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All the celebrities who showed up for Canada's historic FIFA World Cup match in Toronto

Trevor Beggs — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:22:38 -0400

History was made on Friday in Toronto.

For the first time ever, Canada played a game in the men's FIFA World Cup on home soil.

The iconic day was met with parades through the streets, expensive beer, an arrest, a goal on home turf, and a historic first-ever FIFA World Cup point for Canada.

There was a swath of celebrities who took in the action on Friday in Toronto. Just don't expect to see Justin Bieber or Justin Trudeau on this list, as both Canadians were spotted in Los Angeles for the USA's stunning victory over Paraguay.

While the Justins chose America first, two of Canada's most iconic actors were in attendance at Toronto Stadium.

Ryan Reynolds & Mike Myers are in attendance in Toronto for the FIFA World Cup game between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina. 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/gFz4uBBXfd
— Made In Canada (@MadelnCanada) June 12, 2026

The presence of Austin Powers in particular got Jesse Marsch excited postgame.

"Mike Myers was here? Oh, sweet," Marsch proclaimed.

Another popular Canadian actor, Will Arnett, was also at the match.

From our most iconic actors to one of our best athletes, Connor McDavid was in attendance, looking as relaxed as we've ever seen him.

McJockvid downing a glass of wine in the backwards hat pic.twitter.com/F6ewHqjghs
— cecidrai (@cecidrais) June 12, 2026

The Edmonton Oilers captain was also dialed in, cheering at other moments in the contest.

Two other iconic Canadian athletes, Christine Sinclair and Andre De Grasse, were also spotted. Both athletes previously attended the Toronto Tempo's first home contest last month.

"We've been waiting for the moment for the last four years," De Grasse told the media before kick-off.

Canadian NBAer Dillon Brooks and retired Toronto FC legend, Dwayne De Rosario, were also at Toronto Stadium cheering Canada on.

One legendary World Cup athlete was spotted, but not among the fans. Bastian Schweinsteiger was in attendance, covering the game for the media.

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Some celebrities hit the stage to perform before Canada kicked off their match against Bosnia & Herzegovina. Alessia Cara, Jessie Reyez, Elyanna, and Michael Bublé performed, while Alanis Morissette sang the national anthem.

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A post shared by FIFA World Cup (@fifaworldcup)

Other non-performing artists were at the match, including Rob Baker, lead guitarist for one of Canada's favourite bands, The Tragically Hip.

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A post shared by The Tragically Hip (@thetragicallyhip)

The Tragically Hip were involved in the Perfect Pitch project, an album released by several Canadian musicians ahead of the World Cup.

One artist who was left off the album was Toronto's Shawn Desman, who was asked about it by one fan at the game on Friday.

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A post shared by Jermaine (@fromjermainesbrain)

We'll see if Vancouver can match the star power that was out in Toronto, as Canada's final two group stage matches at the World Cup will happen at BC Place. Canada's next game is on Tuesday, June 18, against Qatar in Vancouver.

This Ontario hotel is built into a 200-year-old military barracks

Sandeep Panesar — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The Barracks Inn in Ancaster is the kind of place that makes an Ontario weekend getaway feel more like a period romance.

Housed inside a beautifully restored stone building with a history stretching back to the early nineteenth century, the boutique hotel creates an atmosphere that blends historic and modern, allowing you to take a trip back in time without sacrificing contemporary comforts.

Originally built during the War of 1812 to house British soldiers, the military barracks-turned-hotel has served many purposes over the years, living lives as a body shop, drug store, and die shop. It is said to have burned down in 1868 before being rebuilt in stone, eventually becoming The Barracks Inn.

Today, the property features 18 individually designed suites that blend heritage-inspired details with contemporary comforts. Its Signature Suites — the Royal Suite, Officer Suite, and Mason Suite — feature natural wood flooring and solid wood furniture.

Royal Suite.

Guests who prefer a bit of fresh air without going far from their rooms can book either the Royal or Officer Suite, both of which include access to a sunrise balcony.

The inn's regular suites may not come with the same perks as the signature accommodations, but they still promise an elevated experience with heated floors, "world-class" mattresses, and thermostatic showers.

Regardless of which suite they choose, visitors will find an ambiance that pays homage to the building's historic roots while offering modern comforts and conveniences.

Library.

In addition to complimentary Wi-Fi and on-site parking, Ontario's military barracks hotel also offers guests a free breakfast. This mix of personalized hospitality and boutique accommodations has earned the property recognition among travellers, including landing a 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award and a 2026 Consumer Choice Award.

Beyond its blend of traditional and contemporary design, the inn's location in the heart of Ancaster definitely adds to its appeal.

The Barracks Inn, which has also been featured as part of Doors Open Ontario — the annual province-wide event that gives visitors access to heritage buildings not typically open to the public — places guests within walking distance of Ancaster Village, often touted as "one of the most unique districts in Canada."

The village is known for its rustic charm and its must-try restaurants, including the renowned The Ancaster Mill, which boasts a waterfall running right through the outdoor dining area, as well as independent boutiques that support local businesses.

There is also plenty to explore for nature lovers. Ancaster sits along the Niagara Escarpment, and guests looking for an outdoor adventure can easily visit Webster Falls, Tews Falls, and Dundas Peak, all located less than a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms at The Barracks Inn start at $300 per night, and bookings can be made directly through the hotel's official website.

The inn is located at 425 Wilson St. E. in Ancaster, Ont.

One of Toronto's most unique historic conversions hits the market for under $3M

Misha Gajewski — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Tucked behind an unassuming brick facade in Roncesvalles is one of the most unusual homes currently for sale in Toronto — a townhouse carved out of a 1913 auto body shop.

Located at 121R Fermanagh Ave., the property is part of the historic High Park Garage, an early 20th-century commercial garage that was converted into just four residences in 2004.

"Rather than erase the building's industrial roots, the redevelopment embraced them, preserving many of the original architectural elements and drawing inspiration from the warehouse-to-residential conversions that helped define neighbourhoods like Brooklyn's DUMBO district," listing agent Amanda Gaskey told blogTO.

The foyer.

And honestly, thank goodness because the result is an effortlessly cool home with tons of character.

Exposed brick and beams are original to the building.

The original architectural elements remain front and centre, but the space never feels cold or overly warehouse-like.

A powder room.

Instead, it's warm, functional, and surprisingly cozy for a building that once housed automobiles rather than people.

The exterior of High Park Garage.

From the outside, you're expecting a small chop shop hidden within the building's modest brick exterior.

The living room and bar.

But step through the front door, and you're greeted by heated concrete floors, soaring 12-foot ceilings, exposed original floor beams, and an open-concept layout flooded with natural light from multiple skylights overhead.

The kitchen.

The main floor is designed for entertaining, with a modern kitchen, sleek bar area, and spacious family room that flows effortlessly toward a private courtyard.

The courtyard.

The courtyard itself feels like an unexpected escape from the city, offering just enough room for outdoor dining, morning coffee, and a small planter garden.

The main bedroom.

Upstairs, the second floor includes a large bedroom, a den currently being used as a walk-in closet, a four-piece bathroom, and a private deck.

The closets in the study.

An open-concept study lined with wall-to-wall closets provides even more flexible living space.

The family room.

And for anyone already mentally sketching renovation plans, the property comes with approved plans to expand and reconfigure the second floor, giving future owners an opportunity to add even more square footage.

The main floor.

But perhaps the home's most surprising feature sits at the very top.

The rooftop terrace.

The third floor opens onto a private rooftop terrace nestled among mature trees, creating a secluded outdoor retreat.

The walk-out to the courtyard.

In short, the High Park Garage remains one of Toronto's more unique residential conversions.

The main bedroom with a clawfoot tub in the middle.

Of course, the location doesn't hurt either.

The kitchen.

Situated in the heart of Roncesvalles, the property is steps from some of the city's most beloved cafés, restaurants, bakeries, and independent shops.

The family room with a Murphy bed.

High Park, Sorauren Park, and the waterfront trails are all within easy reach, while nearby TTC and GO Transit connections make getting around the city remarkably easy.

The bar.

In a market filled with sleek new builds and cookie-cutter renovations, 121R Fermanagh Ave. stands out simply because there's nothing else quite like it.

The courtyard.

Currently, the one-of-a-kind townhouse is listed for $2,695,000.

Toronto friends come up with new way to fix 'absurd' tipping culture

Natalia Buia — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

If there's one thing Toronto residents seem to agree on these days, it's that tipping culture has gotten out of control. Luckily, one local startup thinks it may have found a way to make the experience a little less awkward.

Back in the early 2000s, tipping was generally seen as a way to reward exceptional service, and 10 per cent was considered a perfectly acceptable amount. Nowadays, however, tipping prompts have skyrocketed to twice as much, and in some cases, 25 per cent or more.

Even where we're expected to tip has changed. Coffee shops, fast-food counters and dispensaries in Toronto are now asking customers to kick in a little extra before they tap their card and move on with their day.

Funny enough, that question is exactly what led to the creation of TipWise.

Speaking to blogTO, co-founder Muaad Mehad says the idea for the platform came after a rant he posted to the r/mildlyinfuriating subreddit about tipping culture gained traction online. It quickly snowballed with thousands of people sharing their own frustrations about aggressively high prompts.

"We came up with a system similar to a self-checkout at a grocery store, where you can grab a seat at a table, you can order your food, pay for it on your phone, and then we send you a tip prompt 15 minutes later."

TipWise is described as a web app platform where diners tap the Near Field Communication (NFC) nameplate at their table or scan the QR code, which opens to a page on their browser where they can then order, pay and then time on their own time without an audience.

The screen diners see on the TipWise app during checkout.

This, Mehad says, is designed to eliminate what he calls "guilt tipping."

"When you go to a restaurant, there's a screen angled at you, you have servers watching, [there are] people behind you waiting, and you feel kind of forced to tip," he says, which, undoubtedly, can be a major source of anxiety for diners with people-pleasing tendencies.

The issue is one that Mehad understands from both sides. Before moving into the tech world, he spent years working in the restaurant industry and says he witnessed firsthand how awkward the tipping process can be for customers and staff alike. In some Toronto establishments he's visited, Mehad says he's seen prompts asking for 30 per cent.

"We're already paying heavy taxes, we're potentially in a recession in Toronto, the average Canadian is earning about $3,500 a month after taxes, and for them to go ahead and tip 30 per cent can be difficult," he says.

And he's not alone in feeling that way. A survey by Talker Research of 2,000 Americans found that the average person spends almost $500 more on tipping each year than they'd like to. While there aren't comparable studies in Canada, it's fair to assume Canadians are feeling similar pressure.

According to a 2025 study by H&R Block, nearly 60 percent of Canadians say they're tipping more than they were just one year ago, despite ongoing concerns about affordability and the rising cost of living.

Mehad argues the issue is especially noticeable in quick-service restaurants. "A lot of times, you go to quick-service restaurants, and we tip before we receive the food. We don't know how long it takes, how the quality is, or anything of that nature." So, he asks, why tip on something you haven't received yet?

TipWise has only been around for three weeks and is currently in beta testing, but the tiny startup of just seven employees says two GTA restaurants — Scarborough's Craves Bites & Cafe and LaRosh — have already signed on, with a third location currently in the works. So far, the founders say they've booked meetings with roughly 20 establishments interested in integrating with the platform.

Still, he knows the concept won't appeal to everyone.

"We know this product isn't for everybody," he says. "There's a lot of older folks that might not use it, and a lot of younger people who might not see it as the best fit, but we're targeting millennials that really value their time and the experience."

And, as he puts it, their hard-earned money, too.

Here are some things only someone from Toronto would truly understand

Natalia Buia — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Toronto is a city built by people from pretty much everywhere, with millions of people who end up calling the city home.

Still, Toronto comes with its own learning curve. And according to locals, there are plenty of things only long-term residents truly get.

We hit the streets to ask people one simple question: what’s something only someone from Toronto would understand?

Some of the answers had us gagged.

"That it takes 100 years to get anywhere," someone said.

No surprise there, as plenty of people constantly harp on traffic and the TTC. Although one person argued the roads aren't that bad... if you know the secret routes, that is.

@blogto What's something that ONLY people from Toronto would understand 🤔 🎙️ @emm.ohara ♬ original sound - blogTO

Meanwhile, the comments on our TikTok are full of people defending the TTC, proving that Toronto's relationship with transit is complicated.

And maybe that's what only someone from Toronto would truly understand.

Viral map has internet divided over opinions on Toronto and the GTA

Kimia Afshar Mehrabi — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

A controversial map with hand-drawn changes is dividing social media over its opinions on life in downtown Toronto versus the rest of the GTA.

The map, titled "Toronto vibes map," was created by X user @artchad after living in the city for almost four years. Using hand-drawn borders, the map categorizes most of the City of Toronto, along with surrounding municipalities like Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, North York, and Scarborough as "urban hell."

A much smaller portion is labeled "pretty cool," and includes the downtown core, High Park, Liberty Village, Fort York, Leslieville, and The Beaches.

Updated Toronto vibes map after living here for almost 4 years.

Toronto is a New York bordered by 8 Houstons pic.twitter.com/OrbojkqHC8
— The Happy Smiler (@artchad) June 10, 2026

Since being posted on Wednesday, the map has received over 200 replies and more than 8,000 likes, with a sharp split in opinion over the accuracy and the tone of the map.

A major point of contention is what the map leaves out as "pretty cool," with critics noting that several neighbourhoods many residents consider integral parts of the city are excluded from this category, including Midtown and large parts of Scarborough.

Over the past few days, the debate surrounding the map has also spilled into larger disagreements about density, suburban life, and urban planning in the GTA.

Toronto's suburbs are fine! They're easy to get around! They're way denser than any suburban sprawl in the US! Stop overreacting! You want my take? Here. I've lived in 20+ cities and walked thousands of km of urban and suburban streets doing tree inventory. Heres my GTA https://t.co/ekbYwak0gM pic.twitter.com/SknEmqUcRo
— Joe 🌳 (@Skogur2) June 11, 2026

"Toronto suburbs have more planned density than almost all but a handful of American cities. When you have a city with a metro population as large as Toronto (without being landlocked like island cities such as NYC), it's bound to have some sprawl. Even so, Toronto still has tremendous density and it’s only getting more dense," one user argued.

I lived 9 years in Canada, with ~5 years being in heart of Downtown, just off Dundas Square.

At least pre-Covid, Downtown Toronto was a genuinely top tier North American city.

Great transit system, relative to most North America.

Awesome food scene.

Awesome movie/art scene.…
— AK (@_akdz_) June 10, 2026

Others strongly pushed back against the map's framing. "This is a very 'I've lived here for less than 4 years' map," another comment reads, while one person wrote: "As someone raised in North York and spent considerable time in Etobicoke (west of your 'pretty cool' zone), these depictions are pretty tiring tbh. If you don't know how to get around the rest of the city, just say that."

Although some X users rejected comparisons to American cities like Houston, others defended the GTA's suburban layout and liveability.

Meh. Parts of Scarborough or Etobicoke aren’t bad (by the lake)
— smurf (@Jo428De) June 10, 2026

"Okay let's not get carried away now, Houston's a whole other level. More like a Chicago surrounded by LA suburbs," another person said.

I think this is the map you’re looking for pic.twitter.com/KLzMG2Ym0n
— Jaye Clark (@Jaye101) June 10, 2026

Ultimately, as many folks pointed out, the viral map highlights just how differently people experience the same city.

Which parts of Toronto would you put in the "pretty cool" category?

Bosnian fans arrested for assaulting Toronto police officer at FIFA World Cup match

Marley Dickinson, Offside — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:33:50 -0400

Bosnia and Herzegovina fans were rowdy inside Toronto Stadium before the match even started.

According to Toronto Police, officers responded to report of a disruptive persons in the stadium's temporary south stand, ahead of Friday's Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina FIFA World Cup match. Upon arrival, police found several altercations underway in Section 215 involving a group of Bosnian fans.

Photos show the incident involved BH Fanaticos, a hardcore Bosnia and Herzegovina supporters' group that follows the team around the world.

Toronto Police confirmed with blogTO that two adult males from the Bosnian fan group were arrested and charged with assaulting a police officer.

Two accredited officers on duty sustained minor injuries. They were treated at the scene and continued their duties.

Police officers at Toronto Stadium responded to disruptive persons report in Secton 215 around an hour before the game. (Marley Dickinson/Offside)

The incident occurred approximately 50 minutes before the opening whistle. Police said they won't provide details on the specific injuries of each officer, but confirmed they were treated and continued on duty.

Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the scoring in the first half, silencing the Toronto Stadium crowd into halftime. Canada fought back in the second half, scoring a late equalizer to earn a point from their opening match — their first in FIFA World Cup history.

Bosnian fans showed up in big numbers. (Fareen Karim/blogTO)

An estimated 8,000-10,000 Bosnian fans were part of the sold-out crowd of 43,002. Their chants and voices echoed throughout the stadium all match long.

Thousands of Bosnian fans met at Stanley Park hours before the match and rallied their way to the stadium.

Bosnian star defender Tarik Muharemović was nearly speechless post-match when it came to the support his country received in Toronto.

"I don't know what to say. I've been sent videos from friends, and event my barber. The support has been just crazy," he said to blogTO.

Like Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina will now head west for their final two group-stage matches. Canada will play twice in Vancouver, while Bosnia and Herzegovina's matches are scheduled for Los Angeles and Seattle.

Canada just did something they've never done before at a men's FIFA World Cup

Rob Williams, Offside — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 17:59:11 -0400

Canada dominated their opening match in Toronto at the FIFA World Cup.

And while they didn't beat Bosnia and Herzegovina, settling for a 1-1 draw, Canada did make history.

Cyle Larin was the hero for the Canadians, scoring the goal that levelled the match in the 78th minute. The 31-year-old Brampton, Ont. native helped Canada earn the country's first-ever point at a men's World Cup.

CYLE LARIN TIES THE GAME FOR CANADA! pic.twitter.com/56YfnmtMQT
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) June 12, 2026

The Canadian men's national team lost every match at each of their previous FIFA World Cup appearances, going 0-3 at Mexico 1986 and 0-3 at Qatar 2022.

Bosnia and Herzegovina silenced the pro-Canadian crowd early, when Jovo Lukić scored the opening goal off a corner in the 21st minute. The goal came just four minutes after Jonathan David missed a glorious chance to score first for Canada.

Tani Oluwaseyi almost scored Canada's first goal in the first half (Kevin Sousa/Imagn Images)

The Canadians came agonizingly close to levelling the score on numerous occasions.

Tani Oluwaseyi had an open look but sailed the ball over the net in the first half, while Richie Laryea's second-half shot deflected off a Bosnian player and off the crossbar.

Richie Laryea has a HUGE chance but it goes off the crossbar. pic.twitter.com/tDcvY4n2Vl
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) June 12, 2026

Canada played this game without their captain and best player, Alphonso Davies, who is injured. Moïse Bombito, Canada's best central defender, also didn't appear in the game due to an ailment.

The national team will now head west to Vancouver, as Canada plays Qatar on June 18 and Switzerland on June 24 at BC Place.

A top-two finish in Group B would put Canada through to the knockout round at a men's World Cup for the first time ever. Canada could also qualify by finishing as one of the eight best third-place teams.

Missing iconic Canada's Wonderland prop located somewhere in rural Ontario

Natalia Buia — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:53:48 -0400

One of the most recognizable pieces of Canada's Wonderland history has unexpectedly resurfaced far from the park grounds.

The park's first-ever inverted roller coaster, Top Gun, soared into popularity when it debuted in 1995. Designed to simulate the intense twists and turns of flying an F-14 fighter jet, the ride quickly became a fan favourite – until it retired in 2008 when the ride was revamped as Flight Deck and then again as The DareDeviler in 2026.

In the Top Gun days, the ride displayed an F-14 at the entrance, but after the ride was revamped, the prop disappeared, leaving people to assume it was tossed, trashed or burned to a crisp.

Now, it appears the ol' relic has been found, years later.

A social media account called Amusement Insiders recently shared photos showing the former prop jet sitting in what appears to be a rural area somewhere in Ontario.

"Top Gun's original jet from Canada's Wonderland has found a new home. Stay tuned to learn more about this," the account wrote.

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A post shared by Amusement Insiders (@amusementinsiders)

The discovery has already sent longtime Wonderland fans into a nostalgic tailspin ("Highway to the Danger Zone," anyone?).

"Sucks they took it down," one commenter wrote on Instagram. "It was kind of an icon at the park." We couldn't agree more.

While details about its journey remain a mystery (for now, at least!), the jet's reappearance proves that such iconic pieces in Canadian history never truly disappear — they simply find new places to land.

People are obsessing over the soft-serve margaritas at Toronto restaurant

Phoebe Knight, Dished — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:00:00 -0400

After spending the past few months invading bars (at the behest of overheating patrons) across New York City, soft serve margaritas have officially landed in Toronto, and they've already secured a spot as one of the city's current food fixations.

Barring a severe lime allergy, there's really no reason not to like a margarita. Fresh, bright, a pleasing shade of spring green, served frozen or on the rocks, and loaded (if you so desire) with tequila, there's a reason why the cocktail has become, reportedly, the most popular in North America.

That said, we live in enlightened times, and I'm not above experimentation, even when it comes to an already perfect product. Experimentation has brought us such hits as the pizza chicken Caesar wrap and beef patty pizza, and, therefore, must be respected.

It's also brought us, more recently, the soft serve margarita: an extra-frozen riff on the almighty frozen marg, made to be attacked with a spoon before the patio humidity alchemizes it back to a liquid state more suitable for straws.

Making waves on social media after popping up at a series of bars in New York City (the exact origin is hard to trace), Toronto's own El Catrin has heeded the call, adding its very own version to the menu.

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A post shared by EL CATRIN DESTILERIA (@elcatrinca)

Upon announcing their soft swirls of tequila and lime juice, El Catrin's followers responded with immediate excitement.

"Omg absolutely stunning! I have to try this," one follower commented.

Another simply said that they're "running!!!" to the restaurant.

One person preemptively placed their order for "14 of them."

Priced at $17, the margaritas are available in strawberry or mango, the latter of which comes topped with a dusting of Tajin.

While El Catrin is the first to offer the new frozen phenomenon in the city, it almost certainly won't be the last. Look no further than the 2025 matcha slushy boom for evidence.

In the meantime, though, you can try El Catrin's take on the treat at 18 Tank House Ln. in the Distillery District.

How much beer costs at FIFA World Cup matches in Toronto

Marley Dickinson, Offside — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 13:44:26 -0400

With the FIFA World Cup officially underway in Toronto, fans finally have an answer to one of the tournament's most important questions.

How much is FIFA charging for beer?

As expected, grabbing a cold one at Toronto Stadium won't come cheap.

A 473 mL domestic beer, Budweiser or Bud Light, will set fans back $16.75. If you'd prefer a "premium" option such as Michelob Ultra or Modelo, expect to pay more than $18.

For supporters looking to spend less time in concession lines and more time watching the action, 740 mL king cans are also available for $24.25.

FIFA World Cup beer prices inside Toronto Stadium (Marley Dickinson/Offside)

If beer isn't your drink of choice, be prepared to pay even more. Wine and specialty cocktails are priced at more than $25 each.

If fans are wanting a non-alcoholic option, concessions will sell water, soft drinks and Powerade, between $7 and $10.

While those prices may be steep compared to catching the game at a local pub with some friends, they're only slightly higher than what fans would pay at other Toronto sporting events.

Alcohol sales have returned to FIFA World Cup stadiums after being absent four years ago in Qatar, where restrictions were implemented in accordance with local laws and customs.

Of course, for many fans, the price of a beer may be the least expensive part of attending the tournament.

Tickets for Canada's opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina were selling for well over $1,000, with some resale prices climbing above $2,000 in the hours leading up to kickoff.

Canada kicks off their tournament in Toronto again Bosnia and Herzegovina, before heading west to play their final two group-stage games against Qatar and Switzerland in Vancouver.

Much-loved Toronto dive bar just got replaced with something new

Phoebe Knight, Dished — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:30:34 -0400

A bar and music venue that was a neighbourhood stalwart for nearly 20 years before closing permanently last year has officially been replaced by something new.

Though Ossington's iconic Dakota Tavern was, by all accounts, a pillar of the community, its last five years in business weren't exactly smooth sailing. From insurance woes nearly forcing it shut in 2020 to a legal battle with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario the next year, the Dakota spent the 2020s accumulating battle scars.

Hey, every good dive bar has some lore, right?

As the old saying goes, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger," but in some cases, it actually does just kill you. That, much to the chagrin of its late-night acolytes, was the case for the Dakota.

After being handed over to new ownership in 2024, the bar closed its doors. It was supposedly meant to be a temporary closure, but as the months toddled along, it became exceedingly clear that the Dakota Tavern wasn't setting up for an encore.

Now, the following act has officially taken the stage: a kitschy, casual new bar called Mickey Limbo's, which officially soft-opened on Thursday, June 11.

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With Apt. 200 (and formerly The Contender) owner Kit Birchard and former Bar Isabel and Souvla chef Lucas Richarz both connected to the project, there's no doubt that Limbo's will strike gold with the trend-conscious Ossington crowd, but will it be able to tap the Dakota's uninhibited, earnestly passionate fanbase?

Only time will tell, but in any case, Mickey Limbo's is on to something.

Mickey Limbo's is located at 249 Ossington Ave.

Toronto's new linear park under rail line still has long way to go before opening

Kimia Afshar Mehrabi — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0400

Construction is slowly (but surely) continuing on a major new public space beneath a rail corridor in Toronto, but the project still has a considerable amount of work ahead before it's officially ready to welcome visitors.

The Davenport Diamond Greenway is a linear park that's being built under and along the Davenport Diamond Guideway between Bloor Street West and Davenport Road.

Once complete, the greenway is set to include a fully accessible, multi-use trail, a new pedestrian bridge above the freight tracks north of Dupont Street, as well as surface improvements at Dupont Bridge Square and the Wallace Avenue Market Square.

The project also aims to improve connections to adjacent, local sidewalks, parks, and paths, including Wallace Avenue, Sarnia Avenue, Campbell Park, Dupont Street, Davenport Village Park, and Davenport Road.

According to Metrolinx's latest construction update, crews have completed three out of the seven footings required for the new pedestrian bridge, which will provide a long-awaited north-south connection across the Canadian Pacific Kansas City rail corridor.

Other recently completed work includes electrical duct bank and light pole base installations, granular placement, and stormwater infrastructure improvements. Despite this progress, several other major construction phases remain underway.

Work on the pedestrian bridge and ramp structure is expected to last until late 2026, while sidewalk ramp construction on Dupont Street between Lansdowne and Campbell Avenues is scheduled to continue until early 2027.

Utility corridor work is set to continue through to the end of the project, alongside landscaping and architectural improvements, which include tree and shrub planting, fencing, benches, and lighting.

Over the next few months, construction of the new pedestrian bridge will continue, with the installation of a drill pad, followed by the delivery and erection of the bridge structure over the Canadian Pacific Kansas City rail corridor.

That work is tentatively scheduled for summer 2026 and will take place north of Dupont Street within the Metrolinx rail corridor.

Although the linear park is inching closer and closer to completion, the latest update makes it clear that it still has a long way to go before it officially opens to the public.

Multiple road closures to make for a weekend of nightmare traffic in Toronto

Natalia Buia — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:16:05 -0400

As events ramp up in Toronto — FIFA World Cup, Pride, and a slew of street festivals — certain roads will be closed, making it trickier than usual to get around the city.

In addition to the many road closures in place on FIFA match days (including Friday afternoon when Canada takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina), there are other roads that will be impacted by other big events taking place in Toronto.

Here are all the major road closures you need to know about before heading out this weekend:

College Street

Taste of Little Italy is back this season, and that means College Street between Bathurst Street and Shaw Street will once again be closed this weekend on Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14. College Street will officially reopen on Monday at 3 a.m.

The Queensway & The West Mall

Thousands of cyclists are expected to take part in the annual Princess Margaret Ride charity event. On Saturday, June 13, a huge portion of the Queensway will be closed to vehicles to allow riders to partake in this fundraising ride.

The Queensway from Sherway Gardens Road to The West Mall will be closed from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. According to organizers, northbound lanes on The West Mall will also be closed from The Queensway to West Mall Crescent, with the northbound curb lane closed between West Mall Crescent and Bloor St. W. Southbound traffic will still get through.

Meanwhile, the westbound curb lane on Bloor St. W. will be closed from The West Mall to the Mississauga border.

St. Clair Avenue West

The lively Portugal Day Parade is taking place this weekend in a completely new location. Due to scheduling conflicts with Do West Fest (which always runs on Dundas Street West), organizers have relocated to St. Clair West this year.

This means Saturday, June 13, between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., St. Clair Avenue West will be fully closed from Robina Avenue to Old Weston Road.

Oakwood Avenue from Rogers Road to St. Clair Avenue West, and Caledonia Park Road from St. Clair Avenue West to Davenport Road will also be closed to vehicles in order to accommodate the parade.

There are pros and cons to Toronto being one of the 16 host cities for the FIFA World Cup. While bars and streets will be crowded and buzzing with passionately loud soccer fans, the event does come with one unexpected perk: no planned subway shutdowns for once.

The Best Sports Bars in Toronto

Christine Peddie, Dished — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:34:46 -0400

The best sports bars in Toronto pair electric game-day energy with enough refreshments to keep fans from wilting. With multiple screens, ice-cold bevvies, and scrumptious food to inhale between periods, they make it easy to enjoy every game, even when getting tickets isn't an option.

Here are the best sports bars in Toronto.

8 - The Loose Moose

With its pile of TVs, lively atmosphere and comprehensive menu, this restaurant and bar attracts sports fanatics and those who love them. That it has a whopping 50 taps pouring a range of tipples, from ciders to sours, helps explain why visitors tend to linger. 
4 - The Wheatsheaf Tavern

The city's oldest bar, this King West destination has been welcoming thirsty locals since 1849. Offering a parade of attractions—from happy hour to live music, and plenty of sports—it hosts a rotating cast of characters in its refurbished space and on its rowdy patio. Whether you're looking for a deal, entertainment or a community bound by the dream of victory, it's hard to find a better venue. 
5 - Saint John's Tavern

British pub grub grounds this popular tavern in the heart of the city's Entertainment District. Here, fans pair perfect pours of Guinness with Scotch eggs, golden fish and chips and Premiere League footie. Facing an early kickoff? There's also brunch and all-day breakfasts to be had. 
3 - RS Real Sports

The granddaddy of Toronto sports bars, this 25,000-square-foot spot boasts 200 screens showing a rotating selection of ball games, hockey games, wrestling matches and more. Menus skew toward comfort classics, with taps pouring an agreeable selection of local and imported suds. Sit near the massive 39-foot HD central screen, and you'll almost feel like you're at the game.
10 - LOCAL Public Eatery Adelaide

Daily happy hours and extensive menus welcome a Financial District crowd to this ever-bustling restaurant and bar. With batch cocktails and plenty of taps, people-pleasing eats and an energetic spirit matching the one on the screen, this spot delivers a W, even when your team comes up short.
9 - The Dock Ellis

Sports are serious business at this Dundas West destination, where the doors open early for major events. Inside, fans of all ages huddle over lofty sandwiches, burgers and other casual comforts. Though diehards are unlikely to need distraction from the screens, pool, darts and other bar games keep things lively for everyone else, even during upsets. 
6 - Left Field Brewery Liberty Village

With its expanded menu, larger space and abundance of screens, the Liberty Village location of this local brewery appeals to revellers looking for ways to calm their game-day jitters. Hands wrapped firmly around cans of craft ale, fried chicken sandwiches and stadium dogs, they can bravely face every pressure-packed second of action.
7 - Dog & Bear

Whichever letters get your blood pumping—NHL, MLB, NFL, etc.—you'll find them represented at this trad pub, where a solid number of screens stream a slew of high-profile games. Alongside requisite pints, regulars settle in for marathon viewing over tacos, nachos and British staples, like sausage rolls, steak pies and properly filling fry-ups. 
11 - King Taps King Street

Though not everyone at this King West fan fave is riveted by the action on the venue's many screens, everyone eventually finds their purpose, be it in repeat orders of juicy spritzes and glistening gyoza, or in observing the glossy 20-something crowd. If steady conversation is a must-have, visit between sporting events.