Wax is definitely on: A Karate Kid musical is coming to Toronto

1:22 pm

The Karate Kid The Musical STAGES St Louis — Photo by Phillip Hamer Photography

Toronto, get ready to channel your inner Daniel LaRusso—this fall, the city will play host to the Canadian premiere of The Karate Kid – The Musical at the Princess of Wales Theatre.

Based on the 1984 classic movie that introduced us to the young and karate-inclined LaRusso along with Mr. Miyagi, and the eternal wisdom of “wax on, wax off,” this stage adaptation is a musical extravaganza. With a book by Robert Mark Kamen, the original screenwriter, and music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini, the show promises to be a lot of fun.

Leading the charge as Mr. Miyagi is Singaporean actor Adrian Pang, whose résumé spans everything from Shakespeare to contemporary theatre in both the UK and Asia. Taking on the role of Toronto’s soon-to-be favourite teen, Daniel LaRusso, is Gino Ochello, who will be making his professional stage debut. Abigail Amin steps into Ali Mills’ shoes, while Joe Simmons takes on Daniel’s rival, Johnny Lawrence.

The musical had its world premiere in St. Louis in 2022 to sold-out crowds.

There has been a resurgence in all this Karate Kid over the last few years thanks to a successful franchise reboot on Netflix.

As so many now know, the Karate Kid tells the story of Daniel, the new kid in town. He is bullied by Cobra Kai’s star student Johnny, until he finds a mentor in the wise, steady and Bonsai tree-loving Mr. Miyagi.

The original movie series was a huge hit in the ’80s, so audiences could be in for a retro explosion on the Princess of Wales stage.

Seeing a classic movie such as The Karate Kid translated to stage magic—complete with crane kicks, teen angst, and heartfelt mentorship—is a recipe for success that could follow in the footsteps of other fun campy musicals based on movies such as Mean Girls.

The show will be in town from September to November 2026 at the Princess of Wales Theatre. Tickets are on sale now through Mirvish.com.

Why regulars buy 100 dumplings at a time from this tiny Toronto takeout counter

Jennifer Schembri

12:56 pm

If your North York food adventures stop at the Yonge Street strip, you’re playing it safe — and missing one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away at 184 Willowdale Avenue, The Dumpling Shop has quietly served authentic Shanghainese comfort food for more than 15 years. Though the shop changed hands in late 2024, longtime regulars will be happy to see that the heart of the place — and the carefully hand-folded dumplings — remain just as they remember.

The Dumpling Shop isn’t so much a restaurant as it is a working kitchen with a counter. It’s small, bright, and strictly no-frills, with the air always heavy with the scent of steaming dough and slow-simmered beef. Everything here is old-school: cash only, parking a test of patience and hand-printed cooking instructions still taped to the door for anyone stepping in for the first time.

While the menu at The Dumpling Shop has grown under the new team, the core favourites still draw the biggest crowds. The Shanghai glutinous rice, mushroom, and pork siomai ($9.50 for six) remains a dense, savoury must-try that puts the smaller, factory-made versions downtown to shame. The braised beef soup ($15) is a year-round must, with a deep, dark broth that only comes from the kind of long, slow simmer home cooks rarely have time for. For those with a sweet tooth, the red bean sticky rice zongzi ($6.50) is a staple, though the egg yolk and meat version usually earns a “sold out” sign by mid-afternoon.

The real heart of the shop, though, is the wall of freezers. This is where it earns its reputation as a “restaurant-quality” pantry. You’ll find drool-worthy soup dumplings (xiao long bao) for $13.60, alongside generous bags of pork and cabbage or beef and onion dumplings, ranging from $16.00 to $21 for 30 pieces. The vegetable buns ($3.33 each) are packed with finely diced cabbage and vermicelli that stay fresh and crisp even after steaming at home. It’s common to see customers leaving with 50 or even 100 dumplings at a time, skipping grocery-store brands for the hand-crafted quality that has kept this Willowdale corner bustling for nearly two decades.

Toronto fans are losing it over this TikTok-famous fried chicken coming to the GTA

Jennifer Schembri

5:30 am

SnapInsta Ai 3789118001401365490 — @btrmlk.ca/Instagram

What began as a 2020 lockdown experiment in a family garage is now one of the GTA’s most anticipated openings. BTRMLK, the London-based fried chicken brand that gained a cult following through secret pop-ups and a whirlwind of social media hype, has officially announced a permanent location in Oakville. This expansion is a major milestone for the founders, Shad Haidar and Monia Elhayek, who started with a single countertop fryer in a parents’ garage at the height of the pandemic and have since turned the brand into a must-visit spot for food lovers looking for premium comfort food.

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After five years of fans begging for more — many driving down the 401 just for a fix — BTRMLK is finally coming closer to Toronto. The Oakville spot proves the ultimate garage-to-empire blueprint: a passion project turned must-visit destination, fueled by social media buzz and serious fried chicken obsession. Every detail screams care, from the sleek, Instagram-ready space to the ridiculously consistent chicken that had London lines out the door from day one.

The menu at the new Oakville spot will feature the specialized fried chicken items that made Shad and Monia famous, including those viral, “colossal” chicken strips that have dominated TikTok for their massive size and signature crunch.

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Diners can also expect all the fried chicken hits that made BTRMLK a cult favourite. That means the honey popper sandwich is front and centre — stacked with jalapeños, honey, cream cheese and the house BTRMLK sauce. Beyond sandwiches, expect viral deluxe fries, loaded with pickles, coleslaw and honey mustard, or upgrade their mac & cheese with a Nashville hot chicken kick. And Rosie’s might have someone coming for their crown: the house-made banana pudding, studded with bananas and lotus biscoff biscuits, has developed its own devoted following.

While a few details are still under wraps, BTRMLK has confirmed its new Oakville spot is set to open in Spring 2026. Fans can find them at 280 North Service Road West, ready to bring their cult-favourite fried chicken closer to the GTA.

Toronto wants to host an outdoor NHL Game at Rogers Centre

Ron Johnson

5:00 pm

NHL Stadium Series — Instagram: @mhoran21

The Toronto Maple Leafs might be out of the playoff picture again, but local city councillors are still cooking up a reason for hockey fans to cheer — this time outdoors. A motion from Paul Ainslie is pushing for the city to host an NHL outdoor game such as the Stadium Series, potentially turning the Rogers Centre into a rink with the CN Tower as a backdrop.

The motion, slated for discussion by city council’s executive committee on March 10 and then by full city council later this month, would formally endorse Toronto as a host for a marquee outdoor game akin to the NHL Stadium Series. City staff would also be asked to notify Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment and begin talks with the National Hockey League to make it happen.

The timing behind the motion is that 2027 will mark the 100th anniversary of Toronto’s hockey club officially becoming the Maple Leafs. Outdoor NHL games are a proven spectacle dating back to the first NHL Heritage Classic in 2003.

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“This milestone offers a unique opportunity to celebrate Toronto’s deep hockey heritage while positioning the city as a leader in hosting premier sporting events,” wrote Ainslie in a letter of endorsement to city council.

Ainslie’s proposal argues Toronto is ready: an outdoor game would generate tourism, fill hotel rooms, and spotlight the city as a sports hub. The Rogers Centre, with its retractable roof open, would give fans a view of the CN Tower and skyline that could rival any other. Other iconic outdoor venues in Toronto could also be on the table.

10 Top Toronto Doctors: Voices of Excellence in Modern Care

Dorothy Chudzinski

2:56 pm

Toronto is home to some of Canada’s most accomplished and respected physicians, defined by a rare blend of innovation and empathy. This year, get to know ten of the city’s Top Doctors spanning family medicine, gastroenterology, plastic surgery, sports medicine, and beyond as they share their thoughts about what drives their patient care and how they are shaping the future of Toronto’s medical landscape.

DONNA GASPARRO M.D.

FEMME WOMEN’S WELLNESS, MEDICAL & COSMETICS

Dr. Donna Gasparro, Medical Director of Femme, graduated with highest honors from medical school in 2010 and completed residency in NYC, USA. While in the US, she excelled at cosmetic treatments (injectables and lasers) and founded a hospital-based medical weight loss department. Dr. Gasparro practices high quality, evidence-based medicine and is committed to optimizing her patients’ physical and emotional well-being.

What do you like most about practicing medicine and why?

The patient-physician relationship is the part of medicine I cherish most, as it is the launch-point from which we can intervene and enhance how a patient feels.

It is a great privilege to have patients reveal their inner and physical concerns, and then be able to apply advanced medical technologies and interventions as well as cosmetic and integrative care, to improve their experience of life. Practicing with this multifaceted, holistic approach resonates through to patient confidence and the healthiest version of themselves. I have always placed a strong emphasis on evidence-based medicine, patient education, and the emotional well-being of others. And I’m committed to guiding, motivating, and inspiring my patients to optimize their physical and emotional experiences of life.

DR. DAVID BOUDANA

FOREST HILL PLASTIC SURGERY AND MEDISPA

Trained in France and Canada, board certified in plastic surgery, Dr. Boudana has 15+ yrs of experience in body contouring surgery. Specializing in complex post–weight loss body contouring procedures, mommy makeover, drainless abdominoplasty and natural breast augmentation. His Forest Hill Plastic Surgery Clinic offers comfort, luxury and the convenience of a private operating room.

What do you like the most about practicing your specialty?

Accompanying patients through a meaningful transformation! Body contouring surgery helps patients regain confidence and comfort in their own bodies but also provides real medical benefits, including better posture, balance, physical endurance, and greater ease with exercise. When patients tell me that surgery has changed their lives, it deeply resonates with me and reminds me why I chose this profession.

How do you work to improve patient care?

I practice within a group of four plastic surgeons, allowing for constant exchange of expertise and seamless continuity of care as there is always a surgeon available. Beyond surgery, we offer elevated services that enhance comfort and discretion, including massage therapy, post-operative hyperbaric oxygen therapy, full range of Medispa and scar treatments, optional clinic privatization for patients seeking discretion and enhance private care, direct access to our clinical nurses, and around-the-clock on-call surgical support.

DR. JUSTIN KWONG MD, FRCSC

MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE HOSPITAL, OAK VALLEY HEALTH

Dr. Justin Kwong is a Urologist at Markham Stouffville Hospital with subspecialty expertise in minimally invasive surgery and special interest in prostate conditions, oncology and men’s health. He completed ten years of surgical and medical training at University of Toronto, Western University and McMaster University. In Toronto, he completed a fellowship in laparoscopic/robotic surgery and kidney stones with additional experience in kidney transplantation. Dr. Kwong delivers high quality, evidence-based and patient-centred care to his community.

Why did you choose your area of specialty?

In medical school, I found that Urology was a field that perfectly combined my enthusiasm for surgical care with what I valued in medicine: the diagnosis and cure of disease on both physical and emotional levels, the development of relationships and, ultimately, the improvement in quality of life for those in need. Urology has a significant element of Oncology, an area of medicine that I am passionate about. Among surgical subspecialists, longitudinal patient care is unique to Urologists and I find that it is a privilege to build long-term relationships with patients while helping them understand and manage both benign and malignant conditions. As a Urologist at Markham Stouffville Hospital, I am honoured to contribute to the community.

DR. KUNAAL JINDAL BSc(Med) MD FRCSC

STUDIO PLASTIC SURGERY & THE MINOR SURGERY CENTER

Dr. Jindal is a distinguished plastic surgeon in Toronto, specializing in aesthetic surgery. As the founder of Studio Plastic Surgery and co-founder of The Minor Surgery Centers, he brings over a decade of experience. His comprehensive training, combined with surgical expertise, allows him to deliver natural, beautiful results with a patient-centered approach grounded in compassionate care and trust.

What do you like most about practicing plastic surgery and why?

I’m fortunate to work in a dynamic, ever-evolving specialty that embraces the latest advancements to enhance patient care. What I cherish most is witnessing the boost in confidence my patients gain and hearing their stories of renewed self-esteem. This work demands precision, an artistic eye, and a dedication to persistent innovation and refinement—an honour I’m grateful for every day.

How do you build trust with a patient in your care?

At our practice, trust is the cornerstone of every patient relationship, grounded in honesty, integrity, and genuine care. I believe it’s earned through open, thoughtful communication and by taking the time to understand each patient’s goals. This creates a supportive experience where patients feel heard, valued, and respected. My aim is to foster a collaborative environment where patients feel confident, empowered, and cared for throughout their journey.

DR. JIHAD ABOUALI B.Sc, MD, FRCSC

MICHAEL GARRON HOSPITAL / PUSH POUNDS SPORTS MEDICINE

Dr. Jihad Abouali is a leading Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in minimally invasive sports medicine surgery and regenerative therapies. He earned his medical degree and completed his residency at McMaster University, followed by a fellowship in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy at the University of Toronto. An Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto, he has presented award-winning ACL research internationally and has served as team surgeon for the Toronto FC and Toronto Argonauts.

What unique aspects to your practice have allowed you to treat your patients better?

My practice is built around combining advanced minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques with modern biological and regenerative therapies to optimize patient outcomes. By using keyhole surgery, I am able to reduce tissue damage, minimize pain, and accelerate recovery. My surgical philosophy emphasizes repairing damaged tissue, preserving natural joints, and delaying or avoiding joint replacement whenever possible. I routinely incorporate biological augmentation, including specialized grafts, to enhance healing and improve long-term results. In addition, I use regenerative medicine technologies such as platelet-rich plasma to support surgical recovery and, in many cases, help patients heal without surgery. I place strong emphasis on individualized treatment plans and patient education to ensure each patient understands their options and goals. Furthermore, by maintaining both private and public surgical practices, I am able to provide timelier access to care for patients who prioritize their health and function.

DR. ASIF PIRANI MD, FRCSC

THE TORONTO PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER & SKN YORKVILLE

Dr. Asif Pirani is a cosmetic plastic surgeon known for his meticulous technique and patient-centered approach. He trained at top institutions including UofT, UBC and NYU and has served as an expert reviewer for The Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal. A trusted voice in the media, Dr. Pirani leads The To ronto Plastic Surgery Center & SKN Yorkville, delivering natural and refined results while upholding the highest standards of safety, precision and integrity.

How do you build trust with a patient in your care?

Building trust with my patients begins with listening—truly understanding their concerns, aspirations, and motivations. I believe in empowering patients through education, providing clear, evidence-based information about their options and expected outcomes. Open communication fosters a partnership where patients feel safe, respected, and confident in their choices. I prioritize patient safety by adhering to the highest standards of care and utilizing advanced, proven techniques. My commitment to excellence drives me to continuously refine my skills, stay at the forefront of innovation, and deliver results that look natural and harmonious. By maintaining transparency and setting realistic expectations, I help patients navigate their aesthetic journey with confidence. Trust is the foundation of my practice, cultivated through empathy, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to achieving exceptional outcomes.

DR. MAGDY ELKHASHAB M.D., M.Sc., FRCPC

TORONTO LIVER CENTRE

Dr. Elkhashab graduated from Cairo University. He trained in Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, and Hepatology at the University of Toronto, with a Master’s in Immunology. He specializes in complex liver diseases including viral hepatitis and MASLD/MASH. Currently he is the Director of the Toronto Liver Centre, an active staff physician at NYGH and UofT Lecturer. Dr. Elkhashab founded the GTA-wide FibroScan Program and has led over 80 clinical research studies.

What is your proudest accomplishment as a physician?

One of my proudest accomplishments as a physician has been building a model of care that truly puts patients first – combining personalized attention, up-to-date medical knowledge and accessible technology within a compassionate team environment. High-quality care is never the work of one person, and I am proud of the team we have built at the Toronto Liver Centre.

Medicine, including gastroenterology and especially liver disease, evolves rapidly. I have always believed that patients deserve care that reflects the most current evidence and advances in the field. That commitment has guided our integration of non-invasive technologies such as FibroScan® and most recently Spleen Stiffness measurement into our routine practice. Making advanced technology and procedures available in a community-based setting has been particularly meaningful to me, because it bridges the gap between innovation and everyday patient care.

DR. CHRISTOPHER HONG MD, FRCSC

HUMBER RIVER HOSPITAL / SCHROEDER AMBULATORY CENTRE

Dr. Hong is one of Toronto’s leading facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons and has performed over 5,000 aesthetic surgical procedures to date. He’s been chosen as a top cosmetic surgeon for two consecutive years and is known for his expertise in deep plane facelift and neck lift surgery as well as rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty. He is a faculty member at U of T and combines advanced surgical skill with a meticulous, patient-centred approach to deliver safe, natural-looking, and consistently excellent results.

What is your most recent accomplishment?

My most recent accomplishment is the successful launch of RapidAccessMinorSurgery.com, the first of its kind self-referral service for minor surgical care across the Greater Toronto Area. This innovative platform was created to address long wait times and barriers within the traditional referral system. It enables patients to book outpatient surgical treatment directly, without requiring a physician referral, for common conditions such as cysts, lipomas, moles, and certain skin cancers. By streamlining access to care, my goal is to help reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment, allowing patients to receive timely, efficient, and high-quality surgical services. The initiative reflects my commitment to improving healthcare accessibility, enhancing patient autonomy, and delivering patient-centred solutions within the community.

DR. GURU KANDASAMY MD, DC, CCFP, Dip.Sport.Med.

INSTITUTE OF HUMAN MECHANICS, PHYSIOMED, UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO

Dr. Guru Kandasamy is a globally recognized Sports Medicine Specialist, acclaimed for his integrative approach to healthcare. With expertise in Medicine, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, & Kinesiology, he completed his medical training at Michigan State University & earned the CASEM Diploma in Sports Medicine. As a respected lecturer at the University of Toronto & board-certified in Canada & the U.S., he treats elite athletes in the Olympics, NHL, MLB, & CFL.

What major changes/technological advances have you seen in Sports Medicine?

Throughout my career, I have witnessed revolutionary breakthroughs in musculoskeletal medicine that are transforming how our bodies heal. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections harness the body’s natural growth factors to accelerate soft tissue repair, while Hyaluronate gel injections provide a non-surgical solution for joint pain & chronic injuries. Advanced imaging technologies, including high-definition ultrasound & MRI, enable precise injury assessments, leading to highly personalized treatment plans. Ultrasound-guided injections ensure exceptional accuracy while accelerating recovery & enabling a swift return to sports. In my practice, I am dedicated to seamlessly integrating these innovative techniques with a strong evidence-based approach, ensuring the highest standard of care. Whether treating professional athletes or individuals managing chronic pain, my goal is to empower my patients to restore an active lifestyle—safely, confidently, & efficiently.

DR. MICHAEL ROSKIES MD, MSc, FRCSC

YORKVILLE PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER & AEVUM HEALTH

Dr. Mike Roskies is a Toronto-based facial plastic surgeon specializing exclusively in cosmetic facial surgery. Practicing in Yorkville, he is internationally recognized for pioneering the Preservation Facelift, a technique adopted by surgeons worldwide. After elite training at the Cleveland Clinic and University of Toronto, he has dedicated his practice to comprehensive facial rejuvenation, natural outcomes and boutique patient care.

Why did you choose plastic surgery?

I chose facial plastic surgery because it sits at the unique intersection of art, anatomy, and technical expertise. It is the only specialty where results are perpetually on display, creating a profound responsibility to the craft and accountability to the patient. When healthy people entrust you with their most perceptible features, the journey is no longer theirs, it is shared. Unlike my training in reconstruction where we aimed to restore what was lost, my work today focuses on the meticulous refinement of what already exists. This pursuit of excellence led me to specialize in techniques that improve results while minimizing recovery. Operating on the center piece of a person’s identity inspires me to constantly improve. For me, a transformative outcome is the result of thousands of small, expertly executed steps – allowing my patients to walk away with a sense of confidence that is so pervasive, they stop searching for flaws and simply start living.

Get outside and enjoy the warm weather in Toronto right now, because we have some bad news…

Nisean Lorde

12:37 pm

Toronto might have felt almost springlike over the weekend, with the city hitting 17.6 degrees Celsius on Saturday, topping the previous record for that date of 17.2 C set in 1860, but the city is heading back into much colder territory in the days ahead.

According to Environment Canada, Toronto’s forecast will drop from 13 C on Tuesday and 11 C on Wednesday to just 1 C on Thursday and Friday, then 0 C on Saturday and 1 C on Sunday, with chances of flurries or mixed precipitation showing up as the week wears on!

Even the beginning of next week shows a clear swing away from this past weekend’s mild, patio-friendly feel.

According to Forecast Office Toronto, colder air is set to return and stick around for a few days, potentially opening the door to another snowstorm in the March 16 to 18 window.

“Don’t be fooled by the warmth we are currently experiencing — winter is not over yet. The snowstorm signal has remained consistent and has strengthened notably in recent runs. There is a prominent signal for a strong snowstorm around the 16th timeframe, as mentioned previously,” Forecast Office’s X account stated on Sunday, adding that “a lot can still change,” and the system could ultimately track north or south of us.

“For now, it’s something we’ll continue to monitor closely.”

Don’t be fooled by the warmth we are currently experiencing — winter is not over yet. The snowstorm signal has remained consistent and has strengthened notably in recent runs. There is a prominent signal for a strong snowstorm around the 16th timeframe, as mentioned previously.… https://t.co/akXUfjaGPG pic.twitter.com/tUkU8Wp6pB

— Forecast Office Toronto (@natlforecast) March 8, 2026

Whether or not we get a snowstorm, the city is still in for a sharp temperature drop, especially considering that Toronto’s seasonal normal high at this time is about 4 C. Make sure to bundle up if you’re heading out at night: overnight lows will fall to -5 C Thursday night and -6 C Friday night.

Toronto thinks Drake was just spotted at this luxury steak house

Nisean Lorde

12:06 pm

Drake sitting at a table — @champagnepapi/Instagram

Torontonians are buzzing over a possible celeb sighting at The Butcher Chef. An Insta reel posted last Thursday has people speculating that Drake was dining at the upscale steakhouse on Harbour St!

“POV: Fine dining, great company and Drake sitting across the table,” a diner at the restaurant wrote. The clip shows a group of friends eating, and when one woman moves her head, we see someone seated to the left of the frame who’s a dead ringer for the rapper.

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A post shared by Sonalisa Dhungana (Sunu) (@iamsonalisa)

No confirmation, but some commenters say he was there with Toronto rapper Chromazz (aka Janessa Melina Mendez) and her mother. The Toronto-based Ecuadorian-Canadian rapper has released a few singles in recent months, including her latest, “Rocket,” in February, so maybe they were celebrating her active release stretch.

As for Drake, he’s spent months teasing his next solo album, Iceman, which is expected at some point this year.

The Butcher Chef is a luxury steakhouse across from Scotiabank Arena, known for high-end beef, seafood and a tasting-menu service. We don’t know what Drake ordered, but the menu is luxe, with dishes like wagyu carpaccio, steak tartare with caviar, wild striped bass ceviche, and a towering seafood platter loaded with oysters, whole lobster, shrimp, king crab and more, along with sides like golden fries cooked in beef fat, potato and leek au gratin and a caviar blooming onion!

Food aside, the clip turned a regular dinner into gossip fodder:

“Is that actually drake lol,” one user asked, while another joked, “Your friend moved her head over like she was tryna show off a Rolls Royce badge.”

Others joked about how pricey the restaurant was: “Grab a mortgage before you go. 10/10 though.”

The Butcher Chef is located at 8 Harbour St.

The best Oscars watch parties happening in Toronto this weekend

Julia Mastroianni

11:27 am

oscars awards — Photo courtesy Walt Disney Television/Wikimedia Commons under license CC BY-ND 2.0, by ABC/Patrick Wymore.

The biggest night in Hollywood is back this weekend, and Canada has plenty to root for! Get ready for the 2026 Academy Awards by joining other cinephiles at an Oscars watch party in Toronto. To no one’s surprise, K-Pop Demon Hunters is getting even more awards love, with Toronto’s Maggie Kang receiving a nomination for best animated feature. Also in that category is Toronto’s Domee Shi, for her animated film Elio. Honorary Torontonian Guillermo Del Toro’s Frankenstein received a few Academy Award nods, including for best picture (meaning Toronto’s J. Miles Dale, who produced the film, is in the running), makeup and hairstyling (led by Canadian team Mike Hill, Jordan Samuel and Cliona Furey) and production design (featuring Canadian production designer and set decorator Shane Vieau). Why not cheer them on with the rest of the city at an Oscars watch party this weekend?

The 98th Academy Awards: Free Live Broadcast with Hot Docs

Is the red carpet your favourite part of watching the Oscars? Walk your own this weekend thanks to Hot Docs’ free screening of the award show! You’re welcome to come in your best evening wear or your best evening sweatpants to stroll the carpet (beginning at 6 p.m.) before enjoying the show at 8 p.m. Before it begins, place bets on who you think will be winning and then get ready to root for Toronto!

O’Grady’s Annual Oscar Party

O’Grady’s always throws a party for the biggest pop culture celebrations, including the Academy Awards. Dress to impress, pose for a photo with a real-life golden statue and take part in an Oscar pool and some trivia to really test your movie knowledge.

Messy’s Oscar party at Left Field Brewery

If you love gambling and love drag, Messy’s Oscar party at Left Field Brewery is the place for you! Hosted by Messy Margaret alongside her drag daughter Margalete, there will be an Oscar pool ballot, and you can win as long as you fill it all in before the first award is announced. Once you’ve gambled all your money away, sit back and enjoy some drag performances throughout the night, plus trivia and even door prizes — come dressed in your best red carpet gear for a chance to win a special prize.

Oscar Viewing Party at Firkin on Yonge

The Toronto Movies and Outings group is back with another Oscars party, and it’s the place to be if you’re looking to make some new friends by bonding over your love (or hatred) of some of the movies up for big awards! Head over to the Firkin on Yonge’s top floor and grab drinks and snacks from the menu while you cheer on your favourite actors. Fill out an Oscar ballot for a chance to win fun prizes throughout the night

TIFF Oscars Members Watch Party

TIFF’s Oscars watch party is popular for a reason — if it’s your thing, it’s pretty fun to be surrounded by cinephiles while watching (OK, more like critiquing) the biggest Hollywood award show. Comedian Alice Rose will be hosting the night, filled with movie trivia courtesy of Toronto Trivia!

The Oscars at Comedy Bar

If you like your Oscars with a side of comedy (and comedy that’s a little better than what the Oscars host often subjects us to), head to Comedy Bar Bloor on Sunday and get ready to laugh. The event is hosted by Paul Beer and Gwynne Phillipsa nd will include special guests throughout the night, including Dan Beirne, Laura Cilevitz and Roger Bainbridge. Not only that, but you can play Oscars bingo and fill out your predictions ballot in the hopes of winning a few prizes!

Forget popcorn: You can now order Italian snacks and wine inside this Toronto movie theatre

Erica Commisso

11:11 am

SnapInsta Ai 3564284427636390175 — Photo: Whitney Erin Smith

Brothers Julian and Tomas Morana started Bottega Volo in 2021, when many restaurants in the city were pivoting to bottle shops to navigate the pandemic. They quickly got in on the trend and became one of the first bottle shops with a strong online presence, allowing them to ship to and import from all corners of the country.

They knew they were onto something and eventually set it up as an extension of Bar Volo and Birreria, the College Street hot spots they operate. But when the former Royal Jewellers space became available, the Morana brothers knew they had to have it. They recently turned Bottega Volo into a permanent fixture, operating it as a café, grocery and bottle shop just steps from the bars they already own, inside the Royal Theatre lobby.

SnapInsta Ai 3840373526032830965 — Photo: Whitney Erin Smith

“It’s now like an entertainment complex seven days a week, and the shows are still happening, and it’s truly quite beautiful,” Julian Morana says.

What makes the setup extra special is that the location allows snacks from Bottega Volo to be served inside the Royal Theatre, offering the same bites available at the café during the day. The menu includes cicchetti — Italy’s answer to tapas — such as arancini, antipasto, panini and calzones, along with Roman pastries like maritozzo, typically filled with lightly sweetened whipped cream. Guests can also order Volo’s house-brewed ales and the exclusive Volare wines fans have come to love..

Bottega Volo also pays homage to the history of the space. About a century ago, it operated as The Pylon, a theatre that played a role in shaping Little Italy into what it is today.

“Across both spaces, we’ve worked carefully to honour the building’s art deco character and its place within the neighbourhood. The new room carries an old-world charm, finished with cherry wood veneer, bianco Carrara marble and natural stone chequered tile floors,” Julian says.

SnapInsta Ai 3840373451961415233 — Photo: Whitney Erin Smith

But it’s the idea of bringing the neighbourhood together that inspires the spirit of the space.

“We want the bottega to be a one-stop shop for all your pantry or party hosting needs. We have a fabulous selection of natural wines from our in-house import company, and we’re bringing in specialty sauces, oils, olives and fish tins from all over the world. The curation is really colourful and pretty, and we try to bring in things you can’t find elsewhere, so the pantry selection feels pretty exclusive. We’re also continuing to grow our amaro, vermouth and aperitivo selection — one of the largest in Canada — while keeping prices fair. That’s really what Bottega Volo is about right now.”

Bottega Volo is located at 606 College Street.

Elton John Coming to Toronto for Glenn Gould Prize Gala

Ron Johnson

10:14 am

Elton John will be in Toronto in May — Elton John (photo: Peggy Sirota)

Toronto will play host to a special celebration of music this spring as Elton John, the legendary singer-songwriter and bona fide crocodile rocker, is named the 15th Glenn Gould Prize Laureate. The gala takes place May 9 at 8 p.m. at The Theatre at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto.

Elton John, married to Toronto native David Furnish, will be in attendance for the star-studded evening. They might even be staying at the couple’s condo on King West.

The Glenn Gould Prize, often called the “Nobel Prize of the Arts,” is awarded biennially to an artist whose work has enriched humanity and reflects the spirit of pioneering Toronto pianist Glenn Gould. Elton John was chosen for his decades-long career of musical innovation, global impact, and humanitarian leadership, including his work with the Elton John AIDS Foundation and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

The gala features a great lineup of top Canadian talent who will perform Elton John songs, including jazz pianist Diana Krall, Juno Award-winners Ron Sexsmith and Jeremy Dutcher, pop/neo-soul artist LOONY, The Beaches, mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo, and classical pianist Ryan Wang. The evening will also present the Glenn Gould Protégé Prize, celebrating emerging Canadian artists, with the winner to be announced later this month.

Tickets go on presale March 10 for Elton John’s Rocket Club members and Great Canadian Rewards members, with general public sales starting March 12 via Ticketmaster.

The 10 best things to do this week in Toronto

Julia Mastroianni

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stpat-1 — Courtesy stpatrickstoronto.com

This story was last updated: March 9, 2026

March is here, and we’re gearing up for some truly warm weather! Spend the week having some fun — from St. Patrick’s Day festivities to Oscar watch parties, here are 10 things to do in Toronto this week.

If you’re looking for more things to do in Toronto, check out our Instagram page, @streetsoftorontodo.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The city comes alive with green as Toronto celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with its annual parade on Sunday. The parade kicks off at noon on the corner of St. George and Bloor Street West. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the largest Irish-themed events in Toronto.

Sugar Shack TO

Get into the maple spirit at Sugar Shack TO — back this year at a new location after being cancelled last year! Expect maple-infused comfort food, sugar cookies, a bonfire warming station, hot apple cider, a maple sugaring demonstration and live entertainment, including the Great Canadian Fiddle Show and Tim Burr, the Circus Lumberjack.

Shrek 2 in Concert

Shrek 2, the beloved family film featuring the voices of Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy, Antonio Banderas, John Cleese and Julie Andrews will be brought to life by the TO Live Orchestra both days this weekend!

St. Patrick’s Day Race

Get in on the fun at the Toronto St. Patrick’s Day Race! It’s been a beloved tradition since 2000 and kicks off the running season in style. Everyone’s invited to join in the excitement at the scenic Evergreen Brick Works venue on Sunday. Don’t miss the lively after-party with Irish music and refreshments! Participants will receive a technical running shirt, a unique finisher medal and the option to enjoy a pint of beer and a meal.

TIFF Oscars member watch party

Celebrate the 2026 Academy Awards among cinephiles this Sunday at the TIFF Oscars member watch party! Hosted by comedian Alice Rose, tune in for the biggest night in Hollywood and enjoy movie trivia courtesy of Toronto Trivia!

The Wall in Concert

On Monday, Pink Floyd fans can enjoy homage to the greatest rock opera of all time with musicians from the original Pink Floyd and Roger Waters tours plus the band. Experience The Wall like never before!

Pinocchio at the National Ballet

Premiering this Friday at the National Ballet is a 19th-century tale you know and love: Pinocchio. Created for the ballet by director and choreographer Will Tuckett, this performance features magical stage effects and plenty of Canadiana.

Mirvish’s Cyrano

On Saturday, see the North American premiere of this gender-flipped retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac by Virginia Gay. The irreverent rom-com follows charmer Cyrano, the brilliant Roxanne and the attractive but boring Yan in a sort-of love triangle.

Stephen Wilson Jr. at History

Country rock singer-songwriter Stephen Wilson Jr. is coming to History on Friday and Saturday on his Gary the Tour tour. This comes a few months after he released a deluxe edition of his debut album, søn of dad.

The Music of Hans Zimmer and others

Celebrate the very best of film music with The Music of Hans Zimmer and others! On Tuesday, get immersed in the scores of Dune, James Bond, The Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, Gladiator, The Dark Knight, Inception, Interstellar and so many others.

Rise Against at History

American group Rise Against is coming to Toronto for two shows on Tuesday and Wednesday as part of their North American tour, in support of their latest album release, Ricochet. They’ll be joined by special guests Destroy Boys!

For more events happening this month, click here.

Staying Safe in the GTA: A Guide to Rideshare Safety

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iStock 2198562674 — Photo credit: andresr

See all posts by Diamond and Diamond Lawyers

Ridesharing has become a staple of urban life in Toronto, offering a convenient way to navigate the city. However, recent high-profile incidents in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) have highlighted the need for passengers to move beyond “autopilot” and take proactive steps to ensure their security. From “phony drivers” to sophisticated fraud, the risks are evolving, but a few simple habits can make a world of difference.

Below are actionable safety steps for Toronto residents, based on expert advice from former police officer and Diamond and Diamond Safety Ambassador Nichelle Laus, alongside managing partner Sandra Zisckind.

1. Beware of Fake Drivers and Unsolicited Rides

Recent investigations by Peel Regional Police have uncovered a disturbing trend of predators masquerading as rideshare operators. In late 2024 and 2025, police arrested suspects like Arshep Singh and Goutam Banerjee for incidents involving kidnapping and sexual assault after they allegedly offered unsolicited rides to women at transit hubs and malls.

Actionable Tip: Never accept a ride from someone who approaches you on the street or at a bus stop claiming to be “your driver.” A legitimate rideshare trip must always be initiated and tracked through the app. To protect yourself further, it is essential to stay alert, stay safe, and avoid distractions while waiting for your vehicle.

2. The “Reverse Verification” Technique

Before you even touch the door handle, you must verify the vehicle. Match the license plate, the car’s make and model, and the driver’s photo with the information on your screen.

Once the car arrives, do not ask “Are you here for?” This allows a potential fraudster to simply say “Yes.” Instead, ask: “Who are you here for?”. This forces the driver to check their own app for your name, ensuring they are the person actually assigned to your trip.

3. Enable the “PIN” Security Shield

One of the most powerful tools available is the PIN verification feature. When enabled, your ride cannot officially begin until you provide a unique four-digit code to the driver. This creates a digital lock that prevents you from getting into the wrong car and protects against “ghost rides” and account takeover scams.

How to enable it:

Open your rideshare app and go to Account then Safety.
Tap Verify your ride.
Toggle on Use PIN to verify rides.
You can choose to use this for every ride or just at night (9 PM – 6 AM).

4. Protect Your Residential Privacy

A common mistake is setting your exact home address as the drop-off point. This provides a stranger with your precise location and entry point. Safety expert Nichelle Laus advises setting your destination to a neighbour’s house, a nearby parking lot, or a well-lit corner a few doors down. This simple act of geographic obfuscation ensures your home remains private. For more detailed strategies, you can review these comprehensive rideshare safety tips.

5. Maintaining Situational Awareness During the Trip

Once inside, sit in the backseat to maintain personal space and give yourself two potential exit points. Avoid sharing personal details about your life, your job, or whether you live alone. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, trust your instincts. You can tell the driver “my plans have changed” and ask to be let out at the nearest public, well-lit area.

What to Do If an Incident Occurs

If you are involved in a collision or an unsafe encounter, your first priority is your health and legal protection.

Report to Police: Always call the police to create an official record.
Gather and Preserve Information: Document the scene as thoroughly as possible by saving your trip details, vehicle information, and any photos or videos of the incident or your injuries.
Seek Medical Care: Even minor-feeling injuries like whiplash or soft tissue damage should be professionally evaluated immediately.
Know Your Rights: If you have been injured, it is important to understand what to do after an Uber or Lyft accident to preserve your right to compensation.

Legal Recourse and Accountability

In cases involving car accidents, liability can be complex, involving both personal and commercial insurance policies. Furthermore, for survivors of sexual assault, civil litigation can be a powerful path toward holding both the perpetrator and the companies that failed to protect them accountable.

In Toronto, there is generally a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, though it is important to note that there is no limitation period for sexual assault claims in Ontario.

By staying vigilant and utilizing the safety features already at your fingertips, you can take control of your commute and ensure that your next ride is a safe one.

Get Help Filing a Rideshare Lawsuit

Navigating the legal aftermath of a rideshare accident or assault can be complex, but specialized support is available. The team at Diamond and Diamond Lawyers provides expert guidance for victims, helping them secure compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress. Their personal injury lawyers handle the investigation and negotiations with insurance companies so you can focus on your recovery.

If you have been injured or experienced misconduct during a ride, contact Diamond and Diamond for a free, no-obligation consultation. Diamond and Diamond operates on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if they recover money for you. Reach their 24/7 injury support line at 1-800-567-HURT (1-800-567-4878) or fill out their online contact form to get started.

About Jeremy Diamond

Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.

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