If you can’t find what you’re looking for, ancient wisdom probably has the answer. At least, that’s what Romana Kassam and her Aste Wellness co-founder, Rhea Mehta, discovered while supporting each other through hormone imbalances — and all their everyday impacts — as they entered their 40s.
“As our conversations deepened, we slowly learned that Ayurveda and the ancient wisdom of our shared ancestry played a significant role in both of our healing journeys,” Kassam says.
Faced with a lack of non-toxic skin care to support their personal paths, Kassam harnessed her history as a health and beauty marketing pro — and tapped Mehta’s science-meets-Vedic background (which includes a PhD in molecular toxicology and nutritional biochemistry) — to yield a new skin care line specifically designed to nurture mature women’s skin without compromising their health.
Much like her burgeoning beauty company, Kassam’s black book of Toronto is a beautiful balance of old and new: high-end mocktails set in a contemporary speakeasy, a secret spot to get last-season designer wares and a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant that’s embraced a wholly modern esthetic.
The Friday night staple
Sugo, 1281 Bloor St. W.
“Hands down, I would say Sugo — except if I’m going on a Friday night, we’re definitely getting there before 5 p.m. because the lineups are wild! This has been my spot since it opened. The house gnocchi is the best I’ve ever had. The truth is, no one does it better than them.”
The brunch place
Mildred’s Temple Kitchen, 104-85 Hanna Ave.
“Brunch is easily one of my favourite sports. I’ve had it many times and in many places, but for me nothing tops the wild blueberry buttermilk pancakes at Mildred’s. It has a little bit to do with nostalgia — I moved to Liberty Village when I was 25 and Mildred’s was the spot — but also the thick, fluffiness of the actual stack. I think it’s so special that even after 35 years, they still taste the same!”
The designer-packed big-box store
Winners, 147 Laird Dr.
“I only really shop for clothes at thrift and consignment stores or Winners. I feel like I get lucky at any Winners I go to, but the best in the city is probably the one on Laird. My luckiest buys have been a pair of raw silk, off-white cargo pants and a white, technical-coated Bottega Veneta dress.”
The chic dinner spot
Bar Goa, 36 Toronto St.
“I grew up going to Indian restaurants that didn’t really have an esthetic. Over the last few years, it’s been very refreshing to dine inside ones that are way more modern and upscale. Bar Goa is definitely that. They do a great job of honouring classic Goan and Indian dishes but infuse modern twists on everything. The Chai & Cutler is one of the most unique appetizers I’ve ever had — a mushroom kebab on saffron roti with strawberry chutney and truffle. It comes with a shot of hot mushroom chai you shoot right after.”
The most stylish bar
Prequel & Co. Apothecary, 1036 Queen St. W.
“I don’t imbibe, but Prequel & Co. Apothecary is such a vibe. Everyone loves a speakeasy moment, especially one that has a cute, vintage-looking apothecary as a front! The atmosphere once you get in is moody and intimate. I love the non-alc Bella Fleur Spritz cocktail, which is refreshing and not overly sweet.”
The spa getaway
Thermëa Spa Village, 4015 Cochrane St., Whitby
“I love a good spa day and Thermëa is a sweet little escape from the city, filled with hot and cold pools and saunas for all your water circuit therapy needs. The experience is made even better with their delicious, thoughtfully crafted meals that actually nourish your body while you heal. Pro tip: The Epsom salt water Kalla pool is definitely an add-on worth investing in.”
