There’s no shortage of things to love about Toronto, from its diversity and incredible mix of cuisines to its beautiful architecture and vibrant neighbourhoods. But one of our favourite things about this city has to be its dog-friendliness. Along with pet supply stores and animal hospitals, you’ll find plenty of local parks that are more than welcoming to canine companions. Of course, some are a cut above others.

Here are five dog parks in Toronto your furry family member will love…

1) Kew Gardens

If you live in East Toronto and have a four-legged best friend, the Beaches is a great place to be. Kew Gardens is a big part of the reason for that. Along with its convenient playground, wading pool, trails, and baseball diamond, this convenient green space is home to an off-leash paradise. This fenced-in area, located at the park’s south end, leads up to the lake—providing pretty waterfront views.

2) High Park

It’s the city’s largest green space, and it’s also the best place in town to enjoy some fresh air with your lovable pooch. At an impressive 399 acres, High Park is an outdoor oasis inside the city. Its massive, off-leash area is 8.5 acres in size. Here you’ll find “Dog Hill” (a large play area with doggie water fountains and picnic tables) and expansive, fenced-in trails surrounded by mature trees. If you’re anywhere in the west end, a weekend trip to High Park is always worth your while!

3) Sunnybrook Park

Between Leaside and the Bridle Path sits Sunnybrook Park, a sprawling green space with an impressive 25 bike trails—along with abundant picnic areas and wide-open spaces. With all that room to run, it’s no surprise that there are some wonderful pooch-friendly areas here. If you’re the proud parent of a Daschund, Chihuahua, or French Bulldog, you’ll be especially fond of the separate space for furry friends under 20 pounds. This makes it one of the most accommodating dog parks in Toronto, and all within walking distance of Yonge & Eglinton and Yonge & Lawrence.

4) Allan Gardens

Located along Gerrard Street East, this downtown park is known mostly for its six greenhouses and botanical gardens. Fortunately for canine parents, there’s also a very pretty off-leash dog area at its west end. Similar to Sunnybrook, this fenced-in park contains a space that’s reserved for smaller pooches. It also welcomes dog walkers, which is good to know if you’re hiring someone to help out during the week. Lastly, there’s a fun playground here—so if you have little ones, you can turn your doggie play date into a family affair.

5) Cherry Beach

Without a doubt, Cherry Beach is home to one of the best off-leash dog areas in the city. This Port Lands gem isn’t too far from Central Toronto—in fact, you can walk to it from the Distillery District in less than half an hour. It’s also a great place for dogs, thanks to its expansive off-leash area and sandy stretches to explore. Honestly, we can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon than strolling along the water with your best friend in toe—and maybe a coffee in hand.

Of course, any green space where your dog can run around without their leash is a great park, as far as we’re concerned. Just ask our dog Belle!

Looking for a dog walker near you?

While we’re on the subject of pooches, we wanted to mention a valuable resource we recently discovered. As much time as we all devote to our pets, most of us can’t be there 100 per cent of the time. When pandemic restrictions loosen (or when this thing is finally behind us), it’s going to be especially important to find reliable care!

The Rover app makes it easy to find dog walkers, boarders, and daycares close to you. It’s a really handy tool for those times when you’re working long hours or have to leave town for a night or two. On the service provider side, there’s an extensive vetting process—so you can rest assured that your best friend is in good hands.

Whether you’re the only person who walks your dog or you get a little help now and then, knowing the location of the nearest park is a must. If you check out one of the options above, we can pretty much guarantee that you won’t be disappointed!

Interested in learning more about the neighbourhoods of Toronto? We’re here to help you find your dream home in this unique community. Reach out to our team today.

Toronto is home to no shortage of incredible communities, and Rosedale and Cabbagetown are two of the best. There’s always something fun to do in these neighbouring areas—even in the midst of a pandemic. While an enjoyable afternoon or evening might look a little different now than it did in the pre-social distancing days, there are still plenty of good times to be had in one of the most vibrant pockets of the city.

Here are five things to do in Rosedale and Cabbagetown during the pandemic…

1) Take an architecture tour of Cabbagetown

When you’re feeling a little restless, why not head outside for a walk? If you do, be sure to take in the homes all around you. Picturesque Cabbagetown is known for its unique, well-preserved older architecture. Gothic Revival and Bay-and-Gable homes abound. Elegant vertical shapes, pointed arches, and ornamental gables are just a few features that make these styles so appealing. Whether you’re strolling down Amelia, Winchester, or Metcalfe, keep your eyes open!

2) Grab the special from F’Ameila

It’s one of the most charming places to grab a meal in Cabbagetown. F’Ameila serves up divine Italian cuisine in a cottage-like eatery, which also features a beautiful atrium. While you can’t step inside and enjoy the ambiance right now, you can grab some takeout that’s a cut above. The daily specials (available for two or four people) are truly inspired, whether they include chicken parmigiana or Margherita pizza. Next time you’re hungry, why not take a stroll to this local favourite?

3) Explore the Rosedale Ravine

If you’d prefer to be immersed in nature while you walk, consider checking out the Rosedale Ravine Trail. This forested oasis is just a stone’s throw from Yonge and St. Clair (from there, simply turn onto Heath Street East and take the staircase). Start exploring, and you’ll find yourself walking along a creek surrounded by mature trees. You can check out the area, visit the majestic Mount Pleasant Cemetary, or head to the equally scenic Beltline Trail.

4) Go shopping

Both Cabaggetown and Rosedale are great places for some retail therapy. While you can’t go inside boutiques at the moment, now is a great time to do some window shopping—or use your laptop to see the latest items. Shops like Labour of Love (for stylish home decor and stationary), Spruce (where you’ll find carefully-curated household goods), and Want Apothecary (home to designer apparel for men and women) offer curbside pickup. Simply hop online to shop, then head over to your local favourite to pick up your purchase.

5) Enjoy a coffee in Cabbagetown

It’s one of the best places to get a caffeine fix in the city. Those who love Cabbagetown’s Jet Fuel are devoted to its perfectly-pulled espressos and velvety lattes. This Parliament Street go-to doesn’t have a menu, but you can walk in and they’ll make you whatever you’d like. It has that friendly neighbourhood feel that locals enjoy even now, in the midst of a pandemic. Drop in, pick up your favourite hot beverage, and take it to go!

Interested in living in Rosedale or Cabbagetown? We’re here to help you find your dream home in this unique community. Reach out to our team today.

Are you looking for the perfect place to put down roots in the GTA? The west end is a favourite among Toronto families. Here there are diverse neighbourhoods, unique businesses, and an incredible mix of homes. What many people don’t know is, it’s also where you’ll find some of the best schools in the country. Getting familiar with them could help you zero in on the right community.

If you’re looking for the ideal place for your child to get a high-quality education, here are five West Toronto schools to consider…

1) Humbercrest Public School

Humbercrest Public School has been around since 1915, and it’s enjoyed an excellent reputation ever since. This Bloor West-High Park educational institution earns an impressive ranking of 7.1 out of 10 from the Fraser Institute (which is considered the authority when it comes to Canadian schools). It also offers a wide range of extracurriculars—from music and sports to literacy and technology.

2) Swansea Junior and Senior Public School

If you’re looking for the right west end community, Swansea should be high on your list. The city’s largest green space (High Park) is just a stone’s throw away, as is family-friendly Bloor West Village. The neighbourhood is also home to Swansea Junior and Senior Public School, which receives a score of 8.6 from the Fraser Institute. These diverse halls of learning offer extended French instruction and some fantastic facilities—including a spacious gym and field. Students also enjoy an idyllic setting that includes a nearby pond and forest.

3) Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School

Situated in Bloor West Village, Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School is known for excellence. First off, it boasts a stellar Fraser Institute score of 8.2. School staff provides plenty of academic support, including free homework help for students who could use some extra assistance in math. They’re also devoted to helping kids become well-rounded citizens. As just one example, the school is home to various green and eco-initiatives.

4) St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School

If you’re looking to give your children a top-notch faith-based education, St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School is a great place to do it. In the heart of Roncesvalles (which is by far one of West Toronto’s best neighbourhoods for families), this local gem promotes spiritual growth while ensuring that every child has a solid grasp of the academic fundamentals. The Empower program, which provides assistance for those with reading challenges, is a great example. St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School receives a Fraser Institute score of 7.9. It’s a great choice for those living in the neighbouring Parkdale area.

5) Garden Avenue Junior Public School

Last but not least, we have Garden Avenue Junior Public School. This top-notch learning environment receives an 8.7 from the Fraser Institute—making it the highest-ranked option on our list. With a smaller student body than many, this Sunnyside institution allows for plenty of one-on-one attention for kids. Extracurriculars include dance, cross country, floor hockey, outdoor science…the list goes on. Put simply, Garden Avenue is one of the best places to get an elementary school education in the city.

Looking for the perfect family-friendly neighbourhood in West End Toronto? Get in touch to benefit from our in-depth neighbourhood expertise—and take your first step today!

Thinking of moving to a new neighbourhood in Toronto’s East End? Not sure which community is right for you? From local home types to amenities to commute times, there’s no shortage of things to consider. Of course, if you have kids, schools will probably also be in the mix. The district you live in may determine where your little ones get an education. That’s why knowing which schools represent some of the best can be a great starting point!

Here are five incredible schools in Toronto’s East End…

1) Pape Avenue Public School

Are you searching for an up-and-coming neighbourhood in a great school district? Look no further than Gerrard Street East. In this charming community—known for its Little India—you’ll find Pape Avenue Public School.

These halls of learning have received a superb score of 8.2 out of 10 from the Fraser Institute (an organization known for its highly comprehensive school rankings). It’s been around since 1899, making it a Toronto institution. Today, this diverse school is also home to Pape Children’s House, a non-profit childcare centre.

Looking to find the perfect family home in Toronto? Explore these posts from our blog for helpful advice.

• The Top Toronto Neighbourhoods For First-Time Buyers
• Is Yonge & Lawrence a Family Neighbourhood?
• Why Families Are Flocking to Riverdale & Leslieville

2) Withrow Avenue Junior Public School

As far as we’re concerned, Riverdale truly has it all. Gorgeous housing stock, charming amenities, and versatile green spaces. It’s also home to one of the best places for kids to get an education in East Toronto.

Withrow Avenue Junior Public School earns an impressive Fraser Institute ranking of 7.8. It’s no wonder. The staff here really cares—and they go above and beyond for students. As just one example, take Monsieur Steve. This third-grade French immersion teacher has become a youtube sensation for his remote learning videos!

3) Kew Beach Junior Public School

Without a doubt, the Beaches is one of the most in-demand communities in the city. It’s also a great place to live if you have kids, and part of the reason for that is Kew Beach Junior Public School. This marvelous school is devoted to helping kids become responsible citizens—and it’s earned a 7.5 from the Fraser Institute.

Along with its strong focus on reading, writing, and math, one of the most notable things about Kew Beach is its status as a Gold Certified Eco School. Its staff is invested in environmental conservation, making it ideal for progressive families.

4) Earl Haig Public School

Situated in East Danforth, Earl Haig Public School is one of Toronto’s best. It’s known for its top-notch Fraser Institute score (7.7) and its exceptional school council. There’s always room for improvement, which is why the parents and staff at this already high-quality learning institution are continuously working together.

Earl Haig also offers an impressive French Immersion program and a wide variety of extracurriculars. Whether you want your little ones to learn an official language or become engrossed in a new skill or hobby, this school is a great place to do it!

Want to know more about life in Toronto’s East End? Consider these posts from our blog.

• Top 3 Riverdale Coffee Shops
• What You Need to Know About Buying in Cabbagetown
• 5 Things to Do in Leslieville

5) St. Denis Catholic School

Do you want your kids to get a fantastic education rooted in Catholic values? If you live in the Beaches (or you’re considering a move there), you’re in luck. St. Denis Catholic School has a stellar reputation, and not just because the Fraser Institute has bestowed it with a score of 8.2.

While St. Denis offers daily religious instruction, it’s not the only focus here. From programs for gifted students to support via the latest technology, this impressive school ensures that students of all learning styles are prepared for the future!

Looking to find the perfect home for your family? As one of Toronto’s top real estate teams, we can help. Click here to send an email or . 

So easy and so good…The past two weeks I have been in my apartment and not able to cross the threshold due to quarantine after travel. I decided to make videos of some of the recipe’s that I have been experimenting with on friends and family. Baking has become my COVID pastime when I am not working. I am very project-oriented and I guess that is what I like most about baking. In the end, you have a result and there is the joy (hopefully) of watching others enjoy not only the process but the result.

This recipe for Mandarin Pound Cake is from my Brazilian friend Leandro and is a cake his mother makes. You do not need a big piece as it is dense and more like a pound cake but so flavourful especially with a Brazilian coffee.

Bon appetit!

Leandro’s Mandarin Pound Cake Recipe:

5 Mandarins, well washed 4 eggs 3/4 cup oil (180ml) 11/2 cup sugar (270g) 2 1/4 cups of flour (280g) 1 tablespoon of Baking Powder (15g)

Preparation mode: Cut 3 Mandarins in half (with the peel), remove the core and the white core that is in the middle; Liquify in a Blender.

Cut the remaining 2 Mandarins, squeeze them into a cup to cover and set aside. After removing the juice from the 2 remaining Mandarins, add their peels with the other 3 in the blender (they also cannot have seeds or the white part in the middle); Then add the eggs, oil, sugar and wheat flour; Beat everything for about 4 minutes, or until it becomes a very smooth mixture; Finally, add the Baking Powder and mix; Pour this dough into a greased and floured cake form; Bake in a preheated oven, 180C (375*F), for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; Topping: in a pan on the stovetop add the juice of the 2 Mandarins, half a glass of sugar and 1/3 of water. Cook over low heat until it becomes a consistent syrup. Then pour the syrup over the cake, still hot inside the pan.

Let cool, remove from the pan.

Bon Appetit!

COVID Baking

So much has changed over the past months and our World has turned upside down. After Sales, Zooms and Netflix, I had the time and energy to try a new hobby.

I grew up with a mother who would go on a baking spree when she knew I was coming for a visit. She would make “Mandelbrot” or as we called it out in western Canada ComishBriot and Honey Cake. For the first few days of our visit, there would be dessert at every meal. Then after the third day, she would look at me and say “When you go back home, you are going to be SO FAT!!”. Of course, the obvious question is “why did you make all that?”

Almost a year ago, I started baking and luckily my cousin Jack married into a family of cooks and bakers. His wife Susan Mendelson and her twin sister Lynn are amazing models, who love to eat and feed their friends and family. They have both taken it to the next level and offer catering services in both Vancouver and Toronto. Susan has written a number of books and can be also found under her company name, The Lazy Gourmet.

Many texts went back and forth as I tried some of her recipes and she has been unbelievably patient with my questions. Recently I thought it might be fun to take some of those recipes to YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram and the reaction has been great so far. I have after a year, come out as a COVID Baker.

This is not a new business for me, (I still love Real Estate) but a hobby to keep a “type A” personality busier in times of COVID-19. Also, it does have a great side effect as I like to bring home-baked goods to clients and colleagues and until we locked down Open Houses, you could always find cookies there. I have always been a big believer in “If you feed them they will come!”

Here is the first YouTube video and one of my favourite desserts: SOUR CREAM COFFEE CAKE