By Ron Johnson
A coalition of performing arts groups called the Coalition of Theatre, Dance, and Opera is asking the Ontario government for clarity and parity in the provincial re-opening process. They are organizing under the hashtag #FairnessForArtsON. Close to 100 musical and performance arts organizations and associations have launched a public awareness campaign to appeal to the … Continued
By Ron Johnson
“Toronto is a city that loves ethnic foods,” says Elias Salazar. Having emigrated to Toronto from Peru in 1996, he felt like he could meet his new neighbours in the middle, bringing them his traditional Peruvian cuisine in ways that they can appreciate. His culinary journey in Toronto began with Kay Pacha, which opened in … Continued
By Ron Johnson
One of Toronto’s beloved music rehearsal venues and community hubs, the Geary Rehearsal Factory, could be sold to the controversial C3 church. Some residents of the area are not pleased with the possibility and a coalition of local businesses, residents, and former C3 members are campaigning to prevent the sale. Although C3 Toronto originally announced … Continued
By Ron Johnson
American artist Nina Chanel Abney and Toronto curator Ashley McKenzie-Barnes are set to unveil a new 120-foot mural on Bellair St. in the Yorkville area Wednesday morning. With both women identifying as black queer females, the mural explores themes of social justice, humanity and spreading love, not hate. Coinciding with the beginning of Pride Month … Continued
By Ron Johnson
Crescent School, an all-boys private school in Toronto, purchased the Rumball Centre on May 26 for approximately $42 million. This purchase comes after a donation of $12 million from alumni Ming Wai Lau, a Hong Kong–based philanthropist and businessman. “The Rumball Centre property unleashes the enormous potential for Crescent School,” said Lau in a press … Continued
By Ron Johnson
Running out of dinner ideas? Have no fear—the Danforth has just welcomed a new butcher to the area, marking the city’s second location of Stock-in-Trade. Officially open as of Monday, the new shop is located inside the popular southern Italian restaurant 7 Numbers on Danforth Ave., accessible through a side entrance. Founded by chef and … Continued
By Ron Johnson
One of the city’s top restaurateurs is set to tackle one of the most promising but also problematic locations in the city with a new beach club. Scale Hospitality, led by acclaimed restaurateur Hanif Harji (Shook, Lapinou, The Wheatsheaf Tavern, Patria, Byblos, FIGO ) is set to open Toronto Beach Club on June 21. The … Continued
By Ron Johnson
“As soon as we took possession of Melrose On Adelaide, we dreamed of being able to get the downstairs patio for another concept,” says Brian Donnelly, the owner of Melrose on Adelaide. Until recently, the lower level of the building at 270 Adelaide St. But, after the tenant left, Donnelly and his staff saw their … Continued
By Ron Johnson
Toronto may seem like a concrete jungle, but edible plants, vegetables, and fruits to forage are all around the GTA, hidden in parks, valleys and even your own backyard. David Arama, from the Wilderness Survival School, also known as ‘Survivor Guy,’ has spent more than 30 years teaching and leading outdoor programs across Ontario educating … Continued
By Ron Johnson
Summer is fast approaching, and people are eager to see how Toronto will handle outdoor events, live music and concerts — especially those in the industry. Brad Bradford, Toronto city councillor and chair of the Toronto Music Advisory Committee (TMAC) put forth an open letter on May 19, recommending a pilot program that would allow … Continued
By Ron Johnson
As the mercury rises, getting outside and enjoying all that the city has to offer becomes a high priority. But, getting outside doesn’t have to mean preparing and packing a meal on your own. Many local restaurants are offering picnic basket options, whether you’re adventuring solo or with a group. Rife with different cuisines and … Continued
By Ron Johnson
During the pandemic, takeout is ruling the culinary world. And that has given many in the business and those new to it the opportunity to experiment and try something new, often with delicious results. Case in point: BEAR Steak Sandwiches. BEAR Steak Sandwiches is a great local sensation serving up $16 flank steak sandwiches with … Continued
