Ontario’s best maple syrup festivals and sugar shacks to visit in 2026

12:54 pm

maple syrup ontario — Courtesy ottawatourism.ca

March may be a confusing month, weather-wise, but there’s one major highlight to look forward to in Ontario: maple season. No fridge is complete without a bottle of that golden syrup on hand at all times — but once a year, we get a chance to see how it actually gets made. Visiting a sugar bush makes for the perfect, ultra-Canadian day trip, whether you’re taking a road trip for the weekend or making March Break plans.

If you’re interested in exploring maple sugaring season firsthand, hope to learn more about this amber delicacy, or want a unique experience, here are a few places to help you get started. From Muskoka to Niagara, Halton and beyond, March is prime time to head to the sugar shack. While you’re at it, try exploring the many delightful nearby towns – it makes for a great day or weekend trip.

Maple Town at Mountsberg

When: Weekends and holidays until April 5, and daily during March Break

From sap collection to transformation into the sugary liquid Canadians hold dear, you’ll love learning about sugar maples with a Conservation Halton guide. After, sample fresh syrup on a hot stack of pancakes accompanied by a warm drink. For further exploration, head to nearby Rattlesnake Point — recently named one of the most photogenic natural spots in the world — for inspiring nature trails through 800-year-old cedar forests and scenic lookout points.

Elliot Tree Farm Maple Syrup Experience

elliotttreefarmmaple — Courtesy elliotttreefarm.ca

When: Weekends and holidays until April 5, as well as March 16 and March 20 of March Break

Enjoy a hearty breakfast and sample award-winning maple syrup. Hike (or toboggan) the farm’s sugarbush trail, taste sap from the tree and head to the sugar shack to watch the pros at work before exploring the Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario. Afterward, stop by Orangeville for dining, local shopping and charming historic strolls.

Elmira Maple Syrup Festival

When: April 11

Join a 60-year town tradition and celebrate the sweetest time of year — maple syrup season. Enjoy wagon rides, syrup tasting, family activities and a pancake-flipping contest. For a unique experience, visit Elmira via the Waterloo Central Railway, a heritage train journey and book sugar bush hikes at nearby farms. For further exploration, visit neighbouring St. Jacobs and meander Canada’s largest farmers market.

Sweet Water at Crawford Lake

mountsbergmapletown — Courtesy conservationhalton.ca

When: Weekends and holidays until April 5, and daily during March Break

Learn about Indigenous sugar water traditions, sample maple and birch sap on an expert-guided excursion, and explore a 15th-century Longhouse village for a fascinating peek into the past. After, cozy up by the fire and sample maple taffy. To enjoy more of the beautiful outdoors, try cross-country skiing.

Pefferlaw Creek Farms Maple Syrup Festival

When: Weekends until April 19, excluding Easter Sunday (April 5)

Dig into a scrumptious breakfast of farm-fresh sausages and pancakes made from a secret family recipe — all with a good serving of maple syrup. Take a guided hike through the sugar bush, learn about tree-tapping, and visit the sugar shack for maple syrup-making insights. And, if you can’t get enough of maple season, visit nearby Sunderland between April 11–12 for the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival.

Brooks Farms Maplefest

When: March 14–22, March 27, April 11–12, April 18–19

Take an educational sugar bush tour and discover the science behind creating maple syrup. Set the kids free in the Barnyard Playland and delight in a wagon ride through the farm. Taste artisanal maple syrup, roast marshmallows by the fire and tuck into a stack of flapjacks.

Maple Syrup Festival at Bruce’s Mill

When: March 14–22, March 28–29, Easter weekend (April 3–5)

Take an enchanting horse-drawn wagon ride, experience demonstrations on Indigenous and early settler maple syrup production methods, and enjoy scenic winter hiking trails. Shop fantastic maple-infused gifts, and enjoy a filling pancake breakfast. For an additional cost, trek among the treetops or explore Uplå, a massive suspended net adventure park.

PEC March Maple Madness

When: Weekends in March

Explore multiple family-owned sugar bush trails, snowshoe through vineyards and sugar maple woods, and try your luck at maple syrup-related trivia. Buy delectable baked goods and small-batch maple syrup, and have a boozy break at several local wineries, breweries and cider houses. While you’re at it, stay the weekend in one of Prince Edward County’s lovely B&Bs, enjoy superb local dining experiences, or book a guided maple tour day trip.

Muskoka Maple Trail and Maple Festival

muskokamaplefest — @muskokamaple/Instagram

When: Festival on April 25, Maple Trail is open until April 26

Enjoy Muskoka’s finest epicurean and experiential activities on the Maple Trail and discover why Canadians covet this sticky treat. Dine on maple-infused dishes, explore sugar bushes by wagon ride, and uncover the rich history of this early spring tradition. On April 25, celebrate the season with treats, entertainment and revelry in welcoming Muskoka style, complete with maple taffy, pancake breakfast and a wood carving demo.

White Meadows Farms Sugar Bush Trek

whitemeadowsfarmsmaple — Courtesy whitemeadowsfarms.com

When: Weekends until April 12, daily during March Break, Good Friday (April 3)

Discover four generations of maple syrup-crafting tradition at White Meadows Farm. Take an expert-guided tour through the sugar bush and learn the fascinating legacy behind this time-honoured Canadian delicacy. Get hands-on and tap a tree or create your own maple taffy in the snow. And don’t forget to stop by the sugar shack to see where the magic happens. While here, why not make a weekend of it and head to Niagara-on-the-Lake or the Falls?

The New York Times just spotlighted this Mississauga plaza, and the online reaction is intense

Nisean Lorde

9:45 am

Ridgeway Plaza has drawn international attention — Ridgeway

Mississauga’s Ridgeway Plaza has long been one of the GTA’s most talked-about food destinations, but it has now officially landed on the global stage. In a recent feature, The New York Times framed the west-end plaza as an unlikely suburban nightlife hub — a place where late-night eats, culinary tourism and neighbourhood tensions all collide in one packed commercial complex.

“Food is bringing thousands of people together to an unexpected place: a plaza west of Toronto. Some fear it’s tearing a neighborhood apart,” the article’s caption reads.

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The attention isn’t exactly surprising if you’ve ever tried to find parking there on a weekend. The plaza has grown to about 120 food spots in roughly three years, many of them Middle Eastern and South Asian. The Times highlighted just how unusual the plaza feels for the suburbs: some businesses stay open until 4 a.m., one barbecue spot closes only for a few morning hours, and a Pakistani restaurant recently extended service to 5:30 a.m. during Ramadan. Business reps told the paper the plaza has, for better or worse, already become a tourist destination (hence, the title of the feature, “The Suburb That Won’t Sleep”).

Suburban strip plazas typically support thousands of businesses and jobs, and many have become important cultural gathering places outside the downtown core, especially in communities with large immigrant and racialized populations (the city did an entire study about this).

If nothing else, this tension has lit up local Reddit threads after the article dropped. Many commenters don’t deny that Ridgeway has parking and late-night behaviour problems, but argue that the deeper issue is suburban design:

“The plaza [is] vast, but all the cars, narrow sidewalks, and horrible design make it a chore to wander… This plaza was meant to bring drivers to a massive parking lot with restaurants. It is the Seventh Circle of Hell.”

Others felt the coverage focused too much on broader anxieties and not enough on the actual food culture. As one Redditor questioned, “Why would a US media outlet be interested in coming to Mississauga to publish a story about ‘badly behaved patrons’ of a plaza?” pointing out that the focus on “exploding populations” misses the mark on the city’s actual demographic shifts.

Howie Mandel tells all about new Canadian spinoff ‘The Price is Right Tonight’

Ron Johnson

7:50 pm

howie mandel price is right — Courtesy Citytv

This month, Canadian comedy icon Howie Mandel is returning to his roots: the game show. The former Deal or No Deal host is taking on a brand new gig, an all-Canadian The Price Is Right spinoff, The Price Is Right Tonight, premiering on March 10. We caught up with him to get the scoop on his new hosting job and how he prepared to bring the famous show to Canada.

How does it feel to be hosting such an iconic show and back home in Canada?

A win-win. You know, I love the game as a fan. I love the opportunity to be the host. I’d love to do it anywhere, but getting to come home makes it even more special. It’s my home, and it’s especially enjoyable to get to bring that energy back to Canada.

You mentioned adding a “fresh, high-energy twist” to the show. What can Canadian audiences expect?

I can answer that in one word: me. I just bring myself. Back when I got asked to do Deal or No Deal, I was really afraid because I thought I had to come on as a comedian or play a character. And then when I realized these are real people with real hopes and dreams and their lives could change forever based on what happens in a game, I dropped everything and just showed up as myself: rooting for the people, setting the stakes, feeling as tense as they do about getting something right and not let them fear of making a mistake. When the show finished taping, I was so embarrassed. It was the first time I’d ever been on TV not playing a character or doing comedy. But that’s what worked. So that’s the big twist. I just bring myself.

Were there any particular challenges in adapting such an iconic U.S. format for a Canadian prime time audience?

No, not really. I don’t think you adapt things for Canada. If anything, some of the biggest comedians, biggest shows, biggest talent come out of Canada anyway.

You’ve had such a diverse career in comedy, acting and hosting. How has your approach to live television evolved over the years?

I’m incredibly comfortable in really uncomfortable situations. After almost 50 years, you learn that you don’t know how someone will react, how a game will unfold or whether something will go wrong or amazingly right. My comfort is in discomfort. It’s a roller coaster. I love thrill rides. This show is the ultimate thrill ride.

**What lessons from your stand-up and improv work have been most useful when hosting a big, live-format show like The Price is Right Tonight?**

Be prepared to be unprepared. This is humanity — people don’t know what game they’ll play or what choices they’ll make. We don’t know the outcome of anything. Lots of people need comfort, certainly, but I’m incredibly prepared for the unexpected because of my career.

Of all the roles you’ve taken on, what do you feel has most prepared you for this one?

Stand-up.

Growing up in Toronto, what were some of the experiences that inspired your love for comedy?

Everything I ever got expelled for or in trouble for seems to be what I get paid for today.

Are there any Toronto traditions that you plan to bring into your hosting style or the show itself?

Well… if I make a mistake, I will say “sorry.” It’s a Canadian tradition.

**If you could invite one Canadian celebrity to join you on The Price Is Right Tonight, who would it be?**

Gretzky — just because he’s the Great One.

This charming Ontario town is home to the world’s largest maple syrup festival

Nisean Lorde

5:00 pm

Springtime in Ontario is about to get a whole lot sweeter. The Elmira Maple Syrup Festival returns on Saturday, April 11, 2026, bringing a full day of pancakes, maple taffy, wagon rides, live music, shopping and sugar bush tours to the Waterloo Region town! The event is recognized by Guinness as the world’s largest single-day maple syrup festival, drawing tens of thousands of visitors from across the globe each year to celebrate all things maple.

The day starts early, and the small-town charm is part of what makes the festival a classic Ontario outing. After parking in one of the designated lots ($5 cash), visitors can catch a wagon ride into town, which is a pretty wholesome way to begin a day devoted to syrup!

From there, the natural first stop is the festival’s famous pancake breakfast at Lions Hall, where guests can indulge in hot pancakes, maple syrup, sausages, and drinks (breakfast starts at 7 am). As the morning unfolds, the downtown core fills up with 100-plus vendors, maple treats and live entertainment. But one of the festival’s signature sights is maple taffy being poured onto snow in Gore Park!

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Apart from the breakfast rush, there’s enough happening to turn the trip into a full-day outing. Live music runs at the Bandstand in Gore Park from 8 am to 4 pm, while the Woolwich Memorial Complex hosts another entertainment stage from 8 am to 3:30 pm, with local bands, buskers, food trucks and vendors. If you’ve got killer spatula skills, you can even enter the Pancake Flipping Contest from 10 am to noon!

Families have their own dedicated stop, too. The Family Fun Area (open from 9 am to 3 pm) features a farm-focused discovery zone with animals, interactive displays, equipment showcases and photo ops. Bonus: the festival’s mascots, Amber and Flapjack, are part of the fun as well!

Over at Elmira District Secondary School, the Crafts & Collectibles Show runs from 8:30 am to 4 pm for anyone who wants a quieter browse away from the busy stretch of the mall.

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One of the best reasons to go, though, is that Elmira doesn’t stop at selling maple syrup; it shows you where it comes from. From 9 am to 3 pm, festival-goers can head to the Sugar Bush Tour area near EDSS and catch a bus to a local farm, where the process of tapping maples, collecting sap and boiling it down into syrup is explained on-site. To get all geeky: sugar maple sap is roughly 98% water and 2% sugar, and it takes about 40 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon of syrup, which makes that little pour over pancakes feel like even more of an event.

The Elmira Maple Syrup Festival returns on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in downtown Elmira. Follow @elmiramaplesyrupfestival for updates.

A new marine terminal at the foot of Yonge could bring cruise ships to Toronto’s central waterfront

Nisean Lorde

3:34 pm

Rendering of cruise ship terminal that could be coming to Toronto — Toronto Port Authority

Toronto’s central waterfront could eventually get a much flashier front door for visitors arriving by sea. On March 5, the Toronto Port Authority issued a Request for Proposals for a firm to prepare a business plan for a new multi-use Marine Terminal at the Yonge Street Slip, a move that signals the start of a potentially major tourism play at the south end of Yonge Street.

According to the tender notice, questions are due by March 23, with submissions due by April 2, meaning Torontonians may be one step closer to having a glimpse of what a new marine gateway at Yonge Slip might look like.

Destination Toronto recently noted how the Yonge Street Marine Terminal is still in the early planning stages, with the concept set to include a public plaza and pier, anchored by a signature architectural landmark on the central waterfront. The facility would also ideally accommodate Great Lakes passenger cruise ships, marine transit services and some recreational boating activity.

If nothing else, this could be a huge shift for Toronto’s visitor economy. Right now, the Port of Toronto’s cruise ship terminal is located at 8 Unwin Ave, near Cherry St. The Toronto Port Authority’s current 2026 cruise schedule lists 45 ship calls between April and October, with its existing cruise operation welcoming nearly 20,000 visitors annually while contributing to a regional Great Lakes tourism economy worth about $280 million.

A terminal at Yonge Slip would bring all of this activity much closer to the heart of downtown!

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For now, the project remains at the business planning stage, but if it moves ahead, the foot of Yonge could eventually become much more than a place to stroll by the lake.

You can find out more about the project here, and follow @torontoportauthority for more info.

Is Sports Betting Legal in Ontario? What Toronto Players Should Know

Dorothy Chudzinski

3:09 pm

Fallsview Casino 3 — ©Niagara Falls Tourism

Sports betting is legal in Ontario, but only within a regulated system that is narrower and more closely monitored than many Toronto residents assume.

Sports betting has become a visible part of Toronto’s sports calendar. It appears during Maple Leafs broadcasts, sits alongside Raptors coverage on weeknights and spikes every autumn when the NFL season tightens. What feels seamless on screen, however, is governed by a framework that draws firm lines around who can offer betting services and how those services are allowed to operate in the province.

Ontario’s approach is not informal and it is not universal. Betting is legal here only through operators that have been approved to operate inside the province’s regulatory structure. That distinction is significant because access alone does not equal legality, and advertising presence does not guarantee provincial approval.

What legal sports betting means in Ontario in 2026

Single-event sports betting became permissible in Canada after federal law changed in 2021, but each province was left to decide how that change would be implemented. Ontario opted for a competitive model that allows private operators to offer betting while remaining under provincial oversight. That system launched in April 2022 and has expanded steadily since.

By late 2025, the scale of the market was clear. Ontario’s regulated sportsbooks handled more than $9.3 billion in wagers in November 2025 alone, generating $406.2 million in non-adjusted gaming revenue in that single month. Those figures, released as part of the province’s monthly reporting, marked one of the strongest periods since the market opened and reflected peak activity during overlapping NHL, NBA and NFL seasons.

In practical terms, Ontario’s regulated sportsbooks offer betting across major professional leagues, international competitions and global sporting events, while certain categories, including youth sports, remain prohibited.

Toronto sits at the centre of that activity. The city’s concentration of professional teams and constant sports schedule make it a natural driver of betting volume. That visibility can blur the line between legal and merely accessible, especially during high-profile games when multiple brands compete for attention.

Why the system feels crowded from a Toronto perspective

Ontario’s regulated market comprises dozens of approved brands, all operating simultaneously. That density is intentional. The province designed its system to replace grey-market activity with regulated competition rather than a single government-run option.

The result is a marketplace where choice is high, but clarity can suffer as a consequence. If you follow sport in Toronto, you feel this most clearly during busy stretches of the calendar, when betting promotions surface across broadcasts and digital platforms at the same time. That visibility has become part of the city’s wider sports culture, but it does not mean the rules are relaxed; it reflects a system where competition is permitted within clearly defined provincial limits.

Those limits include age restrictions, location verification and ongoing compliance requirements that apply equally across operators. Betting is legal only for adults physically located in Ontario, and platforms are required to confirm that location before allowing wagers.

How to tell whether a sportsbook is approved for Ontario play

With so many brands visible to Ontario bettors, the most reliable way for you to judge legitimacy is to look beyond availability and focus on provincial registration. Sportsbooks that are legally allowed to accept wagers in Ontario must operate within the iGaming Ontario framework and meet ongoing standards set by provincial regulators, including requirements around player verification, data reporting and responsible operation.

If you want to confirm which platforms are registered for Ontario play, a regularly updated list of Ontario sports betting sites can provide useful context. These overviews outline sportsbooks that are active within the province’s regulated market, explain how each one fits into Ontario’s framework and compare practical details such as app functionality, banking methods and betting coverage. Used this way, they serve as verification tools rather than endorsements, helping you understand which operators are structured specifically for Ontario players.

Fallsview Casino 1 — ©Niagara Falls Tourism

How iGaming Ontario and AGCO oversee legal betting in the province

Ontario’s sports betting system works the way it does because responsibility is split between two different bodies. One deals with how betting businesses are allowed to operate commercially. The other focuses on rules, standards and what happens when those rules are crossed. That separation is a big reason the market feels busy and competitive, but not loose.

iGaming Ontario sits on the commercial side. It is the body that brings private sportsbooks into the provincial system and sets the terms under which they can operate. That includes how platforms are approved to launch, what kind of betting they can offer and how revenue is shared with the province. The idea behind this setup was straightforward: draw betting activity into a regulated space instead of leaving it scattered across offshore sites with no local oversight.

Regulation itself sits with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, commonly referred to as the AGCO’s oversight of internet gaming. This is the body that handles licensing, monitors compliance and steps in when operators fall short of what is required. Its work covers everything from technical standards and reporting obligations to advertising rules and enforcement action. When penalties are issued or policies are tightened, those decisions tend to come through AGCO channels rather than commercial agreements.

Because the two roles are kept separate, sportsbooks are not simply approved and forgotten about. They operate under ongoing conditions, with commercial expectations on one side and regulatory scrutiny on the other. That balance is what allows Ontario to run a large, competitive betting market without stepping away from active oversight.

Enforcement is active, not symbolic

One of the clearest indicators that Ontario’s system is actively monitored is enforcement. In January 2026, provincial regulators issued a $350,000 penalty against a major sportsbook for failures related to identifying and reporting suspicious betting activity. The case did not involve a high-profile league, which underscored that oversight applies across all markets, not just headline sports.

For Toronto residents, this reinforces the distinction between regulated betting and unregulated access. Approval comes with ongoing obligations, and operators are expected to meet compliance standards well beyond launch.

Advertising rules and what has changed

Ontario has also tightened how sports betting can be advertised. Restrictions around inducements and the use of celebrities and athletes in promotions have reshaped how betting appears during broadcasts. The goal has been to limit broad public exposure while keeping information available to adults who actively seek it out.

The effect has been subtle but noticeable. Advertising remains present during games, but messaging has become more restrained compared to the early days of the market. The shift reflects a system that is settling into regulation rather than expanding without limits.

What to keep in mind before placing a wager

Sports betting is legal in Ontario, but only within boundaries that are actively enforced and updated. When placing a wager, it helps to approach betting platforms the same way other regulated services in the province are approached. Approval status matters. Oversight matters. Where a platform resides within Ontario’s framework matters far more than promotional noise.

The reality is that betting has become part of the sports routine, moving in step with the same seasons and schedules that define local fandom. Knowing how the rules work does not change how games are watched or discussed; it simply keeps any wager within the lines Ontario has drawn.

How to spend a perfect day in this Toronto neighbourhood named one of Canada’s greatest

Lauren DiBenedetto

2:29 pm

banditbrewery roncesvalles — Courtesy banditbrewery.ca

Roncesvalles, or “Roncy” as the locals call it, has long held its own as a small but mighty neighbourhood in downtown Toronto. Deep in the west end, the strip prides itself on contrast, featuring both old-world charm and quietly cool modernities. Bordering on suburbia, the heart of the strip finds itself surrounded by homes. Best known as the beating heart of Toronto’s Polish community, this well-worn street has evolved into something rich with culture: historic homes, specialty grocers, cult-favourite cafes and design-forward boutiques all packed into one endlessly walkable stretch. It was even once in the running to be named Canada’s greatest neighbourhood! As the weather starts to warm up there’s no better time to play tourist in your own city. If you find yourself yearning for a true Toronto Saturday, this is the perfect lineup for a day in Roncy.

The most important meal of the day here is breakfast: if there’s one reason to go to Roncesvalles, it’s in search of a breakfast sandwich. Gold Standard is a Toronto establishment that needs no introduction; it’s built its own reputation for serving the best breakfast sandwiches in the city, and the secret is restraint. There’s nothing over-the-top here, no viral gimmicks or hot honey drownings. Instead it’s all in the simplicity: everything you’d expect out of a breakfast sandwich with quality ingredients, cooked to perfection and served out of a tiny walk-up window.

While I may never go to Roncesvalles without making a stop at Gold Standard, if you’re in the mood for something slower, The Ace would be the place that made me change my mind. This vintage 1950s-style diner earned itself a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its high-quality, moderately priced dishes. They blend classic diner comfort with elevated farm-to-table cooking. Their standout brunch features thick slices of brioche French toast topped with caramelized peaches and vanilla bean whipped ricotta, or duck confit and king oyster mushroom toast finished with soft poached eggs and hollandaise. Everything arrives on beautifully decorated floral ceramic plates, giving the whole meal a rustic elegance.

Next up, the most crucial element of the day: coffee. When it’s time to fuel up for the long day ahead, you won’t want to miss one spot on the list: Reunion Coffee Roasters, a Canadian family-owned specialty roaster.

Cherry Bomb Coffee is another long-standing favourite, roasting beans in Prince Edward County and serving them out of a small, fast-moving cafe that has fuelled the neighbourhood since 2005.

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Once caffeinated, wander the surrounding residential streets for a glimpse of the neighbourhood’s architectural charm. Roncesvalles is famous for its rows of early 1900s Victorian and Edwardian homes. Note the brick work, stained glass windows and sprawling front porches. On weekends, you might even stumble across an open house, making it an excellent excuse to explore the tree-lined streets.

Head slightly south and you’ll find yourself in High Park, one of Toronto’s most treasured green spaces. This transformative spot in the city wears many hats. Nearly two-thirds of the park remains in a natural state, home to the outdoor amphitheatre where Shakespeare in the Park takes place each summer, and the blooming cherry blossoms in spring.

Only true Torontonians know that hidden somewhere within the park lies the High Park Zoo, free to visit and more than a century old. Add a little bit of whimsy to your day and check out the animals ranging from bison and capybaras to peacocks, emus, yaks and West Highland cattle in the spring.

Back on Roncy, the street’s independent shops make it dangerously easy to spend an entire afternoon browsing. Peach Boy is a standout for parents, packed with playful kids clothing, toys and decor that feel far cooler than your average children’s shop.

Mellah Moroccan Rugs is impossible to miss thanks to its vibrant pink storefront and stunning collection of vintage Beni rugs. This is the kind of shop where you wander in just to browse textures and colours.

Home design lovers will want to linger inside 313 Design Market, a carefully curated space filled with furniture, lighting and home accessories from both emerging and established brands. Everything here feels intentional and inspiring. A shop you revisit slowly while piecing together your dream interior.

Nearby, Avenue Daughter blends antique and contemporary home decor into a distinctly eclectic aesthetic, while Baa Bazaar offers vintage-inspired homewares and gifts: think bold prints, rich textures and playful objects.

Food lovers will find just as much to explore. Spanish Pig is Toronto’s go-to destination for authentic Spanish pantry staples, like jamón, chorizo, luxury canned seafood and specialty cooking ingredients. Thin Blue Line Cheese showcases artisan cheeses from Quebec and Ontario, while The Source Bulk Foods offers a more elegant take on the bulk store concept with hundreds of organic pantry staples and sustainable household goods.

For nostalgic fun, Sweet Thrills continues to be one of the neighbourhood’s most beloved shops. First opened in the late ’90s, the candy and board game store became a community institution before briefly closing due to rising rent. Now that they reopened in a new location thanks to neighbourhood support, you wouldn’t want to miss out on the opportunity to rediscover some old-school classics.

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If you’re stocking up for dinner at home, Russell’s Butcher & Deli offers whole-animal butchery and expertly prepared cuts, while nearby sister spot Alimentari specializes in fresh pasta and seasonal sauces. The shop-local Italian favourite first began selling at Toronto farmers’ markets before opening their first location here in Roncy a year and a half later.

The Mercantile is another Roncy gem, packed with thoughtful pantry finds ranging from Matty Matheson Food Company cravings to locally made frozen treats. Find ready-to-go Craig’s Cookies chocolate chip cookie dough as well as Honey’s plant-based ice cream in fun flavours.

Book lovers will want to carve out some browsing time too. Another Story Bookshop has long served as a progressive community hub, while A Good Read offers a carefully curated mix of new and used titles. Just down the street, She Said Boom! blends books and records into one treasure trove of rare vinyl and cult classics.

As the sun begins to set and evening rolls around, now’s the time to let Roncy’s Polish heritage take centre stage. Cafe Polonez is one of the longest-standing Polish restaurants in the city and something of a neighbourhood institution. Over the years it has welcomed everyone from celebrity chef Matty Matheson to visiting political figures, all drawn to its deeply comforting, traditional Polish dishes.

For something more contemporary, Restaurant Stop offers a refined take on Eastern European flavours with French elegance. The menu leans heavily on seasonal ingredients, with dishes like potato cakes topped with caviar or delicate veal sweetbreads paired with a rotating wine list.

Toronto restaurant patios — The patio at Bandit Brewery

Wind down at one of Roncy’s best patios and pubs. Bandit Brewery, inside a converted autoshop, offers a glass-covered patio that works well on colder nights, while Loons, a classic English pub, delivers one of the largest patios in the neighbourhood, perfect for a summer night.

Before heading home, catch a film at the Revue Cinema, one of Toronto’s oldest and most beloved theatres. Built in the early 1900s, the historic venue has spent more than a century screening films for the neighbourhood. From war-time fundraisers in the 1910s to cult classics and curated film series today, if you haven’t seen a movie in Revue, are you even from Toronto?

And what would a perfect day be without a sweet treat? As the final pit stop of the night, make sure to stop at Ed’s Real Scoop. The small-batch ice cream and gelato shop that’s been serving in Roncy for over two decades. The signature burnt marshmallow flavour has been recognized as one of the 100 most iconic ice cream flavours in the world.

This hub of culture offers old-school bakeries and modern cafes, or century old theatres and funky home design shops. Roncesvalles proves that sometimes the best way to experience the city is simply to explore one really good street.

After exploring Roncesvalles, spend a perfect day in this unexpected neighbourhood that was recently named Toronto’s coolest.

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

Ron Johnson

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.

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