to be missed is the dessert menu, featuring everything from kunefe to baklava to dondurma, a stretchy Turkish take on ice cream. Ala Antioch is located at 3255 Rutherford Rd., Unit 2, Concord. —Julia Mastroianni

Moda Kids features French luxury brand Bonpoint

TORONTO BREAK-INS

FALL REAL ESTATE ROUNDTABLE

PANELLISTS

THE SALES PRO: BARRY COHEN

President, RE/MAX Realtron

Barry Cohen Homes Inc.

THE BUILDER: ODEEN ECCLESTON

Co-founder, WE Developments; Broker of Record, WE Realty Inc.

THE INFLUENCER:

POST: What is the state of the market right now?

ANYA ETTINGER

Realtor, Bosley Real Estate Ltd.

THE DESIGNER:

BRIAN GLUCKSTEIN

Principal, Gluckstein Design; Author

THE BROKER: MICHAEL KALLES

President, Harvey Kalles

THE CONDO KING: BRAD LAMB Developer, Lamb Development; President, Brad J. Lamb Realty

THE BANKER: BENJAMIN TAL

Deputy Chief Economist, CIBC World Markets Inc.

BENJAMIN TAL: The Toronto market is a tale of two markets. The low-rise, the detached segment of the market is OK, nothing more than OK, not great, not terrible, something along the side of OK. The market is still functioning reasonably. Inventories are still tight, and even there, you still see some actually building walls. The condo market is basically dead.

So the pre-sale market is down. At the same time, because of the economics, interest rates, labour and other factors, they cannot cut prices. Therefore all the adjustment is happening at the resale market. So the gap between the pre-sale market and the resale market in terms of price is at a record high. And therefore, we haven't seen prices of presale going down, but clearly a significant decline in the resale market. And that's just the beginning.

I believe that the market will have to clear. We still have a significant increase

in inventories, and construction activity of new sales is basically dead. Therefore, over the next year, I see the condo market as a buyer’s market.

However, we have to realize one thing: the supply that's supposed to be available two or three years from now is not happening, which means that two or three years from now we might see this situation in which we will have a significant shortage of supply, and prices will go up.

BRAD LAMB: We are currently in a buyer’s market. Sales volumes are at 60 per cent of a typical month of 2021, which was a great year. While the current state of the market is poor, it will improve as rates fall. This is what occurs when interest rates rise five per cent over three years. When rates fall, the market heats up.

ODEEN ECCLESTON: As of August 2024, the real estate market in the GTA is showing mixed signals. After recent interest rate cuts by the Bank of Canada, some improvement in sales has been observed, although the overall mar-

ket remains challenging. New listings have increased by 18.5 per cent year-overyear, adding more options for buyers but also creating a more competitive environment for sellers. As a result, the market is leaning toward a buyer’s market, with properties taking longer to sell.

ANYA ETTINGER: The best way to describe today’s market is: all over the place. Certain listings in certain areas are selling with multiple offers and with few days on the market, while others are sitting stale for months. We are seeing a huge disconnect between what buyers are willing to pay and what sellers are willing to sell for, which has led to the market becoming relatively stagnant. A lot of sellers are not prepared to accept the current market conditions and that they aren’t going to get 2021/2022 prices, so they’d rather sit stale on the market than drop their price. Much of the inventory that is sitting on the market is because it isn’t priced aggressively enough to catch a buyer’s attention. Properties that are priced well are, for the most part, selling

pretty quickly and for close to the asking price.

BRIAN GLUCKSTEIN: Well, it’s probably worse than it was when we met six months ago. There’s much more inventory, as far as condos going on the market. I don’t think it’s a very slow time for sellers. I just think things are not moving. And that’s all you hear about in the newspaper lately, the amount of inventory that exists and the amount of inventory that’s going to come, so, yeah, it’s a bit of an issue for anybody that’s either trying to sell a condo or market a new property.

BARRY COHEN: Activity is down overall and it’s hard to say if it's just a seasonal slow down or it’s because of the elevated interest rates. Sales are down four per cent overall, when we compare the first seven months of the year to the same time last year. Prices are down marginally overall, one per cent, over the same period. The detached market is performing well, while the resale condo market is slower. Buyers seem to be sitting on the fence, waiting for further interest rate reductions. The buyers that are acting are benefiting from increased choice and likely softer prices when we look back on 2024. The number of listings coming to the market are rising at a faster pace than sales. With that said, there are only four months of inventory for the entire market, which would be considered a balanced market, leaning slightly in the seller’s favour. Surprisingly, the high-end market is seeing heightened activity.

MICHAEL KALLES: As I’ve often said, it’s crucial to not paint an entire market with a single brush. What transpires in Leaside may not reflect conditions in Long Branch. Recently, one of our sales representatives highlighted the importance of avoiding absolutes in real estate. In July, while working with buyers, he toured multiple properties in the west end that were sold within three days. So, despite the overall market slowdown, these instances remind us that real estate is anything but predictable.

POST: Is now a good time to downsize?

GLUCKSTEIN: Anytime is a good time to downsize if you don’t feel the need for the space or the burden of a large home.

It’s not what I call downsizing, it’s rightsizing. It could also mean changing to a different type of living without sacrificing the size of your home. You could move from a house to a large condo, for example, if you’re looking for less maintenance.

ECCLESTON: Downsizing to a condo in Toronto might be a strategic move right now, depending on your specific circumstances and priorities. Given that the market is leaning toward a buyer’s market, it may be a good time to explore condo options. However, if your current home is in a segment of the market that is seeing softer demand (e.g., high-end properties), you might face challenges selling at your desired price.

KALLES: Whether you’re downsizing, upsizing or just getting into the real estate market, there is a lot of opportunity in the condo market. This August, months of inventory in GTA condos reached six months. Compare this to 3.6 months a year ago, 3.7 months two years ago, and just 1.5 months in 2021. Today’s inventory figures are unique, signalling opportunity for those willing to act.

LAMB: It is a good time to buy real estate, period. Rates are still high, so carrying costs are still high. Buyers with big deposits should be jumping in now.

POST: What could reignite the market?

TAL: A significant decline in interest rates. We see a situation in which inflation is behaving better than expected. We see a situation in the U.S. where the Fed is now toying with the idea of cutting because the U.S. economy is slowing down. That's actually very good for the Canadian central bank, because one of the issues that potentially limited the ability of the Bank of Canada to cut is actually if the [U.S.] Fed was not cutting. But now it seems that the Fed will be cutting even more rapidly than expected, and that's something that will free the hands of the Bank of Canada to continue to cut. I don't know if the current trajectory is enough to totally revive the market, but at the margin, it will help, especially in the low-rise segment of the market.

LAMB: Interest rates falling is going to ignite the market. This time next year, buyers will see three per cent mort-

gages vs. 6.5 per cent a year ago. Firsttime buyers’ interest will explode by spring 2025 as they will now qualify to buy a home again.

POST: What are the challenges facing the condo market in particular?

LAMB: The condo market is experiencing what should be expected when interest rates rise five per cent and stay there for 18 months. Once rates fall, it will reignite quickly. The “slowdown” will be gone before you know it.

ECCLESTON: The high cost of living in Toronto combined with rising interest rates has made it increasingly difficult for first-time buyers and young professionals to enter the market. Further, high interest rates, oversupply, investor uncertainty and economic challenges are exasperating the crisis.

POST: What are the impacts of the mortgage rate reductions to this point, if any?

TAL: I think you see the impact more and more in the low-rise segment of the condo market. You don't see it in the quantum market. You have to realize that the Bank of Canada is focusing on or is able to influence only the short end of the curve: namely, if you wish, the prime rate of the adjustable-rate mortgage. The five-year rate and other rates are determined by the market, and they are falling notably. And they will not be falling significantly from this point. So we got most of the decline in the five-year rate already. That's something that people have to consider.

POST: What is your prediction for the fall market and heading into winter 2025?

LAMB: Lowering rates allows first-time buyers to buy. This inflates the entire property ladder. I suspect the fall will be better than the summer but still a little slow. I am pretty sure the spring resale market will be insane.

ECCLESTON: I think sales may pick up slightly in the fall as buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines decide to enter the market, encouraged by interest rate cuts and the prospect of further reductions. However, the increase in sales is likely to be moderate, as economic uncertainties and high borrowing costs will continue to weigh on buyer confidence.

Certain segments, such as luxury homes and suburban properties, may continue to perform well.

GLUCKSTEIN: I don't see a difference in an urgency to buy any time soon, unless interest rates come down quite a bit. I mean, if they only come down a quarter of a point, that's not really going to drive a rush to buy. We're going to have to see many more reductions in mortgage rates to really stimulate it.

ETTINGER: We have so much inventory on the market and a lot of it is far overpriced which is why it’s still on the market. From everything I've heard, there are a lot of people preparing listings to come out in the fall, which means that influx of inventory could negate the seasonal influx of activity. However, we are also expecting another interest rate cut. This will likely encourage more buyers to start looking as we get into the fall and early winter. I suppose I said a whole lot of nothing, but long story short is I don’t expect to see a massive shift in the market in the next six months.

COHEN: I expect a vibrant market ahead, fuelled by several rate cuts from the Bank of Canada. Many would-be sellers have been holding off coming to the market as activity has been low, but there are signs that the tide is starting to turn. We’re seeing some multiple offer situations that we haven’t seen in years, in some pockets and price points. Highend building lots are starting to move, where that segment of the market has been very slow for the last couple years. Buyers have also been holding off, discouraged by high carrying costs. While there is some concern about mortgage rate renewals in 2025, I think, when we look back in the winter of 2025, prices will be meaningfully higher than they are today with significantly more activity.

TAL: I think that the condo market will remain subdued and will remain weak. I think that there is a lot of inventory in the market that has to be cleared, and therefore, I don't see a significant rebound in the condo market anytime soon. However, I do see some improvement in the low-rise segment of the market, especially in the under $2 to $2.5 million units.

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Pip pip hooray: British bands invade Toronto

The British are coming! This month, prepare for the sounds of Brit pop, rock, grunge and more to fill Toronto’s top music venues. On Sept. 6, iconic English rock band the Cult takes the stage at History as part of its 40th anniversary tour. Also visiting Toronto on its anniversary tour is Squeeze, celebrating 50 years (including a 20-year studio hiatus), together with a Massey Hall performance, Sept.

7–8. On Sept. 10 and 11, Pulp takes to the stage at History for its first North American tour in a decade, in honour of late bassist Steve Mackey. Former the Police lead singer Sting is at Massey Hall for a whopping five nights, Sept. 20–22 and Sept. 24 –25. And the incredible PJ Harvey takes over from Sept. 25 to 26 at History, in support of her 10th album, 2023’s I Inside the Old Year Dying

Clockwise from left: Sting, PJ Harvey and Squeeze

Photo credit: Maria Mochnacz

$6,895,000. 50' x 150' LOT, 4+1 BEDS AND 6 BATHS, APPROX. 6,000 SQ. FT. TOTAL.

GRATITUDE AND PLAIDITUDE

Upgrade your basic blazer this fall with the season's hottest patterns! From plaid to heritage checks, Jeanne Beker has the city's top picks — plus some ultra-chic loafers to complete the look.

CLASSIC HOUNDSTOOTH

Good Neighbour, $297.50, 1212 Yonge St.

"A houndstooth is a classic that never goes out of style. It looks really clean, graphic and sharp, with such great lines."

CHECK IT OUT

111 Yorkville Ave.

"What a wonderful, strong-looking check; it would look great with some denim or a skirt, or even a pair of white jeans."

VINTAGE VIBES

Smythe, $895, 1116 Yonge St.

"This would be just a really sharp addition to your fall wardrobe. I love the patches on the elbows, such an old school academic look."

TWILL-FULLY TAILORED

Guizio, SALE $294, ssense.com

CROPPED AND COOL

RW&Co, $56.99, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

"This has got a nice, easy breezy feel to it. I love the colours in it with those greens and browns and blues! And it's just got such a great cut to it."

DOUBLE BREASTED

Kotn, SALE $150, 148 Ossington Ave.

LOAF AROUND

"This

"I like the plum colour and the mini houndstooth, it has an almost oversized boyfriend fit. What a great look; it has a vintage menswear feel to it."

Veronica Beard, $798,

STRUT YOUR SPOTS

Maguire Shoes, $250, 760 Queen St. W.

DRIVE IN STYLE

La Canadienne, $249.99, 138 Cumberland St.

SUPER SUEDE

Ron White, $595, 55 Bloor St. W.

HEEL YEAH Browns, $328, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

TWO-TONE Gravitypope, $235, 1010 Queen St. W.

LUG LOAFER

Heel Boy, $260, 773 Queen St. W.

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

T.O. brands turn boat sails & quilts into couture

Check out these Toronto creatives upcycling old fabrics into one-of-a-kind garments.

Diana Coatsworth Design

Diana Coatsworth worked in professional theatre for 25 years before launching her own brand. Her designs include pieces such as jackets and dresses made out of fabrics repurposed from quilts, tablecloths and duvet covers, often with patchwork details. Coatsworth sells her designs online and at markets such as Sunday Variety, as well as at boutique store Erietta, on the Danforth. “I think people are really seeking it out now,” she says. “They’re making choices to have less quantity and more quality.”

Peach Berserk

Kingi Carpenter of Peach Berserk started her screen printing brand in 1987 on Queen

West as soon as she finished art school.

“I made everybody’s prom dress and tons of wedding dresses,” she says. Now she has a clothing store and art space near Queen Street West and Roncesvalles Avenue, out of which she hosts silk screen workshops and parties. Her practice is doubly upcycled, thrifting used material to use as screen printing drop cloth, then repurposing the drop cloth to make new garments. The printing ink is also made from seaweed.

Revamped

Katherine Duffin, with a background in costume design, was the owner of the nowclosed Koffee Kween on Queen Street West, where she now runs upcycling brand Revamped. Her collections include repurposed sportswear turned into unique pieces, like dresses, pants and jersey shorts, or per-

sonalized pieces decorated with youthful vintage appliqués of pop culture characters.

Preloved

Source upcycled basics at Preloved, which blends reclaimed vintage garments with deadstock or overrun fabric to create new designs.The large-scale upcycling operation was founded in 1995 by “accidental environmentalist” Julia Grieve and includes simple garments like solid coloured midi dresses, polo tops and pleated pants — essentially every staple wardrobe piece you could need in upcycled form.

Repurposed accessories

Women-owned brand Li/ne turns old boat sails into bags, and family-run business Roncy Packs crafts fanny packs from textile waste. —Emma Johnston-Wheeler

Popular pop-up market finds home on Dupont

Cindy Chau is the founder of the Welcome Market, a popular popup, artisanal and vintage market that regularly takes over 938 Queen St. W. Three years after launching that project to create more space for racialized business owners, she has founded another (more permanent) venture with a similar cause: the Welcome Studio.

The 3,000-square-foot space on Dupont Street is an open studio and workspace, featuring several small businesses, from floral artists to second-hand vendors, including heavy hitters Batch Vintage and rare designer collector Shop King Lis.

Back in 2021, Chau founded the Welcome Market in response to a need she saw in the city.

“At the time, there was only one big vintage market and then artisanal markets, but there wasn't a market that integrated both and that also focused on BIPOC [Black, Indigenous and people of col-

our] businesses,” she explains.

The market was immediately popular, growing from seasonal events to running regularly once or twice a month.

Now, the Welcome Studio is here to provide an affordable space for creatives to grow their business — and a solution for what Chau calls market fatigue.

“Especially for vintage clothing, [vendors] have to hang up all their stock, price everything and tear it down, for one weekend. It’s a lot. For brands that have built their own clientele, a studio space would make the most sense,” she says.

At the studio, a 10-by-10-foot space rents for $750, whereas an eight-by-eight-foot space goes for $600.

The Welcome Studio at 1110 Dupont St. is open Thursday to Sunday, from 12 to 6 p.m.

Inflate your sense of style with the floaty fashion frenzy that is bubbles, balloons and volume galore.

Bubble hems

Originally all the rage in the ’80s and then again in the late aughts, bubble (or puffball, or balloon) hems are back. Frothy and puffy, this hem on a drop waist mini dress has been especially popular. Take this maximalist trend into fall with you by pairing with tall boots and jacket of choice — maybe a plaid blazer. Where to buy: Reformation, 87 Yorkville Ave.

Balloon sleeves

We don’t know if it’s just the Bridgerton effect, but puffed statement sleeves are more popular than ever. For those fearful of volume, balance out your balloon sleeves with a sleek bottom — try a slip skirt or a pair of ’90s straight leg jeans. Where to buy: LoversLand, 215 Ossington Ave.

Horseshoe pants

Also known as the barrel leg, this wide, ballooning denim trend can either blow up the volume in your outfit or be a more subtle nod to shape-making in fashion, depending on the pants you choose. Go high fashion with a roomy button-down or chic and timeless with a fitted mock neck. Where to buy: 7 For All Mankind, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.

L-R: A Diana Coatsworth Design jacket, totes from Li/ne

CENTRE STREET DELI

Let’s plant for T.O.’s future this fall

Massive fields of non-native turfgrass that suck up enormous amounts of water and require more pesticides than farms — that’s largely what urban and suburban areas in Canada and the U.S. have become. Lawns are a colonial relic, once seen as a sign of wealth and privilege. But those who want to convert theirs to something more useful, such as wildflower or food gardens and pollinator habitats, face hurdles.

That’s in part because many municipal governments and some homeowner associations prescribe what people can and can’t do with their yards. With growing water scarcity and rapidly declining insect populations, the movement to allow greater freedom in yard design and care is growing.

A group of conservationists in Canada — including the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects, Canadian Wildlife Federation, David Suzuki Foundation, Ecological Design Lab at Toronto Metropolitan University and author and environmental advocate Lorraine Johnson recently published an open letter urging municipal bylaw reforms to support habitat garden development.

The benefits of shifting our perspective on yards are numer-

ous. As the open letter notes, habitat gardens “attract and support a diversity of wildlife, including birds, bees, and butterflies” and “demonstrate a proactive, local response to the global challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.”

Planting gardens instead of turfgrass can also save residents money, cut down on water and pesticide use and reduce pest infestations. Habitat and food gardens also sequester carbon, acting as a hedge against climate change, and filter pollutants from air and water.

There’s ample room for improvement. As part of its new LawnShare campaign, the David Suzuki Foundation released a study of seven Canadian municipalities showing that lawns cover vast areas of each city, with Toronto and Montreal blanketed in 80 and 97 square kilometres of lawn respectively.

Transforming some of our sprawling lawn areas and changing our perspective on what a yard should look like will benefit people and other life forms. Removing the barriers imposed by outdated bylaws and regulations would be a win all around!

Habitat gardens can help sequester carbon and filter pollutants

DAVID SUZUKI with files from senior editor Ian Hanington.

Dear Sangita: I secretly befriended my ex’s new girlfriend

Dear Sangita: I've been keeping tabs on my ex's new girlfriend, and now I think we've become friends — but she doesn't know that I'm his ex. I'm the kind of person who likes to keep a close eye on my exes, following them on my fake account on social media. But I recently ran into the new girlfriend more than a few times and we've struck up a casual friendship. I feel like if she finds out who I really am, she'll freak out, but I really like her and want to stay friends! What do I do?

—Obsessed with my ex

Dear Obsessed: This whole thing is bad. It’s all just sad. You first need to get over your obsession with your exes. The way you approached this relationship is already disastrous because you can't be friends — she's going to find out the truth, and it's going to be a disaster, and your friendship is going to break up. It's not like you guys are best friends.

It's casual. So no, no to all of it. You need to forget about all of this and actually work on yourself.

Logistically, being friends with your ex’s new girlfriend is going to really affect you — you’ll be hearing her talking about her boyfriend, your ex, all the time and that can’t be healthy for you. You need to cut ties. It’s not good for you men-

tally. You’re trying to find a reason to say you should be friends with her, but there are none, absolutely none.

Dear Sangita: I snooped through my partner's phone and I found something concerning. I've had this feeling for a while that he might be cheating, and curiosity got the better of me, and I looked through it and found a dating

app on his phone. I don't know if he's using it because I didn't have enough time to check his messages. The question is: Do I go back into his phone to see if he's still talking to people? Or do I admit to my boyfriend that I snooped and ask him straight out if he's still using it?

—Amateur detective

Dear Detective: I wish you had some evidence! It’s not going to look good on you if you confront him because all he’s going to say is that he downloaded the app in the past and he hasn’t used it in a long time, whether that’s true or not.

The truth is, whenever someone starts snooping, that’s an indication that there’s something off in the relationship. Intuition is always really strong. Listen to it because there's something else going on that made you want to do that. You should be able to trust your partner, but you felt

something was off. There are signs. if you're next to your partner and if they have their phone and they're hiding it or they walk away or there's evidence that they don’t want you to see what they’re doing on their phone, those are all indications. So this is a conversation you should have — I don’t think you should accuse him of having a dating app. It’s more talking about how your relationship is doing and how he’s feeling about it. It’s unavoidable that you’re going to be paranoid now after seeing what you’ve seen, so you need to have that conversation — not even about cheating, but about the relationship as a whole.

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

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

Buskers, Besties and 10 other must-see shows this month

1. Go to Bestie Fest

Bestie Fest, a new comedy festival in Toronto, is set to make its debut from Sept. 27 to 29 at The Drake Hotel. This three-day event promises a fresh take on comedy festivals, focusing on themes of friendship, inclusivity and fun. Sabrina Jalees, known for her roles in Farming for Love and Roast Battle Canada, will headline the festival, leading a diverse group of performers that includes some of Toronto’s most talented comedians in standup, sketch, music and drag.

The festival will feature unique showcases such as the BFF Variety Hour, which combines the best of standup with the nostalgia of sleepovers, and The Laughy Hour, a variety show designed to wrap up early enough for attendees to still catch a good night's sleep. Other standout performances include The Weird Friend, highlighting Toronto's funniest alternative comedians and Laura Live!, a lively variety show led by Laura Cilevitz and featuring special guests.

2. See Fall for Dance North Fall for Dance North’s 10th annual festival, from Sept. 26 to Oct. 6, promises

a celebration of dance in Toronto. The festival features four world premieres by Canadian artists and a rare Toronto appearance by Wayne McGregor, of England’s Royal Ballet Company, presenting the Canadian premiere of Autobiography. Kicking off with Homecoming: 2024 Signature Programme on Sept. 26 and 27, the festival will showcase performances by the National Ballet of Canada, Cuba’s Malpaso Dance Company and Ballet Edmonton. Fulllength premieres include Alyssa Martin’s Big Time Miss and The Mars Project, by Travis Knights and Lisa LaTouche, alongside Guillaume Côté’s Burn Baby, Burn.

3. Visit Queen West Art Crawl

The Queen West Art Crawl returns to Trinity Bellwoods Park on Sept. 21 and 22, celebrating the community’s vibrant art scene. Running from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, the event kicks off with an opening ceremony led by a two-spirited First Nations Elder. The festival features an Outdoor Art Exhibition with more than 100 artists from across Ontario, offering a range of works, including paintings, sculptures and ceramics. Attendees can enjoy live music,

drag performances and family-friendly activities, including daily Story Time in the Kids’ Zone.

4. See Marcus King

Marcus King, the Grammy-nominated musician from Greenville, South Carolina, is set to bring his Mood Swings The World Tour to Massey Hall on Sept. 13. Known for his raw, soulful performances, King channels his struggles with heartache, addiction and mental health into powerful music that resonates with authenticity.

King, who began playing guitar at age eight, has built a reputation as a compelling live performer. His 2020 solo debut, El Dorado, produced by Dan Auerbach, earned a Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album. His latest album, Mood Swings, produced by Rick Rubin, emphasizes his vocals and explores themes of redemption and hope amidst darkness.

5. Go to BuskerFest

The Toronto International BuskerFest is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary this year, marking a quarter-century of bringing world-class street performers to the city. Running from Aug. 30 to

Sept. 2 at Woodbine Park in Toronto’s Beaches neighbourhood, this beloved festival promises an exciting lineup of talent that will captivate audiences of all ages. Each year, the festival draws crowds eager to experience the thrill of live street performances, with artists hailing from around the globe to showcase their talents. This year is no exception, with a stellar lineup of acts that will dazzle, amuse and inspire. Adding a unique twist to the festivities is the return of Bark in the Park TO, a festival within the festival dedicated to dogs and their owners.

6. See Charli XCX

Charli XCX, one of the most exciting voices in contemporary pop, is bringing her Sweat tour to Scotiabank Arena on Sept. 18. Charli XCX, known for her bold, futuristic sound and fearless approach to pop music, has consistently pushed boundaries and had the album of the summer with Brat. Joining her is Troye Sivan, a multi-talented singer, songwriter and actor, who has captured global attention with his emotive voice and introspective lyrics.

L-R: Charli XCX brings her ‘Brat’ vibe to Toronto this month and BuskerFest returns for its 25th anniversary edition

Massive literary shindig, Anderson .Paak and more

7. Go to Life of Pi

The critically acclaimed Life of Pi is set to arrive in Toronto, running Sept. 3 to Oct. 6, at the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre. This theatrical phenomenon, based on Canadian author Yann Martel’s bestselling novel, brings its award-winning production from the West End and Broadway to Canada for a limited engagement. Winner of five Olivier Awards and three Tony Awards, Life of Pi is renowned for its breathtaking visuals and world-class puppetry. The story follows Pi’s epic journey of survival alongside a hyena, zebra, orangutan and a Royal Bengal tiger after a shipwreck in the Pacific Ocean. The play is lauded as “a wonder to behold” by the Daily Mail and “a triumph” by the Sunday Times. The Toronto production features some of the original Olivier Award–winning cast from the U.K.

8. Go to Festival of Authors

The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) will run from Sept. 19 to 29, offering an 11-day celebration of literature and storytelling. This year’s festival explores the theme of "writing

home," featuring a diverse array of events, including author talks, readings, master classes and performances. More than 100 artists and authors from 11 countries, including Yuval Noah Harari, Liane Moriarty, Michael Ondaatje and Roddy Doyle, will be participating. Highlights include special events at Koerner Hall with Harari and Moriarty, the return of The Moth (true stories told live and without notes) and a new program stream celebrating Indigenous stories from across Canada. The festival’s diverse programming also includes children’s activities and professional writing master classes.

9. Visit the Kensington Market Jazz Festival

The Kensington Market Jazz Festival, led by the legendary Molly Johnson, returns to Toronto on Sept. 27 to 29. As always, Johnson personally curates the lineup, ensuring each performer embodies the festival’s commitment to true musicianship. The festival remains artist driven, community supported and volunteer powered, celebrating Toronto’s jazz culture while honouring Kensing-

ton Market’s rich history. This year, KMJF coincides with Pedestrian Sunday on Sept. 29, turning the streets into a lively, car-free zone, enhancing the festival’s community-focused spirit. Admission remains cash-only at $20 to $25, with some free performances announced closer to the event.

10. Go to UpFront Festival

The UpFRONT Festival of Indigenous Arts, Music and Culture will take place from Sept. 13 to 15 at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts and Meridian Hall. This weekend-long event is a vibrant celebration of Indigenous talent, featuring performances by renowned artists such as William Prince, Drezus, Cris Derksen, Shawnee Kish, Semiah and Tonto's Nephews. The festival offers a mix of music, comedy, puppetry and free workshops, all aimed at showcasing the depth and diversity of Indigenous arts.

11. Go to Rosmersholm

Crow’s Theatre opens its 41st season with the Canadian premiere of Henrik Ibsen’s Rosmersholm, running from Sept.

3 to Oct. 6 at the Streetcar Crowsnest. Directed by Chris Abraham, this new adaptation by Duncan Macmillan explores themes of love, faith and politics. The play follows John Rosmer, whose life is upended by the arrival of Rebecca West, leading to a series of revelations that shake their world. The production features a standout cast, including Jonathon Young as Rosmer and Virgilia Griffith as Rebecca, supported by Canadian theatre luminaries Ben Carlson, Beau Dixon, Kate Hennig and Diego Matamoros.

12. See Anderson .Paak Anderson .Paak, the multi-talented musician and Grammy Award winner, is set to electrify Toronto with his signature blend of hip-hop, R & B and funk. Accompanied by his dynamic band, the Free Nationals, Paak is known for his high-energy performances that showcase his prowess as a vocalist, drummer and entertainer. With hits like "Come Down" and "Tints," fans can expect a night filled with infectious grooves and soulful vibes on Sept. 5 at History.

—Ron Johnson

L-R: One-of-a-kind musician Anderson .Paak, the stage adaptation of ‘Life Of Pi’ opens in the city on Sept. 3

THEATRE MUSIC

Atom Egoyan on casting his soulmate

Award-winning filmmaker

Atom Egoyan is all set to head up the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) platform jury this year — 40 years after he and his wife, actor Arsinée Khanijian, presented his debut film Next of Kin at the film festival. Here he shares their very untraditional first kiss and first date.

How they met

We met in 1984 while I was shooting Next of Kin. It’s the classic case of a director falling in love with their star, but for us it’s lasted 40 years. I think we must be the only couple in history that have their first kiss on tape — I was playing a twisted therapist who makes a move on their patient and Arsinée was auditioning for the role. A friend recorded the audition so we have that “first kiss” preserved.

The relationship

There was a strong, mutual attraction, but we tried to hide it as best we could, especially since Arsinée was married at the time. The strange thing was that it was her then husband who insisted that she should audition for this extremely low-budget film shooting around Kensington.

The proposal

The “formal” proposal was figur-

ing out the best date we could have a civil marriage down at city hall, as we were preparing to shoot my sixth film, Exotica, in the summer of 1993.

The kids

Our son Arshile is finishing his MFA, and we are very excited that his film, Before They Joined Us, will be playing at TIFF.

The secret to success

When you’re a couple working in the film industry, things can get very complex, but we try and keep a sense of humour and genuinely enjoy showing our work to audiences.

The past and future

This year will be forty years since we presented Next of Kin at TIFF, and we are also showing a newly restored version of The Sweet Hereafter from 1997. But we’re most excited to see Arshile’s film with a live audience. When I look at this picture, taken when Exotica won Best Canadian Film at TIFF in 1994, I am so grateful that we have been able to make so many films together. And there’s Arshile as a baby — now presenting his own film at TIFF. It’s gratifying to think of this next generation of young Canadians creating new movies in this brave new world.

Atom Egoyan and Arsinée Khanijian with their son Arshile in 1994

Amanda Marshall on a comeback 20 years in the making

It’s a special time to be a fan of Canadian women in music, particularly of Joni Mitchell, Nelly Furtado and Amanda Marshall who, as of recently, have all returned to the stage.

For Marshall, a Juno Award–winning singer-songwriter who reigned in the ’90s, it’s long overdue. In 1994, Marshall became an overnight national hit after her debut album dropped. (Even Elton John is a fan.) But after over a decade of success, in 2002, Marshall became embroiled in legal battles with her record label, after firing her manager, that wouldn’t be resolved for 12 years, leaving the musician wanting a solid break from the industry.

“I went away — not intending to go away, but the circumstances presented themselves,” she says of her two-decade break.

Cut to the summer of 2017, when Marshall decided to do 10 preliminary shows — just to see “if there’s even still a demand out there.” Of course, the fans

showed up. “It really reignited my passion for playing live,” she says.

Marshall dropped her latest album, Heavy Lifting, in 2023 and went on to win the Juno Award for Adult Contemporary Album of the Year and conduct a successful countrywide tour.

“It's been an extraordinary year,” she says. “I came into this

FAST FACTS

NAME: Amanda Marshall

FAVE MUSIC VENUE: Budweiser Stage

FAVE LOCAL CONCERT: Prince at Maple Leaf Gardens, and then again at Massey Hall

FAVE T.O.

NEIGHBOURHOOD: North Toronto

with no expectations, and I've been really overwhelmed.”

The support runs deep for this born-and-raised Torontonian, who grew up as an only child in North Toronto. She studied music from an early age, attending the city’s Royal Conservatory of Music.

“That was a huge part of my

early musical development,” says Marshall. “I started in a program called Orff, named after the German composer Carl Orff, when I was four. It [introduced] me to music as a language.”

Her big break came one day when she was performing at a bar on Queen Street West as a teenager, where guitarist Jeff Healey was wowed by her bold voice from the crowd and took her on tour with him.

Now, alongside Marshall’s career-spanning fans who have grown up with her, is a whole new generation discovering her music for the first time.

She says, “I had underestimated how much of an impact these songs had on people. They’ve gotten married to these songs. They've had babies to these songs. They've lost parents to these songs. And seeing them bring their kids is shocking because I never know who is going to be in those first few rows.”

Each night of her tour, Mar-

shall gets transported right back to the ’90s. Her hair too — her signature feature — remains just as lustrous as it was when she started. (Sadly, she’s got no haircare secrets to reveal: “I'm sorry to disappoint, but it just grows out of my head [like that].”)

Naturally, then, she’s regularly asked if she ever gets tired of performing her older music.

“I really don't,” she says. “I came up at a time when you had to be able to do it all, so we're not running backing tracks. We're out there playing and singing live. It presents the opportunity to be spontaneous.”

With time has come a realization for Marshall: “It dawned on me that what I thought was the worst thing that had ever happened to me was actually the best thing,” she says. “I’ve developed into the person I was supposed to be all along, which offers you a whole amount of ridiculous creative freedom. I’ve got nothing to lose.” —Sadaf Ahsan

Be with your loved ones forever

Mt Pleasant Cemetery

Rare opportunity to purchase unique properties (Only 3 remaining)

• Estate Lot, 24 plots together

• Family Lot, 6 and 10 plots together

Peaceful, Tranquil, Spacious, Prestigious

Centrally located in Mid-Town Toronto

Beautiful Placement

• Top Of Hill, Sunny, Faces West

• Curb-side, near main office

Amanda Marshall returned to the stage after a 20-year break

Toronto's top tables that TIFF stars can't resist

With TIFF rolling into town, Toronto's red carpet is practically sizzling with star power. If you’re eyeing a chance to rub shoulders with Hollywood royalty, here’s where you should be: First up, the city's new glitterati hot spot, Nobu. Fresh on the scene and already a beacon for the A-list crowd (hello, Drake!), its Malibu-minted fame promises you might just bump into celebs

like Selena Gomez. Then there’s Mott 32, taking over the Shangri-La’s luxe digs. Expect the celebrity set to flock here in style. Finally, for a touch of mixology magic, Compton Ave. is where it’s at. The latest creation from Frankie Solarek, this place is practically a red carpet for stars such as Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander.

Clockwise from left: Nobu, Compton Ave. and Mott 32

BEST OF T.O. eat

BEST SUSHI

Founded by Taro Akiyama in 1996, TARO’S FISH is a legendary Toronto fish market and sushi spot, renowned for its fresh, high-quality seafood and its supply to the city’s top restaurants. 800 Sheppard Ave. E.

BEST BUTCHER

CUMBRAE’S, a four-time Best Of winner, including 2023, excels in sustainable meat from local farms. Although Cumbrae’s offers pies and soups, the beef remains the star. 714 Queen St. W.

BEST HOT DOGS

BEST PIZZERIA PIE

PIZZERIA BADIALI

BADIALI (pictured) brings an old-school New York slice experience to Toronto, with long lines for its light, airy crust fermented for two days for maximum flavour. 106 Dovercourt Rd.

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BEST BUTTER TARTS

Treat yourself to award-winning tarts at CIRCLES and SQUARES, honoured at Ontario's Best Butter Tarts Festival for its classic, Snickers, maple pecan and pumpkin spice butter tart flavours. 197 Bartley Dr, North York

NORTH OF BROOKLYN

NOB serves authentic, handcrafted pies with a perfect balance of thin, crispy crust, rich flavours and evenly spread sauce and cheese. 1728 Avenue Rd.

Definitely not your average weiner joint, GRANDMA LOVES YOU serves the best in the city, including the standout Japan Dog loaded with avocado, cucumber, seaweed and wasabi mayo. 40 St. Clair Ave. W.

BEST BURRITOS

WILBUR MEXICANA keeps it simple with a concise menu of three burritos, each a must-try. And to add some heat, Wilbur offers a self-serve hot sauce and salsa bar. 552 King St. W.

BEST ROTI

ROTI CUISINE OF INDIA is a cosy spot serving curries on rice or in roti, with a surprising Jamaican twist. One bite of their roti, and the bold flavours will knock your socks off. 308 Dupont St.

BEST PIES

At SWEETIE PIE, every pie is crafted by hand with love and care. Haven't tried the award-winning chocolate pecan or lemon shortbread? You might as well sample them both. 1639 Bayview Ave.

BEST CAKES

Channel your inner Marie Antoinette and elevate your event with LA ROCCA’s luxurious cakes, from simple elegance to honeysoaked pistachio, crafted with premium ingredients and artistry. 2638 Yonge St.

BEST FISH & CHIPS

OLDE YORKE FISH & CHIPS, a Leaside legend since 1997, nails authentic British fare with no fuss. It’s the spot where locals line up for hearty portions and a cosy, checkered charm. 96 Laird Dr.

BEST POUTINE

Hit NOM NOM NOM POUTINE for massive fries smothered in gravy and squeaky cheese, with hearty options such as Super Dog and pulled beef. 707 Dundas St. W.

BEST PAD THAI

At PAI, try chef Nuit Regular's famous Pad Thai: a warm nest of noodles with a flawless balance of sweetness and spice. 18 Duncan St.

BEST BREAKFAST

WHITE LILY DINER serves all-day brunch with highlights like steak n’ eggs. Run by Ben Denham and Ashley Lloyd, it features fresh ingredients from their own farm — talk about fresh! 678 Queen St. E.

BEST UDON

MENAMI offers a selection of 16 housemade udon noodle dishes, among them the impressive new maze udon, featuring tender miso-sauced ground pork. 5469 Yonge St., North York

BEST COOKIES

Born from a simple hobby, multiple Best Of winner MIDNIGHT COOKIE satisfies cravings anytime, whether it's 3 p.m. or 3 a.m. Try the sinfully rich Kinder cookie decadence at its finest. 3 Manor Rd. E.

BEST PANCAKES

In Little Italy, OLD SCHOOL's Blueberry Hill pancakes steal the show. Served in a castiron pan with blueberry compote, bacon and a hefty scoop of brown sugar butter, it's pure indulgence. 800 Dundas St. W.

BEST LOBSTER ROLL

Known for its oysters, family-run business RODNEY’S shines with its lobster roll: a toasted bun loaded with chunky lobster meat and served with crispy shoestring fries. 469 King St. W.

BEST JAMAICAN PATTIES

ISLAND FOODS, one of Toronto's first Caribbean restaurants, has stuck to its authentic 1974 recipes, proving that tradition still reigns supreme. 1310 Don Mills Rd.

BEST RAMEN

RAMEN ISSHIN stands out with its complex broths. The Red Dragon ramen dazzles with wok-fried pork, braised belly, peanuts and a rich miso-tonkotsu broth. 3175 Rutherford Rd., Concord

BEST BANH MI

Chinatown storefront BANH MI NGUYEN HUONG run by the parents of Banh Mi Boys since the '80s, churns out hundreds of banh mi and rice paper rolls daily. 322 Spadina Ave.

BEST NACHOS

SNEAKY DEE'S King's Crown nachos are a deliciously chaotic masterpiece, a Taste Test and Best Of champ, they come heaping with toppings like frijoles and seasoned ground beef. 431 College St.

BEST BIBIMBAP

For food that warms the soul, mom-andpop shop SUNRISE HOUSE in Koreatown serves comforting dishes like kimchi stew with tuna and ra bokki. 661 Bloor St. W.

BEST FALAFEL

What distinguishes the falafel at FAT PASHA? Post’s tasting chef Chef Anthony Rose crowning it the world's best. It’s green inside, giving it a unique flavour that sets it above most falafels. 414 Dupont St.

BEST GREEK SALAD

Though the seafood takes the spotlight at bustling Greek hot spot MAMAKAS, don't miss the horiatiki salad, featuring a gigantic slab of feta on top. 80 Ossington Ave.

BEST STEAK HOUSE

Yes, people love the House of Chan, they love Black + Blue — but for us, the best steakhouse is the classic French style that CÔTE DE BŒUF, with roughly 18 seats, serves up. 130 Ossington Ave.

BEST DOUGHNUTS AROUND

HARRY AND HEELS

Located inside the Fourth Man in the Fire Pizzeria, HARRY AND HEELS’s California-style doughnuts (pictured) just might be the softest and most flavourful you’ve ever had.

832 Dundas St. W.

SUBS ABOVE THE REST

BEST DELI SANDWICH

PANCER’S ORIGINAL, a classic since 1957, and CENTRE STREET DELI, Thornhill’s top lunch spot, are tied for iconic deli status. 3865 Bathurst St., 136 Centre St., Thornhill

BEST BRISKET SANDWICH

Five-time Best Of winner BLACK CAMEL's slow-roasted brisket sandwich is a fiveday labour of love, slow cooked for 14 hours overnight and served on a soft Portuguese kaiser roll. 4 Crescent Rd.

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MACHINO

Think plant-based treats can’t be delicious? These ultra-fluffy, doughnuts — ring dipped, filled, fritters and cronuts — beg to differ. Vegan never tasted so good.

556 Bloor St. W.

BEST CLUB SANDWICH

It’s a tie between the two classics: AVENUE DINER’s time-honoured club sandwiches and WINDFIELDS’ gourmet upgrade. 222 Davenport Rd., 801 York Mills Rd.

BEST VEAL SANDWICH Marcus Burt and his father serve up a dinner plate–sized veal sandwich at PAPAMIO’S, topped with grilled mushrooms, caramelised onions, peppers and tomato sauce. 934 Manning Ave.

Four Key Reasons to Address Urinary Challenges

Talking about leaks, dribbles, and that sudden urge to go to the restroom can make anyone feel a bit awkward and frustrated. But have you considered the potential benefits of addressing these challenges? And did you know that a nearby solution exists – here right in your neighbourhood – providing a pain-free solution while allowing you to remain fully clothed?

Here are four compelling reasons why treating urinary incontinence should be a priority.

1) Avoiding the “OOPS Moment”:

Nobody desires the awkward OOPS moment when urine unexpectedly leaks out, catching you off guard, especially at the most inconvenient times. By addressing urinary challenges, you can avoid these uncomfortable incidents, reclaiming a carefree and confident lifestyle.

2) Regaining Control:

Among the most common words we hear from our clients is the desire to regain control. They experience a sense of powerlessness, as though their bodies have let them down. However, with the right treatment, you can regain that control and feel empowered to go about your day-to-day activities without worry or fear.minimize urgency.

3) Freedom to do the things that you love: Challenges with urinary control can restrict your daily activities, causing you to avoid things you love. Maybe you used to love running, or you’ve stopped playing your favorite sport because you’re worried about accidents. Addressing these challenges can give you the freedom to do the things you love again, the things that help your overall health and wellness.

3) Less Pees and Better Zzzzzzs:

If you struggle with urinary challenges, you may find that it disrupts your sleep. You may have to get up multiple times during the night to go to the bathroom, causing you to feel tired and groggy. Addressing these challenges can improve the quality of your sleep.

UROSPOT is here to help, conveniently located right in your neighbourhood.

These urinary challenges are common, but they are not normal. UROSPOT offers an innovative solution to restore freedom and peace of mind for people living with incontinence. UROSPOT combines technology, education and health coaching to help women and men say goodbye to bladder leaks, urgency, frequency, night waking, and other pelvic floor issues, simply by sitting on a chair. The best part is you remain fully-clothed, and the treatment is 100% non-invasive. Nothing goes in your body, and no one is touching you. The technology effectively delivers the equivalent of 11,000 kegels in just 28 minutes while it restores the neuromuscular connection between your brain, bladder and pelvic floor. It is pelvic health done differently, and you will leave feeling educated and empowered.

Book your complimentary consultation today. Partially covered by physiotherapy benefits.

3080 YONGE STREET, SUITE 5033 TORONTO ON • (416) 874-6268 UROSPOT.COM/UPTOWN-TORONTO

BEST GELATO

HOTEL GELATO is a Forest Hill favourite, winning Best Of three times. Meanwhile, MIZZICA, run by Italian expat Paolo, offers a rotating selection of delicious flavours. 532 Eglinton Ave. W., 307 Queen St. W.

BEST VEGETARIAN

Vegans and carnivores love PLANTA for its cult-favourite Bang Bang Broccoli and convincing sushi, proving you don't need meat to have a satisfying meal. 1221 Bay St.

BEST MEATBALLS

At 7 NUMBERS, chef Rosa’s meatballs, with a core of mozzarella surrounded by savoury meat and topped with homemade sauce, are the epitome of Italian comfort food. 516 Eglinton Ave. W.

BEST BUTTER CHICKEN

Two-time winner, BANJARA has truly mastered the art of butter chicken. Succulent tandoori meat is simmered in a rich, tomato gravy that’s creamy and packed with flavour. 796 Bloor St. W.

BEST JERK CHICKEN

Toronto’s best-kept secret? TROPICAL JOE’S in Gerrard Square. Enjoy Caribbean eats with a Canadian twist like the Jerk chicken over rice and peas, or try the jerk chicken poutine! 1000 Gerrard St. E.

THE UPPER CRUST

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Rosedale's cool factor skyrockets with MANITA, a vibrant new spot blending Mediterranean and Canadian classics in the former Rosedale Diner space. 1164 Yonge St.

BEST SHAWARMA

SHAWARMA EMPIRE is the go-to for Palestinian-style shawarma. With long lines and rave reviews, their grilled pita is packed with meat, veggies and homemade sauce. 1961 Lawrence Ave E., Scarborough

BEST PHO

When a recent cold waylaid Post City's publisher, he set out to find T.O’s best pho. MI MI emerged on top, offering colossal portions, unbeatable flavour, and the best vermicelli rice noodles. 686A Gerrard St. E.

BEST CHARBROILED BURGER

Since the '60s, GOLDEN STAR has served no-frills burgers. At BURGER SHACK, enjoy a Banquet Burger, a local favourite of Drake and Max Domi. 7123 Yonge St., Thornhill; 233 Eglinton Ave. W.

BEST SPANIKOPITA

Mamakas hits the jackpot with its SOUVLA pop-up, offering mouth-watering spanakopita: buttery handmade phyllo brimming with greens and feta. 105 Scollard St.

BEST BAGELS

A Toronto landmark, two-time Best Of winner BAGEL WORLD offers over a dozen flavours daily, along with an array of breakfast options and delectable pastries too. 10 Disera Dr., Thornhill

BEST CAESAR SALAD

BLUE BLOOD

Set in Casa Loma, this upscale venue serves a can't-miss tableside caesar (pictured), with herbed croutons, doublesmoked bacon, anchovies and Reggiano. 1 Austin Terrace

BEST CROISSANTS

RAHIER PATISSERIE, a Leaside gem since 1996, boasts award-winning croissants and three Best Of nods. Founded by François Rahier, it’s lauded by top chefs for quality. 1586 Bayview Ave.

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THE OCTAGON

The caesar salad at this high-end steak house is a tableside show. A cart rolls up, and staff prepare it with flair, turning a salad into a performance. 7529 Yonge St., Thornhill

BEST BAGUETTES

No need to miss Paris — with THOBORS, you can savour the wonderfully dense and flavourful baguettes made from the highest-quality ingredients. 627 Mount Pleasant Rd.

BEST SOURDOUGH

Evoking the charm of Parisian patisseries, PETITE THUET’s Alsatian sourdough is renowned for its crackling crust and soft, airy interior. 1162 Yonge St

BEST OF T.O. SHOP

BEST DOG GROOMER

WOOFTOWN

Ryoko and the team run the most relaxing environment for your canines at WOOFTOWN (pictured). Our office dog, Trapper, says they’re the best of the best. 10 Birch Ave.

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TAIL SPIN DOG SPA

For your puppy who has never been groomed or a senior dog with health issues, trust Tail Spin to give them a gentle and stylish haircutting experience, no matter the breed.

12 Irwin Ave.

BEST TAILOR

It’s all in the name — LAST MINUTE

ALTERATION will have you looking your best, and fast (and for a fair price). Mike handles intricate repairs with ease.

90 Yorkville Ave.

BEST DRY CLEANERS

A constant winner in this category, if you have expensive or much-loved clothing, ASHFORD CLEANERS is the way to go — you can’t trust almost anyone else.

535 Eglinton Ave. W.

BEST DENIM OVER THE RAINBOW has always been cool.

Joel Carman and his family have been running this denim institution since hippies roamed Yorkville, and they’ve got a stack of Best Of wins to prove it. 55 Bloor St. W.

BEST

SPOT FOR A GIFT

A rambling double store in Summerhill, PUTTI FINE FURNISHINGS has so many choices that we don’t even know if they know what they have!

1104 Yonge St.

BEST FLOWER SHOP

A colourful, fragrant haven for nature lovers, APRICOT FLOWERS is a true neighbourhood gem. Their succulent-filled Havana Garden makes for the perfect little gift. 621A Mt. Pleasant Rd.

BEST EYEWEAR

Brands come and go, but customer service is forever. SQUINT EYEWEAR has been known to do free repairs for shoppers off the street, customer or not.

1152 Yonge St.

BEST HAIR COLOURING

A real family affair, COLOUR LAB’s fatherand-son owners Jean-Charles and Raphael Azran do the best, most sought-after hair colouring in town.

1013 Yonge St.

BEST VACUUM REPAIR

At YORK APPLIANCE, they can fix anything this family-run business has been at it since 1969 and Raffi Asalian and the team’s customer service is hard to beat.

2029 Avenue Rd.

BEST BOOKSTORE

Spread over three sprawling floors, BMV BOOKS is a bookworm’s heaven, and with vintage magazines galore in the basement, this one is close to our publishing heart. 471 Bloor St. W.

BEST CONSIGNMENT

With steeply discounted online sales that you can actually then go and see and touch in-store,, browse at night and shop by day at designer paradise VSP CONSIGNMENT. 1410 Dundas St. W.

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHES

A 2023 and 2022 winner in this category, ZERO20KIDS will cover all your bases when holiday and events season rolls around, from newborn to pre-teen. 7700 Pine Valley Dr., Woodbridge

BEST NEW BARBER

Farid Alavi began his craft in Scotland before launching the new Bench Barbershop, where this sartorial barber dons threepiece suits for a shave.

1300 Bay St.

BEST WOMEN’S FASHION

A taste of New York-style shopping in the heart of T.O., ANDREWS is one-of-a-kind. This miniature department store just for women has always had impeccable taste. 55 Avenue Rd.

BEST SHOE REPAIR

Give KANER’S a fraying bag or a brokendown pair of shoes and they’ll work their magic — they take their time, but the result is always perfect.

110 Bloor St. W.

BEST SNEAKERS

For stylish twists on your favourite sneakers, go to NYC-based retailer KITH — their Yorkville arrival brought exclusive collabs with Adidas, Converse and more to the city. 78 Yorkville Ave.

BEST KIDS’ BOOKSTORE

Adorable inside and out, independent children’s bookstore MABEL’S FABLES will entice any kid to read — and an appearance from Mabel the cat may sweeten the deal.

662 Mt. Pleasant Rd.

BEST RECORD SHOP

Packed with new and used vinyl, ROTATE

THIS will give you the feel of being in an authentic record shop where real vinylheads go to buy their music. 186 Ossington Ave.

BEST COLD PLUNGE

OTHERSHIP

OTHERSHIP (pictured) burst onto the scene with a (frigid) splash, making cold plunges cooler than ever — though we’ll bet the saunas are more in use at their luxurious Yorkville location.

110 Bloor St. W.

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ALTER

With a Finnish-inspired hot + cold therapy experience, Alter offers a sauna, ice bath and lounge circuit that incorporates breathwork, aromatherapy and movement.

860 College St.

SECOND-HAND GEMS

BEST VINTAGE WATCHES

Cartier, Rolex, Patek Philippe — VAN RIJK has the largest collection of vintage watches in Canada. With truly expert staff to guide you, the shop is a six-time Best Of winner for a reason. 90 Eglinton Ave. E.

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

A standout on Mount Pleasant’s antique alley, BERNARDI’S ANTIQUES has a huge assortment at fair prices and is run by David Zammit of Heritage Antique Show fame. 699 Mt. Pleasant Rd.

BEST NAIL SALON

ANNA’S HEAVENLY NAILS is a brand new spot in the Summerhill neighbourhood wherethe salon is spotless and they play old Seinfeld episodes all day.

1278 Yonge St.

BEST SWIMWEAR

SHAN may not be for the faint of wallet, but if it’s long-lasting quality and timeless designs that you’re after, these swimsuits are well worth it.

7540 Weston Rd., Woodbridge

BEST FOR BIKES

Beginning as a literally curbside pop-up tent, CURBSIDE CYCLE is now the friendliest and most accessible bike shop in the city, with a solid international selection. 412 Bloor St. W.

BEST LIGHTING STORE

There’s no other way to say it — ROYAL LIGHTING really is just the best in the city. A more than six-time Best Of winner, its labyrinth of choices is enough to brighten anyone’s day. 1549 Avenue Rd.

BEST MENSWEAR

LOST & FOUND has massively expanded their square footage in the past year, bringing in even more cool brands to build possibly the best menswear selection on the west side. 12 Ossington Ave.

BEST TATTOO PARLOUR

THE OKEY DOKE TATTOO SHOP’s sunny little storefront specializes in traditional tattoos; trust the team to be patient with firsttimers and execute your design to perfection. 129 Dundas St. W.

BEST VINTAGE FASHION

Beautifully organized and curated, the mother-daughter-run MAMA LOVES YOU is a celebrity favourite for a reason, with finds that span the 1880s all the way to the ’90s. 541 Queen St. W.

BEST DESIGNER DEALS

With a few online and in-store seasonal sales that often hit up to 70 per cent off, TNT makes designer brands that much more accessible to the fashion lover than their regular prices. 2901 Bayview Ave.

BEST CONSIGNMENT FURNITURE

Head to OF THINGS PAST to upcycle your furniture instead of tossing it, or to find that rare vintage piece to complete your home. 185 Bridgeland Ave.

BEST OF T.O. do

BEST COMEDY CLUB

COMEDY BAR

COMEDY BAR (pictured) has a killer combination of top notch touring standups, local legends and a variety of creative sketch and improv shows.

Plus the new Danforth club rocks.

2800 Danforth Ave. & 945 Bloor St. W.

ABSOLUTE

BEST ARCADE GAMES

ZED*80, a cosy arcade bar, features over 35 arcade games for just $5 (or $10 on weekends). Enjoy great food on weekends, or bring your own snacks.

185 Danforth Ave.

BEST DRAG BRUNCH

GLAD DAY’s Sunday drag brunch is a truly magical experience. Enjoy brunch while a rotating cast of drag performers delights and entertains.

499 Church St.

BEST REP CINEMA

THE FOX THEATRE takes the prize for its charm, its creative special events and its inventive programming that always seems to get it right.

2236 Queen St. E.

BEST BOARD GAMES

BEST LIT VIBES

THE ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE ROOM at Toronto Reference Library is a hidden gem designed to mimic Holmes' iconic 221B Baker Street apartment. Amazing.

789 Yonge St.

BEST INDIE THEATRE

CROW’s has been consistent in its unconventional and provocative productions and had the show of the year last season. What can they do to top it?

345 Carlaw Ave.

BEST BOWLING

Since five-pin bowling was invented in Toronto, we think there is no better option than SHAMROCK BOWL, circa 1940, in all its retro splendour.

280 Coxwell Ave.

BEST COOKING CLASS

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This venue hosts nightly standup shows featuring a mix of seasoned comedians and up-and-comers with a relaxing atmosphere and a lineup that always hits.

2355 Yonge St.

BEST NEW MUSIC VENUE

GROUND CONTROL on Queen West hit the ground running at NXNE and is filling a void in spaces for new music. Plus the Panic! retro dance night is amazing.

1279 Queen St. W.

BEST MUSIC HALL

We are all in on the revival of the legendary CONCERT HALL. It has a great vibe, amazing sound and it's just an epic room. Check out Julien Baker, Oct. 1 and 2!

888 Yonge St.

The original SNAKES & LATTES continues to dominate the gaming scene, especially at its fantastic midtown location on two floors. A must-visit.

45 Eglinton Ave. E.

BEST GALLERY

The AGA KHAN MUSEUM stands out with its unique, breathtaking architecture, perfectly complementing its exceptional collection of Islamic art and culture.

77 Wynford Dr.

BEST PIANO BAR

JEAN DARLENE PIANO BAR is a hidden gem where live music and a '70s Hollywood vibe come together for an unforgettable night out.

1203 Dundas St. W.

Who doesn’t love a good cooking class? Well, there is no place better to indulge than EATALY, which has amazing handson pasta and pizza classes and more.

55 Bloor St. W.

BEST SERENITY NOW

CHAM SHAN TEMPLE in Thornhill is a serene and beautiful destination that offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

7254 Bayview Ave.

BEST LIVE BAND KARAOKE

Kensington Market’s venerable SUPERMARKET is home to the best live band karaoke in the city. The next event is scheduled for Sept. 4. Don’t miss it! 268 Augusta Ave.

BEST OF THE BEST SMASH BURGERS

Shake Shack has taken Toronto by storm with its smash burgers getting rave reviews. But how do they stack up against our local spots? With a history of having created the city’s most outrageous burger, chef Mark McEwan is the perfect judge for this epic burger showdown.

ORIGINAL

“Good relation of meat to bun, and I really like the sauce on this. It's very similar to the one at Burger King, which is my favourite of the fast-food chains.”

Burger Drops, 116 Atlantic Ave., Original, $8.50

FRESHBURGER

WINNER

RUDY BURGER

“Good beef flavour, and the bun is really good too. No onion, which is a little surprising, but overall this is really delicious.”

Rudy, 168 Eglinton Ave. E., $9.99

Meat your heartout

PLAIN JANE

“This is a big burger! There’s a crumble of potato chips inside, which is very different, but I find I don’t taste the beef at all because of all the garnishes.”

Harry’s Charbroiled, 255 Coxwell Ave., Plain Jane $9.50

CHEF

MARK McEWAN

transformed Toronto's dining scene with North 44 and now is a mentor on Top Chef.

RUNNER-UP

THE ROSIE

“Burger size is really good and it eats really well. The beef flavour is definitely there, and the bun tastes good too.”

Rosie’s, 573 Queen St. W., $8.75

“The patty is very small, and the garnishes are kind of marginal, but I like the flavour of the burger.”

Fresh Burger, 9206 Leslie St., #4, Richmond Hill, $7.59

Getcheesy

THE MATTY BURGER

“Not nearly as beefy as some of the others, and that’s really what you’re looking for in a burger. The condiments are good, but it’s really lacking in beefiness.”

Matty’s Patty’s, 923a Queen St. W., $15.95

CLASSIC

“Not really getting a big beefy flavour. The bun is nice, but I’m not a fan of the tomato because I feel that it alters the flavour.”

Jabs, 630 St. Clair Ave. W., Classic, $9

SHACK BURGER

“Meat flavour is good and the bun is good — the bun is half the experience of the burger. But I’m disappointed there are no onions. Maybe that’s just my personal preference.”

Shake Shack, 10 Dundas St. E., $8.49

Dining duress: Eateries tighten reso rules

Booking limits, fines and mandatory tasting menus are just a few new rules

As Toronto continues to rise as a globally recognized food destination, reservations are a necessity, if not the only way, to get seating at some of the most in-demand hot spots around town. But just as they're becoming more and more necessary, restaurants continue to add new policies to their reservations, making it even harder to secure a table.

From booking fees and required credit card numbers to limited reservation windows, third-party portals and steep fees for no-shows, Toronto’s restaurants are tightening the reins.

Yorkville’s Osteria Giulia charges $75 per guest for noshows or cancellations within 48 hours, with reservations opening just 14 days in advance. Osteria Giulia’s strict policies, including potential forfeiture for significant party reductions, are listed before the booking link to ensure customers agree up front.

Turkish brunch destination Pasaj has a similar policy, though at a smaller price point of $25 for no-shows and cancellations made within 24 hours. Although it might be a

costly fee, owners Dee and John Ülgen felt they had no choice.

“When we weren’t charging anything, we would have 90 or 100 reservations but only 20 per cent were showing up,” Dee says. “It’s a huge, huge difference because you prepare yourself for a busy day and then you end up in a much less busy day, and, of course, there are walkins, but that can only fill up so much. So it was a huge disadvantage to us.”

Hemant Bhagwani, owner of Bar Goa, which charges a $25 no-show and cancellation fee (even for its prepaid 7-course omakase), believes booking more than 30 days in advance is excessive, a limit most restaurants won't exceed.

servations since requiring credit card info, creating a cycle where increased walk-ins can't be seated due to his small dining room's limitations, undermining the effectiveness of reservations.

THE HIGHS AND THE LOWS

“There are days where we win some, and there are days where we lose, and we just try to strike a good balance,” he says.

“We would have 90 or 100 reservations but only 20 per cent were showing up.”

Since implementing credit card requirements and no-show fines two years ago, the Ülgens have reduced no-shows from 80 per cent of reservations to just one to five per cent.

“If someone has to cancel, we understand and try to accommodate,” says John. “But we need to know, so we can free up the table for customers seeking last-minute reservations.”

The owners implemented an advanced booking limit after noticing that the further out reservations were made, the more likely they were to be forgotten.

“It’s common for people from out of town to book lastminute reservations,” says Bhagwani. “But when we call to confirm, their phones don’t work or they’ve forgotten they even made the booking.”

Although adding a no-show charge seems like a simple fix, it doesn’t please everyone — especially out-of-town diners like Kennedy Vekeman, a Nova Scotia resident who often plans trips to Toronto to try the city’s trendiest spots.

“When I travel, I like to book three or four weeks ahead to get it sorted,” she says. “If I can’t reserve while planning my trip, I’d think twice about going. If it’s not a must-try, we’d probably skip it.”

Bhagwani notes a drop in re-

Bhagwani observes that while popular, smaller restaurants are adopting stricter reservation policies, such measures need to be more widespread, especially for special occasions like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, when diners often book multiple venues and show up at just one, leaving others empty.

“We tend to lose more patrons on busy nights and special occasions, so stricter measures are needed,” Bhagwani suggests. “We should consider charging the full amount or the total of the omakase up front, treating reservations like ticket sales.”

With the consensus that noshows persist without financial repercussions, it looks like stricter reservation policies may be the inevitable result of our own actions. —Megan Gallant

At this high-end spot, last-minute cancellations or no-shows are charged $350 per person plus a 23 per cent gratuity.

DaiLo

At DaiLo, an Asian brasserie and snack bar, larger parties must opt for the prix-fixe tasting menu.

Mezcalero

At this Mexican hot spot, arrive more than 15 minutes late without notice and your reservation is forfeited, with a potential no-show fee charged.

Kaiseki Yu-Zen Hashimoto

Kaiseki Yu-Zen Hashimoto

From left: Hemant Bhagwani, Osteria Giulia

HILLCREST HOME HARDWARE

Queen West gets a new late night playground

Baby’s Cabaret opened a month ago on Queen West, and it’s been the buzz ever since. It’s a fun blend of cabaret, burlesque and the hedonistic energy of Studio 54, while the talent, both local and international, brings a fresh energy to the area.

“Baby’s delivers the unexpected, with no two evenings being the same,” says Reza Abedi, operating partner.

“From performances with singers and dancers, along with a seductive atmosphere, our cabaret will keep you on the edge of your seat or bring you to the dance floor.”

heart of the action are two central poles, anchoring the space and allowing performers to seamlessly blend into the surroundings.

Bar snacks get an upgrade with curated flights. Choose from tangy pickles, international olives, crunchy salty treats, gourmet cheeses and premium cured meats, with options ranging from $8 to $32.

RETRO REVIVAL

Cocktails highlight ’90s nostalgia with ingredients like Hpnotiq liqueur and Sour Puss.

Inside, Abedi’s design is a mix of luxury and jungle chic, with bold jaguar print carpets, velvet couches and marble tables that demand attention. The walls are lined with custom art by Candice Kaye, who’s known across North America. Baby’s Cabaret is the first to feature her latest work, LAND, which boasts a standout jaguar print.

The venue pulses with a vibrant mix of live performances, keeping the atmosphere electric from start to finish. At the

Mixologist Jake Dolgy crafts inventive drinks, like the Electric Ladyland, a zesty blend of Patron Silver tequila, aperitivo, Sour Puss Red, Chambord and lemon juice. The Lips Like Sugar mixes Teeling Small Batch Irish Whiskey, Campari, Fireball and dry vermouth for a bold kick. For non-drinkers, the Tall Dark and Handsome offers Captain Morgan Spiced Gold O.O., Dr. Zero Zero Amaro, lime and Coke.

Baby’s Cabaret is open from 8 p.m. till late on Fridays and Saturdays and starting at 5 p.m. on Sundays.

You’ll find it at 563 Queen St. W., but only if you’re 25 plus.

—Jennifer Schembri

L-R: Baby’s blends cabaret and burlesque, one of the inventive drinks

Steak Pit is making a triumphant return to midtown

The Steak Pit is making a comeback, and midtown residents can’t contain their excitement.

Yes, you read that right: in just a few short weeks, you’ll be able to order a filet mignon with the Steak Pit’s signature Mexican rib sauce while dining on cloth-covered tables in a nostalgia-filled room.

The famous steak house, which closed in 2016 after 70 years at 1666 Avenue Rd., is being brought back to life at Bistro on Avenue, a family rib and wing joint just down the road from where the Steak Pit used to stand.

“I take my walks up and down Avenue Road and kept walking by Steak Pit, which has been closed for eight years now,” says Cindy Stern, co-owner of Bistro on Avenue. “I thought about how popular it was, and between the Bistro being around almost 40 years and the Steak Pit that was around 70 years, I just thought about what it would be like to have two iconic institutions under one roof.”

Stern has been revamping the dining room at Bistro on Avenue. She’s stripped away the old memorabilia, repainted the space and kept only a few hanging photos and the iconic mounted fish that once greeted guests at the original steak house.

When the new Steak Pit addition at Bistro on Avenue opens, it won’t spell the end for the Bistro. Both the Bistro and Stern’s Deli will keep running from the bar side of the restaurant.

RIB ROYALTY

Despite its name, flavour-packed Mexican ribs were the cornerstone of the Steak Pit’s menu.

On the Steak Pit menu will be familiar favourites, including, of course, rib eyes, steak loins, salmon and the garlic bread and celery tray appetizers.

Although Stern hoped the news would attract business to the Bistro on Avenue building, she admits the response has been beyond her expectations. The buzz has been “unbelievable” and “overwhelming.”

“It just feels like everywhere I go, everybody is talking about the Steak Pit,” she says.

With that vision in mind of bringing Steak Pit’s menu to Bistro on Avenue, Stern installed a char-grill in the kitchen and reached out to a former manager at Steak Pit, who has been mentoring her on everything from the signature rib sauce to the classic house salad dressings.

With a mid-September opening on the horizon,

The feedback makes it clear just how beloved the Steak Pit is, making it all the more important for Stern to create an homage to it in Bistro on Avenue.

“It was such an affordable place,” she says. “You just felt comfortable in it, and you got good food and good value for your money. That’s what I’m trying to recreate.” —Megan Gallant

From top: Steak Pit’s neon sign, co-owners Cindy Stern & Louis Nemes

Start a conversation today with Zoe.

Zoe Joyce Kiousis, CIM®, FCSI®

Senior Portfolio Manager, Senior Investment Advisor

66 Wellington St.W., 36th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5K 1A2

Tel: 416-982-2126 | zoe.kiousis@td.com | zoejoycekiousis.com

Authentic Roman-style pizza lands in Yorkville

Pala 148

one of Yorkville’s newest additions, serving up authentic Roman-style slices, but the chef is not new to Toronto’s food scene — and he’s certainly not new to pizza.

Simone Martinotti always had a passion for savoury pies, but after moving to Canada 12 years ago, he found himself selling Italian pizza ovens and pasta machines to commercial kitchens. It was a step into the industry but still far from the food he truly loved.

“Pizza wasn’t as good back then, and so I started making it at home as a creative outlet,” he says. “It’s always been my passion.”

ing,” he says.

ROMAN CRISP

Pala 148's name nods to "pizza alla pala," a Roman-style pizza baked with a wooden paddle.

Four years ago, Martinotti and his wife launched Alto Pizza, an interactive catering business where he crafted pizzas on the spot using a woodfired oven at private events, weddings and celebrations. After its success, Martinotti set his sights on Yorkville as the ideal location for Pala 148.

“It was a beautiful opportunity because there is nothing like takeout or ‘grab-and-go’ pizza in the area, so we wanted to create that real Italian feel-

Pala 148 gets its name from the “pizza alla pala,” style popular in Rome, with the “pala” referring to the wooden paddle used to put the pies in the oven. The pizza dough is made from flour imported directly from Italian mills and with a high water content, which gives the pizza that Roman-style crisp. “It results in pizza that you can bring home, reheat another time, and it will still come alive again,” Martinotti says. “A Napolitano pizza is not good for takeout because it gets chewy and soggy, and that’s why Roman style is so famous, because it can last and be reheated.”

In addition to Pala 148’s staple pizzas, like the soppressata and the mortadella, which is made with a mascarpone and pesto cream base with Italian mortadella, stracciatella cheese and topped with pistachio kernel, Pala 148 serves a housemade focaccia and simple salads.

Find the restaurant at 148 Cumberland St. —Megan Gallant

Pala 148’s dough is made using flour sourced from a mill in Italy

Catchy new pizza parlour opens in Summerhill/Annex

After more than 20 years, the Annex’s Pour House has shut its doors for good. But in its place, Fab Restaurant Concepts — which owns 10 restaurants across the city, including Pie Bar, Murphy’s Law and Simona — has opened an all-new concept dubbed Stell’'s Kitchen.

“The city’s changing, and we felt it was time to find a new concept,” says Sean Bayley, who owns Fab Restaurants alongside his wife Jane Henderson. “We were looking to add something reasonably priced, with really good Italian food. We have a lot more families in the neighbourhood, so we wanted to do something a little bit more family-forward.”

BONE APPETIT

A pawtio menu is available for furry friends with treats like Thanksgiving turkey and Pupsicles.

With retro-style posters, checkered tablecloths and patio umbrellas — all designed by Henderson herself — this new spot on Dupont Street is rolling out the red carpet for everyone. Whether you’re coming for the cocktails, the surprise kids’ toys or just the vibrant decor, there’s fun to be had by all. And it’s all in tribute to the women who shaped the co-owners’ vision.

“Our mothers were both great hosts, and they loved having parties and inviting people to their houses,” says Henderson. “We just took this idea of these two wonderful, very strong women and made it into Stella’s Kitchen.

Gasoline Safety: What You Need To Know

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

SANDRA ZISCKIND

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

Gasoline is a common household item used to power various different things whether it be your vehicle, lawnmower, chainsaw, etc. While it's a vital item to have on hand, it also poses significant safety risks if mishandled. Being Canada’s largest personal injury law firm, Diamond and Diamond is all too familiar with the safety concerns associated with gasoline. Jeremy Diamond, a Founding Partner at the firm, discusses several things to keep in mind the next time you find yourself handling gasoline:

Proper Pumping Techniques

"When refueling vehicles or equipment, always follow proper pumping techniques to minimize the risk of spills and accidents," advises Jeremy Diamond. This includes (but is not limited to) the following:

● Shut the vehicle off before refuelling

● Never leave the fuelling station unattended

● Never smoke or use your cell phone while pumping fuel

Storing Gasoline Safely

"Proper storage of gasoline is essential to prevent fires, explosions, and exposure to toxic fumes,” emphasizes Jeremy Diamond. As such, it’s important to store gasoline in approved containers designed for fuel storage and keep them in a wellventilated area away from ignition sources such as heaters, pilot lights, and electrical appliances.

Safety Concerns

Gasoline is highly flammable and can ignite even at low temperatures. "Never use gasoline near open flames, sparks, or smoking materials," warns Diamond. Even static electricity can ignite gasoline vapors, so it’s important to be cautious when handling fuel containers as well.

Preventing Spills and Leaks

Spills and leaks not only waste fuel but also pose significant environmental and safety risks. When han-

Stella’s Kitchen feels like stepping into a warm, welcoming home. The open concept invites diners to watch pizzas being crafted right before their eyes, while the aroma of fresh, from-scratch pasta and sauces fills the air. Whether you’re craving a classic pepperoni or margherita or something with a bit more kick, like the Angry Stella’s or the rosé sauce Ciao pizza, there’s a delicious option for every taste. The remainder of the menu is packed with starters, inviting salads, homemade pastas and hearty sandwiches, ensuring there’s always something new to try. For the little ones, the kids’ menu features chicken tenders and classic pastas and pizzas.

Although they’ve only been open for a short while, the soft serve ice cream and banana splits have already become a favourite among young diners.

With decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Bayley reflects on their journey with pride.

“We started off as thirtysomethings about 22 years ago in the city, and we’re still independent, so we’re very proud of that,” he says. “Now we’re taking our years of experience and developing the next generation of leaders in hospitality within Fab, and hopefully we will have more incredible concepts like Stella’s coming in the future.” —Megan Gallant

dling fuel, it's crucial to exercise caution to prevent accidents. Use a funnel when transferring gasoline between containers to minimize spills. Ensure both containers are grounded to prevent static electricity sparks that could ignite fuel vapors. Lastly, it’s important to promptly clean up any spills with absorbent materials to prevent contamination and reduce the risk of fire or other hazards.

Dispose of Gasoline Properly

"Improper disposal of gasoline can harm the environment and pose risks to public health," Diamond explains. As a result, it’s important to take adequate measures when it comes time to dispose of any gasoline. Never pour it down drains, sewers, or onto the ground; instead, take it to a designated waste facility for safe disposal.

Educating Family Members

"Ensure that all members of your

household, especially children, understand the dangers associated with gasoline and the importance of proper handling and storage," Diamond advises. For parents, it’s crucial to do your part when it comes to educating your children on the safety concerns associated with handling and using gasoline.

While gasoline is a valuable resource, it must be handled with caution and respect. By following proper pumping techniques, storing gasoline safely, and being aware of the associated safety concerns, you can minimize the risk of accidents and protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment. Remember, when it comes to gasoline safety, education and caution are crucial!

Stella’s carbonara pizza

Five 905 hot spots for late night snacking

When midnight cravings hit, the 905 has plenty of really great restaurants to satisfy your hunger. Here are five top picks.

1. Piggy’s Island Piggy’s Island, a staple for Korean barbecue has a revamped menu focused on quality. Piggy’s serves classic Korean fare, such as grilled pork belly and beef short ribs and spicy cold noodles. For a late night bite, it’s open from 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. every day. 5 Glen Cameron Rd., #27, Thornhill

2. Copacabana

noodles in soups and stir-fries all day and night. Choose from seven noodle shapes — everything from delicate silk strings to wide, flat ribbons. Perfect for those 3 a.m. hunger pangs. 7700 Markham Rd.,Markham

4. Marlowe Restaurant

MIDNIGHT ROOTS

T.O’s first 24-hour

restaurant, the Red Room, opened in 1975, pioneering round-theclock dining in the city.

Brazilian Steakhouse

This long-running spot is your late night fix for non-stop feasting. Open every night until late, this lively rodizio keeps the party going with endless grilled meats carved right at your table. Pair your steak with fresh salads, sides and chef specials — all unlimited and made to order. 205 Marycroft Ave., Woodbridge

3. Magic Noodles

Magic Noodles is a 24-hour haven for late night cravings, serving up fresh, hand-pulled

This place mixes up an eclectic fusion menu that’s as diverse as its crowd. From Caribbean spices to European classics, Marlowe has got a dish for every craving. The wine and martini lounge is perfect for kicking back, while DJs and live music keep the vibe buzzing. 155 York Blvd., Richmond Hill

5. Penelope Social

Penelope Social is the late night spot Woodbridge has been waiting for. This chic hangout is all about creative cocktails and tapas-style shareables. Run by brothers Franco and Giuliano, the team here delivers premium service and a menu that’s both inventive and mouth-watering. 125 Hawkview Blvd., Woodbridge Jennifer Schembri

Magic Noodle

HOMES

SECTION

Popular local designer joins the ranks of T.O. reno stars with new show

This fall, Toronto’s top reno and design experts will be taking over your TV screen — spearheaded by North York’s very own Ali Budd. The interior designer heavyweight of Ali Budd Interiors will be the star of new docu-series House of Ali, premiering this fall, where you can go behind the scenes with her to see what goes into the making of her all-women design empire. She joins fellow Torontonian

— the

renovation expert will return to Gut Job. Also this fall,

and

Sebastian Clovis

all-star

watch Ontario brother-sister duo Carolyn Wilbrink

Billy Pearson on a new season of Farmhouse Facelift. Not far behind are Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, with docu-follow series, Building Baeumler, in the works — plus Scott McGillivray and Bryan will team up for an all-new Renovation Resort in the spring.

Clockwise from left: Ali Budd, Sarah and Bryan Baeumler and Sebastian Clovis

FALL HOME DESIGN

STONEWORK AND SOFTSCAPE

NORTHERN STONE DESIGN INC.

Northern

itself every

The

have

combined trade experience of over 50 years, specializing in stone work and softscape for any residential or commercial property. If quality of workmanship and customer satisfaction are your top priorities, look no further than Northern Stone Design Inc. Northern Stone Design Inc. gives at home estimates and consultation for free and looks forward to a great 2024 season with its GTA customers.

BASEMENTS MADE PERMANENTLY DRY

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

LOOKING BACK

Before you go... take a gander at the Posts of yesteryear

Here’s to another 35 glorious years

Over the last 35 years, Post City and Streets of Toronto have been fortunate to have many famous local residents grace our covers and social feeds and share the reasons they have loved calling our areas home.

Whether you found out that you went to the same high school as Will Arnett or Geddy Lee or that you frequent the same shops and restos as Sarah Polley and Rachel McAdams, we drew an important connection from their humble beginnings to their current fame.

We’ve profiled newscasters from Dwight Drummond to Lisa LaFlamme.

We’ve followed the successful athletic careers of local heroes such as Kurt Browning, tennis pro Bianca Andreescu and track star Andre De Grasse.

As well, we’ve covered some of the biggest Toronto-born names in Hollywood, including Howie Mandel, Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy, just as they were entering super stardom.

Everyone from iconic Canadian musicians, such as Neil Young, Alessia Cara and Deborah Cox, to important politicians, such as Chrystia Freeland and Stephen Harper, have appeared on a Post cover to show that our city truly never skips a beat.

Whether they have moved on from their Toronto roots or their work eventually landed them a home in the city and they simply never wanted to leave, these are our neighbours.

We share the same homes, roads and schools; walk the same streets; and take part in the same community.

Most importantly, we all love Toronto and all of our success is shared and celebrated.

Thank you to all the readers, advertisers, editors, photographers and artists who have contributed to making the past 35 years such a wonderful and humbling experience. —Lorne London

COVERS (L-R): Gordon Lightfoot, Atom Egoyan, Conrad Black, Trish Stratus, Nina Dobrev, Geddy Lee, Ben Mulroney, Peter Mansbridge, Rick Moranis, Carla Collins, Doug Gilmour, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Sheila McCarthy, Farley Mowat, Shenae Grimes-Beech, David Cronenberg, Ivan Reitman, Anne Murray, Scott Thompson, Lisa LaFlamme, Milos Raonic, Adrienne Clarkson

RARE LAWRENCE PARK SUITE Offered at $2,699,000

Split floorplan, unparalleled features & privacy. 5-star hotel-like amenities.

9 HEATHCOTE AVENUE

Offered at $3,498,000

LAWRENCE PARK RESIDENCE Offered at $3,199,000

Country living in the city w/100’ frontage & spacious living spaces.

CARIBOU PARK CUSTOM Offered at $4,280,000

NEWLY

Designer’s

Premium locale. Exceptional timeless craftsmanship. Spacious principal rms.

5+2

BEDFORD PARK CUSTOM Offered at $3,298,000

STATE-OF-THE-ART GEORGIAN Offered at $10,380,000

10’ ceilings. Open kitchen/family rm w/walk-out to deck & sports court.

123 FOREST HEIGHTS BOULEVARD Offered at $7,680,000

Zen-inspired, open concept living designed by Michael Lafreniere.

SOUTH ROSEDALE LANDMARK Offered at $10,750,000

Completely restored & expanded. Designer palette. Rear coach house.