LibbyFeels like summer has just begun when it’s already almost over. Patios, beaches and parks in Toronto offer sun-soaked opportunities to catch the last rays of August, but don’t fret, TIFF is just around the corner.
From dinner parties worth celebrating to carnival eats and treats, all-day cider fests and rosé szn, there’s some top-notch eating and drinking this month in TO.
Here’s what’s happening in Toronto this month.
A celebration worth noting is happening this month at DaiLo. Marking their 8th year on College Street, Chef Nick Liu is bringing out the big guns – with special guests and Chefs invited to collaborate on this very lucky dinner. Angus An, Antonio Park, Marvin Palomo and Dennis Tay will be on deck, as will lion dancers, wine tasting and late-night shenanigans with your industry faves. Get tickets for this August 8th event early through Tock.
Woodbine Park is home to this year’s Rosé Picnic. Held on August 20th, this rosé-soaked event features food from Mark McEwan and The Food Dudes. With room for 20,000 people, you and a few pink pals can sip anything but chardonnay. Get tickets before they’re gone: rosepicnic.com.
Summerlicious is back. Starting August 12th diners can dream up decadent prix fixe meals at their favourite participating Toronto restaurants. Our top pick? Ladies love the lux look of Leña Restaurante. With Argentinian eats and decidedly upscale drinks (lead photo) this downtown restaurant is a destination in its own right.
Toronto Cider Festival is taking over Inukshuk Park on August 26-27 for a vitamin C (and D) soaked event with countless craft and local ciders on tap. Get VIP tickets with a stay at nearby Hotel X for a city staycation.
August 19th-September 5th brings carnival eats and a downtown casino to the hungry and gamble-y masses. CNE food ranks high on the ‘whoa, you ate that?!’ vibes, so get ready for that rainbow grilled cheese, followed by a deep-fried something.
Here’s what’s HOT in Toronto this month.
Pizzeria Libretto is now open on Yonge Street. Sitting just north of Sheppard, Willowdale has been lining up for antipasti, pizza, and the dolce desserts from Toronto’s eponymous pizzaiolo. Download their proprietary app and sign up for all the pizza deals!
Sweetie Pie expands with its latest opening at the old Pizzaville shop on Yonge north of Lawrence. The sweet and savoury finds, which also include some vegan options are a perfect fit for this part of town. This marks the 7th location for the bakery.
Tennesse’s takeover is complete. Parkdale hearts are crooning to the new Tenny’s set up in the old space. The lush patio, warm wood floors and vibrant space give the room an eclectic feel. Tenny’s is built for live bands, but we’ll still drop in for a giant pretzel or oversized cocktail.
Papabubble is no longer with us. While we will sorely miss their quirky and customizable candies, we are now rolling with Mr Coco. Freshly cracked coconuts serve all your electrolyte needs and you look kinda cool walking around Yonge and Lawrence with a phoney pina colada.
CAN’T WAIT- COMING SOON TO TORONTO!
The Daughter’s delivery date is delayed. The takeaway snack + wine tuck shop on Bayview has nudged its opening to early September. Featuring small sharing plates and natural wines, The Daughter is uptown’s answer to breezy bodegas. We can hardly wait.
NODO Liberty is getting ready to give Liberty Village a new Italian eatery. With locations in the Junction, St. Clair West, and Leslieville humming steadily, LV peeps will adore this classic comfort food, grabbing cannolis and fresh focaccia right at their doorstep.
Paris Baguette Bakery and Cafe is coming. The US import recently unveiled signage on a Yonge and Sheppard space, where Flock Chicken once held court. With a location already open on Bloor, look for more expansion of both this modern cafe and our waistlines- have you seen their cakes?
Aloette has Yonge and Egg’ers champing at the bit for their upscale diner experience. Classic burgers and fries pair with detailed cocktail menus and wines that sing. The paper is off, but when will reservations open?
W Hotel is on a hiring spree. Their new Toronto hotel will be slaying the locals around Yonge and Bloor with umpteen cocktail choices and let’s hope a dope af rooftop. We’ll stay on top of this hot spot.
AUGUST CLOSING TIME
Sabai Sabai has shuttered. The OG Thai restaurant built by our beloved Chef Nuit Regular has fallen victim to the latest TTC expansion and was forced to close the Bloor Street restaurant at the end of July. But it’s not goodbye of course, just #peaceloveandstickyrice until we see you over at PAI instead.
TASTE OF THE MONTH
We’re soaking up every patio moment and with jaw-dropping views of Lake Ontario, Isabelle at The Pearle Hotel had us at hello. Book in for a brunch, or take some girlfriends out for a weekend of rest and relaxation.
Got a burning food tip? Hit us up! food@auburnlane.com