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Showing posts with label brick. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brick. Show all posts
19.3.16
15.11.15
24.1.13
Ocho
http://hotelocho.com/food.html
APPEARANCE
SWIRL
an interesting combination of crisp and sweet, complex palate, medium-bodied
Ocho is a hard to miss lower level lounge/restaurant visible from Spadina. Cheri had once brought me here quickly, and we decided the place never got the attention it deserves. So we made our way after work, on the Thursday before IDS.
APPEARANCE
fizzy, blush
Entering from the side, this place is quite minimalistic - the tall ceiling, glass entrance on a brick building. No obvious logo to feel sure we are going the right way.
NOSE
simple, slightly crisp, peach
I entered and went down the short flight of (industrial-like) metal stairs. The bartender on the other side greeted me and let me pick a spot. As I settled down, I noticed there were a lot of people sitting by themselves on laptops or just enjoying the company of a drink. The ambiance was set with the upbeat Buena Vista Social Club playing the in the background. It felt trendy. On the side of the dining area was a split-level loft area with sofas - a bit of a lounge.
SWIRL
candied oranges, tropical fruit
The waitress handed me their elegant leather gatefold menu, with their logo debossed in the middle - tres chic. I was curious to know more about their Muskoka Mad Tom IPA as well as their Blanche de Chambly. She clearly though the Blanche de Chambly is a better option, as I am more than happy I listened to her. It was floral, white and smooth. Cheri went for his usual Thornbury Cider - crisp, acidic, refreshing. We decided to share an Ocho Salad and their Puff Pastry Tart.
PALATE
an interesting combination of crisp and sweet, complex palate, medium-bodied
We got some bread accompanied by a small bowl of balsamic, oil and pepper. The mixture was somehow quite watery, but we were glad to calm down our appetite.
Their Ocho Salad has nicely presented - candied almonds on the peek, underneath a generous piece of goat cheese, followed by a large amount of spring leaves and rivers of raspberry vinaigrette. On the side there were plenty of fresh raspberries as well as half an avocado. Honestly, I though there were one too many flavours going on. Definitely no cheap salad to make, perhaps it was the large amount of goat cheese that contributed to my opinion. Perhaps, a bread on the side would have also helped de-intensify the dish.
The Tart came as another heap, with passionate balsamic strokes everywhere. The puff pastry dish was baked with broccoli, chestnuts, blue cheese, pickled apples and romaine hearts. A very experimental chef indeed. I think removing the pickled apples would definitely help, and making the blue cheese just a hint. It was just too many surprises at every bite, I was rather afraid of what is next. On the bright side, I think that the fact that all the ingredients were in large chucks was a good idea - to make sure nobody can have them all ingredients at once.
FINISH
short but heavy, butter scotch
We made our way to the rest rooms - very cold, but modern, dark and clean. On the way, I saw the stairs leading up to the hotel rooms.
As were leaving, I noticed a fellow designer from school hanging out there. He let me know the artwork on the walls changed every few months - local artists. Currently there were simple colourful circle crops.
The minimalistic interior was a nice contrast to their dishes.
Overall, a sweet, opinionated, pink Muscat.. perhaps from Provence.
Overall, a sweet, opinionated, pink Muscat.. perhaps from Provence.
22.11.12
Elle M'a Dit
http://ellemadit.com/
Baldwin in the summer.. charming, warm and full of life. (I used to live in the area) Ever since my chouchou sis mentioned of this new place opening, its been on our radar.
APPEARANCE
unique label, deep red wine
A black board with the menus clipped on the street, in front of this small brick house; adorable script wordmark on a bordeaux-red siding, and a food doodle-like illustration on the side wall. Before the entrance - a stone patio with long wooden benches, which I'd love to see it in the summertime!
NOSE
sweet oak, blackberry, plum
Once in, there are tall, narrow, wooden stairs leading upstairs. I sneaked a view of the charming bay window table and bar before we were greeted and walked upstairs. The place was roomy due to the lovely tall ceilings. It was also mysterious and elegant with its upstairs level all wood. The interior was completed with white walls, red window frames and four wooden beams in the middle which had hangers on them (a good design solution).
SWIRL
hints of licorice, earth meld
We sat at a cute side table and a sweet, timid asian lady gave us our Modern Alsatian Cuisine Lunch menu. We got water very quickly and she informed us of their daily specials. The menu consists of Tarte flambées and Sandwiches mainly. It is very well organized with plenty of breathing space. Soon after we noticed the wine menu on the back and handwritten on the wall's blackboard. After some time of being excited to spend some time together and forgetting we need to make some decisions, the waitress was back. We asked about their wines. Sylvaner 2010 from Alsace, we saw and had to check what it is. She was relatively knowledgable. By the sounds of it, Sylvaner would be definitely one my sister would enjoy. I asked for their Pinot Noir after agreeing on their Tarte Portobello and daily Sandwich.
PALATE
sumptuous textures, round tannins, one-of-a-kind character
We had so much to catch up on, that I would be a poor judge on our time before all arrived. The Sylvaner was lovely - light, fruity, hints of minerals and semi-dry. The Pinot was worthwhile as well, very typical.My sandwich arrived with mixed greens, cranberry, sunflower seeds salad on the side. The sourdough bread was grill-pressed and inside was the intense combination of caramelized onions and sauerkraut on top of the marinated hanger steak with a hint of their unique horseradish mayo. Perhaps a dish more suited for dinner and to be enjoyed with a heavier red wine. The Tarte Portobello had chunks of portobello, tad of sundried tomatoes and grated gruyere on top. The tart itself was like a very thin pita bread, oven-baked with all the lovely ingredients on top. It was an artisan dish - more for snacking then a substantial meal. However sharing both with my sis, it all worked out.
We lingered on our flavourful food, light wine and lovely company. We felt very private as it was getting later on in the afternoon.We next decided to share their famous tart flambée for dessert with some of their Kusmi-Tea. I picked their St-Petersburg (citrus, red fruit and caramel) while my sis got the classic Darjeeling black tea. They came very quick together with the flambee. I was not that fond of this tart flambée - apple, cinnamon and some cinnamon formage blanc. I would definitely recommend some honey to it, as opposed to the described cinnamon sugar (and something more..perhaps some nuts). The flambé would be a dream-come-true for any cinnamon lovers out there, though. With the lovely tea, it really made us feel like its snowing outside, on this light, sunny day.
FINISH
long, ripe, smoky finish
And so with the light french music in the background, time just seemed to slow down..it turned out we spent hours in there, we realized, as we were the last ones in the restaurant; an hour after it was supposed to close for lunch.. oooops!
I must add, we got our bill with a lovely business card.. thick, symmetrical, well spaced out - a pleasure to my eyes and fingers. thanks!
overall.. a complex Bordeaux with a strong character.
Baldwin in the summer.. charming, warm and full of life. (I used to live in the area) Ever since my chouchou sis mentioned of this new place opening, its been on our radar.
APPEARANCE
unique label, deep red wine
A black board with the menus clipped on the street, in front of this small brick house; adorable script wordmark on a bordeaux-red siding, and a food doodle-like illustration on the side wall. Before the entrance - a stone patio with long wooden benches, which I'd love to see it in the summertime!
NOSE
sweet oak, blackberry, plum
Once in, there are tall, narrow, wooden stairs leading upstairs. I sneaked a view of the charming bay window table and bar before we were greeted and walked upstairs. The place was roomy due to the lovely tall ceilings. It was also mysterious and elegant with its upstairs level all wood. The interior was completed with white walls, red window frames and four wooden beams in the middle which had hangers on them (a good design solution).
SWIRL
hints of licorice, earth meld
We sat at a cute side table and a sweet, timid asian lady gave us our Modern Alsatian Cuisine Lunch menu. We got water very quickly and she informed us of their daily specials. The menu consists of Tarte flambées and Sandwiches mainly. It is very well organized with plenty of breathing space. Soon after we noticed the wine menu on the back and handwritten on the wall's blackboard. After some time of being excited to spend some time together and forgetting we need to make some decisions, the waitress was back. We asked about their wines. Sylvaner 2010 from Alsace, we saw and had to check what it is. She was relatively knowledgable. By the sounds of it, Sylvaner would be definitely one my sister would enjoy. I asked for their Pinot Noir after agreeing on their Tarte Portobello and daily Sandwich.
PALATEsumptuous textures, round tannins, one-of-a-kind character
We had so much to catch up on, that I would be a poor judge on our time before all arrived. The Sylvaner was lovely - light, fruity, hints of minerals and semi-dry. The Pinot was worthwhile as well, very typical.My sandwich arrived with mixed greens, cranberry, sunflower seeds salad on the side. The sourdough bread was grill-pressed and inside was the intense combination of caramelized onions and sauerkraut on top of the marinated hanger steak with a hint of their unique horseradish mayo. Perhaps a dish more suited for dinner and to be enjoyed with a heavier red wine. The Tarte Portobello had chunks of portobello, tad of sundried tomatoes and grated gruyere on top. The tart itself was like a very thin pita bread, oven-baked with all the lovely ingredients on top. It was an artisan dish - more for snacking then a substantial meal. However sharing both with my sis, it all worked out.We lingered on our flavourful food, light wine and lovely company. We felt very private as it was getting later on in the afternoon.We next decided to share their famous tart flambée for dessert with some of their Kusmi-Tea. I picked their St-Petersburg (citrus, red fruit and caramel) while my sis got the classic Darjeeling black tea. They came very quick together with the flambee. I was not that fond of this tart flambée - apple, cinnamon and some cinnamon formage blanc. I would definitely recommend some honey to it, as opposed to the described cinnamon sugar (and something more..perhaps some nuts). The flambé would be a dream-come-true for any cinnamon lovers out there, though. With the lovely tea, it really made us feel like its snowing outside, on this light, sunny day.
FINISH
long, ripe, smoky finish
And so with the light french music in the background, time just seemed to slow down..it turned out we spent hours in there, we realized, as we were the last ones in the restaurant; an hour after it was supposed to close for lunch.. oooops!
I must add, we got our bill with a lovely business card.. thick, symmetrical, well spaced out - a pleasure to my eyes and fingers. thanks!
overall.. a complex Bordeaux with a strong character.
11.7.12
Pure Spirits Oyster Bar
http://www.purespirits.ca/
Summerlicious in Distillery!
I really wanted to try the Boiler House but two days in a row they had a private function, so as recommended by them, I booked our reservation with their sister company.
APPEARANCE
dark, deep
Quite a few people cramming by the front of this brick and dark green building. A large metal cut sign above, although I am normally not for stencil type at a gourmet restaurants. After saying we have a reservation, we passed all the people standing around and entered through the double wide open door.
NOSE
raspberry, hints of plum
Inside brick, wood, black counter tops - looking great. A bit of a cellar feel, from the grungy lights and the racks of bottles on the wall. We were given a spot outside.
The patio is the perfect proportion - definitely not tiny European style, but rather laid back enough to notice but not be in people's conversations. Again dark tables, shiny chairs, big umbrellas and flowers on the side.
SWIRL
spicy notes, bits of bitter chocolate
We were given their well-put menus with the logo debossed on the black leather covers. We enjoyed reading about the different oyster descriptions, described as if wine. They sounded very intriguing, and could be ordered in singles. Definitely worth going for a night to taste them all.
The summerlicious menu has a wineglass closeup photo on the back and front, a bit random and hard to notice.
I ordered their Grilled Calamari to start and Atlantic Salmon Fillet after. Cheri had their Mixed Garden Leaves followed by a Grilled AAA Alberta Striploin. Our waitress said we can wait up on desserts for now. They also had a special short wine list. We ordered Jackson-Triggs Reserve Sauvignon Blanc for our appetizers followed by a glass of JT Reserve Merlot to go with Cheri's stake and a glass of Woodbridge Chardonnay for my salmon.
PALATE
full bodied, a bit still, dry
Tap water and bread quickly arrived on our table. With a basket-like fold, the buns were warm and fresh served with creamy, light, salted butter on the side. Our appetizers didn't take long either. Cheri's Salad was worthwhile thanks so the nice touch of smoked almonds and the sweet champagne vinaigrette. I had a little trouble eating my calamari as they were hardly cooked. There was a heavy grill/smoke smell but if I was to have any unpleasant thoughts, I wouldn't have been able to get through. I have to add though, I am not much into chewy cartilage kind of textures.
Next came my salmon with a chiumichurri baked glaze(a bit burned) on top of a crispy polena, with a side of garlic vegetables all in soubise sauce. Overall great, but salmon a tad overcooked. My Chardonnay was better than I expected - flowers, pear, and spice. Cheri's striploin was a beauty - tender and juicy, it came on top of mashed potatoes, vegetables in sweet balsamic sauce (vincotto). His Merlot was heavy with hints of raspberry, blueberry and bits of spice. Cheri left a bit of it, and I finished it off with my Decadent Chocolate Mousse. It was orgasmic, especially since my mousse came in a dark chocolate shell on raspberry jam and a few sprinkled peppercorns - the wine was a beautify match. Cheri had their gelato, and he was quite happy.
FINISH
smooth, lasting
Throughout, we couldn't help but notice the big, strange, orange plastic containers with gas on every table, but we never saw them work.
The patio was even better at sunset and after a few glasses of wine.
overall.. a unique Malbec.
Summerlicious in Distillery!
I really wanted to try the Boiler House but two days in a row they had a private function, so as recommended by them, I booked our reservation with their sister company.
APPEARANCE
dark, deep
Quite a few people cramming by the front of this brick and dark green building. A large metal cut sign above, although I am normally not for stencil type at a gourmet restaurants. After saying we have a reservation, we passed all the people standing around and entered through the double wide open door.
NOSEraspberry, hints of plum
Inside brick, wood, black counter tops - looking great. A bit of a cellar feel, from the grungy lights and the racks of bottles on the wall. We were given a spot outside.
The patio is the perfect proportion - definitely not tiny European style, but rather laid back enough to notice but not be in people's conversations. Again dark tables, shiny chairs, big umbrellas and flowers on the side.
SWIRL
spicy notes, bits of bitter chocolate
We were given their well-put menus with the logo debossed on the black leather covers. We enjoyed reading about the different oyster descriptions, described as if wine. They sounded very intriguing, and could be ordered in singles. Definitely worth going for a night to taste them all. The summerlicious menu has a wineglass closeup photo on the back and front, a bit random and hard to notice.
I ordered their Grilled Calamari to start and Atlantic Salmon Fillet after. Cheri had their Mixed Garden Leaves followed by a Grilled AAA Alberta Striploin. Our waitress said we can wait up on desserts for now. They also had a special short wine list. We ordered Jackson-Triggs Reserve Sauvignon Blanc for our appetizers followed by a glass of JT Reserve Merlot to go with Cheri's stake and a glass of Woodbridge Chardonnay for my salmon.
PALATE
full bodied, a bit still, dry
Tap water and bread quickly arrived on our table. With a basket-like fold, the buns were warm and fresh served with creamy, light, salted butter on the side. Our appetizers didn't take long either. Cheri's Salad was worthwhile thanks so the nice touch of smoked almonds and the sweet champagne vinaigrette. I had a little trouble eating my calamari as they were hardly cooked. There was a heavy grill/smoke smell but if I was to have any unpleasant thoughts, I wouldn't have been able to get through. I have to add though, I am not much into chewy cartilage kind of textures.
Next came my salmon with a chiumichurri baked glaze(a bit burned) on top of a crispy polena, with a side of garlic vegetables all in soubise sauce. Overall great, but salmon a tad overcooked. My Chardonnay was better than I expected - flowers, pear, and spice. Cheri's striploin was a beauty - tender and juicy, it came on top of mashed potatoes, vegetables in sweet balsamic sauce (vincotto). His Merlot was heavy with hints of raspberry, blueberry and bits of spice. Cheri left a bit of it, and I finished it off with my Decadent Chocolate Mousse. It was orgasmic, especially since my mousse came in a dark chocolate shell on raspberry jam and a few sprinkled peppercorns - the wine was a beautify match. Cheri had their gelato, and he was quite happy.
FINISH
smooth, lasting
Throughout, we couldn't help but notice the big, strange, orange plastic containers with gas on every table, but we never saw them work.
The patio was even better at sunset and after a few glasses of wine.
overall.. a unique Malbec.
13.6.12
Mill Street Brewpub
http://www.millstreetbrewery.com/
http://toronto.millstreetbrewpub.ca/
Working in the distillery, its hard not to hear about this place. I once went for drinks after work and I was very curious to come back.
APPEARANCE
dark, hint of brick
On Pure Spirits Mew and Tank House Lane, the distillery is the
perfect place for this delightful brewery/restaurant. Brick walls make a
great background for the red-wooden logo. Black & red umbrellas and
flowers in the front patio are very inviting to everyone.I got there 15min
earlier, was given a cell-phone like beeper and was told there is a
20min wait for the patio which was realistically 40min. The weather was
great and the beeper worked all around the distillery, so you are
alright if you want to explore.
NOSE
blackcurrant, pepper and spice
In we went, and what a long walk to get to the back patio.. we passed a bright sunny bar area, a few large brass kettles behind glass like
monuments in the middle, an area with awesome graphic wallpaper and
finally the back patio. I loved the lively ambiance all throughout and
surprisingly I didn't get a corporate feel at all, apart from my feet
feeling it.
We were seated at two wooden tables, side by side, next to a wall made of brick-looking pieces of wood, overlapping randomly and sticking out. The best part of that wall was the heat it radiated after the sunset.
SWIRL
vivacious, hint of plum
Our waitress was quick to greet us, and we knew what we were having - a pitcher of Wit. This Belgian style, unfiltered, wheat beer is smooth and refreshing served with slices of orange. All of you, not-too-much-beer-fans, this is a way to get hooked. But I ordered too quickly. Flipping through the menu, their Wednesday special is Flat bread & flight of 4 brews.
Our waitress was super cool and knowledgeable. I was curious to ask her about the building, as rumor has it - it is not their primary brewery. It turns out only two brews are produced there. Their main breweries are in Peterborough and Ottawa. It was a long wonder on my side as regards to my dish this evening. All dishes are made with beer. After asking for recommendations, although unsure, I ordered the Herb Marinated Chicken Wrap. Cheri and Valya ordered her first recommendations, which they wanted straight from the beginning, Flat Iron Cobb Salad and Ontario Pulled Pork.
Our pitcher came quickly with the awesome Wit beer. It was a bit of a wait for the food but I am not surprised, with the amount of people there. The weather was perfect - the sun had set and there was a light breeze.
PALATE
supple and round, hint of iron
The food was nicely arranged, nothing too special. My Marinated Chicken Wrap was better than expected. The cucumber tortilla was warm and crispy. It started with sweet notes followed by spicy ones. It was the tomato avocado salsa and chipotle mayo that spiced it up, while the chicken, brie, and green onion balanced it out. I think the sauce in there was the beer ingredient or the chicken marination (or so I'd like to think because otherwise I got the only dish no the menu without beer in it). My side of hand-cut fries were great.
Cheri's Pulled Pork sandwich was really big and to be completely honest, smelled like blood to me. The smoked jalapeñoand the smoked Gouda was hardly noticeable but the apple-cabbage slaw was a really nice touch.
Valya was very happy with her Cobb Salad, but I was too full with my dish to give it a taste. The dessert list looked decent but not for today.
FINISH
smooth with a hint of chocolate
Overall, I was happy with the food and the service. I would love to try that recommended Flat Iron Cobb Salad, or the Fish and Chips, or better off that 4 brews deal on a Wednesday! Also, their Coffee Porter sounds almost dessert-like.
overall.. a flavourful Shiraz
http://toronto.millstreetbrewpub.ca/
Working in the distillery, its hard not to hear about this place. I once went for drinks after work and I was very curious to come back.
APPEARANCEdark, hint of brick
On Pure Spirits Mew and Tank House Lane, the distillery is the
perfect place for this delightful brewery/restaurant. Brick walls make a
great background for the red-wooden logo. Black & red umbrellas and
flowers in the front patio are very inviting to everyone.I got there 15min
earlier, was given a cell-phone like beeper and was told there is a
20min wait for the patio which was realistically 40min. The weather was
great and the beeper worked all around the distillery, so you are
alright if you want to explore.NOSE
blackcurrant, pepper and spice
In we went, and what a long walk to get to the back patio.. we passed a bright sunny bar area, a few large brass kettles behind glass like
monuments in the middle, an area with awesome graphic wallpaper and
finally the back patio. I loved the lively ambiance all throughout and
surprisingly I didn't get a corporate feel at all, apart from my feet
feeling it.
We were seated at two wooden tables, side by side, next to a wall made of brick-looking pieces of wood, overlapping randomly and sticking out. The best part of that wall was the heat it radiated after the sunset.SWIRL
vivacious, hint of plum
Our waitress was quick to greet us, and we knew what we were having - a pitcher of Wit. This Belgian style, unfiltered, wheat beer is smooth and refreshing served with slices of orange. All of you, not-too-much-beer-fans, this is a way to get hooked. But I ordered too quickly. Flipping through the menu, their Wednesday special is Flat bread & flight of 4 brews.
Our waitress was super cool and knowledgeable. I was curious to ask her about the building, as rumor has it - it is not their primary brewery. It turns out only two brews are produced there. Their main breweries are in Peterborough and Ottawa. It was a long wonder on my side as regards to my dish this evening. All dishes are made with beer. After asking for recommendations, although unsure, I ordered the Herb Marinated Chicken Wrap. Cheri and Valya ordered her first recommendations, which they wanted straight from the beginning, Flat Iron Cobb Salad and Ontario Pulled Pork.
Our pitcher came quickly with the awesome Wit beer. It was a bit of a wait for the food but I am not surprised, with the amount of people there. The weather was perfect - the sun had set and there was a light breeze.
PALATEsupple and round, hint of iron
The food was nicely arranged, nothing too special. My Marinated Chicken Wrap was better than expected. The cucumber tortilla was warm and crispy. It started with sweet notes followed by spicy ones. It was the tomato avocado salsa and chipotle mayo that spiced it up, while the chicken, brie, and green onion balanced it out. I think the sauce in there was the beer ingredient or the chicken marination (or so I'd like to think because otherwise I got the only dish no the menu without beer in it). My side of hand-cut fries were great.
Cheri's Pulled Pork sandwich was really big and to be completely honest, smelled like blood to me. The smoked jalapeñoand the smoked Gouda was hardly noticeable but the apple-cabbage slaw was a really nice touch.
Valya was very happy with her Cobb Salad, but I was too full with my dish to give it a taste. The dessert list looked decent but not for today.
FINISH
smooth with a hint of chocolate
Overall, I was happy with the food and the service. I would love to try that recommended Flat Iron Cobb Salad, or the Fish and Chips, or better off that 4 brews deal on a Wednesday! Also, their Coffee Porter sounds almost dessert-like.
overall.. a flavourful Shiraz
10.5.12
Le Papillon
http://www.lepapillonfront.com/
I had no idea we were even going anywhere.. spur of the moment decision from cheri.
APPEARANCE
dark, chalk red
It is a cute area right where front and wellington meet - a tall, brick building on the south side. If it wasn't for the bright yellow awning, it wouldn't be the same. Lots of black elements - siding, frames, chairs. It was a light evening, relatively warm and their patio was on, so the decision was easy.
NOSE
heavy, hint of deep black berry and american oak
A filipino man greeted us after we opened the glass, heavy, long front doors. Inside was dark, kind of romantic, dim candle-like lights, red and black on the furniture and walls. The host followed us with the menus, as we sat ourselves down. Charming wood plank tables with metal black chairs were all around. Warm, yellow-orange napkins, cutlery, plates and glasses were all waiting.
SWIRL
bell pepper, tar, bacon fat
These menus had nothing to do with papillons (butterflies). The white pages looked plain, missed the excitement of the name. As we said we are coming in for a snack, we got the lunch menu. Cheri said this place is known for its crepes, and so we picked out two Galette Ratatouille and Crepe du St Laurent Marche. Our polite french waitress gave us some more time to explore the Les Boissons menu as she poured us water. We went with a Pinot Grigio and a Sangiovese, as this month is dedicated to our Italian wine exploration. Fresh, warm buns quickly arrived at our tables as well as a lovely shot of the chef's gazpacho. It turned out to be very windy, half-way though - the yellow napkins and cutlery flew - almost like butterflies.
PALATE
medium tannins, lean, good balance
I had no idea we were even going anywhere.. spur of the moment decision from cheri.
APPEARANCE
dark, chalk red
It is a cute area right where front and wellington meet - a tall, brick building on the south side. If it wasn't for the bright yellow awning, it wouldn't be the same. Lots of black elements - siding, frames, chairs. It was a light evening, relatively warm and their patio was on, so the decision was easy.
NOSE
heavy, hint of deep black berry and american oakA filipino man greeted us after we opened the glass, heavy, long front doors. Inside was dark, kind of romantic, dim candle-like lights, red and black on the furniture and walls. The host followed us with the menus, as we sat ourselves down. Charming wood plank tables with metal black chairs were all around. Warm, yellow-orange napkins, cutlery, plates and glasses were all waiting.
SWIRL
bell pepper, tar, bacon fat
These menus had nothing to do with papillons (butterflies). The white pages looked plain, missed the excitement of the name. As we said we are coming in for a snack, we got the lunch menu. Cheri said this place is known for its crepes, and so we picked out two Galette Ratatouille and Crepe du St Laurent Marche. Our polite french waitress gave us some more time to explore the Les Boissons menu as she poured us water. We went with a Pinot Grigio and a Sangiovese, as this month is dedicated to our Italian wine exploration. Fresh, warm buns quickly arrived at our tables as well as a lovely shot of the chef's gazpacho. It turned out to be very windy, half-way though - the yellow napkins and cutlery flew - almost like butterflies.
PALATE
medium tannins, lean, good balance
Our crepes arrived - wrapped from all sides like squares with all ingredients seen from a window in the middle, topped with sprouts. The Crepe du St Laurent Marche was very special - bacon on top, melting the cheddar underneath and all on top of spliced apples. It came with a side of maple syrup - beautiful flavours both savourily and sweet. If the cheddar was ages, it would have been ideal. Cheri's Galette Ratatouille looked colourful all veggies and egg, but missing gruyere or another worthwhile cheese. For a french place, emphasizing on cheese would have been ideal, but unfortunately not the case - based on our dishes.
FINISH
long, a bit bitter
Lots of interesting dishes to try out. I would challenge them and take Soupe à l’Oignon Gratinée or perhaps a dish with béchamel sauce. Also their brunch menu sounds interesting as well as their location in Leslieville.
Overall.. a complex Cabernet Franc
18.2.12
Russell Williams
On my visit to Burlington, mon cheri's sister suggested we go for brunch. This place fit our criteria of old, authentic and family-owned.
APPEARANCE
old, dark pink - brown shades
From the street it seemed like an dull house in brown and beige. It has a stand-up vertical restaurant sign, very hotel-like. There are a few benches outside, which would be great in the warm days.
NOSEviolet flowers, red fruits, hint of oak
Inside there was a wait list. Even the wait area bleacher-sofa and chairs were full, but 15 min later we were at a table near the back and the kitchen. The front area seemed great though - bright from the big windows, open-concept, large booths and hanging plants all around. I really wish the light spread all the way to the back sections which had no windows around. Overall the interior was mainly wooden with brick walls. Drawings of the house from before, as well as awards, cute animated illustrations and vintage objects decorated the walls and kept the homy charm in this rather large restaurant.SWIRL
hints of ponderous fruit
- lacking freshness
Our waitress asked us for coffee and tea as she put down the menus and cutlery. The menu was the regular three-fold plastic sleeves with old-style gradient yellow background and a red frame. It used the same script typeface as the restaurant's logo for the dishes names. I am not a big fan of having the body description type in 4 colours. Nevertheless the menu did get a mom-pop feel across. I ordered a Williams Eggs Benedict, while cheri got the Smoked Salmon Benny and his sister built her own omelette (cheddar and mushrooms). When we opened our cutlery, both cheri and his sis needed new forks. Their washing machine is really slacking. Under the menus there were papers with lots of different ads and coupons.. it was a sort of entertainment to read though them, but also a bit on the tacky side.
PALATE
sweet beginning dry near the end, medium bodied
Our dishes came quickly. My benedict was great. The paprika in the perfect-textured Hollandaise in combo with honey mustard, I believe, and the back bacon made the dish sweet and special. Their famous home fries had lightly burned crusts at times, which I'm a fan of. Cheri's salmon benny was also lovely. I was not crazy about the omelette as the egg base almost seemed paper-like dry and plain. The top combo of cheddar and mushrooms was quite pleasant though. It took our waitress quite a few long minutes to move out dirty plates out of the way. Oh wait, it wasn't even her who did it. Lastly we ordered a fluffy buttermilk pancake to share with raspberry topping. The pancake was neither fluffy nor flavourfull, but perhaps that is because it is not necessarily ordered as a sweet dessert. The raspberry sauce just came in a little bowl on the side.. someone really didn't want to worry about presentation.
FINISH
easy and light at the end, although initial aromas seemed complex and a bit aggressive
This was packed with families. It had an old and cozy feel, no doubt. I would've loved to sit near the front or even outside, when the weather gets warmer.
overall.. an aged rosé, a little generic near the end
14.1.12
Le Chien Noir
http://www.lechiennoir.com/
As much as my evening was all figured out for d'anniversaire de mon cheri I decided to try this place - rated as one of the best in Kingston - by myself for a late lunch. I figured I can't possibly pass by a french restaurant without checking its possibly of being decent..
APPEARANCE
dark, undecided
From the street, the light-brown wordmark, with shaking white outline seems dull, clumsy and careless - in contrast with the interior behind.
NOSE
strong and unwelcoming; hint of tobacco
Upon entering, the owner/manager (I believe) gave a look of what are you doing here. I felt out of place. He was sitting at the bar writing or calculating something and then decided to get a bit friendlier and asked if I wanted to be sat down. I said yes, and realized rather than sitting at a table by myself, I would much rather sit at the bar, if I can eat there. And so he gestured that I sit myself down.
SWIRL
heady, a bit spicy
Inside, the place seemed warm and a bit luxurious. As I sat down, I realized that feeling of warmth was not only due to the change of temperature next to the -15 outside but also because to the windows, incandescent lights, brick walls, a few plants and the smiling bartender. The luxurious part was from the few glass chandelier, the metal trendy bar area with high chairs and glasses with roses in them.
PALATE
high in tannin, nutty, complex
I looked through the menu. I ordered a glass of Paul Zinck pinot blanc. Quite a few interesting dishes to try. I asked about today's specials. They were on a chalkboard, and then that same manager decided to help me out, giving me the specials to look at on a page. And so I took an aperitif that sounded great - organic salmon, handcut duckfat fried chips, bacon, caramelized brussels sprouts with maple balsamic glaze. Before my glass of wine arrived, the bartender lay down a white cloth in a diamond shape with the cutlery on the side and a glass of water. Then asked if I would mind some bread. As I waited, it hit me that I didn't make the best meal-wine combo, but it was too late. My aperitif arrived and it tasted as good at it sounded. The salmon was coked with its skin, which actually was nice not to remove. The bartender checked on me a few times. We talked about the food. I realized my wine choice wasn't as bad as I thought, as the salmon was fresh and light.
FINISH
slightly sweet
Near the end I was curious to check if, like any decent French place, they have cheeses for dessert. And the answer was yes, the only problem was that I was running out of time and the combinations went from 3 to 7. They had a Tomme, which I was assured is actually from Alsace. The other 5 cheese were all from Quebec. They also had a few charcuterie choices. I figured I can perhaps come in and try them later on that evening. I was wished to have a good day a few times. My first impression of this place was
slowly fixed.
overall.. an an interesting Malbec
As much as my evening was all figured out for d'anniversaire de mon cheri I decided to try this place - rated as one of the best in Kingston - by myself for a late lunch. I figured I can't possibly pass by a french restaurant without checking its possibly of being decent..
APPEARANCEdark, undecided
From the street, the light-brown wordmark, with shaking white outline seems dull, clumsy and careless - in contrast with the interior behind.
NOSE
strong and unwelcoming; hint of tobacco
Upon entering, the owner/manager (I believe) gave a look of what are you doing here. I felt out of place. He was sitting at the bar writing or calculating something and then decided to get a bit friendlier and asked if I wanted to be sat down. I said yes, and realized rather than sitting at a table by myself, I would much rather sit at the bar, if I can eat there. And so he gestured that I sit myself down.
SWIRLheady, a bit spicy
Inside, the place seemed warm and a bit luxurious. As I sat down, I realized that feeling of warmth was not only due to the change of temperature next to the -15 outside but also because to the windows, incandescent lights, brick walls, a few plants and the smiling bartender. The luxurious part was from the few glass chandelier, the metal trendy bar area with high chairs and glasses with roses in them.
PALATE
high in tannin, nutty, complex
I looked through the menu. I ordered a glass of Paul Zinck pinot blanc. Quite a few interesting dishes to try. I asked about today's specials. They were on a chalkboard, and then that same manager decided to help me out, giving me the specials to look at on a page. And so I took an aperitif that sounded great - organic salmon, handcut duckfat fried chips, bacon, caramelized brussels sprouts with maple balsamic glaze. Before my glass of wine arrived, the bartender lay down a white cloth in a diamond shape with the cutlery on the side and a glass of water. Then asked if I would mind some bread. As I waited, it hit me that I didn't make the best meal-wine combo, but it was too late. My aperitif arrived and it tasted as good at it sounded. The salmon was coked with its skin, which actually was nice not to remove. The bartender checked on me a few times. We talked about the food. I realized my wine choice wasn't as bad as I thought, as the salmon was fresh and light.
FINISHslightly sweet
Near the end I was curious to check if, like any decent French place, they have cheeses for dessert. And the answer was yes, the only problem was that I was running out of time and the combinations went from 3 to 7. They had a Tomme, which I was assured is actually from Alsace. The other 5 cheese were all from Quebec. They also had a few charcuterie choices. I figured I can perhaps come in and try them later on that evening. I was wished to have a good day a few times. My first impression of this place was
slowly fixed.
overall.. an an interesting Malbec
30.12.11
Elgin Street Diner
http://www.elginstreetdiner.com/
Determined to follow our intuition while wandering around Ottawa, we had to find a breakfast place. On our way through the Rideau Mall, we randomly decided to ask the cashier at Starbucks to recommend a place close by (20min walking range) and so….
APPEARANCE
light lemon-peach
We got to Elgin Street Diner. Big windows up front, lots of neon signs - a bit low looking. We entered and the host instantly greeted us. As if a secret, he whispered that if we wait a few min we can get a booth. And so we did.
NOSE
lychee, melon, crisp
This place had a very easy-going vibe, dark-green booths, brick walls (for once left real as is, no hideous paint), big front windows. On the walls photographs on one side and chalkboard illustrations over the kitchen counter on the other. Those illustrations really made it for me - unique and artistic feel.
The host, our waiter as well as people around had a flamboyant feel. We were probably the only male-female couple but we were not given any looks so we were more than happy to start warming our tummies.
SWIRL
mineral and honey notes
The menu was mimicking a cork-board pin-up style. Not well designed - the cork texture made it feel awfully dull but definitely overall crafty, easy-going and fun.
PALATE
lean, some sweetness, fruity
We started with fresh-squeezed Orange and Grapefruit juices, pulp and all. Then followed up with a Breakfast Wrap and a Grilled Vegetable benedict. Both came with home fries and both were home-made greasy and delicious, even with my sick palette on.
FINISH
dry, refreshing
Overall, a sweet place, open 24/7. What else would one want?
overall.. an easy gewurztraminer
Determined to follow our intuition while wandering around Ottawa, we had to find a breakfast place. On our way through the Rideau Mall, we randomly decided to ask the cashier at Starbucks to recommend a place close by (20min walking range) and so….
light lemon-peach
We got to Elgin Street Diner. Big windows up front, lots of neon signs - a bit low looking. We entered and the host instantly greeted us. As if a secret, he whispered that if we wait a few min we can get a booth. And so we did.
NOSE
lychee, melon, crisp
This place had a very easy-going vibe, dark-green booths, brick walls (for once left real as is, no hideous paint), big front windows. On the walls photographs on one side and chalkboard illustrations over the kitchen counter on the other. Those illustrations really made it for me - unique and artistic feel.
The host, our waiter as well as people around had a flamboyant feel. We were probably the only male-female couple but we were not given any looks so we were more than happy to start warming our tummies.
SWIRL
mineral and honey notes
The menu was mimicking a cork-board pin-up style. Not well designed - the cork texture made it feel awfully dull but definitely overall crafty, easy-going and fun.
PALATElean, some sweetness, fruity
We started with fresh-squeezed Orange and Grapefruit juices, pulp and all. Then followed up with a Breakfast Wrap and a Grilled Vegetable benedict. Both came with home fries and both were home-made greasy and delicious, even with my sick palette on.
FINISH
dry, refreshing
Overall, a sweet place, open 24/7. What else would one want?
overall.. an easy gewurztraminer
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