20th Century Studios x Mr. Will want to give Readers in Toronto a chance to win passes to an Advance Screening of ALIEN: ROMULUS. Screening takes place August 16, 2024 at Scotiabank Theatre.

Synopsis:

A truly terrifying cinematic experience from producer Ridley Scott and director/writer Fede Alvarez, 20th Century Studios’ “Alien: Romulus” opens in theatres nationwide August 16, 2024. The sci-fi/horror-thriller takes the phenomenally successful “Alien” franchise back to its roots: While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.

The film stars Cailee Spaeny (“Priscilla”), David Jonsson (“Agatha Christie’s Murder is Easy”), Archie Renaux (“Shadow and Bone”), Isabela Merced (“The Last of Us”), Spike Fearn (“Aftersun”), Aileen Wu. Fede Alvarez (“Evil Dead,” “Don’t Breathe”) directs from a screenplay he wrote with frequent collaborator Rodo Sayagues (“Don’t Breathe 2”) based on characters created by Dan O’Bannon and Ronald Shusett. “Alien: Romulus” is produced by Ridley Scott (“Napoleon”), who directed the original “Alien” and produced and directed the series’ entries “Prometheus” and “Alien: Covenant,” Michael Pruss (“Boston Strangler”), and Walter Hill (“Alien”), with Fede

Alvarez, Elizabeth Cantillon (“Charlie’s Angels”), Brent O’Connor (“Bullet Train”), and Tom Moran (“Unstoppable”) serving as executive producers.

Trailer:

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK. Tag a friend who you’d like to bring along with you. Enter as many times as you wish. You can also enter on your IG and X accounts as well!

Rules and regulations here.

20th Century Studios Canada release ALIEN: ROMULUS in theatres August 16, 2024.

(Photo/video credit: 20th Century Studios Canada)

The Toronto International Film Festival and Rogers today announced Rogers as the Presenting Sponsor of the 49th Festival and the acclaimed TIFF People’s Choice Awards.

The sponsorship will begin by rolling out the red carpet and celebrating TIFF’s origins in Toronto’s Yorkville district with a VIP event at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, an Official Hospitality Partner, on Tuesday, September 3. The Toronto International Film Festival presented by Rogers runs from September 5–15, 2024.

“Rogers and TIFF share more than deep roots in our home city – we share a commitment to building a rich legacy in Canadian culture and entertainment, which we’re thrilled to celebrate as we welcome Rogers as the first-ever Presenting Sponsor of this year’s Festival,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO, TIFF. “Rogers is involved in all aspects of the industry and their partnership amplifies our ability to celebrate a wider range of stories. With Rogers on board, we look forward to an impactful and unforgettable experience for festival attendees as we get closer to celebrating our 50th anniversary.”

“As Canada’s leading communications and entertainment company, we’re proud to partner with TIFF this year to showcase the best film and entertainment from Canada and around the world,” said Terrie Tweddle, Chief Brand and Communications Officer, Rogers. “TIFF is one of the best film festivals in the world and we’re proud to support it and connect more Canadians to the best content and best experiences.”

Rogers customers will enjoy access to VIP experiences of festival screenings and other exclusive experiences as part of its new national program, Rogers Beyond the Seat, that delivers premier sports and entertainment experiences to Rogers customers across the country.

TIFF’s 49th edition will feature 11 days celebrating and spotlighting the best of international and Canadian film and entertainment. In addition to screenings, the Festival provides unique in-person opportunities including live post-screening Q&As, the In Conversation With… series, a five-day industry conference, the free, family-friendly Festival Street, and its prestigious awards including the Tribute Awards, the TIFF People’s Choice Awards presented by Rogers, and Jury Prizes.

About Rogers:
About Rogers Communications
Rogers is Canada’s communications and entertainment company and its shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI). For more information, please visit rogers.com or investors.rogers.com.

As the VELD Music Festival 2024 draws near, festival-goers can now enhance their festival experience with the launch of the official VELD app. Scheduled to take place from August 2nd to August 4th at Downsview Park, VELD is set to deliver an unforgettable weekend, and the new app is your go-to resource for making the most out of it.

Download the VELD App Today!

The VELD app, available for both iOS and Android, is packed with features designed to streamline your festival experience:

• Custom Schedule: Easily create and manage your personalized schedule.
• Food Options: Explore this year’s diverse culinary offerings.
• Festival Map: Navigate the festival grounds with ease.
• Pre-Show Playlist: Get into the festival spirit with curated music playlists.
• Real-Time Updates: Receive timely updates and announcements throughout the festival.
  

Available for Download:

• Apple Store: Download Now
• Google Play: Download Now
  

The app is designed to enhance every aspect of your festival experience, ensuring you stay informed and engaged throughout the event.

About VELD Music Festival

VELD Music Festival, North America’s premier electronic music event, is renowned for its exceptional lineups and vibrant atmosphere. Established in 2013, VELD features top-tier artists, state-of-the-art production, and a dynamic community of festival-goers. Learn more about VELD Music Festival at VELD Music Festival.

Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine’s chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng is proud to introduce the world’s first sommelier-led, Thai afternoon tea experience with certified TAC tea sommelier, Lena Pan. This groundbreaking, one-of-a-kind experience is offered by Baan Lao (4100 Bayview Street, Richmond, BC) every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at either 11:00AM or 12:30PM, starting at $95 per guest.

“We are so excited to welcome guests to the only Thai afternoon tea experience led by a sommelier in the world. The teas we offer are nourishing, designed to compliment the Royal Thai cuisine we serve,” says chef Nutcha.

Set against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean views, this pioneering experience features five international tea pairings and twelve exquisitely hand-crafted Thai dishes served in three sets: dawn, sun and moon. Guests are offered a choice of a gongfu cha pairing or caffeine-free tea pairings curated by certified TAC tea sommelier Lena Pan to ensure that each meticulously brewed sip compliments the accompanying bite. Guided by Pan, guests embark on an extraordinary sensory journey that crosses cultures and transcends expectations.

After six months of dedicated research and development, chef Nutcha has perfected this Thai-inspired afternoon tea alongside Lena Pan. Promising to be not only a feast for the tastebuds but for the eyes, this experience is another of Baan Lao’s exquisite innovations, marrying the elegance of afternoon tea with the vibrant flavours of chef Nutcha’s Royal Thai cuisine.

Baan Lao, under the expert guidance of chef Nutcha, has quickly become a beacon of fine dining, celebrated for its commitment to Royal Thai cuisine: authenticity, sustainability, and innovation. Chef Nutcha’s culinary journey began in the countryside of Thailand, where she grew up embracing a farm-to-table lifestyle. Her early experiences foraging and cooking with her family instilled a deep appreciation for fresh ingredients. Before embarking on her culinary career, chef Nutcha worked as a nurse and cancer researcher, which has greatly influenced her approach to cooking, emphasizing health, nutrition, and the use of organic, pesticide-free ingredients. Her formal culinary training is nothing short of impressive, having studied under Thailand’s top chefs, including chef Chumpol Jangprai, Thailand’s Iron Chef, and chef Vichit Mukura, who served the Thai Royal Family.

Since opening Baan Lao in February 2021, Chef Nutcha has garnered numerous accolades, including being the first Thai chef in Canada to be named Maître Rôtisseur by La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Locally, she has been voted Best Chef in Vancouver for three consecutive years, and Baan Lao has received multiple awards, such as Best Fine Dining and Best Hidden Gem.

Reservations for the Afternoon Tea Thai Experience at Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine can be made HERE.

Cameron Bailey is delighted to announce four more esteemed honourees who will be receiving a TIFF Tribute Award at this year’s Festival. Recipients include Academy Award–nominated and renowned British filmmaker Mike Leigh, who will be honoured with the TIFF Ebert Director Award. Canadian rising star Durga Chew-Bose will be honoured with the TIFF Emerging Talent Award presented by Amazon MGM Studios; this award is in the spirit of Torontonian Mary Pickford, the groundbreaking actor, producer, and co-founder of United Artists, whose impact continues today. French songwriting and composing duo Camille Dalmais and Clément Ducol will be presented with the TIFF Variety Artisan Award for composing the soundtrack for Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez, a Netflix film; the award recognizes distinguished creatives who have excelled at their craft and made an outstanding contribution to cinema and entertainment. This latest group of recipients will be honoured alongside the recently announced Amy Adams, Cate Blanchett, and David Cronenberg at the TIFF Tribute Awards gala fundraiser on Sunday, September 8, at Fairmont Royal York Hotel, with Sandra Oh serving as Honorary Chair.

“It’s a true honour to welcome Mike Leigh back to the Festival and present him with the TIFF Ebert Director Award,” said Bailey. “Leigh has long been acknowledged as one of cinema’s great artists; Roger Ebert himself praised Leigh’s ‘sympathy, penetrating observation, and instinct for human comedy.’ Hard Truths is both a summation of that work and a bold move forward. We’re also excited to honour Canadian filmmaker Durga Chew-Bose with the TIFF Emerging Talent Award. Her feature debut, Bonjour Tristesse, reimagines the classic film with arresting imagery and insight into character. And in a bountiful year of music in film, Camille Dalmais and Clément Ducol’s Emilia Pérez compositions stand out for their passion and vitality. We’re pleased to present them with the TIFF Variety Artisan Award.”

Mike Leigh returns to the 49th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival for the World Premiere of his 23rd film, Hard Truths, screening as part of the Special Presentations programme. He reunites with Academy Award nominee Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Secrets & Lies) to create a challenging but ultimately compassionate, intimate study of a modern family life. Hard Truths is distributed by Bleecker Street in the US and by Mongrel Media in Canada. Leigh has had eight films in Official Selection at the Festival, including Another Year, Happy-Go-Lucky, and Mr. Turner. Named after legendary film critic Roger Ebert, the Award has gone to celebrated visionaries such as Martin Scorsese, Claire Denis, Ava DuVernay, Wim Wenders, and the late Agnès Varda. Past recipients who received the TIFF Ebert Director Award since the TIFF Tribute Awards were introduced include Spike Lee in 2023; Sam Mendes in 2022; Denis Villeneuve in 2021; Chloé Zhao in 2020; and Taika Waititi in 2019.

Montreal-based Durga Chew-Bose is making her feature film debut as both director and screenwriter of Bonjour Tristesse, which will have its World Premiere in the Discovery programme. This contemporary adaptation of late French author Françoise Sagan’s 1954 novel of the same name stars Chloë Sevigny and Claes Bang. Bonjour Tristesse is distributed by Elevation Pictures in Canada. Previous recipients of the TIFF Emerging Talent Award presented by Amazon MGM Studios include Carolina Markowicz in 2023; Sally El Hosaini in 2022; Danis Goulet in 2021; Tracey Deer in 2020; and Mati Diop in 2019.

Camille Dalmais (Corsage, TIFF ’22) and Clément Ducol (Little Tickles) are prominent figures in the French music scene, often collaborating to create innovative and experimental works. Camille, known for her unique vocal style and blending of pop, folk, and avant-garde elements, has gained acclaim with albums like Le Sac des Filles and Le Fil. Clément Ducol, a versatile musician, arranger, and producer, enhances her projects with his creative arrangements and musical expertise. Together, they form a dynamic duo, pushing the boundaries of contemporary French music. Previous recipients of the TIFF Variety Artisan Award include Łukasz Żal in 2023; Hildur Guðnadóttir in 2022; Ari Wegner in 2021; Terence Blanchard in 2020; and Roger Deakins in 2019.

“Variety is honoured to be giving Camille and Clément our annual Artisan Award at the Toronto International Film Festival,” said Jazz Tangcay, Senior Artisans Editor at Variety. “The soundtrack to Emilia Pérez is a character within the film and a true gift from these fine musicians. Each song and cue is a work of art. The operatic libretto is filled with highlights including Selena Gomez’s Spanish pop song and Zoe Saldaña’s gala number. We are such fans of their work and thrilled to present this award to them, recognizing their talent and contribution this year.”

Now in its sixth year, the Tribute Awards is TIFF’s largest fundraiser, with proceeds from the gala going towards TIFF’s Every Story Fund, which champions diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in film.

The Tribute Awards have served as an awards-season bellwether, honouring the film industry’s outstanding contributors and their achievements, with past honourees Colman Domingo, Michelle Yeoh, Brendan Fraser, Jessica Chastain, Roger Deakins, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Joaquin Phoenix, Taika Waititi, and Chloé Zhao going on to win awards on the international stage.

The 49th Toronto International Film Festival takes place September 5–15, 2024.

From DreamWorks Animation comes a new adaptation of a literary sensation, Peter Brown’s beloved, award-winning, #1 New York Times bestseller, The Wild Robot. In theatres September 27, 2024.

The epic adventure follows the journey of a robot—ROZZUM unit 7134, “Roz” for short — that is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building relationships with the animals on the island and becoming the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling.

The Wild Robot stars Academy Award® winner Lupita Nyong’o (Us, The Black Panther franchise) as robot Roz; Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us, The Mandalorian) as fox Fink; Emmy winner Catherine O’Hara (Schitt’s Creek, Best in Show) as opossum Pinktail; Oscar® nominee Bill Nighy (Living, Love Actually) as goose Longneck; Kit Connor (Heartstopper, Rocketman) as gosling Brightbill and Oscar® nominee Stephanie Hsu (Everything Everywhere All at Once, this summer’s The Fall Guy) as Vontra, a robot that will intersect with Roz’s life on the island.

The film also features the voice talents of Emmy winning pop-culture icon Mark Hamill (Star Wars franchise, The Boy and the Heron), Matt Berry (What We Do in the Shadows, The SpongeBob Movie franchise) and Golden Globe winner and Emmy nominee Ving Rhames (Mission: Impossible films, Pulp Fiction).

A powerful story about the discovery of self, a thrilling examination of the bridge between technology and nature and a moving exploration of what it means to be alive and connected to all living things, The Wild Robot is written and directed by three-time Oscar® nominee Chris Sanders—the writer-director of DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon, The Croods, and Disney’s Lilo & Stitch—and is produced by Jeff Hermann (DreamWorks Animation’s The Boss Baby 2: Family Business; co-producer, Kung Fu Panda franchise).

Peter Brown’s The Wild Robot, an illustrated middle-grade novel first published in 2016, became a phenomenon, rocketing to #1 on the New York Times bestseller list. The book has since inspired a trilogy that now includes The Wild Robot Escapes and The Wild Robot Protects. Brown’s work on the Wild Robot series and his other bestselling books have earned him a Caldecott Honor, a Horn Book Award, two E.B. White Awards, two E.B. White Honors, a Children’s Choice Award for Illustrator of the Year, two Irma Black Honors, a Golden Kite Award and a New York Times Best Illustrated Book Award.

Genre: Animated Drama

Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Catherine O’Hara, Bill Nighy, Kit Connor and Stephanie Hsu, with Mark Hamill, Matt Berry and Ving Rhames

Based on: The Wild Robot novel by Peter Brown

Written and directed by: Chris Sanders

Producer: Jeff Hermann

Le Dîner en Blanc returns to Toronto on Thursday, September 19 at a new secret location. Le Dîner en Blanc is the social gathering of the summer — a chic picnic where fashion, good food and most importantly good company meet. A wave of white transforms a secret location in the downtown core as 1200 guests adorned in all white attend dinner à la française where conversation and champagne are essential.

Event veterans Lori Heller from Heller Productions Inc. and Marc Talbot from Exclusive Management Services are taking over as co-hosts of this year’s Le Dîner en Blanc in Toronto. “We’re thrilled to be hosting this unforgettable summer event,” said Lori Heller. “Marc and I are excited to put our experience in luxe large-scale events to work as we create a spectacular evening with fabulous entertainment, food and wine, capturing the beauty and magic of Le Dîner en Blanc.”

Torontonians who would like to be part of Le Dîner en Blanc 2024 can do so by signing up at toronto.dinerenblanc.com. Once on the website, click on ‘Attend Le Dîner en Blanc’ or ‘Sign In’ to create an account and be ready for Phase 3 as soon it opens.

To maintain the uniqueness of Le Dîner en Blanc, every guest has a part to play and observes certain requirements such as:

• Dress code: head-to-toe in white only. Elegance and originality are key, and prizes will be awarded for the best dressed
• Table setting: all white!
• French-influenced event only wine and/or Champagne are served. Curated by Toronto’s iconic wine club, Charlie’s Burgers, guests wishing to enjoy some wine or Champagne, must reserve their selection online through Le Dîner en Blanc’s e-store.

As per Ontario alcohol regulations, guests cannot bring their own alcohol.

• To ensure that the location secret is kept undisclosed until an hour before the event, guests meet at the assigned departure location and are escorted by a Dîner en Blanc volunteer.
• So the event location is left as clean as when guests arrived, guests are required to leave with all their belongings, leftovers, and litter.

Guests are to bring:

• A table, two white chairs, white tablecloth.
• A picnic basket comprising fine food and proper stemware and white dinnerware.

A catered picnic basket option prepared by award-winning Chef Trevor Lui, Culinary Director of Highbell Hospitality known for custom curated dining experiences, can be picked up on site for those who do not wish to pack their own. Guests wishing to do so must reserve online through Le Dîner en Blanc’s e-store.

About Heller Productions Inc.

The 2024 edition of Le Diner en Blanc – Toronto is produced by Lori Heller from Heller Productions Inc. Heller Productions has created and produced events for David Foster Foundation, Grand Cru Culinary Wine Festival, Vinifera Wine Lovers’ Gala, President’s Cup, Rosé Picnic and countless corporate events, golf tournaments, conferences, award galas, and incentive trips around the world. President Lori Heller embodies a perfect blend of creative thinking, personal, service and attention to detail, leaving her clients content and satisfied is not only a skill she has developed over the last decade, but a passion she holds strongly. The results speak for themselves – unforgettable events and outstanding successes, year after year.

About Le Dîner en Blanc

Le Dîner en Blanc is so much more than an event. It’s a unique cultural movement that empowers friends of friends to gather and celebrate their shared passions for life, food, fashion, and community, year after year, with a pinch of mystery and large serving of spontaneity. Elegantly dressed all in white, guests arrive at a secret location for a chic picnic en masse. They bring their own tables, chairs, picnic baskets—all the trimmings—to sit down with friends and make new connections in one of their city’s most beautiful public spaces. The location remains secret up until the very moment of arrival. Over the course of the evening, guests from all backgrounds eat, dance, and reconnect with the finer things in life, as they appreciate the night’s magical experience.

To this day, over 120 cities in 40 countries have joined the ever-growing and international network to celebrate gourmet cuisine, offer extraordinary entertainment, and bring together vibrant individuals and bon vivants around the world. While Le Dîner en Blanc International is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, every event in every city is hosted by passionate local organizers who fell in love with the original Parisian concept and wanted to bring it home and dress it up with local flair. For more info, photos, and videos of Le Dîner en Blanc events from around the world, visit dinerenblanc.com.

Paramount+ today debuted a teaser trailer for its original movie STAR TREK: SECTION 31 during the STAR TREK universe panel at San Diego Comic-Con. The movie made its Hall H debut with cast members Omari Hardwick, Sam Richardson and Canadian Kacey Rohl, along with executive producer Alex Kurtzman and director Olatunde Osunsanmi. The panel featured a surprise video “interruption” from the film’s star, Oscar® winner Michelle Yeoh, who introduced the teaser.

The new teaser also revealed a first look at a young Philippa Georgiou, played by Toronto-born Miku Martineau (Kate).

In the movie, slated to premiere in early 2025, Yeoh reprises her fan-favorite role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou – a character she played in STAR TREK: DISCOVERY’s first season – who joins a secret division of Starfleet. Tasked with protecting the United Federation of Planets, she also must face the sins of her past.

STAR TREK: SECTION 31 also stars Omari Hardwick (Power), Kacey Rohl (Hannibal), Emmy® winner Sam Richardson (Ted Lasso), Sven Ruygrok (One Piece), Robert Kazinsky (Pacific Rim), Canadian Humberly Gonzalez (Ginny & Georgia) and James Hiroyuki Liao (Barry).

Written by Craig Sweeny and directed by Olatunde Osunsanmi, STAR TREK: SECTION 31 is executive produced by Alex Kurtzman, Craig Sweeny, Aaron Baiers, Olatunde Osunsanmi, Frank Siracusa, John Weber, Rod Roddenberry, Trevor Roth and Michelle Yeoh and is produced by CBS Studios in association with Secret Hideout and Roddenberry Entertainment.

STAR TREK: SECTION 31 will be available to stream exclusively on Paramount+ in Canada, the U.S. and in all international markets where the service is available. The movie is distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution.

The STAR TREK franchise on Paramount+ also includes the fifth and final season of STAR TREK: DISCOVERY, STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS, the animated series STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS, and the new original series STAR TREK: STARFLEET ACADEMY, slated to begin production later this year. All seasons of the critically-acclaimed original series STAR TREK: PICARD, starring Patrick Stewart reprising the iconic role of Jean-Luc Picard, are also available to stream.

About Paramount+

Paramount+, part of Paramount’s (Nasdaq: PARA, PARAA) global portfolio of multimedia entertainment and news brands, is a direct-to-consumer digital subscription video on-demand and live streaming service, combining live sports, breaking news and A Mountain of Entertainment™. The streaming service features an expansive library of original series, hit shows and popular movies across every genre from world-renowned brands and production studios, including BET, CBS, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and the Smithsonian Channel. Paramount+ with SHOWTIME®, the service’s cornerstone plan, is also home to SHOWTIME® content, including scripted hits and critically acclaimed nonfiction projects and films. This premium plan includes unmatched events and sports programming through the local live CBS stream, including golf, basketball and more. All Paramount+ subscribers have streaming access to CBS News Network for 24/7 news and CBS Sports HQ for sports news and analysis.

For more information about Paramount+, please visit www.paramountplus.com, and follow @ParamountPlusCA on social media.

About CBS Studios

CBS Studios is one of the world’s leading suppliers of entertainment programming with development and production for broadcast, cable networks, streaming services, and other emerging platforms. The Studio’s expansive portfolio spans a diverse slate of commercially successful and critically acclaimed scripted programming, which includes genre-defining franchises such as NCIS and the ever-growing Star Trek universe, award-winning late night and daytime talk shows, as well as an extensive library of iconic intellectual property. The Studio also develops and produces local language and international content originating outside of the US for viewers around the world.

Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, Ficoa stands as a testament to Toronto’s rich cultural tapestry with its eclectic fine dining offerings. Chef Gerry Quintero, the visionary behind Ficoa, joins forces with co-founder Patricia Toro to curate a culinary journey that celebrates Toronto’s multicultural food scene. Drawing from Quintero’s Mexican roots and Toro’s Ecuadorian heritage, Ficoa stands out as Toronto’s premier destination for multifarious season-focused fine dining. Soft launched in March this year, Ficoa has quickly become synonymous with hospitality, drawing parallels to the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of dining at grandma’s house

About chef Gerry Quintero

Chef Gerry Quintero embarked on his culinary journey in Mexico, cultivating a passion for vegetarian cuisine and a philosophy centered on honouring each ingredient, leaving nothing overlooked. His early experiences in the kitchen with his family instilled in him the belief that every ingredient deserves reverence, a philosophy he continues to uphold at Ficoa. Quintero’s career spans across some of Toronto’s most esteemed establishments, including Scarpetta, Yours Truly, Torito, El Caballito, Linda Modern Thai, and Rosalinda. Notably, his time at Linda Modern Thai saw him co-found Alma y Gil alongside his partner, Mandy Sou. The renowned kombucha and produce delivery company went on to gain acclaim for their signature breakfast sandwich.

When Quintero crossed paths with restaurateur Patricia Toro, their collaboration was a natural fusion of their shared passion for culinary exploration and commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences. Their brainchild would become Ficoa.

“Patricia trusts the source. She knows when it comes to our eclectic menu, every ingredient matters to me. Patricia is a meat and potatoes kind of girl, but she understands that even vegetables can be exquisite in the right hands” says Quintero.

Trust forms the bedrock of Ficoa’s concept. Choosing Ficoa for a tasting experience means embracing a commitment to quality reminiscent of dining at grandma’s—a place where warmth, care, and culinary mastery converge to create unforgettable moments.

About Ficoa’s menu and programs

Ficoa’s menu is a reflection of Toronto’s cultural diversity, drawing inspiration from Ontario’s micro seasons to create personalized tasting menus that evolve with nature. At the heart of Ficoa’s culinary philosophy lies a commitment to sustainability and innovation, with a particular emphasis on fermentation, dry aging, and other advanced flavour development techniques. These practices not only enhance the depth of flavours but also underscore chef Quintero’s dedication to minimizing waste and maximizing the potential of every ingredient.

Guests at Ficoa can indulge in a variety of dining experiences:

The Ficoa Tasting Menu

This 7-course culinary journey comprises 16 plates that change weekly, reflecting the freshest seasonal ingredients Ontario has to offer for $200.00 per person. Guests can complement their meal with chef’s pairings for $150.00 or opt for wine pairings at $100.00, carefully curated to enhance each dish.

The Neighbourhood Menu

Available from 5:00 PM onwards, this 4-course tasting menu features 6 plates for $90.00 per person, highlighting Ontario’s microseasons with weekly menu updates.

À la carte

Offering personalized options that allow guests to tailor their dining experience to their preferences.

Exclusive memberships

For Toronto’s most discerning food enthusiasts, Ficoa offers memberships designed to provide consistent, unique tasting experiences. Members enjoy benefits such as credits convertible into purchases at the restaurant, priority reservations, and an elegant, seamless dining experience that includes skipping the bill process. Additionally, members receive priority access to exclusive events hosted at Ficoa.

Brunch at Ficoa

Ficoa hosts a special Alma y Gil pop-up brunch experience every Thursday through Sunday, with reservations between 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM featuring the culinary creations of Mandy Sou alongside Ficoa’s distinctive ambiance.

Pachanga Happy Hour

Launching this August, Ficoa introduces Pachanga, a playful twist on the chef’s choice concept, tailored for happy hour. With each drink order, guests enjoy a curated selection of snacks that vary based on their beverage choice—whether it’s a classic cocktail, a custom creation, or a fine bottle of wine. Available every Thursday and Friday from 8 PM onwards, Pachanga promises an evening of culinary sophistication at Ficoa.

(Pictured left to right: Ficoa’s riff on the Old Fashioned using Spirit of York Rye; Rhubarb Fizz with Ficoa’s house rhubarb shrub, hibiscus kombucha and True Theory vodka. Photos courtesy of Ananta Gulati)

Ficoa’s Cocktail Program

As part of Ficoa’s Chef-driven experience, the cocktail program is built to seamlessly facilitate the marriage between food and drink. Complementing the vibrant flavours and themes of the seasonal menus, the cocktails ensure a holistic tasting experience. Infused with elements like kombucha, mushroom and citrus, the cocktail menu honours Ficoa’s playful approach to gastronomy.

Ficoa’s Interior Design

Chef Gerry Quintero meticulously designed Ficoa’s interior, comprising three distinct spaces: a welcoming lounge for 10, a dining room accommodating 20, and a bar seating 14. Throughout their visit, guests are gently guided through these spaces by the Ficoa team, reflecting Quintero’s commitment to genuine hospitality. Starting in the lounge and concluding in the dining room allows guests to fully immerse themselves in each unique environment, carefully crafted to complement every stage of their dining journey. This immersive approach underscores Ficoa’s ethos of providing hospitality akin to a cherished family gathering at grandma’s, where every detail ensures guests enjoy attentive care and exceptional food. In the lounge, guests relax under warm lighting, enjoying welcome snacks and homemade sweets that conveniently rest in a candy jar beside them, evoking fond memories of family traditions. Personal touches like family photos from Quintero and Toro’s Mexican and Ecuadorian backgrounds further enrich the ambiance, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere.

Moving into the dining room for the second half of their experience, guests are seated at minimally adorned tables, allowing them to focus on the exquisite food, its quality, and the company they share.

Quintero elaborates, “The idea behind this is to emphasize the food’s beauty and quality, and of course, to allow guests to connect with the person across from them. It’s a social experience as much as a culinary one.”

The dining room’s centerpiece is a captivating hand-painted mural by artist Nadine Ogle, depicting a larger-than-life street sign reading ‘Ficoa’—a tribute to Toro’s childhood in the neighborhood of Ficoa, Ecuador where streets are lined with beautiful citrus trees. This vibrant citrus-themed artwork celebrates Ficoa’s Ecuadorian roots, mirroring the flavours found throughout the menu.

Upcoming Events at Ficoa

Chef Gerry Quintero frequently curates special events that transform Ficoa into a haven for Toronto’s boldest food lovers. Members enjoy complimentary access to these events, which include exclusive menu previews, wine tastings, coffee tastings, fermentation workshops, and bespoke private gatherings tailored to enhance the culinary journey.

Reservations at Ficoa

To book a reservation at Ficoa, guests can visit the link HERE.

Hall H was buzzing this evening for Marvel Studios’ Hall H showcase, bringing excited fans at San Diego Comic-Con a first look at what’s next for the Marvel Cinematic Universe—including huge news about Marvel Studios’ next two Avengers films.

“Deadpool & Wolverine”

The Hall H showcase kicked off with a celebration of “Deadpool & Wolverine,” in theatres now. A full choral performance of “Like a Prayer” welcomed the excited crowd with dancing Deadpool variants, which ended when Marvel Studios producer and president Kevin Feige looked for Peterpool amongst the variants, calling Rob Delaney, who stars in the film as Peter, to the stage. Delaney joined Feige as the showcase’s MC, mentioning the surprise “Deadpool & Wolverine” screening for con-goers Thursday, and the massive drone and fireworks show over San Diego’s Petco Park that followed. “Deadpool & Wolverine” has already broken box office records for an R-rated theatrical release, and the film’s opening officially pushed the MCU over the $30 billion box-office mark with 34 movies. Starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, and directed by Shawn Levy, “Deadpool & Wolverine” is now playing in theatres.

“Captain America: Brave New World”

With Sam Wilson about to make his big screen debut as Captain America in “Captain America: Brave New World,” Delaney welcomed to the stage Cap himself, Anthony Mackie. Joining them were Tim Blake Nelson, Danny Ramirez and Giancarlo Esposito, who confirmed he is playing Sidewinder. Together, they revealed exclusive footage, and much to the crowd’s excitement, invited Harrison Ford to take the stage. Ford makes his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut as President Thaddeus Ross. The story follows Sam Wilson, who after meeting with newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, finds himself in the middle of an international incident. Sam must discover the reason behind a nefarious global plot before the true mastermind has the entire world seeing red. Marvel Studios’ “Captain America: Brave New World” opens in theatres February 14, 2025.

“Thunderbolts*”

Highlighting Marvel Studios’ “Thunderbolts,” Delaney welcomed director Jake Schreier to the stage alongside stars Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan and David Harbour. The latter showed up in full Red Guardian garb, earning laughs and applause from the crowd, which was treated to a scene from the movie. Marvel Studios, and a crew of indie veterans, who definitely sold out, present “Thunderbolts,” an irreverent team-up featuring depressed assassin Yelena Belova alongside the MCU’s least anticipated band of misfits. Marvel Studios’ “Thunderbolts*” also stars Olga Kurylenko and opens in theatres on May 2, 2025.

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps”

Feige returned to the stage to share details of the upcoming “The Fantastic Four,” which kicks off production Tuesday. Joining Feige on stage was director Matt Shakman and Marvel’s first family together on stage for the first time, Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm/The Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm/The Human Torch) and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm/Thing). They all shared some cosmic details about the upcoming feature film that sees Galactus and Silver Surfer target Earth for destruction—and revealed the movie’s full title: “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” But then Hall H was overtaken by none other than the Fantasticar soaring over the crowd, drawing massive cheers as the screens were taken over by a retro-futurist vision of New York City. Featuring music by Oscar®-winning composer Michael Giacchino, Marvel Studios’ “Fantastic Four: First Steps” hits theatres on July 25, 2025.

“Avengers”

Just when the audience thought the show was over, Feige told them he had an Avengers update to share: Anthony and Joe Russo, renowned directors of four of the most successful Marvel movies and the studio’s highest-grossing directors with over $6 billion in global earnings, are set to return to Marvel Studios to helm “Avengers: Secret Wars” in May 2027 and “Avengers: Doomsday” in May 2026.

The reveal of “Avengers: Doomsday” left one major question: who would play Doctor Doom?

The directors pointed out that Doctor Doom is one of the most complex characters in the Marvel Universe, and needed a truly great actor to bring him to life. As Feige and the Russos prepared to close out the presentation, robed figures dressed in Doctor Doom masks took the stage and then parted to reveal Robert Downey Jr. who is set to return to the MCU. Hall H erupted, chanting “RDJ!”

The Russo’s company AGBO is set to produce both films alongside Marvel Studios. Stephen McFeely, known for his work on the “Captain America” trilogy and “Avengers: Endgame,” will handle the script.

“Being able to create stories and explore characters within the Marvel Universe fulfilled a life-long dream of ours, and we discovered a powerful connection with audiences in each film that we made. We’re thrilled to collaborate once again with Kevin, Lou and the entire Marvel team to bring this epic adventure in storytelling to new and surprising places for both the fans and ourselves”, said The Russo Brothers.

Following the groundbreaking conclusion of “Avengers: Endgame,” the Russo Brothers founded AGBO in 2017, aiming to innovate storytelling across film, TV, gaming, and interactive media. As an independent studio led by a collective of seasoned artists, AGBO has achieved unprecedented success, setting new benchmarks with 11 number-one global openings and over $7 billion in box office revenue.

AGBO’s production “Everything Everywhere All at Once” earned seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, while the “Citadel” franchise became Prime Video’s second-most-watched show in history. Their Netflix ventures, including “The Gray Man,” directed by the Russos and starring Chris Hemsworth, rank among the platform’s most-watched content, with “Extraction” emerging as their most successful franchise to date.

Currently, AGBO is in post-production on Netflix’s “The Electric State,” directed by the Russos and featuring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, based on the acclaimed graphic novel.