CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD REVIEW

This week’s image:  Ice storm damage

NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS

Storm damage
Our area dodged much of the suffering that others experienced from last week’s ice storm.  For the stores on the west side of Parliament at Wellesley, there was a problem with damaged telephone and internet cables from Rogers. 
At Under The Table (568B Parliament), Betty Ann and Kimberley found that customers are worried that they had gone out of business.  In fact, they’re still alive and well and they want us to remember the NOW Magazine review that praised their hospitality. 

LGBTQ family planning courses
The Sherbourne Health Centre and the Queer Parenting Programs at the 519 are holding three series of courses for family planning through the early New Year.  Daddies & Papas 2B runs on Wednesdays from February 19 to May 7.  Dykes Planning Tykes covers the same period, February 19 to May 7 plus there’s a Dykes Planning Tykes intensive weekend on April 25 to 27.  Find out more at the website.  

In the media

Photo:  Ben Peterson selfie, Toronto Star
The Toronto Star published several stories about “People to watch” in 2014.  Cabbagetown resident Ben Peterson was featuered for his work on Newsana, a service that gathers significant, high-quality news stories, analysis and ideas. 
 
Photo: Toronto Star
The Star’s architecture writer,Christopher Hume, summed up his reactions to 2013 achievements and applauded the new Bridgepoint hospital (14 St Matthews Rd) as a reinvention of hospital buildings.  He also singled out the Ontario Elementary Teachers Federation building (136 Isabella) for its beauty, sustainability, sensitivity and intelligence. 
 
Photo: Waterfront Toronto
In the Globe & Mail, architecture writer Alex Bozikovic singled out Corktown Common as a breathtaking vision - a beautiful park, a significant protection against flooding in downtown Toronto and a neighbourhood facility for Corktown and the new Pan Am village area.

Congrats Nagesan
Nagesan is the son of Nages and Raj at Absolute Bakery (589 Parliament).  He’s popping up behind the counter to extend his friendly service to everyone walking in the door.  That’s his in-between work.  In real life, he’s just graduated from McMaster and is now applying to medical schools.  Best wishes and well-deserved congratulations for your success so far.

Good news about the Don Valley Trail
Photo: Cycle Write Blog
Keith Lawrance at the Cabbagetown Residents Association points out that the City of Toronto is asking for bids for architectural and design services for the reconstruction of the pedestrian and bike trail along the Don River from Pottery Road south to Corktown Common. The City’s description is very encouraging.  The project will attack difficult areas along the trail and provide extra access points at Gerrard and Dundas.  The project can be seen at the City’s website. 

New music programs

The Local GEST (424 Parliament) is introducing a jazz program on alternate Sundays from 4:30 to 7:30 pm.  The first event was held last weekend with Nathaniel Hiltz.  Salsa nights will happen on Saturdays. Watch for specifics in the next few weeks.

Photo:  Ariane Smolderen
Paint Box Bistro (555 Dundas E) has announced an ambitious jazz series starting with Randy Weston’s African rhythms on January 11.  Six events (plus a separate CD release) are lined up through to February 15.  The evenings are a joint project with the Jazz Performance Education Centre. Before each performance, students from Ontario’s jazz colleges will perform from 6:30 pm Paint Box has a jazz and dinner package with a 3-course prix fixe dinner for two at $110 per person.

Holiday hours
Several businesses are taking special breaks over the New Year’s season.  Paint Box (555 Dundas) is closed until January 6.  Merryberry (559 Parliament) is open for shorter hours from 11 am to 3 pm for lunch and brunch until January 5.  The Shop at Daniel et Daniel is closed until January 5.

Cabbagetown South Residents
Photo: Cabbagetown South Christmas party
The association is holding its 2014 Annual General Meeting at 7 pm on Wednesday January 8 at Retsina (209 Gerrard E). Don Purvis, the current chair, is stepping down so there’ll be an election to replace him along with other Board members.  If you’re interested in serving on the Board please email info@cabbagetownsouth.ca This is a very lively group that's made a steady contribution over the past year.  Our thanks and congrats to Don and his colleagues for their efforts.

Theatre announcements

The Alumnae Theatre (70 Berkeley, 416-364-4170) will stage Christopher Fry’s “The Lady’s Not for Burning” from January 24 to February 8.  Ticket info available here. 

Tribes by Nina Raine is next up at the Canadian Stage (26 Berkeley, 416-368-3110) from February 2 to March 2. Info here.

At Soulpepper  (50 Tank House Ln, 416-866-8666), Idiot’s Delight runs from January 23 to April 1.  The Norman Conquests come back on February 10 to April 8. Two concerts in the Salon series, Berlin to Broadway and Aboard the Orient Express, are on stage February 13, 15, 25 and 26.  For tickets and info, click here. 

George Brown College presents The Country Wife from February 5 to 15 at the Young Centre (50 Tankhouse Ln, 416-866-8666).  Tickets and info here. 

NEW YEAR’S EVE
Here’s a listing of who’s doing what on Tuesday night and who’s open or closed on Wednesday.  Reservations are often recommended. 

Restaurants & pubs
Alice’s Place (554 Parliament, 647-931-9088)
Archeo (31 Trinity St, Distillery, 416-815-9898)
Best Breakfast (434 Parliament, 416-924-5266)
8 am to 6:30 pm, NY Eve.  Brunch, 9:30 am to 2 pm, NY Day
Butter Chicken Factory (556 Parliament, 416-964-7583)
Lunch 11 am to 3 pm and dinner 5 to 10 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day.
Cranberries (601 Parliament, 416-925-6330)
Closed NY Eve.  Brunch and regular menu, 11 am to 11 pm, NY Day
 
F’Amelia (12 Amelia, 416-323-0666)
Regular menu plus butter poached lobster, venison or truffle risotto. Enjoy dinner here and then party next door, 5 pm to 10 pm, NY Eve. Closed NY Day
Extended F’Amelia (8 Amelia, 416-323-0666)
Ring in the New Year here with parties and surprises, 5 pm to 2 am NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
Gilead Café & Wine Bar (4 Gilead Place, 647-288-0680)
Regular service from 5:30 pm on NY Eve.  Closed NY Day.
Ginger (252 Carlton, 416-923-7979)
Regular menu, 11 am to 10 pm, NY Eve and NY Day.
Hey Lucy (229 Carlton, 416-901-9777)
11:30 am to closing, NY Eve.  Brunch and $3.99 caesar’s to 2 pm, $4.49 martinis all day, open 11 am to midnight, NY Day
House on Parliament (454 Parliament, 416-925-4074)
Reservations available, 3 and 4 course prix fixe with a glass of prosecco, $60 or $70, Dunc’s Midnight Dance Party, from 6 pm, NY Eve.  Regular hours with brunch from 11 am to 3 pm, NY Day.
Johnny G’s (478 Parliament, 416-928-1358)
Brunch and regular menus, 8 am to 5 pm, NY Eve and NY Day
Kibo (533 Parliament)
Regular menu, noon to 11 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day.
Kingyo (51B Winchester)
Regular menu, 5:30 to 11:30 pm NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
Local GEST (424 Parliament, 416-961-9425)
Glass of bubbly and 3 course prix fixe dinner at two seatings, 6 and 9 pm, $55. Bar service plus music by DJ Mike Reid, no cover. 6 pm to closing, NY Eve.  Bar service only, noon to 6 pm, NY Day.
Merryberry (559 Parliament, 647-348-0411)
Lunch and brunch, 11 am to 3 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day.
Omi (241 Carlton, 416-920-8991)
Regular menu, lunch from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm and dinner from 4:30 to 10:30 pm, NY Eve and NY Day
Peartree (507 Parliament, 416-962-8190)
3 course dinner for two, $60, 11:30 am to midnight, NY Eve.  Regular service and brunch, 10 am to 11 pm, NY Day.
Paint Box (555 Dundas E, 647-748-0555)
Closed until January 6
Pho-U (398 Parliament, 647-865-7118)
Regular menu, 11 am to 9 pm, NY Eve.  Closed, NY Day.
Rashna’a (307 Wellesley E, 416-929-2099)
Regular menu to 7 pm, NY Eve.  Regular hours and menu, NY Day.
Under the Table (568 Parliament, 647 – 351-1533)
Regular menu to 6 pm, NY Eve.  Regular hours and menu for lunch and dinner, NY Day.

Young Thailand (446 Parliament, 416-920-8424)
Regular menu, 11 am to 10 pm, NYE.  4 pm to 10 pm, NY Day.

Entertainment & New Year’s Eve Parties
Dominion on Queen (500 Queen E, 416-368-6893)
Hot Club of Django with Wayne Nakamura, 8:30 pm  NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
El Catrin Destileria (Distillery, 416-203-2121)
NY Eve chef’s tasting menu at $110 pp ($90 pp vegetarian option), drink pairing option $60 and $90 pp and after party from 10:30 pm, $35 pp. 
Flying Beaver Dining Room (488 Parliament, 647-347-6567)
Regular menu, no cover. Dancing after 10 pm, $5, 3 pm to 2 am, NY Eve.  Lunch 11 am to 3 pm, NY Day.
Flying Beaver Cabaret (above contact info)
Maggie Cassella “Because I said so” at 8 pm, dinner specials, complimentary bubbly at midnight, dance party.  $25 show tickets plus $30 dinner/drinks.  Closed NY Day.
Mill Street Brew Pub (21 Tank House Ln, 416-681-0338)
Full menu with chef’s special and live music by Shane Thomas to 3 am, NY Eve.  Open 11 am to 2 am on NY Day.
Mill Street Beer Hall, (21 Tank House Lane, 416-681-0338)
4-course dinner with beer pairings by the Brewmaster and music by DJ Humble Mike, to 3 am NY Eve.  Open noon to 11 pm, NY Day
Photo: Toronto Star Sabrina Melchiori
Stout Irish Pub  (221 Carlton, 647-344-7676)
New Year’s Eve party with hors d’oeuvres, party favours and champagne, $10, NY Eve.  Brunch from 11 am,  NY Day.
Winchester Stage & Bar (51A Winchester, 416-323-0051)
Geekalicious New Year’s party, no cover, 9 pm, NY Eve.  Karaoke with Jason Rolland, 10 pm, NY Day

Basic supplies, coffee and bakeries
Absolute Bakery (589 Parliament, 416-929-2700)
7 am to 10 pm, NY Eve and NY Day
Beer Store (534 Parliament, 227 Gerrard E, 41 Mill St Distillery, & 28 River)
10 am to 6 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
Cabbagetown Brew (552 Parliament, 416-353-5551)
Specialty lattes, pizza, Italian eggs and grilled cheese, 11 am to 4 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
Café Olya (540 Parliament, 416-833-4248)
Closed NY Eve.  Open regular hours, NY Day.
Daniel & Daniel bake shop (248 Carlton, 416-968-9275)
7:30 am to 5 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day to January 5.
Food Basics (238 Wellesley E)
Open to 6 pm NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
Freshco (325 Parliament)
Open to 6 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
Jet Fuel (519 Parliament, 416-968-9982)
Regular hours, 7 am to 8 pm, both days
LCBO (512 Parliament)
9 am to 6 pm, NY Eve.  Closed, NY Day
No Frills (449 Parliament)
8 am to 6 pm, NY Eve.  Closed NY Day
St James Town Steak & Chops (516 Parliament, 416-925-7665)
9 am to 4 pm, NYE.  Closed NY Day and January 2.
Scullery (200 Carlton, 647-748-5000)
Closed on NY Eve and NY Day
Starbucks (490 Parliament)
6 am to 7 pm, NY Eve.  8 am to 9 pm, NY Day
This week’s image:  Christmas at Metcalfe & Carlton

CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD REVIEW

NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS

Winter gets started
When the snow arrived last Saturday, four young women were among the first to slide down the toboggan hill in Riverdale Park.  They were using plastic garbage bags which occasionally failed and then the rider came to a fast stop.  Two were from Ireland and two from Wales.  This was their first experience in “deep” snow and they were obviously having a marvellous time.

Santa did the trick…
Last weekend, Santa came back to Pet Valu (242 Carlton) and people paraded through with their pets.  As usual, he charmed everybody.  Many thanks to Santa for a job well done for another year.

Winter on the lake
Photo:  Waterfront Toronto
Waterfront Toronto is encouraging us to get to the lakefront during the winter for spectacular views of the lake and the downtown area.  Corktown Commons at the foot of River Street has a toboggan hill.  Sherbourne Commons, at the end of Sherbourne Street, has an outdoor skating rink that’s open from 10 am to 10 pm Monday to Saturday and 10 am to 6 pm on Sundays every week until February 23.  Farther west at Harbourfront, Winter Fest continues on Saturday and Sunday, December 21 and 22 with Santa’s boat cruise, pet photos with Santa, outdoor skating, crafts and gingerbread cake decorating.  For schedules and locations, click here. 

Glen Murray’s skate days
Photo:  Globe & Mail
Our local MPP, Glen Murray, hosts skate days at Moss Park arena (140 Sherbourne at Queen) on Tuesdays from 4 to 5 pm. The next event happens on Tuesday January 7 and they’ll continue until Tuesday March 11.   These are free events for the whole family.  Glen needs some extra volunteers to help the skaters, especially the kids.  If you can help, please call his office at (416) 972-7683.

Waterfront reports
Photo:  Waterfront Toronto
The December issue of Waterfront Toronto’s newsletter has updates on the widespread construction activity along the lake at Queen’s Quay, Bayside (Sherbourne to Parliament) and the Pan Am Games site.  Click here for a full report on all of this amazing work.              

Museum reports
So, do we really have a new headquarters for the Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum?  Apparently yes, but not quite just yet.  A group has purchased the building at 296 Gerrard E across from Anniversary Park.  They plan, eventually, to sell it to the museum.  In the meantime, office space will be developed upstairs and the ground floor retail will continue.  The approach gives the museum a fundraising target, more space for itself and some time to develop proper plans for a new home. All of this has a second benefit – it’s good news for the eventual gentrification of the retail strip around Gerrard Street.

Winter headaches
As usual, there are people who simply don’t clear away the snow on the sidewalks in front of their homes.  There’s been a considerable amount of grumbling about this in the past week as we recover from the season’s first storm.
There is, of course, a legal requirement for homeowners to do this job within 24 hours of any storm.  Folks who doubt this fact can simply click here. 
Rumours are spreading that the local residents’ groups may become more active on this issue.  They should be encouraged.  They can ask politely but firmly that delinquent homeowners get busy.  If they’re ignored, then they have enough clout to get City of Toronto officials busy with the problem.
In the meantime, if there’s a nearby problem that won’t go away, call 311 and register your complaint.

CHRISTMAS SCHEDULES

Cabbagetown carolling tradition
The Local GEST (424 Parliament) is continuing a memorable Cabbagetown tradition.  On Sunday December 22 from 3 to 6 pm, singers (some of whom can carry a tune and stay on key) will gather there for an afternoon of Christmas carolling.  Everyone’s welcome - it’s always a fun event.  Jeff Barnes and Noah Zacharin will conduct the choir. This is their second year in the job and now that they know what to expect, they’ll no doubt be superb. 

Whiskey Jack at the Flying Beaver
Duncan Fremlin and Whiskey Jack are making a Christmas appearance at the Flying Beaver (488 Parliament) from 9 pm on Saturday night.  They’ll be joined for the evening by Jen Cook.  It’s good to have them here close to home.  On Sunday afternoon, they’re at the Cadillac Lounge (710 Danforth) from 4 pm and their guests will include Peter Donato, another habitué from the Flying Beaver.

Cranberries Christmas dinner
Once again, Siva and Ruth will open Cranberries (601 Parliament) on Christmas Day for a three-course, prix fixe dinner at $28.  Two sittings, at 5 and 7:30 pm.  Dinner will include butternut squash soup or organic green salad, roast turkey, seasonal veggies, mashed potato, stuffing, cranberries and gravy.  These events are very popular and you should book ahead, (416) 925-6330.

Stout’s pajama party
You’ll have to ask Erin about her pajama theme – it’s a cute story.  You’re invited to Stout’s Christmas Eve pajama party – turkey dinner with all the fixin’s.  Wear your pj’s and enjoy some complimentary Christmas cheer.  Trivia starts at 7:30 pm.  www.stoutirishpub.ca  Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton)

Allan Gardens Christmas show
The Christmas show is the highlight of the year in Allan Gardens.  Thousands of plants fill the conservatory including over thirty poinsettia varieties. The show runs to mid-January.  Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Free admission.  (Sherbourne and Carlton)

New Year’s Eve party at F’Amelia
The folks at F’Amelia are inviting guests to Extended F’Amelia for New Year’s Eve – a house party with all kinds of surprises.  Call for reservations at the restaurant and at Extended F’Amelia.  (416) 323-0666.  12 Amelia Street.

WHO’S OPEN AND CLOSED OVER CHRISTMAS
Here’s a quick list of your favourite places and their schedules for the next few days.

Christmas Eve
Dominion on Queen, Flying Beaver, House on Parliament, Johnny G’s, Merryberry, and Peartree – all open for lunch and closing in the afternoon.
Stout Irish Pub – open in the evening for Erin’s annual Pajama Party
Local GEST – closing early in the evening after the dinner hour.
Cranberries, F’Amelia, Gilead Café, Hey Lucy, and Paintbox – closed

Christmas Day
Cranberries (601 Parliament) – open from 11 am with a special dinner at 5 pm.
Everyone else is closed on Christmas Day.

Boxing Day
Dominion on Queen, F’Amelia, Gilead, Local Gest, Merryberry, Paintbox and Peartree – closed
Flying Beaver – lunch only
Cranberries, Hey Lucy, HOP, Johnny G’s and Stout Irish Pub – open regular hours

Good eating!

CLUBS & PUBS – DAILY LISTINGS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19 TO SUNDAY DECEMBER 29

Contact info
Alice’s Place, 554 Parliament St, (647) 931-9088
Dominion on Queen, 500 Queen St E, (416) 368-6893, www.dominiononqueen.com  
Flying Beaver, 488 Parliament St, (647) 347-6567, www.pubaret.com
Local GEST, 424 Parliament St, (416) 961-9425, https://www.facebook.com/thelocalgest
Mill Street Beer Hall, 21 Tank House Ln (Distillery), (416) 681-0338, Facebook and http://toronto.millstreetbrewpub.ca/
Paint Box Bistro, 555 Dundas St E, (647) 748-0555, www.paintboxbistro.ca
Stout Irish Pub, 221 Carlton St, (647) 344-7676, www.stoutirishpub.ca  
Winchester Kitchen & Bar, 51A Winchester St, (416) 323-0051, www.winchesterkitchen.com

If there's a cover charge or tickets are sold, we’ve listed the prices. Otherwise, the event is free.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19

Dominion on Queen
7 pm, The Wee Folk Club, $10
Flying Beaver
9 pm, Kendall Partington “It’s a Christmas sing-along”, no cover
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
9 pm, Loser karaoke with Jason Rolland

FRIDAY DECEMBER 20

Flying Beaver
9 pm, Ryan Hind’s “Comedy, cabaret & coffee talk – holigay edition”, $10/advance & $15/door
Stout Irish Pub
7 pm, Beer tastings with Railway City
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
10 pm, Barbarosa, pwyc

SATURDAY DECEMBER 21

Dominion on Queen
9 pm,  Saturday night blues
Flying Beaver
7 pm, Sara Hennesey & Stephanie Kaliner “Terrific Women” $10/advance & $15/door
9 pm, Whiskey Jack (unplugged), $10/advance & $15/door

SUNDAY DECEMBER 22

Alice’s Place
4 pm, Karaoke
Dominion on Queen
11 am to 3 pm, Rockabilly brunch with the Cosmotones
4:30 pm, Toronto Art Orchestra, $10
Flying Beaver
7 pm, Annual Holiday Variety Show fundraiser for the Sherbourne Health Centre.
Mill Street Beer Hall
1 pm, Jazz brunch
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
7 pm, Magic at the Winchester, $10
9 pm, Open Mic with Porter

MONDAY DECEMBER 23

Winchester Kitchen & Bar
7 pm, Indie music Monday
10:30 pm Win-Prov

TUESDAY DECEMBER 24

Stout Irish Pub
7:30 pm, Nerd Night pub quiz and Christmas Eve pajama party
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
10 pm, Games & movie night

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 25

Cranberries
5 pm, three-course Christmas dinner

THURSDAY DECEMBER 26

Winchester Kitchen & Bar
9 pm, Loser Karaoke with Jason Rolland

FRIDAY DECEMBER 27

Dominion on Queen
9:30 pm, solo blues with Paul James, $10
Flying Beaver
7 & 9 pm, Karen Williams & Elvira Kurt, “A post-Xmas miracle”, $20/advance & $25/door

SATURDAY DECEMBER 28
 
Dominion on Queen
9:30 pm, Daniel Buxton, Sonic Blues, $10
Flying Beaver
7 pm, Gala Variety Show benefit for Support Our Youth, pwyc ($20 suggested)

SUNDAY DECEMBER 29

Alice’s Place
4 pm, Karaoke
Dominion on Queen
11 am to 3 pm, Rockabilly brunch with the Cosmotones
Local GEST
4:30 pm, Jazz with Roberto Occhipinti Trio “The Taste of Cuba”
Mill Street Beer Hall
1 pm, Jazz brunch with the Tyler Yarema Trio
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
7 pm, Magic at the Winchester, $10
9 pm, Open Mic with Porter
This week's image - Gilead Café
 
CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD REVIEW

 
NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS

Nelson Mandela Park Public School
Photo:  CP Photo/Frank Gunn
In November 2001, Nelson Mandela along with his wife Graca Machel visited Park School in Regent Park for a special ceremony to rename it as Nelson Mandela Park Public School (440 Shuter St).  In the past week as the world mourns his death, the school has become a focus for local memorials.  The school’s page on its website notes that it will “continue to honour his spirit by building a culture of caring and providing opportunities so our students can reach their utmost potential.”  

BIXI in Cabbagetown and Corktown
The BIXI bike sharing system has been saved from disaster by the City of Toronto.  The City’s financial support and planned expansion of the existing network have rescued the project. 
Now it’s time to decide where the 22 new Bixi stations will be located.  Cabbagetown and Corktown  deserve to be prime targets.  We fit several parameters – we’re within appropriate distance of existing stations, we’re on busy commuter routes to the city core and we have suitable places for the stations.  Regent Park, Allan Gardens and St James Town all have stations already.
For lots more information, go to the Cycle Toronto website. 

The Pan Am Village
Photo: Craig White
Located south of Eastern Avenue and east of Cherry Street, the Pan Am Village is the site of the games’ housing and the future site of the Canary District commercial condominiums.  A ceremony held on December 6 marked the last of the concrete pourings.  Now the work will shift to building interiors.  To everyone’s pleasure, the project is proceeding on budget and ahead of schedule.  Urban Toronto.ca has a detailed story about the site and the future developments there along with plenty of photos and maps. 

Thomas Dannenberg’s sale
For the past three years, Thomas has lived at 290 Shuter (side door at Poulett) but the building has been sold so he has to move.  He’s selling hundreds of his illustrations that he’s done for the Star, the Globe & Mail and various magazines, his oil paintings and some of his furniture.  Wine and cheese will be served.  Friday December 13 from 5 pm and Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm.

Gerri Orwin at The Distillery
Gerri is a Raku potter and her works are in the Toronto Potters Christmas Show at The Distillery’s Arta Gallery (Gristmill Lane) this weekend.  She joins thirty other artists in the show.  It happens on Friday December 13 from 3 to 9 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm.   

Congrats to the Sherbourne Health Centre
The Sherbourne Health Centre (333 Sherbourne) has won the City of Toronto’s Pride Award for its programs working with LGBT people.  The Centre operates Supporting Our Youth (SOY), LGBTQ Parenting Network, Rainbow Health and LBGT Family Health Team. 

CHRISTMAS NEWS

Thanks from the Yonge Street Mission
Ellyn Kaufmann at Cabbagetown Self Storage (431 Parliament) has donated 34 sleeping bags and a tent to the Yonge Street Mission (306 Gerrard E) for people in need over the holiday season.  YSM’s Shirley Courtice told Ellyn that her gift is the difference between another forgetful winter and a warm memory that will last forever.  Ellyn urges other businesses in the area to support the YSM’s programs as well.  Anyone who wants to make a donation can contact the YSM at www.ysm.ca  

Santa’s coming back
Santa will visit Pet Valu (240 Carlton) on Saturday December 14 from 11 am to 3 pm.  Dale and his staff have created a great Christmas tradition with his visits.  Bring your dogs, cats, gerbils, hamsters and every other pet along for a seasonal snapshot.  Kristin Halliwell from Wet Noses Photography will be doing the photos again this year. 
This guy is wonderful.  His bubbly enthusiasm charms everyone within range.  If you’re in Cabbagetown on Saturday, watch for him and have your picture taken. 

Corktown Chamber Orchestra
The Corktown Chamber Orchestra jams the holidays, Corktown style.  Special guests include Martin Gwynne Jones and the Havergal Choir.  All proceeds go to Little Trinity Church in appreciation of the hospitality that the church gives to the orchestra. Thursday, December 12, 8 pm, tickets $10.  Little Trinity Church (425 King E).

Joint holiday concert
The Canadian Children’s Opera Company and the St James Town Children’s Choir are holding a joint Christmas concert at St Peter’s Anglican Church (188 Carlton).  The performers are kids ages 6 to 19 from the two organizations. Friday, December 13, 7 pm.  Free admission.  Please bring a non-perishable food donation for the St Luke’s food bank. 

Home for the holidays
Riverdale Farm (Winchester and Sumach), Saturday December 14, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm.  The Farm hosts a family holiday event this weekend.  Santa visits the animals. There’s a farmer’s demonstration and craft activities.  Donations for a local food bank are also being collected. 

WinterSong is coming
WinterSong is a major performance by dancers from the Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre (509 Parliament) happening at the Fleck Dance Theatre in Harbourfront (235 Queens Quay W) on Friday December 13 at 8 pm and Saturday December 14 at 2 pm.  It’s a breathtaking tapestry of seasonal dance.  Save the dates.  Tickets are $22.50 to $38, available online here.

Get your trees here
The McDermott family are back again.  For over 60 years, they’ve been selling us their trees from their spot at Spruce and Parliament (beside No Frills). 

Get your turkey here
Mark at St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament) is taking Christmas orders.  Your turkey will be ready for pick-up on December 23 and 24. He has a lot of your other Christmas goodies here as well – hams, beef, steaks.  Be sure to ask him.

Sharpen your knives
Café Olya (540 Parliament) is hosting Trevor Taylor from Quick Edge Metalwork on Saturday December 14 from 3 pm.  It’s a first-come, first-served event but you can leave your knives with Olyana and Mike ahead of time and arrange for a later pick-up.  Prices range from $5 for a paring knife up to $10 for a large chef’s knife (but there will be extra charges if a knife needs a fix-up).  Check it all out here. 

This weekend at Lowe’s Toronto Christmas Market
Lowe’s Toronto Christmas Market in The Distillery District wraps up this weekend in a big way.  The program has regular daily features like Santa’s Elves sing-along, Children’s Storytelling and the Carol Gathering.  Special events include Maderaz with Latin American holiday music (Friday, 7 pm),  the Toronto Christmas Singers (Saturday, 11 am and 12:40 pm), the Vychodna Slovak Dancers ( Saturday, noon and 3 pm),  the St John’s York Mills Handbell Choir (Saturday, 1 and 4 pm), the Randolph Glee Choir (Saturday, 3:30 and 5 pm), Terra Hazelton and Sophia Perlman in Perlhaze (Saturday, 6:45 and 7:30 pm), chamber choir Voices (Sunday, 11 am and 12:30 pm), Toronto Beach Chorale (Sunday, 1:15 pm), Hannaford Youth Band (Sunday, 3 pm), and then the Mill Street World Caroling Challenge (Sunday,  5 pm.)  Free admission. There’s a very good website with all the daily details.

Allan Gardens Christmas show
The Christmas show is the highlight of the year in Allan Gardens.  Thousands of plants fill the conservatory including over thirty poinsettia varieties. The show runs to mid-January.  Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Free admission.  (Sherbourne and Carlton)

RESTAURANT NEWS

Cafune
Photo:  Best of Toronto
Vicente Gannam has closed Cafune (194A Carlton) to the dismay and surprise of its many fans.  On the café’s voice mail, Vicente announces that Cafune has been sold and that the new managers plan to reopen in early January. 

Jamie Kennedy’s Gilead Café
The Gilead Cafe (4 Gilead Place) now offers daily a-la-carte dinner service in its wine bar from 5:30 pm,  Tuesday to Saturday.  The Café also serves breakfast (8 to 11 am) and lunch (11 am to 3 pm) from Monday to Saturday and Sunday brunch (10 am to 3 pm) and it will continue to host special programmed events and tastings.  Its menus and events are available online here. Jamie Kennedy is, of course, an important figure on Toronto’s restaurant scene.  In November, the Globe & Mail published a story about his recent problems and his new ideas for The Gilead Café. 

Junior Jazz at The Paintbox
10 to 11 am, Saturday December 14.  This month’s guest is Richard Marsella from the Regent Park School of Music.  He’ll show the kids how to make an instrument, how to play a homemade instrument and how to enjoy a large group ensemble.  Free admission.  Enjoy brunch while the kids have fun.  For more info about Junior Jazz, click here. The Paintbox Bistro (555 Dundas E)

East End Comedy Revue
Back at the Dominion on Queen (500 Queen E).  Dave Martin is your host. The revue features Ryan Belleville, Graham Chittenden, Boyd Banks and Rhiannon Archer with special guests Fraser Young, Chris Robinson and Alex Wood.  Suga Jam and Diva Ross provide the music.  8:30 pm, Saturday December 14.  Tickets are $20 each or a 4-pack at $60. 

The Local GEST – save these dates
Tiffany and the others at The Local GEST (424 Parliament) are expanding its music program.  On Sunday December 15, Robert Occhipinti’s Trio will bring “The Taste of Cuba” from 4:30 to 7:30 pm.  Then, on December 22, a highlight of the Cabbagetown calendar returns – with Jeff Barnes’ help, they’re continuing the Christmas sing-a-long tradition started by the Ben Wicks.  Save the dates.

Big shows at the Flying Beaver
On Sunday night at 7 pm, Cabbagetown’s very own cantautore, Peter Donato, makes his monthly appearance – tickets are $10/advance and $15 at the door.  Details for his show and the others on the FB’s program, click here.
On Wednesday at 7 pm, John Alcorn returns with Reg Schwager and Steve Wallace for a one-time only appearance. 

Duncan Fremlin returns to Cabbagetown
Whiskey Jack will perform at the Flying Beaver (488 Parliament) on Saturday, December 21 at 9 pm.  The group’s annual Christmas show will feature seasonal music along with special tributes to Randy Morrison who’s just won his fourth Canadian Bluegrass Fiddler of the Year Award.  Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Donna Garner’s Little Big Band Holiday Show
Monday December 16, 7 pm at the Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester). This is Donna Garner’s only jazz show in Toronto this season – she’s currently touring North America in Once and she’s appearing in the show at the Royal Alex.  Her show features special guests Rick Hughes and Matt Wolpe and a nine piece band.  Tickets are $25/advance and $30 at the door.  For more info and tickets, click here. 

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Christmas dinner at Cranberries
Once again, Siva and Ruth will open Cranberries (601 Parliament) on Christmas Day for a three-course, prix fixe dinner at $28.  Two sittings, at 5 and 7:30 pm.  Dinner will include butternut squash soup or organic green salad, roast turkey, seasonal veggies, mashed potato, stuffing, cranberries and gravy.  These events are very popular and you should book ahead, (416) 925-6330.

Stout’s annual pajama party
You’ll have to ask Erin about her pajama theme – it’s a cute story.  You’re invited to Stout’s Christmas Eve pajama party – turkey dinner with all the fixin’s.  Wear your pjs and enjoy some complimentary Christmas cheer.  Trivia starts at 7:30 pm.  On New Year’s Eve, it’s time for champagne toasts, party favours and hors d’oeuvres.  Tickets are $10, available at the pub or at the website.  Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton)

F’Amelia
Enjoy your New Year’s Eve dinner at one of Toronto’s 100 Best restaurants.  New Year’s Eve dinner specials feature butter poached lobster, venison tenderloin and truffle risotto.  Book your reservations now at (416) 323-0666.  12 Amelia Street.

Maggie Cassella’s Year End Party
New Year’s Eve from 8 pm at the Flying Beaver (488 Parliament).  Maggie looks back at the year that was.  Show tickets are $25. Please reserve your table when you buy your ticket -  there’s a minimum drinks/dinner charge of $30.  All of this is followed by the NYE Dance Party and free champers at midnight.  For those who only want to dance, the ticket is $5, space permitting.

CLUBS & PUBS – DAILY LISTINGS

THURSDAY DECEMBER 5 TO SUNDAY DECEMBER 15

Contact info
Alice’s Place, 554 Parliament St, (647) 931-9088
Dominion on Queen, 500 Queen St E, (416) 368-6893, www.dominiononqueen.com
Flying Beaver, 488 Parliament St, (647) 347-6567, www.pubaret.com
Local GEST, 424 Parliament St, (416) 961-9425, https://www.facebook.com/thelocalgest
Mill Street Beer Hall, 21 Tank House Ln (Distillery), (416) 681-0338, Facebook and http://toronto.millstreetbrewpub.ca/
Paint Box Bistro, 555 Dundas St E, (647) 748-0555, www.paintboxbistro.ca
Stout Irish Pub, 221 Carlton St, (647) 344-7676, www.stoutirishpub.ca
Winchester Kitchen & Bar, 51A Winchester St, (416) 323-0051, www.winchesterkitchen.com

If there's a cover charge or tickets are sold, we’ve listed the prices. Otherwise, the event is free.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 12

Flying Beaver
8 pm, Melanie Peterson & Graydon James, “Xmas Show”, $10/advance & $15/door
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
9 pm, Loser Karaoke with Jason Rolland

FRIDAY DECEMBER 13

Dominion on Queen
9 pm, Swamperella $10
Flying Beaver
7 pm, Heather Bambrick, Julie Michels, Diane Leah “Broadsway”, $20/advance & $25/door
9 pm, Brad Alexander, “The Legendary Bitch Diva Holiday Show”, $10/advance & $15/door
Stout Irish Pub
7 pm, Beer tastings with Kensington Brewery

SATURDAY DECEMBER 14

Dominion on Queen
East end comedy review
Flying Beaver
7 pm, Heather Bambrick, Julie Michels, Diane Leah “Broadsway”, $20/advance & $25/door
9 pm, Dykes of Hazard comedy hour,  $10/advance & $15/door
Paintbox Bistro
10 am, Junior Jazz with Richard Marsella

SUNDAY DECEMBER 15

Alice’s Place
4 pm, Karaoke
Dominion on Queen
11 am to 3 pm, Rockabilly brunch with the Cosmotones
4:30 pm, Royal Conservatory jazz students
Flying Beaver
1 pm, 2013 skeenawild film fest, $10/door
7 pm, Peter Donato, $10/advance & $15/door
Local GEST
4:30 pm, Jazz with Roberto Occhipinti Trio “The Taste of Cuba”
Mill Street Beer Hall
1 pm, Jazz brunch with the Tyler Yarema Trio
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
7 pm, Magic at the Winchester, $10
9 pm, Open Mic with Porter

MONDAY DECEMBER 16

Winchester Kitchen & Bar
7 pm, Donna Garner “Little Big Band Holiday Show”, $25/advance & $30/door
10:30 pm Win-Prov

TUESDAY DECEMBER 17

Dominion on Queen
8:30 pm, Hot Club of Corktown “Django Jam”, pwyc
Flying Beaver
7:30 pm, Alexandra Stratham’s “Season of giving cabaret” for the Daily Bread Food Bank,  $10/advance & $15/door
Stout Irish Pub
7:30 pm, Nerd Night pub quiz
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
10 pm, Games & movie night

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 18

Alice’s Place
9 pm, Karaoke
Dominion on Queen
8 pm, Corktown Ukelele jam, $5
Flying Beaver
7 pm, John Alcorn, Reg Schwager & Steve Wallace “Happy Holidays songbook”,
$15/advance & $20/door
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
7:30 pm, Smart ass trivia
10 pm, Karaoke with Jason Rolland

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19

Dominion on Queen
7 pm, The Wee Folk Club, $10
Flying Beaver
9 pm, Kendall Partington’s holiday show, no cover
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
9 pm, Loser karaoke with Jason Rolland

FRIDAY DECEMBER 20

Flying Beaver
9 pm, Ryan Hind’s Comedy, cabarat and coffee talk – holigay edition, $10/advance, $15/door
Stout Irish Pub
7 pm, Beer tastings with Railway City
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
10 pm, Barbarosa, pwyc

SATURDAY DECEMBER 21

Dominion on Queen
9 pm,  Saturday night blues
Flying Beaver
7 pm, Sara Hennesey & Stephanie Kaliner “Terrific Women” $10/advance & $15/door
9 pm, Whiskey Jack (unplugged), $10/advance & $15/door

SUNDAY DECEMBER 22

Alice’s Place
4 pm, Karaoke
Dominion on Queen
11 am to 3 pm, Rockabilly brunch with the Cosmotones
4:30 pm, Toronto Art Orchestra, $10
Flying Beaver
7 pm, Annual Holiday Variety Show fundraiser for the Sherbourne Health Centre.
Mill Street Beer Hall
1 pm, Jazz brunch
Winchester Kitchen & Bar
7 pm, Magic at the Winchester, $10
9 pm, Open Mic with Porter
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