In the 1850s, despite two brief terms as capital of the Province of Canada, the fledgling town of York was really just a collection of medium-sized businesses and homes with big ambitions. What many felt the community lacked at this stage in its development was a first class, luxury hotel to cater for visitors with money to spare.

Often described as "palace hotels", most North American cities had at least one well appointed, oppulant accommodation decked out with the latest comforts. At the time, the Sword's Hotel and American Hotel on Front Street were the most popular choice for visitors with the money to be looked after.

Light rail, subway...whatever man. Let's put our differences aside and have fun! And by fun I mean watch a slew of comedians roast their friend who's just trying to make his dreams come true.

Premier Dalton McGuinty is denied Rob Ford's claim that the province wants subways in spite of city council's wishes. McGuinty, along with Ontario's Transportation Minister, Bob Chiarelli, said he felt compelled to comment after hearing Ford claims that the province would ignore Wednesday's council's vote and proceed with the mayor's transit plans anyway.

FILM | King Street Alt Film Festival
Just when you thought Toronto had its fill of film festivals, the King Street Alt Film Festival comes along. This small grassroots filmfest will focus on short narrative and experimental films by local artists and in honour of its inaugural year, the Audience Favourite winner from the 2011 Toronto Spring 24 Hour Film Challenge, The Trial, will be screened. The festival is one night only and it will all take place in Corktown on, as its name suggests, King East.
Betty's (240 King Street East) 8PM Free

Photo by tapesonthefloor in the blogTO Flickr pool

This sushi joint has taken up residence in the space that formerly housed both Sushi Haru and Asa Sushi. Subjected to the sophisticated series of tests that I conduct whenever I visit an AYCE joint, I'm pleased to report that the latest incarnation of the restaurant passed with good marks.

Read my review of Sashimi Island in the restaurants section.