Yorkville Post May 2022 by Post City Magazines

Y-MAY-2022-OFC_Layout 1 2022-04-20 4:07 PM Page 1

SIMPLY MUM-BELIEVABLE! JEANNE BEKER HITS THE MOTHER LODE WITH HER HAUTE HANDBAG GIFT GUIDE

THE TOP 75 RESTAURANTS IN T.O.

CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S BEST RESTAURANTS Osteria Giulia’s lorighittas al mare

BECAUSE TAKEOUT IS SO LAST YEAR

Pompette’s Camembert and Calvados tartelette

MAY 2022 · VOLUME 3 · ISSUE 3

Y-MAY-2022-IFC_IFC 2022-04-20 1:13 PM Page 1

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JEWEL

LERY.C

CONTENTS MAY 2022

PREACHING TO THE CONVERTED Three church conversions for plenty of religious inspiration right at home

PLAYING THE ROMANTIC LEAD Netflix’s Alex Mallari Jr. shares the details of his grand gesture proposal

KING OF THE GRILL Grant van Gameren samples steaks from the city’s finest independent butchers

SIMPLY MUM-BELIEVABLE! Jeanne Beker hits the mother lode with her haute handbag gift guide

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CHEFS PICK T.O.’S BEST RESTAURANTS Because takeout is so last year

Welcome to this month’s Post. Sit back & enjoy.

NEWS

CITYSCAPE

TRIVIA

Do You Know T.O.? Separation with Integrity. Helping you make the best decisions for your family.

Toronto Maple Leafs edition in honour of this year’s run for Lord Stanley’s Mug! by Ron Johnson

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2. There is a small chain of bars named after what Toronto Maple Leafs legend? A. Doug Gilmour B. Tie Domi

C. Tim Horton D. Wendel Clark

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3. Name the Leafs player that has his own underwear brand. A. Rick Vaive B. Eddie Shack

C. Gianni Versace D. Börje Salming

4. Which Maple Leafs player tallied 10 points in one game, a record that still stands? A. Darryl Sittler B. Auston Matthews

C. Mats Sundin D. Lanny McDonald

ANSWERS: 1. B 2. D 3. D 4. A

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CITYSCAPE

THE POST INTERVIEW

Vikings star fights for Ukraine

NEWS

BY THE NUMBERS

Popular T.O. actor Katheryn Winnick, star of ‘Vikings’ and ‘Big Sky,’ is focusing on the war in her Ukrainian homeland by starting the Winnick Foundation to raise funds to assist refugees, who are predominantly women and children, as war rages on. by Ron Johnson

$200 The winnings, in thousands, and counting, for Toronto (by way of Nova Scotia) Jeopardy! champion Mattea Roach.

1997 The year the 501st Legion, a Star Wars costuming fan club, was created. The T.O. chapter will be celebrating Star Wars Day this month on May the 4th.

Toronto’s Katheryn Winnick (centre) with her Ukrainian childhood scout group

Do you still have family there?

I do have some there. Some of my family went to Poland and they’re safe. I also have distant relatives that are there, and the last time I talked to them they were OK. But you never know. It's scary at times when we can’t get a hold of them and they were either underground or cell reception was off.

And your mother is helping you, right?

We have a very close family, very close Ukrainian family. My mother has been involved in the Ukrainian Canadian Congress for many years. She's also a military mother and has worked with the Queen's Own Rifles. My younger brother is a warrant officer in the Canadian Army, and that’s his regiment. And so she's very much involved in giving back and helping the right causes and making a difference. So it's a great fit to be able to do this together as a family. What’s the latest you are hearing out of Ukraine?

[President] Zelenskyy needs all the help he can get. I feel that the Americans and the world can do a lot more. We are running out of ammunition. We're running out of support. So I feel that anybody should do everything they possibly can to help. It's a tricky phase of the war just because I don't want people to get

You are friends with President Zelenskyy. When did you meet him?

I was invited as a guest by him and the first lady to Ukraine for the 30 years of independence celebration. So I was honoured to be a guest and brought my parents for their 50th wedding anniversary. It was a very different time. People were celebrating 30 years of independence. So I saw first-hand the Ukrainian pride and how fiercely proud they are of being a sovereign nation. And it's heartbreaking to think that Kyiv and Ukraine have changed. It probably will never look like that ever again but hopefully will be even better. The goal is right now to try to preserve as much culture and lives as possible and try to end this war as soon as possible. Tell me your thoughts on how the president has changed.

He's our true hero. He really rose to the occa-

sion. I can't think of another person that could have done a better job than him. I don't think he knew at that time what he was cut out for, what his future would be. But I think he's proven time and time again that he has really brought Ukraine together, brought the world together. He's an example and a true hero for everyone to look up to and admire. And I couldn't be more proud to have met him.

27 The number of calls missed by the umpire during a Blue Jays game versus the Oakland Athletics last month.

And what about the Ukrainian community here in Toronto?

Toronto is my home. I was born and raised in Toronto, and I absolutely love the Ukrainian community. They're very strong and supportive of each other. And I think now seeing all the different Ukrainian rallies that are happening around Toronto and around the world, really, everyone's coming together, and I think it's important now more than ever to be united and really try to make a difference.

1 The approximate date, in May, that will mark the blooming of the sakura (cherry blossom) trees in High Park.

What can we do?

I think individually every person needs to take advantage of their resources, their special talents. Please help that way if you're in the medical field or if you're a public figure or if you're a writer or if you just have two feet and go stand and protest. Or if you have friends or family in Russia, try to get the word out. Whatever it is, everybody needs to do their part. The foundation is one way for people to donate. But there's other ways as well.

34.6 The percentage increase in real estate prices in cottage country as the season opens up this month on Victoria Day weekend.

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used to the fact that Ukrainians are going through this. It's heartbreaking still, to see that there's still a lot of fighting on the ground. We need to stop this.

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Why did you start the foundation?

For me, it's really just wanting to do something about it. A lot of family and friends and fans were asking where can I donate? What can I do? I was really nervous about finding the right source. And it was important for me to be able to feel confident in knowing that 100 per cent of all the proceeds go directly to the right sources. We're just getting up and running. It's going to be a long project, but I'm very proud of what we're doing, and I'm excited just to raise more money and help people.

NEIGHBOURHOOD

NEWS

Artist rendering of the proposed facility to be located on Millwood Road

New aquatic centre for midtown nabe Construction on 38,000-sq-ft community and aquatic centre will begin this year

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by Jennifer Schembri

There’s a new environmentally friendly community and aquatic centre coming to Toronto. Torontonians have even more reason to get their fitness on, thanks to a new community and aquatic centre that is set to make its way to Toronto’s Davisville neighbourhood with construction to start this year. The 38,000-square-foot Davisville Community and Aquatic Centre (CAC), will be located beside the new Davisville Junior Public and Spectrum Alternative Senior School site. It’s located just east of the Yonge Street and Davisville Avenue intersection. Situated on 76 acres of land, the three-storey building will be connected to the school via an underground parking lot. The faculty will house two indoor swimming pools: one, a six-lane, 250-metre pool, and the other, a leisure/tot pool. The plans also include a pool viewing area and gender-neutral washrooms and change rooms. The community and aquatic centre will feature several multifunctional rooms, including a dance studio, meeting rooms and a teaching kitchen, as well, an active roof includes plans for a multi-purpose lawn, outdoor fitness space and a BBQ area. Through a partnership with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), the Davisville

CAC will share facilities with the Davisville Junior Public School. The school will have access to the aquatic centre’s swimming pools, and the city will have access to the school’s double gymnasium and underground parking garage outside of school hours. The Davisville CAC will also be one of the first net zero recreation centres to be built in Canada. The facility will be 100 per cent electric and will rely on a high-performance building enclosure, with no natural gas usage. To reduce carbon emissions, a geothermal system will provide heating and water. “With construction beginning this fall, my family and I look forward to joining the Davisville village neighbourhood at the new aquatic centre,” said councillor Josh Matlow, who represents Ward 12, Toronto–St. Paul’s, in which the centre is located. “Along with parks, child care, affordable housing and other services, this much-needed recreation space is part of our community’s plan to help ensure that social infrastructure keeps up with the pace of growth.” Construction on the Davisville Community and Aquatic Centre is scheduled to start in the fall of 2022 and be completed by late 2024.

NEWS

NEIGHBOURHOOD

L-R: Village of Yorkville Park, Briar de Lange of the Bloor-Yorkville BIA

Yorkville Park set for expansion New amenities added to growing local hub

by Jennifer Schembri

With an expansion already in the works, the popular Village of Yorkville Park is also getting kitted out with even more amenities to maximize the sunny season in the upscale nabe. After a lengthy lockdown, spending time outdoors has become increasingly popular and essential — especially for urban dwellers with limited access to natural spaces. According to the 2021 Canadian City Parks Report, by the organization Park People, 94 per cent of cities reported greater use of parks in the last year, whereas 71 per cent of Canadians said that parks have had a positive impact on their social well-being. Now, the award-winning Village of Yorkville Park is set to receive additional seating “due to an increased demand by local residents and use by the public,” said Briar de Lange, executive

series of zones representing Canada’s diverse landscape and built on a repurposed parking lot. Standout features include a rain curtain icicle fountain; a large variety of trees, including pine, alder and crab apple; gardens exhibiting exotic plant life; and the world-famous 650-ton “Yorkville Rock” taken from the Canadian Shield. “Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen historical numbers of people take to our parks and other outdoor spaces to share meals and see their friends and loved ones,” said Mike Layton, city councillor for the area. “Providing more spaces for people to comfortably sit and relax or enjoy their purchase or meal is a service we must continue to provide and expand. I am glad to support the Bloor-Yorkville BIA to help expand these amenities.”

director of the Bloor-Yorkville Business Improvement Area (BIA). Additional table and chair sets will be installed that will match the existing sets already in the park. “The furniture has proven to be quite robust and is very well used for much of the year,” said de Lange. “Funds come from fees paid by developers for redevelopment of properties in the immediate area.” This news comes not long after the City of Toronto announced plans for an extension of the Village of Yorkville Park, which will increase its size by about a third and replace the building at 1240 Bay St. Considered by some to be the heart of the neighbourhood, the Village of Yorkville Park located at 115 Cumberland St., is an eclectic urban public space divided into a

Woman warns others after scare on Beltline Trail

We welcome you to book a private tour.

jumped back. At this moment he lunged at me,” she continued. According to the person, who asked to remain anonymous for this article, she ran as quickly as she could in the opposite direction with the man running after her. She yelled a few times and got the attention of another trail user who turned around and came back as the assailant fled. “It was very scary and for me a reminder to run in pairs or with the dog. Unfortunately it’s going to ruin my favourite running route, for a while at least, and I will stick to busy roads,” she wrote. A full report was filed with Toronto Police Service. Although upset by what happened, she did say she learned a lesson that she will take to heart. “My big learning was to go with my gut,” she said. And, of course, run in pairs.” — Ron Johnson

Celebrating 42 years

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A local resident who had been jogging on midtown’s popular Beltline Trail issued a warning on a Facebook community page after she was confronted and chased by a man in broad daylight on Tuesday, April 5 around 6 p.m. “Someone tried to grab me as I jogged on the Beltline Trail (Toronto) last night at 6 p.m. (full daylight) near Forest Hill Arena,” she wrote. “While the trail is pretty busy, it happened to be at a time where there was no one else in front or behind of me in view or ear shot. A guy stood in the centre of the trail jumping side-to-side with his arms out as if to jokingly block me but then moved to block the side I was about to run past him on. I had seen what he was doing as I approached but thought he was just being a bit odd and planned to run around him. I was able to recognize the danger about 10 ft from him and

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Please call the school

Canadian Bicycle Recycling

NEWS

NEIGHBOURHOOD

Donate Your Used Bicycles We’ll pick them up for free! canadianbicyclerecycling.ca Be sure to let us know which magazine you saw our ad in! Knowing which neighbourhoods respond, helps us help others!

The building site at 931 Yonge St.

Rosedale site pegged for affordable housing City of Toronto property at Yonge and Rosedale Valley will be redeveloped by Eric Stober

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L U X U RY M O V E M A N A G E M E N T. C O M

The City of Toronto is considering turning one of its properties in the area near the two upscale neighbourhoods of Yorkville and Rosedale into a new residential building that includes affordable housing. The site at 931 Yonge St., at the corner of Yonge Street and Rosedale Valley Road, is currently the home of Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC), but it has been identified as one of eight properties to be “modernized” as part of the city’s ModernTO program. Although the purpose of the program wasn’t initially to create affordable housing, local councillor Mike Layton told Post City that it has adopted that focus, with the Yonge location in particular found to be a good fit for such a use. “It’s a pretty easy site to develop,” he said. “It’s currently not the highest and best use of the site,” Layton said. He pointed out that the site is close to the subway station and a public park, which also makes it appealing for housing. ModernTO calls for at least 33 per cent of the housing in its portfolio to be affordable. At 931 Yonge St., the rest of the units would be market price, which would help pay for the project, Layton said. TCHC will likely have to find a new headquarters. CreateTO will now begin a rezoning process to figure out

what can be built on the site, with the aim to go to market in 2023 to find a developer to create the new building. Layton said the city is currently envisioning a highrise development on the shorter end of the height range. “We’re in a housing crisis in our city, and we need to create as much affordable housing as we can and use every lever that the city has to do it,” Layton said. The Greater Yorkville Residents’ Association (GYRA) board member Paul Bedford said there hasn’t been any community consultation yet and without concrete plans of what the building may look like, it is too early to comment on the idea. However, Neil Travis, a nearby resident and board member of the Davenport Triangle Association, said the site makes sense given the proximity to transit — whether it can handle extra riders, though, is a concern. When asked how lower-income residents might adapt to living in the pricey area, Travis said the transit and the bike lanes on Yonge Street could help them find affordable amenities if needed. Layton also highlighted the inclusion of market-priced units in the project to avoid “silos based on income.” “It’s good to have [diverse] people living in the same space together,” he said. “It just creates a healthier society.”

CRIME

NEWS

CITYWIDE BREAK-INS APRIL 2022 WHERE

WHEN

TIME OFOF DAY TIME DAY

BAYVIEW AVE. AND ARJAY CRES.

APR. 1

2 P.M.

SOUTHVALE DR. AND MALCOLM RD.

APR. 2

3 A.M.

BEDFORD RD. AND TRANBY AVE.

APR. 2

7 A.M.

ANTIBES DR. AND CONEFLOWER CRES.

APR. 2

7 A.M.

ELMWOOD AVE. AND KENNETH AVE.

APR. 3

12 P.M.

FOREST LAND DR. AND VAUGHAN BLVD.

APR. 4

10 A.M.

BRECKONWOOD CRES. AND WILLOWBROOK RD.

APR. 7

8:30 A.M.

ERSKINE AVE. AND REDPATH AVE.

APR. 9

7 P.M.

LORD SEATON RD. AND COTSWOLD CRES.

APR. 9

9 P.M.

BATHURST ST. AND NEPTUNE DR.

APR. 11

12 A.M.

SOUDAN AVE. AND DUNFIELD AVE.

APR. 11

2 P.M.

PLEASANT BLVD. AND AVOCA AVE.

APR. 12

1 A.M.

HARLANDALE AVE. AND BEECROFT RD.

APR. 13

2 A.M.

CONLEY ST. AND MCCABE CRES.

APR. 14

3 P.M.

SOUDAN AVE. AND HOLLY ST.

APR. 14

4:30 A.M.

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CRIME BRIEFS

York Regional Police are seeking three suspects as well as witnesses after an armed robbery of a convenience store in Vaughan. At approximately 7:40 p.m. on Saturday, April 16, police were called to a store on Steeles Avenue West for a report of a robbery. It is alleged that three male suspects entered the store, and one suspect held a firearm and pointed it at the employee and demanded money. The suspects obtained cash and food before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.

Police have made

for the public’s help identifying a suspect in an assault investigation at Bayview subway station. Officers were called to the station on Monday, April 4, at approximately 5:30 p.m. It is alleged that a male suspect and a 40-year-old female victim were in an elevator at the station when he assaulted her. Police have released security camera images of the suspect.

Police are asking

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an arrest as part of a stabbing and robbery investigation after several incidents in the area of Yonge Street and Finch Avenue West. On Sunday, April 17, at 2:30 p.m., two males were involved in a dispute when it is alleged that a male suspect brandished an edged weapon and stabbed a 35-year-old male victim twice in the chest before fleeing the area on foot. The victim was transported to the hospital by ambulance in life-threatening condition. The next day,

on Monday, April 18, at 2 p.m., the same suspect was once again in the Yonge Street and Finch Avenue West area when it is alleged he approached a 38-yearold male victim, produced an edged weapon and demanded the victim’s cellphone. The victim complied and no injuries were reported. On Tuesday, April 19, the suspect, a 28-year-old of Toronto, was located and arrested. He faces numerous charges, including aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, possession of property obtained by crime and four counts of failure to comply with a probation order.

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police responded to a carjacking robbery that occurred in the Proudfoot Avenue and Hillhurst Boulevard area. It is alleged that the victim was sitting in a parked car with two friends when two male suspects driving in an SUV stopped in front of the victim’s car and the suspects immediately jumped out and ran toward the victim’s car. Police stated that the two male suspects forced the victim to the ground as one suspect pulled out a handgun and held it to the victim's neck and demanded the car keys. The victim’s friends were able to run away from the scene. The suspects took the victim's keys and fled the scene, with one driving their SUV and the other driving the victim's car. The victim's car is a 2021 white Mercedes Benz GLC 300. The suspect's SUV is described as a newer model slate grey Subaru Crosstrek SUV. Both suspects should be considered armed and dangerous, if located do not approach and immediately call 9-1-1. Anyone who may have security camera video or has any further information is asked to contact Toronto Police Service.

On Friday, April 15,

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Will Toronto harm Rosedale, Forest Hill and other neighbourhoods with its new housing policies? Some locals suggest the cards are stacked against older central neigbhourhoods where residents will be branded NIMBYs if they dare speak out by Eric Stober Planners call it “gentle density.” Some local residents call it a pain in the neighbourhood arse. After decades of stable zoning bylaws in Toronto that have kept single-family homes intact, the City of Toronto is now considering a significant change to address its housing crisis. Taking a deep-dive into zoning bylaws, the city is interested in opening up single-family neighbourhoods to allow for more housing types, and, in turn, density where they exist. This includes making multiplexes as well as secondary units such as laneway and garden suites permissible where currently they are not, in order to create what is known as “missing middle” housing. The idea is rather than concentrate density solely around transit stations and subway lines, as Toronto has been well underway at doing, you can also spread it out across neighbourhoods that typically would only have single-family dwellings. Toronto is following other

North American cities in exploring this idea with its “Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods” initiative, also known as EHON. Chief planner Gregg Lintern said in a statement that EHON is meant to create a “more equitable and resilient” Toronto that has housing that can accommodate a “greater variety of people at different ages, household compositions and incomes, across the city.” The city has been facing a supply crunch for years that has sent real estate prices skyrocketing, but more housing options could create more supply and, in turn, lower prices. Already, California is in the process of changing the zoning of its lots originally meant for single-family homes to allow up to four housing units in the hopes of creating gentle density. Toronto is following the trend and has approved laneway and garden suites, though the latter is under appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal and not yet in force after residents associations voiced

opposition. The addition of the secondary suites could provide more options, Lintern said, to accommodate multi-generational living or aging in place. Think of parents moving into a garden or laneway suite instead of downsizing, opening their main house for their adult children.

rezoning 500,000 properties,” Andy Gort, the former president of the South Eglinton Davisville Residents’ Association (SEDRA), told Post City. “It’s a big deal.” The possible changes, though, are raising some red flags among residents. Gort said the primary concern

“A neighbourhood that's not changing and not evolving isn't a dynamic and healthy one.” Although much of missing middle housing is permissible in most of downtown Toronto, due to more flexible zoning, low-rise neighbourhoods that currently do not allow multiplexes could be changed to allow them. Toronto’s peripheries, such as Etobicoke, North York and Scarborough, that are mostly zoned for residential detached housing would also be opened up to missing middle construction. “The city is effectively

for midtown residents represented by SEDRA is around garden suites. Under the current proposal, garden suites are allowed to be two storeys, like laneway suites, but could have a basement. Gort sees this as a threat to Toronto’s tree canopy as the digging could affect roots of trees in neighbouring yards and also could become a lucrative business for developers who could build multiple dwellings in one purchase.

Adding to the concern is the garden suites would be “as-ofright” housing, which means that they could be built without having to notify neighbours rather than having to rezone the land, go through a lengthy public process and gain neighbours’ approval. This as-of-right clause could pose problems for neighbours who would have little input into these kinds of developments, which could include multiplexes. Opposition would go to the committee of adjustment, made up of fellow citizens who review complaints, which is typically very friendly to the builders, Gort said. He added that SEDRA is not against creating housing or densification and noted that Toronto is already densifying quicker than many other North American cities as the province has mandated more development around transit stations. Adding to the worry is what Gort said has been a lacklustre consultation process orchestrated by the city. He said that online meetings have been poorly attended and most residents he speaks to don’t even know about the proposed changes. “It’s very clear that they have already written up what they are going to propose to city council and are just ticking off the boxes,” he added. When opposition to ideas is voiced, Gort said the label of NIMBY, or “Not In My Backyard,” can be hurled, which limits debate. The changes to policy may be necessary, though, to address Toronto’s housing crisis, according to Mary Rowe, the CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute. Her organization has been involved with the EHON initiative, including co-chairing a working group. She said the notion that the policy change would be the end of single-family homes was a bit “dramatic,” but understands that there may be resistance to change in neighbourhoods. Instead, she encourages residents to see themselves as stewards of their areas, rather than gatekeepers. “We can’t keep consuming land and continue to build out in parts of cities that aren’t sustainable,” she said, noting the expense and environmental tax of continually building out sprawling infrastructure. “A neighbourhood that’s not changing and not evolving isn’t a dynamic or healthy one.” 13 M AY 2 0 2 2

Clockwise from left: A rendering of a garden suite by Toronto's Lanescape, Toronto chief planner Gregg Lintern, Mary Rowe of the Canadian Urban Institute

NEWS

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FEATURE

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REAL ESTATE

NEWS

ANNEX HISTORY MEETS MODERN LIVING

The condo-townhouse at 1-12 Macpherson Ave. is in a building that used to be a Methodist church before its ’90s makeover. Suite 1 was given a back-to-the-studs renovation with help from Los Angeles designer Nicole Sassaman. High-end luxuries were integrated alongside original church fixtures, including brick walls, cathedral ceilings and wooden beams. It’s listed for $6.595 million with RLP Terrequity Oxley Real Estate.

PREACHING TO THE CONVERTED

RECLAIMED BRICK RENO

AROUND-THE-CLOCK BEAUTY

Unit 607 at 456 College St. was built in the clock tower of a church, and the arched window details are hard to beat! With one bedroom, a den and two bathrooms, it’s listed for $1.049 million with Roxborough Realty.

The church conversion loft at 3-175 Jones Ave. packs in two plus one bedrooms, two bathrooms and a sprawling walk-in closet for under $800,000! It’s listed for $799,000 with Shane Carslake of Royal LePage Real Estate Services.

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LESLIEVILLE

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LITTLE ITALY

©Mitchell Hubble/Modern Movement Creative

Church conversions are in! These renovated units have kept all the best design elements of their original church foundations to transform these spaces into livable pieces of art. From arched entryways to elegant windows to stunning brick exteriors, the residents of these condos will have plenty of religious inspiration right at home.

MOTHER’S DAY GUIDE

CLEMENTINE'S is a leading luxury concept shop, offering curated fashion, lifestyle, home and art.

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Collections are expertly edited and sourced from the very best, ensuring an offering of the highest quality. Enjoy a welcoming, high-end client experience in the heart of Rosedale, from a team driven by authenticity, fabulous fashion & design and personalized service.

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Rolex • Patek • Cartier • Omega • Breitling • Audemars Piguet • IWC

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Estate Jewellery and Watches

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Cynthia Findlay

Est. 1978

Fine Jewellery & Antiques

Shop early for Mom...there is only one! SHOP OUR ONLINE STORE www.cynthiafindlay.com 416-260-9057 • Open by Appointment Only.

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Toronto, Canada

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162 Cumberland Street 416.967.7500

416-960-9995

Sales Representative

Broker, Senior Vice President, Sales

Sales Representative Senior Vice President, Sales

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46 Teddington Park Ave. | Lawrence Park | $14,980,000 5 + 2 Bedrooms | 9 Baths

Built upon the architecture of luxury, this isn't just a home, it's an expression of perfection in its purest form. Crafted from the finest materials from around the world, where even the most minute details were obsessed over.

416-960-9995

NelsonDenhamBrown.com | @nelsondenhambrown 676 Richmond St. West Suite 802 | Queen West | $1,798,000 1 + 1 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Car Parking A masterful renovation One of the best suites at the former Decca Records building. Featuring exposed brick, double height ceilings in the open concept living area, a wood burning fireplace in the living room, ductwork & steel girder.

Sotheby's International Realty Canada, Brokerage | 416-960-9995 | 1867 Yonge St., Suite 100, Toronto ON

FASHION

CURRENTS

MUM-BELIEVABLE HANDBAGS @TSC

This May, we're packing away the heavy coats and boots and pulling out the spring accessories — including the perfect purse to add a little something extra to your outfit. Jeanne Beker finds the best affordable and luxury options for bags for your mom so you don't have to.

SAVE

Going green

AI $150 "I really like this one because we're all talking about a pop of colour this season that will last into the fall. The colour is so rich, and I can vouch for Ai bags — the quality is there and they look so good."

SPLURGE STRATHBERRY $870 "This bag is quite chic, very elegant hardware with this beautiful chain handle. This bag also comes with a crossbody strap, so you can wear it both ways. It has such a sophisticated style punch." Nordstrom.ca

Tsc.ca

SPLURGE ISABEL MARANT $725 "A straw bag, you can take it to the market, you can take it to the beach — it's a great casual bag, but you can also dress it up. Obviously, you can fit a lot of stuff in there, and it would still be nice and lightweight, so it's great for travel."

SAVE POPPY AND PEONIES $59 "This is a great bag to have during the warmer seasons, and to get it for $59 from a Canadian company is amazing. I think it looks equally cool compared to other more expensive designs!"

Farfetch.com

Beachside tote

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Jeanne Beker | One of Canada’s most trusted authorities on fashion, Jeanne has covered the industry for more than 30 years. Now watch her on TSC’s Style Matters with Jeanne Beker or tune in to her new podcast Beyond Style Matters

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ELA HANDBAGS $98 "Here's a bag that would be handy any time of year, and it's so rich looking considering the price. I really love Ela. It's another great Canadian brand.”

"This croc print is great. It's a crocodile effect but made from leather. It's such a different bag with such a different colour, a really beautiful shade of brown. And again, it's a really great year-rounder of a bag."

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$1,292

SAVE

CURRENTS

DAILY PLANET

Honour Mother’s Day by protecting Mother Earth Each cell in our bodies is part of the planet As of this year, Canada has failed to reach its own climate targets and has become the worst performer of all G7 nations since the landmark Paris Agreement on climate change was adopted in 2015, according to a media statement from Jerry V. DeMarco, commissioner of the environment and sustainable development. Will Canada’s environmentalists ever be able to close up shop and stop worrying? Of course not. The nature of politics includes constant tradeoffs, compromises and disagreements. Even with a government sympathetic to environmental issues, we wouldn’t act deeply and quickly enough or prevent new problems because we haven’t addressed the root of our environmental devastation. The ultimate cause isn’t economic, technological, scientific or even social. It’s psychological. Our notions of gender, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status and the environment we grow up

Our health and happiness depends on the Earth, Suzuki writes

in all limit and create our priorities. If we were to examine the anatomy of human brains, the circuitry and chemistry of neurons or the structure of our sense organs, nothing would permit us to distinguish gender, ethnicity or religion because we all belong to a single species. But if you were to ask a man and a

woman about love, sex or family, answers could be quite disparate. A Jew and Muslim living in Israel might respond differently to questions about Gaza, the West Bank or Jerusalem. A Catholic and Protestant living in Northern Ireland might hold radically different outlooks about their country’s history. We learn how to see the world.

That, in turn, determines our priorities and actions. The world has been overwhelmed by the belief that our species stands at the pinnacle of evolution. We feel fundamentally disconnected from nature and therefore not responsible for the ecological consequences of our actions. Even at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties, the sense of urgency about climate change was dampened by the perceived equal need to protect jobs and to consider the economic costs of aiding vulnerable nations and even ways to continue exploiting fossil fuels, the very agents of the crisis. When many Indigenous people refer to the planet as “Mother Earth,” they are not speaking romantically, poetically or metaphorically. They mean it literally. We are of the Earth, every cell in our bodies formed by molecules derived from plants and animals, inflated by water, energized by sunlight captured

through photosynthesis and ignited by atmospheric oxygen. Once we learn that our very being, essence, health and happiness depend on Mother Earth, we have no choice but to radically shift the way we treat her. When we spew our toxic wastes and pesticides into the air, water and soil, we poison our mother and ourselves. When we frack our wells, we contaminate the air and water on which we depend. When we clear-cut forests and convert wilderness into farms or suburbs, we undermine the ability of the biosphere to provide the necessities of life.

DAVID SUZUKI

David Suzuki is the host of the CBC’s The Nature of Things and author of more than 30 books on ecology.

YOUR DREAM KITCHEN

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- WITHOUT THE RENOVATION -

Enjoy more storage, and better access, with custom pull-out shelves for your existing cabinets.

Schedule your FREE Design Design Consultation Consultation

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GREAT ESCAPES

CURRENTS

Quality care since 1989. Now in a new location.

Chiropractic Care | Registered Massage Therapy Acupuncture | Traditional Chinese Medicine

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1033 Bay Street #314, Toronto www.bachiro.com | 416.920.2468

Enjoy treetop views and ultimate privacy at FORT Treehouse Co.

Your magic Ontario tree house awaits

Cottage country with unbeatable sky-high views

With beautiful fairy lights illuminating the forest at night, a cedar wood fire hot tub and a wraparound tree house deck, the Baltic — Luxury Treehouse at FORT Treehouse Co. in Minden is the epitome of glamping. Nestled away in the heart of cottage country, the tree house combines the creature comforts of a boutique hotel with a nest-like experience. The Haliburton Highlands’ iconic evergreens and mixed hardwood forests offer the most awe-inspiring views, which

can be taken in from any direction — even within the tree house, as windows surround on all sides. This two-storey home away from home offers a kitchen with all the amenities, a comfy lounge area and open concept loft bedroom. The absolute pinnacle of forest bathing can be experienced two ways here: in the rain shower on the main floor or in the hot tub down below. No matter the season, there are a ton of fun activities to do, whether you’re looking to relax in the tree house or get out and explore the Minden area. A short drive will bring you to hiking, biking and cross country skiing trails; a river floating experience; lakes galore; and so much more. www.forttreehouseco.com Serenity by suspension bridge

Only an hour and a half from Toronto, the wilderness retreat at Whispering Springs in Grafton houses a variety of exciting accommodation experiences, including the stunning treetop tents. Looking to elevate traditional camping and offer a new way of experiencing the great outdoors, Whispering Springs trades sleeping bags for king-sized beds, flashlights for mood lighting and canteens for wine glasses. Sitting two storeys high amongst the treetops are three safari tents sharing a central common area with a barbecue, kitchenette, outdoor shower and private hot tub — all high above the forest floor. Accessible by suspension

bridges, this treetop experience is elevated off the ground, bringing about inspiring views of Whispering Springs’ spring-fed pond and forest canopy. “It's not quite Never Never Land, but it's pretty darn close,” reads the website — and I can’t help but agree. www.whisperingsprings.ca Starry getaway where adventure awaits

A spiral staircase leads you to Evergreen Forest’s Treetop Suite in Tobermory and the coziness it offers. With beautiful forest views, this private suite is the perfect escape, tailor made for two. In case the 30-step climb wasn’t high enough, hanging from the ceiling is the ultimate hideaway for sleeping — a suspended bed. If you’re lucky, you might book this stay during a night of clear skies — the site offers free telescope nights to take a look at all the stars, depending on the weather conditions. Located on the Bruce Peninsula, this treetop experience is the perfect homebase for exploration. Heated in the winter and air-conditioned in the summer, whether you’re looking to snowshoe the surrounding paths or swim the beautiful shores, when you retreat back to base, you’re sure to be comfortable. Adventures await in the surrounding areas with Lion’s Head Provincial Nature Reserve, Greg’s Caves and Devil’s Monument Loop only a short drive away. www.evergreenforest.ca

For the distinguished doggo...

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Growing up, I used to love fairy tales of magical forests and the friendly creatures that inhabited these green spaces. When I was old enough to walk, run and play, my favourite things to do were climbing trees, playing in tree forts and exploring forested areas. Now, as an adult, my love for our Earth’s green landscape hasn’t diminished but, rather, grown into a new appreciation. To relax, unwind and escape the busy city life, I find myself craving to retreat to the comfort of nature. Here, surrounded by tall trees, I feel a sense of serenity and my childhood curiosities come out to play. Tree houses bring my childhood dreams to life — and, as an adult, that’s about as magical of an experience as you can get. With spring in the air and summer fast approaching, we’re rounding up Ontario’s best tree house experiences.

by Kaitlin Narciso

1198 Yonge Street • 647 330 4209 www.debonairdogsdaycareandgrooming.com

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Reconnect with your childhood dreams

CURRENTS

LOCAL GRADUATES

Carrying on the family legacy with a Juno-nominated album Rock artist SATE on growing up with a musical legend for a mother and her new record

by Megan Gallant

After years of growing up in the entertainment industry, singersongwriter SATE has finally been nominated for her first Juno Award, and it likely won’t be her last. Her sophmore album, The Fool, is nominated alongside records including Mustafa’s When Smoke Rises and Ruby Waters’s If It Comes Down To It for Alternative Album of the Year. “To sate” means to fully satisfy a desire or hunger, which is what the Toronto performer aims to do, both on and off stage. With that, she also aims to be satisfied herself. “It’s a give and take,” she says. And there’s no denying that SATE, with her electrifying voice and powerful stage presence, does exactly that — she satisfies. Though she paves her own path, blending punk with rock and blues, her natural talents prove that she has music in her blood. “I literally was born into this,” she says. After all, her mother is

overdue after 10 years of being a creative force in the industry. The album, all 12 tracks of which were either written or co-written by her, was inspired by The Fool tarot card. “It’s just realizing, after being a student of tarot and numerology and astrology and all the cosmic arts, that I’m very much The Fool, as we all are,” she says. “We’re all on The Fool’s journey, figuring life out, up and down.” SATE says it was “emotional” to be back onstage in Toronto last month after a pandemic hiatus. For SATE, being onstage “is like riding a bike. It’s like breathing.” From performing to songwriting and singing, SATE says everything she does comes from her mother. “It’s always been an ancestral, spiritual, intentional act of communicating with music and art and God energy, Goddess energy, magic. All of these things — it’s all legacy work.”

REPORT CARD STUDENT:

SATE HIGH SCHOOL:

Earl Haig Secondary School BEST SUBJECT:

Arts, English © Richard Ashman

WORST SUBJECT:

Math CURRENT JOB:

Singer-songwriter

SATE wrote or co-wrote all 12 songs on her new album

“Canada’s First Lady of Blues,” Salome Bey. Before her 2020 passing, Bey blessed Toronto with her soulful voice as a jazz and blues icon. Alongside her appointment as an honorary member of the Order of Canada and her more recent induction into Canada’s Walk of Fame, Bey

was monumental in providing music and theatre opportunities for Toronto’s Black community. In April, Bey was commemorated with a new Canada post stamp. With the legendary Bey for a mother and restaurateur, club owner and music collector Howard Matthews for a father

We’re welcoming a new look. Get your $5,000 suite design gift - when you move into The Annex @ 123 Spadina Road! Thinking of retiring downtown? Want to be as close to the entertainment as possible? We’re renovating - so give us a call and enjoy a $5,000 budget for your suite. Ends May 31, 2022*

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The Annex

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(who was the owner of Toronto’s first soul food restaurant, the Underground Railroad), going into music and performing was for SATE like going into the family business. “This was always my life. I didn’t see anything different,” she says. Growing up, she was constantly attending concerts and was even onstage at Massey Hall at six years old while her mother performed. “She put me in dance as soon as I could walk and onstage as soon as I could talk,” she says. Music wasn’t SATE’s only artistic talent, as her devotion to the stage led her to major in dance while at Earl Haig Secondary School. There, she experimented with everything from ballet to modern, tap and West African. Since then, all her focus has gone into her music. Now, SATE’s Juno nomination for The Fool is well-deserved and long

HOW THEY MET

CURRENTS

The courtship

It was all memorable. Trip to New York City for our second date, picnics at Trinity Bellwoods, trying each other’s favourite Toronto eats. What was most memorable, though, was the level of comfort I felt straight away. It was a feeling that I’ve always looked for and longed for. A feeling of belonging, a feeling of home. I felt safe.

Playing the romantic lead on and off screen Netflix’s Alex Mallari Jr. shares the details of his grand gesture proposal to his fiancée It’s been a banner year for Alex Mallari Jr. He played the villain opposite Ryan Reynolds in Netflix feature film The Adam Project in March and was tapped to play the romantic lead in the CBC web series Hello (Again), co-created by Marvel star Simu Liu. But before that, you’d likely recognize him from one of a handful of successful shows, from Toronto sci-fi series Dark Matter to Netflix’s Ginny & Georgia to a new love interest on Workin’ Moms. After playing a CBC rom-com lead, Mallari shares the behind-the-scenes of his real life romance with his fiancée, Ashley Snook.

there. I took her to BarChef because they serve the most beautiful and elaborate drinks, and I wanted to not only get to know Ashley, but give her a new experience. We were supposed to go eat somewhere afterwards, but there came a point where

“She said yes, and right when we kissed, fireworks began to go off.”

How they met

Ashley and I met online (dating app for the win!). The first date

‘Twas the eve of Feb. 2, 2019, the night before I left for L.A. for my first-ever pilot season. I picked up Ashley near her old apartment in Little Italy. More specifically, on the corner of College Street and Palmerston Avenue. There’s a little Structube

nothing else mattered. Where we were didn’t matter, what we were doing, nothing. We were so lost in conversation, so in love with each other’s company. In fact, we were so lost in each other’s company that I had to rush home because I had just a little over two hours to get home, pack my bags and get to the airport. Yes, I made my flight.

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The future

Not married yet. Still enjoying the engagement! My beautiful fiancée is currently in her last year of her PhD. We’ll get to the wedding conversation soon enough. Balancing their careers and relationship

We make sure to listen, validate, empathize, support. Shared hobbies and interests

We’re both artists, so most of our hobbies and interests are either the same or they, at the very least, are related to hobbies and interests the other one digs.

The greenest grey has ever been. We’re making an all-time classic, better. The 574 Core, made in part with environmentally preferred materials.

The secret to success

We choose our family, each other, our relationship and love all the time. Even when it’s difficult. The grass ain’t greener on the other side. It’s green where you water it. Nourish yourself, nourish the other and nourish each other.

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

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

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

BAYVIEW VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE 2901 Bayview Ave (416) 225-7770

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

THE DANFORTH 613 Danforth Ave (416) 466-4444

SUMMERHILL 1234 Yonge St (416) 962-8662

CF RIDEAU CENTRE 50 Rideau St Ottawa ON (343) 925-0166

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Alex Mallari Jr. and Ashley Snook got engaged on New Year’s Eve

Remember that first date story? Fast-forward to New Year’s Eve 2021. We left our place to go to BarChef. Due to the pandemic, I couldn’t propose there at midnight like I initially intended to, but the team at BarChef still made the night special for us despite the last-minute changes set out by the province. After leaving, I decided to drive Ashley around to our different little spots throughout the city — unplanned, but I was so grateful that we got to do that. When it was time, I drove back to where I first picked her up, where it all began, at the corner of College and Palmerston. We got out of the car, and as the countdown finished, I got down on one knee and asked her if she’d marry me. She said yes, and right when we kissed, fireworks began to go off. It was perfect. I take zero credit for the fireworks though!

Nelly Aguilera

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The proposal

HOL A!

CURRENTS

FILM

Toronto filmmakers taking over Hot Docs From an ode to Kids in the Hall to the Yorkville Swindler

by Ron Johnson

The venerable Hot Docs film festival is on until May 8 at the Hot Docs Cinema on Bloor Street West in the Annex. This year’s festival is overrun by talented Toronto filmmakers taking centre stage. Here is a rundown of just some of the local talent on display.

of migrant workers toiling in Lebanon’s fields since before Syria’s civil war who now find themselves stranded in a refugee camp, giving us an unparalleled perspective on the ongoing plight of millions of displaced Syrians.

Kids in the Hall: Comedy Punks, directed by Reg Harkema

Beautiful Scars, directed by Shane Belcourt

The true story of Toronto’s beloved sketch comedy kings, featuring interviews with Fred Armisen, Jay Baruchel and others. Good timing, with the Kids releasing a new season on Amazon Prime this month.

After decades of rebellious, hard living, Canadian singer-songwriter Tom Wilson uncovers the family secret underlying his mysterious upbringing — he is Mohawk — and he embarks on a journey of selfdiscovery to find his place in his new community.

And Still I Sing, directed by Fazila Amiri

Category: Woman, directed by Phyllis Ellis

Here, the Afghani-Canadian director looks at young female singers whose lives are dramatically upended due to Taliban takeover, with a special focus on a singer from Afghan Star (a show like The Voice).

This film looks at three female athletes whose excessive testosterone puts them at risk for competing — Phyllis is a former member of Canada’s Olympic Hockey Team so has an insider’s perspective on gender politics of professional athletic competition.

The Talented Mr. Rosenberg, directed by Barry Avrich

This documentary looks at the notorious Yorkville Swindler who somehow convinced banks, art galleries, investors and even his own family that he was a successful tycoon. Batata, directed by Noura Kevorkian:

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A scene from documentary film ‘Batata’

This story unfolds over a decade and focuses on the lives

Eternal Spring, directed by Jason Loftus

After meeting a survivor of an activist group that boldly hacked Chinese state television to protest human rights violations, exiled illustrator Daxiong recreates the events through his art and thrillingly captures the inspiring tale of defiance in the face of injustice. For a full rundown of all the great films go to Hotdocs.ca.

THEATRE

CURRENTS

“ BOOK YOUR

SUMMER RETREAT TODAY! ”

L-R: Oyin Oladejo with co-star Vanessa Sears

Toronto’s Oyin Oladejo hits stage in the Tarantino-esque Is God Is

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Star Trek star in daring new theatre production by Jennifer Schembri their father who left them disfigured in a fire when they were babies. The play is a mash up of Greek tragedy, the spaghetti western, hip hop and Afropunk and has been called “terrifyingly funny and absurdly violent.” Oladejo says she’s always been drawn to mythological tales and Greek mythology but never heard the Black voice in these stories until she read the Is God Is script. “Usually Black women, we’re prided on being strong and resilient, and this play is saying, what if we don’t hold back, what if we get revenge on everything we’ve been through,” she says. “As Black women, we carry generational pain and we are told to be quiet, or if you show anger, it doesn’t belong in this world. So where does that anger go?” Oladejo has had to step out of her comfort zone to play the role of Racine. “Racine has been a fun character to play because I am the cheesiest person you will ever meet,” she says. “I love rom coms. I’m a lover not a fighter, so being able to go to the depths of rage that we all suppress and being able to bring it out and make it authentic and have it be rooted in truth has been really cathartic.” Is God Is runs May 3 to May 22 at the Berkeley Street Theatre.

North Toronto’s

Fine Arts Community

FINE ART TOUR & SALE June 4th & 5th 11:00 to 5:00

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heritage, and one of those things was my accent,” she says. “I hired a coach to help, but I felt like I was giving up too much of myself to be an actor.” On the verge of quitting, she landed the role that would change her life — playing Joann Owosekun on the hit television series Star Trek: Discovery. “I didn’t understand the magnitude of what I was a part of until I went to Comicon — I didn’t even know what Comicon was,” she says. “I thought, ‘We’re just acting; this is not a big deal,’ but I soon realized it was a big deal. Star Trek was so groundbreaking on so many levels and we were telling stories and bringing things to the forefront that may help save people’s lives or give them hope or just entertain them — that’s what we do as performers..” Is God Is, she says, is “unapologetically violent.” Think a stage version of a Quentin Tarantino film. And although this is not something she condones, Oladejo says the violence in the play is rooted in “something real, in deep pain.” Written by Aleshea Harris, the plot concerns twin sisters Racine (played by Oladejo) and Anaia who, upon the request of their mother, journey to the California desert to exact revenge against

visit us at NTGA.CA for more details

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“When I got the script I was like, ‘Oh, shoot, I really like this,’ which I realized might be a problem if I didn’t get the part,” says Oyin Oladejo of the new play Is God Is, in which she will soon appear at Toronto’s Berkeley Street Theatre. Oladejo, who originally hails from Nigeria, moved to Toronto when she was 16 years old, and although she originally thought she would study law, it was while working as a supervisor at the Canadian Opera Company when she saw her first opera and became captivated. “They seemed like they were having fun and I thought, ‘I want to do that. I want a job that allows me to play and have fun,’” she says. She attended the theatre arts program at Humber College and Toronto’s SoulPepper Academy, and it wasn’t long before she took to the stage, landing roles in theatrical productions, including an adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, and the male role of Lopakhin in Anton Chekov’s The Cherry Orchard. While Oladejo found theatrical success, she became increasingly frustrated at the lack of film offers and was told she wasn’t booking roles because of her accent. “In order to fit in on some level, I felt like I would have to give up a certain part of my African

SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS Bayview Glen Camp

CAMP TYPE: Day Camp AGE RANGE: 4-13 TOTAL ENROLMENT: N/A CAMPER/STAFF RATIO: 4:1 (average) SESSION LENGTH: Weekly & Multi-Week SESSION COST: Varies

Since 1962, we have created unforgettable Summer memories for thousands of children as one of Toronto’s longest-running day camps. Bayview Glen offers enriched age-appropriate programs for campers 4-6, specialty camps for campers 7-12, and a Leadership program for campers 14 & 15. We also offer an inclusion program for campers requiring additional support. 1-Week or Multi-Week registration packages are available to join us on the centrally located, secure, leafy, and air-conditioned campus of Bayview Glen School. Campers will enjoy sports fields, a theatre, tech/robotics labs, art studios, gymnasiums, outdoor space, and more. Specialty camps include art, basketball, soccer, musical theatre, dance, magic, coding, and robotics. We even offer off-site specialty camps like sailing and lake days! Convenient bus depot pick-up & drop-off points in the GTA ensure seamless arrivals and departures to and from camp each day. Snacks and a hot lunch are provided as part of our camp fees. Join us and make unforgettable Summer memories!

CAMP DIRECTOR: Daniel Garfinkel

CONTACT: 416-449-7746

www.bayviewglencamp.ca

Central Montessori School (CMS)

CAMP TYPE: Specialty and Variety Day Camps AGE RANGE: 3 – 12 years old TOTAL ENROLMENT: Varies CAMPER/STAFF RATIO: 1:12 to 1:20 SESSION LENGTH: 2-week sessions SESSION COST: Varies per location

At CMS we are proud to offer dynamic summer programs at 4 convenient locations throughout Toronto/North York. Our SPECIALTY program (6-12 years old) provides options for exciting 2-week session programs which include Science, Art, Coding/ Robotics, STEM, Drama, Dance, Outdoor Gardening, Indoor & Outdoor Sports to name a few. Our VARIETY program (3 - 6 years old) offers opportunities for participation in a variety of activities such as Drama, Dance, Science, Arts & Crafts, Cooking, Yoga, Outdoor Water Play, and Sports. The FRENCH VARIETY program (3-6 years old) at our Maplehurst Campus provides opportunities for children to build & develop basic French communication skills while participating in an array of activities as offered in our English program. We believe fun and learning go hand in hand as we strive to provide the perfect balance of physical, mental & creative challenges to keep our campers happily engaged! Open House Every Thursday at all locations!

CAMP DIRECTOR: Ms. Roshi Ansari

CONTACT: 647-219-7428,

info@cmschool.net • www.cmschool.net

SUMMER DAY CAMP AT CMS The perfect balance of physical, mental & creative challenges!

SPECIALTY PROGRAM (6 - 12 years old) ▪ Coding/Robotics ▪ Science & Art ▪ Dance ▪ Drama ▪ STEM ▪ Indoor & Outdoor Sports (Basketball, Soccer, and more)

VARIETY PROGRAM (3 - 6 years old) ▪ Arts & Crafts ▪ Sports ▪ Drama ▪ Cooking

▪ Science ▪ Yoga

▪ Music & Dance ▪ Montessori Work...and more!

FRENCH VARIETY PROGRAM (3 - 6 years old)

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(At our Maplehurst Campus!)

OPEN HOUSE: Wed. May 11, 5 - 7 p.m.

WWW.CMSCHOOL.NET

info@cmschool.net

ARTS PROFILE

CURRENTS

T.O.’s favourite TV surgeon Caterina Scorsone on missing Toronto and her exciting new Grey’s Anatomy love interest by Julia Mastroianni

Caterina Scorsone says her character Amelia Shepherd is growing into her own this season

woman with whom she was doing a fellowship was cut for time. Scorsone says that, for Amelia, whose love life has been “fraught” in the past, this love story with Kai has been especially beautiful. “The writers allow it to unfold so organically. It’s a complex story and also super romantic and hot. This connection with Kai has offered her a perspective on herself and a mirror of herself that no one else has offered her,” she says. Scorsone suggests that Amelia’s new relationship with Kai reflects her character growth as a whole. The Grey’s Anatomy finale is set to air on May 26 from 8 to 10 p.m., and Scorsone isn’t sharing any spoilers. But, she says, “One of the things I would hope for the next year is that this all coincides with her coming into her authority as a woman, as a surgeon and as an expert in her field. I hope we’ll see the full development of her maturation as a human being, stepping into fully realized motherhood and the role as a surgeon, mentor and teacher.” Motherhood is a new journey for Amelia, who gives birth to her son in the season 16 finale. But for Scorsone, who is a mother to three daughters, Eliza, Pippa and Lucky, stepping into the role onscreen was old hat. “One of the nice things was

that, when we were doing scenes and Amelia was out of the hospital and with her son, it felt very natural to sink into that blissful fatigue,” she says. Being part of a big family is something Scorsone shares with her character. Although Amelia is the youngest of five, Scorsone is the middle of five with three sisters and a brother. But she says that her relationships with her real-life siblings more closely resemble

much been her experience” as a parent. “That dynamic of being in this bustling household with a bunch of kids and supporting each other and showing up to do child care, weaving community with the women in your life so you can pull off the magic of pursuing career goals, that is something that’s a priority for me,” she says. She makes a point of talking about this dynamic, especially with other women.

“We have a super supportive network of womanhood in my family.” that of her character’s chosen family, sister-in-law Meredith Shepherd (Ellen Pompeo) and Meredith’s half-sister Maggie Pierce (Kelly McCreary). “I’m very tight with all of my sisters, and we have a super supportive network of womanhood in my family. Everybody shows up for each other in really beautiful ways, whereas I think the Shepherd family has a little bit more toxicity going on,” Scorsone says. Amelia, Meredith and Maggie have created a chosen family unit on Grey’s Anatomy, taking care of each other’s children and living in the same house together. Scorsone says that has “very

“I want to encourage other women to reach out and find the supportive people in their lives that can break them out of the isolation of the nuclear family idea and product of capitalism that is the modern family in North America,” she shares. “All of the characters on Grey’s who have children, the time management that we magically are able to pull off in this hospital is unreal,” she quips. “Being able to fly back and forth to Minnesota and take part in groundbreaking research in surgeries on Parkinson's disease would probably be slightly more difficult in the real world. But this is movie magic!”

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job of trying to hold itself accountable when it comes to awareness of disability and conversations around disability,” she says, “though obviously there’s still work to be done in Toronto as well.” These social conversations are something she’s proud of being able to channel through her role as Amelia Shepherd. When viewers of Grey’s Anatomy first met Toronto’s own Caterina Scorsone, she played opposite Patrick Dempsey as his character Derek Shepherd’s unpredictable and unmistakably brilliant little sister. But upon Amelia’s return as a series regular in season 11, she had already grown immeasurably from her first appearance. That growth is something Scorsone admires about her character, especially this season. In season 18, Amelia strikes up a relationship with Kai, a neuroscientist at a partnering hospital who is the show’s first non-binary character. Scorsone describes this as marking Amelia’s first queer relationship. “It’s an amazing unfolding for Amelia on the screen,” Scorsone says. “I think one of the things people don’t realize about Amelia is that she was originally conceived as a queer character.” When Amelia’s character first appeared on Grey’s spinoff Private Practice, Scorsone says a storyline where Amelia was dating a

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When Grey’s Anatomy star Caterina Scorsone picks up the phone, the first thing she says is: “You’re calling from Toronto? That’s nice even to know!” It’s clear from the start that Scorsone is missing her home — even though she’s probably stopped calling Toronto that years ago and has been living in Los Angeles for even longer. “I have very fond feelings about Toronto,” she says. Most of her family still lives here, though she says she hasn’t been back to visit them since the pandemic hit. Scorsone grew up all over Toronto, in the Annex and then Queen West, balancing a work schedule, which started at the age of eight on CBC’s Mr. Dressup, with school. When reflecting on her time in Toronto, she says she remembers many things — Trinity Bellwoods Park, strolling Trinity College, hanging on Queen and College streets — but she says what she misses most about the city are the “social conversations.” “While you're living there, you kind of take it for granted, but when you leave, you realize what a beautiful job Canadians, and specifically Torontonians, have done to foster diversity in their community,” she shares. Scorsone says this has been especially apparent as someone with a child who has a disability. “I think Toronto is doing a good

CHEFS PICK TORONTO’S

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our ES G D U J

David Adjey Nectar Tony Andrady Petros82 Michael Angeloni Amano, Union Chicken Romain Avril Neruda Arron Barberian Barberian’s Victor Barry Piano Piano, Café Cancan Mitch Bates Oji Seichi Francis Bermejo Mother Tongue Hemant Bhagwani Goa, Good Karma Michael Bonacini O&B Restaurants Daniel Boulud Café Boulud Stuart Cameron Bocado Ryan Campbell Il Covo Zane Caplansky Caplansky’s Deli Massimo Capra Capra’s Kitchen Haan Palcu Chang SoSo Food Club Marc Cheng Clio Kate Chomyshyn Fonda Balam Darren Cuoto Oretta Midtown Jennifer Coburn Gia Ted Corrado Toronto Beach Club Justin Cournoyer Actinolite Anna Chen Alma Jennifer Gittins Little Sister Julio Guajardo Fonda Balam Michael Hunter Antler Zach Kolomeir Dreyfus Patrick Kriss Alo, Aloette, Alobar Nick Liu DaiLo Trevor Lui Joybird Chris Locke Marben Frank Martin Ink Rosa Marinuzzi 7 Numbers Vito Marinuzzi 7 Numbers Laura Maxwell Drake Hotel Roger Mooking Food Network Canada David Neinstein Barque Adrian Niman Food Dudes Laura Petracca Lena Matthew Ravenscroft Gia Nuit Regular Kiin, Pai David Rocco Bar Aperitivo Javier Romero Flor Mexicana Anthony Rose Rose and Sons Deli, Fet Zun Elias Salazar Waska Peruvian Chicken David Salt Drifter’s Solace Jordan Sclare Chotto Matte Chantana Srisomphan Khao San Road Kamen Sun Tachi John-Vincent Troiano Frilu Rafaelle Ventrone Oretta Cory Vitiello Flock Anthony Walsh O&B Restaurants Craig Wong Patois

pompette "The menu at Pompette comes across as honest and seemingly effortless. It is always nice to find a place in which good food comes naturally." JUDGE DAVID SALT OF DRIFTER’S SOLACE POST CITY’S TAKE: Little Italy’s Pompette is a

feat of contemporary design with a distinctly European flair. The French word “pompette” itself signifies a state of bliss, the overwhelming feeling of joy a person feels when all of the senses have been satisfied. Maxime Hoerth and husband-and-wife team Martine and Jonathan Bauer, all Parisian expats, mind every little detail at Pompette, crafting their dream space from the white-washed exposed brick to the contemporary bar. The food is the kind of fare that pulls international inspiration into French cuisine, a nod to the team’s diverse backgrounds that span from Mauritius to Colombia and incorporate local, New World tastes. The extensive, top-notch cocktail program and more than 350 names of the globally sourced wine list complement the ever-changing menu that sees cheese, meat and pasta dishes come to savoury life from locally sourced ingredients. Head to Bar Pompette, the sister cocktail bar around the corner, for a nightcap. 597 College St.

BEST RESTAURANTS

2022

by Erica Commisso and Jennifer Schembri

No 9

NOBLO GETS ITS DUE

BAR ISABEL

Dining north of Bloor hits new heights

"When you provide high quality preparation, great ingredients in a comfortable setting with great service consistently, you get the nod."

Auberge du Pommier / No. 14 French country vibes take on an elevated, upscale cuisine with oneof-a-kind caviar service delivered with white gloves. 4150 Yonge St.

JUDGE ROSA MARINUZZI OF 7 NUMBERS

POST CITY’S TAKE: Owned by restaurateur and chef Grant van

Gameren, Bar Isabel has been a staple on the Toronto food scene since opening its doors in 2013. It can be credited with establishing van Gameren as a unique creative force at the pinnacle of the city’s culinary scene following his rise in the kitchen of the legendary Black Hoof. Van Gameren has since gone on to open many of the city’s favourite eateries including El Rey and Bar Raval amongst others. More than that, though, Bar Isabel — currently helmed by chef Carol (pictured far right) — single-handedly turned the city of Toronto into a population salivating for grilled octopus. The Spanish-inspired cuisine is met with a dimly lit interior, casting the share plates, deemed “essentials,” in a moody light. Cheese and meat plates are paired with Manzanilla olives and almonds alongside a selection of jamónes, conservas and vegetables. It’s the kind of place that is trendy regardless of fad or opinion, that doesn’t need word of mouth to let you know that it’s cool. Takeout packages were introduced as a result of the pandemic and have become a permanent fixture on the menu, offering guests the opportunity to take a slice of the magic home, in the form of a tapas box or full dinner for two. 797 College St.

Mineral / No. 19 A mix of Filipino comfort food with a contemporary spin, serving dishes like glazed pork neck (pictured below) that are big on flavour in an upscale, fine dining environment. 1027 Yonge St. Kaiseki Yu-zen Hashimoto / No. 20 For just three tables, chef Kaiseki serves an authentic Japanese multi-course meal alongside an intricate tea ceremony. 6 Garamond Crt.

No 8

IMANISHI “I love the food and ambience. It’s one of the most reliable and consistent restaurants in Toronto. Every time I eat at Imanishi I leave feeling a little inspired.” JUDGE NICK LIU OF DAILO

Saigon Star / No. 53 An authentic yet unique southeast Asian culinary experience, with a mouth-watering Dungeness curry crab dish that shot it to fame. 330 Hwy 7.

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casual atmosphere at Imanishi makes guests feel even more welcome. The smell of homestyle, Tokyoinspired cooking wafts between the exposed brick walls bearing coat hangers from donated skateboard decks and between lowkey wooden seating areas. Potted plants hang from exposed wooden beams to add pops of colour. Yuzu karaage and monkfish liver pâté top the list of unique offerings at this modern Japanese restaurant, a must try for culinary junkies. The menu is a marvel in unconventional dishes that work perfectly together, and the eye-popping list of hard-to-find sakes and cocktails crafted with Japanese whisky only adds to the allure. The menu is intended to be shared, piled high with small plates begging to be paired together. A true menu standout is the sweet corn, served tempura style to mix crunch, sweetness and spiced batter into one unforgettable dish. Traditionally, the delicacy, called kakiage, is only served when sweet corn is in season, but it is offered full-time at Imanishi. 1330 Dundas St. W.

Oretta Midtown / No. 49 The latest iteration of the trendy King West spot features a massive seafood bar and bright Italian decor with Instagram-worthy cocktails. 2131 Yonge St.

CHEFS PICK T.O.’S BEST RESTAURANTS

75. The Ossington Stop 1543 Dundas St. W. 74. Philoxenia 8199 Yonge St. 73. Cibo Wine Bar 133 Yorkville Ave. T.O.’s best 72. Gusto 501 Greek 501 King St. E. seafood 71. Maple Leaf Tavern 955 Gerrard St. E. 70. Pho Tien Thanh 57 Ossington Ave. 69. MotiMahal Restaurant 1422 Gerrard St. E. 68. Sakai Bar 1576 Dundas St. W. 67. Azhar Kitchen & Bar 96 Ossington Ave. 66. House of Gourmet 484 Dundas St. W. 65. Congee Queen 895 Lawrence Ave. E., #8 64. Sushi Kaji 860 The Queensway, 63. Melrose on Adelaide 270 Adelaide St. W., #300 62. Good Fork 1550 Dundas St. W. 61. Kintaro Izakaya 459 Church St. Small 60. George plates & cocktails 111C Queen St. E. 59. 7 Numbers 516 Eglinton Ave. W. 58. Patois 794 Dundas St. W. 57. La Palma 849 Dundas St. W. Adrian Niman’s 56. Côte de Boeuf first and 130 Ossington Ave. best 55. Café Boulud 60 Yorkville Ave. 54. Rasa 196 Robert St. 53. Saigon Star 330 Highway 7 52. Actinolite 971 Ossington Ave. 51. Tutti Matti 364 Adelaide St. W. 50. Quetzal 419 College St. LIST CONTINUED ON NEXT SPREAD

mimi chinese "We recently had such a great meal at MIMI. Every dish was delicious and service was soigné (elegant) but comfortable.” JUDGE KATE CHOMYSHYN OF FONDA BALAM POST CITY’S TAKE: You

can find MIMI Chinese, an upscale — you guessed it — Chinese restaurant in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood. Co-owner and executive chef David Schwartz (Sunny’s Chinese), channelled his childhood love for Asian cuisine into this hot spot with a menu that highlights dishes from the Guandong province, located in southeast China. The menu is split into five sections, raw and cooling, savoury and warming, chef’s specials, noodles and rice, and vegetables, to encourage sharing. Along with an impressive selection of sake and wine, there are standout signature cocktails, like the Jungle Panda, made with rum, elderflower, Campari and baijiu, “one of the most complex and interesting spirits in the world,” according to Schwartz. The interior features seductive red velvet booths set against black walls and a lotus flower mural. Perpetually booked, MIMI Chinese is fit for the foodie looking for a culinary adventure and is primed to become more than just the next new buzzy place to dine. 265 Davenport Rd. © Gabriel Li

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THE LIST

CHEFS PICK T.O.’S BEST RESTAURANTS

No 6

ALO "I love seeing how chef Patrick Kriss takes traditional French cuisine and elevates it with modernity, seasonality and his own creativity." JUDGE DANIEL BOULUD OF CAFÉ BOULUD POST CITY’S TAKE: Situated

atop a heritage building at Queen Street and Spadina Avenue, Alo is one of those names that makes foodies stop in their tracks. Helmed by chef Patrick Kriss, one of the hottest names in the city’s food scene, the classically prepared, contemporary French cuisine and the ambience, alongside the exclusive nature of the reservations, make it the home of the most coveted seats in town. “Its tasting menus aim to make luxuries approachable while elevating time-honoured favourites,” says operations manager John Bunner. The menus change depending on the seasonality and availability of ingredients, ensuring that each dish is fresh. “Alo offers its guests a continuing relationship in spaces where the deliciousness of the fare is met with a passion for hospitality,” he says. The interior, a modern masterpiece, is in stark contrast to the Victorian building that houses it, but the contrast furthers Alo’s allure. The food is so good that reservations are made months in advance for two month blocks. Kriss’s culinary empire also includes Alobar in Yorkville, and Aloette in multiple locations. 163 Spadina Ave.

No 5

No 4

canoe "The service is impeccable, the view, atmosphere, drink selection and the way the kitchen team moves is amazing to see." JUDGE ELIAS SALAZAR OF WASKA

JUDGE HEMANT BHAGWANI OF GOA POST CITY’S TAKE: Show-stopping skyline views accompany

the newly merged dining space (the two rooms including the main dining area and the former pasta bar are now one streamlined whole), nestled in a unique location: the top floors of a condo complex. For its entire 30-year tenure, the restaurant has been loved by Torontonians and is considered by many to be the height of culinary sophistication and elegance. The modern French menu boasts thoughtful interpretations and creative spins on classics from land and sea, from plump decadent scallops thoughtfully paired with spicy cauliflower tempura to roasted duck breast and shredded duck confit leg drizzled with foie gras jus and a pasta dish of peppercorn fettucine with beef tenderloin and oyster mushrooms swimming in Madeira cream as a nod to the glory of the former pasta bar. At every turn, Keith Froggett’s sizable skills are always on display. Malbec, Côtes du Rhône Sablet and Bourgogne meet sparkling wines on a huge wine list that’s paired with cocktails like the longtime favourite Benvenuto Martini, which blends Absolut Citron vodka with a splash of elderflower cordial to give it, as the menu promises, “an exotic lift and spiciness.” 1 Benvenuto Pl.

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"It has recovered the fastest from COVID, with great food and service."

than a quarter of a century in, Canoe remains a critical darling and a place where people still want to be seen. Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, the restaurant serves up striking views of Lake Ontario and the cityscape, and has long been considered one of the city’s most romantic dining spots. Executive chef Ron McKinlay has put together a fine, yet unpretentious menu that celebrates refined and innovative Canadian cuisine, creating fresh dishes that are true to their own taste. Diners can choose from a nine-course tasting menu, ranging from oysters to foie gras, in addition to à la carte. Menu highlights include the Tamarack Farms lamb, served nose-tail, and the crispy pork jowl served with Ontario rhubarb and baby beetroot.“That degree of creativity and out-of-the box thinking has stayed with us as we’ve transitioned back to traditional in persondining,” says Jane Suh, Canoe’s associate director of operations. “We continue to work as a team and lean on each other to stay inspired and motivated to go the extra mile and create truly memorable experiences for our guests.” 66 Wellington St. W., 54th Floor

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scaramouche

POST CITY’S TAKE: More

CHEFS PICK T.O.’S BEST RESTAURANTS

No 3

THE LIST

dailo "Food is an evolving art form in real time and few restaurants step in and out of this authenticity and evolution dynamic as gracefully and tastefully as DaiLo.”

49. Oretta Midtown 2131 Yonge St.

JUDGE ROGER MOOKING OF FOOD NETWORK CANADA POST CITY’S TAKE: Chef

48. Terroni 57 Adelaide St. E. 47. The Haifa Room 224 Ossington Ave. 46. Dog and Tiger Kitchen & Bar 537 College St.

Palestinian

45. El Rey Mezcal Bar & Israeli 2A Kensington Ave. influences 44. David Duncan House 125 Moatfield Dr. 43. ODDSEOUL 90 Ossington Ave. 42. Allen’s 143 Danforth Ave. 41. Maha’s 226 Greenwood Ave. 40. Baro 485 King St. W.

Nick Liu, the genius behind the critically lauded DaiLo, takes his inspiration from classic dishes and ingredients and adds creative twists. Located in Little Italy, the restaurant has garnered rave reviews since opening in 2014. Following in the French tradition, Liu riffs on Chinese-Canadian classics, remixing them, combining different textures and flavours for a modern interpretation. The fried watermelon has been called “mind-altering” for good reason. Bean sprouts, basil, pickled melon rind and pork floss make for a mouth-watering contrasting dish steeped in family tradition. “Dai lo” means “big brother” in Cantonese and is considered to be a term of respect and love for an elder. Liu continually manages to deliver quality food that is as creative as it is traditional: his love letter to the Chinese dishes he grew up eating. “The lockdowns gave us the opportunity to re-evaluate all aspects of our business in a time of uncertainty,” says DaiLo’s general manager, Trevor Chen. “We also discussed our dine-in format, expanding our à la carte and tasting menu seating to our second floor.” 503 College St.

39. Peter Pan Bistro 373 Queen St. W. 38. The ONE Fusion Cuisine 9019 Bayview Ave., Unit 9 T.O.’s best Korean tasting menu

No 2

37. King’s Taco 1190 St. Clair Ave. W.

osteria giulia

36. Sorrel 1158 Yonge St.

"Osteria Guilia is my go-to restaurant for all special occasions! It’s a modern evolution of an upscale Italian restaurant.”

35. Domaine Mamo 581 Mt. Pleasant Rd. 34. Orote Restaurant 276 Havelock St.

JUDGE JENNY COBURN OF GIA POST CITY’S TAKE: At

33. Alobar Yorkville 162 Cumberland St. 32. Omai 3 Baldwin St. 31. Famiglia Baldassarre 122 Geary Ave. 30. Le Baratin Chef Craig 1600 Dundas St. W. Wong’s 29. Emmer 161 Harbord St.

latest spot

27. Bar Mignonette 794 Dundas St. W., 2nd Floor 26. Enoteca Sociale 1288 Dundas St. W. 25. Momofuku 190 University Ave.

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28. Amal 131 Bloor St. W., 2nd Floor

Osteria Giulia, a luxurious little dinner spot with a focus on northern Italian cuisine, chef Rob Rossi (L’Unità, Giulietta) puts forth a menu of dishes made from seasonal ingredients. The 66-seat interior yields a contemporarily rustic vibe with honeyed tones, limestone and wood-panelled walls and folded ceilings. Among the house specials is the focaccia di Recco, a cheese-stuffed flatbread from the Ligurian town of Recco that dates back to the 12th century. Pasta dishes include the ravioli Girasole, filled with crab and mascarpone and topped with Meyer lemon, butter and chives, and picagge “paglia e fieno,” which translates to “straw and hay,” with rabbit ragù and a leek soffritto. Ambitious desserts like the millefoglie al pistachio top off the meal. The restaurant is home to over 300 bottles, a robust cocktail menu and a selection of grappa that will have you dreaming of a beach in Cinque Terre. With the fanfare that sister restaurant Giulietta receives, it’s no wonder that reservations at Giulia are hard to snag — they currently book two weeks in advance. 134 Avenue Rd.

CHEFS PICK T.O.’S BEST RESTAURANTS

THE LIST

edulis "Edulis for me is the full package. The food, wines and service are super sophisticated but so comfortable at the same time, which is not the easiest thing to do.” JUDGE RYAN CAMPBELL OF IL COVO POST CITY’S TAKE: To visit Edulis is to feel immediately like a friend, ushered to a convivial dinner party that celebrates authentic cooking. The ever-changing, made-from-scratch menu highlights and celebrates seasonality, but does not veer from its cornerstones: seafood, vegetables and wild mushrooms. The no-tipping eatery was deemed the best new restaurant in Canada, when it opened in 2012, and is a staple on the Canada’s Top 100 list. Husband-andwife owners Michael Caballo and Tobey Nemeth celebrate love in every form at Edulis: the love of food, the love of good company, and their own labour of love with the restaurant. They transformed Niagara Street Cafe’s 30-odd seat space into one of the city’s top culinary gems in an intimate, unpretentious setting, spread over two twin dining rooms. 169 Niagara St.

9. Bar Isabel Over 35 797 College St. years of excellence 8. Imanishi 1330 Dundas St. W. 7. MIMI Chinese 265 Davenport Rd. 6. Alo 163 Spadina Ave. 5. Scaramouche 1 Benvenuto Pl. 4. Canoe 66 Wellington S. W., 54th Floor 3. DaiLo 503 College St. 2. Osteria Giulia 134 Avenue Rd. 1. Edulis 169 Niagara St.

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24. Bernhardt’s 202 Dovercourt Rd. 23. Alma 1194 Bloor St. W. 22. Giulietta Chef Anna 972 College St. Chen’s modern 21. Sushi Masaki Saito Chinese 88 Avenue Rd. opus 20. Kaiseki Yu-zen Hashimoto 6 Garamond Crt. 19. Mineral 1027 Yonge St. 18. Restaurant 20 Victoria 20 Victoria St. 17. Sugo 1281 Bloor St. W. 16. White Lily Diner 678 Queen St. E. 15. Donna’s 827 Lansdowne Ave. 14. Auberge du Pommier 4150 Yonge St. 13. Pai 18 Duncan St. 12. Il Covo The top- 585 College St. rated 11. Akira Back Thai on 80 Blue Jays Way the list 10. Pompette 597 College St.

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TASTE TEST

FOOD

KING OF THE GRILL Grant van Gameren is one of the most creative and talented chefs the city has ever produced whose restaurants such as Bar Isabel put the Toronto culinary scene on the map. We asked the chef, now living in Prince Edward County, to check out the goods from the city’s indie butcher shops and give us his honest take on the best steak to take up to the cottage or throw on the backyard barbie this season.

BESPOKE BUTCHERS

All six are available for pickup, walk-in or pre-arranged at the local butcher shops.

@bespokebutchers

www.bespokecraftfoods.com, $74.98/kg

@bespokebutchers

With locations across the city, Bespoke Butchers caters its offerings at each outpost to the neighbourhood around it, and offers wholesale and catering options as well. This strip loin steak in particular is perfectly thick and perfectly aged, according to van Gameren, who grilled all six in his own backyard: “Best tasting of the bunch!” he says. “Juicy and tender with just the right amount of age.” Bespoke carries a wide range of meat products at each of its locations, as well as a grocery selection that perfectly complements the offerings and turns any backyard barbecuer into a grill master.

RUNNER-UP

BESPOKE

CAPRAE & SUIDAE

BARBERIAN’S

EATALY

STOCK IN TRADE

BROTHERS

bespokecraftfoods.com, $74.98/kg

capraesuidae.com, $66.11/kg

barberiansbutchershop.com, $44/lb

eataly.com, $42.90/kg

stockintradeto.com, $31/lb

“I appreciate a cut of meat that doesn’t skimp on the thickness. Juicy and tender.”

“One of the best aged steaks. Fat ratio on point and great marbling.”

“I like when a high-quality steak is kept on the bone. Just the right amount of funk.”

“Grass fed and pretty lean. Make sure you cook it quick as it’s easily overcooked!”

“Nicely aged with some good funk. Some delicious marbling and a good proportion of fat to meat ratio.”

brothersbutchershoppe.com, $22.99/lb

“A pretty lean cut and grass fed to boot. Reminds you what beef is supposed to taste like.”

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WINNER

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L-R: Bespoke's zero carbon nrbi bikes used for delivery, a selection of steaks, a dish from Bespoke's catering menu

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The dirt on the Big Apple Chef Amanda Cohen grew up in Rosedale and has taken NYC by storm by Ben Kaplan

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Amanda Cohen knew she had an uphill battle with her restaurant concept. “Getting people to eat their vegetables is not the easiest thing. Moms around the world will tell you that,” says the James Beard Award–nominated chef who grew up in Rosedale and has operated the successful Dirt Candy restaurant for the past 14 years. “I come from a big hectic family where my mom had to chase around five very active kids. I’m the youngest, and by the time everyone went off to college, I made my way into the kitchen and made my way into food.” Cohen’s way into food began when New York City was the mecca of a new type of chef: the celebrity rock star. There was Keith McNally, at Balthazar and the Odeon, and Bobby Flay getting ready to become famous on something called the Food Network. Cohen, now 48, who cut her teeth at the Avenue Diner and Pink Pearl on Spadina Avenue, arrived in New York at 18 and says she negotiated the city through its glamorous bars. She never thought about opening a restaurant. She just needed the work. “Anthony Bourdain was cooking at the time, but he wasn’t “Anthony Bourdain” [of Kitchen Confidential fame] then — he was just a cook,” says Cohen, who says her decision to elevate the

vegetable almost came to her like an epiphany. It was just something that hadn’t been done and she knew in her bones could work. “When I first started cooking in Manhattan, chefs as celebrities weren’t a thing yet, and even though I spent my early years soaking up the nightlife, the way I grew up in the kitchen was working at every big and small vegetarian restaurant that would take me in town.” The town, like everywhere, has been up and down after COVID. There were the gruesome first days of the pandemic when makeshift morgues were arranged out of nowhere and then the trials and tribulations of tourism stopping, people fleeing the service industry and restaurant doors closing like so many dominoes falling down. Through it all, though, she missed her family back in Toronto. Cohen kept running Dirt Candy, erected a wooden shed in front of her restaurant for patio service and flirted with delivery, even after she still had to lay off most of her staff. Today, Cohen says you can see the tourists are back in Manhattan and her restaurant is doing its best numbers while she’s unveiling new menu options. Cohen didn’t only welcome back her employees — she also gave them a raise. “It’s been a rocky couple of

PROFILE

FOOD

Clockwise from left: Chef Amanda Cohen, vegetarian fare at Dirt Candy

T.O. GOES PLANT-BASED

Cauliflower tacos at Rosalinda

TEN Ten offers an intimate dining experience of a 10-course “plantforward” tasting menu for only 10 diners at a time. Helmed by chef Julian Bentivegna, each dish promises to be more intricate than the last. AVELO You can opt for five or eight courses at Avelo — but you won’t know what you’re getting until it’s in front of you. With innovative plant-based dishes created by a team of chefs, the surprise will certainly be worth it. ROSALINDA This upscale, seasonally informed Mexican restaurant serves tacos, burgers, bowls and plates that are so flavourful people don’t believe they’re vegan.

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outside our means,” says Cohen, who, despite the attention she received competing on Iron Chef (and the first vegetarian chef to do so), she never capitalized on her moment by opening locations in Las Vegas, Forest Hill or Miami. “I think we probably lost out on some chances, but it’s exhausting enough to run a restaurant, and I find so much satisfaction in it that I think I’d rather be known for my one success than having had a string of failures.” Cohen failing seems highly unlikely. With a new spring menu unfolding, featuring elevated, original takes on cauliflower, fennel and asparagus, the chef from Leaside seems poised to elevate vegetables for at least another 14 years, or however long the business continues giving her pleasure. “We like to have a lot of fun here. We take the food very seriously, but more than people enjoying the food, we want them to have a nice time,” Cohen says. “Over the years the reason I think our guests come back over and over again is it’s almost like they’re looking forward to being welcomed into our home.” It was a home in Rosedale that started Cohen out cooking. Now her New York kitchen feeds diners all over the world.

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years, and January and February were really rocky, but the dining rooms across the city today all are open and the city feels bustling,” says Cohen, who upgraded her digs in 2015 by moving Dirt Candy into a larger space and simultaneously instituting a new policy: she eliminated tipping and shared the restaurant earnings with her employees. “I think I was a pioneer in what we’re doing, and I like to think for myself and make my own decisions, just what feels right to me,” she says. “I think, in essence, it’s less about being trendy and more about continuing to learn — I see the kitchen as a laboratory and every day we go in to experiment.” The experiments Cohen has authored have become legendary. With her trademark wit and kitchen flare, her concoctions, like the hot dogs made of broccoli and lox reinterpreted with onion and brined with garlic coriander for its kick, have earned her worldwide accolades. And her cookbook, from 2012, is in its seventh printing. Cohen takes her success lightly and says she still measures her success one customer at a time. “For better or worse, I’m a cautious restaurant owner — not a cautious chef, but cautious restaurant owner. I haven’t expanded, and we don’t spend

In University-Rosedale …

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a New Choice The Most Powerful Choice The fact is: Ford can’t win University-Rosedale. That means you can safely make a huge impact and grab the attention of the three old parties. Not just in our riding, but across Ontario. When Dianne wins, the province’s politicians will sit up and take notice. Her election will send a massive signal that we want real action on today’s serious issues, especially climate, housing and mental health. Her expertise and experience is unique. She will have a VWURQJHU YRLFH DQG JUHDWHU LQŴXHQFH WKDQ DQ\RQH TXLHWO\ toeing the party line in one of the three old parties.

Dianne Saxe Deputy Leader, Ontario Greens University-Rosedale

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FEATURE

FOOD

ROAD TRIP-WORTHY RESTAURANTS

PEARL MORISSETTE

CROSSROADS

BOCADO

GREYSTONES

Deemed one of Canada’s culinary gems, Pearl Morissette is both a winery and a restaurant. It’s all about authenticity at this buzzy space, where some of the country’s most unique wines meet an exquisite fine dining experience. Open for lunch and dinner, the eatery boasts an evolving, prix fixe menu inspired by French cuisine. The offerings are designed to complement the wines on hand (some of which are no longer available to the general public), which include Pearl Morissette’s own creations, as well as a curated menu of international wines. A daytime bistro is coming soon. 3839 Main St., Jordan

Carefully curated meat and seafood populate the land- and water-based menu at Crossroads, an upscale Rousseau restaurant. Located right on the bay, the simple menu is sure to tempt taste buds. To match the braised lamb shank, steamed PEI mussels, scallops and warm duck salad, there’s an equally appealing cocktail list. Drinks include unique options like a lavender sour, a blueberry and cucumber gin smash and a rhubarb mojito. It’s all served in a relaxed, casual atmosphere, too, perfect for a weekend staycation or a day trip. 2 Cardwell Rd., Rousseau

Celebrated chef Stuart Cameron took his culinary talent to the trendy Prince Edward County to open Bocado. On the menu, there’s an array of seasonal and Spanish-inspired food, alongside perfectly paired cocktails and regional wines. Spanish influence seeps into more than just the tapas-style menu, finding its way into colourful decor, like warmhued tiles and banquette seating, alongside artwork that dots the walls. Cameron created a warm space with a curated, fresh menu, and it’s definitely worth making the trip. 252 Picton Main St., Picton

Housed in a rustic, historic building, Greystones has three distinct spaces that come together to create an old-meets-new vibe. The restaurant, lounge and café have modern details, including a handpainted mural, complementing some of the building’s original features. At the culinary helm is Scaramouche’s Keith Froggett, so house-made pasta, Mediterraneaninspired shared plates and meat and seafood dishes come together to create a menu that’s sure to make any foodie’s mouth water. The whole experience is, as the eatery boasts, unlike any other. 63 Broadway, Orangeville

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These cottage-country eateries are definitely worth the drive. From breathtaking views of nature to menus crafted by celebrity chefs, four hot spots across cottage country are a must try for those looking to combine food and adventure. By Erica Commisso

POST CITY X CAPLAN'S APPLIANCES

Cooking outdoors this spring with celebrity chefs Rob Rossi and Craig Harding teaspoon of dijon into the bowl and whisk 3/4 cups of high-quality olive oil slowly. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and continue to whisk. Keep some of the aioli as a reserve for the garnish. • In the aioli bowl, add the crab and a small amount of fresh chopped tarragon. Add some salt, pepper, and a few dashes of Old Bay seasoning. Add a handful of panko crumbs, which acts as a great filler and keeps the crab mixture together. • Shape the crab cakes in your hand and sprinkle more panko on both sides. In a pan add some olive oil on medium heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. • Chop some pieces of asparagus and cook lightly in a pan with salt and pepper and some olive oil for 4 minutes. While they cook, chop a small amount of sundried tomatoes and add to the reserved aioli and add four dashes of tabasco and a sprinkle of Spanish paprika. • To assemble, place the crab cakes on a plate or platter and add some asparagus pieces on top then add a nice dollop of the tomato aioli with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt.

L-R Open Fire hosts Chefs Rob Rossi and Craig Harding, Crab Cakes with Tomato Aioli

It’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the warmer weather with family and friends. A family-run business for over 75 years that is renowned as the destination for delivering dream kitchens – both indoor and outdoors – Caplan’s has sponsored a new cooking series that focuses on cooking simple and delicious recipes outdoors. Hosted by acclaimed chefs Rob Rossi and Craig Harding, Open Fire creates delicious, innovative dishes, and one of their favourite recipes is shared with you here. Ideal for spring, this recipe is light, fresh and versatile. It can be a main dish or served as a fun appetizer. The tomato aioli takes the dish to the next level as it adds a depth of flavour that brings it all together, both as a base for the crab cakes and for the finishing garnish.

Crab Cakes with Tomato Aioli Ingredients: Tomato Aioli: - 3 egg yolks - 3/4 cup Olive Oil - 1 Clove of garlic - 1 tsp Lemon juice - 1 tsp Dijon Mustard - Sun dried tomatoes - Tabasco - Spanish paprika Crab Cakes: - 2 x tins of high-quality cooked crab - Fresh tarragon

- Old Bay seasoning - Panko breadcrumbs - 6 Spears of asparagus

Be sure to tune in to Open Fire, airing weekly on TLN, for more recipes. BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

• Add 3 egg yolks in a bowl and microplane or finely chop a small clove of garlic into the bowl. Scoop a

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NEWS

FOOD

Acclaimed local patisserie heads to the Annex

L-R: Pitas from Miznon, chef Eyal Shani

Famous Israeli resto comes to Toronto Miznon is bringing Middle Eastern street eats to Yorkville by Megan Gallant An Israeli restaurant popular across the globe is opening its first Canadian location in the Yorkville neighbourhood near the Four Seasons Hotel this summer, and Torontonians are already showing their excitement. “Miznon” is a Hebrew term meaning “kiosk,” which accurately fits the restaurant’s concept of taking Mediterranean street food and giving it a modern take. The first Miznon opened in Tel Aviv in 2011 before rapidly expanding to cultural hubs across the world, such as New York, Paris, Vienna, Melbourne and Singapore. Behind the successful chain is chef Eyal Shani. The Jerusalem-born chef has opened more than 25 fine dining establishments worldwide, and has become well known for his cuisine as a judge on the last six seasons

of the Israeli version of MasterChef. At Miznon, the self-taught chef practises a farm-to-table approach and prioritizes using only local, seasonal vegetables. Each of the Miznon locations has a slightly different menu that uses distinct ingredients and flavours to represent the city and make each location one of a kind. At the other locations across the globe, Miznon offers pitas stuffed with chicken, steak, lamb, fish and beef. For meatless lovers, Miznon provides plenty of veganand vegetarian-friendly pita fillings including falafel, hot chickpeas and eggplant. The Miznon Toronto Instagram already hints at serving up its claim to fame, chef Shani’s signature original whole roasted cauliflower, which has become a customer favourite at several locations.

Toronto’s foodies have already shown plenty of anticipation for the new location. “This looks fantastic! Can’t wait to try it!” read some of the comments below a post from Miznon Toronto’s Instagram account. “Israel has the best food and [we’re] thrilled to see this Israeli mainstay making its way to Toronto.” “Dreams coming true,” comments the account for Dragon Acres Farm in Brechin, Ont., on the same post. With no set opening date in place yet, fans of the restaurant and chef Shani will have to wait until the summer to see exactly how the Yorkville location will make the restuarant’s signature pitas distinctly Canadian and bring the “magic of Miznon” to Toronto.

French patisserie Nadège is expanding, taking pastry chef Nadège Nourian‘s delicately crafted cakes, macarons and chocolate to the Annex. The latest location sees Nourian build on her patisserie locations, offering Instagram-worthy mini cakes and themed collections that are sure to impress around every holiday season. The most recent offering, the Easter collection, offers “whimsical chocolate sculptures and Easter eggs,” crafted with tiny butterfly and ladybug decals, mini macarons and traditional dessert ingredients like vanilla panna cotta, almond biscuit and milk chocolate. Nadège already has boutiques in Rosedale, Queen West and the PATH, all offering delectable French desserts that are both picturesque and decadent. The Toronto-based bakery also has a head office where pre-ordered desserts are available for pickup. According to reports, the acclaimed local patisserie will find its way into the Annex by moving into the corner space at Bloor Street and Albany Avenue, taking over a former Starbucks space, across from a former Aroma Espresso Bar and Second Cup. Nadège will join a slew of other casual, bakery-style eateries in the area, including Fuwa Fuwa Japanese Pancakes, Victory Cafe, Slanted Door and, just around the corner on Bathurst, Mallo Coffee & Bar. Although the exact opening date is not yet confirmed, Nadège is already causing those sweet sweet cravings with news of the upcoming 494 Bloor St. W. location. —EC

The best Italian food outside of Italy is in T.O. world outside of Italy. That means it beat out major culinary cities such as New York City and London, which is a big deal. Most of the other restaurants awarded are in the United States and France, but Cioppino’s in Vancouver cracked the list, too, in the 49th spot. Don Alfonso 1890 also received the Meal of the Year Award, which was given to the restaurant’s multi-course, prix fixe tasting menu. The experience is a mouth-watering, modern Mediterranean masterpiece that, naturally, transports diners to Italy with fresh ingredients and luxe European decor. The menu has featured dishes such as organic seasonal vegetables, risotto, wagyu beef, Nova Scotia lobster and traditional Italian desserts. Don Alfonso 1890 was open as a limited run pop-up inside Casa Loma following the closure of its original space. Casa Loma is managed by the Liberty Entertainment Group, which brought the concept to Toronto.

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It’s been a big spring for one of Toronto’s most prestigious restaurants, Don Alfonso 1890. Already known within the city as one of the finest restaurants, it was honoured for its quality overseas and it also announced a new permanent location at the Westin Harbour Castle following a recent pop-up at Casa Loma. “Located on the edge of Lake Ontario, our new location will offer stunning views of the city skyline and Toronto’s harbour. We look forward to sharing more details about this project very soon,” reads an announcement on the restaurant website. The international restaurant concept is helmed by two Michelinstarred chefs, Alfonso and Ernesto Iaccarino, with locations in Italy, New Zealand and China. The Toronto location, run by executive chef Daniele Corona, is the only North American outpost. Recently, the restaurant has received recognition in the form of the Prosecco DOC Award. The prestigious honour is presented by the 50 Top Italy guide, and basically signifies that the restaurant has the best Italian food in the

by Erica Commisso

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Don Alfonso 1890 wins Prosecco DOC and Meal of the Year Awards

Don Alfonso 1890’s Nova Scotia lobster

LOOKING BACK Before you go ... take a gander at some of our latest T.O. throwback pics!

Follow along on Post City’s Instagram @streetsoftoronto every Thursday for more. MAY 2022 EDITION

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Yorkdale Shopping Centre opened to the public on Feb. 26, 1964. It was Canada’s largest mall and the largest enclosed shopping mall in the world at the time! At 18 million annual visitors, it is one of the country's busiest malls today.

1,535 likes On Aug. 18, 1969, Led Zeppelin performed at the Rock Pile, a music venue located at Yonge and Davenport, for a hefty price of $2.50 per ticket! Not only were the two shows sold out, over 2,000 people were turned away at the doors.

1,808 likes Kensington Market is an older neighbourhood and one of the city's most well-known. Pictured here in 1974, the Market was and still is a place where authenticity and change coexist, and it is filled with eclectic shops, cafés and other attractions.

2,540 likes likes The original SkyDome officially opened on June 3, 1989. The 53,000-seat stadium with a retractable roof was the cutting edge of tech at the time. It took three years to complete the structure with a total cost of $570 million.

750 likes Toronto’s Pearson International Airport wasn't always the bustling hub we see today. Back in the ’50s, when it was known as the Malton Airport, a single building served as a terminal, operations and the administrative centre all in one.

1,183 likes In 1978 the second Hard Rock Cafe opened in Toronto on Yonge Street. It became a popular destination to eat, drink, watch a show and dive into music memorabilia. In 2017, the building changed over to a Shoppers Drug Mart.

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