LOCAL NEWS
Transit on the waterfront
Waterfront Toronto has announced that all three levels of government have committed to building a transit service from the downtown to the Port Lands and the new Ookwemin Minising island. It’ll support the construction of 75,000 new homes along the lake and open full access to the waterfront. Click here for the full story.
Approval status for 509 Parliament
The developer of this project at 509 Parliament has just lodged an appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal. This takes the decisions about the project out of the City’s hands. The appeal is based on the repeated deferrals at the Toronto East York Community Council. At its April 1 meeting, the Community Council recommended that City Council oppose the appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
601 Parliament
This is the building where Cranberries is located. The owner had previously received approvals from the City of Toronto for a plan to build four extra storeys for condos above the current two storeys. This project has now been shelved. The owner intends, instead, to renovate the existing spaces and use them for medical and dental offices. Minor renovations have already started in the former street level drug store location.
Cranberries
This popular restaurant has been given a five-year lease with options for another five-year period. For its loyal fans, this is good news. It will allow it to continue as a thriving business. It will lose the side room where it held private functions and overflow crowds. The bar area will be opened up as an extra seating room. 601 Parliament.
Shop2Win
It’s back again. When you spend $20 or more at a Cabbagetown business, save your receipts and send them in every week - click here to connect. If you have a lot of receipts, send them all and increase your chances.The first draw is March 30 to April 5 with the draw on April 7. If you win, you’ll split a $1000 prize with the store where you shop and you’ll be entered in the $1500 grand prize. Prizes are given out every week.
Vendor applications
The Distillery has opened applications for small businesses, makers and artisans if you’re selling fresh flowers, artisanal goods, seasonal specialties and farm-fresh produce. The market runs from May 15 to October 12 on selected dates. For more info and an application form, click here.
Soulpepper’s programs
Curtain up, in creation lab. Soulpepper (50 Tank House Lane) is holding a six week free creative drop-in for youth in grades 10 to 12. Experiment with “storytelling through theatre, spoken word, performance and collaborative art.” Tuesdays at 5 pm until April 28. Youth can come for one session or all six. For more info and for registration, click here.
Improv. Soulpepper (50 Tank House Lane) is inviting experienced artists, enthusiasts and casual onlookers to learn more about improvisation. Weekly classes at 6 pm will be held every Tuesday from April 7 to May 12. Registration here.
Dance for non-dancers. Soulpepper’s (50 Tank House Lane) dance classes from noon to 1 pm on Fridays from April 10 to May 15. To find out more and to register, click here.
Name the ferries - vote now
Toronto is getting two new ferries to carry us across to the Island. The City has formed a naming committee and it’s holding an informal survey. You can cast your vote in favour of names for these ships - click here for the short list and the rules. The survey closes on April 6.
Rabbits
They’re everywhere in Cabbagetown and they seem to be pretty bold. Una snapped this great photo in a Wellesley Street back yard. (Photo: Una Roman D’Elia)
EASTER
Cranberries
Siva is serving another of his popular holiday feasts on Sunday - two sittings, 5 and 7:30 pm. It’s a three course dinner. Start with butternut squash soup or a mixed green salad. Then there’s roast turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and seasonal veggies or lamb shank with mashed potatoes, veggies and port wine au jus. For dessert, there’s sticky coffee pudding. Reserve your place now at (416) 925-6330. 601 Parliament. $50.
Bisou
Open daily with brunch from 8:30 am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There’s a special DJ Happy Hour at 4 pm on Saturday with Fou de Joie Prince Patrick and DJ Moon Hymns. 350 Berkeley at Gerrard
The Blake House
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the Blake House (449 Jarvis) has lamb shank, cajun trout and baby spinach and mushroom gnocchi on the menu. Plus there’s a two-course dinner with roast turkey and carrot cake for desert at $35.
Mill Street Brewpub
Live music happens from noon to 4 pm on Friday. Brunch specials all weekend, 11 am to 3 pm.
Daniel et Daniel
Yummy Easter treats are now on sale in the Food Shop (248 Carlton). Check out this Instagram post for more Easter goodies. They’re closed on Sunday and Monday.
St James Town Steak & Chops
Mark has everything that you need for your Easter dinner - ham, beef, turkey, lamb and prime rib. Open from 9 am to 6 pm on Friday and Saturday and closed on Sunday and Monday. 516 Parliament.
Councillor Moise’s Easter bunny
The Councillor is bringing his bunny to the St Lawrence Market north building (92 Front E) at 10 am for a meet-and-greet. At 11:30 am, the bunny goes to Allan Gardens (19 Horticultural Ave) for an Easter egg hunt.
Artisan Market
Jenna has organized a mini Easter egg hunt inside Artisan Market (503 Parliament). Kids will find the eggs and keep the surprise inside. Its simple and fun. She’s running it on Saturday and Sunday while her supplies last.
Easter Eggstravaganza
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the Distillery is home to Easter fun for the whole family. There’s a Scramble for eggs at 11 am with chocolate treats for everyone - register at the cabin on Gristmill Lane. Little kids, 4 and under, can play in the Little Bunny Patio on Trinity Street from 11 am to 1 pm and meet the Easter bunny from noon to 1 pm. At 12:15 pm, there’s a raffle at the Gristmill cabin with a giant chocolate bunny as the first prize and lots of other chocolate treats and giveaways.
FARMERS MARKETS
Allan Gardens Saturday Market
Open every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. It’s located in the Children’s Conservatory (19 Horticultural Ave). There’s always a selection of delightful vendors. And check out the $5 plant sale - every dollar supports the Market. For more details, click here for the Facebook page.
Cabbagetown Farmers Market
The market needs volunteers for its summer 2026 season - May 12 to October 20. You can help in three ways - set up the market from 1:30 to 3 pm, support the market from 3 to 7 pm and take down the market from 6:45 to 7:45 pm. If you’re interested, click here for more info. Riverdale Park West, Winchester and Sumach.
Underpass Park Farmers Market
Musicians are invited to apply for performances at the weekly Underpass Market. Artists will receive $100 for solo acts and $200 for groups, plus a busking opportunity. Dates are open from May 14 to October 15. Click here to apply. 29 Lower River Street.
IN THE MEDIA
Congrats to the House on Parliament
On Saturday, the Star did a big article on five outstanding pubs in Toronto. Number One on the list was the House on Parliament (454 Parliament). Briony Smith highlights its menus, its history and the people who own and operate it. Above all, they like the way the HoP relates to its surrounding neighbours.
Jets on Toronto’s harbour front
Alyshah Hasham and May Warren have studied the implications of expanded jet service at Billy Bishop airport. They look at the impact of jets on housing in the area, particularly on the proposed new developments in the Port Lands. Click here for their story. (Image: Toronto Star)
Deadly dog fight
A large dog - a cross between an American bulldog and a Mastiff - attacked a small dog recently outside the Maple House condos on Mill Street near the Distillery. The smaller dog’s injuries were severe and one of its owners was also bitten on the thumb. Its owners had it euthanized. Following an investigation, the large dog was also killed. Raju Mudhar has written about the tragic event and about the frequency of these attacks in Toronto. (Photo: Crystal’s family.)
YOUR ANNOUNCEMENTS
Prince Edward County retreat
Zach and Audrey have a beautiful B & B in Prince Edward County near Milford. It’s available now for Spring and Summer bookings - it’s filling up so you should reserve your vacation soon.. It sleeps eight in five bedrooms in exceptional comfort. Pets are welcome. Check it out online here.
Contents sale
Victoria is hosting a contents sale on Saturday from 9 am at 39 Metcalfe. The list of items is impressive. She suggest that you bring your “best negotiation skills” (and cash) and she adds that you’ll also get to visit an historic apartment..
COMING EVENTS
Movies at Stout
Weekly free movie nights at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton). The lineup features family movies - bring your kids. On Sunday April 5, it’s “Star Wars Episode One, The Phantom Menace” and on April 12, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”. There’s free popcorn. Sundays at 5:30 pm. To save your spot - send an email to Erin or call her at (67) 344-7676. erin@stoutirishpub.ca
Story time
The Children’s Book Bank (585 Dundas E. Suite 260) and the Toronto Sceptres are holding a celebration of women’s sports and stories. Meet and talk to Sceptres players. Each child will get a free copy of Women’s Hockey Fanbook by Erin Silver. Please register online. Tuesday April 7 at 4:45 pm.
Danny Marks
Danny is back at The Smoke Show (744 Mount Pleasant) on Sunday April 5 from 3 pm.
Jeff & Noah
They’re playing at The Wing House (420 Parliament) on Saturday April 4 from 8 pm.
RESTAURANT NEWS
Jazz at Johnny Gs
The jazz nights at Johnny Gs (Parliament) are getting positive reviews. This week’s shows feature future stars on Thursday, blue jazz romance on Friday and soul, blues and swing on Saturday. All at 8 pm. Cover charge is $10 - all proceeds go to the musicians. Enjoy dinner while you’re there.
WEEKLY CALENDAR - CLUBS & PUBS
Here’s your list, day by day, of events and specials in our clubs and pubs for the next ten days. For contact info, see the list at the bottom of this page.
THURSDAY April 2 TO SUNDAY APRIL 12
THURSDAY APRIL 2
Johnny Gs
8 pm, Jazz with the Michelle Gopul Trio
Mill Street Brew Pub
7 pm, Trivia with Quizmaster Jess
Old Flame Brewery
7 pm, open mic with City Love
FRIDAY APRIL 3
Decoy
Corey’s Sweet 16 (X3) birthday party
Johnny Gs
8 pm, Jazz with Toby Hughes and Roberta Hunt
Mill Street Brewpub
Noon to 4 pm, live music and DJ with brunch
Zero
7 pm, Cocktail class
SATURDAY APRIL 4
Bisou
4 pm, Fou de Joie with Prince Patrick & Moon Hymns
Decoy
6 pm, Giordano’s Big Italian Birthday
Johnny Gs
8 pm, Jazz with Sean Stanley
Old Flame Brewery
2 to 6 pm, live entertainment with Jordan Arnott
7 pm, Karaoke
SUNDAY APRIL 5
Old Flame
7 pm, live entertainment with Freddy on Guitar
Stout Irish Pub
5:30 pm, Sunday movie night - Star Wars, Phantom Menace
Zero Cocktail Bar
7 pm, cocktail class
MONDAY APRIL 6
Stout Irish Pub
7 pm, Headscratchers Trivia
TUESDAY APRIL 7
La Gloria
4:30 pm, Practice your Spanish
Stout Irish Pub
7 pm, Headscratchers Trivia
Super Bargain
6:30 pm, Achillean Special Event, Blood on the Clocktower
WEDNESDAY APRIL 8
F’Amelia
5 pm, Wine Wednesday with half priced bottles
Golden Pigeon
8 pm, Trivia with Rachelle Lauzon
Old Flame Brewery
7 pm, Trivia night
Stout Irish Pub
7 pm, Euchre night
THURSDAY APRIL 9
Johnny Gs
8 pm, Soul Jazz Night
Mill Street Brew Pub
7 pm, Trivia with Quizmaster Jess
Old Flame Brewery
7 pm, open mic with City Love
FRIDAY APRIL 10
Johnny Gs
8 pm, Jazz Night
Old Flame
7 pm, live entertainment with Jay Blues Trio
Zero Cocktail Bar
7 pm, cocktail class
SATURDAY APRIL 11
Bisou
Noon to 4 pm during brunch, DJ Antony
Johnny Gs
8 pm, Jazz Groove
Old Flame Brewery
2 pm, live music with Floyd Ives
SUNDAY APRIL 12
Old Flame Brewery
2 pm, live music with Genevieve Cyr
Stout Irish Pub
5:30, Sunday movie night - Harry Potter & the Philosopher’s Stone
CONTACT INFO
Alphabetical lists for restaurants in Cabbagetown, Canary District, Corktown, Distillery and Regent Park.
Cabbagetown
Alice’s Place - 554 Parliament, (647) 931-9088
Bisou - 350 Berkeley (at Gerrard), (437) 971-7150
Blondies - 419 Parliament, (437) 341-1555
Butter Chicken Factory - 560 Parliament, (416) 964-7583
Chew Chew’s Diner - 186 Carlton, (416) 323-0068
China Gourmet - 235 Carlton, (416) 515-0088
Church’s Texas Chicken - 537 Parliament, (416) 519-3846
Desi Bit3S - 568 Parliament, (416) 928-9731
Epos Coffee - 290 Gerrard E
Falcha Fusion - upstairs, 568 Parliament, (416) 926-9141
F’Amelia - 12 Amelia, (416) 323-0666
Gushi - 296 Gerrard E (at Parliament), (437) 241-1710
Hakka Bistro - 398 Parliament, (416) 944-3033
Hakka & Jerk - 296A Gerrard E, (647) 643-5405
House on Parliament - 454 Parliament, (416) 925-4074
Jet Fuel - 519 Parliament, (416) 968-9982
Johnny G’s - 478 Parliament, (647) 368-3877
Ju Sushi Bar - 383 Dundas E, (416) 594-0383
Kibo - 533 Parliament, (647) 352-3788
Kingyo Fisherman’s Market - 51B Winchester, (647) 748-2121
L’Avenue - 583 Parliament, (647) 368-8008
La Gloria Mexican Coffee - 453 Parliament, (647) 806-6383
Luis H - 556 Parliament, (416) 964-1000
Madras Curry - 178 Carlton, (416) 323-0000
Maya Bay - 252 Carlton, (416) 924-8989
Mikaku Udon Bar - 229 Carlton, (416) 323-0033
Momo Ghar - 568 Parliament, (416) 920-8224
My Pandan Cake - 246 Gerrard E, , (416) 276-6698
New Retro - 193 Carlton, (416) 519-8511
New Town - 413 Parliament, (437) 777-8260
Noushe - 200 Carlton, (416) 466-9595
Pastor Tacos - 245 Gerrard E, (647) 687-1175
Phosome - 482 Parliament, (416) 551-6395
Pisac Peruvian Bistro - 195 Carlton, (416) 515-0989
Playground Cafe - 492 Parliament, (437) 799-5248
Poopathi Mess - 585 Parliament, (416) 923-4243
Rayah - 505 Parliament,
Red Cranberries - 601 Parliament, (416) 925-6330
Saigon Pai - 446 Parliament, (416) 920-8424
Salt & Tobacco - 521 Parliament, (647) 348-2993
Shalom Ethiopian - 587 Parliament, (416) 964-7271
Souvlaki Express - 484 Parliament, (416) 637-6777
Stout Irish Pub - 221 Carlton, (647) 344-7676
Super Bargain - 441 Parliament, (416) 266-6471
Tasso - 540 Parliament
Tender Trap - 580 Parliament, (416) 920-5147
Thai Room - 243 Carlton, (647) 352-8424
The Golden Pigeon - 424 Parliament, (416) 392-1039
The Vibrational Apothecary - 243 Gerrard E
Urban Thai - 415 Parliament, (416) 513-1020
Wing House - 420 Parliament, (416) 968-0294
Wing Machine - 443 Parliament, (416) 961-1000
Zakkushi on Carlton - 193 Carlton, (647) 352-9455
Zero Cocktail Bar - 223 Carlton, (416) 920-9376
Canary District
barBurrito - 464 Front E, (416) 601-1777
Cherry Street BBQ - 275 Cherry, (416) 461-5111
Fuel+ - 469 Front E, (416) 306-6480
Keating Channel - 2 Villiers, (416) 572-0030
Region - 475 Front E, (416) 864-0800
Souk Tabule - 494 Front E, (416) 583-5914
SukhoTHAI - 460 Front, (416) 777-2092
Corktown
Banknote Bar - 474 Adelaide E, (416) 367-7327
Berkeley Cafe - 262 The Esplanade, (416) 825-0504
Decoy Bar - 370 Queen E
East Coast Donair - 314 Parliament
Figs - 344 Queen E, (416) 913-7205
Fusilli - 531 Queen E, (416) 214-5148
Gusto 501 - 501 King E, (416) 477-5647
Impact Kitchen - 573 King E, (416) 306-1986
King Solomon & Queen of Sheba Ethiopian - 360 Queen E, (416) 368-9002
Ladybug Wine Bar - 514 King E, (437) 222-0142
Lisbon Hotel - 19 Lawren Harris Square
Mengrai Thai - 82 Ontario, (416) 840-2754
Signature Bar - 320 Queen E, (416) 996-6004
Reyna - 354 King E, (416) 546-3155
Sumach Espresso - 118 Sumach, (647) 351-3833
The Rosebud - 498 Queen E, (647) 531-1388
Wood 900 Grill+ Bar - 372 Queen E, (416) 363-1571
Distillery
Arena Coffee Bar - 15 Tank House Lane
Arvo - 17 Grist Mill Lane, (647) 352-2786
Balzac - 1 Trinity St, (416) 207-1709
Boku Japanese - 42 Gristmill Lane, (416) 368-8686
Brick Street Bakery - 27 Trinity St,
Cluny - 35 Tank House Lane, (416) 203-2632
Eataly - 21 Trinity
El Catrin - 18 Tank House Lane, (416) 203-2121
Jardin Kitchen & Juice Bar - 28 Gristmill Lane, (416) 203-2363
Madrina - 2 Trinity St, (416) 548-8055
Mill Street Brew Pub - 21 Tank House Lane, (416) 681-0338
Old Flame Brewery- 45 Tank House Lane, (416) 360-1209
Pure Spirits - 17 Tank House Lane, (416) 361-5859
Scooped by Demetres - 46 Gristmill Lane,(416) 988-2482
SpiritHouse Toronto - 16 Trinity St, (416) 948-9926
Young Centre Cafe - 50 Tank House Lane, (416) 866-8666
Regent Park
Cafe Zuzu - 555 Dundas E, (416) 815-2660
Liberty Pizza - 657 Dundas E
