Winchester Kitchen & Bar is open
It’s been a busy week at the new Winchester Kitchen & Bar (51A Winchester). On Tuesday and Wednesday, they held Grand Opening receptions. The BIA Board enjoyed an evening there on Tuesday and came away with high praise for the hors d’oeuvres and the ambiance of the room. It’s great to have this amazing room back in business. Drop by and check it out for yourself.
Zack Werner at Stout Irish Pub
Every Wednesday night, Zack Werner is organizing and hosting a Blues night. He’s featuring Steve Castello with his fabulous blues guitar. Other musicians are invited to join and jam. Drop by for a pint of Ontario Craft Beer and take in some of the best blues in Toronto. 221 Carlton.
Congratulations to the HOP
House on Parliament (454 Parliament) has successfully moved and settled in to their new building, right next door to the old spot. Reviews are now arriving and they’re very complimentary. Here’s a sample from NOW Magazine who continue to be impressed by the fine food and warm atmosphere created by Tania, Beau, Duncan and their friends. http://www.nowtoronto.com/daily/food/story.cfm?content=179376
Leslie does it again
Join Leslie for Eclectisaurus’s 9th Absolutely Vintage Sale on Saturday, March 5. It happens from 10 am to 5 pm at the Maple Cottage, 52 Laing Street (south of Queen, one block east of Leslie). There’s clothing from the 1890s to the 1970s, costume jewelry, textiles, curios, accessories and lots more. Eclectisaurus is that lovely store at 249 Gerrard.
Kendall cures the Blues
If all that music at Stout gives you the blues, invite a friend over and have some tea. Kevin at Kendall & Co has a brilliant new tea set with eco-chic napkins, tea ware, creamer and bowls. And he’s highlighting their stylish serviettes for cocktails, lunch and dinner. 438 Parliament (across from Spruce).
Times change quickly
We’ve seen a lot of activity in our restaurant world over the past few months. There’s even more to come
At Big Mamma’s Boy (554 Parliament), the name is changing. It’s now “Caroline’s”. Caroline Murphy will continue offering her award-winning pizzas and she’ll still emphasize locally grown, naturally raised ingredients. There’ll still be a special menu for people with dietary needs. Through March, Caroline’s will close every Monday to continue the changes and renovations that have been turning her rooms into handsome destinations.
Athena’s is gone. We want to wish our best to Jim who worked very hard to turn his restaurant into a pleasant space with a varied and affordable menu.
Heather is back. Heather Mackenzie has returned to Cabbagetown and will be welcomed by her many fans who became her friends when she operated Big Mamma’s Boy. She and Maggie Cassels will open their new cabaret at 488 Parliament on March 17. We’ll send more details when we have them.
Foxy has a $10 stuff-a-bag event
Rummage through the bins and stuff as many bags as you want for only $10 each. On Saturday, Michelle is having a rummage sale with art stuff, books, prints, sewing, tools, jewelry and lots more. It’s all gotta go ‘cuz she’s closing her doors in three weeks. So drop in, say hi and have fun. Foxy Boutique, 251 Gerrard.
St Patrick’s Day is coming
And we’ve already got three places lining up their entertainment.
The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) has The One Shot Band ready to go on the day itself. They’ve been to The Wicks before and their rock’n roll wowed everyone in the place. They’ll be bringing plenty of Irish tunes along with those favourites for their second visit. The kitchen is busy preparing an Irish menu for the evening – stay tuned and we’ll tell you more next week. http://www.benwickspub.com/parties.htm
Caroline’s (formerly Big Mamma’s Boy) at 554 Parliament is getting ready for an authentic Irish evening. Caroline has big plans for a special home-cooked prix fixe. Menu details next week. http://www.bigmammasboy.ca/
Erin at the Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) believes in the big picture. She’ll be partying on the big Parade Day (Sunday, March 13) and on St Patrick’s Day itself. And, since you’ll need to take time off work after all that, drop in on Friday to cure your hangover. For Sunday March 13, she’s hosting another of her Ceili’s – a traditional Irish musical session - and she’ll have green jello shots and green beer at amazing prices. More details for St Patrick’s Day itself will be coming in next week’s Newsletter.
Labour of Love features Anne Thomas
Anne Thomas is a Montreal-based graphic designer and she’s developed a fascinating line of house wares. Her clean, refreshing style and sense of humour make this a perfect fit for Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton). Check out her cotton shopping tote with its thermo grocery bag insert – buy one and get another one free.
Meanwhile, at The Epicure Shop
Patty has a new line of old fashioned donuts – the kind you had when you were a kid. These aren’t massed produced deep fried globs – they’re authentic chocolate, Bavarian cream or jelly donuts. She expects a new shipment on Saturday so get there early because she’s been selling them out every time they arrive. And while you’re there, pick up some spinach dip on two-for-one special and get some DeCecco bucatini pasta for only $1.79 (save $1 on each package.) 473 Parliament
More about the Museum at 51 Division
Justin Skinner at Inside Toronto has written a detailed review of the new show presented by the Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum at 51 Division (51 Parliament). Drop by and take it in. http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/960663--police-museum-opens-in-51-division-headquarters
Are you addicted to your Scrabble games?
Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario) has the cure – their third annual tournament happens on Saturday March 26. We’re giving you advance notice so you can gather up your team (four people), collect some fundraising pledges ($25 per team member) and get some practice. No doubt, it’ll be a cutthroat competition.
Riverdale Winter Festival
Reports are still arriving about the successful family day that Central Neighbourhood House created at Riverdale Park on Sunday February 13. Congratulations to everyone involved in the planning. Many want you to repeat it again next year.
What’s happening at Carlton and Parliament
Questions keep arriving about the plywood pillar with the wrinkled banner beside the doorway into Ginger. It’s a construction site that’s been caught up in discussions with the City of Toronto. The building owners, the Rose & Thistle group have asked for final permits. Toronto’s Heritage Services want to see some restoration of several heritage features on the structure. Discussions are going well and we should see progress soon, thanks to the goodwill of everyone involved. The BIA and the Heritage Advisory Committee have supported these discussions. In the meantime, the Salvation Army is now open on the third floor and Dance Umbrella of Ontario are just getting settled on the second floor.
Zack Werner at Stout Irish Pub
Every Wednesday night, Zack Werner is organizing and hosting a Blues night. He’s featuring Steve Castello with his fabulous blues guitar. Other musicians are invited to join and jam. Drop by for a pint of Ontario Craft Beer and take in some of the best blues in Toronto. 221 Carlton.Congratulations to the HOP
House on Parliament (454 Parliament) has successfully moved and settled in to their new building, right next door to the old spot. Reviews are now arriving and they’re very complimentary. Here’s a sample from NOW Magazine who continue to be impressed by the fine food and warm atmosphere created by Tania, Beau, Duncan and their friends. http://www.nowtoronto.com/daily/food/story.cfm?content=179376Leslie does it again
Join Leslie for Eclectisaurus’s 9th Absolutely Vintage Sale on Saturday, March 5. It happens from 10 am to 5 pm at the Maple Cottage, 52 Laing Street (south of Queen, one block east of Leslie). There’s clothing from the 1890s to the 1970s, costume jewelry, textiles, curios, accessories and lots more. Eclectisaurus is that lovely store at 249 Gerrard.Kendall cures the Blues
Times change quickly
We’ve seen a lot of activity in our restaurant world over the past few months. There’s even more to come
At Big Mamma’s Boy (554 Parliament), the name is changing. It’s now “Caroline’s”. Caroline Murphy will continue offering her award-winning pizzas and she’ll still emphasize locally grown, naturally raised ingredients. There’ll still be a special menu for people with dietary needs. Through March, Caroline’s will close every Monday to continue the changes and renovations that have been turning her rooms into handsome destinations.
Athena’s is gone. We want to wish our best to Jim who worked very hard to turn his restaurant into a pleasant space with a varied and affordable menu.
Heather is back. Heather Mackenzie has returned to Cabbagetown and will be welcomed by her many fans who became her friends when she operated Big Mamma’s Boy. She and Maggie Cassels will open their new cabaret at 488 Parliament on March 17. We’ll send more details when we have them.
Foxy has a $10 stuff-a-bag event
St Patrick’s Day is coming
And we’ve already got three places lining up their entertainment.
Caroline’s (formerly Big Mamma’s Boy) at 554 Parliament is getting ready for an authentic Irish evening. Caroline has big plans for a special home-cooked prix fixe. Menu details next week. http://www.bigmammasboy.ca/Labour of Love features Anne Thomas
Anne Thomas is a Montreal-based graphic designer and she’s developed a fascinating line of house wares. Her clean, refreshing style and sense of humour make this a perfect fit for Regina at Labour of Love (242 Carlton). Check out her cotton shopping tote with its thermo grocery bag insert – buy one and get another one free.Meanwhile, at The Epicure Shop
Patty has a new line of old fashioned donuts – the kind you had when you were a kid. These aren’t massed produced deep fried globs – they’re authentic chocolate, Bavarian cream or jelly donuts. She expects a new shipment on Saturday so get there early because she’s been selling them out every time they arrive. And while you’re there, pick up some spinach dip on two-for-one special and get some DeCecco bucatini pasta for only $1.79 (save $1 on each package.) 473 ParliamentMore about the Museum at 51 Division
Justin Skinner at Inside Toronto has written a detailed review of the new show presented by the Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum at 51 Division (51 Parliament). Drop by and take it in. http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/960663--police-museum-opens-in-51-division-headquartersAre you addicted to your Scrabble games?
Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario) has the cure – their third annual tournament happens on Saturday March 26. We’re giving you advance notice so you can gather up your team (four people), collect some fundraising pledges ($25 per team member) and get some practice. No doubt, it’ll be a cutthroat competition.Riverdale Winter Festival
Reports are still arriving about the successful family day that Central Neighbourhood House created at Riverdale Park on Sunday February 13. Congratulations to everyone involved in the planning. Many want you to repeat it again next year.What’s happening at Carlton and Parliament
The ROTM square dance at St Simon Church (Parish Hall, 525 Bloor) happens on Saturday, February 26 from 6 to 10 pm. A cash bar and food are available as well. Music and calling are provided by Al Calhoun and Whiskey Jack. Tickets are available at the door. Inside Toronto has done a very informative article on ROTM’s program and its importance for our community in St James Town:
Congrat’s to the new Winchester Kitchen & Bar – just opened at 51A Winchester, above the Stonegrill. This promises to be a great addition to our neighbourhood and the staff are already planning ways to welcome Cabbagetown groups for special events in their spacious room. There’s a great Facebook page at
Last week, the museum opened an exhibition about policing in our neighbourhood from Victorian to modern times. It’s located in the lobby of 51 Division (51 Parliament). The ceremony included an appearance by Chief Bill Blair who has deep personal roots in our area where he walked the beat as a young officer in the 1970s. The public is welcome to view the exhibit and to check out the amazing lobby space at 51 Division.
Central Neighbourhood House (349 Ontario) is hosting its third annual Scrabble tournament on Saturday March 26. They’re giving lots of advance notice so you can gather up your team (4 people) and collect your pledges ($25 per person). There’ll be prizes for the highest score and also for the person who collects the highest pledges. For more info, go to the new CNH website at
Ryan Taylor’s FTJco (523 Parliament) has been highlighted as a retailer of special note in NOW magazine. The current issue has a great story about Ryan’s “ethics and eco-friendliness” as a fair trade jeweler and his wonderful designs and craftsmanship.
Regina has turned her attention to our four-legged feline friends with lovely results. Created by two industrial designers from Montreal, her cat tepee features a little home that can be decorated with different features so you can select and change your favourites – a dream catcher, feather, tomahawk, eagle and a bull’s head. Only $29. More details at
This week, Kendall is featuring a Bergere chair that’s a beautiful marriage of form and function. Check out their upholstery services where you can adapt their design ideas or develop a style all of your own. For more ideas, go to their website:
Central Neighbourhood House is sponsoring a Winter Fair to celebrate their 100th birthday. There’ll be free horse and carriage rides, live music, games, and giveaways. It’s a family event. Sunday, February 13, noon to 3 pm, Riverdale Park (Sumach at Carlton).
Take a quick look at the menu and you’ll agree that it’s a cozy way to start your celebrations. In the food shop, they also have heart shaped cakes (large for 8 to 10 servings and individual small ones) and lots of Valentine’s sweets, cookies and chocolate strawberries. 248 Carlton
Join this family-friendly event on Saturday, February 26, from 6 to 10 pm. Whiskey Jack and Al Calhoun will provide the music and the calls. There’ll be a cash bar, a light buffet and a raffle. Your $10 admission supports Reach Out Through Music, providing music and social opportunities for kids aged 6 to 14 living in St James Town. Tickets available at the door or at the BIA Office (237 Carlton) after February 22.
Labour of Love (242 Carlton) is Cabbagetown’s new card headquarters. Regina has a big selection of both Valentine and anti-Valentine cards. This is a time for both when we all have messages to send out to our heart’s delight and our worst enemies.
It’s gone, you say? Nope – just miraculously moved, right next door. Tania and Beau bought the building and they’ve spent a long time and lots of cash renovating it beautifully. Inside, their new location has window seats, a comfy dark-oak bar area, soft banquettes, lots of exposed brick walls, and the traditional, friendly HOP service. Their menu continues to offer the award-winning quality that’s made their gastropub a Cabbagetown destination. House on Parliament (454 Parliament).
Big Mamma’s Boy (554 Parliament) has a lovely three course meal at $35/per person. Start off with warm artichoke hearts, oysters to share, shrimp cocktail or grilled asparagus and strawberry salad. For the main event, there’s Rowe Farm’s duck breast, New York striploin, stuffed red pepperAmazing and lobster fettuccini. The dessert selections include flourless chocolate cake, strawberry pomegranate crumble and lemon gelato with raspberries. For reservations, call Caroline at (416) 927-1593. For a full description, click here:
On Saturday and Sunday, JAMCafe (195 Carlton) has a five-course Valentine’s dinner for two at $90/couple. For a special treat, the a cappella quartet, JAMsession, will perform for you as well. Start with a lamb’s lettuce salad. Then there’s cauliflower soup or lobster ravioli. For your third course, there’s truffle flower fettuccini followed by prosciutto wrapped veal tenderloin. To finish there’s a dessert duo – tarte au citron along with chocolate mousse. JAM’s events regularly sell out, so reservations are a good idea: (416) 921-1255. Read all the yummy menu details here:
Merryberry (559 Parliament) is hosting their first evening dinner on Valentine’s. The theme is “Love Bites” – yes! – and there’ll be bite sized dishes and nibblies to share. To start, there’s a plate of soups and appetizers. Then come the mini-mains followed by a nice palate cleanser and on to the desserts. The raspberry tartufo hot chocolate is addictive. $29.50/each. (647) 348-0411
As always, Peartree (507 Parliament) has amazing choices for your three-course dinner. Prices depend on your selection. Appetizers include butternut squash & sweet potato soup, shitake mushroom & sun-dried tomato soup, and spinach salad. For your entrée, you can choose from a grilled T-bone with lobster tail, roasted rack of lamb, seafood classic, grilled black angus steak, roasted salmon, chicken supreme and sweet potato stuff angolati pasta. Desserts here are always a highlight – cherry cheese cake, chocolate truffle cake, carrot cake and apple or strawberry rhubarb pie. (416) 962-8190. For the details, go here:
Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) is our newcomer and this is their first Valentine’s event. It’s a goodie –a special dinner for two at $50/couple. You’ll start off with an arugula salad. For your second course, there’s a pound of mussels done in St Andre Vienna lager and bacon butter. For your entrée, there’s European sea bass, pecan and spinach stuffed chicken or a devil’s stew. Dessert features chocolate mousse or crème brulee. 647-344-7676.
Sharon Lee Williams at Musicent (555 Parliament) is holding a Hidden Treasure Weekend Workshop for musicians ages 16 and up on February 12 and 13. Musicent is a leading coaching facility specializing in pop, hip hop and R&B. They help to cultivate your skills for both live and in-studio performances. These workshops are small group experiences where students can safely open up, expand and advance in their skill development. For more information, visit
Caroline’s hosting a whiskey tasting on Monday, February 7 at 7 pm. There’ll be three single malts and a bourbon to enjoy. Add on a four-course meal and it’s a must-attend event for all whiskey lovers. $65/each. (416) 927-1593 for reservations. 554 Parliament
Marilyn is back at Pet Valu (240 Carlton) on Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm to do her nail trimming for your pets. She’s been doing some work on Don Taggart’s dog Dudley – he’s just had a bath and a pawdicure. (Anybody who’s visited Nettleship Hardware knows that Dudley is a real charmer.) She’s reminding us that our dogs need to have their nails neatly trimmed in winter when they’re wearing their boots outdoors. Marilyn also trims nails for cats, rabbits and guinea pigs. It’s a bargain at $10.
Cyril must be pleased with the warm reception that he’s had as Merryberry opens its doors. Across Cabbagetown, people have been very complimentary of his playful décor, warm hospitality and satisfying menu. Merryberry has just had a great review in the Toronto Coffee blog,
Carol reports that their line of juicers has become a popular favourite. You can see for yourself at
Central Neighbourhood House has been serving our community for a century. To celebrate, they’re holding events across eastern Toronto throughout the year. Their first free community event happens here in Cabbagetown. It’s a Winter Festival on Sunday February 13 in Riverdale Park from noon to 3 pm. There’ll be games, horse & carriage rides, toboggan rides and food and warm drinks. Save the date.
Just order their "Breakfast in Bed” Valentine’s special. Their menu tells the whole story. To order your own, visit the food shop at 248 Carlton.
Valentine’s is a big day (of course – with a name like this!). Regina has a wide range of Valentines and anti-Valentines cards plus a “Love Me Tender” music box. 242 Carlton.
We mentioned several times that Mark from St James Town Steak & Chops enjoyed a well-earned holiday a few days ago. He went to Florida and then on a cruise through the Caribbean. Of course, he took along his Cabbagetown Tee shirt. And he wore it when his family toured NASA’s Florida facilities.