Father’s Day is around the corner and, as always, our team at FAJO has carefully curated the list of our top picks for gift giving that are certain to make your Dad smile. 

Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind exclusive item you could wrap and present to him, or the ultimate experience for a great night out, we have put together some wonderful options that will ensure Dad feels extra loved! Check them all out below, in no particular order.

Ooni Koda 16 Outdoor Pizza Oven

Let’s be honest – Dad’s gotten his fair share of ties, socks and novelty mugs. This year, it’s time to up your gift-giving game and give him something that truly sizzles: the Ooni Koda 16 Outdoor Pizza Oven. Trust me, the BBQ will be green with envy.

Picture this: Dad, in his element, in the backyard, wielding his new Ooni Koda like a culinary maestro. This isn’t just any pizza oven: it’s a marvel of modern engineering, designed to transform anyone into a pizza prodigy. With its sleek, compact design, it is as stylish as it is functional.

But here’s the real kicker: it cooks the perfect pizza in just 60 seconds. That’s right – 60 seconds! While the BBQ is still fumbling around with its coals and temperature gauges, the Ooni Koda is delivering crispy, bubbly, mouth-watering pizza that would make any Italian grandmother proud. The Ooni Koda isn’t just for pizza, either. Dad can experiment with roasting meats, baking bread or even searing veggies. It’s versatile, reliable and downright fun to use. Plus, it’s portable, so family camping trips or tailgate parties just got a whole lot tastier.

So, if you want to be crowned the favourite child this Father’s Day, look no further. The Ooni Koda Outdoor Pizza Oven, available at the Crate & Barrel, is the gift that keeps on giving – deliciously, efficiently and with a side of envy from the BBQ. 

Retailing for $799.95

The Stingray Tree Tent

If you are looking to treat Dad to the gift of nature adventures and relaxation, you will be thrilled to discover the award-winning, all-season Stingray 3-Person Tree Tent from Tentsile. Featured in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, this innovative tent delivers a one-of-a-kind camping escapade that ensures every outing is both unforgettable and comfortable.

Imagine enjoying the serene beauty of the wilderness, elevated above the ground, away from the hustle and bustle – and pesky critters. Ideal for car camping, multi-day hikes or kayak trips, the Stingray will expand all of Dad’s camping horizons. It features many cool aspects such as three doors (for individual exits), a central hatch and ample storage, making it a thoughtfully designed, high-quality tent.

Whether pitching over rocky, wet or uneven ground, this tent offers a dry, critter-free sanctuary. And for those treeless spots, Tentsile has a ground conversion kit for versatile setup options. But, most importantly, the Stingray delivers a snug night’s sleep for all. Its adjustable, separate sleeping bays cater to individual preferences, preventing unwanted rolling to the centre. Plus, underfloor straps distribute weight differences for optimal comfort.

All Tentsile products include felt tree wraps to protect tree bark, and for every tent sold, Tentsile plants 20 trees, supporting sustainable adventure. So thrill your Dad this Father’s Day with the ultimate camping companion and an elevated experience. (Dad joke totally intended.)

Retailing for $978.60

Dinner at Maxime’s

If there’s one thing Dad wants for Father’s Day, if not every day, it’s likely steak (if you’re a vegan, please skip through this review). Maxime’s in Toronto offers the perfect blend of opulence and indulgence to satisfy the carnivore aficionado’s palette. The restaurant’s name, meaning ‘greatest,’ is a nod to the exceptional experience it promises.

From the moment Dad steps inside, he will be enveloped in lush, elegant interiors juxtaposed with floor to ceiling LCD panels that play loops of mesmerizing imagery and videos of people swimming up the walls. The restaurant’s New York-inspired, speakeasy vibe is enhanced by the open-concept kitchen, allowing diners to witness the artistry behind their meals, and adding an element of transparency and excitement. The knowledgeable, thoughtful and approachable staff ensure that every guest feels welcome and well-attended. This captivating atmosphere, combined with theatrical drinks and a DJ spinning every day from 8:30 p.m., ensures an enchanting evening that will take Dad (and his companions) into the wee hours of the morning. 

Maxime’s menu features timeless dishes with unique, playful touches, making every meal an adventure. The Petit Wagyu Burgers and the American flat iron Wagyu from Snake River Farms are particularly noteworthy, each bite offering an explosion of delicious, mouth-watering marbling. The cocktail menu, with its overly cheeky names like “The Redlight Special”, “Yes Madame” and “La Perla,” (a stunning lingerie brand, for those of you who are unfamiliar!), will add a touch of fun and mischief to Dad’s evening. For a complete dining experience, we recommend the Chocolate Bombe (raspberry compote, white chocolate mousse, brownie, chocolate cremeux), the Milk & Honey Baklava or the Tsunami Tiramisu (which is certainly a beautiful tsunami of flavours!). 

If you’d like to take it a step further and treat Dad to a special night out, bottle service is also available and features Veuve Clicquot Brut, Johnnie Walker Black and Grey Goose on the menu.

A dinner with drinks for 4 starts at $500

Burberry Hero Eau de Parfum

If you are looking for the ultimate elegant gift this Father’s Day, make sure that the Burberry Hero fragrance is on your list.

Available in both Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toilette formats, the brand campaign for the fragrance this year features one of Hollywood’s most established actors: Adam Driver. In the last few years, Driver has been the face of some of the most established beauty and fashion brands in the world, and he truly embodies masculinity, charm and charisma. In the campaign video, he races along a wild and rocky coastline, running to freedom. The video perfectly reflects the core concept of the fragrance, which is to embrace who you truly are. 

This earthy and woody scent features a trio of cedarwood oils as its key notes, culminating in a fresh crescendo. A perfect addition to Dad’s night out, there’s a specialness and uniqueness to this fragrance. Intense and invigorating, it’s housed in Burberry’s signature oak-coloured, angular bottle that’s finished with beautiful golden hues.

What father isn’t a hero to their children? And what more appropriate gift for your Dad this Father’s Day than a fragrance that says just that. 

Retailing for $440 (150 ml bottle and 200 ml refill)

BURGA Power Bank and Malibu Blue Light Glasses

If your Dad is into gadgets, you can’t go wrong with accessories from our new favourite brand: Burga. The brand’s journey began in 2016 when two best friends in Lithuania joined forces to create a brand that caters to your inner fashion senses without compromising on functionality. Their eye-catching phone cases quickly gained popularity, not just locally but globally, too, as they provided both protection and a stylish flair. But apart from phone cases, the brand also features a variety of incredible accessories that you just have to check out.

Specifically, we recommend the Burga Power Bank (in Emerald Pool colour) and the Malibu Light Glasses, especially for a Dad who is often on the go.

The Power Bank will help Dad charge several devices, as this portable battery holds a whopping 10,000 mAh of energy. He will be able to connect them via the USB-A or USB-C port, two at a time. With PD22.5W fast-charging technology, the iPhone 12 will fill up at lightning speed – from 0% to 50% in 30 minutes. Older models of iPhones, all Android phones, and Apple and Samsung tablets will also benefit from this cutting-edge fast charging tech. Thoughtfully designed, the BURGA Power Bank has over-voltage, over-current, and short-current protection – all backed by CE, ROHS and FCC certificates.

The Malibu Blue Light Glasses are a perfect complement to the Power Bank. Ever wondered why Dad may feel drained and low on energy despite countless cups of coffee? Often, the excessive blue light from screens that he stares at for hours may be the culprit. With these glasses, he will protect his eyes from UV rays and HEV light spectrums, allowing for normal colour perception without the yellowish tint. This unisex pair is made from titanium, meaning it’s impossibly light yet incredibly durable. The frame material is naturally hypoallergenic and it’s also resistant to colour fading from UV/skin contact. The lenses are premium Lenses by Divel Italia for a clear and undistorted vision and can even be fitted with prescription lenses by Dad’s optician. Each box also includes a BURGA-branded case, pouch and a cleaning cloth.

Retailing for $342.95

Pantone Limited Edition Vertuo Pop+ & Aeroccino Bundle

If you are looking to add a pop of colour to Dad’s life, make sure you gift him this latest fabulous bundle from Nespresso. Introducing Nespresso’s smallest, most stylish Vertuo yet, the Pantone Limited Edition Vertuo Pop+ & Aeroccino Bundle will truly boost his mornings (or any time of the day, for that matter). 

Inspired by Mediterranean destinations, Nespresso’s latest summer collection is both colourful and exciting. Designed to smell, taste and look like a dream holiday, it features a mood-boosting colour palette that was thoughtfully selected in collaboration with Pantone. The CENTRIFUSION™ technology will help Dad to gently and fully brew a variety of drinks, be they Espresso, Double Espresso, Gran Lungo, Mug, Alto & Cold Brew Style.

We recommend pairing the machine with the Aeroccino Milk Frother in case Dad prefers cappuccinos. And, don’t forget to include a selection of capsules. Specifically, we suggest you go for the indulgent Sunny Almond Vanilla Flavour Over Ice and the mainstay Coconut Flavour Over Ice. 

Retailing for $265.35 (machine and Aeroccino bundle and 10 capsules in each flavour)

LEGO® Technic™ McLaren Formula 1™ Race Car

This year, it’s time to shift gears from the usual gifts and get Dad something that truly gets his engines revving: the LEGO® Technic™ McLaren Formula 1™ Race Car. This isn’t just a model: it’s 1,432 pieces of pure, adrenaline-pumping awesomeness that will turbocharge any Dad’s day.

As Dad assembles this masterpiece, he’ll be transported into the high-octane world of Formula 1 racing. The build itself is a rewarding challenge, perfect for Dads who love to tinker and relish the satisfaction of creating something truly spectacular from scratch.

But the magic doesn’t stop once the last piece clicks into place. The LEGO Technic McLaren Formula 1 Race Car is packed with authentic features that make it a must-have for any racing enthusiast. It boasts a V6 cylinder engine with moving pistons, a steering mechanism and a suspension that mimics the real deal. The attention to detail is staggering – from the sponsor stickers to the aerodynamic bodywork, it’s as close as you can get to the track without leaving your living room.

This set isn’t just a toy: it’s a testament to McLaren’s engineering prowess and LEGO’s dedication to delivering top-tier, immersive experiences. Plus, the finished model is a stunning display piece, perfect for Dad’s office, man cave or even the living room (if he can negotiate the space with the rest of the family).

Retailing for $249.99

Virtual reality games at Sandbox VR and bowling at the Ballroom Bowl

If you’re looking for fun group experiences that Dad can enjoy with his family or friends, we recommend the virtual reality games at Sandbox VR and bowling at the Ballroom Bowl.

Sandbox VR in Toronto is the ultimate escape from reality for those young at heart. This cutting-edge virtual reality experience lives up to its promise to transport you to fantastical worlds where you can see and interact not just with Dad but with the whole family (up to six people in total), creating a truly immersive adventure. Inspired by Star Trek’s Holodeck and developed by gaming veterans from EA, Sony and Ubisoft, Sandbox VR makes you feel like you’re living inside a game or movie – and we are here for it.

From the moment Dad steps into Sandbox VR, his real body will transform into his virtual one. With Hollywood motion capture cameras, 3D precision body trackers, custom hardware and haptic suits, the sensation of being inside these meticulously crafted worlds is unparalleled. The level of detail and interactivity is so realistic that Dad should prepare for a few jump scares and heart-thumping action. He and his crew will be sent home with hilarious footage from the experience to rewatch over and over again. Unbeknownst to the adventurers throughout the process, Sandbox VR is capturing audio and visual footage of the experience and editing it into silly video game trailers. 

Meanwhile, The Ballroom Bowl in Yorkville is an incredible new location of the beloved Toronto brand that is also perfect for Dad, whether he’s looking for family fun or a swanky night out with his friends. This underground entertainment spot offers the perfect mix of refined recreation and leisure. It boasts eight state-of-the-art ten-pin bowling lanes, including two VIP lanes, and will ensure a comfortable and lively bowling experience, with DJs spinning every Friday and Saturday night.

From the moment Dad enters, he will be greeted with an upscale, modern design, featuring a wood ceiling, a city collage wall graphic, and a sophisticated bar and lounge area with walnut and brass detailing. The open kitchen view and the three-sided water vapour fireplace enhance the chic atmosphere. The venue also offers an elevated dining experience with a menu that caters to both refined tastes and laid-back sports fans, seamlessly blending the upscale aura of Yorkville with the traditional elements of a bowling alley. Dad and his crew will enjoy delicious dishes like house-roasted artichoke and white bean hummus or short rib mac-n-cheese. Two highlights on the drink menu are the Smoke & Mirrors and Strawberry Hibiscus Cooler.

An experience for 6 people at Sandbox VR starts at $360 and an evening out booking a lane and dinner for 4 people at the Ballroom Bowl starts at $250

Tattoos and beauty treatments at Tatu Amor and L.A.B. Beauty

Nestled in Toronto’s Junction area is a tiny oasis of a unique, independent spa. As you enter this little gem you are greeted by the warm smile of its owner, Lesley Bowen. After a brief and warm greeting upon your arrival, you are ushered into her treatment room for the ultimate zen experience. 

To really pamper Dad this year, we recommend a nanoneedling facial with hyaluronic acid. This treatment will stimulate collagen production, promote rejuvenation and improve fine lines, wrinkles and other minor skin issues. After a half hour under the masterful hands of Lesley, we are certain that Dad will emerge feeling at least five years younger and fresh as a peach. After a hard day at the office or endless hours of cutting the lawn (Dad duties must go on!), a little respite at L.A.B. Beauty is the recipe for a little Father’s Day self-indulgence. 

As an added feature, L.A.B shares a space with Tatu Amor, a very fun and eclectic tattoo shop. Why not treat your Dad this Father’s Day to a combination of needle therapy? One for skin revitalization and general relaxation, and the other, a little tattoo love, to leave an indelible mark and ink impression on him.

L.A.B. offers a plethora of spa options from Power Peels to Body Brightening, all designed to make visitors feel as rejuvenated as they possibly can. A truly special treat for your father on the one day of the year we stop to specifically celebrate him in our lives.

A tattoo and microneedling hyaluronic acid facial bundle starts at $400

Ardbeg 10 Year Old Islay Scotch Whisky, Grand Love Tequila Reposado, Terrazas de los Andes Malbec and Glenmorangie Original

No matter your Dad’s tastes, he will for sure enjoy one of our top drink selections this year. Restock his home bar with these absolute classics.

The Ardbeg 10 Year Old Islay Scotch Whisky is revered in Scotland and all over the world for its balanced smoke and fruit character, showing aromas of lemon, smoke, peat and brine with a kiss of sweet cereal. On the palate, it is warm and smoky with bold, yet balanced flavours, that resonate with the aromas. The finish is long sweet and smoky. Dad will especially enjoy it when servied neat or with a few drops of pure water.

Next on our list is the Grand Love Reposado tequila, made 100% from Agave. As with most reposado spirits, this one has a lovely dark golden colour and finishing notes of caramel and honey. There’s an unusually soft finish to Grande Love that speaks to the elevated production processes and craftsmanship behind the brand. Beyond the exceptional drinking experience, the bottle is more of a decanter than a traditional barrel shaped stock bottle and makes a fabulous gift that will keep on giving. Whether it be consumed as a formal after-dinner indulgence or a casual treat gently sipping by the fire watching football, Dad will revel in this exceptional great tasting Reposado which can be purchased through Lauren Power, a wine expert and importer at Tre Amici Wine, which imports Grand Love tequila. Tre Amici works with unique, family-owned wineries and distilleries that share the passion for mixing good wines and good times. 

For the eco-conscious Dad, we recommend the Terrazas de los Andes Malbec, which is a bold and full-bodied red wine. Its new bottle design uses lightweight glass, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Dad will discover the pure elegance of a mountain terroir wine paired with his favourite dishes or enjoyed in the moment. This is a vintage selection that is sourced from vines ranging from 20 to 80 years of age, planted at 1,070 metres above sea level. It shows the refinement, nuance and polish that is defining modern Argentine Malbec. It’s generous, balanced and energetic, with lifted florals, layered black fruit and oak spice. We particularly recommend pairing it with grilled ribs.

Last but certainly not least, if your Dad is a cocktail enthusiast, you can’t go wrong with Glenmorangie Original. This is a smooth single-malt scotch whisky that Dad will truly appreciate. Matured in a range of ex-bourbon casks and slow-grown, air-dried casks from Missouri for complexity; this is pale gold with harmonious aromas of orange peel, ginger, vanilla and wildflower honey; medium-intensity with integrated alcohol; flavours of caramel, banana chips, dried apricots and baking spice and a long finish. It’s perfect for serving neat or mixed with other ingredients to create fun and flavourful cocktails like the Orange Highball or Ginger Lemon Sour. 

Ceramic Red Heart Extra Añejo 1.75 mL, Grand Love Imperial, Ardbeg 10 Year Old Islay Scotch Whisky, Terrazas de los Andes Malbec and Glenmorangie Original collectively retailing for $536.85

Photography courtesy of each brand, Unsplash and FAJO’s editorial team.