August in Old Town Toronto is bursting with unforgettable moments — from candlelit belly dancing and Moroccan feasts to a free Indigenous arts festival in Berczy Park, refreshing summer sips, exclusive spa specials, pizza deals, new smoothies and bánh mì, plus end-of-season sales. Whether you’re craving bold flavours, unique finds, or just a reason to explore the neighbourhood, this edition of Where To Support Local is your ultimate guide to making the most of the month. Scroll down and dive in!
Dancing With Flavours At The Sultan’s Tent
Mark your calendar for Sunday, August 31st. Dancing with Flavours is a one-night-only experience inside The Sultan’s Tent that blends Moroccan cuisine, live music, and captivating belly dance.
You’ll enjoy a 3-course dinner in a candlelit setting, a live show featuring saxophone and darbuka drums, and a performance that transports you straight to the heart of North Africa. Sensory, romantic, and unforgettable, this is your perfect summer send-off.
BOOK NOW on Open Table by clicking here.
The Sultans Tent
49 Front St E, 416-961-0601
www.thesultanstent.com
Instagram: @thesultanstent
Mountain Readiness Assessment With Altitude Athletic Training
At Altitude Athletic Training, we are dedicated to prepare our community for high altitude adventures. Our Mountain Readiness Assessment is an active test designed to evaluate your sensitivity to altitude for your upcoming expedition at your desired elevation. During the test, we monitor your blood oxygen levels and heart rate as you breathe hypoxic ‘altitude’ air generated to simulate increasingly higher elevations. This assessment provides valuable insights into your body’s response to altitude, helping you anticipate and prepare for potential challenges on your adventure.
If you’re going to high altitude destination we recommend starting with our Mountain Readiness Assessment, and we can discuss next steps based on the results from there.
Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic
Employee Of The Month At aKin
We would like to highlight the excellent work done by our Bar Manager – Nathan Murray, for reimagining what sustainability can look like on a cocktail menu. With his new menu and cocktail pairings he has done away with traditional techniques to bring us into Summer with a menu that astonishes and ignites the palate.
“In the ever changing world of bartending and sustainability, our approach at aKin always prioritizes flavour and culinary integrity. Our newest tasting menu focuses on modern interpretation of classic dim sum. To accompany this, our bar program focuses on utilization of tea as it is the most common beverage consumed with dim sum.
To take it a step further, we have eliminated all classic citrus juice i.e. lemon and lime juice. Instead we brew various types of locally sourced tea and acid adjust them to the same level of acidity as the classic acidic juices. Through this process we are able to drastically reduce waste as well as create our own unique aKin flavour for every cocktail we make.” – Nathan Murray
aKin
51 Colborne St, 416-363-0151
www.akintoronto.com
Instagram: @akin.toronto
Free Festival In Berczy Park! (Aug 15-17)
This summer check out the UpFRONT Festival of Indigenous Arts, Music & Culture, a vibrant, free outdoor event happening August 15 to 17 in Berczy Park and Scott Street in downtown Tkaronto.
🎶 Enjoy three days of live music from celebrated Indigenous artists, plus family-friendly programming, a lively artisan market, a visual art showcase, and live graffiti wall transforming the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts into an open-air gallery.
🎨 And don’t miss the month-long exhibition at Meridian Arts Centre (July 28–August 24), showcasing beadwork, sculpture, photography, and more by Indigenous artists. Presented by TO Live.
TO Live
Berczy Park and Scott Street, 416-0368-6161
www.TOlive.com
Instagram: @tolivegram
100% Refreshing Summer Drinks At Au Pain Doré
Our classic lemonade lemon/basil and our brand new “Memories from Napoli” iced tea from Camellia Sinensis.
Quench your thirst with our basil lemonade, a perfect blend of invigorating flavours! Our recipe combines the traditional zesty lemon of a lemonade with the herbal taste of fresh basil, creating a unique drink.
And introducing a green tea-based blend as colourful as it is refreshing. Inspired by the warmth of the Mediterranean, it combines the herbal flavours of rosemary and green tea with the zest of grapefruit.
Wonderful drinks to enjoy under the summer sun!
Offer valid for a limited time in our participating cafés.
Au Pain Doré
81 Front St East, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com/en/
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe
Bomba Is Now On Doordash!
Craving authentic Italian gelato? Bomba is now on DoorDash! Enjoy premium, handcrafted gelato delivered straight to your door — available by the scoop or in elegant glass jars to go. Crafted in Muskoka by master artisan Gio, each batch is made with the finest ingredients and a passion for bold, unforgettable flavour. Indulge in signature creations like Extreme Madagascar Vanilla, Super Salted Butter Caramel, Lemon Unlimited, and the rich Beyond Pistachio De Bronte. Treat yourself to a true taste of Italy, wherever you are.
Bomba
St. Lawrence Market South Building Lower Level, Market St. Side, 647.348.9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato
Summer Sale At Bahn Thai Spa
Step into summer comfort with our Thai Fisherman Pants Flash Sale at Bahn Thai Spa! These flowy, breathable pants are perfect for lounging, stretching, or just staying cool—and now when you buy one pair, you get another FREE. It’s the perfect time to treat yourself and grab a second pair for a friend (or keep both—we won’t judge!). Hurry in while supplies last—this BOGO deal won’t be around forever!
Bahn Thai Spa
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool
La Dolce Vita At The Omni King Edward
🍋 Summer Afternoon Tea, Saturdays & Sundays | 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Victoria’s Café
Savor a Mediterranean summer with our La Dolce Vita inspired Afternoon Tea. Indulge in citrus-kissed pastries, savory Italian-style canapés, refreshing teas, and sparkling sips—all served in the elegant ambiance of Victoria’s Café.
It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy a true taste of Italian indulgence.
Make your reservation by calling (416) 863-4125 or visit https://www.opentable.ca/r/victoria-cafe-afternoon-tea-toronto.
August Mokara Spa Specials – Cheers, Bella!
Treat yourself to Your Majesty’s Pedicure and a Mokara Manicure for a luxurious 2-hour experience. Enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco with your service.
Duration: 2 hours | Price: $185 | $205
NEW! Pure Relaxation Massage
Unwind with our new full-body massage focused on the back, neck, scalp, and feet. This 60-minute treatment includes a hot stone back massage and a gentle foot scrub to relieve tension and improve circulation.
Please note: Performed by a non-Registered Massage Therapist.
Duration: 60 minutes | Price: $215 | $240
Book now by calling 416-863-3131 or emailing MokaraSpaToronto@omnihotels.com.
Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward
Instagram: @omnikingedward
Big On Comfort, Small on Space At The Chesterfield Shop
Step into our Downtown King St. showroom and discover recliners that are as stylish as they are comfortable. Designed with sleek profiles and compact footprints, these chairs offer full-body comfort, without overwhelming your space.
Whether you want zero gravity support, heated massage, or built-in lumbar care, our recliners are packed with features that help you truly unwind.
Browse these 3 models (and many more) on our showroom floor.
275 King St. East.
The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop
Nami’s Premium Teriyaki Bento
Nami’s Premium Teriyaki Bento brings together the best of land and sea: organic teriyaki chicken breast, grilled teriyaki salmon, harami steak, crispy tempura, 3 pieces of sashimi, and 6 pieces of salmon avocado roll. A full course experience in one box.
Nami Japanese Restaurant
55 Adelaide St E, 416-362-7373
www.namirestaurant.ca
Instagram: @namirestaurant
Sip Into Summer With Balzac’s!
Discover bold, refreshing flavours with our latest creations! The Citrus Espresso Tonic blends tangy Blood Orange syrup with rich espresso for a vibrant pick-me-up. Or, try our Sparkling Lemonades, available in Blueberry Basil and Strawberry Rose, crafted with fruit purée and a fizzy finish. Perfect for summer, these drinks are sure to brighten your day!
Balzac’s Coffee
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
www.balzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee
NEW: Bánh Mì & Smoothies At Cuon Cuon
Expanding on our existing menu, we will be serving Vietnamese bánh mì. Add your protein of choice to a warm toasted Vietnamese bun, along with seasonal herbs, homemade butter, pate and our signature soy sauce for a unique and fresh experience.
Introducing our smoothie station. Select from mango, strawberry, blueberry and banana. Customize it with choice of roasted peanuts, roasted almonds and toasted coconuts, along with a variety of cream options including coconut and almond milk, to satisfy your summer taste buds.
Cuon Cuon
140 The Esplanade, unit 4, 416-770-7881
www.cuoncuon.ca
Instagram: @cuoncuon.esplanade
Flash Sale – Lauft Is The Ideal Event Venue
🍁 Fall is Around the Corner – Plan Ahead & Save! 🍁
As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to start planning your fall work functions and holiday events. Whether you’re organizing a board meeting, networking mixer, or seasonal celebration, LAUFT is your go-to venue in downtown Toronto – and we’re making it even easier to book early.
🎁 Book Now & Get 20% Off – Until August 31st!
To help you get ahead of the season, we’re offering 20% off from now until August 31st on your early booking for work and holiday events. Lock in your date now before our calendar fills up!
The Ideal Venue for Your Next Association Event
Looking for the perfect space to host your next professional gathering?
Ditch the dull and discover LAUFT – a modern, flexible venue located right on King Street in the heart of downtown Toronto. Designed with professional and membership associations in mind, our space inspires collaboration, creativity, and connection.
4 Reasons to Host at LAUFT:
1️⃣ Flexible Spaces – Customizable meeting rooms to suit your event
2️⃣ High-Speed Connectivity – Seamless Wi-Fi for smooth presentations
3️⃣ Professional Atmosphere – Impress in a stylish, modern setting
4️⃣ Prime Location – King East, DT – TTC accessible, steps from dining, coffee, and more
From strategic sessions to year-end socials, LAUFT has everything you need to make your event stand out.
🎉 Fall Early Booking Offer!
Use code FALL20 to receive 20% off your booking – now to August 31st or while spaces last.
Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait – plan ahead and save!
👉 Book now at lauft.work
📍 95 King St E, Toronto
📞 1-844-935-2838
📸 Follow us on Instagram: @lauftworkspace @evntbylauft
Lauft
95 King Street East, Unit 101, 1-844-935-2838
www.lauft.work/locations/evntbylauft
Instagram: @evntbylauft
Fall Class Series At The Fifth Dance
Fall Class Series at The Fifth Dance are now open for registration! Join us for weekly class at the corner of Adelaide St E & Sherbourne.
Sign up for one of our 8 week class series including: Beginner Contemporary, Intermediate Contemporary, Absolute Beginner Ballet, Beginner Ballet, Absolute Beginner Pointe, and Beginner Pointe.
Learn from professional dancers in a community-centered dance studio where everyone is welcome. Sign up before spots fill up!
The Fifth Dance
366 Adelaide St E, 647-746-5355
www.thefifthdance.com
Instagram: @thefifthdance
Sailing Under The Stars – With New Visions Toronto
A Magical Evening for a Meaningful Cause – New Visions Toronto is thrilled to announce the return of our signature fall fundraising event — Sailing Under the Stars!
Mark your calendars for Friday, November 7, 2025, as we set sail at the beautiful Mimico Cruising Club for an unforgettable evening in support of individuals with complex physical and developmental disabilities.
With the shimmering lake as our backdrop, guests will enjoy a warm and elegant evening beginning at 6:00 PM, featuring cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet sit-down dinner, live entertainment, and a lively auction — plus a few magical surprises along the way!
With only 100 guests in attendance, this intimate event promises meaningful connection, inspiration, and impact.
Stay tuned — ticket details and sponsorship opportunities will be available next month!
Together, let’s make a difference — one starry night at a time.
New Visions Toronto
222 The Esplanade, Lower Level Suite 10, 416 868 1493
www.newvisionstoronto.ca
Instagram: @newvisionstoronto
Back To School Blue Light Upgrade At St. Lawrence Eye Care
Purchase glasses with us today and receive a free blue light filter upgrade! You will also get 20% off the lenses when you do an eye exam with us! Our Hoya blue light filter “recharge” lens will reduce eye strain, eye dryness, and protect your sleep by preventing the blue light from reaching your eyes.
St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare
Daily Special – Medium 1 Topping Pizza $9.99 At The Slab Pizza
Our Medium Pepperoni Pizza is just $9.99 — a delicious deal you can’t beat! Loaded with perfectly crisp pepperoni, real mozzarella, and our signature olive oil–infused tomato sauce on a slow-proofed crust. Baked fresh in our high-heat oven for that perfect golden edge and amazing flavour in every bite.
The Slab Pizza
19 Richmond St E, 437-766-5583
www.theslabpizza.com
Instagram: @theslabpizza
Super Cups – Super Sips At Chatime
Super Cup Offer: $6 1L Strawberry Peach Glow and Pineapple Coconut Breeze
● Strawberry Peach Glow: A vibrant blend of strawberry and peach,
infused with refreshing coconut water for a light, fruity sip that tastes
like sunshine in a cup.
● Pineapple Coconut Breeze: A creamy, tropical fusion of juicy pineapple
and smooth coconut milk — a vacation-worthy drink thatʼs rich, breezy,
and totally indulgent.
Both drinks are available in classic (non-slush) and slush versions.
Terms & conditions: Cold drinks only. Additional charges apply for extra toppings and/or substitutions. Not available on 3rd-party delivery platforms (UberEats, Skip, DoorDash, etc.). Valid in-store only. Available until August 24th, or while quantities last.
Chatime
163 King St E, 416-223-9871
www.chatime.ca
Instagram: @chatimecanada
Curate Your Space With Wildlife Thrift!
This August, embrace sunlit spaces and fresh style by mixing thrifted posters and home décor with summery accents and sustainable charm. This season, vintage graphics meet nature-inspired pieces for an effortlessly layered, lively look.
As summer trends turn toward brightness, texture, and personality, our store is bursting with new items everyday! Vintage travel prints, botanical posters, antique maps, and retro adverts make for joyful wall art that tells stories. Frame them in mismatched vintage frames for added character and charm. These pieces are ideal for building gallery walls that feel personal, lived-in, and full of energy.
Shop at Wildlife Thrift Store for the perfect unique finds to furnish your space today!
Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
WildlifeThriftStore.com
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore
7 Days For $7 At 6SFitness
Discover 6S Fitness: 7 Days for Just $7
Looking for a new gym to call home? Come try out any of our group classes – including HYROX, Powerlifting, Olympic Weightlifting, and 6SFit — for just $7! For one week, you’ll get access to expert coaching, small class sizes, and a supportive local community, all under one roof. Located right in the heart of downtown. Ready to move better, feel stronger, and have fun doing it? Click here to come try out 6SFitness!
6SFitness
209 Adelaide St E, 416-518-5746
www.6sfitness.ca
Instagram: @6s.fitness
Live Music In The Beer Garden At C’est What?
C’est What’s Beer Garden has live music every Thursday night from 5-7pm. This summer’s resident artists are Craig Robertson and Josh Taerk. You can also find live jazz every Saturday afternoon from 2-4pm with the Louisiana Hot 4! Don’t miss these talented local musicians playing live in C’est What’s awesome new(er) outdoor space – The Beer Garden | 94 the Esplanade
C’est What?
67 Front St E (restaurant) / 94 the Esplanade (beer garden)
416-867-9499
www.cestwhat.com
Instagram: @cestwhatto
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
Are you an owner/manager/staff member of a local business located in a commercial property within the boundaries of Old Town Toronto Business Improvement Area? If you are not receiving an invitation to submit to this monthly blog post, please sign up by clicking here or email stephenm@oldtowntoronto.ca and ask to be added. Be sure to provide the business name and address. Click here to check if you are within our boundaries.
