After seven successful years since opening its doors November 2017, Bisha Hotel is entering a new era. After recent news of it being acquired by Sunray Group, the stunning boutique hotel on Blue Jays Way, quite literally in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District, has rebranded as BISHA, a Luxury Collection Hotel. It has the distinction of being Canada’s first property under Marriott’s Luxury Collection brand.
The Hotel saw a huge profile boost during TIFF ’24 where it hosted prolific DEADLINE Studio. Any and every A-Lister (we’re talking Angelina Jolie, Cate Blanchett, Selena Gomez, Demi Moore) or rising star (recent Oscar winner Mikey Madison) passed through its famous black doors. Not to mention, the Hotel houses suites designed by non other than Rock God, Lenny Kravitz.
Still home to some of the City’s finest dining including restaurants AKIRA BACK, KŌST, MISTER C, and FRENCH MADE – which continue to be managed by founder INK Entertainment – the building still holds the same sophistication, precise service and timeless elegance it has. The same attentive and friendly service team are still there to make this a thoughtful stay. But what the future holds with the power of bring a Marriott Luxury Collection property is both enticing and exciting.
We enjoyed a stay at BISHA recently after having admired it for many years, dining at its establishments, and attending many an event there. It exceeds all expectations on every account, standing side-by-side with any five-star hotel in the City. Whether it be its aesthetic, its service, its cleanliness, its views and proximity to anything you could ever need, there are so many reasons to make this your home away from home in Toronto.
The Hotel’s 96 suites and rooms, inspired by and named after some of the greats, include:
The Nina
The Frank
The Yves
The Andy
The Oscar
The Grace
The Stella
The Marilyn
The Olivia
The Alexander
The Bisha Suite
The Nina Mobility/Hearing Accessible Roll-in Shower
The Frank Mobility/ Hearing Accessible Roll-in Shower
The Yves Mobility/ Hearing Accessible Roll-in Shower
The Stella Mobility/ Hearing Accessible Roll-in Shower
We stayed in a double Queen-bed suite, THE GRACE, which felt oversized and intimate, adorned with gorgeous fixtures. Its bed and pillows, primed for a great night of sleep. A small living room set-up by the window was perfect for lounging and enjoying a nibble and sip upon check-in. A desk to do a little bit of work was very handy to have, and perfect for those who are coming to the City for business.
Its bathroom exuded pure style with a walk-in shower and vanity all in black and white marble. The toilet is separated in its own enclosure for privacy.
We appreciated having a Nespresso machine ready for us always, plus a fully-stocked drink and snack bar with only the finest confections and beverages available. And we are literally obsessed with our television, which had access to wide array of channels, embedded within a glass panel.
And most importantly, our hearts were touched by the pet-welcoming setup which included dishes for water and food, plus a sizey bed for our beanie. Our little girl is very anxious in new surroundings, but settled-in very well as you will see from our highlight video below. It is a huge help that our suite was away from the bustle and noise. A challenge with being in Entertainment District is finding a bit of greenery for walks, but just around the corner on Wellington is a very dog-friendly park that also has a leash-free enclosure.
A fitness facility is available on the Hotel’s third floor as well, if you must. Valet Parking also is available for those driving in. And a reminder that CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Ripley’s Aquarium, TIFF Lightbox, Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, Roy Thomson Hall, Metro Convention Centre, and Scotiabank Area are all a short walk away.
The presence of hotspot THE WELL has given the area a huge boost. There is an endless variety of great food for all budgets and appetites, retail, and spas like the outstanding ETIKET if you need some rejuvenation.
Our stay was very timely as BISHA was hosting on its 43rd floor Sky Suite, a Women’s Day Market Pop-Up which showcased Canadian businesses led by females. Supporters showed-up in large numbers for a chance to get a free express facial by CAUDALIE, scalp analysis by PALM SUNDAY, Bone Broth Coffee and Hot Chocolate by BECK’S BROTH and more. beanie and I were thrilled to show our support in a time when it is so important to support our local economy.
Some highlights from our weekend:
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
This is a must for all you Football fans! The next best thing to being there in-person!
A Big Game Super Bowl Viewing Party will be held at REBEL in Toronto. It’s set to be the largest and most exciting viewing party in the city, and we’d love for your audience to get in on the action!
Event details:
Date & Time: Sunday, February 9, 2025, 4-11 PM
Location: REBEL, Toronto
Ticket Link: Buy Tickets
Notes: 19+ | Bottle Service Available
From unique set menus to custom cocktails and desserts, each of INK Entertainment spots offers something special for the occasion.
Here’s a look at what each restaurant has in store:
♡Chica: A la carte options and special features, no minimum spend required.
♡Patria: A la carte options and special features, $95 minimum spend.
♡Byblos Uptown: $125 set menu (see menu attached).
♡Byblos Downtown: $125 set menu (see menu attached).
♡Akira Back: $145 sharing-style set menu with a glass of sparkling sake, available Feb 14th-16th (menu attached).
—Special Valentine’s Day dessert: TOU-RIN (Peach Orchard) – white peach mousse, matcha moss, cotton candy (see attached photo).
♡Animl: No minimum spend, plus a custom Valentine’s Day dessert (Strawberry Lemon Mousse) and a special Valentine’s Day cocktail
♡Daphne: $145 minimum spend.
♡Amal: $125 minimum spend.
♡Laylak: $95 minimum spend.
♡Ultra: $125 minimum spend.
♡Margo: $95 minimum spend.
♡Sofia: $145 minimum spend.
♡KOST: $125 minimum spend.

Toronto offers a wide array of New Year’s Eve celebrations, each a unique way to ring in 2025. Whether you’re craving a luxurious multi-course dinner or an electrifying night at a top club, the city has it all. INK Entertainment’s events cater to every type of reveller. Pick your perfect celebration and welcome 2025 in unforgettable style!
See what’s going on at various INK Entertainment establishments around the City, including some amazing prix fixe menus to feast on. Something for every vibe!
Toast to 2025 the Spanish way with Nochevieja! Join us for a vibrant, Spanish-inspired feast, featuring a special 4-course menu and live DJ. The à la carte menu will be available from 5-7:30PM.
Ring in the New Year in style with Akira Back and indulge in an extraordinary five course Chef’s tasting menu.
Spend NYE with your favourite Chica! Countdown to midnight the Spanish way with an unforgettable four-course feast or indulge in the à la carte menu available from 5-7:30PM.
Toast to NYE with a 4-course Prix Fixe Dinner experience inspired by the finest flavours of the Mediterranean, then stay for late night entertainment, DJs and festivities.
Celebrate NYE at Byblos! Experience a vibrant Eastern Mediterranean-inspired evening with a special four-course menu to ring in 2025 at both the Downtown and Uptown locations.
Celebrate with a 4-course Pan-Asian inspired Prix Fixe Dinner, and enjoy a late night supper club ambiance with music by our featured guest DJ.
Ring in 2025 with Daphne. Indulge in a decadent four-course dinner amidst a live DJ’s vibrant beats and an elegant atmosphere, making your New Year’s Eve one for the ages!
Toast to 2025 with Sofia’s Midnight Kiss New Year’s Eve celebration. Experience a glamorous evening and enjoy a decadent four course dinner, followed by midnight festivities to ring in the New Year!
Experience an enchanting New Year’s Eve at Amal — indulge in exquisite Lebanese cuisine, mesmerizing entertainment featuring belly dancers, a percussionist and a live DJ — making for an unforgettable countdown to 2025.
This New Year’s Eve, pop, fizz, and kiss at Pink Sky! Celebrate 2025 with a decadent four-course dinner. À la carte menu is available from 5-7:30PM.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with KOST’s Skyline Soiree — indulge in a decadent three course set-menu while taking in breathtaking views from the 44th floor. Experience an unforgettable evening with a live DJ, marking a truly memorable countdown to 2025.
More here.
Prepare to sink your teeth into a dining experience like no other as ANIML Steakhouse, INK Entertainment’s latest culinary masterpiece, prepares to unveil its doors on Friday, November 15th. This luxurious haven is poised to redefine the art of dining, blending sophistication with a primal allure.
We had the pleasure of previewing the space, some nibbles and drinks from the sophisticated menu of offerings.
ANIML marks an exciting new venture and partnership between Charles Khabouth, Danny Soberano of INK Entertainment, Sacha Elwakeel and Maher Murshed. Together, they introduce a refined concept that celebrates indulgence and elegance.
“Animl represents a new era in the steakhouse experience,” said Charles Khabouth, Founder and CEO of INK Entertainment. “We created a discreet and cozy space, moving away from traditional, massive steakhouses. Animl is about redefining the concept, offering an elevated journey from the interior design to the overall experience.
ANIML Steakhouse offers modern interpretations of classic steakhouse favourites. From dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood to indulgent sides, every dish is crafted to satisfy your cravings and feed your wildest instincts.
The culinary team is led by Executive Chef Marc Cheng, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at the award-winning restaurant George and other notable venues such as Patria and Clio. Growing up in the 70s and 80s, he infuses his upbringing into a modern interpretation of what a classical steakhouse can be in 2024.
Chef de Cuisine Michael Degrazia joins the team with over two decades of experience, honing his skills in some of the finest kitchens across British Columbia before returning to Toronto. Previously at Alo Bar, his artistic background informs his innovative approach to flavours and textures, enhancing the guest experience that ANIML aims to deliver
Drawing inspiration from the rich cultural tapestry of the past, ANIML’s design creates an inviting and dynamic space that encourages exploration and indulgence. Designed by the award-winning Toronto-based design studio NIVEK REMAS, the restaurant’s captivating interiors transport patrons back to the lavish excess of the 1970s. “ANIML invites you to unapologetically come as you are. The exotic interior exudes enigma and glamour, paying homage to the untamed spirit of the Art Deco era, the party days of Studio 54, and the extravagant lifestyle of the 1970s,” said Kevin Chan and Samer Shaath, partners and co-founders of NIVEK REMAS.
High lacquer wood panelling, gold leaf ceilings, antique mirrors, and graphic marbles envelop the space, while lush velvets, animal prints, and fringe create a tactile experience of mystery and opulence. Each meticulously curated element invites guests to savour a dining experience reminiscent of Studio 54. At the center of it all is a stunning upside-down mirror-encased bull that dazzles above patrons.
Location: 420A Wellington Street W, Toronto
Hours of Operation for ANIML:
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday/Wednesday/Sunday: 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Thursday/Friday/Saturday: 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Cocktail Bar: Open every night until 2 AM
For more information, visit animlsteakhouse.com or Follow Animl on Instagram @animl.toronto
ANIML Steakhouse. Elegantly untamed.
ABOUT INK ENTERTAINMENT
INK Entertainment Group is a leading North American lifestyle and entertainment company. Operating since 1982, INK Entertainment Group has demonstrated an enviable ability to read the pulse of ever-changing cultural times and tastes, responding with a host of successful enterprises.
Headquartered in Toronto and Miami and helmed by visionary entrepreneurs Charles Khabouth and Danny Soberano. INK Entertainment Group’s innovative approach, fusing dining, lifestyle, entertainment, hospitality and design is devoted to creating extraordinary experiences throughout its proprietary brands, including notable restaurant brands Akira Back, Amal (Toronto & Miami), Byblos (Toronto & Miami), Daphne, Level 6 (Miami), KŌST, Margo, Patria, Pink Sky, Sofia Yorkville, Sofia Design District (Miami), STORYS Building, and Ultra; private members’ club Clio; Several trendy clubs including REBEL, Cabana Pool Bar, DPrtmnt, Mister C, and Dragonfly Nightclub; and Taglialatella Galleries (Toronto, New York & Paris) INK also notably produces Canada’s largest annual music festival, VELD.
INK Entertainment Group also teamed up with several significant industry partners including Loews Hotels & Resorts and Lifetime Developments to launch Bisha Hotel & Residences, the newest private label hotel and residence brand to originate in Toronto since The Four Seasons in the 1960s.
Looking for something fun to do this Halloween? Here’s a roundup of thrilling events taking place around town at INK Entertainment‘s hottest venues ranging from more intimate to big and lively.
MORTEM HALLOWEEN
Location: REBEL
Date: Saturday, October 26th, 2024
Ticket Link: Buy Tickets
NIGHTMARE INN
Location: Mister C (Bisha Hotel)
Date: Saturday, October 26th, 2024
Bottle Service: Book Here
COSPLAY SOIRÉE
Location: Dprtmnt
Date: Saturday, October 26th, 2024
Ticket Link: Buy Tickets
NIGHTMARE OFF KING STREET
Location: Dprtmnt
Date: Thursday, October 31st, 2024
Ticket Link: Buy Tickets
GLITTER PRESENTS “DEAD DISCO” HALLOWEEN PARTY
Location: Mister C (Bisha Hotel)
Date: Thursday, October 31st, 2024
Bottle Service: Book Here
HALLOWEEN NIGHT
Location: REBEL
Date: Thursday, October 31st, 2024
Ticket Link: Buy Tickets
Hey Footie fans! Looking for somewhere elevated to enjoy the Euro Premier Games and Finals? Here’s where you can catch all the action live in and around Toronto:
Kost
Location: Bisha Hotel, 80 Blue Jays Way, 44th Floor, Toronto
Ultra
Location: 12 St Clair Ave E, Toronto
Amal
Location: 131 Bloor St W, 2nd Floor, Toronto
Margo
Located in Clio, 600 King St W, 4th Floor, Toronto
Cabana: Eurocup Finals Viewing Party
Date: Sunday, July 14, 2024
Time: Doors open at 1:00pm
Specials: Ladies free before 3:00pm on guestlist
Age Restriction: 19+ event, valid photo ID required

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.
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