INK Entertainment Group and Dream Office REIT (TSX:D.UN) (“Dream”) are proud to announce their new collaboration, Daphne, a tantalizing American concept restaurant and bar, located at 67 Richmond St. West, in the heart of Toronto’s Financial District.
Daphne is a partnership between hospitality and entertainment powerhouse INK Entertainment Group and one of Canada’s leading real estate companies, Dream. This is the first partnership between the two established companies as they look to revitalize and bring the energy and zeal back to the Financial District. With a shared vision to establish the Alleyway, a vibrant outdoor destination that transforms a series of back laneways and features elevated seating and lounge spaces. Creating indoor-outdoor connections, Dream and INK Entertainment aspire to set a new standard for hospitality in this renowned neighbourhood.
“We’re proud to bring a fresh rendition of an American-style restaurant, positioned at the heart of the Financial District’s revitalization. With a shared vision to create something special for the city, we’re looking forward to creating an elevated culinary destination as part of the Alleyway project, says Charles Khabouth, CEO, INK Entertainment.
Dream’s ambitious plan for the Financial District, through its Dream Collection – Financial District, seeks to redefine the area’s identity and create a new destination that will captivate visitors and residents alike.
“More than a workplace destination, the Financial District is a hospitality hub for Toronto. It’s been an honour to partner with INK Entertainment and Studio Paolo Ferrari to bridge our city’s rich heritage with iconic design and top hospitality experiences,” adds Krystal Koo, Head of Sales and Marketing of Dream.
Opening on June 22, Daphne is a modern American style restaurant and garden terrace totalling over 8,000 sq. ft., and serving as the flagship space in the Alleyway. The one-of-a-kind restaurant is nestled among Toronto’s high-rises, bounded by Bay Street to the east, Temperance Street to the south and Richmond Street to the north. This marks INK’s first foray into the Financial District, building on its vast expertise after helming some of the most iconic brands in hospitality – including restaurants Amal, Byblos and Sofia Yorkville as well as the Bisha Hotel.
Daphne offers American cuisine with a contemporary twist, skillfully curated by Executive Chef John Chee (previously at Patois, Shook, Patria). The menu showcases a delectable selection of seasonal American classics, complemented by an array of small bites, handcrafted cocktails, and an extensive wine list, all presented within an elegant and modern ambiance. At the heart of the culinary offerings are two authentic wood-fired grills, infusing a distinct flavor into each dish. Locally sourced ingredients, along with local and imported seafood, are expertly grilled over live coals, ensuring a tantalizing dining experience. Each dish is thoughtfully enhanced with the addition of seasonal produce, while the bakery crafts artisanal breads by hand.
Complementary to each dish is the carefully curated wine collection which highlights the benchmarks of American winemaking. Paying homage to its famous West Coast heritage, it also incorporates classic old-world regions that have stood the test of time. The cocktails, designed by Daphne’s Mixologist Nishan Chandra, emphasize the ingredients and taste of Americana that serve notes of nostalgia and the comfort of tradition with each sip.
The design of the Alleyway and Daphne is being led by the visionary interior design firm, Studio Paolo Ferrari with a contemporary and eclectic reimagining of the quintessential American bistro. With his vast portfolio in designing beautiful, upscale commercial spaces in sought-after international markets like Dubai, Ferrari’s vision for the restaurant is poised at a natural tension of eras. Sprawling, expansive, and set across a series of distinctive rooms, Daphne embodies the unexpected while also bringing in the warmth and nostalgia of New England prep. Furnishings and lighting are entirely custom-designed by Studio Paolo Ferrari, from the elegant pinstripe seating in the drawing room to the artful polished metal host station. Extending out from the interiors is a sprawling garden terrace, filled with plants and abundant soft seating that encourages lounging. As guests journey through the multi-room space, unexpected touches and details evoke wonder and awe, reminiscent of the mannerism you would expect to find in a grand private residence.
Daphne is located at 67 Richmond St. West and will be open for lunch and dinner Monday to Thursday between 11:30 a.m to 10 p.m., Fridays between 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. starting June 22. Advance reservations can now be made via OpenTable.
For more information, visit www.daphnetoronto.com or follow Daphne on Instagram @daphnetoronto.
It’s officially patio season in the city, and Toronto’s largest waterfront patio and day club, Cabana Pool Bar, from INK Entertainment Group, is gearing up for another epic summer, with stellar talent and experiences lined up for the 2023 season, starting with a grand opening party on Sunday, June 4th.
Music fans can expect 13 weeks of incredible events, appearances and performances from some of the world’s biggest artists including acclaimed, Grammy-nominated American electronic producer and DJ Kaskade; Jersey Shore favourite and powerhouse DJ Pauly D; Swedish DJ, producer and co-founder of Swedish House Mafia, Steve Angello; renowned dance music and future house DJ and producer, Tchami; the platinum-selling Torontonian production and DJ duo, DVBBS; captivating American rapper Tyga; London-based house DJ, producer and remixer, Sigala; and the popular English producer and DJ, Duke Dumont, with more to be announced.
“Cabana is Toronto’s ultimate summer playground, and we can’t wait to welcome guests back for another incredible season,” says Charles Khabouth, CEO and Founder, INK Entertainment Group. “Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on our daybeds with friends, or catch your favourite artists in action, Cabana is the only place to be this summer.”
The 2023 season will be kicking off with an opening party on June 4th featuring Manzone & Strong, Christina Cruise and Kevin Faria. To celebrate, all guests will be able to redeem free entry with a Cabana wristband before 3 pm, which will be handed out at various events at other INK venues Toybox and Rebel. Daylife fans can also keep their eyes peeled for Cabana pop-ups throughout the city between May 26 and June 3, to secure their wristbands and experience additional giveaways.
Cabana fans can also look forward to the return of popular themed parties from previous years including, the RED Party on Canada Day weekend, The Rosé Party featuring Brooke Evers on June 10th, as well as special events during PRIDE, Caribana weekend and more.
Located at Polson Pier with unparalleled views of Lake Ontario, Cabana transforms Toronto’s waterfront into a ‘day-to-night’ party spot with a seasonal poolside menu from Oliver and Bonacini, private cabanas, daybeds, and room for up to 2,500 sun seekers, accessible by land or by boat, with a docking service available.
For more information visit www.cabanapoolbar.com or follow Cabana on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
Tickets:
INK Entertainment Group and Harlo Entertainment are proud to announce their new collaboration, Ultra, a luxurious and elevated supper club experience, opening in Midtown on June 6th. Ultra marks an exciting new venture and partnership between Charles Khabouth and Danny Soberano of INK, and Michael Kimel and Brandon Marek of Harlo Entertainment, as they introduce the first concept of its kind to Toronto’s Midtown.
Nestled between Toronto’s prestigious neighbourhoods of Rosedale, Summerhill and Forest Hill, at 12 St. Clair Ave E, Ultra invites guests to indulge in a feast for the senses, from exceptional Pan-Asian cuisine and exquisite cocktails to elevated entertainment and jaw-dropping decor curated by internationally acclaimed design collective, Studio Munge.
“From the moment guests step into Ultra, they will be immersed into an elegant and seductive world, inspired by the creative and unique mind of Alexander McQueen,” said Charles Khabouth, CEO and Founder of INK Entertainment Group. “Whether guests choose to stop by for a cocktail in our Onyx Bar, or spend an evening with us for a decadent meal followed by dancing and entertainment in our opulent golden parlour, Ultra will offer an experience unlike any other in the city.”
Ultra is centered around an innovative Pan-Asian menu, developed by Executive Chef Kihyun Kim (previously Akira Back Toronto, Millennium Hilton Seoul and Yellowtail at The Bellagio), incorporating international flavours, fusing beloved Asian dishes and ingredients with an Occident twist. Ultra’s menu embraces the joy of sharing and premium ingredients, with menu features including cold and hot shares, such as Giant Ezo Hokkaido Scallop and Seared Japanese Yellowtail; rice and noodles, including Black Garlic Somen and Bay Scallop Chili Udon; fresh sushi and sashimi; and robata grill mains, like Hangar Steak, Picanha, Miso Black Cod and Charred Lamb Chop.
Complementing the culinary experience is an innovative cocktail menu from Ultra’s Mixologist, Vitus Wight (previously Gladstone House, George and Playa Cabana), drawing inspiration from the many different cultures and flavours of East Asia, infusing select herbs, traditions and techniques for innovative cocktails to suit a modern palette. Standouts include Ultra’s signature Onyx Martini, utilizing cold infusion to draw the aromatic flavours from Pandan leaf, combined with Grey Goose Vodka and a Tok Junmai Sanzen Omachi Sake to showcase the umami flavours of Japan; and the Kuro Mame, a bold take on Vietnamese Coffee, with Woodford Reserve, Tia Maria, Cold Brew, Condensed Milk and Black Sesame.
An extensive wine list rounds out Ultra’s beverage program, with a diverse selection of both classic and more innovative varietals, to ensure a perfect pairing with each dish on the menu. In addition, a carefully curated sake collection showcases an exquisite range of traditional and premium sake varieties, sourced from renowned breweries in Japan and beyond, available by the glass and by the bottle, as well as additional bottle service options for those dancing until the early hours of the morning.
Many Torontonians may remember Ultra as a popular supper club concept located on Queen West during the 2000s, and one of the first collaborations between INK and Studio Munge. Now, over 10 years later, the two powerhouses have joined forces once again, alongside Harlo Entertainment, to bring an entirely new Ultra experience to Toronto’s Midtown.
Embodying a provocative and dramatic elegance, Ultra features three beautiful spaces masterfully curated by Studio Munge, inspired by legendary designer Alexander McQueen.
As the evening unfolds, guests are encouraged to sit back and revel in Ultra’s seamless transition from an elevated dining experience to an enthralling late-night atmosphere. With DJs and entertainment until the early hours, Thursday to Saturday, Ultra will ensure an unforgettable evening of delectable cuisine, enchanting ambiance, and thrilling entertainment all under one roof.
Ultra will be open for dinner Monday to Saturday, between 5 pm and 11 pm, starting June 6th, with the Supper Club experience available Thursday through Saturday until 2 am. Advance reservations can now be made via OpenTable.
INK Entertainment Group is proud to announce the latest addition to its extensive restaurant portfolio in Toronto, with Margo. Located on the fourth floor of private members’ club Clio, the reimagined, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and lounge will be open to the public from April 25th, 2023.
A hidden gem in the heart of King West, Margo guests are invited to step off Clio’s elevator into a luxurious space, with vibrant hues and velvet accents, artfully curated lighting, captivating art adorning the walls, and weekly entertainment creating an inviting and electric atmosphere for culinary adventures, enthralling conversations, and intriguing encounters to take place.
Carefully curated by Executive Chef Marc Cheng (previously George, Patria, NAO Steakhouse and Kōst) and Chef de Cuisine Jo Castrinos (previously Splendido, Storeys, and Portland Variety), Margo’s robust menu pulls inspiration from the diverse cultures, fresh ingredients and unique flavours found along the Mediterranean Coast, from the Iberian Peninsula to the shores of Lebanon.
“We’re excited to open the doors of Margo at Clio and inject some Mediterranean flavour and hospitality to King West’s thriving culinary scene,” said Charles Khabouth, CEO and Founder of INK Entertainment Group. “Some of my fondest childhood memories involve sitting in my mother’s kitchen, tasting her incredible food which was heavily influenced by her own culinary experiences and travels along the Mediterranean. As an homage to her, we wanted to create a similar culinary adventure at Margo with a menu that transports guests through the region’s vibrant coastal towns, and a welcoming atmosphere to ensure every visit is a memorable one.”
Celebrating the bountiful Mediterranean ingredients from both the land and sea, Margo’s menu features an extensive seafood offering including dishes such as Whole Lobster Linguine for two, Grilled Octopus, and Mediterranean Sea Bass, as well as seasonal items sourced directly from both local and international suppliers. From the land, guests will also be able to indulge in both traditional and modernized Mediterranean plates including a flaming table side Saganaki, locally sourced Ontario Rack of Lamb, and Mushroom Kosheri, an Egyptian Street food dish with shaved black truffles.
Perfectly paired with Margo’s culinary offering is a Mediterranean-inspired wine program, with a dedicated section on Margo’s wine list featuring unique varietals from different Mediterranean countries, including an Indigenous grape-based white from Mallorca, the famous Château Musar from Lebanon, a selection of Greek whites and reds, as well as a few classics from Bolgheri, Sicily and Provence.
A signature cocktail menu completes Margo’s beverage program, with innovative creations inspired by the vibrant flavours and colours of the Mediterranean region. Standouts include Amara, a bright and refreshing cocktail featuring Tsiporo Greek Moonshine; Oud Fashioned, a twist on the classic presented with a tableside smoke show; and Viola, a modern take on a French 75 with gold flakes, creating a beautiful glimmer upon arrival.
Margo marks the first of many new concepts INK will be launching in Toronto this year, including Mr. Vander, a new, late-night lounge, opening on the 2nd floor of Clio in early May; an American concept Restaurant and Bar in the Financial District, in partnership with Michael Cooper and his team at award-winning real estate company Dream; and a Supper Club in Midtown in partnership with Harlo Entertainment alongside their co-founder and legendary entrepreneur Michael Kimel, both slated to open later this Spring.
Located at 600 King St. West, Margo will be open to the public starting Tuesday, April 25th, with reservations available Tuesday to Sunday, 5.30 PM until 11 PM, as well as from 11 AM to 3 PM for brunch on Sunday. Advance reservations can now be made via OpenTable.
For more information visit margotoronto.com or follow Margo on Instagram @margo.toronto.
You’ve heard us going on about them during TIFF ’22 and now’s your chance to experience the magic that is INK Entertainment all for yourself! INK Entertainment x Mr. Will are giving our Readers a chance to win a $70 Gift Card to Bisha Hotel or any of its establishments: Kōst, Akira Back, French Made or Mister C.
The stunning Bisha Hotel was an official TIFF ’22 Hospitality Partner and hosted various official afterparties this year, plus the official Getty Images lounge, where several of the A-List talent in town were hosted.
Located in the heart of Toronto’s entertainment district, the glamourous Bisha Hotel welcomes some of the world’s trendiest guests each year during TIFF. Known as a celebrity hotspot, Bisha is preparing for the return of the glitz and glamour to the city, with incredible events, and premiere parties lined up throughout the Festival.
This year, the hotel will be home to Getty Images’ Portrait Studio, with many A-list celebrities expected to stop by for their stunning close-ups throughout TIFF.
Stars spotted in the past include: Bryce Dallas Howard, Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie, Riz Ahmed, Sarah Paulson, Susan Sarandon, Antonio Bandaras, Eddie Redmayne, Ellen Page, Kristen Stewart, Sam Rockwell, Wesley Snipes, Cynthia Erivo, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jon Hamm, Ray Liotta, Elle Fanning, Ben Stiller, Matthew McConaughey, Steve Carrell, Colin Farrell, Daniel Kaluuya, Lenny Kravitz and Olivia Munn.
The Bisha Hotel’s cozy and avante-garde lobby bar, complete with velvet walls and a seductive atmosphere, has been home to many pre and after parties for TIFF films. Stars spotted in the past include Julianne Moore, Jake Gyllenhaal, Allison Janney and Greta Gerwig.
Located on the second floor of the Bisha Hotel is Michelin-Starred Chef Akira Back’s first Canadian namesake restaurant, featuring a unique blend of modern Japanese cuisine and authentic Korean flavours, within a glamorous setting. Designed by the award-winning Studio Munge, the restaurant’s glamorous gold staircase, black and charcoal tones and lavish materials, make this a celeb favourite for dining out. Most recently, Arnold Schwarzenegger was seen enjoying dinner with his son and even took some photos with the staff.
On the 44th floor of The Bisha Hotel sits one of Toronto’s most Instagrammable restaurants and late-night bars, with unparalleled panoramic views of Toronto and a fantastic open-air patio that has been a popular location for many TIFF parties and events, with celebs such as Julia Roberts, Siena Miller, Christina Hendricks, Halle Berry, Geena Davis and Martin Short making an appearance in the past.
To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post on MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK, MR. WILL ON INSTAGRAM or MR. WILL ON TWITTER. Tag a friend and comment there which Bisha Hotel establishment you’d want to check-out! You must be following.
They were most certainly bustling #TIFF22 and we want our Readers and Followers to have a chance to enjoy a $70 Gift Card to any dining establishment including Kōst, Akira Back, French Made or Mister C at the gorgeous BISHA HOTEL in Toronto!
— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 29, 2022
Details: https://t.co/u0c7AsigBj pic.twitter.com/dnrvRRPjpv
Rules and regulations here.
Good luck!
(Photo credit: INK Entertainment)
Some girls just have it all! Gorgeous Kim Lee brought Toronto back out to the clubs tonight as Ontario has removed capacity limits on indoor events in this latest stage of our re-opening. The Model, DJ and star of hit Netflix Reality Series BLING EMPIRE, headlined at Rebel Night Club on the City’s Waterfront. The Series absolutely saved us during the Pandemic!
Lee currently is playing a weekly gig at the Wynn in Las Vegas and amidst her busy schedule, made this her first appearance ever in Toronto! And she Tweeted that she loves it here!
Damn I’m lovin it here in Toronto 😍
— ᴋɪᴍ ʟᴇᴇ (@OfficialKimlee) March 5, 2022
She was able to fit-in a super quick visit at Z1035 studios as well after arriving!
Lee was met on-stage with a drumming band and cheerleaders!
We were so drawn to Lee after learning about her story on BLING EMPIRE, and were so touched by her journey searching for her father. We just can’t wait to see more in Season Two which is said to be coming soon!
It was amazing getting to meet Lee quickly, exchanging our love for another! So beautiful inside and out♥️
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong/Netflix)
As businesses begin to navigate the new normal, here’s a new entertainment option for us in the City! INK Entertainment presents CITYVIEW DRIVE-IN will host movie nights, entertainment and unique events.
The venue at 20 Polston Street, is designed to host 200+ vehicles in reserved parking spots a minimum of seven feet apart. Guests can enjoy live entertainment from the 238-foot stage and three large LED screens supplied by Apex Sound & Light from the comfort of their own car. For a completely contactless experience, tickets are to be purchased in advance online and will be scanned at front gate via a touchless system.
Guests can tune-in with a designated FM radio frequency without having to lower their windows and also concessions and merchandise can be delivered via contactless delivery.
More on this and upcoming concerts here.
(Photo credit: INK Entertainment)
TIFF ’19 was one for the books and we dare you to disagree! Meryl, Tom, Natalie, J-Lo, Constance, Renée, Joaquin. Toronto played host to an explosive mass of starpower at the Toronto International Film Festival and we were right there! We celebrated our tenth anniversary, which happened to coincide with TIFF ’19 and fittingly it was our biggest year yet! It was amazing seeing so many of your friendly faces and taking Selfies with many of you in our travels and adventures and we love that Mr. Will has made a difference in your day for the past decade. We have always been about sharing our excitement with you and it touches us you are experiencing this with us! A huge thanks to Dave Baldwin and Amanda Gilmore on our Team who delivered us all the hits with their reviews, keeping savvy Festival Goers informed!
See the stars we spotted. Our favourite moments:
1. Renée Zellweger
2. Meryl Streep
3. Tom Hanks
4. Jennifer Lopez
5. Kristen Stewart
View this post on Instagram
#TIFF19: #KristenStewart winning raves for her work in #Seberg. #TIFF #KStew #HuaweiP30Pro
6. Joaquin Phoenix
#TIFF19: #JoaquinPhoenix at the #TIFF Premiere of #Joker. pic.twitter.com/uha0WlQXbc
— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 10, 2019
7. Eddie Murphy
View this post on Instagram
#TIFF19: Comedy legend #EddieMurphy at #TIFF with #DolemiteismyName! #HuaweiP30Pro
8. Bruce Springsteen
9. Taika Waititi
10. The Cast of Knives Out
Our Dave Baldwin had the honour of reviewing the official TIFF ’19 People’s Choice Award winner, JOJO RABBIT. Read his thoughts here.
See all our sightings and reviews here.
A huge thank you goes out to our official partners whom we couldn’t do it without.
CP24 – we loved being paired with our new BFF, Kelly Linehan in our contributions to CP24 this TIFF! We know you tuned in because more than ever so many of you shouted at me, “You’re the guy on TV! Good job!”.
ACURA CANADA – We adored our 2019 Acura TLX Elite in Performance Red Pearl which had us travelling in luxury and style this TIFF. Acura also happens to be an official sponsor, with a set-up at Roy Thomson Hall. Drives were smooth and anyone who does the Festival like us will know the importance of mobility. We are in love with its gorgeous interior and spacious interior. Its superb audio system and array of charging options (including a wireless plate), plus the fact that it has a CD player says that this is a car after my heart! Seat heaters and warmers are perfect for unpredictable Toronto weather and let’s not forget its array of safety features like lane departure and a hyper-aware collision warning and parking assist (which was a mega-help in all those underground parking lots). We love the array of displays you can scroll through on its steering wheel, including also a tire pressure monitor which tells you to a T exactly what your tire pressure is at. For anyone who’s ever had a flat tire, you will appreciate the value in this. We drove assured and enlightened. It was like driving a race car with its fast acceleration, but also like a luxury Sedan in one.
Proud to call the gorgeous and flashy #AcuraTLX Elite my vehicle of choice for #TIFF19! pic.twitter.com/xQLNVOXJLJ
— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 4, 2019
HUAWEI CANADA – The Huawei P30 Pro was our MVP this TIFF! 32MP photos, 256GB memory and an amazing Kirin 980 Octa-core Processor! Our snaps speak for themselves. And its efficiency enabled us to blog, edit content on-the-go and share our photos with viewers right away. This put several hours back into our day and we are grateful for the best phone in the market.
H&M CANADA – We got many compliments about our H&M Fall/Winter Collection 2019 looks. In Shia LaBeouf‘s own words when we took our Selfie, he proclaimed “Dude, you are style as f*ck!”.
WESLODGE SALOON – Celebs can’t get enough of this TIFF go-to’s classic and inspired Canadian fare and cocktails. Several names like Bruce Springsteen, Dev Patel and Hugh Laurie enjoyed the amazing grub and drink here TIFF ’19. We told you it was gonna be a hotspot, and it did not disappoint!
Bruce Springsteen spotted at Weslodge in advance of his Western Stars Premiere. Toldja it would be a hotspot #TIFF19! pic.twitter.com/adRFFJyH34
— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 12, 2019
STARBUCKS CANADA – We need our Americanos TIFF badly and we may have had a few Pumpkin Spice Lattes as a treat. The beverage has become synonymous with the Festival and Fall for us. And we loved giving our Readers a chance to win $20 Starbucks Canada Gift Cards too!
DUFFLET PASTRIES – The Queen of Cake’s® Queen Street location is the perfect spot for a treat between movies during TIFF and yes, I stopped by more than once because cake is necessary always. We loved rewarding one of our Readers with a free cake as well!
Always got time for @duffletpastries. RT for a chance to #win a free cake! #TIFF19 pic.twitter.com/NXjpP0DGmt
— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 10, 2019
MARY BROWN’S – Celebrating their 50th anniversary, with locations allover the GTA including Mississauga, Pickering, North York, Scarborough and more, Mary Brown’s is a legend. With all this craze about chicken sandwiches of late, let the Big Mary silence the competition!
CHATIME CANADA – The Bubble Tea giant’s Queen Street location is right in the heart of TIFF and we loved popping by for a refreshing midday treat and also giving our Readers a chance to win some free drinks as well!
Congrats to Mike who won our Tenth Anniversary Prize Pack, loaded with goodies from our partners and more!
TIFF19: We love you guys and appreciate all your support these past ten years so much!! Congrats to Mike, who won our #TIFF ’19 Survival Pack – Tenth Anniversary Edition! pic.twitter.com/bVYOB9r3Fn
— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 10, 2019
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
There’s no doubt about it, it’s our favourite time of the year! The 2019 Toronto International Film Festival runs from Thursday, September 5 through Sunday, September 14, 2019 and you’d better bet we’re stoked!
The Festival also marks our tenth anniversary as a Blogger. We remember not knowing which direction we’d go when we posted our first Blog Post and if anyone even cared what we thought! Looking back, it’s been an amazing journey – the experiences we’ve had and the people we’ve met along the way. We created the site originally as a platform to share all the awesome snaps we got during TIFF and to share our thoughts on what we saw since we loved the Festival so much. One thing led to another and who knew we’d be around kicking still today and that we’d be an accredited outlet? We don’t know how we’ve gotten here, but we’re touched deeply by your support all these years! We owe it all to you and the amazing contributors who have kept Mr. Will Wong afloat: Amanda Gilmore, Justin Waldman, Siobhán Rich, George Kozera, David Baldwin and Jon Godfrey! This ride has been magical.
See us talk about our tenth anniversary and our TIFF ’19 picks!
TIFF ’19 we’re doing it bigger and better than ever. It’s our tenth anniversary and we want you to celebrate in all our joy. This is will be one of the best Festivals in recent memory with bigger names and the biggest Films set to premiere in our City. We want to thank you partners, new and returning for helping us celebrate the occasion!
A huge thank you goes out to:
CP24 – With over 3.1 million viewers a week, we are thrilled to partner again with the definitive choice in breaking news coverage, CP24 for a TENTH year! We’ll be teaming-up with Kelly Linehan to deliver you some celeb scoop and the Films getting all the buzz at the Fest!
HUAWEI CANADA – I’ve never gotten as many raves on my Social Media about my photographs as when I tested-out the Huawei P30 Pro. We are overjoyed that this will be our official new phone in gorgeous burnt orange (just released) beginning TIFF ’19! We can’t go wrong with its 32MP photos, 256GB memory and incredible Kirin 980 Octa-core Processor! We can’t wait to show you all our snaps and Selfies from the Festival from the phone, which will serve as our communication hub, keeping you all up-to-date on the excitement!
ACURA CANADA – we’ll be cruising in style TIFF ’19 in the 2019 ACURA TLX, And how super-fitting is it that Acura Canada is one of the official sponsors of the Festival? This car is gorgeous, sleek and luxurious, true to Acura form and we look forward to all these star-filled adventures the ride will take us on!
HUAWEI CANADA – I’ve never gotten as many raves on my Social Media about my photographs as when I tested-out the Huawei P30 Pro. We are overjoyed that this will be our official new phone in gorgeous burnt orange (just released) beginning TIFF ’19! We can’t go wrong with its 32MP photos, 256GB memory and incredible Kirin 980 Octa-core Processor! We can’t wait to show you all our snaps and Selfies from the Festival from the phone, which will serve as our communication hub, keeping you all up-to-date on the excitement!
H&M CANADA – H&M continue to keep us on-trend and we can’t wait to show you some of the pieces we’ll be wearing TIFF ’19. We always have fun with it and hope you enjoy the looks!
WESLODGE SALOON – Celebs can’t get enough of this TIFF go-to’s Canadian fare and cocktails and we love it! You must try their Southern Fried Chicken, Steaks and Fish & Chips. Also their Mac & Cheese is superb! Several stars like Isabelle Huppert, Richard Gere, Chelsea Handler, Chloë Moretz and more have been spotted here and we expect to see more this year.
STARBUCKS CANADA – TIFF means the Pumpkin Spice Latte is back and you know we love our PSLs! We look forward every fall to those early morning screenings, waiting in line in that cool, crisp air to get into our screenings and then getting a warm hug from the PSL inside the cool, dark theatre as we try to stay awake! The PSL is back in stores now only at Starbucks.
DUFFLET PASTRIES – We love our treats and Dufflet has and always will be the Queen of Cake®! We always make time for a bit of relaxation towards the end of TIFF, and can’t wait to indulge in a slice of Black Forest or Raspberry Vanilla Charlotte! Their Queen Street location isn’t too far from all the Festival excitement.
MARY BROWN’S – We recently got reacquainted with Mary and it was all for the better! We have so many fond memories of Mary Brown’s famous Chicken and Taters as a child and they are better than ever, celebrating their 50th anniversary! With locations allover the GTA including Mississauga, Pickering, North York, Scarborough and more, Mary Brown’s is WORTH. THE. DRIVE. Get on this.
CHATIME CANADA – I confess my Bubble Tea addiction still rages on. With more and more locations popping-up throughout the Greater Toronto Area, we can’t wait for you to discover our favourite cold beverage. Try the Wintermelon Iced Tea or Grapefruit Iced Tea – my favourites!
We hate leaving you guys out, so in celebration of our tenth anniversary, we’re giving you guys a chance to win our TIFF ’19 Survival Pack – Tenth Anniversary Edition, which includes:
$100 Gift Card to WESLODGE SALOON or any INK Entertainment dining establishment in Toronto including TIFF hotspots Figo, Byblos, Estia, Kōst, Patria, Sofia, La Société, Mister C., Akira Back and more.
Ten select Blu-rays/DVDs including current blockbuster hits and past TIFF selections
$150 Chatime Prize Pack including T-Shirt
$30 Starbucks Canada Gift Card
$25 Mary Brown’s Gift Card
Two Martini Glasses
One cake at Dufflet Pastries
One pair of headphones
A value of $700 CAN!
*Winner must be able to pick-up the Survival Pack from me in the downtown core during the Festival.
To enter to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK, MR. WILL ON INSTAGRAM or MR. WILL ON TWITTER. Tell us in the comments your favourite memory of being a Mr. Will Reader all these years! In the comment, tag two friends for an extra chance.
Even if you don’t win the Prize Pack be following us on our adventures as we’ll be doing giveaways on our Social Media through TIFF ’19!
Don’t forget to follow us here on our TIFF ’19 adventures:
Mr. Will [Instagram] | [Twitter] | [Facebook]
Amanda Gilmore [Twitter]
David Baldwin [Twitter]
George Kozera [Twitter]
Siobhan Rich [Twitter]
Justin Waldman [Twitter]
Jon Godfrey [Instagram]
A very special thank you to Jensen Lee who customized a special 10th anniversary logo just for us!
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
Described both as rugged and refined, WESLODGE was one of our official partners of TIFF ’18! The King Street West hotspot in Toronto from premier hospitality group ICONINK, has hosted several stars during the Festival including this year, Isabelle Huppert, Chloë Grace Moretz and Maika Monroe.
Executive Chef Ben Heaton delivers a sophisticated spin on Canadian classics. Open for brunch and dinner, plus a late night menu, Weslodge has been a fixture in the City and for good reason!
Favourites include:
Nashville Hot Chicken
Wagyu Beef Footlong
Burgers
Striploin Steaks
Buffalo Fried Chicken
The Full Weslodge Brunch
We are giving our Toronto readers a chance to experience the star treatment at Weslodge with a $200 Gift Card which should be more than enough for a fabulous dinner for two!
To enter to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK. Be following and “like” this Post on our Instagram @mrwillwong for an extra chance. Tag a friend in the comments there!
You also may click “share” on this Post from Facebook too for another chance! Be sure to follow WESLODGE also!
Weslodge is located at 480 King St W Toronto, ON M5V 1L7
Weslodge.com for more.
(Photo credit: ICONINK)
For advertising opportunites please contact mrwill@mrwillwong.com