This week’s image: A scary event - a reminder of the big fire at 650 Parliament. It turned out to be a small dryer fire that was quickly handled.
CABBAGETOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD
REVIEW
FEATURED LOCAL ARTIST
Alan Waterhouse
Alan and Sandra Waterhouse were long-time Cabbagetown residents. They’ve recently moved to Queen’s Quay. He is Professor and Chair Emeritus of Urban Planning at the University of Toronto and a former member of the City of Toronto Housing Design Review Panel. For many years he was active with the Cabbagetown Preservation Association.
He first started to paint as an architecture student in Manchester when, long before computer-aided design, proposals were often accompanied by fully-rendered watercolour drawings. Since then, many have been rendered on the spot, en plein-air, and enlivened by people and dogs. Others are recollections, abstractions, or watercoloured monoprints.
Sheffield burning – WWII. Watercolour on paperI was five years old when the Sheffield Blitz began and still remember those nights in my hometown vividly. On most occasions, my brother, mother and I spent the nights in our Anderson Shelter; on others, we were caught exposed while the city exploded in a firestorm of incendiary bombing. This Turneresque semi-abstraction watercolour attempts to recapture the horror of it all.
NEWS ABOUT THE FOUNDRY
News about the Foundry demolition
Friends of the Foundry reports that “The city suspects that a sale of the Foundry site was agreed to as early as September 2020, a full month before Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steven Clark issued a Minister’s Zoning Order for Lot 17/26. This may be why the demolition was rushed without notice.”The demolition of the Foundry in the West Don Lands by the Province of Ontario has been stopped by a court injunction. A second round of court hearings will happen later in February to decide whether the Province can continue with the destruction.
Friends of the Foundry posted a video on Facebook showing a front-end loader continuing its demolition work on February 1 despite the court order.
Last week, there was a photo of workers tearing down the plaque marking the Foundry as a heritage site. Toronto Parks, Forestry & Recreation has rescued it. (Photo: The Canadian Press, Frank Gunn)
Better plans for the Foundry
The Corktown Residents & Business Association has developed a plan for the Foundry over the past year. Thanks to Martha Fusca for sending along the link. Click here to see the details.
Take action - stop the demolition
A group called Friends of the Foundry has set up a website and Facebook page. They’re continuing to pressure the provincial government and to pass along the latest news. Over 22,000 people have now signed its petition. Donations are welcome to pay for the court costs - by Thursday, over $26,000 has been raised. Over 700 people have used the Friends’ suggested letter to Premier Doug Ford - it’s on the website and there are photos and updates to use on your personal Facebook and Instagram pages.
LOCAL NEWS
The WINK is open
The new community skating rink in Winchester Park (Ontario and Prospect) is open for skaters of all ages. COVID rules require limited numbers of skaters at one time. Make your same-day reservation (available at 8 am daily) at the WINK’s Facebook page in its About section - one household at a time, one reservation per household per day, maximum five skaters. Early reports say that the ice is terrific - it’s shovelled and flooded every day. Wear a mask. Kids under 12 must wear a helmet. It’s natural ice - the rink is subject to temperature changes. It’s expected to be warm on Thursday afternoon and Friday and the rink will be closed. Saturday will be colder and the rink will be in business. Make your family’s same-day reservations at the WINK’s Facebook page. Don’t forget the skate exchange - donate your skates in the box at St Jamestown Steak & Chops (516 Parliament). There’s a GoFundMe drive underway to defray costs - click here. (Photo: Lindsay Matheson)
A new medical clinic
Three family doctors have just opened a new practice in Cabbagetown. City Family Doctor Clinic (595 Parliament, Unit 103) opened on Monday February 1. During the current COVID restrictions, much of their registration and practice will be online. Doctors Jeffery Mascarenhas, Zerah Lurie and Sharita Manga are now accepting new patients. Call (416) 926-1006 or go online to their website.
Pop-up testing clinic
If you have worrisome symptoms or think you may have been in contact with someone who’s sick, visit the COVID testing clinic. From 1:30 to 4 pm on Wednesdays, February 10, 17 and 24. 40 Oak Street in Regent Park. Bring an OHIP card (if available) or some other identification. No appointment needed. It’s a free service.
Artists wanted
The Cabbagetown BIA is looking for artists to provide images that will be displayed in storefronts in its district starting in March. The works should revolve around the themes “hope”, “rejuvenation” and “community”. An honorarium will be paid and artists will have an opportunity to sell their works. Please send your submission to coordinator@cabbagetownto.com and include the following - name, pronouns and social media handle, photo and description of existing work and links to your past works. Deadline for submissions is Friday February 12.
City of Toronto skating rinks
Riverdale Park East, Regent Park and Sherbourne Common are open from 10 am to 10 pm daily. During the COVID restrictions, outdoor rinks are still open with a 25-person limit. Change rooms and lockers are closed. You can make a reservation and confirm that the rinks are open at the City’s website. (Photo: Waterfront Toronto)
Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum Historical Tidbit
Image: Victoria Ice Rink 1863, TPL RR536 CabIce rinks have graced the Toronto winterscape since before Confederation … and continue to draw eager patrons during our current COVID-19 pandemic. Among the earliest rinks was the Victoria Skating Rink on the southwest corner of Sherbourne and Gerrard across the street from the new Horticultural Gardens that became Allan Gardens.
On March 7, 1863 10-year-old Alice Worts twirled her way to victory over a dozen older competitors in the Ladies Competition. According to the Canadian Illustrated News reporter, the young ladies created a “fairy scene, as the skaters flitted hither and thither, surrounded by a large circle of enchanted admirers.” In this pre-Zamboni era, the ice proved to be “in a bad condition,” favouring the younger and lighter competitors who skimmed across the surface while some of their older and heavier rivals broke through the ice and fell. The following week, Mayor Bowes presented the prize. Alice’s father, “the eminent distiller of Trinity Street” J G Worts, said how pleased he was that “young ladies took such pleasure in that invigorating exercise.” The Canadian Illustrated News published this illustration to mark the occasion. For more Cabbagetown history, photos and videos visit the CRPM Facebook page.
COMING EVENTS
Cabbagetown Celebrates Love
Imagine the excitement - grab a takeout Valentine’s dinner and spend an evening absorbing twelve romantic short films. The Cabbagetown Short Film Festival is screening a Valentine special from February 14 to 20. Gina is gathering up her favourites now. Tickets $10. Once you start viewing, you can see each film at your leisure over three days. Click here to buy your ticket and to see the program.
Regent Park School of Music recital
Celebrating Black art and culture. Tuesday February 9, 5 to 6 pm, Zoom Get the link here.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Greg Lemond g-force recumbent bike
For sale. It’s a beauty - completely functional. This low impact exercise bike has multiple programs and settings. $999. Text/call (416) 301-6037.
Volunteers wanted
The Corktown Residents & Business Association is seeking four new Board members. It’s an active group with regular meetings and community projects. The annual meeting happens in March and interested people can email the CRBA here.
The Cabbagetown Residents Association covers the area east of Parliament, north of Gerrard and south of St James cemetery. It’s now recruiting new Board members. There’s an online summary of the Association’s program and the duties of its Board members - click here.
Cabbagetown BIA. The BIA is forming two new committees. One will deal with future public art installations. The second will assist with planning and developing its public events. Interested people should email the BIA.
IN THE MEDIA
Shooting in Regent Park
At 11:30 pm on Tuesday February 2, three men were shot while sitting in a car in a parking lot on Oak Street near Sackville. One man had life-threatening injuries and the other two had serious wounds. A fourth man was not injured. Breanna Xavier-Carter did a story in the Toronto Star. (Photo: Jeremy Cohn/CBC)
SIU investigation
Toronto Police officers injured a man during a confrontation at Richmond and Sherbourne at 4 am on Wednesday morning. He was waving a knife and threatening to harm himself. They attempted to subdue him with tasers but they were not effective. One officer then fired a bean bag from a shotgun. The man was taken to hospital with a serious wound. The provincial SIU has started an investigation. Rhythm Sachdeva wrote about the incident in the Toronto Star. (Photo: Bob Tymczyszyn / Torstar file photo)
FOR YOUR KIDS
Special offer on Kumon classes
Kumon Cabbagetown (543 Parliament) is offering free registration (save $50) for the month of February. Virtual classes are available. Please call (416) 939-2300 or email vasudhachadha@ikumon.com
Cedar tea Zoom workshop
Learn how to make cedar tea and how to plant a cedar tree. Monday February 8 from 6:30 to 7:45 pm via Zoom. Register by Monday February 1. Pick up your kit (cedar, seeds, planters and soil) at the Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas E) from 1 to 4 pm, February 4 and 5. Pick-up preferred, text 647-348-5437 when you arrive. $10 or pay what you can.
BUSINESS NEWS
St James Town Steak & Chops
Mark is closing for the week between February 14 and 21 for repairs and annual cleanups. He’s reopening on Monday February 22. Until then, check out his Facebook page for his SuperBowl treats. 516 Parliament.
Made For Love
Kendall & Co (514 Parliament) makes leather furniture in hides of all colours. This tan butterscotch leather loveseat is their latest arrival. Perfect for sitting side by side to Netfilx and chill. Shop local with Kendall & Co for your Canadian-made furniture, rugs, drapery, window shades and wallpaper. Their design team is available by virtual appointment to help with your furnishings and decorating, noon to 5 pm on weekdays. Simply book yours by email or call 416.363.9914 and go online.
SUPERBOWL SPECIALS
Superbowl dinner from Stout
Watch the game on Sunday with Stout’s Superbowl feast, $75 - 1 pound each of wings, chicken tenders and chilli with caesar salad. onion rings and fries. Hot sauce, bbq sauce, blue cheese dressing, chipotle aioli and grilled pita. Add a six pack of Louis Cifer at $18. Please order by 4 pm on Saturday by email to Madelaine at Stout or call (647) 344-7676. Pickup on Sunday after 2 pm at 221 Carlton.
SuperBowl snacks
The House on Parliament (454 Parliament) has wings, nachos, chilli, beer, wine and cocktails. Takeout and delivery. Call ahead to order (416) 925-4074
The Irv
The Irv (195 Carlton) has everything you need for a SuperBowl feast - burgers, wings, fries, poutine and beer. Call (647) 350-4787 to order.
EARLY NOTICES ABOUT VALENTINES DAY
A dynamite duo
Kim from Spruce (455 Parliament) and Tania from House on Parliament (454 Parliament) are teaming up to create a terrific gift box. No firm details yet but an inside source says that it’ll include “a sumptuous dessert for two, wine or bubbles, romantic candles, bubble bath and more.” Whoa - bubble bath has come to Parliament Street! More info next week about the gifts and your pre-orders.
Blooming Flower Bar
Anji at Blooming Flower Bar (559 Parliament) is featuring pre-made floral arrangements in vases. You can save 10% by ordering for delivery on Saturday February 13. Check out her website and select the one that you like best. She’ll be moving her shop to a nearby location in Cabbagetown by the end of the month. Watch her Instagram page for her final sales and for her garage sale where she’ll sell some of her fixtures. (647) 350-8076, 559 Parliament.
Soma Chocolates
The Distillery’s Soma Chocolates (32 Tank House Lane) has limited-edition Wild at Heart dark chocolate cherry truffles with roasted walnuts, cherries and wildflower honey sable. Available for pick-up, delivery or shipping starting February 1. Order yours today for Valentine’s Day.
Terroni Sud Forno Produzione e Spaccio
Terroni (22 Sackville) has a wide range of Domori chocolates available in store. Domori was founded by Gianluca Franzoni in 1997. It’s based outside Turin and is considered one of Europe's finest chocolate makers. Open Sunday, Monday and Tuesday from 8 am to 6 pm and Wednesday to Saturday from 8 am to 7 pm.
Roselle
The bakery (362 King E) has prepared four desserts for Valentines. The OG For Two - a giant heart sandwich cookie. The Sweetheart cake - Roselle’s seasonal Valentine's mousse cake. Rose heart shortbreads. And raspberry heart meringues. Find out all the yummy details on Instagram.
Gifts from Stout
Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) has put together a gift box with a bottle of Stella Rosa cabernet/shiraz, eight long-stem roses and twelve chocolate-covered strawberries. Pre-orders only by February 10 for delivery on February 13 and 14 by 5 pm or pickups on February 13 and 14, 11 am to 8 pm. $80. Email Erin with your order.
Cranberries
Another great three-course dinner from Siva at Cranberries (601 Parliament). This time, it’s for takeout - call (416) 925-6330. Sunday February 14. Shrimp bisque soup or organic greens to start. Black Angus striploin and jumbo shrimp garlic or grilled Atlantic salmon or herb crusted chicken breast for your entree. Dark chocolate and brandy truffle with a fruit garnish for dessert. Check the menu for the delicious veggies and seasonings. $30 per person.
Wine and dine with Daniel et Daniel
Daniel et Daniel have partnered with Ryan Sullivan, The Flying Somm, to create a romantic Valentines experience for you and your sweetheart. Your three-course dinner starts with smoked salmon and caviar, caprese salad and olive ciabatta. For your main course, choose black cod with forbidden black rice and carrots or grilled beef tenderloin with green beans and herb mashed potatoes. For dessert, there’s chocolate and passionfruit truffles and a box of chocolates. Plus, you’ll get two bottles of wine and a virtual wine tasting experience with Ryan. $249. For more details and to register, email Laura Mattiussi.
DOVA
DOVA (Carlton) has a four-course dinner for your Valentine - scallops crudo, large house-made ravioli, fresh Newfoundland calamari & snow crab on a seafood tomato broth, fresh Baffin Island turbot and tiramarena. It all comes ready to finish at home. Please pre-order by February 13th for pickup by 9 pm on Saturday February 13 or Sunday February 14 Don’t forget to add your wine! Have kids? Not to worry! Add on some pasta or pizzas for them to enjoy too!
F’Amelia’s Valentine packages
Three choices for your Valentine - Netflix and chill for 2 with red or white wine at $150, Romanza dinner for 2 with red or white wine at $200. $25 for specials for your kids. Upgrade your order with one of six choices of recommended wines for an extra $10. See F’Amelia’s website for menu details. Email your order or call (416) 323-0666.
Stout’s Valentine weekend dinner for two
Available February 12, 13 and 14 from Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton). Two 10-oz New York striploins with Jameson mushroom peppercorn cream sauce, garlic and herb champ potatoes, Cajun roasted carrots, butter French beans and Stout’s house salad. Two for $75. Add a bottle of Ironstone cabernet sauvignon for $30. Please order by Thursday by email to Madelaine at Stout or call (647) 344-7676. Pickup after 4 pm.
RESTAURANT NEWS
Go to the restaurants’ websites and Facebook pages for the menus from your favourite places - click here for the contact list.
F’Amelia’s got pizza and panzarotti
F’Amelia (12 Amelia) is back from February 9 to 13 with a week of pizza and panzarotti for $25. Add an arugula salad for $10 and a bottle of wine for $20. The regular menu will resume on February 16.
Stout’s weekend special
This weekend’s dinner at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) features steak and Italian sausage with caramelized onion and sauteed mushrooms, rosemary garlic roasted potatoes, carrots and parsnip puree and Stout’s house salad. Available Friday and Saturday. Two for $65 and one dinner for $35. Add a bottle of pinot grigio or grenache syrah for $25. Please order by Thursday by email to Madelaine at Stout or call (647) 344-7676. Pickup after 4 pm.
Paintbox
There’s a new menu at paintbox (555 Dundas E). Sandwiches, salads and snacks - with vegetarian, vegan and halal options. Check out the in store specials of local products, pantry and essentials. Open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4 pm and weekends from 10 am to 5 pm. Details online.
Cyril’s soups
For the next two weeks, Cyril is making two different chilis. For Saturday February 6, it’s beef chili. 3 to 9 cups at $4/cup and 10+ cups at $3.50 per cup. His juice is winter citrus - 2 cups at $9. Then on Saturday February 13, it’s vegan chili. 3 to 9 cups at $3/cup and 10+ cups at $2.50 per cup. His juice will be pear and pomegranate - 2 cups at $9. He’s offering his soup containers in 2 cup, 3 cup and 4 cup sizes (minimum 3 cups). You can also place bulk orders for freezing, banquets and special orders (minimum 10 cups) and save 50 cents per cup. His soup deliveries are happening again - email him to place your order.
CONTACT INFO
COVID regulations for retail stores
There’s a business directory on the Cabbagetown BIA website with the COVID details listed beside each store’s info.
Food services
A comprehensive listing of our local food services is now available in our new Cabbagetown Directory. The list includes bakeries, coffee shops, delis, restaurants and pubs. Each entry gives the name, address, phone number and a link to a Facebook page or website. Click here to find your favourite.
Imagine the excitement - grab a takeout Valentine’s dinner and spend an evening absorbing twelve romantic short films. The Cabbagetown Short Film Festival is screening a Valentine special from February 14 to 20. Gina is gathering up her favourites now. Tickets $10. Once you start viewing, you can see each film at your leisure over three days. Click here to buy your ticket and to see the program. 
