Tips about Toronto » good eats / restaurants / cafes

Dim Sum in Toronto

contact — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 23:09:02 +0000

For an out-of-this-world Cantonese inspired dim sum in Toronto, make a bee-line over to Lai Wah Heen Restaurant, which is housed inside the Metropolitan Hotel. Dim sum is served during lunch, seven days a week.

Dim sum chef Terence Chan is the mastermind behind the offerings at Lai Wah Heen. With his finger on the pulse of the most recent trends in Chinese cuisine, Chef Chan offers the most delectable shrimp, pork and vegetable dishes perfectly seasoned with exotic herbs and spices from the Pacific Rim.

NEVER leave this place, either, without trying the desserts! Here’s what’s available:

-Mini cream custard freshly baked in a puff pastry shell
-Sweetened cream roulade filled with hawthorn fruit paste
-Deep-fried dumpling of banana & sweet potato
-Deep-fried cream custard in a puffy cocoon
-Steamed mini soft cake flavored with honey-glazed walnut
-Tower of coffee & espresso pudding
-Deep-fried bun filled with mango & cream
-Baked puff pastry of sweet squash paste & almond
-Chilled duo tea pudding of lychee & jasmine flavor

To see the Dim Sum menu click here

Lai Wah Heen Restaurant
Metropolitan Hotel Toronto
108 Chestnut Street
Toronto, Ontario M5G 1R3 Canada
Telephone: 416.977.9899

Can’t Sleep? Head Over to the Insomnia Cafe

contact — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 23:09:21 +0000

I’ll join you because I can’t sleep either. This is a perfect place to hang out in the middle of the night, when most Torontonians are getting their much needed zzzzz’s. The decor won’t make you go too insane as it’s rather sparse decorated in a mix of funky styles. Grab a late night snack or light meal. What are some things on the menu? Fried calamari with tzatziki dipping sauce. Don’t like it fried? Have it grilled with a side of salad. Or have a crostini with hummus or roasted garlic and brie. Looking for something more substantial? Have Fries! or steamed mussels, quesadillas, soup & salad and more. I’m hungry now.

By the way, the folks at Insomnia run a bar, so if you’d rather fill up on “liquids” try their yummy mcyumyum martinis.

Insomnia Internet Cafe
563 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M5S 1Y6, Canada
Tel: 416.588.3907
Sun-Wed 11:00am-2:00am, Fri & Sat 11:00am-4:00am

February Beer Events in Toronto

contact — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:05:46 +0000

Hart House Beer Academy with Mirella Amato – Hart House presents an evening of Craft Beer Tasting with Mirella Amato, tour guide for the Beer Lover’s Tour Company and host of the beer segments on legourmet.tv. – on Thursday, February 21, 2008 from 7pm to 10pm in the Music Room. Featuring yummilicious pub food and samplings of 9 specialty craft beers – Hart House, Music Room, 7 Hart House Circle, $45 – call 416.978.8849 to reserve

Gouden Carolus Dinner – Friday and Saturday, February 22 and 23, 2008 – This event is a 3-course Belgian menu fixe ($40) menu with your choice of Gouden Carolus, Gouden Carolus Tripel or Gouden Carolus Ambrio. The Abbot On The Hill, Abbot on the Hill, 1276 Yonge Street, call 416.920.9074 to reserve

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas – Yes, it’s just around the corner!

contact — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 23:06:07 +0000

If you haven’t thought about what you’re getting your sweetie for Valentine’s Day, here are some ideas for ya:

Godiva Chocolate Valentine Hearts – Designed by renowned pastry chef Norman Love, each handcrafted piece surprises the palate with a clarity and brilliance of flavor that makes every bite a memory to be savored. Offered for Valentine’s Day in gorgeous handcrafted boxes.

Valentine’s Day Fabric Heart Gift Box – Milk, dark, and white chocolates, including delicate ganaches, luscious pralines, rich caramels, sumptuous truffles, and more. In a heart-shaped fabric box with sheer ribbon roses. Make your sweetheart’s day.

See all of the gift ideas at Amazon

More Cupcakes!

contact — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 23:05:53 +0000

Yes more yummy, yummy cupcakes!

About Flour Girls (cute fun play on words all over the place!) – from their site:
flourgirls is an old-fashioned bakeshop with a stylish twist. It all began with the caring, giving spirit of owner Susy and her team of helpers. Their fun-loving nature, zest for life, and passion for all things sweet (not to mention talent!) are the main ingredients behind flourgirls. Using only the finest and freshest products, all of flourgirls’ melt-in-your-mouth cupcakes, beautifully decorated cookies, ultra-decadent brownies, delectable cakes, lovely loaves and more are made from scratch with a huge helping of love.
Everything is tailored to your occasion, whether simple and elegant or wild and whimsical, and made to order just for you—a personal touch that’s hard to come by these days.

At flourgirls, we offer plenty of delectable ways to mark special occasions, reward jobs well done and end meals memorably. So for your next dinner party, birthday celebration, shower or sugar craving, remember flourgirls can provide that finishing touch.
Life is sweet…especially with extra smiles on top!

Cupcake Flavors
Lemon Zinger: Vanilla cupcake base topped with lemony buttercream
Curious George: Chocolate buttermilk cupcake base topped with banana buttercream
A touch of Pink: Vanilla cupcake base topped with raspberry buttercream
Nutella Dreams: Vanilla cupcake base topped with hazelnut buttercream
Mocha Madness: Chocolate or vanilla cupcake base (your choice) topped with mocha buttercream
Canadiana: Vanilla cupcake base topped with maple buttercream
Orange You Glad: Chocolate buttermilk cupcake base topped with orange-chocolate buttercream
Chocolate Goodness: Vanilla cupcake base topped with chocolate buttercream
Chocolate Overload: Chocolate buttermilk base topped with chocolate buttercream
Ms.Plain Jane: Vanilla cupcake base topped with vanilla buttercream
Going Coconuts *: Moist coconut cake topped with cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with coconut
The Boston Cream Cupcake *: Vanilla cupcake base with custard filling and topped with chocolate buttercream
Pass the Carrots Please *: Carrot cake base topped with whipped cream-cheese frosting

Flourgirls
14 Mill Street Unit 103
Milton, ON Canada
6 cupcakes sell for $13.65 (tax included)

Related: Cupcakes in Toronto

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Gluten Free Restaurants in Toronto

contact — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:05:54 +0000

From ryerson.ca:

Annapurna, 1085 Bathurst Street (south of Dupont), Toronto, Ontario, M5R 3G8, 416.537.8513

Annapurna is a South Indian/Sri Lankan vegetarian restaurant inspired by Sri Chinmoy. Its specializes in Southern Indian poori-based vegetarian dishes, an amazing number of which are gluten-free. Annapurna is an economical and very casual restaurant that also offers take-out and catering. Masala Dosai, made of rice and lentil flours, is only $5.99. All milk ingredients are clearly indicated, and many of the dishes are dairy-free. The staff is able to provide accurate information about ingredients, and could even answer my question about cross-contamination of fried foods.

Biryani House, 25 Wellesley Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 2S9 & 6 Roy’s Square, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 2Y2, 416.927.9340

Now Magazine says: “this hole in the wall has morphed into an almost classy boite dishing up some of the best Indian food south of the 401…and it’s still dirt cheap.” Biryani House has opened a new location just just off Yonge Street, at Wellesley, and has kept it Roy’s Square location. The food is really excellent, and I have been able to confirm ingredients with no trouble. In my experience, none of the curries contain any wheat. As usual, please ask.

Café Next Door, 790 Broadview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, 416.469.1971

Café Next Door is operated by Magic Over (see listing below). The owner informed me that the menu features vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and wheat-free options for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.

Le Commensal, 655 Bay Street (at Elm Street), Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2K4, 416.595.9364; fax 416.596.9365

Le Commensal is a pay-by-the-weight vegetarian restaurant in downtown Toronto. The menu promises no preservatives or additives, and dishes are labeled V (vegan), O (egg), and L (dairy). The wait staff has a list of gluten-free items, and happily walked me through the buffet to show me which dishes were gluten-free. Ingredients like wheat and dairy are also indicated on the back of the dish label. For eat-in buffet menu, take-out menu, Toronto.com editorial, and review click here.

Il Fornello (several Toronto and area locations)

Il Fornello offers selections from an Alternative Menu: gluten-free pasta, gluten-free pizza crust, and gluten-free bruschetta are available, but call ahead because selections differ at each location.

Fox and Fiddle, 535 Danforth Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M4K 1P7, 416.462.9830; fax 416.462.3132

The Fox and Fiddle Pub used to be owned and operated by Dennis Hansen, a Celiac. They used to prepare a range of gluten-free items, such as chicken wings and fish and chips in a dedicated deep fryer. I am unsure about the status of the menu now that he is no longer the owner.

Fressen, 478 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2B2, 416.504.5127

Fressen offers a completely vegetarian cuisine sensitive to many food allergies and intolerances. Several GF menu items were available during my visit (I really should go back, ’cause it’s been a while). Please note that Fressen also serves the usual fair of gluten-laden items. Editorial profile and review at Toronto.com.

Indian Flavour, 595 Bay Street (at Dundas, in the Atrium on Bay), Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C2, 416.408.2799; fax 416.408.3651; cell 416.885.5080

As with the majority of Indian restaurants, most of the food is wheat-free and gluten-free. I have confirmed this on my visits. Indian Flavour uses no commercially-prepared sauces, and avoids MSG and other additives. The menu includes a good selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The most popular option is probably the lunch buffet, which offers a minimum of seven dishes. Toronto Life calls Indian Flavour ” Toronto’s most successful Indian self-serve.” ZagatSurvey gives praise for this restaurant’s “great vegetarian menu.”

Indian Rice Factory, 414 Dupont Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 1V9, 416.961.3472

The menu asks customers to advise wait staff of any allergies. Pakoras are made with 100% chick pea flour; Papadums are made with 100% lentil flour; no wheat products are present in any curry or sauce (please verify this information when you call the restaurant: you may also want to inquire about cross-contamination). The Factory has a small, but nice, patio out back. See Toronto.com for description or Tordine.com for a brief review.

Island Grill, 3434 Weston Road (at Finch), Toronto, Ontario, M9M 2W1, 416.742.9200

Thank you to Randy for telling me about the Island Grill, a Jamaican restaurant with several gluten-free dishes. Although some dishes contain wheat four, most of the beef, pork, chicken, and fish dishes are GF, and apparently quite good too. The restaurant is owned by Patrick Lyn.

Juice for Life (now called Fresh by Juice for Life) 336 Queen Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2A2, 416.599.4442; 894 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, 416-913-2720; 521 Bloor Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1Y4, 416.531.2635

Good for juice and shakes, but not so good for food. Juice for Life is a completely vegetarian juice bar with food counter. Milk and cheese products are clearly labeled, and the menu promises no hidden milk ingredients in any dishes. Unfortunately, most dishes–even Rice Bowls–contain wheat products (usually tamari or soy sauce). You can find a few gluten-free items, especially salads, but the choices are slim. The vast array of juices and shakes, however, may make Juice for Life useful. You may be able to make a special request for a rice bowl without the offending ingredients.

Kensington Natural Bakery, 460 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1X8, 416.534.1294

Kensington Natural Bakery (in business since 1980) is a pay-by-weight vegetarian cafe offering dishes free of sugar and preservatives. You may choose from a variety of pre-made dishes in the display case, which are then heated in a microwave. Many dishes are gluten-free. Almost everything would be gluten-free but for the presence of barley syrup or malt syrup (used as sugar substitutes) in many dishes. Despite this, there are several GF dishes to choose from. The cafe also specializes in dairy-free, wheat-free, and yeast-free baking, but keep in mind that none of its baked products are gluten-free. Freshly squeezed juices and herbal teas are also available.

Magic Oven (2 locations): 788 Broadview Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M4K 2P7, 416.466.0111; and 127 Jefferson Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M6K 3E4 416.539.0555, feedback@magicoven.com

Described as the “best pizza this side of Italy” by the National Post, and among the city’s best by Toronto Life, Magic Oven offers a gluten-free rice flour pizza crust – now available by the slice. The restaurant also caters to other dietary requirements by offering a wheat-free (but not gluten-free) spelt crust, a yeast-free whole wheat crust, as well as dairy-free and organic cheeses. A large selection of vegetarian toppings are available. Magic Oven delivers to the Danforth, Riverdale, Cabbagetown, and Rosedale areas and to Liberty Village, Parkdale, Harbourfront, Downtown, Annex, and Roncesvalles from its Jefferson Ave location. See catering section, below, for Magical Catering.

Magic Oven has recently opened Café Next Door. See listing above for more details.

Megas Restaurant, 402 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4K 1P3, 416.466.7771

This is a recommendation from Rod. He syas: “The Greek food is excellent and there are many gf choices as well as lactose free meals possible.” I haven’t been there yet.

Messis, 97 Harbord Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1G4, 416.920.2186

Messis is located very close to the University of Toronto’s downtown campus. I have managed to get a gluten-free meal every time I have dined there. I doubt if there are ever any vegetarian gluten-free items, but you may want to check. See a brief description at Tordine.com.

Mong-Kut Thai, 596 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4K 1R1, 416.463.2667; fax 416.463.2678

Mong-Kut, located in Greek Town, offers eat-in, take-out, and delivery. I have never visited this restaurant, but the owner has asked me to ad it to this page. If you dine there, please tell me about your experience. The website has a full menu.

New York Fries, various locations, including two in the Eaton Centre.

NYF is my emergency lunch (when I haven’t brought anything and I am rushed for time). According to Celiac Canada’s Fast Food Fries list, which includes some information on toppings, NYF are fine. I think the staff at the Eaton Centre’s north location is beginning to recognize me. A listing of Ontario locations is available here.

El Palenque, 653 St. Clair Avenue West (east of Christie), Toronto, Ontario M6C 1A7, 416.656.0725; fax 416.656.3757

El Palenque, a family-owned business, bills itself as an “Authentic Mexican Restaurant.” While the waitress was not familiar with Celiac Disease or gluten, she was able to confirm the ingredients of several dishes. Reservations are recommended, but just be sure not to accept a seat in the basement. Even if you are not afflicted from claustrophobia, you’ll run away screaming and agitated before you ever get to taste the food. (There is a second location, which I have never visited: 9 Milvan Avenue (Weston Road and Finch), Toronto, 416-740-9718). Now has a lengthy review. See my recent (short) post on my blog about this place.

Royal Thai Garden Restaurant, 524 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1Y3, 416.536.6868

I have ordered from this restaurant many times, usually when we are too tired to cook. Verifying ingredients may be a challenge, depending on when you call and if the person who answers speaks English well-enough. If you can get “no wheat” written on your order, you should be fine. You may get a better explanation while dining in, but I haven’t done that in a very long time. A brief review is available here.

Salad King, 335 Yonge Street (entrance off Gould), Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1R7, 416.971.7041, asyliu@yahoo.com

This Thai restaurant is a frantically busy operation, because it sits on the fringe of the Ryerson University Campus, and is close to Yonge & Dundas, Toronto’s busiest intersection. Salad King recently renovated, so it is no longer quite so loud and uncomfortable. I include it because I can see it from my office window Both the menu and a large red sign at the cash ask customers to alert staff to any food allergies. In my experience, the staff are aware of ingredients and can make recommendations. If you want to talk to the chef, you would be advised to go as early as possible, or wait for the small drop in traffic after lunch and before the evening students descend. You might want to read my recent entry on the blog about Thai food.

Swiss Chalet, (various locations: try SW’s Restaurant Locator), 1.800.860.4082

Swiss Chalet operates more than 180 restaurants in Canada and selected parts of the USA. The menu focuses on rotisserie chicken, but other dishes are available. Please read the Allergy Information fact sheet before dining. The allergy information seems comprehensive (it includes nuts, dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat & glutens, sesame, and sulphites) but you may want to make further inquires when you arrive.

Tiger Lily’s Noodle House, 257 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 1Z4, 416.977.5499

Tiger Lily’s is located on the east end of the trendy Queen Street West area, a few steps from the City-tv headquarters. The restaurant is able to make most of its dishes GF by substituting rice noodles and GF Tamari. When I visited, the wait staff serving my table was friendly and knowledgeable about gluten. Eye has a short review. Here is another short review.

Town Grill, 243 Carlton Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5A 2L2, 416.963.9433; fax 416.963.9303

As reported in the March 2002 issue of the Gluten-Free Press (newsletter of the Canadian Celiac Association’s Toronto Chapter), David McGann, chef of the Town Grill, spoke about the difficulties in preparing GF meals and some important issues in food preparation that we should be aware of. The good news is that he is eager to serve Celiacs and welcomes us at his restaurant–called one of the best in Toronto, by Cabbagetown Corners

El Trompo, 277A Augusta Avenue (at Oxford), Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2L4, 416-260-0097

Hilary recommended this Mexican restaurant in Kensington Market. Now recently gave this restaurant three Ns (out of five), saying that it “pumps out first-rate southern Mexican street food without the Tex-Mex watering-down.”

Sushi Restaurants
Toronto has dozens of Japanese restaurants. I have only listed the two that I am most familiar with. Your best strategy is to follow the advice on Japanese restaurants in Jax Peters Lowell book, Against the Grain. For those requiring more information, I recommend that you read this extremely interesting posting on the Celiac Listserv regarding Sushi and gluten. There are probably better Japanese restaurants in Toronto, but I haven’t visited them yet.

Dr. Sushi, 26 Roy’s Square (Yonge & Bloor), M4Y 2W2, 416.929.3435; fax 416.929.9262

Dr Sushi is a tiny hole-in-the-wall near the busy corner of Yonge & Bloor. This place is small and unattractive, but the food is good, and it is close to where I work. In the summer, you can find a table in Roy’s Square. Dr. Sushi also delivers. As you know, bring your own wheat-free soy or tamari sauce.

Sushi on Bloor, 515 Bloor Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1Y4, 416.516.3456

An extremely popular and very busy sushi restaurant in the Annex. A reservation is recommended (update: they have just expanded and opened up the second floor). Delivery is available. Sushi on Bloor offers a casual dining experience. If you sit at the back, you can watch the chefs prepare the food, and maybe even have a conversation with them. Read Toronto.com’s editorial and review.

Ice Cream

Baskin-Robbins, (various locations around the city)

Publishes LifeStyles 2000 Consumer Information Guide, an eight panel pamphlet that addresses special diet needs and nutrition, food sensitivities and allergies. Baskin-Robbins claims to be the first Canadian retailer of ice cream, and other frozen desserts, to offer customers the Canadian Diabetes Association Food Choice Value symbols. Each product is labeled with an information strip containing important ingredient details. Wheat and gluten content is indicated along with egg, sulfites, nuts, lactose, etc. The symbol for wheat and gluten indicates the presence of “flour, wheat, oats, oatmeal, oat bran, graham, wheat germ, starch, malt and derived ingredients.” (Each BR location usually has one sorbet that is dairy-free & gluten free). An independent laboratory prepares all of the nutritional information. More information is available by calling 1.800.268.4923.

Dairy Queen, (various locations; try DQ’s store locator); contact address in Canada is: 905 Century Drive, Burlington, Ontario,
L7L 5J8, 905.639.1492

DQ has an allergy information page, including a short page about gluten in its products. It is probably wise to discuss ingredients in your local franchise.

Catering

The Big Carrot, Natural Food Market, 348 Danforth Ave., Toronto, Ontario M4K 1N8, 416.466.2129, fax 416.466.2366 (see retail store listings for description).

The Big Carrot can cater a gluten-free lunch or dinner buffet. A description is available on its catering page.

In Her Hands Vegetarian Cooking Service, 416.696.6566; vegmeals@idirect.ca

Prepares low fat, low salt foods free of peanuts, eggs, dairy, gluten and vinegar.

Just Eat It Vegetarian Cooking Service, 905.881.9463

Provides low fat meals that can be vegan and gluten-free.

Kilgour’s Party Platters, 220 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 3V6, 905.751.1455; fax 905.713.1715; info@kilgours.com

This company will cater all kinds of parties and social gatherings. It offers standard party platters and can provide gluten-free platters as well. Visit their website for lots more information.

Kosher, Naturally, 905.770.0646; fax 905.770.3623; kosher@rogers.com

All dishes are dairy-free, nut-free, kosher, and mostly organic. They can accommodate special diets for those with allergies or food sensitivities. I am unsure if this includes gluten-free.

Magical Catering, 788 Broadview Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M4K 2P7, 416.466.0111, event@magicalcatering.com

From the Magic Oven people, this catering service can supply “organic foods, gluten or wheat free foods, vegan or religious requirements.”

Vegan Delights, 416.491.6781

Makes baked vegan food with no hydrogenated fats or refined sugars. Many items are wheat free, but I am not sure if this means gluten-free.

Wholly Macro Food, 416.463.1467

Prepares organic vegan meals. Wholly Macro is sensitive to allergies and food intolerances.

[source: ryerson.ca]

New Book: Toronto 2008: With Niagara Falls & the Niagara Wine Region

contact — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 23:05:43 +0000

You might be happy to know that the new book about Toronto and nearby attraction, Fodor’s Toronto 2008: With Niagara Falls & the Niagara Wine Region (Fodor’s Gold Guides) will be released on February 5, 2008. You can pre-order yours for only $11.53, a savings of 32%.

Pre-order your book now (before the sale disappears)
————
Here are more books about Toronto you might be interested in:

1. Lonely Planet Toronto – This comprehensive guide is your entree to its many facets: the culinary scene is as deliciously diverse as its population, the artistic community breaks conventions on a daily basis and its great outdoors are awash with options – from cycling and skiing to hiking and hockey. Socially enlightened, multicultural and uniquely Canadian.

2. Top 10 Toronto – Whether you’re looking for the finest cuisine or the least expensive places to eat, the most luxurious hotels or the best deals on places to stay, Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guides provide useful information by local experts to find the best of everything at each destination.

3. Secret Toronto: The Unique Guidebook to Toronto’s Hidden Sites – For the traveler in search of something completely different when visiting Toronto. This detailed guide leads travelers far from the beaten path to uncover Toronto’s best-kept secrets. From obscure museums and overlooked neighborhood treasures to tucked-away green spaces and exotic ethnic cuisine, these little-known destinations yield big rewards for the more adventurous traveler. The soul of this cosmopolitan city is highlighted by hotspots where visitors can learn Latin dancing at night, disco after hours, and rent a private dungeon at an S&M bed-and breakfast.

4. Toronto for Dummies – This book is so great for people traveling to Toronto for the very first time AND for people who really are newbies to this great Canadian City. It’s a fun, very thorough guide about Toronto and the surrounding areas you might want to visit. From the view atop the CN Tower to its electric nightlife to it’s global cuisine, Toronto offers its visitors an unforgettable travel experience. And with Niagara Falls and Stratford just quick trips away, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. With this friendly guide, you’ll plan a vacation that’s perfect for you.

This is a down-to-earth trip planner comes with very handy Post-it flags for you to mark your favorite pages! Priced at a bargain basement price of $11 (plus some change), you’ll get your money’s worth and more with all of its 336 pages.

Green Earth Organics – Fresh Organic Food Delivered to Your Home or Office

contact — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 23:10:08 +0000

Green Earth Organics offers up an excellent and amazing service. Once or twice a week, they deliver to your home or office boxes of organic fruits and vegetables and other organic foods. There are three box sizes to choose from Harvest $36, Family Harvest $46, and Super Harvest $60. The contents of the boxes change on a weekly basis (due to seasonal changes). But you can also call the weekend hotline at 416-285-5300 or visit their website, to hear what is in your box ahead of time and make any substitutions you’d like when available. A great and obvious option: when you sign up for their service you can let them know which items you never want to receive, and order items you prefer.

All deliveries are done on the same day every week. Deliveries take place in the evening, 2pm. – 9pm.

Green Earth Organics buys locally grown produce whenever possible and 10% of their profits go to various non-profit groups around Toronto.

Give them a call or sign up online so you can order organic food and have it delivered to your door.

Green Earth Organics
3 – 70 Wade Ave
Toronto,Ontario
Canada. M6H 1P6
Tel: 416.285.5300
24 Hour Hotline: 416.532.2713

Great Breakfast in Toronto: Sunset Grill

contact — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:06:35 +0000

There’s nothing better than eating a ginormous breakfast. All Day. Ok, I don’t eat breakfast all day ONLY because I’d be a freakin’ pig, eating that much. But I don’t mind eating a huge, hearty and very tasty breakfast in the a.m. or lunch when I have time to digest it and maybe exercise later. But sometimes I do have a need for breakfast for dinner. Anyway, back to this post.

Sunset Grill is an all day breakfast joint. LOVE those kinds of places! So, you can eat breakfast at any time of the day here. Using the freshest ingredients available, Sunset Grill will be able to offer you a repast you’ll always remember. Enjoy old style three-egg breakfasts, fluffy pancakes, thick and yummy French toast – or create your own omelets, or much on the best burgers and sandwiches in town.

Here are the Toronto locations:

Beaches
2006 Queen St. East., Toronto, ON M4L 1J3
(416) 690-9985
Monday to Friday 7 AM to 4 PM
Saturday & Sunday 7 AM to 5 PM

Bloor West Village
2200 Bloor St. West, Toronto, ON M6S 1N4
(416) 763-1444
Open Daily 7 AM to 4 PM
Danforth Village
1602 Danforth Ave., Toronto, ON M4C 1H6
(416) 466-0648
Monday to Friday 7 AM to 4 PM
Saturday & Sunday 7 AM to 5 PM

Dundas and Dufferin
1422 Dundas St. West, Toronto, ON M6J 1Y5
(416) 532-1571
Open Daily 7 AM to 4 PM

Yonge and Eglington
2313 Yonge St., Toronto, ON M4P 2C6
(416) 482-4229
Open Daily 7 AM to 4 PM

Yonge and Richmond
1 Richmond St. West, Toronto, ON M5H 3W4
(416) 861-0514
Open Daily 7 AM to 4 PM

Yonge and Wellesley
543 Yonge St., Toronto, ON M4Y 1Y5
(416) 968-9696
Open Daily 7 AM to 4 PM

Toronto’s Best Bars: Lily Lounge

contact — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 23:07:26 +0000

You won’t feel like a stranger upon entering Li’ly Lounge in Toronto’s popular district, “Little Italy.”

Work up an appetite before heading to Li’ly Lounge because their menu is to die for with their bold, international tapas and delectable gourmet meals. It’s one of the best places to chill, to sample great food, listen to good music, dance to an in-house DJ and to meet new people. Oh, and relax with a drink or two.

li’ly Resto Lounge
656 College Street West (College and Grace Street)
M6G 1B8 Toronto ON Canada
Tel: 416.532.0419

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 6pm to 2am; Mondays reserved for private events

Tasty Kosher Falafels and Pizza in Toronto – King David

contact — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 23:06:34 +0000

David Hazan, the owner of Kind David’s says that the secret to his success is his ability to bring the flavor of Middle Eastern food to the consumer making sure that all of his food is fresh, visually appealing and as tasty as it looks.

To aliven your taste buds try a falafel or hummus and techina. A falafel, which is ground chick peas fried to the size of small meat balls and stuffed into pita bread with all kinds of different salads and toppings is not only a full meal but a true food gourmet’s healthy experience. There is also humus mixed with techina which when eaten with pita bread makes you feel as if you are on a food expedition traveling through an exotic country.

Believe it or not the kosher establishment is famous for it kosher pizzas, too. There are a large variety of pizzas with various combinations of crusts and toppings. There is not only your standard double cheese pizza but also vegetarian and pepperoni pizza. There is also a wonderful pizza with a sesame seed crust.

2 Locations in Toronto:

King David Bakery Cafe Pizzaria and Falafel
3020 Bathurst St.(South of Lawrence Ave.)
Tel: 416.781.1326

241 Wilmington St.(Dufferin St. & Finch St.)
Tel: 416.636.3456

Cupcakes in Toronto!

contact — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 23:07:57 +0000

Cupcakes are not the trend right now. They’ve ALWAYS been in fashion! But until recently, cupcake shops were hard to find. Thankfully, more and more are popping up here and there in great cities across North America. Toronto is no exception. The Cupcake Shoppe, situated in a bustling area of Toronto, offers cupcake lovers a total of 17 beautiful, nut-free flavors, with nine of their yummilicious flavors available in-store every single day. YAY. All cupcakes come with cute, unusual names, chosen by the staff, and your favorites will be easy to remember. All the cupcakes, including (my favorite) Yonge ’n’ Eligible featuring vanilla buttercream on a vanilla or chocolate cake, the chocolate buttercream on chocolate cake James Brown, and their marble Frost Me cupcake topped with vanilla frosting – changes color seasonally, and are baked daily from the freshest ingredients. Additionally, The Cupcake Shoppe offers custom cupcakes, mini cupcakes and cakes illustrated by hand to suit your special celebrations. Toronto’s first cupcake bakery, the Cupcake Shoppe knows how much fun a cupcake can be.

The Cupcake Shoppe
2417 Yonge Street
Tel. 416.322.6648
2 blocks north of Eglinton Avenue,
on the east side of Yonge.

Hours
Monday to Friday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Saturday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sunday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Sugar Mountain

contact — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 23:08:52 +0000

Sugarholics, rejoice! Especially those of you who like sweet retrolicious candy goodness.

Sugar Mountain is a chain of specialty candy and confectionery stores, which got its humble start in 1992 as an open-air booth in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The original booth quickly outgrew demand and the first Sugar Mountain retail store opened its doors on Richmond Street West in late 1995.

From the first sight of the bright purple interior, to the multiplicity of confectionery and novelty items, Sugar Mountain stores capitalize on a youthful notion that is created via a carefully selected product offering, within a nostalgic environment that is reminiscent of one’s childhood. Specializing in retro and nostalgic confectionery, it is not uncommon that Sugar Mountain customers exclaim, “Wow, I haven’t seen this in years”. Sugar Mountain has become a nationally recognized institution and has established itself as the leading Canadian retailer of imported and nostalgic confectionery.

2 Locations in Toronto!

Sugar Mountain
2299 Yonge Street (at Eglinton)
M4P 2C3 Toronto Canada
Tel: 416.486.9321

320 Richmond Street West
M5V 1X2 Torotno Canada
Tel: 416.204.9544

The Magic Oven

contact — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 23:06:51 +0000

Yummy pizzas in Toronto. Period. They offer organic spelt pizzas, wholewheat pizzas with sprouted grains, gluten free riceflour pizzas with vegan and lactose free cheese. Yay!

About the Magic Oven
Magic Oven was born in 1997. The first location at Broadview and Danforth in Toronto was a huge success. Winning the Best Pizza, Best New Restaurant and Favourite Lunch Place in the NOW Magazine’s Readers poll. That was just the start of the media attention Magic Oven has received. Further coverage by CityTV, Rogers Cable, As The World Turns, National Post, Toronto Star, Toronto Life, Cheap Eats, WHERE Toronto, Globe and Mail, CBC Television, Entertainment Tonight, Breakfast Television, FoodTv Canada, Rogers Daytime, Toronto Dining, Patron Picks, Get Stuffed in Toronto, Vitality Magazine has kept Magic Oven in the news.

Magic Oven was featured on the cover of the Canadian Pizza Magazine and Foodservice and Hospitality Magazine billed it as – The Innovator – in its Pizza Section.

Fresh food, free of additives and preservatives has been the mainstay of the menu. Frequent menu changes with upgraded ingredients is a given. The concept, over its 10 year existence is still fresh and poised for expansion and growth.

The husband and wife team of Tony and Abby Sabherwal are the founding principals of Magic Oven. It was their passion for good food, good service and great people relations that drove the first Magic Oven to its success.

The people of Magic Oven have always been an integral part of its success. They are creative, hard working team players who thrive on challenge and learning.

Magic Oven has always been an equal opportunity employer. The turnover is a lot lower than industry averages. The staff of more than 75 works well in self-managing teams and reflects the commitment to quality and customer service.

The last few years have seen growth for Magic Oven. The concept has grown to five locations. A Cafe has been added to the Broadview location and Magical Catering has grown to hosting events for 000’s of guests.

The Magic Oven
798 Danforth Ave.
Toronto, ON
M4J 1L6
T: 416.462.0333

Upcoming Toronto Beer Events

contact — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 23:06:32 +0000

These are not your every day, ordinary codswallop or run-o-the-mill kind of brew. We’re talking quality liquid gold elixir. Anyway. I had to look up some beer lingo. Can ya tell?! Back to this post. Here are a couple of not to be missed beer events in the Toronto area. Happy chugalug! (just kidding.) DON’T chugalug for your liquid sleep. Ok, I’ll stop now.

Fri Jan 25 and Sat Jan 26 2008
Robbie Burns Night
Granite Brewery

2008 (date t.b.a.)
Dogfish Head Beer Dinner with Sam Calagione
beerbistro

[via the bar towel]

The Spice Trader, Toronto – Organic Spices

contact — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 23:06:53 +0000

You’ll never need to get your spices anywhere else in Toronto. The Spice Trader has about 150 different kinds of spices that adorn the shelves yummily. All spices are organic or wild-harvested, and you can even try them before you buy them. I love Spice Trader!

Sometimes you try unusual recipes that call for uncommon spices. You inevitably just forget about the recipe unless you can find the spices. If you’ve ever been stumped trying to find Ras Al Hanout or quality reverse osmosis cando twigs from antarctica (ok. I made that one up.), look no further. It’ll be a rare occasion that you don’t find what you’re looking for. To note: there’s an excellent selection of salt, from hand-gathered, flaky Welsh Halen Mon to Pacific Alderwood Smoked Salt. Also try the shop’s signature spice blends—including a dill-fennel salt for fish—and assorted dry rubs.

That’s not all. There’s a good variety of accessories, too, from quality spice grinders (Peugeot grinders, graters mortars and pestles, etc.) to frying pans. You might even turn your nose up at William’s Sonoma! Maybe.

The Spice Trader regularly creates new blends, coming up with different ways of using traditional flavours. There are also The Spice Traders own blended salts and herb spice infusions.

The gift boxes make wonderful presents for those who have everything. There are starter kits, salt samplers, and custom gift boxes.

The Spice Trader
805 Queen St. W. (at Niagara St.)
Main level
Toronto, Ontario M6J 1G1
647.430.7085

Toronto’s Best Bars: Melody Bar

contact — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:06:20 +0000

Speaking of the Gladstone Hotel, I want to expound a bit on their awesome bar, The Melody Bar.

It was voted among The Top 10 Bars List in the World ‘07 by Conde Nast. This is what they had to say about Melody Bar:

With walls paneled in rich wood, alabaster lamps hanging from the 10-foot ceilings, fat Romanesque pillars, and an original 1930s wooden bar, the Melody Bar isn’t so much nouveau retro as a rollicking saloon. Weekend karaoke nights have become the stuff of legend, with the host brandishing a giant APPLAUSE sign to stoke the crowd—an interesting hodgepodge of expertly coiffed hipsters, ad execs, pixie punk girls, and dust-caked construction workers.

Could it be their fabulous burgers? Maybe their rockin’ karaoke (Thursday through Saturday)? Or their famous Hump Day Bump Wednesday night party? Go there and tell me about it!

Open 11am – 2am Daily. No Cover.

To Note: Holiday Hours
Dec 24 Cafe open until 4pm – Brunch Menu | Melody Bar closed
Dec 25 Cafe + Melody Bar Closed
Dec 26 Cafe open at 8am – Brunch Menu | Melody Bar open at 5pm
Dec 31 Serving bubbly till 3am
Jan 1 Cafe open at 8am – Brunch Menu | Melody Bar normal hours

Melody Bar
Gladstone Hotel
1214 Queen Street West
Toronto ON M6J 1J6
416 531 4635

Teuscher Chocolates Toronto

contact — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:06:54 +0000

Chocolate lovers probably already know about this gem, but just in case you didn’t…You will most seriously HAVE to go to Teuscher Chocolates in Toronto. They have the most melt-in-your-mouth heavenly chocolate ever. My favorites are the champagne truffles, which are to die for. I’m not kidding. Go see for yourself. You will thank for for this. Profusely.

About the Swiss Chocolatier, Teuscher: More than 70 years ago in a small town in the Swiss Alps, a master chocolate maker embarked on a path that would make him one of the world’s greatest chocolatiers.

Dolf thoroughly searched throughout the world to locate the finest cocoa, marzipan, fruits, nuts, and other ingredients and after years of experimenting, skillfully blended these into his now famous recipes.

Our kitchens in Zürich today make more than hundred varieties of chocolates using these original recipes which have now passed from father to son. In the tradition, the world’s finest and most expensive natural ingredients are blended together using absolutely no chemicals, additives, or preservatives.

Teuscher Chocolates
55 Bloor St. West
Toronto, ON M4W 3V1 Canada
Phone: (416) 964 8200

Toronto’s Best Bars: Sky Bar

contact — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 23:09:32 +0000

In Queen’s Quay you’ll find this funky outdoor roof patio (part of the massive Guvernment entertainment complex). While the entertainment complex attracts all types, the Sky Bar is reported to be a magnet for the sexiest and most sophisticated of this great city. If this is your thing you’ll be happy to be cavorting with dashing Armani suit sporting men with cute decked out Versace babes on the cushy couches. The dance floor can be compared to a postage stamp and sadly the place is only open in summer, but then with such trendy drinks and DJs spinning cool club tunes, it’s worth the wait through winter.

Sky Bar
Government 132 Queens Quay East
Toronto (Yonge St & Lake Shore Blvd E) Canada
Telephone: 416.869.0045

Funny Restaurant Names: C’est What?

contact — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 23:07:14 +0000

C’est What is a showcase for the diverse and vibrant global influences proliferating in Toronto.

Fresh meals unifying local culinary traditions are served alongside all natural craft brewed beers, award winning wines, and hand picked premium spirits. Original favorites include; the Lamburger, Falafel, Mango Chicken Salad, Moroccan Stew, Porter Beef Ribs, and the Tourtière. Their daily specials include home cooked soups, sandwiches, noodles, and curries.

Entrées are priced between $7 and $14. Opening hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., seven days a week.

C’est What
7 Front Street East
Toronto ON Canada
M5E 1B5
Telephone: 416-867-9499

Gift Ideas: Toronto Travel Books

contact — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 23:06:39 +0000

The holidays are rolling around the corner. And fast. Don’t get into the last minute scramble of gift buying, because you know what happens then? You get something for someone and it is so totally inappropriate for them because you simply got fed up with the grumpy crowd, and you bought any ole thing so you could escape. Sound familiar?

Sorry to remind you of sad remembrances of things past but how about getting your loved one a trip to Toronto? Give them a travel book and they’ll then wonder why you’ve given that to them for Christmas. Then the lightbulb moment will turn on (hopefully) and you then have to plan your wonderful trip to the largest city in Canada. Here are some suggestions:

2. Fodor’s Toronto – Skyrocket to the top of the CN Tower, hit the patois for great eats and people-watching, sail on Lake Ontario, wander through the Hockey Hall of Fame, or browse the art at a downtown gallery – Fodor’s Toronto offers all these experiences and more.

3. Top 10 Toronto – Whether you’re looking for the finest cuisine or the least expensive places to eat, the most luxurious hotels or the best deals on places to stay, Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guides provide useful information by local experts to find the best of everything at each destination.

Hidden Gem Restaurants: Le Petit Déjeuner

contact — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 23:06:13 +0000

In French, “Le Petit Dejeuner” means breakfast, so it would be very understandable to see that this retro-y, organic bohemian chic establishment thrives on the 1st meal of the day crowd (but do also check out their dinners!). Their weekend brunches are not to be missed and you will not regret having to wait in the long queue for it. It’s a great reward to get the lovely food, from Chef Johan Maes (trained with Michelin star chefs in France), to your mouth after your stomach’s been growling for a while. Grab some apple pancakes, eggs benedict, paninis and more at this hidden gem in Toronto.

Le Petit Dejeuner
191 King St. E. (at Jarvis St.)
416-703-1560

Canada’s 10 Best New Restaurants (2 in Toronto!)

contact — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 23:05:45 +0000

1. Atlantica

Beach House, 38 Beachy Cove Rd., Portugal Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador, 709-895-1251, atthebeachhouse.ca/atlantica

2. KINGYO IZAKAYA
871 Denman St., Vancouver, 604-608-1677

3. SALT TASTING ROOM

45 Blood Alley, Vancouver, 604-633-1912, salttastingroom.com

4. BISTRO BIENVILLE

4650, rue de Mentana, Montréal, 514-509-1269, bistrobienville.com

5. COLBORNE LANE

45 Colborne St., Toronto, 416-368-9009, colbornelane.com

Read the full list

Organic Gardens in Canada, An Upward Trend

contact — Mon, 31 May 2010 23:05:58 +0000

Via ENN:

As climate change makes longer, drier summers a reality in many parts of the world, a new trend in landscaping is taking root in Canada.

In Toronto, where precipitation levels were 52 percent below the seasonal average over the past six months, according to government data, residents are trading in their manicured lawns for environmentally friendly organic landscapes.

“Irrigation is a huge issue as water is such a valuable resource,” said Claire Suo-Cockerton of landscaping company Aesthetic Earthworks. “We are trying to plant material that is more appropriate today in our climate.”

Organic landscapers use drought resistant plants and shrubs native to the region, which encourage the development micro-organisms in the soil. This attracts birds and insects to act as natural pest and disease control.

A well-managed organic landscape is self-sustaining, whereas a traditional yard needs to be watered at least once per week, Suo-Cockerton said.

“It’s a drastic lifestyle change for those who incorporate it in their homes,” she added.

But the change may be a bit too drastic for average homeowner.

Kevin MacDonald, operations manager of Humber Nurseries near Toronto, said he hasn’t seen an increase in the sale of native plants and shrubs. He said the downside to native plants is they are more susceptible to native insects.

“By planting a cultivated variety, that is non-native, you may not end up with diseases and insect problems, simply because the diseases and insects that would traditionally attack that plant are not found in the new location,” he said.

Still, the main reason why traditional gardens remain popular may be purely aesthetic.

“In most cases homeowners will have a preference for what looks best,” MacDonald said.

While the bare shrubs and woodchips of an organic landscape don’t quite have the curb appeal of an ornamental garden, commercial and residential buildings looking to go green are picking up on the trend.

“From a developer’s standpoint it’s a great marketing tool because people are becoming very conscious of the environment,” said Melissa Ferrato of the Canada Green Building Council (CGBG).

The CGBG uses the leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) standard developed in the United States to measure the “green factor” of a building. Avoiding pesticides, lawnmowers and leafblowers all reduce a building’s carbon footprint, contributing to a higher LEED score.

“Native, organic plants is what we’re all about,” said Ferrato. “We really discourage the use of manicured lawns and pesticides.”

While organic landscaping is only now gaining popularity in the private sector, it has long been used by city parks departments.

“We’ve been moving away from traditional lawns for many years now,” said Patricia Landry a liaison officer at the Toronto parks department. “We are using plants able to withstand drought, pollution and the changing climate.”

Organic landscaping makes economic sense for urban municipalities, Landry said. Less money is spent on labor and irrigation. And reintroducing native plants provides habitat for birds and small animals.

While efforts to convert Toronto’s ornamental flowerbeds to organic gardens were met with public opposition, some of the cultivated annuals were swapped with native plants.

“It’s about trying to keep a balance,” said Landry. “Finding different ways to keep those areas a little more environmentally friendly.”

Toronto Pizza Restaurants!

contact — Sun, 30 May 2010 23:06:02 +0000

Pizza lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking for pizza, pizza and more pizza, here’s the place where you will almost never run out of ideas! Eat Now

Toronto Cafes in One Place

contact — Sat, 29 May 2010 23:07:01 +0000

Need a cafe directory for Toronto? Look no further, here it is, and the cafes are rated too!

Toronto Cafes

10 Places to Spot Celebs in Toronto

contact — Fri, 14 May 2010 23:09:12 +0000

Vaticano Trattoria (chef Felice Vacca’s authentic cuisine at ) – Who has been spotted there? Susan Sarandon, Andy Garcia and Lindsay Lohan. Also check out the nearby Trattorio Sotto Sotto and you may run into Natalie Portman, Dustin Hoffman or Jason Bateman.

Over The Rainbow – Denim deficient rock stars Mick Jagger and Hilary Duff in search of the coolest duds can be spotted here.

Holt Renfrew, the Canadian equivalent of Bloomingdale’s, is a magnet to celebs like German actress Diane Kruger and her Canadian boyfriend Joshua Jackson. Trek farther west along Bloor Street, and who might you run into? Ashton Kutcher and Canuck celebrities like Mike Myers and singer Deborah Cox emptying their wallets for leather goods and athletic gear at Roots.

Kidding Awound – Famous parents such as Julianne Moore and Pierce Brosnan are known to shop at this Canadian version of FAO Schwartz (toy store).

Starbucks (139 Yorkville Ave.) has taken orders for Sienna Miller, James Franco and Colin Farell, while other celebrities like Wesley Snipes head to Canadian-coffee staple, Second Cup (170 Bloor St. W.).

Four Seasons Hotel – Particularly during film festivals, A-listers like Bruce Willis and Gwyneth Paltrow stay at this Yorkville sanctuary, with equally star-studded room service going on downtown at the Fairmont Royal York, which attracts festival favourites like Mira Sorvino and John Cusack.

Vikaspa – is the spa where Kate Hudson, Robert Downey Jr. and Hilary Swank chill.

Thomas Hinds Tobacconist – attracts the likes of stogie sportin’ Alec Baldwin, Sean Penn or Charlie Sheen.

Kultura, is a multi-floor lounge where Jude Law, Vince Vaughn, Ethan Hawke, Sofia Coppola, Scarlett Johansson and Christina Ricci have all hung out.

Bistro 990, a French bistro, is one of the city’s biggest stomping grounds for visiting celebs like renowned Canadian director Norman Jewison (Moonstruck, In Country), Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn.

Note: These star gazing ops are more successful during film fests when Hollywood descends upon the beautiful Canadian haven of Toronto.

B&B for Vegetarians!

contact — Tue, 11 May 2010 23:07:41 +0000

Deep in the very heart of downtown Toronto, you might find some friends. Well perhaps, but at least you’ll definitely find Les Amis, a quaint and special kind of bed and breakfast. You will be welcomed by the owners, Paul Antoine and Michelle, an expatriated Parisian couple, and because of the location, you will have easy access to Toronto’s main attractions. In addition to this convenience, every morning you’ll be treated to an organic, gourmet vegetarian breakfast. (Vegan breakfasts are available as well upon request.) It can’t get better than this. If you stay for several nights or more, each day you will have a different breakfast, so things don’t get boring. How is that for service?

Les Amis
A Vegetarian Bed & Breakfast in Toronto /
Paul-Antoine & Michelle Buer
31 Granby St., Toronto, Ontario M5B 1H8 Canada.
Tel. (416)928-1348
Fax (416) 591-8546
Website and Rates (Canadian Dollars)
E-mail: les-amis@bbtoronto.com

Chocoholics, this One’s For You

contact — Sun, 09 May 2010 23:09:03 +0000

Toronto’s most visited site is the CN Tower but did you know you can eat it too? Yes, of course you must have a huge appetite to eat it – and no, I’m not talking about eating the actual CN Tower, though you must go to the tower for this special treat.

The “Dark Chocolate Tower” dessert is to die for and you can find it at the CN Tower’s revolving restaurant appropriately named, “360.” Don’t worry if you’re prone to motion sickness. The rotation speed isn’t like your salad spinner. It’s so slow you might not ever notice that your absolutely spectacular view is changing as you devour your meal. It takes 72 minutes for the whole restaurant to make a complete rotation, just in case you were wondering. Also if you were wondering, the restaurant sits more than 1,150 feet above Toronto.

Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by calling 416-362-5411

360 Restaurant at CN Tower
301 Front Street West
Toronto, Ontario M5V 2T6
Canada

In the heart of Downtown Toronto, right in between the Rogers Centre and the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Front Street, just north of Bremner Blvd.

Louis Vuitton Graffiti

contact — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 10:11:46 +0000

This is from viewonfashion:

The Louis Vuitton ad campaign for the Stephen Sprouse collection is really amazing, and it´s a great branding tool too. All around the world, LV shops are using graffiti to promote this long-awaited collection which is already a big sales hit.

To promote the launch of the Louis Vuitton book that pays tribute to Stephen Sprouse, they´ve got legendary graffiti artist Skam to paint an LV mural in Toronto.

Best Poutine in Toronto?

contact — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:17:39 +0000

Head over to nothincrazie.com to find out. Here’s an excerpt:

“There’s a new fast food eatery in town! Their name is Smoke’s Poutinerie and poutines are the only thing you will find there. The poutine lovers (me, crazyDiva, and tooVee) drove all the way downtown to check it out. We had high expectations for their poutine since it was the only dish they specialized in. After spending 10 minutes hunting down a parking spot, we hopped out of the car with big smiles on our faces, excited for the worst combination of grease you can ask for.

Strategically placed in the heart of the entertainment district (218 Adeladie Street W.), they are open until 4:00 am for drunks to get fat on after their night of…”

Continue reading

Toronto Rocks

contact — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 13:37:29 +0000

Yeah, I know that Toronto Rocks already, but I’m talking about the DVD, so let’s see what it’s about:

On July 30, 2003, close to a half a million people gathered in Toronto for one of the most spectacular concerts of all time in fact, the largest ticketed single-day event in history. The Rolling Stones headlined the show, accompanied by 13 other acts, including AC/DC, Rush, the Guess Who, and Justin Timberlake. Now, this amazing day has been captured on DVD. Who steals the show? The Isley Brothers, led by founding singer Ronald and axeman Ernie, who blaze through “Who’s That Lady” and their classic “Shout” with a band of lock-tight musicians and dancers.

The DVD includes the kind of full-size color booklet every concert disc should come with, a choice of Dolby Digital 5.1 surround and uncompressed PCM stereo sound (both great), and a dose of “bonus” backstage ballyhoo. A unique extra is the director’s broadcast call of the camera shots for AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck,” revealing the frantic, real-time demands of a live shoot.

Find out more about Toronto Rocks and order it

Gift from Canada: Coffee!

contact — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 11:27:25 +0000

Looking for a perfect Gift from Canada? How about a original 39 oz freshly sealed coffee for a low price! You get a large 1.1 kg tin can of fine grind coffee enough to make a month supply of coffee. Coffee comes directly from Tim Horton’s Warehouse. Tim Hortons Coffee! You’ve heard about the fantastic taste of Tim Hortons brand coffe – affectionately known as “Timmy’s”. Millions of cups of fresh brew are sold across Canada and in some US states on a daily basis. Most people say it’s better than Starbucks! It’s as fresh as can be! Each can contains 39 oz or 1.2 kilograms of Canada’s best fine ground coffee, made from 100% Arabica Beans and NO preservatives. For use in automatic filter drip coffee makers. BRAND NEW & HERMTICALLY SEALED TO PRESERVE FRESHNESS!! Each of these tins will brew approximately 24 full pots of coffee, or many more pots if you making smaller batches for 1-2 people. My wife drinks this brand EVERY morning with her breakfast. She just loves it. A fresh can of Famous Canadian Tim Hortons fine grind coffee. It is the huge 39oz = 1.1KG Giant Size = 2 pounds plus.

Get some coffee that’s better than Starbucks

Recommended Restaurant: Tabule

contact — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 23:51:00 +0000

Zagat describes Tabule, a Toronto restaurant, the best:

“Superb, wonderfully fresh middle eastern eats (especially the namesake dish) purveyed by friendly, helpful people, draw crowds to this cheerful, contemporary midtowner. The tiny spot’s success has resulted in line-ups out the door, so waits are to be expected.”

Tabule Restaurant
2009 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON
Call for Reservations: 416-800-1375
email: info@tabule.ca
Website: Tabule Restaurant

Why Everybody Hates Toronto

contact — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:00:16 +0000

This is the book Toronto doesn’t want you to read! Tired of Hogtown’s constant preening, pretentiousness and pomposity? This book is for you. This book is also for hard-core Toronto fans – if they have the patience to read to the end (they aren’t known for their patience). “Why Everybody Hates Toronto” is based on survey data and exhaustive research (the author tires easily). “Why Everybody Hates Toronto” is an insightful, witty, informative and wonderful look at one of the world’s great cities. Soon to be a major best-seller! Warning: Despite the book’s flippant tone and very funny overall approach, the book also contains some surprising depth and insight concerning Toronto woes. It’s a content-rich, humorous, must-read for anyone who has ever lived in, visited, or thought of Toronto. Michael B. Davie has produced a first-rate book.

Why Everybody Hates Toronto

Okonomiyaki in Toronto

contact — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:16:14 +0000

Okonomiyaki in Japanese means grilled or baked as you like it. It’s a home style, delicious and savory pancake of sorts from Japan. Some people call it a Japanese pizza, but it really is more like a pancake filled with all kinds of veggies, seafood, meat, fish shavings, seaweed and whatever you want on or in it.

Generally speaking, it is a basic batter using a fish broth rather than water, eggs and rice flour or wheat flour. Added to that are thin strips of cabbage, green onions, beni shouga (pickled ginger), thinly sliced pork belly, shrimp, chicken or whatever meat you want. Topping it would be an otafuku sauce (like a tonkatsu or thick steak sauce) or mayo, katsuobushi (shaved dried bonito) and aonori (seaweed). The famous Hiroshima okonomiyaki features yakisoba noodles on top with an egg.

Not only is it yummilicious, it’s nutritious so don’t worry about your waistline or the scary side of food. In any case, most Japanese food is pretty healthful, which is likely why the Japanese live the longest. At Okonomi House in Toronto, which is a very authentic Japanese restaurant, you will have a singular authentic Japanese dining experience. With reasonable prices, make sure to orde thirst quenching, tasty Asahi or Sapporo beers…

Okonomi House
23 Charles St W (Yorkville)
Toronto, ON M4Y Canada
Telephone: 416.925.6176

Feast of Fields’ Bio Dynamic Organic Wine

contact — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 14:55:11 +0000

First Things First: What is Bio Dynamic Farming?
Biodynamic farming and gardening looks upon the soil and the farm as living organisms. It regards maintenance and furtherance of soil life as a basic necessity if the soil is to be preserved for generations, and it regards the farm as being true to its essential nature if it can be conceived of as a kind of individual entity in itself – a self-contained individuality. It begins with the ideal concept of the necessary self-containedness of the farm and works with furthering the life of the soil as a primary means by which a farm can become a kind of individuality that progresses and evolves.

Biodynamic agriculture is a way of living, working and relating to nature and the vocations of agriculture based on good common-sense practices, a consciousness of the uniqueness of each landscape, and the inner development of each and every practitioner.

Common-sense practices include striving to be self-sufficient in energy, fertilizers, plants, and animals; structuring our activities based on working with nature’s rhythms; using diversity in plant, fertilizers, and animals as building blocks of a healthy operation; being professional in our approach to reliability, cleanliness, order, focus on observation, and attention to detail; and being prompt and up-to-date in doing one’s job.

The concern with the uniqueness of a particular landscape includes developing an understanding of the geology, soils, climate, plant, and animal life; human ecology; and economy of one’s bioregion.

Biodynamic farming and gardening combines common-sense agriculture, an understanding of ecology, and the specific environment of a given place with a new spiritual scientific approach to the concepts, principles, and practices of agriculture. From biodynamics.ca

Feast of Fields farm has been certified biodynamic by Demeter Canada since 1996. The Biodynamic method goes beyond organic in a sincere effort to enliven the farm entity through growing in harmony with nature and working towards the goal of a self sufficient farm entity.

During the growing season, visit Feast of Fields at Riverdale Park Farmers Market on Tuesday 3-7 pm, Dufferin Grove Thursdays from 3-7pm, The Brickworks Saturday 8 -1 am or Withrow Park Saturdays from 9-1 pm. Feast of Fields also maintains a B&B cottage.

Feast of Fields Biodynamic Vineyard
RR # 1 St Catharines
Ontario Canada L2R 6P7
email: laura-sabourin@sympatico.ca

Kosher Restaurants

contact — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:54:07 +0000

First Things First: What is Kosher?
“Kosher” refers to Jewish law that regulates permissible foods. Kosher foods must adhere to the complex requirements of Jewish law, and a supervising Rabbi verifies that such is the case for a given food item or serving location. Criteria is based on: 1) how animals are slaughtered; 2) rules and regulations for purity in the processing of foods; 3) careful inspection of vegetables for insects; 4) and the required temperatures in the cleansing of utensils and equipment. Additionally, Kosher laws require full disclosure of all ingredients on the packaging. With Kosher Certified foods consumers are fully aware of all ingredients. There should be no MSG, artificial flavors, fillers. or by-products.

Products and cooking equipment under kosher supervision are given regular inspections to ensure rigorous compliance with the Kashruth laws. A person known as the mashgiach does the actual supervision. A Hechsher (certifying mark) can be found to identify kosher foods and serving locations.

Below you’ll find some of the best kosher restaurants in Toronto (D=Dairy M=Meat P=Parve):

Central

Brooklyn Pizza (D), 3016 B Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B3B6, 416.789.4085
Colonel Wong Restaurant (M), 2825 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B3A4, 416.784.9664
The Fortune Cookie (M), 2835 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B 3A4
HaKotel (M), 1045 Steeles Ave W Toronto Ontario M2R2S9, 416.736.7227
Kosher Pizza Delight (formerly Jerusalem One) (D), 3028 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B3B6, 416.256.7115
King David Pizza, Bourekas, Falafel (D), 3020 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B3B6
Noam Malka (M), Lawrence/Bathurst Plaza-Hot Dog Cart Toronto Ontario
Not Just Yogurt (D), 2997 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B3B3, 416.783.7604
Omni 2 – Jewellery & Java (D), 2793 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B3A7
Perl’s Bais Burger (M), 3015 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario, 416.787-.4234
Shalom Shanghai (M), 3022 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B3B6

Downtown

Oasis Cafe & Health Bar (D), 2 First Canadian Place, Exchange Tower, Toronto ON M5X1A6, 416.368.8805
Olde Spadina Ave (M), Air Canada Center & Rogers Center, Toronto Ontario, 416.823.6313

Midtown

Bistro Grande (D), 1000 Eglinton Ave W Toronto Ontario M6C2C5
Gladstones Bar & Grill (M – formal), 398 Eglinton Ave W Toronto Ontario M5N1A2, 416.487.9500

North York

Amazing Donuts (P), 3772 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M3H3M6, 416.398.7546
Baycrest Cafeterias (D, M), 3560 Bathurst St Ontario, 416.789.5131
Chicken Nest (M), 3038 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6B4K2
Dairy Treats European Cafe/Bakery (D), 3522 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6A2C6, 416.787.0309
Isaac’s Bakery & Cafe (D), 221 Wilmington Ave Toronto Ontario 416.630.1678; and
3390 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6A2B9, 416.789.7587
King David/Country Style Coffee (D), 219 Wilmington Ave Toronto Ontario M3H5J9, 416.636.3456
King Solomons Table (M – formal), 3705 Chesswood Dr Toronto Ontario M3J2P6, 416.630.1666
King Kosher Pizza, Burekas & Falafel (D), 3774 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M3H3M6
Marky’s Restaurant & Deli (M), 280 Wilson Ave Toronto Ontario M3H1S8, 416.638.1081
Milk ‘n Honey Restaurant (D), 3457 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M6A2C5, 416.789.7651
Rachel’s Centre Cafe (D), Bathurst Jewish Centre 4588 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M2R1W6
Second Cup (Baycrest) (D), 3560 Bathurst St ext 2871 Toronto Ontario M6A2E1
Second Cup (BJC) (D, 4588 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M2R1W6, 416.636.1880

Uptown

Country Style Kosher Coffee (D), Winter’s College, York University 4700 Keele St Toronto Ontario
Tov-Li Pizza & Falafel Ltd (D), 5982 Bathurst St Toronto Ontario M2R1Z1, 416.650.9800

North

Cafe Sheli (D), 7700 Bathurst St Thornhill Ontario L4J7Y3, 905.762.0640
Cookoos Inc (M), 7241 Bathurst St Thornhill Ontario L4J3W1
Fine Touch Catering (M), 927 Clark Ave W Thornhill Ontario L4J8G6, 905.889.2690
Golden Chopsticks Chinese Food (M), 7000 Bathurst St Unit C-6 Thornhill Ontario L4J7L1, 905.760.2786
King David Pizza, Bourekas, Falafel (D), 531 Atkinson Ave Unit 3 Thornhill Ontario L4J8L7, 905.771.7077
Kosher King (M), 7000 Bathurst St Unit C1 Thornhill Ontario L4J7P2, 905.760.1118
Miami Grill (M), 441 Clark Ave W Thornhill Ontario L4J6W7, 905.709.0096
My Zaidy’s Pizza (D), 441 Clark Ave W Thornhill Ontario L4J6W8
Not Just Yogurt (D), 7117 Bathurst St Unit 109 Thornhill Ontario L4J2J6, 905.889.1598
Yehudale’s Falafel & Pizza (D), 7241 Bathurst St Thornhill Ontario L4J3W1, 905.889.1400

Karma Co-op

contact — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 12:01:38 +0000

Karma Co-op is a member-owned non-profit grocery store. Shopping at Karma is a friendly experience, without the Muzak, gimmickry or hard-sell tactics of supermarkets. You can hang up your coat, mind your child in the membership room, meet your neighbours who have similar interests and make a phone call. It’s our store. And nobody profits from it except the members.

What can you buy?

- Fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods, dairy products and free-range eggs
- Bulk grains, flours, seeds, spreads, dried fruits and nuts
- Frozen foods,including organically raised meat
- Renett-free cheese
- Bulk grains, dried fruits & nuts
- Coffees and teas, coffee substitutes, herbal teas and fresh spices
- Canned and packaged foods
- Household and personal care items (dental and skin care products, supplements)
- Environment-friendly cleaning products

Interested in becoming a member? Only members can shop at Karma Co-op. But you can do a one-time trial shop to try us out before joining (payment in cash only). Join Karma

Karma Coop
739 Palmerston Avenue
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M6G 2R3
(416) 534-1470
Hours: M: 11am-7pm; T,W,Th: 11am-9pm; F: 10am-9pm; Sa: 10am-6pm; Su: 11am-5pm

My Favorite Movie Theatre: Bloor Cinema

contact — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 18:45:40 +0000

Bloor Cinema rules. It is a real, traditional, old school movie theatre for true movie buffs – showing classic favorite movies. If you’ve never been to an old theater and want to experience what your parents or grandparents experienced, check out Bloor. Its wonderful sticky floors, movie classics as well as more obscure gems, cheap tickets, squeeky seats, more than 800 seats, true movie house smells, gummy worms… will just make you sigh. In a good way. What is NOT to like about this place!? Tell me.

The Bloor Cinema is a host for gobs of film festivals, movie premieres, special gala events, classic films and Hollywood blockbusters. They showcase a variety of perspectives from across Canada and around the world: independent films, fascinating stories, important documentaries and sometimes just wild, unbridled entertainment.

This historic landmark should be a must-see item on your list when visiting Toronto, whether you go see a movie or not. LOVE this place.

Browsing tonight’s listing, I noticed that Ghost World (with Thora Birch, Scarlett Johansson and Steve Buscemi) is playing. Don’t miss that excellent film!

Bloor Cinema
506 Bloor Street West,
Toronto ON M5S1Y2 Canada
(416) 516-2331

Kid Friendly Pizza Places

contact — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 09:40:07 +0000

Pizza Restaurants – Anyone who has a kid, or knows a kid for that matter, knows that kids like pizza. Rare is the moment when you meet a kid that hates pizza, so if you’re looking for a pizza place in Toronto, you’re in luck, because there are many really good ones in the city. Here are some suggestions:

Pizza Amato – 380 College Street , Toronto ON M5T1S6, (416) 972-6286

Pizza Banfi – 333B Lonsdale Road, Toronto, ON, M5P1R3, (416) 322-5231

Chico’s Pizza – 701 St. Clair Ave West, Toronto, ON, M6C 1B2, (416) 658-4000

Cora Pizza – 656A Spadina Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5S2H7, (416) 922-1188

Magic Oven – 270 Dupont Street, Toronto, ON, M5R1V7, (416) 928-1555 *Uses mostly organic ingredients and is very vegan/vegetarian/lactose-free friendly.

The Big Slice – 385 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M5B1S1, (416) 977-8451

Kismet Pizza – 1962 Eglinton Avenue West, York, ON, M6E2J9, (416) 782-0782

Massimo Pizza & Pasta – 302 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T1R9, (416) 967-0527

Vesuvio Pizzeria & Spaghetti House – 3014 Dundas Street West , Toronto ON M6P1Z3, (416) 763-4191

The Best Gelateria in Toronto: Dolce Gelato

contact — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:17:25 +0000

Based on the many Torontonians I’ve asked, Dolce Gelato seems to come up ahead by leaps and bounds above most other gelato places. Perhaps not THE best; but definitely excellent. My survey is not official and the results are obviously centered on my friends, family and their friends’ opinions but hey, if more than a few people recommend this place, it’s gotta be pretty good, heh?

Dolce Gelato
697 College St. (Little Italy)
Toronto, ON M6G 1C2 Canada
Telephone: 416-915-0756

Gandhi’s Roti and other Roti Restaurants in Toronto

contact — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 12:01:57 +0000

A definite hole-in-the-wall favorite roti restaurant of local Torontonians in the know. You’ll find East Indian roti. The butter chicken and chicken jalfrizi rotis are some of the best you’ll sample in Toronto. I’m drooling now.

Gandhi’s Roti
554 Queen West, Toronto
Toronto ON M5V3P2
(416) 504-8155

Other rotis in Toronto: Roti Hut on Pitfield, Tarin Roti Shop on Gerrard east of Parliament in Regent Park, Patty King on the south side of Baldwin, Blue Water on Vic Park n of Eglinton, Island Foods at King and Dufferin, Bacchus and Ali’s on Queen West, and Roti Lady in Parkdale, Drupati’s at 925 Albion Road, Roti Roti on Islington, Alima’s, Village on the Grange on Dundas and University, Don Mills on Don Mills north of Lawrence, Caffeteria at the Bay at Yonge & Queen, Coconut Grove, Dundas east of University, Mona’s in Scarborough, Pam’s Kitchen, Brendan’s Roti Garden, on Hayden just south of Bloor, Ritz Caribbean Food on Yonge Street, Danforth Roti in East York on Danforth, Roti King on Eglington W between Dufferin and Oakwood, Caribbean Queen of Patties on Bloor just east of Lansdowne.

Where to find Tea in the Sahara in Toronto

contact — Tue, 13 May 2008 11:35:05 +0000

Finding good quality tea is not really that easy these days but you’ll be happy to know that you can find Tea in the Sahara here in Toronto!

Downtown Toronto

889
889 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON M4W 2H2
416 925 7206

A Taste Above
74 Richmond Street East
Toronto, ON M5C 1P1
416 203 0396
www.atasteabove.com

Cafe 260
260 Richmond St. East
Toronto, ON M5A 1P4
416-368-9222

Celestin
623 Mt. Pleasant Rd
Toronto, ON M4S 2M9
416 544 1733

The Cheese Boutique
45 Ripley Avenue
Toronto, ON M6S 3P2
(416) 762-6292

The Chiropractic and Health Associates Clinic
1407 Yonge St. Suite 400
Toronto, ON M4T 1Y7
416-924-0777

Divine Scents
151 Harbord Street
Toronto, ON M5S 1H1
416 962 0000

Elixir Organic Spa
766 King Street West, Unit 5
Toronto, ON M5V 1N6
416-203-5261

Flow Nail Spa
753 Queen Street West
Toronto, ON M6J 1G1
416 910 2827

Hammam Spa
602 King Street West
Toronto, ON M5V 1M6
416-366-4775

Kahawa Coffeehouse
Nairesiae Kipusi
388 College St
Toronto, M5T 1S7

Lileo
55 Mill Street – Building 35
Toronto, ON M5A 3C4
416 413 1410

The Mercantile
626 College Street
Toronto, ON M6G 1B4
416 531 7563

Niche Coffee & Tea Company
626 Queen Street West
Toronto, ON M6J 1E4
416-203-0458

The Outer Layer
577 Queen Street West
Toronto, ON M5V 2B6
416 869 9889

The Outer Layer
430 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M5S 1X5
416 324 8333

Pure Intent
64 Oxford Street 2nd Floor
Kensington Market
Toronto, ON M5T 1P1
416 466 3237

Red Rocket Cafe
1402B Queen Street East
Toronto, ON M4L 1C9
647-889-2338

Satori Urban Wellness
33 Hazleton Avenue
Toronto, ON M5R 2E3
416-972-9355

Shizen Spa
8 Colbourne Street, 4th Floor
Toronto, ON M5E 1E1
416 350 2424

Summerhill Market
446 Summerhill Avenue
Toronto, ON M4W 2E4
416 921 2714

Upper Village Spa
1112 Eglinton Ave. West
Toronto, ON M6C 2E2
416-782-1539

Verity Spa
111 Queen St E
Toronto, ON M5C 1S2
416-368-6006

Vika Spa
88 Avenue Road
Toronto, ON M5R 2H2
416 929 5509

Water Lily
1984 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON M4S 1Z7
416 488 4387

North Toronto

Galati Market Fresh
5845 Leslie Street
North York, ON M3H 1J8
416 756-2000

Two Blonds & a Brunette Gift Co.
46 Glen Echo Road, 2nd Floor
Toronto, On M4N 2E3
647 343-3446

West Toronto

Agora
3015 Dundas Street West
Toronto, ON
416-761-9991

Balance Integrated Health
24b Liberty Street
Toronto, ON M4K 1A5
416 588 8282

Peach Tree
2239 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M6S 1N7
416-913-4466

East Toronto

Dark Horse Espresso Bar
682 Queen Street East
Toronto, ON M4M 1G9
647-436-3460

Dash Kitchen
236 Danforth Avenue
Toronto, ON M4K 1N2
416 463 3274

Leslieville Cheese Market
891 Queen Street East
Toronto, ON M4M 1J4
416 465 7143

Food Prices to go UP in Canada

contact — Mon, 05 May 2008 07:57:52 +0000

From msn.ca:

“Canada cannot remain immune to the skyrocketing food prices that already affect much of the world and it may be only a matter of months before the impact here has a major impact on the economy, says a new report from Bank of Nova Scotia.

Except for baked goods, Canada been mostly spared the price spikes in basic foods that has roiled the developing world and even caused two major food retailers in the United States to ration some types of rice as a “precaution” against hoarding.

Because most agricultural commodities like grain, fuel and fertilizer are priced in U.S. dollars, the stronger loonie has cushioned Canadians from many of these shocks. Consumers have also benefited from stiff competition among grocery chains.

“But I don’t think Canada can escape the sort of food pass-through that has been going on in the global economy indefinitely,” says Derek Holt, vice-president at Scotia Capital Economics, who wrote the report.

“This is the year it starts to catch up to Canada. We’ve already started to see in some key categories and that will intensify in the summer months.”
Scotiabank’s warning is the latest in several issued recently by Canadian businesses and international agencies.

The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization reports that global food prices have increased 57 per cent from last year, while the price of rice has doubled.
Meanwhile, the World Bank has forecast the higher prices are likely to last at least two years before moderating slightly.

Holt said that Canadian spending habits could change profoundly once food prices begin rising, along with higher gasoline and heating prices that have already hit Canada.

“It’s a very material risk that people will start seeing themselves having to spend dozens or hundreds of dollars a month more on basic groceries, home heating and gasoline costs,” Holt says.

“You’ve got to do something, so you start to rein in spending on everything else and you postpone plans buy that HD television, or build a backyard deck.”

Several analysts have also forecast that Canada’s holiday from food price shock will not last forever.

But where Holt’s analysis differs from others is that he believes the likely impact will not be higher inflation, but lower prices for everything except food and energy.
Holt argues that sky-high energy and food prices could actually be disinflationary for Canada because consumers will have less to spend on everything else.

“That becomes a very dangerous scenario where you can have some sectors doing very well, food and energy, but other sectors see their pricing power totally evaporate,” Holt said.
While low inflation is generally regarded as a good thing, disinflation could trigger an economic slump because it may result in consumers and businesses holding back on purchases and investments in expectations of lower prices down the road.

“I think rationing in food is a possibility,” he said. “But an even bigger danger is that we go back to the days when we thought price and wage controls were a smart thing, this time applied to a particular sectors.”

One encouraging development is that farmers have begun to switch to cash crops to take advantage of the higher prices, but Holt said it will likely take three to four years before the higher production is felt in the market.”

I Am Elvis

contact — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:35:31 +0000

No, I’m not really the King, but you’ll find a bunch of Elvis impersonators May 1 at the Gladstone Hotel’s Melody Bar. Don’t miss tomorrow’s fun event; there will be 5 Elvis Tribute Artists performing live, the youngest of them is only 12 years old!

I Am Elvis
Gladstone Hotel, Toronto
Thursday, May 1, 2008
7-9:30pm
Melody Bar
Free

Seen in Toronto

contact — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 09:32:57 +0000

From woostercollective!

Warm and Fuzzy Stories: Toronto Butcher Wins $14M Lotto

contact — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 06:16:25 +0000

From the star:

“Every time he bought a 6/49 lottery ticket, Jose Lima prayed he’d win the big prize and promised God to share his boa sorte, good fortune.

He’s doing just that.

Canada’s newest millionaire – the 52-year-old father of two who won $14.5 million in the 6/49 draw – is giving each of his 50 employees at O Nosso Talho butcher shop $5,000.

On April 3, the fifth anniversary of his father Joao’s death, his generosity will spread even further when he gives away 22,680 kilograms of chicken legs to thank his customers and help Toronto’s needy.

Gilberto Andre, a 10-year veteran behind the meat counter, was with Lima, who manages the busy shop, when he checked his numbers.

“When I told him he’d won, he hugged me,” said Andre who described Lima as a very caring, kind man.

“For me, he’s a great person who never says no. We’re all very happy for him. And it’s such a good thing that he’s doing, sharing his good luck with us. I don’t know if anyone else would do that.”

Lima admitted he’s still in a state of shock and it’s too early to decide what to do with the money.

“The first thing I will do is to keep my promise to my employees and the people. I’ll decide what to do with the rest of the money later.”

Also at the top of his list is his…”

Read the article

Pho Hung – Great Vietnamese Food in Toronto

contact — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 10:06:53 +0000

Despite the Laughing Cow logo on the restaurant, this gem in Toronto will make you say “Cheese.” Ok, that didn’t work. I meant that Pho Hung will make you smile. You’ll find simply delicious Vietnamese food.

This is my personal favorite for their “pho,” which will quite possibly be your next preferred comfort food. But it’ll be GOOD for you kind of comfort food. Pho is heavenly bowls filled with fragrant soup broth (anis seed or fresh cilantro or lemongrass) and packed with yummy meats, veggies, bean sprouts and noodles. Garnish with herbs and hot sauce (if desired). Gobble down a bowl and you’re good for the whole day; not only that, you’ll feel good in general, PLUS, you’ll be happy you’ve eaten a healthy meal.

Pho Hung
200 Bloor Street West
Another location: 350 Spadina Avenue in Chinatown
Toronto Canada
(416) 963-5080

Featured City: Toronto

contact — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 08:38:38 +0000

Make sure to head over to concierge where they’ve featured our favorite Canadian city of Toronto. Here’s what they say about Toronto in a nutshell:

“* It’s a chowhound’s paradise, with everything from Nigerian to Laotian, Moroccan to Azerbaijani food

* An architectural renaissance is transforming the skyline with additions by Daniel Libeskind and native son Frank Gehry

* Toronto has become one of the most ethnically diverse cities on the continent, with lively neighborhoods, festivals, and restaurants to match

* The Eaton Centre. It’s a big suburban-style mall with all the wrong kinds of shopping

* When to go to Toronto: May, June, September, October”

More here

Upcoming Beer Events in Toronto

contact — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 10:21:44 +0000

From beerbeatsbites:

Time to quench your insatiable thirst at the following upcoming beer dinner events in our great city of Toronto. Enjoy.

“Monday, March 24th
Easter Beer Dinner
Abbot On The Hill, 1276 Yonge Street
$65 – call 416.920.9074 for reservations
A special Easter Monday dinner pairing five Belgian beers from import agents Roland & Russell – Margriet, St Martin Blonde, St Martin Brune, Gouden Carolus Easter Beer & Boscoulis – paired with a five-course meal, including a main course of Rabbit Fricassee with Apricot Preserves & Spiced Pecans.

Tuesday, April 8th
Fuller’s Dinner with John Keeling
Duke of Westminster, First Canadian Place, 77 Adelaide Street West
$45 – call 416.368.2761 for reservations
Premier Brands presents a dinner with John Keeling, Brewing Director of Fuller’s Brewery, Chiswick, London, UK. Beers to be served include Fuller’s London Pride, Fuller’s ESB, Fuller’s London Porter & Fuller’s Organic Honey Dew.

Friday, April 11th
The Brewer’s Table
The Church at Berkeley, 315 Queen Street East
$150 – call 416.644-1012 to reserve
A benefit for Green Enterprise Toronto, co-presented by Local Food Plus and Slow Food Toronto. This first annual event celebrates slow food, local-sustainable food and farming, and import substitution in the winter/spring season in the Toronto region. Featuring finely crafted beers from Mill Street, Cameron’s, Wellington, Church Key, Steam Whistle and Black Oak to compliment dishes from Jamie Kennedy Kitchens, La Palette, Veritas, Cowbell, Gladstone Hotel and Rebel House, as well as variety of individual food artisans, oysters from Oyster Boy, and live jazz bands.

Friday, April 25th
Southern Tier Beer Dinner
The Academy of Spherical Arts, One Snooker Street
ticket info t.b.a.
Roland & Russell presents a dinner with Southern Tier’s Phin DeMink to celebrate the arrival of Southern Tier IPA at the LCBO. There will also be a more casual “meet & greet” with Phin on Saturday, April 26th at Volo. Further details t.b.a.

April (date t.b.a.)
Bavaria/La Trappe Beer Dinner
Abbot On The Hill, 1276 Yonge Street
ticket info t.b.a.
Premier Brands presents a three-course dinner to mark the arrival of Bavaria on draught for the first time in Canada, and La Trappe (Koningshoeven) Bock for the first time in the Western Hemisphere. Further details t.b.a.

Wednesday, May 28th
Dogfish Head Beer Dinner
beerbistro, 18 King Street East
$100 – tickets on sale May 1st
A dinner with Sam Calagione of Dogfish Head, featuring the beer cuisine of beerbistro chef Brian Morin paired with a number of DFH beers, some available for the first time in Ontario. Further details t.b.a.”

The Metropolitan Hotel, Great for Business Travelers

contact — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 11:21:45 +0000

When you stay at The Metropolitan Hotel you’ll find yourself just a few convenient minutes from the Financial District.

The hotel boasts a 24-hour business center and in-room amenities such as large work space on desks, fax/modem hookups, and cordless two-line phones.

There are favorite restaurants among the business crowd here: Hemispheres and Lai Wah Heen will be ideal for your power lunches.

The Metropolitan Hotel
108 Chestnut Street
Toronto, ON M5G 1R3, Canada
(416) 977-5000

Toronto Researchers Discover the Power of Tumeric

contact — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:28:31 +0000

From the nationalpost:

“The spice that gives the kick to many Indian curry dishes might also help prevent the ravages of heart failure, a surprising new Canadian animal study has concluded.

Researchers at Toronto’s University Health Network found that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, both prevents and dramatically reverses enlargement of the heart in mice.

Enlarged hearts can lead to cardiac failure, a common and often fatal condition where the organ is unable to pump enough blood to keep the body functioning properly.

If similar results were one day duplicated in humans, the widely available spice could …”