Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. Every Thursday, I’ll bring you the latest news, events, and stories from our community—all in one easy read.

In this week’s newsletter:

🚴‍♂️ Bike Lane Battle: The court fight over Ford’s bike lane removals rolls on.
🍻 Farewell, Sloppy Joe’s: A beloved Etobicoke bar closes after 54 years.
🥞 Tariffs & Talks: Ford and Carney strategize over breakfast in Etobicoke.

Plus, a packed lineup of local events, your weekly weather forecast, and a foodie trivia question to test your knowledge of Etobicoke’s longest-running restaurants!

THE DIGEST

🚴‍♂️ Court Battle Over Ford’s Bike Lane Law Rolls On 🚴‍♀️

The fight to stop Doug Ford’s plan to remove bike lanes in Toronto is in high gear. Cycle Toronto is in court seeking an injunction to pause removals ahead of their full legal challenge in April. They argue that stripping bike lanes from Bloor, Yonge, and University is arbitrary, costly, and puts cyclists at risk. The province, however, says removing the lanes will ease congestion. Legal experts say the case has merit, with some suggesting the government needs stronger evidence to justify its decision. For now, no lanes will be removed before March 20.

🍻 Sloppy Joe’s Calls Last Round After 54 Years 🍻

It’s the end of an era in Etobicoke as Sloppy Joe’s, a beloved neighbourhood staple for 54 years, has officially closed its doors. Originally opened in 1971 and rebranded in 1998 by brothers Larry and Pete, the bar became a community fixture known for its welcoming atmosphere, DJ nights, and legendary wings. While the owners cite confidentiality agreements for the sudden announcement, they assure longtime patrons that new owners will continue the legacy. What’s next for the space? Stay tuned.

🥞 High-Stakes Breakfast in Etobicoke as Ford and Carney Tackle Tariffs 🥞

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister-designate Mark Carney met for breakfast at Etobicoke’s Wally’s Grill to strategize ahead of Ford’s trip to Washington, D.C. The topic? Countering U.S. tariffs and standing firm against President Trump’s trade policies. With Canada imposing $30B in retaliatory tariffs and Ford set to meet U.S. officials, the stakes are high. Carney, awaiting his official swearing-in, emphasized the need for respect in Canada-U.S. negotiations. The trade showdown continues—next stop, Washington.

Upcoming Events & Happenings

• March 13th - March Break Family Games Day
  What A Jerk! | 3303 Lake Shore Blvd. W.

  Looking for March Break fun? Bring the family to What A Jerk! for an afternoon of games, activities, and great food! 🍽️🎉 Enjoy a special kids' menu, prize draws, free popcorn, and colouring pages—plus plenty of family-friendly fun.

  🕛 12–4 p.m. | Dine-in only
  

• March 21st - Jazz at Durbar: The Matt Pines Trio
  Durbar Indian Restaurant | 2469 Bloor St. W.

  Enjoy a night of smooth jazz with The Matt Pines Trio, featuring the soulful vocals of Francine Kirsh. No cover—reserve a table for dinner or stop by for a drink at the bar. 🎶🍷 🕖 7 p.m.
  

• April 19th - 3rd Annual Easter MRKT
  Mimico Square | 2445 Lake Shore Blvd. W.

  Hop into spring at the Easter MRKT! 🌸🐰 Shop from 25+ local vendors featuring handmade goods, baked treats, candles, and gifts. Kids can enjoy free activities and a special visit from the Easter Bunny! 🕚 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  🎟️ Free admission

Weather

• Thursday, Mar. 13: High 8°C, Low -2°C ☁️

• Friday, Mar. 14: High 9°C, Low 0°C ☁️

• Saturday, Mar. 15: High 14°C, Low 5°C ☁️

• Sunday, Mar. 16: High 13°C, Low 4°C ☀️

• Monday, Mar. 17: High 5°C, Low -1°C 🌤️

• Tuesday, Mar. 18: High 12°C, Low 0°C 🌤️

• Wednesday, Mar. 19: High 13°C, Low 6°C ☁️

Fun & Games

🍔 Etobicoke Foodie Trivia! 🍳

Sloppy Joe’s may have just closed, but it had been serving up legendary wings for decades. Meanwhile, Wally’s Grill has been a neighborhood breakfast staple for years.

Which Etobicoke restaurant claims to be the oldest still in operation today?

Reply with your guess, and the first correct answer will get a shoutout in next week’s issue!

Like being in the know? Share the love! Forward this newsletter to friends and neighbors who’d enjoy staying up-to-date on all things Etobicoke. 📬

Thanks for reading! See you next week for more of what’s happening in Etobicoke.

-Bri