Mr. Toronto

Discovering Graffiti alley south of Queen W

One of Mr. Toronto’s greatest pleasures is discovering something totally new and unique in this wonderful City.  Just when I think I have done and seen it all in my (almost) 25-years living here, occasionally something comes along that makes me go “wow – this place really is amazing!”

Last Sunday I went on a “Toronto Laneway” walking tour.  I can’t actually say this is new; only to me, as the gentleman who has been leading these tours – Graeme Parry – has apparently been doing this for 9 years! Graeme is an incredibly knowledgeable young man who does these tours because he, too, is in love with Toronto and wants to share his knowledge.  As such, he does this as a hobby (I heard someone say his day job was working for the TTC, our transit commission), and they are absolutely FREE!

The tour was fascinating.  We met at the corner of Queen and Bathurst streets, and walked for an hour through “Graffiti alley” south of Queen, leading to hidden

laneway homes on residential alleys that at first glance look like nothing more than long driveways with garages on either side.  The tour ended on Ossington street, which was also great as it is one of the coolest/hippest little streets out there, with vintage stores (I bought a great ‘50s tie!), wonderful restaurants (see one of my previous blogs on Pizzeria Libretto), and funky lounges (Reposado Tequilla Bar is one of my faves).

Unfortunately, this was Graeme’s last walking tour of the season (he does them in summer only), but he also does biking tours, and these don’t end until September 18 (you can bet I’ll be there!).  For more information, visit his website at

http://www.graemeparry.com/Site/Toronto_Laneways.html

And be prepared to be amazed!

Mr. Toronto

No, not quite.  The end of summer is in site, but there’s still plenty of time to visit Toronto with the kids before school starts.  And to help plan, here are a few ideas from The Grid (formerly EYE magazine), which recently came out with a list of “49 Totally Rad (and totally cheap) Things To Do With A Kid In The City”:

1)      Go people watching in (funky) Kensington Market – especially the last Sunday of every month, when it’s pedestrian only.

2)      Explore Lake Ontario in a canoe – rentals available from Canoe Toronto at Harbourfront (283A Queen’s Quay West)

3)      Take advantage of free admission to Ontario Place – in celebration of its 40^th anniversary (though you’ll still have to pay for the great water park)

4)      Have a pajama party at a good old-fashioned drive-in – double features, the latest flicks at Polson Pier (www.polsonpier.com)

5)      Buy cheap seats to a Blue Jays game – lots of fun, starting at only 11 bucks.  And the team is really quite good this year!

6)      Visit Kew Gardens playground (Queen St.E. and Wellesley), complete with turreted castles, a swirly slide and even a beach!

7)      Take a “staycation” at the Delta Chelsea Hotel – full disclosure: I work there!  But it made the list, really! Best hotel in town for kids (just voted “Best Family Hotel” by the readers of City Parent magazine).  Amazing Family Fun Zone with huge pool and waterslide, Kids Centre, Teen Lounge, and daily Camp Chelsea programming. (www.deltachelsea.com)

That’s it for their list…now a couple of things to add which are going on now and you shouldn’t miss.

First is the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE, or “The EX”, if you want to talk like a native), on now until September 5^th. Animal and agricultural exhibits, special shows, shopping pavilions, midway rides, FOOD (new this year – deep fried Jell-O!!!).  A real institution that should be visited at least once in your lifetime!

Secondly, the new Cirque du Soleil show is in town until October 9, at a specially constructed tent near Cherry Beach.  I have seen Cirque many times over the years, and I can honestly say this is the best I have seen.  Incredible staging and truly unbelievable acts.  With or without kids, get there!

And enjoy the rest of your summer!

Mr. Toronto

If you don’t like beer, skip this blog.  If you do like a cold, refreshing brew in the heat of the summer, keep on reading!  Personally, I’m not a big drinker, but little gives me more pleasure this time of year than finding a nice little patio with friends and discovering a great new beer.

First, some bad news (for you non-Canadians reading this) – beer is not that easy to come by if you are not in a bar or restaurant.  Just like our wine/liquor must be bought at an “LCBO” store run by the government, so, too, can beer only be bought at an official “Beer Store” (yes, that’s what they are actually called…).  No running to the local 7-11!

The good news is that once you do locate one of these stores (and they are not that hard to find, though they don’t stay open late!), the selection is fantastic.  Both from an international perspective, and also great local/craft beers like King Brewery Pilsner, Muskoka Brewery Mad Tom IPA, Cameron’s Lager, Unibroue Maudite and the Propeller Brewing Company’s Extra Special Bitter.

And oh, the places you can drink!

Ciro’s House of Imported Beer (1316 Bloor West), with its list of 150 bottled beers

C’est What (67 Front St. East), with 35 all-Canadian brews on tap

Bier Markt (600 King West), 30 countries, 100 labels, 40 taps – need I say more?

Beer Bistro (18 King East), 150 bottle list, including sour beers and aged ales

The Rebel House (1068 Yonge), with 19 of those craft beers I told you about, on tap

There are tons of other places – some, like Bar Volo (587 Yonge) and Burger Bar (319 Augusta, in the very cool Kensington Market area) – who even make their own microbrews right on site – but that’s enough for now.  All this writing is making me thirsty!

Cheers!

Mr. Toronto

This City never ceases to amaze me.  Just when I think I’ve seen or done it all, I find something new that makes me fall in love all over again…and some of it isn’t even “new”, it’s just improved…

For instance, the latest edition of the Toronto Jazz Fest may have been my favourite yet.  Besides a dynamite line-up, the event moved to a new location, down at Metro Square (recently renamed David Pecault Square, in memory of this wonderful man who started the Luminato festival, among other things).  Much cozier than Nathan Phillips Square where it’s usually held, not to mention grass to sit down on…

And speaking of Nathan Phillips Square, the festival was moved from that spot as it is in the middle of a multi-year, multi-million dollar reno.  And one of the first things they renovated was an unused, secluded spot on the roof, which has been turned into the newest best-kept secret in Toronto – a fantastic rooftop garden.  Exquisite seclusion in the heart of the City.  They still hold some events in the Square below during renovations, as evident by the fun outdoor Art Festival that took place this weekend.

And speaking of this weekend, took a bike ride along another hidden gem in the City – the Leslie Street Spit.  It’s OK, I didn’t know what a “spit” was, either, til my breath was taken away by the beauty along this mile or so of unspoiled nature near Cherry Beach, just minutes from downtown.  Incredible views of the city skyline, but you truly feel like you are in Maine or Cape Cod…there’s even a lighthouse at the end!  Fun to skate – or even walk – if you don’t have a bike.  That’s my friend Paul enjoying the view…

And speaking of friends (don’t you just love the natural transitions I have written in this blog entry?) made a new one at the Honda Indy this past weekend (yes, it was a very busy weekend!).  That’s me with Dan Akroyd, the Grand Marshall this year.  A good ol’ Canadian boy (for those Americans who still do not realize that all the best comedy comes from this side of the border) who’s done all right for himself – including his new vodka, skeleton-bottle and all!

And it’s not even the middle of July yet – phew!

Mr. Toronto

Getting out and about more than ever now that the nice weather is here to stay (for the next few months, at any rate!).  Three places I have been to lately that I wanted to put on your radar:

1)      The new Railway Children musical, from Mirvish Productions:  Although this is not a great play, it is one of the more unique I have seen in many years, due mainly to the venue – a specially constructed theatre/tent over what was once the hub of Toronto’s railway system.  This was necessary to build to accommodate the star of the show, a fantastic old British train.  A fun way to spend an evening, especially (only?) if you have kids. http://www.railwaychildren.ca

2)      The Ballroom:  This is not your (grand)parent’s bowling alley…a very hip new spot on John St. in the heart of downtown, with great lanes, lights, music, nibblies and drinks. Check out http://www.theballroom.ca/

3)      Corus Entertainment:  Although this is an “office building” – housing Toronto’s top rock radio stations like The Edge and Q107 and hip TV channels like YTV and Teletoon – it is really a destination, a stop on any tour of Toronto.  One of the most beautiful buildings I have ever seen (you can actually request a tour) tucked away in one of the most serene areas of the City – they even have their own beach next door (see photo), which is open to the public, along with a wonderful waterside restaurant. http://www.corusent.com/home/

On another note, I just read about an incredibly cool new FREE app available for your smart phone called ZeitagTO.  It allows users to scan their surroundings on a Toronto Street, then pull up an archival photo of that same area from years gone by.  There are currently around 500 images you can check out – very cool!

Finally, just a note that I’m not the only American who has fallen in love with Toronto.  Besides the dozens of Hollywood stars who have “summer” homes in the Muskoka lake district outside of Toronto, it was just announced that “Marky Mark” Wahlberg has just purchased a condo in the heart of Yorkville.  He loves the City, and says that “in all honesty, I have more friends here than New York.”  So who knows?  You might bump into him – I actually did while he was here filming last year (though I don’t think he counts me as a friend) – but his condo won’t be ready til 2013…. (You can sleep on my couch until then, buddy….)

Keep cool!

Mr. Toronto

Since we have hit our first 30-degree day here in Toronto (that’s around 85, for you Yanks), I think it’s safe to say that summer is basically here.  Which gives me the liberty to start talking about all the wonderful things going on in the City during my favourite time of the year (I know other Canadians pretend that they love winter, and cold, and hockey, and…but for me, it’s all about sun, and greenery, and warmth…).

Festival and events season is right around the corner – as I have discussed in previous blogs, Luminato and the Jazz Fest – both happening in June – have amazing lineups this year, with plenty of free events to supplement the ticketed ones (including Aretha Franklin on June 24^th at Metro Square – come on!!).  And my mind turned to the Honda Indy the other day (happening here the weekend of July 9), as I noticed a big picture in the newspaper the other day of driver Dan Wheldon, who just won the Indianapolis 500 race.  Ya see, I was fortunate enough to ride in the pre-race parade last year for the Honda Indy (representing my hotel, the Delta Chelsea, which sponsors the race), and each sponsor was paired with a driver as we drove around the track with a driver waving to the crowd…and I got Dan (see photo).  Good to see my little pep talk worked!

Indy 500 Winner Dan Wheldon

Anyway, I digress.  I really wanted the main topic of my first summer blog to be about “Cinema Under the Stars”, a summer tradition in Toronto where open-air movie theatres pop up all over town for residents and visitors alike to catch a FREE flick.  Here’s where to go:

Yonge-Dundas Square, every Tuesday night June 28-August 30 for their “Dancing in the Dark” dance-themed movies

WestJet Stage at Harbourfront Centre, every Tuesday night July 5 – August 9 for “Longo’s Free Flicks” exploring urban themes

Metro Square (now David Pecault Square, next to Roy Thomson Hall), every Wednesday night July 6- August 31 for “TIFF in the Park”, showing classics like Sound of Music and Wizard of OZ

Downsview Park, Every Friday July9- August 31 for “Movies under the Stars” with family-friendly movies (including Justin Bieber’s latest “Never Say Never” – EEEEK!!!)

Riverdale Park East, Sundays June 19, July 24, August 14, August 24 for “Movies in the Park” to support local charities.

Kind of like a drive-in, but without having to pay for gas!  Enjoy.

Mr. Toronto

BARGAIN CULTURE

I’ve always said that to really enjoy New York City you either have to be a millionaire or a poverty-stricken student. I never went the millionaire route (shame), but at least I went to university in NYC (many moons ago) and had the time of my life as a student.  Galleries, museums, plays, concerts were all either free or heavily discounted.  Well, I’m pleased to report that Toronto is very much a bargain centre for the under-30 set as well…this roundup of deals comes courtesy of Nicki Thomas/Toronto Star:

1)      The National Ballet of Canada offers $30 tickets (tax included) for anyone under 30 who signs up for their Dance Break program (www.dancebreak.ca)

2)      The Canadian Opera Company offers $22 performances through its “Opera for a New Age” program (www.coc.ca). There are also free concerts throughout the season in the lobby of the new(ish) Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.

3)      The Toronto Symphony Orchestra offers $14 tickets if you are a “Soundcheck” member, up until age 35 (www.tso.ca)

4)      Soulpepper Theatre Company gives access to $12.50 tickets to almost every performance through their C-Stage program if you’re under 29 (www.canadianstage.com or 416-368-3110). There are also pay-what-you-can Monday night performances.

5)      The Sony Centre for the Performing Arts has an under-30 “Rush Club”, which offers $15 tickets for anything they are hosting (from music like Elvis Costello to Bollywood Musicals).  Sign up for the program at www.sonycentre.ca, and you’ll receive an email 3 days beforehand if tickets are available.

6)      Mirvish productions often has student rush seats for many of its performances. Check out www.mirvish.com, or better yet, join their facebook or twitter group!

7)      Both the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum offer free admission (for all ages!) on Wednesdays.  AGO free hours are 6-8:30 pm, ROM is 3:30-5:30

And finally – again for all ages – don’t forget about T.O Tix, the discounted ticket booth at Yonge-Dundas Square.  It ain’t no Times Square TKTS – its selection is usually quite limited – but there are no lineups and you’ll find something to see!

Culture – with money left over for a beer afterwards.  What could be better?

Mr. Toronto

Two major events happen in Toronto every May.  First, I finally change my wardrobe over (slowly) from sweaters to t-shirts.  Secondly, our sad, no-win sports teams are replaced with a new optimism that comes with two teams who – at least at this time of the year – still stand a chance.

Gone are the Toronto Maple Leafs, who actually gave hockey fans here a brief thrill when they had a miniscule chance of making the playoffs.  Gone are the Toronto Raptors, who thought at the beginning of the season that maybe they could do it without star Chris Bosh.  They couldn’t.

But a new day – and season – is dawning, as the “Boys of Summer” are back on the Rogers Centre field.  And looking surprisingly good for a relatively young and inexperienced team.  Nobody really expects them to make the playoffs this year, but everyone thinks that with the raw talent we have, the stage is being set for next year.  We’ll see, but at least at this time of the year, we’re still enjoying the ride!

And then there’s Toronto FC, our relatively new (has it really been 5 years already?) soccer team.  Although they’re not great, no one else in the league (MLS) seems to be either, so we have a chance of keeping up…. and games are always a lot of fun to watch at the intimate BMO Field at Exhibition Place.  I actually got out to a chilly game a couple weeks back to see the (in)famous David Beckham play when his LA Galaxy came to town. Pretty uninspired playing by both teams (final score 0-0), but at least David played the whole game and I got to see him – and his tattoos – before he took off for the Royal Wedding…

If you can’t make it to a game live while you’re here, there are some great sports bars to catch the action.  Blue Jays fans love Opera Bob’s at Dundas and Ossington (416-536-5585), and FC supporters head to the Football Factory on Bathurst (416-368-4625).  Lots of screens, giveaways and good munchies.  And, of course, for the ultimate experience watching any sport, you have to check out the new Real Sports Bar and Grill next to the Air Canada Centre (416-815-7325), with its 1000 seats, 199 screens (including one that’s bigger than my house) and lots of beautiful people – both eating/drinking and serving…

Here’s to a winning season!

Mr. Toronto

P.S. I would be remiss if I did not even mention our Toronto Rock lacrosse team, who at the time of this writing are in the semifinals and may go all the way!  And Rock games are a real hoot – fast paced, violent, high-scoring – and inexpensive!  So make sure to check out a game next season at the ACC….

Woody remember me?

Nah, I doubted it…after all, it was a few years ago.  And it was dark, and late, and we were surrounded by about 15,000 other people.  And Woody Harrelson does tend to meet a lot of people.  And he probably has a rather hard time with the memory thing, since he is…Woody Harrelson (it always amazed me how someone can “play” like he does and still not only remember lines, but be brilliant at it…).  Would Woody recall the few “special” moments we spent together many moons ago in the front row of a Blue Rodeo concert at the Molson Amphitheatre in Toronto?

I would get to find out, as I had my second encounter with Woody last week…this time, it was not by chance.  I was invited to meet him by the producers of  Bullet for Adolf, the play that Woody wrote and is directing – for its world premiere – at the intimate Hart House Theatre at the University of Toronto.

Here for just three weeks (April 19-May 7), Bullet For Adolf is a comedy about eight characters who come together in the hot Houston summer of 1983. The title refers to a gun once intended to kill Hitler, which plays a pivotal role in the plot, which is quasi-autobiographical.

It was an especially surreal evening with Woody, as I was invited  to watch him watch himself being interviewed on CBC television’s  The Strombo Show, which was recorded earlier in the day.  We met up in the small, intimate screening room of The Spoke Club, a private, member-only club for media and entertainment folk.  Fun evening, and Woody is not only a magnificent actor, but a pretty swell guy.  Even if he didn’t remember me.

Oh yeah – the evening got even more surreal as I left the un-marked Club at around 1am, and saw a good looking young man in a blue parka cruisng around on a bicycle, looking lost…I asked him if I could help him find something, and he asked me if I knew where the Spoke Club was…he was there to meet up with his BFF Woody Harrelson, who had invited him over.  It was Owen Wilson.

OK, enough name-dropping for one entry.  Go see the play – I’m sure it will be a wild ride

Mr. Toronto

I seem to be blogging a lot lately on the arts – music, theatre – so it’s time to turn my attention to another passion – FOOD!  But where to start?  I’ve done a lot of traveling in my time – to many of the world’s Great Cities – and I have to tell you that Toronto certainly holds its own in terms of the sheer number of restaurants, the incredible variety of cuisine, the amazing taste of the food, and the great value that can be found here.  I could easily have a regular blog just dedicated to the places I have had the pleasure of dining at over the years….

But for now, let me concentrate on one small area that has captured my attention – and palate – over the last few weeks:  there have been two interesting “food wars” that have been waged in Toronto, involving two of my favourite edibles – pizza and burritos. Specifically, two competitive spots in each category has laid claim to being the “Best in the City”.

Let’s start with pizza.  Pizzeria Libretto, on the very cool Ossington Street strip, claims to be the only “certified Neapolitan pizza experience” in Canada. What does this mean? According to their website,  “Libretto aims to be loyal to what real pizza is, invented in Naples using local natural ingredients, cooked in a wood fired oven at extremely high heat to achieve a charred, blistered crust. We use San Marzano tomatoes and Fiore di Latte Mozzarella, brought in fresh daily. Our dough is made with naturally leavened Italian Caputo dopio zero flour. Our pizza bakes in less than 90 seconds in our 900 degree wood burning oven, hand built for us by a 3rd generation pizza oven maker in Naples”.  They were the only game in town until the rival Queen Margherita Pizza (1402 Queen St E) opened, which claimed to be equally fabulous.  So I had to visit both.  The verdict?  Both have pizza that truly is the best in the city. We’re talking the thin-crusted, light and airy kind – not the thick, gooey New York style.  If I had to choose one with a gun to my head, would probably pick Libretto, just because the location is more convenient – and cooler.  But go to both and try for yourself.  Trust me.

As for the Burrito wars?  Although “fast-food type burritos are a dime a dozen, there used to be only one game in town for real, authentic, meal-in-a-wrapper heaven – Burrito Boyz – with just one location on Adelaide St. downtown (now they have multiple locations – www.burritoboyz.ca ). But there was some in-fighting between the two owners, and one split off to open up Burrito Bandidos (www.burritobandidos.com).  They both claim to be Toronto’s best, so I had to once again see for myself (it’s a dirty job, but someone had to do it…).  To make it fair, I sampled the same type at both places – the unique, melt-in-your-mouth halibut burrito.  I’m sorry, but I just cannot pick a favourite.  They were both incredible (stuffed with about 10 toppings then grilled to perfection).  Both cost virtually the same (10 bucks) and both are little hole-in-the-walls, so be prepared to take-out as there is no real seating….

This is all making me rather hungry.  Gotta go home for dinner.
Mr. Toronto