September brings fresh cultural events, new local spots, and rich flavours to our historic neighbourhood. This month, take in groundbreaking theatre with Wine in the Wilderness at Berkeley Street Theatre (Sept 19 – Oct 4), visit the Malibu Barbie Café pop-up, or enjoy The Wizard of Oz (Sept 12 – 13) with a live orchestra at Meridian Hall. Hungry? Grab all-you-can-eat burgers at St. Louis Bar & Grill (Sept 11 – Oct 11), sample signature ribs at The Joneses’ Ribfest (Sept 12), or pick up artisan Canadian cheeses at Olympic Cheese.
Ready for a reset? Stop by the new LudaBello luxury salon, visit Luminaire Authentik’s flagship showroom, or book a VO₂ Max test at Altitude Athletic Training. Plus, enjoy free Thursday concerts in St. James Park, or a history walk with Toronto’s First Post Office (Sept 25).
And that’s just a start! We’ve packed this issue with even more community events, dining features, and neighbourhood spots. Keep scrolling below to discover it all and support local all month long!
🎭 Wine in the Wilderness at Berkeley Street Theatre (Sept 19 – Oct 4)
Sep 19 – Oct 4, 2026
He tried to paint her. She transformed the canvas.
Harlem, 1964. As riots unfold outside, painter Bill Jameson is inside his apartment putting the final touches on a portrait series about Black womanhood. When Tommy is brought in to model, her presence begins to reveal the quiet hierarchies shaping the evening. As drinks are poured and conversation loosens, the group is forced to reckon with how easy it is to repeat the very judgments they hope to rise above.
By turns funny, intimate, and piercingly intelligent, Wine in the Wilderness is a landmark work. Directed by Jordan Laffrenier, whose searing production of Slave Play was a highlight of last season, this revival brings fresh urgency and emotional precision to Alice Childress’ razor-sharp portrait of seeing and being seen.
Canadian Stage (Berkeley Street Theatre)
26 Berkeley St, 416-368-3110
www.canadianstage.com
Instagram: @canadianstage
🍖 Ribfest at The Joneses (Sept 12)
Fire up your appetite for Ribfest at The Joneses on Saturday, September 12, from 2–9pm—or until sold out. Five talented chefs will take over the patio, each serving a signature rib creation, from smoked pork back ribs with root beer glaze to Thai-style beef ribs and St. Louis-style ribs with roasted pineapple BBQ sauce. Sample all five with the Pitmaster Platter, or choose your favourite alongside a shortened à la carte menu. Happy Hour food and drink features will be available throughout the event, making it the perfect way to savour patio season with good food, cold drinks and a little friendly competition.
The Joneses
33 Yonge St, Unit 100, 647-258-5209
www.thejonesesrestaurant.com
Instagram: @thejonesesrestaurant
🌴 Malibu Barbie Café (ends Nov 1)
Dolly’s in Old Town Toronto has been transformed into The Malibu Barbie Café, a limited time pop-up experience.
All ages are welcome to the Malibu Barbie Café! We invite everyone to kick back and have fun while enjoying this immersive dining experience.
As soon as you step into our trendy Café, you’ll be transported to 1970s Malibu California with a sea of poptimistic Barbie colours, laid-back beachy motifs and lots of retro glam. Soak up the Cali vibes as you explore the immersive space inspired by Malibu Barbie, including an iconic life-size Barbie Box, made for snapping photos with your best pose. Our menu, curated by Chef Becky Brown (MasterChef Finalist), was created with all tastes and preferences in mind, and features a delicious array of classics with a unique Barbie-inspired twist.
The Malibu Barbie Café allows guests to experience the ultimate form of Barbie-inspired dining with a casual restaurant setting, emphasizing friendly fare, delicious desserts, and a variety of drinks. This limited-time pop-up will also come complete with exclusive merchandise and a variety of signature moments for fans to interact with.
Whether you’re a longtime Barbie fan, celebrating a special occasion, or just gathering with friends, we’ve got something for everyone here. This one-of-a-kind experience is perfect for making memories with your BFFs, kids, family, date, or girl squad. See you soon at the Malibu Barbie Café!
Experience the fun now through November 1st 2026.
Malibu Barbie Café
70 The Esplanade
www.bucketlisters.com/experience/malibu-barbie-cafe-toronto
Instagram: @barbiecafeofficial
🏃➡️ Get Race Ready with Altitude’s VO₂ Max Test
Are you running the Toronto Waterfront this October? Know your numbers before race day. Understanding your current fitness can help you set realistic goals, train with purpose, and make the most of the weeks ahead.
Altitude’s clinical-grade VO₂ Max Test measures your aerobic fitness, cardiovascular efficiency, training zones, and endurance capacity, giving you a personalized benchmark for your training.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply looking to finish strong, knowing your numbers can help you train with greater purpose, make every workout count, and unlock your full potential on race day.
Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic
🚶➡️ Culture Days Walking Tour with Toronto’s First Post Office (Sept 25)
Friday, September 25 2026, 10:30am
Imagine a Toronto where the tallest building is only three stories high, where Lake Ontario reaches Front Street, where the wagon wheels grind through the muddy roads, the air smells of smoke and animal, and the surrounding lands is farms, fields, and forests.
In this walking tour, explore the surviving built environment of the original 10 blocks of Toronto and learn about what life was like for its early residents in celebration of Ontario Culture Days!
The tour begins on the steps of St. James Cathedral (facing King Street East) and ends at Toronto’s First Post Office (260 Adelaide Street East). It will run rain or shine!
Pre-registration is required and admission is an optional pay-what-you-may-donation.
Please Note: Optional Pay-What-You-May Donations cannot be refunded.
Toronto’s First Post Office
260 Adelaide St E, 416-865-1833
www.TownofYork.com
Instagram: @TOs1stPO
💇♀️ European Luxury Salon Arrives in Old Town
LudaBello has officially opened its doors on King Street East, inside a beautiful historic building dating back to 1843, older than Canada itself.
We’re a women-led luxury salon with a simple philosophy: QUALITY over QUANTITY .
Come for HAIR, NAILS or FACIALS and make yourself at home. Enjoy a coffee, matcha or tea, fresh fruit and cookies, and let our European-trained team take care of you.
Our team has worked with celebrities and well-known clients, but here, everyone is treated like family.
Come say hello. Everyone is welcome.♥️
LudaBello Salon
179 King St E, 647-600-2787
www.ludabello.ca
Instagram: @ludabellosalon & @ludabello
💅 Manicure Pedicure Extension at N Nails and Spa
At our nail salon, we specialize in detailed manicure pedicures, waxing, tinting, nail art, extensions, and custom designs. From clean, natural looks to bold, intricate sets, we deliver quality work in a space that’s friendly, hygienic, and comfortable. We’re proud to serve the local community with careful attention to detail and customer care.
N Nails and Spa Yonge & Wellington
33 Yonge St unit 112, 416-729-5679
Instagram: @nnailspayongewellington
🎼 The Wizard of Oz: Film with Live Orchestra at Meridian Hall (Sept 12 – 13)
September 12 – 13, 2026
Enjoy one of the most beloved films of all time on the big screen in a magical production with the full score performed live to picture by a full orchestra.
The Wizard of Oz was a technical marvel for the MGM studio in the late 1930s. Today, MGM has stunningly remastered this timeless classic. The brilliantly restored images are accompanied by full orchestra playing new transcriptions of Harold Arlen’s brilliant lost scores. Hearing Judy Garland’s original 1939 studio recordings, backed by lush, live orchestration, will transport children and adults alike.
Meridian Hall
1 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com/Meridian-Hall
Instagram: @tolivegram
🌮 Last Sips of Summer: Patio Fridays at Ceci Bar
Kick off the weekend with a little spice at Ceci Bar. Every Friday from 4pm to close, the patio comes alive with live entertainment, drinks starting at $5 and a Mexican-inspired feature menu with every dish priced at $15 or less. Enjoy refreshing sips, flavour-packed bites and an evening of summer energy. Fridays are meant to be spent at Ceci.
Ceci Bar
101-33 Yonge St, 437-253-1613
www.cecibar.com
Instagram: @cecibar.to
🎼 St. James Park Selections (Sept Free Concerts)
End the afternoon and kick off your evening Thursdays in September from 4-6pm, at the Michael Comstock Pavilion in St. James Park with this free pop-up concert series.
Grab a seat at the park’s tables and chairs in front of the stage, or bring a blanket for the back lawn to enjoy local musicians as they add extra whimsy to our beloved park in Old Town Toronto.
👓 Back to School with Tomato at St. Lawrence Eye Care
Tomato is a specialized pediatric eyewear line that we offer here at our clinic! Now that it’s back to school season, shop for some kids eyewear with us! All frames are highly adjustable, non-slip, and lightweight! Each frame comes with a tool kit and various colors.
Come visit us and take a look at our collection!
St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-507-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare
🎭 Jordan at Young People’s Theatre (Oct 16 – 23)
A Hero’s Journey Home
Soar across space and time with Jordan, a young Cree boy who helps Indigenous children with the support of his faithful spirit bear, Maskwa. While his onstage journey is magical, the play is a vibrant tribute to a very real hero: Jordan River Anderson of Norway House Cree Nation, Manitoba.
The challenges young Jordan faced during his life became the heart of a national movement that led to the creation of Jordan’s Principle — a Canadian legal commitment ensuring equal healthcare for First Nations youth.
Join us for this empowering story that honours the fight for justice and equity for Indigenous communities.
Young People’s Theatre
165 Front St E, 416-862-2222
www.youngpeoplestheatre.org
Instagram: @ypttoronto
🍷 Biff’s Wine Dinner: Loire Valley (Sept 20)
On Sunday, September 20, discover the wines of France’s Loire Valley at Biff’s Bistro. With reservations available from 4–8pm, enjoy a five-course menu by Chef Trenton Pajuluoma, accompanied by four wine pairings showcasing the region’s celebrated styles and diverse terroirs.
Throughout the evening, the team will share stories about the Loire Valley’s winemaking traditions and distinctive appellations, with optional tasting notes available for those who wish to explore further.
Tickets are $125 per person, excluding tax and gratuity; reservations are required and space is limited. Guests requiring dietary accommodations are asked to contact the restaurant by September 13.
Biff’s Bistro
2 Front St E, 416-860-0086
www.biffsbistro.com
Instagram: @biffsbistro
💆♂️ Learn the Art of Touch, Together at Bahn Thai Spa and School (Sept 10 & 19)
Looking for a different way to spend time together? Join us for our Couples & Friends Intro to Thai Massage Workshop this September and learn simple Thai massage techniques you can share with someone special.
It’s a hands-on, relaxing experience designed to help you slow down, connect, and enjoy being present together. Choose September 10 from 6:00–9:00 PM or September 19 from 2:30–5:30 PM. Grab your spot and make your next time together a little more meaningful.
Bahn Thai Spa and School
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool
🥃 September at the Omni King Edward
Discover what’s happening this September at the Omni King Edward, from seasonal cocktails and whisky tastings to a little well-deserved spa time.
Consort Bar
The Japanese Whisky Collection
September 23 | 6:30 PM
Join us for an evening celebrating exceptional Japanese whisky, featuring curated pairings and elevated flavours. The evening includes a Toki Ginger Sour, canapés, and a three-course tasting featuring Toki Black, Yamazaki 12 Year Old, and Hakushu 12 Year Old.
$110 per person + 15% service charge & applicable taxes
For reservations, email Nitish.Ummat@OmniHotels.com.
Mokara Spa
There’s still time to enjoy a little summer relaxation. Until September 21, receive 15% off massages, body treatments and facials, plus a complimentary Céla Crème de la Crème Body Cream ($37 value) with your visit.
Mention promo code SUMMER26 when booking.
Offer valid on services of 60 minutes or longer. Complimentary gift limited to one per person, per visit, while supplies last.
To reserve: 416-863-3131 or Email: MokaraSpaToronto@omnihotels.com.
Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com
Instagram: @omnikingedward
🛋️ What We’re Loving at The Chesterfield Shop
Introducing…The Cosmo!
Canadian made- this beautiful sectional comes in left or right-hand facing.
Choose from a huge selection of gorgeous fabrics.
Priced at $3198. See store for details.
Custom order – 4 week delivery.
Come meet our team… Stephan, Deepika, Giselle and Mona- @ 275 King St. East.
The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop
🍦 A Scoop for Now, a Jar for Later at Bomba Gelato
Why stop at one scoop when you can bring your favourites home? Bomba’s handcrafted, small-batch gelato is available by the cup for an instant market pick-me-up, or in take-home jars to keep your freezer stocked.
With a rotating selection of creamy classics, fruit-forward sorbettos and signature flavours, there’s always something new to try. Visit us on the Lower Level of St. Lawrence Market and take a little Bomba home with you.
Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market, South Building, Lower Level, Market St. Side
92-95 Front St E, 647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato
🍔 All-You-Can-Eat Angus Burgers at St. Louis Bar & Grill (Sept 11 – Oct 11)
AYCE Burgers, the deal that seems too good to be true: How hungry are you?
From September 11 to October 11, enjoy ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT Angus Burgers for just $17.99!
Delicious upgrades available, such as adding a side of our signature golden fries for $2.00! Dine-in only, per person promotion, no beverage purchase required. Stop by and ask a server for more details.
St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
www.stlouiswings.com
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis
🆕 New Luminaire Authentik Flagship in Toronto
Luminaire Authentik has officially opened the doors to it’s new flagship showroom at 170 King Street East, in the heart of Old Town Toronto’s King East Design District.
Four times larger than its previous Toronto location, the new space was designed by Toronto-based Mason Studio as an immersive destination for lighting, design, and creativity. Visitors can discover a broader selection of Luminaire Authentik’s handcrafted collections, explore materials and finishes, and experience The Gallery—a dedicated space offering a behind-the-scenes look at the brand’s creative process and upcoming concepts.
The new flagship will be celebrated with an official Grand Opening event on October 15, bringing together Toronto’s design community to discover the space and the world of Luminaire Authentik. More than a showroom, the new location was created as a place to discover, connect, and be inspired.
Luminaire Authentik
170 King St E, (416) 580-3978
www.luminaireauthentik.com
Instagram: @luminaire_authentik
🧀 Choose Canadian Cheese at Olympic Cheese
The “Elbows Up” movement has encouraged Canadians to look more closely at where their food comes from and support the people producing it here at home. At Olympic Cheese, we’ve proudly championed Canadian cheese for decades.
We work directly with exceptional cheesemakers from Ontario, Quebec and across Canada. From fresh chèvre and creamy soft-ripened cheeses to aged cheddars and bold blues, Canadian cheeses can stand proudly alongside the best in the world.
Behind every wheel are Canadian dairy farmers, skilled cheesemakers, family businesses and rural communities. Choosing Canadian cheese supports this entire network while keeping more of our food dollars close to home.
Many of our Canadian products are also less directly exposed to international tariffs. We remain committed to offering competitive pricing, excellent value and regular specials to help make quality Canadian cheese more accessible.
This September, visit Olympic Cheese and let our knowledgeable team introduce you to a Canadian cheese you haven’t tried before.
Olympic Cheese
St. Lawrence Market (South Building)
93 Front St E, 416-363-7602
www.olympiccheese.com
Instagram: @olympic_cheese
🎟️ JLF Toronto at St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts (Sept 26)
September 26, 2026
JLF Toronto, in association with TO Live, is part of the internationally renowned Jaipur Literature Festival’s global series, produced by Teamwork Arts. The festival brings audiences into conversations that travel across cultures, disciplines, and borders, exploring timely themes of migration, identity, heritage, gender, democracy, medicine, and the arts.
Featuring Lyse Doucet, Mellissa Fung, Tanya Talaga, John Vaillant, Anosh Irani, Vikram Vij, Alka Joshi, Martin Puchner, Dr. Nikky-Guninder Kaur Singh, Adriana Chartrand, Fatima Syed and more!
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
27 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com/Home-Page
Instagram: @tolivegram
🙆🏾♀️ Belonging: Movement Workshops for Older Adults at The Jamii Hub (Tuesdays)
When: Tuesdays from 10am to 11:30am
Where: The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade
Age Group: 55+
Free Admission / Registration Required / No Previous Experience Needed
Our Movement workshops series is a safe and inclusive space for older adults with all levels of mobility to engage in collective physical exercises tailored towards their needs with a focus on fun and joy. This weekly workshops series goes beyond the average gym class. They are led by professional dancers who bring their diverse cultural backgrounds and artistic visions into their choreographed dance moves.
Each week, participants learn new moves and steps, work on their mind and body coordination, and practice a collective fun routine. The Movement workshop has become a weekly rendez-vous for our older Esplanadians who look forward to exercising alongside their friends in the community every Tuesday.
Workshops are free. The program is supported by the Government of Canada, New Horizons for Seniors Program, as well as the Canada Council for the Arts.
Join our Movement workshops on Tuesdays at The Jamii Hub!
The Jamii Hub
264 The Esplanade
www.jamii.ca
Instagram: @jamiiesplanade
🍩 The Most Sold Out Donut at Dipped Donuts
Want something you’ll want to come back for over and over again? Our Brown Butter Sea Salt is our most-sold donut for a reason — a soft, pillowy brioche donut dipped in brown butter glaze and finished with a light sprinkle of Maldon Sea Salt.
Available individually or in half and one dozen boxes, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, or keeping the whole box for yourself!
Pop by our St. Lawrence Market location to try one for the first time or to get your next fix. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out our new September flavours too!
Dipped Donuts
St. Lawrence Market, South Building, 95 Front St, Lower Level
647-574-3785
www.dippeddonuts.ca
Instagram: @dippeddonutsinc
🎊 Book Your Year-End Corporate Event at Bindia
Planning your team’s holiday party or a corporate meeting this fall? Bindia Indian Bistro’s private dining room seats up to 50 guests, with four event packages from $50 to $90 per person, plus on-site and off-site catering for your office. Located steps from St. Lawrence Market, Bindia is now booking November and December dates. Reach out directly to lock in your year-end event.
Bindia
16 Market St, 416-863-0000
www.bindia.ca
Instagram: @bindiaindianbistro
🍻 Happy Hour Is Now Even Happier at Duke’s Refresher
The reviews were clear; Toronto loves our Happy Hour, but we knew we could make it better. Come by between 4pm and 6pm or 10pm onwards from Sunday to Thursday and try our new food options, including our Happy Hour exclusive Crispy Garlic Bites. As always, wash them down with a great range of drinks, including our collaboration tallboys or our Cocktail Of The Month!
Duke’s Refresher
73A Front St E, 416-603-8826
www.dukesrefresher.ca
Instagram: @dukesrefresherslm
🎼 Wednesday Live Music Comes to Café Nicole
Starting this September, Wednesdays 5:30pm – 8pm at Café Nicole are getting a new soundtrack.
Join us every Wednesday for live music, dinner and drinks in the heart of Old Town Toronto, with the series kicking off September 9 and continuing throughout the fall.
Make a night of it with Happy Hour, featuring $8 Aperol Spritz, $5 3 Speed Lager, and $5 house red, white and sparkling wine, plus $3 off appetizers from 2–5 PM.
September also brings two new monthly features to the menu: the Thai Red Curry – $20, made with chicken, red pepper, coriander, lime, coconut milk and red curry paste, and the Empress 75 Spritz – $16, a vibrant mix of Empress gin, lemon, simple syrup, prosecco and a splash of soda.
Whether you’re stopping by after work or settling in for dinner and live music, Wednesday nights are a new reason to meet at Café Nicole this fall.
Café Nicole Bistro + Bar
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro
🍔 Happy Hour at Score on King
Score on King’s Happy Hour is the perfect excuse to clock out early!
Join us Monday–Friday from 2–5 PM for drink specials, tasty eats, and downtown vibes. Whether you’re catching the game, meeting friends, or enjoying the patio, we’ve got your afternoon covered!
Score on King
107 King St E, 416-519-4654
www.scoreonking.com
Instagram: @scoreonking
🐶 Tails Farewell Celebrates One Year! (Sept 27)
Tails Farewell is celebrating the 1st anniversary of our Downtown Toronto location with a pet-friendly Open House on Sunday, September 27, from 10 AM to 6 PM at 115 Berkeley Street.
Meet our team, explore our memorial spaces, and learn how we help families honour the bond they share with their pets. The day will feature a pet photo booth, live pet portraits, giveaways, treats and more. Pets, families, neighbours and members of the community are all welcome to join us in celebrating this special milestone.
Tails Farewell
115 Berkeley St, 416-943-9395
www.tailsfarewell.ca
Instagram: @tailsfarewell
🏛️ What is Old Town Toronto Business Improvement Area?
A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is made up of commercial and industrial property owners and their non-residential tenants who join together under a volunteer Board of Management (BIA Board) to carry out improvements and promote economic development within their designated area…(click here to continue reading.)
🗺️ What are the Boundaries of Old Town Toronto?
📥 How to Submit to This Newsletter
Do you represent a commercial property, or a business located within a commercial property, inside the boundaries of the Old Town Toronto Business Improvement Area? If you are not currently receiving our Members Newsletter (which includes the monthly submission form for Where To Support Local), please subscribe by clicking here.
Am I a Member? All commercial property owners and businesses located within them, within the Old Town Toronto BIA boundaries, are automatically members of our not-for-profit organization and are eligible to submit one entry per publication of Where To Support Local.
