It’s that time of year again, folks!  Yes, the Friday Night Live nights at the Royal Ontario Museum are back.  Located in the heart of the city, in the vibrant Yonge and Bloor neighbourhood, the ROM Friday Night Live returns this spring!

So, clear your calendars, because every Friday night, starting May 3^rd, the ROM is hosting nights full of food and drink, dancing and gallery wandering.  Some of Toronto’s most popular DJs will be in charge of the music, so you can be sure you’ll be putting your dancing shoes to good use!

Every week will be a different theme, from the JUNO Awards to Ancient Mesopotamia!  There are eight themed weeks in total, so be sure to come to at least one – or come to them all and don’t miss a thing!

Dates:
Fridays, May 3 to June 21.

Doors open at 7 PM.
Last entry is at 10:30 PM; last call at the bar is 11 PM.

Adults age 19+ with valid photo ID.

Food and drink tickets available on-site, starting at $6.

Ticketing details coming soon.

100 Bloor Street W
Toronto, ON M5S 3E7
Neighbourhood: Yorkville

Sources:

http://www.rom.on.ca/en/activities-programs/rom-friday-night-live

http://www.yelp.ca/biz/friday-night-live-the-rom-toronto

But, if you’re in the mood for a different or new flavor combo, try this cilantro and ginger hummus instead to add an extra kick of flavor. To top it off, pair the hummus with a freshly-warmed piece of pita.

Simply put the pita on a gas stove, turn the flame on medium-low and place the frozen pita (it usually takes less than a minute to take the bread from totally frozen to warm) directly on the burner. Flip it and move it around every 5-10 seconds to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t burn.

To get started on the hummus, follow the directions using the ingredients below.

Happy hummus making!

Ingredients:

• A 15 ounce can of chickpeas
• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice from 1/2 a lemon
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 1/4 cup water (or reserve the chickpea cooking water if you use dry beans)

Directions:

1. First you need to peel off the chickpea skins.

2. In a food processor blend the chickpeas until they are a coarse grain. Now add the tahini, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, cilantro and salt. Blend for a full minute or two.

3. Now with the processor still running drizzle in the oil and then the water. For an even smoother, thinner consistency add more water.

Though condo dwellers may not be able to plant their own Cherry Blossom Tree in a garden, they can certainly bring the nature inside!  With a simple and inexpensive DIY craft, these Cherry Blossom Trees will welcome spring and brighten any indoor space.  Perfect for any room!

Instructions

Gather branches that have fallen outside; let dry, if necessary. Cut out 2-inch squares of pink tissue, pinch tightly in the middle to create blooms, and affix them to branches with white glue. Display in a tall container, such as a canning jar, with the lid’s center removed.  Depending on where you plan to decorate with this, you can make it fancier with different colours, place in a vase and fill your container with decorative rocks, stones, or fallen “leaves.”

The U of T Cheery Blossom Trees will be back soon, but until then, enjoy them inside too!

Sources:

http://www.marthastewart.com/275124/kids-spring-crafts/@center/276975/marthas-crafts-kids

http://blog.pauljunggardening.com/2012/04/sakura-dreams-cherry-blossoms-at.html

http://torontogp.blogspot.ca/2012/04/u-of-t-and-queens-park-in-full-blossom.html

The extensive menu at Over Easy consists of Specialties, Scrambles, Benedicts, Omelettes, Classics, Specialty Wraps, Macaroni, Griddle, Classic Sandwiches, Soups and Salads, and a Healthy and Lite section.  Clearly, there’s something for everyone at Over Easy, even those who don’t like eggs!  A brunch for two will generally cost you around $40, a steal considering the quality and quantity of the food.  To see their full menu, click here.

Besides a delicious menu, Over Easy has a morning ambience that is cheerful and unassuming.  Decked out with bright lighting, colourful walls, and plain wood furniture, the décor lends a homey and happy feel to the restaurant.

The Bloor-Yonge location is in close proximity to the UofT campus, making it an ideal student hangout. It’s also a skip and a jump from the R.O.M and Yorkville hotels, as well as the Manulife Centre office tower, which also makes it a popular place for tourists and suits alike. With another location downtown at Yonge and Wellington, everyone can take advantage!

Bloor & Queens Park

208 Bloor St. West
Toronto, ON, Canada
M5S 3B4

Phone: (416) 922-2345
Fax: (416) 922-3608

info@overeasyrestaurants.com

Open 7 am – 4 pm daily

Wheelchair accessible.
No reservations on weekends.
We’re closed on December 25th.

Sources:

http://www.overeasyrestaurants.com/

http://www.toronto.com/listing/156533–over-easy

http://www.toronto.com/article/371903

http://breakfastintoronto.wordpress.com/2011/12/19/over-easy-208-bloor-st-w/

Although the city offers lots of great options for entertainment, the best way to enjoy an evening, once in a while, is with loved ones enjoying good ol’ fashion movie night. Museum House residents can stop by Bay Street Video to pick up the right flick.

Pair that with delicious homemade treats and you’re sure to enjoy the perfect low key night! Here are two recipes we thought we would share with you that will satisfy your cravings, sweet or salty.

Mini Brownie Cupcakes (recipe makes 72 mini-cupcakes)

What you’ll need:

• 4 sticks unsalted butter, cut into pieces
•  Vegetable-oil cooking spray
• 8 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 8 large eggs
• Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
• Special equipment: mini–muffin tins and about 72 (1- by 1-inch) waxed paper liners

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line mini–muffin tins with liners. Spray liners with cooking spray.
2. Melt butter and chocolate in a 4-quart pot over moderately low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Whisk in flour, cocoa and salt.
4. Remove pan from heat and whisk in granulated sugar.
5. Add eggs, 1 at a time, whisking after each one.
6. Stir in flour mixture until blended.
7. Spoon batter into muffin liners, filling cups to tops and bake in over 25-30 minutes.
8. Cool and decorate if desired.

Homemade Cracker Jacks (serves 10-12)

What you’ll need:

• 16 cups freshly-popped popcorn
• 2 cups roasted, lightly salted peanuts (Spanish or regular)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Sea salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. Toss the popcorn and peanuts together in a large bowl.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in brown sugar, corn syrup, molasses and salt.
4. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the temperature reads 250°F on a candy thermometer, for about 6 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and baking soda. Very quickly, pour hot caramel over the popcorn and gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
6. Divide the popcorn mixture in half between 2 greased baking sheets, spreading into a thin layer.
7. Bake, stirring every 15 minutes for about 50 minutes.
8. Sprinkle Cracker Jack with a little sea salt and allow cooling in pans for 20 minutes.
9. Separate the popcorn into individual pieces with hands before service.

Source:

http://www.thekitchn.com/movie-night-10-make-at-home-snacks-182425

Koerner Hall

Celebrating its 125^th anniversary this year, The Royal Conservatory of Music is one of the largest and most respected music institutions in the world.

The institution was founded in 1886 (as The Toronto Conservatory of Music) and officially opened its doors in September 1897 above a music store at the corner of Yonge and Dundas. In 1947, King George VI awarded The Conservatory the English monarchy’s Royal Charter in recognition of the Conservatory’s position as one of the Commonwealth’s greatest music schools. It was then that the Toronto Conservatory of Music became The Royal Conservatory of Music.

The Royal Conservatory of Music was the first Canadian institution to dedicate itself solely to the training of singers and musicians and to the inspiration of young children to love music. By 1897, the institution was growing at a rapid pace.

Now, every year, 600,000 Canadians participate in programs offered by the RCM. The Royal Conservatory is proud to have been a part of the development of many esteemed Canadian artists including: Glenn Gould, Oscar Peterson, David Foster, Sarah McLachlan, Angela Hewitt, and Diana Krall.

On December 7^th the University of Toronto Schola Cantorum is performing a magnificent show. Tickets start at $20 and the show beings at 7:30PM. To get into the Christmas spirit watch the Bach Christmas Pratorio Collegium Vocale Gent on Decmber 14^th at 8PM. Tickets start at $45, and this show is not one to miss!

To view the complete calendar of events, visit their website here.

Source:

http://rcmusic.ca/

Image c/o Bloor-Yorkville BIA

The Royal Ontario Museum, or the ROM, is Canada’s largest museum of world culture and natural history, bringing in over a million visitors every year. If you live at Museum House, all that history is just across the street!

What makes the ROM different from most museums is the way that the museum combines cultures with natural history, offering an unusually broad experience. The permanent exhibits include cultural exhibits from around the world, from Chinese artifacts to North American First Peoples, and beautiful natural history galleries which include the Earth’s Treasure’s and Age of Mammals exhibits.

New Galleries

Eaton Gallery of Rome, Level 3
This exhibit features over 500 artifacts that explore the daily Roman lives throughout the vast Empire and the Roman influence on local cultures.

Image: Emperor Lucius Verus (marble bust), Imperial Rome, AD 165-170

Joey and Toby Tanenbaum Gallery of Rome and the Near East, Level 3
The story of the Roman expansion into the lands further east and south is told through priceless architectural pieces like mosaics and earthenware.

Image: Figurine Fragment, (earthenware), Petra, Jordan

Joey and Toby Tanenbaum Gallery of Byzantium, Level 3
This gallery highlights the iconic period of the Dedication of Constantinople (now Istanbul) that follows the cultural riches and artistic traditions of the Mediterranean world during this time.

Image: floor mosaic (detail), (limestone), Byzantine, AD 300-350

Current and Upcoming Exhibits

Carnival: From Emancipation to Celebration
Until February 24, 2013

Produced in collaboration with Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto, the exhibit explores the origins of the carnival from emancipation to celebration through the work of Brian MacFarlane.

Afterimage: Tod Ainslie’s Vision of the War of 1812
Until February 24, 2013

To celebrate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, the ROM is hosting the photography of Tod Ainslie. The photographs show many of the War’s significant sites, displayed in the Wilson Canadian Heritage Exhibition Room.

Small Skills, Special Effects: Unusual Chinese Works of Art
Until February 3, 2013

This exhibit celebrates 70 objects spanning the Tang Dynasty to modern day, displaying great workmanship and artistry in the Chinese culture.

Museum Hours: Monday to Thursday 10 am – 5:30 pm Friday 10 am – 8:30 pm Saturday and Sunday 10 am – 5:30 pm

If this seems like the perfect neighbourhood for you, please feel free to contact us for more information on Museum House or any other project. Reach us at (416) 929-1660 or email us at resupport@axoncapitalrealty.com. We would be happy to help you find the perfect condo!

Sources:

http://www.rom.on.ca/index.php

http://www.bloor-yorkville.com/Directory/Art-Galleries.aspx?s=105

Image c/o National Post

Powell & Bonnell is primarily an interior design firm, catering to an international clientele that seeks unique custom interiors that reflect their individuality. After 20 years in business, the company has grown into a well-known and sought after firm. David Powell and Fenwick Bonnell are long-time friends and business partners, who work closely on every project, along with their team of about 15 other staff members. Their 3,700 square foot head office acts as a show room where clients, suppliers, and designers can interact and discuss business.

The firm specializes in sophisticated, urban interiors for retail and commercial spaces. It has been the recipient of numerous accolades, including the 2008 ASID NYU CE “Best of Competition” for 77 Charles and the 2008 BILD “Best Suite Design over 1,500 sq. ft” also for 77 Charles, #9. The firm has also received press coverage, having appeared in several well-known décor magazines.

In 1996, Powell & Bonnell introduced an award winning collection of lighting and furnishings. The collection is designed to reflect the firm’s aesthetic sense and is suitable for both residential and commercial spaces. Everything is manufactured by local craftsmen, which means that great care has been applied to meet Powell & Bonnell’s standards.

In addition, they have branded their very own line of textiles and leathers, to complement their furnishings and interior designs. The award winning collection has introduced their signature style to a highly receptive audience. More recently, Powell & Bonnell have branded their own line of textiles and leathers. Their furnishings have been included in many noteworthy hotels, like Winnipeg’s Fairmont Hotel and the Four Seasons in Toronto, New York, and Washington DC.

The great thing about the firm, is that to them, no project is too small. Almost anyone can take advantages of their services, which we’ve listed below:

Design services:

• Initial site inspections, site measurements, and floor plans
• Furniture layouts, colour schemes, and renderings
• Construction drawings, building specifications, and site supervision
• Contractor tendering and project management

Purchasing Services

• Catalogue residential/commercial furnishings
• Custom designed furniture, cabinetry and lighting
• Appliances, art and accessories.

Make Powell & Bonnell’s designs part of your condo! They will add a dash of sophistication and elegance to any living space.

Sources:

http://www.powellandbonnell.com/

Bloor Street is a lively and vibrant location. In fact, this image demonstrates just how close Museum House is to all the action. Just behind the trees, to the right of the image, we see the Crystal extension of the Royal Ontario Museum. And to the left, is the Royal Conservatory of Music (which includes a b Espresso bar, perfect for your morning caffeine run). Not to mention, it’s steps from the U of T campus, Varsity Stadium, and all the luxury stores along Bloor St. W and in Yorkville. 

This image was taken by Urban Toronto’s forum member urbandreamer as they were walking along the Philosopher’s Walk, which connects the UofT campus to Bloor St. W. Image c/o Urban Toronto.

Exhibit Residences will soon be making their appearance right next to Museum House. One Bedford is also just a few minutes away!

If this seems like the perfect neighbourhood for you, please feel free to contact us for more information on Museum House or any other project. Reach us at (416) 929-1660 or email us at resupport@axoncapitalrealty.com. We would be happy to help you find the perfect condo!

Sources:

http://www.urbantoronto.ca/news/2012/04/photo-day-museumhouse-condos-seen-philosophers-walk

Image c/o facebook.com/Shas.Studio

Shas is a yoga and Pilates studio tucked away at 329 St. George St., not far from Museum House. Shas strives to be a playful and open learning environment. Students are encouraged to reach their highest potential and to discover their bodies. The studio is located in a loft-style quiet building. It’s a bright and open space filled with plants and beautiful art pieces.

All Shas teachers are certified and highly knowledgeable. Classes are limited to 7 people, making it a more personalized environment where instructors can focus on individual needs.

The classes offered include beginner’s yoga, cross fit body power pilates, and power yoga.

Rates:
A single class: $20
10 class pass: $190
1 month unlimited: $140
3 months unlimited: $375

If you are thinking of moving to the area, check out Museum House. For more information, feel free to reach us at (416) 929-1660 or email us at resupport@axoncapitalrealty.com. We would be glad to help with your search for that perfect condo!

Sources:

http://www.shas-studio.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Shas.Studio