Village Post August 2023

WORLDWIDE WHOPPERS CHEF ANTHONY ROSE ON THE CITY’S NEW INTERNATIONAL BURGER SCENE

CONTENTS

23

Platinum-selling Canadian country crooner Tim Hicks on meeting his wife, Amanda Hicks, and his proposal in a canoe

29

Thirty cool things to do in Toronto when the sun and temperature go down, from sunset yoga to midnight markets

34

Anthony Rose explores the international burger scene in T.O. and chooses a champion from six sizzling contenders

43

From fascinators to boaters, Jeanne Beker selects nine of the best hats for a cap-tivating outfit topper at the King's Plate this month

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CNE spotlight on drag diva Tynomi Banks

Tynomi Banks is one of Canada’s most popular drag performers who starred in the first season of Canada’s Drag Race, and now she’s bringing a Drag EXtravaganza to the CNE on Aug. 29. We caught up with her to find out all about it.

What’s happening at the Ex?

For the last three years, we’ve been pitching this idea to do this huge show at the bandshell. And finally it's happening. I'm very excited that they want to do this with us.

What should we expect from the show?

You know what, I’m at the prime of performances now, and they're gonna get production, especially for me. I always bring dancers and fun elements to the audience. I'm really excited, because we were able to get Mo Heart from Drag Race, as well as Jan Sport, and both of them are phenomenal performers. And then another girl who's going to be in the cast is Ivory Towers. She is just the most phenomenal impersonator.

Do you have fond memories of the Ex from your childhood?

I used to go with my mom all the time, and I just remember back in the day. It's not as it is now, but back in the day, I just remember her taking us to these little rides and playing the games and winning all the stuffed animals, and we would, like, be upset if we didn't win. And as I'm growing up, I'm like, now I love eating, and especially the fair always has some weird-ass food to experience there, and

1,618

that's why me and my friends go there now for all that. It's really nice.

How did you get your start in drag?

It was accidental. I was going through a time where I was shifting jobs, so I joined a dance troupe to gain, I guess, focus again and balance with myself. And I remember just one night going to a club and seeing the performances there, and my friend, who was managing, was, like, “Oh, I need a queen to do this thing and you're a dancer, can you do this as a favour for me?” And this one-time thing turned into a lifetime career. Maybe it's my selfish nature, but I really love the attention.

It’s a difficult time as well for drag, in terms of that hate from the U.S. making its way even to Toronto.

I know, it's so weird, and it's sad. But also, my mom would say something like, “There's no issue with us.” We're not trying to do whatever anyone says; we're just trying to be happy. And so she would say something must be going right. Someone must be afraid. And so when people are usually more afraid, that's when things start hitting fire, and so for us, our community, we just have to do what we always do. We just keep on fighting, standing stronger and pushing back. And all we can do is just lead with love and facts.

Toronto has such a vibrant drag scene. What sets it apart? So funny. I just was out last night, and I had someone ask me that, saying how it's so

crazy that they could travel to every city in the world and you have to really search for drag shows. But here, Toronto is so accepting and open. There are literally shows every day of the week here.

What is your favourite Toronto view? The water treatment plant. I really love it there. It feels like it's a different place.

What Torontonian would you most like to hang out with? Maybe Shawn Mendes.

What is your idea of perfect happiness? My dear perfect happiness is having your loved ones with you. Oh my gosh, can I describe like a moment? I love when I call my friends out. We go get junk food and eat and then go to a movie or a show, go walking, go to the park. Anything with your friends, and we're just like heckling each other and having the best time. I just really like that.

What is your favourite restaurant?

Aloette. Honestly, they saved me during COVID. They had the best hamburgers.

What is your personal motto?

Oh, I feel like I always say I don't give a f**k. I have this one life, so I better live it. And I don't give a f**k. That's how I say it. When it gets scary, I say it to myself.

The Guinness Record number of toothbrushes collected by a Toronto area woman.

The width, in feet, of a house in Toronto that hit the market for a cool $1.1 million.

The North American ranking of Toronto as a tech hub, a drop from third in 2022.

The number of GTA athletes on Canada’s roster for the Women’s World Cup in Australia.

The number of episodes of The Bear with Toronto celebrity chef Matty Matheson in the cast.

Quinton Cruickshanks

Chinatown facing multiple threats as city looks for answers

This month, a lion will dance and shake its way down Spadina Avenue during the annual Chinatown Festival once more.

It’s a vibrant and popular local tradition that features cultural performances, food, artists, music and much more. The lion dance is believed to bring good luck and prosperity, and given the challenges facing Chinatowns throughout North America, this essential Toronto neighbourhood needs it. As does the entire downtown.

Toronto's Chinatown stands as a testament to the enduring spirit, vibrant culture and remarkable contributions of the city's Chinese community. But will it survive another generation? Maybe not. Toronto's Chinatown is not alone in its challenges. Chinatowns across North America are facing threats of gentrification and affordability, not to mention a rise in anti-Asian racism.

In a display of solidarity, representatives from various Chinatowns gathered earlier this year to address these shared con-

cerns and explore strategies for revitalization. The representatives highlighted the need for collaborative action from local governments, community organizations and the public to protect these vibrant areas.

“An important way of celebrating the achievements of Asian-Canadians is by investing in our Chinatowns and the entrepreneurs who make them succeed. Today's historic investment preserves an important piece of Asian-Canadian history as we work to create a more inclusive Canada for today and for generations to come," said Mary Ng, Canada’s minister of international trade, export promotion, small business and economic development.

The city is moving forward with the next phase of a study on Chinatown as well as the creation of a greater citywide Cultural Districts Program that looks for innovative ways to preserve and support local culture across several neighbourhoods.

The Chinatown study, according to city councillor

Ausma Malik, in whose ward Chinatown partly sits, is currently in Phase 2, where community engagement is taking place through broad consultation led by a facilitator. The aim is to identify community vision and priorities. In the coming months, the city will work on incorporating feedback and developing a draft framework to present back to the community.

towns have been under threat for a long time. And what we've been hearing from community members and folks who have been engaged in what the preservation of Chinatown looks like is to really make sure that we are getting ahead of this.”

Easier said than done. There are multiple development applications in the area that will impact local business and residents and a provincial government intent on pushing housing forward at lightning speed.

“What we're hearing from community members, from local businesses is that we want to make sure that we are minimizing displacement,” Malik said, “and that we are preserving what the neighbourhood has been for so many low-income newcomers to be able to imagine a future in the city.”

Phase 1 began in September 2022, Phase 2 started in the spring and will continue until fall, and Phase 3 will occur from fall to the following summer.

“We are looking at the development and the growth in the area in a thoughtful way,” said Malik, “and one that appreciates and centres community concerns. We know that China-

Gentrification and urban development pressures threaten the character and affordability that Chinatown offers. Striking a balance between revitalization and preservation becomes crucial.

Toronto placemaker and urban policy expert Jay Pitter spearheaded a proposal that outlined the Cultural Districts Program and its importance. Pitter writes in the executive summary of the need to protect and promote affordable housing options within cultural districts, and that’s something Malik said she

Supporting local businesses within Chinatown is also essential for its economic vitality, and the city could and should be asked to create incentives and programs to assist small businesses and attract investment.

“The motto of our city is “Diversity, our strength,” said Malik. “One of the most exciting parts of our city are the neighbourhoods that we have that speak to that cultural heritage, that speak to the stories of the people who decided to make Toronto their home.”

Let’s make sure we stay true to that motto, beginning with Chinatown.

—Ron Johnson

“We know Chinatowns have been under threat for a long time.”

The city is working toward measures that would help Chinatown not only survive but thrive in the future is hearing as well.

Auto-besity and the politics of parking

During the mayoral byelection, congestion emerged as an issue for the city. The Board of Trade has pegged the cost of congestion at $11 billion annually in the Toronto area. There are many proposals to deal with congestion, including, co-ordinating road work, increasing cycling infrastructure and improved public transit. Then, there is parking.

Parking on major arterials is the most inefficient use of road space possible and should be discontinued. It makes absolutely no sense to permit street parking on busy roads. However, removing on-street parking from major arterials is not something for which municipal politicians have the fortitude. Many cities in Europe are instead imposing a surcharge on large vehicles for parking.

City of London started charging owners of SUVs more for parking. Paris also announced a similar scheme, dubbed “auto-besity,” under the auspices of responding to climate change.

In these instances, the fee is more irritant than an actual deterrent to buying larger vehicles. People who want a larger vehicle already pay more in gas and insurance, so they are not going to switch to a smart car

because of an increased parking fee. The only thing this proposal will do is become a distraction to an issue that is becoming a real concern.

Large SUVs and pickup trucks are creating problems for cities. These vehicles have become larger and have a disproportionate impact on roads, parking lots and city streets. Many of the vehicles don’t fit in new condo developments or parking lots. They take up more room on streets, add more congestion and have larger blind spots, creating dangers for cyclists and pedestrians.

Instead of an additional parking fee, these vehicles should be paying additional annual registration fees based on weight. The city could reimpose a vehicle registration tax and base it on weight. Although Toronto residents rebelled against a $60 vehicle registration fee when it was first imposed, it might be time to revisit its efficacy.

There will be challenges, especially with the province, but if the city is serious about confronting the challenges of large vehicles, it should start with serious solutions.

CHESTNUT PARK REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BROKERAGE This

not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with a broker. *2014-2019

Street parking is an inefficient use of city resources

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

Mayor Chow’s first phone call

The key person Olivia Chow should talk to for the provision of affordable housing is Jagmeet Singh.

He might not be the prime minister, but he has a formidable card to play, the same card played by the NDP leader David Lewis in 1972.

Fifty-one years ago, Pierre Elliott Trudeau was caught after the election that year with a minority of seats in the House of Commons. Needing an ally in order to govern, he turned to David Lewis and the NDP. Lewis said he would support the government provided it established a non-profit housing program that would provide mortgages for non-profit and non-profit co-op housing, subsidies to somewhat reduce the interest rates on those mortgages and funding to support nonprofit housing organizations. Trudeau agreed with that arrangement.

That’s the program that funded the St. Lawrence Community and many, many successful non-profit developments throughout the city, all with onethird of the units at rent-gearedto-income for low-income families and a lower-than-market rent for the other two-thirds of the units. We need that program again.

As a strong member of the NDP, Chow is in a good position

to ask Singh to negotiate with Justine Trudeau for this program.

Chow should also talk with former mayor Barbara Hall. In the mid-1990s, Hall worked with Jane Jacobs and others to radically change the land use planning rules for the King-Spadina area. Instead of a complicated and time-consuming planning process, the new rules set firm height limits for buildings and a few other clear criteria about things like setbacks, got rid of most of the other complicated planning rules, then said developers could proceed without needing to get planning approval for any development meeting the new criteria.

It was an “as-of-right” system that saved several years of obtaining planning approval (and saved the city a great deal of money, no longer needing planners to make those tortuous approvals), provided clear guidance to the community about results and allowed developers (and not city planners) to determine what uses would be permitted in each new building.

Height limits could be set for various streets — six storeys on collectors, eight or 10 storeys on main arterials and so forth. Barbara Hall and imaginative planners, such as Ken Greenberg, can help city hall establish this new regime, and talk with the development community to en-

sure the proposals make economic sense. They will have to ensure that developers cannot use the Committee of Adjustment to increase height limits, as they did in King-Spadina. And provincial subsidies will be required so onethird of the units are available to low-income households.

The third person Chow should speak to is Alan Broadbent of the Maytree Foundation. Broadbent has argued that the first priority should be to deal with housing the 1,000 people who are now living in tents and in the raw in Toronto. Broadbent has a simple and elegant proposal. Each of the 25 councillors should be tasked with identifying 40 units in their respective ward (25 x 40 = 1,000) where these individuals can be housed. The city should guarantee the rent and support services for each of these units so landlords feel comfortable providing the accommodation.

These three initiatives will require strong representations by Mayor Chow and her council, but they will also have powerful ripple effects.

Olivia Chow as mayor signals a very optimistic change for the city. May she be successful.

Mayor Olivia Chow campaigning with NDP leader Jagmeet Singh

JOHN SEWELL is a former mayor of Toronto.

Residents want more Avenue, less highway

Resident associations representing Bedford Park, Upper Avenue and South Armour Heights are coming together to advocate for significant improvements along Avenue Road.

Naomi Faulkner, of Bedford Park Residents Organization, shed light on their collective efforts to enhance both the functionality and esthetics of Avenue Road.

“There's a lot of development that has occurred and is going to continue to occur on Avenue Road — more and more condominiums,” she said. “And as a result, there's also funding that goes to the community as benefits from those developments. We met with city councillor Mike Colle and talked about the need to improve Avenue Road in terms of appearance and function.”

One of the primary concerns raised by the residents is that Avenue Road currently operates more like a highway with five lanes of fast-moving traffic. The influx of vehicles from nearby Highway 401 only adds to the congestion.

Falconer also emphasized the pressing need for green spaces along Avenue Road. Currently, there are no public areas for seating or leisurely en-

joyment. To address this issue, the residents propose the creation of green pockets utilizing street parking areas and implementing streetscaping initiatives. Some of the suggestions date back to a prior Avenue Road study conducted more than a decade ago.

“One of [the ideas] is to take the median lane and actually landscaping that area, have some green in the middle of Avenue Road,” Faulkner said.

The residents also acknowledge the absence of a formal Business Improvement Area (BIA) for Avenue Road. Recognizing the challenges faced by local merchants, who are currently grappling with the effects of ongoing development, the residents believe in taking proactive steps toward revitalizing the retail strip.

They envision Avenue Road as a cohesive destination that brings together various residents and businesses. The united front of residents from Bedford Park, Upper Avenue and South Armour Heights seeks to transform Avenue Road into a greener, safer and more inviting space for all, instead of a throughway for speeding traffic. Makes sense.

—Ron Johnson

Further south residents also demanded change on Avenue Road

A towering proposal for Bayview

A real estate developer’s new proposal to build a 46-storey condo tower at the current site of a gas station in midtown Toronto’s Leaside neighbourhood is facing criticism for being too tall.

For the past year, Gairloch Developments and Harlo Capital, a private equity company, have been working on development plans for 1802 Bayview Ave., a block north of Eglinton Avenue West, making an official application submission to the City of Toronto in June.

If built as proposed, the skyscraper would include 419 residential units, with a total of 384 square metres of retail space fronting Bayview Avenue and 44 parking spaces.

Already, local city councillor Jaye Robinson is expressing concerns about the scale of the project located on the northwest corner of Bayview and Roehampton Avenue.

“While this application was just received by city planning a few weeks ago and is in the very early review stages, I am concerned by the proposed height and built form,” said Robinson, city councillor for Ward 15 Don Valley West.

“At 46 storeys, this application is the tallest in the area, exceeding the upper height range in the Yonge Eglinton Secondary Plan's Bayview Focus Char-

acter Area by a full 11 storeys. I will be discussing my concerns about this precedent-setting application with city planning staff in the coming weeks," Robinson added.

The Leaside Residents Association agreed that the proposed tower is simply too tall.

Each new development application in Leaside — which has seen multiple proposals in recent years, including three others involving Gairloch — is more “audacious” than the last, said Geoff Kettel, co-president

and said the project is an appropriate fit for the area.

“We believe that the design of the building respects the community, and we are sensitive to bringing a highrise into the area,” explained Bill Gairdner, founder and president of Gairloch.

“The design is meant to support the neighbourhood’s walkable character,” he added.

The building would include just 44 parking spaces on two levels of underground parking, as it is located near the new TTC Leaside station on the upcoming but always-delayed Eglinton Crosstown LRT nearby.

of the Leaside Residents Association.

“And that’s especially true for this one,” he said of the most recent Gairloch plans.

“It’s not a planned project at all. It’s just put up the height, put up the units and walk away,” he said.

The association is worried about the precedent the development, if approved, could set for the neighbourhood.

However, the developer noted that the subject site is near the Leaside station on the future Eglinton Crosstown LRT line

Gairdner, who said he is a former Leaside and Bennington Heights area resident, also suggested that the project’s design, created by local firm architects–Alliance, features elements that are meant to make the tower seem less imposing.

“The double-height base is scaled to the height of surrounding single-family homes and clad in framed panels of glass and pierced bronzed metal that complement Leaside’s warm red brick,” Gairdner noted.

“We believe the design of this building respects the intimate character of Leaside,” he added.

— Josh Sherman

“It’s just put up the height, put up the units and walk away.”

A rendering of the proposed Bayview Avenue development

BIA ready to spar with city over bike lanes?

Despite having an approved plan in place awaiting construction, a local BIA in Toronto is creating its own vision for Yonge Street at odds with the city’s REimagining Yonge project.

Plans for the redesign of Yonge between Finch Avenue and Sheppard Avenue are evolving as the local business community works to create a new vision for public realm improvements.

Yonge North York BIA, formerly Willowdale BIA, was accepting submissions to its request for proposal to design firms until Aug. 4 to create a Placemaking and Streetscape Master Plan for the area that will focus on lighting, street furniture, possible parkettes and more.

“We feel it is imperative to create a long-term vision that will be engaging for all workers, residents and visitors and attract businesses to our district,” said Laura Burnham, executive director of Yonge North York BIA.

It’s not uncommon for a BIA — which is short for business improvement area, an association of commercial property owners and their tenants — to create a streetscape master plan, suggested Burnham. Asked whether the public realm plan would incorporate bike lanes, which are part of the REimagining Yonge

Street project, a separate plan that was approved by Toronto City Council in December 2020, Burnham acknowledged that the city has the final say.

According to the City of Toronto, an environmental assessment for REimagining Yonge was completed last year.

“A detailed design will start next year with construction expected to begin in 2027,” a city spokesperson said. “Bike lanes are expected to be included in the reconstruction.”

The idea of adding bike lanes to Yonge Street was a hot button issue in the community.

“People who are in the highrises on Yonge Street want that walkable, safe community — that hopefully is beautiful too — and the people in the suburbs who are car dependent are really worried that they’re going to lose access to the main strip in their own neighbourhood, so it’s very divisive,” said Lily Cheng, councillor for Ward 18 Willowdale. “I think in any neighbourhood where bike lanes come, there are the pro and the con people — it can become very emotional.” added Cheng, who said she wants to create a community liaison committee to provide feedback during the REimagining Yonge project.

—Josh Sherman

A rendering of the approved REimagining Yonge plan

New arena will honour Shermans’ legacy

The UJA Federation of Greater Toronto has announced the establishment of the Honey and Barry Memorial Arena, a new facility to be connected to the Schwartz/Reisman Centre in Vaughan.

This state-of-the-art arena, made possible through a historic donation, will honour the remarkable philanthropic legacy of Bayview area residents Honey and Barry Sherman who were tragically murdered in their Old Colony Road home in 2017.

The initiative aims to have a lasting social impact within York Region’s Jewish community by providing funding for subsidies, enabling families with limited means to participate in arena programs.

Scheduled to open its doors in 2025, the Honey and Barry Memorial Arena will feature a twin ice pad facility, offering a wide range of activities for both youth and adult hockey, figure skating, learn-to-skate programs and other on-ice initiatives.

Besides enhancing the Schwartz/Reisman Centre, the arena will address a significant need in Vaughan, as indicated by municipal research highlighting gaps in arena access. This new facility will foster increased community engagement through sports.

dowment to provide ongoing funding for community sports engagement and subsidies for families facing financial challenges.

“My mother and father were visionaries who believed that our community should be one in which everyone is welcomed and included in shared experiences,” said Jonathon Sherman, in a press release. “The Honey and Barry Memorial Arena will enhance Jewish life and the overall community experience in York Region.”

The driving force behind this project is Jonathon Sherman, who ensured the necessary funding was directed toward this important community need in honour of his parents.

Honey and Barry Sherman are fondly remembered as pillars of the Jewish community. In addition to fully financing the arena’s construction, the investment includes the establishment of an en-

Jeff Rosenthal, chair of UJA Federation, expressed deep gratitude for Jonathon Sherman’s generous contribution.

“From our experiences working with Honey and Barry, we know that this is certainly something they would be very proud of,” he said.

Rosenthal emphasized that the fully funded arena opens up new possibilities for the community that would not have been possible otherwise. — Ron Johnson

Built upon the architecture of luxury & impeccable design, rare all new construction, seamless blend of timeless traditional design with contemporary elements. Every room overlooks the beautiful ravine, the property is an unprecedented 26,102 sq. ft. ravine lot, the foyer feels as though you are entering a 5 Star hotel. The fabulous eat-in kitchen is a cook’s & entertainers dream, top of the line appliance package, oversized island & Bistro bar, the dramatic dining room boasts rich white oak panelling & coffered ceilings, the fabulous family room is simply beautiful with tall ceilings. Sumptuous primary suite overlooking the ravine is an absolute sanctuary with a 5 piece ensuite bath & 200 sq. ft. walk-in closet.

Set apart by quality design and outstanding craftsmanship, this vibrant, inspired townhome displays a unique combination of contemporary and timeless finishes. Open plan, marble clad kitchen, living room and dining area are ideal for sophisticated indoor entertaining as well as easily providing ‘al fresco’ dining. The deck comes complete with built-in outdoor fireplace overlooking a beautifully landscaped, private garden. Upstairs you will find two bedrooms, a study, as well as two cleverly designed luxurious bathrooms. The lower level features a family room with a fireplace that affords a quiet spot to read or relax and adjacent to it, a den/office space. Easy access to downtown, excellent schools, Summerhill and Yonge Street shops, all translate into the best in urban living.

Due to pent up demand from so many buyers sitting on the sidelines, coupled with near record low inventory, much of central Toronto has transitioned into a seller’s market.

Latest statistics show an uptick in selling prices and fewer days on the market.

Call us today and put our decades of dedicated experience to work for you.

60 South Dr. | Rosedale | 3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Baths | $2,899,000

35 Astley Ave | Rosedale | 5 + 2 Bedrooms | 8 Bathrooms | $11,988,000

Broker, Senior Vice President, Sales

Sales Representative Senior Vice President, Sales

Honey and Barry Sherman

“We know that this is certainly something they would be very proud of.”

“Jamie and his team were simply masterful in the sale of our home. From strategy, to planning, and through the unique set of marketing tactics he employed, the process was executed flawlessly with a great outcome.

Jamie also understands the emotional aspects of was there to help us navigate the journey from beginning to end. We would recommend Jamie and his team to anyone considering their next move.”

Ingrid and Jamie, Sellers, Bedford Park

JAMIE DEMPSTER

What’s good around the ’hood

StretchLab is bringing increased flexibility, reduced joint pain and more to Rosedale! The popular fitness studio will be opening at 1250 Yonge St. An innovative alternative to a traditional workout studio, StretchLab focuses completely on — you guessed it — stretching, offering one-on-one sessions and group stretches for visitors. The studio promises to help improve your posture, reduce stress, reduce muscle pain and improve your overall sports and fitness performance.

Jyugoya Japanese Restaurant will be opening soon at 1528 Bayview Ave. Although there’s little information available online about the restaurant right now, it will be a welcome addition to the Leaside area for residents interested in trying out a new Japanese spot.

Squint Eyewear just opened a new location in Summerhill, bringing ultra-customizable eyewear to the neighbourhood. Featuring brands including Matsuda and France’s Face a Face, Squint offers individual fittings and consultations for your custom eyewear needs. There are also optometrists available onsite for customers who need an updated prescription before selecting new frames.

Sukothai, from powerhouse Thai chef Nuit Regular, just launched a new location in Markham! This popular eatery offers the best in northern Thai cuisine, from pad gra prow to lemongrass fish and a solid assortment of curries. The restaurant at 2 Fenton Rd. also features a unique cocktail menu including a lemongrass mojito and tamarind whisky sour.

Sage Pharmacy just opened its doors at 1561 Bayview Ave. This independent pharmacy is operated by husband-and-wife duo Lara and David Guttman, who decided to launch their own store after 30 years working in the industry. The pair plan on making Sage a hub for healthcare advice and services in along with more traditional pharmaceutical offerings.

Wolf & Moon and its sister shop, Flowershop by Wolf & Moon, have closed in Rosedale. The original shop brought jewelry, skin care products and other unique gifts to the neighbourhood. Soon after, Flowershop by Wolf & Moon opened nearby, a one-stop-shop carrying flowers and coffee by two local brands.

Owner Leah Miller announced on Instagram that she’s ready for a new chapter in her life.

Unique fitness studio StretchLab is opening in Rosedale

TORONTO BREAK-INS

FOR SALE

Whisper listings are getting louder in T.O.

For most home sellers in Toronto, getting as many eyes on your listing (and hopefully just as many offers) as possible is essential to the selling process. But there’s a secret side of the market where sellers are choosing “whisper listings” instead. Also known as pocket or exclusive listings, they aren’t made public on MLS and are instead marketed the oldfashioned way — word of mouth. And the trend is growing in Toronto.

“It’s a whole subculture; it began quiet and organic,” Elise Stern, realtor at Har vey Kalles Real Estate, said. “But during COVID, an agent started a W hatsapp group for these, which grew into a Signal group, where a group of agents can share their exclusive listings.”

Stern says countless homes have sold this way, and clients like it because they feel like they ’ re getting the inside scoop

However, Justin Cohen, a realtor with

Barry Cohen Homes, said there’s often a “trade-off ” when it comes to whisper listings. “You certainly limit your exposure, which can result in a lower price,” he said.

But it ’ s a welcome trade-off for sellers. Cohen said they ’re often looking for convenience, don’t want their neighbours to know they ’ re putting their home up for sale or don’t want to deal with a lot of showings.

Stern said whisper listings are sometimes used as a “coming soon” tactic, where select realtors may know about a listing and have the opportunity to make an offer before it eventually goes on MLS. W hen that happens, Stern said she’s seen it go both ways: “I’ve had sellers get an offer that ’s not exactly what they want, list it on MLS and never get another offer that comes close to the original. But the opposite also happens; they think they can get more, and they do.”

Not everyone is happy with this under-

ground network After multiple attempts to put regulations in place to quash whisper listings, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) just announced a new “Duty of Cooperation” policy, coming into effect in January 2024, requiring realtors to place any residential listings on MLS within three days of public marketing

“One-to-one marketing to another realtor would not trigger the public marketing,” Pierre Leduc, CREA media relations representative, confirmed. But marketing to more than one recipient would be considered public marketing under the new policy, making Facebook and Whatsapp groups for exclusive listings a problem.

But Cohen suspects whisper listings will continue, albeit through different methods: “It should be up to the seller to decide how they want to sell their house, quietly or not.”

—Julia Mastroianni

What’s going on in cottage country?

With 2023 reports suggesting a year-over-year decline in cottage prices, there seems to be few exceptions. In Haliburton, prices fell by 26 per cent, and places like Kenora reported a decline of nearly 60 per cent. Even popular locations like Muskoka saw a doubledigit slide. What prompted this once red-hot market to cool?

“Between 30 and 40 per cent of the waterfront listed was purchased during COVID,” John Fincham of Re/Max Parry Sound Muskoka Realty Ltd. Brokerage said. “Now, with interest rates rising, you’ve got a huge pool of people that have bought in the last three years, and if a third of them decide to sell, that puts a lot of downward pressure on the numbers.”

Fincham said the price drops may be even larger than reported.

“The mid- and lower-price cottages continue to be an issue because interest rates affect the average person more,” he said.

"As sales drop, because the pool is so much smaller, it doesn’t take many $10 million cottages to pull that price up, and so I think, in real terms, the prices of cottages have dropped more than the published numbers,” he said.

For those looking to get into the cottage market right now, Fincham suggests taking your time. “Be fussy. Get on a good lake with quality water in a good area. Play it smart — because you can now."

—Rebecca Hesse

The nine-year downside to upsizing

A new report found that with home prices steadily rising, the average house in the city now costs double the price of the average condo. And to afford upsizing, you would need to save your entire salary for nine years to be able to do it.

The report from Point2Homes found that the average condo in the city will cost you $758,400, whereas the average home price now sits at $1,520,169. That ’s a $761,769 difference — or double the price of a condo — to upsize. W ith a median income of $79,876, the average person would need to manage to spend $0 of their salary for 9.5 years to afford the move from condo to home.

The rest of Ontario doesn’t show much promise either — houses are at least double the price of condos in Mississauga, Vaughan, Markham, Burlington, Oakville and Richmond Hill. And it ’s Rich-

mond Hill, not Toronto, with the biggest price discrepancy between condos and houses: with a difference of $996,125, you would need to save your income for 10.4 years to be able to make the move. It would take 6.8 years of saving in both Vaughan and Mississauga, 7.1 in Burlington, eight in Oakville and 8.4 in Markham. But it ’ s not all bad in the province; two Ontario cities made the list of Canadian cities where the price gap is easiest to close. In Kingston, with a price difference of $115,600 between condos and homes, it would only take 1.5 years of saving your entire income to afford a home. Windsor’s price gap is not far behind at $135,750, requiring two years of salary saving

As expected, it ’s a different story over in Quebec — seven of the 14 cities on the list are in our neighbouring province. —JM

L-R: Whisper listings can be used to avoid frequent showings; Elise Stern

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ONE + ONE = BIDDING WARS

In today's market, a two-bedroom condo can be out of budget, so it's no surprise one-bedrooms plus dens are stirring up bidding wars! Several of these units have been selling with multiple offers in the city — so snag one of your own with these three up for sale.

YONGE & COLLEGE YONGE & EGLINTON THORNHILL

Located in one of the fastest-growing neighbourhoods in the city, unit 706 at 43 Eglinton Ave. E. is the perfect find for Torontonians looking to upgrade to a bit more space. Enjoy a kitchen with a breakfast nook, a cosy balcony and, of course, a substantial primary bedroom that connects to the den. Use it as a home office, transform it into a baby room or take advantage of some extra living space! It’s listed for $639,900 with Re/Max Realtron Realty.

With floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious layout that covers over 800 square feet, unit 512 at 7 Grenville St. isn’t your average cookie-cutter condo. Though the bedroom itself is already large enough to include a small reading nook, that’s not all — the den is big enough to be turned into a second bedroom and has the benefit of plenty of privacy, thanks to the attached sliding door. It’s listed for $886,800 with Re/Max Atrium Home Realty.

VS. VS.

At unit 504 at 7 North Park Rd. N., your home is built for entertaining. Not only does the sizable den give you extra square footage for gatherings and dinner parties, but this condo comes with two bathrooms, allowing you to turn one into a guest bathroom. With a large balcony, a breakfast bar, a primary bedroom with a walkin closet and four-piece ensuite and more, upsizing has never looked better! It’s listed for $694,990 with David Soberano Group.

90 Eglinton Avenue East 416-440-0123

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Fan Expo, King’s Plate, Steve Earle and more!

by Ron Johnson

L-R: Acclaimed musician Steve Earle is coming to Massey Hall; Fan Expo Canada returns to the city this month

UNLEASH YOUR KING’S PLATE HAT-TITUDE

Searching for the perfect, cap-tivating outfit topper at the King's Plate this month? From fascinators to boaters, Jeanne Beker has selected nine of the best hats to get your head in the game.

SKY HIGH-NESS

TVStyles/Etsy, $98.94, etsy.com/ca/shop/TVStyles

"I like this warm tone, a coppery brown. This hat is understated yet exciting at the same time, feminine with a touch of whimsy."

CROWN-PLEASER

David Dunkley, Price upon request, 974 Bathurst St. "This is the way to stand out in the crowd. You will be unrivalled for whimsy and outrageousness! Very summery."

FROM ACROSS THE POND

Jess Collett Milliner, $1,794.32, jesscollettmilliner.com

"This one has an optimistic, playful edge to it. Orange is very on-trend, and this is such a strong look. It's so modern-looking."

PRINCESS PINK

Farfetch, $329, Farfetch.com/ca

"We're in a Barbie moment right now. This one has got an edge to it, and with the right tilt, it could look really jaunty.”

MAKE IT MAJESTIC

Lilliput Hats, $395, 462 College St.

"Black and white is always so elegant. This has an edginess to it, with the broad brim, and playfulness with the polka dots."

NO BAD HEIR DAYS

Archives, $210, 76 Hazelton Ave.

"This would look fabulous with a black outfit. It's got that black ribbon trimming for a little bit of drama."

Aborigen, $170, 136 Pinedale Gate, Woodbridge

"This is so cute with the bow at the back. It's simple and understated for those who don't want to make too much of a splash."

FINELY FEATHERED

David Dunkley, Price upon request, 974 Bathurst St.

"What a fancy hat; very delicate, very dainty and very artful. Those blue feathers are absolutely beautiful."

QUEEN FOR A DAY

Lilliput Hats, $380, 462 College St.

"I can imagine Audrey Hepburn wearing this to a garden party! What a strong statement; it has a beautiful shape to it."

©daviddunkley.me photo @anthonyp manieri

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

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Joe Mimran buys Kit and Ace

Vancouver technical lifestyle clothing brand Kit and Ace has a new Toronto connection. Unity Brands Inc., led by local fashion mogul Joe Mimran, recently acquired the brand, making Kit and Ace the latest in a long line of Canadian brands to get the Mimran treatment.

The industry expert, who is behind brands such as Club Monaco, Joe Fresh, Caban and Pink Tartan, says, in an everevolving industry such as fashion, what he looks for in a brand is constantly changing as well.

“Fashion is pretty much sociology; it’s a reflection of what people value from a societal perspective,” he says. “Kit and Ace has quite a good awareness level, and it also services the notion of the hybrid worker that has come about since COVID.”

Mimran notes that he envisions room for growth from a design perspective on the women’s side for the company.

“That’s why we moved the design from Vancouver's responsibility to Toronto’s, right here in our own facilities,” he says.

The designer, who has been one of the leading voices in the industry since developing the Alfred Sung collection in 1980, says the idea of the “target customer” has evolved over the years as well — and the modern target

customer comes with its own challenges.

“They’re invested in the whole movement of clean energy and sustainability, but the consumer doesn’t always vote with their wallet,” he says. “They might expect companies to be sustainable while still delivering value.”

Kit and Ace also represents another trend Mimran sees emerging, and he says it’s here to stay: casual dressing. “The trend has been a long-term one, from the very first sneaker that we saw in the ’70s,” he says. “That has also transformed into this outdoor wear trend — smart, sweatwicking materials and fabrics that can move with you.”

It’s a trend that aligns well with the style ethos at Kit and Ace, featuring quick-dry joggers and tech jersey tanks.

If you watch any fashion influencer’s “outfit of the day” videos, excessive layering that incorporates more fussy, fancy pieces (think silk skirts and tailored button downs) seems to be all the rage. But Mimran says the notion of getting “overly dressed” is not a reflection of where fashion is going as a whole.

“Just walk around the streets of Toronto downtown in the summertime, and you’ll get a real sense of how casual the dress is!”

— Julia Mastroianni

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The Q-ssis Wealth Management Group is a part of TD Wealth Private Investment Advice, a division of TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. which is a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ® The TD logo and other TD trademarks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank or its subsidiaries.

L-R: Joe Mimran and Unity Brands Inc. co-owner David Lui

Catching up with the other Drakes

At first glance, 575 Queen St. W. seems to have laid dormant for years. However, once you pry open the doors, you’ll enter the fervent design headquarters of one of Toronto’s best-kept secrets.

He goes by Drakes, and his namesake label, worn by the likes of Sean Paul, has been popping in and out of Toronto’s fashion scope for years.

The brand began in 2015 — he started with graphic designing and screen printing on T-shirts.

He developed his craft at a design academy, then at Toronto Metropolitan University. While there, Drakes began designing further away from the industry norms he was learning — including a hoodie engineered to be so warm Torontonians could wear it as a single layer in the winter.

But Drakes’s favourite was the middle finger vest: “It pretty much sums up the brand perfectly. It’s a big f**k you to mainstream, societal norms, rat race and all that bulls**t.”

In 2022, Drakes landed a runway spot at Fashion Art Toronto. He showcased a collection called “Menace in Venice,” a utility-heavy capsule that sparked a conversation about the way Black communities were treated in the ’90s and 2000s by police.

Now, he continues to lean away from industry norms. He doesn’t care for his social media, posting a handful of times a year. His clothing is released by collection, when he’s in the right mental state.

“I truly believe my brand isn’t made for the masses. My clientele enjoys keeping me a secret and being a part of a movement that has no mainstream intentions,” says Drakes.

Drakes’s next step for the label is to continue treating it like an Easter egg hunt. He plans on releasing his next collection, “Heaven or Hell,” later this year or in early 2024, stating: “It’ll drop when I’m in the right headspace.” —Marcus Mitropoulos

Block the rays in style this season

The sun is out, and it might be time to upgrade your favourite summer accessory! Luckily, Toronto shops have you covered for new sunglasses this summer, ranging from vintage finds to brand-name showstoppers.

Shop the decades

To complete your vintage looks this summer, head over to Public Butter where you can find some of the oldest pairs of sunnies in the city. The vintage spot sources sunglasses from just about every major decade.

1290 Queen St. W.

Statement-making shapes

Opticianado has an eclectic selection of both vintage and fine frames for all. They carry a slew of brand names, including some off-the-beaten-path brands with statement-making shapes.

2919 Dundas St. W.

Get the rapper treatment

If you’ve ever seen a pair of Cartier sunglasses on your favourite Toronto rapper (yes, Drake included), it was probably sold to them by Vijan Vision. They accept cryptocurrency as payment and are appointment only.

9350 Yonge St., Richmond Hill

Dress like a fashion influencer

Zane’s slogan is “Comfort in Motion,” when it really should be, “Where the It girls go for frames.” Zane offers a ton of sunglasses to help you block out the negative energy this summer.

753 Queen St. W.

Look of luxury

What began as a wholesale business has evolved into a luxury eyewear boutique with competitive prices. LF Optical boasts brands like Chanel, Alexander McQueen and Céline.

2782 Dufferin St. —MM

Fashion designer Drakes showcased a collection at Fashion Art Toronto in 2022

• Over 25 years of combined experience

• A choice of sedation techniques available

• Special attention to your children’s needs

Extreme weather, extreme insurance rates

The world is on fire. Sometimes it seems not enough people care. If smoke-choked skies and evacuations don’t convince people the climate crisis is real, and costly, maybe insurance companies will. As wildfires tear through Canada, the U.S., Australia, Europe and more, and as floods and rising sea levels erode coastlines and destroy homes worldwide, insurers are noticing.

In Canada, claims for extreme weather events have more than quadrupled over the past 15 years. Insurers expect to pay out $2 billion and rising every year for disaster-related claims. The 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire alone is estimated to have cost about $9 billion for firefighting, evacuations, industry shutdowns and damage to homes and businesses.

In the U.S., two major insurance companies have stopped offering new homeowner policies in California, partly due to “rapidly growing catastrophe exposure.” Increasingly frequent and intense hurricanes, wildfires and floods have made it difficult to insure homes in Florida, Texas, Colorado and New York.

Even when insurance is available, rates are often skyrocketing, leaving a growing number of homeowners unable to afford insurance. Because many banks

won’t offer mortgages without home insurance, ownership and housing markets are being affected. Many insurance companies can’t afford to stay in business.

It will get worse if we don’t do everything possible to address climate disruption. By early June, nearly 10 million acres had already burned across Canada. Normally, only 600,000 acres would burn by then. Climate change is causing hotter, windier and drier conditions; longer summers; reduced snowpack; and more lightning strikes — all of which increase the frequency and intensity of fires.

Increasing wildfires also contribute to further global heating — when forests burn, the carbon stored by forests and plants is released into the atmosphere, and the burned forests no longer sequester carbon. In 2017 and 2018, wildfires in B.C. emitted more greenhouse gases than all other sectors of the province combined.

The best solution is to do everything possible to halt and reverse climate disruption by getting off fossil fuels and protecting carbon sinks like forests.

Call us to book an appointment. We would love to see your smile.

Dr. Katherine Ing & Dr. Soul Emam

Smoky skies from recent Canadian wildfires

DAVID SUZUKI with files from senior editor Ian Hanington.

Dear Sangita: My parents clearly have a favourite grandchild. Not only have I noticed it, but my daughter has asked me about it, too, when she sees the way her cousin is treated (photos of him all over the house, special outings with him, extravagant Christmas gifts). I don’t want my children to feel left out. What do I do?

—Grandparenting Grievances

Dear Grandparenting: In my culture, the boys are celebrated. When my daughter was born, my husband’s parents were super ecstatic, but when my husband’s brother had a son, it was celebrated even more so. Because, religiously, if you have a son, you have to praise them and put them on a pedestal. So for some cultures, when the son is born, they have more value than the daughter. That mentality might live in your family. You might notice different dynamics between grandparents and grandkids. I saw that growing up too. At the same time, I think it’s helpful to remember that they love them all.

Some kids are easier to play with than others. Sometimes it’s favouritism, and sometimes it’s just that the grandparents relate more to a certain child. If this is something that is really bothering you, and now your daughter as

CURRENTS ADVICE

the flight! But at the same time, based on your description, she might be someone who doesn’t understand the value of a dollar — and the misunderstanding between the two of you might be rooted in that.

If you don’t want to make it a conflict, I would tell your story the best you can — explain you’re in a tough situation, that she knows how hard you work and you wish her all the best and wish you could have been there for her. You’re saying, “This is my situation, and I know you’re going to understand because you’re my friend,” gently guiding her in the right direction.

well, rather than bringing it up as an issue with your parents, maybe say, “I'd love for my daughter to have a grandparents solo day with you.” If she's feeling left out, maybe create that special time just with her and the grandparents, and that way she won't feel that way.

Dear Sangita: My friend is upset at me for not going to her destination wedding in Europe, but I can’t afford it and she knows that. I feel like she’s being unfair; she’s never had to work to support herself, and her parents have always paid for everything for her, so she doesn’t know what financial stress is like!

How do I talk to her about this?

—Destination Disaster

Dear Destination: If you’re close friends, she should know that you need to save money and a wedding like hers is expensive. I think seeing her at the bachelorette party, giving her a gift for her wedding and saying you’re there in spirit — that's fair enough.

Friendship is saying, “Hey, I really need you to be there,” rather than, “I’m upset that you’re not coming.” If she really does have that kind of financial support as you described, if she really wanted you to be there, she could have paid for you or helped out with

Dear Sangita: My 11-year-old daughter has an “unhealthy” obsession with the author of The Giving Tree (Shel Silverstein). Not his books, but his face. She has created a large mural on her door and demands that we allow her to continue to plaster her entire room with his face (and has drawn devil horns and the like on him). It seems a bit creepy to me. What do you recommend?

—Shel from Hell

Dear Shel: We used to do this when we were kids: we would take magazines and draw the devil horns on people. I think this is a phase, and sometimes you have to let them have this phase. It looks like she's an artistic kid, choosing to deal with her emotions in certain ways. If this is the way she's doing it, rather than doing anything worse than that, hey, why not? It’s possible that she isn’t obsessed with the author – but that there is something creatively about his photo that fascinates her. I think it’s OK to just let her be. Kids are going through a lot, especially after COVID, and how they're coping is completely different. I have a feeling this won't last that long; it’s just a phase and she'll come out of it.

Have a relationship or life question for Sangita? Send it to advice@post-

My parents have a favourite grandchild

Local actor lands starring role alongside Nicole Kidman

Toronto’s Laysla De Oliveira knew the competition for the starring role in a series created by Yellowstone’s Taylor Sheridan would be fierce. But when she hopped on a call with Sheridan himself and learned who she would have the opportunity to star alongside in Special Ops: Lioness, she knew this would be the role of a lifetime.

“He said he wanted to work on the first episode with me, and he kept mentioning the name Nicole,” she says. “And I said, ‘Kidman?’”

The team flew De Oliveira to Montana to work with Sheridan as he was filming Yellowstone

“And then I went home to Toronto to quarantine, hoping and praying that I would get the part,” she says. She got an email on her last night in quarantine while she was in bed. “It said, ‘Congratulations on being a lioness,’ and I just started crying.”

De Oliveira stepped into the titular role of Special Ops: Lioness

and an opportunity to work with not just Kidman but Zoe Saldana and Morgan Freeman.

“Getting to do this incredible work with people you've admired your entire career is something that's really special,” she says. “I felt like I was getting paid to take a master class.”

It’s a career that De Oliveira

FAST FACTS

NAME: Laysla De Oliveira

GRADUATED: Rosedale Heights

FAVE T.O. ARTIST: Rachel McAdams

FAVE SPOT IN THE CITY: 416 Snack Bar

FAVE T.O. MEMORY: Going to Brazilian bars with her mom as a kid

didn’t realize she could professionally pursue until she took her first acting class in high school — but perhaps she should have realized it was one she was destined for much earlier.

“I loved putting on a show for my parents and family as a kid. I would lip-synch to Britney Spears and charge my mom’s friends $2

to watch me perform,” she says.

Once she caught the acting bug, De Oliveira moved to Rosedale Heights School of the Arts to pursue acting as a career. “I would go to school at 9 a.m. and would come home at 7 p.m. because we'd be rehearsing for plays and doing fun stuff that I was really passionate about,” she says.

Though De Oliveira says she loves school, soon after joining Ryerson’s theatre program, she dropped out in an effort to get as many audition hours in as possible — and move to Los Angeles.

“I wanted to be in the center of the whole thing — still take classes but be in a space where I could professionally pursue my dreams,” she says. “But I got sent home a lot because many of the roles I landed were filming in Toronto, which was nice.”

One of those roles was the antagonist Dodge in Netflix’s Locke & Key, which landed in the global top 10 list on the streaming service for multiple weeks after its

debut. She also played a lead role in horror movie In the Tall Grass and acted alongside Luke Wilson and David Thewlis in Guest of Honour — all significant roles for someone who has only been in the industry for a decade.

De Oliveira says there were times when she struggled: “I did the restaurant jobs.” She remembers working at Joey’s at the Eaton Centre, and when she landed one of her first roles, they put it up on the screens and everyone celebrated.

“But I remember there were often times where I was filled with sadness, because I wanted to be acting, and I didn't want to be there,” she says.

But she says she got here by being “a little bit delusional,” believing in herself and never taking no for an answer.

“Definitely, when you have $400 in your bank account, you start to stress out. But I just never had a plan B. This had to work.”

— Julia Mastroianni

Laysla De Oliveira plays the lead role in ‘Special Ops: Lioness’

CURRENTS HOW THEY MET

Platinum-selling Canadian country crooner finds his match

Country singer Tim Hicks has five Juno nominations, a Canadian Country Music Award win and three platinum-selling singles under his belt — and now, he’ll be headlining Boots and Hearts Music Festival this month alongside Keith Urban, Tim McGraw and more. Ahead of the festival, he and his wife, Amanda Hicks, tell us how they were destined to be together.

How they met

Amanda: We first met as kids! My childhood best friend, her mom and Tim’s mom are first cousins. So we would see each other at family functions. As teenagers, my friend would often want me to come along to see Tim’s band playing wherever they were playing. And there was always a spark of connection between us. Tim: I used to drive my cousin crazy; if she came to a function without Amanda, I would say to her, “Did you bring my wife?” It became a little bit of a bone of

contention. But of course, I was only half-joking.

The first date

Amanda: It was after we had gone separate ways in university and then moved back home that we reconnected. It was at a gig, of course.

Tim: It was Valentine’s Day. I played my gig and I drove Amanda home because she always needed a ride. And by the

glow of the dashboard lights, I played her some demos I had been working on. And then I went in for the kiss.

The proposal

Tim: We’d been together probably four or five years, officially. I had the ring in my pocket for our camping trip, and I was waiting for the right moment. One night after dinner, we took a canoe ride, and I pulled the canoe over and

found a place to sit and, and I said something like, “I really love camping with you.” And she's like, “Yeah, I really love it too.” And I was like, “You do want to do this every year?” And she said, “Yeah, I want to do this every year.” And I was like, “No, I mean...” and then I pulled it out. And that was it. We went back to the campsite and everybody cheered.

The wedding and honeymoon

Amanda: We got married on Oct. 3, 2009, in Vineland at a place called Twenty Valley Golf Course. It was beautiful. It was important to us to have a nice party for our wedding without the ceremonial aspects of it. Lots of singing and dancing and carrying on!

Tim: We left the next day for our honeymoon in Paris, and we went back there for our 10th anniversary.

The kids

Tim: JJ is our oldest; he turns 12 in November. And Anna Lee will

be 11 next March. Anna was born in the middle of the CMT Hitlist Tour. The schedule was like, “Tuesday: Medicine Hat, Wednesday: Calgary, Thursday: Baby!” because Amanda had a C-section scheduled. I did my first big TV interview with my hospital bracelet still on!

Balancing careers and a relationship

Amanda: We’ve had a lot of hard conversations over the years to recalibrate, and we have good, supportive people around us. We weren’t afraid to take the kids on the road with us, either.

Tim: Some days you win, some days you lose. We’re both high achievers, so knowing that about ourselves and checking in with each other has been important.

The future together

Tim: We talked about getting one of those A-frame trailers and just driving it across Canada to all our favourite camping spots!

PEAK WITH US. IT’S TIME TO WITH EACH OTHER, LONGER SPEAK WHEN YOU CAN

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To Register Visit: www.spiritofmath.com

*Students must have a B+ average or higher to be accepted in the program.

KALEV ESTIENNE

2023 PRIVATE EDUCATION GUIDE

Our 34th annual Private Education Guide features top private schools & extracurricular programs, including an easy-reference information bar containing class size, student–teacher ratios & real tuition costs.

FOR INFORMATION

Call (905)-889-7889 Email: info@kalev.net

Spirit of Math

Spirit of Math is a fast-paced and exciting program with high expectations for the students; in just 90 minutes a week, students are propelled from the top of their class to top of the world! For over 30 years, Spirit of Math has delivered a proprietary curriculum, built on four key elements: drills, core curriculum, problem solving and collaborative group work. Every class starts with drills where there

is a focus on making progress, rather than incorrect answers. Word problems are another important component of every class. These problems stretch high-performing minds with strategic thinking and require the application of their knowledge. The result: Students learn to think divergently and collaboratively. Skills are developed in numeracy, problem solving, teamwork, presenting and overall communication.

Registering now for September

SCHOOL TYPE: Independent School YEAR FOUNDED: 1995 GRADES: K-11

ENROLMENT: 11,000+

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: Varies by Grade TUITION: $3240

Kalev Estienne Rhythmic Gymnastics Centres

Rhythmic gymnastics is a beautiful Olympic sport combining elements of ballet, gymnastics, acrobatics, balance, flexibility, and apparatus. With individuals and groups competing and performing utilizing grace, skill, strength, agility, and fluidity, Rhythmic Gymnastics is the epitome of poetry in motion. There are four main apparatus that are used: the ball, hoop, ribbon and clubs. Gymnasts may compete individually at the Provincial,

SCHOOL TYPE: Extracurricular

YEAR FOUNDED: 1951

GRADES: 4 years to adult

National, World and Olympic levels as well as AGG group competitions. This sport encourages healthy recreational development with long-term opportunities to tour the world. Beginners are welcome. We train levels from recreational up to and including Olympians. We have a special program for little kids, from 4 to 7 years old, called Butterflies. This program is focused in the development of early - age girls in rhythmic gymnastics.

ENROLMENT: Varies

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: Varies

TUITION: Consult website or email us

Metropolitan Preparatory Academy

Metro Prep Academy is a semestered, co-ed, university prep school for students in Grade 7 to 12. The academics are structured and challenging yet the environment is supportive and nurturing. Faculty and administration doors are open, encouraging strong relationships with students and their families. No uniform means Metro Prep students can express their individuality. In this setting they are taught to trust their

SCHOOL TYPE: Private School YEAR FOUNDED: 1982

GRADES: 7-12

instincts, think both critically and creatively, ask questions and seek the help needed to succeed. Athletic and extracurricular opportunities also foster the physical and social potential of each student. In 2018, Metro Prep introduced a new specialized arts initiative, SMITH, which offers students the opportunity to balance their creative talents while pursuing academic goals. For more information, visit www.metroprep.com.

ENROLMENT: 200

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 10:1

TUITION: $25,560 to $33,700

Gradale Academy

At Gradale Academy we focus on situational-based learning to help students make daily connections with nature. Gradale Academy's combination of strong academics with a unique learning environment makes an ideal private school for your child to learn and prosper. Gradale Academy's techniques develop confidence and self esteem which is the basis of a successful learner. Offering Pre-K to Grade 6 and

SCHOOL TYPE: Private School

YEAR FOUNDED: 2000

GRADES: Pre-K to grade 6

following the Ontario Curriculum, we provide a learning environment unlike any in the GTA. Our approach is unique, our results are shown in the many happy families and students, past and present. To book a tour now email: gradale@bell.net 416 917-9409 or visit gradaleacademy.com and see why many students have flourished and succeeded at our school!

ENROLMENT: 65

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 8:1

TUITION: $12,000 to $20,000

The Dunblaine School

The Dunblaine School is a not for profit school in midtown Toronto dedicated to providing supportive, individualized education for students with a variety of learning challenges. While following the Ministry of Education guidelines, the goal of the school is to foster a positive work ethic, increase confidence and to challenge all students to realize their greatest potential. The school addresses the academic, social and emotional needs of

SCHOOL TYPE: Independent School

YEAR FOUNDED: 1969

GRADES: 1-8

Bayview Glen

Bayview Glen is an academically invigorating, co-educational independent school for students from age 2 to Grade 12. Situated on two closely connected campuses in North York, our vibrantly diverse community is inspired by expert teachers and fuelled by a forward-thinking curriculum. Bayview Glen welcomes all students into a nurturing community that allows inquisitive minds to flourish. Our broad

SCHOOL TYPE: Independent School

YEAR FOUNDED: 1962

GRADES: Age 2 - Grade 12

children with a variety of ability levels and learning styles with differentiated instruction and individualized support. Additional professional services include occupational therapy, speech language therapy and social work. If your child is struggling in large classrooms, requires individualized attention and/or special education resources and remedial support, contact us at 416-483-9215 or email cpryke@dunblaineschool.com for more information.

ENROLMENT: 34

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 5:1

TUITION: $26,000

offering of curricular and co-curricular activities ranges from Drama to Design Thinking, Robotics to Round Square, Music to Model United Nations, Athletics to Advanced Placement. We value collaboration, problem solving and academic risk-taking to foster the entrepreneurial mindset and respect for diverse viewpoints essential for success in the 21st century.

ENROLMENT: 1,100+

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: Call for details

TUITION: $20,950 -$31,050

416-917-9409 gradale@bell.net

Gradale Academy students are Happier, Healthier and Smarter

We provide an outdoor based hybrid learning environment that balances academics and experiential learning. Our novel approach helps reduce stress, increase self esteem and improve psychological and physical health. Our effective program stimulates creativity and improves problem solving and overall academic skills. V isit us at gradaleacademy.com for more information or email us at gradale@bell.net or call 416-917-9409.

Pre K to Grade 6

Through individualized special education instruction,

21 Deloraine Avenue Toronto Ontario Telephone 416 483 9215 www.dunblaineschool.com Join

Boys and girls gain insight from each other.

co : education

Through our collaborative, real-world-focussed programme, our entire community learns and grows together.

we enable each student with a learning disability to succeed. Because at Dunblaine, we understand.

Age 2 to Grade 12 in Toronto bayviewglen.ca

“I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying.”

— Michael Jordan

School

The Rosedale Day School

RDS is Downtown Toronto’s leading academic institution for JK - Grade 8. Our tightly-knit co-ed community fosters meaningful learning for life through a future-proof perspective while our rigorous academic approach, inclusive learning environment, and globally responsive pedagogy ensures that RDS Graduates are skilled at both leading and collaborating. RDS Graduates can adapt confidently and engage

SCHOOL TYPE: Independent YEAR FOUNDED: 1995

GRADES: JK - Grade 8

responsibly in our ever-changing world. Our team of diverse and inspired educators provide thorough academic preparation with a focus on socialemotional wellbeing. Arts and Athletics take place at top-tier institutions such as UofT, RCYC, the AGO, and the ROM and our exceptional structured literacy program starts from day one. Inquire today. JK - Grade 8. 416 923 4726. www.rds-on.com

ENROLMENT: 165

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 8:1

TUITION: $27,800

WillowWood School

Founded in 1980, WillowWood has a long tradition of delivering targeted, personal education that considers each student’s needs and strengths. Our staff employ a team-based approach to teaching and conduct regular education strategy meetings to discuss how best to deliver the curriculum to each of our students. We are a full facility featuring a fitness room, gymnasium, music room, art room, science lab and film

SCHOOL TYPE: Private School

YEAR FOUNDED: 1980

GRADES: SK-12

and digital media arts studios. Our location on “School Street”(Scarsdale Road) gives us access to incredible amenities and services that allow us to incorporate swimming, dance, and robotics into our curriculum. Classes are small, the atmosphere is warm, and technology is at the forefront of our teaching methodology.

ENROLMENT: 250

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 8:1

TUITION: $20,600-$26,350

Reingold Tutoring

Reingold Tutoring is an established private tutoring company offering comprehensive tutoring for all subjects and age groups, specializing in math and science. We proudly serve students across Ontario, providing personalized one-one-one tutoring. Our team consists of highly motivated, responsible, and skilled tutors who are dedicated to helping your child achieve their educational goals. Our tutors

SCHOOL TYPE: Tutoring

YEAR FOUNDED: 2000

GRADES: 1-12

Prestige School

Prestige School offers students an accelerated curriculum, close homeschool contact and small class sizes. Younger students benefit from advanced math and science programs, French lessons from JK, nutritious hot lunches and extensive before and after school care. Additionally, students can look forward to intricate arts and crafts lessons, music and dance classes, and computer studies sessions that will

SCHOOL TYPE: Independent School

YEAR FOUNDED: 2003

GRADES: PS - 12

foster motivation and confidence, ensuring that your child eagerly anticipates each session. We have a proven track record of success, including students who have learning disabilities. We pride ourselves in being available to students when they need us most. Contact us at 647-519-4771 to discuss your child’s upcoming education needs or visit www.reingoldtutoring.com for more information.

ENROLMENT: Varies

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE: 1

TUITION: Per hour

encourage students to be creative through computer animation and document publishing. Older students experience individualized learning and 100% university placement. Our after school program strives to support the needs of children through academic, recreational, and social opportunities that enhance school day learning and build upon individual strengths and interests necessary for lifelong success.

ENROLMENT: 280

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 8:1 or 18:1

TUITION: $14,500 - $18,000

Crestwood School

Crestwood School practises the traditional art of teaching by challenging young minds to learn and by structuring experiences that make learning possible. The school’s philosophy is based on tried-andtrue methods of teaching the basics, thus providing students with a solid foundation in the three Rs. Homework and development of students’ organizational skills and good work/study habits are an integral part of the program. At the same

SCHOOL TYPE: Independent School

YEAR FOUNDED: 1980

GRADES: JK-Gr.6

time, Crestwood School is concerned with the “whole child” — striving to maintain the balance of a child’s physical, social and emotional development. Each teacher is the key. With a well-planned program, a positive rapport with each and every student and a sense of commitment and dedication, Crestwood School’s goals are met! Crestwood is located in the beautiful wooded valley at Bayview Avenue and Lawrence Avenue.

ENROLMENT: 450

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 15:1

TUITION: $21,3000-$34,000

Toronto Prep School

A combined 60 years of teaching experience has prompted Steve and Fouli Tsimikalis to create an environment that promotes learning, develops leadership and awakens social consciousness through the employment of energetic and hand-picked experienced faculty and staff. Toronto Prep offers a rigorous academic curriculum with the opportunity for students to participate in a variety of school clubs

SCHOOL TYPE: Independent School

YEAR FOUNDED: 2009

GRADES: 7-12

and athletics. Each student will receive a MacBook 13" with an extended warranty. Steve and Fouli have determined that it truly takes a village to raise a child. “A faculty working closely with parents/ guardians, smaller classes, supervised extra help before and after school and on Saturdays help students reach their personal potential for success,” notes Fouli. Their passion for teaching is evident.

ENROLMENT: 440

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO: 10:1

TUITION: $32,250 - $34,250

We develop students for success!

Private tutoring services

• Quality tutoring for every subject

• One-on-one virtual tutoring (some in person)

• Customized lessons

• Highly skilled and experienced tutors

• Motivation, study skills, and test prep

• Strong results with learning disabled students

50% Discount on first lesson | Flexible Hours & Scheduling

Grades 1-12 + University

www.reingoldtutoring.com

PRESTIGE SCHOOL

Independent Private School • Grades PS to 12

• Small class sizes

• Accelerated Math & Language programs

• French from Kindergarten

• Physics, Chemistry & Biology as separate subjects from Grade 4

• Graduates receive OSSD

• Outdoor playground

• Before/After School Programs

• Door-to-door transportation

• Hot lunches

• Tutoring

• Homework Help

• Variety of clubs

Richmond Hill Campus 11 Headdon Gate (Bathurst & Major Mackenzie)

Toronto Campus 21 Eddfield Avenue (Yonge & Sheppard) 416-250-0648

www.prestigeprivateschool.ca • prestige@prestigeschool.com

Celebrating 44 years

Rooftop roller skating

A new rooftop roller skating pop-up by Suso Skate Co. has opened at Shops at Don Mills and is running until Sept. 3. From Wednesday to Friday, the pop-up stays open until 9 p.m., making it the perfect evening adventure. Suso often hosts themed events, such as Neon Nineties and Sunset Soundtrack, so be sure to dress accordingly!

Sunset yoga

Wind down while the sun sets with a sunset yoga experience you won’t forget! On Aug. 16, you can enjoy a calming session of yoga on the Hotel X terrace before a night of dancing and drinks as a live band plays. Or head 45 minutes outside the city to Davis Family Farm on Aug. 8 for a relaxing evening sunset yoga as part of the Toronto Sunflower Festival.

Glow-in-the-dark paddling

Light up the night after the sun sets, rent an illuminated kayak from Toronto Kayaks, and paddle along Woodbine Beach for some stunning skyline views. The kayak-canoe hybrids are transparent and lit up with rainbow LED lights, so you can spot some fish swimming below you as you go — plus, you can hook up your phone to the Bluetooth speaker for a little paddle party.

Pickleball party

Embrace the fastest growing sport in North America at the very cool and lively stackt market. Fairgrounds operates courts right at the market, which are open until 9 p.m. for your dinking pleasure. There is an ongoing social pickleball evening on Tuesdays, as well as happy hour beer specials.

COOL THINGS TO DO IN T.O. WHEN THE SUN AND TEMPERATURE GO DOWN

Cry Baby Gallery

Cry Baby Gallery is a unique blend of street art and mixology. Tucked behind an art gallery, this Prohibition-style speakeasy offers impressive cocktails and a low-key vibe. Step through the gallery's passageway and uncover a mesmerizing space where street art meets a New York–style speakeasy. Cry Baby is a hidden gem celebrating creativity and offering an unforgettable experience in Dundas West.

Kissa

Kissa is a new Japanese-inspired listening lounge on King Street West. It offers Japanese cuisine, elevated cocktails and music from the ’80s to early 2000s. The venue has a vintage sound system, DJ booth, record wall, disco balls, velvet details and ambient lighting. Kissa provides a unique blend of arts, music, cuisine and cocktails for an unforgettable experience.

Friday Nights at the ROM

Experience the ultimate late-night fun in Toronto at the Royal Ontario Museum's Friday Nights. Get ready to party among dinosaurs as this weekly event transforms the country's largest museum into a vibrant bash. Sip on cocktails, indulge in delicious bites from pop-up food vendors, and enjoy live music. Each event is themed around the ROM's latest special exhibit. It's a unique and unforgettable way to explore the museum and have a blast after hours.

PIANO BARS

Jean Darlene Piano Room

Jean Darlene Piano Room: Unleash your inner night owl and embark on an exhilarating adventure at the Jean Darlene Piano Room! Prepare yourself for an evening brimming with sensational live performances, ranging from soul-stirring pianists to captivating drag shows, infectious samba beats and thrilling themed singalongs at this hidden gem on Dundas Street West.

Wedlocks

Wedlocks, a new restaurant and piano lounge in Toronto's east end, infuses fresh energy into the historic space once occupied by Whitlocks. Owner Michelle Slota opened this dynamic venue last August, offering a dual experience of fine dining and live entertainment. Slota aims for Wedlocks' spacious 2,300-square-foot setting to leave a lasting impression on Toronto's jazz community.

Senator

Toronto's piano bar trend is blazing hot, even iconic spots like the Senator have hopped on board. After nearly a century of operation, the Senator revamped its second floor into a posh piano bar, right above the bustling main dining room. The Senator, famously graced by Elton John, was reborn after a whopping 884 days of closure, thanks to the enchanting piano bar.

Waterfront Night Market

This massive night market meets music fest is back for its 14th year, taking over the space at Hotel X at the Stanley Barracks. A celebration of the Qixi “Double 7 Festival” — Asia’s version of Valentine’s Day — admission includes full access to the Signature Pan-Asian Food Festival, BeerCraft, Wine & Wok and the highly anticipated return of the illuminasian Floating Lantern & Music Festival.

Midnight Market

Once you step inside Midnight Market, located on College Street, straddled between Kensington Market and Little Italy, you’ll be hit with elements of various Asian cultures, including an array of fusion snacks and baiju-infused craft cocktails. The night market-inspired bar will transport you to the bustling night markets of Asia. Glimmering neon lights and retro street signs adorn the space, evoking the energy of Tokyo’s old-school alleyways or Yokocho which hosts many bars, restaurants and shops.

Toronto Food Truck Festival

The Toronto Food Truck Festival is back at Woodbine Park, offering a variety of food trucks, live entertainment, and cold beers from Aug. 4-7. The park's beautiful 28-acre space includes a pond, boardwalk, and attractions like a water play area and playground. The festival features diverse food options, including vegetarian, halal, vegan and gluten-free choices. Don't miss this exciting celebration of Toronto's food culture!

K ST at Bisha Hotel

Perched 44 stories above Toronto's entertainment district, K st offers an infinity pool with sweeping views and a trendy atmosphere. Enjoy modern Californian and contemporary Asian cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with a range of traditional and à la mode cocktails during the daily happy hour from 3 to 5 pm.

Harriet's Rooftop at 1 Hotel Toronto

Exuding elegance and charm, Harriet's Rooftop Bar at 1 Hotel Toronto provides expansive city views and a luxurious pool deck. Dive in or unwind from 12 to 11 p.m. daily, and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails until close.

Lavelle

Experience a day-to-night poolside extravaganza at Lavelle, located 16 stories above the city. This landmark venue offers unobstructed 360° views of Toronto's skyline, private cabanas and three pools. Savour contemporary Latin and Japanese cuisine while refreshing cocktails quench your thirst.

SUMMER POP-UPS

Neverland Experience Bar

Join Peter Pan and the Lost Boys on an immersive adventure to Neverland, where you'll never grow old! Climb aboard The Jolly Roger, play pirates with Captain Hook, and save Tinkerbell using faith, trust, pixie dust and a bit of alcohol. Experience this timeless classic with a 90-minute immersive theatre session, two bespoke cocktails and interactive activities. Watch out for Captain Hook and the ticking crocodile while enjoying the magical Neverland-themed cocktails.

Communal Table 2023: Momo Party

Get ready for a fun and delicious collaboration between the Bentway and the Depanneur on Aug. 3. Feast on famous momos — hearty dumplings with delectable fillings, served steamed or fried with a spicy sauce. Momos are not just food; they're symbols of celebration in Tibet. Gather around communal tables, bring your own plates and cutlery, and enjoy a family-style dining experience in the unique urban setting of the Bentway.

Le Dîner en Blanc

Experience the enchantment of Le Dîner en Blanc as thousands of friends come together at a secret location on Aug. 10. Clad in elegant white attire, guests enjoy a chic picnic in a public space, showcasing the beauty and value of public space. With no disruptions and only astonished onlookers, participants and spectators alike wonder if it's all a dream. Originating in Paris over 30 years ago, Le Dîner en Blanc has grown into a grand annual gathering.

Spirit

T Taak ing Studen To o The T ts From The T Toop Of The

Toop O f The Class World!

Spirit

AP

Last year, renowned Montreal chef and TV personality, Antonio Park, delighted Toronto with the launch of his eponymous restaurant, AP. Perched atop the Manulife Centre, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Toronto skyline, the experience begins with a private elevator ride to the rooftop bar, where guests can indulge in the uncharted territories of Latin-infused Japanese and pan-Asian cuisine, with a hint of Canadian influences.

The Rooftop @ The Broadview Hotel

With its breathtaking views of the Toronto skyline, this venue offers one of the most stunning vistas in town. Its 360-degree glass facade, complemented by a pyramidal skylight and spacious rooftop terrace, creates an unforgettable setting. Expect a carefully curated selection of sharing plates like sesame-crusted shrimp, along with a choice of elegant cocktails and wines.

Don Alfonso 1890

First impressions on arriving at Don Alfono 1890 are that it’s undeniably one of the most upscale places in the city. Situated atop the Westin Harbour Castle, overlooking picturesque Lake Ontario, the eatery exudes sophistication. The food is a testament to both finesse and creativity — from the seared Quebec muscovy duck breast to the Manitoba tenderloin wrapped in layers of Swiss chard — each bite evokes visions of a Mediterranean feast.

Music on a boat

Experience the enchantment of R&B Under the Stars, a captivating concert series presented in partnership with Waveland. Set sail on a pirate ship across Toronto Harbour where emerging vocalists showcase their talent. With 50 events from June to September, this series is highly regarded as Canada's top musical experience on Airbnb.

Comedy in an alley

This intimate Queen Street East outdoor venue offers limited seating for a cosy and enjoyable experience in, yes, an alleyway. Featuring professional headlining comedians seen on Just For Laughs, JFL42, Comedy Network, CBC, HBO and CRAVE, along with special guest openers, Comedy Alley promises a fun-filled evening with friends. Be sure to reserve your seats in advance as this popular spot tends to sell out quickly.

Movies in a park

Toronto Outdoor Picture Show presents Another World, a 21-date open-air festival until Aug. 27. Screenings will be held at various parks, including Christie Pits and Corktown Common. Another World offers nightly pairings of short and feature films. The program is free for all attendees, thanks to charitable donations. Check the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show website for the complete calendar and neighbourhood series.

Commisso Brothers

Open around the clock since 1957, Commisso Brothers & Racco Italian Bakery in North York is a go-to spot for delicious Italian sandwiches and late-night cravings. Whether it's the middle of the night or early morning, you can rely on this bakery to satisfy your hunger with its hot table offerings. In addition, they offer a deli counter and meat market, making it a convenient place to grab some groceries while indulging in their massive and satisfying sandwiches.

Kettlemans Bagels

Toronto's 24-hour bagel shop, Kettlemans Bagels, specializes in traditional Montrealstyle bagels. Handcrafted, Kettlemans produces 1,200 to 1,300 dozen bagels daily using a 400-year-old recipe. With a woodburning oven and an open concept space, Kettlemans Bagels offers fresh bagels topped with poppy or sesame seeds. Kettlemans has multiple locations and a menu featuring various sandwich options.

The Famous Owl of Minerva Experience the authentic taste of Korea at The Famous Owl of Minerva, where traditional Korean cuisine is perfected to satisfy even late-night cravings. This renowned restaurant takes pride in delivering rich and bold flavours through carefully crafted dishes, such as sizzling bulgogi and steaming bibimbap. The Famous Owl of Minerva has become a beloved destination in Toronto, offering 24-hour dining at its Yonge Street location.

Go Place

Go Place is a luxury leisure club and spa located at First Markham Place offering a 24-hour wellness experience with over 68,000 square feet of jacuzzi, speciality baths, saunas, treatment rooms, lounging and dining areas 365 days a year. Soak away tension in our speciality baths and detox in our therapeutic sauna before indulging in fine cuisine.

FOOD

FERRIS WHEEL NOT INCLUDED

Let's be honest, the CNE's real draw isn't the old-timey rides or impossible midway games. It's about indulging in ice cream sandwiches, potato tornadoes and all those wild carnival foods. Can’t wait until Aug. 18 to sink your teeth into all those goodies? These four restaurants have got you covered!

UNICORN POUTINE

Step into the magical world of Enchanted Poutinerie, where you'll be transported to the pages of a storybook. The walls are adorned with intricately designed trees, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Look up and you'll find a meticulously painted ceiling adorned with a vivid array of multicoloured leaves. The menu features a number of poutines from around the world, like the chicken shawarma, lobster and pulled pork. However, the true carnival delight lies in the unicorn poutine—a quirky take on the classic dish, featuring Quebec cheese curds in various hues and a homemade multicoloured gravy.

730 Wilson Ave.

FRENCH TOAST SLIDERS

Southern-style comfort food is undeniably decadent, with its use of rich ingredients, slow cooking methods, deep-frying, sweet desserts and generous portions. Though the dishes at Hogtown Vegan lean toward healthier alternatives compared to their non-vegan counterparts, they still offer plenty of options to fulfill your junk food cravings. Take for example, their French toast sliders: battered and deep-fried baguette rounds are stuffed with roasted sunflower seed butter, banana, seitan bacon and accompanied by a side of spicy syrup. We can’t think of a better way to start the day!

382 College St.

MAC DADDY PIZZA

Oswald's Pizza has gained recognition for its distinctive approach to Detroit-style pizza, featuring a base made from focaccia. The pies are celebrated for their light and airy texture, complemented by a delightfully crunchy crust rim, and generously layered with melted cheese on top. With just six pan pies on the menu, there’s one that we think you may be lovin’. The Mac Daddy is loaded with ground beef, onions, shredded iceberg lettuce, dill pickles and special sauce. They even top it off with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Are you singing the jingle yet?

111 Richmond St. W.

SUPER BALLS

Move over Tiny Tom, there’s a new mini deep-fried doughnut in town! Superballs Cafe offers veganfriendly loukoumades, those honeysoaked fried dough balls from Greek cuisine, in six delicious varieties. Indulge in flavours like Ready, Set Birthday, Supercrema, Milky Way 500, Choco Thunderbolt, Caramel Comet and Cinnabon.These treats are available in 8, 12 or 18 packs, and you can customize them with toppings like Oreos, Biscoff or sprinkles. To top it off, the adorable car-shaped takeaway boxes channel vibes from the 50s and 60s, adding an extra layer of nostalgic charm.

WORLDWIDE WHOPPERS

In a city as diverse as Toronto, chefs infuse multiculturalism into the beloved classic: the burger. Chef Anthony Rose explores the international burger scene and chooses a champion from six sizzling contenders.

WINNER INDIA

“It’s really pretty to look at! It’s got nice layers, it’s well put together and stays together great, too. The flavours of the masalas really stand out.”

Masala BlvdThe Indian Kitchen, 3260 Lake Shore Blvd W., Aloo Tikki cheeseburger

ANTHONY ROSE

Post City’s tasting chef is the Michelinrecommended visionary behind Fat Pasha, Schmaltz and Fet Zun.

RUNNER-UP

CHINA

“This is super crispy and juicy and really good! It’s got great flavour. The bun tastes like a scallion pancake but much lighter.” Bingz Crispy Burger, 3229 Hwy 7, Markham, Signature beef burger - $6.99

GHANA

“Very pretty looking burger, I love the Martin’s roll! It’s got a nice crispy meat patty, and the fried plantain is really interesting! It looks like a classic smash burger.” Aunty Lucy’s Burgers, delivery only, 647-760-4886, Labadi burger - $13

Golden cheddar crown

ISRAEL

“It’s such a cool burger, it’s a great idea. The bread is fantastic. I really dig this. It’s such a smash hit and very clever.”

Miznon, 1235 Bay St., Folded cheeseburger pita - $16.50

VENEZUELA

“This is very good. The corn-based pancake bun is great, moist and delicious. I love coleslaw on a burger, it adds a barbecue style. The quality is very high.” Salsa Venezuelan Street Food, 341 Jane St., Cachapa burger - $17

JAPAN & KOREA

“This tastes just like Korean rib. It’s very good and flavourful and I like the fattiness of it. The lettuce, pickle and tomato are all fresh. Overall, it’s very tasty.” Sushi One, 4924 Yonge St., North York, Beef short rib burger - $16.99

Jason M. Kimelman

Sunday, August 6th

New tequila and tapas bar ignites the Annex

King Street might just be getting some competition as the city’s main district of entertainment. The Annex has just welcomed a brand new Mexican cocktail and tapas bar called Mezcalero, and, between the dancers and fire performers on the floor at its recent opening, it’s already making a statement.

General manager Anthony Walker describes the interior, which was designed by Alexander Perry, as “playful, modern and industrial,” noting the garage doors on the side of the building.

“It’s just this beautiful mix of colours that ties into the food and the whole experience.”

After 12 years spent working together at Victory Café and Crafty Coyote, Walker teamed up with local restaurateur Knick Ndreka to develop the idea.

“Bloor Street is a beautiful street, and we feel like it doesn't have enough variety of things to eat or entertainment or different restaurants that have an evening vibe. So we wanted to bring King and Yorkville and that kind of energy to the Annex," Ndreka says.

The shared plates menu offers

guests the chance to indulge in what Walker refers to as "experiences," allowing them to select any item from the menu at a fixed price. These experiences vary in size and content, ranging from a selection of six plates accompanied by four house cocktails for $150, all the way up to an extensive offering of 30 plates accompanied by two bottles of tequila or mezcal for $850. This menu structure empowers guests to tailor their dining experience to their desires, finding the perfect combination of flavours and dishes.

Additionally, for those who prefer a more individualized approach, guests have the option to order salads, mesquites, chorizos and empanadas separately, à la carte.

On select nights, the bar will transform into a vibrant venue reminiscent of a supper club, with DJs spinning into the night.

“It was really important to me that people don't view Mezcalero as merely a pre-party or an after-party destination," he says. "Mezcalero is the whole moment."

Mezcalero is located at 509 Bloor St. W. —Megan Gallant

Mezcalero takes a simple and elegant approach to octopus

GUAC & ROLL

The guacamole bar is a perfect fit for chef Erica Araujo, a past winner of guac-offs worldwide.

Montreal, New York and now Toronto — here comes Milos

One of the world's most renowned Greek restaurants is soon to make its debut in Toronto. Maria Arhontoulis, the director of marketing at Estiatorio Milos, has confirmed that the acclaimed seafood restaurant is scheduled to open its doors in Toronto in 2024.

Although Arhontoulis has refrained from disclosing further details at this time, it is highly probable that the menu will showcase Milos's signature dishes, featuring fresh fish flown in from the Mediterranean.

Estiatorio Milos currently boasts restaurants in various countries worldwide. The upcoming Toronto location will mark the brand's 10th venture into the restaurant industry.

The menu at Estiatorio Milos will showcase many of the renowned dishes that have made the restaurant famous. Classics like the Milos Special (a tower of lightly fried zucchini and eggplant, kefalograviera cheese and tzatziki) and grilled whole fish are among the highlights.

GLOBAL DOMINATION

The sea bass, sourced directly from the Greek islands, holds a special place of popularity at Estiatorio Milos, known for its delicate flavour and tender, flaky texture.

Along with Toronto, MIlos will expand its reach with locations in Palm Beach and Singapore.

Chef and owner Costas Spiliadis established Estiatorio Milos in 1979 with the aim of introducing global diners to the delectable flavours of Greek coastal cuisine.

The first Estiatorio Milos opened in Montreal in 1979, followed by New York in 1997, Athens in 2004, Las Vegas in 2010, Miami in 2012, London in 2015, Las Vegas in 2021 and Dubai in 2023.

Another beloved dish at Estiatorio Milos is the jumbo Madagascar prawns. Freshly grilled and served with their heads on for maximum flavour, they pair perfectly with an endive salad and a touch of lemon. The Milos lobster salad, known as astakosalata, combines fresh fennel and dill with Treviso radicchio, endive and, of course, Bay of Fundy lobster.

The upcoming Milos location in Toronto will be situated on Bay Street, as indicated by a recent liquor licence application.

—Christine Hogg

Are you part of the Sandwich Generation? Have you lost your mind yet?

Do you feel pulled in too many directions trying to meet the needs of your family and your aging parents? Whether it’s emotional, financial or hands-on care, how can any of us manage everyone who needs our help?

You need to do some organizing, but there are a number of things you can do as long as you “put on your life support first, before helping others.”

Talk to your kids and spouse:

Share how you feel so they appreciate how challenging the situation is. Ask for help. This is one of those “never waste a crisis” times when having to help everyone at once can lead to an evolution in your family as each member is asked and begins to do more for themselves and, in turn, for the family.

Be prepared to accept, however, that as others take over what you previously managed, those tasks may be done differently. When there is too much to do, and insufficient resources, the key is to move forward, one day at a time, even when things aren’t

done as you would do them. Empower others.

Talk to your siblings and par ents:

If you’re lucky enough to have siblings who can help care for your parents, sit with them and organize. Not everyone will be equally capable or available, and that will feel unfair. Match people with the tasks they are best suited for, fair or not, and move forward.

Look for ways to structure the support your parents need. There are two goals in doing this: 1) organize key areas so they feel more in control - that doesn’t mean they are in control (they aren’t), but it may feel that way and give you a chance to take a few deep breaths; and 2) separate “support time” from “being their child time.” Make time to be with them and love them and not problem solve - it is this time that refills your emotional reservoirs.

Ensure your parents have POAs for Care and Property, as well as Living Wills. When a crisis happens, it is much easier for family

members to execute what Mom or Dad wanted, than argue over what you each think they wanted. Have regular family meetings to go over what is needed for the next week or two. Divide and conquer. Create a shared online calendar for appointments and events where everyone can see what is needed, and who is handling it. Enlist one of the tech wise grandkids to create this.

Create shared online documents where everyone can see doctors’ or therapists’ notes, names and numbers or other information each person needs access to.

Create a medical folder in their home where key documents are kept (copies of Health Cards, POAs, DNRs, medication lists, etc.). Digitize it.

If resources are available, get professional caregiver support and shift the tasks for hands-on care to them. Caregivers can shop, help with personal care, meal prep, laundry, ensure medication is taken and provide a sense of peace knowing that

someone is there when you aren’t.

Talk to yourself:

Before you visit your parent, decide if this is a problem solving or quality time visit. Get your head in the right space before you visit, as it is often very tempting to fall into problem solving mode.

Get your own therapist. Talking to someone you aren’t related to can be very helpful and give you a little distance and perspective that is otherwise very hard to get.

Lastly, remember that you need to accept that you cannot do everything, everything won’t be done the way you would do it, and there will be more surprises than you can anticipate. That is the human condition and comes into play more than ever when times get tough.

All we can do is our best, one day at a time.

Owner/Operator of Caregiver Services Ltd.

DaviD Bernstein

L-R: Milos owner Costas Spiliadis, a tower of lightly fried zucchini

Explore the very best fashion, food, wellness and culture that Toronto has to o er.

‘World’s worst coffee shop’ opens in Toronto

If you think Toronto is already overpopulated with pigeons, you might not be happy to hear we’re getting more — but this time it ’s a coffee shop that self-proclaims as serving up the “world’s worst coffee.”

Pigeon Café & Bar just opened its first Toronto location last month at 337 King St. W., and it ’s already preparing to open its second location at Brookfield Place. The brand is well-known in Quebec, with three other locations in Montreal since its first opening six years ago

Though Pigeon began as a humble espresso bar, Toronto’s first location is a full coffee-to-cocktails restaurant concept.

O wner and founder Jonathan Dresner was born in Montreal, but he lived in Toronto for a short time as a child and has

often split his time between the two cities since

And what would draw you in more than the “world’s worst coffee"? Dresner explains the slogan came to him during a time when he was f rustrated and fearful of not living up to the standards of people who are committed to coffee. Rather than trying to convince everyone that Pigeon has good coffee, he made it fun instead.

“I thought it was playful,” he says.

The King Street location’s open, contemporary space is just as playful, with a decorative tree adding greenery to an otherwise urban strip. Fairy lights around the foliage add sparkle to the dim, moody evenings.

“It’s a nice, intimate space,” explains the founder. “We aim to make it somewhat like

an oasis, and then, as the day goes on, the music gets louder, we lower the lights, and then it just feels very enchanting.”

During the daytime hours, Pigeon’s menu is a brunch-lover’s dream, with pancakes, French toast, avocado and shakshuka rounding out the menu. Guests can even get their eggs topped with caviar.

Appetizers and lunch mains include beet burgers, grilled cheese, schnitzel, salmon, steaks and charcuteries. When the lights dim as day turns to night and the classic cocktails begin to flow, a larger selection of heftier menu items becomes available, including pastas, rib steaks and sea bass.

Husband-andwife team reel in De La Mer

The owners of a new Forest Hill Italian restaurant are at it again opening a fresh fish market by taking over one of the recently closed De La Mer Fresh Fish Market locations in the Leaside neighbourhood.

De La Mer once boasted four prominent retail shops and a commercial commissary. The brand gained widespread recognition across the city for its exceptional selection of seafood.

In 2022, Marsida Lazimi and her husband, Melsi, immigrated to Canada and last December, launched Rimini Rimini in Forest Hill.

The restaurant pays tribute to their Italian hometown, the charming seaside village of Rimini, a favourite of the local fishers.

The Rimini Rimini menu emphasizes fresh seafood, which is imported from Italy and Greece, along with meat and pasta dishes.

Earlier this year, Marsida shared with Post City that their aspirations go beyond running a restaurant.

‘Volcanic’ Asian flavours arrive in Thornhill

New Thornhill restaurant Lucky79 is offering a “volcanic” taste of Asian fusion, and you’d be lucky to get a taste.

The restaurant, launched in June, is a rebrand of Azabu, and it remains under the ownership of TaeShik Kim.

Though the previous venture was a middle to high-end dining location, Kim wanted to instead create something that was “more everyday ” and family-friend ly where guests could easily bring young children.

Utilizing his years of international culinary experience, Kim offers guests a loaded and well-priced menu of street foods inspired by all corners of Asia f rom Thailand to Vietnam, Korea and China.

In response to Torontonians' love for patio season, the interior design of the restaurant resembles a modern, sleek year-round

The second Toronto Pigeon location is opening in the fall as an espresso bar out of Brookfield Place, where the Starbucks was once located. —Megan

Gallant

“Our dream one day is to have a big fish market with all different kinds of fish, including whole fish and cleaned fish that can simply be taken home to cook,” she said. Rimini De La Mer fish market is set to open soon at 1543 Bayview Ave. —Jennifer Schembri

patio, featuring plants positioned between tables and foliage gracefully hanging from the ceiling

The signature dish on the menu is the Pork Volcano (also called Leng Saap), a relatively new street food sold at night markets in Thailand.

It consists of a mountain of braised pork bones in a 12-hour broth brewed with spicy Thai chilies.

At Lucky79, you might just be in for some good luck! Af ter each meal, diners will receive a scratch-and-win card with a chance to win a free drink or dessert.

"We're dedicated to making the experience enjoyable for our customers," says Kim. "Many people have a blast with it as they near the end of their dining."

Lucky79 is located at 5 Glen Cameron Rd., Unit 23A. —MG

L-R: At Pigeon, the interior boasts an indoor tree as its centrepiece, steak au poivre

Signature Pork Volcano

There’s a New Di inTTooronto Home srupter Renovation

A new shopping trend in home improvement and renovation has emerged. T Tooronto homeowners are demanding more out of the in-store experience. The cold, impersonal ililhlk

nam sho store aisle is no longer the place to make important decisions about home upgrades. Instead, the savvy homeowner now expects more options, more personal service, and more of an immersive experience.

anization and indoor storage solutions, as l as outdoor kitchen cabinetry, appliances ocatedinNorthY furniture products. L Yoork hort distance from Y Yoorkdale Mall), the aptly dEiCih

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e the yourselff. . QR code details.

Susur Lee opens shiny new flagship restaurant

After months of enduring Singapore slaw withdrawal, Susur Lee fans will be pleased to learn that the celebrity chef is finally reopening his eponymous restaurant in a new downtown Toronto location.

Officially opening on July 25, L ee Restaurant will offer dinner service and soon expand to include lunch service.

Last year, when the news broke that Lee's beloved King West establishment would be replaced by an Earls restaurant, it sent shockwaves through the community of loyal patrons.

They were left in a state of uncertainty, questioning where they could continue to experience the delightful fusion of Asian and French cuisine that had made L ee's restaurant renowned.

Fortunately, a few months ago, it was confirmed that Lee Restaurant's new location would be at 497 Richmond St., as a

stand-alone restaurant within Toronto's historic Water works building.

W hat sets the Water works Food Hall apart from other culinar y destinations in the city is its truly unique location. Nestled alongside one of downtown's oldest parks, St. Andrew’s Playground, this food hall enjoys a breathtaking connection to nature. As a result, visitors can look for ward to indulging in mouth-watering dishes while being surrounded by the lush greener y and vibrant atmosphere of the park.

During the warmer months, the experience becomes even more enchanting as diners have the opportunity to enjoy picnics in the park.

“More than just restaurants and artisan food stalls, it will be a layered dining experience and community gathering place,” reads a statement on Water works Food Hall’s Instagram page

Once open, the food hall will inc lude more than 20 hand-picked vendors serving specialt y fare, seasonal offerings and authentic cuisines from around the world.

Hailing from Hong Kong, L ee made his way to Toronto in 1978, becoming a true pioneer of modern Chinese cuisine. His culinary expertise and innovation brought him international acclaim, particular ly through his impressive appearances on Iron Chef America and Top Chef Masters, where he achieved the highest judging marks ever recorded in the show's histor y. In 2016, an exciting collaboration with Drake led to the opening of Fring's. Unfortunately, it closed two years later.

Lee's new flagship location offers a menu inspired by ref reshing, bright flavours and the spices of Southeast Asia in a family-style setting.

—Jennifer Schembri

Exclusive pastry laboratory opens in the 905

Ladurée, the prestigious French luxury patisserie established in Paris in1862, is best known for its creation of the iconic macaron — its famous cookies even made an appearance in Sofia Coppola's art house film, Marie Antoinette. The brand has also earned international acclaim for its exceptional range of pastries and cakes, which have been unavailable in the Toronto market — until now. Just last month, the macaron mecca opened a pastry laboratory in Markham. This will bring Ladurée’s amazing French sweets to not just one, but two locations in Toronto — the Yorkdale tea salon and Exchange Tower. Now, Toronto residents can indulge in Ladurée’s amazing treats without having to travel far.

Inside the pastry lab, skilled artisans work their magic, bringing

Classic dining spot makes a comeback

When the Columbus Centre first opened in 1980, Ristorante Boccaccio became a cherished establishment for the Italian-Canadian Community.

Though it closed in 2020, the restaurant experienced a revival this May, thanks to chefs Luciano Schipano and Anthony Sestito. They brought new life to the restaurant, creating a space that is now more modern and vibrant while maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality food and a unique dining experience.

Offering both casual lunch and fine dining dinner options, Ristorante Boccaccio caters to all tastes, whether you prefer traditional Italian dishes or opt for a more modern culinary experience. Menu highlights include fresh homemade pastas, homemade mozzarella, burrata and freshly baked focaccia.

Keeping up with the rising trends in Toronto and Ontario, Ristorante Boccaccio has adopted a no tipping policy, removing the tipping option from all terminals and opting to raise staff salaries instead.

Down the road, the chefs plan to introduce cooking classes within the space, which will include wine and olive oil tastings, adding to the overall culinary adventure at the restaurant.

Ristorante Boccaccio is located at 901 Lawrence Ave. W. —Megan Gallant

to life the time-honoured recipes of the patisserie. Executive pastry chef Alexandra Launay, with the company since 2010, recreates Ladurée’s pastries and cakes from scratch daily. Previously, Launay led the pastry team at Ladurée's second largest facility in London. If you haven’t tried the patisserie's Ispahan, a rose-flavoured macaron filled with rose petal and lychee cream, or the Plaisir Sucre, a hazelnut biscuit with whole hazelnuts, hazelnut praliné crunch and a milk chocolate coating, or even the heavenly Saint Honore cakes — layers of puff pastr y, choux pastr y filled with vanilla cream and caramelized sugar — now ’ s your chance!

Menu items will be available for pickup or delivery within the GTA.

L-R: Celebrity chef Susur Lee, the out-of-this-world Singapore Slaw

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LOOKING BACK

AUGUST 2023 EDITION

Toronto's Caribana, established in 1967, has become the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, a renowned summer celebration that attracts millions of visitors annually.

The inaugural Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) was held on Aug. 16, 1954, as part of the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), and has since become a beloved annual event in Toronto.

The Toronto Zoo, formerly the Metropolitan Toronto Zoo, opened on Aug. 15, 1974, after the relocation of wild animals from Riverdale, now featuring a pioneer farm on the previous site.

On Aug. 19, 1874, the City Council of Toronto approved the establishment of an official fire department, enhancing fire safety and response in the growing city.

The widespread power outage on Aug. 14, 2003, impacted over 50 million people across North America, triggered by a tree branch contacting a power line in Ohio.

The Christie Pits riots in Toronto on Aug. 16, 1933, marked a violent clash between antiSemitic and Jewish residents during a baseball game, highlighting underlying social tensions.

Before you go... take a gander at some of the city’s historical August moments!

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