Is Too Good to Go worth it?

I tested it out myself, and here’s what I found!

By Shaaranki Kulenthirarasa

Too Good To Go is an online service that allows the public to buy goods close to the best-before-date for a reduced price, in an attempt to reduce food waste (Jane Trang Doan/Pexels)

The Too Good to Go app is a service that aims to reduce food waste, allowing customers to connect with food chains in their area to buy food items at a discounted price. 

The items are relatively close to the best-before date but are too good to go to waste (get it?). However, there are questions surrounding the legitimacy of the service and the quality of the food. In an Instagram poll, I asked users if they thought Too Good to Go was worth the price, and 80 per cent of the 32 respondents said yes. 

First-year Toronto Metropolitan University student Kyla Soloway says she tried out the service once at a Tim Hortons in her hometown of Calgary. 

“I think we paid around $5 and got a box of stuff and when you add it up, you are saving money, but you are definitely risking not knowing what you are going to get,” said Soloway. 

She said her box from Tim Hortons included bagels, muffins and donuts of decent quality. 

Social media sites such as Reddit are filled with mixed opinions of the service.

So I decided to test out the service myself!

The process was quite simple — downloading the Too Good To Go app on my phone, signing up for an account, choosing a store to buy a box from, placing the order and finally picking it up. 

One thing I immediately noticed was how the boxes sell out fairly quickly, especially for popular stores and restaurants.

Since Soloway tested out a Tim Hortons location in Calgary, I decided to test out a Markham location to see if my experience would be any different. 

The retrieval process was quite simple. When I went to pick up my order, I had to show the confirmation to the staff member at the store and she presented me with my Too Good To Go bag.

The total cost was $4.99 and I ended up getting a total of six baked goods.  There was a carrot cake with walnuts muffin, an old-fashioned plain donut, one honey dip donut, two chocolate glazed donuts, and one spicy jalapeño pastry. 

The regular price of all these items combined would  be $14.33. With the Too Good To Go box, I paid $ 4.99, saving $9.34. 

My experience at Tim Hortons was good, but I still wanted to test out the app with another store. Boxes were selling out fast in almost all stores, so securing a new opportunity was tricky. 

Eventually, I was able to successfully select a baked goods box from a Metro grocery store in Pickering. I placed the order that morning around 9 a.m. and picked it up between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

The total cost was $6.77, and I got a tray of pecan tarts, a box of apple turnovers, a bag of blueberry bagels, and a box of salted caramel pecan cookies. The original prices of each item were included on the boxes and totalled $20.45.  All items were within one day of their best-before dates.

As for the eating experience,  the pecan tarts tasted just like new; The apple turnovers had slightly lost their flaky texture, but there was no change in taste; The caramel pecan cookies were supposed to be crunchy, but were a little soggy when I opened them and the blueberry bagels tasted exactly the same as the ones I regularly buy. 

Overall, I would rate the experience an 8.9/10. The original value of the goods are significantly higher than the price I got them at, and the quality was still good. The only reason why I gave the experience an 8.9 out of 10 is because some of the items tasted a bit different than they do when I get them fresh. 

Each experience with the app would likely differ according to the stores you purchase from, but I can verify that Too Good To Go is legit and is pretty worth it. If you end up trying Too Good To Go, let us know on Instagram how did your experience go! 

Couple Edition: At-Home Dinner Date Ideas

Must-try dishes for a dinner date with a friend, yourself, or your boo!

By Shaaranki Kulenthirarasa

(Conscious Design via Unsplash)

If you're a university student who has been struggling to cook freshly cooked meals every day, you’re most definitely in need of a dinner date. Whether that date is a self-care date, one with a friend or one with your significant other, here are some meal ideas that you should try!

Heart-Shaped Personal Pizza

What other way to show your love to your S.O. than to make heart-shaped foods? This recipe from the Food Network will allow you to have the main dish, but also some aesthetic pictures to post to your feed!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of store-bought pizza dough 

  • 1.5 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil or canola oil)

  • 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour 

  • 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup of pizza sauce or tomato sauce

  • Vegetables (tomatoes, broccoli, green peppers, mushrooms) Optional*

  • Meat (Pepperoni and/or grilled chicken and/or ham, etc) Optional*

Steps

  1. Spread the pizza dough with some olive oil and place it in a bowl, cover it with parchment paper, and let it sit for an hour

  2. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit 

  3. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough nicely on a board and using a pizza cutter, carefully cut a heart shape of the dough 

  4. Fold up the edges of the circle to make a crust

  5. Spread the pizza sauce onto the dough 

  6. Sprinkle the cheese all over 

  7. Place your veggies and meat

  8. Transfer the parchment paper to the oven

  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes 

  10. Let it cool for a few minutes

  11. Enjoy!

Thai Red Curry Chicken and Rice from a friend

Spice up your nights with some Thai Red Curry Chicken and Rice! Everyone has their own way of making Thai Red curry. Here is a recipe my friend gave me back in high school that I have been following ever since. As a big fan of Thai cuisine, and someone with a Tamil- Canadian background, I have always loved spicy foods. That being said, this is my go-to meal:

Ingredients

Chicken 

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken

  • 2.5 tablespoons of water 

  • 2 teaspoons of cornstarch 

  • 1 teaspoon of canola oil

Curry 

  • 115g of Thai Red curry Paste

  • 2 cloves of garlic

  • 2 slices of ginger 

  • 2 tablespoons of neutral oil 

  • 1.5 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 1 oil 

  • ½ Red bell pepper

  • 7-8 Green Beans 

  • 1 cup of coconut milk

  • ½ cup of cilantro

Rice 

  • 1 Cup Rice 

  • 2.5 cups of Water 

Steps

  1. Combine all ingredients for the chicken and let it sit for 15-20 minutes 

  2. Oil a pan and cook the chicken until chicken is fully cooked

  3. Boil the rice

  4. In another pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil with garlic and ginger 

  5. Add the curry paste and stir in the brown sugar 

  6. Add onions, bell peppers, green beans and cilantro

  7. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes 

  8. Add in the chicken and cook for a few minutes 

  9. Garnish with cilantro 

Hearty Vegetable Soup 

There may be a day of the week where you may want a freshly-cooked meal, but feel a bit too lazy to do so. On a day like this, try out this Hearty vegetable soup recipe from the Taste of Home website.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil 

  • 7-8 sliced carrots

  • 2 large chopped onions

  • 4 celery ribs

  • 1 large pepper

  • 1 minced garlic clove

  • 2 cups of chopped green beans

  • 2 cups of peas or frozen peas

  • 1 cup of corn or frozen corn

  • 1 can of chickpeas

  • 1 teaspoon of thyme

  • 1.5 teaspoons of ground parsley flakes

  • ¼ teaspoon of pepper

  • 4 cups of water

  • 1 can of diced tomatoes

  • 2 cups of V8 juice

Steps

  1. In a pot, add oil over medium heat and add in the carrots, onions, celery, and green pepper.

  2. After this, add the garlic

  3. Slowly add the remaining ingredients 

  4. Stir all the ingredients and let it boil

  5. Serve!

Naan and Paneer Butter Masala 

If you are craving a warm and flavourful meal, try this Naan and Paneer Butter Masala Recipe inspired by the Allrecipes webpage with your S.O. This meal packs a punch to your taste buds and will make you want more!

Ingredients

Naan:

  • Store-bought Naan (The Crispy brand’s garlic Naan is really good!)

  • 1 teaspoon of butter

Paneer Butter Masala:

  • ½ cup of vegetable oil or canola oil

  • ½ pound paneer (cut into cubes)

  • 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine

  • 1 big onion (diced)

  • 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste

  • 1 tablespoon cashews

  • 1 teaspoon ground red chillies

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon coriander powder

  • ½ teaspoon garam masala

  • 2 tomatoes

  • ½ cup half-and-half

  • ½ cup milk

  • ½ teaspoon sugar

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1-2 bay leaves

Steps

  1. In a pan, heat up the oil and fry paneer cubes till they are golden brown from the outside. After this, keep it aside

  2. Once it is melted, add onions, ginger garlic paste, cashews, cumin red chillies, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir for around 5-7 minutes on medium heat

  3. Add in the tomatoes, half-and-half, milk, sugar, and salt. Let it cook for around 5 minutes and adjust the heat accordingly

  4. Place mixture into the blender and blend!

  5. After it is nicely blended, transfer back into the pan at low heat, add the fried paneer cubes, and stir on low heat for 8-10 minutes. Ensure it maintains a creamy consistency. If not, add a little bit of water. 

  6. In another pan, add the butter you have kept aside for the naan and let that melt

  7. Add in naan pieces and let it become nice and crispy

  8. After this, transfer your naan and paneer butter masala onto a plate and enjoy!

Rice Krispie treats

Finish off your meal with homemade Rice Krispie treats! The recipe is from the Rice Krispies website, but with a twist of my own!

Ingredients 

  • 3 tablespoons of butter or margarine 

  • 40 Jet-Puffed marshmallows 

  • 6 cups of Rice Krispie Cereal

  • ¼ cup of Pink and Red Smarties

  • Heart-shape cookie cutter 

Steps 

  1. In a saucepan add the butter/ margarine and melt it on low heat

  2. Add in Marshmallows and melt it 

  3. Add the Rice Krispie cereals and mix until it’s coated

  4. Add in the Smarties 

  5. Transfer onto parchment paper and pat down 

  6. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes till completely cooled off 

  7. Use the cookie cutter to make heart shapes! 

Everyone deserves a nutritious cozy meal. So what are you waiting for? Go and try these recipes and play a good movie to enjoy a toasty night with yourself, your friend or your significant other!

Culinary Roots: How Medu Vada Bridges the Gap

Connecting generational and cultural traditions through South Indian delicacies

By Vaishnavi Sriparan

South Indian medu vada with coconut chutney and sambar. (Manaswi/AdobeStock) 

Like many, my love for food is deeply rooted in my cultural background. For me, my favourite food is medu vada, a South Indian savoury doughnut. The perfect balance of the outer crunch and the soft, delicious dough dipped in coconut chutney make it an irresistible treat. But, the reason why it's my favourite food is that it holds so many nostalgic memories.

As a child, I have vivid and cherished memories of waking up early in the morning and entering my grandmother's kitchen, a hub of activity. The space was bustling, with family members all working together to make 200 vadas for the upcoming family events. 

The kitchen was filled with the sounds and smells of the vada-making process. The mixer was grinding away all the ingredients necessary to make the dough. The scent of the dough was potent and had a distinct sour smell that filled the air. I recall the sound of the dough ball dropping into the frying pan, sizzling and popping as it cooked. The aroma of the vadas frying in the pan was mouth-watering, and it made my stomach growl in anticipation. 

The kitchen was also filled with the sounds of old Tamil songs blasting on the radio, on my grandmother's small kitchen shelf. The music added a warm and comforting feeling to the room. However, the music could not overpower my grandmother's voice as she yelled at the rest of us for not working fast enough. 

Despite the challenges,  it was a family affair that united us. The memories of being surrounded by loved ones and learning more about my culture still warm me. Memories like this remind me of the importance of preserving family traditions and the love that goes into making this dish.

"I like making vada as it reminds me of back home as it was a dish I often cooked with my family there,” said Ranji Sivakumar, who has been making videos for her family for over 30 years.  Ranji immigrated to Canada in 1994 from Sri Lanka as a refugee due to the civil war that took place back there. As a newcomer, she started selling vadas she made for special events as an extra source of income. Currently, she resides in Scarborough and only makes vadas for her family members on special occasions. 

“Cooking it here helps me not forget those memories and makes me feel connected to them even though they are miles away,” said Sivakumar.

Vadas have been a staple food item in many South Indian and Tamil families. They are often used on religious festival days and poojas and have slowly become a staple in households, being included as a breakfast item and side dish for events. The snack is known as vataka in ancient Indian scriptures called Dharmasutras, written between 800 and 300 BCE.

While they taste super delicious, vadas are also very nutritious. The main ingredients of black lentils include protein, vitamin B, iron, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. 

Growing up in Canada, food helped me stay connected with my roots. The idea of eating a variety of South Indian and Tamil food sounds mouthwatering, but being in the kitchen, cooking it and hearing stories about these foods and the memories that are tied to them have helped me develop a more personal connection.  As cheesy as it may seem, the fragrance of spices and the sizzle of the tempering ingredients in the pan are like music to my ears — its taste is like a journey through my childhood and the memories I spent with loved ones. Being able to share my love for vadas allows me to appreciate and recognize the diversity and cultural richness that lies within my culture.

6 Affordable Cafes Near TMU Campus You Should Try

We’re on the hunt to find affordable, quality cafes near the Toronto Metropolitan University campus. Here’s what we found!

By Talia Saley, Emily Zhang, Teresa Valenton, Owen Kropp

COTTI COFFEE

COTTI COFFE, a popular Chinese coffee company open near TMU campus. (J-School TMU/Talia Saley)

COTTI COFFEE is located at 374 Yonge St., a three-minute walk from the Sheldon & Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre (SLC). 

The cafe is extremely close to campus, making it perfect for students who are on the go. 

The drinks’ regular prices range between $2 and $5 on their mobile app and with their discount, you can get $1.99 off your order for up to five discount coupons. 

Reply 

Reply is at 637B Bay St., a five-minute walk from the SLC. 

Reply offers a variety of unique drinks, from a maple macchiato to Cold Brews with lavender cream foam. 

“I lived in this area and I just wanted a place where it’s welcoming for the neighborhood because I noticed this area is becoming a little more deserted,” said Jae Jin, owner of Reply. 

Jin has always been interested in coffee and studied it in London, England. 

Reply is known for its flavoured cream lattes. Jin’s personal favourite is the Black Sesame Cream Latte. 

Angela Wang, a customer who visits the cafe every day for its comfy, cute atmosphere and close proximity to campus, said her favourite drink is the classic Iced Americano priced at just under $4.

Hailed Coffee

Hailed Coffee is a Middle Eastern and European coffee location near TMU campus. (J-School TMU/Talia Saley)

Hailed Coffee is situated at 44 Gerrard St. W, a six-minute walk from the SLC. 

“The owner’s from Saudi [Arabia], and it brings Italian and Middle Eastern together,” says Alyssa Gomez, a worker at the cafe. 

The term “hail” means cardamom in Arabic, an ingredient that can be found across the menu.

Her favourite drink is the Cardamella Latte, infused with caramel and cardamom, priced just over $5. 

Fresh Start Bakery & Cafe

Fresh Start Bakery & Cafe is located at 595 Bay St. on the lower level of the Atrium, a five-minute walk from the SLC. 

This cafe’s atmosphere feels homey, and it offers Turkish coffee and tea placed in traditional tea cups. Expect some amazing pastries all made in-house daily!

We tried the Turkish tea and it was extremely affordable, priced around $3. 

bbtease

bbtease is located at 111 Dundas St. W, a six-minute walk from the SLC.

bbtease offers a range of drinks including coffee, milk tea, and smoothies.

Customers say you can expect a cozy interior, good tables for studying, and plenty of outlets.

Drinks range from $6 to $10, with coffees being on the lower end and smoothies near the top.

Dispatch Coffee

Dispatch Coffee, a Montreal-based coffee shop located near the TMU campus. (J-School TMU/Emily Zhang)

Dispatch Coffee is located at 390 Bay St., a 12-minute walk from the SLC.

The Montreal-based business is known for their commitment to responsible and sustainable beans and coffee lovers can find lots of variety here.

The upper-level seating is also a great spot for students to bunker down and get some last-minute studying done.

The location even has an Americano very reasonably priced at around $4.

Those were some of our favourites around campus. Let us know yours!

International students find home through food in Toronto

Toronto Metropolitan University students take advantage of the city’s vast multicultural food community to battle homesickness

By Kyana Alvarez (with contributions from Hssena Arjmand, Olga Bergmans, Sierra Edwards, Abbie North and Vanessa Tiberio)

It is a brisk and gloomy November day, but a warm Brazilian carrot cake (from an even warmer Brazilian food vendor) melts away the cold. Despite being in the middle of downtown Toronto, the sweet treat never fails to teleport Roger Castelo back home to Brazil.

As international university students move away from their countries to pursue education, many must give up what they know as home. For some international students at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), food has become a crucial outlet for battling homesickness and exploring their culture away from home.

Castelo moved to Toronto in 2021 to study professional communications at TMU. He was drawn to Toronto’s diversity and welcoming atmosphere.

“Toronto was the perfect place because it has a lot of different cultures coming together and I'm[is] very passionate about language… Being here and learning English and French is also a great asset for me,” says Castelo.

Roger Castelo moved from Brazil to Toronto, Canada in 2021, to study at Toronto Metropolitan University (Kyana Alvarez/CanCulture)

Despite living “a dream come true” by studying in Toronto, Castelo says he misses his home, his friends, his family and his culture deeply.

Homesickness is a common and powerful emotion among international students. According to a study from the National Centre for Biotechnology Information, about 94 per cent of students experience homesickness during their undergraduate degree. 

“I have a difficult time as an international student. I don't feel like that's recognized enough, having that identity crisis,” says Sofia Villar Saucedo, a third-year RTA School of Media student.

Villar Saucedo identifies herself as a “third-culture kid” because she grew up in Mexico, moved to the U.S. for two years, and then spent a decade in China before coming to Canada to attend TMU.

However, both Castelo and Villa Saucedo have an almost fool-proof method for comforting their homesickness — eating foods from their home countries.

““Food is almost like another language. There is so much power in the dish you eat, and there’s always a story behind it. There’s a heritage, culture and history carried in the dish.””
— Roger Castelo

Because of Toronto’s extensive diversity, international students like Castelo and Villa Saucedo don’t struggle with finding authentic foods from their home countries.

However, not all international students have the means to find comfort in food. There is a growing number of students experiencing food insecurity, and international students are often overlooked, says Fleur Esteron, a TMU sociology professor.

“Food security also includes the cultural side of food and the social aspects of food [along with the financial aspects]…” she says. “International students’ prevalence of food insecurity might be higher [because of the costs of moving here], and because they’re missing that cultural and social side [of food].”

She says It is necessary to increase financial assets for international students to combat food insecurity - including cultural and social aspects.

More than 190,000 people immigrated to Toronto from 2016 to 2021, according to Statistics Canada. Like the countless other immigrants in Toronto, Castelo and Villa Saucedo enjoy finding different foods from their home in the city. 

“There's a place close to campus… It’s called Samba, and they sell a lot of Brazilian street foods. So, whenever I’m feeling very homesick or want something that brings me back home, I always go there to try their food,” said Castelo. 

Samba is a Brazilian eatery located in the World Food Market and specializes in traditional Brazilian dishes, including popular street foods and a variety of savoury pastries.

The World Food Market is located right across from TMU’s Sheldon Learning Centre and is a convenient food spot for students. It houses over 18 vendors and provides visitors with a wide selection of street food delicacies from different countries.

Vendors like Samba help boost cultural appreciation among international learners as rates for out-of-country students in Toronto are rising. 

According to Statistics Canada, international student enrolment rates in colleges and universities grew from seven per cent to 18 per cent from 2010 to 2019.

While Castelo relies on the World Food Market for a taste of home, Villa Saucedo goes to Kensington Market.

“I found a place called Juicy Dumpling… They have the best soup dumplings in the city. It really resonated with me because there is a place back home [in China] that serves the best dumplings, and they replicated that… I remember finding them and was so excited to go and eat them,” said Villa Saucedo.

Juicy Dumpling is well known for its cheap prices and authentic dumplings that reel in many customers daily. 

Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s most recognized spots to find various worldly cuisines, where the options and lineups are endless.

“I think these restaurants are well aware their demographics are here,” said Villa Saucedo, adding that people in Toronto are more open to exploring new cultures and engaging with them.

Alongside cheap and authentic meals, Kensington is a place of comfort for her as she also discovers traditional Mexican snacks and meals that are difficult to find downtown.

“Going to Kensington Market and finding all these Mexican places that provide familiarity and Mexican snacks has been so incredibly refreshing. And I can just go there and not wait until December to see my family, so it's really enjoyable,” said Villa Saucedo.

She also finds the connection between food and one’s culture through school initiatives like the TMU residence dining halls’ “Global Eats Program.” The initiative serves different cuisines from around the world each month.

“I feel that Toronto and TMU are so diverse and everyone you meet has a different background,” said Villa Saucedo. “I feel it’s really enjoyable to share meals with other people who aren't [from] your background, but you’re able to chat and get to know each other over the meal.”

As Castelo, Villa Saucedo and Esteron said, there is a deep connection between one’s cultural heritage, identity and food cravings. Although Toronto is very different from places like Brazil, Mexico, or China, it can fulfill both the academic and cultural needs of international students like Castelo and Villa Saucedo through the power of good and authentic cultural food.

Lazy Cat Cafe: The new go-to destination for every cat lover

From drinks to desserts, this cat cafe might be your new go-to destination in the GTA

By Talia Saley

Front view of Lazy Cat Cafe.

A picture taken from outside the Lazy Cat Cafe. (Talia Saley/CanCulture)

The Lazy Cat Cafe, located at 880 Ellesmere Rd. Unit 3 in Scarborough, is the new meet-up spot for all cat lovers. 

The newly opened cafe is bringing in people who haven’t had access to many cat cafes around the GTA. 

One of the couples visiting the cafe said they would often go to the TOT Cat Cafe until it closed down in 2017. 

The following year, the Meow Cat Cafe closed down as well due to an accessibility dispute.

The cat playroom area of the cafe. (Talia Saley/CanCulture)

The dine-in area of the cafe. (Talia Saley/CanCulture)

Lazy Cat Cafe’s interior is bright, clean, and minimalistic, with two divided rooms — one as a dine-in area, and the other as a playroom for cats.

The entrance fee for the cafe is 33.89 dollars per person including tax, which covers a drink of your choice with two free refills, and one dessert. The visit limit is an hour, and you must reserve your spot well in advance, as the cafe cannot guarantee slots for walk-in customers.

Menu and desserts in the cafe. (Talia Saley/CanCulture)

At first glance, the cafe has a variety of drinks and dessert options to choose from. My friend and I decided to go with the rose jasmine iced tea with a cream puff, and the iced tiramisu latte with a matcha roll cake. I truly enjoyed the tea as it was refreshing, light, and sweet, with a hint of that rose flavour. It complimented the cream puff that was airy and soft on the inside.

What’s unique about the cafe is that they have adoption initiatives set up for their cats. They regularly post on their Instagram in hopes of providing these cats with loving homes.

All of the cats were super friendly, varying from young to old, and each with their own personalities.

A cat sitting down.

A cat named Nekoya, that one customer was interested in adopting. (Talia Saley/CanCulture)

“This little guy is the most curious one. The moment we entered, he was sniffing everybody and would go from one to the other,” said a customer.

This customer seemed particularly interested in adopting Nekoya.

“I really like being with them and kind of seeing how they feel about me before going and adopting based on looks because their personality is a big deal,” she said.

Although she lives in downtown Toronto, she enthusiastically said she would visit the cafe again.

As for the others, the couple who used to visit the TOT Cat Cafe said they plan to adopt a cat once they move into a home together.

“I like how clean it is, the big space,” they said. “Even with a lot of cats, they maintain the space.”

A series of pictures were taken of the cats from the cafe. (Talia Saley/CanCulture)

Even with my cat allergies kicking in, the visit was totally worth my time, as the cafe seemed well-sustained with plenty of cats to mingle with.

I highly recommend the Lazy Cat Cafe if you’re looking for your next destination in the GTA filled with sweet treats and cuddles. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your new furry friend!

From menu hack to menu item: Meet Harvey’s TikTok viral “Pickle Pickle Poutine”

Are you “in a pickle” for what to eat for supper? Go try Harvey’s “dill-lightful” poutine!  

By Aliya Karimjee

Two fried pickles with fries, cheese curds, and pickle pieces.

A poutine with fries, cheese curds, pickle pieces and two fried pickles; to make it extra dill-icious. (Aliya Karimjee/CanCulture)

Pickles are more than just a craving! Whether you’ve had a long day or are simply hungry, Harvey’s “Pickle Pickle Poutine” is worth a try.

“Isn't Harvey's a burger place?” I hear you ask. Well, yes, indeed! But if you're not in the mood for a burger or want something more inclusive, check out Harvey's vegetarian gravy poutines!  

Amongst their poutine options is a new and limited edition available only until the New Year: “Pickle Pickle Poutine.” As you can guess from the name, this poutine is “pickled” for pickle lovers! 

So what does this poutine entail? As shown on @harveyscanada TikTok account, pickles get diced while two other pickles get fried. Next, they fry 100 per cent Canadian potatoes and add gravy, creamy ranch drizzle, and cheese curds. It all sounds fantastic, although we can all agree the special touch is the pickles! 

Follow me on my experience! 

As I entered Harvey’s filled with excitement and anticipation, I was scared as I originally didn’t see the item on the menu. However, I soon realized I simply did not have my glasses on. 

Once I could clearly see, I noticed the most mouthwatering video of the poutine! The pickles were being slowly diced and the creamy ranch was being drizzled all over the food. It just looked so good I promptly ordered my meal! 

I’m still not sure what was better, seeing the dish being made, or the food. 

The beauty of the deep-fried pickle, the sauce being drizzled, everything was just perfection in my eyes. 

Soon enough, the poutine was ready! 

As I took my first bite, I was so surprised by the mix of flavours! 

As a French Canadian, I’m used to the standard poutine flavours like gravy, BBQ sauce or sour cream; so this variety of fried foods: fries and deep fried pickles, accompanied by lighter ingredients like the cheese curds and ranch drizzle created the perfect crunchy poutine. 

It sounds delicious, but how exactly did this poutine come to life? 

It all started as a TikTok menu hack back on Nov. 24 of last year. From its increasing popularity, Harvey's had no choice but to listen to customers' wishes and release this unique poutine. After all, it isn't just every day you get 3,000 shares and 500,000 views from a TikTok video. 

This affordable poutine knows the perfect combination of crunchy and tasty. My tastebuds were not disappointed! Plus, until Dec. 17, use the coupon code HAR042 to get a regular-sized Pickle Pickle Poutine with a 20oz soft drink for $7.99.

From France to Toronto, meet Columbus Cafe

Hailing from Europe, how will this cafe chain resonate with Torontonians?

By Kristian Tofilovski

Exterior of Columbus Cafe, located on the corner of Adelaide St. W and John St.

Exterior shot of Columbus Cafe, located on the corner of Adelaide St. W and John St. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023. (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)

Columbus Cafe, located at 283 Adelaide St. W., opened its first location in Toronto on Oct. 17 and is slowly working on establishing itself as part of the city's cafe scene.

Since becoming the first cafe chain in France, the chain has expanded to 250 locations worldwide, with its newest location in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District, making it a great place to visit when in the area.

With its warm overhead lighting and modern atmosphere, the cafe provides a comforting environment to work or socialize in. Its signature yellow accents and adorable mascot can be found throughout the cafe.

Ranging from pop to alternative, a wide variety of music plays throughout the cafe. However, some may not find it enjoyable. "I really enjoy the look of the cafe, but in all honesty, the music isn't exactly what you'd expect for a cafe, I find it slightly loud and distracting," said a customer.

"I'm not sure why they're playing Barbie Girl," said another.

However, the cafe's spaciousness makes up for it. There are a variety of seating options available, including standard wooden tables and chairs, as well as small booth areas accompanied by pillows and soft seats.

"I'm staying at a hotel right now," said the customer. "I've found that in Toronto, the cafes tend to be pretty small, so having one with a large amount of seating is nice."

The menu includes a variety of hot and cold drinks, desserts, pastries and sandwiches, making it suitable for any time of day or weather.

Its prices are also relatively similar to the average cafe in Toronto, with most drinks ranging from five dollars or less, excluding tax. A single espresso costs $2.75 and a double is $3.45.

The food can be more expensive, with the sandwiches and wraps ranging from $5 to $10. The pastries, however, were five dollars or less. The cheapest breakfast sandwich on the menu costs $5.50.

The menu at Columbus Cafe. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023 (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)

The drinks come with mixed reviews. "I've tried both the cold and hot drinks here, and to be honest, I found both were slightly underwhelming. I think a fair critique would be to say that it tastes slightly watered down," said one customer.

"I don't have any issues with mine," said another customer. "I ordered a tea, which, as someone who doesn't drink it often, didn't leave a bad impression."

The food, on the other hand, received mostly positive reviews. "I had a ham and cheese sandwich yesterday and despite my feelings about my drink, I really enjoyed it," said a customer.

Hot drink from Columbus Cafe.

A hot drink from Columbus Cafe with its signature mascot decorating the cup. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023. (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)

Cookie from Columbus Cafe.

A chocolate hazelnut cookie from Columbus Cafe. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023. (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)

One thing is for certain, though: The cafe provides excellent customer service. As you enter, you are immediately welcomed with a friendly smile by the cafe employees. The employees demonstrate excellent patience, giving you space to carefully choose your order. The service is speedy too. "I got my drink probably a couple minutes after I ordered it," said a customer.

So, if you’re looking for a cozy spot to work, chat or simply enjoy a quick drink or meal, Columbus Cafe is definitely worth the try.

Korean pizza arrives to downtown Toronto

With 650 stores worldwide, Pizza maru has opened its doors to its third Toronto location, located in the downtown core of the city.

By Kayla Solway

Green lights light up the brick wall of pizza maru.

 K-pop plays over the speakers of Pizza maru as customers wait for their pizza. (Kayla Solway/CanCulture)

Located on 66 Gerrard St. E., Pizzamaru is a fusion of Korean flavours with a classic Italian tradition: pizza.

As visitors step inside, they are welcomed by the full Korean experience. The restaurant caters to both takeout and dine-in guests. If you choose to dine in, you'll be swaying to the K-pop songs playing over the speakers while using the typical stainless steel cups and plates that are commonly found in Korean dining establishments.

Featuring nine unique Korean-inspired pizzas and a variety of traditional pizza options, a staff member was more than eager to offer their recommendations:

“The Signature Schimbul is our most popular on the menu and comes with bulgogi, shrimp and potatoes. People also have been loving the Seafood Bay and AAA Steaky Smoked.”

The pizzas are topped with various ingredients such as corn, bulgogi, potatoes and mayonnaise. The blend of taste and texture sets it apart from more traditional options. With a wide variety of crusts, such as bread crumble and garlic, it is truly a customizable experience.

Two pizzas sit side by side. On the left is a larger one.

A spicy Crazy Chicken Shrimp is placed on the left and the Holy Honey Sweet Potato sits on the right, ready to be devoured. (Kayla Solway/CanCulture)

The Crazy Chicken Shrimp was a spice lover's dream. As the hottest pizza on the menu, it did not disappoint. There was a generous layer of cheese, topped with shrimp and chicken breast on the classic thin crust.

The Holy Honey Sweet Potato was a thin crust pizza, topped with a thick layer of cheese. The sweet potato was soft and paired perfectly with the other ingredients. Topped with the honey, there was a slight sweetness to the pizza, and the corn gave it a Korean touch.

If you aren't in the mood for pizza, their menu extends to a variety of both fried and oven-baked chicken with distinct Korean flavours such as sweet corn, Korean soy, and Korean BBQ. Not to mention, they offer sides such as Chili Topokki and Meat Cheese Spaghetti.

Although Pizza Maru may seem expensive, with small sizes starting at $15 and larger sizes ranging from $24 to $35, it is worth a visit for those who are looking for a new and unique pizza experience. Pizza Maru offers a range of delicious and innovative pizzas that are worth trying out.

For the month of November, students can also take advantage of the 20% discount available on weekdays.

3 unique and easy-to-make recipes for students

Hungry? Try some of these three beginner-friendly recipes below

By: Candice Zhang

How many of you constantly skip breakfast just to make it to your lecture on time? And how many of you skip lunch because of back-to-back lectures? 

If you answered yes to both of these questions, many other fellow students can sympathize with you. With the constant bombardment of school, extracurriculars and other part-time activities, finding some time to prepare meals can be challenging. The process becomes even more difficult when you don’t particularly enjoy cooking. 

However, with all of that said, you may be surprised to hear that there are a few quick meal recipes you can prepare beforehand. Most of these meals will only take a few minutes to put together. Without further ado, here are three meals which are my personal go-to’s: 

Tasty Lunch Sandwich 

Instead of purchasing sandwiches from fancy grocery stores, you can make your own sandwich with a few clever tricks. These recipes are easy to make, prepare and are super tasty. You can adjust them to your own preferences and needs. Here is a recipe which I use to make my sandwiches: 

Time required: 5-10 minutes. 

Ingredients: 

  • Two slices of ham 

  • Two slices of bread 

  • Mayonnaise spread 

  • One leaf of lettuce

  • One slice of cheese

Steps

  1. Grab two slices of bread and place them in a toaster. 

  2. When the two slices of bread are toasted, put them on a plate and apply the mayonnaise spread across both slices. Ensure you are fully covering one side of both slices. 

  3. Grab the two slices of ham and fold them in half. Place them on one slice of bread. 

  4. Add the slice of cheese.

  5. Fold the lettuce in half and place it on top of the cheese.

  6. Top the layers off with your last slice of bread. 

Now, you can pack your sandwich in your lunchbag and enjoy it for lunch. 

Easy Bibimbap 

Bibimbap is a Korean dish filled with rice and different types of meats and vegetables. It’s relatively easy to make, although it can be time consuming. But with the correct ingredients and preparation, stirring up a bibimbap is definitely doable in a short amount of time. Here is a recipe which I abide by: 

Time required: 20-40 minutes 

Ingredients

  • One cup of rice 

  • Kimchi (from Lucky Moose, HMart, or Galleria). View recipe here to make your own.

  • Rib Eye Slices (small pieces, about 6-8). 

  • Two tablespoon of Gochujang sauce

  • One Tablespoon of water

  • One Teaspoon of minced garlic

  • One Tablespoon of sugar 

  • One egg

Steps 

  1. Begin by cooking the rib eye slices: Sprinkle some oil over a pan, turn it on medium heat and wait for 3-5 minutes. Then, add the rib eye slices. 

  2. While keeping an eye on the rib eye slices, wash the one cup of rice thoroughly and pour it into a rice cooker. Then, add the water and turn on the rice cooker.  Alternatively, put rice in a pot and add about two inches of water. Let the rice soak for 10-20 minutes, and then drain the rice.

  3. Continue to reposition the rib eye slices, until the edges are golden brown, and until both sides are cooked. 

  4. Now, you can make the sauce: Combine the gochujang, water, minced garlic, and sugar together. Ensure that the consistency is thin; the fluid should pour out of the bowl effortlessly.

  5. Once you finish cooking the rib eye slices, place them on the side on a plate. 

  6. Now, turn the heat to high, and add the egg. 

  7. When the edges of the egg turn golden brown, flip the egg and leave it on for 30 seconds. 

  8. When you finish cooking the egg, place it on another plate. 

  9. Arrange the bibimbap in a bowl: Add the rice, then the kimchi, followed by the rib eye. Drizzle some of the sauce, and add an egg on top. 

Now you have it! Some delicious, homemade bibimbap for dinner. 

Easy Stir Fry 

Do you have some leftover rice? You can easily take some out of the fridge and put them in a pan for a quick stir fry dish. If you’re in a hurry and are running out the door, here is another filling recipe you can consider for lunch. 

Time required: 20-30 minutes

Ingredients 

  • One and a half cups of rice

  • One-third cup of diced carrots 

  • One-third cup of peas

  • One or two eggs 

Steps

  1. Turn the heat on to medium. Drizzle a frying pan with oil. 

  2. After 5-10 minutes, crack an egg and place it in the pan. You can now begin scrambling the egg. 

  3. After around 7 minutes, add the vegetables. 

  4. After two minutes of placing the vegetables, place the rice and cook the meal together. 

  5. Add salt or pepper for more flavour. 

  6. Wait until the vegetables and eggs turn golden brown; ensure the rice is also spread apart and not clumped together. Then, you’re ready to enjoy your meal. 

This stir fry is a quick recipe to combine different ingredients with diverse nutritional value. 

Which dish should I pick out of the three? 

Picking when to eat these three dishes depends on your preferences and lifestyle choices. However, I would usually go with the sandwich for lunch or breakfast, just because they’re easier to prepare and more portable to carry around campus. 

For dinner, especially when I’m studying at home, I would opt for bibimbap due to the longer preparation time. The good news is that the bibimbap is often filling and delicious, as there are multiple ingredients. So, the longer time for preparation is often worth the sacrifice. 

Stir-fry can be used for many meals: It can be a filling breakfast, lunch, or dinner due to the number of ingredients and nutritional value.
Being a student often entails multiple deadlines. However, meals cannot be missed as they are essential for a healthier lifestyle. In the end, it’s best to choose a dish which resonates with yours. 

I encourage you to try out these recipes, and let us know which one you enjoy the most!

What is Toronto’s Favourite Halloween Candy?

Toronto voted on their favourite Halloween candy and you might find the results spine chilling!

By: Shaaranki Kulenthirarasa

CanCulture contributor Shaaranki Kulenthirarasa created a poll to ask Torontonians “What is your favourite Halloween candy?” (Artwork by Talia Saley)

With Halloween approaching, many are looking forward to delving into some sweet treats! 

Knowing this, the CanCulture team went on a mission to find out Toronto’s favourite Halloween candies!

Over 200 responses were collected through verbal interviews and an Instagram poll asking what their favourite Halloween candy was.

The result? Toronto’s favourite Halloween candy is Coffee Crisp!

CanCulture discovered that Toronto’s favourite Halloween candy in 2023 is … Coffee Crisp! (Graphic by Mariana Schuetze)

53 people out of the 214 individuals who were interviewed voted for Coffee Crisp as their favourite Halloween candy. 

That accounts for 24.7 per cent of the total individuals who responded. 

“On campus I feel like I see everyone with a coffee. Now imagine adding some chocolate and a little crunch. The best candy ever,” said Isabella Keats, a student at Toronto Metropolitan University, whose favourite Halloween candy is Coffee Crisp.

Coming up in second place is Sour Patch Kids, with 46 out of the 214 individuals’ votes.This accounts for 21.4 per cent of the responses.

“Sour Patch Kids are so addicting and they have the perfect amount of sweet and sour,” said Malie- Eloïse Huynh when asked about why she thought her choice was superior to others. 

At third place is Reese’s, with 37 out of 214 votes,whichaccounts for 17.2 per cent of the total individuals who responded.

Skittles and Mars Bars were both tied and accounted for 10.2 per cent each with 22 people out of 214 voting for these candies. 

The remaining 16.3 per cent included other candies such as Aero, Twix, gummies, Hersheys, Smarties and salt water taffy.

“Aero is bubbly, textured and perfectly sweet, making it a flawless combination for the best candy in the world,” said Anisa Persaud, a student at TMU.

Claire Van De Weghe's choice was salt water taffy. When asked about her choice, she said that the sweet treat has memories attached to it for her. 

 “Salt water taffy always makes me remember when I was a kid and on different vacations. I always have a lot of good memories of salt water taffy,” she said.

According to a survey conducted by the Retail Council of Canada, trick-or-treating is the top way Canadians celebrate halloween accounting for about a fourth of all other Halloween activities. 

What do you think is the best Halloween treat? Do you agree with the final results? Let us know what your favourite candy is! Maybe you come across some of these candies this spooky season. 

Putting the ‘super’ in Superballs: Why this Toronto café is a must-see

Vegan doughnut holes and coffee served in retro cardboard cars — what’s not to love?

By: Charlene Hatcher

The interior of Superballs Café, showcasing its doughnut selection at its 252 Queen St. W. location on Mar. 18, 2023. (Charlene Hatcher/CanCulture)

If you’re looking for something to do on the weekend, take the 501 Queen streetcar to one of Toronto’s newest cafés.

Located at 252 Queen St. W., Superballs Cafe opened on Feb. 28 and business has been bustling ever since.

“The first week was kinda slow because no one knew that we existed,” Kirsty Fan, the founder of Superballs, tells CanCulture in an interview. She said customers thought the business was competing with its neighbour, Members Only — a waffle house known for its phallic edible creations. But after finding out both places are under the same management, a steady stream of people have been visiting the locations. 

“I think now people are just walking up on this rainbow path and trying to decide, ‘Do I want Superballs or waffles?’” Fan says. 

Doughnut holes are made using this machine, which cuts the dough into pieces of roughly the same size before frying them in oil. (Charlene Hatcher/CanCulture)

Inspired by Greek doughnuts, Loukoumades, Fan says she wanted to create something “everyone can enjoy,” noting her allergy to honey, something the dessert is typically filled with. Her solution is a dairy, egg and honey-free version of the Greek delicacy.  

On top of her spin-off on the traditional dessert, Superballs serves every order up in quite possibly the cutest take-out tray ever, channeling ‘50s and ‘60s vibes throughout the café to give you the best dining experience possible, even while on the go. 

Doughnuts in the front, coffee in the back, and you’re ready to roll with these eco-friendly, reusable takeout containers.

“Both stores, we don’t use any plastic,” Fan says. “Everything except the coffee lids is made out of recycled paper.” She adds that the containers can be reused to hold plants.

Fan says that although she knew what she wanted the theme of her newest café to be, finding a recipe everyone could agree on was time-consuming and oftentimes draining. She said that her employees baked for 12 hours every day for two months to perfect the Superball.  

So, did their efforts pay off? CanCulture dropped by to find out!

Upon heading inside the café, patrons are welcomed by the aroma of cinnamon sugar and frying dough, intertwined with a bustling atmosphere of bubbly staff and energetic music. 

Quaint on the outside, party on the inside is the best way to describe the atmosphere of Superballs. 

Superballs on the exterior. What appears to be a meek, quiet location is found to be quite the opposite after heading inside. (Charlene Hatcher/CanCulture)

After ordering a coffee with some caramel syrup and an eight-piece serving of cinnamon-sugar Superballs, it’s worth noting these are the only vegan ones, CanCulture put these lil’ goodies to the test. 

In the interest of transparency, Superballs did not charge CanCulture for the order, but an order of eight Superballs and a coffee would cost patrons $8.75.

After taking the first bite, the doughnuts were soft and sweet, quickly deflating in an airy, fluffy combination with a slight chewiness. Along with a sip of coffee, it’s the perfect afternoon snack to conclude a long day. 

Aside from a happy dining experience, both Superballs and Members Only have no shortage of happy staff either.

Tutku Unlu has been working with Fan since the beginning, remaining by her side from the opening of Members Only to the opening of its new neighbour. Originally from Turkey, and at one point Fan’s neighbour, Unlu says working with Fan has made her journey through life in Canada “miraculous.” 

“She is just loving,” Unlu says of her boss. “I can be myself, I feel safe here…everyone is showing their talent, their hospitality,” she added while saying she would like to thank Fan for being so welcoming.

A close-up of the retro cars where food is served at Superballs. (Charlene Hatcher/CanCulture)

The show of appreciation from both customers and employees is what makes the struggle of being a small business owner, especially during the pandemic, worth it in the end, Fan says. For Fan,  Superballs is more than a job: it’s an opportunity to grow as a person, give back to the community and show that having a little fun doesn’t need to break the bank. 

To anyone thinking of opening a business or pursuing any other dream they have, Fan has one piece of advice: “If you feel genuinely good about it, do it. If you fail, you can always start over again.” 

No-Tip Restaurants in Toronto: What’s the Deal?

More restaurants are changing to a ‘no-tip’ system, and experts explain what to expect for your next night out

By: Emily Di Natale

 Canadian consumers are feeling the pressure to tip higher amid inflation and economic crises (Sam Don Truong/Unsplash)

We’ve all been there. It’s a stressful experience for some and downright baffling for others. The music is loud and the mental math you are attempting while staring at the total on the bill is suddenly impossibly hard.

Where do you put the decimal again? Should you just pull out the calculator on your phone? Wait, is that rude? What’s a good tip? 10 per cent? 15 per cent? Why is the server staring at you? Why is everyone staring at you? Okay, just close your eyes and pick a random option! That’s a good idea, right?

Sometimes, tipping feels like an Olympic sport.

Following the government-imposed shutdowns during the pandemic, people have rejoiced in the ability to go back to restaurants, get drinks with friends and flirt with a cute waiter every once and a while. But there is one part of the outing that everyone seems to dread: the tip.

The payment service company Square revealed that the average tip has increased from 16 per cent to 20 per cent since 2016. The company also reports that only 13 per cent of Canadians believe that service has improved as tips have increased.

Square reports the newest tipping phenomenon coined as “tip creep,” where customers are noticing pressure to tip goods and services that have not previously asked for tips. Many consumers have taken to the internet to voice their concerns, questioning how much customers should tip — should you tip for every service? Every single coffee, cookie or oil change?

In light of changing times and high inflation rates, many restaurants in Toronto have decided to ditch tipping altogether.

One restaurant leaving tips in the past is Richmond Station, a Canadian-style restaurant at the intersection of Yonge and Richmond streets co-owned by Top Chef Canada winner Carl Heinrich and Ryan Donovan.

Richmond Station is a certified “living wage employer” and operates a “hospitality included” business. On the Richmond Station website, they define “hospitality included” as the business model that removes the need for customers to tip and “all the necessary revenue to properly compensate all staff members is built into the menu items.”

The Ontario Living Wage Network comprises employers, non-profits and researchers, all campaigning to change "what the minimum standard of pay for low-wage workers should be in the province,” according to their website. To calculate the living wage in different areas, the organization considers the average employment income, the income provided by the government, taxes and annual family expenses. The living wage designated for the city of Toronto is $23.15/an hour.

“At first, we were a little anxious about whether guests would feel that maybe an opportunity was being taken away from them to tip, but we've found that people have never wanted that responsibility,” said Donovan.

Inspired by New York restaurateur Danny Meyer, Richmond Station adds to the list of no-tip restaurants in Toronto. (Richmond Station)

While there is no standard for how a no-tip restaurant works, Richmond Station calculates its service into its menu prices. When you pay, you only pay for exactly what you see on the menu.

“The system is not complicated. It’s a lot like the other things you buy in your day or your week,” Donovan said. “There are no additional fees, no percentages, no tipping, no anything.”

Other restaurants may include an automatic 18 per cent gratuity on the check at the end of your meal, removing the need for the customer to choose the tip amount.

The shift in Richmond Station’s tipping policy occurred recently when employees were laid off due to pandemic closures across the service industry. Between the weeks of closings and reopenings, Donovan says the employees collected COVID relief subsidies from the government when they couldn’t work. However, most times, the subsidies did little to help the employees make ends meet.

Donovan said staff with high earnings because they were salaried or hourly paid employees were captured in the social safety net. For workers who were part of their tip pool, their cash tips are not included in their paychecks, “so they were not calculated in those subsidies, and the social safety net didn’t catch them,” he said.

As a result, Richmond Station witnessed many of its employees change careers because the service industry could no longer support them. Seeing so many of their staff lose the opportunity to work at their restaurant inspired the owners to test out the “hospitality included” model, and it stuck.

Brain Heasmen, an instructor at the Hospitality and Tourism Management Department at Toronto Metropolitan University, weighs in on what forgoing tipping could mean for individual businesses and the industry as a whole.

“It will absolutely affect the industry because you're changing something that's been very customary for a long time, and a lot of servers go into the business because tips can be a major lucrative income,” said Heasmen.

If servers don’t get tips, the question arises of what will motivate them to work in the industry.

Donovan highlights that there are many benefits to receiving a higher paycheck regularly. Many big steps employees might want to take in life, like buying a home, having children and investing financially, have the potential to be delayed due to unofficial income, such as cash tips.

Whether you are taking maternity or paternity leave,  applying for a loan, trying to secure a mortgage or building a pension, the outcomes improve the higher your tax bracket is. Donovan says the incentive for people to want to work at places like Richmond Station is the flexibility for professional and personal growth.

Hospitality included is much more forgiving than the old model, says Donovan, where flexibility is limited and often employees find themselves stuck when they need to make decisions that could help them generate more personal revenue.

“[In the old model] if you want to earn more money, you work on a busier night, or you take on extra tables. Now, if you're a mother or a father, and you need to be home in the evening time, you can't make more money by working Friday night, working Saturday night, because you need to be with your family,” said Donovan.

There's also more equity in the Hospitality Included model, says Heasmen. He said that better wages across the board for all employees ensure all team members are paid for the effort and work they put in.

“Everyone is a stakeholder in your restaurant experience — from the hostess to the person in the kitchen, to the person taking your wine order to the server — they play an equal role in your dining experience,” said Heasmen.

The prospect of moving toward an industry with no tipping can change everything, from the people who work in the industry to the people who consume its services, says Heasmen. And yet, despite the drastic changes that he believes are to come, Heasmen posits there are reasons to be optimistic.

“This is the opportunity to make changes,” he said. “And again, at the end of the day, equity is my biggest concern — that's what I think needs to be changed the most.”

Sugar Shack TO’s maple-filled weekend satisfies sweet-tooths of Torontonians

The sugar-ful event on Toronto’s Sugar Beach featured live music, local vendors and most importantly – maple syrup 

By: Aliya Karimjee

 A Sugar Shack worker is pouring maple syrup on a stick in the snow to create a traditional Canadian dessert of maple taffy. (CanCulture/Aliya Karimjee)

One Canadian stereotype that isn’t wrong is that Canadians love their maple syrup.

On March 11 and 12, from a live band to a diverse array of sweet and savoury foods, Sugar Shack TO had everything to offer. But my personal highlight from the — the undeniably sweet maple taffy.

This sugary snack is originally an Indigenous tradition. Legend has it that Canada’s Indigenous Peoples witnessed a squirrel drinking the sap from a tree and discovered this “sweet water” was crucial for food preservation. The recipe was later co-opted and claimed by French settlers as their own, especially around Quebec.

This tradition is made by boiling the maple sap for hours. The perfect temperature will allow the maple to harden on the snow, creating the famous maple taffy on a stick. 

Being half Québécoise, it has been a childhood tradition to go to these types of sugar shacks.

My family sitting at a large table eating traditional Quebec meals, followed by eating maple taffy (CanCulture/Aliya Karimjee)

In Quebec, we would eat traditional Quebec meals like maple-smoked ham, “oreilles de crisse” and other famous dishes, dance together while a live band sang and finish our day with maple taffy.

Sugar Shack TO’s ambiance was definitely similar. Everyone seemed so happy and relaxed. This event definitely surrounded me with a “homey” feeling.

There were many activities, including Anishinaabe storytelling by Lenore Keeshig, a few lumberjack shows, maple taffy and other food stands, as shown on Sugar Shack TO’s Instagram page.

The event was a lovely afternoon outing – getting food and listening to music. But, for events like these, you have to go on an empty stomach to get the whole experience.

Despite the small French population in Toronto, there was definitely community-building as everyone would start conversations with new people and make new connections.

Vendors with maple products allowed people to bond over food and buy authentic maple souvenirs and desserts.

Although few people were dancing, I did see some enjoying themselves.

Following this event, I recommend going sugar-shacking as you get to spend a lovely day out while building community. 

On top of it all, you get to eat maple taffy — is there anything more fitting to celebrate the winter season in Canada?

From plate to post: Inside tryittoronto’s content creation journey

Sai Balaji reminisces on her social media experiences and her hopes for the future

By: Daniella Lopez

A graphic with a photo of Sai Balaji surrounded by food

Sai Balaji, better known as “tryittoronto” on TikTok and Instagram, doesn’t want her account to be exclusively niched into a food blog.

“I like to call it my digital diary,” Balaji said.

The fourth-year business technology management student at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) started actively posting to TikTok about a year and a half ago. She’s wanted to post content for as long as she can remember. Her food videos often went viral, so she stuck with them.

Currently, Balaji’s content revolves around restaurant reviews and date activities within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). She has amassed over 80,000 followers on TikTok and over 7,000 Instagram followers.

CanCulture asked Balaji her top food recommendations; in no particular order, she said Vela Toronto, Offworld Bar and Lake Inez.

Balaji’s desire to try new food and places while documenting her journey is what led her to grow on the platforms. “I feel like Toronto is very rich in culture because there’s so much diversity. We definitely take advantage of that, and we don’t explore as much as we should.”

Balaji quickly realized if she wanted to grow on the platforms, relating her videos to her potential audience, like those living in the GTA, would be beneficial.  

Yet Balaji’s journey as a content creator wasn’t always easy. In the beginning stages of her process, Balaji says she would record footage, not post it and then delete it because she didn’t think anyone would care. 

In her earlier videos, her face was never included; if she had to be in the video, she would only show her back.

“I did not want anybody to know it was me.”

She didn’t tell her parents about the account until she reached 50,000 followers.

Slowly, Balaji realized posting made her happy.

While Balaji acknowledges her journey to over 80,000 followers is “mind-blowing,” which people might attribute to being a content creator now, she says it’s ultimately just a number.

“As a human being, I feel like we set these goals for ourselves, and then when we reach them, we think we’re going to be so incredibly happy. But in reality, they don’t really matter,” Balaji said.

Balaji describes each milestone, like reaching 10,000 and then 50,000 followers, as a “never-ending race.”

Tryittoronto’s TikTok profile on the web version of TikTok.

Balaji posts food reviews and activity spots on her social media (Daniella Lopez/CanCulture).

It could be the platform itself that makes creators like Balaji always yearn for more.

TikTok, Balaji says, is about adding value to the viewer. She says people care more about the activity in the video rather than the person.

Instagram, in contrast, juxtaposes TikTok’s frequently impersonal interface. While Balaji has a smaller following on that platform than TikTok, she feels like her Instagram followers are genuinely interested in her. Yet each platform, she says, is better for certain things. “I do love the TikTok community because it feels like I’m talking to new people every day,” she said.

While content creation takes much of Balaji’s time, she also has to worry about something else: being a student.

“School definitely has taken a backseat since I started content creation,” Balaji said. It wasn’t that she didn’t care about her degree anymore, but Balaji wanted to prioritize what made her the happiest.

“If I can just get decent grades, do something that I love and really enjoy my time being a student while I'm having fun, I’d rather do that.”

Balaji’s next goal with the account is to travel abroad and continue documenting the interesting food and fun places she visits. But because her name is Toronto-centric, she worries about the lack of opportunities she may come across. She eventually hopes to change her username into an eponymous one to establish more of a community with her followers.

Whenever the change comes, Balaji’s love for content creation will never fizzle out. 

“I think it’s so much fun, and I just see myself doing this forever and never complaining.”

3 Delicious Valentine’s day food gifts to win their hearts and stomachs

These cute ideas will definitely make a loved one feel special

By: Kavya Puvanapaskaran

A photograph of 5 heart-shaped sugar cookies laying on a patch of flour over a blue wooden table. the cookies are a mixture of red, blue and white with the words i love you and love drawn across some of them.

The easiest way to someone’s heart is through food! (Yonko Kilasi/Unsplash)

With the winter days slowly getting longer, Valentine’s Day is also approaching us. Now, having a partner or not, this holiday is definitely something that should be celebrated with the people you love. What better way to spend it than munching on some delicious food?

I’m sure you have walked into many stores and have already seen generic boxed chocolates countless times. Sure, those taste great, but why not make things a little more fun and do something different?

Gifting food is never a bad idea, and that lucky person would most definitely appreciate it. Let’s take a look at some delicious ideas.

Breakable hearts

Breakable chocolate hearts are a great way to put a spin on gifting chocolate. This fun and interactive gift calls for smashing the heart into small, sharable pieces with a collection of goodies inside to enjoy as well. It’s a win-win situation! It’s also customizable with different colours, toppings and contents inside. Break My Cake is a local business in Toronto where they make these yummy creations, offering both delivery and pick up at their location on Queen St. West & Lisgar Street.

Minimalistic cake

You know what they say – less is always more! These cute and simple cakes boast a minimal design while also being aesthetically pleasing. Have it say any message you’d like, from the traditional “Happy Valentine’s Day” to a personal inside joke. You can customize it to their liking, making this a unique, one-of-a-kind gift. @whipped_to on Instagram does an amazing job at creating these cakes. They have an endless number of pictures of all the work they have done so far. The best part? They’re a small business located in the city– so you’ll be supporting a local business while also putting a smile on people’s faces.

Heart-shaped pizza

Not everyone has a sweet tooth. For the savoury treat lovers out there, how about a pizza? But this is not just any pizza; it’s a heart-shaped pizza! Load it up with all of your boo’s favourite toppings, and bon appetit! This can be bought at a pizza store nearby like Pizza Pizza or Papa John’s, or you could take to your kitchen to try it out yourself. Take a look at this recipe by Food Network. Again, choose any toppings and cater them to your special someone’s taste!

The definitive don’ts of subterranean dining: Food not fit for the TTC

In a post-French Toast Guy Toronto, what foods should we not choo-choose to eat while commuting?

By Anna-Giselle Funes-Eng

a photograph of a subway station with people standing in front of the entrances

Feeling snackish at Dundas station, a TMU student drinks pop while waiting for the train. (Anna-Giselle Funes-Eng/CanCulture)

The results from hell are in, and the hottest Toronto dining location is officially the subway platform of Bathurst Station (westbound, specifically) and the northbound Line 1 University train! That is if you are French Toast Guy, a man who dined on the TTC complete with a small table and bib napkin last week. 

The Toronto phenomenon, now outed as a corporate marketing ploy by Wendy’s Canada to promote their new french toast sticks, compels us to look within ourselves and ask: are there really foods I shouldn’t be eating whilst riding the rocket? And the answer is a definitive, solemn yes. 

But not to worry, snackish commuters! I have all the answers. Here is a comprehensive guide to what foods should simply not be eaten on the subway.

A Hong Kong-style lobster tower

A three-foot mound of fried lobster may seem like a good travel snack in theory, but eating your body weight in seafood is often better left for above-ground settings. 

A fully set 1950’s style jello salad

a photograph of a lower half of a body wearing a pink shirt and holding a knife and folk in their hands as a plate red jello sits in front of them on the table they're seated at

(cottonbro studios/Pexels)

This jiggly snack might not fare well in the stop-and-go jolts of the train and will absolutely end up in a mushy pile on the ground. Either let the jello salad die to history, or leave it to be enjoyed at your grandparents' house while you defend your identity at the dinner table. 

A roasted one-eyed pigeon on a stick

a photograph of a pigeon

(Anita awasthi/pexels)

In my experience, any stray pigeons who have made their way onto the train may find it to be grotesque and descend upon you in a murderous squawking cacophony. There is plenty of time to eat pigeons outside of your commute.

A ten-foot-long loaded Subway sandwich

(Rajesh TP/Pexels)

Even if you think it will, it won’t fit in your tote bag. An upside to this one, though, is that your friends can use the trail of shredded lettuce you leave behind to locate you should you become lost in the PATH. 

Todd A. Penegor, Wendy’s CEO

a grey scale image of a sculpture of a white man with a translucent image of a hammer and sickle in the background

(Steve Harvey/Pexels)

Feast off the man who got rich feasting off stolen wages from minimum-wage workers! Not quite a subway snack – but there is nothing tastier than wealth-hoarding white men disproving the myth of meritocracy.

 A 40lb tub of freezer-burnt ice cream

a photograph of a tub of ice cream in a freezer

(Dev Benjamin/Unsplash)

Wouldn’t eating straight out of a bulk-sized tub of cookie dough ice cream taste better while cry-watching Love, Actually with your friends? Plus, depending on the length of your commute, there’s a heightened risk of ice cream soupation.

Hopefully these guidelines will keep you out of both jail and the TTC no-ride list! Stick to ‘em, and you’ll be riding the underground rocket with perfect dining etiquette in no time.

This South Indian café gives Toronto residents a taste of home

Madras Kaapi has garnered a bountiful following from the authentic flavours of their drinks

By: Nanthana Balachandran

Outside of Madras Kaapi on 870 College St, Nov. 22, 2022. (Nanthana Balachandran/CanCulture)

In a diasporic city like Toronto, people are constantly longing for home and a sense of belonging. For Shilpa Kotamarthi, this yearning drove the creation of Madras Kaapi, a newly opened coffee house in the heart of the city.

The South Asian café—whose name derives from the Tamil word for coffee, Kaapi—has become a love letter to authentic South Indian kaapi for Toronto residents. The coffee house holds a nostalgic quality and bridges people of all backgrounds to the importance of culture and, of course, coffee.

“It takes me closer to home and filtered coffee, which you don’t get anywhere else,” said South-Indian first-time customer Ashish Miglani. 

Miglani, sitting with his cup of kaapi, opened up about sharing cultures and how the success of Madras Kaapi brings a new variance to the coffee scene in the city.

“In a multicultural environment, the best part is that you can go and taste, or see, feel different cultures in the same city, and this is an important spot to bring [a] multicultural vibe to the city and make them taste a different kind of coffee,” he said.

The success of the coffee house has brought many South Asians, like Miglani, a place they can come to when they’re missing a little taste of home.

“It’s made in a much more specific way,” said customer Saman Hamid. “When I miss being in Pakistan, or like being at home…that’s where I come here and have a little cup.” 

 A cup of Kaapi in a traditional davara tumbler at Madras Kaapi, Nov. 22, 2022. (Nanthana Balachandran/CanCulture)

Madras Kaapi came about when owner, Kotamarthi, along with her husband, Aditya Srivathsan, discovered the absence of South Indian kaapi in Canada after moving from South India in the early 2000s.

“We kept looking for it in Montreal… and we didn’t find any, and we tried finding filtered coffee online and there was no company that was sourcing filtered coffee or making filtered coffee,” Kotamarthi said. “We were like this is sad because people should know the joy of drinking kaapi.”

“Strictly based on hope, we opened the café.”

Since starting as an online business in 2016, the couple later relocated to Toronto from Montreal for Srivathsan’s work. Kotamarthi then began her entrepreneurial pursuit after quitting her job as a product manager.

“I had a lot more time and I wanted to take that time to focus on Madras Kaapi because I saw the potential… as soon as we moved here, there were a lot of people who started following us because the huge South Asian culture here,” Kotamarthi said.

  Inside of Madras Kaapi with South Indian art, Nov. 22, 2022. (Nanthana Balachandran/CanCulture)

The business gained a passionate following through its pop-ups at Kensington Market, where people from all over the province would come to get a taste of the classic coffee. Kotamarthi recalled having a customer who came from Ottawa to see the pop-up, proving to them that their love for the drink was not as uncommon as they thought. 

“That did it, that meant something,” she said. “Strictly based on hope, we opened the café.”

She noted how coming from a background in tech, making coffee was something the couple had never thought of doing. However, since starting the business, they’ve worked directly with farms in the Palani region of Tamil Nadu, sourced beans and learned how to roast the authentic, traditional coffee.

Harika Konisetti, a South Indian employee who’s been working since the café’s conception, emphasized how important representation is, showcasing an alternative to the city’s predominantly western-styled coffee. Konisetti said the space’s menu created a subliminal invitation of return. She often saw new and curious customers who had never tried this type of coffee give it a shot and keep coming back.

Madras Kaapi menu filled with beverages and treats, Nov. 22, 2022. (Nanthana Balachandran/CanCulture)

Coffee is a tender— and perfected—staple in diasporic homes too, Konisetti notes. “We do have really good coffee over there.”

Being one of the first of its kind, Madras Kaapi has now helped other businesses, specifically South Asian-owned businesses, grow.

“I feel really good about that because it’s not just us, we’re also helping promote other businesses as well,” Kotamarthi said.

At the root of  Madras Kaapi’s growth, the owner says, is the representation of culture and sharing the love for South Indian coffee with all people in Toronto.

“We’re able to reach out to everybody and that was the idea of doing this because we want to spread the joy of coffee.”

Croffles: At the intersection of croissants and waffles

CanCulture visited Fuwa Fuwa and tried the newest addition to their menu: croffles

By: Apurva Bhat

(Sama Nemat Allah/CanCulture)

The wind is cool, my face is numb and my friend and I can’t wait to reach Fuwa Fuwa to try their fluffy-looking croffles. With my university nearby in downtown Toronto’s Dundas Square, the franchise’s Bloor St. W. location is the closest and most accessible to me. When we enter the store, we are welcomed by the warmth and smell of fresh pancakes being cooked.

Known for their Japanese pancakes, Fuwa Fuwa began making croffles that gained immense popularity this summer at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE). According to blogTO, they were nearly sold out each day. On Oct. 1, the restaurant announced that the affordable croffles - only $5.99 each (without tax) – would be a permanent addition to their menu.

These croffles come in four flavours - signature, tiramisu, cocoa banana and cookies and cream. We ordered the signature, tiramisu and cookies & cream.

As we were waiting for our food to be made, we could see other orders being freshly prepared - an employee flipping a batch of fluffy Japanese pancakes and another employee whisking batter for more pancakes. The store is clearly popular. Despite coming in an hour before closing, there was lots of traffic and online orders dinging in.

This location was fairly compact, but we didn’t have difficulty finding a seat. After seven minutes, our desserts were brought to our table. The portion was what one would expect for the price - not too huge and not too small. 

Each croffle, as explained by a front staff member, has the same base - a croissant. It is then toasted in a waffle maker and topped with whipped cream.

Depending on the flavour, the ingredients differ. My personal favourite was the cookies and cream which happens to be one of the more popular flavours according to an employee. It was topped with crushed Oreos and was extremely delicious. I especially liked the balance between sweet and savoury.

The cookies & cream croffle is one of Fuwa Fuwa’s more popular flavours.  (Apurva Bhat/CanCulture)

The one thing I didn’t enjoy was that the croffles were slightly undercooked in the middle. I’m someone that appreciates flaky and crispy croissants, but the texture of these was softer. I also couldn’t taste the waffle aspect of the croffles as much - it majorly tasted like a slightly undercooked toasted croissant.

The signature flavour offers customers a simple, uncomplicated flavour for the less adventurous eaters - topped with a handful of strawberries and blueberries, it wasn’t very extraordinary.

Contrary to what a video on Fuwa Fuwa’s Instagram suggests, the signature croffle didn’t have any syrup or powdered sugar on top. Because of this, it wasn’t extremely sweet but was actually refreshing which I appreciated.

The tiramisu flavour was a big no for me. Like the other flavours, the middle was slightly undercooked. Also, the combination of coffee syrup and cocoa powder wasn’t ideal – it left an extremely bitter aftertaste. I also didn’t like the excess overload of cacao powder, but if you love bitter desserts, this might be what you’re craving.

The tiramisu croffle topped with cacao powder and coffee syrup (Apurva Bhat/CanCulture)

The order total was $20.31 with taxes which wasn’t too bad. But as a student living in an expensive city like Toronto, I wouldn’t necessarily purchase all flavours - rather stick with one or two.

The price per croffle is what makes these treats an attractive purchase - only $5.99 a piece! I wouldn’t have the signature or tiramisu flavours again, but I would definitely return for the cookies and cream ones.

Overall, If I were to rate Fuwa Fuwa out of 10 based on the croffle’s flavour, quality, service, ambiance and price, I would give it a six. I would love to try their pancakes and perhaps even the cocoa banana croffle, which happens to be another popular choice for other customers!

6 holiday food markets across Canadian cities

‘Tis the season to enjoy warm treats on chilly days

By: Rienne Mendoza

The Distillery Winter Village in Toronto’s iconic Distillery District (Vladyslava Andriyenko/Unsplash)

The holiday season is often marked by hectic gift shopping at malls and staying in as it gets dark by 4 pm. Change your scenery by checking out these six holiday markets across Canada.

Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Farm Outdoor Christmas Market

The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Outdoor Christmas Market allows visitors to celebrate local artists, makers and farmers in Dawson City, Yukon. Attendees can embrace the holiday spirit by purchasing warm treats and drinks, going on a wagon ride or sitting by the warm bonfire. The event runs from Dec. 8 to Dec. 9, and admission is free of charge. 

Poster of the outdoor Christmas Market, featuring a green truck with bagged vegetables (Dawson City)

PNE Winter Fair

Do you happen to be strolling in Vancouver and looking for winter events all in one place? For 10 nights starting on Dec. 14, head to PNE Exhibition grounds for skating on the Tim Horton’s rink, holiday concerts and sightseeing holiday lights. Try new treats ranging from specialty doughnuts to holiday drinks with various onsite food and beverages. Tickets range from $15 to $12, while children under three years are free and can be purchased online.

Market Collective Cheer

Inside the BMO Centre in Calgary, explore various local businesses while munching on treats from various food and beverage vendors. Each business is unique in its own way as it explores different tastes, such as Bakery Box YYC and Issa Green. The event also features other artists, designers and musicians showcasing their works for patrons to enjoy. Tickets are available at the door for $7 on weekends, and children 12 years and under are free.

Market Collective runs from Dec. 9 to Dec. 11 at the BMO Center in Calgary. (Market Collective)

Toronto Holiday Fair

Head over to Nathan Philip Square’s magical winter wonderland until December 23. After skating in the square or strolling along the Artisan Marketplace, eat some freshly baked goods from Bee’s Knees Bakery or egg waffle desserts from Golden Bubbles. If you’re over 19, visit the Polar Point Bar and try their various holiday alcoholic drinks. 

Marché de Noël de Joliette (Joliette Christmas Market)

Enjoy a more local winter market focused on Lanaudière culture in downtown Joliette until December 23. There are nearly 30 local artists showcased to help you find an original gift for someone you appreciate. While shopping, try The Donut Cabin's famous doughnuts with powdered sugar on top or enjoy a prepared meal offered by La Seigneurie des Patriotes.

Marché de Noël de Joliette entryway. (Lanaudière)

Evergreen Market

Enjoy a walk along downtown Halifax near the waterfront at the Evergreen Market until December 18. Vendors from all over the province are spread out in 22 wooden chalets adorned with festive lights, offering their very best for the holiday season. Try some warm baked goods provided by local businesses during your visit. If you’re craving some holiday sweets, check out Chocolate Wish to keep you warm.