Toronto Weekender: May 10 through 13, 2012

Another weekend is upon us, and with it brings the promise of some stellar times. So without boring you a long and overwrought intro, let’s get right into what’s up and where you should head this weekend. 

Thursday
Bellwoods Brewery opened about a month ago on Ossington, bringing more excellence to Toronto’s micro-brew scene. The big bonus: the kitchen is helmed by Guy Rawlings. Grab a spot on the mezzanine level overlooking the brew production, order up some delicious food, and prime yourself for the weekend ahead. 

NABS’ parties are always notable affairs, bringing the young and affluent advertising and media crowds together for an evening of no-holds-barred dancing and drinking. This year’s theme is Miami-centric, so be sure to wear your South Beach chic tonight at This is London. All proceeds go to NABS. 

Friday
The love of Toronto, The Black Hoof, just opened up the new establishment: Hoof Raw Bar. Heading away from head-to-toe use of animals, this time Jen Agg and the Hoofers are serving up tons of raw, delicious and silky fish. If it passes the matriarch’s tests, you better believe you’ll love it as well. 

The grand opening of Fiction Nightclub is this weekend, kicking off Friday night. It’s billed as a new Entertainment District hot spot, catering to a mature crowd awash with style. Table bookings are already running out for the launch weekend, so be sure to get in on the action as soon as you can. 

Saturday
For Saturday brunch, hop over to Le Kensington Bistro and order up some fantastic French fare. This darling spot on Augusta Ave is owned by the same folks behind Loire, and dishes like the Croque Madame or Boudin Noir are surefire pleasers.

Roy Thompson Hall will house the 8th Annual Whisky Gala aka Spirit of Toronto on Saturday, showcasing dozens of the world’s best whiskys, bourbons, scotches – whatever your preference – alongside blind tastings, demonstrations, cocktails designed by acclaimed Yuki Yamazaki and Kentaro Wada, and of course, the MasterClass series.

If you haven’t had a chance to check out the CONTACT Photography Festival yet, you need to make your way around the city. The Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival features dozens of photographic exhibits at various venues and outdoor installations throughout the city. It’s become quite the attraction, with some of the best national and international photography being showcased, using Toronto as an expansive gallery. 

Sunday
Happy Mother’s Day! For brunch, it’s time to celebrate mom. There are a host of great spots offering up special Mother’s Day brunches. Lai Wah Heen is doing a special brunch buffet; Mildred’s Temple Kitchen is doing a prix-fixe; and if you really want to impress Mom, head over to any of the Pusateri’s locations, pick up any number of items from their special Mother’s Day brunch menus and serve her breakfast in bed.