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This Toronto design studio used to operate out of a U-Haul truck

Sandeep Panesar — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What began as a philosophical question in a high school classroom has grown into a Toronto fashion brand, boutique, and cafe called La Maison by Beyond Space.

Toronto designer and boutique owner Xavier King first developed the brand's concept as a student at Pickering High School. The idea dates back to around 2011, when an educator encouraged students to think about their futures and some of life's bigger questions.

"In that class, I just remember having this philosophical mindset and posing questions like 'what is beyond space?'" King tells blogTO. "And so that's how Beyond Space sort of formed as an early concept," he says.

Photo by: Fareen Karim

From there, King began making T-shirts, inspired by his love of hip-hop and art, eventually imagining a future where he could build his own company and clothing line. Like any other budding designer, his ambitions grew to include dressing some of his favourite artists.

But as Beyond Space took shape, King also pursued another passion: long-distance running.

A talented runner, he earned a full scholarship to study in the United States, initially attending school in Texas before transferring to the College of New Rochelle in New York.

"It was very much at two different sides of the spectrum," King says of his athletic and creative pursuits. Today, however, those worlds have started to come full circle because King continues to channel his love for running into his pieces; athleisure clothing has always been part of his collections.

Photo by: Fareen Karim

Reflecting on his more than decade-long journey, King comes to an interesting realization: the meaning behind Beyond Space has evolved over the years.

While the name began as a question King posed in high school, he now sees the answer through a more spiritual lens, admitting his brand's identity is rooted in his spiritual journey.

So what is Beyond Space today? "It's God," King says confidently. "It's also for people who are creating and moving through their own journeys, whatever that may be."

Although King has always had a clear vision for the brand, building Beyond Space has meant finding unconventional ways to put it in front of people.

He first sold his clothes at a benefit concert at his high school. From there, he figured it would be a good idea to sell them right out of his high school locker.

Photo by: Fareen Karim

"Facebook was the most popular platform back then," he recalls. "So, we would host lunchtime pop-ups at my locker and post online to get people to shop."

Was that allowed? "No, I don't think so," King laughs.

Did he get away with it? Yes. Plus, some sales.

And this out-of-the-box approach, including a mobile bike pop-up, continued as the brand grew, almost becoming synonymous with Beyond Space and its operating style. One of the more memorable ideas involved a U-Haul truck, which King transformed into a mobile retail experience.

Photo by: Beyond Space

The concept came from his work on commercial productions, where he was using trucks to transport equipment and build out sets. King says being on set made him understand that "these trucks are way more useful than stacking them with things."

So the lightbulb switched on again.

King began mapping out popular spots around Toronto, including Trinity Bellwoods, Yorkville, and Queen Street West, and created an online schedule for his mobile pop-ups. He outfitted the truck with lights and music, turning it into an interactive installation rather than simply a place to purchase clothes.

And eventually, those unconventional retail experiences led to something more permanent. Last year, King and his wife, whom he calls his "biggest pillar of support," opened their first store, La Maison by Beyond Space, in Toronto's east end.

Photo by: Fareen Karim

The concept itself has roots in the home he shared with his wife and brother after returning from school in 2016. "My home was like a hybrid of my business," King remembers fondly.

That experience eventually inspired La Maison by Beyond Space, which combines fashion with hospitality through an in-store cafe.

King said the cafe was designed to recreate the feeling of the kitchen and living room environment he had at home, and gives people another reason to come inside, even if they aren't necessarily shopping for clothing.

Photo by: Fareen Karim

"It's a good way to bridge the gap for people who aren't fully fashion-forward," he says.

For now, King is essentially running the entire operation himself. "It's me as a barista, a sales associate, the seamstress, and the designer," King laughs. But that, along with the rising costs of running a business in Toronto, doesn't faze the fashion enthusiast.

Although inflation has made things difficult, and he has fallen behind on rent at times, the duo ultimately pushes forward. "There's been blood, sweat, and tears," King admits.

But the last year has also come with silver linings, including an unexpected visit from Canadian actress Kathleen Munroe, who purchased around $3,000 worth of clothing while the business was three months behind on rent.

Photo by: Fareen Karim

"There's been moments like that, and we've just been believing, and sticking to it." King has also opened the space up for events and made it available for others to rent, all while continuing to develop the concept.

And as for the future? His ambitions extend beyond Toronto. "All roads lead to Paris," he says with a smile. "That's where the industry is right now."

As he tries to get his footing in the international fashion space, he continues to spread the word about Toronto's creative community whenever he can. "There should be more awareness for creators in a city like this, especially in the fashion scene, because there are a lot of talented people," King says.

"I think we all have a very strong potential, and if we continue to grow and get our stories out there, I'm excited to see what we can do."

La Maison by Beyond Space, which offers customers a niche selection of apparel and footwear, is open Monday through Saturday and is located at 349 Jones Ave.

Century-old Toronto hotel now serving a fall afternoon tea you'll want to cozy up with

Macy Hatcher — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Grab your fascinator hat and slip on your crisp white gloves, as Toronto's Windsor Arms Hotel has invited you for afternoon tea.

Dating back to its origins in 1840, afternoon tea has been associated with British elegance and decorum, thanks to none other than Anna, Duchess of Bedford. It was used as a sort of bridge for the aristocrats who found themselves famished between lunch and dinner, which, at the time, was primarily held at eight or nine in the evening. Specific teas, desserts, and high-class attire were required.

Since then, the tradition has adapted to fit the times. However, its style, communal engagement, and those tiny cucumber sandwiches have endured through the ages.

Windsor Arms Hotel is keeping that time-honoured tradition alive in Toronto with its newly launched Fall Afternoon Tea.

Windsor Arms Hotel has a rich history that dates back to the institution's establishment in 1927. Built to marry the neo-Gothic architecture of its neighbouring beauty, the University of Toronto, this Yorkville establishment has, for generations, been home to visiting world-class stars, events of extravagance, and all things classy.

This fall, they want to share this longstanding tradition with you.

Fall Afternoon Tea at Windsor Arms can be everything from your next date spot to your precursor to Thanksgiving dinner, or even the perfect hideaway to have your next cozy gossip session with your friends.

The menu is beautifully curated to reflect the hotel's legacy.

Freshly baked maple apple scones with house-made preserves and clotted cream are the perfect pastry to pair with your tea.

If you lean more towards savoury than sweet, no need to fan yourself; Windsor Arms has got you covered. Savouries like duck rillette with fresh fig, smoked salmon with citrus zest and orange blossom pearls, and cucumbers with winter truffle cream cheese arrive on a tray, presented in an ornate way.

If you prefer something a bit heartier to tide you over, we also offer a halal roast beef option with grainy mustard and sauerkraut.

There's no rush needed to pick out your best floral dress for the occasion; you have time. Fall Afternoon Tea at the Windsor Arms Hotel is running now until November 30th.

At $85 per person,with $15 off Monday to Thursday, you can have an experience fit for a duchess.

Windsor Arms Hotel is located at 18 St Thomas St.

15 things to do in Toronto this week

Sandeep Panesar — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Things to do in Toronto this week include outdoor fall festivals, vintage clothing markets, and comedy shows that'll keep you entertained.

The fall season is welcoming a plethora of comedy shows to Toronto. This week, internationally acclaimed comedian Jimmy Carr takes over Scotiabank Arena for his Laughs Funny 2026 Tour. Comedy fans can also look forward to a performance by Leah Rudick at The Great Hall, along with more intimate shows at other local venues.

There are also plenty of seasonally themed activities to do around Toronto this week. Check out Queen's Park Fall Festival, the Bayview Leaside Apple Fest, and if you dare to be scared, Casa Loma's Legends of Horror awaits your arrival.

There's plenty more things to do in Toronto this week, so check past roundups for overlaps and map out the rest of your month with our up-to-date events calendar.

Events you might want to check out:

Legends of Horror at Casa Loma The Ultimate Halloween Night Out (October 3-31 @ Casa Loma)
Toronto's iconic castle becomes a sinister Halloween setting all month long.
Jimmy Carr - Laughs Funny 2026 Tour (October 16 @ Scotiabank Arena)
Ace comedian brings the laughs to Toronto for one night only.
Fall Festival 2026 (October 17 @ Ontario Legislative Building)
Join this annual fall tradition at Queen's Park.
Leah Rudick (October 14 @ The Great Hall)
Comedian Leah Rudick will entertain her Toronto fans this week.
Canadian Famous Comedy Night (October 16 @ Second City)
A stellar lineup of comedians from across Canada will gather right here in Toronto.
MLS: Toronto FC vs. Orlando City SC (October 14 @ BMO Field)
Go out and support Toronto FC as they take on Orlando City SC.
Autumn MEGA Book Swap (October 17 @ Glad Day Lit)
You may just get some of your fave reads for free at this annual book swap.
Junction Arts Crawl (October 17 @ Multiple Venues)
Visit multiple Toronto locations to see art by local artists.
20th Annual Cask Days Beer Festival (October 16-18 @ Clock Factory Building)
The annual celebration brings together over 75 breweries from across Canada for three days of cask-conditioned beer.
Coffee Culture Festival (October 16-18 @ Design Exchange)
A free three-day festival dedicated to all things coffee.
Bayview Leaside BIA Apple Fest Event (October 17 @ Multiple Venues)
A seasonally-themed open-air event that will feature entertainment, activities, and of course, apples.
$5/lb Vintage MRKT (October 16-18 @ It's Ok* Studios)
Grab amazing vintage goods for just $5 a pound.
Vintage Market in the Annex (October 17 @ Typist Studios & Coffee)
Your fall fashion finds await you at this outdoor vintage vendor market.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer Trivia Night (October 13 @ Snakes and Lattes College St.)
How well do you know this hit drama television series?
Slasher Films Trivia (October 14 @ Hemingway's)
A spooky-season trivia night awaits you at Hemingway's.

Someone made an unhinged Ontario video game where you skateboard in a Timmies

Jack Landau — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

A developer has created an action-packed skateboarding video game demo that slowly devolves into Northern Ontario-themed chaos, including tricks jumping off a moving snowmobile, and culminating in a real-time long line-up to grab a coffee at Tim Hortons.

AI developer Mitchell Hynes has taken core Canadian experiences and infused them into the bones of a 16-year-old video game.

"What if skate 3 was set in north ontario," Hynes asked his followers on X last week. He delivered on that promise with a full demonstration of his Northern Ontario version of the 2010 skateboarding video game, Skate 3, lasting almost a minute and a half.

what if skate 3 was set in north ontario https://t.co/yPZssYNLba
— Mitch (@mitchellhynes) October 4, 2026

To bring this familiar world to life, Hynes reverse-engineered the game and reformatted it to run on Bevy, a free and open-source engine built using the programming language Rust.

Hynes explained in a post online that the project required "more than two years reverse engineering Skate 3 and building the tools needed to understand and work with it. That meant countless hours digging through undocumented file formats, animation data, and game interaction systems, then testing those discoveries in the original game."

Line is long as hell 🥱 https://t.co/pfMyUrOMfB
— Mitch (@mitchellhynes) October 4, 2026

He acknowledges that much of the heavy lifting was already done in DumbadsSkate3ModdingTools, which includes tools for custom maps, meshes, collision, and many more game elements.

"That research laid the groundwork for this project," wrote Hynes, adding that "The rewrite's development time tells only part of the story: the knowledge and tools it relies on took years of work to establish."

Even with all the time invested, Hynes said he relied on AI coding tools "to develop this rewrite, but none of it would have been possible without dumbad's extraordinary effort to reverse engineer the original game."

For anyone looking to get creative themselves, Hynes shared a link to his GitHub, where he shares assets for his Skate 3 project.

If that sounds too technical, don't worry. You don't need advanced coding knowledge to bust out a sweet kickflip and then spend 47 minutes waiting for your coffee in an overcrowded Timmies.

However, Hynes stated that the game "is still a work in progress, and using original assets or showing working tricks does not mean every system behaves exactly like the original."

25 photos of what Toronto looked like in the 1990s

Macy Hatcher — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Toronto photos from the 1990s show a city in constant growth, change, and reinvention.

In the '90s, Toronto was a city caught between eras; looking back, it feels familiar enough to recognize, yet it still sparks a longing for a city that seems lost to time.

The '90s skyline was modest; pedestrians looked up as they walked the streets rather than down at their smartphones, and landmark buildings since lost to time stood proud.

Photographs from this era offer a window into a time with no condos, no King West patios, and a CN Tower visible from almost anywhere in the city.

So let's take a walk and rediscover what our home looked like in the '90s.

Ontario Place looking east, 1990

CNE midway on Princes' Boulevard, looking east, 1995

Slavic Pentecostal Church, north-east corner of Queen and Dovercourt, 1998

People eating lunch in Nathan Phillips Square between 1990 and 1992

Skating at Nathan Phillips Square between 1990 and 1992

Yonge looking north to Dundas between 1990 and 2002

Yonge Street, east side, south of Elm Street, 1991

Yonge Street, east side, north of Elm Street, 1991

Metro Hall under construction, looking west, between 1990 and 1994

John looking south from Queen, 1991

East side of SkyDome looking south, between 1993 and 1996

North side of Toronto Postal Delivery Building, future Air Canada Centre, between 1990 and 1999

Kingsway Theatre, 3030 Bloor West, 1998

Mel Lastman Square, 1998

East side of Yonge north of Wellesley, 1994

Aerial photograph of Yonge and Gould looking east, 1993

Jarvis looking north to Adelaide, 1994

North-east corner of Yonge and Shuter, 1990 or 1991

Yonge Street, west side, looking west from Shuter Street, 1991

Fleet looking east from Strachan, 1991

Looking north on Blue Jays Way from near SkyDome, 1990 or 1991

West of SkyDome looking south, between 1990 and 1994

Trinity Bellwoods Park looking southeast, 1994

Cherry Beach Sound, 1990

Looking southeast to Varsity Stadium, 1990

Toronto luxury home slashes asking price by almost $2 million

Misha Gajewski — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Toronto's luxury real estate market has seen some pretty dramatic price cuts lately, but few are quite as eye-catching as the one at 126 Sherwood Ave.

The custom-built home in the Yonge and Eglinton neighbourhood has earned some accolades, including a feature in Designlines Magazine.

With its impressive architectural pedigree and ultra-luxurious finishes, it's no surprise the property first hit the market last year with an ambitious asking price of $6,650,000.

The living room.

When we wrote about it last year, the price had already dropped to $6,350,000. Now, the home is back on the market for $4,795,000.

The dining room.

That's a whopping $1,855,000 less than its original asking price, or nearly 28 per cent off.

A view of the open-concept main floor.

And while that might sound like a bargain (at least by Toronto luxury real estate standards), there's nothing remotely modest about the house itself.

The family room, which walks out to the backyard.

Built in 2024 and designed by Arklab, the home, also known as The Vagli House, offers more than 4,000 square feet of meticulously customized living space, with just about every luxury finish you could possibly imagine.

The family room and kitchen.

We're talking imported German aluminum windows, European white oak floors, custom millwork and enough Italian marble to make a Renaissance sculptor jealous.

The kitchen.

According to realtor Maggie Lind, more than 30 slabs of hand-selected Italian marble were installed throughout the home.

The Calacatta Vagli marble island.

The kitchen alone features 12 slabs of Calacatta Vagli marble, including a massive 15-foot bookmatched marble island that practically demands to be the centre of attention.

The powder room.

And if you're wondering whether there's such a thing as too much marble, this house would argue otherwise.

The staircase.

Even the architectural staircase incorporates Calacatta Vagli marble detailing.

The fireplace.

Meanwhile, a 70-inch three-sided Urbana gas fireplace framed in travertine adds another dramatic focal point to the main floor.

One of the bedrooms.

Upstairs, four bedrooms each feature their own custom millwork, large picture windows, and carefully curated bathrooms.

The primary bedroom.

But the primary suite is where things get particularly extravagant.

The dressing room.

Instead of walking straight into the bedroom, you enter through a dressing room with linen-lined cabinetry and custom bone hardware.

The primary ensuite.

The ensuite bathroom is equally impressive, with dramatic Calacatta Viola porcelain slabs, a custom scalloped oak vanity, European fixtures and heated floors.

The basement recreation room.

And the luxury doesn't stop there.

The built-in bar.

The lower level features heated floors throughout, along with a recreation room, guest suite, built-in bar and a second laundry room.

The backyard.

Outside, the backyard has been transformed into a private resort-like retreat, surrounded by mature greenery that provides some welcome separation from the neighbouring homes.

The pool.

At its centre is a heated in-ground concrete pool, complete with a waterfall feature and the ability to operate with either chlorine or salt water. The rear of the home also features two composite decks, an oversized stone terrace and a built-in Lynx outdoor kitchen, making the space ideal for summer entertaining.

The family room with the fireplace.

Automated exterior lighting and irrigation mean there's a little less work involved in keeping everything looking picture-perfect.

A home office.

Even the parking situation is luxurious. It has a heated garage with an EV charger, direct access to the house, and a heated driveway with room for two additional vehicles.

The all-marble kitchen.

Of course, even with all that marble, the private pool and the heated driveway, the home has yet to find a buyer at its previous asking prices.

The latest reduction brings the price down by more than $1.8 million from where it started, which is a pretty significant adjustment for a home that's only a couple of years old.

Herringbone white oak hardwood floors.

But even with that dramatic discount, 126 Sherwood Ave. is still asking considerably more than most homes in the neighbourhood. For context, the average home price in the area is around $2 million, while the highest recent recorded sale is $3,880,000.

The primary bedroom.

That means the home is still asking nearly $1 million more than the neighbourhood's highest sale, despite its substantial price reduction.

The back of the house.

But for anyone who's been eyeing this particular slice of Toronto luxury, it's certainly a much more attractive price than it was a year ago.

This massive 10-acre Ontario corn maze is hiding a secret inside

Sandeep Panesar — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

You can literally get lost in the fall seasonal spirit with an Ontario corn maze-meets-escape room.

Ontario's Buzzing Bees Adventure Farm boasts a sprawling 10-acre cornfield labyrinth, and the only way out is to crack the clues.

The Ontario returns with its annual cornfield maze — roughly the size of 23 ice hockey rinks combined — which reveals a hidden storyline for guests to follow as they make their way to the other side.

This year, Buzzing Bees is bringing guests the Pirate Puzzle Hunt, where maze-goers must solve eight interactive puzzles to unlock the Pirate's Treasure. Once you're in, you and your team can take as much time as you need to plot your escape; winning teams will even receive a token prize from the farm.

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Although it may be challenging, the escape room-style experience suits all ages, with emergency exits throughout the maze if you get lost and need a way out.

After surviving the twists and turns, make sure to check out the other seasonal activities that Buzzing Bees offers, including an elastic band shooting range, pumpkin bowling, a tilt maze, and games of giant checkers.

The foodie in you can tuck into seasonal themed treats like haskap, kettle corn, and maple syrup, which are also available for purchase on the farm.

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General admission to the farm is $10 and includes the on-site activities and corn maze experience. The farm is open Fridays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guests can also visit on select Mondays, with the complete schedule available on its website.

Buzzing Bees Adventure Farm is located at 1070 Concession Rd. 5, Sunderland, Ont.

5 floating boardwalks in Ontario that let you reconnect with nature

Karen Doradea, Curiocity — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Let's be honest: regular hiking trails can start to look a little repetitive after a while. But what if your next outdoor adventure didn't involve climbing a steep hill, but rather floating directly over a lake? Boardwalk trails are stunning adventures, but hovering over a lake brings a mix of tranquility and excitement as you're surrounded by gorgeous views.

Tucked away across Ontario's diverse wetlands and provincial parks is a series of incredible floating boardwalks. Most might not even know they exist, but they offer some of the most dramatic, immersive views in the entire province.

Here are the absolute best floating trails in Ontario you need to experience at least once.

Crawford Lake Conservation Area

Crawford Lake Conservation Area is a day-trip adventure, simply waiting to be enjoyed. The lovely conservation area near Toronto has a boardwalk trail surrounding a rare body of water known as Crawford Lake.

To fully enjoy the views, you'll have to embark on a wooden boardwalk that loops around the lake.

It spans 1.8 km and loops around the lake. It then weaves through lush forest landscapes.

Where: 3115 Conservation Rd., Milton, Ont.
Cost: $10.50 per adult, $7.25 per child (5-14)

Hunters Bay Trail Floating Boardwalk

Located right in Huntsville, Ont., this trail is said to be one of the most amazing hikes in the whole area. And that says something.

According to Muskoka Tourism, the Hunters Bay Trail is a walking, running and cycling trail adventure that spans 3.6 km in length.

Where: Main Street West (off Highway 11), Huntsville, Ont.

Mer Bleue Conservation Area

According to the National Capital Commission (NCC), the Mer Bleue Bog is "one of the most outstanding natural features of the Greenbelt, and is one of its most visited areas."

Here you'll find interpretive boardwalks, sand ridges, natural hiking trails, and forests. The most popular walk in the area is the Mer Bleue Bog Trail due to its storytelling route.

This is a 1.2 km long boardwalk that is the most photographed part of the Greenbelt, according to the NCC. The boardwalk here is accessible, which is great for families as well.

"The wooden footbridge in the southern section of Trail 50 is an excellent spot for observing turtles, as well as several species of frog, including the bullfrog," per the NCC.

Where: Ridge Road, Ottawa, Ont.

Point Pelee National Park Marsh Boardwalk

According to Destination Ontario, Point Pelee has a one-kilometre boardwalk trail that loops through the inland marsh with lookout spots and telescopes to view birds and other wildlife.

When fall consumes the surrounding foliage, it's a sight to see.

Where: 1118 Point Pelee Dr., Leamington, Ont.

Sifton Bog Trail

This gem is found in one of southern Ontario's largest cities – London, Ont. It's considered a single-track trail that includes portions of a beautiful wooden boardwalk that lead out to Redmond's Pond. It features interpretive signage along the way, according to Destination Ontario.

Parking is available at the Oxford Street entrance.

Where: 1210 Oxford St. W., London, Ont.

The best seasonal drinks from Toronto cafes to start your Fall morning off right

Macy Hatcher — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

As the leaves start to turn beautiful hues of red, yellow, and orange, pumpkins become the number one porch decoration, and suddenly everyone is binge-watching Gilmore Girls… again. It could only mean one thing: Autumn has arrived!

Just because the season repeats itself every year doesn't mean your favourite seasonal drink for your early morning commute has to, too.

Toronto cafes are finding new ways to battle for the title of number one caffeinated Fall beverage, which is good news for coffee drinkers, because more cafes participating means more options, variety, and chances to find your signature drink this season.

Slip on the pair of mitts your nan knitted you four years ago and put your swimsuits in a box at the back of your closet labelled ‘Summer clothes’.

Here's where to find seasonal drinks from local cafes that beat the classic Pumpkin Spiced Latte for the top spot.

Forget Me Not - Spiced Pear Matcha

Forget Me Not is no stranger to bringing Toronto some of its favourite caffeinated beverages. Their Banana Bread Matcha, which drew lines down the street and inspired a string of copycats around the city, is one sign they know how to curate the perfect drink.

This year they've welcomed a Spiced Pear Matcha to their menu. It brings together the sweetness of a juicy pear, fresh ginger, traditional ceremonial matcha, and the subtle spice of cinnamon.

Forget Me Not wanted to "create a cozier, more autumnal sister to our much-loved banana bread matcha," they note via their pinned Instagram post introducing the drink. They also describe it as "just as comforting, but a little brighter and more complex" than their Banana Bread Matcha.

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Located at both 102 Ossington Ave and 506 Adelaide St W.

All Is Well - Pumpkin Pie Latte & Witches Brew

Well known for their Dunkaroo Latte that brings a childhood nostalgia along with every sip, All Is Well is known for the creative and tasty drinks they drop every season, and Autumn is no different.

The viral cafe has come up with its own twist on a classic Pumpkin Spiced Latte. Their Pumpkin Pie Latte is made with pumpkin puree and vanilla cold foam, topped with a blanket of cinnamon powder and their in-house pumpkin spice syrup. A drink so unmistakably fall, with a touch of All Is Well's innate commitment to giving its city something special.

Alongside their pumpkin-flavoured drink, the All Is Well team is helping us get in the Halloween spirit with their drink titled Witches Brew.

In this version of a matcha latte, All Is Well adds in some spooky elements to cater to the season it celebrates.

Starting off strong with their classic matcha, elements added to it include blackberry syrup that coats the bottom of the cup, a blackberry-infused cold foam, and on top of a layer of Halloween-themed sprinkles.

When served, the drink resembles a witch's brew you might see in many of your favourite Halloween movie classics, adding a little fright to the season.

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Located at 456 Ossington Ave.

Gateau Ghost - Apple Pie Latte & Cinnabun Match Latte

Gateau Ghost offers an array of delicious sweets, good eats, and a cozy atmosphere like no other. Through seasonal drinks and pastries, they've made their mark in the city. This season, they offer up two of their best creations yet - turning fan favourite desserts into drinks.

I know what you're thinking: it's getting frigid outside, which means out with the iced and in with the warm drinks.

Let me be the first to say you are incredibly mistaken; an iced drink in breezy weather is a risk you need to take. And it is a risk you must take with Gateau Ghost's fall menu drinks.

Well known for their matcha, they continue to uphold the beauty of serving ceremonial-grade matcha that makes you wonder what kind of matcha you were drinking before and how you didn't know it was the wrong kind sooner.

Pairing their matcha with brown sugar cinnamon syrup and a cream cheese cold foam, the warmth of a hot drink is replaced by the warmth on your tongue when the syrup's spice and the cold foam's sweetness collide.

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If a second option is needed, opt in for their Apple Pie Latte. After understanding that everyone's favourite part of apple crumble was the crumble, Gateau Ghost found a way to make sure their guests got the crumble craving along with their daily caffeine intake.

The latte features a roasted apple syrup, espresso, oat crumble, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to finish it off.

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Located at 974 College St.

Jerry's Coffee Roasters - Cherry Pie Matcha or Latte

Jerry's Coffee Roasters offers a fall menu of four come-hither options that could keep you there all day trying each one; their best option is the Cherry Pie beverage.

A coffee cart in Yorkville, serving Brazilian espresso beans, and the option to turn any of their fall drinks into a latte or matcha allows for an endless array of possibilities and switching your choice each day to keep your mornings interesting.

Their most talked-about fall beverage, Cherry Pie. Jerry's has not released an official description of what exactly it takes to make this tastebud-tantalizing drink, but take it from someone who has tried it as a latte (Me! I did!), I could only assume there is a cherry puree at the bottom, paired with a matching cherry cold foam, and topped with spiced graham cracker.

One thing I can promise: it is delicious.

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Located at 55 Avenue Rd, inside Oreya House.

Toronto juice shop known for affordable smoothies quietly shuts down

Kimia Afshar Mehrabi — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

A no-frills Toronto juice shop known for its consistent prices, colourful smoothies, and fresh juices has quietly closed its doors after a decade in business.

Galaxy T&T, the unpretentious juice bar and fruit market at 1227A Bloor St. W., appears to have served its final customers, with the business' Instagram page now marking its years of operation as 2014-2026.

Located in the heart of Bloordale just east of Lansdowne Avenue and a short walk away from the TTC, the vibrant storefront could easily be mistaken for your traditional fruit-and-veggie market, but beyond its produce-filled interior, the shop became a go-to spot for chuggable smoothies, Vietnamese banh mi, and nutrient-packed juices.

Owner Mai Phan arrived in Canada at 17 with thousands of refugees fleeing Vietnam by boat, then took over the struggling grocery store in 2017 and introduced a lineup of colourful smoothies served in a single, generous size.

The simple but effective concept proved a draw for health-conscious customers looking for something fresh without the premium price tag often associated with other juice bars in the city.

At a time when specialty juice shops routinely charge upwards of $15 for a single drink, Galaxy T&T was known to keep things affordable — for years, its massive 22-ounce juices ranged from just $4 to $8.

Customers could indulge in more creative combinations with the "Space Jam" smoothie (grass jelly, chia seeds, lychee, green tea) or stick to more classic offerings like the "Green Goddess" (kale, apple, celery, cucumber), banana blended with coconut milk, or strawberry and banana.

Now, after years of serving the neighbourhood, the small business appears to have reached the end of its run due to the owners' retirement, and if local reports are true, the shop won't be relocating to another neighbourhood.

blogTO has reached out to Galaxy T&T for more information on its closure and will update this story if additional details become available.

What's open and closed on Thanksgiving Monday 2026 in Toronto

Kimia Afshar Mehrabi — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What's open on Thanksgiving Monday 2026 in Toronto? You'll still be able to shop at a handful of grocery stores, dine at select restaurants, and visit a surprising number of attractions to help you make the most of your day off.

While most of the city will be chowing down on turkey or leftovers, some businesses and plenty of attractions will keep their doors open for the statutory holiday.

Whether you're in desperate need of some last-minute ingredients or just want to spend a relaxing day in the city, let this be your guide to navigating all the closures in place on Monday, Oct. 12.

Here's everything that's open and closed on Thanksgiving Monday 2026 in Toronto.

General

Closed

Banks
Government offices
Libraries
Post offices

Open

The TTC will operate on a holiday schedule (similar to its Sunday service schedule, but starting earlier at approximately 6 a.m.)
GO Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule
Select Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall locations

LCBO stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Monday.

Food and Drink

Closed

A lot of restaurants and food establishments will be taking the day off — make sure to call ahead and confirm if you're planning on heading out.
LCBO
The Beer Store
Most major grocery chains will be closed on Thanksgiving Monday, except for those confirmed below

Open

Al Premium (1970 Eglinton Ave. E.) - 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Al Premium (50 Alton Towers Cir.) - 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Eataly Don Mills (49 Karl Fraser Rd.) - 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Eataly Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall) - 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Eataly Yorkville (55 Bloor St. W.) - 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Farm Boy Leaside (147 Laird Dr.) - 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Farm Boy College and Bay (777 Bay St.) - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Farm Boy Sugar Wharf (Unit No. 200, 100 Queens Quay E.) - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Farm Boy Harbourfront (207 Queens Quay W.) - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Farm Boy St. Clair (81 St. Clair Ave. E.) - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Galleria Supermarket (558 Yonge St.) - 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Galleria Supermarket (351 Bloor St. West) - 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
H Mart (various locations) - Regular hours
Independent City Market (55 Bloor St.) - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Kitchen Table (389 Spadina Road) - 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The Kitchen Table (705 King St. W.) - 7 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Loblaws (60 Carlton St.) - 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Metro (444 Yonge St.) - 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Pusateri's (1539 Avenue Rd.) - 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rabba (various locations) - 24 hours
Summerhill Market (various locations) - 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Some Starbucks and Tim Hortons locations
T&T Supermarket s - regular hours
Select indie bottle shops
Whole Foods (87 Avenue Rd.) - 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wine Rack locations

Several malls, including Yorkdale, will be closed for the statutory holiday.

Malls

Closed

CF Fairview
CF Sherway Gardens
CF Shops at Don Mills
Dufferin Mall
Scarborough Town Centre
Yorkdale Mall

Open

CF Markville - 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
CF Toronto Eaton Centre - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Pacific Mall (4300 Steeles Ave. E.) - 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The Well (486 Front St. W.) - (select vendor hours may vary)

Arcadia Earth is just one of many attractions around the city that will be open on Oct. 12.

Attractions

Open

Aga Khan Museum - 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Arcadia Earth Toronto - 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Art Gallery of Ontario - 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bata Shoe Museum - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Canada's Wonderland - 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Casa Loma - 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
CN Tower - 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Distillery District - 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Gardiner Museum - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hockey Hall of Fame - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Pocket Planet Canada - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada - 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Royal Ontario Museum - 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Toronto Zoo - 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m

Thanksgiving Monday 2026 falls on Oct. 12 this year.

Quaint Ontario town is home to province's oldest bridge

Karen Doradea, Curiocity — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Lyndhurst, Ont., is not only a charming village, but it is also home to a remarkable piece of history: the province's oldest bridge. A walk through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with scenic views that make the journey just as memorable as the destination.

The lovely town is located on the Rideau Heritage Route. Every year, it welcomes thousands of seasonal residents and tens of thousands of visitors, according to 1000 Islands Tourism.

A village full of history – Lyndhurst, Ont.

It was founded in the early 1800s as Furnace Falls. But it wasn't until 1846 that the village was renamed Lyndhurst, per the site. It was once a bustling town with two hotels, factories, mills, churches, a bank, two cheese factories, and a carriage and wagon maker.

Of course, now it's a quieter community with a peaceful charm that draws artists and photographers to capture the beautiful surroundings.

The village is also a haven for canoe and kayak enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and anglers.

But that's not the only reason why it attracts visitors. You can thank its historic bridge for that.

The oldest bridge in existence in Ontario

This beautiful stone bridge dates back to the 1850s, according to 1000 Islands Tourism. It is recognized as a prime example of masonry arch construction in the province.

It was designed by John Roddick, an employee of a notable local mill owner. The bridge was built using local fieldstone arranged in random courses, with its only adornments being sandstone wall caps and arch surrounds.

To protect its historic craftsmanship, the Lyndhurst Bridge was restored in the 1980s, and you can still visit it today! The water flowing beneath the bridge is connected to both the Gananoque River and the St. Lawrence River. It's worth a day trip if you ask us.

Though the weather hasn't been as pretty as we may have hoped, this is still a great option if you're looking to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.

Toronto luxury mini-mansion has been on and off the market since 2019

Misha Gajewski — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Toronto's luxury real estate market can be unpredictable even at the best of times.

But imagine trying to sell the same multi-million-dollar home for the better part of seven years.

That's more or less the situation with 1305 Royal York Rd., a sprawling custom-built home in Etobicoke that has seemingly been on and off the market since 2019.

The view down to the open-concept main floor.

And despite all that time — not to mention everything that's happened to Toronto real estate prices since then — the asking price hasn't actually changed all that much.

The primary ensuite.

Back in 2019, we wrote about the four-bedroom, seven-bathroom home when it hit the market for $4,958,000.

The foyer.

Fast-forward to 2026, and the home is once again looking for a buyer, this time for $5,198,000.

The dining room.

That's actually down from the $5.5 million the sellers were asking last year.

The heated garage.

So, what exactly do you get for just over $5 million?

Quite a lot, as it turns out.

The backyard.

Sitting on an enormous 91-by-210-foot lot, the custom-built home offers more than 8,300 square feet of living space.

The second-floor landing.

And while "mini-mansion" might sound like an oxymoron, it feels appropriate here. The house is undeniably massive, but it stops just short of the truly palatial proportions of some of Toronto's biggest estates.

The family room.

Inside, the home has the kind of soaring ceilings, walls of windows, and wide-open rooms you'd expect from a property at this price point.

The kitchen.

The main living spaces are open concept, with a huge kitchen featuring custom cabinetry and Miele appliances flowing into the family room.

The living room with a fireplace.

There are also two fireplaces and a Control4 smart home system that integrates things like the lighting, audio, security, and climate controls.

The primary bedroom.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom is less a bedroom and more of a private suite, complete with its own sitting area, massive walk-in dressing room and spa-like ensuite.

Another bedroom with two closets.

The other bedrooms also have their own ensuite bathrooms.

The home gym with a walk-out to the pool.

And if more than 8,000 square feet somehow isn't enough room to keep everyone entertained, there's also a fully finished lower level.

The games room.

It comes with all the toys, including a gym and games room with a pool table as well as a sports simulator.

The pool and hot tub.

But arguably the best part of the property is outside.

The back of the house at night.

The backyard looks more like a private resort than something you'd expect to find within Toronto city limits, with a swimming pool, eight-person jacuzzi, cabana, and sprawling manicured grounds.

The three-car garage.

There's also a three-car garage, a heated driveway, and an automated gated entrance.

The breakfast nook.

On paper, then, it seems like the kind of house that should have plenty going for it.

The pool and lounging areas.

So why has it seemingly struggled to find a buyer for so long?

Another bedroom.

Realtor Rose Barroso points to the current uncertainty in Toronto's real estate market, particularly when it comes to detached homes.

A playroom.

"Detached properties in the area have recently experienced downward price adjustments (down roughly 12.7 per cent year-over-year in broader comparative metrics), and I suppose buyers are holding on for better economical news, which lately are difficult to come by," Barroso told blogTO.

A wine cellar.

"But this home is fabulously unique and filled with extras."

The primary bedroom closet.

And she's not wrong about the extras.

The family room that opens to the back patio.

Still, luxury homes can be notoriously difficult to price and sell, since the pool of people able — and willing — to spend more than $5 million on a house is considerably smaller than the market for your average Toronto home.

A covered patio.

The fact that 1305 Royal York Rd. is now asking only about $240,000 more than it was seven years ago also offers an interesting snapshot of just how differently the very top end of Toronto's housing market can behave.

The dining room.

For now, the home is listed for $5,198,000. Whether that's finally the price that gets someone to bite remains to be seen.

The back of the house during the day.

But after nearly seven years of trying to find the right buyer, hopefully this mini-mansion's next chapter involves a sold sign.

Instagram account-turned-retailer closes after short stint in Toronto mall

Sandeep Panesar — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Scarborough Spots, an Instagram account-turned-flagship store, is officially closing its doors at Eglinton Square Mall, just three years after welcoming its first customers to a unique retail space that felt just as much like an ode to Scarborough as a place to do some shopping.

"Eglinton Square was in the same neighbourhood where my grandparents lived, and we were always there growing up. My cousin actually worked at Foot Locker, and during the pandemic, I applied there too, but never got a call back," Jesse Asido, owner of the space, tells blogTO.

"Then, when I saw that the Foot Locker shut down, I knew I had to have it," he says, recalling the soft launch of the inaugural Scarborough Spots brick-and-mortar in November 2023, with the official grand opening causing quite the uproar in March 2024.

Asido calls the decision to close the store for good "tough," with several undisclosed factors ending its nearly three-year run at Eglinton Square Mall.

The brand, known for its Scarborough-themed merch, accessories, and gifts, has served as more than just a retail space. It's also a free art gallery where local artists have displayed some of their work, as well as an Instagram-worthy photo-op hotspot, popular for fixtures that mimic a subway station.

"It seems that everyone is going to make one last visit to take pictures at our 'fictional subway' and make one last call on a payphone before we paint over everything and close the doors," Asido laughs, confirming that although it's farewell to Eglinton Square Mall, he feels this is the right time to move on and start somewhere fresh.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Scarborough Spots 🍁 (@scarboroughspots)

"We are currently in talks and negotiations with other malls, businesses, and plazas, and while nothing is confirmed, we will be back somewhere by December 2026, just in time for the holidays," Asido guarantees.

Hundreds of shoppers have since taken to Instagram, offering well wishes and expressing excitement for what's next for Scarborough Spots.

"Forever???? Say it isn't so!! Thanks for representing our borough beyond the store @jesseasido, and thanks for your kindness the day I stopped in," a follower exclaims.

“You've made Scarberians proud to represent where they are from, and we love y'all for that. Onto bigger and better things," another wrote.

The closure does not impact the brand's online presence, Asido confirms, with virtual sales and operations continuing as usual.

While Toronto residents wait to see where Scarborough Spots will pop up next, their last chance to shop at the Eglinton Square Mall location is Oct. 18.

Scarborough Spots is located at 70 Eglinton Square #1, in Scarborough, Ont.

Picturesque Ontario hotel expands with restored 173-year-old building

Sandeep Panesar — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

One of Ontario's most prestigious hotels, Elora Mill Hotel and Spa, is ready to unveil the latest addition to its historic luxury boutique property: The Walser Building, a 173-year-old edifice transformed into prime real estate and restored for premium hospitality.

Pearle Hospitality, a luxury hospitality and property development company and the owner of Elora Mill, acquired the Walser Building in 2017, with plans to eventually turn it into a key operational part of the longstanding boutique hotel and spa.

The rehabilitation of the Walser Building is part of Pearle Hospitality's larger heritage restoration project, marking the team's eighth and final heritage building preservation initiative.

"When we acquired it [the Walser Building], we weren't just buying a property; we were accepting a responsibility," Aaron Ciancone, CEO of Pearle Hospitality, said in a press release.

"This village has trusted us with Elora Mill for years, and we don't take lightly the responsibility of being entrusted with another piece of its history. Our job is to give this building the future it deserves, while making sure it still feels like Elora when we're done."

Nearly six years after the acquisition, in 2023, developers began dismantling the building, which the devastating August 1873 fire had destroyed, leaving the Walser Building in a raw, skeletal form.

The landmark, formerly known as the Elora Furniture Factory, has since been reimagined as a nine-room hotel wing, creating a private, intimate getaway in what is known as "Ontario's most beautiful village."

The Walser Building operated as Elora Furniture Factory up until 2004.

Construction began in mid-2025 and uses what Ciancone calls the "same traditional masonry technique seen throughout Elora, down to the bones, the proportions, the weight of its history," while reinventing parts of the property through careful planning and construction.

Aside from the restoration of the weathered facility and the newly constructed suites, guests will have exclusive access to a rooftop hot tub offering unobstructed, sprawling views of the Elora Gorge, an experience that Pearle Hospitality is calling "one of the most coveted private settings in the region."

For those looking to pair these rewarding views with a more premium overnight stay, the crown jewel of the property is the Walser Suite, on the top floor with an outdoor terrace and private dining area.

Beyond that, though, guests can tailor their stay to what they're truly looking for in a getaway.

Walser Riverview Room.

The Walser Riverview room, for example, lets hotelgoers relish views of the Grand River right from their window, while also offering the chance to enjoy sunsets over the gorge, the perfect option for those who appreciate nature at its finest.

Another on-site gem is Bardo, the restaurant and pizzeria located on the main floor of the Walser Building.

Although the Walser Building has been added to Elora Mill's existing lineup of bookable rooms, which now boasts 30 first-class accommodations with this latest addition, it is currently unavailable, with dates set to open later this month.

The Walser Building is situated on Elora Mill's property at 77 West Mill St., Elora, Ont.