You couldn’t get more character, charisma, and style out of a coffee shop if you tried – Balzac’s Coffee shop is the best place to enjoy an espresso, latte, or whatever you like in the Distillery District.   This place is hip, edgy, and no it’s not a secret anymore.   If you come packed with hunger and excitement also bring your patience cause it took us forever to find a place to sit in this place with the line up constantly growing.   Without a doubt this is the place to be.

This is the third instalment of Balzac’s with the first two successfully situated Stratford Ontario and in Liberty Village.  This passion project of founder Diana Olsen has blossomed and matured into the next big coffee franchise in this caffeine crazed city we live in.   “I found myself very comforted, with a great sense of belonging in the grand cafes of Paris.  The depth of history and culture inspired me to bring these qualities to my cafes in Canada.

Exposed brick decor with a distinct style that is uniquely felt at each Balzac’s location differing slightly from each one you visit.  The Distillery location is no exception, just being there you can feel the admiration from all the patrons who come and go, stay and drink and drink some more.

Some organic hot chocolate to pass the time or to warm up on a winter afternoon?  All signs point to “yes”.

Very vintage style chandelier and some more exposed brick – You’re seeing the staircase to the second floor seating area (which was packed) , just another area for you to enjoy you time at Balzac’s.

Classy establishment – Very well maintained and we would most definitely visit again, and again.

If you do some research on Seor Ak San, you will find out that it’s the name of a mountain in South Korea.  It is also the namesake of the National Park in the same region.  To us on this side of the world, it is the name of a Korean Restaurant in downtown Toronto.  Located along the Spadina corridor of Chinatown, it saves us from having to go to the Bloor Street K-town or the Yonge and Finch neighbourhood.

I will admit, I’ve walked by this place several times, and it’s always been one of those “I wonder if it’s any good…” type places.  So, even in the rain, we walked the 15 minutes and went.  It was TOTALLY worth it.

Having to walk down stairs is already a slight drawback in terms of location.  However, once you see the inside, you realize it’s very spacious, well-lit, and the menu is huge!  I would even suggest that they reduce the number of dishes just to make their lives a bit easier.

As with most Korean restaurants, they start the dining experience with some tea or a bottle of pour-it-yourself water.  I don’t recall their beverage offerings but that’s not usually high on my list of what to notice.  Everyone will be impressed by the number of banchan (side dishes) you get with all orders.  Kimchi, marinated cucumber, chap chae (glass noodles), potatoes, sweet beans, seaweed salad, and Korean pancake.  Count’em, 7 side dishes!

According to one of the servers (owner?), the spicy kalbi is one of their most popular dishes.  Let me tell you why:  for $12.99, you get a sizzling hot plate with a thin bed of onions, and on top are layered pieces of Korean styled short ribs that were tender and full of flavour.  Not your usual long strips of short ribs.  They’ve done some of the work for you by cutting the pieces per bone.  Each one was very lean.  Don’t you hate it when some places just give you huge pieces with massive chunks of fat attached?

If you’ve eaten Korean, you’re sure to have had bibimbap.  A bowl of rice topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg.  Here, I had the dolsot bibimbap which is the exact same thing but in a stone bowl, $8.99.  I don’t know what they do but the stone bowl is REALLY HOT and the rice actually gets this nice golden brown colour and has a nice crisp to it.  Some people stir it once they get it.  I personally try to monitor it to the point where the rice comes up in one solid piece.  The rice was covered with seven different vegetables (zucchini, bean sprouts, daikon, mushrooms, purple cabbage, carrots, and spinach).  There was a small mound of bulgogi styled beef and then all of this was topped with a fried egg.  Huge and delicious!  The spicy red sauce that comes with all bibimbap bowls is perfectly balanced, not too salty, sweet, or spicy.   I couldn’t eat it all so I had to pack half of my bowl which was fine because it made a great lunch for the next day.

Without any hesitation whatsoever, I recommend this place for lunch (they have lots of lunch specials) or dinner for yourself, for two, for a party of however many.  They are genuinely nice people who serve deliciously authentic Korean food at very reasonable prices.  I know I’m going to go back and I can’t wait to try other dishes off their extensive menu.

Address:  357 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5T
Phone:  416-977-2788

What defines Canadian food?  TOCA, in the Ritz Carlton, clears up the mystery.  It is referred to as “rustic Canadiana” which is not only demonstrated in its décor, but the menu as well.

Looking around, the ambiance is warm with the use of organic materials like natural woods.  It is balanced by the use of stone and glass to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.  Although seemingly somewhat contradictory, “upscale casual” is a good way to sum up the space.  All of the artwork has Canadian roots (mostly Ontario artists).

Some of the features of the dining space are quite unique.  You can’t help but notice the “Cheese Cave” that houses 80% Canadian cheeses and a 20% international selection.  Similarly, the wine cellar has that percentage ratio of Canadian to international wines.  I understand this is the only exception to the restaurant’s Canadiana ideals.

There is also a private dining room that seats up to twelve guests.  The glass walls allow the diners to be a part of the restaurant environment, but the close to sound-proof room, and filmy curtains, give the patrons some privacy at the same time.

Chef Brodi insists on using the freshest possible selection of ingredients.  (the term often used is farm to table).  He has procured such local examples as honey and maple syrup with sustainability in mind.  Regarding seafood, he reaches out to his coastal contacts and brings in fresh fish on a daily basis.

To check out the menus, click here:  http://www.tocarestaurant.com/

The kitchen is spotless.  From the open space considered the “pastry corridor”, to the heart of the action, this is really the insider’s perspective.

The chef’s table has seating for up to 8 guests, and at a minimum of $1800, you can sign the wall of fame.

We took a quick tour of TOCA Bar, which is on the main level, an extension of the restaurant.  Tapas-styled dining for those who just want something to nibble on.  There is even a raw bar and caviar on offer, both which again, adhere to the sustainable dining philosophy.  Moses McIntee is the star bartender and prepares some fancy concoctions (so I’ve heard).

Walking further into the Ritz, is DEQ.  A spacious lounge with it’s very own charcuterie station.  Towards the south, a large outdoor patio space provides an excellent view of the CN Tower.

Unfortunately, I did not have a chance to eat at any of the aforementioned establishments so I cannot give any opinions on the food itself.  If you plan on going, I’m looking forward to hearing about your dining experiences at the Ritz Carlton in Toronto.

One last thing:  What does TOCA mean if you haven’t read/heard about it already?  TO is for Toronto, and CA is for Canada!

For more information on TOCA & DEQ visit the Ritz Carlton Toronto website for a full menu and hours of operation — CLICK

WonderPho Vietnamese Cuisine is a new and unique addition to the food scene in Midtown Toronto. WonderPho serves up authentic Vietnamese dishes, prepared to order using fresh ingredients. Enjoy superior-quality food for great value in an attractive and relaxing atmosphere with friendly service.

Join WonderPho in celebrating their Grand Opening on April 11th!

Check out the WonderPho Facebook page for more details including a new and expanded menu and to find out how you can get a FREE regular sized pho!

M:Brgr is yet another player in the over saturated “gourmet” burger business here in Toronto.  These new high end trends are pushing the limits of burger fans all over the city who are mearly trying to find a tasty burger for a decent price.

M:Brgr really tries to be more than what they really are, serving up more flash than substance.

From their success and popularity in Montreal, M:Brgr now finds a new home in Toronto within the King Street West district alongside other trendy eateries.  This site, formally a Shoeless Joe’s Bar and Grill is now the new home of this Montreal born burger joint which seats about 200 with contemporary and warm decor.   Large murals of the city scape combined with wood-panelled walls gives M:Brgr a unique style on it’s own that really doesn’t resemble any other burger place that we’ve seen before which, at times seems like you’re in a bar or club.

M:Brgr is spacious and quite comfortable once you get inside and the somewhat dim lighting does create a warm atmosphere. The colour scheme reminds me of an A&W but more upscale with the orange and browns but do not be mistaken, you won’t find any Mamma or Pappa burgers here – or the anything that resembles the same price point either.

M:brgr made splashed all over food headlines with the $100 dollar burger spectacle with over priced toppings that really came together to cause a media frenzy than for taste – but I’m not going to drop $100 dollars for a burger to find out and I’m sure many (if not all of you) won’t do the same.

Check out what’s really in that car crash of a burger seen below – Eye Weekly

Honestly – this looks like something your kid would put together if you left them in charge of the kitchen.

M:Brgr with cheese – something on the safe side but the ratio of bread to meat is totally off.   The meat was hardly noticeable.

One important note to make is that when the server comes to offer you water you make sure you say “tap” because the bottled stuff comes your way and it’s not cheap.  We were hit with two jugs of water which were about $8 bucks a piece – equivalent to a “two can dine” at other burger places that will not be mentioned.

This was the AAA burger with cheese and lettuce but as you can tell again – Where’s the beef?  The one bright side of this combo were the fries which were really crispy and and well done.  I’d go back to try the poutine but what does that say about a burger place if we go back for the fries?

This was the more adventurous burger order of the day with the bacon, pickle, asparagus but one note is that this “thumbs up” gesture was made before actually tasting the burger.

The service was mediocre at best (with the charging of bottled water) and we hit a whole new issue when we tried to separate our bills, which was very long and drawn out.  It’s safe to say that we will not be going back to M:Brger anytime time soon.

M:Brgr:  401 KING STREET WEST • TORONTO • ON • M5V 1K1 • 647.729.1747
Website:  www.mbrgr.com

CLICK HERE to find the full M:Brgr Menu

For those of you outside of the downtown city core this pizza franchise might be foreign to you…

Pizzaiolo was founded in August of 1999. Characterized by quality ingredients and only the freshest produce, Pizzaiolo presents one of Toronto’s best gourmet pizzas.

The dedication of three generations of professional “Pizzaiolo’s” have contributed to our delicious menu today.

Choose from a list of fresh quality gourmet pizzas including the Capone Pizza, our famous Gianni Ola Pizza, our classic Meat Lover Pizza, our signature vegetarian pizzas such as the Bianca Pizza, The “Bomba” Pizza with 4 different cheeses or any of the 3 Vegan Pizzas. All our famous gourmet pizzas are also available by the slice at any Pizzaiolo location.

Pizzaiolo offers a great variety of gourmet pizzas fit for all walks of life and for any occasion.  Another reason to visit Pizzaiolo is for those individuals who like to enjoy a beer with their meals and I know sometimes it really does hit the spot and completes the dining experience!  If you’re trying to avoid the crowds remember that Pizzaiolo offers online ordering for pick up.

Go to Pizzaiolo and taste the difference that family, tradition and experience bring to the table.

Visit the Pizzaiolo website here



Title Photograph by:  ardenstreet

The Tequila and More Sampling Event Photo Review

Great show with plenty of entertainment, food, and of course tequila.

Very courteous hosts at the Tequila and More Expo to show us around and let us know where all the best samples were.

Some things you might not have known about Tequila…besides the taste and the relaxing happiness factor.  Did you know that tequila could be used to tune your voice?

Eager crowds making their way in to enjoy the Tequila experience.

Friendly hostesses from Hornitos.

Let’s get this out in the open and drop the disclaimer and start off by saying I am not a scotch whisky drinker nor a seasoned alcoholic but I do enjoy the occasional bar rail drink from time to time as long as it’s not beer.  So the question is, what am I doing at The Macallan Scotch Whisky tasting event?  Well, let me say that this has been an education as I have discovered a whole new world out there.

Whisky produced in Scotland can officially be called Scotch Whisky and “The Macallan” name is synonymous with whisky of superior quality and legendary history.

It was a cold and damp Thursday night.  The venue was 99 Sudbury Street.  We were asked to arrive between 6pm to 6:30pm, and I knew there was a session at 7:30pm so we had a strict schedule to follow as eager scotch whisky tasters were herded in.  Upon entry, we were met with a friendly welcome as each person was given a token for a glass of Macallan 10 (Macallan’s 10 year old single malt, matured in the sherry casks for which it is famous for).

We were instructed to take a plate of food with us before the actual guided tasting to help pad the alcohol that we were about to consume.  The selection consisted of cheeses, different cured meats, olives, breads, and grapes.

The food table was tucked away to the side so the line up was quite long at one point (and the use of awkward forks didn’t help either).  One suggestion would have been to place the table in a more central location so that guests could partake with more space.  Nonetheless, there was plenty of food for everyone.  The food was still good as I ate everything with the Macallan 10, which was strong, but manageable.

A little after 7pm, we were asked to enter the next room that was set up with numerous tables and chairs.  On the tables, were mats (to guide our tasting) along with water, a spit container/bucket, and a glass of mixed nuts.

Unfortunately, we didn’t get to enjoy a second round of meats and cheeses so the nuts were going to have to keep me satiated during the scotch whisky tasting.  As the audience took their seats we were introduced to the history and the making of the Macallan, rich in quality and tradition.  I always appreciate a product when I learn about the process and the years of development it takes to achieve the current state.

We were walked through a tasting of:

1. The Macallan Sherry Oak 12:  Deliciously smooth, with rich dried fruits and sherry, balanced with wood smoke and spice. Described by Paul Pacult, the renowned international whisky writer, in his book Kindred Spirits as: “simply the best 12 Year Old single malt around”.
2. The Macallan Fine Oak 15: Macallan 15 year-old Fine Oak is matured in a combination of Bourbon & Sherry Oak Casks. This range has been around for a few years now and seems to have weathered the storm it caused amongst the faithful when it was initially released. This one is probably the pick of the (Fine Oak) bunch.
3. The Macallan Sherry Oak Cask Strength:  A cask strength Tormore from 1994, bottled in 2007
4. The Macallan Sherry Oak 18: The latest vintage of Macallan 18yo is from 1991. A benchmark: not just for Macallan, but for aged whisky everywhere.

As we sampled each, we were taught how to appreciate the aromas by inhaling with a slightly open mouth.  It’s amazing what you can experience when you actually know what you should be looking for.

One notable mention would be that if one individual were to consume the whole lot samples one after the other they would surely require some assistance trying to get out the front door let alone make it all the way home.  There was that much alcohol content!  This is where I would have loved to have my seat next to the meat and cheese sampling table.

Luckily, the guests savoured each sample responsibly, and really had the opportunity to enjoy and reflect.  All together I thought the Macallan event was extremely thorough, well-planned, fun, and very educational.

Would I purchase a bottle of the Macallan brand?  Yes, I believe I would.  (It just won’t be a bottle of the Macallan 64 in the Lalique Cire Perdue decanter that went for a fantastic world record amount of $460,000 US at a charity event in mid-November.)

For more information on The Macallan please visit them at:  www.themacallan.com

The burger’s seen something of a renaissance in Toronto – with boutiques like Craft Burger and Great Burger Kitchen and the popular gourmet burger chains like Hero and South St. Burger Co (Shameless plug: all reviewed on the yummylocal.com site), so W Burger Bar has plenty of competition.  I do enjoy a good burger so I was excited to try W Burger Bar.

The first thing you notice when you walk into W is the bar, lined with a wide selection of spirits and surrounded by bar stools that allow for some patrons to eat while sitting at the bar.  The interior of W is modern, with a minimalistic interior and dim lighting.  LCD TVs are on each wall ensuring customers are all up to date on the latest happenings in the world of sports.  We were greeted as soon as we entered the door by W’s friendly hosting staff.  We were lucky to have arrived at W shortly before 7 PM, right in time to make the tweener period between the early evening and late evening crowd.  We were rewarded by having  a table cleared for us almost as soon as we told our hostess we’d like a table for two.

Naturally, W has a burger-centric menu and is structured to allow customers to select their own custom toppings on their choice of one of 7 different proteins (Beef, kobe, lamb, turkey, bison, salmon, pork and tofu – see menu here: http://www.wburgerbar.com/menu.html).  In order to get a good sampling of all of the choices (and the way W envisions them to be eaten) I went with the slider plate (15.99) which had beef, lamb, turkey, bison, pulled pork and kobe beef.  Since there were two of us (and since I’m a fat bastard), we added a vegetarian burger (7.99), and a side of poutine (quebecois, 5.99).  We were fortunate to arrive on a night where pitchers are on special (11.99, on special Wednesdays), so naturally we got one to share.

The pitcher arrived quickly accompanied with carrot sticks and celery sticks, which make for an excellent appetizer, giving us some fresh veggies to offset the grilled and fried fair that we enjoyed.  The glasses that were brought for the beer are chilled and the plates we’re brought for the sliders were heated, which was fantastic.  I love the attention to details like this – it really does add to the experience.

The Sliders:

Beef:  The beef burger came topped with chili, and although tasty, I found the chili a little too dominant a flavor and I would’ve like to taste the beef, which for me is a must for any good burger.  The ground meat for the beef when eaten by itself tasted like it was of good quality, but a touch under seasoned for my palate.

Lamb:  Topped with cilantro yogurt, mint and sprouts – unfortunately mine was missing the sprouts.  I happen to be a fan of lamb (which I think should be a touch gamey), so I enjoyed this slider.  My dining companion (who doesn’t like lamb), thought it was too gamey.

Bison:  The Bison came topped with Sautéed onions, horse radish and house chipotle ketchup.  Our slider came with a generous portion of horse radish which I enjoyed, however, I found that the bison flavour didn’t really come through and was a touch on the dry side.

Kobe:  I was really disappointed with this one.  Topped with sautéed onions, blue cheese, portabello mushrooms and hot mustard.  I found the blue cheese EXTREMELY overpowering.  Trying the patty on its own, I found it bland and a little dry.  I was disappointed with this kobe beef burger as I’ve had them before from other restaurants (Emril’s sports bar in Las Vegas being the most recent) and the flavor of the beef was FANTASTIC.  At 18.99 for the full sized burger, I’d be inclined to avoid it, unless the full sized one is made better than the slider.

Pulled Pork:  This slider seemed out of place to me – until I saw the rib tips on the menu, which I hoped was smoked in house.  Anyway, the pulled pork was tasty and flavorful, sweet and moist with just the right texture.  Nice.

Turkey:  Just a quick disclaimer, I’m not a huge fan of turkey but W’s turkey burger patty was my favorite on the Slider plate.  The cranberry sauce and garlic mayo give the already juicy patty an additional jolt of flavor.  There’s a few leaves of spring mix on this burger too, but they didn’t add/subtract from the experience, IMO.

In addition to all of the sliders, we decided to order the vegetarian burger as well.  I requested the house toppings which were hot sauce and pineapples.  The patty itself was a house-made mixture of tofu, beans and other tasty vegetarian fare.  I do have to say that this was one of the better burgers I had on the night.  The fact that they make the patty themselves earns big bonus point with me as I’ve had some really, really bad vegetarian burger patties.

According to our server, all of the buns served by W were baked in house– maybe it was because I ordered whole wheat buns with all my sliders, but they didn’t have that fresh baked quality…not to say the buns were BAD, but they just weren’t that good in my opinion.

The fries for the poutine were freshly cut and the gravy was very flavorful.   A decent poutine.

While the burgers and the rest of the food that we sampled were good (just avoid the kobe beef burger),  it was the attention to other finer details at W Burger Bar that really makes this night a winner.  The friendly staff, the quick service and the reasonable prices, make W worthy of repeat visits.  If you’re around midtown, I’d definitely recommend giving W Burger Bar a try for yourself.

W Burger
Phone: (416) 961-2227
Website: wburgerbar.com
Address: 10 College Street. Toronto Ontario, Canada.
Restaurant Hours:
Monday 11:30AM-11:00PM
Tuesday 11:30AM-11:00PM
Wednesday 11:30AM-11:00PM
Thursday 11:30AM- 2:00AM
Friday 11:30AM- 2:00AM
Saturday 12:00PM- 2:00AM
Sunday 12:00PM-11:00PM

Something else you might be interested in:

The Art of Cooking AND the Gourmet Food & Wine Expo