Looking to try something new or do a little shopping? Find your dream dress at a Sash + Bustle bridal trunk show, hunt for second-hand treasures at Jamii’s Thrift Market (Nov 26–29), or keep your cycling legs strong at 10,000 feet with Altitude Athletic Training.

And that’s just the beginning! We’ve stacked this issue with late-fall features, holiday deals, and neighbourhood favourites. Keep scrolling below to discover more reasons to visit our historic neighbourhood of Old Town Toronto!

Free Lunchtime Concerts at St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts (Nov 12, 26 & Dec 10)

TO Live Presents Sound Break, a free weekly concert series every Thursday at noon, featuring incredible Toronto-based artists. Sound Break alternates weekly between St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts downtown and Meridian Arts Centre uptown. Bring your lunch and stay for the full performance, or stop and listen as you pass through. It’s free, no tickets are required, and every Thursday offers a new way to discover Toronto’s vibrant music scene.

St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts performances:

Thursday, November 12, 2026: 12 pm
DJ Dopey · Turntablism – live vinyl manipulation & sound design | St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Bluma Appel Theatre lobby

Thursday, November 26, 2026: 12 pm
Tichaona Maredza · Zimbabwean contemporary and traditional music fusion | St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Bluma Appel Theatre lobby

Thursday, December 10, 2026: 12 pm
Diar (دْيَار) · Arabic music infused with flamenco | St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Bluma Appel Theatre lobby

St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
27 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com
Instagram: @tolivegram

Food Tour: Cozy Bites in Old Town Toronto (Nov 19, 20 & 21)

Grab Your Tickets: Fall Food Tour through Old Town Toronto!

Method: Guided Walking Tour
Dates: Nov 19, 20, & 21, 2026
Times: 11:30am – 2pm & 3:30pm – 6pm
Special Pricing: Only $15 (Food samples included. Regularly $110, now generously sponsored by the Old Town Toronto BIA)

Take a delicious detour through Old Town Toronto this fall! Presented by Old Town Toronto BIA, Eat More Food Tours invites you to explore this historic neighbourhood through its local flavours, fascinating stories, and seasonal charm.

Wander along a charming, walkable route through streets awash in autumn colour. Stop to sample local flavours and culinary treasures at the iconic St. Lawrence Market, explore the wonders around St. James Park and find some new hidden gems along Richmond and Adelaide. From savoury bites inspired by global cuisines to freshly baked treats from a local institution, there’s plenty to tempt your taste buds along the way!

Between bites, your guide will bring Old Town Toronto to life with stories of its cultural roots, historic landmarks, and the people and businesses that continue to shape this vibrant corner of Toronto.

Bundle up, bring your appetite, and join us for a fall outing filled with cozy bites, captivating local stories, and delightful discoveries that reveal a new side to Old Town Toronto!

Trunk Shows at Sash + Bustle (Nov 5-8, 12-14, & 26-29)

Discover your dream dress at Sash + Bustle during our upcoming Truvelle, Aesling, and Laudae bridal trunk shows! For a limited time, explore an exclusive selection of gowns from these beloved Canadian designers, featuring romantic details, modern silhouettes, and bold, fashion-forward styles.

Whether you’re a minimalist bride or love a little drama, there’s something special waiting for you. Book your appointment to experience these stunning collections with our expert bridal stylists!

Sash + Bustle
111 Berkeley St, 647-340-5850
www.sashandbustle.com
Instagram: @sashandbustle

2 Extraordinary Events from Music Toronto (Nov 15 & 24)

MUSE: What Makes It Great?® with Rob Kapilow – Mendelssohn Octet — Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Explore the youthful genius of Mendelssohn’s exhilarating Octet through engaging commentary and live musical examples, followed by a complete performance featuring Jonathan Crow, Annalee Patipatanakoon, Sharon Wei, Roman Borys, and the Dior String Quartet, plus audience Q&A.

Illia Ovcharenko, piano — Tuesday, November 24, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Acclaimed Ukrainian pianist returns to Toronto with a program exploring fantasy and virtuosity, featuring Beethoven, Schumann, Ukrainian composer Viktor Kosenko, and Liszt’s electrifying Dante Sonata.

Music Toronto
27 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.music-toronto.com/2026-27-concerts
Instagram: @music.toronto.concerts

Festive Season at The Omni King Edward (Nov 28 – Jan 10)

Magical Memories Await
Celebrate the festive season at the Omni King Edward with holiday traditions, seasonal dining and Nutcracker-inspired experiences in the heart of Toronto.

Nutcracker Tea Service
November 28, 2026–January 10, 2027 | Fridays–Sundays
12:30 & 2:30 p.m. | $89* per person

Sugar Plums & Pirouettes
December 13 & 20 | 12:30–5:00 p.m.
$125 per person | An elevated afternoon tea experience featuring a special ballet performance.

Yuletide Cocktail Atelier
December 1 & 15 | 4:00 p.m.
$110+ per person | Cocktails, canapés & festive mixology

Holiday Dining
Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet | December 24 | $159*
Christmas Day Brunch | December 25 | $155*
Christmas Day Dinner | December 25 | $175*

New Year’s Day Brunch
January 1, 2027 | 10:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. | $149*

For reservations: 416.945.3323 or To-Festive@OmniHotels.com
*Prices subject to applicable taxes and service charges.

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward
Instagram: @omnikingedward

Hunger at the Alumnae Theatre (Nov 11-22)

A timely drama about currency in a time of conflict. In an isolated farmhouse during a time of war, Johanna and Max attempt to hide two persecuted individuals, Isaac and Rivka, in an alcove behind their walls. When the money runs out, they are forced to take in a third refugee, Helen, whose father is willing to pay very well for her safety. But the alcove isn’t big enough for three, and as the war outside reaches its climax, hunger reduces the protectors and the protected alike to a surreal state of desperation.

Hunger was a finalist for the BMO Winterset Award in 2022.

Alumnae Theatre
70 Berkeley St, 416-364-4170
www.alumnaetheatre.com
Instagram: @alumnaetheatre

Celestia Light Show & Music at St. James Cathedral (Ends Jan 31)

Celestia is a seated, multisensory arts experience that transforms St. James Cathedral in Toronto into a living canvas through a visually stunning and emotionally rich narrative of light, projection, and music.

Using cutting-edge technology, Celestia highlights the architectural grandeur of the cathedral with a spectacular visual narrative and an evocative orchestral music score, inviting visitors of all backgrounds to a dazzling celebration of creativity and community that leaves you inspired, energized, and connected!

St. James Cathedral
106 King St E
www.celestiaexperience.com/toronto
Instagram: @celestia.experience

What We’re Loving at The Chesterfield Shop Ltd.

It’s November, definitely a month to embrace! The Holidays are around the corner!

Black Friday Savings! And why not start it on November 10th this year?

Meet the Elise – a gorgeous contemporary sofa. You can order it in multiple configurations, fabrics and leathers – we can design it to fit your specific room space and decor.
Made in Canada, supporting our best craftspeople.

Come meet Stephan and his amazing team at 275 King St. East.
Open 7 days a week, check website for details.

The Chesterfield Shop Ltd.
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop

Indiana Jones in Concert at Meridian Hall (Nov 27 & 28)

TO Live Presents Indiana Jones and Raiders of the Lost Ark Live in Concert. Originally released in 1981 as a collaboration between George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Raiders  redefined the possibilities of adventure cinema and launched actor Harrison Ford to legendary status. Experience the complete film on the big screen accompanied by a full symphony orchestra performing John Williams’ iconic score live.

Meridian Hall
1 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com/Meridian-Hall
Instagram: @tolivegram

Off-Season Cycling Training at Altitude Athletic Training

As temperatures drop and winter approaches, outdoor cycling season begins to wind down. But your training doesn’t have to! The off-season is the perfect opportunity to maintain fitness, build strength, and prepare for an even stronger season on the road — all while experiencing the added challenge of training at altitude.

At Altitude, you can keep riding all winter in our specialized training environment at 10,000 ft above sea level. Whether you’re logging miles on Zwift, tackling intervals, building your aerobic base, or complementing your rides with strength training, our facility has what you need to stay consistent and keep progressing.

Our premium Technogym bikes feature both SPD- and Delta-compatible pedals, so you can clip in with your preferred cycling shoes. They also connect directly with platforms like Zwift and TrainingPeaks, making it easy to follow your training plan and track your performance.

Start your off-season with a clear understanding of your current fitness and a baseline to track progress throughout the winter and into your next cycling season. Our Cycling Performance Assessment is a comprehensive 90-minute evaluation featuring on-bike VO₂ Max testing, cycling-specific force plate analysis, and an InBody body composition assessment. You’ll receive a detailed report with personalized heart rate training zones and actionable insights to improve efficiency, build strength, and optimize your performance.

Book your Cycling Performance Assessment here to get your indoor training season started!

Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic

Jamii’s Thrift Market is back! (Nov 26-29)

Jamii’s Thrift Market is back at The Jamii Hub (264 The Esplanade), with four days of second-hand shopping featuring clothing, accessories, home items, and other like-new treasures.

Admission is free, with items available for suggested donations from $1 to $50, or more for rare finds, all supporting Jamii’s free arts programs.

Have items you no longer use? Drop them off on Wednesday, November 25, from 11 AM to 7 PM (donations only), or bring them while the market is open on Thursday and Friday, November 26 and 27, from 11 AM to 7 PM, and Saturday, November 28, from 9 AM to 7 PM. The market continues on Sunday, November 29, from 9 AM to 4 PM, for shopping only.

No need to donate items to shop, so come browse, find something special, and support a good cause in your neighbourhood!

Jamii
264 The Esplanade, 647-504-2703
www.jamii.ca
Instagram: @jamiiesplanade

Brewery & Cocktail of the Month at Duke’s Refresher

Did you know we have a Brewery & a Cocktail of the Month?!

November’s Brewery of the Month is Elora Brewing; purveyors of beautiful beers like their Elora Borealis Pale Ale and Lodestar Sour. We’ll have more beers from them on rotating all month too!

Our Cocktail Of The Month is the Pineapple Pie; a beautiful blend of Jameson Whiskey, Fireball Whiskey, Pineapple Juice & Ginger Ale – sweet & fiery for a crisp fall day, and only $5 during Happy Hour from Sunday – Monday.

Drop by in November and give ’em a try!

Duke’s Refresher
73 Front St E, 416 603-8826
www.DukesRefresher.ca
Instagram: @dukesrefresherslm

Cavalcade of Lights Celebration (Nov 27)

Presented on behalf of our local businesses, come kick-off the holiday season with lights and live music in Berczy Park, 35 Wellington Street East in Old Town Toronto on Friday, November 27th from 5:30pm – 6:30pm.

The Old Town Toronto Cavalcade of Lights welcomes everyone to Berczy Park, known for its beloved fountain featuring dogs and one saucy feline. Come enjoy a whimsical holiday light display perfect for an Insta-worthy memorable experience. Free admission!

Please note the fountain dogs, with help from the City of Toronto’s Parks Department, have been sent to the spa for a new coat of paint and will return sometime in spring 2027. (Oh and the cat has joined them too!)

Dog Grooming Now Available with Megan at Atlas Paws Corktown

In addition to our daycare services that you’ve grown to love, Atlas Paws Corktown has now added grooming services. Please help us in welcoming Megan to our team! With many years of dog care experience under her belt along with five years of professional grooming, your dog will be treated with kindness and respect and leave looking fabulous! We hope to see you soon.

Atlas Paws Corktown
529 Richmond St E, 647-370-7444
www.atlaspaws.com/pages/corktown
Instagram: @atlaspawsclub.corktown

Totally Pumpkin at Au Pain Doré

Pumpkin spice latte: the most popular Fall classic drink is back! Hot or cold. Great with our pumpkin/cream cheese danish or our pumpkin tartlet. Dive into the comforting flavours of fall … A golden, crispy crust serves as the foundation for a creamy, spiced filling made from freshly pureed pumpkin, infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger, each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Come try these must-haves for the season!

Au Pain Doré
81 Front St E, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe

Old Town Walking Tour with Toonie Tours (Daily 10am)

The Toronto Walking Tour is more than just a sightseeing stroll — it’s your personal invitation to fall in love with Canada’s largest city, one story at a time.

Simply show up and let a friendly local guide lead you through the lively heart of downtown. From its early days as a humble fur-trading post to the glittering skyline of today, Toronto carries a rich, layered story best experienced on foot. With nearly half its residents arriving from every corner of the globe, walking these streets feels like a mini world tour.

Your guide will bring the city’s past and present to life, taking you past iconic, photo-worthy landmarks while sharing the culture, quiet lore, and must-try recommendations that make Toronto special. By the end, you won’t just be looking at the city — you’ll feel part of its ongoing story.

This is a pay-what-you-feel tour — you decide the value at the end based on how much you enjoyed your guide’s stories and care.

Toonie Tours
37 King St E, 647-490-1812
www.toonietours.ca
Instagram: @toonietours.toronto

$90 Massage Sale at Ludabello Salon (Ends Dec 31)

BIG HOLIDAY DEAL! SAVE UP TO $70 ON ALL MASSAGES!

Enjoy any massage service for just $90 instead of up to $160 at LudaBello Salon in Toronto!

Meet Nelya, our specialist Aesthetician with 17+ years of experience!

Choose from full-body massages, facial massages, head, neck, shoulder massages, and more!

Offer ends December 31, 2026!

Check out Nelya’s Instagram to see her work and services.

Ludabello Salon
179 king St E, 647-600-2787
www.ludabello.ca/services
Instagram: @nelya_aesthetics

From Street Eats to the World Cheese Awards with Olympic Cheese

photo credit: Andrew Reimer

Olympic Cheese was proud to partner with MountainOak Cheese and Stonetown Cheese at Fred Victor’s 10th annual Street Eats at Daniels Spectrum on October 7, showcasing Ontario artisan cheeses at an event that raised more than $236,000 for food and meal programs across Toronto.

Guests enjoyed MountainOak Gold and Black Truffle alongside Stonetown’s Lavender Rose and Wildwood, with Wendy Furtenbacher joining Nick Tsioros to share the stories behind the cheeses.

Pictured with Nick in their World Cheese Awards aprons, Wendy represented both cheesemakers and is also a cheese educator in George Brown’s Continuing Education program.

This November, Nick will once again join the international judging panel at the World Cheese Awards in Córdoba, Spain. Organized by the Guild of Fine Food, the competition brings together cheese professionals from around the world to assess thousands of cheeses, with organizers expecting more than 5,000 entries this year.

Olympic Cheese
93 Front St E, 416-363-7602
www.olympiccheese.com
Instagram: @olympic_cheese

Nutrigenomix Testing at 6S Fitness

This November, 6S Fitness and its in-house dietitian team, Food For 6S, are launching nutrigenomic testing through Nutrigenomix, a company founded at the University of Toronto.

One simple cheek swab is analysed for 45 to 70+ nutrition-related genes, covering nutrient metabolism, heart and metabolic health, food intolerances, weight and eating habits, and fitness.

Results show how your body is likely to respond to different foods and nutrients, and the test doesn’t diagnose or screen for disease or deficiency. It’s open to everyone, not just 6S members, and makes a thoughtful holiday gift.

To order, email info@6sfitness.ca, and book a No Snack Intro with the Food For 6S dieticians if you’d like your results explained and a nutrition plan to go along with it.

6SFitness
209 Adelaide St E, 416-518-5746
www.6sfitness.ca
Instagram: @6s.fitness

Bindia’s New Look for Diwali

Bindia Indian Bistro has unveiled a newly renovated dining room on Market Street: crystal chandeliers, a brick gallery wall, a backlit onyx bar, and long tables for families and large groups.

The timing is deliberate. Diwali weekend falls on Saturday, November 7 and Sunday, November 8, and the family-owned bistro across from St. Lawrence Market is welcoming families to celebrate together, or to order Diwali catering from its kitchen for gatherings at home.

Planning a holiday party or year-end team dinner? Bindia is now booking December groups. Reserve at bindia.ca or call 416-863-0000.

Bindia Indian Bistro
16 Market St, 416-863-0000
www.bindia.ca
Instagram: @bindiaindianbistro

An Evening in with Next-Level Gelato from Bomba Gelato

Your next night in deserves next-level gelato. Inspired by Italy and made in Muskoka with all-natural ingredients, Bomba’s take-home jars bring a little Italian indulgence to your freezer. Go rich with Maximum Chocolate or keep things bright with Lemon Unlimited, two flavours worth making room for.

Pick up a jar at Bomba in St. Lawrence Market and enjoy it after dinner, share it with someone special, or keep every last spoonful for yourself as you cosy up for a nice evening in at home.

Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market, South Building, Lower Level, Market St. Side
95 Front St E, 647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato

Special Offer: Autumn Multi Pair Sale at St. Lawrence Eye Care (Ends Nov 30)

We are offering a special multi pair promotion for the autumn season! Purchase 2 pairs and receive 15% off the first lenses and 50% off the second set of lenses. Our lenses are manufactured from Hoya, a Japanese lab that has been around for over 80 years! See better, look better, and feel better!

Offer ends Nov 30, 2026.

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare

Learn the Art of Touch at Bahn Thai Spa and School

Come learn the art of touch with us!

Join us at Bahn Thai Spa & School for two Thai Massage workshops this coming month:

Thursday, November 12 | 6–9 p.m.
Saturday, November 21 | 2:30–5:30 p.m.

Slow down, connect, and learn gentle Thai Massage techniques to share with someone you care about. Explore rhythmic pressure and assisted stretching in a warm, welcoming setting. No experience needed—just comfortable clothing and a willingness to learn.

Come with a partner or friend and discover a thoughtful new way to care for each other.

Spaces are limited. Contact Bahn Thai Spa & School to reserve your places.

Bahn Thai Spa and School
136 Adelaide St E, 4165943406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool

Winter Wingsanity is back at St. Louis Bar & Grill (Nov 6 – Dec 13)

Its the most wonderful time of the year … Winter Wingsanity is back!!! For only $25.99, you can enjoy an unlimited serving of our delicious wings (Original, Dusted, Boneless, or Plant-Based). Not convinced? This year we are also offering guests a chance to win a trip to Japan!

Stop by and ask a server for more details. Our All-You-Can-Eat promotion runs from November 6 – December 13, 2026. How hungry are you?

St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
https://order.incentivio.com/c/stlouiswings/locations/toronto92kingst/menu
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis

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.

The post Where To Support Local This November appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

Looking for a new challenge or activity? Train with Coach Yaath at Altitude Athletic Training, explore with Toonie Tours or pre-register your pup for Fur Ball 2026 (Oct 18). Searching for a fresh look? Check out new Spanish eyewear at St. Lawrence Eye Care.

And that’s just a taste! Keep scrolling below to discover more fall events, dining specials, and local favourites all month long!

How to Train Your Dragon 2 in Concert at Meridian Hall (Oct 16 – 17)

Experience the spectacular sequel presented in HD, with its thrilling score performed live to picture!

Winner of the Golden Globe Award for best animated feature film, DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon 2 is that rare sequel that’s a worthy successor to the original! Hailed by critics and audiences alike, the acclaimed adventure continues featuring groundbreaking animation, brilliant storytelling, and stirring emotion.

When Hiccup and Toothless discover a secret ice cave with wild dragons and a mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves in an epic battle to save the future of man and dragons!

How To Train Your Dragon 2 In Concert features this spectacular sequel presented in HD with composer John Powell’s thrilling score performed live to picture by a full symphony orchestra in an awe-inspiring experience for the whole family.

Friday, October 16, 2026: 7:30 pm
Saturday, October 17, 2026: 2 pm

Meridian Hall
1 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com/Meridian-Hall
Instagram: @tolivegram

 12-Hour Braises & Scratch Indian at Rikki Tikki (Now Open!)

Rikki Tikki has opened its flagship at 71 Jarvis Street, bringing a strictly scratch-cooked Indian kitchen to Old Town Toronto.

Moving away from heavy cream and commercial pastes, our chefs focus on in-house micro-batch spice extractions, 12-hour slow-cooked braises, and wild-caught colossal prawns.

Located steps from St. Lawrence Market, we invite the neighbourhood to experience classical cooking executed with real kitchen discipline, paired alongside a curated wine program.

Rikki Tikki
71 Jarvis St, 647-342-2950
www.rikkitikki.ca
Instagram: @rikki.tikki.to

Fur Ball 2026 (Oct 18)

October 18 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
St James Park, +Google Map
Space is limited. CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER

Old Town Toronto BIA & Toronto Dog Moms are teaming up for the Fur Ball, a Halloween dog costume contest and fashion show, and your dog is invited to strut their stuff on the stage.

Dress up your dog in their spookiest, silliest, or most stylish costume and sign up for FREE. Our judges will be on the lookout for the best of the best, with awesome prize packs up for grabs.

Plus, some of our favourite vendors will be there selling all things dog, so bring your wallet along with your walking shoes.

Mark your calendars, grab your dog’s costume, and come out for a day of fun, treats, and tail wags!

Schedule
12:00 PM – Check-In Begins
1:00 PM – Costume Contest & Dog Parade (click here to pre-register)
2:00 PM – Finalists & Winners Announced
2:00 PM – Group Photo & Thank You
3:00 PM – Event Ends

Awards
1. Best Costume – Show us why you are the top dog!

2. Best Pair – Aka dog + human(s)

3. Most Creative Costume – Get creative!

Help spread the word by sharing on Facebook.

Join Silvie’s Founding Families Community

Silvie is inviting families to join its Founding Families community and help shape the future of the product.

Built for seniors living independently at home, Silvie offers a private, non-invasive way to give families peace of mind, with no cameras, microphones or wearables. Participating families receive a discount on Silvie, help getting set up and a closer connection with the team to share feedback and ideas.

If this sounds useful for your family, apply through the button below.

Silvie Powered by Pontosense
30 Adelaide St E, 12th Floor, 416-848-6305
www.silvie.com

Music Toronto Concert Series from $40 (Oct 8, 22, & Nov 3)

PABLO FERRÁNDEZ, cello
Thu Oct 8 7:30 pm
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts – Jane Mallett Theatre
A prizewinner at the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition, as well as the prestigious ARD International Music Competition and Pablo Casals International Cello Competition, Pablo Ferrández has emerged as one of the most sought-after cellists of his generation, renowned for his brilliant command of the instrument and passionate music making. His Music Toronto recital pays tribute to the legendary Spanish cellist Pablo Casals and features solo works by Bach, Cassadó and Britten, performed on the magnificent 1689 “Archinto” Stradivarius cello, one of the great surviving instruments by Antonio Stradivari.

QUATUOR DANEL
Thu Oct 22 7:30 pm
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts – Jane Mallett Theatre
Since performing for Music Toronto in the 2024/25 season, the French/Belgian quartet has continued to enthrall audiences all around the world. Nestled amongst works by Mozart, Mendelssohn and Tchaikovsky, Reflection on the Theme B-A-C-H by Sofia Gubaidulina, one of the towering composers of our time, offers a deeply spiritual musical experience that emanates from the composer’s fiercely independent Russian-born voice.

D. WIJERATNE/CDN CHAMBER ORCH
Tue Nov 3 7:30pm
6:30 pm – PRE-CONCERT CHAT With Jamie Parker and Dinuk Wijeratne
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts – Jane Mallett Theatre
Experience the dynamic fusion of global influences with Wijeratne’s composition Gajaga Vannama. This vibrant performance is complemented by beautiful string orchestra works by George Walker, Jennifer Montgomery, Kareem Roustom and Edvard Grieg.

Music Toronto
27 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.musictorontoconcerts.com
Instagram: @music.toronto.concerts

The Burton Experience Returns to Café Nicole (Multiple Dates)

This October, Café Nicole transforms into a world of eerie cocktails, immersive décor and dark fantasy fun with The Burton Experience: Academy of Dark Arts at Novotel Toronto Centre. On select dates throughout the month, guests are invited to step inside this one-of-a-kind pop-up experience featuring potion-making, immersive entertainment and a beautifully spooky atmosphere in the heart of Old Town Toronto.

While you’re here, discover Café Nicole’s October monthly features, including our Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini and Butternut Squash Ravioli, paired with Kim Crawford Chardonnay for the perfect fall night out.

And for those looking for a midweek outing, Live Under the Arches continues every Wednesday at Café Nicole, bringing live music, dinner and drinks together in a warm, inviting setting.

Whether you’re visiting for the Burton Experience, live music or a seasonal bite and cocktail, there’s no shortage of reasons to stop by Café Nicole this October.

Café Nicole Bistro + Bar at Novotel Toronto Centre
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro

Reach Your Next Goal with Coach Yaath at Altitude Athletic Training

From your first strength-training session to your next big adventure, Yaath can help you get there.

Yaath Rajshankar is the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach at Altitude Athletic Training, with a passion for helping people prepare for whatever challenge is next. As an honours graduate from the University of Toronto’s Kinesiology program, a Strength Conditioning and Specialist (NSCA – CSCS), certified UltraRunning Coach (UESCA), and Yoga Teacher (RYT-300 / CYT1000+ pending), Yaath takes a uniquely well-rounded approach to training. He works with a wide variety of clients from individuals dealing with complex chronic aches & pains to those training for their first marathon, preparing for a technical climb or a demanding high-altitude objective. Yaath’s goal isn’t simply to make you stronger in the gym – it’s to help you build the strength, resilience, confidence, and fitness to perform when it matters most. 

Whether your next goal is your first squat, your first marathon, or your first summit, Yaath and the team at Altitude are here to help you get there.

Ready to see the difference working with an expert coach can make? Book a complimentary coach consult and learn about the Altitude difference.

Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic

Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) at Bluma Appel Theatre (Nov 6 – 22)

A joyful comedy that flips the script on Shakespeare’s most infamous heroines

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of her landmark play, acclaimed novelist and playwright Ann-Marie MacDonald steps into the spotlight as Constance Ledbelly, the overlooked academic who tumbles headlong into Shakespeare’s worlds and discovers that the heroines (and even Constance herself) may be capable of far more than anyone imagined.

At once wildly funny and moving, this Canadian classic unleashes Desdemona and Juliet as fierce forces of their own destiny and reminds us that sometimes the bravest act is claiming your own story.

Runtime: 2 hours, 30 minutes including intermission.

Canadian Stage, presented at Bluma Appel Theatre
27 Front St E, 416-368-3110
www.canadianstage.com
Instagram: @canadianstage

New Gigi Studios Collection at St. Lawrence Eye Care

Gigi Studios is a Spanish independent handcrafted eyewear line all designed in Barcelona. This brand combines fashion with contemporary design. If you’re looking for funky, bold, and artistic frames, our new Gigi Studios collection will be exciting for you! Come visit us to view the new bold collection.

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare

REmarket Donation Drive, Free Market, Small Bike Repairs, and Repair Cafe (Oct 21 – 22)

Brought to you by The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association Waste Reduction Group, Remarket returns to the St. Lawrence Market Tent at 125 The Esplanade, Wed Oct 21, 10am-7pm and Thurs Oct 22, 10am-6pm.

Learn Thai Massage. Take Home a Little More from Bahn Thai Spa and School

This October, join us for an Intro to Thai Massage workshop and enjoy a special offer on your next step into the practice. When you register, receive a second pair of Thai fisherman’s pants at 50% off when purchasing your first pair. A little more comfort, a little more Thai tradition, and something lovely to take home.

Bahn Thai Spa and School
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool

What We’re Loving Now at The Chesterfield Shop

Sofabeds are The Chesterfield Shop’s Specialty!
Your choice of sofa-bed size, with a great selection of gorgeous fabrics, top-grain leathers and mattress options. Contract mechanism for easy opening, and closing.
Sofa by day, and a welcoming sleep at night.
Proudly…Made in Canada.

Come into 275 King St. East and meet Stephan and his incredible team.

The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop

Discover New Fall Sandwiches at Au Pain Doré

The Mortadella Gourmet:
A rustic ciabatta layered with authentic Italian mortadella, basil pesto, marinated eggplant, provolone cheese, arugula, and a spicy mayonnaise for a bold, savoury bite!

The Rustic VEGGIE:
A delicious Mediterranean sandwich served on schiacciata bread, filled with marinated eggplant, feta cheese, pesto, marinated roasted red peppers, crisp cucumbers, arugula, and a balsamic glaze for the perfect balance of freshness and bold flavour.

The perfect comforting menu!
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

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

Thanksgiving Day Brunch (Oct 11) + Fall Afternoon Tea at Omni King Edward (Sats & Suns)

Thanksgiving Day Brunch
October 11 | 10:30 AM–1:30 PM
Vanity Fair Ballroom | Open to the Public
Gather around the table this Thanksgiving for an elevated holiday brunch buffet featuring beloved classics, seasonal delicacies and expertly crafted dishes. Celebrate the holiday with family and friends while enjoying a festive selection of flavours and traditions.
$129 per person, plus tax and 15% service charge.
Reservations are available by calling 416-945-3323 or emailing to-festive@omnihotels.com.

NEW Fall Afternoon Tea
Saturdays & Sundays | 12:30–5:00 PM
Last seating at 4:00 PM
Welcome the season with our new Fall Afternoon Tea at Omni King Edward. Enjoy an elegant afternoon of seasonal treats, tea and timeless tradition in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Reservations are recommended. Please call 416-945-3323 to book.

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward
Instagram: @omnikingedward

Air Transat Named World’s Best Leisure Airline

It is with great enthusiasm that we at Transat Travel share that Air Transat was named the World’s Best Leisure Airline at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards.

This marks our eighth win and our fourth consecutive year receiving this honour. The award is based on the votes of millions of travellers around the world who place their trust in us, flight after flight.

As your local Canadian owned and operated Travel Agency in Old Town Toronto we are honoured to continue helping you with all your travel needs, whether with Air Transat or any of our other travel products. Thank you for all your support!

Transat Travel
56 Church St, 416-366-1961
www.transattravel.com/travel-agencies/toronto/

Fall For Dance North Festival (Oct 15 – 25)

From intimate gestures to explosive energy, Fall for Dance North’s 2026 lineup of Canadian and international artists will move you in ways you have never seen before.

FREE presentations in Old Town Toronto will take place at Berczy Park (see below for times), as well as nearby Union Station.

TICKETED presentations will take place at St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts in the Jane Mallet Theatre and Bluma Appel Theatre as well as other downtown locations.

See the Festival Guide to learn more about all FREE and TICKETED presentations.

Single tickets are $25 + fees, or choose a Festival Pass for 15% off a bundle of four or more performances.

FREE in Berczy Park, 35 Wellington St E
Oct 15-16 at 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 17 at 1:00 – 1:40pm and 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 18 at 1:00 – 1:40pmOct 22 – 23 at 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 24 at 1:00 – 1:40pm and 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 25 at 1:00 – 1:40pm

Fall For Dance North Festival
416-907-5933
www.ffdnorth.com

All In For Autism: October Autism Fundraising at St. Louis Bar & Grill

We dedicate every October to raising awareness for Autism, by collecting donations for various charities that provide support for children with Autism, as well as their families and local schools!

This month, guests can make a $5.00 donation, and receive a coupon card with over $40.00 worth of savings! From Buy-One-Get-One Wings to Free Sweet Jesus offerings, guests can join the community in supporting a wonderfully important cause.

We’re All In For Autism! Any donation is greatly appreciated – Hope to see you soon!

St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
www.stlouiswings/locations/toronto92kingst/menu
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis

Toonie Tours: Walk, Bike & Explore Old Town Toronto

Discover Old Town Toronto with Toonie Tours from our NEW shop at 37 King Street East, on the southeast corner at Leader Lane. Book a pay-what-you-feel walking tour, a private city tour, a bike tour, or a bike rental and explore the neighbourhood with a local guide. Click here for all Toronto tours and activities.

Reserve ahead so we can hold your spot. We look forward to showing you the streets, stories, and hidden corners that make this part of the city worth lingering in.

Toonie Tours
37 King St E, 1-866-643-1847
www.toonietours.ca/toronto-tours
Instagram: @toonietours

Treat a Teacher in Your Life to Donuts from Dipped Donuts

Back to school is in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to show teachers a little extra appreciation! Treat the educators in your life to a box of our gourmet donuts—the perfect way to say thank you for all that they do. Our boxes come in either 6 or 12, and you can choose between our Chef’s Choice box, featuring an assortment of our flavours, or a box of our fan-favourite Brown Butter Sea Salt donuts. We offer delivery across Toronto or convenient pickup at our store locations, making it easy to send a thank you to the people who make a difference every day.

Also, looking for a fun time out? Come visit us at Picklefest on October 3rd and 4th at Henderson Brewing Co. (128a Sterling Road, Toronto, ON) and try out our fresh and hot mini donut festival exclusive flavours: pickle cheesecake, and kimchi!

Dipped Donuts
St Lawrence Market, 95 Front St E, Lower Level
647-574-3785
www.dippeddonuts.ca
Instagram: @dippeddonutsinc

Fall for the flavours of Autumn at Balzac’s!

Cozy up to Autumn with two seasonal favourites, crafted to capture everything you love about fall.

Our Caramel Apple menu blends buttery smooth caramel with crisp, fresh apple for a treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

For those craving classic fall spice, our Pumpkin Harvest Latte and Chai Latte are made with real pumpkin purée, maple syrup, and warm pumpkin spices.

Whether you’re layering up for cooler days or still catching the last warm rays of sunshine, both are available hot or iced — stop by and taste the flavours of fall today!

Balzac’s Coffee
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
www.balzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee

Your Favourite Fall Flavour is Back at Bomba Gelato

Fall is here, and pumpkin gelato is back at Bomba! This season, you’ll find it in jars, ready to take home and enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Pick one up while exploring St. Lawrence Market, or make a special trip to bring a little taste of autumn home with you.

Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market, South Building, Lower Level, Market St. Side
95 Front St E, 647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato

Thanksgiving Weekend Celebration at HotHouse Restaurant

Thanksgiving weekend is fast approaching! Allow us to assist! Join us for a 3 course prix-fixe dining experience or Pre-Order our takeout dinner for two and we’ll prep it for pick up, multiply your order as required! Heat it up at home or pick it up hot & ready!

HotHouse Restaurant
35 Church St, 416-366-7800
www.hothouserestaurant.com
Instagram: @hothouserestaurant

Lamb Chops in Bindia’s New Look

Bindia has a fresh new look, but the Tandoori Lamb Chops are still the dish regulars come back for! They’re marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in our clay tandoor, so they come out charred on the outside and juicy inside. Try them in our newly renovated dining room across from St. Lawrence Market: a glowing onyx bar, chandeliers and long tables made for good company. Planning a team dinner or year-end party? Our private room is ready for groups.

Bindia
16 Market St, 416-863-0000
www.bindia.ca
Instagram: @bindiaindianbistro

Your Child got Knocked Down. Now What?

It’s an uncomfortable question, but one worth asking. Because the question is not about IF it will happen, but WHEN.

It’s about KNOWING WHAT TO DO when something unexpected happens.
What if someone grabs them?
What if they fall?
What if someone is sitting on top of them?
Can they stay calm enough to think?
Can they create space?
Can they get back to their feet?
Can they get away?

At Old Toronto Martial Arts, our kids, youth and teen BJJ training will give your children the opportunity to work through these situations in a controlled, supervised environment.

They learn to recognize positions, understand leverage, escape, regain control and—most importantly—think under pressure.

Because confidence isn’t knowing that nothing will ever happen.
It’s knowing: “If something does happen, I have some idea what to do.”

SCHEDULE:
Kids BJJ (ages 5-7) MON/WED/FRI AT 4:30, TUE AT 4:30
Youth BJJ (ages 8-11) MON/WED/FRI AT 5:15
Teen BJJ (ages 12+) MON/WED/FRI AT 6
Youth & Teen Kickboxing (ages 8+) TU/THU AT 5:15
Chess Club 5PM MON-FRI

Book a trial class for your child today.

Old Toronto Martial Arts
154 The Esplanade, 647-761-2865
www.oldtorontomartialarts.com
Instagram: @oldtorontoma

20% OFF Body, Facial & Waxing Services at LudaBello Salon

Something NEW has arrived at LudaBello!

Discover our new body, facial & waxing services, including relaxing head, neck & shoulder massage, lymphatic body massage, body sculpting & contouring, Hydrafacial, sensitive skin treatments, lymphatic face lift, and professional waxing.

To celebrate the launch, enjoy 20% OFF all body, facial & waxing services until December 30, 2026.

Relax, refresh and take some time for yourself right here in the heart of Old Town.

LudaBello Salon
179 king St E, 647-600-2787
www.ludabello.ca/services
Instagram: @ludabellosalon

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.

The post Where To Support Local This October appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

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.

The post Where To Support Local This September appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

Ready for a refresh? Update your space at The Chesterfield Shop, pamper yourself at Mokara Spa or Bahn Thai Spa, or join Skoom Coffee’s Labour Day Run Club.

And that’s just a taste! We’ve packed this edition with even more exclusive local deals, fitness challenges, and neighbourhood spots you won’t want to miss. Keep scrolling below to discover it all, grab your sunscreen, and support local all month long!

Philatelic History of Toronto Presentation

Wednesday, August 19,  6:45pm – 9:30pm
Vincent Graves Greene Philatelic Research Foundation, 10 Summerhill Avenue

Join us for an exciting evening of Toronto’s philatelic history with expert Garfield Portch at the Vincent Graves Greene Philatelic Foundation!

Generously sponsored by the Vincent Graves Greene Foundation, enjoy an extensive presentation on the postal history and the history of the post office in Toronto. With early and fascinating examples of philatelic material dating back as early as 1803, the presentation will also include information on the mail that was processed at Toronto’s First Post Office, now Canada’s oldest purpose-built post office still operating, and the postal history relating to James Scott Howard, the city’s first postmaster.

Guests will also have the opportunity to learn about the amazing Greene Foundation, their research library, and their resources.

The night will also feature a raffle where guests will have a chance to win one of two original pieces of postal history that went through Toronto’s First Post Office when it was first operating, generously donated by Garfield Portch. Raffle tickets will be $10 and can be bought on site with cash only.

Proceeds from ticket sales will go to supporting operations at Toronto’s First Post Office.

Separate donations can be made to support the Vincent Graves Greene Philatelic Research Foundation by heading to their site www.greenefoundation.ca.

Pre-registration is required & spots are strictly limited!

Toronto’s First Post Office | Town of York Historical Society
260 Adelaide St E, 416-865-1833
www.TownofYork.com
Instagram: @TOs1stPO

Better Running Through Fitness Testing at Altitude Athletic Training

This spring, the running world celebrated a historic achievement when Kenyan athlete Sabastian Sawe became the first person to complete a marathon in under two hours during a record-eligible race. While performances at that level are extraordinary, they also highlight how modern endurance training has evolved beyond simply logging more kilometres. Today’s athletes increasingly rely on physiological testing to train smarter, monitor progress, and reduce the risk of injury.

That same evidence-based approach is now available locally at Altitude Athletic Training in Old Town Toronto through its comprehensive Running Performance Assessment.

The assessment combines several research-grade evaluations to provide runners with an objective picture of their fitness and performance. An InBody body composition analysis measures muscle mass and body composition, while a clinical VO₂ max test evaluates how efficiently the body utilizes oxygen during exercise—a key predictor of endurance performance. The assessment also identifies personalized training zones and ventilatory thresholds, helping runners understand exactly how hard they should train to maximize fitness while allowing adequate recovery.

In addition to cardiovascular testing, force plate technology analyzes how each leg generates force and power during movement. This can reveal strength asymmetries and biomechanical inefficiencies that may impact performance or contribute to injury risk.

Whether preparing for a first 5K, a half marathon, or chasing a new marathon personal best, objective performance testing provides valuable insights that can make training more effective and measurable.

To learn more about Altitude Athletic Training’s Running Performance Assessment, visit Altitude Athletic Training or inquire in person at our facility on Colborne Street.

Altitude Athletic Training Inc.
56 Colborne Street
416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic

TO Live Presents UpFRONT Festival

Join TO Live for the UpFRONT Festival of Indigenous Arts, Music & Culture!
August 14-16, 2026.

This summer, Berczy Park and Scott Street will come alive with free live music, dance, storytelling, family activities, an artisan marketplace, Indigenous authors, live mural creation, and more.

Featuring performances by Drezus, Crystal Shawanda, Tom Wilson Tehohàhake Trio, Don Amero, Mimi O’Bonsawin, Adrian Sutherland, Quique Escamilla, and many more.

Whether you’re discovering a new artist, shopping the marketplace, bringing the family, or dancing under the summer sky, everyone is welcome at this celebration of Indigenous arts, music, culture, and community.

TO Live
1 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com
Instagram: @tolivegram

August at Omni King Edward

Sip Into Sangria Month
Celebrate the flavours of summer at The Consort Bar with our Sangria Month feature. Enjoy a specialty menu of refreshing, handcrafted sangrias available all month long—the perfect way to toast the season.

Summer is Calling at Mokara Spa
Treat yourself to a little summer indulgence with 15% off body treatments, massages, and Hydrafacial services at Mokara Spa. As a special bonus, receive a complimentary Céla Crème de la Crème Hand Cream (valued at $37) with your qualifying treatment.*
Book online or call 416.863.3131 to reserve your appointment.
*Offer valid through September 21, 2026. Complimentary gift available with spa services of 60 minutes or longer. One gift per person, per visit. Cannot be combined with other offers. Terms and conditions apply.

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com
Instagram: @omnikingedward

Summer Drinks at Au Pain Doré

Craving something refreshing and unexpected?

Strawberry Matcha – the perfect balance between the delicate, earthy notes of matcha and the sweet softness of strawberry. A refreshing, smooth, and lightly energizing drink, ideal for brightening your day.

Iced Mango Latte – a smooth espresso blended with milk and sweet mango purée, served over ice for a creamy and refreshing drink. Perfect to sip in the sun, on your break or whenever you need a gentle pick-me-up.

Offer valid for a limited time in our participating cafés.

Au Pain Doré
81 Front St E, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com/en
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe

Labour Day Run Club at Skoom Coffee

Join Skoom Coffee’s run club for a social 5km run on Monday, September 7th at 9 AM. All paces and experience levels are welcome! Come meet fellow runners, get moving, and refuel together afterward.

Runners will receive 15% off their order at Skoom Coffee, so bring your friends and make a morning of it. Find us on Strava.

Skoom Coffee
197 King St E, 416-992-0547
www.skoomcoffee.com
Instragram: @skoomcoffee

One Market. Endless Flavours. Bomba Gelato.

Best enjoyed with your favourite people! We’ve been serving handcrafted, small-batch gelato in the Lower Level of the market for years, and there’s a reason people keep coming back. Whether you’re all about chocolate, our sorbetto (no milk, fruit flavours), or trying a unique flavour like Creme Brulee, or Pistachio, we’ve got a scoop waiting for you.

So if you’re heading to St. Lawrence Market this August, come hungry, say Hi, and see what everyone’s talking about.

Treat yourself.
You deserve it.

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

Staples Studio Patio is Back!

Take your work outdoors at Staples Studio Corktown. Whether you’re meeting clients, collaborating with your team, looking for a change of scenery, or hosting an event, our patio provides the perfect space to work, connect, and recharge.

Enjoy fresh air, productive conversations, and a workspace designed to inspire.

Staples Studio
517 Richmond St E, 416-0697-2421
www.studio.staples.ca/studio/torontocorktown

Hooray For Happy Hour at St. Louis Bar & Grill

Every day, from Open to 5pm (11:30AM Monday to Friday, 12:00PM Saturday & Sunday) and 9pm to Close, come and enjoy our fantastic happy hour!

Starting at just $4, we have many delicious options to enjoy! Newest additions to our menu include the fan favourite fish & chips and Shopsy’s premium hot dogs! Thirsty? Domestic draughts, bar rail, caesars, & house wines are also on special!

St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
www.order.incentivio.com/c/stlouiswings/locations/toronto92kingst/menu
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis

Sofa by Day / Bed by Night. Discover it at The Chesterfield Shop

What we love…this new generation of sofa beds is a total game-changer for modern living… seamlessly blending style, comfort, and convenience.

By day, your sofa is great seating, and by night, effortlessly transitions with a smooth pull-out mechanism into an ultra-supportive, comfortable mattress for a perfect night’s sleep.

To match your unique decor, you can customize your piece from a wide selection of premium leathers and high-quality fabrics. Or in-stock for next-day delivery.

The absolute best part? Proudly and expertly crafted right here in Canada!

Come into 275 King St. E. and meet the best professional team in the business.

The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram:@thechesterfieldshop

More Massage. More Savings at Bahn Thai Spa

Imagine how amazing it would feel to give your body the care it deserves all month long.

Our August Massage Wellness Promotion makes it easier to prioritize relaxation, recovery, and balance with savings that grow with each visit. Enjoy 10% off your first massage, 20% off your second, and 30% off your third.

Available on all massage services with our Practitioners and Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs). Book your August appointments and create a wellness routine you’ll look forward to.

Bahn Thai Spa
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool

Patio Season, Served at Café Nicole Bistro + Bar

This August, Café Nicole Bistro + Bar is celebrating the best of patio season with a fresh lineup of summer features in the heart of Old Town Toronto.

Guests can stop by for happy hour every day from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring $8 Aperol Spritz, $5 3 Speed Lager, and $5 house red, white, and sparkling wine. Appetizers are also $3 off daily from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Café Nicole is also serving a monthly feature pairing: BBQ chicken pizza with a glass of Inniskillin Riesling for $28, alongside the refreshing Cherry Lime Mule for $16. And for something sweet, guests can cool down with gelato on the patio.

Whether you’re joining us for an after-work sip, a casual summer bite, or a relaxed moment on The Esplanade, Café Nicole is a welcoming neighbourhood spot to enjoy August downtown.

Café Nicole Bistro + Bar
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro

Blue Jays Game Special at 3 Mariachis

Blue Jays Specials – Only During the Game

Elevate your game-day experience with our vibrant specials, available only while the Blue Jays games are on.

$4 tacos served with fresh, local ingredients.
$6 margaritas crafted with fresh lime juice and organic agave.
$4 shots perfect for groups looking to get the night started or to keep it going.

Whether you’re gathering with friends, enjoying a night out, or simply looking to make game day feel a little more special, this is the perfect way to try out our great food, refreshing drinks, and an energetic atmosphere all in one place.

3 Mariachis
140A The Esplanade, 416-507-1004
www.3mariachis.ca
Instagram: @3mariachis

Italian Cinema Night at Bottega della Piadina

Join us on August 14, 2026, from 6–8 PM for a special Italian movie night featuring the beloved classic *I Soliti Ignoti*. Enjoy this iconic Italian comedy while sharing an authentic piadina and a drink, all for just $20. To reserve your spot, simply leave your name through our registration form.

Come for the film, stay for the food, and experience a taste of Italian culture in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Bottega della Piadina
60 Richmond St E, 416-712-8434
www.bottegadellapiadina.com
Instagram: @bottegadellapiadina

Dita Lancier: A Brand New Line at St. Lawrence Eye Care

Dita Lancier is all handcrafted in Japan and offers a sportier and lighter look. Their eyewear is specialized for three distinct environments: Land, Sea, and Air. Dita Lancier uses high grade titanium designed for extended wear without fatigue. This brand is based in Los Angeles, California. We are are happy to have this line in store and are excited to share with everyone!

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare

Honouring Every Bond at Tails Farewell

Taking this chance to introduce our business to Old Town Toronto readers for the first time.

Many people don’t realize they have options when it comes to saying goodbye to a beloved pet. Tails Farewell is Toronto’s first dedicated pet funeral home, offering private farewell sessions, gentle aquamation (water-based cremation), and personalized memorial keepsakes in a calm and peaceful environment. Our mission is to help families honour the unconditional love and memories they shared with their companions with compassion, dignity, and care. While we hope you won’t need us anytime soon, we’re honoured to be here for our community when the time comes.

Because every bond deserves a beautiful goodbye.

Tails Farewell
115 Berkeley St, 416-943-9395
www.tailsfarewell.ca
Instagram: @TailsFarewell

Parents, Get a Head Start This August at Old Toronto Martial Arts

Give your child a head start before the school year begins, in August, before backpacks, homework and busy schedules return.

– Be first in line for our limited afterschool pickup Program
– Kickboxing fitness for moms classes. Sign up on the website to join the waitlist
– Kids, youth & Teen martial arts programs focused on confidence, discipline, and personal safety
– We offer self-defense workshops, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Karate, Muay thai kickboxing, classes for ages 5+

Whether you’re looking for a safe afterschool routine or a practical skills and fitness for yourself, we would love to welcome you to our dojo, in the heart of The Esplanade.

Old Toronto Martial Arts
154 The Esplanade, 647-761-2865
www.oldtorontomartialarts.com
Instagram: @oldtorontoma

Private Dining at Bindia Indian Bistro

Looking for a spot to host your next celebration, work event, or family gathering? Bindia Indian Bistro, located steps from St. Lawrence Market, offers a private dining room that comfortably seats up to 50 guests. The kitchen’s fusion-forward Indian menu features standouts like the tandoori-grilled Butter Chicken and warm Garlic Naan, paired with hand-shaken cocktails for the table. Reach out directly to reserve your next group booking.

Bindia Indian Bistro
16 Market St, 416-863-0000
www.bindia.ca
Instagram: @bindiaindianbistro

60th Anniversary Performance (FREE!) at Tai Ji Men

A Spectacular Cultural Performance Comes to Toronto for the First Time!

Hosted by Tai Ji Men (Canada) as part of the international celebration of the 60th Anniversary of Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy, this special public-benefit performance will take place in Toronto from October 2 to 4, 2026.

Blending qigong, martial arts, and contemporary performing arts, the program offers an inspiring celebration of culture, positive energy, love, and peace. Tai Ji Men’s internationally acclaimed performances have previously been presented at renowned venues, including the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

Complimentary tickets are now available by advance reservation. Seating is limited, so please reserve early!

Performance Venues:
• October 2–3: Jane Mallett Theatre
• October 4: Bluma Appel Theatre

Inquiries: 437-873-2446 / 437-875-4910

Tai Ji Men
125 King St E, 437-873-2446
www.tickets.taijimen.ca
Instagram: @energyfamily_ca

August in the Beer Garden at C’est What

C’est What’s Beer Garden is Toronto’s outdoor hidden gem. Serving up great food locally sourced from the St. Lawrence Market, Ontario Craft beer and great vibes. With live music on Thursdays and Saturdays from 5-7pm and Saturday afternoon jazz with the Louisiana Hot 4! Check out our event listing for August. Hope to see you there!

C’est What
Beer Garden: 94 The Esplanade. Main restaurant: 67 Front St E.
416-867-9499
www.cestwhat.com
Instagram: @cestwhatto

HYROX Simulation Training at 6S Fitness

6S Fitness, a functional fitness gym in downtown Toronto, is hosting a HYROX Simulation on Saturday, August 22. The event recreates full HYROX race conditions, all eight stations, real pacing, and the running-to-station transitions that trip most athletes up on race day.

It’s designed for anyone training for an upcoming HYROX event who wants to test their fitness and pacing strategy before it counts. 6S also runs ongoing HYROX training sessions every Wednesday and Sunday, led by coaches who focus on the specific demands of the sport: transitions, grip endurance, and running under fatigue.

Spots for the simulation are limited; sign up by emailing info@6sfitness.ca.

6SFitness
209 Adelaide St E, 416-518-5746
www.6sfitness.ca
Instagram: @6s.fitness

The Great Beaver Quest

Join “The Great Beaver Quest” now until August 16th you’ll have multiple chances to win gift cards to your favourite local Old Town Toronto businesses. You pick the spot, and we buy the cards!

The Quest: Find 51 beaver statues throughout our neighbourhood, each representing the nations competing on the global soccer stage, and one special beaver representing all of the nations. Each has been uniquely hand-painted by a local artist.

How to Play: Access the digital scavenger hunt below, choose “The Great Beaver Quest”, find the beavers using clues, and take on fun, simple challenges at each location. Every challenge completed earns you extra points and increases your chances of winning!

Table of Contents:

1 How To Play
2 Prizes
3 Contest Rules
4 Artist Bios & Inspiration
5 About Old Town Toronto & This Project
6 Beaver Design & Fabricator
7 Register To Bid On A Beaver

Yoga In St James Park (FREE)

Old Town Toronto’s FREE Fitness Classes in St. James Park at the Michael Comstock Pavilion take place Tuesdays in July and August, from 6 – 7pm.

Designed to get you moving and enjoying our park, these fitness classes are offered free of charge thanks to Friends of St James Park and your local business community, represented by Old Town Toronto BIA.

Please arrive 10 mins early to scan the registration/waiver QR code form using your mobile device, then show the instructor the confirmation screen.

Berczy Beats (FREE)

Join us in Berczy Park for live lunch time music Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm, July and August. Eat your lunch next to the famous “dog fountain” and enjoy this free concert.

I Heart Market Street (FREE)

Join your neighbours on Market Street for live entertainment, pop up market vendors, seating and more! Market Street (Front Street to The Esplanade) has been pedestrianized for summer 2026.

Table of Contents

• EVENTS
  • Live Music (Tues & Wed)
  • Busker Family Days
  • Salsa On Market Street
  • St. Lawrence Market Street Events
• LOCATION & DIRECTIONS
• PARKING
• SURVEY

Music In St James Park (FREE)

Join us Thursdays, 7-9pm, June-August at the Michael Comstock Pavilion in St. James Park for a free concert. Grab a seat at the park’s tables and chairs in front of the stage, or bring a blanket and picnic / take out for the back lawn. (All performances are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions. Thank you for your understanding.)

Theatre In St. James Park (FREE/PWYC)

No Ticket Required. BYO chair or blanket.
Runtime: approx 1 hour.
Free (Pay What You Can Accepted)

Dates/Times:
Sat Aug 8 at 4pm & 7pm
Sun Aug 9 at 4pm & 7pm
Sat Aug 15 at 4pm & 7pm
Sun Aug 16 at 4pm & 7pm

Hoopty-doo! Grab your glad rags, we’re putting on the Ritz!

Old Town Toronto BIA and Alumnae Theatre present Unspoken Theatre’s new, family friendly musical comedy, 1920’s Walking Around In A Dream.

The hour long live performance inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brings the Roaring Twenties jazz age alive for the 2020’s! The show has jazz classics by Cole Porter, “Fats” Waller, and others in new arrangements from the director, award-winning Declan Meagher (Disney Cruise Line).

Award-winning playwright Natalie Kaye returns to comedy, vaudeville and historical language since co-writing the Toronto Fringe 2025 hit #1 Clown Comedy With Victor & Priscilla, a zany comedy with sold out nights and rave reviews including:

“Hilarious” – THE TORONTO STAR; “side-splittingly funny” – FRINGE REVIEW UK; “bursting with theatrical joy” – PARTON & PEARL; “bravo” – ISTVAN DUGALIN; “fast & funny” -MATT YIPCHUK; “a hilarious masterclass” – SESAYA ARTS

Unspoken Theatre is celebrating our 15th year, a female-run company that has produced over 20 new Canadian plays in Toronto!

Barket Market (FREE)

Set against the historic charm of the St. Lawrence area, this Barket Market is set to be BIG with a full-day experience for pet parents.

Guests can browse a carefully selected group of vendors, participate in interactive activations, and enjoy a variety of photo opportunities throughout the space. The atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, bringing together community, creativity, and pet-friendly experiences in one of Toronto’s most iconic districts.

Saturday August 8, 2026
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
St. Lawrence Market – 93 Front St. East, Toronto

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.

The post Where To Support Local This August appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

Looking to update your space? Grab a custom Canadian-made couch from The Chesterfield Shop or find bold local art at Beauchamp Gallery. Our parks are also bursting with life with free live music, outdoor yoga, and the fully pedestrianized Market Street. Grab your sunscreen and support your neighborhood favourites all month long!

The Winston at The Chesterfield Shop

It’s here – the perfect power sofa-chaise.

The Winston – available in your choice of custom fabrics & leathers to suit your personal style and decor.

Great storage – perfect for your comforter, pillow, electronics and snacks!
Power recline, plug in your iPhone, stream your shows…or listen to a podcast.
So easy, so comfortable. Available in multiple configurations.

And the best part…Made in Canada.

Come into 275 King St. East to meet the best seating team in the business.

The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop

TO Live Presents: Best of Fringe

Best of Fringe is back July 17 – 19, 2026. Missed your chance to see the most-talked-about shows of Toronto Fringe? TO Live has you covered, bringing you the best of the festival long after the last curtain call.

Don’t miss your chance to say “I saw it when!”

TO Live
27 Front St E, 416-368-6161
www.tolive.com
Instagram: @tolivegram

New Hair Stylist, New Client Special at Seen Studio Inc.

We’re excited to welcome Klaudia to the SEEN STUDIO family, and she’s now accepting new clients!

With over 8 years of experience, Klaudia specializes in creating beautiful, personalized looks that help you feel your best. Whether you’re looking for a subtle refresh or a complete transformation, she’ll bring your vision to life.

As a special welcome offer, all new clients receive 30% off one service of their choice at one of Toronto’s most eco-conscious and skin-sensitive salons. Offer ends September 1st — Book online at www.seenstudio.ca.

Seen Studio Inc.
132 Adelaide St E, 416-594-1402
www.seenstudio.ca
Instagram: @seenstudioto

Adult Summer Workshops in July at The Fifth Dance

Adult Summer Workshops are here!

Learn ballet repertoire from our studio director, Sarahi Cardenas. The dream team, Sarahi and Daniel Da Silva, will lead a Pas de Deux workshop, and Maya Santos O’Keefe will guide us through improvisation.

Choose one workshop or challenge yourself with all three. Spots are filling up quickly, so register today!

The Fifth Dance
366 Adelaide St E, 647-746-5355
www.thefifthdance.com
Instagram: @thefifthdance

Get Beach Ready at Wildlife Thrift

July is here, bringing sunny days, beach adventures, backyard barbecues, and plenty of opportunities to refresh your summer style without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re planning a day at the beach, a weekend cottage getaway, or simply enjoying the warm weather around town, we’ve got amazing finds waiting for you!

We love seeing how you style your thrifted treasures! Share your favorite summer outfits, beach day finds, or vacation looks on social media and tag us for a chance to be featured!

Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
www.wildlifethriftstore.com
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore

Fresh Arrival: Melkio at Beauchamp Art Gallery

Looking for something bold and conversation-worthy this summer? We are excited to introduce new works by Italian artist Melkio, now available in Beauchamp Art Gallery!

Known for his vibrant street art aesthetic, Melkio blends graffiti-inspired techniques with iconic pop culture references, creating energetic compositions that feel both nostalgic and contemporary. Drawing inspiration from film, music, and urban culture, his work transforms familiar imagery into dynamic visual experiences filled with colour, movement, and attitude.

Among our newest arrivals is a striking Toronto cityscape that captures the energy and character of the city through Melkio’s unmistakable lens. Whether you’re a collector of contemporary art or simply looking for a standout piece for your home, these new works offer a fresh perspective on both popular culture and city life.

Visit the gallery this July to discover Melkio’s latest collection and experience the vibrant world of one of Italy’s exciting contemporary artists.

Beauchamp Art Gallery
167 King S E, 416-599-2244
www.galeriebeauchamp.com
Instagram: @galeriebeauchamp

Patios to Explore in Old Town Toronto

Patio season is back in Old Town Toronto! Whether you’re sipping after-work drinks, enjoying brunch, or catching up with friends, we’ve got a patio for every vibe. Discover local spots, must-try menu items, and a handy map. Come hungry, support local, and dive into summer!

20% off all Erker’s Frames at St. Lawrence Eye Care

Erker’s eyewear is now all 20% off until the end of summer! All frames are handcrafted in Korea and extremely lightweight! Erker’s is all independent eyewear line designed by opticians therefore each frame has a completely functional design. Come by and view our collection today!

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-507-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare

Summer #AtTheOmni

Summer Afternoon Tea
Celebrate the season with our Summer Afternoon Tea and Summer Garden Tea, featuring elevated savouries, handcrafted pastries, and signature scones with clotted cream, lemon curd, and strawberry preserves.
Pricing:
• Afternoon Tea | $85
• With Prosecco | $95
• With Champagne | $118
A children’s Jester’s Tea menu is also available.
Reserve:
416-945-3323
To-Festive@OmniHotels.com

Seasonal Spa Escapes at Mokara Spa
HydraFacial Glow & Polish Ritual
90 min | $320 / $350
Signature HydraFacial, Mokara Manicure & complimentary Prosecco. Upgrade to Deluxe HydraFacial for +$50.
Blissful Escape
2 hrs | $465 / $490
Bathorium foot soak, full-body massage, facial & complimentary collagen mask.
Reserve:
416-863-3131
MokaraSpaToronto@omnihotels.com

Your summer escape awaits at Omni King Edward.

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward
Instagram: @omnikingedward

Score Big on Relaxation This Soccer Season at Bahn Thai Spa and School

The energy in Toronto is electric as the city comes alive with soccer excitement, movement, and visitors from around the world, and we’re offering a moment of calm right in the middle of it all.

We’re excited to introduce our Midweek Soccer Energy Reset Special, running all month long, giving you more time to pause, reset, and recharge. Enjoy 20% off all non-RMT services every Tuesday through Thursday as your midweek invitation to slow down and restore balance. 

Whether you’re exploring the city, spending time with friends, or simply feeling the fast pace of the season, this is your chance to step into something softer. Our traditional Thai massage and wellness experiences are designed to help release tension and leave you feeling lighter, more open, and fully refreshed, so you can make self-care a regular part of your seasonal routine.

Bahn Thai Spa and School
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool

World Cup Training, Right Here in Toronto at Altitude Athletic Training

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicking off in June, some teams are seeking to maximize their training efforts to gain a critical advantage over their opponents. This year’s tournament will have Canada hosting alongside Mexico and the United States, exposing teams to a diverse range of geographic and environmental conditions across the continent – including six games played here in Toronto.

In addition to temperature and humidity, teams will also be challenged by the increased elevation of some host city stadium venues. For instance, Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico is located at an altitude of 1550 meters (or 5100 feet) above sea level, while the Mexico City Stadium is situated at 2,200 meters (7,200 feet). At higher altitudes, the reduction in atmospheric pressure decreases the blood oxygen availability for athletes. As a result, players unacclimatized to the altitude are more likely to experience increased fatigue and slower recovery times in comparison to their performance at sea level.

To effectively prepare athletes for these conditions, the South Korean National Team (who are positioned to play their first two group stage matches in Guadalajara) have chosen to train at the University of Utah’s facilities ahead of the World Cup. Located roughly 1400 meters about sea level, the University camp selection is intended to help players adapt to the high-altitude conditions of their early games against Czechia and host-nation Mexico.

Hypoxic (or reduced oxygen) training has been recognized as conferring a physiological advantage particularly in aerobic sports and is a tactic that has commonly been used by distance runners, cyclists, and swimmers to improve their performance, including athletes competing at sea level.

Here at Altitude Athletic Training, we apply the same approach to make hypoxic training accessible to the public through our gym facility that simulates the reduced oxygen concentration present at an elevation of 10,000 feet. If you’re interested in experiencing altitude training for yourself, we welcome you to schedule a complimentary coach consult with our experienced team.

Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic

Big Summer Sale at Imperial Rug Galleries Ltd.

We have a dedicated pile of 8′ x 10′ rugs that are all 50% of the retail price. Some rugs in that pile are even further reduced in price. The styles vary from traditional to modern. All the rugs are hand knotted using wool or wool and silk.

Imperial Rug Galleries Ltd.
232 King St E, 416-777-0304
www.imperialrug.ca
Instagram: @imperialrug

The New Summer Drink: Strawberry Iced Matcha at Au Pain Doré

Craving something refreshing with a touch of natural energy? Discover our Iced Strawberry Matcha. The perfect balance between the delicate, earthy notes of matcha and the sweet softness of strawberry. A refreshing, smooth, and lightly energizing drink, ideal for brightening your day.

Au Pain Doré
81 Front St E, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe

New Spicy Yuzu Sparkling Lemonade at Balzac’s Coffee

Bright yuzu purée and real sparkling lemonade meet a fiery picante kick, topped with a bold sprinkle of cayenne—zesty, fizzy, and refreshingly bold. It’s the kind of drink that wakes up your taste buds and keeps you coming back for more. Get it while it’s hot.

Balzac’s Coffee Ltd.
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
www.balzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee

Date Night at Duke’s Refresher

There’s no better way to get over hump day than a little date night with bae! Whether it’s a relationship, friendship or situationship; every Wednesday at Duke’s Refresher, 2 can dine for $69 with choices from our bespoke Date Night menu of sharing classics and delicious drinks.

Duke’s Refresher
73A Front St E, 416-603-8826
www.dukesrefresher.ca
Instagram: @dukesrefresherslm

The Best Boston Cream Donut in Toronto is at Dipped Donuts

This is a donut we’ve obsessed over for a long time – testing and tweaking it until we got it exactly where we wanted it. We make our pastry cream from scratch using Madagascar Vanilla, top it with a rich 70% dark chocolate ganache glaze, and a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings. The perfect recipe for the best Boston Cream, and we’d love for you to put ours to the test! Stop by our St. Lawrence Market location to grab one and check out our new July flavour lineup while you’re at it!

Dipped Donuts
St. Lawrence Market South Building
93 Front St East (Lower Level), 647-574-3785
www.dippeddonuts.ca
Instagram: @dippeddonutsinc

The Underground Throwdown 2026 at 6S Fitness

The Underground Throwdown is 6S Fitness’s biggest community event of the year, and it’s the one our members circle on their calendars early. You’ll get placed on a team, take on a lineup of challenges built for every fitness level, and compete for prizes and bragging rights. Once the workouts wrap, we keep the energy going with a post-event social so everyone can celebrate together. Save the date for September, exact details are coming soon, but you’ll want to be there.

6SFitness
209 Adelaide St E, 416-518-5746
www.6sfitness.ca
Instagram: @6s.fitness

What’s On Daily at Hothouse

Make every day a reason to visit Hothouse!

Mondays – $21 Mussels, 3 sauce options to choose from.
Tuesday – Half-Price Wine, all day long.
Wednesdays – HH BBQ Ribs make a comeback, $34 full rack/ $26 half.
Thursdays – $12 Martinis.
Fridays – Fish & Chips $23
Saturdays – À La Carte Brunch
Sunday – Brunch Buffet & Half Chicken Dinner $25.

Great food, great deals, all week long!

Hothouse Restaurant
35 Church St, 416-366-7800
www.hothouserestaurant.com
Instagram: @hothouserestaurant

$75.00 Cooking Classes at Cirillo’s

Join us for a selection of $75.00 skills classes this summer. Learn the tips and tricks to master your kitchen and have fun in our kitchen. Bring your friends or family, available for anyone 10 years or older! Questions? Send me an email to erika@cirillosacademy.com.

Cirillo’s Academy
118 The Esplanade, 416-901-3491
www.cirillosacademy.com
Instagram: @cirillos.academy

Most-loved Authentic Italian Gelato Flavours at Bomba Gelato

A visit to St. Lawrence Market isn’t complete without a stop at Bomba.

This July, we’re celebrating three of our most-loved flavours: Strawberry, Peanut Butter Truffle, and Piedmont Hazelnut. Cool and refreshing, Strawberry is a summertime favourite, while Peanut Butter Truffle offers a rich, indulgent treat. Our signature Piedmont Hazelnut rounds out the trio with its smooth, roasted flavour that keeps customers coming back year after year.

Our handcrafted gelato is made in small batches and served in fresh, housemade waffle cones baked throughout the day for that unmistakable aroma and crisp bite. From timeless favourites to seasonal creations, every scoop is made to be savoured.

Visit us in the lower level of Toronto’s iconic St. Lawrence Market and discover your new favourite scoop.

Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market South Building
93 Front St East (Lower Level), 647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato

Wingsanity: All-You-Can-Eat-Wings at St. Louis Bar & Grill

Our biggest event of the year is back! From June 26 – August 3, you can enjoy unlimited rounds of your choice of wing (Original, Dusted, Boneless, Plant-Based) for just $24.99!! Choose between our signature golden fries or veggie sticks for your side, and get ready to make a spectacle of yourself! No drink purchase required. Dine-In Only. Per Person Promotion. Opportunities to win FREE WINGS FOR A YEAR! Ask your server for details. See you soon!

St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
www.locations.stlouiswings.com/on-toronto-5219
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis

Paws Walks (TICKETED)

Two walking tours on July 18th and August 8th in Old Town Toronto to see art and visit dog-friendly places.

Join Toronto Dog Moms for one of two walks through Toronto’s most historic and charming neighbourhood.

About this event: Toronto Dog Moms and the Old Town Toronto BIA invite you and your dog to explore the storied streets of Old Town, where heritage architecture, cultural landmarks, and vibrant local businesses come together to create a truly unique experience. With its cobblestone character and welcoming atmosphere, this neighbourhood is a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Expect to uncover hidden gems, connect with fellow dog lovers, and enjoy a relaxed stop at a local dog-friendly patio – the perfect way to unwind and take in the historic surroundings.

Join us for an afternoon that celebrates Old Town Toronto’s rich past, lively present, and its love for dogs.

Summerlicious In Old Town Toronto (July 3-19)

Summerlicous is here in Old Town Toronto and your favourite restaurants are serving up hot 3-course fixed price meals starting at just $27 from July 3-19. Check out the menus below and hit up an old standby, or discover a new go-to. Reservations are open now!

• 3 Mariachis
• Bar Goa
• Biff’s Bistro
• Ceci Bar
• Hothouse Restaurant & Bar
• Mengrai Thai
• Notte Ristorante (formerly Amano Trattoria)
• The Berczy Tavern
• The Chef’s House
• The Joneses
• Uncle Tony’s

The Great Beaver Quest

Join “The Great Beaver Quest” now until August 16th you’ll have multiple chances to win gift cards to your favourite local Old Town Toronto businesses. You pick the spot, and we buy the cards!

The Quest: Find 51 beaver statues throughout our neighbourhood, each representing the nations competing on the global soccer stage, and one special beaver representing all of the nations. Each has been uniquely hand-painted by a local artist.

How to Play: Access the digital scavenger hunt below, choose “The Great Beaver Quest”, find the beavers using clues, and take on fun, simple challenges at each location. Every challenge completed earns you extra points and increases your chances of winning!

Table of Contents:

1 How To Play
2 Prizes
3 Contest Rules
4 Artist Bios & Inspiration
5 About Old Town Toronto & This Project
6 Beaver Design & Fabricator
7 Register To Bid On A Beaver

Yoga In St James Park (FREE)

Old Town Toronto’s FREE Fitness Classes in St. James Park at the Michael Comstock Pavilion take place Tuesdays in July and August, from 6 – 7pm.

Designed to get you moving and enjoying our park, these fitness classes are offered free of charge thanks to Friends of St James Park and your local business community, represented by Old Town Toronto BIA.

Please arrive 10 mins early to scan the registration/waiver QR code form using your mobile device, then show the instructor the confirmation screen.

Berczy Beats (FREE)

Join us in Berczy Park for live lunch time music Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm, July and August. Eat your lunch next to the famous “dog fountain” and enjoy this free concert.

I Heart Market Street (FREE)

Join your neighbours on Market Street for live entertainment, pop up market vendors, seating and more! Market Street (Front Street to The Esplanade) has been pedestrianized for summer 2026.

Table of Contents

• EVENTS
  • Live Music (Tues & Wed)
  • Busker Family Days
  • Salsa On Market Street
  • St. Lawrence Market Street Events
• LOCATION & DIRECTIONS
• PARKING
• SURVEY

Music In St James Park (FREE)

Join us Thursdays, 7-9pm, June-August at the Michael Comstock Pavilion in St. James Park for a free concert. Grab a seat at the park’s tables and chairs in front of the stage, or bring a blanket and picnic / take out for the back lawn. (All performances are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions. Thank you for your understanding.)

Music In Courthouse Square Park (FREE)

New for 2026, join us Wednesdays in July, 6pm-8pm as a new music series is piloted in Courthouse Square Park. Enjoy these live concerts while dining on one of the restaurant patios circling the park, or sit and relax in one of the many park benches.

Theatre In St. James Park (FREE/PWYC)

No Ticket Required. BYO chair or blanket.
Runtime: approx 1 hour.
Free (Pay What You Can Accepted)

Dates/Times:
Sat Aug 8 at 4pm & 7pm
Sun Aug 9 at 4pm & 7pm
Sat Aug 15 at 4pm & 7pm
Sun Aug 16 at 4pm & 7pm

Hoopty-doo! Grab your glad rags, we’re putting on the Ritz!

Old Town Toronto BIA and Alumnae Theatre present Unspoken Theatre’s new, family friendly musical comedy, 1920’s Walking Around In A Dream.

The hour long live performance inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brings the Roaring Twenties jazz age alive for the 2020’s! The show has jazz classics by Cole Porter, “Fats” Waller, and others in new arrangements from the director, award-winning Declan Meagher (Disney Cruise Line).

Award-winning playwright Natalie Kaye returns to comedy, vaudeville and historical language since co-writing the Toronto Fringe 2025 hit #1 Clown Comedy With Victor & Priscilla, a zany comedy with sold out nights and rave reviews including:

“Hilarious” – THE TORONTO STAR; “side-splittingly funny” – FRINGE REVIEW UK; “bursting with theatrical joy” – PARTON & PEARL; “bravo” – ISTVAN DUGALIN; “fast & funny” -MATT YIPCHUK; “a hilarious masterclass” – SESAYA ARTS

Unspoken Theatre is celebrating our 15th year, a female-run company that has produced over 20 new Canadian plays in Toronto!

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.

The post Where To Support Local This July appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

3 Mariachis

140A The Esplanade  / 416-507-1004 / Cuisine: Mexican / Accessible

3 Mariachis offers a vibrant, modern Mexican cuisine, serving colourful plates and bold cocktails in a lively, music-filled setting that turns every visit into a fiesta. 3 Mariachis creates unforgettable experiences through warm hospitality that brings the heart of Mexico to every table.

$27 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Elote: flame-grilled Mexican corn topped with queso, Mariachi’s signature sauce, and a blend of bold secret spices (vegetarian/gluten free/local)
•Chips and Guacamole: guacamole served with house-made corn chips (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)
• Empanada: fried crescent shaped pastry stuffed with ground beef and served with choice of salsa: roja, verde, avocado, habanero or aioli (vegetarian/local)

Main Dish
• Taco Trio: choice of birria, chicken al pastor, chorizo or avocado (gluten free/local)
• Enchiladas: choice of chorizo, chicken, shredded beef or veggies (gluten free/local)
• Soup and Salad: tortilla soup with avocado fit bowl (vegetarian/gluten free/local)

All mains served with basmati cumin rice

Dessert
• Churro: served with dulce de leche and chocolate sauce (vegetarian/local)
• Fried Ice Cream (vegetarian/local)
• Tres Leches Cake (vegetarian/local)

$35 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
Choice of two:
• Elote: flame-grilled Mexican corn topped with queso, Mariachi’s signature sauce, and a blend of bold secret spices (vegetarian/gluten free/local)
• Chips and Guacamole: guacamole served with house-made corn chips (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)
• Empanada: fried crescent shaped pastry stuffed with ground beef and served with choice of salsa: roja, verde, avocado, habanero or aioli (vegetarian/local)

Main Dish
• Taco Trio: choice of birria, chicken al pastor, chorizo or avocado (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Fajitas: choice of gilled chicken or veggies (local)
• Mini Mariachi’s Molcajete: hot volcanic molcajete bowl with a blend of green and red salsa, steak, grilled chicken breast, shrimp, cactus, green onion and Oaxaca cheese (local)

Dessert
• Churro: served with dulce de leche and chocolate sauce (vegetarian/local)
• Fried Ice Cream (vegetarian/local)
• Tres Leches Cake (vegetarian/local)

Bar Goa

Bar Goa, 36 Toronto St / 416-350-8188 / Cuisines: Indian / Accessible

Bar Goa’s ultra-stylish décor inspired by Portuguese Cubist and Indian art, with textured walls shimmering in silvery leaf overlaid with beige, pistachio and lilac, takes your breath away with its beauty. The culinary offerings, drawing inspiration from the vibrant flavours of Goa, coastal India, and global influences, are a result of continued experimentation, refinement, and passion — crafted to deliver an elevated dining experience rooted in authenticity and originality. Awarded by Michelin 2024 as the best Indian restaurant for an exceptional dining experience.

$48 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Berry Katori Chaat: A fusion of Indian street-style chaat served in a crispy edible bowl, topped with fresh berries, chutneys, yogurt and spices (vegetarian/local)
• Mango Bhel Puri: Tangy-sweet Indian street-style chaat made with puffed rice, fresh mango, chutneys and spices (vegetarian/vegan/local)
• Thai Chicken Tikka: Fusion-style wrap with tender marinated chicken tikka cooked in Thai-inspired flavours (chilli, garlic, lime, and coconut cream), wrapped in a flatbread and served with fresh mango salad (local)
• Goan Fish Tikka: Coastal-inspired roll made with marinated fish tikka, grilled with Goan spices and wrapped in a soft flatbread for a smoky, flavorful bite (local)

Main Dish
• Molten Butter Chicken: Chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced butter sauce for a decadent taste experience (local)
• Goan Prawn Curry: Coastal Indian seafood dish made with prawns simmered in a rich, spicy coconut-based curry with traditional Goan spices (local)
• Lasuni Saag Paneer: North Indian dish made with creamy spinach (saag) infused with garlic, cooked with soft paneer in a mildly spiced gravy (vegetarian/local)
Vegetable Biryani: Fragrant basmati rice with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices, traditionally slow-cooked for rich flavour (vegetarian)

Dessert
• Gulab Jamun Cheesecake: Fusion dessert made with creamy cheesecake topped or layered with soft, syrup-soaked gulab jamun (vegetarian/local)
• Bebinca: Traditional layered Goan dessert served with vanilla ice cream (vegetarian/local)
• Kolkata Mishti Doi: A classic Bengali sweetened yogurt dessert with a smooth, caramelized flavour (vegetarian/vegan/local)

$65 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• To start, compliments of the Chef: Mango Bhel Chaat with House Aam Panna Shot, a crisp, tangy Indian street-style chaat with puffed rice and juicy ripe mango, tossed in a sweet-spicy tamarind chilli dressing, paired with a refreshing raw mango summer drink (vegetarian/vegan/local)
• Cheese Pav Bhaji: A rich and buttery Mumbai street food made with slow-cooked, spiced vegetable mash, topped with melted cheese and served with buttered pav buns (vegetarian/local)
• Makhan Paneer Tikka Roll: Flavourful Indian street-style wrap filled with smoky paneer tikka tossed in rich makhani sauce, rolled in a flaky flatbread, and served with chutney and a lettuce salad (vegetarian/local)
• Thai Chicken Tikka Roll: Fusion-style wrap with tender marinated chicken tikka cooked in Thai-inspired flavours (chilli, garlic, lime, and coconut cream), wrapped in a flatbread and served with fresh mango salad (local)
• Prawn Balchao Slider: Coastal-inspired slider featuring spicy Goan-style prawn balchão, tucked into a soft bun for a bold, slightly sweet-and-sour seafood bite (local)

Main Dish
• Molten Butter Chicken and Urban Makhani Daal: Cooked in a creamy, spiced butter sauce for a decadent taste experience, served with slow-cooked yellow lentils (local)
• Champaran Biryani: Slow-cooked rice and meat dish from Bihar, traditionally prepared in a sealed clay pot where marinated mutton is cooked slowly with rice and aromatic spices (local)
• Valley Methi Paneer: A Himalayan-style paneer (Indian cottage cheese) dish cooked with fresh fenugreek leaves in a mildly spiced, creamy gravy (vegetarian/local)
• Jackfruit Biryani: A plant-based version of biryani in which raw jackfruit is layered with basmati rice, fried onions, and aromatic spices (vegetarian/local)

Dessert
• Gulab Jamun Cheesecake: Fusion dessert made with creamy cheesecake topped or layered with soft, syrup-soaked gulab jamun (vegetarian/local)
• Bebinca: Traditional layered Goan dessert served with vanilla ice cream (vegetarian/local)
• Kolkata Mishti Doi: A classic Bengali sweetened yogurt dessert with a smooth, caramelized flavour (vegetarian/local)

Biff’s Bistro

Biff’s Bistro, 2 Front St E / 416-860-0086 / Cuisines: Bistro, French / Accessible

A favourite for over 25 years, Biff’s Bistro brings the spirit of a classic Parisian bistro to Old Town Toronto, and just steps from Toronto’s Financial District. Celebrated for its timeless, flavourful French classics crafted from seasonal ingredients, Biff’s offers an inviting atmosphere that’s both cozy and vibrant.

$41 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Heirloom Tomato & Watermelon Salad: ricotta salata, white balsamic vinaigrette, basil (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Asparagus Tart: caramelized onion, whipped Boursin, puff pastry (vegetarian)
• Shrimp Cocktail: iceberg lettuce, avocado, Marie Rose sauce, crispy shallots (gluten free)

Main Dish
• Salmon Burger: seared salmon, tomato, tartare sauce, bibb lettuce, frites
• Merguez Sausage: beef and lamb sausage, piperade, warm potato salad (gluten free)
• Smoked Chicken Tartine: crispy bacon, rosemary focaccia, parmesan aïoli, tomato jam, arugula
• Crêpes Forestière: roasted mushrooms, porcini cream, thyme, pickled shallots, green salad (vegetarian)

Dessert
• Flourless Chocolate Cake: strawberries, classic vanilla crème anglaise (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Peach Melba: raspberry jam, sponge cake, Chantilly (vegetarian)
• Crème Caramel: caramel custard, milk crumble, blueberries (vegetarian)

$55 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Watermelon & Bocconcini Salad: heirloom tomato, white balsamic vinaigrette, basil (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Asparagus Tart: quail’s egg, caramelized onion, whipped Boursin, puff pastry (vegetarian)
• Terrine de Basque: pork pâté, Espelette pepper, manchego, grilled sourdough, gherkins
• Shrimp Cocktail : iceberg lettuce, avocado, Marie Rose sauce, crispy shallots (gluten free)

Main Dish
• Seared Salmon: charred corn succotash, romesco sauce, lime crema (gluten free)
• Steak Frites: grilled hanger steak, sauce vierge, sweet and smoky slaw, frites
• Chicken Provençal: tomato-braised chicken, rice pilaf, olives, capers, pistou (gluten free)
• Mushroom Ravioli: roasted mushrooms, peas, ricotta, porcini cream, parmesan (vegetarian)

Dessert
• Flourless Chocolate Cake: strawberries, classic vanilla crème anglaise (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Peach Melba: raspberry jam, sponge cake, Chantilly (vegetarian)
• Crème Caramel: caramel custard, milk crumble, blueberries (vegetarian)

Ceci Bar

33 Yonge St  / 437-253-1613 / Cuisine: Argentinian, Brazilian, Mexican / Accessible

Bringing a burst of Latin energy to the corner of Yonge & Front, Ceci Bar serves up vibrant Pan-Latin cuisine and creative cocktails in a fun, feel-good setting. From its lively dining room to its large covered patio, Ceci is the perfect spot to sip, share, and soak up the spirit of the season.

$34 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Ceci Toast: sourdough, half gaucomole, half tomato, pico de gallo, pickled vegetables (vegan)
• Creamy Tortilla Soup: roasted tomatoes, cilantro crema, tortilla chips (vegetarian/gluten-free)
• Street Corn Salad: gilled corn, shredded lettuce, lime aïoli, pico de gallo, tajín, white cheese (vegetarian/gluten-free)
Patatas Bravas: bravas aïoli, parmigiano-reggiano, pickled vegetables (vegetarian/gluten free)

Main Dish
• Tuna Bowl: sushi rice, grilled pineapple, edamame, carrots, chipotle mayo, tortilla chips (substitute tofu for vegetarian option) (vegetarian/gluten-free)
• Chicken Caesar Salad: romaine, grilled adobo chicken, Caesar dressing, parmigiano-reggiano (gluten free)
• Cubano Sandwich: pork carnitas, smoked ham, swiss cheese, mustard, pickled vegetables, fries
• Al Pastor Skewers: pork shoulder, fried rice, grilled pineapple, ginger, edamame (substitute tofu for vegetarian option)

Dessert
• Margarita Panna Cotta: lemon, tequila syrup, strawberry compote (gluten free)
• Cherry Crumble Cake: streusel, coconut lime whipped cream (vegetarian)
• Chocolate Gelato: cookie crumble (substitute pineapple sorbet for vegan or gluten free option) (vegetarian)

$45 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Shrimp Aguachile: cucumber, lime, jalapeño, onions, cilantro (gluten free)
• Creamy Tortilla Soup: roasted tomatoes, cilantro crema, tortilla chips (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Ceci Grilled Salad: barley, guacamole, grilled zucchini, broccoli, queso fresco (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Gaucho Beef Empanada: olives, egg, ceci slaw (substitute mushroom for vegetarian option)

Main Dish
• Chimichurri Bowl: grilled adobo chicken, crispy potatoes, chimichurri mayo, grilled and pickled vegetables (gluten free)
• Ceci Burger: beef chuck patty, crispy cheese, guacamole, chipotle mayo, fries
• Pasta Chitarra: creamy chipotle sauce, chorizo crumble, cilantro crema, mozzarella
• Seared Salmon: fried rice, grilled pineapple, ginger, edamame (substitute tofu for vegetarian option)

Dessert
• Margarita Panna Cotta: lemon, tequila syrup, strawberry compote (gluten free)
• Cherry Crumble Cake: streusel, coconut lime whipped cream (vegetarian)
• Chocolate Gelato: cookie crumble (substitute pineapple sorbet for vegan or gluten free option) (vegetarian)

Hothouse Restaurant & Bar

35 Church St / 416-366-7800 / Cuisine: American, comfort food, Italian / Accessible

Located in Old Town Toronto’s historic St. Lawrence neighbourhood, Hothouse Restaurant & Bar is situated amongst many of the city’s iconic landmarks and entertainment hotspots, offering delicious food made from scratch with the freshest ingredients, and great hospitality.

$34 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Peperonata Fried Smelts: Crispy fried smelts, layered over a bright, slow-cooked peperonata, and served with a Calabrian lemon aioli
• Garlic and Chili Green Beans: Crisp beans, savoury garlic chips, fiery Calabrian chili, bright lemon zest, toasted almonds, and crispy shallots, served atop labneh
• Grilled Peach Salad: Grilled peaches on a bed of peppery arugula and fresh basil, drizzled with dijon vinaigrette, red onions and finished with crumbled gorgonzola and a sprinkle of dukkah (vegetarian/gluten free)

Main Dish
• Chicken Shawarma Sandwich: Shawarma-spiced chicken breast on a toasted ciabatta bun with creamy hummus, traditional garlic toum, and pickled turnips, finished with crisp pickles, vine-ripened tomato, and shredded lettuce
• Pasta al Limone: Spaghettini noodles, lemon cream sauce, asparagus, and aglio olio, finished with fresh parsley and crunchy, spiced walnuts, topped with grana padano (vegetarian)
• Grilled Lamb Kebabs: Lamb kebabs infused with aromatic Mediterranean spices and char-grilled, served with house-made hummus, fragrant Egyptian rice, and tomato salad (gluten free)

Dessert
• Saffron Yuzu Crème Brûlée: Rich saffron crème brûlée with hints of yuzu and a brown caramel sugar crisp (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Cardamom and Orange Brûlée Tart: Pistachio ganache and toasted marshmallow (vegetarian)
• Pistachio Burnt Basque Cheesecake: Traditional basque burnt cheesecake with a twist (vegetarian)

$45 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Salmorejo: Roma tomato purée garnished with finely chopped prosciutto and hard-boiled egg, served with a savoury, house-made flaky beef empanada
• Garlic and Chili Green Beans: Crisp beans, savoury garlic chips, fiery Calabrian chili, bright lemon zest, toasted almonds, and crispy shallots, served atop labneh
• Cilantro Lime Tiger Shrimp: Cilantro-lime poached tiger shrimp, smoky grilled artichoke hearts, served with sweet and spicy balsamic figs and a warm phyllo-wrapped feta drizzled with golden honey

Main Dish
• Agashi Spiced Flounder: Pan-seared flounder with North African spices, lemon potatoes, sweet corn salsa, and feta crumble, served with a grilled lemon wedge (gluten free)
• Egyptian Stuffed Acorn Squash: Roasted acorn squash quarters stuffed with a medley of sautéed bell peppers, red onions, grape tomatoes, and baby spinach, mixed with Egyptian rice, and finished with a topping of crispy crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts (vegetarian/gluten-free)
• Ras el Hanout Spiced Miami Ribs: Aged Miami ribs perfectly seasoned with ras el hanout spice blend and grilled, served with savoury truffle rosemary-spiced fries with zhoug sauce (gluten free)

Dessert
• Saffron Yuzu Crème Brûlée: Rich saffron crème brûlée with hints of yuzu and a brown caramel sugar crisp (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Cardamom and Orange Brûlée Tart: Pistachio ganache and toasted marshmallow (vegetarian)
• Pistachio Burnt Basque Cheesecake: Traditional basque burnt cheesecake with a twist (vegetarian)

Mengrai Thai

82 Ontario St  / 416-840-2754 / Cuisine: Thai

Mengrai is the award winning Thai restaurant by Iron Chef winner Chef Sasi who creates authentic Royal Thai cuisine with a modern twist, served in a charming former beer brewery warehouse.

$35 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Golden Flower with Chicken Piccalillis: crispy pastry filled with sweet bell peppers coulis, soy (gluten free option available)
• Crispy Coconut Panko Shrimp
• Golden Flower with Tofu Piccalillis: Crispy pastry filled with sweet bell peppers coulis, soy, garlic topped with roasted scallions (can substitute with gluten free Cold Spring Roll) (vegetarian/vegan)
• Green Mango Salad: sweet soy, onion, bell peppers, chili flakes, topped with crushed peanuts (optional) (vegetarian/vegan)

Main Dish
• #54 Red Curry Chicken with Pineapple & Lychee: with pineapple & lychee, served with side of steamed jasmine rice (vegan substitution – tofu)(gluten free)
• Filet of Striped Bass with Tamarind Coconut Sauce & Steamed Greens: tamarind coconut sauce, steamed Asian greens, garlic, served with side of steamed jasmine rice (gluten free)
• Basil Chicken: wok-fried with dried chili, fried egg, served with side of steamed jasmine rice
• Khao Soi Noodles with Chicken:rice noodles in aromatic coconut curry broth with braised leg of chicken, topped with crispy noodles (gluten-free option available)
• Veggie Pad Thai Noodles: street style, topped with crushed peanuts (optional)(available with chicken upon request) (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)
• Vegetarian Delight with Tibetan Bai Ling Mushroom: vegan wok-fried dish served with side of steamed jasmine rice (gluten free option available)(vegetarian/vegan)
• Green or Red Curry Vegetarian with Tofu: curry coconut sauce, eggplant, baby corn, bamboo shoot, served with side of steamed jasmine rice (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)

Dessert
• Thai Mango Sticky Rice: popular Thai dessert – sweet coconut rice with fresh mango (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)
• Vegan Mango Cheesecake: made with cashew & arrow root flour (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)
• Pandan Coconut Cupcake: egg, wheat flour, pandan and coconut; melts in your mouth (vegetarian)

Notte Ristorante (formerly Amano Trattoria)

9 Church St / 647-349-7297 / Cuisine: Italian / Accessible

Notte Ristorante, led by Chef Michael Angeloni and the team behind The Berczy Tavern, evolves the former Amano Trattoria into a refined, repeatable escape. The menu anchors on fresh pasta and Roman-style pizza alongside seasonal secondi, steaks, and vegetable-forward dishes designed for comfortable dining. With an energetic room, central bar, and well-priced drinks program, Notte offers approachable Italian hospitality—generous, unpretentious, and effortlessly easy to return to.

$55 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Truffle Salad: baby gem, fresh apple, pecorino, truffle vinaigrette (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Grilled Calamari: romesco sauce, crispy potatoes, pepperoncini aioli, salmoriglio, hazelnuts
• Beef Carpaccio: pickled mushrooms, hazelnut emulsion, parmigiano reggiano, arugula

Dessert
• Nonna’s Tiramisu: marsala zabaione, coffee sponge cake, espresso syrup, cocoa powder, shaved chocolate (vegetarian)
•Lemon Olive Oil Cake: lemon buttercream, lemon curd, vanilla chantilly, speculoos crumbs, crunchy meringue (vegetarian)
• Pistachio Cannoli: pistachio cream, candied pistachios, white chocolate, pistachio sauce (vegetarian)

The Berczy Tavern

69 Front St E/ 647-479-0279 / Cuisines: American, Canadian, Mediterranean / Accessible

Step into The Berczy Tavern and enjoy contemporary cuisine, crafted cocktails, and live music blended seamlessly with the timeless charm of Toronto’s heritage district.

$41 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Pugliese Burrata: Grilled sourdough, marinated cucumbers, Calabrian chili oil, garlic, candied pistachio, mint
• Steak Tartare: Grilled sourdough, fennel chili sauce, tri tip beef, crispy shallots, parmigiano
• Green Goddess Salad: Baby gem lettuce, green goddess dressing, radish, endive, cucumbers, chives, toasted seeds (vegetarian/gluten-free/local)

Main Dish
• Trout: Currant and caper purée, harissa roasted cauliflower, moroccan black olives, herb salad
• Mushroom Risotto: sunchoke puree, grilled maitake mushroom, chive, Jerusalem artichoke (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Duck Salad: Cabbage slaw, apple, radish, chili, nuoc cham dressing, cashews

Dessert
• Pistachio Strawberry Sorbetto (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)
• Gelato (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse (vegetarian/gluten free)

$55 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Pugliese Burrata: Grilled sourdough, marinated cucumbers, Calabrian chili oil, garlic, candied pistachio, mint
• Seabass Crudo: Citrus cured sea bream, fresh tomato vinaigrette, anchovy, lime, chili oil, cilantro, crispy shallots (can be made gluten free)
• Green Goddess Salad: Baby gem lettuce, green goddess dressing, radish, endive, cucumbers, chives, toasted seeds (vegetarian/gluten-free/local)

Main Dish
• Trout: Currant and caper purée, harissa roasted cauliflower, moroccan black olives, herb salad
• Mushroom Risotto: sunchoke puree, grilled maitake mushroom, chive, Jerusalem artichoke (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Chicken Suprême: Mashed potatoes, wild mushrooms, pearl onions, chicken jus, crispy chicken skin

Dessert
• Pistachio Strawberry Sorbetto (vegetarian/vegan/gluten free)
• Gelato (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Salted Caramel & Chocolate Mousse (vegetarian/gluten free)

The Chef’s House

215 King St E / 416-415-2260 / Cuisines: Canadian, Global / Accessible

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, The Chefs’ House is an innovative concept restaurant run by students from George Brown College’s Centre for Hospitality & Culinary Arts. Under the the guidance of a professional instruction team, hospitality and culinary arts students put their skills into practice working in tandem to create, prepare and serve gourmet meals, alongside a wide selection of Canadian and international wines, craft beers, and in-house cocktails.

$34 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Ajo Blanco, White Gazpacho, Spiced Almonds, Chili Oil, Grapes (vegetarian/vegan/local)
• Caesar Salad, Romaine Hearts, Pancetta, White Anchovy, Focaccia Crisps, Grana Padano (local)
• Asparagus & Prosciutto, Arugula, Grana Padano, Mustard Aioli (local)

Main Dish
• House-made Fettuccine, Arugula, Porcini Mushroom Cream Sauce, Crispy Shallots, Grana Padano (vegetarian/local)
• Charred Malai Chicken Supreme, Triple-cooked Potato, Spinach, Split Peas, Mint Sauce (local)
• Miso-glazed Salmon, Braised Daikon, Shiitake Mushrooms, Mustard Greens Slaw, Miso Beurre Blanc (local)

Dessert
• Millionaire’s Chocolate Tart, Dulce de Leche, Ganache, Feuilletine (vegetarian/local)
• Orange Crème Brûlée, Vanilla Biscotti (vegetarian/local)
• Coconut Cream Panna Cotta, Strawberry Rhubarb Compote (vegetarian/vegan/local)

$45 Dinner Plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Ajo Blanco, White Gazpacho, Spiced Almonds, Chili Oil, Grapes (vegetarian/vegan/local)
• Caesar Salad, Romaine Hearts, Pancetta, White Anchovy, Focaccia Crisps, Grana Padano (local)
• Confit Trout Niçoise Salad, Fingerling Potato, Quail Egg, Green Beans, Olives, Red Wine Vinaigrette (local)

Main Dish
• House-made Fettuccine, Arugula, Porcini Mushroom Cream Sauce, Crispy Shallots, Grana Padano (vegetarian/local)
• Miso-glazed Salmon, Braised Daikon, Shiitake Mushrooms, Mustard Greens Slaw, Miso Beurre Blanc (local)
• Grilled “Teres Major” Steak, Pommes Purée, Sunchoke Chips, Green Beans, Chimichurri, Veal Jus (local)

Dessert
• Millionaire’s Chocolate Tart, Dulce de Leche, Ganache, Feuilletine (vegetarian/local)
• Orange Crème Brûlée, Vanilla Biscotti (vegetarian/local)
• Coconut Cream Panna Cotta, Strawberry Rhubarb Compote (vegetarian/vegan/local)

The Joneses

33 Yonge St #100/ 647-258-5209 / Cuisines: American / Accessible

At the corner of Yonge and Wellington, The Joneses offers a playful take on comfort food in a mid-century modern-inspired setting. The menu features premium steaks, standout seafood, fresh pastas, and crave-worthy classics, all complemented by a bold cocktail and wine program. Guests can dine indoors or unwind in the stylish solarium—an inviting covered patio. The Joneses delivers a heaping dose of nostalgia in Toronto’s bustling downtown core.

$41 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Smoked Cookstown Greens Tomato Soup heirloom tomato + avocado salsa, herbed goat cheese, apple cider balsamic vinegar (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Caesar Salad: double-smoked bacon, zephyr organics romaine, broccoli, brioche croutons, parmigiano-reggiano, roasted garlic dressing
• Watermelon + Shishito Peppers: compressed + pickled watermelon, new farm spicy greens, capella meadows feta, sesame lime dressing (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Baked Cheese Dip: cream cheese, cheddar + jack cheese, pepper jelly, pickled + raw vegetables, crackers, pita chips (vegetarian)

Main Dish
• Smoked Chopped Brisket Sandwich: warner’s farm apple + fennel slaw, tangy south carolina bbq sauce, potato bun (local)
• Chicken Souvlaki Pita Wrap: french fries, romaine, tomato, red onion, kalamata olives, tzatziki, green salad
• Shrimp Jambalaya: garlic shrimp, andouille sausage, dirty rice (gluten free)
• Baked Ziti: vodka sauce, mushrooms, cheese curds, mozzarella (vegetarian)

Dessert
• Lennox Farms Rhubarb Tart: pastry cream, rhubarb jam, pistachio ice cream (vegetarian/local)
• Delicious Chocolate Cake: coffee + chocolate sponge, dark + white chocolate icing, chocolate curls (vegetarian)
• Pineapple Upside-down Cake: coconut caramel sauce, vanilla whipped cream (vegetarian)
• New York Cheesecake: wild blueberry compote, almond crisp, maple caramel (vegetarian)

$55 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Smoked Cookstown Greens Tomato Soup: heirloom tomato + avocado salsa, herbed goat cheese, apple cider balsamic vinegar (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Caesar Salad: double-smoked bacon, zephyr organics romaine, broccoli, brioche croutons, parmigiano-reggiano, roasted garlic dressing
•Watermelon + Shishito Peppers: compressed + pickled watermelon, new farm spicy greens, capella meadows feta, sesame lime dressing (vegetarian/gluten free)
• Baked Cheese Dip: cream cheese, cheddar + jack cheese, pepper jelly, pickled + raw vegetables, crackers, pita chips (vegetarian)
• Spicy Tuna Sushi Pizza: six pieces, crispy rice, gochujang, kewpie mayo, katsu sauce, avocado, furikake

Main Dish
• Smoked Chopped Brisket Sandwich: Warner’s farm apple + fennel slaw, tangy south carolina bbq sauce, potato bun (local)
• Greek-Style Chicken: lemon pepper chicken breast, roast potatoes, greek salad (gluten free)
• Blackened Cod Jambalaya: garlic shrimp, andouille sausage, dirty rice (gluten free)
• Baked Ziti: vodka sauce, mushrooms, cheese curds, mozzarella (vegetarian)

Dessert
• Lennox Farms Rhubarb Tart: pastry cream, rhubarb jam, pistachio ice cream (vegetarian/local)
• Delicious Chocolate Cake: coffee + chocolate sponge, dark + white chocolate icing, chocolate curls (vegetarian)
• Pineapple Upside-down Cake: coconut caramel sauce, vanilla whipped cream (vegetarian)
• New York Cheesecake: wild blueberry compote, almond crisp, maple caramel (vegetarian)

Uncle Tony’s

38 Wellington St / 416-455-6650 / Cuisines: Italian / Accessible

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood, Uncle Tony’s offers an Old World traditional Italian charm and delicious, authentic Italian cuisine.

$34 Lunch, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Breaded Shrimp
• Cauliflower Fritters (vegan/gluten free)
• Mixed Green Salad with Watermelon
• Caprese Salad

Complimentary bruschetta

Main Dish
• Italian Mixed Greens with Avocado and Grilled Chicken Salad
• Rigatoni Bolognese
• Penne with Chicken and Mushroom in a Rosé Sauce
• Shrimp Linguine in an Olive Oil Sauce
• Eggplant Parmigiana with Side Pasta
• Pepperoni, Mushroom, Green Pepper Pizza

Dessert
• Homemade Tiramisu
• Cheesecake
• Fresh Fruit Salad (vegan / gluten free)

$45 Dinner, plus taxes and gratuity

Appetizer
• Grilled Garlic Shrimp
• Cauliflower Fritters (vegan/gluten free)
• Mixed Green Salad with Watermelon
• Caprese Salad
• Meatballs
• Caprese Salad
• Organic Mixed Greens with Roasted Beets Salad

Complimentary bruschetta

Main Dish
• Fusilli Primavera
• Veal Parmigiana with Spaghetti
• Chicken Marsala
• Gnocci: with Italian sausage, onion, peppers in tomato sauce
• Eggplant Parmigiana with Spaghetti
• Grilled Salmon: with lemon, capers, white wine sauce, and seasonal vegetables
• Fat Tony Pizza

Dessert
• Homemade Tiramisu
• Cheesecake
• Chocolate Raspberry or Baccio Tartufo
• White Chocolate & Hazelnut Tartufo
• Fresh Fruit Salad (vegan / gluten free)

Will you be visiting one of these spots for Summerlicious? Share your pics and tag us on Instagram @oldtowntoronto for your chance to be featured on our page! Be sure to check out our full Business Directory of Old Town Toronto shops, services, and more. 

The post Where to Summerlicious in Old Town Toronto 2026 appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

3 Mariachis

Enjoy our spacious patio with authentic Mexican dishes, refreshing margaritas, and the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed meal with friends.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Casa Margarita – Classic tequila cocktail made with freshly squeezed lime juice and organic agave syrup. Choose from our unique flavours.

Appetizer: Chicharron and Guacamole – Crispy pork belly served with our fresh house-made guacamole.

Main Course: Mixed Grill Molcajete – Hot volcanic rock molcajete bowl with a blend of green and red salsa base. Served with steak, grilled chicken breast, tiger shrimp, cactus, green onion, and oaxaca cheese.

Dessert: Churro – Served with chocolate sauce and homemade dulce de leche.

3 Mariachis
140 The Esplanade, 416-507-1004
www.3mariachis.ca
Instagram: @3mariachis

AAA Bar

AAA Bar (138 Adelaide St E) is your easy, casual neighborhood patio. Totally dog-friendly, fun, and perfect for people-watching. No kitchen, so bring your own food! We are not fancy—just plain fabulous. Stop by for friendly vibes and great drinks. All are welcome.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Rum & Coke – For when the day was longer than you could handle. Choose from the following rums and we’ll splash a little coke in the glass with it – Havana Club, Bambu, Kraken, Bush Company, Boa dark rum, Myers dark, Cinnamon spice (North spirit distillery), Spiced rum.

Drink: Beer – For when you want to connect with your inner Homer Simpson and share a laugh with a few friends. Choose from our rotating selection of beers which often includes Beaus Lager, Steam Whistle, Rainhard Rice Lager, Side Launch Wheat, Woodhouse Sour, Radical Road Yuzu, Any Day IPA, Amsterdam Boneshaker, Anderson Cream Ale. 

Drink: Shots – Look sometimes you need to celebrate and don’t have time to nurse a glass. Our bar is stocked and most of our shot glasses match.

AAA Bar
138 Adelaide Street E, 647-347-2677
www.tripleabar.ca
Instagram: @tripleabar

Au Pain Doré

Come and join us at our neighbourhood bakery where we practice traditional baking methods and discover our fresh and authentic gourmet products prepared on site.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Strawberry Iced Matcha – Craving something refreshing with a touch of natural energy? Discover our Iced Strawberry Matcha — the perfect balance between the delicate, earthy notes of matcha and the sweet softness of strawberry. A refreshing, smooth, and lightly energizing drink, ideal for brightening your day. Perfect to sip in the sun, on your break or whenever you need a gentle pick-me-up.

Main Course: Avocado Omelette Croissant – Start your day off right with our new breakfast sandwich! A fluffy omelet topped with fresh avocado, juicy tomatoes, and crisp arugula, all elevated with a rich, creamy aioli sauce. And to make every bite even better? A 100% butter croissant — golden, flaky, and perfectly melt-in-your-mouth. A comforting, fresh, and indulgent breakfast — perfect for busy mornings or well-deserved breaks.

Main Course: Tuscan Chicken Sandwich – Let yourself be tempted by an explosion of flavour in every bite! An irresistible duo of juicy grilled chicken and crispy bacon, topped with fresh avocado, melted cheddar, and creamy mozzarella. All enhanced with crunchy red onions and a delicate balsamic reduction. And to top it all off? A rich, creamy aioli sauce layered on fresh, crusty Italian bread. A generous, indulgent sandwich full of character.

Au Pain Doré
81 Front St. East, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe

Balzac’s Coffee

Just steps from the St. Lawrence Market on Market Street, Balzac’s Coffee invites you to settle into its charming patio for café favourites and artisanally crafted beverages. It’s a warm, lively spot to relax, catch up, and watch the neighbourhood go by.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Energy Infused Dragon Fruit Lemon Soda – A bright, sparkling blend of lemon soda and dragon fruit syrup, infused with green coffee bean extract for a smooth, refreshing energy lift.

Drink: Energy Infused Iced Teas – Available in bright Lemon Ginger Ube or vibrant Elderberry Hibiscus Ube, these refreshing iced teas are naturally infused with green coffee extract for a smooth energy lift.

Drink: Espresso Tonics – Experience a refreshing lift with crisp tonic water and Balzac’s velvety smooth espresso, perfectly layered with your choice of vibrant blood orange or rich blackberry syrup.

Balzac’s Coffee
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
www.balzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee

Biff’s Bistro

Classic French fare and one of Toronto’s most charming patios. Biff’s Bistro brings Parisian bistro energy to the heart of the city, perfect for long lunches, après-work drinks and lingering dinners.

Must Try Menu Items:

Appetizer: Oysters – Served with lemon, horseradish, and red wine mignonette. Enjoy them half-price Tuesday to Friday from 2–6 pm and Saturday from 4–6 pm. Or stop by for Buck-a-Shuck Sundays, featuring $1 oysters with the purchase of a bottle of wine from 4 pm–close, while quantities last.

Main Course: Steak Frites – Served with green beans, frites, red wine jus, and Béarnaise sauce (choose your cut: 7oz Flat Iron, 10oz Strip Loin, 7oz Tenderloin, or a 24oz Côte de Boeuf).

Dessert: Basque Cheesecake – Traditional vanilla cheesecake, mulled berries.

Biff’s Bistro
2 Front St E, 416-860-0086
www.biffsbistro.com
Instagram: @biffsbistro

Bindia Indian Bistro

Bindia Indian Bistro’s seasonal patio — across from St. Lawrence Market under signature turquoise umbrellas — brings fusion-forward Indian cuisine, hand-shaken summer cocktails, and a private dining room for groups up to 50 to the heart of Old Town Toronto.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Spicy Dragon Fruit Margarita – Bindia’s patio-season cocktail debut — a hand-shaken margarita layered with the tropical sweetness of dragon fruit and a slow chilli burn. Vibrant, refreshing, and made for sunny afternoons under the umbrellas.

Appetizer: Chicken Tacos (Gluten-Free) – An Indian-fusion small plate built on a gluten-free shell — spiced chicken layered with chef-crafted chutneys, fresh herbs, and a cooling yogurt finish. A bright, hand-held start to your patio meal.

Appetizer: Quinoa & Sprouted Green Lentil Salad – A summer-bright bowl of nutty quinoa and sprouted green lentils tossed with seasonal herbs and a citrus-forward dressing. Plant-forward, protein-rich, and a fresh complement to any patio meal.

Main Course: Chicken Roganjosh (Gluten-Free) – A modern take on the Kashmiri classic — tender chicken breast braised in a fragrant yogurt gravy of onion, ginger, garlic, and tomato. Gluten-free, deeply layered, and unmistakably Bindia.

Bindia Indian Bistro
16 Market St, 416-863-0000
www.bindia.ca
Instagram: @bindiaindianbistro

C’est What? Beer Garden

C’est What’s Beer Garden, tucked at the foot of Farquhar’s Lane, is this summer’s hidden gem. Many seating options including comfy couches by the fire tables. Outdoor games – giant Connect 4, Jenga, even axe throwing! Full food menu available + local craft beers + live music.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Henry of Pelham Wines – The Beer Garden features our house VQA wines from Henry of Pelham: crisp aromatic Sauvignon Blanc; full bodied Baco Noir and a fresh & elegant Three of Hearts Rosé. Each pairs perfectly with summer time and good vibes in our Beer Garden!

Main Course: Beer Garden Burger – A classic beef patty topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and jalapeño mayo. Served with our famous herbed frites. Available only in the Beer Garden from noon-4pm for $15.

C’est What?
Beer Garden: 94 The Esplanade
Main Restaurant: 67 Front St. E
416-867-9499
www.cestwhat.com
Instagram: @cestwhatto

Café Nicole Bistro + Bar

Café Nicole Bistro + Bar, located at Novotel Toronto Centre, is a relaxed neighbourhood spot in Old Toronto, serving reimagined favourites, seasonal spritzes and shareable patio bites. Set beneath the arches on The Esplanade, it’s perfect for lunch, Happy Hour or a pre-show bite.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Cucumber Elderflower Spritz – Light, crisp and refreshing, this patio-ready spritz blends St-Germain, prosecco, cucumber, mint and soda for a floral, cooling sip made for summer afternoons.

Drink: Strawberry Campari Spritz – A bright and vibrant spritz made with Campari, prosecco, strawberries and soda — bubbly, bittersweet and perfect for golden hour on the patio.

Appetizer: Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos – A bright and flavourful patio favourite featuring three mahi mahi tacos with pico de gallo, guacamole, shredded lettuce and chipotle aioli – fresh, satisfying and made for summer dining.

Appetizer: The Chef’s Hummus Mezze – A vibrant, shareable patio favourite featuring creamy hummus with tahini, chickpeas, falafel, extra virgin olive oil and pita. Enjoy it as a light vegetarian bite, or add chicken or steak for a heartier option.

Café Nicole Bistro + Bar
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro

Cantina Mercatto

Tucked along historic Wellington Street East, Cantina Mercatto’s patio is Old Town Toronto’s go-to for authentic Italian in the open air. Sip a signature spritz in the corten-steel and ornamental grass garden, share fresh pasta and pizza, or pull up to our outdoor bar for a perfect summer afternoon.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: My Sweetest Peaches – Noroi Non-Alcoholic Rum, Peach Syrup, Lemon 0.0% $14
A bright, sun-soaked non-alcoholic sipper built on Noroi non-alcoholic rum, peach syrup and fresh lemon. Zero-proof, all flavour — and right at home on the patio.

Appetizer: Asparagus & Stracciatella – Frisée, Romesco, Roasted Onion, Pine Nuts $16.00
A pillow of stracciatella with frisée and tender spring asparagus, set on a swoosh of romesco with toasted pine nuts and sweet roasted onion. Bright and creamy — order one to share, end up ordering two.

Main: Bucatini – Pacific Snapper, Tomato, Olives, Capers, Anchovy, Chili $24.00
Long-strand bucatini caught in a Mediterranean tangle of Pacific snapper, tomato, olives, capers, anchovy and a slow burn of chili. Briny, bright, with just enough heat — coastal Italian, exactly the way it should be.

Main: Icelandic Cod – Asparagus, Brown Butter, Caper Crumb $34.00
Snowy-flake cod under a golden caper crumb crust, set over fresh asparagus in a pool of nutty brown butter. Clean, seasonal, beautifully restrained — proper Italian cooking with nothing to hide behind.

Cantina Mercatto
25 Wellington St E, 416-304-0781
www.mercatto.ca
Instagram:@mercatto.to

Ceci Bar

A spacious, reservable patio in the heart of downtown Toronto, Ceci Bar brings bold Mexican flavours and vibrant energy to every visit, with fresh ceviche, flavour-packed tacos and shareable plates made for sunny afternoons, group dinners and lingering cocktails.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Paloma Auténtica – Sauza silver tequila, grapefruit jarritos, lime, salt (Join Ceci Bar for Happy Hour — available Tuesday to Thursday 2–6pm, and Friday & Saturday 4–6pm).

Appetizer: Classic Gaucho Beef Empanadas – two pieces, olives, egg, chiminasty sauce.

Main Course: Fiesta Platter for Two – choice of guacamole or queso fundido + choice of two orders of any tacos (4 pieces) + choice of churros, chocolate mousse or cheesecake.

Ceci Bar
101-33 Yonge St, 437-253-1613
www.cecibar.com
Instaram: @cecibar.to

Duke’s Refresher

There’s only one place where playing in traffic is a good idea, and that’s the Duke’s Refresher patio. Grab a beer, grab a bite and enjoy the sun before heading inside to play the night away with our arcade games, ping pong tables and more!

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Raspberry Lemonade – Sweet, sour & bursting with fruit flavour; our signature cocktail is a delight every time, and only $5 during Happy Hour!

Appetizer: Calamari – What could be better in the sunshine then fresh fried calamari? Nothing, that’s what. We checked.

Main Course: Margherita Pizza – Invented in the sun soaked hills of Italy, this traditional Neapolitan-style pizza is the perfect summer slice. Fresh basil & mozzarella on a rich tomato marinara? Perfection.

Dessert: Cookies ‘n’ Cream – Fresh baked cookies? Check. Delicious vanilla ice cream? Check. Rich caramel sauce? Check. Someone else finish this description, I’m hungry.

Duke’s Refresher
73A Front St E, 416-603-8826
www.dukesrefresher.ca
Instagram: @dukesrefresherslm

Hothouse Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar

At the corner of Front & Church, Hot House Restaurant offers fresh Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, warm hospitality, a sunny patio, intimate dining spaces, and private event venues in the heart of downtown Toronto.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Signature Hothouse Sangria – Your choice of red, white or sparkling mixed with fruit, citrus, simple syrup, and juice.

Appetizer: Beet Cured Salmon and Cod Crudo – Cured salmon and cod, brightened with lemon juice and creamy avocado, accented by pickled onions and salty capers. Finished with Greek extra virgin olive oil and Maldon Sea salt. (Gluten Friendly, Dairy Free.)

Main Course: Paella Mixta (for one or two) – A vibrant Spanish classic, featuring a captivating medley of chorizo, tender smoked chicken, succulent shrimp, and fresh mussels and clams. Cooked with authentic Spanish sofrito and bomba rice, this dish is finished with a traditional socarrat—the irresistible, crispy bottom layer of rice. (Gluten Friendly, Contains Pork, Dairy Free.)

Dessert: Hothouse Signature Tiramisu – Lady fingers drenched in espresso, Kahlua, brandy, Frangelico and Bailey’s Irish Cream. Layers of sweetened mascarpone. Cocoa powder. (Contains Nuts, Contains Alcohol.)

Hothouse Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar
35 Church St, 416-366-7800
www.hothouserestaurant.com
Instagram: @hothouserestaurant

Le Petit Dejeuner (LPD Café)

Daytime brunch destination with patio seating on King St E in the St. Lawrence Market area, known for Belgian-inspired breakfast and brunch, warm vintage atmosphere, signature waffles and eggs benedict. LPD Café also features a fully stocked bar with beer, wine, and refreshing summer cocktails.

Must Try Menu Items:

Main Course: Waffles Benedict – Brussels style waffles served with the finest Ontario maple syrup and your choice of peameal, house smoked salmon or spinach.

Main Course: French Toast Special – Caramelized french toast with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon OR peameal. Vegetarian option is also available.

Le Petit Dejeuner (LPD Café)
191 King St E, 416-703-1560
https://share.google/xJj0xVB0tAmHuZBf8
Instagram: @lpdcafe_petitdejeuner191

Neo Coffee Bar

Rooted in Japanese design and café culture, Neo Coffee Bar serves specialty coffee and matcha in a beautifully curated space that emphasizes craftsmanship, calm, and refined minimalism. Perfect for lingering conversations or quiet moments within the heart of the city.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Espresso Fizz – A crisp and refreshing espresso soda, lightly brightened with a hint of yuzu for a clean, citrus-forward lift.

Drink: Orange Cream Hojicha Latte – A roasted hojicha latte topped with silky orange cold foam, bringing together deep toasty notes with a smooth, citrusy finish.

Dessert: Lime Grape Cake – A light and vibrant summer cake, balancing juicy grape sweetness with zesty lime for a refreshing, citrus-kissed finish. (Also available for whole cake pre-order with 24 hours’ notice through the Neo Coffee Bar website.)

Dessert: Coconut Cream Cookie Choux – A tropical-inspired choux pastry filled with smooth coconut cream and finished with toasted coconut for added texture and depth.

Neo Coffee Bar
161 Frederick St, 647-348-8811
www.neocoffeebar.com
Instagram: @neocoffeebarto

OEB Breakfast Co.

OEB Breakfast Co. – Toronto Street is a vibrant breakfast and brunch spot in downtown Toronto near the Financial District. Known for chef-driven dishes, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a quick breakfast or relaxed brunch.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Pineberry Aperol Lemonade – Bright, refreshing, and made for patio season, the Pineberry Aperol Lemonade blends Aperol, pineberry syrup, fresh lemon juice, and lemonade for the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and citrusy. Finished with fresh strawberry slices. Available starting June 24th.

Drink: Coconut Hibiscus Kiss – Tropical, floral, and irresistibly smooth, the Coconut Hibiscus Kiss combines vodka, hibiscus syrup, lime juice, Sprite, and creamy coconut milk for a layered summer cocktail that’s as stunning as it is refreshing. Available starting June 24th.

Main Course: Maple Chili Pork Belly Benny – Bold, sweet, and savoury, the Maple Chili Pork Belly Benny features tender glazed pork belly, brown butter hollandaise, and crispy shallots on a house-baked biscuit. Finished with fresh apple slaw and arugula fennel salad, it’s a rich brunch favourite perfect for patio mornings. Available starting June 24th.

Main Course: Berries & Cream Cloud Stack – Light, fluffy, and beautifully indulgent, the Berries & Cream Cloud Stack features scratch-made pancakes layered with silky mascarpone, warm triple berry compote, and airy Chantilly cream. Served with warm maple butter — the ultimate patio brunch treat. Available starting June 24th.

OEB Breakfast Co.
20 Toronto St, 437-880-8291
www.eatoeb.com
Instagram: @oeb_breakfast

Scotland Yard Pub

The Scotland Yard offers a vibrant patio, perfect for a cold beer or summer cocktail. Our neighbourhood pub vibe is a staple for patio season, providing a lively atmosphere with outdoor viewing for the World Cup. Whether for the game or the sunshine, it’s the ultimate destination.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Ice Cold Beer – There’s nothing quite like the first crisp sip of a refreshing pint on the patio! Whether you’re craving a local craft brew or a classic import, our ice-cold taps are flowing and ready for the sunshine.

Drink: Summer Cocktails – Sip back and relax with our handcrafted summer cocktails, designed for maximum patio vibes! From zesty margaritas to refreshing summer spritz’s, these chilled favorites are the ultimate way to soak up the sun.

Main Course: Cajun Chicken Salad – Turn up the heat with our Cajun Chicken Salad, featuring zesty grilled chicken and creamy avocado on a crisp bed of greens. Tossed with fresh veggies and a smoky chipotle vinaigrette, it’s a bold, refreshing flavor explosion that packs the perfect punch!

Main Course: 12oz Grilled Striploin – Indulge in our 12oz AAA Grilled Striploin, cooked to perfection and topped with decadent truffle mushrooms. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant seasonal veg, it’s a top-tier meal that hits all the right notes.

Scotland Yard Pub
56 The Esplanade, 416-364-6572
www.scotlandyard.ca
Instagram: @scotlandyardtoronto

St. Louis Bar & Grill

Settle into our cozy patio this summer — You can sip on something fun and frozen while catching up with friends or taking in the game! Hungry? Dig into delicious Happy Hour favourites! Whether you’re stopping by for drinks, dinner, dessert, or the game, St. Louis’ patio is the place to be.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Spicy Margarita – Can be enjoyed frozen or on the rocks. A spicy yet refreshing combination of gold tequila, Tabasco, triple sec, lemon and lime juice. Garnished with our signature Cajun Dust rim, jalapeño slices, and lime. Don’t be shy – Make it a double for some extra fun!

Appetizer: Classic Sliders – Bite-size and delicious!! Our classic sliders are perfect for a quick but tasty snack. Beef patty, lettuce, red onion, cheese, pickle coins, and burger sauce on a mini garlic toasted bun. Did I mention sliders are only $4.00 during our Happy Hour?

Main Course: Steak Frites – A fantastic choice for a main course – For just $26.49, enjoy a juicy 8 oz NY Strip, seasoned with Montreal Steak spice and slathered with Peppercorn sauce. Plated with onion rings, our signature golden fries, horseradish aioli, and garnished with green onion, our Steak Frites can’t be beat – especially when it is only $23.99 during Happy Hour!

Dessert: Sweet Jesus Pint, Cheesecake, & Slider – From pints and ice cream sliders to decadent cheesecakes in flavours like Bangin’ Brownie (Brownie bits, chocolate cookie crumble, caramel, chocolate sauce), Red Rapture (Red velvet cake bits, red berry crumble, cream cheese icing, raspberry sauce), and Birthday Cake (Birthday cake bits, rainbow sprinkles, cream cheese icing), there’s nothing quite like Sweet Jesus desserts to sweeten your day!

St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St. E, 416-840-0268
www.locations.stlouiswings.com/on-toronto-5219

Terroni Adelaide

Terroni Adelaide brings together southern Italian cooking, a deep wine list, and the energy of a bustling Italian eatery. Set inside the former Adelaide Street Courthouse, the restaurant opens onto a patio in Courthouse Square, a quiet oasis in the heart of downtown.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Terroni Spritz – Our Terroni Spritz is made with Bordiga Aperitivo, bringing bright citrus, balanced bitterness, and herbal depth to the glass.

Appetizer: Frittura di Calamari – Our Frittura di calamari is lightly floured and fried until crisp and golden, served simply with fresh lemon.

Main Course: Santo Stefano – This pizza features tomato, fresh mozzarella di bufala from Campania, fresh arugula and prosciutto di Parma.

Dessert: Gelato Artigianale – Our gelato artigianale is made in-house in small batches, with traditional Italian flavours like limone, crema, and nocciola, perfect for warm afternoons and long evenings on the patio.

Terroni Adelaide
57 Adelaide St E, 416-203-3093
www.terroni.com/locations/terroni-adelaide
Instagram: @terroni.to

The Berczy Tavern

Grab a seat outside — CN Tower views, cold drinks, and some of the best food in the neighbourhood. The Berczy patio is where St. Lawrence comes to breathe.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Garden Fire – Cilantro and parsley-infused Olmeca Altos tequila, triple sec, lime, agave, fire tincture bitters, tajin, chamoy, cucumber.

Appetizer: Tuna Ceviche – Yellowfin tuna, bright with lime and jalapeño, finished with avocado mayo and served with tortilla chips — where the freshness of the sea meets a little heat.

Main Course: Braised Short Rib – Where slow-roasted meets simply elegant — cauliflower “rice” and Jerusalem artichoke finished with brown butter, a rich red wine jus, and fresh mizuna.

Dessert: Toasted Ube Cheesecake – Where dessert becomes a moment — ube cheesecake layered with toasted meringue, coconut custard, and speculoos crumbs, finished with a scoop of vanilla gelato.

The Berczy Tavern
69 Front St E, 647-734-3668
www.theberczy.com
Instagram: @theberczy

The George Street Diner

The George Street Diner is a proudly Irish, woman-owned classic in Old Town Toronto. From scratch-cooked comfort food to our famous soda bread, we bring a taste of Dublin to our sunny, LCBO-licensed red patio. Come join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a curated drink selection!

Photos top right and bottom middle by @hctrvqz

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Ice Cream Float – Ice Cream Floats Are Here at The George Street Diner! Cool down with one of our classic old-school floats — fizzy, creamy, and the perfect sweet treat. Available Flavours: Coke Float Root Beer Float Club Orange Float Made with creamy vanilla ice cream and your favourite pop for that perfect nostalgic sip. Come treat yourself!

Appetizer: Farrelly’s Famous Irish Soda Bread – Farrelly’s Famous Irish Soda Bread – Served warm. Add our homemade orange marmalade. Also available to buy and take home!

Main Course: Ultimate Irish Breakfast – 2 free range eggs, sausage, bacon, ham, sautéed mushrooms & onions, seared tomato, baked beans, spuds, Farrelly’s Famous Irish soda bread.

Dessert: Homemade Dublin Apple Crumble A la Mode – Slow-baked with Ontario apples, brown sugar, and a buttery crumble topping — just like back home. Served warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The George Street Diner
129 George St, 416-862-7676
www.georgestreetdiner.com
Instagram: @thegeorgestreetdiner

The Joneses

Rain or shine, the covered patio at The Joneses is made for downtown dining, with premium steaks, comfort-food favourites and TVs at the patio bar for catching the game alongside cocktails and good company.

Must Try Menu Items:

Appetizer: Warm Cheese Bread – Pain au lait, garlic butter, parmigiano-reggiano, cheddar.

Appetizer: Big M Beef Tartare – Shredded iceberg lettuce, onion, pickles, toasted sesame, mac sauce, crispy sesame bread.

Main Course: AAA New York Strip Loin – 8oz/ or 12oz. Served with buttery mash + seasonal vegetables, choice of peppercorn sauce or bearnaise. Upgrade to a cheesey twice baked potato or fully-loaded with bacon jam, sour cream, green onions.

The Joneses
100-33 Yonge St, 647-258-5209
www.thejonesesrestaurant.com
Instagram: @thejonesesrestaurant

The Keg

At The Keg, every night is an occasion worth celebrating. Enjoy perfectly grilled steaks, classic Keg favourites, handcrafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere with our elevated hospitality.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Aperol Spritz – Bright, refreshing, and made for patio season. The Aperol Spritz combines Aperol, sparkling wine, and soda over ice for a crisp citrus-forward cocktail that pairs perfectly with warm summer evenings.

Appetizer: Shrimp Cocktail – Chilled jumbo shrimp, martini cocktail sauce, a refreshing steakhouse classic perfect for sharing on the patio.

Main Course: New York Striploin – The Keg’s 12 oz New York Striploin is perfectly aged, deliciously seasoned with Keg spice, and grilled to perfection. Served with seasonal vegetables and your choice of accompaniment.

Dessert: Billy Miner Pie – The Keg’s iconic dessert and a guest favourite for good reason. This decadent mocha ice cream pie sits on a chocolate crust and is topped with hot fudge, caramel drizzle, and toasted almonds for the perfect sweet finish.

The Keg
26 The Esplanade, 416-364-7227
www.thekeg.com
Instagram: @thekegsteakhouse

Urban Maharajas

Upscale fine-dining Indian restaurant serving traditional and fusion Indian cuisine with customizable spice levels and allergy-friendly options. Enjoy a fun summer dining experience on our vibrant front patio, perfect for gatherings, celebrations, and relaxed evenings outdoors.

Must Try Menu Items:

Drink: Lavender Elixir – Purple is the new summer. A refreshing blend of Empress Gin, lavender infusions, and fresh lime, served in an elegant stem glass — the perfect sip for warm summer evenings.

Appetizer: Tandoori Momos – Delicate Indian dumplings filled with paneer, fresh vegetables, or chicken, perfectly grilled in the tandoor and served over crisp red cabbage with a refreshing mint chutney.

Main Course: Achari Tikka Masala – A vibrant medley of pickled spices, zesty aromatics, and a subtle kick of heat — bursting with bold flavours that are perfect for the summer season.

Urban Maharajas
22 The Esplanade, 416-362-4848
www.urbanmaharajas.com
Instagram:@urbanmaharajas

More Patios

Añejo Restaurant
26 Market St
www.anejo.ca

Aroma Espresso Bar
20 Wellington St E
www.aromaespressobar.ca

Bellissimo Pizzeria & Ristorante
164 The Esplanade
www.bellissimopizzeriaristorante.ca

Brewing At The Market
91 Front St E (south end of Market Street at The Esplanade)
www.cestwhatdurham.com

Buvette Pacey
141 Berkeley St
www.buvettepacey.com

Cafe Landwer
33 Yonge St (Front St at Scott St)
www.landwer.ca/branch/front/

Lima Charlie’s
189 King St E
www.limacharliepub.com

Playa Cabana
36 Wellington St E
www.playacabana.ca

Score On King
107 King St E
www.scoreonking.com

Skoom Coffee
197 King St E
www.skoomcoffee.com

The Old Spaghetti Factory
54 The Esplanade
www.oldspaghettifactory.ca/locations/toronto/

Uncle Tony’s
38 Wellington St E
www.uncletonys.ca

Missing Patio?
Is your favourite patio in Old Town Toronto missing from this guide? Email stephenm@oldtowntoronto.ca to have it added. Please note, to be eligible for inclusion patios must be located within the boundaries of Old Town Toronto.

The post Patio Guide 2026 – Old Town Toronto appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

Plus, the design community comes together for the King East Design District (KEDD) Neighbourhood Hop on Friday May 29th, and you can explore the historic Old Fire Hall at a CMU College of Makeup Art & Design open house. It’s the perfect time to get outside, explore, and support your neighbourhood favourites!

40th Anniversary: Penderecki Quartet

The Penderecki String Quartet, renowned for championing contemporary music and based at Wilfrid Laurier University, has premiered over 100 works. This concert features the quartet performing Mozart, Penderecki, and Schubert’s sublime Quintet in C major, with Roman Borys, cello. Presented by Music Toronto.

Music Toronto
27 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.musictorontoconcerts.com/concerts/penderecki-quartet
Instagram: @music.toronto.concerts

All You Can Eat Hot Dogs at St. Louis Bar & Grill

Shopsy’s + St. Louis = Spring IS HERE! From Friday, May 1st to Sunday, May 31st, you can enjoy All-You-Can-Eat Premium Shopsy’s Hot Dogs for just $14.99! Feeling fancy? You can load your dog for an additional $5.00! While this promotion doesn’t require a beverage purchase and doesn’t include fries, fries can be added for only $2.00! Come and join us for another memorable AYCE experience!

St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King Street East, Unit 114
416 -840-0268
https://locations.stlouiswings.com/on-toronto-5219/
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis

$30,000 mission for Daily Bread Food Bank with Grandma Loves You

Grandma Loves You is turning one sandwich into a $30,000 mission for Daily Bread Food Bank.
Following our 7-year milestone this past March, we are dedicating the entire month of May to giving back through a city-wide initiative called “30 Days of Love.”

As part of this campaign, we will donate $3 from every campaign sandwich sold (this special item only), with a goal of raising $30,000 to support Daily Bread Food Bank, helping families facing food insecurity across our city.

To make participation as accessible as possible, Uber Eats will also offer free delivery on this item throughout the campaign.

Our intention is simple — to turn everyday moments, like sharing a meal, into meaningful support for those who need it most.

Grandma Loves You
42 Wellington St E, 416-887-3262
www.grandmalovesyou.ca
Instagram: @grandmalovesyoutoronto

King East Design District Neighbourhood Hop

On Friday May 29th, from 6-9pm celebrate innovation, design, and community at the annual King East Design District (KEDD) Neighbourhood Hop, organized by DesignTO, in collaboration with Old Town Toronto BIA.

The KEDD Neighbourhood Hop is as an opportunity to explore the King East Design District district, and learn about the products on show at 7 participating “Neighbourhood Hubs.” Offerings span from furniture, lighting, and decor, to kitchen appliances and sustainable surfaces for architecture and design. Whether you hop between hubs or settle in at your favourite, this special night brings together designers, design-lovers, and curious creatives for an evening of connection and discovery.

• BSH Experience & Design Centre, 334 King Street East @ Parliament Street
• Candace & Basil, 75 Ontario Street @ Richmond Street East
• Cosentino City Toronto, 143 Frederick Street @ Front Street East
• Design Within Reach Toronto, 214 King Street East @ Sherbourne Street
• EQ3, 222 King Street East @ Sherbourne Street
• KPMB Architects, 351 King Street East @ Berkeley Street
• Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom, 280 King Street East @ Ontario Street

The KEDD Neighbourhood Hop is free, but attendees need to RSVP. Guests can check in at any Neighbourhood Hub to get a wristband, and then move between venues. Note each venue has unique capacity limits.

Wellness and Longevity Assessment at Altitude Athletic Training

This assessment provides a comprehensive look at your overall health, fitness, and longevity markers. Using research-grade testing technology, we evaluate key indicators of strength, balance, body composition, and cardiovascular efficiency to help you understand your current wellness profile and optimize long-term health and performance.

Learn more about out our Wellness and Longevity Assessment by clicking here. For more about our other Fitness Assessments please click here.

Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic

Weekend Brunch at Duke’s Refresher

Brunch? At Duke’s Refresher? It may sound like a trick, but it’s the real deal – every weekend, from 11am – 2pm, you can experience a whole new world of brunch with delicious food and glorious cocktails, all done the Duke’s Refresher way. Whether you’re trying to cure a hangover or getting an early start on the next one, brunch at Duke’s Refresher will get you going!

Duke’s Refresher
73A Front St E, 416-603-8826
www.dukesrefresher.ca
Instagram: @dukesrefresherslm

May Highlights #AtTheOmni

Experience a season of elevated dining, special events, and relaxation at Omni King Edward Hotel this May.

At the Consort Bar, celebrate Caesar Month all May long with a specialty Caesar menu, plus a featured Caesar station on International Caesar Day (May 14).

On May 10, treat Mom to a luxurious Mother’s Day Mimosa Brunch (10:30 AM – 3 PM), followed by Cognac & Conversation: Rémy Martin Night on May 27 at 6:30 PM—an intimate tasting experience designed for sipping and discovery.
Reservations & inquiries: 416-863-9700 | to-festive@omnihotels.com

For rest and rejuvenation, Mokara Spa Toronto is offering seasonal treatments and spring packages through June, including Hydrafacial experiences and full-body rituals designed to refresh and restore.
Spa bookings: 416-863-3131 | MokaraSpaToronto@omnihotels.com

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward
Instagram: @omnikingedward

Modular Living at The Chesterfield Shop

There’s nothing like a beautiful, comfortable modular sofa or sectional.
Add on pieces to customize your space perfectly.
Include a chaise or ottoman – with storage.
So many fabrics to choose from.
Multiple configurations, including condo-size.
And the best part- proudly Made in Canada – for you.

Come into 275 King St. East and meet Stephan and his great team of Karen, Binal and Giselle. Mon-Sat. 10-6, Sunday 11-5.

The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St. E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop

Spring Cocktails at Lima Charlie

Our new Spring Cocktail menu has dropped…come join us for our new cocktail menu featuring fresh daily made juices from our friends at Chasers Juice. Summer in a glass!

Happy Hours 2:00pm-6:00pm, 10:00pm-1:00am Monday to Saturday. Open to close on Sundays! Let’s celebrate the end of winter together

Lima Charlie
189 King St E, 437-880-8379
www.limacharliepub.com
Instagram: @limacharliepub

Support Toronto’s First Post Office Today

The Town of York Historical Society, the sole operator of Toronto’s First Post Office, is in serious financial difficulty. Without additional and continued financial support, our ability to operate and preserve Toronto’s First Post Office will be at real risk. For over 40 years the Town of York Historical Society has operated Toronto’s First Post Office as an Old Town community hub, Post Office, and destination for travellers both from across Canada and abroad. Our mission has always been to bring the history of mail, communication, and early history of Toronto, to our visitors. Our journey to encourage and inspire has reached the farthest corners of the world bringing in over 30,000 visitors a year.

Toronto’s First Post Office is not just a building. It is Canada’s oldest surviving purpose-built post office still in operation, recognized as a National Historic Site, a museum, and stationery gift shop that provides a platform for local and Canadian artists. The Post Office & Museum’s continued operation in these various capacities has become a pivotal asset to the Old Town community and its many visitors, as our offerings of rotating exhibits, guided tours, school programs, and community events connect people with the early history of our city and provide them the opportunity to fulfill the original purpose of the building by utilizing our Post Office.

If the Society is forced to close, Toronto would lose a unique, living history site that connects us back to the foundations of our city, severing a vital connection to our past. Our continued programming to mail letters featuring our specialized and historical Post Mark has sent a small piece of us to the farthest corners of the planet. This is not simply a museum. This is an active living heritage site that helps define Toronto’s identity and deepen residents’ connection to the past while fulfilling the original purpose of the building, the only National Historic Site in Canada to do so.

We are calling on you to show your support and your dedication to the preservation of this unique historic site. Whether through the purchase of a membership or a direct donation, either one time or recurring, your contribution will help keep the Town of York Historical Society & Toronto’s First Post Office open for years to come. Together, we can ensure that this important institution continues to serve the Old Town community and protects this irreplaceable part of Toronto’s story.

Visit www.townofyork.com to donate today!

Toronto’s First Post Office & Town of York Historical Society
260 Adelaide St E, 416-865-833
www.townofyork.com
Instagram: @tos1stpo

Ever Thought About Trying Contacts?

Ever thought about trying contacts? Book a fitting appointment today and you will be eligible for a fitting fee rebate! Get up to $100 of your contact lens fit fee back when you order a supply! The fitting fee appointment includes a teach, fit, and trial contacts to take home to sample. If you are a new patient, book a full eye exam with us and we can add the fitting appointment as well!

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare

New Summer Drink: Strawberry Iced Matcha at Au Pain Doré

Craving something refreshing with a touch of natural energy? Discover our Iced Strawberry Matcha — the perfect balance between the delicate, earthy notes of matcha and the sweet softness of strawberry. A refreshing, smooth, and lightly energizing drink, ideal for brightening your day. Perfect to sip in the sun, on your break or whenever you need a gentle pick-me-up.

Offer valid for a limited time in our participating cafés.

Au Pain Doré
81 Front St E, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe

Scoop Into Sunshine Season at Bomba Gelato

May is all about Gio’s handcrafted Italian gelato here at BOMBA GELATO, made the way it should be, rich, silky, and packed with real flavour in every scoop. This is the kind of gelato that belongs in your hand while you wander the market, soak up the sunshine outside, and take your time enjoying a fun moment in the city.

Swing by, grab your favourite, try something new, and make it part of your spring ritual.

St. Lawrence Market, Lower Level
Sunshine, strolls, and seriously good gelato

Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market, South Market Lower Level, Market St. Side
647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @BombaGelato

Meet the new Pistachio Banana Latte at Balzac’s

Treat yourself to the smooth, rich flavour of our newly launched Pistachio Banana Latte (PBL) Menu! These unique drinks perfectly blend creamy pistachio milk with sweet banana syrup for an unforgettable taste experience. You can enjoy it hot or iced in a classic latte, refreshing matcha latte, rich mocha or a hot tea latte. Stop by today to explore the full PBL Menu and find your new favourite combination!

Balzac’s Coffee Ltd.
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
wwwbalzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee

A Date Night That Brings You Closer at Bahn Thai Spa and School

This May, skip the usual plans and share an experience that feels meaningful. Our Intro Thai Massage Workshop is a relaxed, hands-on evening where you’ll learn simple ways to care for each other through touch and presence. Expect connection, laughter, and a chance to truly slow down together. You’ll leave with more than a memory, you’ll take home skills you can use anytime. Plus, when you sign up for any Intro Class this May, enjoy our special promo: Buy One Get One 50% off Thai Fisherman Pants, the perfect way to continue the experience in comfort!

Bahn Thai Spa and School
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool

Mother’s Day & Burgers for a Cause at Café Nicole Bistro + Bar

This May, Café Nicole Bistro + Bar is giving locals two reasons to visit Old Town Toronto!

Join us on Sunday, May 10 for a festive Mother’s Day brunch featuring freshly baked pastries, fruit, smoothie jars, yogurt parfaits, salads, charcuterie, a made-to-order omelet station, eggs Benedict, brioche French toast, bacon, quiche, and more.

Available from 11:30am to 3:00pm.

Adults – $39.95 | Children under 12 – $24.00
(Taxes and gratuities not included)

Mother’s Day can be reserved on May 10, 2026
Book your table: https://www.opentable.ca/cafe-nicole-novotel-toronto-centre

Throughout the month, Café Nicole is also serving The Burnt Burger in support of Mental Health Month, with $5 from every burger sold donated to The Burnt Chef Project to support mental health resources for hospitality professionals.

Café Nicole Bistro + Bar
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro

Open House in Toronto’s Old Fire Hall at CMU

CMU College of Makeup Art & Design is a hidden gem in Toronto. Housed in Toronto’s original fire hall at 110 Lombard Street, we are the only college offering training in all eight disciplines of makeup, hair and design. Come celebrate a slice of Toronto’s history and learn more about the exciting programming and career opportunities at CMU.

Open to the Public: Come explore a unique blend of history and creativity in an inspiring, hands-on environment.

• learn inside a converted historic fire hall in downtown Toronto
• capture photos in our unique heritage building
• movie special effect exploration

Discover the story behind the space while engaging in interactive experiences that bring artistry and imagination to life.

Two dates (FREE) available:

CMU College of Makeup Art & Design
110 Lombard St, 416-968-6739
www.cmucollege.com

C’est What Beer Garden is back!

The C’est What Beer Garden (94 The Esplanade) is officially opening for the season on May 8th, and we can’t wait to welcome you back. Join us once again to enjoy a relaxed outdoor setting with our full food menu available, alongside a Beer Garden–specific draught and beverage list curated just for the season. Whether you’re soaking up the sunshine or kicking back with friends over good food and great beer, we’re looking forward to seeing you all out in the beautiful weather. Cheers to another great summer at C’est What!

C’est What?
67 Front St. East (patio at 94 The Esplanade)
416-867-9499
www.cestwhat.com
Instagram: @cestwhatto

Limited Edition Earl Grey + Lavender Bar at ChocoSol Traders

A floral twist on a beloved classic, this limited edition bar begins with our Vanilla Sea Salt dark chocolate finished with a delicate scattering of Earl Grey tea and locally sourced lavender. Inspired by baking traditions that pair these two unique flavours, our head chocolatier, Michelle, crafted a bar that is both comforting and unexpected. Notes of citrusy bergamot rise through the richness of cacao, while lavender adds a soft, aromatic finish—creating a layered tasting experience that lingers.

The lavender and Earl Grey were sourced from a local vendor at St. Lawrence Market, connecting this bar to the community around our boutique. Don’t wait! These bars are available exclusively at our St. Lawrence Boutique for a limited time.

ChocoSol Traders
St Lawrence Market, 93 Front St E Unit 22B
416-923-6675
www.chocosoltraders.com
Instagram: @chocosoltraders

Get concert ready with Wildlife Thrift!

Concert season is finally here, and whether you’re heading to an outdoor festival, a packed arena show, or a local gig, one thing’s for sure you need to travel light, stay hands-free, and look effortlessly cool doing it.

Swing by soon before the best pieces disappear because just like your favorite band’s tickets, these won’t last long!

Got a concert coming up? Show us your thrifted look—we love seeing how you style your finds!

Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
www.wildlifethriftstore.com
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore

Candace & Basil Joins KEDD Party 2026

Candace & Basil Toronto is proud to be part of this year’s King East Design District Neighbourhood Hop Party, presented in partnership with DesignTO, taking place on May 29 from 6–9 PM.

Located in the heart of Toronto’s design district, our showroom will be one of the featured stops for an evening dedicated to creativity, community, and design. Guests are invited to explore the space, connect with fellow designers and enthusiasts, and experience what we do up close.

Throughout the evening, we’ll be serving light snacks and drinks, with music setting the tone for a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re part of the design trade or simply appreciate well-crafted interiors, it’s a great opportunity to engage with the local design community.

About Candace & Basil

Candace & Basil is a Canadian, family-owned furniture brand specializing in bespoke, luxury upholstery with in-house manufacturing. From custom sofas and sectionals to upholstered beds and seating, every piece is built from scratch with a focus on quality, comfort, and thoughtful design.

We work closely with both homeowners and the design trade, offering a highly customizable process that allows clients to tailor every detail—from dimensions and materials to finishes and comfort preferences. Our showroom serves as both a design destination and a collaborative space where ideas come to life.

We look forward to welcoming you on May 29 and celebrating design together in the King East Design District.

Candace & Basil
75 Ontario St, 1-800-468-9067
www.candb.ca
Instagram: @candaceandbasil

In the Market for Something Refreshing? Brewing at the Market is Open!

Brewing at the Market is now open on the lower level of the St. Lawrence Market (near the south entrance off Market Street). Complete with brewing kettles, taproom, and a patio on Market Street at The Esplanade, it’s the perfect spot to grab some market eats and wash it down with locally made craft beer. You can also take some home to complete your shopping trip. For more info, please see the review in 6ix Retail https://6ixretail.com/2026/04/cest-what-st-lawrence-market-toronto/

Brewing at the Market
St. Lawrence Market, Market Street and The Esplanade
437-918-9115
www.cestwhat.com/brewery/
Instagram: @cestwhatdurham

Olympic Cheese: From St. Lawrence Market to the World Stage

A familiar face at St. Lawrence Market recently received an international honour that reflects decades of dedication to the craft of cheese.

Nick Tsioros, Managing Director of Olympic Cheese, has been inducted into the prestigious Guilde Internationale des Fromagers, a globally respected organization recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of cheese.

The induction took place during SIAL Canada, one of North America’s leading international food industry exhibitions, in Montreal, with the official ceremony held in Old Montréal at the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History.

“This recognition is an immense honour. It’s not just personal, it reflects the strength of our community,” says Tsioros. “St. Lawrence Market has always been a place where tradition meets discovery, and I’m proud to represent that spirit on a global stage.”

Visitors are invited to experience this passion and expertise firsthand at Olympic Cheese in the heart of Old Town Toronto.

Olympic Cheese
93 Front St E, 416-363-7602
www.olympiccheese.com
Instagram: @Olympic_Cheese

6SFitness Spring Run Club

6S Run Club kicks off May 20th at 5:30pm, open to all levels. Each session is roughly 5k, bookable straight through your membership like any class, with time built in at the start and finish to stretch inside the gym. The program is progressive, so you’re not just logging kilometres, you’re actually getting better. It’s led by a two-time Ironman athlete and athletic therapist, and if you want to bring someone along, non-members get a free trial run.

6SFitness
209 Adelaide St E, 4160-518-5746
www.6sfitness.ca
Instagram: @6s.fitness

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.

The post Where To Support Local This May appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

New Month. New Flavours. New Dipped Location!

Dipped Donuts has officially opened at St. Lawrence Market, bringing our handcrafted gourmet donuts to the heart of Old Town Toronto. After initially operating Fridays through Sundays since Thanksgiving weekend in 2025, Dipped Donuts is now open full-time — so you no longer have to wait until the weekend to get your donut fix.

Each month features rotating limited-edition flavours alongside fan favourites you know and love, including Brown Butter Sea Salt, Boston Cream, and the Butter Tart Bomb. With new flavours to discover every month, you donut want to miss out.

Visit us on the Lower Level of St. Lawrence Market to explore this month’s lineup — we guarantee you’ll be back for more.

Dipped Donuts
95 Front St E, 647-514-5801
www.dippeddonuts.ca
Instagram: @dippeddonutsinc

Happy Hour is at St.Louis Bar & Grill

From Open to 5:00 pm, and 9:00 pm to close, we have an awesome Happy Hour program! Enjoy domestic draught, bar rail, house wine, sliders, our signature golden fries, sweet potato fries, and many other fan favourites starting at just $4.00! This Happy Hour is dine-in only. Stop by and enjoy a happy time!

St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
www.locations.stlouiswings.com/on-toronto-5219/
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis

Date Night at Duke’s Refresher

Every Wednesday night is Date Night at Duke’s Refresher! Bring bae down to eat, drink and play on the only night where 2 can dine for $69 from our bar classics sharing menu; including 2 drinks, 2 mains and a choice of either an appetizer or dessert

Duke’s Refresher
73A Front St E, 416-603-8826
www.dukesrefresher.ca
Instagram: @dukesrefresherslm

Love is in the Mail: A Temporary Exhibit at Toronto’s First Post Office

Coming this April, a new temporary exhibit is being installed at Toronto’s First Post Office. Designed and curated by the students of the University of Toronto’s Master of Museum Studies Capstone Project, the exhibit, “Love is in the Mail” aims to share the history of love through letters in 19th century Toronto. With detailed examples of historic love letters from Torontonian residents, the exhibit will explain the social customs of the time, courting regulations, and how even with the passage of time, we still long to transmit emotion through communication.

This exhibition was developed as part of the Faculty of Information’s Museum Studies Capstone Projects course in collaboration with Toronto’s First Post Office, and is curated by Hannah Bell, Alexis Green, Jessica Merlihan, and Victoria Tywonek-Sobota. Special thanks to Dr. Irina D. Mihalache for providing mentorship to the students throughout the project.

With the installation date set for April 1st and this temporary exhibit will remain up until October. Stop by soon and enjoy!

Toronto’s First Post Office
260 Adelaide St E, 416-865-1833
www.TownofYork.com
Instagram: @tos1stpo

Pasta Privato at Notte Ristorante

Toronto has a new secret restaurant—and it’s a 30-seat escape tucked inside Notte. It’s called Pasta Privato, a restaurant within a restaurant by Chef Michael Angeloni, centred around handmade pasta but not limited to it.

Every dish is crafted in-house, featuring rare pastas alongside thoughtfully composed plates and regional recipes you won’t usually find outside of Italy. Now accepting reservations for those who want to experience an intimate, unexpected way to dine.

Notte Ristorante
9 Church St, 647-735-3175
www.notteristorante.ca
Instagram: @notte.ristorante

Steven Isserlis & Connie Shih: Music Toronto

Renowned cellist Steven Isserlis and Canadian pianist Connie Shih, celebrated worldwide, join for a captivating program. Featuring the Ritournelle by Czech composer Vítězslava Kaprálová and other cello-piano gems, their performance promises profound artistry and lasting impact, reflecting Isserlis’s deep musical insight and passion.

Music Toronto
27 Front St E, 416-366–7723
www.musictorontoconcerts.com/concerts/isserlis-shih
Instagram: @music.toronto.concerts

Smart Hustle Saturdays at LAUFT On-Demand Workspace

Building any side hustle is hard. You have to juggle a 9 to 5 to survive while chasing a dream that is equal parts hope and equal parts prayer.

We get it.

So we’ve opened up our 95 King St. E location to anyone burning that weekend oil on their side hustle.

$15+HST = $16.95 gets you a seat for the day (10am-5pm)

What you’ll get:

• Access to a space built for work
• Work side by side with other side hustlers
• Access to any of the deals we’ve made for food & services
• Network, collaborate and get curious

LAUFT On-Demand Workspace
95 King St. E, unit #100, 1-844-935-2838
www.lauft.work/locations/kingeast
Instagram: @lauftworkspace

What We’re Loving Now at The Chesterfield Shop Ltd: April Edition!

Recline in Comfort!
Our famous “M SERIES” recliners – the BEST in comfort to drink your coffee…stream your shows…watch the Blue Jays…hockey playoffs…take a nap!

CANADIAN-made with a sleek, contemporary design.
Featuring swivel functionality, double power reclining, an optional lumbar support, available in premium leathers and beautiful fabrics.

Come in to see Stephan, Karen, Binal and Giselle at 275 King St. East!

The Chesterfield Shop Ltd.
275 King St. E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop

Spring #AtTheOmni

Spring has arrived at the Omni King Edward Hotel, bringing fresh seasonal experiences, elegant traditions, and the perfect moments to relax, indulge, and celebrate.

Spring Afternoon Tea
Now available at Victoria Café
Saturdays & Sundays | 12:30 PM – 5 PM (Last seating 4 PM)

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea
May 9, 2026 | 12:30 PM – 5 PM (Last seating 4 PM)
Celebrate with an elegant tea experience featuring seasonal treats and premium teas.
Pricing: $99 per adult | $47 per child (4–12) | Under 3 complimentary
416-945-3323 | to-festive@omnihotels.com

Mokara Spa Spring Specials
Platinum Hydrafacial Event
Book a Deluxe Hydrafacial (April–June) for a chance to win a complimentary Platinum Hydrafacial ($395 value).
Featured Treatments:
• Hydrafacial Glow & Polish Ritual (90 min)
• Spring Renewal Body Glow & Massage (90 min)
• Blissful Escape (2 hrs)
416-863-3131 | MokaraSpaToronto@omnihotels.com
Advance booking recommended. Offers cannot be combined.
Treat yourself this spring with moments of relaxation and indulgence.

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com
Instagram: @omnikingedward

Treat Yourself… Twice at Bahn Thai Spa and School

Self-care should be a necessity, not a luxury. And at Bahn Thai Spa, we want to make it accessible for everyone.

This month, when you book an appointment with one of our students or apprentice practitioners, you can enjoy 50% off a second appointment of the same level (no need to see the same practitioner!) All of our practitioners have completed in-depth case studies and hold a Holistic Practitioner License with the City of Toronto, so you’re always in skilled, knowledgeable hands.

Support the next generation of massage therapists while giving your body the care it deserves. Call/email today to learn more or book!

Bahn Thai Spa and School
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
wwwbahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool

Boys With Cars at YPT!

Does high school feel like a minefield of unspoken rules? Follow Naz as she navigates a suburban world where cultures clash and fitting in comes at a cost. This powerful coming-of-age story explores identity, power, and consent through a raw, mesmerizing performance.

***Content Advisory: The characters speak in authentic teenage voices, using coarse language including swearing as well as sexually explicit terminology. In the course of the story a character recounts a sexual assault.

Tickets: https://www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/shows-tickets/boys-with-cars/

Young People’s Theatre
165 Front St E, 416-862-2222
www.youngpeoplestheatre.org
Instagram: @ypttoronto

Spring Giveaway at St. Lawrence Eye Care

***SPRING GIVEAWAY!!! March 20th-April 10th***

Like, comment, share this instagram post for one entry to win a pair of Salt “Reiner” polarized sunglasses!

Book an eye exam and mention giveaway at check-in during your appointment and this counts for 10 entries

Salt is an independent eyewear line designed all in California and fully manufactured in Japan! The acetate is of premium quality made from natural materials like wood pulp and cotton. The “Reiner” sunglasses are absolutely chic and a coarse staple with a traditional shape. There are 7 barrels on the hinges and they are extremely durable!

**Note that giveaway prize needs to be picked up in store**

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram:@stlawrenceeyecare

Bomba To Go

If you want to bring that artisan flair home, this is your sign.

Our jarred gelato keeps everything you love about Bomba intact: bold flavours, rich texture, and that unmistakable full-bodied experience, just waiting in your freezer. Each jar is crafted with the best ingredients we can get our hands on, no shortcuts, no compromises.

From timeless favourites to more adventurous combinations, every flavour is built to surprise you, in the best way.

Big flavours. Bold pairings. Creamy, indulgent perfection. Always done Bomba style.

Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market South Building, Lower Level, 92- 95 Front St E
647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato

Cheers to 7 years at The Fifth Dance

We’re turning 7 and throwing a big blowout party with one large goal. Thanks to all of your love, we are simply overflowing in our current rental space, and we need a new studio in order to keep growing and welcoming new members of the Fifth Fam every day!

Join us Saturday, May 9th from 7:30pm till late at The Fifth Dance, 366 Adelaide East in your best Black & White outfits with a pop of yellow (our brand colours). We’ll have a DJ, bar, raffle prizes, photobooth, and performances for you by current teachers and students. Money raised from the event through tickets, raffle tickets, and drinks will all go directly into a dedicated fund to support the renovation and transition into a new building. See you there!

The Fifth Dance
366 Adelaide St E, 647-746-535
www.thefifthdance.com
Instagram: @thefifthdance

National Bubble Tea Month Celebration at Chatime

National Bubble Tea Month is back! To kick off the celebration, starting April 6, we’re launching our 2 for $10 offer, featuring:

• Pineapple Passionfruit Tea (NEW)
• Blueberry Tea
• Lychee Tea Slush
• QQ Passionfruit Juice
• Roasted Milk Tea
• Honey Green Tea

Chatime
163 King St E, 416-223-9871
www.chatime.ca
Instagram: @chatimecanada

Champagne Wine Dinner at Biff’s Bistro

On Sunday, April 26, Biff’s Bistro presents the inaugural evening of its Wine Dinner Series, beginning with a one‑night‑only celebration of Champagne.

Guests will enjoy a five‑course tasting menu paired with four distinct cuvées (3oz pours) from revered maisons and notable grower‑producers across the region. Optional tasting notes will be available for those wishing to explore each wine in greater depth. This exclusive experience is priced at $125 per guest (plus tax and gratuity) and includes the full tasting menu and all Champagne pairings. Seatings are available between 5:30pm and 8pm.

Biff’s Bistro
2 Front St. E, 416-860-0086
www.biffsbistro.com
Instagram: @biffsbistro

Fresh Finds and Yard Sale prices at Wildlife Thrift Store

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of discovering amazing pieces at prices that feel straight out of a neighborhood yard sale and that’s exactly what we’re bringing you this month!  We’re bringing out all our spring time treasures just in time for you to refresh your closets.

Every week we’re rolling back our prices across the store to give you that classic yard sale feeling, without the early morning scramble.

It’s the ultimate yard sale experience but indoors and organized!

Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
www.wildlifethriftstore.com
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore

Easter & Mother’s Day Brunches at Café Nicole Bistro + Bar

Celebrate Easter and Mother’s Day with a festive brunch featuring freshly baked pastries, fruit, smoothie jars, and yogurt parfaits. Enjoy salads, a charcuterie board, and a made-to-order omelet station, along with brunch favourites like eggs Benedict, brioche French toast, bacon, and quiche. Available from 11:30am to 3:00pm.

Adults – $39.95 | Children under 12 – $24.00
Taxes and gratuities not included

Easter can be reserved on April 5, 2026
Mother’s Day can be reserved on May 10, 2026

LINK TO BOOK YOUR TABLE: https://www.opentable.ca/cafe-nicole-novotel-toronto-centre

Café Nicole Bistro + Bar
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro

Mini Egg Season is in Full Bloom (but Pistachio Banana Latte Season starts soon) at Balzac’s Coffee Ltd

Mini Egg season will be continuing through until April 12th! The Mini Egg Latte, available hot or frozen, is crafted with a double shot of Balzac’s Espresso, rich chocolate, and salted caramel syrup, then topped with whipped cream and crunchy mini eggs. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy your egg-spresso this season.

Look out for our next seasonal launch—the PBL (Pistachio Banana Latte) menu—arriving April 13th!

Balzac’s Coffee Ltd
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
www.balzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee

Olympic Cheese: New Faces at the Counter Thanks to Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto

Spring always brings a renewed energy to St. Lawrence Market. As the weather warms up, familiar faces return, new visitors explore the aisles, and the market once again fills with the rhythm that makes Old Town so special.

At Olympic Cheese, we experience it all from behind the counter. Since 1972, our family has been helping customers discover cheeses from Canada and around the world, whether it’s a quick recommendation for dinner, something new to try, or the perfect cheese board for a gathering.

This season, we’re especially happy to welcome Melat and Patricia to our team through our partnership with Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto, an organization that supports women building new lives and careers in Canada.

It’s a reminder that the market is more than a place to shop, it’s a place where community grows.

If you’re visiting this spring, stop by and say hello. We’re always happy to share something delicious.

Olympic Cheese
93 Front St E, 416-363-7602
www.olympiccheese.com
Instagram: @Olympic_Cheese

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.

The post Where To Support Local This April appeared first on Old Town Toronto.

Music Toronto Presents: Louis Lortie March 17th

Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Celebrated Canadian pianist Louis Lortie returns with a captivating program of piano ballades—dramatic, single-movement works rich in narrative and emotion. A master of nuance and expression, Lortie brings depth and brilliance to this timeless form, in a captivating evening at the Jane Mallett Theatre.

Music Toronto at St. Lawrence Centre For The Arts
27 Front St W, 416-366-7723
https://musictorontoconcerts.com/concerts/louis-lortie
Instagram: @music.toronto.concerts

Toronto’s Newest Sunday Tradition is at The Berczy Tavern

SUNDAY ROAST – Meet your new Sunday obsession! Our Montreal-Style Roast, available every Sunday from 5PM until it’s gone.

Created and perfected by our Head Chef, this dish is a true 24-hour labour of love. Salted overnight, slow-cooked for four hours, delicately de-boned, hand-brushed with mustard, and finished with an eight-hour roast. The result is a deeply flavorful, tender roast that defines the perfect Sunday evening at The Berczy Tavern.

The Berczy Tavern
69 Front St E, 647-735-3883
www.theberczy.com
Instagram: @theberczy

Banana Takes the Spotlight at Au Pain Dore

A creamy, indulgent latte. A delicious blend of rich caramel and banana purée. A velvety hot chocolate, infused with the soft sweetness of ripe banana. Lightly sweet, where the deep aroma of cocoa meets the fruity flavour of banana. A sweet, gentle, and comforting break! Especially delicious with our brand-new banana/chocolate muffin.

These items valid for a limited time in our participating cafés.

Au Pain Dore
81 Front St E, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com/en
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe

What We’re Loving at The Chesterfield Shop

Modular Sectionals – Customize to fit your EXACT space!

Customize your room with a modular sofa – your way!
Choose the number of seats according to your room size and configuration, add a chaise or an ottoman and enjoy a relaxed deep-seated comfort, in your choice of fabrics or leathers!

Proudly handcrafted in Canada!

Ask for Stephan and his wonderful team.

The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop

Olympic Cheese: Your March Madness MVP

March Madness isn’t just about buzzer-beaters, it’s about teamwork, preparation, and having the right starting lineup. At Olympic Cheese, the team brings that same championship mindset to the counter every day.

Family-owned and proudly serving the St. Lawrence Market since 1972, Olympic Cheese is your go-to for expertly cut specialty cheeses, slam-dunk charcuterie board essentials, and a fresh antipasto bar that makes entertaining effortless. Whether you’re hosting for the big game or planning a March Break gathering, the Olympic Cheese team is ready to help you build a winning spread.

Shop local. Entertain like a pro. Support Old Town Toronto.

Olympic Cheese
93 Front St E, 416-363-7602
www.olympiccheese.com
Instagram: @olympic_cheese

Annual Fundraiser: York’s Grand Affair

You are most ardently invited to join us for an elegant evening of Toronto Regency history in celebration of Toronto’s First Post Office & the Town of York Historical Society’s Annual Fundraiser. This event not only commemorates 192 years since the incorporation of the City of Toronto but also serves as a significant opportunity to support the preservation of our rich historical heritage.

Learn about the life and work of the Regency periods’ most famous author, Jane Austen, and how her novels affected the Town of York’s residents at the time of their publication and the impact they are still having on Toronto residents today. After the presentation, guests will experience a regency dance demonstration.

Toronto’s First Post Office / Town of York Historical Society
260 Adelaide St E, 416-865-1833
Ticket Info: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/annual-fundraiser-yorks-grand-affair-tickets-1982968611497?aff=oddtdtcreator
Instagram: @tos1stpo

New Era of Italian Dining at Notte Ristorante

Imagine dining in an immersive ambience that feels like a night out in modern Rome. From our signature bone in veal parm to delicious Roman style Pinsa (Pizza) and our rich, comforting Bolognese pasta. It’s definitely a feast for senses.

Consider this your personal invitation to experience Italian cuisine done right, with in house handmade pasta crafted by experts with over 100 years of experience.

Open Monday-Sunday from 4pm. Your experience awaits.

Notte Ristorante
9 Church St, 647-735-5416
www.notteristorante.ca
Instagram: @notte.ristorante

March Highlights at the Omni King Edward

A Taste of Ireland: Irish Whisky Tasting
March 25 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Discover a curated flight of premium Irish whiskies, paired to enhance every tasting note, in the hotel’s historic setting. Ideal for both enthusiasts and the whisky-curious.
For reservations email Nitish.ummat@omnihotels.com

Consort Weekend Brunch
Saturdays & Sundays | 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Enjoy an elevated weekend brunch at the Consort Bar featuring locally inspired dishes, classic favourites, and refined surroundings.
(416) 863-9700

Coming in April: Easter at the Omni King Edward
Join us for Easter Brunch and Spring Easter Afternoon Tea, featuring seasonal flavours and festive spring touches.

Reserve your table by calling 416-945-3323 or emailing to-festive@omnihotels.com.

Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward?utm_source=gmblisting&utm_medium=organic
Instagram:@omnikingedward

Balzac’s Mini Egg Latte is Back!

Spring is full of surprises, but here’s one you can count on: the return of our Mini Egg Latte! Made with a double shot of Balzac’s Espresso, rich chocolate, and salted caramel syrup, this indulgent treat is topped with whipped cream and crunchy mini eggs. Available hot or frozen, it’s the ultimate way to enjoy your egg-spresso this season. But don’t wait—this seasonal favourite is only here for a limited time!

Balzac’s Coffee Ltd.
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
www.balzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee

Kids Under 19 Get an Annual Eye Exam Covered by OHIP

If your child is 19 and under, OHIP will cover one eye exam every 12 months! Take advantage and book an exam today! We offer quality children’s frames from the eyewear line Tomato. If your child needs new glasses, we’ve got you covered. All frames are specialty pediatric frames that are highly adjustable and lightweight.

St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare

Return to Familiar Comfort with 25% off at Bahn Thai Spa

The first visit shows you the way: a gentle introduction to a world of calm, care, and deep restoration. But it’s the second visit that truly feels like coming home, where familiar scents, warm welcomes, and a quiet sense of ease surround you from the moment you arrive.

This month, when you book a second session, enjoy 25% off any non-RMT massage. Consider it a soft invitation to return to the comfort your body already remembers. Your second session does not have to take place in March, allowing you to revisit care whenever you’re ready. Rescheduling or booking after March will forfeit the discounted rate. Please call or email for more info!

Bahn Thai Spa
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool

Bring Bomba Home

If you want to bring that artisan flair home, our jarred gelato makes it easy. Same obsession with flavour, same full-bodied experience, just waiting in your freezer. Behind every jar is our commitment to using only the best of the best ingredients, nothing less. We lean into adventurous ideas and a few unconventional approaches to create a uniquely intense palette of tastes, textures, and choices.

Big flavours, bold pairings, rich, creamy perfection, always done bomba style.

BOMBA Gelato
St. Lawrence Market South Building, Lower Level, 92- 95 Front St E, 647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato

50% off Irresistible Mexican Bites at 3 Mariachis

Craving authentic Mexican flavours?

Dive into 3 Mariachis Esplanade’s irresistible appetizers like our famous loaded nachos or zesty guacamole served with homemade tortilla chips. Our shareable starters are crafted with authentic spices and premium ingredients for the ultimate pre-meal delight.

Enjoy 50% off any appetizer when you present this newsletter during the month of March.

Tailored to all dietary needs, 3 Mariachis is your go-to for unforgettable group outings in Old Town Toronto. Grab this limited-time deal before it’s gone!

3 Mariachis
140A The Esplanade, 416-507-1004
www.3mariachis.ca
Instagram: @3mariachis

Express Your Flavour with Barbie at Chatime

“Express Your Flavour with Barbie” celebrates modern femininity, self-expression, and everyday confidence. The campaign promotes the idea of imagination, choice, and the belief that you can be anything – and your drink can too.

To bring the campaign to life, we are introducing a limited-time lineup of three iconic pink drinks and a new dessert:

1. Malibu Cloud Smoothie: Dragon fruit, peach, and strawberry, smoothly ice-blended with coconut milk into a frozen treat and topped with a light, airy original crema cloud.

2. Power Pink Shimmer Boba: Dragon fruit and lychee blended with floral Jasmine green tea, layered edible shimmer and finished with chewy pearls. Light, fruity, and made to sparkle with every sip.

3. Pink Paradise Mango Boba: Dragon fruit and mango blended with Jasmine green tea and finished with chewy pearls. A fruity twist on a creamy favourite.

4. Barbie Dream Roll: A delectable Swiss Roll with a vanilla cake base swirled with white chocolate cream and dusted with Cactus Pear pink powder.

Chatime
163 King St E, 416-223-9871
www.chatime.ca
Instagram: @chatimecanada

Train Smarter for Your Next Hyrox Race

At Altitude Athletic Training, Canada’s most advanced gym with performance-enhancing air, we build hybrid athletes who can lift heavy, move fast, and sustain power under fatigue.

Our Hybrid Performance Assessment identifies your exact strengths, power outputs, and endurance profile, giving you clear data on where you stand and what is limiting your performance.

From there, our Hybrid Training Program delivers personalized, science-based programming designed to improve force production, acceleration, repeatable power, and work capacity.

Whether you are training for HYROX, CrossFit-style competition, or field and court sports, we connect testing to training so every session is purposeful and performance driven.

Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic

Ramadan Special Deals at Tahinis King St E

Celebrate Ramadan with Tahini’s! Enjoy our Ramadan Special all season long: Regular Habibi Bowl, 2 samosas and a bottled pop for $15.99. Also Iftar bundle for 4 for just $49.99.

Available for purchase in-store or through the Tahini’s App, where you can earn loyalty points with every order.

Tahini’s
333 King St E, 647-265-9800
www.tahinis.com/locations/on/toronto-king-st-e
Instagram: @tahinisrestaurants

Happy Hour at Hot House Restaurant

Join us for Happy Hour featuring handcrafted cocktails, select wines, and chef-inspired share plates — the perfect way to unwind after work.

Available on weekdays, 2.30pm-6pm.

$10 cocktails / $8 house wines & prosecco / $7 beers / small bites $8-12

Hot House Restaurant
35 Church St, 416-366-7800
www.hothouserestaurant.com
Instagram @hothouserestaurant

90 Day Kickstart Program at 6SFitness

We just launched our 90-Day Kickstart, designed specifically for those new to CrossFit or functional training.

Here’s how it works:
• 3 private Foundations sessions to learn the basics
• A seamless transition into group classes with confidence
• Stay consistent for 3 months and earn $285 off your third month

No guesswork.
No getting thrown into a class unprepared.
Just structured coaching and a clear starting point.

This program is built for beginners who want to do this properly — and we’re limiting it to 10 spots.

Because at 6S, consistency pays.6SFitness
209 Adelaide St E, 416-518-5746
www.6sfitness.ca
Instagram: @6s.fitness

Bloom into Spring at Wildlife Thrift Store

March is here, and with it comes longer days, softer light, and that irresistible urge to refresh our spaces. Whether you’re spring cleaning, redecorating, or simply craving a seasonal switch up, we’ve filled the shop with decor that brings warmth, charm, and new beginnings into your home!

Our shelves are stocked daily with unique well loved pieces that make your space feel fresh without losing that cozy thrifted charm.

Spring is all about growth and we love growing a community that shops consciously. Every thrifted decor piece keeps something beautiful in circulation and reduces waste. Choosing secondhand means your home tells a story layered, personal, and uniquely yours!

Wildlife Thrift Store
67 Front St E, 416-861-9080
www.wildlifethriftstore.com/toronto
Instagram: @wildlifethriftstore

Mrkt Cafe’s Newest Creations

Discover (or rediscover) MRKT Café at 252 Adelaide Street East—we’ve just upgraded our coffee program and refreshed the menu with bold new specials. Come try our Spicy Chicken Waffle Cone (sweet-meets-heat in a crispy waffle cone) and sip our bright Sparkling Butterfly Lemon Ginger. Swing by, say hi, and taste what’s new.

Mrkt Cafe and Central Design Market
252 Adelaide St E, 416-477-1186
www.mrktcafe.ca and www.centraldesign.market
Instagram: @mrkt_Cafee and @centraldesignmarket

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.

The post Where To Support Local This March appeared first on Old Town Toronto.