blogTO

Toronto gelato shop known for long lineups opening new location

Jack Landau — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 09:20:58 -0400

A Toronto gelato shop known for drawing round-the-block lineups is expanding yet again, with Mizzica Gelateria & Cafe preparing to open its latest location on St. Clair Ave. W.

Mizzica will soon expand to its third location near St. Clair and Dufferin, with signage for the gelateria now installed at the storefront.

The award-winning gelateria is perhaps best known for its original Queen and John location, which regularly attracts long lines that stretch around the intersection's corner. A second location opened on Yonge St. in 2024, and it seems the popular gelateria is now making the leap to a full-fledged chain.

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Mizzica has not yet announced an opening date for its third location, but updates on social media show that the store appears to be making quick progress towards its debut.

Mizzica’s third location will operate at 1080 St. Clair Ave. W.

Toronto bulk foods store forced to close after 25 years in business

Sandeep Panesar — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 08:10:01 -0400

A Toronto staple is bidding farewell to the Yonge and Eglinton neighbourhood after 25 years in business.

Kenpik Fine Bulk Food, which opened its Mount Pleasant location in 2001, can no longer afford the rising operating costs amid the current economy. David, the shop's owner, tells blogTO that the business has "no choice but to close down."

"Business is bad, and I don't make enough money to pay my rent. The rent is just too much," he goes on, echoing the struggles of many other small businesses across the city.

David tried to keep the business afloat but was ultimately forced to throw in the towel after a nearby Bulk Barn opened a few years ago and cut into his sales.

Kenpik Fine Bulk Foods has since marked all its inventory as clearance. Customers can even pick up the scoops the business used for free from a bin of excess utensils sitting by the front door.

The store's last day of business is Oct. 15, open from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Kenpik Fine Bulk Foods is located at 151 Manor Rd. E.

Toronto's food scene is what Pascal Siakam misses most about Raptors

Jack Landau — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Indiana Pacers power forward Pascal Siakam still fondly remembers his eight-year stint with the Toronto Raptors, including a memorable championship win in 2019.

But even more than two years after the Raptors dealt him in a three-team trade, there's one thing Siakam still misses about his time in Toronto.

When asked what he misses most about playing in Toronto, Siakam told Dished, "Probably the food scene."

Siakam shouted out local eatery School Restaurant for its "nice little brunch," adding, "You can never go wrong with that."

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So, if you're looking for athlete-approved brunch options, consider this a firm endorsement of School from four-time NBA All-Star Pascal Siakam.

School is located at 70 Fraser St.

$3 million Toronto home feels like it could be the mansion from 'Clue'

Misha Gajewski — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

If you've ever wanted to live out your own game of Clue, minus the murder mystery, there's a house in Toronto that might be right up your alley.

With its dark wood panelling, grand staircase, imposing fireplaces and sprawling gardens, 51 King Georges Rd. looks like the kind of place where Colonel Mustard might be lurking in the library with a candlestick. But we assure you, he is not.

And for $3,199,000, you could call it home.

The foyer.

Located in Toronto's prestigious Kingsway neighbourhood, the four-bedroom house is a beautiful example of Tudor-style architecture, complete with stonework, an arched front entrance and enough old-world charm to make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

The front entrance.

Even getting to the front door feels like something out of a period drama.

The arched doorway.

A grand stone walkway winds through lush, established gardens before arriving at the home's arched entrance.

The living room.

And things only get more dramatic once you step inside.

A view from the foyer into the living room.

The home is filled with rich gumwood panelling, original millwork and architectural details that you just don't see in most modern builds.

The dining room.

The staircase alone looks like it belongs in a murder mystery, while the wood-panelled dining room practically begs for a dramatic dinner party where someone inevitably reveals a family secret.

The fireplace in the living room.

The living room is equally impressive, with a grand gas fireplace, large windows overlooking the gardens and plenty of space for gathering around to discuss who might have done it.

The adjoining room.

An adjoining room with custom built-ins could easily double as a library.

The primary bedroom ensuite.

Of course, not everything about the home is a window into the past.

The kitchen.

The renovated kitchen is decidedly more modern, with crisp white cabinetry, a large centre island and high-end appliances, including a six-burner Wolf range.

The breakfast area.

A bright breakfast area overlooks the backyard, and it's probably a much more pleasant place to enjoy your morning coffee than the rather intimidating formal dining room.

The primary bedroom.

Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms, including a spacious primary suite with its own ensuite bathroom and views of the surrounding greenery.

The library area.

There's also a skylit sitting and library area, plus a cozy den, giving the second floor plenty of little nooks and crannies to retreat to.

The recreation room.

The finished basement adds even more living space, with a large recreation room, another fireplace, a fourth bedroom and a bathroom.

The dining room.

But while the interior might be giving Clue mansion vibes, the backyard feels more like a private country estate.

The backyard.

Set on a 50-by-125-foot lot, the property is surrounded by mature trees, layered gardens and stone terraces that create a surprisingly secluded outdoor oasis.

The pool.

At the centre of it all is a large in-ground swimming pool, surrounded by space for lounging, dining and entertaining.

Sitting areas around the pool.

It's the kind of backyard where you could easily imagine hosting an elaborate garden party, preferably one where all the guests make it home alive.

The second-floor bedroom.

And despite the home's almost countryside feel, it's actually just steps from the shops and restaurants along Bloor Street, as well as the subway.

The garage.

The property also comes with a double garage and side-by-side driveway parking, a practical bonus in a neighbourhood filled with older homes.

A powder room.

So, while 51 King Georges Rd. might look like the setting for a classic whodunit, there's nothing particularly mysterious about its appeal.

The upstairs landing and view into the office.

Between the original woodwork, sprawling gardens, backyard pool and prime Kingsway location, it's a pretty spectacular piece of Toronto real estate.

The back of the house.

Just maybe keep an eye on Professor Plum.

Air Canada rolls out new fee and here's how to avoid paying it

Irish Mae Silvestre — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 16:23:48 -0400

Air Canada is making changes to its booking fees, and some customers could soon be on the hook for an extra charge.

According to its website, Air Canada customers will be charged a non-refundable $30 booking fee (plus taxes) per passenger for every new booking made by phone with an agent.

The new fee kicks in on Thursday, Oct. 15.

Why is Air Canada adding a new fee?

Air Canada says the new $30 fee will help reduce wait times and give agents more time to help customers who need extra support.

The fee already applies to Aeroplan reward bookings made by phone. Starting Thursday, customers booking regular flights by phone will also have to pay it.

Who has to pay the new fee?

The new fee only applies to new bookings made by phone. You won't have to pay the fee if you book through Air Canada's website or app.

You also won't be charged if you need to call about an existing booking because of a delay, cancellation, or other travel disruptions. In many cases, you can also change your flight, accept a new itinerary, or request a refund online without calling an agent.

Customers who book their trips by phone will see the fee listed as a separate charge on top of their airfare and other charges. Keep in mind that if your flight is cancelled, the booking fee won't be refunded.

Who's exempt from the new fee?

Air Canada won't be charging customers with accessibility requirements. The airline states that it will continue to provide specialized care and support.

Visit their website for more information.

Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly receiving trade interest in Stolarz

Colton Pankiw, Offside — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:24:02 -0400

The Toronto Maple Leafs could have an interesting trade opportunity on their hands.

According to TSN's Darren Dreger, the New York Rangers have reportedly "kicked tires" on Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz as they look for help between the pipes following a season-ending injury to Igor Shesterkin.

Speaking on The Ray & Dregs Hockey Podcast, Dreger said Rangers general manager Chris Drury has been exploring potential options around the league, although the team isn't necessarily rushing to make a move.

"Chris Drury is scouring the league, but it's not with a sense of urgency or desperation because they do want to give [Dylan] Garand an opportunity to see if he can run with this a little bit to see what they've got in this guy," Dreger said.

New York is currently relying on Garand and Spencer Martin following Shesterkin's injury, leaving the club with an inexperienced tandem as it looks to remain competitive.

Stolarz could provide some much-needed NHL experience, but prying him away from Toronto won't necessarily be easy.

"I think they've actually kicked tires on Anthony Stolarz," Dreger continued. "He's not an expiring contract, but if you're Toronto, why would you do that unless there's an overpay? They like that combo of [Sergei] Bobrovsky and Stolarz."

Stolarz is in the first season of a four-year contract carrying a $3.75 million cap hit. Through three games this season, the 32-year-old has a 2-1-0 record, a 3.32 GAA and an .875 SV%.

While the Maple Leafs could potentially use the goaltender's value to address another area of their roster, they have little reason to make a move without receiving a significant return.

Stolarz also carries some risk, having been limited to just 60 games over the past two seasons due to injuries.

The Rangers may need to add another goaltender following Shesterkin's devastating injury, but whether they're willing to commit to Stolarz's contract is another question. For Toronto, it would likely take an enticing offer to break up a goaltending tandem the organization is reportedly happy with.

Toronto's Rogers Centre will let people belt golf balls from upper decks this winter

Preston Hodgkinson, Offside — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:17:02 -0400

Anyone who's ever wanted to hit a ball over the Rogers Centre outfield wall will get a chance this winter. Just not playing the sport you're probably thinking of.

With the Toronto Blue Jays now fully in offseason mode after missing the MLB postseason, the Rogers Centre has been a bit quieter than it was last fall. And with the 2027 season not underway until March, the building will be mostly empty for at least five months.

The Blue Jays organization will get a bit creative to fill that offseason vacancy, transforming the Rogers Centre into a temporary golf driving range. On Wednesday, the stadium announced that golfers will soon be able to drive shots from as high as the stadium's towering 500-level.

"As we continue to unlock new possibilities for the ballpark beyond Blue Jays Baseball, Michelob Ultra Upper Deck Golf offers fans a new way to experience our ballpark in the heart of winter," said Marnie Starkman, EVP of Business Operations, Toronto Blue Jays.

"This unique event reimagines Rogers Centre as a golf destination unlike any other, inviting players of all skill levels and ages to experience one of Canada's most iconic sports and entertainment landmarks like never before."

#BlueJays fans will be able to tee off from the 500 level at Rogers Centre this winter 🤯⛳️🏟️ https://t.co/GZ04OP8q1w
— Offside (@offsideCAN) October 14, 2026

Upper Deck Golf is bringing this experience to some of the world's most iconic stadiums. Alongside the Rogers Centre, the event will also visit L.A.'s Dodger Stadium, Chicago's Wrigley Field, and Boston's Fenway Park, among other MLB cathedrals.

The experience will come to Toronto from Jan. 20 to 24 and will mark the first time Upper Deck Golf has visited Canada.

"For nearly 10 years, we have been transforming ballparks, and the view from the upper deck never gets old – standing over a tee shot perched high above an MLB field is pure adrenaline," said Marc Bender and Adam Wachter, Managing Partners of Upper Deck Golf.

"Bringing our first Canadian event to Toronto at Rogers Centre is a massive milestone for us, and we could not be more excited."

This will be more than your typical driving range experience. While you'll get a one-of-a-kind view teeing off over the Rogers Centre, golfers will also be challenged to hit greens set up on the field as well in what will be a 90-minute round of nine-hole golf.

The tee boxes will be set up on the 200-level and will work their way up to the 500-level. Groups can also purchase food and drinks before and after their rounds.

Standard tee times will cost $125 per golfer with a two-player minimum at purchase. An exclusive pre-sale window will be available for Blue Jays Season Ticket Members and Quarter Season Ticket Members starting Oct. 26. The experience is available to those aged 12 and up, and golfers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Fans can sign up now for early access to book times, and there will be an opportunity for groups of 50+ golfers to book a private experience.

Toronto's biggest free Halloween party will shut down major street this month

Sandeep Panesar — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:23:21 -0400

Toronto's eerily epic and wildly wicked Halloween on Church 2026 returns to the streets later this month, bringing road closures across six blocks and making for quite the ghoulish gridlock.

The Church-Wellesley Village BIA is preparing to turn the city streets into a runway for sinister styles and alter egos that are otherwise your best-kept secrets.

"We are incredibly excited about Halloween on Church 2026," Jaret Sereda, Executive Director of the Church-Wellesley Village BIA, tells blogTO.

"The energy and anticipation surrounding this year's celebration have been building for the past month, and we're expecting another spectacular turnout," said Sereda.

Sereda also shared exciting news about this year's spooky soirée, confirming that the celebration is expanding beyond its traditional single-day itinerary for the second year in a row. "This year we're taking the celebration to another level with two nights of Halloween excitement."

With more than 80,000 people attending last year's record-breaking event, the appeal comes down to its many layers.

"It's not just a Halloween party. It's a celebration of creativity, self-expression, diversity, and the vibrant LGBTQ+ community that makes Church Street such an iconic destination," Sereda exclaims, adding that the festivities attract visitors from all across the province.

Touted as "Canada's biggest Halloween party," the event has also faced its fair share of criticism in recent years, with some Toronto residents arguing that the after-dark, open-air street party has lost its charm.

Sereda, however, pushes back against the criticism, arguing that, "if anything, the event has more excitement, energy, and momentum than ever before," and that enthusiasm has inspired the team to expand its programming.

"The party kicks off Friday with our Witches' Brew Beer Garden and Mega Stage Show. Then, on Saturday, we're transforming Church Street into Canada's biggest Halloween street party," Sereda confirms.

The main stage lineup will feature tributes to legendary performers Michael Jackson and Dolly Parton, alongside drag entertainment paying homage to Toronto's iconic LGBTQ+ village.

Beyond the expanded programming, this year's event will also feature enhanced safety and security measures. The BIA is taking additional steps to help keep the crowds safe in response to concerns about pickpocketing at past celebrations.

"This year, we're adding safety signage throughout Church Street, reminding guests to stay alert in large crowds, secure their phones, wallets, and other valuables, and stay aware of their surroundings," Sereda warns.

Toronto Police will also increase their on-site presence throughout both nights.

"We want everyone to have an incredible time, celebrate freely, and feel safe while enjoying Halloween On Church. With tens of thousands of visitors expected, public safety remains one of the BIA's highest priorities," Sereda concludes.

Halloween On Church 2026 will take place Oct. 30 and 31, from 5 p.m. to midnight each night. Road closures will be in effect on Oct. 31 from Carlton Street to Gloucester Street.

Residents in Ontario town are trying to block local Walmart from shutting down

Kimia Afshar Mehrabi — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 11:39:51 -0400

Locals in an Ontario town are banding together to save a community Walmart from its impending closure next year.

Last week, Coun. Jane Twinney for Ward 3 Newmarket said on social media that she was disappointed to learn from Walmart's head office that one of its Newmarket stores would close next year.

The store — located at 1111 Davis Dr., Unit 32, at the 404 Town Centre Plaza in Newmarket — is approximately a 13-minute drive away from another Walmart location just off Yonge Street.

"Although it is a smaller store, it has certainly been a convenient part of our neighbourhood for many years. I often ran into neighbours while shopping there, and I know many residents, myself included, appreciated being able to quickly pop in to pick up a few things without having to travel across town," Twinney wrote.

"At this point, I don't know what will replace the store, but I certainly hope the space will continue to serve the needs of our community. Sometimes it's the smaller, convenient places in our neighbourhoods that we appreciate the most, and I know this location will be missed by many."

Although the location is due to shut down in January, Twinney noted she was pleased to hear that employees at the affected store had been offered opportunities to transfer to other Walmart locations in Newmarket or Aurora.

Soon after the announcement, a petition was launched by Twinney to urge Walmart to reconsider its decision and keep the store open. At the time of this article's publication, the petition has garnered nearly 500 signatures and several comments in support.

"Many seniors depend on this location for their everyday shopping needs. For residents who do not drive or have mobility challenges, travelling across town to the Walmart on Yonge Street is not always practical or accessible," the petition reads.

"This store is conveniently located along public transit routes, including York Region Transit and the Viva service along Davis Drive, making it an essential shopping destination for those who rely on public transportation."

News of this Walmart's closure comes just as the big-box retailer is following through on its massive, multi-billion-dollar investment to expand its footprint across Canada, with new locations set to open in Brampton, Hamilton, Lindsay, Ottawa, Kingston, and London.

Disney attraction is coming to Ontario's Niagara Falls

Jack Landau — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 11:16:24 -0400

A Disney-licensed attraction is set to open next year in Ontario's tourist hotspot of Niagara Falls.

Niagara Parks announced on Wednesday that it will open a new "multi-sensory experience" dubbed AVATAR: Guardians of Eywa, based on the popular film franchise from Canadian director James Cameron.

The walkthrough attraction, officially licensed by Disney Theatrical Group, is to feature a mix of audio-visual elements, including live performers and what is being described as "state-of-the-art immersive technology."

Montreal-based entertainment specialists EMM Williams Productions developed the production, known for their work in immersive and location-based experiences. The company worked with IMMEX and designers Moment Factory, under license from Disney Theatrical Group and Lightstorm Entertainment Inc., to recreate the world of Avatar in Niagara Falls.

"Niagara Parks is pleased to announce that it will be partnering with EMM Williams Productions to host the world premiere of a brand-new, immersive theatrical production, AVATAR: Guardians of Eywa, a Magic Walk™ experience," reads a press release.

The show is described as "an immersive Pandoran saga that unfolds through multi-sensory environments, inviting guests to journey deeper into a beautiful and mysterious world through story, discovery and connection."

"The journey culminates in a live acrobatic show celebrating the power of connection and the spirit of life itself."

The world premiere of AVATAR: Guardians of Eywa will take place on May 17, 2027, and run until early September 2027 at the Table Rock Centre at 6650 Niagara River Pkwy., Niagara Falls, Ont.

Ticket release dates and prices will be announced in the coming months.

Walmart is opening a massive new store in Ontario city

Kimia Afshar Mehrabi — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:33:06 -0400

Big-box retailer Walmart is gearing up to open a brand new store in a southern Ontario city as part of its multi-billion-dollar expansion plans in Canada.

Earlier this month, Walmart Canada revealed that its signature blue-white-and-yellow signage would soon be popping up at a second location in Kingston, Ont.

Expected to open its doors sometime next year, the massive, 142,000-square-foot store will become the anchor tenant in the new SmartCentres development at Division Street and Highway 401.

Dubbed the Kingston East Walmart Supercentre, the store will feature the retailer's classic grocery section with fresh produce, deli foods, baked goods, dairy products, dry pantry items, and frozen foods, as well as its full general merchandise assortment, including home goods, seasonal items, fashion, and electronics.

Rendering for the upcoming store. Photo: Walmart Canada.

The upcoming location, which is situated about a 10-minute drive from downtown Kingston, will also feature a Walmart pharmacy and offer pickup and delivery options.

"We've been a part of the Kingston community since 1994 and we're excited to bring this new Supercentre – our second in the city," said Shawn Fujiki, Senior Director, Real Estate, Walmart Canada.

"This new Supercentre will help bring us even closer to more residents in Kingston, including the downtown and student population, to help them benefit from our everyday low prices."

Kingston's existing Walmart store is approximately a 20-minute drive away from downtown Kingston, meaning this forthcoming store will be a much more convenient option for those living in the heart of the city, particularly students and staff at the Queen's University campus.

The second location in Kingston is part of the retailer's $6.5 billion investment to expand its footprint across Canada, and makes the sixth new Walmart Supercentre planned for Ontario.

Several other locations, including Ontario Supercentres in Brampton, Ottawa, London, and Lindsay, have already been announced, as well as the two-level Lime Ridge Walmart Supercentre in Hamilton that's slated to open this fall.

Hundreds of people took over Toronto bike lanes to stop overnight demolition

Jack Landau — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 08:29:03 -0400

Doug Ford's plan to tear up a key Toronto bike lane hit a bit of a snag on Tuesday evening, when hundreds of people gathered in the Bloor Street West cycling path to physically block their removal.

Mobs of demonstrators on bikes took over the Etobicoke stretch of bike lane next to Tom Riley Park at Bloor and Islington, blocking construction vehicles contracted by the province to tear up the corridor and allow more space for vehicle traffic.

Tuesday evening's demonstration came amid Cycle Toronto's legal challenge against the bike lane removal, with the cycling advocacy group stating that it is "asking the Supreme Court of Canada to hear our case and defend our Charter right to life and security of the person" after Ontario's Court of Appeal ruled in favour of the province.

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It's the latest salvo in a two-year saga pitting Toronto's urban and suburban values against one another. The Ford government introduced Bill 212 (Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act), restricting municipal bike lanes on Toronto arterials, on Oct. 21, 2024.

After a protracted legal challenge, the province finally attempted to put its plan in motion on Tuesday, though this initial bike lane removal was ultimately thwarted by protesters.

Going to be very tough to pylon off Bloor St to remove the bike lanes, what with hundreds of people who bike in the way! https://t.co/Kp4Zmtx2Z6
— Norm Di Pasquale 🇨🇦 (@normsworld) October 13, 2026

In response to the protest, Ontario Minister of Transportation, Prabmeet Sarkaria, took to X and wrote that "Work to restore vehicle lanes on Bloor Street West was scheduled to begin tonight but was halted by protesters. Make no mistake: these bike lanes are coming out. We have a clear mandate and we will deliver."

Veteran Toronto Blue Jays coach could soon be headed elsewhere

Marley Dickinson, Offside — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 05:00:00 -0400

The Toronto Blue Jays could see some changes on the field this offseason, but one unexpected departure could come from the coaching staff.

DeMarlo Hale has been with the Blue Jays in two separate stints as a coach, serving as bench coach from 2013 to 2018 before returning as an associate manager under John Schneider for the past three seasons.

The 65-year-old has spent the last three seasons as a trusted voice in Toronto's dugout, as a link between the players and coaching staff. But with several MLB teams looking for a new manager, Hale could be in line for an opportunity he can't refuse.

The Philadelphia Phillies and Seattle Mariners are the two teams that currently have managerial vacancies.

Seattle parted ways with manager Dan Wilson following a 76-86 season, after the team's run to Game 7 of the ALCS the year prior.

Philadelphia, meanwhile, fired Rob Thomson just a few weeks into the regular season after a 9-19 start. The Phillies then promoted bench coach Don Mattingly to interim manager, who's quickly turned the team around to reach the postseason over the last four months.

Mattingly's future remains a talking point in Philadelphia after an MLB insider reported that he would be "gracefully dismissed," though there are reports that he may stay with the team in the bench coach role he was hired for, which leaves the door open for the Phillies to pursue other options.

That's where Hale's connection to Philadelphia becomes interesting.

DeMarlo Hale has been with the Blue Jays as an associate manager to John Schneider since the 2024 season. (Nick Turchiaro/Imagn Images)

Hale and Mattingly have chemistry, with the duo most recently working together in Toronto for two seasons (including the World Series team), and Mattingly's son, Preston, happens to be Philadelphia's general manager.

It's a connection that could potentially help Hale emerge as a candidate for the role, though there's been no indication, besides his name being mentioned as one of many potential candidates on a Phillies podcast.

Hale has 25 years of MLB coaching experience and served as bench coach for six different franchises. While he has yet to land a full-time managerial job, he briefly took over in Cleveland during the 2023 season when then-Guardians manager Terry Francona missed several weeks for medical reasons.

He began his MLB coaching career as a first base coach and outfield instructor with the Texas Rangers in 2002, though before that, he spent 10 seasons managing several teams in the minor league system.

If Hale ends up leaving Toronto, he would be the second Blue Jays coach to leave the team for Philadelphia in the last two seasons. Mattingly left Toronto and joined the Phillies as a bench coach following the Blue Jays' 2025 World Series run.

What Kawhi Leonard said after his first game back with Toronto Raptors

Marley Dickinson, Offside — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 05:00:00 -0400

After seven years and four months, Toronto sports fans finally got to see Kawhi Leonard back in a Raptors uniform at Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday.

And Leonard looked real good.

It didn't take long for Leonard to settle into his former home once again. The 35-year-old scored his first basket off a three-pointer from the top of the arc four minutes into the first quarter.

He played 17 minutes in the first half and scored a game-high 21 points on 50 per cent shooting. Even on the defensive side of the ball, Leonard had two steals and forced four turnovers for his Raptors teammates in a 148-98 rout of the New York Knicks in preseason action.

The most memorable play of the game from Leonard came early in the second quarter as he drained a bounce shot off the rim — similar to the one he hit in Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2019 championship run.

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Leonard was asked post-game if that bounce off the rim reminded him of the shot he hit in the same spot at Scotiabank Arena seven years ago. He gave a Kawhi-esque response.

"No. Not at all. A lot of my shots do that," said Leonard on the play.

"I don't shoot with the highest arc; I'm just thankful it went in."

Leonard said it felt good to be back playing in Toronto, and said the preseason game was great practice for what's to come in a few weeks.

"It was a fun [environment] to play in. The guys have been great. They've made this transition easy," said Leonard post-game about his Toronto return.

Scottie Barnes chats with his new Raptors teammate Kawhi Leonard during Tuesday's preseason game against the New York Knicks. (John E. Sokolowski/Imagn Images)

The two-time NBA Finals MVP sat out the Raptors first two preseason games in Quebec City and Vancouver as he said he's still getting back into shape, something he says he's trying to continue to do before Toronto's season opener on Oct. 21.

One thing Leonard says has been easy is his ability to fit into coach Darko Rajakovic's style of basketball he wants the Raptors to play.

"Darko has been telling us it's all about defense and sharing the basketball, and that's how I like to play," said Leonard.

"That's how I grew to play in the NBA — everyone being involved on any given night."

Rajakovic said during his post-game media availability that the objective in their final preseason home game was to build chemistry between Toronto's starting five. That's exactly what happened.

The Raptors' starting five combined for 71 points with an average +/- of +23 while on the floor together. Although the Knicks rested much of their starters coming off a back-to-back, Toronto still held New York to just 47 points in the first half.

With two preseason games left on the Raptors' schedule before next week's season opener against the Chicago Bulls, it's likely Leonard will only appear in one of those two games.

The Raptors are in New York on Thursday to face the Knicks once again, before heading to Detroit on Friday for their final preseason matchup against the Pistons.

An over $12 million Toronto home draws inspiration from a famous Rome hotel

Misha Gajewski — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Toronto's Rosedale neighbourhood is no stranger to multimillion-dollar mansions, but every once in a while, a home comes along that manages to stand out even among its very wealthy neighbours.

And 38 Edgar Ave. is certainly one of them.

The sprawling home, currently listed for $12,200,000, combines traditional architecture with contemporary design and a few unexpected international influences.

The formal living room.

Most notably, according to realtor Jeannine Volpe, the home was designed by architect Stuart Watson, who drew inspiration from luxury hotels around the world, including the Bulgari in Rome and the Pendry in New York.

"The intention was to respect the heritage architecture while bringing in contemporary elements that reflect both the global vibe and the lifestyle of a Rosedale resident," Volpe told blogTO.

The front entrance.

From the outside, 38 Edgar Ave. maintains the stately appearance you'd expect from a Rosedale mansion.

The family room with the wood screen that extends up to the second floor.

But inside, things get considerably more interesting.

The centre hall.

The home follows a traditional centre-hall layout, with generous principal rooms that include a formal living room with a wood-burning fireplace and a spacious dining room.

The dining room.

However, the marble-trimmed doorways inspired by the Bulgari Hotel in Rome bring a touch of Italian luxury to the interiors and really set this place apart.

A microcement fireplace in the primary bedroom.

Meanwhile, microcement fireplaces, custom panelling and what Volpe describes as a "stunning wood screen" that extends from the main floor through the second floor add a more contemporary feel.

The living room.

The result is a home that feels decidedly more interesting than your basic luxury mansion.

The view to the backyard.

At the back of the house, the design opens up into a bright family room and kitchen overlooking the landscaped garden.

The kitchen and family room.

And the kitchen is every bit as fancy as you'd expect in a $12.2 million home.

The kitchen.

Designed by Italian kitchen manufacturer Scavolini, it features all-glass cabinetry, marble countertops, maple millwork and high-end Gaggenau appliances.

But the materials weren't just chosen because they look expensive. According to Volpe, the wood and other finishes were carefully selected to create a connection between the home's interiors and the surrounding landscape.

The catering kitchen.

For example, the bookmatched marble in the kitchen is intended to evoke the branches of Rosedale's established trees.

There's even a separate catering kitchen, because apparently one luxury kitchen just isn't enough.

The primary bedroom.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom overlooks the garden.

The primary ensuite.

It comes complete with a walk-in closet and spa-like ensuite bathroom.

A bedroom with an ensuite.

Two additional bedrooms on this level have their own ensuites, while a study at the front of the house opens onto a terrace.

The third-floor bedroom.

The third floor is arguably one of the home's more charming spaces, with a bedroom described as a "treehouse," plus a flexible office or lounge and a second laundry area.

The lower level recreation room.

Downstairs, the lower level offers even more living space, including a large recreation room, a room that could function as a music studio or bedroom, and additional storage.

The third floor office and lounge space.

There's also a private two-bedroom caregiver or in-law suite with its own sitting room, bathroom and rough-in for a future kitchenette.

The back of the house.

But perhaps the biggest selling point is waiting outside.

The pool and patios.

The landscaped backyard features limestone detailing and a striking deep blue concrete swimming pool that looks like something you'd find at a boutique Mediterranean resort.

The garage.

The property also includes a detached two-car garage, with additional space beyond it and prepared plans for a potential garden suite, subject to the necessary approvals.

A home office with a terrace.

All told, 38 Edgar Ave. is a pretty impressive example of what happens when traditional Toronto architecture meets contemporary design and a healthy dose of European luxury.

The view from the dining room into the catering kitchen.

And with an asking price of $12.2 million, it's certainly priced like a five-star experience.

A bedroom on the second floor.

It's also a staggering 76 per cent jump from the $6,925,000 the property last sold for in 2023.

The open-concept family room and kitchen.

Of course, the home has since undergone an extensive rebuild, which helps explain the ambitious new price tag. But it's still a pretty eye-watering difference, even by Rosedale standards.

An aerial view of the house and neighbourhood.

Whether buyers think all those luxurious upgrades justify the extra $5.3 million remains to be seen.