Christine Ottoni is a writer based in Toronto. A worshipper at the altar of Brunch, cycle fiend, and mom to a rescue dog, Christine spends most of her days exploring what the city has to offer, notebook in hand. She attended the University of Toronto where she completed her Bachelor of Arts with a double major in English and Philosophy.
Made from crispy, flaky dough piped with pastry cream and traditionally topped with chocolate icing, éclairs have caught food-trend fire in Toronto, with expert pastry chefs serving up fun variations that rival those found on the streets of Paris. Head to these Toronto patisseries when you’re craving this classic French dessert, they’ll be offering rich flavour fusions that are absolutely to die for. [Feature image: Nugateau]
Tough workweek got you down? Head over to these west end bars at happy hour and kick it with a pint, cocktail and glass of wine on special. When it comes to lively evening vibes and a sweet selection of libations, there’s no need to wait for the weekend – there’s something on every night of the week at these Toronto spots. [Image credit: iStock.com/PeopleImages]
From Kensington to Bloordale, Toronto does veg brunch right with rich comfort food, nutritious options and good old-fashioned brunch gluttony. We’ve got your top brunch spots for chowing down on hearty vegan and vegetarian eats. Pair it with a mimosa, Caesar, craft beer or coffee and get ready for the most important meal of the day. [Image credit: iStock.com/KarinaUrmantseva]
Roncesvalles has long been a destination for Toronto’s foodies and at-home chefs. Known for its traditional Polish delis and indie produce markets, Roncey is also home to a slew of gourmet grocers, home-style bakeries and ethical meat shops. Spend an afternoon perusing this casual west end stretch and pick up the ingredients for your next kitchen creation. [Image credit: iStock.com/martin-dm]
Asian-inspired ice cream has taken Toronto by storm. With tropical sorbets, robust teas, savoury sesames and more, these treats are worth sampling and scooping to your heart’s content. This isn’t a chocolate and vanilla kind of roundup, so try something new next time you’re craving a frozen, creamy and oh-so-decadent dessert. [Image credit: iStock.com/AnnaPustynnikova]
Toronto’s theatre district has a lot to offer visiting show-goers and local foodies alike. These restaurants are all about the show, transporting guests to Southern California, Italy, New Orleans and Thailand with stunning decor, authentic ingredients and home-style hospitality. [Feature image courtesy of Los Colibris]
Toronto is a lingerie lover’s dream. With local designers like Fortnight and Mary Young making waves on the international scene, and boutiques importing cool brands from New Zealand and Los Angeles, this is the city to find your dream bra. Sprawl out in lush change rooms and consult with expert fitters on style and size. Who says high quality comfort has to be a luxury? [Feature image: Melmira Bra & Swimsuits Inc]
Toronto’s Finest Comfort Food Crawl runs through the 6 for two weeks this August. Grab your official passport at any of the 10 participating restaurants across Toronto and get one comfort food dish at every stop for just $5 (from Cuban sammies to three-bite doughnuts). Bonus: the festival supports Second Harvest, so you can chow down on these killer deals knowing it’s for a great cause. Photo courtesy of Toronto's Finest.
Summer days are for exploring what the Greater Toronto Area has to offer, from lounging at the Scarborough Bluffs to touring the wineries of Niagara-On-The-Lake. You’ll discover outdoor adventures in kayaking, swimming, antiquing, arting and more. Pack your sunscreen and slip on your favorite summer shades, its time to start planning your next summer day trip getaway. [Image credit: iStock.com/wundervisuals]
It’s official: Toronto has been hit with a massive wave of tiki culture. Restaurants and bars are celebrating the tropics with sweet cocktails in hollowed-out coconuts and melons garnished with tiny pink umbrellas. Tiki revival demands the real deal, so slip into your favorite Hawaiian shirt and recline in a wicker chair: these restaurants and bars are your next tropical destination. [Image credit: iStock.com/ivanmateev]
Warm days around Toronto’s Kensington Market are for enjoying some of the city’s best frozen treats, whether it be a cute ice cream bar or all-natural homemade frozen yogurt topped with tasty sweet garnishes. Vegans rejoice; many of these shops scoop and spin vegan ice cream. Kensington is made for snacking on the go, so stay cool and explore the Market with a treat in hand. [Image credit: iStock.com/AbElena]
Finding the right gift for Dad can be a challenge at best. This year, skip the boring mug and tie and get him the perfect, personal present from one of our favourite specialty shops. Whether your old man likes to kick it with a beer, is one of TO’s most antique-savvy, or is a proud and loyal Torontonian, here are some of the best spots in the 6 to pick up something he’ll love. [Image credit: iStock.com/Catherine Lane]