What TL Insiders can look forward to in May

May brings spring flowers, Mother’s Day and the first long weekend of the season—but that’s not all you should have on your calendar. TL Insiders have access to exclusive culinary events, live music performances, exciting literary soirées and restorative wellness retreats. Want more good news? You can finally leave your jacket at home. Here, a sneak peek at what Insiders can look forward to in May.

Elle Cuisine’s Mother’s Day high tea charity event Enjoy a luxurious brunch while giving back to your community at this Mother’s Day high tea. Guests will enjoy a traditional English tea service from Elle Cuisine, complete with tea, scones, bite-sized sandwiches, petits fours, mimosas and more. Half the proceeds from this event will benefit Shelter Movers, an organization that helps survivors of gender-based violence transition to a better life. Tables are available for groups of two to eight, and larger parties can be accommodated upon request. The Symes, Sunday, May 11, seatings at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Best Restaurants It’s almost time! Toronto Life’s ninth annual Best Restaurants event is set to feature live music, incredible vibes and all-you-can-eat bites from more than 20 local restaurants. Sip on signature cocktails and amazing non-alcoholic concoctions while sampling a wide range of delicious foods. It’s always a night to remember, so don’t miss the party. Evergreen Brick Works, Monday, May 12, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Chatelaine Wellness Retreat Celebrate the women in your life by spending time together at an incredible full-day event: Chatelaine’s annual Wellness Retreat. Guests will enjoy hydrotherapy, guided sessions, a leadership panel, delicious food and downtime in a beautiful spa setting. Curated gift bags will be provided. Vettä Nordic Spa (Oro-Medonte), Thursday, May 15, beginning at 9 a.m.

Contest: Win two tickets to a live performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 Experience the thrill of this iconic piece of music performed live by the National Arts Centre Orchestra. This intense, immediately recognizable epic symphony will be conducted by Alexander Shelley. The evening will also include a beautiful, delicate rendition of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 22, performed by pianist Yeol Eum Son. Three lucky Insiders will win a pair of tickets! Friday, May 16, 7:30 p.m.

Spring Fashion at the Taylor Celebrate the season of style at Spring Fashion at the Taylor, a chic evening event at Toronto’s most fashionable address. Guests will enjoy light bites, signature cocktails inspired by fashion icons, and rooftop views of the CN Tower, all set to the sounds of a live DJ. Whether you’re showing off your own spring look or looking for inspiration, this stylish soirée is your chance to connect with fellow fashion lovers in a stunning downtown setting. Plus, one lucky attendee will win a VIP shopping experience at Gotstyle, valued at $1,500. Wednesday, May 22, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Biff’s Bistro turns 25: a celebration through stories and cuisine An unforgettable evening of ambiance, conversation and incredible French cuisine, this celebration of Biff’s Bistro will feature Amanda Ray as a visiting guest chef as well as O&B corporate executive chef Anthony Walsh, O&B district executive chef John Horne and Biff’s Bistro chef de cuisine Trenton Pajuluoma. A spectacular four-course meal will be served while these talented chefs share stories in an intimate setting. Wine pairings will be offered alongside each course. Saturday, May 24, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Contest: Book launch for The Devil Wears Rothko by Barry Avrich Join your fellow TL Insiders for one of the most anticipated literary events of the year. The Devil Wears Rothko is a nonfiction account of one of the most explosive and notorious art scandals in recent history. VIP tickets include admission and a signed copy of the book. Three lucky TL Insiders will win a pair of tickets to this intimate gathering! The Hazelton Hotel, Thursday, May 29, 6 p.m.

Elle Cuisine’s A Chef’s Story Experience an unforgettable evening of storytelling and culinary artistry at A Chef’s Story: Chef Young Jang’s Korean Tradition x Canadian Spring. This intimate seven-course tasting menu showcases Jang’s journey from his roots in Korea to his evolution as a chef in Toronto. Each dish reflects a chapter of his life, blending bold Korean flavours with refined French techniques and seasonal Canadian ingredients. Guests will also enjoy spring-inspired cocktails in a setting designed to evoke the freshness of the season. Archive Studios, Thursday, May 29, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.