9 distanced things to do in Toronto this week: April 26 to May 2

Please Note: As of April 8, Toronto is under Ontario’s Stay-at-Home order. This means you must stay at home as much as possible and only go out for necessities, including getting food, going to work, and getting exercise. If you go out, maintain the six feet physical distancing guidelines and wear a mask.

April has come and gone just like that. Although the weather has been hard to predict, there are still things to do in Toronto that are safe and fun.

Here’s a list of ideas that may help you through the final week of April:

Enjoy a virtual art exhibit with NExT: The Future of Art Exhibition 2.0

Celebrate Black futures with TO Live and VIBE Arts. NExT: The Future of Art Exhibition 2.0 is an online and outdoor exhibition that showcases Black Futures and is running until May 11. “NExT Artists participated in a nine-month mentorship program led by individual sessions with our roster of professional artists and creatives, attended professional development workshops and networking opportunities, and received funding to create new work as part of the exhibition,” says their website.

When: March 22 to May 11
Where: On their website

Take an online fitness class right at home

Since gyms are closed, working out at home is your best option! There are a bunch of online fitness classes you can take that will keep you motivated and in shape. BOLO Inc. is an on-demand subscription service that you can easily sign up for and work out with until you can’t anymore. Want to give it a test run? You can enjoy their free trial for a week and see if it’s the right fit for you.

When: You’re feeling like a good work out
Where: From the comfort of your own home or wherever you can get wifi

Try Toronto’s newest Birria taco pop-up

Birria Balam is the city’s newest Mexican restaurant where you can get your hands on authentic and delicious Birria tacos in Toronto. The restaurant has only been open for a month but has transformed its space at 147 Spadina Avenue into an authentic Mexican eatery that embraces its native traditions and showcases bold art and colours. What makes Birria Balam stand out, besides its colour palette, is its menu. Though it is limited, each combo includes three tacos, one consomé (a type of soup), soda and two salsas, green and red.

When: Friday to Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm (Closed 3 pm to 4 pm for Family Meal)
Where: 147 Spadina Avenue

Place an online order from Canada’s newest Vegan marketplace

There’s a new online marketplace for Canadians that is making it easier to get their hands on vegan and plant-based products. Since launching in the US in November 2020, Vejii has expanded into Canadian waters, offering a large selection of vegan goods. This multi-vendor platform gives startup brands a chance to list their products on the website to gain national exposure while working with established brands targeting new customers.

When: You’re looking to expand your food choices
Where: On their website

Try out Cops Doughnuts’ newest location

Cops Doughnuts has opened a new shop in Toronto’s east end, making it easier for you to get your hands on the sweetest mini doughnuts. The coffee and doughnuts shop shared on Instagram that they have secured a spot at the East Room workspace at 4 Matilda Street.  Their mini doughnuts are made from scratch daily and can be ordered online for pick up. Though you’re able to choose from their main lineup like the classic cinnamon sugar, the OG sour cream, they also have a rotating weekly special, which is disclosed on Instagram.

When: 9 am to 11 pm every day
Where: 4 Matilda Street

Enjoy a girls night in with a comedy show

Girls Night In is a live comedy show that you can enjoy right at home every Tuesday night. Tickets are free, and spots are first-come-first-serve. There will be games, improv, comedy, musical guests, and more. Make sure you log in when the room opens 10 minutes before the show starts.

When: Every Tuesday night at 8 pm/EST
Where: From the comfort of your own home

Order this Sakura special edition sushi box

Tachi, a small Japanese restaurant, is launching special Sakura packaging embracing the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossoms for an entire month. The omakase spot, which operates out of Assembly Chef’s Hall, will introduce the limited-time packaging on two of its omakase sets through mid-May. Pricing starts at $45 for eight pieces of Nigiri and mochi. For $60, patrons receive nine pieces of nigiri, one premium fatty tuna handroll, and a piece of mochi.

When: You’re in the mood
Where: 111 Richmond Street West

Try out this new Middle Eastern brunch spot

More brunch spots? Yes, please! Fattoush Levantine, a Middle Eastern breakfast spot, is opening a permanent diner in Toronto next month. The catering company and pop-up that focuses on healthy breakfast options with delicious flavours from the Middle East will call 253 Gerrard Street East home. Since October, Fattoush had been working out of The Depanneur at 1033 College Street on the weekends, where they cook up mouthwatering meals like manakeesh, hummus bowls, and even massive feasts for larger families.

When: TBA
Where: 253 Gerrard Street East

Order pho straight to your door

No matter the weather, you can never go wrong with a hot bowl of pho. Scattered across the Toronto area, you’re sure to find your next spot for the best pho in the city. North of Toronto, in Markham or Richmond Hill, or even in the heart of the city, it’s not hard to find a Vietnamese restaurant.

When: Looking to stay warm and enjoy a hearty meal
Where: Across Toronto