Casa Loma brings Disney’s Snow White to life with an immersive exhibit Experience the classic Disney fairy tale at one of Toronto's historic landmarks from March 10 to March 21 Experience the classic Disney fairy tale at one of Toronto’s historic landmarks from March 10 to March 21 Casa Loma is bringing the Disney universe to life historic castle into an immersive Snow White experience in collaboration with Walt Disney Studios Canada A post shared by Walt Disney Studios Canada 🇨🇦 (@disneystudioscanada) Children and adults alike will have the unique opportunity of exploring themed rooms Disney world of Snow White within the walls of one of Toronto’s timeless landmarks Just ahead of the live-action musical reimagining of Snow White that is set to hit theatres on March 21 the Snow White exhibit is a must-visit event for all ages and anyone who’s ever dreamt of stepping foot into a fairy tale of their own Children under the age of three can visit the exhibit for free when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. If you’re looking to purchase a ticket, visit the Ticketweb portal that directs you to a selection of dates that you can choose from each of which grants you access to the grounds from 9:30 a.m General admission for ages 14 and up are priced at $61.50 (including fees) while children ages 4-13 get in for $44.49 (including fees) you can experience different performances throughout the day Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: You will also start receiving the Star's free morning newsletter president of the Casa Loma Residents Association said his group has asked a condo builder to preserve part of a heritage building and to not obscure the historic view of downtown from the area The historic bakery building at the southeast corner of Walmer and Davenport Roads with Art Deco facade A local resident's group fears a new development will spoil the view from Casa Loma so it's resorted to the court system to try to get the project changed A local resident’s group fears a new development will spoil the view from Casa Loma so it’s resorted to the court system to try to get the project changed A Toronto-area residents group says it has no choice but to turn to the courts to have its voice heard on a condo project near Casa Loma that it fears will destroy a rare historic building and obstruct some of the famous view of the downtown core from the tourist attraction removing the ability of third-party groups to appeal development decisions at the Ontario Land Tribunal “Community groups like ours have lost the right to appeal development decisions,” said Robert Levy the president of the residents association “So now there’s even less transparency around how planning decisions are being made.” The residents group says its case is unique because it isn’t fighting the project Its main ask has been for the developer to preserve part of a historic 1930s building that housed the Barker’s Bread Bakery and to make sure the eight-floor condo doesn’t obscure the view of downtown from Casa Loma “There was willingness to address the issues — keep the facade It was never about stopping the project,” he said “It was really about citizens trying to make their city better.” Levy said after months of trying to find common ground with the city and Zinc Developments which is building the eight-storey 143-unit condo project at 555 Davenport Rd. the group filed an appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) last year the adjudicator dismissed the appeal in February — at the request of the developer — saying that the concerns of the residents association were “not based on a valid land use planning ground” and “had no reasonable prospect of success.” The group then appealed the dismissal to the court system cancelling the ability of all third-party groups to appeal development decisions at the land tribunal said because it was appealing an OLT decision at divisional court it was unclear if Bill 185 applied to them — and so it has continued its appeal process arguing that the new law doesn’t apply to cases outside the OLT He said the group has filed a judicial review of the OLT decision A hearing date has been scheduled for February The city approved the development in May 2023 the president of Zinc Developments said he couldn’t comment on the ongoing case “Due to the ongoing legal challenges by the CLRA we have been advised by our legal counsel not make any comments until the conclusion of the litigation,” he said in an email Levy said the residents group appealed the city’s approval of the condo after extensive efforts to have the unique property deemed heritage Levy said the city’s heritage planning department had determined that the building — designed by the same architects who designed the ROM and Princes’ Gates — met the stringent criteria for full designation set out in the Ontario Heritage Act the city decided at the last minute to drop the endorsement for heritage designation and only preserve a small part of the building according to documents the residents’ group obtained through a freedom of information request “We never got an answer from the city about why they changed their mind,” he said “We are asking for two reasonable compromises that will make this project better: preserve some heritage preserve views that are enjoyed by community We don’t have that many special areas — like Casa Loma — in Toronto.” said the developer had “explored potential retention strategies (they) learned that any retained façade would require substantial reconstruction.”  Jung added that the “approved application proposes integrating part of the principal façade of the existing building as a commemorative element within the new development as part of a larger commemoration plan.” The residents’ group also argues that the condo will block views of the downtown core from the Casa Loma area, which are to be protected under the city’s official plan It requires new developments to “maintain views to and from the Lake Iroquois Escarpment including the Casa Loma/Spadina House complex.” The residents group says that the policy protects not only views from Casa Loma to the downtown core but should also include nearby vantage points It said it tried to work with the city and developer to adjust the plans for the condo so this view would be protected Jung said staff “examined the protected views of the area finding the scale of the development would protect the distinctive characteristics and maintain views to and from the Casa Loma/Spadina House complex She said the city “considered views to and from Casa Loma and Spadina House as well as from the Baldwin Steps during both summer and winter seasons views from Casa Loma to the financial district skyline and of Casa Loma and its towers from the east side intersection of Dupont Street and Spadina Road were considered.” Macklin said this discussion should have taken place at the OLT to understand the scope of the city policy instead of an outright dismissal of the case Local city councillor Josh Matlow said he’s tried to help the two sides find a solution outside of the courts: “I’ve been telling both parties that a solution that respects heritage without losing a unit of new housing is possible,” said Matlow “It’s unfortunate that so much time has been needlessly wasted.”  Levy agreed that the legal fight has been a “complete waste of time” and said the group is still hoping to come to an out of court agreement with the developer Macklin concedes that the court process has bogged down the case but said it’s the only option available left for those who want to participate in the planning process: “The Ford government passed a relatively draconian bill severely curtailing community involvement in municipal development projects,” he said “The government thinks that Bill 185 has fixed the housing crisis for them by silencing all the community groups This article has been updated to correct the name of Princes’ Gates Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account the storied halls of Casa Loma will be transformed into a magical fairy-tale realm with the launch of the exclusive "Snow White" Exhibit at Casa Loma to celebrate the upcoming release of Disney's "Snow White," opening in theatres on March 21 In collaboration with Walt Disney Studios Canada Casa Loma will offer guests an immersive experience inspired by the beloved story bringing to life the timeless tale that started it all This enchanting activation will allow visitors to step into a beautifully curated setting and special showcases honoring the film's iconic characters and themes Guests will have the opportunity to explore themed rooms featuring exclusive costumes and props and immerse themselves in the magical world of Snow White making it a must-visit destination for fans of all ages The exhibition will be held from March 10th through March 21st from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.  Disney's "Snow White," a live-action musical reimagining of the classic 1937 film Starring Rachel Zegler (West Side Story) in the title role and Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman) as her Stepmother the magical music adventure journeys back to the timeless story with beloved characters Bashful Disney's Snow White is directed by Marc Webb (The Amazing Spider-Man) and produced by Marc Platt (The Little Mermaid) and Jared LeBoff (The Girl on the Train) with Callum McDougall (Mary Poppins Returns) serving as executive producer and features all-new original songs from Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Dear Evan Hansen) Facebook: @WaltDisneyStudiosCanadaX: @DisneyStudiosCAInstagram: @disneystudioscanada follow on Twitter and Instagram libertygroup Do not sell or share my personal information: Toronto WatchCasa Loma hosts fairy tale princess exhibit for March breakWalt Disney Studios Canada has transformed parts of the castle into a Snow White exhibit to celebrate the upcoming live action film. Twitter feed ©2025 BellMedia All Rights Reserved Get ready to be enchanted by the magic of Christmas at Casa Loma 💫 Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as the historic castle transforms into a festive spectacle 📌Buses will leave Brock at 11:00 am and will depart from Casa Loma at 5:00 pm Please enter your email and we'll send you a new password request code Calling all princes and princesses! Toronto's Casa Loma has transformed into a fairy tale castle, and it's like stepping into a Disney film. Walt Disney Studios Canada has officially unveiled the Snow White Exhibit at Casa Loma a two-week event celebrating the release of the upcoming live-action film Snow White's Courtyard.Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Canada boasts magical installations and props that will transport you into the world of Snow White Casa Loma has been transformed into a "magical fairy tale realm" with "dazzling decor and special showcases honouring the film's iconic characters and history." Evil Queen's Throne Room.Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Canada see incredible performances and more for a truly enchanting experience Some highlights of the exhibit include Snow White's Courtyard where you can "let your heart be delighted by Snow White's iconic dress and make a wish at the enchanted wishing well," as well as the Evil Queen's Throne Room where you can gaze into the Magic Mirror The Mine.Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Canada You can also take a trip into the castle's underground tunnels where you can "discover the hidden wonders of the miners' cottage and hop aboard their whimsical mine train for a photo opportunity Tickets for the experience are available online so leave your poison apples behind and step into a Disney wonderland Casa Loma Website Love this? Check out our Narcity noticeboard for details on jobs Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter We built a Welcome tour we highly recommend Your free account has now been created. 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Ontario’s top priorities in need of federal support Ontario’s measles outbreak is showing no signs of slowing and for the first time in a while the province’s top doctor publicly addressed the growing health crisis The annual tradition of cherry blossom viewing at High Park is in full swing as the trees hit peak bloom Audra Brown with everything you need to know before joining the huge crowds of cherry blossom enthusiasts preparing for a first meeting with the U.S and some say simply getting America to agree to a framework for negotiations going forward is the goal The woman who says she was sexually assaulted by five former world junior hockey players faced cross-examination as defence council questioned what she said happened in a London hotel room in 2018 One of the busiest air travel hubs in America is entering a second week of mounting delays and cancellations Laura Aguierre looks at the mounting frustration as the U.S Federal Aviation Authority copes with a staffing shortage Jury selection has begun at the trial of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Leigh Waldman discusses the charges the music mogul is facing and why finding an impartial jury could prove difficult National Weather Service is in worse shape than previously thought due to a combination of layoffs Ivan Rodriguez explores the impact that could have as hurricane season approaches 80% of the Cardinals who have the task of choosing a new Pontiff were named by Pope Francis this is a group that will be significantly different from the ones who have chosen other Popes in the past listen to NewsRadio Toronto live anytime and get up-to-the-minute breaking-news alerts weather and video from CityNews Toronto anywhere you are – across all Android and iOS devices U of T Engineering News U of T Engineering support has helped open doors for a startup that offers hydroponic production of lettuce A U of T Engineering startup co-founded by Adnan Sharif (ChemE MEng student) has its roots in an experience that is all too common for many of us — he kept forgetting to water his plants “I was working in a plant immunity biology lab I’d have no plants to do experiments with,” says Sharif Sharif was a U of T undergraduate student working with Professor Keiko Yoshioka in the Department of Cell & Systems Biology He has since graduated and is now pursuing an MEng in the Department of Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry “My dad is a mechanical engineering professor at a university in Japan and he knows a lot about manufacturing materials with porous So that’s how I got the idea to make my own 3D printed soil construct which could retain water for a week or more I wouldn’t have to go into the lab and water the plants so often.”  and it’s one of the key innovations at the heart of Lyrata a startup that is producing edible crops for caterers and high-end restaurants across the Greater Toronto Area Support from the U of T Engineering community has been key to Lyrata’s success it was a U of T Engineering alumni connection that recently led to Lyrata launching an installation at Casa Loma a historic museum and landmark in midtown Toronto is a technique commonly used in greenhouses worldwide But Sharif and his team see an opportunity to make the industry more sustainable starting with the soil replacement that the plants grow in “The product that almost everyone uses today is basically the same as house insulation,” says Sharif “It’s made from rocks that are mined in remote places and shipped hundreds of kilometres to a production facility where they are heated to thousands of degrees in a giant furnace to make a porous This material then needs to be shipped again to where it’s needed Lyrata’s SmartSoil is 3D printed using biopolymers such as polylactic acid These materials can be locally sourced and require much lower temperatures to melt and form into porous structures the product goes through a low-heat proprietary cleaning process and can be used again Sharif says that SmartSoil has a total lifespan of about two years after which it can be composted along with crop residue these changes greatly lower the carbon footprint of indoor farming In 2020, Sharif and his co-founders brought his idea to The Entrepreneurship Hatchery including alumnus Xavier Tang (IndE 0T9 +PEY) a consultant and venture capitalist who still advises the company today with some original members leaving and others who has been pivotal to expediating the development of 3D printable soil to the point it is today as the team realized that rather than selling their growth medium to other farmers a better business model would be for Lyrata itself to get into food production Lyrata also developed something new: a modular unit that contains everything required to produce a variety of indoor crops — from lights and growth medium to irrigation systems— that works exclusively with their SmartSoil “None of these technological and business developments would have taken place without the generous support of the over 50 Hatchery mentors and legal externs who contributed to our success,” says Sharif “Our current concept is what we call farming-as-a-service,” says Hua “The SmartGrow unit we developed is small enough to fit into a standard parking spot Our clients sign a contract with us to place a unit on their site and we take care of everything from planting to harvesting they get a self-contained farm that provides a reliable quantity of their desired crop over a set period of time.”  In addition to providing a locally sourced Sharif says the approach can also help mitigate fluctuations in the price of wholesale produce which has been dealing with drought and many other issues,” says Sharif “Supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 were also a big challenge for restaurants which have very thin margins to begin with the price of lettuce increased by a factor of six so you can imagine the effect that would have.”  But it’s not just lettuce: so far Lyrata has produced more than 15 different types of crops One of the team’s newest installations came about because of a meeting that took place last fall, at the open house celebrating U of T Engineering’s 150th anniversary Sharif caught up with his mentor Xavier Tang and mentioned that he was looking for new potential clients Tang and Fernandez referred Sharif to the U of T Engineering Advancement office who in turn connected them with alumnus Nick Di Donato (IndE 8T0) Di Donato is the CEO of Liberty Entertainment Group which owns Casa Loma and several restaurants in the city Horticulture and Grounds Manager at Casa Loma “Lyrata’s competitive edge is that they provide an on-site full service and they do not take up very much space,” she says we were able to build two grow units that provide a good yield weekly without having to train our staff on the complicated system “Growing indoors gives us the stability and control that traditional agriculture does not It’s an excellent example of how engineers can help solve the global food crisis with innovative thinking.”  In late August, Lyrata launched another growing unit at U of T Scarborough, located within the Harmony Commons Dining Hall. They also placed first at the Falling Walls Lab Toronto 2024 pitch competition and will present their technological achievements at the Falling Walls Lab International competition in Berlin at the end of the year “The fact we’ve been able to come this far in such a short time is in large part due to the help we’ve had from U of T Engineering and especially the Entrepreneurship Hatchery” says Sharif hiring work-study students or making important connections through their alumni network we wouldn’t be here without their support.”  Learn more about entrepreneurship at U of T Engineering: Category: , We wish to acknowledge this land on which the University of Toronto operates For thousands of years it has been the traditional land of the Huron-Wendat this meeting place is still the home to many Indigenous people from across Turtle Island and we are grateful to have the opportunity to work on this land © 2025 Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Deep beneath Casa Loma was “Station M” the “gadget centre” that supplied a generation of secret spies Codebreakers work at Oshawa’s “Camp X” during the Second World War Marlene Hodgson in the tunnels under Casa Loma It was a “gadget centre” that helped win the Second World War — and inspired the Q Branch from Ian Fleming’s spy stories There’s something special about the horse stables at Casa Loma The Toronto landmark was built more than a century ago in Midtown by architect Edward James Lennox for his billiards buddy Sir Henry was a stockbroker’s son and an Upper Canada College grad with a profound attraction to castles his architect friend built him one — the flamboyant and bizarre “house on the hill” that was completed a decade before Sir Henry ran out of money in the early 1920s He and Lennox imported more than 300 Scottish stonemasons to work on the 64,700-square-foot hidden stairways — including one from his bedroom to a servant’s quarters — and plumbing with solid gold and silver fixtures (Plans for an indoor pool and shooting range and three bowling alleys were never fully realized but Casa Loma still pulled off what Time magazine called a “mixture of 17th Century Scotch baronial and 20th Century Fox.”) with floor tiles arranged in a distinctive herringbone pattern — to prevent the animals from slipping — and gold nameplates by each stall for steeds like Old Prince The really special thing was that the stables and carriage house were joined to the main Casa Loma building by an 800-foot hidden tunnel that snakes 18 feet below ground the secret tunnel and attached rooms helped save Allied lives and shorten the war they helped inspire the James Bond spy series of novels and movies The basement of Casa Loma was pressed into wartime service in 1942 when Allied ships and submarines were taking a pounding on the Atlantic from wolfpacks of Nazi U-Boats The Allies had set up a secret site for a group called the Anti-Submarine Detection Investigation Committee (ASDIC) in London to combat this focusing on the development and production of sonar devices to predict enemy attacks Then that site — and much of London — was hit with bombs during the Blitz of 1941 A quick decision was made by the British Admiralty to shift ASDIC to somewhere safer Sorting out the details was the engineering firm of William Elbert Gorman with high ceilings and lots of floor space then run by the Kiwanis Club as a museum and weekend dance hall (Sir Henry went broke and died in his former chauffeur’s home after pumping some $3,500,000 into his castle.) Nearby, there was already “Camp X” — a secret spy-training facility on the shores of Lake Ontario Not long after Gorman settled on the basement of Casa Loma as the new Allied secret site for sonar and gadget production a sign was placed on a door blocking public entry A padlock was placed on the door for anyone who didn’t heed the sign The secret subterranean quarters were called “Station M” for “Magic,” according to the late Lynn-Philip Hodgson an author who exhaustively researched the operation with his wife “Casa Loma at the time was very much an entertainment centre,” Marlene Hodgson said in an interview “While Big Band music, such as Glen Miller’s “In the Mood” played upstairs in the main ballroom — to the great delight of hundreds of party-goers — some of the most talented scientists and seamstresses operated below their feet,” Lynn-Philip Hodgson wrote Station M created all types of devices needed by secret agents behind enemy lines compasses were concealed in combs and buttons and silk scarves were printed showing every river and road of the country in which the agent’s mission would take them.”  and even foreign currency — clothes were manufactured “so authentic that even the Gestapo could not detect as foreign to the region.” Work at Station M remained a closely guarded secret for the rest of the war entered and left singly,” Time magazine reported in 1946 parts were shipped in mainly by private cars Only two Kiwanis officers were in the know Sometimes as many as 1,000 tourists a day swarmed over the castle and poked through Sir Henry’s 40-by-60-foot bedroom (Louis XIV style) They passed within a few feet of the stable and were told it was closed because it was ‘undergoing repairs.’” 500 detectors and nearly 4,800 transmitting and receiving sets were turned out and installed in ships to help lick the U-boat problem One special guest who was allowed into the hidden room under Casa Loma during wartime was Ian Fleming who later became famous for writing the James Bond series of spy novels Fleming was commander of a special British commando unit whose mission included seizing enemy cipher machines and codebooks to help in operations like the North African campaign a top-secret centre for training Allied spies on farmland on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario between the Whitby and Oshawa border Casa Loma’s basement workshop of spy gadgets seemed to have later inspired the Q Branch in Fleming’s novels with its department of weapons and gadgets “Station M was the gadget centre,” Marlene Hodgson explained the once-secret tunnel leading to Station M is decorated with Christmas lights and one of the rooms once used for making wartime gadgets is decked out as a Santa’s workshop Architect Lennox’s other work includes Old City Hall the west wing of Ontario’s Legislative Building Paul’s Anglican Church on Bloor Street East Marlene Hodgson said she feels a particularly strong connection to her late husband Lynn-Philipwhen she visits Casa Loma a year before what would have been their 60th anniversary She’s visibly proud as she visits the basement of Casa Loma talking of how she and Lynn-Philip got to know some of the men and women connected to Camp X and Station M during the wartime “Because of the efforts of these men and women is a Toronto-based reporter primarily covering crime for the Toronto Star there's no arguing that spooky season is just around the corner and with it come a whole host of ghoulish good times across Toronto like the return of Casa Loma's bone-chilling haunted house Kicking off another season of screams on October 3, Casa Loma's iconic Legends of Horror is back transforming the local landmark into a haunted castle of nightmarish proportions Thrill-seekers will get the chance to explore the castle and its labyrinthine gardens during the one-hour experience uncovering haunting sights and things that go bump in the night at every corner the experience will lead you through secret tunnels underneath the castle that are closed off to the public for the rest of the year There's no telling what kind of harboured horrors will be unleashed as you pass through the haunted house features a bar and cafe at the half-way point where you can order both alcoholic and zero-proof beverages as well as snacks to take a breather before plunging back into the scare zone If you consider yourself a little too skittish for the experience there's a still-spooky yet more toned-down option for you the experience offers Family Hours between 5 and 6:30 p.m. where you can tour the atmospheric experience free from the actors waiting to jump out and give you a fright visitors under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult The event runs 7 days a week from 7 to 10 p.m so you've got a full month to get your frights in Tickets for Legends of Horror at Casa Loma are on sale now through the event's website * You will receive Capital Current Weekly – a digest of what's current in Ottawa The first-ever Indigenous art exhibition at Toronto’s historic Casa Loma cultural venue has a visible connection to Ottawa through the presence of three works by Ottawa-based artist Ciaran Head-Smith a 20-year-old architectural design student at Carleton University is a member of the Opaskwayak Cree First Nation of northern Manitoba “My culture and history have deeply shaped my journey into the world of art,” he says a voyage which is taking his work to Toronto The Red Visions exhibition notes say the show “honours the unique styles and identities of Indigenous artists highlighting the vibrant and diverse voices of Indigenous communities.” The exhibition features 39 works from 13 artists from various Indigenous nations Head-Smith’s three pieces are titled Prayer Song He says having Indigenous art featured in a colonial institution in Casa Loma which was built by a wealthy white financier in 1914 and now is a historic museum and landmark in Toronto “Showcasing artists from different nations across Turtle Island all expressing their identities and cultures to educate the public represents a step forward on the path to reconciliation,” he said Head-Smith said he hopes to contribute to a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures He adds that his goal is to create and design in a way that can increase Indigenous representation and educate the public Artist David Mokine said a collaboration with Head-Smith helped him learn a lot about Indigenous art and culture “It really kind of opened my eyes to that side of art and to the stories that Indigenous art in particular tells,” he said The two collaborated on a handcrafted canoe paddle “It was really awesome to see both our interests flourish,” Mokine said The paddle was sold at an auction and now hangs in a dining hall at Taylor Statten Camps located on traditional Algonquin territory Mokine said he was excited at the chance to help spread his friend’s name and work around “ It’s a predominantly white summer camp and I think they need to learn a little bit more about the historical side of things and where the land comes from,” he said While many Indigenous artists use art to connect with and preserve their cultures, a 2023 report by Hill Strategies a leading authority in arts and culture research has found that Indigenous peoples — about five per cent of Canada’s population — accounted for 3.7 per cent of the country’s  202,900 artists This makes Indigenous-led art exhibits like Red Visions which had “minimal curatorial intervention,” even more important “I hope visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous ways of knowing and how these can be expressed through various art forms from carving and painting to photography,” Head-Smith said about the exhibit as a whole He specializes in contemporary acrylic and digital artwork He said he appreciates the value of using art to connect with culture “To younger Indigenous artists and designers starting their journeys my advice is to embrace your identity and heritage as a source of inspiration,” says Head-Smith you have the ability to preserve and evolve these ideas in ways that speak to both your community and the broader world” The Red Visions exhibit at Casa Loma closes on Valentine’s Day Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" [Background Photo © Intiaz Rahim via Flickr/CC lic. BY-NC-ND 2.0] Carleton University School of Journalism and Communication LocalNewsWoman critically injured by fallen branch in midtown Toronto: policeBy Joanna LavoieOpens in new windowUpdated: April 29, 2025 at 7:10PM EDT If you're in the market for a "landmark office mansion" good news is this architectural beauty just dropped its price.  37 Madison Ave. was first listed back in 2022 for $7,195,ooo It has been re-listed several times and is now almost $2 million cheaper.  The foyer with stained glass windows and a detailed staircase.  The house has just been relisted for $5,500,000, and despite the price drop An office with an original fireplace.  The mansion was designed by none other than the famed architect E.J. Lennox the same visionary behind some of Toronto's most iconic buildings like Casa Loma as well as Old City Hall A close up of the intricate original woodwork and fireplace.  Known for his eclectic style that blends Gothic 37 Madison Ave. is a shining example of Lennox's unmatched craftsmanship.  The ornate detailing on the staircase.  From the intricate facade to the ornate detailing and unmistakable charm throughout the home you can't help but marvel at how much work went into creating this mansion An office with lots of natural light.  37 Madison Ave. was originally completed in 1891 as the private residence of house builder Lewis Lukes and is one of the first and finest examples of Toronto's "Annex style" homes Original stained glass windows and fireplaces add charm to the office.  Every corner of this 7,000 square-foot house tells a story From the intricate moldings to the stately fireplaces and even little details like the staff staircase make it a living piece of Toronto's past.   A sitting area in what might have once been the living room.  the property is home to a public relations company It boasts 12 offices spread over three floors and four bathrooms.  Soaring ceilings and big windows bring in natural light to even the narrowest of spaces.  While the property is currently used for commercial purposes it could be re-converted back to a residential home if the new owners were so inclined.  given the location and its proximity to the loud fraternity houses and The Madison it seems more likely it will remain a commercial space.  I could definitely see it turning into a stunning boutique hotel like The Gladstone House or The Broadview Hotel.  expansive windows that flood the rooms with natural light and original woodwork that adds a sense of warmth and history it's the perfect backdrop for a bougie hotel since it is located between the vibrant Yorkville neighborhood and the Annex this property places you in the heart of Toronto and is perfect for tourists looking to explore.  The back of the house with eight parking spaces.  But given properties in this area typically sell for around $3 million it might still be a while until the right buyer comes along Especially considering the amount of work it would need to transform it into something other than offices.  The front of the home boasts unique arched windows and two-car parking mark a home office space within the open concept ground floor The lower level features an open-concept bedroom with a walkout to the backyard The open-concept ground floor currently connects a dining area The south-facing backyard is serene and private Listing agents note the home’s arched windows and hardwood floors the upper-level suite offers rental opportunities 657 Davenport Road features two separate suites a private garden and unique architectural character — with potential for rental income multi-generational living or single-family conversion X-factor: A detached duplex in Tarragon Village is on the market offering more than 2,500 square feet of finished living space and a world of possibilities for potential buyers or investors The property at 657 Davenport Road stands out with its unique architectural features — including arched windows — and layout which consists of two fully separate suites and then you go through one door and it leads you to a main floor and lower level unit,” said listing agent Nicole Zarry “Then you go through another door and it leads you to the second floor unit.” The ground floor and lower level suite is “deceivingly larger” than it appears from the outside with a combined area of more than 1,700 square feet the main floor features a spacious dining area — currently sectioned off by a partition for a home office that listing agents say can be removed — and an open-concept kitchen and breakfast area Also on the main floor is a three-piece bathroom and a cosy living room with floor-to-ceiling doors that open to a private the lower level boasts a large open-concept bedroom “Even though we say there’s a basement because it’s a full above-grade walkout and above-grade windows,” listing agent Dawna Satov said “It does not feel like a typical basement at all.” and an open-concept kitchen with a dining area ideal for entertaining or quiet afternoons The front of the house has parking space for two cars Flexibility is central to the home’s appeal “It could go to an end user that wants to live in the ground floor and basement and rent out the upstairs,” the agent said “It could go to a multi-generational (buyer) … where and the parents maybe live in the ground floor and basement Listing agents also noted the upper suite could be used as a home office The home could also be converted into a single-family residence without much structural work the home is steps from TTC transit and just a short walk from Tarragon Village’s shops and restaurants “It’s super convenient — close to everything,” local real estate expert James Frodyma said Proximity to George Brown College also opens up rental opportunities for student housing I think the value there is decent,” Frodyma said “There’s definitely a lot more expensive properties in the immediate area.” The home also sits just a few blocks away from Casa Loma which the listing agents say make it a lucrative property “If you were getting a single family home or a duplex in the Casa Loma area it’d be far pricier,” Zarry said “So (this listing) is a way of getting into an incredible area.”  Sign In Subscribe Now Part of the Casa Loma community was the scene of a mock evacuation to test a new emergency route and the effectiveness of the community’s fire warden program A second emergency exit route had long been a safety concern for residents as Campbell Road was previously the only way out of community in the event of an evacuation Kelowna Fire Department and community fire wardens participated in the exercise Casa Loma has 14 fire wardens who are responsible for 360 homes They collect information such as cell phone numbers including anyone with mobility or cognitive issues and potential hazards such as chemicals or stored fuel If the community is put under evacuation alert residents would be informed immediately and an action plan put in place That was the case in 2023 when Casa Loma was placed on evacuation alert during the McDougall Creek wildfire was approved by city council in September 2023 at a cost of $1.186 million Dialogue and debate are integral to a free society and we welcome and encourage you to share your views on the issues of the day. We ask that you be respectful of others and their points of view, refrain from personal attacks and stay on topic. To learn about our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines Walt Disney Studios Canada is opening a family-friendly immersive experience at Casa Loma in Toronto to mark the debut of the upcoming live-action musical adaptation of Snow White the exhibition reimagines the halls of Casa Loma as some of the most recognizable and beloved settings from the film Visitors can explore the enchanted wishing well the evil queen’s throne with the magic mirror According to a spokesperson from Walt Disney Studios Canada the timing of the exhibition was strategic falling between March break and the film’s release “The storied halls and rooms of Casa Loma are a natural fit and a perfect setting to bring the magical kingdom of Snow White to life,” the spokesperson says adding that the studio’s investment in this collaboration was significant considering that Snow White is Disney’s first princess and the 1937 movie was the studio’s first feature film “Given the important legacy of this story to the company something that fit the scope and scale of this release while also paying tribute to the love appreciation and nostalgia for the animated film,” the spokesperson says Experiential activations are also important to Disney’s marketing strategy in Canada – the representative notes that the prodco has focused on bringing components of its films to life for local audiences allowing “people to experience a little piece of the Disney magic in their own backyard.” In March last year, Disney and Pixar collaborated to launch an activation at Etobicoke’s CF Sherway Gardens mall ahead of the premiere of Inside Out 2 The immersive experience featured an interactive replica of the console that is inside Riley’s mind The effort followed a similar activation at the same mall where Disney recreated iconic settings from the movie Wish The Snow White activation is being promoted on both Walt Disney Studios Canada and Casa Loma’s social media channels CP24 Breakfast and CTV News have done pieces from the location and the studio plans to hold press and influencer events at the activation , , With your consent we may collect cookies and information to enhance our service Follow us to watch live and connect for more news in the morning An outdoor community ice rink has been set up beside the Casa Loma stables in Toronto Maintained by volunteers with the Casa Loma Residents' Association the cold temperatures have created the perfect conditions for a smooth skate Maintained by volunteers with the Casa Loma Residents’ Association Volunteers are working hard to maintain a fairly new outdoor rink in front of Toronto’s most famous castle Maintained by volunteers with the Casa Loma Residents’ Association and a crowdfunding page said it was created by a group of neighbours in 2023 “Our goal was to create a community rink where kids, families and residents could come together to have fun outdoors and enjoy the winter season,” the group said on the GoFundMe page “This is a true community effort — the rink is 100 per cent funded by donations and maintained by community volunteers.” As word slowly starts to spread about the fresh ice fans are calling it “the definition of a hidden gem.” “I didn’t know how I didn’t know about this gem earlier,” Kelly @thevacaygirl said in an Instagram post but perfect enough to enjoy a round of hockey A post shared by Kelly | Canadian Content Creator (@thevacaygirl) There is an opportunity to check out the rink for yourself as a special skating party is planned by Coun There are some benches set up to put your skates on For more information, visit the rink’s Facebook page The Sunset Concerts series runs through to August 27 BY Calum SlingerlandPublished Jun 7 Jully Black and J3M will kick off a 12-night summer concert series at Toronto's majestic Casa Loma in June UPDATE (6/7, 4:25 p.m. ET): The series has now announced additional headliners for the month, as well as supporting acts. The Trews (acoustic trio) and Logan Staats will be joining Black as headline acts, with additional support coming from Gracie Ella Sam Drysdale and NIIVA will serve as musical hosts special guests and surprise performances in the 12-evening series have yet to be announced The Sunset Concerts series runs through to August 27, with tickets for the opening evening available via Casa Loma's official website $2.50 from each ticket sold will be donated to support Kids Help Phone In July, Black will headline Sudbury's Northern Lights Festival Boréal, while June will see J3M perform as part of CMW 2024. Be the first to get our biggest stories delivered to your inbox. land right in the middle of the week this year but there are still a lot of closures to keep in mind More than 50 outdoor ice rinks and skating trails are open daily during the holidays, including Nathan Phillips Square. Outdoor rinks operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Full schedules for city-run rinks can be found here Most major movie theatres will also operate every day through Christmas Here is what else is open and closed in Toronto: including museums will be closed on Christmas Day and open on Boxing Day which will remain open every day over the holidays WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland will be closed on Christmas Eve 24 – Most locations open at reduced hours; check your local storeWednesday 25 – Most locations CLOSED; All Rabba Fine Foods locations will remain open Summerhill Market locations will be open from 9 a.m 26 – Most locations open at reduced hours; check your local store Tuesday, Dec. 24 – Most open until 6 p.m.Wednesday, Dec. 25 – CLOSEDThursday, Dec. 26 – Most locations CLOSED; Select stores will operate at reduced hours, check locations here Tuesday, Dec. 24 – Most open until 6 p.m.Wednesday, Dec. 25 – CLOSEDThursday, Dec. 26 – Most locations CLOSED; Select stores will operate at reduced hours, check locations here Some malls will have reduced hours on Christmas Eve and the vast majority will be closed on Christmas Here are the hours of some locations in the GTA: GO Transit holiday schedule TTC holiday schedule In order to provide you with the best online experience this website uses cookies.By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more Tourism Ireland brought the spirit of Halloween’s origins to life with an adventurous group of industry professionals this week at Casa Loma’s Legends of Horror in Toronto The gathering paid tribute to the 2,000-year-old Celtic festival of Samhain—the inspiration for modern-day Halloween—and a nod to the 30,000-plus castles and castle ruins across Ireland which range from ancient strongholds and visitor attractions to luxury accommodations “Halloween is rooted in ancient Celtic tradition,” said Sandra Moffatt “Many of us celebrate the holiday without thinking of its origin story – when centuries ago the ancient Celts celebrated ‘Samhain’ (sow-in) a harvest festival to mark the start of winter This was a time when the veil between this world and the next was at its thinnest was the perfect backdrop to explore Halloween’s spooky origins...but there is truly no better place to celebrate the holiday than in Ireland The event gave the group of travel partners and content creators an opportunity to experience Ireland’s renowned hospitality—even on dark and eerie nights Many of today’s Halloween traditions evolved from these Irish customs: These customs spread to North America with Irish emigrants and evolved into the modern Halloween festivities celebrated worldwide.  But Ireland remains the spiritual home of Halloween where visitors can still experience Samhain-inspired festivals and events.  Púca Festival | Ireland.com  Derry Halloween | Ireland.com  Experience Bram Stoker Festival | Ireland.com  Tourism Ireland’s content toolkit is also available to help travel advisors plan and promote Halloween-themed itineraries in Ireland for 2025 immersive experience that brings the magic and mystery of Halloween back to its roots Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.  Receive the best travel industry news every day It’s the last long weekend before Christmas (for those counting down to the festive season). Click here for a roundup of what’s happening in Toronto over the Thanksgiving long weekend For those of us staying in town for the Thanksgiving holiday remember that while some businesses are open on the holiday others are either closed or operating on reduced hours Below is a list of what’s open and closed on Monday All Beer Stores and LCBO locations will be closed but select locations (listed below) will be open Here’s what’s open and closed on the first long weekend of the year Canada Post will be on a regular delivery schedule almost all city attractions will remain open including the CN Tower as well as the Allan Gardens and Centennial Park conservatories Here’s what else is open and closed in Toronto: GO Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule The TTC will be on a holiday schedule with most routes and subway service starting at 6 a.m LCBO and The Beer Store locations will be closed on Monday Wine Rack stores will remain open in Toronto Most grocery stores will be closed on Family Day Check with your local grocer for hours of operation Select Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall locations are open on Family Day Check your local area for other pharmacy store hours Most movie theatres will be open on Family Day Select outdoor skating rinks are open, including Nathan Phillips Square. Check toronto.ca/skate for details and hours A portion of the Casa Loma community was the scene of a mock evacuation to test a new emergency route and the effectiveness of the community’s fire warden program “What we wanted to see how people would respond to driving it as well as the response to the evacuation notice,” said Community Emergency Liaison John Martin Martin said the exercise went well and the community and emergency services that took part learned a great deal “A lot of good things come out of it and there were some minor things that will have to be implemented to make it better.” “I think they were impressed with how we go about things as well as information transfer to our community," Martin said that is vital in dealing with an emergency “Any information the general public is going to help calm the situation but we have to have the transfer of information.” Martin noted the program in Casa Loma can work in any community “The more people that get involved into some of the things we are doing in West Kelowna the better other communities are going to be by taking up the initiative and formulating the same process that we do here.”  Once the community is under evacuation alert That was the case in 2023 when Casa Loma was place on evacuation alert during the McDougall Creek wildfire A second emergency exit route has long been a safety concern for residents as Campbell Road was previously the only exit in the event of an evacuation is approximately 500 metres long and 3.5 metres wide It was approved by city council in September 2023 at a cost of  $1.186 million and receive top headlines in your inbox Monday to Saturday Southern California’s Orange County carries certain connotations but these stereotypes oft-overshadow Laguna Beach’s history as a bastion of counter-culture activity the compact coastal city has been a haven for surfers but like-minded friends who share our artistic passions and pursuits,” says John Grossman ”The story of Casa Loma is revealed in the details – the intentional design choices capture a spirit of retreat both familiar and imaginative thoughtfully curated with our favorite things by our favorite people.” the overarching design scheme is framed around the narrative of a life well lived; a protagonist that has traveled far and wide only to settle down in this setting for a while “We aimed to create a naturally-inspired destination that celebrates Laguna’s environment and embodies a creative ethos,” says Lucia Bartholomew “Our vision of fostering a sense of purpose and well-being is reflected at Casa Loma through the marriage of the local bohemian attitude with the natural energy of the sea.” The intervention centers on the idea of facilitating ocean-side reflection and fostering easy exchange between guests This was largely achieved through the soothing and familiar introduction of towering relief sculptures taking on dramatic shadows at different times of day; screen-printed artworks; woven throws; and other custom elements evoking a folkloric quality “LAND was enlisted to make the entire hotel one large immersive art experience – from the lobby mural  to the hand-painted canvas tapestries in select guest rooms,” Grossman adds including the handcrafted wooden furniture and its vintage lobby sound system feels organic to the space and its surroundings Most of the formal vocabulary throughout Casa Loma evokes the Pacific’s undulating waves and naturally carved coastlines many of the introduced architectural elements and accessories also nod to the culture of craft in the area Curved archways throughout give way to intimate nooks that facilitate retreat and are outfitted with a tightly-curated selection of ceramic sculptures and found artworks Guests begin their experiences in the “social hub” lobby bar and lounge replete with a sculpted mural of a sun-worshiping goddess evoking the natural beauty of the ocean and beach visible through floor-to-ceiling windows The curvilinear main desk is enveloped in fired clay tiles while plaster wrapped built-in banquettes are lit by luminaires custom designed by Electric Bowery Additional venue Pacific Terrace plays host to custom woven lounge chairs and raw-edge stools Textiles upholstering bespoke armchairs and covering the beds render in muted-tone traditional ticking striped patterns eye-catching throw blankets tie everything together Go virtually on vacation with more design destinations right here Photography by Chris Mottalini New York-based writer specializing in collectible and sustainable design With a particular focus on topics that exemplify the best in craft-led experimentation he's committed to supporting talents that push the envelope in various disciplines You can follow Adrian Madlener on Linkedin. Read all of Adrian Madlener's posts Stéphane Parmentier imagines HIGHSTAY's Villa Coachella in Saint Tropez as a coastal residence with rustic yet contemporary finishes Zaha Hadid Architects balances contemporary and restored historic design elements at the reimagined ultra luxury Romeo Hotel Roma in central Rome The heritage Danish kitchen brand Vipp opens its Todos Santos guesthouse with a melding of Scandinavian and Mexican influences Casa Loma Beach Hotel is a reimagined coastal retreat by Electric Bowery and LAND with site responsive design and amenities in Laguna Beach You’ll always hear it from Design Milk first Our passion is discovering and highlighting emerging talent and we’re energized by and for our community of like-minded design lovers — like you This trail in Toronto is not for the faint of heart. The pathway takes you on a terrifying journey through underground tunnels and sinister scenes that will have your skin crawling Legends of Horror is returning to Casa Loma from October 3 to November 2, 2024. Presented by Captain Morgan, the immersive Halloween adventure features a 2 kilometre outdoor trail that winds through the castle grounds and into the dark tunnels beneath the street The experience is known as promenade theatre and allows you to move at your own pace through theatrical horror scenes The journey begins in the castle's lower gardens then winds through the underground tunnels and ends in the historic stables where you'll stumble upon the lair of Dr you'll be met with nightmarish characters "We have added some terrifying new surprises in this year's production and guarantee an unparalleled experience for all ages," Nadia Di Donato Liberty Entertainment Group said in a press release offering a unique experience on each visit the best Halloween experience in the city." families can enjoy a less scary experience during dedicated hours Tickets for the terrifying event are currently available online, so get ready to be spooked Legends of Horror Website With the days getting shorter and kids ready to return to class it means the September Labour Day long weekend is upon us For those looking to get out and take advantage of the final long weekend of summer keep in mind that some businesses will be closed or operating at reduced hours and the TTC will operate on a holiday schedule Here’s a complete list of what’s open and closed on Labour Day Monday Select Beer Store locations will be open on Monday. Click here to locate one in your area The TTC will run on a holiday service schedule on Monday GO Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule on Labour Day Labour Day is the final day of the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE). Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here. Most grocery stores, including St. Lawrence Market, will be closed on Monday, but some will be open, including most Pusateri’s and Rabba Fine Foods locations. Check your local location for hours. Some Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall locations will be open on Monday; call ahead or check online for your location’s hours. Dufferin Mall, Fairview Mall, Scarborough Town Centre, Sherway Gardens, Shops at Don Mills, and Yorkdale Mall will all be closed. Banks and government offices will be closed on Monday. Toronto Public Library branches will be closed on Monday. A Canadian man arrested on vacation has been proven innocent. Melissa Nakhavoly with why he is still being held in the Dominican Republic. Warmer temperatures but showers are expected on-and-off for the next few days. Meteorologist Natasha Ramsahai has your seven-day forecast. Ontario Premier Doug Ford calls on Prime Minister Mark Carney to prioritize a list of projects including the proposed Highway 401 tunnel. The family of Soleiman Faqiri, a mentally ill man who was killed in an Ontario prison, is calling out the provincial government over the lack of correctional reform Now New and Improved! Watch CityNews, listen to NewsRadio Toronto live anytime and get up-to-the-minute breaking-news alerts, traffic, weather and video from CityNews Toronto anywhere you are – across all Android and iOS devices. “There’s a kind of collaborative and creative alchemy that occurs here,” explains John Grossman, president of hospitality group Marc & Rose “It’s really part of the DNA of this town; a lot of creative people sought refuge here.” Chris MottaliniChris MottaliniThanks to Marc & Rose’s latest project, Casa Loma the recently reopened 70-room hotel certainly feels like a beacon: its crisp postmodern facade can be seen from nearly any stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway that rolls straight through town Formerly known as the classic coastal hotel The Inn at Laguna Beach the 1989 property has been renamed and reimagined after an extensive renovation by Venice-based architecture and interior design studio Electric Bowery It’s also one of the few hotels in Laguna Beach that’s situated right on the beach Its glittering expanse can be seen from every common space—including the rooftop terrace and cliff-side pool—as well as nearly all of the well-appointed suites and guest rooms that the beach’s main walking path is just steps away from the hotel’s clay-tiled “It’s all meant to be symbolic of the spirit of this place,” Grossman says “We wanted the design and the experience to nod to the history of this town in a soulful way.” “Life is short,” Grossman says of the unconventional practice of opening a beach hotel with an immersive theater experience instead of the usual cocktails-and-canapes affair “We just want to create the conditions for our guests to have unexpected experiences while also honoring the aspects of the culture of the local community… I really just want everyone who visits to feel seen.” The Danish Home Lighting Trend That Can Improve Your Mental Health In America’s Cities, Saunas Are Becoming the Hottest Social Spot Millie Bobby Brown Shares Her Favorite Paella Recipe—and Details About Her Wedding to Jake Bongiovi A Day-by-Day Guide to Hiking the Legendary Nakasendo Trail in Japan Never miss a Vogue moment and get unlimited digital access for just $2 $1 per month The R&B singer will kick off a series of concerts at the famed Toronto castle, while PartyNextDoor and Childish Gambino also set their sights on Canadian dates this summer. There’s plenty of action to look forward to this summer across Canada Canada’s Walk of Fame and Toronto's Casa Loma, in partnership with Seeing Red Media have combined forces to announce The Sunset Concerts a series of concerts at the iconic Gothic castle R&B singer and 2021 Walk of Fame inductee Jully Black will kick off the performances on June 11 joined by singer-songwriter J3M and hosted by Indigenous rights activist Autumn Peltier “Set against the backdrop of one of the greatest venues in the country The Sunset Concerts unites emerging stars with well-known artists and blends new music with timeless classics for an unforgettable experience," says Walk of Fame CEO Jeffrey Latimer of the new venture The series will run weekly on Tuesday nights until August 27 with a portion of ticket sales going to Kids Help Phone Future performers are still to be announced, but tickets are on sale now Indonesian singer-songwriter and 88rising alumni NIKI will make her first-ever Canadian performances this fall, as part of the recently announced NIKI World Tour. She gets a show of her own at Budweiser Stage on September 5, and another at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena on October 19. Find ticket information here Billboard chart heavy-hitter Childish Gambino announced fresh tour dates this week, in the midst of two album announcements – including the release of Atavista a finished version of his 2020 3.15.20 album – and a hint at retirement from music In the meantime, however, Gambino’s The New World Tour will be travelling across the globe and stopping by for a handful of Canadian dates. These include shows at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on August 18, Vancouver’s Rogers Arena on September 23 Calgary’s Scotiabank Saddledome on September 27 and finally a September 29 show at Rogers Place in Edmonton. Presale is on now Make sure to keep an eye out for even more announcements as summer concert season heats up A musically diverse group of major international and Canadian stars will take to the historic stage in Ontario cottage country this summer A historic and popular music venue in the Muskoka cottage country region of Ontario for the past eight decades, The KEE To Bala was taken over by Live Nation in 2023 and the clout of the international concert behemoth has upped the ante and it again features major international and Canadian artists as headliners Heading the international names are R&B superstar Nelly fast-rising young American country star Dylan Gossett alt-rockers Billy Corgan and The Machines of God with Collective Soul rock veterans The Wallflowers and hip-hop stars Cypress Hill & Ja Rule The musically diverse Canadian contingent features multiple platinum-selling bands and crowd-pleasing veteran live favourites including Billy Talent Jun 11: Billy Corgan and The Machines of God Show tickets and info here Casa Loma Beach Hotel, a 70-room property on the cliffs of Laguna Beach, has debuted the results of a $15 million renovation Marc & Rose Hospitality enlisted California-based architecture and interior design studio Electric Bowery to reimagine what was formerly the Inn at Laguna Beach The oceanfront property’s transformation is influenced not only by the beauty of its clifftop landscape but by a laidback Mallorcan mindset and the vivacity of California’s coastal spirit Land and Electric Bowery embarked on a deep dive of Laguna Beach’s history from the early days of Prohibition when the area’s counter-culture reputation saw it become a seaside sanctuary for creatives we worked closely with Marc & Rose to create a naturally-inspired destination that celebrates Laguna’s environment and embodies a creative ethos,” says Lucia Bartholomew “Our vision of fostering a sense of purpose and wellbeing is reflected at Casa Loma through the marriage of the local bohemian spirit with the natural energy of the sea.”  Land and Orca worked closely together to infuse each space with a bohemian energy evocative of the town’s creative roots with design details including a towering relief sculpture bathed in sunlight to bespoke screen-printed artwork and woven throws adds: “Land was enlisted to make the entire hotel one large immersive art experience – from the lobby mural to the hand-painted canvas tapestries in select guestrooms to the custom screen-printed and numbered framed original artworks but precise in its placement and design.”   The 70 newly-appointed guestrooms blend a Mediterranean sensibility with the comforts and colours of the neighboring sea The influence of the original surfboard shapers is evident at every scale of design Lighting and banquette design meanwhile are inspired by organic shapes found in the surrounding seascape Relaxed textiles take on an elevated feel; traditional ticking stripes in muted natural shades adorn custom chairs in each room set against playful checkered benches and whimsical throw blankets 38 rooms feature private balconies or patios many overlooking the sweeping Pacific Ocean and Main Beach below Registered in England and Wales with Company Number 06637145 We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings we will not be able to save your preferences This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again More information about our Cookie Policy The second-last long weekend of summer is almost here. There are several events taking place including the Toronto Caribbean Carnival The Civic Holiday on Monday will not have as many closures as a typical holiday long weekend but several businesses will operate on reduced hours While the City of Toronto doesn’t hold an official fireworks display on this long weekend, you can catch a show at Canada’s Wonderland around 10 p.m Below is a full list of what’s open and closed on Monday Select Beer Store locations will be open on Monday. Click here to locate one in your area Certain LCBO stores will be open on Monday. Click here to locate one in your area Most grocery stores will be open but may be operating on reduced holiday hours Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall locations will be open on Monday call ahead or check online for your location’s hours Below are the hours for some malls on Monday: The TTC will run on a holiday service schedule on Monday GO Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule on Monday While most of the weekend was left free to enjoy on our own, the highlight of the opening was the immersive theater experience, performed by IAMA Theater Company John had alluded to the premise: a funeral for Cappy a fictional character meant to represent the old Laguna (pre-reality tv show fame) The dress code was that of the hotel color palette: shades that were reminiscent of the surrounding landscape After the opening act on the pool deck against the sunset over the beach We watched scenes of a young love blossoming All while learning about the history of the town and interacting with the hotel spaces in an intimate way appreciating the hand woven tapestries and soft lighting from the organically shaped lamps Being warmed by the fireplace on the terrace once the sun had gone down Continuously moving between the indoors and outdoors making nature as much of a feature as the interior breakfast was served on the terrace with stunningly vast views of the ocean We spotted dolphins following a pair of paddle boarders out on the water While there is not much that is better than a cloudless sky full of sun and the sound of waves crashing on the shore Casa Loma works to enhance these simple joys through all its fine details Her debut EP, 2.0 dropped on April 11th: Von’s discography recontextualized and immortalized for the underground the 2.0 rollout unfolded through a series of invite-only “There’s this widespread relatability kink right now in music artists are so pressured to over share absolutely everything,” Von says “There’s a lot of unsolicited advice about the frequency we should post and how much we should divulge etc This was kind of my tongue in cheek way of giving in to the over share.” In the bowels of H0l0, guests were invited to wander around the fog-filled rooms and enjoy another one of Von’s freakshows produced by Chloe Philips “Each event there’s a crazier request than the last,” Philips laughs I’m constantly figuring out niche permits and safety protocols you’d never think to consider.” Rachel, one of Von’s dancers, traipsed around the space with 30 needles intricately placed into her skin (by @babyrocktattoos) that rounded her back like an S—just a typical body horror moment you can expect from a Von event “The continuous testing of my own being—the desire to either find myself or lose parts of who I’ve been In the backroom, tattoo artist Tyler etched 10 lucky fans with the iconic Von symbol—which he tattooed on Von’s chest live at her last event, LABOR where she released the single “MOMMY 2.0.”  “There’s something so intimate about permanence,” Von mentions “Sharing something so intimate with other people makes me feel really deeply connected It’s like such a deep form of mutual affection.” Von’s latest spectacle wasn’t just a party or a performance—it was a full-body full-sensory declaration of creative autonomy and of the line between artist and audience she’s not just releasing music; she’s releasing herself—layer by layer and more painful introspection—relentlessly synthesizing all of it together.” Whether through blood The desert heat was pulsing and the full moon cast a glow over Coachella’s first weekend—setting the scene for a wild ride where I got low and snapped the best dressed hotties. With the CARVINGBLOCK crew as my compass I kicked things off with a cute St~Germain cocktail crafted by the Michelin-starred team at Camphor I snacked my way through the grounds—stacked sandwiches from L’Antico Viniao and iconic slices from Prince Street Pizza fueling me up for the night ahead I made it to the Main Stage just in time for Missy’s takeover—VIP buzzing with familiar faces like Patrick Schwarzenegger But it was Lady Gaga who stole the show with a jaw-dropping Night two began with frog legs and duck confit under the stars at Outstanding in the Field where Chef Diego Argoti hosted a cool intimate dinner in the Rose Garden I turned the duck confit and made it a high fashion green wrap to go to Charli’s set—brat anthems echoing across the field as the sun dipped behind the mountains She delivered a set that blended her classics with deep cuts only day-one stans would know I try to avoid trends so I gotta admit I was never officially a brat until now My friends and I wandered through the night—bar-hopping between hidden speakeasies and vibing across stages—before closing it all out with horsegirl’s dreamy the Caracas-born icon stunned with a genre-bending set surprise cameos by Addison Rae and Tokischa the night felt seductive and surreal—like a desert fever dream we never wanted to end Caught in the middle of the California desert Once you made your way through the crowds and chaos raw energy bouncing off its chain-link walls Mad Maximus brought the grit of a street-style football showdown to the fields of Coachella, merging performance, culture, and community. Rising stars from across Los Angeles showed up, not just to compete but to represent a vibrant movement of young athletes, creatives, and supporters. A collaboration between Nike and Travis Scott the event felt like a love letter to the game where the rules are constantly being rewritten Set inside the immersive Cactus Jack pop-up the space subverted the idea of an activation Mad Maximus channeled the unpredictable electricity of street football and layered it with Travis’s signature touch: offbeat The weekend kicked off with the Open Crossbar Challenge a simple setup that quickly became a crowd favorite Winners walked away with not only bragging rights but Nike gear and an earned shot at the “Winner Stays” 1v1 tournament on Sunday each bringing their uniqueness to the pitch a Nike NIL athlete and rising star from Chicano FC proving what happens when style meets substance The culture and the Los Angeles community were see The audience waved Mexican flags in support while cheers and claps echoed through the cage Mad Maximus blurred the lines between music but to celebrate a thriving community that may not always get the recognition it deserves It was a reminder that empowering the next generation doesn’t come from placing them under a spotlight the energy could still be felt and sounds of cheers and thudding footwork were still at a high one thing was clear: The future of football doesn’t start in stadiums It starts in cages and on corners with young creatives playing games on their own terms Please confirm that you are at least 18 years old to reimagine what was formerly the beloved Inn at Laguna Beach The celebrated oceanfront property's transformation is influenced not only by the beauty of its clifftop landscape but by a laidback Mallorcan mindset and the vivacity of California's coastal spirit and understatedly-elegant refuge offers bespoke beach club service hiding in plain sight just steps from Laguna Main Beach adventurous and seasoned travelers for an experience akin to staying at an old friend's coastal villa—where hospitality feels familial along the edge of the Pacific "Marc & Rose Hospitality is proud to bring together such a talented team of partners to re-enliven this Laguna Beach landmark," said John Grossman but like-minded friends who share our artistic passions and pursuits The story of Casa Loma is revealed in the details—the intentional design choices capture a spirit of retreat both familiar and imaginative thoughtfully curated with our favorite things by our favorite people." we worked closely with Marc & Rose to create a naturally-inspired destination that celebrates Laguna's environment and embodies a creative ethos," said Lucia Bartholomew "Our vision of fostering a sense of purpose and well-being is reflected at Casa Loma through the marriage of the local bohemian spirit with the natural energy of the sea." offering a canvas for today's innovative thinkers and artists From a towering relief sculpture bathed in sunlight custom works are enchantingly folkloric and an enduring presence throughout the property "LAND was enlisted to make the entire hotel one large immersive art experience - from the lobby mural to the hand-painted canvas tapestries in select guest rooms to the custom screen-printed and numbered framed original artworks," said John Grossman The lobby bar and lounge is the social hub of the project; guests are immediately met by a sculpted mural that depicts a sun-worshiping goddess symbolizing the natural wonder of the Pacific Coast that lies just outside the floor-to-ceiling windows and seaside greens frame panoramic views of the sea and organic and sculpted forms are born from the ocean's gentle waves and movement These handcrafted and natural textures reflect the tradition of craft in Laguna Beach and scraped sandy-colored plaster wraps custom all illuminated by custom lighting fixtures by Electric Bowery Curved archways throughout the property create inviting nooks for respite or clandestine conversation each outfitted in hand-picked pieces ranging from ceramic sculptures and found artwork to modern-bohemian ceramics and thick tomes of knowledge Landscape designs by ORCA reflect the area's local natural beauty and build on Electric Bowery's cohesive approach inside and out that feels indelibly linked to the hotel's environs a firm specializing in soundscapes for hospitality The hotel's onsite radio station features an eclectic mix of coastal music from around the world with influences from Spain's Costa del Sol paired with a heavy dose of homegrown California music from the 1960s through today This soundscape follows guests throughout their stay from lobby to pool to terrace and back to their rooms and a Tivoli Model One Radio with Casa Loma's custom radio station offering another curated auditory journey for guests' in-room moments Packaged with a unique sleeve and comprised of an eclectic collection of works that pay homage to the property and its Laguna Beach setting the vinyl is the perfect take-home gift to remember time on the coast The album can also be enjoyed in each suite where it is accompanied by a record player and a collection of additional records featuring artists across genres and time periods Hotel website There will be lots of activities and events to keep you busy in the city this weekend Here’s a look at some of the events happening this weekend Keep in mind that there will be some closures for the observed holiday for Canada Day this year "Chateau de Quatre Vents" (Castle of Four Winds) the first thing you’ll notice is the stunning curb appeal and the curved windows – this place is a beauty This is no surprise since this century-old home was actually designed by E.J the architect behind other revered landmarks in Toronto A large wall of windows overlooking the gardens But as beautiful as the exterior of the home is Likely the original living room or dining room that's in the process of being renovated The home is a seven-unit multiplex that is currently in the process of being renovated Original wood moulding in a soon to be bathroom is dreamy The charm and character alone in this old house is something special but right now that's kind of overshadowed by the amount of work left to do three of the units are "rent-able," while the other four units are currently under renovation An attic suite with roughed in plumbing and electrical The plumbing and electrical have been completed One of the completed units with rounded windows and a walk-out to a patio And renting out those finished three units might be a hard sell since not many people want to live through a renovation that could take months The newly renovated unit still features some of the original character of the home If the previous renovations were not done properly or to code it could further lengthen the time before you can start collecting rental income this property could be worth it for an investor with deep pockets and a passion for restoring old beauties there will be five two-bedroom units and two one-bedroom suites E has a projected gross income of $362,760 While that gross income is nothing to laugh at the property itself is worth a lot because it is unique It also sits on a low bluff and offers unobstructed views of Lake Ontario from almost every spot in the house But even with all its potential and historical pedigree Chateau de Quatre Vents has had a tough time selling Originally listed back in 2021 for $6,499,999 E has been on and off the market at various price points for the better part of three years The home can be accessed through a walkway from Queen St E or through the winding driveway on Rockaway Crescent Now, it has been relisted at $4,849,000 and is being sold "as is" Police said they are look for a suspect described as male 6’1 with a medium build and was wearing dark clothing Toronto police responded to reports of a stabbing near St Clair Avenue West and Bathurst Street just after 10:30 p.m One person has serious injuries after a stabbing in the city’s west end Thursday night Toronto police responded to reports of a stabbing near St. Clair Avenue West and Bathurst Street just after 10:30 p.m At the scene officers found a man who had suffered stab wounds He was taken to hospital with serious injuries The suspect is still at large and is described as a man six-foot-one with a medium build and was wearing dark clothing Eli Gonda (left) and Christian Durso at the one-night only performance of "Infinite Swell" at Casa Loma Beach Hotel in Laguna Beach  oceanfront locale. The play vividly captured the energy of the people who found a home along Laguna Beach's seven miles of coastline a community of: "Hollywood’s golden-era elite Dan Bucatinsky (left) Shonda Rhimes Katie Lowes were among the A-listers in attendance at the grand opening of the recently renovated Casa Loma Beach Hotel  Mark & Rose Hospitality President John Grossman and his wife Ginna Grossman  Stefanie Black celebrate another IAMA Theater Company hit  Thelma Golden will celebrate Lauren Halsey and U.K.-based singer Griff will take the stage featured A-list designers and Otis College standouts who earned scholarships for innovation in Fashion Design lawyers say Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe showed injuries consistent with a dog attack and plan to present a case against Chloe a German Shepherd who was re-homed by the owner's of the house where the cop's body was found in a snowbank Magazine’s takeaways on five notable topics from President Donald Trump’s first 100 days of his second term consumers are stocking up on household items and bites from THEBlvd and Hinoki & the Bird Casa Loma is known for many a haunting tale One spooky tale in particular is that of the white lady who haunts the halls of Toronto’s century-old castle on the hill and the information within may be out of date From strange apparitions to spooky voices and unseen grabbing hands Casa Loma has more than its share of ghost stories Staff and guests at the historic castle have shared enough stories of seeing a mysterious lady dressed in white hearing the mutters and sighs of a crotchety man near the stables or having other paranormal experiences that it has gained a reputation as a supernatural hotspot “We’ve had stories going on in here since the 1930s when the Kiwanis Club took over the castle,” said Michelle Desrochers CMH director and Casa Loma’s de facto paranormal rep There have been plenty of Casa Loma ghost stories that pop up from time to time such as the appearance of a man tending to the garden in the indoor conservatory or the sound of children’s voices when no children are around are reported time and again by different people The most common sighting is the White Lady who typically appeared on the second floor but who has recently been seen in the basement “The White Lady is someone we believe to be a maid who worked here in the early 1900s around the time when about 60,000 people in Toronto died of influenza,” Desrochers said “She’s been seen in a lot of places by guests or by cleaning or cafeteria staff as they’ve been cleaning up at the end of the day.” Some have also reported sightings of Sir Henry Pellatt who originally commissioned the construction of Casa Loma Desrochers spoke of an outdoor function in the Casa Loma gardens where a young boy reported seeing a man standing at a second-floor window who panicked because the second floor was supposed to be locked down,” Desrochers said “She asked the boy to describe the man and the boy’s description matched Sir Henry so she took the boy to look at photos and asked “Do you see the man here?” The boy pointed to the picture of Sir Henry and said ‘That’s him A woman believed to be Lady Mary has also been spotted on the grounds though Desrochers pointed out the notoriously private woman has proven elusive leaving a camera running there while they explored other parts of the castle When the team returned to check the footage who Desrochers said was skeptical the castle holds ghosts had locked the door behind them before they left “This was one of those older cameras where if you don’t insert the tape so I know I put it in there and (the staff member) saw me put it in,” Desrochers said “(The staff member) said ‘I locked down the room’ and I just looked at him and said ‘I got nothin’ Desrochers then set up a different camera that stored footage on a hard drive only to find that it shut itself off – or had been shut off – after 10 minutes According to mediums who claim to have felt the presence of Sir Henry and Lady Mary instead choosing to be there after the Pellatts were ousted from Casa Loma after being unable to keep up with its costs “A lot of mediums say they come back in what’s called a visitation state because they didn’t have the castle very long,” Desrochers said The tunnel leading to the castle’s stables are where another of its most notorious ghosts is believed to roam Many have reported feeling as though they had been grabbed or had their hair pulled in the tunnel People have also reported hearing the spirit in the tunnel sighing gruffly and he has even been captured in recordings speaking and interacting with visitors he is heard mimicking a medium who said “Oh he’s a horrible person” while trying to make contact “There’s always the same tone to the voice,” Desrochers said “That’s what’s known as an intelligent haunting – it’s not just the residual sound of doors slamming.” various mediums have reached similar conclusions coming up with the same two names popping up for the man in the tunnel though the CMH team simply refers to him jokingly as “Mr Desrochers said evidence points to the voice belonging to the ghost of a friend of Sir Henry’s who was hired to look after the Pellatts’ prize-winning horses Whether or not Casa Loma is haunted – and even with the recordings and experiences her team has collected Desrochers always wants to allow others to draw their own conclusions – it has certainly made a name for itself among ghost hunters and based on the turnout at a sold-out haunted tour of the building on Sunday plenty of others harbour those same suspicions “We haven’t been very successful with photographs or video but we’ve had success with voice recordings,” Desrochers said That’s one thing she’s done; she’s let us hear her.” Construction began on Casa Loma in 1911 and took three years to complete three bowling alleys and an indoor shooting range were never finished the Kiwanis Club of West Toronto opened Casa Loma as a tourist attraction and asked Sir Henry Pellatt to speak at an event Pellatt views his own portrait at his former home Construction on Sir Henry Pellatt’s stables and hunting lodge began in 1905 and cost an estimated $250,000 shown here in approximately 1915: mahogany stalls Henry Pellatt married society beauty Mary Dodgson and started the Toronto Electric Light Company Pellatt had invested in multiple projects and was chairman of 21 companies Lady and Sir Henry Pellatt are shown greeting guests at the CNE in 1910 with the Casa Loma wall still under construction Sir Henry Pellatt invested in multiple companies including the Toronto Electric Railway Company which operated the city’s street car system Shown here is an early streetcar from 1900 Sir Henry Pellatt’s fortune was estimated at about $17 million and the first stone went into the ground for Casa Loma This photo from 1913 shows the stonemasons brought here from Scotland to work on the wall around Casa Loma built with local stone at a cost of about $250,000 People came from all over North America to bid on Casa Loma’s treasures when they were auctioned off in 1924 at rock-bottom prices or Pellatt’s $3,800 billiard table for $875 Shown here is Pellatt’s extraordinary library A multimillionaire when he began building Toronto’s famous castle in 1911 as his place of residence using stonemasons he brought over from Scotland the survival of Casa Loma has meant Sir Henry Pellatt’s name has also endured And even though controversial capitalist Sir Henry Pellatt and his wife only managed to live in it for about a decade historical and tourism legacy for Torontonians it’s now a tourist and special events venue run by Liberty Entertainment Group since 2014 But when the Pellatts left the 98-room residence in 1923 due to their debts and worsening finances the Gothic Revival castle — designed by noted Toronto architect E.J who was also a billiards-playing buddy of Pellatt’s — was turned into a hotel and then a nightclub the city had seized Casa Loma for the approximately $30,000 Pellatt owed in back taxes it was leased to the Kiwanis Club of West Toronto as a tourist attraction the service club asked Pellatt to speak at a castle event Pellatt was living in straitened circumstances (He would die less than two years later in the Mimico home he shared with his former chauffeur) Star reporter Gregory Clark covered the event and noted that the once rotund Pellatt had lost 70 lbs and cried during the singing of God Save the King there was a hint of the former boastful business tycoon who had brought over Scottish stonemasons and personally supervised the 300-400 tradesmen on site during the three years it took to build the castle “People ask me if I am sorry I built this place I developed all this beautiful residential district round about and that development paid for Casa Loma.” The story went on to say that Pellatt “noted with great unhappiness the vandalism evident in chipped carvings Casa Loma has been entered by the kind of muskrats who would hammer off carven roses in relief on solid walnut.” the survival of Casa Loma has meant its creator’s name has also endured and joined his stockbroker father’s firm at age 17 Biographers such as John Denison (Casa Loma and the man who built it 1982) say this is when he fell in love with castles he joined the volunteer regiment the Queen’s Own Rifles He also had a dream of being a champion runner He married Toronto society beauty Mary Dodgson in 1882; they later had a son The next year he started the Toronto Electric Light Co. securing a contract to install light bulbs in Toronto’s downtown Within six years he had secured a 30-year monopoly to supply street lighting to the city Pellatt also became involved in the Northwest Land Company land deals and was part of the Toronto Electric Railway Company which operated the city’s streetcar system by 1901 Pellatt was chairman of 21 companies He was part of a consortium that built the first hydroelectric dam on Niagara Falls’ Canadian side Pellatt was borrowing heavily from the Home Bank of Canada and others he bought 25 estate lots on top of Davenport Hill then purchased more land just north of there for stables and a hunting lodge Construction on the stables started in 1905 the same year he was knighted by King Edward VII for his devotion to the Queen’s Own Rifles his fortune was estimated at about $17 million and that’s the year the first foundation stone went into the ground for Casa Loma three bowling alleys and an indoor shooting range Toronto Star Weekly told readers that Pellatt’s bedroom was “60 by 40 feet” and that the castle would have a telephone in “almost every room.” Further the Pellatts would have up to 50 servants “to keep the house in good trim.” Although the First World War delayed the finishing of the inside of the castle Land Pellatt had bought failed to increase in value The Ontario government supported public ownership of hydroelectric power and Pellatt and associates were forced to sell out by 1911 A 1913 public inquiry into the insurance industry had found him in a conflict of interest according to a biography by author Bill Freeman Pellatt’s company owed millions to various financial institutions taking with it the life savings of more than 60,000 Canadians Pellat and his wife moved from Casa Loma to their farm north of Toronto a five-day auction was held for Casa Loma’s contents People came from all over North America to bid on treasures that sold for mostly rock-bottom prices Pellatt told the Star that although he regretted parting with “the collection of 45 years of rigorous search the process was something like getting a tooth pulled with a riderless horse and 300 members of the Queen’s Own Rifle Share your story suggestions at OnceUponACity@thestar.ca . To search more about this story or your story go to thestar.com/archives . To purchase or browse more photos go to starstore.ca, or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TorontoStarArchives or on Twitter: @StarHistoricPix My husband and I shared a tomahawk rib eye the night we eloped and decided to make steak a theme for our anniversary dinners This year, for our first wedding anniversary, we traveled from the Washington, DC, area to Toronto for a meal unlike any other at BlueBlood Steakhouse BlueBlood was named one of the city's best new restaurants by Toronto Life in 2018 But because a lot can change in five years I didn't necessarily see that title as a guarantee of quality I went into the experience nervous that the meal would be all style and no substance Arriving there feels like being transported to a fairy-tale realm except for the gawkers gathered to view the storied grounds.  We decided to start an annual tradition of wearing our wedding outfits to our anniversary dinner and felt appropriately attired for the surroundings though we saw some other parties sporting jeans we were seated in puffy leather chairs between a pair of "royal" pop portraits by artist Mr Brainwash — one of a young Queen Elizabeth brought out a silver bowl filled with gougères accompanied by whipped chive butter The crisp exteriors of the savory puffs gave way to airy cheesy centers that really didn't require the butter The kitchen kindly split the $22 salad into two massive bowls for us It was difficult to believe that each of us had just half what is normally served to one person Over iceberg and gem lettuce in a lively white-balsamic vinaigrette we were treated to a mix of chopped ingredients that included basic tomato and onion We both struggled to finish our half-portion of the salad we had toyed with attacking a tomahawk together knowing we wouldn't be heading home to enjoy the leftovers I ordered a $75 striploin that was aged for 35 days in-house while my husband tried an 18-ounce ribeye for $85.  I ate a few bites that were undercooked in the middle she brought the meat back to the kitchen for another few minutes on the grill made even more splendid with the addition of a meaty morel-mushroom sauce.  chunky $18 duck-fat fries and $20 sauteed Broccolini in Mornay sauce Because my steak had arrived undercooked, Gabriella offered us dessert free of charge We were already so full that we might not have ordered it otherwise but we were glad we made room for the theatrically presented profiteroles.  the hazelnut ice-cream-filled pastry was only visible after Gabriella poured hot salted caramel over the chocolate structure Because we were her last table of the night Gabriella offered to show us around the grounds just past the antique pipe organ and portraits of the house's original owner Sir Henry Pellatt. The outdoor area is used for weddings which is understandable given the clear views of downtown Toronto.  The experience ended with a handwritten note congratulating us on our anniversary Prices have increased slightly since our visit but the expensive dinner was absolutely worth it for a memorable first-anniversary celebration It's difficult to overstate the excellence of the food, but the imperial experience as a whole overshadowed even the pair of memorable steaks.