9.7.13

Lo Zingaro Ristorante Pizzeria

http://www.lo-zingaro.com/

What a crazy, muddy, wet week this was… We were looking for a small evening snack to enjoy after our weekly volleyball game and passed by Lo Zingaro Ristorante Pizzeria.

APPEARANCE
dark ruby, in an old style bottle
We noticed the old fashioned pizzeria sign first. It had yellow blinking light bulbs all around and looked like an anachronism here. It is however, not difficult to pass unfortunately. Few flower baskets outside add some country charm to the appearance. A narrow and long space with few tables wide open to Queen Street – doing their best to capture some of the summer weather while being bound to a tight downtown location.
We were lucky to grab a seat right next to the window. Ma Cherie ventured inside to survey the premises while taking a few photos.

NOSE
dark cherry, red fruit, needing more attention and aeration
The impressive bar corner had preserve jars and bottles on the wall. There was also an open kitchen with a very active chef visible at the end of the long corridor, at the back. Beautiful incandescent light bulbs hanging from the ceiling, a flower basket by our window and…lounge music?(not the ultimate fit) A great atmosphere other than that! Some muttered chattering at the table nearby, noisy Queen St and a warm July evening. We had a candle on our table in a branded Remy Martin glass (not sure why). What else to wish for? Maybe a bit more attention from our host. He seemed very preoccupied with making espressos and lattes for other guests. We did have to call him a couple of times.

SWIRL
light spices, vanilla
After exploring the simple and well organized menu, we decided to go with their Quattro Stagioni to share - ma Cherie was enthusiastic as it is not a popular one outside of Italy. We wanted to get Italian beers, so asked for Peroni and Lozi. It turned out Lozi isn’t, so we instead wanted to ask the 666 Devil’s Pale Ale.
As we waited, we settle in and enjoyed the small and stylish interior. The light bulbs were lightly dancing in the air. It made us reflect and talk, while feeling awfully romantic.
Our beers didn’t take long to make it to our table. The Peroni is light, yeasty and malty with light bitterness near the end - nothing out of the ordinary. On the other hand, the Ontarian 666 Devil’s Pale Ale is dark, very hoppy and a bit sweet - on the intense side.

PALATE
full bodied, ripe-tasting
It took maybe 10-15 minutes to get our food. Chef himself brought our order in, a very nice touch (although he could have spend few more minutes with us to make it perfect).
Our pizza was sizzling hot and fresh from the oven. The crust was thin and the dish was not overloaded with ingredients. It was lightly cut, so we had to repeat the lines. It was a perfect meal to share - slightly burned Italian ham, olives and mushrooms accented the simple crust dough just enough not to overshadow the cheese and artichokes. The ingredients were separated into four areas (hence the name) and we had a chance to experience the difference. Overall it was mouth-watering.
Ma Cherie couldn't help but share the main mushroom slice, even though I am no fan of them. We had to clarify what kind of mushroom was used, as we liked it so much. Turned out to be cremini. Jumping ahead, we made a cremini rizzotto the day after.
To top the meal off, we got panna cotta. Quite interesting although not as exciting as the pizza (which is good, it is a pizzeria after all). A traditionally made desert with some fresh berries on top. Hopefully made in-house, but it was hard to tell on the spot. Should have gotten an espresso as well in retrospect...

FINISH
spicy, tobacco addition
If you are looking for an authentic pizza place - Lo Zingaro should at least be on your list. It is reasonably priced and very accessible. Being tucked in a bit, it is easy to miss. We hope more people will have a chance to enjoy its flower decorated tables by the window and artisan pizzas.


Overall, a close-to-heart Valpolicella.
Lo Zingaro on Urbanspoon

3.7.13

Midi Bistro


http://www.midibistro.ca/

We were talking with Ma Cherie about the benefits of Groupon (and clones alike). Maybe it boils down to simply being an instrument of inconspicuous spending induction? Our conclusion was that these sites can be used as a catalyst for exploring new and interesting places in the city. As an example, a small French bistro Midi advertised a 3 course dinner with wine for 2 people for only around $40... Too good to pass :). No pun intended, but we did pass by the place quite a few times before. Ma Cherie's alma mater is OCAD so this area has some sentimental meaning to us.

APPEARANCE
dark amber, rare
Baldwin is busy (and hot) like hell on this hazy July evening. Midi is a bit off the crowded stretch - right on McCaul instead. Schools are out, so patios of local eateries are filled with chilling youth. Midi is a more upscale bistro with some class to it. When we walked in, it was actually empty except two older ladies chatting catching up on their social lives in the corner.

NOSE
sweet floral, dried fruit, hint of a nut
We were warmly greeted by a young lady. It looked like she was a hostess and a waiter at the same time - very down-to-earth and not pretending to be french. A window seat was chosen and we made ourselves comfortable in simple, but functional chairs. The menu is very busy with well described options and a separate wine map. Few things were missing (e.g. lamb) as announced by our waitress, but the choices were fairly comprehensive and fitting with what any self-respecting French bistro should offer. Although our host was fighting what appeared to be an allergy cough attack, she was able to walk us through the menu and make recommendations.

SWIRL
a lonely warm oak sent
We ended up ordering a Midi Salad, Pate de Champagne, a Faux-Filet Grille and a chef’s special - Duck Confit. This was to be paired with a Californian Chardonnay and a Languedoc Syrah. Now we had time to look around... The place was tastefully but minimalistic decoration with some vintage posters and bottles along the walls. Odd star lights, suspended by the windows, were perhaps left over from Christmas. So we sat and chatted away occasionally glancing at still empty dining room around us. (everyone was probably out on patios)

PALATE
smooth texture and elegance on the palate, well balanced
The Midi Salad and Pate arrived very fast - I would say within 10 minutes or so. The presentation and arrangement on the plate was impeccable and we jumped right in. I would definitely recommend the salad as something interesting to try. It was loaded with prosciutto and greens along with some Asiago cheese on top. Walnuts and cherry tomatoes accented the green mass and the hints of pesto added interesting notes to it. One of the tastier salads I tried recently. Pate was less exciting, but also definitely worthwhile to try. Ma Cherie was able to pick up the hints of champagne in it. I definitely failed to do so. The grain-rich toast was covered in parsley and the dish came with a side of greens in accompaniment with that promised Gherkin pickle to add acidity accent to that smooth, creamy dish.
The main course didn't take too long to arrive. However, by that time we ran out of wine and asked for refills - salad and pate got us carried away a bit with wine. Ma Cherie was very delighted by her steak, I do not think I ever saw her being so happy about grilled beef before. Hits of smoky aroma and perfectly captured juices made the dish highly enjoyable. The strip-loin had some fatty parts to it, but they added that special smell she loved. I would recommend Midi over some places specializing in steak (in the same price range anyway) - tried some inferior meat in those, Midi definitely sets the bar high for us again. The steak had a light paprika-tomatoe base sauce and fresh garlic on top to bring this dish to its full potential (plus greens on the side). Finally I had a Duck Confit with salad. Yes, a salad again. Ma Cherie was happy to see a place which really pushes refreshing veggies as a side to any dish, even if perhaps compromising for the dish presentation. I though it was too many salads - should have had something else on the side by that point. The dark and juicy meat was cooked to perfection and was falling off the bone. I normally do not like duck as it tends to be too greasy for me, but this iteration was very well made. An excellent match for the Syrah!
We concluded our dinner by reading off the small chalk-board our choice of desserts: Warm Walnut Chocolate Cake and Tarte Tatin served with ice cream. While the cake appeared to be very fresh and appropriately moist, we did not find the tart of any interest. But then again...maybe it was because we had so many well-made dishes just prior to and it was difficult to compare.

FINISH
a strong presence, signature drink
I would have called this a hidden gem, but it is really not that concealed being right next to super-busy Baldwin stretch. It is small, but intimate. Not a particularly spectacular view and a bit on a darker side inside, but I would still call it romantic. Definitely a very down-to-earth French Bistro which I think more people should give a chance to.

Overall.. a smooth French cognac. 
(wanting to breathe - some fresh warm air will help it stand out more)
Midi Bistro on Urbanspoon

19.6.13

Bellwoods Brewery

http://bellwoodsbrewery.com/

Cheri and I had passed by this place on our search for the Lower Osslington Theater, a few months ago. We enjoyed our musical and left promising ourselves to come back to this lively, up-and-coming area soon.

APPEARANCE
dark, brick-red with a unique label (using one of the latest graphic trends)
A large open patio, beige fence, laughter and lots of people, it is a hard spot not to feel the energy from nor envy those lucky to be sitting. Today, through the fence blades, creatively carved watermelon heads were stabbed, for no good reason. The front is really a concrete slab with random chairs, just as random tables and a few BBQ benches. Their small logo is easy to miss - a circular screen hanging over the edge - just a red bell, no explanation.

SWIRL
an impressive combination of red fruit and 
some blackberry
On the side is a cleared out narrow area for those in line and at the end a symbolic white door, completely useless in the summer, as both ends are open. It has their word-mark in shinny gold adhesive on the glass as well as their bold hours of operation. The main room is full of frames and chalk-boards. All the way in the back, the large beer kettles behind glass really add to the feel. For those fascinated to enjoy their view, there is a secluded bar area on the second floor, overlooking them - quite charming.
We put our names down and were told its about a 20min wait. In the meantime we went to the upstairs bar and explored the set up. Their beer menu chalk-board hung from the main room, facing the patio. Above was a stalked white material, I believe they pull over the patio's wooden frame in case of rain.

NOSE
opinionated notes of pepper and anise 
coming through
We were sat on one of their BBQ benches just before we started getting eager. Its neat how they use them as social tables, the couple next us was totally on a first /second date (probably not too fun for them). As we waited for our friends, we were handed small wooden clip-board menus. I loved the idea, with the paper cropped rough and close on one side. The menu consists of 2/3 beer and some food near the end.
We had previously read in a Neighborhood's publication that they have about 10 house-made crafts, but their Russian Imperial Stout sounded above worthwhile. It turns out its a winter seasonal beer. Too bad, my russian would've killed to have some of it. Instead he got a Pub Cider. I started off with their Grizzly Beer and a side of their popular fries.

PALATE
an initial overload of aromas, not well balanced, but overall lack in nuances to define character
Our beers arrived in no-time. All beers, except for the simple cider, come in tulip goblets which nicely compliment their bold bell logo, stamped right in the middle. My Grizzly brown ale was hoppy and bitter with strong floral, pine nut, fruit aroma.. I couldn't pick out any chocolate notes as the menu promised, but it was a mouthful. Strong and opinionated, it was begging for a creamy brie to help it go smoothly down. Turned out the Cider was not home-made but from Spirit Tree. It had a bit of spice, but overall Cheri was not impressed (to be honest, I think it kind of turned him off ciders for some time). Our friends arrived and we were all quick to order.
They were not too impressed by the lack of dishes. Either way, they asked for their board of meat, and we were close to asking for their cheese one but after seeing the tiny amount other tables receive, we were discouraged. Cheri and I asked for their fries and for their Wild Salmon dish.
The meat board arrived, again, not as much as our friends had hoped for. Their fries were definitely their main inexpensive sensation. They came covered with graded toscano cheese and sent of rosemary and thyme. Even the couple next to us commented. The fries were gone in no-time and we ordered a few more. Next, we tried their Roman Candle IPA, even-though we probably should've gone for the balanced Witchshark IPA. The Roman Candle was bitter and slightly resinous, indeed. The strong senses overtook the full nose of pine and tropical citrus. Again, it was really a lot of handle in a sip.
Our Salmon took some time. It came in a very gourmet arrangement and dish, very unlike this casual miss-matched pub-brew, I think. Uncut rapine, buttered spring radish, rhubarb made a nest of flowers and plants for the small filet. The best part was the ginger hollandaise sauce. To be honest, I was not impressed. The salmon filet was raw on the inside and the grassy vegetables were hard to chew. I appreciate the presentation but there should be a balance between form and function.

FINISH
an energizing aftertaste, a bit bitter 
but unique
We'll probably be back for some of their winter seasonal beers, but this time we'll just stick to appetizer-snacks. As much as we appreciate their quick, short menu they should invest more time and energy into the food section.

Overall.. a blend of mainly Zinfandel and some Syrah (from a New World Californian winery)

Bellwoods Brewery on Urbanspoon

15.6.13

Spice Route

http://www.spiceroute.ca/

Who would have known... We were invited to a restaurant right next door to Ma Cherie's work. Passed by it multiple times, but did not even consider going in. In retrospect, I think it was probably because it is only really open during the day. There were also some scantily clad women making their way inside on a few occasions I noticed visitors.

APPEARANCE
luxury enforcing label for a light blush wine, with the typical quote"goes well with spicy asian food"
Looks like a private club...maybe an upscale lounge. We found it hard to believe it was a restaurant. Of course there is a small menus by the door, but still... a low hanging porch covering a dark passage to a door  (a portal itself is a masterpiece: aged wood with iron bindings) water flowing on the side, no front windows to show what is happening on the inside: a touch intimidating and club-like.

NOSE
slow to come to definition, a sweet rose-turkish delight hint, some strawberry
Quite a different picture on the inside. Flowing water behind the bar, smiling waiters and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant is distinguishably eastern with an area of low ottoman-pillow chairs. We chose to sit outside and ended up separated by a wall from a puffing and huffing busy King Street. Our table was under an over-sized awning. I personally hate painted brick as a choice of exterior facing material and we sat right next to a wall finished in black, although neatly painted, brick. Felt a bit out of place for me. Bamboo and plaid surfaces were more fitting- hard to miss. The best part was the addition of water again - open concrete outdoor aquarium with koi fish, the water kept on circulating - a sound suiting the busy atmosphere.

SWIRL
syrupy sweet, light hints of black tea
Our waiter was very prompt and appeared knowledgeable. He suggested sharing for our group of four and gave us a rundown of their their best options. As we started looking around, we noticed a few bachelorette parties occupying nearby lounge-like areas. There was lots of laughter and carrying conversations so this secluded patio was lively and a pleasant place to be. We ended up ordering Surf and Turf (wasabi and Kobe beef sliders), Sweet and Sour Pork (neatly complemented by pineapples), Cantonese Chow Mein and Tempura Calamari and Rock Shrimp. We also ordered a bottle of Hakkaisan sake.

PALATE
cold, bites the tongue at the beginning, medium-to-full bodied
First our Cantonese Chow Mein made their way. It was delicious - crispy noodles tangling around shrimp, chicken, squid, bok choy, etc. Even the pickiest of us made their way around the seafood, as the aroma took over the table. Next, the Surf and Turf - we always wanted to try Kobe beef and finally we did even though it was in tiny sliders. Hard to judge how sensitive and tender this meat was comparing to high quality beef - it was definitely enjoyable, but I would not say the taste was “to die for”. The wasabi tuna sliders were definitely an essence, with alfalfa leaves sticking out, they were tender and a tad spicy. All 4 sliders came with a side of yams and chipotle mayo, to make up for those disappointed in the size. We quite enjoyed the Sweet and Sour Pork - the pork and peppers bathing in sweet and sour sauce, but to our disappointment only garnished with a pineapple skewer on the side. A bit heavy on the sauce, but cooked to perfection - this plate was shared quickly and gone in no time. Soon after we were brought the “chef’s compliments”. We were disappointed to find out how uninventive this dish was - four pieces fried bread with a simple tomato paste - a nice gesture, though. Tempura Calamari and Shrimp came battered with a side of lemon scallion aioli which added interest to the dish.
We concluded our dinner with a few desserts: Tangerine Brownies, Ginger Creme Brulee and Apple Spring Rolls. Out of the three, I would definitely recommend to try the brownies - a very delicate, smooth taste with a hint of citrus - would be nice on a colder day as well. The brulee was less exciting, but had an interesting spicy twist to it - just enough to accent without overtaking the palette. As for the rolls - a very predictable pastry, the strawberry compote on the side helped brighten it up. Nothing too out of the ordinary, but a safe choice for someone not looking to experiment.

FINISH
sweet at the end, not much of an aftertaste
Quite an impressive location and interior. Nicely themed - chic asian/eastern. I just wish the food was matching in the chic-ness a bit more - more experimentation and perhaps a few more turkish-eastern dishes. Not to say this place should not be visited, I would just recommend it for a lounge or a social drinking experience and snaking, rather than for a foodie dinner.
And by the way, a way more casual entrance/exit does exist from the patio!

Overall.. a not too balanced Rosé - a bit heavy in smell compared to its light body. To be enjoyed with a cube of ice!

Spice Route on Urbanspoon