This week’s edition has plenty to check out, from activism to delicious vegan eats. Animal Rights Toronto is hosting an all-day vigil and outreach event on March 17, giving advocates a chance to take a stand for animals. Meanwhile, Veg Out, the long-running podcast by VegTO, continues to spotlight the stories shaping Toronto’s vegan community.

On the food front, A Cookie Called Quest is hosting a free cookie sampling at McEwan Fine Foods, 13 Suns is serving up a special Iftar meal for Ramadan, and Taqueria Vegana’s beloved Torta is back for a limited time.

Looking ahead, we’ve got details on upcoming events, including a vegan climbing meetup, a British-themed drag brunch, and the return of Planted Expo Toronto in May. Read on for all the latest!

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Week of Mar 13 - 19:

News:

• Toronto Vegan Podcast Shares Community Stories

  For those that don’t know, the "Veg Out" podcast, produced by VegTO, is a long-running show dedicated to exploring the vegan lifestyle in the Greater Toronto Area. Released biweekly on Saturdays, the podcast has amassed over 590 episodes, covering everything from local events and restaurant reviews to animal ethics, health, and environmental issues. Whether you’re looking for the latest in Toronto’s vegan scene or thoughtful discussions on plant-based living, Veg Out is a great resource for the community.

Events:

• A Cookie Called Quest Hosts Free Cookie Sampling at McEwan Fine Foods

  Toronto’s A Cookie Called Quest (ACCQ) has built a loyal following with its gourmet, plant-based cookies, known for their rich flavours and high-quality ingredients and they are bringing their signature cookies to McEwan Fine Foods with a free cookie sampling. This is a perfect chance to taste their rich, flavour-packed cookies and meet the team behind the brand.

  📅 Date: Saturday, March 15
  ⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  📍 Location: McEwan Fine Foods, 38 Karl Fraser Rd, North York

• Iftar at 13 Suns

  From March 13 to March 29, 13 Suns is offering a special Iftar meal, crafted with care for sharing.

  📅 Dates: March 13 – March 29
  ⏰ Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  📍 Available for: Dine-in & Takeout
  💰 Price: $49.99

  Iftar Menu:

  🥗 Beyaynetu – A vibrant Ethiopian veggie platter rich in tradition and flavour
  🥣 Lentil Soup – Nourishing and heartwarming (2 servings)
  🥟 Sambusas – Crispy, golden pastries (4 pieces + house dip)
  🌰 Dates – A sweet, simple way to begin your meal (5 pieces)

  Rooted in the spirit of Ramadan, this meal is a way to reflect, gather, and enjoy good food in community. Whether dining in or taking it to go, 13 Suns welcomes you to share in the experience.

• Taqueria Vegana Extends Torta Special

  Taqueria Vegana is bringing back their popular Torta for a limited time! This classic Mexican sandwich features Lion’s mane mushroom milanesa from Heartee Foods, refried beans, mayo, avocado, tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, and lettuce on a soft bun. I tried it on the weekend and can attest it’s a must-try.

  📅 Available: Now until Sunday, March 16
  📍 Where: In-store & online orders only
  ⚠️ Limited quantities!

Activism:

• All-Day Vigil & Outreach Event

  Animal Rights Toronto is organizing an all-day vigil and outreach event on Monday, March 17. The day includes vigils for pigs and cows at local slaughterhouses, followed by outreach activities promoting the Plant Based Treaty.

  Event Schedule:

  • 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Toronto Pig Save vigil at Fearman's slaughterhouse, Appleby Line at Harvester Rd., Burlington.​

  • 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Toronto Cow Save vigil at St. Helen's slaughterhouse, 1 Glen Scarlett Rd.

  • 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Plant Based Treaty outreach at various locations.​

  Details:

  • Date: Monday, March 17​

  • Time: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM​

  • Locations:

    • Fearman's Pork Inc., 821 Appleby Line, Burlington, ON​

    • St. Helen's Meat Packers Ltd., 1 Glen Scarlett Rd., Toronto, ON​

  Participants are encouraged to join any or all parts of the day. For more information and updates, visit the Animal Rights Toronto events page.

The Toronto Vegan Restaurants Guide 2025

World Vegan News:

• Warsaw's Emergence as a Vegan Hub

  Warsaw has become an unexpected vegan capital in Europe, boasting numerous vegan restaurants, delis, and bakeries. Ranked among the top vegan cities by HappyCow and named National Geographic's top vegan city in 2022, Warsaw reflects a significant shift in Polish dietary preferences. Historically plant-based due to socio-economic conditions, Polish cuisine saw a surge in meat consumption post-USSR collapse. However, younger generations now favor veganism as a conscious and healthy lifestyle, influenced by figures like Michał Korkosz (Rozkoszny) and organizations such as the Green REV Institute. ​theguardian.com

In the Near Future:

*(more info will come closer to the dates)

• Toronto Vegan Climbing - Basecamp Bloor
  📅 Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
  📍 Location: Basecamp Rock Climbing, 677 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON
  💲 Cost: $28 admission fee; shoe rental $7; harness rental $7
  🔗 RSVP: Toronto Vegan Meetup

  Join the Toronto Vegan Meetup group for a vegan-friendly social climbing session. All are welcome, regardless of climbing experience. Activities include bouldering, top roping, and using autobelays. First-time climbers can receive pointers on technique, and staff will provide quick orientations for bouldering and autobelays. For top roping, organizers are available to assist with belaying. Climbing shoes are required; please note that rental shoes contain suede/leather. Harnesses are necessary for top roping and autobelays. Participants are encouraged to sign the waiver online or in person before climbing.

• Aunty Em's Pizza Pop-Up at Thirsty and Miserable Bar
  📅 Date: Sunday, March 23, 2025, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (or until sold out)
  📍 Location: Thirsty and Miserable Bar, 197 Baldwin St., Toronto

  Aunty Em's Pizza is hosting a pop-up event at Thirsty and Miserable Bar, offering their signature pizza slices alongside a selection of drinks. The event starts at 3:00 PM and will continue until 9:00 PM or until supplies run out. This is a great opportunity to enjoy Aunty Em's plant-based pizzas in a casual bar setting. No reservations are required, but arriving early is recommended to ensure availability.

• 🇬🇧 HunsBrunch: A British-Themed Vegan Drag Brunch
  📅 Date: Sunday, March 23, 2025, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  📍 Location: Houndstooth Bar, 818 College St
  🎟️ Tickets: $60 per person (sold in tables of 2, 3, 4, or 6) – Get tickets here

  🍽️ Enjoy a 3-course vegan brunch, a free drink, and a chance to win a door prize raffle, all while watching a fabulous drag performance! Featuring dessert by Bad Attitude Bread and catering by Chef Mustard (head chef of a popular local vegan spot). 🌈 Don’t miss this exciting event supporting queer artists and local businesses!

• 🚶‍♀️ 3rd Annual Anti-Vivisection Walk
  📅 Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
  ⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
  📍 Location: Village of Yorkville Park, 115 Cumberland St, Toronto
  🔗 Event details: Facebook Event Page

  Join this annual walk to raise awareness about animal testing and vivisection. The event aims to educate and advocate for cruelty-free alternatives while fostering a compassionate community.

• Small Plates, Big Flavor: Plant-Based Mezze Cooking Class
  📅 Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
  📍 Location: Animal Liberation Kitchen, 100 Broadview Ave., Toronto
  🎟️ Tickets available now: Register Here

  Join Chef Tanya Spasic of Animal Liberation Kitchen for an interactive evening learning to prepare a variety of Mediterranean mezze dishes. This hands-on class offers participants the chance to cook and enjoy small-plate dishes that are staples in Mediterranean cuisine. Wine and beer will be available for purchase, with sodas and juices included in the ticket price. All attendees will receive recipes and instructions to recreate the dishes at home. Spaces are limited to ensure an intimate experience, so early registration is recommended.

• Planted Expo Toronto 2025: Canada's Largest Plant-Based Event
  📅 Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025, 10:00 AM
  📍 Location: Enercare Centre, Toronto 

  🎟️ : Planted Expo Tickets

  Planted Expo Toronto is confirmed for May 10, 2025. Note: There will be no BC edition this year. Discover over 200 plant-based, vegan, and sustainable exhibitors, brands, and services at this family-friendly event. Hear from insightful speakers and explore a variety of products and services.

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