I recently returned from a dream trip to Greece. While island hopping is a quintessential part of the experience, and I certainly indulged, a highlight was my time spent on the island of Milos. Having done a fair bit of research before embarking on this trip, one thing that was made clear to me was that there is no better way to see the island than by boat, which is why I was keen to book a trip with Odysseus A. Cruises.
While Odysseus offers many services, including both private and group trip experiences on a variety of boats and for a variety of durations, we chose the full-day catamaran tour of Kleftiko, Poliegos, and more. A 10-hour experience offered to a maximum of 25 passengers, this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While the itinerary describes a circling of the entire island of Milos, the boat’s expert crew designs a precise itinerary on a day-to-day basis based on the famed winds of Greece in order to ensure a safe and fun experience, with calm waters for swimming. Possible destinations include swim stops at Kalogries beach, the famous Kleftiko spot, Gerakas beach, the island of Kimilos, and the absolutely beautiful Poliegos (which means island of “many goats” in Greek), which was a highlight with its unreal turquoise waters and tall rock formations and cliffs. During the four scheduled swim stops during your tour, guests are offered plenty of noodles, life vests, and snorkeling equipment to check out the local wildlife.
In between, guests can enjoy the two-level catamaran equipped with couches and cushioning, music, an enthusiastic crew who are eager to crack jokes and share stories about the region, and an open bar. We passed many other iconic spots on the island, including the region’s “moon beach” also known as Sarakiniko beach, Klima fishing village, and more. Not only that, but this catamaran tour includes a chef on board, who was truly fantastic. We enjoyed a freshly cooked and served breakfast and lunch, as well as a variety of snacks, including fruits, bread, and dip. Guests with dietary restrictions should fear not, as he was easily able to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific allergies. For more information about this tour, as well as the other full-day and half-day options available, consult the Odysseus A. Cruises website: https://odysseusacruises.com/
Toronto does indeed offer pretty much anything you’d have on your list for a good holiday: professional sports, Broadway musicals courtesy of Mirvish Entertainment, museums, a large amusement park, a zoo, an aquarium, shopping, world-class restaurants and more.
Toronto’s visitor economy is a vital economic engine for the city, generating nearly $9 billion in visitor spending in 2024. Originally incorporated in 1926 as the Toronto Convention and Visitors Association, the appropriately named Destination Toronto (https://www.destinationtoronto.com) operates in partnership with the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Hotel Association. They market and promote the city to attract visitors and major meetings and events, and support local businesses to maximize the opportunities of the visitor economy.`
Summer in Toronto is pure magic. Sunshine sparkles off Lake Ontario, patios buzz with laughter, and every neighbourhood feels like a festival. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city you love, these timeless Toronto summer activities are your go-to experiences—the kind of warm-weather moments that never go out of style. Looking for the best Toronto skyline views? Head up the CN Tower for a panoramic cityscape or try the EdgeWalk for the thrill-seekers. Prefer something low-key? Enjoy skyline snapshots from a ferry ride, or lie down on a blanket at Riverdale Park East for a relaxing, photogenic picnic. See the city from a fresh perspective by paddling Lake Ontario. Rentals are available from the Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre or on the Toronto Islands, making it easy to hop in a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the waterfront. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, it’s a relaxing way to experience Toronto’s waterfront charm. Consider an Indigenous-led paddleboarding experience at sunset for a truly powerful way to connect with the water. Toronto’s beaches are summer essentials. Whether you’re diving into the lake at Woodbine Beach, enjoying a quiet swim at Cherry Beach, or soaking up the sun at Hanlan’s Point, there’s a sandy spot for everyone. These beaches are perfect for volleyball, sunbathing, and picnicking with a city-meets-nature vibe
BROADWAY IN TORONTO: Mirvish Productions is Canada’s largest commercial theatre production company. It owns and operates four major downtown Toronto theatres and, in my opinion, serves as a driving force for the city’s tourism industry. Every year, Mirvish Productions produces and presents dozens of plays and musicals, chosen from the best theatre originating in Canada, New York, London, Australia and beyond. The company programs two subscription seasons: the Main Season, which offers popular, large-scale productions, and the Off-Mirvish Season, which specializes in smaller, more challenging productions. It also programs many stand-alone shows featuring new works and revivals, supplemented by special concert engagements of dance, music, and comedy.
Owned by the Mirvish family, the company got its start when Ed Mirvish, an iconic Torontonian who founded the landmark bargain department store Honest Ed’s, made headlines in 1963 when he purchased and saved from demolition Toronto’s historic Royal Alexandra Theatre, one of the oldest and most famous legitimate theatres in North America. For the next 23 years, Ed Mirvish operated the Royal Alex — as it had been operated for most of its history — primarily as a “roadhouse”, staging short-run touring productions from London and New York and renting the space to local companies, such as the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada. But Ed Mirvish did more than just operate the Royal Alex; he created an exciting neighbourhood in which the theatre could flourish. In 1963, the King Street West area was filled with derelict warehouses and foundries. Ed bought several of these buildings and opened popular restaurants, laying the foundation for what is now the most thriving entertainment neighbourhood in Toronto.
In 1986, David Mirvish assumed responsibility for the family’s theatrical interests. He changed the focus of the company to not only offering touring productions but also producing original plays and musicals, producing local productions of blockbuster international titles starring Canadian talent, as well as co-producing with such regional Canadian theatres as the Stratford Festival, the Shaw Festival, the Manitoba Theatre Centre and the Citadel Theatre and bringing their works to Toronto.
Among the notable early Mirvish productions and co-productions seen at the Royal Alexandra were Brian Macdonald’s acclaimed staging of Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore; the world tour of the English Shakespeare Company’s Henry IV and Henry V; Sweet Bird of Youth with Joanne Woodward; Spoils of War with Kate Nelligan (in her first Canadian stage appearance); Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing, the first Indigenous Canadian play to receive a major commercial production in Canada; the world premiere of the musical Jane Eyre, which subsequently moved to Broadway; and the wildly popular Toronto production and national tours of Les Misérables.
In 1993, in response to the growth of the Toronto theatre community and local audiences, Ed and David Mirvish built the Princess of Wales Theatre, a luxurious 2,000-seat venue one block to the west of the Royal Alexandra (and the first privately financed free-standing legitimate theatre to be built in North America in more than 30 years). The Princess of Wales opened with the box office record-breaking Mirvish co-production (in partnership with London producer Cameron Mackintosh) of the musical Miss Saigon. The two theatres formed the centre around which Toronto’s “Entertainment District” has since grown.
The Mirvish theatre family doubled in size in 2008 when the company purchased two Yonge Street venues: the 2,300-seat Canon Theatre — now the Ed Mirvish Theatre, which was renamed in honour of one of Toronto’s most beloved city boosters — and the intimate 700-seat Panasonic Theatre, now the CAA Theatre.
THE OPTIONS: You can also check out Young People’s Theatre. Celebrating 60 years of nurturing young hearts and minds, the 2025-26 season features a slate of six compelling productions, reflecting the many ways young people see the world: from fantastically adventurous to eye-opening and relevant. The list includes Shrek the Musical, Nov. 13 to Dec. 30.
Go Tours Canada is celebrating 20 years of delivering captivating Segway and Walking tours. With that, they have launched a brand new tasting tour for 2025 – their Beer & Cheese Tour, along with promotions throughout the year! It blends history, beer sampling from 2 local breweries onsite and a tasty cheese and meat charcuterie board with local artisanal meats and cheeses.
In 2025, the Bata Shoe Museum is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Opening on May 6, 1995, the Bata Shoe Museum has been dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of footwear from around the world.
THE ULTIMATE POOL EXPERIENCE: While in Toronto, we were looking for an outdoor pool experience. Having previously stayed at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel downtown, we remembered how beautiful their pool scene was. Fortunately, non-hotel guests can sign up for day passes and that is just what we did. The cost is $250 for two people (extra guests are subject to an additional charge). For this, you get two lounge chairs with an umbrella and side table, two environmentally friendly bottles of water, a poolside snack pack and complimentary WiFi.
The snack pack contains two bags of chips, two chocolate bars, a bag of popcorn and some Twizzlers. It all comes in a nice-sized reusable bag. We were given identification wristbands and key cards for access to the fitness club and the sauna.
You can order lunch to your seat all via a handy QR code. It asks you to identify yourself as a pool deck guest and to provide the number on the small table next to your chairs. I ordered a double smash burger, with all the fixings, while the other two members of the entourage enjoyed some steak sandwiches. The delivery came within 20 minutes and it was relaxing to enjoy in our chairs.
Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is Canada’s largest property within the Sheraton Hotels & Resorts portfolio and recently underwent an extensive transformation. That journey brought a new arrival experience, a reimagined lobby with town-square energy, world-class culinary experiences, open and collaborative workspaces and over 130,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. The downtown hotel is connected to Toronto’s PATH system, a 16-mile underground network of shops and services. With 1,372 guest rooms and suites, a 24-hour fitness centre, 360-degree skyline views from its 43rd-floor Sheraton Club, a unique outdoor waterfall and garden area and the city’s largest heated indoor-outdoor pool, this is an iconic meeting spot in the heart of the city for friends and business travellers alike.
The pool was very much part of the upgrades. Framed by lush greenery, the year-round pool and 6,000-square-foot urban and waterfall garden is an urban oasis in the heart of downtown Toronto, offering a premiere location for weddings, social gatherings, and events. It is a popular spot for Montrealers, illustrated by the fact that my optometrist ended up being seated in the row behind me at the pool. He and his wife were in town for a wedding and this venue was their first choice, no doubt enhanced by the outdoor pool option.
BANGKOK GARDEN: Housed in a historical building on Elm Street in downtown Toronto, Bangkok Garden introduced Authentic Thai food and culture to the city over 40 years ago. Acclaimed as one of North America’s premiere Thai restaurants, Bangkok Garden serves authentic, house-made Thai food based on the Thai principle of balancing the five tastes. In addition, our cuisine caters to many dietary restrictions. From spiced stir-fries to fresh rolls and curries, there are several gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options to suit all.
The main dining room is lushly decorated in teak imported from Thailand. A gently flowing river, with a small school of fish and stones collected from the banks of the famous River Kwai in Kanchanaburi province, is guarded by Naga, a 150-year-old solid bronze protective dragon serpent from the home of a prosperous Thai merchant. Several pieces of statuary throughout the restaurant reflect popular Thai mythology. Furnishings and artifacts were chosen or designed specifically for the restaurant and imported, with special permission, from Thailand. This includes the teak temple bells and the hand-painted blue and white porcelain tableware. In October of 2013, a renovation transformed the bar & lounge area into a vibrant space for guests to enjoy a selection of Thai bites paired with exotic cocktails and martinis. The new interior with its bright colors and contemporary ambiance is a wonderful contrast to the warm teak interior of the main dining room.
I was alerted to this restaurant via a promotion with the Royal Thai Government and their Thai SELECT Certification Program. Thisis an internationally recognized certification awarded by the Ministry of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government to restaurants and food producers that offer authentic Thai cuisine. Certified establishments use traditional ingredients and cooking methods, ensuring consistent quality and a genuine taste of Thailand across global markets. Each certified restaurant is held to high standards that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Thailand. You can learn more about the Thai SELECT program at www.thaiselect.ca
Bangkok Garden is one of those restaurants. Several in Montreal have received the same distinction, includingSiam Centre-Ville and Épicerie Pumpui.
I was joined for lunch by my old friend Anthony, who told me that this place has always been one of his favorites. We started off with some drinks: a serenity decaffeinated tea for me and a mango and lime mint fizz for him. He selected from the main menu while I took advantage of the unlimited tasting menu buffet, which included a wonderful noodle bar. The soup was simply fantastic! At the noodle bar,the server allowed me to select exactly what I wanted included and this was a treat. It was piping hot, containing rice noodles, chicken and some garlic bites. Anthony had a similar soup brought to the table by our server.
For the main course, Anthony went with the Phad See EEW, containing broad rice noodles, vegetables and egg, with chicken added. I am a big fan of buffets and after having my soup, I went back and filled my plate with some spring rolls, chicken drumsticks, chicken fried rice, shrimp and some tasty chicken slices. There are dessert options as well. Our server brought their in-house sriracha hot sauce for us to try. It is imported directly from Thailand.
From Monday to Friday, 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, the buffet is open. The cost is a very reasonable $24 for adults and $15 for kids (under 12).
Bangkok Garden is located at 18 Elm Street. It is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Friday, from Monday to Friday, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm. You can call 416-977-6748 and log on to https://bangkokgarden.ca/
TEA AT THE RITZ:We have enjoyed the glamorous afternoon tea service at the Ritz-Carlton in Montreal in the past. So, it was very nice to do the same at the Toronto location’s lovely EPOCH Bar & Kitchen (epochtoronto.com). This re-imagined contemporary social hub, featuring a tailored cocktail menu and a chef-driven dining experience, opened on Sept. 1, 2021, inside The Ritz- Carlton, Toronto. It offers a confluence of casual, yet imaginative dishes, focusing on sustainably sourced ingredients and cocktails in an understatedly elegant setting with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
This re-imagined British gastrobar first opened on Sept. 1, 2021, inside The Ritz. It offers a confluence of casual, yet imaginative, food and cocktails in an understatedly elegant setting with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The venue boasts 61 seats in the dining room, as well as 88 additional spots on a lovely terrace. This is set amidst lush foliage and Simcoe Park, with a stunning centerpiece bar and a feature wood-fired stone oven. Guests can sip cocktails at the bar, choose from lounge seating, dining tables, or the cozy Green Room with a fireplace and pool table
We were guided to a comfortable table in the restaurant overlooking the terrace. Our server, Lindsay, provided a comprehensive overview of the tea selection and what a treat that was! They are divided into categories of white, green, black and herbal loose-leaf teas. She brought them over in a box, with each flavor in a different jar. We were offered to first enjoy the scent before making our selection.
While I chose the sugar plum fairy decaffeinated tea (organic rooibos, natural tangerine flavors and rose petals), the other two members of our party went for the eros (black tea scented with essential flavors of natural mandarin orange amd Madagascar vanilla) and the pear tree (organic young hyson green tea naturally perfumed with the essence of freshly plucked ripe pears).
Lindsay brought an hourglass to the table with three different colors of sand to match our selections. We had to wait until each moved from top to bottom before commencing what turned out to be a delightful experience, with the option of adding cubes of sugar and honey.
You can also elevate your experience with a toast and we took advantage of that option with two glasses of champagne.
The service is classy all the way. In no time at all, a tower of delicate butter scones, finger sandwiches and sweets arrived at the table. It was so stunning to look at that I immediately took a photo before the bites began to disappear.
So, what did the towers contain? The scones, traditional and cranberry, with house-made Devonshire cream, strawberry jam and rose petal raspberry jam, came to us hot out of the oven, so we began with those first. The next tier featured was the mini lobster roll (sesame, poppy seed brioche bun), sablées salés au prosciutto (rosemary sable cookies, whipped goat cheese, apricot jam), mini croissant with smoked salmon (lemon caper cream cheese, pickled onion and arugula) and the chicken sandwich (milk, bread, gold raisins and dill crème fraiche).
For sweets, the Meyer’s lemon cake (lemon cake, lemon curd and candied lemon), mango coconut pavlova (crispy meringue, mango compote, coconut chantilly and mango jelly), the Ontario strawberry Paris brest choux (choux croquelin, strawberry compote, strawberry whipping ganache and strawberry coulis) and the tonka chocolate caramel tartlet (caramel tonka cremeux, chocolate cremeux, caramelia whipping ganache and cocoa nib crumble). The EPOCH Bar & Kitchen can accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and vegan preferences, for the afternoon tea experience.
We could not eat them all, so we packed up a few to go. But then came a surprise, a plate full of truffles. We sampled a few and added the rest to our take-home box.
The Ritz-Carlton Toronto and EPOCH Bar & Kitchen are located at 181 Wellington Street. There is valet parking for free. Call 416-572-8094, e-mail info@epochtoronto.com, or log on to https://www.epochtoronto.com. Afternoon tea is available Monday to Friday from Noon to 4 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm
BLACK + BLUE TORONTO: Two years ago, Toronto welcomed a prestigious addition to its fine dining circuit. In no time at all, Black+Blue Toronto, located on downtown King Street in a vast building that used to house the Toronto Stock Exchange, became a cornerstone of the city’s dining scene.
Black + Blue offers a luxurious and dynamic atmosphere that highlights the finest and rarest cuts of beef and a top-tier seafood program. As part of Glowbal Group, a Vancouver-based hospitality brand synonymous with bold flavours and unparalleled guest experiences, Black+Blue exemplifies the group’s commitment to excellence.
Morgan Bellis is the executive chef. Black+Blue opened in 2023 amid much fanfare. The two-storey, 9,000-sq.-ft. The restaurant is located in the First Canadian Place and features a posh outdoor patio sporting hanging greenery and two private dining rooms.
This place exudes class. We felt that the moment we stepped inside. It was a summer Wednesday evening and the place was filled to capacity. That meant over 300 people. Customer service is key here. Manager Michael Bowers and Matre’d Jesse Melbye circulate throughout the dining room. While we had veteran (and beyond extraordinary) Susie as our server, she was assisted by a team of colleagues. Everything went so smoothly. While Chef Bellis was off that evening, sous chef Michael came to our table at one point to ensure the food was to our liking,
The Glowbal Group is owned by Emad Yacoub, a true success story. He began his culinary career as a kitchen assistant in Toronto and eventually moved to Vancouver, where he became a top restaurateur. He will soon debut another one of his brands here, Rileys.
In Susie, a one-time Griffintown resident, we certainly had a server with encyclopedic knowledge of the offerings. Full of charm and charisma, she walked us through the vast selections and offered us something we had not really experienced that often in our lifetime: a specially curated menu, complete with optional wine pairings selected to complement each course perfectly.
We started with some drinks, a prosecco for me and two rosé sunsets for the other members of the table. Later, there would be some glasses of Chablis. One of Susie’s colleagues, Tyler, was next to visit us with a tray of all of the restaurant’s different cuts of meat. That was true education and helped us a lot in making our final decisions in related to the curated menu.
Black+Blue proudly displays its beef in the center of the dining room. The pale pink and orange wall is made of Himalayan salt bricks and the salt purifies the air and naturally removes moisture. This dry-aging process infuses an unforgettable flavor as it tenderizes the meat. All of the steaks are kept in the cooler for 28 to 45 days, which ensures a flavor concentration of the highest quality.
Canadian prime-grade beef features abundant marbling (red meat laced with an even fat distribution). The presence of this fat creates a more tender and juicy cut of beef that cooks well in all conditions. Only two percent of graded Canadian beef is rated prime. USDA prime is the most tender, flavorful and highest quality beef that comes from the US. Black + Blue offers the long-bone ribeye steak, charred to perfection. Japanese Wagyu cattle are known worldwide for producing meat with exceptional marbling, naturally enhanced flavor, tenderness and juiciness. All of the restaurant’s Japanese Wagyu cuts have a quality score of A5 and a marbling score between eight and 10. Black + Blue also takes great pride in being one of the select few dining rooms in North America that offers certified Kobe beef ribeye and striploin cuts. The secret behind this prestige cut of meat is the umami flavor that’s embedded in the “shimofuri” marbling. The fatty “sashi” content dissolves at low temperatures, which literally means it melts in your mouth.
The meal began with some appetizers: a burrata salad, some extraordinary beef carpaccio with small pieces of toast, bluefin tuna roll and the king salmon roll. We savored every morsel of these culinary masterpieces that Susie had suggested. The beef carpaccio came topped with horseradish crema, pickled shimeji mushrooms, crispy shallot, fried capers and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.
For the main course, Susie truly guided us in the right direction. She arrived with our dinner on a mobile carving station. There was a perfectly grilled Wagyu striploin, which she cut into five slices.
The Beef Wellington was a real treat and Black+Blue has truly mastered the recipe. This was an impressive beef tenderloin, wrapped in a crêpe puff pastry and including mushroom duxelles, truffle jus, seasonal vegetables and pommes purée. Susie cut three mouthwatering pieces for us, with some absolutely delicious sliced carrots. Also on the side were plates of Wagyu fried rice and lobster mashed potatoes.
For dessert, came the most decadent surprise of them all: the Black+Blue butter cake. This is a rich vanilla cake with a cream cheese base, topped with white Chantilly cream, drizzled with salted caramel sauce and garnished with fresh berries.
Melbye gave me a tour of the venue, from the elegant second level and private rooms to the patio, which features open windows and a convertible roof in the warm season, while
See my video chat with Matre’d Jesse Melbye.
We can’t wait to return and have another curated menu prepared for us and we will certainly want to experience their Vancouver location on our next visit there.
Black+Blue Toronto is located at 130 King St West. For more information, log on to www.blackandbluetoronto.com, e-mail info@blackandbluetoronto.com, or call 647-368-8283. Hours are 11:30 am to 2 pm, lunch; 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm, happy hour; 3 pm to late, dinner; 11 am to 2 pm, weekend brunch.
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE: When travelling in the United States, Ruth’s Chris Steak House has always been a favorite stop of ours. There are six Canadian locations, including three in Toronto and others in Niagara Falls, Calgary and Edmonton. Not only were we fortunate enough to dine at the downtown Toronto spot, situated within the Hilton Hotel, but I also got a true history lesson when I interviewed an incredible woman who was friends with founder Ruth Fertel.
In 1965, a time when most women couldn’t even apply for a bank card without their husband’s signature, the restaurant founder Ruth Fertel risked it all and mortgaged her home to buy a small steak house in New Orleans. As a single mom with two boys, Ruth taught herself the restaurant business, endured countless challenges and, in the process, redefined hospitality. When a kitchen fire destroyed Chris Steak House in 1976, Ruth was forced to relocate her business, but the Chris Steak House name wasn’t allowed to come along. Short on time, Ruth improvised, adding her own name to the sign. That made it “Ruth’s Chris Steak House,” and voila, the legendary name was born.
Known as the First Lady of Steak, Ruth Fertel was something special. From a 60-seat steak house, she built a business that spans the globe, but she never lost sight of her original recipe for success: perfect steak, warm hospitality and good times that never stop rolling.
The three Toronto locations are owned by Lana Duke, a native of St. Catharines, Ontario, who grew up in a foster home. Eventually moving on to Toronto, she left there at age 18 and moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, with only $350 to her name. To make ends meet, she took jobs selling pots and pans door-to-door and as a short-order cook. Lana soon graduated to advertising, first at the Clarion-Herald newspaper in New Orleans, where she worked her way up to advertising director. Then, in 1975, with $10,000 in savings, she opened her own ad agency. Duke Unlimited would eventually become the largest woman-owned agency in the Gulf South. In the years to come, Lana would often be called the “secret weapon” behind some of the great success stories in American business.
In 1968, Lana made a sales call on a single mother who was running a popular steak house on Broad Street in Mid-City New Orleans. Before long, Lana’s agency had the Ruth’s Chris Steak House account and Lana began a 26-year professional relationship and personal friendship with Ruth Fertel. She worked hand-in-hand with Ruth to develop the successful marketing program that helped grow Ruth’s Chris Steak House from two restaurants in Louisiana to the world’s largest fine dining steak house brand.
“We were best friends,” Lana told me in an interview.
For Ruth’s Chris, Lana always kept her focus on selling the steak and the sizzle. “We took one central idea – the sizzling steak is the star – and stayed with it over the years, never wavering but refining the concept, expanding it and building a No. 1 brand,” Lana says. She became a trusted counselor within the Ruth’s Chris organization, becoming involved with much more than the marketing. Lana helped with troubled restaurants and guided them to successful turnarounds; she spent many long days with Ruth and other Ruth’s Chris executives, brainstorming ways to improve the business and to make it even more successful.
Such a believer in the product was Lana that in 1993, she became a Ruth’s Chris franchise owner, opening her first restaurant in San Antonio. The restaurant was profitable from the beginning, and Lana was able to repay her investors early. In June 2000, a second Ruth’s Chris debuted in San Antonio and has since had a very successful relocation to the Grand Hyatt hotel on the River Walk in 2013. In 2015, San Antonio welcomed a third location on La Cantera Terrace next to the Eilan Hotel.
With a love for her Canadian roots, Lana opened her first Canadian location in downtown Toronto in 1995 inside the Hilton Hotel. This spot continues to be profitable after 30 years of service. Another Canadian location opened in Mississauga, Ontario, in 2003 and made a successful transfer to a stand-alone building near the airport on Dixon Road in 2017. With the expansion of the downtown Markham area, Ruth’s Chris opened a third location in the new Marriott Hotel on Enterprise Boulevard in 2018.
“When Ruth told me of her plans to open in Toronto, I asked if she’d consider me,” Lana recalled. “How proud I was as a Canadian!
Lana is involved in all her locations, but is also focused on giving more time and attention to giving back by helping to teach others how to be more successful. She is frequently asked to speak to a variety of business organizations, as well as to college and university audiences. Lana shares the advantages of having a vision, thinking big, delivering customer satisfaction, going with your gut and understanding the “Five P’s” of marketing – Product, Price, People, Place and Promotion. These are just a few of her suggested “Ten Tips for Success in this Crazy Business,” a speech she frequently gives to business and professional groups.
Lana has also recently started a Power of 100 Dinner series in Toronto. The series is comprised of like-minded women dedicated to philanthropy, fellowship and a mission of helping those in need to better the community and have FUN while doing it. Events are held quarterly for fundraising with a twist: food, beverage, fellowship and fun. The attendees nominate their favorite non-profit at registration. Three individuals are randomly chosen, and the nominee has the opportunity to tell us why their non-profit should be considered for selection. During the event, an open vote is taken for the winning featured non-profit. Each attendee then writes their check for $100 to be paid directly to the selected non-profit. With community as a focus, Power of 100 has donated to local Toronto-based charities such as Debra Canada, KIP and Covenant House.
Lana says the greatest lesson she has learned over the years is that something good can come from even the worst experiences and that adversity makes you a stronger person. While Lana didn’t always have the support of a family to guide her, she worked harder to achieve greater opportunities and to open doors for her future, which otherwise might have remained closed. Lana’s mantra became: “Even if you don’t feel confident, fake it ‘til you make it! Be assertive and learn to speak with confidence.” She also believes thatout of everything bad comes something good,a lesson learned throughout the challenging experiences in her life.
From their expertly broiled USDA Prime cuts and fresh seafood to handcrafted cocktails and warm, attentive service, every meal at Ruth’s Chris is crafted with care and tradition.
We arrived at the Hilton Hotel at Richmond and University Street, where they serve USDA prime steaks, the freshest seafood and poultry, imaginative side dishes, unforgettable desserts and an award-winning wine list.
Our server was Kimberly, who has worked at this location for 27 years and had high praise for Lana. “It is not like working for a corporation,” she said. “We feel very close to Lana. It’s the reason why so many of us have worked here for a long time.”
As some warm bread arrived at the table, we started off with some drinks and allowed Kimberly to guide us through the menu. She was extremely thorough, providing some good recommendations. There were three of us on this night and given the large portions, we were advised to share
We began with some appetizers, leading off with the house favorite, the sizzling crab cakes. The two jumbo lump crab cakes, with lemon butter, melted in our mouths. We also enjoyed 12 fresh seasonal oysters.
At Ruth’s Chris, your steak is carefully selected from the finest USDA Prime beef available. It is aged to perfection and cut by hand at the restaurant. Then, your cut is broiled to your exact order – at a searing 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit to lock in the corn-fed flavor and natural juices. It’s served hot and sizzling. In fact, you can actually hear your steak sizzling from across the room on a buttered plate at 500 degrees.
We chose the porterhouse for two, a 40-ounce USDA prime cut, combining the rich flavor of a strip and the tenderness of a filet. It was more than enough for three of us to share. In fact, we had two pieces left that we packed up to enjoy the next day.
As for sides, we went for the crab fried rice and the au gratin potatoes. The former had an absolutely delicious taste. This dish contained jasmine rice, crabmeat, ginger, vegetables and fish sauce. The former consisted of Idaho potatoes and three cheese sauce.
We did save room for dessert and let me tell you that the portions here are very generous. The warm apple pie was truly something special, coming with ice cream. We also opted for the key lime pie.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House can seat over 200 diners. You enter via a dedicated entrance at street level and take an elevator to the entrance. In 2019, the restaurant underwent a major renovation.
As for whether Montreal was ever considered for a Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Lana told me that there have been discussions in the past, but nothing came of it.
Ruth’s Chris Downtown Toronto is located at 145 Richmond Street West at the Hilton Hotel. For more information, call (416) 955-1455 or log on to www.ruthschris.ca. Hours of operation are Monday to Thursday, from 3 pm to 10 pm; Friday and Saturday, from 4 pm to 10 pm; and Sunday, from 3 pm to 9 pm. Happy Hour is 3 pm to 6 pm daily.
RED LOBSTER: Now that I will be coming to Toronto a few times a year for family reasons, one of my first scouting missions involved finding the closest Red Lobster location from where we were staying. Only a few blocks away on downtown Bay Street was one of the largest Red Lobster locations I have ever seen. In fact , it seats over 260 people.
Let me first commend the excellent customer service provided by Director of Operations Sergio Torres, General Manager Senthuran Thevabalan and Restaurant Manager Azaria Thompson. Over the previous four years, my Red Lobster fix was well taken care of via trips to Ottawa.
Last year, Red Lobster came out of bankruptcy protection and had to close several locations in the United States. The chain is present in four Canadian provinces – Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Quebec last saw a Red Lobster some 30 years ago. New ownership has placed Red Lobster back into a good business position.
Our server Ana Maria started us off with some drinks and brought us the always much-anticipated basket of house-made cheddar biscuits. Be careful! They are so delicious that you can fill yourself up pretty quickly.
For appetizers, we opted for piping hot cups of clam chowder and lobster bisque, accompanied by crackers.
As for the main course, I chose the ultimate feast: Maritime lobster tail, garlic shrimp, snow crab legs and Walt’s Favourite Shrimp. It was served with rice. I put on my lobster bib and slowly enjoyed every morsel.
The other members of our party went for a one and a quarter pound lobster, with a side of mashed potatoes and Walt’s Favourite Shrimp. The latter came hand-breaded, butterflied and lightly fried, served with cocktail sauce and a choice of one side. We had a surprise when Ana Maria brought a two-pound lobster to the table. That meant a nice box of leftovers for the next day.
We saved some space for dessert and shared a delicious piece of key lime pie.
The restaurant is completely handicap accessible, with easy street access and all on one very large level.
Being such a booster of the Red Lobster brand, I arranged for a much-coveted virtual meeting with Red Lobster Regional Vice-President of Operations David Harling and Brand Marketing Manager for Canada Angela Tsiampas. I had so many questions about the chain and here was my chance to ask them.
Harling was a manager of the Toronto location we ate at for a number of years. Now he not only oversees the 27 restaurants in Canada, but also others in Michigan, Chicago, Central Pennsylvania and Upstate New York. He told me that since the appointments of Damola Adamolekun and Larry Konecny as CEO and COO, respectively, at Red Lobster, the brand has never been stronger globally. Canada, by the way, was completely unaffected by the turmoil and each of the locations did very well. “We are such an iconic brand that everyone who is a fan of Red Lobster has been rooting for us,” he said.
Red Lobster is indeed the world’s largest and most-loved seafood restaurant company, headquartered in Orlando, Florida. With a proud heritage, Red Lobster is focused on serving the highest quality, freshly prepared seafood that is traceable, sustainable, and responsibly sourced.
You can call and log on to www.redlobster.ca to access the complete menu.
EGGSPECTATION: I have long been a fan of the Eggspectation (www.eggspectation.com) restaurant chain. A few years ago, I met Enzo Renda, who has driven this business globally with a presence in other parts of Canada, the United States, Egypt, Pakistan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
There are actually more than 100 items on the Eggspectation menu. This place is a lot more than just breakfast.
The Eggspectation concept was created by Eggspectation Group, with its first restaurant in downtown Montreal in 1993. Since then, Eggspectation restaurants have become synonymous with innovation, high-quality food, excellent service, and a unique and exciting dining experience.
From the get-go, the Eggspectation team wanted to take its favorite mealtime ingredients and creatively expand their culinary taste delights across not just breakfast and brunch but also to lunch and dinner, set in a welcoming and energetic bar and café ambiance. This new level of innovation has led to today’s satisfying and diverse Eggspectation menu, ranging from freshly prepared artisanal brioche French toast, thin French crêpes, Belgian waffles, fluffy buttermilk pancakes, pastas, burgers, seafood, steak, and—of course—eggs Benedict! Those Montreal beginnings have grown to fit today’s fresh, clean, and very tasty modern American cuisine.
Each franchise has a different feel to it. While in Toronto, I noticed that there was an Eggspectation downtown, at the corner of Bay Street and Albert, right near a main entrance to Eaton Centre. The manager and franchisee is none other than Bennett Renda. Yep, he is the son of Enzo and has been running this location for 11 years. My breakfast companion this morning was an old friend whom I grew up with in Montreal, who has lived in Toronto for three decades. This was his first Eggspectation experience and he was impressed.`
We started off by sharing some gooey goose bread, something not available in Quebec. This is freshly baked bread, coated in house-made salted maple caramel sauce and dusted with cinnamon and sugar. It was a real treat.
My friend went for the Huevos Rancheros, two free-range eggs, prepared any style, piled on tortillas, layered with refried beans, ground chorizo, avocado, jalapeños, house-made pico de gallo, and cilantro-lime aioli. He told me this is always his “go-to” item when he orders breakfast at a restaurant. I chose the All American: two free-range eggs, prepared any style, with applewood-smoked bacon, ham, and sausage. This was served with the trademark Eggspectation’s Lyonnaise-style potatoes.
I sat down with Bennett after my meal. Watch my interview with him on Instagram.
This attractive location has two entrances, one interior via an office building and another off of Albert Street. There are 90 seats inside, including 12 at the bar and 90 more on the seasonal patio
Bennett grew up in RDP and Pierrefonds and got his first taste of Eggspectation when he worked as a busboy at the then Rockland Centre location. While he considered a career as an electrician, he knew that he was destined to become part of the family business. When the opportunity arose to head up a new Toronto restaurant, the 35-year-old jumped at it.
The place was packed the morning I was there. “Business is good,” he said. “We get a lot of foot traffic and many customers from Montreal. The location is terrific. Indeed, we benefit from the tourist trade and our proximity to Eaton Centre and Nathan Phillips Square.”
This Toronto location recently underwent a significant facelift, closing up shop for four months to spruce the place up.
I will certainly make Eggspectation a regular stop now on my future Toronto visits
Eggspection Toronto is located at 483 Bay Street, #130. For more information, call 416-979-3447 or log on to www.eggspectation.ca
THE TORONTO BLUE JAYS: I went to see a Blue Jays baseball game at the Rogers Centre in Toronto. It was a privilege to get a press pass with access to the field before the game and a spot in the press box.
The Blue Jays play at Rogers Centre, conveniently located near Union Station as well as within easy walking distance of TTC streetcar stops on King St. (at Peter St. & John St.) and Spadina Ave. (Bremner Blvd.). Drivers coming to Rogers Centre, from either the east or west, can take the Gardiner Expressway to Spadina Ave. and head north to Bremner Blvd.
Rogers Centre offers five Outfield Neighbourhoods (bluejays.com/outfielddistrict): Corona Rooftop Patio, TD Park Social, The Stop, the Catch Bar, and WestJet Flight Deck. These spaces are available to anyone with a valid Blue Jays ticket.
The 35-year-old stadium was recently renovated to the tune of $400 million, overhauling the fan and player experiences. In keeping with that, you can take advantage of a ballpark tour by logging on to bluejays.com/tour
Fans are also invited to shop at Jay’s Shop, located beside Gate 5. Jays Shop is the largest team store in all of Canada. Fans can enter from street level between 10 am to 5 pm, seven days a week (note: hours subject to change on Toronto Blue Jays home game days). Fans attending Blue Jays games can enter the store at Section 110 upon entering Rogers Centre.
Big Bus Tours is the largest operator of open-top sightseeing bus tours in the whole wide world. Inspiring the spirit of adventure in over 25 cities across four continents. Beginning with a fleet of three, today hundreds of buses and guides are helping over four million tourists explore each year.
Their aims are simple: to make hop on, hop off sightseeing the number one thing to do on your city break, offer a day or two (or three) of memorable, cultured and even educational fun and to help you tick off the best bits their world-famous cities have to offer, and then some.
While in Rome, Italy, the Big Bus Tours represented our first activity. Seated on the top deck, it represented the perfect introduction to the city and the best photo opportunities of iconic landmarks. This daytime sightseeing tour showcased the Eternal City in all of its glory: the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, Piazza Venezia, Piazza Navona Fountain, Vatican City, and more, with stops located nearby so we could hop off the bus to explore them at our own pace. During the tour, we were able to tune in to pre-recorded commentary, which is available in a variety of languages
When you book the tour, you will need to select the date you’d like to hop on the bus. If you’re touring with them for more than one day, your ticket must be used across consecutive days, and the date you select at the time of booking should be the first day of your tour. Some tours also require you to select a time of travel to secure your seat. If your ticket has extra inclusions, you may also need to book dates and times for these inclusions after your purchase is complete via their Booking Portal.
Services operate daily from 9 am to 6 pm, so see the Service Information page on their website for tour schedule information and notices. Alternatively, you can check times with a Big Bus Tours team member. Buses pull up at each stop every 20 minutes
Educational and informative pre-recorded commentary is available on board all buses. Tune in via complimentary headphones to learn secrets and stories about the rich history of Rome, its famous inhabitants, dazzling architecture and vibrant culture. Commentary is available in the following languages: English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Brazilian, Portuguese and Mandarin. Your complimentary headphones are distributed when you board the bus. They are brand new and you are welcome to keep them! Info: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/rome/rome-routes-and-tour-maps
There are so many terrific museum-like tours to enjoy when visiting Ottawa and over the last few years, I have taken many of them. The Royal Canadian Mint was always on my list and I must say the private tour I received from guide Jasmin was a real educational experience.
First off, there are two Royal Canadian Mints: the one on Sussex Drive in Ottawa and the one in Winnipeg.
The Royal Canadian Mint’s headquarters occupies the same historic building in Ottawa where it was founded in 1908. This facility produces world-renowned collector coins, gold and silver bullion, and medals and medallions that honour those who have made a significant impact on Canada, Winnipeg is where the loonie, toonie, dimes and nickels are produced.
On the tour, you will get a bird’s eye view of the production floor and come away with a better understanding of the numismatic coin-making process. Here you will learn about the skill and precision that goes into coin design while getting a closer look at their state-of-the-art gold refining technology. I stared right into their record-breaking “Million Dollar Coin” and got up close and personal with the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games medals.
Jasmin pointed to a 575 kg piece of coil and asked me what I thought it was worth. I had no idea. When she told me $6.2 million, I was floored.
The boutique offers a wide range of beautiful coins and commemorative circulation sets. There are also offer Mint branded items and Canadian-themed souvenirs that are perfect keepsakes to remember your visit.
In order for the Royal Canadian Mint to comply with its obligations including those under the Proceeds of Crime (money laundering) Terrorist Financing Act, if you are planning on purchasing Royal Canadian Mint bullion product(s) through one of the boutiques, you may be required to provide official Government issued identification and/or any other information deemed appropriate by the Royal Canadian Mint before completing your purchase. Examples of situations when this would occur include cash purchases and larger-value transactions.
Tours last about 45 minutes and they are available in both official languages. Due to a fluctuating production schedule, not all tours are guaranteed to view live coin production during your visit.
All coins manufactured by the Royal Canadian Mint are legal tender. However, unlike Canadian circulation coins, collector coins are non-circulating legal tender (NCLT). As such, these coins are not intended for daily commercial transactions and accepting them as payment or for redemption is at the discretion of businesses and financial institutions.
As collector coins can only be redeemed at face value by businesses and financial institutions willing to accept them, it is recommended that individuals wishing to sell a collector coin first consult with a coin dealer, who is more likely to offer a price above face value.
The first coin officially made at the Royal Canadian Mint was a fifty-cent circulation coin. Governor General Earl Grey activated the press on January 2, 1908, which struck Canada’s first domestically produced coin. A few moments later, Countess Grey struck the second coin ever produced at the Royal Canadian Mint – a copper penny. Jasmin showed me models of two 106 kg coins produced in 2007. Their face value was $1 million each and they were sold to the Royal Ontario Museum and a businessman from Dubai who brought it back to his country and made it into a coffee table. In honor of the 125th anniversary of the Stanley Cup in 2017, the Mint made a palm-size replica and sold copies for $360 each.
The production of banknotes is the responsibility of the Bank of Canada.
Foreign circulation products and supplies are another pillar of the Mint’s Circulation Business. They have more than 100 years of experience delivering coins, coin blanks and tokens to customers around the world, including central banks, mints, monetary authorities and finance ministries. The Mint also produces high technology dies for international customers, which allows countries to strike their own coins. These contracts leverage the infrastructure and industry-leading expertise in the Mint’s Winnipeg manufacturing facility.
The Mint produces colored circulation coins for international customers, using its high-speed, high-resolution pad printing technology. Examples include the award-winning 50-cent Armistice coin produced in 2018 for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, the Barbados 2021 $1 “Flying Fish,” the first glow-in-the-dark colored coin produced for circulation abroad, and the world’s first double-sided coloured circulation coin, issued in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Central Bank of the Bahamas.
The Mint is an award-winning numismatics market leader, producing a great variety of innovative and diversely themed collector coins, from entry-level to premium offerings, for every type of customer. Its numismatic product plan places the customer at the center of its product development so that the coins respond to their needs and interests. At the same time, the Mint is focused on making coins that represent Canada’s history, culture and values, while also reflecting Canadian diversity.
Thanks to its world-class designs, the Mint’s global leadership in the art and science of minting is consistently recognized with prestigious international awards in large part due to innovative technology enhancements such as ultra-high relief, selective plating and stunning colour that allow the Mint to create unique and compelling products. Mint.ca continues to rank among the top destinations for online numismatic coin purchases in Canada and around the world, a direct result of the Mint’s focus on building traffic to its website in order to grow direct sales, as well as the secondary market for collector coins.
The Mint is the recipient of many industry awards for the theme, design or innovative qualities of its numismatic coins. Chief among these are the Coin of the Year Awards (USA) and the Mint Director’s Conference Awards (international).
The Mint is an experienced and respected manufacturer of high-quality, handcrafted medals commemorating events of national significance and honoring Canadians for their military and civilian achievements. Its most notable customers include the Canadian Forces, the Chancellery of Honours (Rideau Hall) and the RCMP. Among the medals and honours crafted by the Mint are the athlete medals of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games and the 2015 Toronto PAN AM/PARA PAN AM Games, the Order of Yukon and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
The Royal Canadian Mint is located at 320 Sussex Drive. It is recommended you call 1-800-267-1871 to book your tour at least 48 to 72 hours in advance. Walk-up tours are first-come, first-served and often sell out due to limited space. The boutique is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm.
LIVE BUTTERFLIES: Tropical butterflies are once again fluttering around the Canadian Museum of Nature’s solarium. Butterflies in Flight, a delightful exhibition of live, winged beauties, continues for a year until January 4, 2026. Dozens of butterfly species —such as the impressive, large blue morpho—flutter around the solarium at any given time. New interpretive panels in the adjacent Bugs Alive exhibition present information about pollinators and their important role. Pollinators boost the yield of crops such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, oils and fibres. Cross-pollination promotes the genetic diversity of wild plants.
The butterflies are supplied from sustainable farms in Costa Rica and the Philippines— transported to the Museum during their pupal stage and raised by the museum’s Animal Care specialists. Visitors will be able to see the pupae hanging in rows in the solarium and perhaps spot some butterflies starting to emerge. There is a species identification guide, as well as pinned specimens for close-up examination. Brightly coloured clothing is encouraged to attract the butterflies.
Entry into Butterflies in Flight is $6 in addition to the cost of general museum admission. In conjunction with Butterflies in Flight, the museum is presenting the Canadian premiere of the movie, Butterfly Journey. A story of adaptation and survival, the movie follows the vast migrations of the blue tigers of Australia and the monarchs of North America and Mexico. Butterfly Journey is produced by Stranger Than Fiction Films in association with Definition Films and distributed by K2 Studios. Visit nature.ca to reserve tickets, or for information about hours, admission, and other activities.
WINTERLUDE: One of the major cold weather attractions in Ottawa for the past 47 years has been Winterlude, with the 2025 edition set to take place from Jan. 21 to Feb.16. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from family-friendly activities to group adventures and date nights! Visitors can look forward to stunning ice sculptures created by artists from around the world, skating on the world-famous Rideau Canal Skateway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and playing around in a gigantic snow playground called Snowflake Kingdom.
Groupe Grandio made its biggest headlines in recent years with the acquisition of iconic steakhouses Moishes and Gibbys. But the highly successful culinary operation has a host of other dining establishments in its stable and that includes the French brasserie Chez Lionel, which presently has five locations and a sixth on the way this spring.
While in Ottawa, we enjoyed our first experience in Kanata near the home of the NHL Senators, the Canadian Tire Centre. Chez Lionel was purchased by Groupe Grandio in 2022 and this locale marks its first outside of Quebec. The intention is to expand across the country. The others are in Boucherville, Brossard, Sainte-Therese and Laval (presently being renovated after flooding last summer). In March the sixth Chez Lionel will debut in downtown Montreal at 1259 Rene-Levesque Ouest.
Chez Lionel made its debut in Boucherville in 2013. The name was inspired by the street Lionel-Daunais. “At the beginning, the concept of the name was to be part of the community/neighbourhood, and we liked the name Lionel as it had a traditional French sound,” explained Denis. “After a bit of research, we found that Lionel Daunais was an opera singer – baritone which we found interesting being part of the entertainment district in Boucherville.
Frédéric Dufort has been the executive chef for Chez Lionel since it first opened. He rose to fame after appearing on the TV show Les Chefs! Initially specializing in market cuisine, his talent and creativity led him to familiarize himself with different techniques through internships, notably at Benu, the three-star Michelin restaurant in San Francisco, and then in Brooklyn. At the helm of Chez Lionel, he reinvents the classics of French brasserie-style cuisine.
The Kanata location has 96 seats in the dining room, 25 more at the bar and a seasonal patio that can accommodate 58, notes General Manager James Denis.
It is located directly off Highway 417 at the ground level of a Holiday Inn. There is ample free parking. The interior is very attractive, with large chandeliers and mirrors.
Our server Rebecca made several menu recommendations. We started off with some drinks, two Seville in blooms and one Lady Marmalade mocktail.
There is a nice array of appetizers. While I enjoyed a piping hot and absolutely delicious cream of butternut squash soup, with an “L” appearing in the broth, the other two members of our party shared the bluefin tataki, prepped with a wild caraway crust, pickled carrots, orange supreme, sesame carrot purée and carrot chips and the duck confit arancini, served with black garlic aioli, pickled mushrooms, grana padano, parmesan and watercress). I happily split the 12 oysters with them.
For the main course, I jumped at the opportunity to have the duck breast a l’orange. It cut like butter and had a pink peppercorn crust, coming with butternut squash purée, kumquat, marmalade, grand marnier gastrique and puffed wild rice. The others shared the seafood risotto and the braised beef cheek. The former contained lobster bisque, Argentine shrimps, bay scallops, green peas, garlic bread croutons and saffron mayonnaise; the former was prepared with red wine sauce, roasted Nantes carrots, confit cipollini onions, chanterelles and truffled celeriac purée
For dessert, we shared the tarte tatin, a pastry in which apples are caramelized in butter and sugar before being baked and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an irresistible macaron platter of six.
Other popular items on the menu include the ricotta ravioli with duck confit and truffles, tomahawk steaks, salmon and beef tartare, pan-seared Icelandic cod and butternut squash gnocchi. I can hardly wait to go back to one of the Montreal-area locations closer to home.
Chez Lionel is located at 101 Kanata Ave. suite 100. For reservations call 613 518-2113, e-mail kanata@chezlionel.ca, or log on to www.chezlionel.ca
One of Ottawa’s newest restaurants is Ember, which opened on Clarence Street in the Byward Market last June. The name goes well with its Argentinian-style charcoal grill and wood-fired pizza oven. Cody Nicholl and Kyle Wilson are partners in this endeavor; Nicholl is a noted mixologist here while Wilson is the head chef, having honed his skills as head of the food and beverage division at the Canadian Tire Centre. They also run nearby Bar Ocelli and Lowertown Brewery.
Located in the former premises of the Cornerstone Bar and Grill, Ember can accommodate 105 people in the multi-level dining room, with a front patio for 44 and another on the side set to make its debut next summer. “Honestly, I did not think Kyle would jump ship with me,” Nichol said of his star recruit. “It has been great to see him build a team, all of whom were handpicked. We did not even have to advertise.”
Nicholl said a goal for Ember is to become a destination higher-end restaurant with friendly pricing. Because of his background as a mixologist, Nicholl is proud of the array of cocktails and wines offered. “The Ottawa restaurant scene is really going through a transition stage,” he said. “I think it has provided a platform for young restaurateurs.
There is live music every Thursday night and an all-round great ambiance here.
At Ember, it is all about sharing and that is precisely what we did. After some drinks, a couple of matcha milk punches and a chardonnay, we ordered a half dozen Quebec/New Brunswick oysters, accompanied by fresh horseradish, lemon, hot sauce and house-made mignonette. Next came beef tartare with roasted marrow, each offering distinct rich flavors and textures. The tartare contained Dijon, gherkins, aged provolone, chives and brioche. As for the bone marrow, it took on a slightly caramelized edge.
Spicy crispy tuna is a fan-favorite at Ember and we could see why. This Nigiri-style dish comes in a beautiful set of three pieces. The flavorful raw tuna is tossed in a red Thai curry aioli and carefully piled on the bed of crispy rice and topped with a ponzu sauce, sesame and serrano peppers.
The charcoal-kissed salmon crudo was superb, served with miso aioli, citrus ponzu, sesame, serrano, garlic oil, orange soy glaze and crispy shallo.
There was something new we all tried called wood-fired halloumi. Imported from the isle of Cyprus, this Mediterranean delicacy had cheese lovers like us wanting more. It was pan-fried in a savory brown butter to give it that golden crust, then topped with sweet figs, juicy orange and tart lemon gremolata to bring together this incredibly flavorful appetizer. It is finished with a honey drizzle, sesame and fresh dill.
The zucchini pesto pizza was another great choice. A lean, green, flavor-packed machine this beautifully unique pizza has a homemade pesto-based and three-cheese blend. Cooked to perfection in the wood-fired oven, it is topped with red onion, sliced zucchini and toasted pistachios to finish.
We concluded with the 12-ounce char-grilled striploin. It was juicy, tender and grilled over charcoal to perfection, topped with some rich bordelaise sauce.
For dessert, we shared the Turkish lokma, made of leavened and deep-fried dough balls, soaked in syrup and coated with cinnamon.
The menu had many items that we will look at trying on our next visit, such as the whole roasted branzino, the roasted half-chicken and the rigatoni. Sides include baby potatoes flavored with pesto, dill, and yogurt, grilled asparagus and Brussels sprouts.
Ember is located at 92 Clarence Street in the Byward Market. Log on to www.emberottawa.com or call 613-562-4700. They are open Tuesday to Sunday from 5 pm to 1 am.
What would a trip to Ottawa be for me without dinner at my beloved Red Lobster? There are two locations in the nation’s capital. However, our “go-to” spot is the one on St. Laurent Blvd. where general manager Ian Forrester, ably seconded by manager Owen Hoyt, has been greeting us for more than two decades.
Red Lobster recently came out of bankruptcy protection and had to close a number of locations in the United States. The chain is present in four Canadian provinces – Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Quebec last saw a Red Lobster some 30 years ago. New ownership has placed Red Lobster back into a good business position.
There have been no issues of concern here in Ottawa where the parking lot on St. Laurent Blvd. is always packed with cars and it is common to find a lineup for tables out the door.
From lobster and pasta to crab, bacon and shrimp, the newest Red Lobster menu has been leaving guests’ taste buds singing. We felt right at home as the hostess showed us to a table in the very large second dining room. Our server was Karen, who like Forrester has been on board here for more than three decades.
We started off with some spiked strawberry lemonades and soon enough along came the mouthwatering and freshly baked Cheddar Bay Biscuits. They taste especially good right out of the oven. You can order as many as you wish and we do so, bringing some back to where we were staying to enjoy the following day.
For starters, two of us went for cups of piping hot clam chowder while the other member of our party tried the new lobster bisque.
The main course was next and there was no question for two us. We had been craving the live Maritime lobster and it came freshly boiled and nicely cracked so we could enjoy every morsel, along with the dipping garlic butter and two sides each. This was as good a lobster as one could expect at five five-star restaurant. The other member of our party wanted a little variety and she chose Walt’s Shrimp Your Way; regular shrimp, garlic shrimp, a Maritime lobster tail along with some mashed potatoes on the side.
While we were quite full, the chocolate wave dessert looked too good to pass up so we asked Karen to bring us three forks and plates to share. It came with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream and some chocolate sauce
There are a whole lot more choices at Red Lobster, which is a good reason why Forrester and Hoyt see so many regulars come here often more than once a week. There are also Montrealers who frequently drive in on a weekend evening to dine. They do accept reservations, as well as a convenient take-out service and delivery.
Some of the newer menu options include lobster pappardelle pasta, lemon basil mahi, grilled mahi, parmesan-crusted chicken and a roasted asparagus side.! Fan favorites include popcorn shrimp snow crab legs, sea scallops, salmon, shrimp and tilapia tacos, burgers and salads as well as a kids menu.
Red Lobster is indeed the world’s largest and most-loved seafood restaurant company, headquartered in Orlando, Florida. With a proud heritage, Red Lobster is focused on serving the highest quality, freshly prepared seafood that is traceable, sustainable, and responsibly sourced.
This Ottawa Red Lobster is located at 1499 St. Laurent Blvd. They are open seven days a week from 11 am to 10 pm. You can call 514-744-7560 and log on to www.redlobster.ca to access the complete menu.
One of the things I love about the Ottawa dining scene is the wide choice of diner-style restaurants that serve up good old-fashioned breakfasts.
Over the last few years, I have looked for little gems and I found one again in Cindy’s Family Restaurant. It is in a small strip shopping center in an industrial sector of the Ottawa suburb of Nepean.
“Cindy” is owner Cindy Shields who told me that the restaurant has been in her family for 35 years. I met my friend Jack, who lives in the area, and when I arrived on a Monday morning at about 8:15 am almost all the 54 seats were taken, and it was clear to me these were regulars. On my out, I spoke to a few of the clients, many of whom said they have been coming here for many years. “I like the service and the atmosphere,” one fellow told me.
Cindy a charming woman who shows people to their tables and does all the serving while her kitchen staff doles out large generous portions of whatever you order. It is her cousin George, a big Dallas Cowboys fan, who has been the main chef for the past three decades. Her mom and daughter help from time to time as do other family members.
I decided to order the I’m Hungry Special, which included three eggs over easy, two slices of bacon, two sausages, ham, home fries, toast, two slices of tomato and a cup of tea. This kind of breakfast is always a treat and I was not disappointed.
Jack went for the veggie omelette, which contained mushrooms, onions, peppers and tomato. He was beyond impressed with the size of the plate and had some baked beans on the side.
There are a variety of egg dishes and omelettes, as well as pancakes, French toast, sandwiches and bagelwiches.
Breakfast service ends at 11 am and lunch is then served until 2 pm, with more sandwiches, salads, wraps, burgers, chicken tenders and other tasty items.
If you are visiting Ottawa with your family or reside in the area, I think this restaurant is worth the trip. It is just a fun place to dine where everyone has a big smile on their face and so happy to be there. I felt the warmth in this place and while I just met Cindy, I left with a very high opinion of how she runs this operation.
Last summer I was driving through the town of Aylmer in the Gatineau region, just across the bridge from Ottawa, when I passed by a place called Dinty’s. Later I did some research on the place and it turned out to be something quite iconic. So, on my most recent visit, I dropped by and met Jim Sourges. He owns the place with his brothers Andre and Louis.
First established here in the 1930s, the spot was originally named after the Dinty Moore character in the then-popular “Bringing Up Father” comic strip. In 1962, Greek immigrant Peter Sourges purchased the place with his wife Afroditi, undertaking significant renovations by adding booths with mini jukeboxes, pizza to the menu and home delivery.
A fire destroyed the interior of the restaurant in 1976 and it was renovated again, this time with a bar and a dining room. The late 80s saw a return to Greek heritage with the introduction of souvlaki and gyros to the menu along with the famous homemade dressing. In 2000, Peter and his family made a bold move and built a new facility on the same land. The new “Dintys” opened in November 2000, seating 140 inside and 50 more on a seasonal patio. There is a very large parking lot.
More recently, the restaurant was given a complete facelift. They shut down for six weeks and brought in DSD Groupe Design of Montreal, owned by Dimtri Smolens and Terry Construction of Montreal to give the place a much brighter and upscale look, complete with new flooring, booths, lighting and décor. “We sold all of the old booths,” said Jim. “So somewhere in Kingston, there is a pizza place that has become somewhat of a replica of ours.”
Dad Peter passed away in 2017, but Mom is still going strong at age 87 and can be seen frequently at the restaurant. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The majority of customers come from the Aylmer area, including local Member of Parliament, Speaker of the House and West Island Montreal native Greg Fergus. However, my place in Ottawa was an easy 15-minute drive, so it is well worth the visit if you are looking for a place with a large and diverse menu.
I joined Jim for breakfast, ordering the popular combo with a few extras: bacon with rye toast, eggs over easy, crispy cubed potatoes, French toast and a cup of tea. It all came quite quickly and hit the spot nicely. There are a variety of other egg dishes, including benedicts and omelettes, as well as wraps, crêpes, waffles, pancakes, kids’ meals and mimosas. The lunch and dinner menus feature Greek specialties such as souvlaki and pita options, fish, pasta, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, steak and poutine. The place is popular for groups and parties.
There is also a complete wine and cocktail selection.
Dinty’s is located at 620 Chemin d’Aylmer and is open seven days a week from 7 am to 9 pm. For more information call 819-684-1771, log on to www.dintys.com or e-mail contact@dintys.com
The sky is cloudless and impossibly blue. There are orange and red desert mountains in the distance, with palm trees and cacti closer by. You have made it to your majestic and relaxing destination. You have arrived in Scottsdale.
Scottsdale (https://www.experiencescottsdale.com isArizona’s premier destination for fine dining, shopping and luxury resorts, and I am fortunate to have just returned from my first visit to the region. Scottsdale has over 240,000 citizens, making it one of the fastest-growing cities and housing markets in the United States, and it borders other well-known locations such as Phoenix, Paradise Valley, and Tempe, Arizona.
Worried about the weather? There is no need, with Scottsdale boasting 330 days of sunshine per year and year-round swimming weather.
WHERE TO STAY: Scottsdale has over 70 hotels and resorts, offering travelers a plethora of options. I chose the Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Villas (scottsdaleplaza.com), where I was fortunate enough to stay in a beautiful two-story villa. The hotel is incredibly well-located, where you are a 10 to 15-minute drive from all major shopping malls, Old Town Scottsdale, and the many nearby golf courses. While some of the villas are a longer walk from the hotel lobby due to the large, sprawling property, hotel employees are always happy to drive you across the property on one of their many golf carts, which can be found at the main entrance and appear at your door within minutes of your request.
Our villa featured a private entrance, an upstairs bedroom with two queen-sized beds, and a main floor that included a living room, dining room, and kitchenette. There was a bathroom on each floor, as well as a balcony on the upper level and a patio on the main floor, where visitors may choose to eat outdoors. The unit also has a fireplace for those wishing to get cozy on one of Arizona’s rare chilly evenings.
One thing that I was looking forward to about my visit was the opportunity to lounge at the pool and enjoy the lovely weather. The Scottsdale Plaza offers visitors a total of five temperature-controlled pools to choose from, including an upper and lower deck main pool, a villa pool, a courtyard pool, and a casita pool (for those wishing for a quieter experience or those preferring to walk shorter distances from their more peripherally located rooms). All pools are open for guest use between 7 am and 11 pm daily. My traveling partner and I spent the majority of our time at the main pool, which also features a large, spa-sized hot tub, as well as fantastic food and drink service. We were able to sample many tasty menu items, including the crispy cheese quesadillas, the chicken tenders served with kettle chips, and the turkey club wrap. We also enjoyed several of their cocktails, which can be enjoyed from your seat, in the pool, or at one of the many available tables.
For an elevated pool experience, you can rent one of the hotel’s private shaded cabanas, which come equipped with sofa seating, two reserved lounge chairs, as well as an umbrella. The cabana also comes with a mini fridge that contains water bottles and snacks, a dedicated server, chilled towels infused with aromatherapy oil, as well as a complimentary round of select canned seltzers or beers. This experience can be booked by anybody, regardless of whether or not they are staying at the hotel. My cabana experience was incredibly relaxing, and I highly recommend it – we truly did not want to leave at the end of the day!
For those who are a little bit more athletically inclined, the property also offers tennis courts, which I often saw guests using to play both tennis and pickleball. The court neighbours the property’s 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center, though given the beautiful weather, some may prefer to exercise outdoors by going for a walk or run across the 40-acre property. Naturally, there are also many nearby trails for those looking to hike.
Moving back in the direction of relaxation, I had the opportunity during my stay to visit the Scottsdale Plaza’s Salon & Spa, located directly next to the main pool. While the spa offers a large menu of options, I chose the 50-minute Shea Butter Melt Massage, which I would do again on my next visit. In addition to offering the relaxation of a traditional massage, the warm shea butter is outstanding for dehydrated skin and enhances the experience. In addition to the salon and massage spaces, the spa also offers a relaxation room with tea, chilled water, and complimentary snacks, and of course, a sauna. To book your appointment, arrange a group visit, or ask any questions, you can call 480-951-5150. It is recommended to book any services two weeks before your treatment day to ensure availability.
For any dining needs while on-site, the property has a market for grab-and-go needs (which we frequented daily to pick up breakfast items such as croissants and bagels, as well as juice and other snacks), and two restaurants: JD’s Restaurant & Lounge and the Garden Court. Both are available for dine-in, to-go, and in-room delivery. This is in addition to Café Cabana, which is their poolside dining experience.
The Scottsdale Plaza is located at 7200 N. Scottsdale Road. For more information or to book your next visit, you can call 1-800-832-2025, e-mail resmail@scottsdaleplaza.com, or log on to www.scottsdaleplaza.com.
DINING OUT
LINCOLN STEAKHOUSE: My first meal of the trip was at The Lincoln Steakhouse & Bar, which is located at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. While I was expecting the fare that one would typically see at any establishment labeled as a steakhouse, I was pleasantly surprised by the special and delicious meal that I was served.
Named after the Lincoln Red, which is a famous English breed of cattle, this steakhouse serves up locally sourced American cuisine, shareable plates, and craft cocktails. Its menu changes slightly along with the seasons. I arrived just in time for their recently unveiled fall menu, prepared by the very talented Chef John Fraser, who has been at the helm since November 2022.
Visitors may wish to dine indoors or on one of their several patios. I arrived for my meal just as the sun was setting, and the mountain view, along with the twinkle lights above the dining area, was truly a site to behold.
To start our meal, we shared some of the chef’s favourite starters, which included the incredibly fresh and light-tasting Hamachi crudo, served with white soy, orange blossom vinegar, pickled grapes, and serrano peppers. We also tasted the creatively plated lobster escargot, which includes pieces of lobster served in traditional escargot format with scampi butter and pieces of noble sourdough bread on the side, and a truly delicious steak tartare dish, which was served with bone marrow alongside capers, cornichons, black garlic aioli, crispy garlic chips, and shaved quail egg.
HOUSE BRASSERIE: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Old Town Scottsdale, you will find The House Brasserie, where we enjoyed an excellent meal under the stars. Built in 1939 and nestled in one of Scottsdale’s more historic blocks, The House Brasserie is indeed one of the region’s oldest-standing residences. Aside from having constructed an add-on to their kitchen a decade ago, the building’s exterior is still in its original form. Whether you choose to eat inside the comfortable and air-conditioned dining room or outdoors on the large patio, which truly feels like the well-decorated backyard of somebody’s home, you will undoubtedly feel at ease dining at this establishment.
For dinner, we of course ordered one of the restaurant’s signature prime steaks, a 14 oz ribeye which was truly cooked to perfection. This steak was one of the best that I have had the privilege to taste; it verged on Wagyu in terms of its quality and truly could have been cut with a butter knife if needed. With the steak, we also enjoyed the goat cheese potato gratin and the wild mushroom risotto, one of the new dishes from the fall menu, which was served with crispy enoki, sherry gastrique, and a spinach foam with an earthy flavour and hints of parmesan. Finally, for dessert we savored the JW cheesecake with raspberry sauce, which was truly delectable, and the Lincoln Rocher, a rich and incredibly tasty chocolate cake.
While the property is old and historic, the restaurant itself opened in 2012 and was purchased by its current owner, Joseph Ieraci, in 2018. He manages the restaurant alongside his sister Anna and his wife Julie. Joseph told us that, unsurprisingly, he immediately fell in love with the location and its multiple outdoor patios surrounded by towering trees and gorgeous landscaping. “This is not your run-of-the-mill restaurant space,” he said. “It’s a unique indoor-outdoor setup that reminds me of the restaurants we used to own in Southern California, where you want to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather.”
Joseph said he works very closely with Chef Dustin Wheeler. “We collaborate a lot on the menu,” he said. “I grew up in the restaurant business. It has been at least 50 years since I have been in the kitchen. I remember tossing pizzas and making pasta at the age of eight. From the beginning, Dustin and I talked about similar things like creating experiences, having fun with food, and going to the farmer’s market. We connected right away through the same thought process.”
Indeed, it was clear from my time spent at this restaurant that those behind the menu were having fun with the food. We started with an amouse bouche – puff pastry topped with parmesan cheese– and the flavourful rose summer sangria. We then went on to sample some of their recommended starters, with my personal favourite being the whipped feta, described on the menu as including crow dairy farm feta, house-marinated house marinated olives, fig jam, honeycomb, and slices of toast. We also tried the escargots de Bourgogne which is served with garlic bone marrow butter, artisan bread, shallots, and fine herbs, as well as another favourite of mine, which was the Hudson Valley foie gras. While I have not always been a fan of foie gras, this dish was not to be missed. It was served with smoked peach pie, bordelaise sauce, and topped with pieces of sorghum popcorn.
For our main course, we enjoyed the branzino, which is the perfect light dish for all the fish lovers out there and comes with celery root velouté, sautéed spinach, roasted corn, oregano vert, and pickled radishes. The restaurant’s other popular fish dish, which we did not sample on that night, is the Chilean sea bass, which is served with Israeli couscous, yakitori leeks, pancetta, roasted sunchoke puree, and champagne gastrique. We also tried the filet mignon, a cut that is flown in regularly from Chicago, which was served with toasted farro, grilled cherries, marinated beech mushrooms, apples, poblano romesco, and bordelaise sauce. Finally, for dessert, we enjoyed the housemaid beignets made with smoked cinnamon, sugar, and a salted caramel foam for dipping.
In terms of accessibility, there are 125 seats on the patio and 60 seats indoors. To enter the indoor dining room, there is one step, though a ramp is also available for wheelchairs. The patios are completely wheelchair accessible, as are the washrooms, which can be accessed directly from the outdoors and take up residence in the house’s former garage.
The House Brasserie is located at 6936 East Main Street. It is open Monday through Saturday, from 5 pm. You can call 1 480-634-1600 or log on to www.thehousebrasserie.com
MARCELLINO RISTORANTE: Seeking an authentic Italian fine dining experience during your trip? In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, you will find Marcellino Ristorante (www.marcellinoristorante.com), helmed by Chef Marcellino Verzino and his wife Sima. While the restaurant’s patio offers a lovely view of a bustling corner of the old town, we elected to eat indoors because we were fortunate enough to visit on an evening with live music, which is often performed by Sima herself alongside her All-Star Trio. During our meal, we were therefore treated to a wonderful jazz performance.
During our meal, we were treated to a tasting menu, which featured a starter of bruschetta and cheese, followed by scallops al pesto. The Italian tradition once appetizers are complete is to start with a primi course, featuring pasta, followed by a second course, which features seafood or meat. For our prime course, we sampled two of the restaurant’s pasta dishes: the gnocchi sorrentina served with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella, a dish that truly melted in our mouth, and the spinach and ricotta ravioli topped with butter and fresh sage sauce. Before visitors make the difficult choice of which pasta dish to sample, amidst the restaurant’s many options, their server brings them a large plate that demonstrates the many special kinds of pasta available, including tortelloni stuffed with pureed filet mignon, and handcrafted porcini-infused fettucine with chunks of fresh lobster, sauteed with shiitake mushrooms and truffle oil. For our second, we were served one of the restaurant’s specials, the branzino dish, which was topped with white wine and butter sauce and was served alongside an incredibly fluffy dollop of mashed potato as well as lemon, capers, grilled carrot, and zucchini. Finally, for dessert, we tasted the restaurant’s walnut biscotti and cream, as well as the panna cotta.
Chef Marcellino Verzino was born on his family’s farm in the Campania region of Italy and began cooking at the age of 12. Throughout his career, he has been a personal chef, opened restaurants in Calabria and Abruzzo, cooked on the island of Poros, Greece, and owned trendy bistros in both Rome and New York City. Today, he and his wife proudly continue to serve historic Italian recipes, with the finest and freshest ingredients. As part of Vezino’s passion for offering a complete dining experience, the restaurant has specifically been recognized for its wine selection, including the 2023 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. The restaurant’s wine menu and reserve lists feature over 100 selections in addition to an exclusive “Secret Cellar” menu. This ultra-reserve list features a collection of rare wines that Chef Marcellino has been accumulating for the past 20 years. Wine dinners and cooking classes are presented regularly. Our meal was paired with a bottle of Falanghina, a tasty and fresh white wine that paired wonderfully with each of our courses. Remaining on the theme of the chef and his roots, this wine hails from his home region of Campania.
Marcellino Ristorante is located at 7114 E. Stetson Dr.
THINGS TO DO IN SCOTTSDALE: Looking to explore the city and its surrounding regions? There are plenty of things to do in the Scottsdale area, starting with Camelback Mountain, which is one of the most prominent outdoor destinations in Arizona. Take one of many scenic hikes in the area, or consider engaging in some rock climbing.
The Phoenix Zoo is another nearby option, with 140 animals spanning 125 acres of land. Creatures available to visit include lions, giraffes, monkeys, iguanas, wolves, bears, and more. Additionally, The Phoenix Zoo has partnered with KultureCity to improve its ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory processing needs. Sensory bags containing fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones and other resources, are available for checkout at Reception and the Safari Cruiser Station. Weighted lap pads are also available upon request at the Safari Cruiser Station.
In the same vein, you may wish to explore Butterfly Wonderland, which is the largest indoor butterfly sanctuary in America. Butterfly Wonderland has a limited number of wheelchairs available on a first-come first come, first serve basis. Wheelchairs are located at the Guest Services desk. They also offer hearing assistance devices for people with and without hearing aids.
For those who like to shop, there are plenty of neighborhoods and shopping centers to explore. Fashion Square Mall is the largest shopping center in the American Southwest, with over 225 stores and 2,000,000 square feet of retail space. The mall, located approximately 10 minutes from the Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Spa, is anchored by Macy’s, Dillard’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus. Wheelchair and scooter rental are available, as well as valet parking. Kierland Commons is another beautiful, upscale outdoor lifestyle center with tons of stores and restaurants available. Finally, consider Old Town Scottsdale not only for dinner, but for boutique shopping, cozy restaurants, art galleries, and wine tastings.
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa (https://ottawatourism.ca) is the perfect place to experience some of the country’s best attractions, celebrations and flavors in one welcoming city. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, and vibrant neighbourhoods, the Ottawa region is best explored over several days or more. Since I often go there for family reasons, an extended trip is usually on the agenda as was the case this past summer.
What can we recommend?
Let’s start off with the seat of Canada’s federal government and the setting for national celebrations the year round. Parliament Hill is the most visited Ottawa attraction. Guided tours are free and include the Senate, House of Commons, East Block and Parliament: The Immersive Experience. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance.
Ottawa cultural attractions, museums and galleries invite visitors to experience the best of Canada all in one place. Whether it’s the stunning National Gallery of Canada, with world-class art on display, or the dramatic Canadian War Museum, these are the experiences that bring Canadian culture to life for any visitor.
A historic farmers’ market and shopping district by day, a favorite gathering place of restaurants and clubs by night is the ByWard Market, just east of Parliament Hill. This is one Ottawa neighbourhood you won’t want to miss.
A historic waterway filled with boaters spring through fall and the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink in winter, the Rideau Canal winds through the heart of Ottawa before connecting with the Ottawa River through dramatic stepped locks right next to Parliament Hill.
Ottawa Tourism
Have you ever considered trying whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Ottawa River, some of the continent’s finest, then top it off with some bungee jumping? The Ottawa region is also a cycling enthusiast’s dream destination, with around 800 kilometres (497 miles) of recreational pathways linking natural areas, parks, gardens and national sites.
Ottawa is a city of celebrations, offering visitors a year-round calendar of parties, festivals and special events. Admire over a million tulips and enjoy special programming throughout the city during the Canadian Tulip Festival in May. On July 1, the city celebrates the biggest party in the country, Canada Day. Visitors will also experience a host of music celebrations, including the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Ottawa Chamberfest, and Ottawa Bluesfest, which welcome some of the world’s biggest acts to our city. In winter, Canada celebrates Winterlude and takes to the ice on the world’s largest skating rink, the Rideau Canal Skateway.
The culinary scene in Ottawa is in full bloom, with a thriving community of Ottawa chefs and diverse restaurants making names for themselves both at home and abroad. To experience multiple venues in one outing, book a dining tour of one of Ottawa’s great neighbourhoods — Ottawa Tasting Tours and Experience Food make all the arrangements for you. Or take a guided gourmet food tour with C’est Bon Ottawa to explore food shops, farmers’ markets and restaurants. The tasty options are endless!
The Capital’s premier performing arts venue, the National Arts Centre, presents a full lineup of music, dance and theatre, plus popular touring acts and shows. Ottawa also has a thriving local theatre scene, including the Great Canadian Theatre Company, Ottawa Little Theatre, The Gladstone and La Nouvelle Scène.
Ottawa is filled with Capital sights and attractions and just about as many ways to explore and see them. Experience a tour on both land and water with the Lady Dive Amphibus, or enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal. Get up close and personal with city sights by joining a walking or cycling tour based on your activity level and interests.
Unique Ottawa neighbourhoods offer distinctive shopping, dining and nightlife experiences across the Capital. From the must-see ByWard Market area to the Glebe’s community feel, to the trendy Wellington West, there’s lots of local flavor to soak up in Ottawa’s varied districts.
THE BROOKSTREET HOTEL: For the second summer in a row, we were fortunate to spend the day at the magnificent Brookstreet Hotel in Kanata. While we stayed with family, we do want to try out the accommodations here on a future visit.
Since opening in 2003, the Brookstreet Hotel has gained notice as a luxury property noted for outstanding dining, incredible entertainment, luxurious accommodations, inspired green initiatives and world-class golf and fitness facilities.
We arrived for our day of leisure and checked in at Perspectives Restaurant and a table on the beautiful patio looking over the full property. Since this was a Sunday, we were fortunate to be able to order from the brunch menu. What a treat! There were three of us. We started off with some drinks and then perused the different choices, opting for the classic breakfast (two eggs over easy, peameal bacon, breakfast potatoes and their homemade sourdough toast); a three-egg omelet, with mushrooms, brie cheese, spinach, chives, potato, fresh fruit and sourdough toast; and the salmon and avocado toast (salmon gravias, smashed avocado, sourdough, pickled red onions, wasabi cream cheese, sesame seeds, two poached eggs and green salad). Look out for young server Spencer. He was just terrific.
On our previous visit, I had a nicely prepared club sandwich, grilled chicken breast, cheddar cheese, confit garlic aioli, vine-ripened tomato, bacon, Boston lettuce and Nat’s bakery sourdough. The other members of my party started off with some drinks and each ordered lamb barbacoa tacos- two corn tortillas, lamb shoulder slow-roasted in banana leaf, salsa borracha, pickled cucumber, green olives, fresh cilantro and lime.
Interestingly, a few days later, I received a text from a gentleman I know who asked if was having brunch at the Brookside. He said his wife thought she saw me at a nearby table. Happily, he had read one of my stories last year, which focused on the hotel. As a result, he booked a stay.
The contemporary cuisine of Brookstreet’s culinary team features fresh, seasonal ingredients from across Ontario, creating exceptional dishes that are totally unique to Perspectives & Options Jazz Lounge. The latter, connected to the restaurant, is recognized as the best jazz bar Ottawa has to offer. Here you can fill your ears with live local jazz music and tantalize your taste buds with the culinary creations by Chef Clifford Lyness. All this while surrounded by the stunning contemporary architecture of the lounge itself, which also features panoramic windows overlooking the immaculately manicured Marshes Golf Course
The heated outdoor saltwater pool and the area surrounding it truly is a slice of paradise. We were greeted by Rachel from the hotel’s Flex Fitness Centre who set us up with three comfortable lounge chairs, under a large umbrella to block the sun. Each of us was given towels, bathrobes and slippers. I did not want this day to end. The water was just perfect. After a lengthy swim and dip, I headed to the spacious jacuzzi for another totally relaxing experience. This type of activity is always a novelty for me.
The hotel is now completing an impressive $11 million renovation project, transforming its guestrooms into a haven of luxury and comfort. This upgrade reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience and sets a new standard in upscale accommodations.
The renovation has meticulously reimagined each guestroom with a fresh, modern aesthetic, incorporating sophisticated design elements and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests can now enjoy elegant furnishings, premium bedding, and chic décor that blends contemporary style with timeless elegance. The new design features a bold color palette, wood flooring, and stylish lighting that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the renovation is the integration of advanced technology. Each room is equipped with smart TVs, high-speed internet access, and intuitive climate control systems, ensuring guests stay connected and comfortable throughout their stay. Energy-efficient fixtures underscore the hotel’s dedication to sustainability and guest satisfaction.
The revamped guestrooms also boast upgraded bathrooms with luxurious fixtures, spacious walk-in showers, and high-end toiletries. The attention to detail in these upgrades ensures that every aspect of the guest experience is catered to with the utmost care.
Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can now enjoy an even higher level of comfort, sophistication, and style.
This hotel has 276 rooms and suites spaced across 18 floors. In the past year, some major room upgrades have taken place. As noted earlier, I do look forward to the day when I get to stay here for a few nights. Plans do call for the hotel to eventually build a second tower. There is now 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, featuring 25 meeting rooms, including three large ballrooms, an outdoor pavilion and the Newbridge Foyer which boasts floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
From my seat at the poolside, I could see the busy activities at the Marshes Golf course and a lovely pond that converts to a skating rink in the winter months. An 18-hole mini golf course is very popular with families. The NHL’s Ottawa Senators partner up with the property. Brookstreet is recognized as the official hotel and resort of the Senators and Canadian Tire Centre, which also includes the title sponsorship to the Brookstreet Lounge (located at the ice level).
The Flex Fitness Club has 500 members from the community. Recognized as the ultimate Ottawa gym and fitness studio, it is equipped with extensive fitness equipment, saltwater pools, hot tubs, fitness classes and personal trainers. Flex Fitness Studio provides a wellness component for those who wish to stay active during their travels. Members get the advantage of access to the indoor and outdoor pools. The Au Natural Spa looked mighty fine as well.
Indeed, on a warm summer day when you enter these premises and close your eyes imagine being at a Club Med resort. It is that impressive!
PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL: The Ottawa Titans began play in the Frontier League in 2022. They play out of the state-of-the-art Ottawa Stadium. This is minor-league professional baseball. The schedule begins in May and continues through early September. It is a wonderful outing for the entire family, even someone who might not even be a baseball fan. The franchise officials work so hard to offer a fun game day experience. I really enjoyed my night out there, especially coming from Montreal. Our professional baseball team the Expos left 20 years ago. Go to www.ottawatitans.com.
PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL. I went to my first professional football game in Ottawa in more than three decades to see the hometown Redblacks host the Calgary Stampeders at TD Place Stadium (formerly known as Lansdowne Park), which seats 24,000 for football games and concerts. The Lansdowne neighbourhood also hosts two condominium towers and townhomes with a combined 280 units, a 360,000 sq. ft. shopping/entertainment district, an office tower, 1,300 underground parking spaces and an 18-acre urban park. Construction of “The New Lansdowne” began in the fall of 2012 and the site partially The Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) owns and operates the Redblacks, the Ottawa 67’s Hockey Club (OHL), Athletico Ottawa (soccer), Ottawa Blackjacks (basketball) and Ottawa PWHL (women’s hockey). It was founded in 2008 to re-establish CFL football in Ottawa; however, the city’s stadium required major renovations which were not feasible without a comprehensive plan for the revitalization of the entire site. OSEG partnered with the City of Ottawa to develop the plan and oversee the transformation of Lansdowne into a destination of choice for live events, cultural activities, shopping, dining and recreational activities.
DINING OUT
There are so many wonderful choices for dining out. From my most recent trip, here is my culinary report.
STARLING: The historic York on William (YOW) building, which encompasses Starling Restaurant & Bar and Apothecary Cocktail Lounge, represents a must-visit and we were thrilled to dine there for the second successive year. The latter are part of a multiple-dining concept featuring a rooftop terrace and street-level patio and located in one of the oldest buildings in Ottawa, dating back to 1875. Early occupants included an undertaker, a baker, and a wholesaler, which reflects the diverse commercial activity of the ByWard Market in the 19th Century.
Starling is Ottawa’s new concept which elevates any night out with hand-crafted cocktails and a refreshing, modern menu that draws inspiration from bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here you step in to an inviting and stylish atmosphere, built for creating an incredible experience.
The 12,000-square-foot building was purchased in 2020 for $5 million. Co-owner John Borsten’s business partners in this venture are Pat Charbonneau and Ian Darveshali. It is spread over four levels, with Apothecary, YOW and Starling each catering to different audiences under the same roof and able to serve 500 diners at a time. The seasonal patios are big draws: one at street level can seat 50 while the rooftop has room for 60. Capacity for both can be increased for cocktail receptions.
Apothecary is described as “a nod to medicinal cures of which bitters, tonics and spirits all play a role. Here they believe in using real botanicals, house-made syrups and tinctures, to heal the body, mind and soul.”
Starling brings you contemporary dishes from timeless classics to personal recipes with a fondness for locality, designed to be loved by one or shared by many. Their mixologists can serve up a broad range of tasty concoctions, either mixed, stirred, or shaken and inspired by local ingredients and international techniques.
Starling is named after a highly social bird that likes to travel in large flocks. That is why you will see decorative bird cages in the restaurant. Our table had one. It was Marketing Director Sofia Santiso Borsten who created the Starling concept and oversaw the design. Even the doors they inherited were restored and now serve as a privacy wall for a table near the bar. The same goes for the original lamps, which were repainted. Of course, the wallpaper features colorful birds.
While we dined on the rooftop last year, on this particularly warm evening we chose to be seated in a booth at the beautifully air-conditioned main level.
Our wonderful server Rory started us off with some drinks: a scarlet tanager, an Elderflower egret and an Abigail placebo drink.
Following a look at the menu, we began with 12 oysters. They were of good size and went very quickly among the three of us
Next, we chose something new, a Mediterranean platter. It was highlighted by freshly baked and piping hot focaccia bread along with marinated roasted peppers, salsa verde and cerignola olives. Now I usually try and limit my bread intake before the main course, but this focaccia bread was simply too good!
We also enjoyed a bowl of caprese risotto with shrimp. This dish offers a delightful symphony of flavors. The creamy risotto provides a rich and velvety texture, with each grain of rice perfectly cooked to a tender, yet slightly al dente consistency. Infused with a hint of garlic and onion, the base is subtly seasoned, allowing the star ingredients to shine. Tender, succulent shrimp add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness, complementing the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
For the main course, we ordered the steak frites and the beef tenderloin.
Steak frites is a classic French dish that epitomizes simple, high-quality comfort food. Here it featured a perfectly cooked 10-ounce striploin, served with crispy, golden-brown French fries. The steak was seasoned with salt and pepper and cooked to our preferred level of medium rare. The combination of a juicy, tender steak and crispy fries offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, making it a beloved staple here at Starling. Meanwhile, the six-ounce AAA beef tenderloin came with whipped potatoes and bordelaise sauce. This is a premium cut of meat renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor. The “AAA” designation indicates a high-quality grade, meaning the beef has excellent marbling, which enhances its juiciness and taste. This cut is often considered one of the most desirable steaks due to its buttery texture and subtle, yet robust, beef flavor.
For dessert, we shared the delicious sticky toffee pudding. This is a classic British dessert that’s beloved for its rich, comforting flavors. Imagine a moist, spongy cake made with finely chopped dates, which gives it a deliciously sticky texture. This cake is drenched in a luscious toffee sauce that is both sweet and buttery. Served warm, it comes with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Starling is located at 54 York Street in the Byward Market. Hours of operation are 4 pm to 11 pm Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 am to midnight Thursday and Friday and 9 am to midnight Saturday and Sunday. You can call 613.421.0820 or log on to www.starlingottawa.ca.
MÉTROPOLITAIN BRASSERIE: We can never get enough of the fabulous Métropolitain Brasserie in Ottawa, conveniently located next to the Byward Market at 700 Sussex. That is just steps away from Parliament Hill. Each summer we make a reservation the moment we know the date of our trip.
Home to Ottawa’s largest oyster bar, the restaurant is open seven days a week, serving lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends. While we have enjoyed their sprawling patio in recent years, it was quite warm out on the evening we arrived, so we asked for a table in the dining room. The covered patio can accommodate 125 people while the capacity inside is 300.
The Brasserie presents a Hill Hour every day from 4 pm to 7 pm for discounted oysters and shrimp, and every Thursday for Buck a Shuck. There is an award-winning wine list, and this is considered a prime place for a large event or a romantic dinner for two, adding that certain Parisian flavor.
We started off the evening with some cocktails, two French Rivieras (Strawberry vodka, melon, Chambord, lime) and a glass of Riesling wine. It was then time to take a good hard look at all the options available among the appetizers. The small size seafood tower was more than enough for three of us to share. It contained shrimp, oysters, mussels, snow crab, cod croquettes, scallop crudo and ceviche. This was just fine to share among the three of us; and we had some leftovers. There is also a larger platter for four or five people available.
The burrito toast for two was another treat for the three of us to share. It includes sunflower seed and beetroot pesto, avocado, fried sourdough, sprouts and chili oil.
There is a nice selection of main courses. I have traditionally feasted upon the Duck Confit here. It is an item I do not see available at too many restaurants I frequent. Crispy Duck Confit is a sumptuous dish that combines the rich flavors of duck with a delightful texture. The term “confit” refers to a method of cooking where the duck is slowly simmered in its own fat until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. In this process, the meat is seasoned, cooked at a low temperature for several hours, and then stored in fat, which preserves and enhances its taste. To achieve a crispy exterior, the confit duck is typically finished in a hot oven or under a broiler to crisp up the skin. The result is a beautifully crisp, golden-brown skin that contrasts with the tender, succulent meat underneath. As for the others, one opted for the duck as well while there was also the selection of the petit steak frites, a classic French dish known for its simplicity and deliciousness. The term “petit” means “small,” so the dish features a smaller portion of steak. The steak was seasoned with salt and pepper and grilled to achieve a perfect crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
For dessert we shared a decadent piece of flourless chocolate cake, a recommendation from our server Michael.
Other items on the menu include burgers bouillabaisse, steak, fish & chips, cauliflower steak, roasted chicken, pork chops, grilled mackerel, steelhead trout, lobster ravioli, coquille St. Jacques, whole wheat penne, lobster & matane shrimp roll, sandwiches, salads, omelets, beef and tuna tartare, poutine and a charcuterie and cheese board.
Weekend brunch is available from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and select holidays.
The restaurant is co-owned by John Borsten and Sarah Chown, with Mike Poliquin as chef de cuisine. Hours of operation are 11:30 am to 11 pm Monday to Wednesday, 11:30 am to midnight Thursday and Friday, 10 am to midnight Saturday and 10 am to 11 pm Sunday Take-out and delivery service is in place each day from 11:30 am to 9 pm. For more details log on to www.metropolitainbrasserie.com or call 613-562-1160.
COCOTTE: The Metcalfe Hotel in Ottawa marks the Gray Collection’s first hotel property outside Montreal. Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, just a few blocks from the historic Parliament Hill, the boutique hotel is home to Cocotte, a French-inspired restaurant on the ground level, where we dined.
Gray Collection is comprised of Hôtel William Gray, Le Petit Hôtel, and Auberge du Vieux-Port. Additionally, its restaurants include Maggie Oakes, Terrasse William Gray, Perché, Gaspar, Pincette, Terrasse sur L’Auberge, Bevo, Jacopo, and Vieux-Port Steakhouse, and a spa at Spa William Gray. The hotels, restaurants, and spa are formerly part of the Antonopolous Group, which has almost 50 years of success in the Montreal hospitality industry. Each property is a unique celebration of its neighbourhood and is connected to the other establishments by a shared philosophy of generosity, excellence, and premium service.
Led by Dimitri K. Antonopolous, Gray Collection expands the work of the previous Antonopolous Group while remaining committed to its enduring legacy and a shared belief in the Greek philosophy of philoxenia, which refers to the concept of welcoming and caring for all guests.
Cocotte is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. It can accommodate 96 people inside and 20 on the seasonal patio. We were seated on their beautiful terrace to experience their dinner menu, where French tradition meets local flavours. From veal blanquette to duck confit, the executive chef has crafted a creative menu inspired by French cuisine with market-fresh ingredients.
Our server Cedric started us off with some cocktails. We then went through the menu and started off with a dozen Canadian oysters, served with fresh horseradish, cocktail sauce, mignonette and fresh lemon. Also from the starters, we enjoyed the salmon tartare, herbs de Provence and lavender cured salmon, ratatouille vegetables, chives and crostini. This comes as an appetizer and a main course, the latter including French fries.
For the main course, the three of us ordered the duck confit, the scallop and truffle risotto and the cod chaudree. Everything was prepared to perfection.
The duck confit consisted of a moulard duck leg, duck fat, fingerling potatoes, small peas, and honey and Vidal gastrique. As for the scallop and truffle risotto, these were seared scallops, with charred cauliflower and the truffle risotto in lemon butter. Finally, the Iceland cod was accompanied by pasta clams, chorizo, potatoes, leeks fondue and pineau des Charentes cream.
For dessert, we shared the special of the night, a s’mores log, with marshmallows, chocolate sauce and some other decadent ingredients.
Cocotte opened in September 2022. I asked Alexandre Cossette, the marketing director for The Gray Collection, whether any of the chefs were from Montreal. “No,” he responded, “because we wanted to work with local chefs from Ottawa. This decision was made to ensure that we incorporate local flavors and culinary expertise. By collaborating with Ottawa’s talented chefs, we aim to create a dining experience that truly reflects the local culture and ingredients, providing our guests with a fresh and authentic taste of Ottawa’s culinary scene.
“While Cocotte has its unique identity, we have incorporated some of the design aesthetics and culinary philosophies that our guests have come to love in Montréal. However, Cocotte also reflects the local Ottawa vibe, with a menu that highlights regional ingredients and flavors, providing a distinct and fresh experience. Our goal was to create a place that feels both familiar and new, blending the best of what we’ve done in Montreal with the vibrant culture of Ottawa.” Cocotte is located at 123 Metcalfe. Info: www.cocottebistro.com , info@cocottebistro.com, or call (613) 216-2912.
SOMEWHERE DINE BAR: We had heard a lot about a trendy dining spot called Somewhere Dine Bar in Ottawa’s Byward Market. It offers a delightful dining experience that combines casual elegance with a contemporary European flair and is highly appreciated by its patrons. The establishment, situated at 110 Murray Street, is noted for its American cuisine and opened in 2020.
Owners Ali Marati and Majd Samrout are hands-on, working in the kitchen and chatting with customers. There are 54 seats inside, including the bar, and 60 on a very attractive seasonal patio.
We were greeted by our server Karime, who started us out with some drinks. It was then time to look at the appetizers and a dozen oysters, accompanied by horseradish, lemon, hot sauce and mignonette. Keep in mind that during happy hour, between 5 pm and 7 pm, appetizers are half-price; oysters, are $2 and cocktails are $11.
Next for us was the truffle tuna crudo: yellowfin tuna, truffle oil, truffle salt, pickled jalapenos, micro cilantro and crispy onions. We then went for the Arancini al Agrodolce, with romesco and agrodolce sauce, micro basil and parmigiano reggiano. Arancini al Agrodolce is a delightful variation of traditional Sicilian arancini. These are risotto balls that are filled with a savory mixture, breaded, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. The “al agrodolce” aspect adds a unique twist: “agrodolce” translates to “sweet and sour,” so the dish is often served with a tangy-sweet sauce or glaze.
For the main course, the three of us shared the most remarkable Somewhere Surf & Turf Board. This was quite the feat: 14-ounce tenderloin, six-ounce poached lobster tails, seared scallops, poached jumbo tiger tail shrimp, glazed cremini mushrooms, garlic roasted asparagus, roasted parmesan potatoes, lemon garlic aioli, torched lemon, peppercorn sauce and clarified butter. Everything on this plate was beyond excellent and yes, we had leftovers for the following day.
There is a wide array of other menu items we will have to try next time visit: salad, calamari, steak tartare, wagyu and chicken dumplings, cheese and charcuterie board, pulled beef taco, steak frites, miso-glazed black cod, pasta and a chuck burger.
We did save some room for dessert and along came a decadent trio of tiramisu, fried cinnamon rolls and chocolate brownies. The tiramisu came with mascarpone, lady fingers, cocoa powder and espresso. The extraordinary fried cinnamon rolls had a caramel drizzle, vanilla ice cream and fresh berries. Who does not love a chocolate brownie? This one also came with vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, whipped cream and fresh berries.
Dinner is served here until midnight when another menu takes over through 2 am. There is a deejay on hand on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays,
You can call or text (613) 562- 7244 for more details or (613) 852-7244 for groups of six or more. Somewhere Dine Bar is open Monday to Sunday from 5 pm to 2 am. Log on to somewhereottawa.com
ZOLA’S RESTAURANT: Zola’s Restaurant offers Italian fare and a terrific “Blunch” menu for most of each day. Located in the city’s west end, Zola’s remains family-owned and operated. Since 1986 this spot has kept a focus on its mission to deliver Italian food made from scratch, with super friendly service and a wholesome atmosphere. Owner Antonio Vacchio says he is proud to have been at the helm since day one of the first restaurants in the west end of Ottawa to offer an Italian dining experience with an open-concept kitchen. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free? They have you covered. Vacchio and his team have spent time focusing on options for different dietary restrictions and lifestyle choices. They also operate a popular catering arm.
I met a friend there for breakfast, taking advantage of what they call “Blunch,” served from 8 am to 3 pm each day. Our server Caitrin started us off with coffee and then it was time to peruse the menu. The Big Budgie caught my eye: three eggs, home fries, corned beef hash, calabrese sausage, capicola ham, bacon plus a breakfast sausage and a choice of toast. I substituted the sausages for some smoked salmon. Everything was prepared to perfection.
My friend has lived in Ottawa for more than 20 years yet was not familiar with Zola’s. He was pleasantly surprised and plans to come back for dinner one day. He chose the eggs benny: two poached eggs, home fries and an English muffin topped with hollandaise choice and a small salad.
Vacchio came to sit with us as we concluded our “Blunch,” the latter of which he introduced about a decade ago. “My bakers were already coming in early to prepare the food for the day, so I figured why not introduce this breakfast service?” he shared. “It is basically available throughout most of the day. We were very pleased from the start with the reaction. I think people appreciate the creativity and variety of our menu items.”
Besides the traditional breakfast-time items of eggs, French toast, pancakes and waffles, there are also poutine and special breakfast pasta and pizza dishes.
Vacchio said that his kitchen bakes fresh goods every day, including pasta and desserts. The menu and take-out items cater to individuals with celiac disease. Visiting NHL teams and some concert performers, such as Bruce Springsteen, have their meals catered by Zola’s.
The restaurant can seat 84. On weekends you can look forward to live jazz performances.
I will return to Zola’s down the line for lunch or dinner to try the famous semolina dinner rolls. These soft, supple, and sweet little buns are a staple. They are baked fresh every day, beginning at 11:30 am, with a choice of white or whole grain. Their in-store pasta shop has been a part of the business since the beginning and is something Vacchio takes great pride in. Customers regularly walk out with their homemade pasta, pizza, meatballs, bread, pies, and quiche.
Zola’s is located at 2194 Robertson Road and is open seven days a week. For more information log on to https://zolas.ca/ or call 613-721-0227.
NATE’S DELI: Thirty-five years ago I traveled to Ottawa for a job interview and before I headed home to Montreal, while driving on Rideau Avenue, I saw a place called Nate’s Deli. Well, I got the job and while it was in Montreal, it required that I make regular visits to the nation’s capital. That continued for a decade and on every trip Nate’s became a standard stop.
Founded by local and well-known philanthropist Dave Smith, Nate’s Deli opened its doors in 1959 and quickly gained notice for serving only the best-smoked meat in the city. Smith passed away last year.
In 2014 Nate’s relocated to Sparks Street and on my last trip I finally made a return visit for breakfast with my old friend Steve Georgopoulos, a retired hotel executive. Our charming server was Abby Voisard, a 20-year-old student in Environmental Geo Science at the University of Ottawa. She is a terrific representative of the brand.
André Cloutier is the operating partner of the restaurant, with day-to-day management executed by General Manager Michelle Comeau. There are two other silent partners.
The restaurant can seat 300 people inside and 60 on the patio, much bigger than the original premises.
“Since joining the ownership team in January 2024, we have been actively assessing what our guests enjoy and identifying areas for improvement,” said Cloutier. “One change was bringing back rye bread from Rideau Bakery for our famous smoked meat sandwiches. Guests that remember Nate’s from the old days were certainly thrilled with that decision.
‘Sparks Street is a beautiful area with unique challenges, particularly in attracting diners outside of peak times. Weekday lunchtimes are bustling, and events like Ribfest, Buskerfest, and Canada Day draw large crowds. Our venue can accommodate large groups at reasonable prices, which has proven successful for work events and bus tours. Moving forward, we plan to enhance our offerings for group dining and events to continue supporting the business.”
Nate’s Deli offers an all-day breakfast. Both Steve and I ordered the King Nate. It comes with three eggs, a choice of bacon, ham, sausage or tomatoes, with home fries, a pancake of French toast and toast. You can also get items like steak and eggs, omelets, breakfast poutine, eggs benedict, a breakfast sandwich, and bagel and lox.
Steve and I also decided to order smoked meat sandwiches to go. I brought an ice pack to keep my take-out order fresh. When I ate it a few hours later, the Montreal smoked meat literally melted into my mouth. They have some terrific sandwiches available, as well as burgers, fried chicken, chicken wings, fish and chips, steak frites, soups, salads, and pierogies.
Nate’s Deli is located at 152 Sparks Street and is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 6 pm and 10 am to 2 pm on weekends. Log on to https://nates.ca and call 613-235-1424.
THE WELLINGTON DINER: Who doesn’t love a vintage diner? On the busy street it is named after, you will find the Wellington Diner, which is where I met an old university classmate for breakfast. Many restaurants have their own take on breakfast, but the Wellington team is confident that it has the best one in town. From new tastes to the old classics, the menu was quite impressive.
The Wellington Diner specializes in all things related to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. They use the freshest ingredients to handcraft a distinctive and unique menu in a casual, family-friendly environment. Their unique blend of locally sourced products and innovative takes on classical dishes has helped us craft an environment that flawlessly combines the bold and traditional. I
I was pleased to meet owner Jeff Frost. He purchased the place in 2015 and truly placed his own stamp on it. The restaurant has a cool vibe, with seating for 88 people over two floors on the inside and 24 more on a most beautiful season patio. Frost constructed it during the pandemic at a cost of $120,000. Inside there is a lot of memorabilia and framed photos on the wall. A lot of the local professional athletes from the hockey Senators and football Redblacks can often be spotted here.
You can order breakfast all day and I must say it took me quite some time to review the selections. I downloaded the QR code at my table and voila, there was the menu.
My dining partner chose one of the many Eggs Benny options, which feature two poached eggs atop an English muffin and smothered in savoury hollandaise. This is served alongside house homies (home fries) or a house salad. I chose the smoked meat hash: juicy smoked meat, sauteed peppers and onions, three cheese blends with two over-easy eggs and chipotle hollandaise. Before I left I also ordered a hot chicken sandwich to go: oven-roasted chicken stuffed between two slices of bread and smothered in-house beef gravy. It is served with fries, a side of peas, coleslaw and a tangy dill pickle.
When Frost bought the place almost a decade ago, he wanted to ensure that the menu had a lot of variety. There is a drink menu and weekly specials. On Mondays, kids eat for free. There is an endless array of egg combinations (some accompanied by sirloin steaks), pancakes, French toast, breakfast poutines, grilled cheese, wraps and clubs, as well as lighter dishes such as a smoked salmon platter.
The daily menu has tasty appetizers, fish and chips, burgers, chicken, Mac ‘N cheese combos, more poutines and a kids menu.
Frost told me he absolutely loves Montreal and visits our city often, always checking out local diners. He is a fan of the iconic Cosmos in NDG. That is why he has a poutine menu item called The Montrealer, with loads of juicy diced Montreal-style smoked meat. There is also the Quebecer: two eggs, a choice of three pieces of bacon, ham, or sausage, served up with a side of pork beans.
“I was in property management before I bought the restaurant,” he said. “When I was young I worked for a busy restaurant in the market. So this turned out to be the right move for me.”
For more information log on to www.wellingtondiner.ca or call 613-798-7800, They are located at 1385 Wellington Street West and open every day at 9 am.
RED LOBSTER: Over the last few years I feel as if I have become an ambassador ofthe Red Lobster restaurant chain. Yes, I am a big fan, and as a frequent visitor to Ottawa for family reasons, no visit goes without a trip to Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. just as you enter the city via Highway 417. There is a second location at a mall in Nepean.
Red Lobster was indeed a staple in Quebec over 25 years ago. But the company pulled out of our province and given the decision in May to file for bankruptcy does not seem to be in the cards. As of this writing, they were to be sold to Fortress Credit Corp., a lender experienced in restaurant management that has financed the chain’s operations, including a new $100 million loan that allowed it to stay afloat during its bankruptcy proceedings.
In recent months Red Lobster has closed around 100 restaurants and at least a dozen more are set to shut their doors, none in Canada. It has been reported that mismanagement, competition, inflation and other factors brought down Red Lobster. Thai Union, a global seafood supplier, became Red Lobster’s leading shareholder in 2020. Even though they cut costs and removed longtime, promotions such as $20 endless shrimp resulted in a loss of $11 million. It is reported to be $1 billion in debt.
I first went to the Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. in Ottawa some 20 years ago when I met the general manager Ian Forrester. When I started returning here for family reasons, I was delighted to see Ian was still there. He was excited to tell me about how many Montrealers come for lunch or dinner, whether they are visiting or just coming in for the evening. Yes, Ian confirms, there are Montrealers who drive in for dinner only. I know a few of them.
Well, I am pleased to report that the Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. is doing just fine. When I arrived for dinner the parking lot was full and the wait for tables was so long, the overflow had to sit on benches outside. Forrester was happy to have me spread the word that the Canadian locations have done very well in recent years and they are not impacted by the threats of closure. Many people only read the headlines, so naturally, Ian and his team keep getting calls to see if they are still open.
For our most recent visit, the three of us started off with a Caesar salad, some clam chowder and the mouth-watering signature biscuits. You get two per serving and there is an option to order a half dozen more – good to wrap in a plastic baggie and take home to enjoy. These delicious and soft rolls are not something you will find anywhere else.
For the main course, I chose the lobster, shrimp and salmon meal with a side of rice. The others chose the Ultimate Feast (Maritime lobster tail, garlic shrimp, snow crab legs and Walt’s Favourite shrimp, with rice); and the Twin Maine tails (a pair of perfectly roasted Maritime lobster tails with cole slaw and mashed potato).
Thanks to Owen Hoyt, the manager on duty that night, for taking care of us.
You can find many other tempting items on the menu, such as Date Night Feast for Two – two butter-poached Maritime lobster tails, two seven-ounce sirloins, two jumbo grilled shrimp skewers and a shareable Bacon Mac & Cheese, plus a choice of one side for each guest. The Lobster-Topped Stuffed Tilapia features tilapia roasted with their signature
I recently had the great pleasure of visiting Toronto, Canada’s largest and most bustling city, for a long weekend. For a sense of what might be new, I consulted Destination Toronto (www.destinationtoronto.com).
In June, Toronto is opening up one of its most anticipated developments, the Waterworks Food Hall (499 Richmond St. W.), which celebrates the city’s dynamic culinary scene in a beautifully restored heritage building. The space spans 55,000 square feet and is located in the heart of the King West neighborhood. Visit to experience this European-style food hall, which hosts more than 20 different food stalls including sushi, ramen, various beverages, and more.
A lover of cats and exhibitions? Check out Wild Cats at the Royal Ontario Museum from June 15 – October 20. This exhibit presents an array of mounted specimens, interactive displays, cultural objects, and multimedia. Visitors will also learn more about the conservation and protection of these amazing creatures.
Another treat might be the newest summer concert venue: The Bowl at Sobey’s Stadium. This venue is situated at the York University campus. See their website for more information about upcoming shows (https://liveatthebowl.com/). For those who enjoy more of a Broadway flair, Mirvish Productions always has something up and running. The musical Wicked will run from June 5 – July 21, with Tina – The Tina Turner Musical set to run from June 18 – July 28. See their website for a full list of upcoming offers (https://www.mirvish.com/).
Upcoming festivals include the Beaches International Jazz Festival from July 4 – 28, Salsa in Toronto from July 6 – 7, the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair from July 12 – 14, and the Toronto Caribbean Carnival from August 1 – 5.
Dining Out
EPOCH BAR & KITCHEN TERRACE:
The Ritz-Carlton name is synonymous with class and high quality; that is something that I have known for a long time now, having experienced some of their other properties. During my recent visit to Toronto, I had the great pleasure of dining at EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace (https://epochtoronto.com/). Having opened in the last few years inside the Ritz-Carlton Toronto property, it offers a casual but elegant setting where one can enjoy a series of imaginative dishes and cocktails.
While the venue’s indoor seating is lovely and appears quite comfortable, the location is perhaps best known for its large garden-style patio. The terrace features outdoor heaters (with the servers also being happy to offer you blankets on a cooler night), a lovely centerpiece bar, and a wood-fired stone oven which is used to make their signature pizzas.
From a beverage standpoint, the menu was fantastically creative, with the cocktail list divided into various categories based on the general flavouring that you might prefer (“The Secret Garden”, “Lost in Paradise”, “Avant-Garde”, and “Intermission”). I opted for the delicious Pineapple Express from the “Lost in Paradise” list, which featured pineapple and vanilla-induced Tito’s Handmade Vodka, crème de cassis, pomegranate reduction, fresh lemon, pineapple juice, all served on the rocks. For those looking to explore the wine list, there are plenty of options as well, both by the glass and by the bottle.
Helming the kitchen is chef Jeff Crump, a Canadian slow-food pioneer. The menu is a culinary homage to his earth-to-table philosophy and his roots in the U.K. gastrobar scene. From the appetizer menu, my dining partner and I were able to sample delicious offerings including the French Kiss Oysters, the Japanese Hamachi Crudo, the Crab Stuffed Avocado, and a true highlight: the Crispy Coconut Shrimp. From the Mains, we shared the light and flavourful Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass, as well as the Rib Cap Steak, which was cooked to perfection and served with chimichurri. We were also able to sample one of the restaurant’s signature pizzas, cooked on the wood-fired stove oven outside: Mushroom Truffle. For dessert, we shared the Strawberry Rhubarb Upside Down Cake, which was the perfect way to end the night.
While we did not stay at the hotel, it is certainly luxurious. It is close to the Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, and many other downtown establishments. The hotel is undergoing refurbishment through to the end of August 2024, which will involve redefining the lobby, opening a new retail shop, transforming the Ritz Bar, and more. I certainly look forward to visiting EPOCH again.
MIKU TORONTO:
During my visit to Toronto, I was also able to sample some take-out from Miku Toronto, which is part of the Aburi Restaurants Canada group. Miku Toronto first opened its doors in 2015. It is situated in Toronto’s Harbourfront at the corner of Bay and Queen’s Quay.
Takeout offerings include a variety of sashimi, nigiri, maki, and of course, aburi offerings, as well as a variety of desserts which can also be combined into a dessert platter for the complete tasting experience. We tasted a mix of sashimi and nigiri offerings, as well as their two specialty rolls: the Miku Roll (sockeye salmon, uni, crab, cucumber, rolled in tobiko, served with Miku sauce) and the Red Wave Roll (spicy prawn, avocado, red tuna, served with masatake sauce). The star of the meal, unsurprisingly, was both the Salmon Oshi Sushi and the Ebi Oshi Sushi. Everything was packaged nicely and tasted delicious.
Orlando, Florida (www.visitOrlando.com) has long been known as the theme park capital of the world, making it an ideal visiting location for people of all ages, including both children and Disney Adults. While I had visited the city with great enthusiasm as a child, this was my first time returning in my adult years, and I am pleased to report that it has not at all lost its magic and wonder.
WHERE TO STAY: While Orlando has more than 490 unique properties to choose from, we chose to stay at the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa, a beautiful hotel that first opened its doors in 2020. Looking for action and fun? The hotel includes not only a pool, but also an Activity Garden for families which features the Mount Chelonia rock-climbing wall, a nine-hole mini golf course, and an open lawn to play giant chess. There is also the sixth-floor Kids Conservatory, which offers access to various games and arts and crafts. When you are ready to explore the city, the hotel offers a free shuttle service to take guests to the Disney World theme parks, as well as to Disney Springs, which is located less than 10 minutes from the hotel. The shuttle service can be booked in advance, and if desired, will also pick you up from any of these destinations.
The resort has 516 rooms, as well as 18 event/meeting rooms. It is only a 30-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport, and a 10 to 15-minute drive to the main Disney Parks. The property recently received a highly acclaimed Gold Badge from U.S. News & World Report, ranking as one of the Top 10 Best Hotels in Orlando. We stayed in a very comfortable room that overlooked the pools and featured two queen-sized beds, a fridge, both a shower and a bathtub, and an in-room safe. For those traveling in larger groups, consider booking a suite, including one of the Family Suites which has two bedrooms and sleeps up to nine people.
While Orlando is best known for its amusement parks, the primary purpose of our trip was relaxation, hence our selection of this fantastic hotel. This JW Marriott property features two pools – a larger and more shallow family pool with sparkling fountains and zero-entry, as well as a neighboring, slightly smaller adult pool for those looking for peace, quiet, and a splash-free zone. The adult pool area is completed by a soothing hot tub.
The service at these pools is truly outstanding. From the moment of your arrival, there is a clear sense of luxury as the poolside attendants happily set you up with towels at whichever pool you choose, opening your umbrella for you and moving it as necessary should you be looking for some shade. There was no shortage of lounge chairs available, no matter the time of day that we came by. Once you are settled in your seats, the staff will bring you your pitcher of water, which is refreshed as needed throughout the day, and they also occasionally come by offering samples of some of the pool restaurant’s menu items or offering to polish your sunglasses for you. We truly never wanted to leave!
For those looking to further elevate their comfort at the pool, one option is to reserve a personal cabana. During my time in the cabana, I was treated to a sectional couch with a fan, a 43-inch Satellite TV, a personal safe, a mini fridge, scented towels, a fruit platter, as well as a platter of sweet and salty snacks. Poolside cabanas must be booked for an entire day. See this link for more information: https://jwbonnetcreek.ipoolside.com/.
Looking to step up the relaxation yet again? Look no further than Spa by JW, which is 10,000 square feet of luxury. I had the opportunity to try out the 50-minute Magnesium Oil Infused Massage, which was incredibly well done and also included the use of some sound bowls. While I had never incorporated sound bowls into a massage before, the effect was incredibly peaceful and added to the experience. In addition to massages, other options include a variety of facials, body treatments, as well as hair and makeup services. With the purchase of any service or treatment, guests also have access to the co-ed relaxation lounge, spa steam room, sauna, showers, and locker rooms.
The minimum age for spa access is 18. Upon exiting, you have access to a boutique featuring a variety of high-quality products for all face and body needs. Spa by JW is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.
Hungry? The hotel offers plenty of dining options for any mood and budget. On the hotel’s main floor, consider starting with their signature Sear + Sea steakhouse, which offers both a nice interior and a small patio overlooking the pool. We sampled some of the mouth-watering options on their menu, including some oysters and their creative take on a burrata salad to start, followed by a 16oz ribeye cooked to perfection and paired with a potato puree. For dessert: the chocolate dome, which tastes just as good as it sounds and is covered in a warm salted caramel sauce for extra measure. The restaurant also has a complete wine list and cocktail menu – we tasted the rosemary beret cocktail which certainly did not disappoint.
For another dining option, consider the ninth-floor rooftop lounge, Illume, which features a menu of creative and hand-crafted cocktails, sushi, and Asian tapas. For dinner, we enjoyed two fantastic maki rolls, including one of the chef’s daily specials and the oki rule, which included snow crab, avocado, cucumber, salmon, tuna, yellowtail, spicy mayo, and fried shallots. We also tried the beef tenderloin bao buns paired with scallions, toasted peanuts, yuzu aioli, and cabbage slaw, which were incredibly satisfying. One of the highlights of Illume, however, is the cocktails, which are both tasty and served beautifully. We enjoyed the ILLUMination cocktail, which includes Casa Noble blanco tequila, passion fruit liqueur, agave nectar, and lime, as well as the Lychee Martini. Later in the evening, we were treated to a view of the Disney fireworks from our rooftop perch.
Other dining options at the hotel include UnReserved, a European-inspired, food-hall-style restaurant with all-day dining, Palm Cove, the poolside grill, and the JW Market, which serves grab-and-go coffee, drinks, snacks, gelato, and all-day breakfast offerings.
JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa is located at 14900 Chelonia Parkway. For more information, log on to www.jwmarriottorlandobonnetcreek.com.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS: When trying to select a theme park, the options are limitless. While I had visited several as a child, I did not doubt my return to Orlando that the Universal Parks were at the top of my list (www.UniversalOrlando.com).
Outside of its separate water park, Universal features two distinct parks that one may wish to explore: Universal Studios, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Visit one, visit both separately, or visit both in the same day by purchasing a park-to-park pass. Amongst other attractions, Universal Studios features areas tributing various cities, including Hollywood, New York, and San Francisco, as well as Minion Land and Springfield, USA: Home of the Simpsons. Universal’s Islands of Adventure includes Marvel Superhero Island, Skull Island, Jurassic Park, Seuss Landing, and more.
That being said, the highlight for me was, without a doubt, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Harry Potter universe is a must-visit for all fans of the books and movies and sprawls over both Universal Parks. Visit the famed Diagon Alley over at Universal Studios, where you can visit all of the shops so well-known from the series, including Gringotts Money Exchange, Ollivanders, and more. The main ride at this location is Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. When you are done in Diagon Alley, make your way to Platform 9 and ¾ and take the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade, which is found over at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. To make this trip, you will need to have purchased a Park-to-Park admission ticket, however, or will need to own an Annual/Seasonal Pass.
Over at Hogsmeade, which is also superbly decorated to reflect scenes from the films, explore a few more shops, have a bite to eat at famous destinations such as Hog’s Head or Three Broomsticks, and try out a few more rides, including Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which was my personal favourite of the day, as well as Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Flight of the Hippogriff. Stroll by the stage to watch performances by the frog choir or from the Triwizard Spirit Rally – the performance schedule can be viewed on the Universal phone app. Another highlight of Hogsmeade is the beautifully constructed replica of Hogwarts Castle, which is the perfect photo opportunity.
For an extra fee, guests can purchase the Express Pass, allowing them to skip the regular lines. Buy a regular Express Pass for as little as $79.99 to skip the regular lines one time per participating ride, or buy an Express Unlimited Pass for as little as $109.99 to skip the regular lines as often as desired. Note that most but not all rides at the park offer an express line. The list can be found on the Universal website.
DINING OUT: While its world-famous theme parks are certainly the headlines, Orlando has increasingly been recognized for its culinary scene in recent years. The website WalletHub recently named Orlando the 2023 Best Foodie City in America.
During my recent trip, I discovered the wonders of Disney Springs, which is a top-rated entertainment, dining, and retail district formerly known as Downtown Disney. Disney Springs is a completely outdoor district featuring 120 acres of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment. Watch the Magic Kingdom or Epcot nightly fireworks from a patio, or take to the sky in the Disney Springs hot air balloon. Furthermore, families can enjoy the Disney Springs Kids Club every Saturday, a free experience featuring interactive entertainment for all ages located at The Landing.
WINE BAR GEORGE: For my first visit to Disney Springs, I was pleased to sit out on the patio at Wine Bar George (https://winebargeorge.com/). With Wine Bar George being a predominantly tapas-style restaurant, I decided to embrace the experience and sampled some of their small plates, including an out-of-this-world artisanal cheese plate that featured four different types of cheese paired with almonds, honey, fig jam, and olives. Other delicious treats included their New Zealand Lamp Chops, which are served with black garlic purée, salted onions, and an herb vinaigrette, as well as the crispy mac & cheese bites with tomato nage and pecorino.
The true highlight of the restaurant, however, is, as its name implies, the wine. Wine Bar George is the only restaurant in North America to offer more than 200 wines, all available by the glass, by the bottle, or in some cases, even by the ounce. A series of wine flights are also available for those keen on multiple tastings. The restaurant servers are incredibly knowledgeable, and my dining partner and I were very well-guided when it came to making our selections. To ensure that such helpful guest interactions are always the standard, the Wine Bar George team conducts regular wine tastings and education sessions. Of course, there are also always Certified Sommeliers, an advanced Sommelier, and/or a Master Sommelier present in the restaurant to support both servers and guests in making the best possible choices.
Wine Bar George is more than just a dining destination – it is a dining experience. For more information, follow the restaurant on social media @WineBarGeorge or visit https://winebargeorge.com/.
MORIMOTO ASIA: Also at Disney Springs, the fantastic Morimoto Asia restaurant looms tall. Helmed by famous Japanese Master Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this pan-Asian, two-story destination is not to be missed. Chef Morimoto opened his first restaurant in Hiroshima in 1980 before eventually establishing himself in New York City, where he was eventually head chef at the well-known Japanese restaurant, Nobu. It was while he was at Nobu that he began his career on the Iron Chef television show, where he made his name in particular with his famed dish, “Buri-Bop”, his take on Bibimbap with yellowtail fish instead of meat. I had the pleasure of sampling this delicious dish during my visit – it was cooked table-side with fried rice, egg yolk, and Korean-style yellowtail served in a hot clay pot. Another fantastic dish was the Mongolian Filet, which is a 10oz Angus beef tenderloin served with wok sauteed scallion, bean sprout, mixed mushroom, and sweet Szechuan sauce. The menu truly includes something for everyone, with a series of small plates, dim sum, vegetable dishes, ramen, rice and noodles, and seafood. Another signature dish that I did not have the chance to taste is the Morimoto Peking Duck, which is a carved house-roasted whole duck meant to be shared between two.
Sushi lovers are in for quite the experience at Morimoto Asia! While sushi and sashimi can be ordered a la carte, another option would be to order one of the several available combos, platters, and towers/pagodas, which allow for the chef’s selections to be brought to the table for a tasting experience. All fish is fresh and flown in daily from Japan, including the seasonal Japanese cherry blossom salmon (Sakura masu) that I had the pleasure of tasting. I also sampled the bluefin tuna (o-toro) and the golden eye snapper (kinmedai), as well as some fresh oysters served with dressings including a yuzu ceviche, cocktail sauce, and soy sauce.
My meal was coupled with one of their highball cocktails – the restaurant’s Suntory custom highball machine dispenses super chilled, highly carbonated soda water, which is described in the menu to be 5x the carbonation of regular soda water and 1.5x that of champagne. My highball was called The Forgotten, with ingredients including haku Japanese vodka, strawberry rose, yuzu, and soda water. For dessert, I enjoyed the yuzu pie, the restaurant’s unique take on a key lime pie, which was coupled with white chocolate vanilla cream and a blueberry compote. Other dessert options include churro donuts, Japanese souffle cheesecake, gelato, and sorbet.
While the taste of this excellent meal was the true highlight, the restaurant also features a nice ambiance. The building’s 36-foot-tall layout includes lounges, private dining spaces, a glass-encased kitchen with a view of the culinary action, an outdoor patio, and a second-level sushi bar and lounge with a separate entrance. The custom glass beaded chandeliers and glass mosaics, based on ancient Japanese prints, further add to the aesthetic.
The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. Call 407-939-6686 or log on to https://www.morimotoasia.com/ for more information.
SOPHIA’S TRATTORIA: The Conrad Orlando, which is Orlando’s first Hilton luxury brand 5-star hotel, opened recently this past January, situated at the Evermore Orlando Resort. I had the privilege of experiencing this beautiful new property through the newly launched restaurant, Sophia’s Trattoria (https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/orlcici-conrad-orlando/dining/sophias-trattoria/).
Sophia’s Trattoria is found on the hotel’s first floor, with its patio directly facing the hotel’s picturesque lagoon and man-made beach. Both the restaurant’s aesthetic and menu are meant to celebrate the coastal-inspired Southern Italian cuisine, with dishes including wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, fish, and meat.
For our meal, we started with the tasty baked fontina, dressed with garlic and thyme, and Bellini cocktails. We shared the whole branzino for our main course, which was served with sauce vierge, lemon confit, and fine herbs. For dessert, we enjoyed a truly decadent tiramisu.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS: While we did not have time to explore all that Orlando has to offer, here are a few other suggestions for your consideration.
Within a short distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can find Disney’s Boardwalk. Inspired by Atlantic City, the boardwalk features free admission to stroll along a Coney Island-style boardwalk with complimentary evening entertainment including jugglers, comedians, and fire-eaters. It is connected to Disney’s ferry system via the adjacent Disney’s Boardwalk Villas.
Whether or not you plan on buying tickets to any of the Universal theme parks, check out the action-packed Universal CityWalk, which features several themed restaurants, nightclubs, a movie theatre, shopping, and access to all of the Universal-themed merchandise. Parking is free after 6 pm.
Love animals and nature? See more than 500 animals, including some rare and endangered species, and wander through 23 acres of lush, natural beauty at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. As well, Gatorland is one of Orlando’s longest-running attractions, featuring 110 acres with thousands of alligators and crocodiles, plus a flight aviary, petting zoo, nature walk, splash pad play area, Bobcat Bayou, and more.
This spring, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will debut the LEGO Ferrari Build & Race, which offers guests the experience of viewing a life-sized LEGO Ferrari Car and then building and testing it in one of three obstacle-laden test tracks. Young drivers can also enjoy the LEGO DUPLO Build Zone to design their own custom creations with larger bricks.
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The last time I was in the United States for a getaway was just a few months before the pandemic shut down the world. We had gone for a change of scenery to the New York capital of Albany, where you can count on good shopping and fun restaurants.
Four years later, while I was on holiday from my day job for March Break, I figured that a few days in Albany (https://www.albany.org/) would be a good idea and I was right. Between the two large malls, meals at some of my favorite restaurants and a terrific hotel I did indeed come back feeling refreshed.
Albany is a 400-year-old city on the banks of the Hudson River. Discovered in 1609 by Henry Hudson, this city is the oldest continuously chartered city in the country — that means it’s older than New York City or Boston! Albany is a great city to explore because it’s full of so many engaging attractions and must-see sites! But Albany is also a city of storytellers, who want very much to welcome visitors and acquaint them with our fun and quirky history. Let us tell you about this quintessentially American city!
From museums and historic sites in downtown Albany to scenic views and outdoor adventures in the Helderberg Hilltowns, Albany County boasts a variety of must-see attractions. Tour top landmarks, explore the rich landscape, or visit one of the world-class museums for a trip that is beyond conventional.
Albany lies at the foot of the Adirondacks and Catskill Mountains and is at the tip of the historic Hudson Valley Region
Be sure to check out the Million Dollar Staircase, the awe-inspiring “Egg” at the Empire State Plaza and many diverse examples of historic house sites and public spaces such as the Pruyn House and the first Shaker Meeting House. You can visit the magnificent Gothic structure, now the Administrative Center of the State University of New York, the Delaware and Hudson, and the Albany Evening Journal Buildings, located at the base of State Street.
There is an abundance of professional theatre, music, dance, sports, and a backyard full of recreational splendors. As the crossroads of the northeast, Albany is easily accessible by car, train, and plane and is located less than three hours from New York and Boston.
The master bedroom is in the one-bedroom queen suite.
WHERE TO STAY: On my previous trip here I noticed that a dual-brand Homewood Suites & Tru by Hilton had just opened. Wow, one of my favorite hotel brands is literally in the parking lot of Crossgates Mall. I jotted that all down for future reference and we were most fortunate to get a beautiful one-bedroom suite on the Homewood side. A big shoutout to front office manager Bonnie Bevilacqua. We arrived late due to traffic and some other circumstances and she came to our room to set us up and resolve a few minor issues. Throughout the next three days, she worked the lobby, checking to see if any guests needed anything.
This 192-room extended stay facility was the first dual-branded Homewood Suites and Tru by Hilton in the USA when it debuted in 2018. It features two separate areas designed for each brand, unique public spaces designed to promote social connectivity, a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, outdoor grills, sports courts and an airport shuttle. The hotel offers a meeting room and a business centre. The different lobby and dining spaces are extremely large and offer all of the comforts of home and more. There is 24-hour complimentary coffee and tea in the Tru by Hilton lobby.
Our room had a kitchen, stovetop, fridge, dishwasher, microwave, coffee maker and all of the necessary dishes and cutlery. There were two televisions, two queen-sized beds in the master and a safe (always a must for us) as well as a pull-out couch in the spacious large living room area
I was beyond impressed with the complimentary hot and cold morning breakfast, from the neat pancake machine to the array of bagels, English muffins, cereals, yogurts and hot and cold drinks. Next to the front desk, there is a small market to purchase refreshments and light bites.
The breakfast area at Homewood Suites Crossgates.
The hotel is conveniently located at the intersection of Interstates 87 and 90, offering guests access to numerous dining, retail and entertainment options within walking distance. It is a six-minute drive from Albany International Airport and a 30-minute drive from Saratoga Springs leisure attractions. In addition, the property is proximate to renowned universities and research centers such as the University of Albany, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), Siena College, Union College, and SUNY Polytechnic College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering.
A view of the dual-brand hotel property.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit Homewood Suites By Hilton Albany Crossgates Mall or Tru by Hilton Albany Crossgates Mall or call +1 (518) 704-4040 or +1 (518) 704-4010.
GREAT SHOPPING: Over the last few years the team at Crossgates has been sending me press releases about the property. Let me say that this mall has always been one of the draws for me when visiting Albany. The vast majority of entrances are ADA accessible with ample parking distributed throughout the site. You can rent wheelchairs.
Dave & Buster’s at Crossgates.
Crossgates (https://www.shopcrossgates.com/) is the largest shopping, dining, and entertainment destination in New York’s Capital Region. The center is anchored by Macy’s, JC Penney, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Primark and Best Buy, while offering more than 180 retail shops, including Apple. Crossgates offers 10 entertainment venues and over 20 on-site eateries, such as Dave & Buster’s, Get Air, Billy Beez, Apex Entertainment, The Standard Restaurant & Lounge, Maggie McFly’s and Regal Cinemas with IMAX. You can also relax at their award-winning day spa, Spa Mirbeau. Dave & Buster’s, with its fun food and endless array of games, is always a draw for people of all ages. I spent a good hour there until my power card ran out. You collect points for every game you experience. At the end, the power cards are tabulated at the gift shop and you can pick a prize. I also could not resist a visit to Antie Ann’s Pretzels, a big American chain that has been around since 1988. A homemade pretzel and an original pretzel dog certainly hit the spot.
“Crossgates has a lot going on, and we are so grateful for it,” said Marketing Director Jen Smith. “We have over 240 apartments and townhouses being built adjacent to our property, and we are in the final stages of the approval processes to build a Costco on the land, just west of the hotel. Last year we opened the international retailer Primark in the center and this year we will be welcoming the very sought-after REI, amongst many other tenants. Big things are happening!”
Colonie Center (https://shopatcoloniecenter.com/), a 1.3 million square-foot enclosed two-level, regional shopping center with over 100 specialty stores, is at the heart of New York’s Capital Region. The center is anchored by a three-level Macy’s. The center boasts the only Cheesecake Factory Restaurant and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro in the Capital Region and a state-of-the-art all-digital Regal Cinema with a newly renovated RPX theater. Additional sit-down eateries include Five Guys Burgers & Fries and Moe’s Southwest Grill as well as the second-level food court. The center sits at the intersection of Wolf Road and Central Avenue, is just five minutes from the Albany International Airport and major hotel chains and is accessible from Interstates 87 and 90.
We also came across a unique shoe store called Fleet Feet at 155 Wolf Road. It carries comfortable, high-quality performance footwear and gear for running and walking. When we arrived two young sales persons took care of us, T.J. and Jessica. You are first asked to step onto their 3D Foot Scanning Technology. Their state-of-the-art fit I.D. scanner captures 12 precise data points to construct a 3D image of your foot. Measurements like foot length, width volume, and arch height help them select the best shoes for one’s unique feet. Log on to www.fleetfeetalbany.com
The author at Red Lobster.
RED LOBSTER: As people who read my articles regularly are aware, I have been a big fan of the Red Lobster restaurant chain for many years. Unfortunately, it disappeared from the Quebec dining landscape in the late 1990s. There are two locations in Ottawa, but when we visited Albany, New York we made a bee-line for the Red Lobster at 170 Wolf Road.
Red Lobster is the world’s largest and most-loved seafood restaurant company, focused on serving the highest quality, freshly prepared seafood that is traceable, sustainable, and responsibly sourced.
I was greeted by the manager on duty, Daniel Rogers. Upon learning that I was from Montreal, he began speaking French to me. He’s from Atlanta but picked up the language in school. In addition, he comes to Montreal often
It was nice to connect with General ManagerCrystal Franchiand Beverage and Hospitality Manager Dean Stringfellow. This location can seat about 230 people in a very large dining room, separated by a bar in the middle. They also have a seasonal patio for about 20 people. The parking lot is quite large, a good thing since it tends to fill up before dinnertime.
We ordered the Lobster Lover’s Dream and the Lobster Lover’s Duo with two sides and their trademark cheddar biscuits. Both meals include Roasted Caribbean rock and Maine lobster tails. The Dream is also paired with lobster-and-shrimp linguini. For sides, we chose the orzo rice and the creamy lobster mashed potatoes. I could not resist a bowl of New England clam chowder, piping hot. We were too full to take advantage of any dessert choices.
My greatest wish remains that Red Lobster returns to Montreal one day. I’d eat there once a week for sure. There is no place like it here right now. Montrealers travel to Albany frequently, either for a long weekend like us or on the way to or from New York City, Washington, or Florida. So indeed this is a must-stop. And given the fact Daniel already speaks French, here we have an experienced Red Lobster official who could get the first franchise up and running.
The very first Red Lobster opened in Lakeland, Florida in 1968.
This Red Lobster is located at 170 Wolf Road. It opens at 11 am each day. You can call 518-459-1040. To learn more about Red Lobster go to www.redlobster.com
CHEESECAKE FACTORY: The Cheesecake Factory also ranks as one of my must-stops in cities like Albany. Of course, Quebec does not have one of these franchises either. The Albany location opened on August 29, 2006, at the Colonie Centre. This 10,800-square-foot locale seats 300 diners and you can always expect a lineup at the door. You will be handed a beeper and an estimated wait time.
In Albany, Senior General Manager David Albert runs a well-oiled machine. He has been at the helm of this busy location for 18 years and has an uncanny memory for customers. I had not been there for four years, yet I did not have to reintroduce myself to him or his assistant GM Richard Harris.
The service here is always impeccable and the food is superb.
Cheesecake Factory manager Richard Harris.
The Cheesecake Factory (www.thecheesecakefactory.com) is known for its extensive menu, generous portions and legendary desserts. In fact, there are more than 250 menu selections and this includes more than 50 lower calorie “SkinnyLicious®” selections- all handmade, in-house with fresh ingredients – and more than 50 signature cheesecakes and desserts. Favorite choices include appetizers, pizza, seafood, steaks, chicken, burgers, pasta, specialty items, salads, sandwiches, omelets and desserts.
I know many people who stop here on purpose just to enjoy the experience. Toronto has one too now yet Montreal continues to be left out in the cold. Perhaps there is a fear that the language police here would insist it be called La Fabrique de Gâteau au fromage.
We began our meal by sharing a crab wonton meal as a starter, along with a cheese flatbread pizza. For the main courses, the SkinnyLicious offerings, notably the grilled turkey burgers which we can report are out of this world, always top our list. For us, the latter came with a side salad. In addition, our order included a filet mignon medium rare with rice and magnificent mashed potatoes with gravy on the side.
There are multiple fish, pasta and beef options, meal-sized salads and a whole lot more. Give the menu a look online.
As for dessert, well this place is called The Cheesecake Factory. The window display of pies kind of knocks your socks off when you enter the premises. After dinner, you can review the menu one more time, which includes a calorie count. Favorites include the Godiva chocolate cheesecake, the Oreo Dream Extreme cheesecake, the ultimate red velvet cheesecake and the Reese’s peanut butter cheesecake. This is one dessert menu where I don’t even think about the calorie count.
This Cheesecake Factory remains a real winner in our books and I highly recommend you stop by. You can call them directly at 518-453-2500. There is a large Barnes & Noble bookstore in the mall, a great pre or post-dining stop and the movie theatres.
Close your eyes. Imagine a place with palm tree-lined streets, beautiful summer weather in the spring and fall, resorts, golfing, hiking, shopping, and more. For many years, I had heard such wonderful things about The Greater Palm Springs (GPS) region, and when I finally had the opportunity to travel there myself, it lived up to the hype.
The Greater Palm Springs region encompasses nine cities – Palm Springs itself, as well as Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella (after which is named perhaps the world’s most famous music festival). During our visit, we stayed in Indian Wells, a 30-minute drive from the downtown core of Palm Springs and a 10 to 15-minute commute to several of the other neighboring cities with their attractions, including Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and La Quinta. The city of Palm Springs offers a laid-back atmosphere with a walkable downtown area, which features a variety of shops, as well as restaurants which often have sprawling patios. Every Thursday, Palm Canyon Drive is closed to vehicular traffic as VillageFest, a street fair, takes over. At the time of our visit, the theme of the night was Halloween, and children and families walked the streets in costumes, trick-or-treating at each of the booths.
WHERE TO STAY: During my time in Palm Springs, I had the great pleasure of staying at The Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa (www.renesmeralda.com), a beautiful resort in Indian Wells, which is conveniently nestled between the Palm Desert and La Quinta regions, just at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Adjacent to the Indian Wells Golf Resort, The Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa is located off Highway 111 and is approximately a 30-minute drive to the airport and Downtown Palm Springs.
A few years ago, the resort underwent a multi-million-dollar re-design, which included the creation of new guestrooms and suites, the development of a beautiful new two-story lobby, an olive tree grove, and a new set of menus for their restaurants.
Let me tell you, a stay at this hotel truly does feel luxurious. Wherever you turn, you are treated to stunning views of the blue, typically cloudless sky, the desert mountains and the nearby palm trees. The hotel’s large pool area features two swimming pools, one with a fountain and the other with zero-entry and a sandy beach, as well as two hot tubs. There is plenty of seating, but for those hoping for a particularly special day, it is possible to reserve VIP chairs or cabana seating. My travel partner and I enjoyed a lovely day in a cabana, which comes with couches, a television, water, and a large fruit platter. We also ordered drinks and lunch from the tasty and diverse pool menu. The service was truly top-notch.
Are you a golfer? The hotel offers packages that include the option to golf at the neighboring Indian Wells Golf Resort, which is one of the few properties to have two courses ranked in the Top 25 “Best Municipal Courses in the United States” by Golfweek Magazine. Tee times may be reserved through the Golf Resort directly.
The Renaissance Esmeralda also features a fitness center with state-of-the-art facilities, tennis facilities, an entertainment zone with arcade games, virtual reality, and an escape room, a camp for children, and a fantastic spa. Spa Esmeralda, located on the lobby level, is a 13,000-square-foot spa featuring 11 indoor treatment rooms, eight treatment cabanas, one indoor suite for couples, steam rooms, relaxation lounges, and a garden courtyard with a jacuzzi. Available spa treatments include single and couples’ massages, body scrubs, and facials. I had the opportunity to experience the incredibly relaxing Esmeralda Signature Massage with the spa’s signature aromatherapy, as well as a foot scrub. I could not have felt more relaxed by the time I finished my treatment and made my way to the garden courtyard to lounge. Although I did not experience this myself, Spa Esmeralda also features Agim Salon, which is overseen by celebrity stylist Agim. Treatments include cuts, styling, consultations, and nail care.
Now, what about the hotel rooms themselves? The resort features spacious and beautifully appointed rooms and suites. This large hotel includes 560 rooms, 103 of which are suites, ranging from 420 to 2,879 square feet, all with balconies and stellar views. Each room features amenities including 300-thread count sheets (the bed is very comfortable!), double sinks with a marble vanity, good closet space, televisions, an in-room safe, Keurig coffeemakers, offerings of coffee and tea, and a fridge. High-speed internet also comes with each room.
HOTEL DINING: We started off our dining experiences in the Greater Palm Springs region at our hotel. First, at The Place Lobby Bar, which offers an extensive and creative cocktail menu, as well as many light bites. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available; we enjoyed sitting outside, which offered a nice view of the pool area and mountains. We started with the Indian Wells Rosé cocktail, which included hangar rose vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, St. Germaine, raspberries, rosé, and a pink rim. We shared the Caprese salad and the wagyu beef sliders, both of which were delicious, and also were able to select a sushi roll from the other lobby restaurant, Glo Sushi. The Place also offers a few dessert options, including raspberry cheesecake, a 6-layer chocolate cake, or a cookie skillet. A children’s menu is also available for those ages 12 and under.
The second restaurant that we tried at the Renaissance Esmeralda was Cava, which is on the terrace level with a patio adjacent to the swimming pools. Cava has different menus available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. During our dinner, we enjoyed glasses of prosecco followed by a sampling of their Brussels sprouts appetizer, which was creatively combined with pistachio, orange glaze, and lemon zest. For the main course, we shared the ribeye steak, cooked to perfection, and a flavorful roasted half-chicken, which came with garlic mashed potatoes, baby squash, and a red pepper coulis. For dessert, we had a key lime pie, though we were also certainly tempted by the other options, which included chocolate croissant bread pudding, crème brûlée, and more.
DINING OUT: Outside of our dining experiences within the Renaissance Esmeralda, we also sought to venture beyond the front doors of our hotel and experience what some of the neighboring regions had to offer.
PACIFICA: Located at The Gardens on El Paseo, deemed to be the premier shopping and dining destination in the Southern California Desert region, I highly recommend visiting Pacifica Seafood Restaurant during your trip. Their fine dining menu focuses on their selection of fresh seafood, as well as their hand-crafted cocktails and award-winning wine list.
Their list of beverages is hand-delivered by your server on an iPad, which allows you to easily scroll through the extensive list of options. We ended up opting for The Garden and the Blueberry Lemon Drop, both of which were very tasty. To start the meal, we had some oysters on the half shell, paired with a light mignonette, and the ahi tuna tartare, which is paired with a sake-soy sesame marinade, avocado, mango, wasabi aioli, wasabi tobiko caviar, and chili oil. For our main course, we shared the pan-seared scallops, which come with carrots, celery root puree, seared leeks, and brown butter, and at the advice of our server, we also tried the pan-seared Chilean seabass, a menu highlight, which had a honey-soy glaze and was served on top of ginger sticky rice and bok choy with a green curry-coconut sauce. For dessert, we completed our meal with a raspberry-infused crème brûlée and some iced wine.
Although clearly, the name of the restaurant itself indicates a specialization in seafood, which we chose to take advantage of, meat lovers have plenty of options to choose from, including a grilled center-cut filet mignon, a bone-in ribeye steak paired with gnocchi, braised boneless beef short ribs, and even a surf & turf option pairing filet mignon with a lobster tail, for those wishing to try a little bit of both. Sunset dinners at Pacifica run from 3:30-5 p.m., at which time $27 will buy you two courses at substantially reduced prices.
ARNOLD PALMER’S RESTAURANT: When you hear the word Arnold Palmer, food is not the first thing that comes to mind. Known as “The King,” this professional golfer won 92 national and international championships. He was also successful in the corporate world as chairman of the world-encompassing Arnold Palmer Group.
Arnold Palmer’s Restaurant opened in 2004. Though he sadly passed away in 2016, the restaurant remains a staple in the La Quinta area. For those interested in exploring Palmer’s career, visitors can explore a massive collection of memorabilia detailing his decades-long professional golf career in the “Palmer Room,” which includes trophies, photos, personal items, and more. Equally, however, for those who are just interested in a nice dinner with a fantastic ambiance, this place is for you.
While you can choose between indoor dining in multiple spaces, including the Master Dining Room or Arnie’s Lounge, we chose to dine on the live entertainment patio, which was truly one of the nicest restaurant patios we have had the pleasure of visiting. The patio included live entertainment and also had heaters, misters, and cozy fire pits available to ensure year-round comfort (though none of these were needed on the night of our visit).
The menu features some of Palmer’s favorites, including fresh seafood, aged beef, and a variety of comfort foods. The daily specials are also frequently evolving, some of which we enjoyed during our visit. To start, we had a Hamachi appetizer, which was one of the specials and was incredibly light and fresh. We also enjoyed the Purple Haze cocktail, which contained aviation gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, Chambord, lemon and blackberry garnish, as well as the Pomegranate Tini, which featured ketel one, lychee liqueur, triple sec, grapefruit, lemon, and pomegranate syrup. For dinner, we shared the rack of lamb, another special that was paired with delicious spinach and ricotta dumplings, as well as the whole roasted branzino, which contained a scallop mousse stuffing and was paired with green beans, shallots, and almond brown butter sauce. Our selected side dish was the jalapeno potato au gratin – other side dish offerings at the restaurant include balsamic Brussels sprouts, sauteed mushrooms, truffle French fries, and more. We sampled some of the fantastic wine selections available at the restaurant alongside our meals, and for dessert, we shared a warm chocolate brownie and a chocolate martini.
This is a restaurant that would be on my list to visit again should I return to the Greater Palm Springs area.
The restaurant is single-level and ADA-compliant.
Arnold Palmer’s Restaurant is located at 78164 Avenue 52 in La Quinta. It is open Monday to Saturday, beginning at 5 p.m. For more details, log on to www.arnoldpalmersrestaurant.com or call 760-771-GOLF (4653).
WHAT TO DO: When you aren’t relaxing at a hotel pool or playing a round of golf, there are plenty of other activities to consider during your visit to Palm Springs.
TRAMWAY: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (https://pstramway.com/) is the world’s largest rotating tram car. It travels over two and a half miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon, carrying you from the Valley Station (elevation of 2,643 ft) to the Mountain Station (elevation of 8,516 ft). The tram car ride in itself offers incredible views of the nearby mountains and the sandy desert, but at the top, you get to explore the wilderness of the Mount San Jacinto State Park, which includes two restaurants, numerous observation desks, a natural history museum, two documentary theatres, a gift shop, and over 50 miles of hiking trails. All of the above are fully wheelchair accessible and ADA compliant, though it is worth noting that the Valley Station, from where the tram departs, is off the beaten path and has limited cell service – driving a rental car is generally preferable to relying upon taxi or rideshare options.
JOSHUA TREE: You may have heard of the beautiful Joshua Tree National Park, another exciting place to visit and less than a one-hour drive from Downtown Palm Springs. This is an amazing place to drive or hike through, where you can explore a fascinating variety of plants and animals. The park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. While many people prefer to come during the daytime for the views, stargazing is also a popular activity there during the nighttime.
There is very limited cell phone reception in the park, and cell service should not be relied upon. Free public Wi-Fi can be accessed at some of the visitor centers. It is recommended that you download the official National Park Service app to access the free offline maps ahead of time. To fully experience the wonders of this park, it is advised to plan to spend several hours there.
FESTIVALS: The Greater Palm Springs area is home to a large variety of festivals. The Palm Springs International Film Festival starts the year in January with a star-studded gala event featuring nearly 180 screenings in theatres around the region. Arts festivals include the Southwest Arts Festival, Art Palm Springs, and the Indian Wells Art Festival. Perhaps most world-renowned, however, are the two music festivals that take over the Palm Springs area every April: Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, which welcomes more than 250,000 music fans annually in April, followed immediately by Stagecoach, the ultimate hub for the 85,000 country music fans who gather from across the world.
SHOPPING: While you can certainly peruse shops by walking through Downtown Palm Springs, as well as Old Town La Quinta, true shopping lovers may also wish to explore the Uptown Design District for one-of-a-kind boutiques, Palm Desert’s El Paseo for upscale, luxury retailers, or Desert Hills Premium Outlets for the best deals.
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa is the perfect place to experience some of the country’s best attractions, celebrations and flavors in one welcoming city. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, and vibrant neighbourhoods, the Ottawa region is best explored over three days or more.
THE BROOKSTREET HOTEL
Since opening in 2003, the Brookstreet Hotel in Kanata has gained notice as a luxury property noted for outstanding dining, incredible entertainment, luxurious accommodations, inspired green initiatives and world-class golf and fitness facilities.
While in Ottawa we had a chance to visit the hotel, enjoying a delicious lunch on the patio at Perspectives Restaurant. We spent some quality time at the lovely outdoor saltwater pool and I was in heaven in the jacuzzi. When rain cut our date of leisure in half, we were invited back a few days later to resume the pool experience.
For lunch, I had a nicely prepared club sandwich, grilled chicken breast, cheddar cheese, confit garlic aioli, vine-ripened tomato, bacon, Boston lettuce and Nat’s bakery sourdough. The other members of my party started off with some drinks and each ordered lamb barbacoa tacos- two corn tortillas, lamb shoulder slow-roasted in banana leaf, salsa borracha, pickled cucumber, green olives, fresh cilantro and lime.
Stepĥanie Lapensee and Danika Christie of the sales department and fitness centre manager Vy gave me a nice tour of the property, located in the heart of Canada’s largest technology hub. I got a chance to see some of the impressive guest rooms and reception halls.
The Brookstreet has 276 rooms and suites spaced across 18 floors. Plans do call for the hotel to eventually build a second tower. There is now 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, featuring 25 meeting rooms, including three large ballrooms, an outdoor pavilion and the Newbridge Foyer which boasts floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
There are a number of draws here, starting with the Marshes Golf course and a pond that converts to a skating rink in the winter months. An 18-hole mini golf course is very popular with families. It is no surprise that the NHL’s Ottawa Senators partnered up with the property. Brookstreet is recognized as the official hotel and resort of the Senators and Canadian Tire Centre, which also includes the title sponsorship to the Brookstreet Lounge (located at the ice level). What this also means is if you happen to stay here during the hockey season, you never know which NHL player you might run into.
I was beyond impressed with the on-site Flex Fitness Club, which has 500 members from the community. Recognized as the ultimate Ottawa gym and fitness studio, it is equipped with extensive fitness equipment, saltwater pools, hot tubs, fitness classes and personal trainers. Flex Fitness Studio provides a wellness component for those who wish to stay active during their travels. Members get the advantage of access to the indoor and outdoor pools. The Au Natural Spa looked mighty fine as well.
Located by the eighth green of The Marshes Golf Club, the 30-foot seasonal outdoor saltwater pool offers a cabana, plenty of deck space and a 12-person hot tub! We were provided with robes and slippers, some comfortable lounge chairs and umbrellas to guard us from the sun.
As Ottawa’s leading public golf club, the Marshes combines the superior layout with the singular natural beauty of the Ottawa area. The result is a space that holds the distinction of being home to PGA events, as well as a qualified wildlife sanctuary. It’s this inspired mingling of the stunning sprawl of the natural world with our meticulously manicured course that’s made The Marshes more than a premier Ottawa golf destination. This is also a popular venue for weddings, conferences and to share a delicious meal with friends and family. There are 18 and nine-hole courses, plus the Blackbird Falls mini-putt.
If there is one thing I learned from my visit, it’s that I must go back for there is so much more to discover.
Located on a national heritage site, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is the world’s only working farm in the heart of a capital city. During my frequent trips to Ottawa for family reasons these past two years, I have chosen different venues to visit. This one was perfect during the warmer season as a number of the animals are outside.
The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to see diverse breeds of farm animals—important to past and present Canadian agriculture—and to learn about the food they eat. In addition to breeds common to Canadian agriculture, such as Holstein dairy cows and Angus beef cows, the museum also has Canadienne and Milking Shorthorn dairy cows and Tamworth pigs. Many other breeds of dairy and beef cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, poultry, goats, rabbits and even honeybees round out the collection.
Museum programs and exhibitions are related to Canada’s agricultural heritage, food literacy, and the benefits and relationship of agricultural science and technology to Canadians’ everyday lives.
Public programming also includes school programs, summer day camps, interpretive tours, demonstrations, and joint undertakings with community groups and associations. On the day I visited, there were busloads of camps and the kids were having a great time.
Some of the exhibitions were eye-openers to even me. Canola! Seeds of Innovation marks the 50th anniversary of canola as a “made in Canada” crop. This is an immersive and interactive exhibition exploring the ingenuity of Canadian plant researchers, who took on the challenge of creating a healthy vegetable oil from rapeseed, a little-known plant that grew well on the Prairies. Following decades of collaboration and hard work, they succeeded in developing one of Canada’s most important crops: canola. Meanwhile, via documentation and videos, the Healthy Oceans for a Healthy Planet exhibit examines the challenges facing our oceans due to pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing. Covering over 70 percent of the Earth, oceans help regulate the climate and provide us with food, energy, and livelihoods. Meanwhile, the exhibition From Earth to Us explores how we transform natural resources to meet our needs and wants – and the resulting impact this has on the world around us. Visitors will delve into topics such as mining, materials, metallurgy, energy, climate change, and water resources. Discovery Park is an interactive, outdoor exhibition is accessible throughout spring, summer and fall. Agriculture is a dynamic industry, constantly transformed by human ingenuity and creativity. Stroll through Discovery Park and explore some fascinating agricultural innovations…you may be surprised by what you find!
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to drive a tractor?
Farming For the Future, our newest exhibition, is waiting for your visit! You can climb aboard a life-sized tractor cab — or enter an immersive, accessible cabin at ground level — to digitally drive a tractor. See if you have what it takes to efficiently plant corn in a sustainable farming operation
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is open year-round, from, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week. It is open on statutory holidays, exceptDecember 25. The museum offers free admission from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Reserve your tickets in advance. It is located at901 Prince of Wales Drive. Info: https://ingeniumcanada.org/agriculture
PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL
The Ottawa Titans began play in the Frontier League in 2022. They play out of the state-of-the-art Ottawa Stadium. This is minor-league professional baseball. The schedule begins in May and continues through early September. It is a wonderful outing for the entire family, even someone who might not even be a baseball fan. The franchise officials work so hard to offer a fun game day experience. I really enjoyed my night out there, especially coming from Montreal. Our professional baseball team the Expos left 19 years ago. Go to www.ottawatitans.com
DINING OUT
There are so many wonderful choices for dining out. From my most recent trip, here is my culinary report.
STARLING: The historic York on William (YOW) building, which encompasses Starling Restaurant & Bar and Apothecary Cocktail Lounge, represents a must visit The latter are part of a multiple-dining concepts featuring a rooftop terrace and street-level patio and located in one of the oldest buildings in Ottawa, dating back to 1875. Early occupants included an undertaker, a baker, and a wholesaler, uses which reflects the diverse commercial activity of the ByWard Market in the 19th Century.
Starling is Ottawa’s new concept which elevates any night out with hand-crafted cocktails and a refreshing, modern menu that draws inspiration from bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here you step into an inviting and stylish atmosphere, built for creating an incredible experience.
The 12,000-square-foot building was purchased in 2020 for $5 million. Co-owner John Borsten’s business partners in this venture are Pat Charbonneau and Ian Darveshali. It is spread over four levels, with Apothecary, YOW and Starling each catering to different audiences under the same roof and able to serve 500 diners at a time. The seasonal patios are big draws: one at street level can seat 50 while the rooftop has room for 60. Capacity for both can be increased for cocktail receptions.
We were delighted to get a coveted rooftop table with a panoramic view of the market and were especially fortunate to have head chef Paolo DiBello visit us on a number of occasions that evening. The menu here changes seasonally. We found the ambiance, service and food all impeccable and we can’t wait to return for another visit. We will have to try Apothecary and down the line.
Apothecary is described as “a nod to medicinal cures of which bitters, tonics and spirits all play a role. Here they believe in using real botanicals, house-made syrups and tinctures, to heal the body, mind and soul.”
Starling brings you contemporary dishes from timeless classics to personal recipes with a fondness for locality—designed to be loved by one or shared by many. Their mixologists can serve up a broad range of tasty concoctions, either mixed, stirred or shaken and inspired by local ingredients and international techniques.
Starling is named after a highly social bird that likes to travel in large flocks. That is why you will see decorative bird cages in the restaurant. It was in fact Sofia Santiso Borsten who created the Starling concept and oversaw the design. Even the doors they inherited were restored and now serve as a privacy wall for a table near the bar. The same goes for the original lamps, which were repainted. Of course, the wallpaper features colourful birds.
We enjoyed a fabulous meal, starting off with some scarlet tanagers from the bar, three ounces of excellence: Dillon’s strawberry gin, brut, apple simple syrup, lemon and strawberries. I also tried the Anthony, a tasty drink minus alcohol containing orange juice, lime, ginger simple and chili peppers.
Following a thorough study of the menu, we began with 12 oysters. They were of good size and did not last long on the serving plate. We then shared some terrific burrata toast, olive oil fried true loaf sourdough, local heirloom tomatoes, fresh burrata and Aurelius fig balsamic.
For the main courses, we chose two absolute winners. The pan-seared six-ounce west coast sable fish was beyond extraordinary. It was served with mint, pea and fine herb risotto. This is a fish we have always enjoyed, yet it is so rare to find on an east coast restaurant menu. It was moist and literally melted in our mouths. The 14-ounce rib eye, medium rare, with loaded mashed potatoes on the side, was another excellent choice. Paolo cooked it to perfection and the Bordelaise Larry sauce was just right to add more flavor.
When it came for dessert we shared the ever-so-rich chocolate mousse, which included brown butter streusel, brunoise mango and strawberry.
Indeed this was a meal fit for a king and rooftop terrace we look forward to experiencing again and trying some of the other delicious-looking items we had to pass on.
Starling is located at 54 York Street in the Byward Market. Hours of operation are 4 pm to 11 pm Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 am to midnight Thursday and Friday and 9 am to midnight Saturday and Sunday. You can call 613.421.0820 or log on to www.starlingottawa.ca.
MÉTROPOLITAIN BRASSERIE: Last summer I made my first visit to the Métropolitain Brasserie in Ottawa, conveniently located next to the Byward Market at 700 Sussex. That is just steps away from Parliament Hill,
Home to Ottawa’s largest oyster bar, the restaurant is open seven days a week, serving lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends. When we planned our return summer trip to the Nation’s Capital, this was the first dining establishment on our list. It was a beautiful evening to once again experience their spacious patio, which is completely covered by a tent-like structure and umbrellas. This way, in the case of rain, the spot usually remains open. The patio can accommodate 125 people while the capacity inside is 300.
The Brasserie presents a Hill Hour every day from 4 pm to 7 pm for discounted oysters and shrimp, and every Thursday for Buck a Shuck. There is an award-winning wine list and this is considered a prime place for a large event or a romantic dinner for two, adding that certain Parisian flavor.
We started off the evening with some drinks and then took a good hard look at all of the options available among the appetizers. The small size seafood tower was more than enough for three of us to share. It contained shrimp, oysters, mussels, snow crab, cod croquettes, scallop Crudo and ceviche. Wow, this was a meal unto itself and we savored every morsel. There is a larger platter for four available.
The burrato toast for two was another treat for the three of us to share. It includes sunflower seed and beetroot pesto, avocado, fried sourdough, sprouts and chili oil.
There is a nice selection of main courses. I remembered The Duck Confit from my last visit, an item I do not see available at too many restaurants I frequent. It was superbly prepared, with crispy skin and served with warm potatoes, red cabbage citrus slaw, duck fat fingerling, orange curry sauce and basil. As for the others, they opted for the fish of the day, some perfectly seared scallops and an order of lamb chops.
While we were quite full, it was pretty hard to resist the dessert menu. We agreed to share the flourless chocolate cake, with caramel sauce and raspberry preserves. It literally melted in my mouth.
Other items on the menu include burgers bouillabaisse, steak, spiced impossible meatballs, veal paillard, fish & chips, impossible Italian sausage spaghetti, roasted Arctic char, lobster ravioli, seared walleye, tagliatelle, halibut, mussels and frites, poutine, baked oysters, albacore tuna tartare and beef tartare, calamari, charcuterie and cheese board, soups and salads, sandwiches and omelets.
This was the perfect evening, with great food, excellent service from our waiter Kelsey and an ambiance that you just can’t beat.
Weekend brunch is available from 10 am to 2 pm Saturdays, Sundays and select holidays.
The restaurant is co-owned by John Borsten and Sarah Chown, with Mike Poliquin as chef de cuisine. Hours of operation are 11:30 am to 11 pm Monday to Wednesday, 11:30 am to midnight Thursday and Friday, 10 am to midnight Saturday and 10 am to 11 pm Sunday Take-out and delivery service is in place each day from 11:30 am to 9 pm. For more details log on to www.metropolitainbrasserie.com or call 613-562-1160.
LAVENDER GRILL AND LOUNGE: Lavender Grill and Lounge opened in the Byward Market in the summer of 2022, the vision of owner Reza Khakbaz
Lavender, of course, is a light shade of purple or violet. It applies particularly to the color of the flower of the same name. Khakbaz and his team have certainly taken advantage of the connection, from the décor to the coloring of some of the drinks like my blackberry smash tea mocktail, a combination of blackberry and Earl Grey tea,
There are 100 seats inside the restaurant and a nice terrace which can accommodate 20. That is where we sat. The menu contains a touch of Dubai and Iran, two countries where Khakbaz has lived. But make no mistake, the items to choose from are all very familiar from steaks to pasta.
Khakbaz has lived in Dubai since 2001 and now commutes back and forth. He obtained permanent residency in Canada in 2017 and from that point on he set about seeking a good business opportunity. Ottawa and the trendy Byward Market appeared to be calling his name. In the past, he was a partner in a pizzeria and a coffee shop. This represents his first full foray into restaurants and he has hit the ground running.
“When I moved to Canada in 2014, I lived in Ottawa for nearly four years,” said Khakbaz. “During that time, I found the ByWard Market area to be a popular destination where people spent time and money. Beyond its popularity, I also had a personal connection to Ottawa as it was the first point of entry for me and my family to Canada.”
How did Khakbaz come up with the Lavender theme and integrate it into so much of the menu and the restaurant design? “As a businessperson who has had the opportunity to travel worldwide and live in Dubai for many years, I noticed that lots of special restaurants gradually opened their branches there,” he responded. “Considering this, I believe the theme I have in mind can work for the area. Of course, we faced several challenges and various changes during the process. I would like to thank my manager Hano. He has been a great asset, as he significantly helped us in finding the best theme and menu for Lavender.
Hano was there to give us a warm welcome when we arrived. When a chef brought out one of our items, I asked Hon for his name. “At Lavender Grill, we really rely on teamwork,” he responded. “All of our food and menu are results of the teamwork with direct supervision of myself, using my culinary experience in fine dining restaurants. So all dishes come from the Lavender Kitchen Team.”
What are the most popular menu items with clients? Hano lists Lavender gnocchi, Lavender ravioli, rib eye steak, grilled salmon and salmon tartare. As for the drinks, there are the Lavender Gin and Tonic, Lavender Mocktail, Sunset Boulevard, Lavender Royale and Kiwi Breeze
Business, says Hano, has been solid. “We are a fast-growing business,” he maintains. “It’s been six back-to-back months that we are breaking our sales records.”
We began our meal by sharing two bowls of delicious and piping-hot carrot soup among the three of us. That was followed by a bruschetta, which had a sturdy crust and was firm enough to hold the diced tomato and red onion toppings. We also split the salmon tartare, sushi-grade salmon with chopped shallots, chives, parsley, dill, capers, a splash of chardonnay, soya sauce, grainy mustard, tabasco, lemon and lime zest,
While I quenched my thirst with a mocktail (yep I am a safe driver), the two others enjoyed some Lavender royales, containing Saint Germain, London Dry, Crème de Violette and Prosecco.
For the main course, I went for the chicken parmesan, tenderized chicken breaded and fried, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella. It was served with tomato pasta on the side. The portion was so plentiful that I brought back enough to eat for lunch the following day.
As for the others, they sampled the Lavender ravioli and the filet mignon. The four cheese ravioli was tossed in creamy Lavender sauce and mushrooms, with onions and garlic and topped with Lavender crumbs. The eight-ounce filet mignon was served with a side of vegetables and a garden salad. For dessert, we shared the chocolate explosion -chocolate cake, topped with chocolate sauce and blackberries.
Lavender Grill and Lounge is located at 47 Clarence Street. Opening hours are 5 pm to midnight Wednesday to Friday and 11:30 am to midnight Saturday and Sunday. For more information call 613-569-6605 or log on to www.lavendergrill.com
MARZITELLI’S MONTREAL CONNECTION: When I first started visiting Ottawa on a semi-regular basis a few years ago, filing restaurant stories, a former colleague from The Suburban Newspaper Christopher Michaud reached out. The West Island Pierrefonds native was now in the nation’s capital and operating a supper club called Marzitelli and named after his Italian mother.
On my most recent trip to Ottawa, I went to visit with Chris and take advantage of the ever-so-popular Marzitelli Sunday brunch. We sat on the beautiful rooftop terrace, overlooking hopping Elgin Street. Chris’s charming wife Fei helps manage the place and on this day his niece Caleigh was my server. Fei also handles the bar and provides great renditions of classic cocktails and specializes in custom house favourites. Ask about her Amaretto Sour or Fei’s Negroni!
The breakfast was top-notch. Chris recommended I try their Galette au Saumon Fumé: two sunny-side-up eggs, accompanied by a potato galette topped with Norwegian smoked salmon, wafer-thin red onion, sour cream & capers. On the side, you can have some crispy roasted potatoes or a garden salad, garnished with fruit. A Galette is a rustic French tart, but the Marzitelli version looks and tastes a lot more like a latke. “I worked at Chenoy’s on Boulevard St. Jean when I was a student at John Rennie High School,” Chris told me. “I made plenty of latkes in those days.”
I also ordered a clubhouse wrap to take back with me for lunch, marinated chicken breast, roasted peppers, onions, bacon and mozzarella. It was delicious, especially after putting it in the microwave oven for 30 seconds.
Chris left Montreal in 2013 to pursue his love for music and cooking, landing in Toronto. Initially, he built websites and came up with a concept for online orders and deliveries for restaurants, preceding Uber and the other apps. He did that for three years until he decided to open a bar on Yonge Street. When the venue started attracting lineups for its drinks, music and pasta, a neighbouring restaurant took notice and proposed a merger. That arrangement lasted two years before Chris was on the move again, this time to the popular Ontario summer vacation spot of Wasaga Beach where he set up some food kiosks. He returned to Toronto in 2018 and established his first Marzitelli. This was a small operation, but business evolved nicely until the COVID-19 pandemic turned everything into pieces. By the fall of 2020, Chris and his wife decided that another fresh start was necessary and this time it would be Ottawa. His new version of Marzitelli materialized at some prime real estate at Elgin. The second-floor dining room and lounge can accommodate 220 people, plus 40 on the seasonal terrace. Facing east, it has the distinct advantage of an early morning sun and afternoon shade, for the perfect ambiance and maximum comfort.
Of course, Michaud had arrived in Ottawa with COVID protocols still in place. Patience was required, but with a lot of hard work, Marzitelli has already gained a good following here, featuring performances by some of the city’s best musicians. The dinner menu is noted for excellent pasta dishes, all made from scratch and from the Marzitelli family recipe book, as well as French classics, pizzas, burgers, steak, shrimp, whiskey maple braised salmon, fish tacos, a poke bowl and more.
Chris’s late dad was a musician and his mom was a cook. On the stage sits Chris’s baby grand piano and it isn’t uncommon to see him come out of the kitchen after dinner service to enjoy a few cocktails with the guests while playing well-known hits. Often, guests are also entertained by one of his many musical friends invited as performers. In fact, his house band is called the Men From Marz and performs about once a month. It includes Chris and NDG musician Dimo James Papadimitrios.
Marzitelli is located at 350 Elgin Street. Hours of operation are 4 pm to 10 pm Wednesday, 11 am to 10 pm Thursday, 11 am to 1 am Friday and Saturday and 10 am to 4 pm Sunday. For more information call 613-870-1377, e-mail; info@marzitelli.ca, or log on to www.marzitelli.ca.
AL’S DINER: My friend Jack has been telling me about Al’s Diner in Ottawa for some time now, a popular spot on Clyde Street that serves breakfast and a whole lot of other menu items all day long. Now that is my kind of place, so it was indeed time to explore.
The place opens at 6 am Monday to Saturday and 7 am on Sundays, remaining open for dinner Tuesday to Friday. Besides an array of breakfast items, the regular menu consists of items like pizza, wings, burgers, salads, fish and much more. They offer quick pick-up and delivery and you can order online at www.alsdiner.ca
There are 110 seats inside and 35 on the patio. Owner Al Ayoub told me that before the pandemic, the place was averaging about $1,000 a week in orders via Uber, Skip and Door Dash. That quadrupled during the lockdown and has remained constant since.
Al’s parents ran a greasy spoon in this spot called Skyline Restaurant from 1970 to 1975 and then rented out until 1990. At that time Al stepped in, moving on from his profession in sales, gutting the place and rebranding it as Al’s with its present format. “During the pandemic, I repainted the place and made some cosmetic changes,” Al noted. “We also provide catering for sports teams, parties, office events and more.”
The place attracts a lot of regulars. “Those people are here five days a week,” Al said, motioning towards some clients. “We have a great following of regulars, young and old. Kids that were coming in with their parents, are now coming in with their own children, which is great to see.”
Al can also count on the support of his wife Anita, who works as a server and operates the place when he’s not on duty.
I was there for breakfast, of course, comfortably seated on the patio on a warm weekday summer morning. A lot of restaurants stop this service towards lunch hour, but not Al’s. “You need to have a really good grill to provide breakfast all day,” Al explained. “I am glad I invested in one.”
Looking at the menu, it was hard to make a choice, but I settled on three slices of golden-brown cinnamon raisin French toast, with sides of crispy home fries, bacon and rye toast with my standard cup of decaf coffee. I also ordered a chicken sandwich to take back with me for lunch. It was delicious.
There are a variety of Al’s breakfast specials. They all come with a choice of home fries, baked beans or tomato slices, as well as toast and coffee. From eggs and omelets to pancakes, waffles and smoked salmon bagels the choices are endless. I look forward to coming back for lunch and dinner and sampling something among the fish n’ chips, smoked meat club, wraps, hot beef dip, burgers, pizza, chicken wings, lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, shepherd’s pie or veggie spring rolls.
Al’s is located at 834 Clyde Avenue. Opening hours at 6 am to 3 pm Mondays, 6 am to 7:30 pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 6 am to 8 pm Thursdays and Fridays, 6 am to 3 pm Saturdays and 7 am to 3 pm Sundays. This is a licensed restaurant that serves alcohol. For more information call 613-761-74988 or log on to www.alsdiner.ca
A DAY AT THE BEACH
Ottawa has several lovely beaches minutes from the city center. Our favorite is at Britannia Bay, located on the Ottawa River. It is great for swimming, picnics or just watching the sailboats go by on a beautiful summer day. Key amenities include washrooms, change rooms and outdoor showers; free parking; a canteen; picnic tables and barbecue pits; and play structures and fields. Lifeguards are on duty daily between noon and 7 pm during the summer season. Volleyball net rentals are available for $14.50 per hour or $49.50 per day
VISIT OTTAWA PASS
A new option for visitors to Ottawa launched this summer: the Visit Ottawa Pass is available for adults and children as either a one-day or three-day pass, offering admission to the Canadian Museum of History; Canadian War Museum; Haunted Walk of Ottawa; National Gallery of Canada; the Diefenbunker, Canada’s Cold War Museum; Royal Canadian Mint; and Gray Line Ottawa in summer months (in winter months, Cobblestone Tours takes over). Passes are good for 24 (or 72) hours after their first use. Watch for full details at visitottawapass.ca
PARLIAMENT HILL
The restoration of Centre Block on Parliament Hill, which started in 2019, continues. A trompe l’oeil has been installed on Centre Block and will expand as masonry work continues through 2023 and beyond, allowing visitors to get a sense of what the building looks like behind the tarps. In the meantime, free guided tours of an architecturally impressive “temporary” House of Commons in West Block and a “temporary” Senate chamber in the former train station next to the Rideau Canal are available year-round. visit.parl.ca
It is almost impossible to be bored in Toronto. With its array of permanent and temporary attractions, live performances, major league sports, and the fantastic food scene, you will never run out of things to do.
This summer, I spent a month in downtown Toronto, which was chock-full of entertainment, including a visit to an outdoor pool, some excellent dinners, a concert at Rogers Centre, a play at the Ed Mirvish Theatre, a trip to Toronto Island, and much more.
THE RADISSON BLU: While I did not stay at a hotel while visiting Toronto, I did have the chance to visit the Radisson Blu. With the weather being so warm during my stay, I looked into the options for swimming in the city and came across the Radisson Blu’s rooftop pool, which allows visitors to the city to purchase day passes.
The Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown is conveniently located at 249 Queens Quay West, which is just steps away from the Toronto Harbour and around a five-minute drive from the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Pool Day Passes can be booked via OpenTable. They are $65 per person plus applicable taxes and fees, which include in/out privileges, towels, and service right at your seat. Arrival time is noon and it remains open until 10 pm. For hotel guests, of course, there are no fees associated with going to the pool.
My day at the pool was incredibly relaxing. The water was warm, and I was treated to views of the harbour on one side, and a picturesque view of the CN Tower on the other side. The pool menu features a variety of cocktails and cold beer, as well as snacks and meals that you can enjoy poolside. Options include salads, flatbreads, charcuterie, burgers, bowls, and an array of desserts. I personally enjoyed the all-beef hotdog, which came with several fun accoutrements, and a peach bellini.
The hotel has an elevator that leads to the pool and accessibility for wheelchairs for parking, the restaurant and the registration and concierge desks.
The Radisson Blu Downtown Toronto is part of the Silver Hotel Group (www.silverhotelgroup.com), a leading Canadian privately owned hotel investment, development, and management company, with properties in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia.
JABISTRO: Looking for some fresh, delicious sushi? JaBistro (https://www.jabistro.com) is a contemporary take on traditional Japanese fine dining, where the dishes are, in a sense, treated like works of art. JaBistro opened its doors in November 2012 in Toronto’s Entertainment District, welcoming guests into its warm and chic space.
Located mere blocks away from the popular Nathan Phillips Square, the modern and sleek restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating. During our visit, my travel partner and I sat on their lovely outdoor patio, which had a nice aesthetic and a dedicated bar. We started with the Yuzu Sunrise and Sakura Cocktail drinks and then went ahead to share several dishes off the menu. The nigiri platter offered us a taste of the chef’s top recommended fish of the day, with each piece tasting better than the one before. Other highlights included the salmon oshizushi, the Jabistroll (the one true maki on the menu), and the Gindara, which is grilled black cod with saikyo miso. Indeed, the restaurant is probably best known for its aburi sushi, with a multitude of different options on the menu, including ebi (shrimp), saba (cured mackerel), hotate (scallop), and wagyu (beef). While we went with an à la carte option for our meal, guests can also choose from various prix fixe options, both at lunchtime and at dinnertime.
JaBistro is part of the Kinka Family, which was founded in 2009 and features a diverse portfolio of restaurants and cafés across Canada and in Japan. You can learn more at www.kinkafamily.com.
From the perspective of handicap accessibility, please note that the rooftop patio is only accessible via stairs. The restaurant entrance is wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or mobility devices. There are standardized washrooms, minus accessibility features like grab bars or accessible sinks.
JaBistro is located at 222 RICHMOND ST. W., You can call 647.748.0222 or log on to https://www.jabistro.com/ for more information. Hours of operation are 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm Tuesday to Friday and 5 pm to 10 pm Saturday to Monday.
CIBO WINE BAR: There are three Cibo Wine Bar locations in Toronto: 522 King Street West, 2472 Yonge Street and 133 Yorkville Avenue. We were lucky enough to enjoy a delicious meal on the patio on King Street.
This Italian restaurant and wine bar, created by the Liberty Entertainment Group (www.libertygroup.com), offers traditional Italian fare in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The menu offers guests a true taste of Italian cuisine, featuring both traditional classics and modern staples. Like the food, the space itself is warm and inviting with stone and glass walls, rustic wood finishes, exposed brick, and butcher block tabletop.
Everything here is prepared under the watchful eye of executive chef Laura Petracca, who has been passionate about cooking since an early age. She began by making meatballs and gnocchi with her mother, fettuccine with her nonna, and honing her skills in the kitchen with the foods of her Italian heritage, including an “unforgettable” risotto, which I can confirm was, in my opinion, the highlight of the menu. She worked in multiple kitchens throughout her teens and at the age of 22, she graduated from the Culinary Arts Program at Humber College in Toronto.
During our visit, we were treated to small portions of all of the menu highlights. We started off with the grilled whole calamari, the Mediterranean clams + muscles, which is prepared in a parma broth with crispy shallots and chives, and the funghi dish, which was a delicious combination of grilled portobello, oyster, and cremini mushrooms served with extra-virgin olive oil and truffled balsamic vinegar. For our prime course, we tasted two decadent risottos (the sundried tomato and almost pesto risotto, as well as the porcini mushroom risotto topped with truffle oil. We also got to taste the incredible gnocchi topped with rosé sauce. For our second course, we shared the grilled striploin with lobster compound butter. Other options for this course, which also sounded fantastic, include the pollo parmigiana and the branzino. For dessert, we shared a very authentic-tasting tiramisu.
Cibo King has an accessibility ramp and an accessible restroom, therefore making the patio and main floor accessible.
WHAT’S ON IN TO: There are plenty of other things to do in Toronto! Here is a selection of upcoming attractions that was provided by Destination Toronto (https://www.destinationtoronto.com).
Bottoms up at The Second City Mainstage! Join The Second City for some hair-of-the-dog comedy during this totally improvised experience from the city’s finest. We’re serving up all-you-can-stomach laughter! Food and mimosas are available to order separately.
AGO – Feels Like Home
Ongoing until May 2024
https://ago.ca/exhibitions/feels-home Featuring works produced by the creative agency Sunday School, Feels Like Home invites audiences to consider contemporary conversations around the notion of home. Together with artists from across Africa and the diaspora, Sunday School strives to share diverse stories and perspectives that reflect their collaborative ethos.
AGO – Cassatt – McNicoll: Impressionists Between Worlds
Ongoing until Sept 4
https://ago.ca/exhibitions/cassatt-mcnicoll-impressionists-between-worlds This groundbreaking exhibition brings together for the first time the work of two extraordinary women Impressionist painters, Mary Cassatt (American, 1844-1926) and Helen McNicoll (Canadian, 1879-1915). Renowned for their depictions of modern womanhood, their work had a profound impact on the development and proliferation of Impressionism in North America.
In Bloom: Flowers and Footwear
Ongoing until Oct 6, 2024
https://batashoemuseum.ca/in-bloom/ One of fashion’s most timeless inspirations, representations of flowers have appeared throughout the centuries to symbolize an assortment of expressions. From spring cherry blossoms as an awakening of new life and new beginnings to the fall-blooming chrysanthemum which symbolizes joy and happiness, floral motifs have been incorporated into textiles and footwear across the globe.
SIX
Sept 23 to Dec. 17
https://www.mirvish.com/shows/six From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st-century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!
SIX won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.
The Pink Floyd Exhibition: Their Mortal Remains in Toronto
Now Underway
Exhibition Place
https://pinkfloydexhibition.com/ On the heels of the 50th Anniversary of Pink Floyd’s iconic album, “The Dark Side of the Moon,” Toronto music fans and culture buffs alike will get a backstage pass to the story of Pink Floyd through an audio-visual sensorial journey unlike any other.
bar, and more dates to accommodate the huge crowds of 10,000+ who attended the market’s
eight 2022 dates. Now a partnership with Collective Concerts, Toronto’s largest independent
concert promoter and local event producer, this summer Smorgasburg Toronto will showcase
more than 60 food vendors—some for six-week runs, some for all 12 dates—on the scenic harbourfront over 12 Saturdays.
TIFF
Sept 7 to 17
https://www.tiff.net/ The Toronto International Film Festival will be back in September for its 48th edition. Enjoy 11 days of international and Canadian cinema, special events and celebrity moments. September 2023.
How many times have I driven to Toronto over the last few decades, passing by the city of Oshawa on the way and merely taking a glance from Highway 401?
I knew that Oshawa, located in the Durham Region, was the home of a General Motors plant and the Generals junior hockey team. Well, I recently had to make return trips to and from Toronto to drop off and pick up family members. Doing these drives back to back was not an option. I needed a place to recharge my batteries. I also wanted to stay somewhere close to the 401. Oshawa was calling my name.
A SUPERB MARRIOTT: Where to stay? I zeroed in on a Marriott International property, which had just opened a few years ago. It is a combined 115-room Courtyard by Marriott hotel and 98-suite TownePlace Suites by Marriott hotel at 1011 Bloor Street East, owned and managed by Sunray Group of Hotels. The property shares a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool and meeting spaces with over 12,000 square feet of versatile event space. I was impressed with what I learned about Sunray, which has some 50 hotels under its umbrella, including four in Montreal.
The dual-brand property I stayed at is situated just north of Highway 401 and is connected to the Oshawa Harmony Event Centre. It offers convenient access to the Oshawa Centre, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Tribute Communities Centre and the Canadian Automotive Museum.
I got to meet with General Manager Ilhan Kodalak and Operations Manager Heather Richardson. Kodalak recently assumed the helm after running a Homewood Suites in Ottawa for five years. “I had my job interview via Zoom,” he told me, “so when I arrived and first saw this property, I was so impressed; it was like a resort.”
Kodalak is not wrong. If I closed my eyes and landed in the lobby, I’d be hard-pressed to challenge the GM’s statement. From the large parking lot, impressive façade and gorgeous interior you will guarantee a five-star experience.
I was elated with my accommodations, a full suite with all the comforts of home.
“Attracting both business and leisure travelers, the Oshawa area is an ideal location for these hotels,” said Janis Milham, Senior Vice President, of Classic Select Brands for Marriott International. “Each brand offers distinct amenities and services that tailor to all visitors.”
The Courtyard by Marriott Oshawa guest room offers hybrid zones for working, sleeping, relaxing and getting ready. The new room design is intuitive and thoughtful, offering flexible yet comfortable spaces that enable technology. Upon arrival, guests can store bags on the “Luggage Drop” and plug personal devices into the “Tech Drop” ledge for seamless technology integration. I had two televisions which provided access to streaming services and YouTube. That is something I really appreciated having in the background as I worked away on my laptop.
The Courtyard also offers a Refreshing Business lobby environment, where guests can enjoy an open and bright area outside of their rooms. Along with media pods, complimentary Wi-Fi and a variety of seating zones, the redefined space is ideal for everything from pop-up meetings to social gatherings. The lobby also features the newly designed Bistro, the epicenter of the lobby, which fosters social connections and collaboration with more flexible and informal seating options. As an ideal casual dining destination, the Bistro offers guests a wide variety of fresh local classic menu items with a contemporary twist. In the evening, the Bistro Bar also features an array of cocktails, beer and wine for guests to enjoy at the end of the day. The entire menu was carefully designed to offer a variety of flavorful, fresh items to satisfy every palate from morning to night.
The TownePlace Suites by Marriott Oshawa is ideal for travelers who need accommodations for longer stays, offering studio and one-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens that have stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, and separate living/working and sleeping areas in some suites. Guests can work and relax on their terms in modern suites that feature a fun, yet sophisticated sofa and task chair, a large flat-screen television as well as luxurious new bedding. Most rooms also feature the Home Office Suite, complete with The Container Store’s Elfa closet system, designed to provide guests with plenty of storage and flexible space to spread out and make it their own.
I would go a step further. Once you get into Toronto, hotels can get very expensive. This is a terrific spot to stay with the family, less than an hour from downtown Toronto. The kids will love the pool. In the spring, summer and fall you can buy your own meat, seafood and vegetables and use one of two large barbeques. They also have a nice outdoor courtyard where you can sit down at a table to eat or just relax.
On both mornings I took advantage of the excellent buffet breakfast, from waffles, eggs and bacon to bagels, toast, muffins, Danish, juices and of course coffee.
The hotel has accessible on-site parking, elevators and a self-operating lift or a sloped entry into the hotel swimming pool. Service animals are welcome. There is valet parking for vehicles outfitted for drivers in wheelchairs and van Accessible on-site parking. For more information about the physical features of their accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability you can call 1 905-215-1093
DINING OUT: I had a gift card for The Keg Steakhouse & Bar, so what better place to use than at the location on the grounds of Oshawa Centre? Using Open Table, I booked a table on their outdoor patio and enjoyed a fabulous meal. The Keg serves the finest cuts of succulent steak, aged for tenderness and grilled to perfection. Prime rib is a Keg specialty, slow roasted, hand carved and perfectly seasoned with special Keg spices. That was my choice, with some lobster bisque as an appetizer. The restaurant also serves delicious seafood, memorable appetizers, crisp salads and decadent desserts. For dessert, I saved room for the lemon meringue tarte.
WHAT TO DO: Oshawa www.oshawatourism.com is a mere 55-minute drive from downtown Toronto and noted for being the epicenter of an automotive empire, a Hollywood film production hub and a place of history, culture, music and food.
This is indeed a popular spot for filming. A new Amazon Prime series called Cross began shooting here recently. It stars Aldis Hodge as author James Patterson’s detective Alex Cross.
Parkwood National Historic Site, the family home of General Motors Canada founder Colonel Sam McLaughlin, is featured in a myriad of movies. Nearby Pickering is where the Amazon Prime series, Jack Reacher was filmed. Other notable film and TV series shot on location in the region have to include Netflix’s ‘Luckiest Girl Alive and The Umbrella Academy; the Amazon series ‘The Boys; Hallmark’s The Way Home; both Coroner and Anne With An E on CBC; and, the award-winning Schitt’s Creek.
Parkwood National Historic Site (https://www.parkwoodestate.com/) is a museum, event space, gift shop and community hub within the city of Oshawa.
Oshawa Centre (www.oshawacentre.com) is the main shopping centre in town. Open in 1956, it has grown into a 1,219,962square foot super-regional shopping centre serving as Durham’s fashion, service, and entertainment hub. With a growing retail mix now up to 260 stores, Oshawa Centre is a one-stop-shopping experience where you can find both affordable and trendy fashion options. I must say how impressed I was with this facility, which involved a lot of walking. It’s pretty large and I found some great buys. For your convenience, there are a total of 60 reserved accessible parking stalls located near every entrance to Oshawa Centre. Vehicles parked in these spots must have a valid disabled parking permit clearly displayed. You can also take advantage of their complimentary wheelchairs and walkers. These are available at Guest Services on a first-come, first-serve basis. You need a government-issued piece of ID and must deposit either one piece of photo identification or one piece of non-photo identification.
The Robert McLaughlin Gallery (https://rmg.on.ca/) believes that art cultivates connected and caring communities. As an artist-centered and community-oriented public art gallery in Durham Region, it brings people from diverse backgrounds together to engage with art that inspires new perspectives, generates meaningful conversations, and creates a sense of belonging. The RMG is wheelchair-accessible and manual wheelchairs are available. ASL and sign language interpretation are available upon request as are large print, tactile tours and audio descriptions
The Canadian Automotive Museum (https://www.canadianautomotivemuseum.com/) is home to the world’s most significant collection of Canadian automobiles. Located in a former 1920s car dealership in historic downtown Oshawa, the museum is a family-friendly, year-round destination. The main floor is wheelchair accessible, but unfortunately, the second level can currently only be accessed by stairs. It is free admission to those unable to access the second floor. Check out their website for a full schedule of walking tours, exhibits, guest talks and children’s events
Oshawa Museum (http://www.oshawamuseum.org/) is the city’s only local history museum located in beautiful Lakeview Park. There are year-round tours of three restored homes with diverse exhibits.
The Ontario Regiment Museum (https://www.ontrmuseum.ca/tankmuseum/) houses the largest collection of operational historic military vehicles in Canada. The museum specializes in delivering immersive historical experiences. During events, visitors can see a selection of the museum’s vehicles start their engines and roll onto the tank arena. The museum’s largest annual event, Aquino Tank Weekend, is one of the largest military events in Canada, with a series of live battle re-enactments, exhibitors, and special guests offering the ultimate military historical experience.
For the kids, Treetop Eco-Adventure Park (https://treetopeco-adventurepark.com/) is an aerial treetop trekking and zipline park in North Oshawa. There are courses available for all ages. A Jr. Children’s course has aerial elements and ziplines for youngsters from ages 3 to 6 years old. They also have 2 different Children’s courses and 5 Youth & Adult courses depending on a height reach requirement. All the courses are self-guided with guides on the ground or courses to provide assistance where needed. The Big Zip is a zipline that is 734′ in length and can reach speeds up to 35km. Reservations are required. With direct assistance, it may be possible for some physically disabled people to complete some aspects of some of the courses. Advance notice and a brief interview would be required to determine if it would work out.
Santa’s Cottage (www.santascottage.ca) offers personalized, seasonal appointment-only, one-on-one visits with Santa for you and your family. Included with appointments is access to The Outdoor Gallery, filled with incredible photo ops to capture your perfect holiday photo.
Put your RC to the test on the Xtreme RC & Raceways l (www.xtremerc.ca) large indoor track, browse the extensive selection of parts and supplies in the store, or speak with friendly and knowledgeable staff. It is open seven days a week. Rentals and birthday party packages are also available.
NEB’s Fun World (www.nebsfundworld.com) is a family-owned entertainment centre located at the north end of Oshawa. It offers a wide range of attractions including, bowling, go-karts, arcade, playground, VR and lots more.
By merging innovative video game concepts with state-of-the-art equipment, Battle City (www.battlecity.ca) redefines laser tag. Objective-based missions require players to be strategic as they fight their way toward victory.
New York City has always ranked amongst my favourite places in the world to visit. It seems to buzz with an energy that is difficult to describe without feeling it for yourself. Of course, I was thrilled when the opportunity presented itself for my friend and me to head over there for a long weekend. We certainly made the most of every minute that we had!
During our visit, we stayed at Arlo Midtown, a two-year-old hotel property located right between Times Square and the Hudson Yards, on 38th Street and 9th Avenue. If the hotel name sounds familiar to you, perhaps that is because Arlo Hotels is an independent, four-star lifestyle hotel brand, with two other locations in New York City, two in Miami, and the newest property that has just opened in Chicago. Featuring 489 guest rooms and suites, Arlo Midtown also features a modern-looking lobby bathed in greenery, with a coffee shop and plenty of comfortable, cushioned seating.
While the hotel has six different room types available for all travelers, my friend and I stayed in a King room on the 20th floor, which featured an incredibly comfortable bed, a view of nearby skyscrapers, and calming colour palettes of white, grey, and light blue. One of the room’s highlights was a comfortable window bench, which you will find in most of the hotel’s rooms. Rooms are also equipped with bedside wireless charging stations, Bluetooth radios, 55” LED TVs, and complimentary WiFi. The bathroom includes a glass-enclosed shower and softly backlit bathroom mirrors.
Another hotel highlight is the rooftop, where you can soak up some beautiful panoramic views of the city, including the Empire State Building, from 26 stories as you socialize with friends, mingle with colleagues, or celebrate with family over craft beers, fine wines, creative cocktails, and light bites.
The hotel’s business features include a variety of flexible meeting and event spaces, with seven venues offering a total of 7,334 square feet of meeting space spanning three floors. The hotel’s leisure facilities include a state-of-the-art fitness facility, outfitted with traditional weights and cardio equipment, in addition to Peloton bikes, an Interactive Fitness Mirror, a yoga studio, and more.
An Urban Fee of $25 (plus tax) is added per night throughout your stay and covers the following perks: property-wide internet access, local and long-distance calls within the United States, complimentary Citi Bike day passes, the on-site gym, and two bottles of water when you check-in. The hotel also allows pets! Up to two dogs or cats are allowed per room, provided that they are under 75 pounds, for a fee of $20 (plus tax) per night. All animals must be registered with the front desk upon arrival.
Under the American Disabilities Act (ADA), Arlo Hotels is a hotel brand that provides accessible features for all properties and guests, from entrances and common areas to guest rooms, bathrooms, and communication tools. The independent hotel brand also strives to make its website and technology accessible to all, with the goal of providing guests with a successful and enjoyable experience, even if they are using assistive technologies like screen readers, magnifiers, voice recognition software, or video captions. From stepless entry into the hotel to wheelchair-accessible rooms, and meeting and lounge spaces, the hotel has taken everything into consideration. In public spaces, visual alarms and Braille signage alert and guide guests, and assistive listening devices are available upon request. Wheelchair and ADA-accessible rooms range from cozy doubles to airy terrace rooms and spacious suites, perfect for different traveling goals. Arlo Midtown’s state-of-the-art gym is also wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.arlohotels.com/arlo-midtown or call 212.343.7000
PLENTY TO DO: There is so much to do in the city. This includes Broadway shows, museums, tourist attractions like Ellis Island, the 9-11 Memorial, parks, shopping, fine dining, people-watching at Times Square, sports events and much more.
DINING OUT: A globally acclaimed burger joint, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, owned by husband and wife duo Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, continues to expand within the United States, bringing their award-winning burgers and world-famous CrazyShake® milkshakes to fans in more than 21 locations globally.
Black Tap, at first glance, is a classic burger joint with a downtown New York vibe. The menu offers something for everyone, from signature burgers like the All-American to chicken sandwiches, salads, wings, and various snacks. Black Tap’s burgers have won awards across the world, and they are now five-time winners at the New York City Wine & Food Festival’s Burger Bash competition for the wagyu beef burger called The Greg Norman, the Italian-American inspired Mulberry Street Burger, and most recently for The Wagyu Steakhouse Burger. Black Tap’s famous CrazyShake® milkshakes, known for being highly Instagrammable, have reached worldwide acclaim with their whimsical and over-the-top flavors such as The CakeShake® and the Cookies ‘N Cream Supreme. Since opening its first 15-seat location in New York’s Soho neighborhood, Black Tap has expanded to the West Coast with locations in Las Vegas and Anaheim at the Downtown Disney District® at Disneyland Resort, and internationally to Dubai, Geneva, Zurich,Verbier, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain.
We had a great time visiting Black Tap (www.blacktap.com) for the first time at the 35th Street location (known as Black Tap 35th). The space is inspired by 80s and 90s music, including an installation of 5,000 custom-designed cassette tapes and an oversized neon boombox. At the stand-alone Shake Bar—the first in New York—guests can get a glimpse into the magic of making one of Black Tap’s famous milkshake creations.
New York-based graffiti artists and twin brothers How and Nosm designed Black Tap 35th’s signature street art murals. Known for their large-scale installations and unique, complicated compositions, How and Nosm left their mark on the restaurant with their signature style of red, black, and white imagery.
Wanting to experience some of the restaurant’s award-winning burgers, my friend and I elected to try The Greg Norman, which is topped off with house buttermilk-dill, blue cheese, and arugula, and The Wagyu Steakhouse Burger, which includes pepper jack cheese, bacon, crispy onions, A1 sauce, and roasted garlic mayo. Both burgers were delicious, but the true highlight of the meal was the accompanying milkshakes. Restaurant-goers at nearby tables whose food had not arrived genuinely stopped to gawk when our server brought us our CakeShake and Strawberry Shortcake CrazyShakes. The size of an entire meal all on its own, my CakeShake included a cake batter milkshake with a vanilla-frosted rim, rainbow sprinkles, and whipped cream, all of which was topped off with an entire piece of Funfetti cake.
Black Tap 35th is located at45 West 35th Street and is open from 11 am to midnight daily. You can call (646) 943-5135 for more information, or take a look at their social media for mouth-watering pictures.
There is a wheelchair access ramp to the left of the front door that goes into the hotel next door, where there is a side entrance leading into the restaurant. They have a few different seating places for handicap accessibility, as well as an ADA bar seating area. The ADA-accessible bathroom is located in the back of the restaurant.
With the weather having been so freezing lately here in Canada, I was thrilled to make my escape for a winter getaway in the sunny state of Florida. For the first time, I had the opportunity to visit Fort Lauderdale, which was a real treat (https://www.visitlauderdale.com).
Fort Lauderdale is the largest municipality in Broward County, which encompasses 1,197 square miles, with 24 miles of Atlantic Ocean beach. It has a resident population of over 1.95 million people. While previously known as a quiet beach community, Fort Lauderdale has been known as a hot spot for Spring Breakers ever since the December 1960 film “Where the Boys Are,” which was shot on location in the Fort Lauderdale area. Outside of Spring Break, however, Fort Lauderdale is now known worldwide as a year-round destination with plenty to do for all age groups.
Fort Lauderdale has been nicknamed the Venice of America due to its 300 miles of inland waterways. There are plenty of ways to explore the Intracoastal, which is lined with impressive mansions and yachts – check it out on a paddleboard, water taxi, or even on a Las Olas Gondola.
The area is also known for its sea turtle nesting season, which takes place from March through October of every year. It is not unusual when going for a walk along the beach to encounter a nest – they will be well-marked due to a robust sea turtle conservation program in Broward County. We came across several signs raising awareness about sea turtles during our trip. These babies need lots of help and care, as sadly only approximately one in 1,000 survive.
If you are seeking out a free and sustainable method to get around town, look no further than the Micro Mover, which is a fantastic ride-share service available to those wishing to explore areas such as downtown, Las Olas, and the beach. Download the “Ride Circuit” app to book your ride.
For some family fun in the sun, you may wish to try out the local mini-golf experience. Pixar Putt is an 18-hole pop-up experience that will be open until March 26th. The experience features iconic characters from many of Pixar’s most beloved films, including Toy Story, Inside Out, Finding Nemo, Coco, and more. It is open 7 days a week and includes after-dark sessions for those 18+.
If shopping is something that you hope to do in Florida, look no further than Sawgrass Mills, the world’s largest single-story discount mall. Further discount shopping can be accomplished at the Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop, which is the largest indoor/outdoor flea market down South. For a more traditional shopping experience, The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale is a more upscale shopping mall with stores including Macy’s, Michael Kors, and much more.
COMING SOON: The Florida Panthers organization is revitalizing the War Memorial Auditorium and is constructing a new state-of-the-art practice and community ice facility in Fort Lauderdale. This is slated for a 2023 debut, though the exact opening date has yet to be announced. Upon its completion, the new 144,000 sq. foot sports and entertainment venue will house South Florida’s first-of-its-kind ballroom-style concert and performance venue, capable of accommodating up to 3,800 people for intimate live music and events. The redesigned theater will carefully preserve the iconic War Memorial Auditorium’s classic art-deco character, while new enhancements and technical upgrades will modernize the space to accommodate global tour productions and larger-scale events. The addition of a state-of-the-art practice facility will feature two regulation-sized indoor ice rinks, including a dedicated public rink that will host a robust variety of youth and adult hockey programs, public skating, and figure skating for those of all ages.
INCLUSIVITY: “Visit Lauderdale”, the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Greater Fort Lauderdale in South Florida, recently unveiled its new brand campaign “Everyone Under the Sun.” The vibrant campaign reflects Greater Fort Lauderdale’s welcoming and inclusive community. People from more than 170 countries speaking 147 languages call Greater Fort Lauderdale home. The brand campaign features plenty of surprising twists to not only highlight how different Greater Fort Lauderdale is from other destinations but to also invite “everyone under the sun” to enjoy its one-of-a-kind offerings. The new campaign showcases accessible beaches, thrilling outdoor adventures, immersive nature encounters, shopping, in-pool meetings, dock and dining opportunities, pampering, romance, and memory-making experiences.
WHERE TO STAY: There are close to 600 lodging establishments, with more than 37,000 hotel rooms in the area, ranging from luxurious high-rises to smaller boutique hotels and motels. The diverse mix of Greater Fort Lauderdale accommodations encompasses oceanfront and inland properties, specialized spa resorts, as well as meeting and convention facilities.
During my trip, I chose to stay at the B Ocean Resort (https://www.boceanresort.com/), which many people may remember as the former Sheraton Yankee Clipper.
The B Brand caters to the following aspirations through its signature elements and programming: B Nourished® as it relates to the mind, body and soul; B Adventurous by exploring the world and self-potential; and B Compassionate by actively caring for the community and the environment Along with a fresh, contemporary design and a desirable beachfront location, B Ocean Resort offers a unique experience allowing both travelers and staycationers to fully immerse themselves in the destination from the second they step foot through the door. The resort is conveniently located in the heart of the city, around 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, downtown Las Olas Boulevard and along the famed coastal highway A1A.
Originally built in 1956 as the Yankee Clipper, named after its ship-like structure, the hotel quickly became a popular place to visit for American favorites such as Marilyn Monroe, Joe DiMaggio, and many more. As one of the few beachfront hotels in the city along the Atlantic Ocean, the B Ocean Resort has incorporated some historic elements and has blended them to create a more modern, sleek, and stylish feel.
The B Ocean Resort offers 481 spacious guest rooms and suites, ranging in size from 300 sq. ft. to a lavish 1,700 sq. ft. – all of which are inspired by the property’s serene oceanfront location. Guests can choose from room categories including the Chic Room, the Captivating Room, the Stunning Room, the B Enhanced Junior Suite, the Posh Suite, or the Master Suite. Along with the B Hotels & Resorts® signature Blissful Bed®, each room has sleek custom furnishings, a 55″ HD LED interactive flat-screen television, bath amenities, a coffee maker, an in-room safe and a mini fridge, as well as electrical power hubs equipped with convenient USB, USB-C, and international outlet plug-ins. We were very pleased with our accommodations.
Beyond the guestrooms, the B Ocean Resort features a spacious lobby and several meeting spaces. Guests may choose to relax at either of the hotel’s two outdoor swimming pools, one of which is a fairly large infinity pool conveniently located right on the beach. The private beach offers every guest two free beach loungers and towels per room, with the option to also rent umbrellas when the weather permits. Beach-side service is provided, with food and drinks from the beachside restaurant The Salty Siren being delivered right to your seat.
The hotel also includes a 24-hour state-of-the-art B Active® Fitness Center, two B Indulged® Spa Suites, and over 14,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space that has expanded onto the second floor. The second-floor Point Room offers floor-to-ceiling windows with an attached spacious outdoor beachfront terrace – it is an ideal venue for high-end corporate and social events. B Ocean’s private beach, pool decks, and first-level ballroom are also available for large group events, meetings, or weddings.
The hotel has five restaurants on site. The Salty Siren, as mentioned, is the hotel’s poolside restaurant. Otherwise, the hotel offers seafood and Mediterranean cuisine at the Naked Crab, drinks and brunch with mermaid shows and burlesque shows at the Wreck Bar, more drinks and cocktails at the Florida Bar in the lobby, and the grab-and-go Clipper Express, which includes offerings such as bagels, croissants, muffins, juice, coffee, and chips. Come by in the evening for grab-and-go sushi as well!
A little bit more about the shows:
Mermaid Aqua Burlesque Show: Perfect for those seeking a unique, next-level nightlife experience, the adults-only Aqua Burlesque show produced by MeduSirena promises to be an unforgettable night. The show starts every Friday night at 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.), as well as every Saturday night at 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) and 11 p.m. (doors open at 10 p.m.)
Aquamen Underwater Boylesque Show: The only underwater male burlesque show in the United States, the adults-only Aqua Boylesque show produced by MeduSirena is also part of the Wreck Bar’s line-up. This show starts every other Thursday night at 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Mermaid Elle & Friends: For an exciting mermaid encounter that the whole family can enjoy, the all-new, interactive Coral Reef Mermaid show follows the story of South Florida mermaids who need to find their magical gadgets in order to return back home. The show aims to both entertain and educate as it demonstrates how pollutants harm the ocean’s delicate ecosystems and explains how recycling aids in the continued protection of coral reefs. This exciting adventure starts every Saturday afternoon at 12 p.m. and includes lunch (doors open at 11 a.m.). During my stay, I overheard a little girl exiting the show with her mother, enthusiastically proclaiming “the mermaid was real!”
Mermaids & Mimosas Sunday Brunch: During B Ocean Resort’s signature Sunday brunch, guests can enjoy a delicious meal with bottomless mimosas, while watching mermaids swim in the background. This takes place every Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Yoga, Mermaids and Mimosas: Every Sunday morning, B Ocean Resort offers a relaxing and restorative one-hour yoga class by the Atlantic Ocean. After the class, yogis are invited to join the Mermaids & Mimosas Sunday Brunch at the Wreck Bar. The class takes place every Sunday from 10 a.m. – 11: a.m.
Splash Into The Past: which takes place every Wednesday at Wreck Bar, is the newest show. Presented by Tropical Sirens Entertainment and directed by Leydis Castillo, the live, interactive show takes visitors on a voyage back in time through the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s. Travelers can experience an unforgettable night of trivia, games, singalongs and dancing alongside the magnificent mermaid. Costumes are welcomed and encouraged, with prizes given to the most creatively dressed guest of the night each week. Doors open at 6 p.m. for drinks and/or dinner, and the show starts at 8 p.m. Admission is $45 per adult (guests must be 18+) with a $35 credit toward food and beverages purchased during the show. Advanced reservations are required for all mermaid shows. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit https://www.boceanresort.com/mermaids-at-the-wreck-bar/.
In terms of accessibility, the hotel has ramps at the pool, as well as connecting the pool to the beach. There is also a ramp available to connect the hotel’s different towers. Both pools feature ADA Pool lifts. The resort offers valet parking at the main entrance to the lobby. There are guest rooms available that feature roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs.
The CEO and founder of B Hotels & Resorts are Ayelet Weinstein, who started working in multi-family and condo conversions in 1996. In 2004, she became interested in a local building that she assumed to be an apartment building. After pursuing the building and learning it was, in fact, a hotel, she discovered a passion for the hospitality industry and has remained involved ever since.
“I was immediately intrigued,” Weinstein told Lodging Magazine. “I was fascinated by the hospitality business model and the industry’s depth and complexity. During the economic crisis in 2008 and 2009, InSite Group, where I was a senior vice president, started to look more into hotels and basically switched its focus from multi-family to hospitality.”
“B Hotels creates an environment that encourages living life to its fullest potential. It’s in our blood,” Weinstein described. “Life in general is a collection of experiences. Travel and work play major roles in that experience, and we were able to bring these components together.”
The B Hotel and Resort is located at 1140 Seabreeze Blvd. For more details go to www.boceanresort.com or call 1-954-524-5551. B Hotels also has locations in the Florida Keys and in the Disney Springs area in Lake Buena Vista. Visit http://www.bhotelsandresorts.com.
BOUCHER BROTHERS ON THE BEACH: We were thrilled to discover that The B Hotel & Resort partners with the award-winning Boucher Brothers Management (www.boucherbrothers.com) in order to pamper guests while at the beach. I have had the pleasure of experiencing their fantastic work before during previous stays at hotels in the Hollywood and St. Petersburg areas.
Boucher Brothers is a Hospitality Management Company that specializes in a variety of outlets including pool, beach, food and beverage, water sports and team-building activities. They are a forward-thinking and proficient hospitality company expanding across North America. The company currently owns a portfolio of over 100 hotels and condominium properties, 45 blocks of public beach throughout Florida’s east and west coasts, 50 blocks of public beach in Virginia Beach, and four beaches around Lake Michigan in Chicago. They also do corporate team building and team events.
The Boucher Brothers know that when you come to the beach, you want to relax and feel pampered – their courteous and friendly staff does just that. The Boucher Brothers team provided excellent service during my stay. Upon your arrival at the beach, they will set you up with your free beach chairs, as well as an umbrella if you wish. Further, you have the option to rent the more luxurious sun loungers, with comfortable cushioning and unobstructed views of the ocean. Servers from the hotel restaurant, The Salty Siren, come right to your seat to take your order, further enhancing your relaxation.
In terms of beach sports, the Boucher Brothers have collaborated with BouYah Watersports. If you wish, you can arrange for jet skis, kayaks, banana boat rides, or paddle boards. The closest BouYah Watersports location to the B Ocean is at the Marriott Harbor Beach, which is a six-minute walk from the hotel. Guests can reserve their adventure directly online at https://bouyahwatersports.com/marriott-harbor-beach/
In terms of special needs, the Boucher Brothers have teamed up with the City of Miami Beach in offering immobile guests an easy transition to the beach. The Miami Beach Ocean Rescue team is considered the best in the United States. With them, they are able to partner up and offer beach-friendly wheelchairs, which are equipped with large wide wheels that can roll across the sand at ease without sinking. “We take the Americans with disabilities act very seriously and that’s why we have joined forces with the city to help everyone enjoy their experience at the beach,” the company states. If you are in that area, make sure to call ahead and reserve your beach wheelchair since quantities are limited. The number is (305) 673-7714 and you can pick it up at the Beach Patrol Headquarters located at 1001 Ocean Drive.
DINING OUT: There are more than 4,000 wining and dining establishments and 132 nightclubs in Broward County. The culinary scene is filled with rising star chefs, exciting restaurants, breweries and pubs, coffee houses and scenic dock-and-dine eateries, along with many great hotel restaurants.
I experienced a few places during my stay.
The Naked Crab Seafood Kitchen + Cocktail Bar
Let’s start off with the Naked Crab Seafood Kitchen + Cocktail Bar, which was conveniently located right in our hotel lobby at the B Ocean Hotel and Resort. It was the most convenient place to dine after checking in right at dinnertime. The Naked Crab embodies authentic, local dining on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Executive Chef David Morales conceptualizes slightly different menus every season and blends together fresh ingredients and spices in order to create contemporary Mediterranean dishes influenced by the flavors of Europe, and North and South America. The menu is sourced locally using fresh seafood and produce from local farms.
To sample some items on the menu, I tried the crab cake as an appetizer, as well as the scallop risotto and the particularly tasty branzino. This was capped off with some tiramisu for dessert, which was also delicious.
Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a weekend seafood brunch, locals and guests can relish in a seafood tower to share with the table or take advantage of the dry-aged prime steak. For breakfast, guests can enjoy a full menu of traditional staples and specialties, including lump crab benedict and crab avocado toast.
Matchbox Restaurant
We also experienced Matchbox Restaurant (www.matchboxrestaurants.com), part of an American chain that first opened in 2003. Matchbox currently has 15 locations, including Washington, Maryland, Virginia, and of course Florida. Matchbox is part of Thompson Hospitality, one of the largest retail food service management companies in the USA.
The Matchbox in Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale, opened in early 2022. It is located in a particularly trendy area that features dining and entertaining on the New River, with lovely water views. Since its debut, Matchbox has become known for brick oven pizzas, mini burgers, fresh salads, and chef-inspired entrées, like Miso salmon and chimichurri steak frites. Diners can enjoy elevated American bistro fare crafted from high-quality ingredients. I particularly enjoyed their delicious cocktails, including the strawberry rose margarita and the peach lemon drop, as well as the spinach and artichoke dip, the aforementioned Miso salmon (a menu highlight!), as well as the chicken pesto pizza. Warren Thompson, President and Chairman of Thompson Hospitality, started the company in 1992. It is built on values gained from 30 years of client, customer and community relationships. Veterans in the hospitality industry, the company currently owns and operates over three dozen restaurants. Other company-owned restaurants in the area include Big Buns and Willie T’s Seafood Shack.
The restaurant offers several handicap-accessible tables and a lowered bar area, as well as compliant restrooms. In order to enter, as you come out of the parking area, the sidewalk/courtyard has a ramp. Matchbox is located at 221 SW 1St Avenue. You can call 954-751-5959 for a reservation. Visit https://www.matchboxrestaurants.com/.
The Lobster Bar and Sea Grill
When seeking out places to eat in Florida, one would be amiss to forget about the fantastic local seafood scene. I had the privilege of enjoying a meal at the Lobster Bar Sea Grille while in Fort Lauderdale (https://lobsterbarseagrille.com). The restaurant, located at 454 East Los Olas, offers an extensive selection of seafood, including, as mentioned in its name, a large array of lobster dishes.
The dining room features soft white herringbone subway-tiled walls and arched ceilings. Warm custom lighting creates an intimate and inviting ambiance. Clusters of sofas are located near the bar for cocktails before or after dinner, making it the perfect place to meet friends or business associates. Adjacent to the lounge is a fully covered outdoor patio with cushioned furniture, ideal for cocktails and light dining. Walls can be brought down in this outdoor space as well on a windy day to preserve client comfort.
During my meal, I had the opportunity to taste some oysters, the restaurant’s famed lobster morsels (lightly fried lobster with Greek honey-mustard aioli), Dover sole served with brown butter and a side dish of quinoa mixed with kale, the decadent Whole Lobster & Black Winter Truffle risotto dish, as well as some profiteroles to end the meal on a sweet note. Everything was delicious!
General Manager George Mollas notes how the restaurant presents freshly caught, both locally and internationally, whole fish. “Our seafood is as fresh as fresh can be; 48 hours from the water to the table,” he said. “The atmosphere of the Lobster Bar Sea Grille is a very swanky, upscale and sexy environment”
Mollas says that his team’s goal “is to exceed our guests’ expectations. We go the limit for our guests. Whatever they need we can deliver. As guests leave the restaurant, they let me know how much they enjoy the food we prepare for them and the wonderful atmosphere. In particular, they love our attention to detail.”
The restaurant is fully code-compliant with regard to handicapped accessibility.
It seats about 175 indoors and 50 outdoors and also features two private rooms (one seating up to 60 and one seating up to 80).
The Lobster Bar Sea Grille is part of the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, which also owns eight other restaurant brands. You can purchase the Ultimate Dining Gift Card, which never expires and can be reloaded.
For reservations call (954) 772-2675. The restaurant is open for lunch on weekdays and dinner seven nights a week.
On the famous Fort Lauderdale boulevard that leads to the beach, you will find the Friendship Café, which is situated right next to the Las Olas Chabad Jewish Center. Part of The Friendship Circle, a local non-profit here in Montreal, the kosher Mediterranean restaurant and coffee bar serves lunch and dinner options, from falafel hummus plates and salads to kebab pita sandwiches and vegetarian shawarma. They offer training and employment opportunities to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
ALBANY- I have been to the city of Albany, New York (https://www.albany.org/) many times. In January 2020, I made my last visit there just prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, which put a pause on travel. Returning again more recently, I was reminded of why I like the state capital so much. In particular, I was fortunate to have a great place to stay.
WHERE TO STAY: One of the bonuses of a visit to Albany is the ability to visit some American stores not available to us here in Canada. Therefore, it was convenient that the Residence Inn Albany Washington Avenue Extension was just adjacent to the Crossgates Mall. The Residence Inn is an extended-stay hotel that is also just minutes from the Albany International Airport, the Empire State Plaza, and more. It is also under 30 minutes by car from the Saratoga Racetrack and the Global Foundries.
Staying at the Residence Inn feels like being at home, while still enjoying some excellent hotel services. You can choose between studios, one-bedroom suites, and two-bedroom suites, with the suites providing enough space for a full kitchen and separate areas where one can relax, work, and sleep. My family and I enjoyed the two-bedroom and two-bathroom suite, which was incredibly spacious.
Hotel amenities include free WiFi, daily hot breakfast, coffee, and tea. There is also an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness center, a small convenience shop, and a laundry room. The lobby is quite nice with a large amount of seating, including a nice outdoor space to relax when the weather is appropriate.
The hotel is completely accessible, with elevators, a self-operating lift, and a sloped entry into the swimming pool. Service animals are always welcome. Accessibility features available to guests upon request include adjustable height hand-held shower wands, alarm clock telephone ringers, bathtub grab rails, a bathtub seat, closed caption TV, flashing door knockers, hearing accessible rooms, and lowered electrical outlets and deadbolts. Some of the bathrooms also contain non-slip grab rails and roll-in showers.
The hotel is located at 124 Washington Avenue Extension. For more information, you can call 518-218-7240 or log onto the hotel website: http://www.marriott.com/albwa.
ATTRACTIONS: Albany truly is a great place to shop, with a wide array of stores for all to enjoy. While we stayed close to the Crossgates Mall, it was also a quick and easy drive to the nearby Colonie Center as well. The majority of entrances at both malls are ADA accessible with ample parking distributed throughout. Wheelchair rentals are also available.
Crossgates Mall (https://www.shopcrossgates.com/) has been labeled as the largest shopping, dining and entertainment destination in New York’s Capital Region. It offers over 10 different entertainment experiences, providing something for every age group. Younger children and families don’t have to shop – they can bowl their hearts out, play the newest video arcade games, see an IMAX movie, or go down some colourful indoor slides. Crossgates offers dining options to suit any taste, including 12 sit-down restaurants, 11 food court options, two fast-casual eateries, and 16 snack spots.
Colonie Center (https://shopatcoloniecenter.com/), a 1.3 million square-foot enclosed two-level, regional shopping center with over 100 specialty stores, is at the heart of New York’s Capital Region. The center is anchored by a three-level Macy’s, Boscov’s and Sears. Colonie Center features popular retailers such as The Gap, New York & Company, Bath and Body Works, Kay Jewelers, American Eagle, Victoria’s Secret, Sephora, and Barnes & Noble. The center boasts the only Cheesecake Factory Restaurant and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro in the capital region and a state-of-the-art all-digital Regal Cinema with a newly renovated RPX theater. Additional sit-down eateries include Five Guys Burgers & Fries and Moe’s Southwest Grill, as well as the second-level food court. The center sits at the intersection of Wolf Road and Central Avenue, is just 5 minutes from the Albany International Airport, and is accessible from Interstates 87 and 90.
Albany lies at the foot of the Adirondacks and the Catskill Mountains and is at the tip of the historic Hudson Valley Region. Within a short ride are the neighboring towns of Cooperstown and Saratoga Springs. Albany is home to several museums, historic homes, and outdoor activities such as boating, skiing, biking, and snowshoeing. Sights to consider exploring include the Million Dollar Staircase, the “Egg” at the Empire State Plaza, and more. Albany is also less than three hours from New York and Boston, if you’re looking to add more stops to your trip.
NICE– The capital of the French Riviera, Nice is a perfect city for a relaxing getaway. This summer, I returned to Nice for the first time in eight years and was able to enjoy a fantastic few days by the Mediterranean.
For those who have not yet visited, Nice is the fifth largest city in France, with 350,000 citizens and more than 1 million people living in the surrounding areas. Located between the Alps, Provence, Corsica, and Italy, the exceptional climate makes it a great year-round destination for travelers.
During my visit, I was able to enjoy time walking along La Promenade des Anglais, a street known throughout the world. This long avenue runs right along the Mediterranean coastline, spanning a distance of 7km, and is frequented by walkers, cyclists, and joggers alike. This area is renowned for its palm trees, its private and public beaches, and its array of hotels, including the legendary Negresco and the Palais de la Méditerranée.
Just across the street from the sea lies Vieux Nice, the historic district of the city. In Vieux Nice, you will find a hub of activity, particularly at night, where you will find an array of small restaurants with terraces, markets, craft shops, and more. Nearby, you will also find Place Masséna, a historic square known for its black and white geometric paving, red ochre buildings, and 7 statues, which when evening comes, light up with warm and lively colours.
When visiting, it is also working exploring La Promenade du Paillon, which was inaugurated in 2013. This 12-hectare green ribbon in the heart of nice is known for its 1,600 trees, 6,000 shrubs, and 50,000 perennials. Benches punctuate the walk to allow you to stop, relax, and enjoy the view.
This historic and luxurious 5-star hotel is located on the legendary Promenade de Anglais, directly across the street from the sea. There are 187 spacious guestrooms and suites, complimentary Wi-Fi, the option for mobile entry with your room key available through your smartphone, a beautiful indoor-outdoor pool, as well as a gym, sauna, and Turkish bath. The hotel restaurant, le 3e, includes a lovely terrace that overlooks the Mediterranean, as well as the outdoor pool, which includes a large and delicious breakfast buffet, which I was able to enjoy every morning. The hotel also features a business and conference center on-site. Dogs under 15kg are permitted on the premises for an additional fee.
All rooms include a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, air conditioning, an in-room, laptop-sized safe, an alarm clock, bathrobes and slippers, a hair dryer, an iron and ironing board, an electric kettle, and a mini-bar.
During my stay, I was very impressed with the hotel’s customer service. Their concierge service is able to reserve seats for hotel guests at the nearby beach – they will give you a voucher and place the charge under your room. Response to requests for room service and other needs was always swift.
In terms of accessibility, six rooms (including one suite) are adapted for the disabled with walk-in showers (equipped with a seat on the wall and a grab rail), a sink accessible for those in wheelchairs, height equipment (bed, mini bar, safe box, toilet) for wheelchair access, as well as a wardrobe with a telescopic rod.
Interestingly, a few years ago, the hotel had its own two-and-a-half-month-old Labrador puppy as part of the association “Les Chiens Guides d’Aveugles”. A hotel staff member spent two years training him as a future seeing-eye dog. He was present three weeks a month at the hotel and learned obedience and savoir-vivre, following which he was made available for adoption at no charge to a visually impaired person.
You can e-mail nice.regency@hyatt.com prior to your trip with any questions. I was certainly impressed by their quick response time. The phone number is +33 4 93 27 12 34
Dining out:
There are many fantastic dining options at your disposal in Nice. During my previous trip to Nice in 2014, I dined at Le Grand Balcon (www.legrandbalcon.net), located at 10 rue St. François de Paule near the opera house. Having had such a great experience last time, I was looking forward to returning, and it did not disappoint. Since my last visit, their terrace seems to have more than doubled in size, and all of their tables were full. While their menu offers numerous options, I personally enjoyed their sea bream ceviche with pomelo, the scallops with truffles and homemade mashed potatoes, and the parmesan cheese risotto. For dessert, I had a tasty, restyled lemon meringue pie. Undoubtedly, should you choose to visit, you will enjoy their creative and delicious cuisine.
Le Grand Balcon is wheelchair accessible.
Another excellent restaurant worth visiting is Bocca Nissa (https://www.boccanissa.com/), a trendy restaurant and tapas bar located at 3 rue St. François de Paule. At first glance, the building resembles a beautiful Mediterranean townhouse. You will enter by walking down a hallway with walls lined entirely by greenery. Their rooftop terrace provides views of Vieux Nice and is also lined with plants and twinkle lights. Their menu contains a large array of tapas to share – I personally tried their tortilla dish, as well as their fried squid and sardines, sea bream ceviche, and beef ravioli. For dessert, their chocolate bombs were a real treat. For those less interested in tapas, their menu also boasts larger meals that one may choose to share, such as lamb chops and beef ribs.
This property is also wheelchair accessible.
Needless to say, I absolutely look forward to returning to this piece of paradise in France.
The Hilton Lac-Leamy in Gatineau, Quebec, just across the river from the Canadian capital of Ottawa, is a one-of-a-kind destination. Surrounded by waterways, woodlands and recreational trails, it offers the atmosphere of an urban resort in an enchanting environment. Among all the properties of the Hilton chain, this property is first in Canada and among the top 10 across the Americas. In fact, it is a five-star hotel with four diamonds since its opening in 2001.
We were very fortunate to spend the day there recently and what a treat that was.
Upon arrival in the hotel’s lobby, I was literally dazzled by the four blown glass chandeliers created by artist Dale Chihuly, as well as the six islands of red flowers spread out on the wall at the back of the reception. In addition, a coil composed of small glass works surrounds the column of the grand staircase leading to the upper floor of the hotel.
Connected to the Lac-Leamy Casino, the hotel features a fitness center, outdoor heated pool, indoor pool, spa and wellness center and a variety of dining options. Free WiFi is available.
Unquestionably, the outdoor pool is a big draw here. We were seated poolside on comfortable lounge chairs, with a large umbrella to guard us against the sun. The pool itself was perfectly heated as I floated about relaxingly, resting on the noodles they provide each guest. There are also two large hot tubs, something I have been craving since before the pandemic. The warm water was just the tonic I needed for some aching bones.
In the future, we hope to go back and enjoy some of the fine dining options.
On the lower level, you will find the Restaurant Arôme Seafood and Grill. With a magnificent view of Lac de la Carrière, the restaurant offers a memorable experience for all. A special feature of the menu is dry-aged meat, which appeals to epicureans and meat lovers. L’Arôme was the first restaurant in the Outaouais to offer this high-end meat. In the summer season, you can also enjoy the excellence of the kitchen on its large outdoor terrace by the water. Now that is on my “to-do” list for sure.
Banco Bistro is located at the casino, offering an a la carte menu, while the Bacchus Bar and Cigar Lounge are open Wednesday to Sunday from 4 pm to midnight.
There is also the TGV Snack Bar, the seasonal pool bar. Private dining is always available with 24-hour room service. We took advantage of the latter poolside, enjoying chicken quesadillas, a pizza and some chips and drinks. There is a nice shady eating area at the pool.
You can get out of your regular routine at the luxurious Amerispa Spa, which is open every day from 10 am. There are 17 treatment rooms ready to receive you, with everything for relaxation and well-being: massages, facial and body treatments, manicures, pedicures and treatments for men.
I got to see the gorgeous stained glass work at the Conference Centre as I walked through the facility. It was designed by Jeff Scheckman of the Glass Studio in Montreal. Ten artists participated in this project.
And just some information about the first-class casino on site. I know so many Montrealers who travel regularly to this property to enjoy the hotel and take advantage of the convenience of merely walking from their room to the casino. You can check out the wide variety of games such as slot machines for every taste, table games like roulette, baccarat, blackjack and poker, and low-stakes multi-gaming stations.
There is also a 1,000-seat theatre, with high-end entertainment, and a 2,500-seat ballroom and conference hall. The 51,000 ft2 (4738 m2) Conference Centre can accommodate various events thanks to its 16 modular rooms and 1070-seat theatre. It is equipped with the necessary infrastructure and technology, including the latest audiovisual equipment and free Wi-Fi access. The concept of the resort is the balanced contrast between urban entertainment and the tranquility of a park-like setting, giving guests the choice of what suits their mood best: cycling, cross-country skiing, first-class dining, or a show.
The Canadian Museum of History is five kilometers away and downtown Ottawa is a seven kilometers drive.
Accessibility is omnipresent at this hotel in the business centre, concierge desk restaurants, meeting rooms, on elevators and in guest rooms, which have mobility features with entry or passage doors that provide 32 inches of clear width. There are valet and handicapped parking services, a clear path to the entrance, ramps leading to the passageway to the casino and accessible routes to the fitness facilities and pools. Alarms are audible, braille on the elevators and for room numbers. Service support animals are welcome.
The Hilton Lac-Leamy is located at 3, Boulevard du Casino. For more information go to www.hiltonlacleamy.com or call 819-790-6444.
Mini-Golf and Ice Cream
While in the region why not enjoy some mini-golf at Dunn-D’s (11 Notch Road) in Chelsea? (www.dunnds.com). We really enjoyed the 18-hole course. While the place was busy on the day we visited, the wait from the people ahead of us was not too bad.
After the game, head for some of the best ice cream in the area at La Cigale (14 Scott Road) (https://www.lacigaleicecream.com/index.html). Here they serve delicious handcrafted ice cream, sorbet and more. There is a big sign with the flavors of the day. You line up to pay and then head to a window where your ice cream will be ready pretty quickly. Info: lacigalechelsea@gmail.com
Last spring I saw Motown the Musical in Montreal, the American dream story of the Motown founder’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. I loved every minute of it. So when I visited New York City recently, I was naturally drawn to Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations (https://www.ainttooproudmusical.com). It won a 2019 Tony Award for Best Choreography and had 12 nominations.
Otis Williams is the last living member of The Temptations. His book about the group is the basis for the Broadway show. Williams in fact continues to perform, using the Temptations name.
Ain’t Too Proud, currently playing at the Imperial Theatre on West 45th Street until at least US Thanksgiving Weekend 2020, is the electrifying new musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With their signature dance moves and unmistakable harmonies, they rose to the top of the charts creating an amazing 42 Top 10 hits with 14 reaching number one. The rest is history — how they met, the groundbreaking heights they hit and how personal and political conflicts threatened to tear the group apart as the United States fell into civil unrest. This thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty and betrayal is a beautiful production.
Tony Award nominee Derrick Baskin portrays
Otis Williams and is the glue to the show. He narrates the entire history of
the Temptations from the opening number until the conclusion. Before walking
into the theatre I simply knew the songs which made the Temptations so
successful, but this is a true history lesson and it pulls no punches. There
have been 24 members of the Temptations since this group was first established.
Williams had to continually make the hard decisions and drop members who were
not comporting themselves properly. At one point two of the singers who were
let go returned for a reunion tour, but they could not turn over a new leaf.
Williams himself was an absentee father and husband, focused exclusively on the
business. I loved the show so much that the greatest hits of The Temptations
are now loaded on my iPhone.
After breaking house records at both Berkeley Rep and The Kennedy Center, this musical is written by three‑time Obie Award winner Dominique Morisseau, directed by two‑time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff (Jersey Boys), and featuring choreography by Tony nominee Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys, On Your Feet).
Leading the current cast of Ain’t Too
Proud as The Temptations is Tony Award nominee Derrick Baskin as Otis Williams,
James Harkness as Paul Williams, Jawan M. Jackson as Melvin Franklin, Jelani
Remy as Eddie Kendricks, and Tony Award nominee Ephraim Sykes as David Ruffin.
Ain’t Too Proud also features Saint Aubyn, Shawn Bowers, E. Clayton Cornelious,
Taylor Symone Jackson, Jahi Kearse, Jarvis B. Manning, Jr., Joshua Morgan,
Rashidra Scott, Nasia Thomas, Christian Thompson, Candice Marie Woods, Esther
Antoine, Marcus Paul James, Correy West, Drew Wildman Foster, Curtis Wiley and
Jamari Johnson Williams.
Tickets for Ain’t Too Proud are available by visiting www.Telecharge.com, by calling 800-447-7400, or by visiting the Imperial Theatre Box Office (249 West 45th Street). For groups of 10 or more, visit www.BroadwayInbound.com or call 866-302-0995. The show runs for two and a half hours.
For years I have walked by Carolines on Broadway (https://www.carolines.com), promising myself that I would one day check out this world-famous comedy club. Well, I finally did so, booking a dinner and show package on a Saturday evening.
I arrived at 5:45 pm, checked in and was shown to a nice table in the club where veteran server Alfred took my order –some crispy fresh-cut zucchini chips to start and the main course of grilled salmon and roasted potatoes. I sat beside a nice couple from New Jersey. Christina shared her culinary insights with me and before the lights closed I was following this mom of four on Instagram (Christina.katers). The menu has a nice variety of choices; appetizers such as calamari, nachos, shrimp cocktail and onion rings a selection of salads and sandwiches, pasta, chicken and steaks. For dessert you can choose from strawberry shortcake, apple tart and chocolate cake, all served with ice cream. Of course, there is a full liquor and cocktail menu.
Carolines first opened as a small cabaret club in New York’s Chelsea neighborhood in 1982. Owner Caroline Hirsch, a lifelong comedy fan, soon began booking comedians. The comedy acts – which included now-legendary performers like Jerry Seinfeld, Tim Allen, Billy Crystal, Rosie O’Donnell and Jay Leno – were a tremendous success. As the popularity of stand-up surged throughout the 1980s, so did the popularity of Carolines, which was becoming THE place to see live comedy in New York City.
Located in the heart of
Times Square, Carolines on Broadway presents the very best live comedy
entertainment seven nights a week. Just steps from many of Broadway’s most
well-known theatres, Carolines on Broadway provides the same quality
entertainment that is customary on New York’s legendary Great White Way. On the
night I went the headliner was Sinbad. Born David
Adkins, Sinbad launched his stand-up comedy career by appearing in 1983 on
“Star Search,” where he beat out another then-unknown comedian named Dennis
Miller before losing in the finals. In 1987, Sinbad landed a role in “A Different World,” a spinoff of
“The Cosby Show,” and also had his own 1993-94 sitcom, “The Sinbad Show.” He has appeared in movies, including “Houseguest,” “First Kid” and
“Jingle All the Way.” Sinbad
also is known to display his music ability after his shows. He plays multiple
instruments, primarily percussion, and has played with numerous artists and
musicians under the name “Memphis Red.”
Today, Carolines on Broadway continues to hold center stage in Times Square as one of New York City’s most popular and enduring hotspots and as the city’s only genuine nightclub. The club is a New York institution and was one of the cornerstones in the revitalization of the vibrant and bustling Times Square district. In addition to presenting such top headlining comedians, the 300-plus-seat club also features emerging talent, live podcasts, and improv and sketch comedy, as well as playing host to countless large-scale fund-raising events and high-profile benefits.
For the dinner and show package, food is a la carte. You do receive priority seating in the showroom when you have dinner before the show in the supper lounge. Just arrive at the time of your reservation and you will receive your tickets to the show. If, however, you miss your dinner reservation before the show, they will not be able to hold the reserved seats for you in the showroom and you will be sat first come, first sat.
Carolines on Broadway is a handicapped-accessible venue. Just contact the box office prior to the show at 212.757.4100 for instructions. They will lead you to a specific entrance with an elevator and staff will escort you to your seat. It is located at 1626 Broadway, between 49th and 50th Streets in Times Square.
Dining
Out
New York City is indeed
the place to dine, with an endless array of choices to please your palate. Here
are my latest recommendations.
TAO UPTOWN: We were elated to get a reservation at TAO Uptown (www.taogroup.com), an upscale Pan-Asian brand, located at 42 East 58th Street. There is also a TAO Downtown, as well as locations in Las Vegas, Chicago and Los Angeles. They will open at Mohegan Sun casino and entertainment resort in Connecticut this year.
A 16-foot Buddha, which floats above a reflecting
pool filled with Japanese carp, presides over the scene at Tao. A favorite
destination for celebrities and athletes, this heavenly dining experience
specializes in authentic Hong Kong Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisines. Tao has
three levels of dining including the prized “Skybox,” which offers views
of this former movie theatre unparalleled in New York. In addition to its 300
seats, Tao includes a sushi bar, lounge and two bars at which to enjoy the food
and the show. Be sure to make reservations.
There is a wonderful ambiance here, with trendy
music and a charismatic serving staff.
The menu here is truly designed for sharing. Our waiter Ryan made life
so much easier for our party by recommending a series of courses “family
style.” He was right on the mark with each.
We started off with some drinks: a signature Tao-tini (Belvedere Mango Passion, Malibu Run, Cranberry and Fresh Lime), a glass of prosecco and a Bubbles and Berries (True Premium Vodka, Chandon Brut, St. Germain and Fresh Strawberries). We then moved to some appetizers: The Peking duck spring rolls with hoisin sauce, the spicy tuna tartare on crispy rice and the salmon sashimi followed by miso-glazed Chilean sea bass, grilled 12-ounce imperial wagyu ribeye (served with crispy fried onions and wow this was beyond amazing!) and lobster and kimchee fried rice.
Ryan promised us a surprise for dessert and he was not kidding. Out came a very large tray featuring a giant fortune cookie (with white and dark chocolate mousse), flourless mochi cake, sugar-dusted donuts, molten chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream with chocolate syrup. Let’s just say we completely ignored the calorie count.
TAO has a magnificent sushi menu. You can study the options via their menu.
Let me just state that merely stepping inside TAO is an experience. This now represents a “must stop” for us. Hopefully, next time out we can check out TAO Downtown.
For reservations call 212-888-2288 or do so via Open Table.
BLACK TAP: What fun it was for me to experience a Black Tap (www.blacktap.com) restaurant for the first time and no less their new flagship 35th Street location (known as Black Tap 35th). Inspired by the old-school luncheonettes we grew up in, Black Tap is touted as the new take on the classic burger joint. Upscale, but not fussed-up, their award-winning burgers have gotten a lot of attention in a short amount of time, milkshakes have always been on the menu, and craft beer is part of their DNA.
Black Tap 35th serves as a core location for global menu testing and features all-new design elements, a private dining room, and more. There are also US locales on 55th Street and Soho in the Big Apple as well as spots at Downtown Disney in Anaheim, California and at the Venetian in Las Vegas. Internationally you can find them in Bahrain, Kuwait, Singapore, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates.
I was impressed the moment I walked
through the door. Tangible nods to Black Tap’s ‘80s and ‘90s hip-hop and pop
soundtrack can be found throughout the space, including an installation of
5,000 custom-designed cassette tapes and an oversized neon boombox. At the
stand-alone Shake Bar—the first in New York—guests can get a glimpse into the
magic of making one of Black Tap’s famous milkshake creations and be able to
interact with shake makers.
New York-based graffiti artists and twin brothers How and Nosmwere tapped for Black Tap 35th’s signature street art murals. Known for their large-scale installations and unique, complicated compositions, How and Nosm left their mark on the restaurant with their signature style of red, black and white-based imagery with colorful pops of pink, yellow, and purple. The brothers drew inspiration from New York City life and the Black Tap brand itself for two custom pieces within the space.
Black Tap is always innovating and has kept the hits coming at Black Tap 35th. There are always new menu items hitting the tables here as Black Tap tests dishes for potential worldwide launches. All of the classics are here too, from the All-American Burger and the award-winning wagyu beef Greg Norman Burger to the fan-favorite Korean BBQ Wings and addicting Crispy Brussels Sprouts. And it wouldn’t be a meal at Black Tap without a CrazyShake. There’s something for every sweet tooth from the original Cotton Candy strawberry shake and the best-selling Cookie’s ‘N Cream Supreme shake, to the newly added Cinnamon Toast cereal-flavored Churro Choco Taco Shake topped with a Choco Taco ice cream treat and churros. Don’t forget the beverages. True to its name (a nod to craft beer bar tap handles), Black Tap 35th’s beer menu features New York regional specialties like The Bronx Brewery No Resolutions Imperial IPA and Greenport Harbor Beehave Summer Ale.
I started off with the Queso & Chips appetizer – zesty cheese served with warm tortilla chips and a house salad. The Old Fashioned Prime Burger was my main choice, topped with crimini mushrooms, melted swiss cheese, caramelized onions and horseradish with some crispy fries.
I did my best to conserve some appetite for a crazy shake and opted for the Cake Shake. This is a cake batter milkshake with a vanilla frosted rim and rainbow sprinkles, topped with Funfetti cake, whipped cream and a cherry. My server wisely recommended that I gently move the cake portion to a plate, enjoying every morsel. For the shake, I used the spoon at the start before switching to the straw. It was worth all of the calories, especially knowing that I had an 11-block walk back to my hotel.
Black Tap is owned by husband-and-wife power couple Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan. Soon Black Tap will announce forthcoming openings in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the U.S. “It’s an exciting time for Black Tap as we open our 14th location and look to the future of the brand,” says Barish. “We have fans from around the world and look forward to bringing the Black Tap experience to even more burger lovers as we approach our fifth-year anniversary in 2020.”
Black Tap 35th is located at45 West 35th Street and is open from 11 am to midnight daily. You can call (646) 943-5135.
A BRAZILIAN DINING EXPERIENCE: Fogo de Chão (fogo-dee-shown) is a leading Brazilian steakhouse, or churrascaria, specializing in the centuries-old Southern Brazilian cooking technique of churrasco – the art of roasting high-quality cuts of meats over an open flame, all of which are carved tableside by Brazilian-trained gaucho chefs. There is Picanha (signature sirloin), Filet Mignon, Ribeye, Fraldinha (Brazilian sirloin) Cordeiro (lamb) and more. In addition to the main dishes, they boast a gourmet market table, authentic Brazilian side dishes, and an award-winning wine list.
IMG 6822
Founded in Southern Brazil in 1979, there are currently 56 locations throughout Brazil, the United States, Mexico and the Middle East. I had a chance to experience this restaurant for the very first time at the beautiful West 53rd Street location in midtown Manhattan, just a short walk from Times Square and steps away from MoMA. Just before Christmas 2013, Fogo opened this 16,000-square-foot flagship location. The stunning architectural design includes a seventeen-foot bas-relief sculpture of Antonio Caringi’s, O Laçador, and a historical monument in Porto Alegre, Brazil. The three-level facility features al fresco patio dining and a lounge area that is perfect for gathering with friends. Unquestionably this was a totally new dining experience for me and I was beyond impressed. For first-timers like me, you will need a little guidance in terms of how to navigate the menu. Manager Ricardo Oliveira and his staff did precisely that. This is a “fun” place to dine for sure.
I opted in favor of the Full Churrasco Experience, which for $69.95 includes the trained chefs coming to your table. All you need to do is flip this small circular card to the green side and you will receive a visit, getting a chance to select the precise cut of meat you want. Everything was so fresh and delicious, I found it hard not to keep flipping my card over. The beyond the impressive market table and feijoada bar is included, featuring seasonal salads, soups, fresh vegetables, imported charcuterie, hearts of palm, giant asparagus, fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh-cut and steamed broccoli, marinated artichoke bottoms, tabbouleh, smoked salmon, an assortment of fine cheeses and much more. You can also order this for $34.95 and it can indeed constitute a meal.
Their
market table is a fabulous way to get your meal started. The server also
brought a basket of cheesy bread to the table and a delicious jumbo shrimp
cocktail appetizer in a bowl of ice. Each piece of meat seemed better than the
last, cutting like butter. A server came by and offered me some mashed potatoes
and vegetables. There was not a moment during this dinner when either a server,
chef or manager did not stop by to see if I needed anything else.
As for my beverage, the guarana Antarctica is the national soda of Brazil and contains guarana berries found in the Amazon. The dessert menu, fortunately, had a calorie count and I chose the Tres Leches Cake – a rich cake soaked in three types of milk and then topped with vanilla mousse and salted caramel de leite. I enjoyed this with a cup of decaf cappuccino.
Next time I dine here I will definitely try either the mango Chilean sea bass, pan-seared salmon and if dining with my family, the seafood tower.
In addition to the Full Churrasco
Experience, Fogo offers its guests multiple ways to enjoy the experience at
varying price points, including weekday lunch starting at $15, weekend
Brazilian Brunch and a Bar Fogo menu that features smaller, sharable plates,
Brazilian-inspired cocktails and happy hour.
For more information about Fogo de Chão, the new culinary additions or to make dining reservations, visit http://www.fogo.com. You can reach the West 53rd location at 212-969-9980.
A FINE IRISH PUB: Located just up the block from my hotel, The Algonquin, is O’Donoghue’s Restaurant and Pub (https://odpubnyc.com) at 156 West 44th Street. I have been walking by the place for several years now, intrigued by the lineups outside. Well, this place indeed exudes Irish warmth. Manager Helen Moran is from Ireland and so was my charming server Sarah. With 24 beers on tap, 10 HD plasma flat screens and traditional Irish and American cuisine, O’Donoghue’s is the perfect place to unwind after work (happy hour specialty drinks), for sporting events (showing all major sports channels) and for private parties (party packages available). They are right in the middle of the Theatre District, so this is the perfect place to stop by for pre/post-theatre meals and drinks, or if you’re just shopping around town.
I had tickets for a 7:30 pm musical close by, so I arrived at 6 pm. The service was impeccable and I enjoyed my meal at a good pace, finishing with more than sufficient time to be sitting in my seat 10 minutes before the curtain went up.
There is a regular menu as well as those for kids, late-night, weekend brunch and another just for the bar. They also have daily specials. I started off with some piping hot beef and barley soup, a delicious order of garlic cheesy bread, with marinara sauce, and a glass of prosecco wine. For the main course, I was debating between their signature burger, one of the sandwiches and the special chicken and mashed potatoes. I opted for the latter. The chicken was cut into neat thin slices, moist and extremely tasty. I made the right choice. Did I have room for dessert? The homemade apple pie with vanilla ice cream sounded like the perfect way to conclude dinner. Along with a fresh cup of decaf coffee, I finished every morsel, leaving over just a bit of the ice cream.
There is a great atmosphere in this place. You can call (212) 997-2262.
The exceptional Tony Award-winning revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma may be closing its run on January 19, 2020, at Broadway’s Circle in the Square Theatre, but a tour will fittingly be opening starting in Oklahoma next fall, ultimately visiting other places in the United States and hopefully Canada.
The
first collaboration between iconic Broadway duo Richard Rodgers and Oscar
Hammerstein II, Oklahoma! premiered
for the first time on Broadway in 1943. The musical is credited with being the
first of its kind, integrating its book, score, and choreography with the goal
of advancing the plot.
This revival serves as the Broadway debut of visionary director Daniel Fish, who has created a vivid re-imaging of this country-set classic. While he left the original text and score intact, he has managed to explore the plot through a 21st-century lens, making an old story feel new and relevant again.
The cast of this darker Oklahoma! is led by Rebecca Naomi Jones as Laurey and 2019 Tony Award nominee Damon Daunno as Curly – both are in exceptional voice and have completely re-invented the roles. They are joined by 2019 Tony nominees Mary Testa (Aunt Eller) and Tony Award winner Ali Stroker (Ado Annie), as well as many other exceptionally talented company members.
The production has been hailed as Best of
the Year and received a Critic’s Pick from the New York Times. Set in Oklahoma
just after the turn of the century, the musical explores the complicated love
story of Curly, an idealist of a cowboy, and Laurey, a stubborn farm girl, as
they fall in love.
Those familiar with the original production will remember the 15-minute Dream Ballet sequence which once closed the show’s first act, a method of exploring Laurey’s romantic feelings and fears. In this revival, the sequence has been re-developed as an awe-inspiring modern dance sequence performed with dim lighting and frantic music. The room watched in hushed silence as dancer Gabrielle Hamilton made her way across the floor.
Making the production all the more unique is the set itself. Performed at Circle in the Square, a small and circular theatre, audience members are truly immersed in the experience. Some lucky audience members even had the opportunity to buy tickets providing them seats directly on stage, where they were teased and flirted with by the characters throughout the show. Red Crock-Pots sit on the tables on stage throughout act one, labeled “hot”. Why? Because they are cooking the chili, which is served with cornbread to all audience members during intermission.
LITTLE FANG PHOTO
In particular, the show has received quite a bit of buzz for the casting of Ali Stroker in the role of Ado Annie, the comedic foil to Laurey and Curly’s love story. Stroker, originally discovered on Ryan Murphy’s reality TV competition “The Glee Project,” made history in 2015 as the first actress in a wheelchair to appear on a Broadway stage. Once again, she made history last year as the first performer in a wheelchair to receive a Tony Award. During her acceptance speech, she dedicated the award to “every kid who is watching tonight who has a disability, who has a limitation or a challenge, who has been waiting to see themselves represented in this arena.” No doubt about it, she truly is an inspiration. In addition to Stroker, blind casting in this production includes people of color in roles that were traditionally given to white people. Stroker’s wheelchair is given its own set of choreography but is in no way integral to the character. In fact, Stroker performs 5 shows weekly, with her fantastic understudy, Sasha Hutchings, playing the role for the three other shows. Hutchings does not use a wheelchair during the performance.
The 31-year-old Stroker has been paralyzed since the age of
two following a car crash. After her Tony win, she was asked by a reporter how
to make Broadway and theatre more accessible.
“The theatres for the house, where all the audience comes in, that is all made accessible to patrons,” Stroker said. “But the backstages are not. So I would ask theatre owners and producers to really look into how they can begin to make the backstage accessible, so performers with disabilities can get around.”
What sort of challenges does she face each day in terms of performing? “I leave home an hour and 45 minutes before curtain,” she explained. “The show has been so supportive of my needs, providing a car for me to get to and from the theater and helping me inside the theater. Because there are a lot of stairs at the theater’s main entrance, I go in through the office building next door, and then Circle in the Square put in a stairlift for me to get down to the dressing rooms and stage level. They also put in a ramp backstage so I can get around.”
I could not have been more impressed by Daniel Fish’s production of Oklahoma!. It is truly a brilliant feat
worthy of celebration, and I felt grateful to have been in the presence of such
talent and creativity.
Tickets are available at the box office (1633 Broadway at 50th), www.telecharge.com or by calling (212) 239-6200. See the website for more information: oklahomabroadway.com. The show runs for two hours and 45 minutes, including one intermission. Due to the mature content in this production, it is recommended for children ages 12 and up. This production contains fog, loud gunshot effects, moments of darkness, and violence.
