The change of seasons is bringing a change of attitude around the city, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to see YPs Toronto over out and about and finished with hibernation…not that our Notable readers make like the bears and cave-up come winter. Anyway, that too-long sentence was really nothing more than a digression. Without further ado, your Weekender…
Thursday
Midtown favourite Cha Liu closed its doors last summer, much to the dismay of its patrons. But now, it has reopened downtown (at 476 Yonge Street) as Cha Lau Dim Sum. It’s a pretty little spot, about twice the size as the original Yonge and Eglinton outpost, and still features awesome dim sum that wowed the crowds before and will sure continue to please at the new central location. It’s the perfect spot for a Thursday night meal shared amongst your crew.
The Yukon is a new tavern in the ever-expanding Parkdale neighbourhood that’s bringing a bit of class in the form of an unpretentious bar scene. The bar menu boasts some tasty treats, like perfected wings and soft baked pretzels coming from the kitchen, and the beer menu is small but appeases all. Head here for after-dinner pints in a chillaxed atmosphere.
Hot Docs is back and ready to showcase a bevy of interesting, unique, and illuminating films starting tonight and running through May 6th. Since the festival overtook the Bloor Street Cinema (506 Bloor Street West), there’s a new venue that will feature most of the films. Since its founding in 1993, Hot Docs has become North America’s largest international documentary festival. How’s that for Notable? Pick a flick and grab some tix to start the fest, and your weekend, off right.
Friday
Our favourite Sicilian spot, Maialino Enoteca, recently introduced a Friday night Oyster Bar and Fresh Fish Tasting Menu. Head over for an intimate Friday night dinner with friends over some tasty oysters and a four or five course dinner where the highlight and star of the dishes is Chef Roberto’s fresh fish finds from the week.
Marcy opened up just a couple weeks ago on the Roncesvalles strip, so it’s just a hop away from Maialino should you decide to head there after. It’s vintage-inspired, and some tasty cocktails, including a near exclusive featuring of Tromba’s jalapeno juice.
Now this is just plain cool. The ROM introduced ‘Friday Night Live @ROM‘ last week, a new social night for a hip, young (19+) crowd. Every Friday night, pop-up bars around the Museum and in its galleries will feature local and international artisanal wines, beers and cocktails, and tantalizing fare will be created by Fidel Gastro and JK Frites, as well as WaffleBar. You can dance around to DJ beats presented by ElectriCITY, and check out live performances, art installations, and late night talks by local artists. This is by far one of the most creative events series we’ve seen in awhile.
Saturday
It’s back in the west end, we know, but Cardinal Rule has one of the best brunches in the city…and the long line to prove it. They were recently featured on an episode of You Gotta Eat Here on Food Network, and we immediately started drooling, thinking of the last time we popped by. The Hail Caesar Eggs Benedict is fantastic. They poach the eggs in Clamato. Now that’s original.
Fashion Art Toronto [FAT] Week launched this week and comes to an end on Saturday. [FAT] Week highlights some of the top local and international designers and artists who are pioneers in artistic expression. This multi-disciplinary festival is held at various locations throughout the city, with catwalks, installations, exhibits, and much, much more. Check out what’s left on tap and be a part of the closing night.
For dinner, check into a Toronto institution that’s nearly 90 years old. The Monarch Tavern serves up some thoughtful comfort food, like some super noshworthy grilled cheeses, steak frites, and awesome burgers. A bonus, you ask? Most menu items can be prepped gluten-free, so even your mates who are intolerant can find some love.
Airship 37 is the spot for CANFAR’s Young Professional Council second annual social media and fundraising event, Our Future Without AIDS. Help support CANFAR’s initiatives while sipping cocktails, checking out art and interactive experiences, and jumping on their social media bandwagon.
If you missed the Notable wine tasting at Storys last fall, you’ll want to get into this hot event space on Saturday night for GlamCity’s reunion. Live music, dancing, a hot crowd and swanky ambiance are just part of this Saturday night affair.
Sunday
If you’re hungover Sunday and looking for a brunch able to quell that terrible morning-after headache, Hadley’s got just the thing: The Remedy. It’s deep-fried poached eggs served hash with pulled pork, smoked cheddar and hollandaise. A serious cure for some serious pain.
Nyood Bar is debuting a new monthly event Sunday. Nyood Bar Pop-up will feature an array of designers showcasing their collections, curated by local fashion designers. The launch will feature looks by Aeroplane Vintage Eyewear, Rebus Life, Outclass, and Dutch Blonde.