Hello again and welcome to the insider. 

I thought I would take this chance to introduce myself for those that don’t know me yet. My name is Jonathan and I started Veggie in the 6ix back in 2019. It began mostly as an instagram profile but has expanded to a blog, youtube channel, vegan restaurants guide and now this newsletter.
For those that don’t follow along on Instagram its a good place to check in because I’ll post supplementary info to these emails along with things I forgot or things that come up last minute.

Also of note is our Referral Program:

• Refer 3 people and get a birthday week shoutout in this newsletter.

• Refer 6 people and receive a free copy of the Vegan Restaurants Guide!

Lastly, tag @veggieinthe6ix on instagram and you could be featured in a future newsletter. Have a great shot of the city, or found a new favourite vegan dish? Share it with us.

Week of Feb 13-19 :

News:

• The Build Your Own Pizza Class at PLANTA Yorkville is now sold out so I hope you got a spot if you were looking to go.
  

• Plantasia Natural Foods is a newly opened vegan and cruelty-free grocery store located at 265 Scarlett Road in York, just outside of Toronto. The store offers a wide range of plant-based groceries, organic fruits and vegetables, dairy-free alternatives, and eco-friendly household essentials and they say all at affordable prices. Their mission is to provide affordable, high-quality plant-based products and organic produce to the community.

  plantasia.ca

  The store is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except on major holidays. For more information, you can contact them at 416.767.0699 or via email at [email protected]. Stay updated on their latest offerings and upcoming online store by subscribing to their email list through their website.

• Taqueria Vegana Launches Limited-Time Mexican-Style Loaded Potato

  They are introducing a new special: a fully loaded Mexican-style baked potato, available until February 23. The dish features a Russet potato with vegan butter, melted mozzarella, Carne Asada, tofu cream, pico de gallo with nopales (cactus), and a choice of Salsa Taquera or Salsa Roja.

  This special is available for purchase in-store and online only.

Events:

• AJA Lunchtime Live: What the Studies Say About Animal vs Plant-Based Meat
  📅 Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM ET
  📍 Location: Online via Zoom 🎟️ Register for free: https://training.animaljusticeacademy.com/lunchtime-live-registration-02132025

  Join Dr. Matthew Nagra, a Naturopathic Doctor and lead researcher of a meta-analysis published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, as he discusses findings from studies spanning 1970 to 2023 comparing plant-based and animal-based meats. The discussion will cover how plant-based meat alternatives, even those considered "ultra-processed," are more heart-healthy than animal meats, supporting reductions in weight and cholesterol, and providing more dietary fiber. Dr. Nagra will also offer tips on effectively dispelling myths about plant-based meats.

• Valentine’s Day High Tea at Animal Liberation Kitchen
  📅 Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025, 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
  📍 Location: Animal Liberation Kitchen, Toronto, ON
  📧 Reservations: [email protected]

  💖 Enjoy a special vegan high tea experience at Animal Liberation Kitchen this Valentine’s season. Indulge in a selection of plant-based treats, teas, and cozy vibes. Reservations required—email to book your spot!

• Toronto Vegan Climbing at Joe Rockhead’s
  📅 Date: Sunday, February 16, 2025, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM EST
  📍 Location: Joe Rockhead's Indoor Rock Climbing, 29 Fraser Ave., Toronto, ON
  🎟️ RSVP and details: Meetup Event

  Join fellow vegans, vegetarians, and those curious about the plant-based lifestyle for a social climbing session. All skill levels are welcome, from first-time climbers to seasoned pros. Activities include bouldering, top roping, and using autobelays. For newcomers, staff will provide a quick orientation, and experienced attendees are available to offer pointers.

  Fees:

  • Admission: $27

  • Shoe rental: $7.50 (Note: rental shoes contain suede/leather)

  • Harness rental: $7.50 (required for top roping and autobelay)

Activism:

• Animal Rights Action Meetup
  📅 Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST
  📍 Location: The Green Bean Café, 326 Harbord Street, Toronto, ON
  🎟️ RSVP and details: Facebook Event

  Join volunteers from Mercy for Animals and The Humane League for an engaging meetup focused on animal rights advocacy. This event offers an opportunity to socialize with like-minded individuals, enjoy delicious vegan food, and discuss strategies for promoting animal welfare. Whether you're a seasoned activist or new to the movement, all are welcome to participate and contribute to the conversation.

  Please note that event details are subject to change. It's advisable to check the provided link for the most current information.

• Toronto National Anti-Fur Day Protest
  📅 Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
  📍 Location: To be announced
  🎟️ Details: Animal Rights Toronto Events

  Join fellow activists in Toronto as part of the nationwide National Anti-Fur Day. Participants will protest against the fur industry, advocating for animal rights and raising public awareness about the cruelty associated with fur production. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly due to the outdoor setting. Posters will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own as well. Please check the event page closer to the date for updates on the specific location and any additional details.

  Note: Event details are subject to change. It's advisable to check the provided link for the most current information.

The Toronto Vegan Restaurants Guide 2025

World Vegan News:

• UK's First Vegan Michelin Star Awarded

  Plates London has become the first vegan restaurant in the UK to receive a Michelin Star. The establishment is recognized for its innovative plant-based cuisine and exceptional dining experience.

• Tim Hortons has officially removed the vegan milk upcharge in Canada and the United States. This decision comes after advocacy from PETA, highlighting the benefits of plant-based choices for animal welfare and the environment. Tim Hortons joins other major coffee chains, such as Starbucks and Dutch Bros Coffee, in eliminating the vegan milk upcharge in recent months.

  peta.org

In the Near Future:

*(more info will come closer to the dates)

• Toronto Vegan Drinks - February: Calling All Valentine's and Anti-Valentines!
  📅 Date: Friday, February 21, 2025, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
  📍 Location: Thien Tam Asia, 2907 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON
  🎟️ RSVP: Meetup Event Page

  Join the Toronto Vegan Meetup group for a Valentine's-themed social event at Thien Tam Asia. Enjoy engaging conversations and delicious vegan pan-Asian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

• Animal Liberation Plant-Based Vietnamese Cooking Class
  📅 Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
  📍 Location: Animal Liberation Kitchen, 100 Broadview Ave, Toronto

  🎟️ : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cooking-class-plant-based-vietnamese-favorites-tickets-1200443923089?aff=erelexpmlt

  👩‍🍳 Join Animal Liberation Kitchen for a hands-on vegan cooking class where participants will learn to prepare Vietnamese favourites. Wine included.

• Comfort Classics Vegan Supper Club
  📅 Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
  📍 Location: Rily Kitchen, Toronto, ON
  🎟️ Tickets available now: Eventbrite

  Join vegan chef Lauren Toyota for an evening of plant-based comfort food at the Comfort Classics Vegan Supper Club. The event will feature a cozy atmosphere and a menu of delicious vegan dishes. For more details and updates, visit Lauren's Instagram post: instagram.com

• 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.

  Please note: Clicking the link above supports us with a small commission, which helps fund our work.
  

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