It’s looking like a warm but rainy weekend ahead, but there’s no reason we can’t enjoy the two-day hiatus from the office. (And for those of you had the extended long break and short work week, we’re sure you’re nothing if but thrilled to have it dawning again.)
On Thursday after work, take a trip over to Hotel Ocho in Chinatown for some drinks in the downstairs lounge. The decor is a mix of Scandinavian simplicity and old factory chic, and is a great spot to unwind. Order up a mai tai done ‘Ocho Style’, before heading upstairs to the restaurant and grabbing some delicious dinner, like the steamed mussels in dill sauce or the rack of lamb with garlic polenta cake.
DefineTO is a movement that asks you be the exception, not the rule, and there’s no better way for the organization to gain ground and inspire a new generation of thought-leaders and innovators than with a stellar event tonight at the Fifth Social Club. Proceeds raised from the night will support The Remix Project. There will also be another edition of Twidol taking place…think of it like social media all-star karaoke…
The Saint on Ossington has been ‘opening soon’ for near three years now, but the doors have finally sidled and it’s ready to welcome the crowds. It’s an haute tavern style with deep coloured woods and a narrow long room. Modern takes on classic dishes abound here, and judging by the resto group’s pedigree responsible for The Saint – including Buca and Jacobs and Co. – we’re sure it’ll impress for a Friday night dinner.
Featuring 22 renowned international street artists, five hot DJs, and La Carnita‘s superb Mexican street food, the UNO Art Show Friday night will be an artsy food fair. Head over to Brick Works to grab one of LC’s famed taquitos, and peruse a collection of original works by some masterful artists, all the while listening to some slick DJ beats.
Head out to a late brunch at One Hour on Spadina on Saturday. This ‘walk-in street cafeteria’ has some delicious bites and excellent pho-style soups, perfect for the probably gloomy weather. Have some exceptional rice noodle xiao guo and let the steamy broth warm you up from the coolness outside.
It’s spring in the city which means the Green Living Show blooms at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre through Sunday. On Saturday, heave on over to Canada’s largest consumer trade show dedicated to all things green for the home and beyond. Check out new products, innovative inventions, and the latest in green decor.
Top Chef Canada contestant Dustin Gallagher has left his post at Grace Restaurant, and in his stead Kevin Castonguay has taken over the kitchen. It’s a good time to head back to this College Street spot to check out the food coming from the back of house and fresh hands.
POGO (Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario) is holding it’s 11th annual gala at the Liberty Grand on Saturday night, inviting guests from all over the city to dress to the nines and raise funds for this fantastic cause. It’s a glamorous and high society affair to be sure, and one that attracts the city’s finest year after year.
The REELWORLD Film Festival comes to a close on Sunday, featuring diverse films at various venues across the city. Started in 2001, REELWORLD seeks to provide a forum for filmmakers and emerging talent of colour trying to break into the Canadian entertainment industry. Watch features, docs, shorts, and music videos from diverse backgrounds during this year’s fest. Find a flick on the fly and close out your weekend with a dose of diversity.
For dinner on Sunday, close out your weekend with some truly outstanding Chinese food at Lai Wah Heen in the Metropolitan Hotel. Taiwanese triple chicken, wok-fried beef tenderloin in hoisin, and scallop mousse cakes are some of the stand-out plates at this long-standing restaurant.
Photo courtesy Hotel Ocho
