Are you excited for February? We are! OK, before you ask if we are off our rockers, hear us out. First off, Valentine’s Day is fun in Old Town Toronto. With the theatres, restaurants, a unique greenhouse experience, and cherry truffles, whether it is a romantic celebration or quality time with friends, you are sure to enjoy some Valentine shenanigans.
In this edition of Where to Support Local we have everything from a Baileys Latte, to cat grooming, Game Day eats, a cloud-like sofa, a bridal sample sale and a whole ton more. Take a quick scroll below and make plans in Old Town Toronto this February.
The Darkest Dark at Young People’s Theatre
It’s 1969 and Apollo 11 is about to land on the moon. Nine-year-old space-loving Chris spends his days dreaming of becoming a brave astronaut. But at bedtime, the night closes in and so too does his fear of the dark. For Chris, watching history being made hinges on conquering his fear – and embracing the unknown.
From the imagination of Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield comes a ground-breaking new theatrical experience. More than five years in the making, The Darkest Dark is inspired by Commander Hadfield’s bestselling children’s book and brought to the stage by co-writers Jim Millan and Ian MacIntyre, and renowned magician David Ben. Weaving theatre, multi-media and magic, The Darkest Dark reveals a universe where anything is possible. And where the dark… is for dreaming.
Young People’s Theatre
165 Front St E, 416-862-2222
9am – 5pm
www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/shows-tickets/the-darkest-dark/
Instagram: @ypttoronto
Book A Complimentary Personal Training Trial Session
Experience personal training at Altitude! Book a complimentary trial session with one of our coaches. You’ll start with a brief consult and body composition assessment using the InBody 570 Body Composition Analyzer. (15 minutes) Then, your coach will take you through a one-on-one active session in the gym. (45 minutes)
Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
Mon – Fri: 6am – 9 pm.
Sat & Sun: 7am – 1pm.
www.altitudeathletictraining.com/personal-training-trial/
Instagram: @altitudeathletic
Celebrate Toronto’s Birthday with Tomson Highway
Each March 6, the Town of York Historical Society marks the day that Toronto became a city by telling the stories of the people who have lived here and affected the history of this place.
After going virtual for two years, we are returning to an in-person experience in the historic ballroom at St. Lawrence Hall. This year, the Town of York Historical Society is excited to welcome our special guests, Tomson Highway and the Native Earth Performing Arts Centre.
Of course, it wouldn’t be March 6th without the popular Old Town Silent Auction, featuring many of our favourite local businesses! In addition, we will be offering a cash bar and small plates featuring food from the vendors of St. Lawrence Market.
Tickets are now available at http://TOs189th.eventbrite.ca.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TOs1stPO, and this event #TOs189th to find out more about our performers, food and drink sponsors, silent auction donors and lots, and event sponsors.
We appreciate the support of many community partners in this fundraiser, including our members, neighbours, and friends who purchase tickets to our annual celebration. Proceeds from this event benefit the Town of York Historical Society and Toronto’s First Post Office, a museum and National Historic Site. The Town of York Historical Society researches, interprets, and promotes the history of the Town of York and early Toronto, and fosters the preservation of the Town of York’s surviving built environment.
The Town of York Historical Society
260 Adelaide St E, 416-865-1833
Mon – Fri: 9am – 5:30pm.
Sat: 10am – 4pm. Sun: 12 – 4pm.
www.TownofYork.com
Instagram: @TOs1stPO
Make VALENTINE’S DAY extra special with Stôk!
“Love is the flower you’ve got to let grow” – John Lennon
Say “I love you” with fresh flowers from STôK this February 14th! Our bespoke bouquets and arrangements will put a smile on your loved one’s face.
Order ahead to customize your flowers and beat the holiday rush! We’re offering hand-tied seasonal bouquets and vase arrangements alongside traditional favourites such as long stem dozen and half-dozen roses styled fresh for you.
We can deliver your flowers to your home or workplace with service in Toronto and across the GTA, or pick up your order conveniently from our downtown storefront.
Order online or over the phone at your leisure, or drop into our shop to speak with a designer to customize the perfect posy for your special Valentine!
Stôk Floral & Design
54 Church St, 416-214-4664
Mon – Sat: 10am – 6pm.
www.stokfloraldesign.com
Instagram: @stokfloral
TO Live Presents Christian McBride:
The Movement Revisited and Joe Sealy’s Africville Stories
Attention jazz fans! TO Live is proud to present Christian McBride: The Movement Revisited and Joe Sealy’s Africville Stories!
Eight-time Grammy Award-winning bassist Christian McBride is joined on stage by his Big Band, choir, and four narrators to perform his acclaimed opus that honours five civil rights icons. Toronto jazz composer and pianist Joe Sealy opens the night with Africville Stories featuring Jackie Richardson.
Africville Stories is Sealy’s new presentation that expands Africville Suite, which pays homage to one of the most misunderstood and forgotten cultures in the Maritimes—Africville, Nova Scotia.
“An epic work.” —All About Jazz
TO Live
1 Front St E, 416-366-7723 | 1-800-708-6754
Friday, February 17, 8pm
www.tolive.com/Event-Details-Page/reference/The-Movement-Revisited-2023
Instagram: @tolivegram
Matcha White Chocolate Terrine
A valentine’s treat perfect for your loved ones or for yourself! A rich matcha terrine garnished with whipped cream, chopped pistachio, matcha tuile, and gold. You can gift this to your friends and family! Available at our Frederick and King and or Bay and College locations.
NEO COFFEE BAR
161 Frederick St, 647-348-8811
Mon – Fri: 7am – 7pm.
Sat – Sun: 8am – 7pm.
www.neocoffeebar.com
Instagram: @neocoffeebarto
Cat Grooming at PetLand Spa
We know how to pamper your kitty… Our experienced cat groomer is ready to give your kitty the makeover of its lifetime. Long-haired, and short-haired cats need to be groomed regularly; Remember what kitty does in the litter box… Yes, we can also wash your cat and ensure that what belongs in the litter box is off that beautiful coat.
PetLand Spa
105 – 80 Sherbourne St, 437-988-7387
By appointment only
www.petlandspa.business.site
Instagram: @petland_spa
Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike
– A dramatic family comedy with a Chekhovian twist
Adult siblings Vanya and Sonia reside in their old family home, mourning their lost dreams and missed opportunities. When their often-wrong, fortune-telling maid warns of impending dangers, and their movie star sister, Masha, arrives unexpectedly with young, sexy, boy toy, Spike, the family is launched into a rollicking weekend of one-upmanship, exposed nerves, and a lot of broken mugs.
Come watch this talented cast of vibrant Toronto actors take on Christopher Durang’s hit comedy as they explore the prickly waters of success, jealousy, aging, and family!
Alumnae Theatre
70 Berkeley St, 416-364-4170
www.alumnaetheatre.com
Instagram: @alumnaetheatre
IMAGINE at The Chesterfield Shop
IMAGINE is the name of one of our best-selling sectionals- and you can see why!
With cloud-like cushions resting softly on a solid frame, the IMAGINE is a favourite spot for binge-watching, reading, eating and daydreaming.
With a sleek tuxedo arm, deep seat and beautiful tailoring, sink into perfect comfort!
Available in your choice of fabrics – and with 6 configurable pieces, you can customize the perfect size for your room, décor, price-point and vision!
Come see The IMAGINE at 275 King St. East – The Chesterfield Shop is your one-stop seating store for sofa-beds, sofas, sectionals, recliners, theatre seating, stationary and lift chairs, ottomans – and so much more.
Since 1948 – celebrating 75 years as a family-owned and operated company!
The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
Mon – Sat: 10am – 6pm.
Sun: 10am – 5pm.
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop
New Visions is Hiring!
NEW VISIONS – Supporting people with complex physical and developmental disabilities 24/7
Our team is committed to person directed approaches to help the people we support meet their goals and personal outcomes. We are looking for dedicated and talented individuals to join New Visions and help build a strong community in which everyone is valued and accepted.
For more information about Career Opportunities with New Visions Toronto, call 416-868-1493 ext. 225
New Visions Toronto
222 The Esplanade, 416-868-1493
www.newvisionstoronto.ca
Instagram: @newvisionstoronto
Celebrate Romance at Consort Bar
Indulge your valentine this year at Consort Bar located in the luxurious Omni King Edward Hotel. Make yourself cozy with your loved one while sipping on your favourite bubbly in the elegant atmosphere of Consort Bar.
From February 11 through February 19 Consort Bar will be offering a special Valentine’s Day Menu including an extensive bubbly list by the glass and by the bottle. Be sure to add the chef’s favorite raw and cooked oyster platter for two for an extra special evening.
Omni King Edward Hotel
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
Lunch Service: Mon – Fri: 11:30am – 3:00pm.
Dinner Service Daily: 4:00pm – 11:00pm.
Bar Service: Mon – Fri: 11:30am – 11:45pm.
& Sat – Sun: 3:00pm – 11:45pm.
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward/dining/dining-events
It’s the beginning of the year 2023 🎉✨ at Au Pain Doré
✨ For this new year, discover our new grilled cheese flavour with beets, goat cheese and walnuts✨ A sweet and comforting taste for this winter ❄️ Add the small soup of our choice to make it a combo for only $10.99!
We can’t wait to see you in one of our 3 cafés in Toronto!
Au pain Doré
81 front St E, 416-367-2738
7am – 8pm
www.atelier.aupaindore.com
Instagram: @aupaindore1956
Sash + Bustle’s Biggest Sample Sale
Our biggest Sample Sale is here – February 7-9 by appointment only. Find your dream wedding dress at a steal! Don’t miss your chance to shop from over 100 discontinued or past season wedding dresses priced $500-1995. Sizes range from 6-24 and vary in designers and styles. Trust us, you don’t want to miss this!
Sash + Bustle
111 Berkeley St, 647-340-5850
Tues – Fri: 10am-7pm.
Sat & Sun: 8:30am – 7pm.
www.sashandbustle.com
Instagram: @sashandbustle
Game Day at HotHouse:
Diavolo Pizza and Bacon Cheese Burger Special
Game Day at HotHouse – Bring in any game day ticket for the Leafs or Raptors and get any Pizza or Burger and a Pint for $25 plus tax.
We’re a ten minute walk from the arena and we’ll get you to the game on time.
Plus there is great $8 parking under HotHouse after 5pm.
Hothouse Restaurant
35 Church St, 416-366-7800
Mon – Thurs: 12pm – 8:30pm
Fri: 12pm – 9:30pm.
Sat: 10am – 9:30pm. Sun: 10am – 8pm.
www.hothouserestaurant.com
@Hothouserestaurant
Baileys Latte at Third Wave Coffee Inc.
We have been getting great feedback from our customers on this special drink. Single-origin Guatemala coffee pairs excellent with Irish Cream! Slightly sweeter non-alcoholic Baileys, made with Sheldon Creek whole milk or oat milk – delicious either way. A comforting treat that would make a perfect companion for a walk in cold weather.
Third Wave Coffee Inc.
42 Church St
Mon – Fri: 8am-6pm.
Sat – Sun: 9am-6pm.
www.thirdwavecoffeeinc.com
Instagram: @thirdwavetoronto
Keep your customers and employees warm this winter
with custom printed hoodies from Artik Custom Printing
Keep warm this winter in a custom printed Gildan Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt! Available in multiple colours. You can get your logo, image or message printed with our modern state of the art printers. we accept 12 piece minimums and fast turnaround!
Visit us at 314 Adelaide Street East. Right beside the George Brown School for culinary arts. you can also call us: 416-185-7770 or email us: info@artik.com, we are open Mon-Fri 9 am. to 6 pm.
Artik Custom Printing
314 Adelaide St E, 416-815-7770
Mon – Fri: 9am – 6pm.
www.artik.com/gildan-full-zip-hooded-sweatshirt.html
Instagram: @artiktoronto
C’est What Celebrates 35 Years February 13th!
To help us celebrate we are doing 35 days of giveaways on Instagram!
HOW TO PLAY:
• Each day leading up to our anniversary we will be posting a POP QUIZ question about C’est What’s 35 year history!
• Follow @cestwhatto and answer the multiple choice question in our stories for your chance to win!
🏆 Daily prize winners will get 1 FREE entree and C’est What craft beer! 🍺
..but that’s not all!
✨ All our 35 daily winners will be entered in a raffle to win our GRAND PRIZE POOL PARTY 🎱
🏆 PRIZE INCLUDES:
• 2 hours use of our pool tables for you and 5 friends!
• Appetizer platters!
• 6 pints of our C’est What craft beer!
✨ GOOD LUCK!
C’est What?
67 Front St E, 416-867-9499
Sun & Mon: 4pm – 12am.
Tues & Wed: 12pm – 12am.
Thurs, Fri, Sat: 12pm – 1am.
www.cestwhat.com
Instagram: @cestwhatto
Beauty Treatment Room For Rent
Gorgeous, newly renovated, 180sq ft. treatment room available for monthly rent, inside of Lift Hair Salon and NAiL KANDY.
Perfect for a self-employed individual (or two), such as Makeup Artist, Esthetician, Massage Therapist, Botox & Filler services, Permanent Makeup, or other beauty / personal services.
Furnished, but still has lots of space for your own personal touches and equipment. Many amenities included.
Come join an inclusive and fun co-working space of creative Entrepreneurs!
Please email Kate for more information: kate@nailkandy.ca
NAiL KANDY
179 King St E, 905-599-8373
Mon – Sat: by appointment only.
www.nailkandy.ca
Instagram: @nail.kandy
The Greenhouse Experience
A unique dining experience that brings the inside outside all winter long. Winter is (still) here and we know how much we’re longing for patio days to return, so we designed this unique way to enjoy that cozy cottage feel in the heart of Toronto without the commute!
Due to popular demand, there is no reservation fee and we have opened seating times to ensure everyone gets a chance to experience. Reservations are preferred. Experience the Greenhouse today!
The Corner Place
11 Jarvis St, 416-850-1738
www.thecornerplace.ca
Instagram: @thecornerplace
Valentine’s Salad Bar at AAamazing Salad
Want to make your Valentine’s Day beautiful and healthy with your team? We are here to help. We have a special salad bar menu waiting for you! It includes fresh ingredients along with homemade salad dressings and includes proteins! It’s really good, right? You can leave your message on our website or call us for more details!
AAamazing Salad
C-82 Adelaide St E, 647-342-6888
Mon – Fri: 11am
www.aaamazingsalad.ca
Instagram: @AAamazingSalad
Two Pair Promo at St. Lawrence Eye Care
Buy one pair with us and get your second pair $100 off! Optometrists always recommend a backup pair for emergencies, and for specific environments like work and home only etc. It’s like having shoes. We always need more than one pair right? Same with your glasses! Some ideas for back up pairs: office, tv, driving, switch from long day of contact lens use, vacation, outdoor/sun use. Contact us for details!
St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
Tues – Sat: 10am – 5pm.
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare
Decadent Valentine’s Day Cherry Truffles
ChocoSol’s decadent, hand-rolled dark chocolate truffles filled with Niagara sour cherry ganache are lovingly made in-house by our amazing production team.
Our cherry truffles are the perfect balance of sweet, tart and creamy, sure to capture the heart of your dark chocolate lover this valentine’s Day
As always our products are allergen friendly, free of nuts, dairy, soy, and gluten and may contain large amounts of love & ecological care.
Available in bulk (BYO container please) or in 6 packs, and we promise not to tell if there are a couple missing by the time you share it with you significant other.
Swing by our St. Lawrence Market boutique for a tasting and to stock up on your favourite ecological bean-to-bar chocolate bars & seasonal specialties!
Chocosol
93 Front St unit 22b, 416-923-6675
9am-5pm
www.ChocoSolTraders.com
Instagram: @chocosoltraders
Sidney Crosby Team Canada Framed Keepsake
at Wildlife Thrift Store
Framed Sidney Crosby Team Canada poster from our 2014 Olympic Gold Medalists. This is a fun piece of Canadian Hockey Sports Memorabilia. A perfect gift for any hockey fan or collector. On the left is a solo photo of Sidney & Team Canada on the right. All team members are mentioned.
Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
10am-8pm daily
www.Wildlifethriftstore.com
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore
Need some extra heat?
Just when you think you’ve got too much on your plate this winter, leave it to sukhoTHAI to offer a little heat. Check out these menu items and much more at sukhothaifood.ca – you can also find us on ubereats and Ritual. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @sukhothaifood!
sukhoTHAI
52 Wellington St E, 647-351-4612
sukhothaifood.ca
Instagram: @sukhothaifood
Want More?
Discover more local businesses in our Business Directory by clicking here. Everything from sushi to pet care, fitness gyms and tranquil massages… we have it all!
Submissions:
Are you an owner/manager/staff member of a local business located in a commercial property within the boundaries of Old Town Toronto / St Lawrence Market Neighbourhood Business Improvement Area? If you are not receiving an invitation to submit to this monthly blog post, please email stephenm@stlawrencemarketbia.ca and ask to be added to our contacts list. You will need to provide the name of your business, email, and address. Click here to check if you are within our boundaries.
What is a 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.)
