For Meredith Shaw, co-host of Citytv’s ”Breakfast Television,” the weekend must-haves are wildly straightforward. “A glorious sleep-in, which in my case is anytime past 6 a.m. because my usual wake-up for BT is 3:30 a.m., followed by a big cup of coffee,” Shaw says.
Those slow moments don’t last long, though, especially since Shaw is about to launch a holiday collection with plus-size Canadian brand Penn on Oct. 22. Her collaborative role, including overseeing the design from creation to production and marketing, was focused on bringing true fashion to the up-to-size-6X offering. “The design inspirations came from the many conversations I’ve had with women over the years — what we love, what we feel is missing and what we are frustrated by — and these pieces are a direct response to that,” she says.
When she’s not getting up at 3:30 a.m., being on TV or overseeing a fashion line, here’s what Shaw gets up to on the weekends.
The hard-to-get Michelin star reso
20 Victoria, 20 Victoria St.
“20 Victoria is the best culinary experience we’ve had in Toronto in years. As soon as you walk into the space you immediately feel transported and surrounded by friends. Every bite is better than the last, and they somehow keep an inclusive, welcoming vibe while serving food that is legit art. Not an easy reso to snag, but oh so worth the effort.”
The weekend jaunt
High Park, 1873 Bloor St. W.
“We love to go for big walks in High Park — that park saved my mental health during the pandemic. Our dog, Lucy, loves the off-leash areas to run wild. It’s so incredible to have that green space in the middle of our city, and I love it during every season, but my two faves are fall for the colours and spring for the cherry blossoms.”
The must-have craft cocktail
The Comrade, 758 Queen St. E.
“I love the R & M cocktail at The Comrade in the east end. The flavour combo is perfect and the dark, cosy atmosphere always feels like you’re guaranteed to have a great night, whoever you’re with.”
The long-line-worthy scoop
Bang Bang Ice Cream & Bakery, 93A Ossington Ave.
“In our house, we love Bang Bang. Yes, there is always a lineup, and yes, that wait time is always worth it. Golden Oreo is the flavour I never knew I needed in my life. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re welcome.”
The Saturday night out
Comedy Bar, 945 Bloor St. W.
“I love watching live comedy these days because who doesn’t need a good laugh? Our fave spot is Comedy Bar. The two rooms mean there is always great talent to see, and I love what a welcoming vibe they create.”
The self-care spot
Etiket Boutique & Spa, 486 Front St. W., 2nd floor
“I can’t get enough of the whole ‘Wellness Way’ at The Well. A must-stop for relaxation and self-care is Etiket for a signature Tata Harper facial. It is one of three places that offers the signature Tata Harper facial in Canada. As soon as you walk into the Tata treatment room you are immersed in what she and her brand stands for. Her products are my fave and I always leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and reconnected.”
The Friday night dinner
Pinkerton’s Snack Bar, 1026 Gerrard St. E.
“Pinkerton’s is delicious, fun and casual but beware, your Friday night dinner will definitely turn into a Friday night party. I love their snack menu. Being able to sample and share makes the night social from the start. You can’t go wrong with any of their bao buns, and don’t even get me started on their dreamy mushroom dumplings. The party starts when Chef Greg O’Leary gets on the mic behind the bar for an impromptu performance — phones are down because everyone is just in the moment — one of the best parts about that East End gem.”
