LibbyToronto in October promises a sugar rush of social events, Halloween-themed fun and pumpkin-spiced everything. The rituals that usher in fall act as a reminder to pause and be grateful. Lean into sweater season and set out to discover the city.
Here’s what’s happening in Toronto this month.
You’ll need extra room at the Thanksgiving table this year. Baked with love comes a new Thanksgiving Mix from Craig’s Cookies. Pumpkin Pie, Apple Pie, Pecan Butter Tart, White Chocolate Ginger Molasses, Toffee and Classic cookies make for a memorable finish to any Thanksgiving meal. Available until October 10th.
The Drake Hotel is hosting Trivia again. Doors open at 7pm for Oct 5th, Oct 26th, Nov 9th and Nov 16th. Drink specials, themed nights and a $5 cover make it accessible fun for all.
MODECANADAROCKS Renaissance + Reunion, is taking over the Better Living Centre at Exhibition Place. Join hosts Ashley Callingbull and Kardinal Offishall for this October 7th fundraising event that features Indigenous, Black and internationally recognized fashion and accessory designers like Greta Constantine, Ross Mayer, Hilary MacMillan, Caffery Van Horne, David Dixon, Lesley Hampton. MCR benefits Eva’s Initiatives for Homeless Youth, a lifeline for at-risk youth. Get tickets and show your support at modecanadarocks.com.
Here’s what’s HOT in Toronto this month.
The legends are back with a spooky new look for this Halloween Season. Casa Loma once again transforms into a meandering path of horrors with live-action and animatronic wonders this fall. Book in at Blueblood Steak House and then work your dinner off with a rollicking tour of the stables and grounds, with vampires and clowns as your guides. Also, check out the scream fest situation just south, dubbed Zombie Apocalypse which opens next week.
The Dog and Tiger have officially changed their stripes. The College Street pub is elevating its game with a renewed vision for its menu and look. Partnering with regional farms, butcheries, fisheries, breweries, and wineries is the new vision being brought forward by Executive Chef Thomas Salvo.
A decadent decade worth celebrating- Four Seasons Toronto is marking its 10th anniversary with a bang. From sumptuous tasting experiences and a glitzy Instagram 10 Days of Giveaways, the affection is totally mutual, we can assure you. Book in for a table at Café Boulud for an over-the-top dining experience, or linger at d|bar to join the festivities.
Pret a Manger has arrived. The first location of this charming British-style Subway Sandwiches is located at 60 John Street. The UK import is partnering with A&W to expand for the next two years as a multi-phase launch, so look for more Prets popping up around town soon.
After Hogtown Smoke vacated their location Inmigrante Latin food and drinks took over the space. Like Chilaquiles and Micheladas? Who doesn’t? If you’re looking for a new brunch spot definitely check them out. Inmigrante is now open at 1959 Queen E.
Boukan is moving to the Danforth. The Haitian-Creole restaurant has relocated from its 12-seat space to a massive location that includes a spacious patio.
CAN’T WAIT- COMING SOON TO TORONTO!
Café ZUZU aims to offer Regent Park a 50’s Italian-style throwback that’s inspired by the community. Janet Zuccarini’s newest offering incorporates a bottle shop, retail and cafe concept all in one sweet spot. Look for this opening at 555 Dundas St E.
A second location decked out as a pub and retail space is coming for Great Lakes. Located at Jarvis and Queen’s Quay Great Lakes Brewpub is aiming to open this fall.
Aloette‘s Yonge and Eg spot is coming soon, but not soon enough. The word is that the delay will be until spring 2023.
NU Bügel on Yonge uptown is coming in hot. The Kensington Market eatery has been cranking out wood-fired bagels and now is rolling to the Lawrence area mommies.
We should be clinking bellinis on a patio but the new installation of Cactus Club Cafe at Yonge and Sheppard is crawling along. Because of COVID-related construction delays, this uptown hotspot won’t be ready for a looooong while.
The Daughter has pegged the end of October for their opening on Bayview and Belsize. An all-female fronted team helms the natural wine bar, bottle shop, and restaurant. Smart bites and sustainable tipples are a boon to Bayview. Stay tuned for more on this one.
Parkdale scores a new sports bar. Peaches Sports Bar is a community-focused, queer-friendly space. Celebrate sports and being yourself in an inclusive and welcoming sports bar environment. Sounds like a slam dunk to us.
OCTOBER CLOSING TIME
Love Child is the latest victim of TTC expropriation. The Social House known for buzzy parties with interesting people is shopping around for a new home. The Bathurst Street spot will wrap up its rent with an NYE-style extravaganza on November 26.
TASTE OF THE MONTH
Cafe Plenty closed its OG PATH location last month, but don’t despair, they’ve signed a new lease on a space in Commerce Court West. Stop by and see them when they’re all settled later this month for flaky scones and of course coffee too.
All images by Libby Roach.
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