PF Chang

P.F.Chang Northbrook Court 1819 Lake Cook Road ll.

847 509 8844

I was in Chicago for my grandson’s engagement party. What a thrilling event! I was taking all the family out for dinner the evening before the party. We all love good food so that was the top priority. Family members live downtown and in Highland Park so location was a factor. I also had to keep in mind that hosting 8 guests has an economic factor.

P.F Chang is a chain and can be found throughout the States. This particular location is situated beside a high end shopping centre. The building is luxurious and inviting. The large Asian statues set a magnificent tone. This is one popular place. I have dined here before and was enchanted with the surroundings and loved the food. A reservation is a must. The place was busier than Grand Central Station.

We all commented on the friendly efficient service. Ken was our server and he amazed us. He was so patient as we made all our selections. He was friendly and kept checking that we were happy. Maybe he just liked us. He kept delivering all that fabulous food and we kept eating every little bit. The food is amazing.

The Egg Drop Soup was the option of one granddaughter.($2.95 cup, $5.95 a bowl) The Wonton Soup arrived in a giant bowl. Everybody slurped and smacked their lips. We were off to a good start.

We also enjoyed the Crispy Green Beans ($5.95) as an appetizer. They are advertised as being more addictive than potato chips. Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps and Chang’s Vegetarian Wraps are truly a signature dish. ($7.50)

Egg Noodles are tossed in Garlic with chili peppers.($6.50) The Pepper Steak is quickly cooked with red and green peppers, yellow onion, garlic and black pepper.($13.50) Double Pan Fried Noodles are semi crisp noodles stir fried with vegetables. Ground Chicken and Eggplant is stir fried with scallions in a savory soy chili pepper sauce.($10.95) Stir Fried Eggplant was spicy moist and had a piquant flavor.(7.95) The Dry Ribs were demolished in no time.

We ate everything in front of us and enjoyed it all. Full? Absolutely. You wouldn’t believe the size of the delicious Great Wall Of China Chocolate Cake.($7.95)Six layers of rich chocolate cake are frosted with semi-sweet chocolate chips were served raspberry sauce.($5.95) P.F. Chang is a must when visiting Chicago.

This was a most amazing weekend. The Art Institute in Chicago is a must visit. Millenium Park is a vision of good architecture and fine design. I am content just to look at the magnificent buildings. Chicago is a great city. I always marvel at the vision this city has shown in good planning. Best of all was being with my loving family and enjoying Brad and Hillary’s engagement. It was enjoyable to meet Hillary’s extended family at the Thanksgiving feast and the party.

Marwencol

Marwencol

I have to keep up my good record by attending weekly films at Bell TIFF Lightbox. I will be in Chicago over the weekend for my grandson’s engagement so I chose to attend my favorite venue during the week. Things are really hopping at the Lightbox as the grand opening of the Tim Burton Art Exhibit is this week. Already media were everywhere. I love the buzz.

Many people had recommended this most unusual film so I took advantage of a slow afternoon to head over to Tiff Lightbox. This was my first experience in Cinema 5. It holds about 80 people and I liked the intimate atmosphere.

I have become very fond of documentaries because there is always something to be learned. Truth is often stranger than fiction.

Mark Hogancamp lives in Kingston New York. He had been badly beaten by a gang and lost his memory and has brain injury. Mark found a way to cope with his loss and his problems. He created in his own back yard a miniature model of a town (Marwencol) The scenes depict war stories. He used Barby type dolls for the characters and set the action in Belgium. Those characters were real to him. They fought battles. They engaged with the Germans. In one of the action scenes he was taken prisoner by the Germans and tortured. A group of beautiful girls save him by carrying knives and guns behind their backs.

There were brutal battles. There also were beautiful women. He filmed all of the different action scenes. Sometimes the Germans would be friendly and drink with the allies. At other times they were the enemy.

A photographer in Greenwich Village came across this art work and arranged for a gallery showing. It was very successful. It was so interesting to see Mark in the company of others at his art show; He obviously didn’t function well with the ‘outside.’

Through the miniatures he learned about himself. He had been an alcoholic before the beating and never drank after.

The little guns even had clips and apparatus to shoot. Everything in the miniature village works.

The dolls are based on real people he knows. We meet those people and also see that doll in action.

Mark had a lot of anger. He was able to take his frustration and anger out on his action dolls. He claims he created his own therapies.

When you hear Mark speak you find him to be a gentle soft spoken person. He uses this art to regain something he lost. Mark states that he is glad that he can escape with his imagination. The story came alive in his head. Mark obviously felt comfortable with the dolls. He said he feels lonely but he feels safe looking at his town. We meet his mother, his attorney and a few friends.

His editor claims he is a very clever guy and his work is authentic art.

This is a most extraordinary story. It is told in an interesting fashion. I was riveted to the screen.

Client 9

Client 9: The Rise And Fall of Eliot Spitzer

Eliot Spitzer is a very complicated character. In some ways he is smart, dedicated and true to his ideals. At the same time he made some very foolish moves in becoming a client at a very expensive call girl agency. The girls call themselves ‘escorts.’ He ruined his career. Even with all of his nonsense he seems to have risen again by being a host on a program Spitzer and Parker on Channel 33. He is smart and knows what he is talking about.

This documentary is so well done. News clippings are shown often. Personal interviews enhance the portrayal. It is captivating and very informative.

Eliot Spitzer was a former attorney general for the State of New York and later became the governor. He was ruthless and dedicated. He attacked the big banks for their fraudulent practices. He was ruthless with some of the large financial corporations and also the Stock Exchange. He charged Merril Lynch with pumping up the stocks. He attacked the CEO of AIG. He wanted to change the system and didn’t appear to be afraid of anyone. Needless to say he made a lot of enemies along the way. When he was forced to resign there was cheering at many financial institutions. A lot of champagne was uncorked.

I learned so much about the total corruption within the State House. His nemesis was the republican Joe Bruno. At times they worked together to accomplish something and at other times they were at loggerheads with one another. At the end of the film we are informed that Bruno did spend some time in jail for his corruption.

The irony is that Spitzer often verbally attacked prostitution He pursued his causes relentlessly. Spitzer stated in the film,” It didn’t matter if it was large or small. I asked if it was right or wrong.”

Many thought his career was very promising and he might even go on to become the first Jewish President.

He tried to hide his actions of meeting call girls all over the country. Ultimately he was caught when a money order was traced. He did have so many enemies and they were looking for ways to bring him down.

Spitzer claims that it is not a new story. It goes back to Greek Mythology.

Nobody expected him to fall so hard and so fast. Newspapers all over had headlines and pictures depicting the big story of the day.

One interviewed man claimed that Spitzer was a hybrid acting like an angel and an animal.

Spitzer was asked why he went to call girls rather than having an affair. He stated that in a twisted way it was less damaging.

He was often called Mr. Right because he so valiantly fought to make things right when he saw fraud and wrong doings with the large corporations.

His father taught him to fight hard and not trust anyone. It is hard to say if that was of help to him or not.

It was sad to see his beautiful wife and three adorable daughters standing at his side. He appeared to have it all and lost everything.

I was fascinated to hear the call girls being interviewed. One beautiful lady has now gone on to become a commodities trader. The favorite young lady, Ashley Dupree has become an announcer on TV. It was easy to see what he saw in her.An excellent documentary!

The Light Thief

The Light Thief

I feel I deserve a gold star. I have not missed one week of seeing films at the TIFF Bell
Lightbox. I have attended films without even knowing what it is all about. I have never
been disappointed. The best films are shown at this wonderful new venue. The whole
building is buzzing with energy over the new art exhibit about to open this next week.
It is obvious that more people are discovering the wonderful cinema here There are no
advertisements to annoy you. I also give praise to the modern high tech clean washrooms.
This is a French film but the story takes place in Kyrgyzstan. It is a cultural fable that
illustrates the changes taking place in a village in Kyrgystan. It is one of the best films I
have seen in a long while. No wonder it was in the Cannes Film festival. I understand it is
an entry as best foreign film at the Oscars. It has a good chance to win.
The film was written by Aktan Arym Kubat who also plays the main character. He is
amazing. The film is outstanding.
Mr. Light is a delightful quiet man who goes about stealing electricity to give light to the
poor folk in the village. He has a dilapidated windmill on his property and uses primitive
tools to manipulate the electricity. His lovely wife looks after him and he is an adoring
father.
At one time he suffers a severe shock but manages to survive. He states,” One has to be
crafty.” He admits he has a dangerous job. The neighbors appreciate him and offer him
home cooked meals. His true character comes out when he rescues the young boy caught
up in a tree. He rescues him with sensitivity and a smile.
Enter the bad guy, Bekzat. He has wishes to be the mayor and to make changes. He asks
Mr. Light for his opinion on upgrading the area with a wind farm. Mr. Light attempts
to mingle with the new leaders moving into town. He realizes that he doesn’t fit in with
them.
The ending has a darker image. The film can be enjoyed as a fable. It is far more
powerful when you read it as an allegory for the attempts to change the culture and the
rise of new powerful sources in a poor community.

The Rushton

The Rushton

I have been by this restaurant on several occasions and noted the full house. The patio
outside is always crowded in the summer. The Xmas tree with all blue lights is presently
beckoning guests for the winter season.
I’m so pleased that my friend recommended this restaurant. She has dined here many
times and I valued her recommendation. I have wanted to try it for so long.
Three friends were meeting on a Monday for lunch. This is usually a quiet day at most
restaurants. Rushton was comfortably filled and the charming Chris looked after every
guest with special care. He was pleasant when we changed a few items of choice from the
menu. He served us with a smile and great efficiency. That adds so much to the ambiance
and pleasure level of the whole experience.
The bread was delicious and the dip of red peppers and beets and whatever else had
a ‘wow’ affect’ on the palate. It was scrumptious.
You know it is a good menu when all three of us had several preferable choices and
couldn’t make up our minds. The Rushton’s Chopped Salad was the first order given.
It was served in a large white bowl. Raddichio, endive, roquefort cheese, port soaked
currents, apples and walnuts made up this gourmet combination.($10.00)
Our lunch guest enjoyed the Smoked Salmon Sandwich. ($12.00) It was served on
marble rye bread with mustard sprouts, roasted red pepper, cucumber, avocado and goat
cheese, Rushton’s cole slaw with gherkins was on the side. I liked the portion size. It was
possible to eat it all and feel comfortable and satiated. I don’t like it when the portion is
so enormous and you feel you don’t want to waste anything. You end up taking a soggy
package back home. No thanks.
I was tempted with several dishes. The Veg Sandwich is filled with grilled eggplant,
roasted red peppers, buffalo mozzarella, basil-olive paste and arugula in ciabatta served
with a side salad.($11.00) The Warm Mushroom Salad also beckoned.(!2.00) Grilled
market mushrooms are served on a bed of arugula with an oven roasted tomato, toasted
pine nuts and shaved parmesan cheese drizzled with balsamic glaze. I also fancied the
Seared Organic Salmon served with gremolata, black rice and snap peas.($19.00)
All of these delicious suggestions will certainly get a return visit from this threesome. I
finally decided on the Caesar Salad. I added Grilled Shrimp($7.00). The greens were
crisp and the dressing was thick and garlicky and so delicious. The shrimp were grilled to
perfection. I love that barbecue flavor. Shaved parmesan cheese was lightly placed on top
of the salad. It was totally enjoyed.
I was told that the Sweet Potato Frites with roasted garlic aioli served as a side ($6.00)
are a great treat. Macaroni and Cheese is also listed as a side.($6.00) Wouldn’t that
make for a tasty light lunch? Add the Grilled Jumbo Shrimp with gremolata ($11.00)
and you have a perfect lunch. The sides also are good suggestions for appetizers before a
main entrée.
Three guests all raved about three different dishes.
We had a friendly chat with the manager who told us she comes from Columbia. Chris
is from Portugal. I think that this adds a wonderful international zest to the restaurant. St
Clair Ave. West is becoming a street of restaurants. This is one of the better ones.

740 St Clair West

416 658 7874

I Wish I Knew

I Wish I Knew

Once again Bell TIFF Lightbox is offering fine cinema. This documentary was shown at the Cannes Film Festival and the Toronto International Film festival.

Zhang Zhang-ke is the well known director. Apparently he was commissioned to make this film for the World Fair Expo in 2010.I was surprised to read that he had complete freedom in the film.

The setting is mainly Shanghai. Throughout the film we are treated to interviews and scenes that tell the story of the past Shanghai and the present. At the same time we visually see the growth over a long period. It is scheduled for only 1 week at this location but like many of the films shown here it might play at different cinemas in town

At one moment you may be looking at the narrow bustling alleys filled with people and in the background you can see the construction of modern skyscrapers.

Five years ago I had the pleasure of visiting Shanghai and I was most interested in the changing city. There are still people dwelling in the alleys, cooking their food and hanging their clothes. The modern architecture is quite amazing. The city was preparing at that time for the approaching Olympics. The city was clean and much effort was being put into making the city tourist friendly.

In the film learned much about the Cultural Revolution from the stories told .by the people interviewed. I was fascinated to listen to the details from people who lived in the alleys. There was a ‘top dog’ in every lane. That boy was aggressive and powerful. They showed a young boy who wasn’t much older than 6 beckoning the others to come and fight him.

We see day laborers pushing carts with heavy material. I enjoyed looking at the faces of the women playing Mah Jong. The camera lingers on each face.

One woman tells us about her mother. She was the first wife and later was bullied by 2 later wives.

The disparity is clearly shown in the scene of the fancy men’s club. The men are wearing very expensive Chinese styled clothes. Behind each man sits a beautiful woman who moves the cards or does errands for the men. What a contrast to the bustling crowded areas of the old city.

Interviews are taken of people living in Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The film is well worth watching. After this current week look to see if it is showing at a different cinema.

It was a great way of learning some history. The camera work was magnificent and I loved the long views of the various faces.

Prop

Prop 770 St Clair Ave West. 416 792 3313

Prop is the jewel on St Clair Ave West. The street is changing rapidly and many restaurants can be found in the area. Prop ‘grabs your attention’ as soon as you enter. The tables are well spaced. The dark wooden floor and the black chairs are very attractive. The large white Inuit paintings add so much to the décor. In the summer the corner patio is a great place to meet and greet.

I had a spectacular dinner here not too long ago and was anxious to return for lunch to see if the high standard were maintained. They absolutely are!

Emily greeted us at the door and was friendly and attentive throughout our meal. I like the menu at Prop. It doesn’t try to do too much and what it does offer is first rate.

I was meeting a friend of long standing and we always have so much to tell one another. We appreciated the quiet atmosphere while enjoying the best of cuisine.

The bread was of the highest quality and the dipping sauce of fine olive oil, balsamic vinegar and herbs was demolished very quickly.

My friend started with a large bowl of White Bean Soup ($6.00). The steam and the aroma were so inviting. I had to ask for a spoon to taste it. We both thought it was a delicious and healthy way to start lunch on a cool day. It was full of tasty broth and crispy veggies. Carrots and kale were abundant. The white beans were so flavorful.

I almost ordered the Caesar Salad from the Appetizer section.($7.00) The guest at the next table seemed to be enjoying his order of this salad. Grated slivers of fine Reggiano Paderno cheese were grated on the large green leaves. It really did look delicious. Mussels in white wine are recommended as a lunch time appetizer.($8.00)

The Sandwiches are large and served on crunchy baguette bread. My friend ordered the Veal Sandwich. It was enormous. Breaded veal was served with a tomato sauce. Bring lots of napkins. She loved it and even had some to take home for another day. The Vegetable Sandwich is prepared with grilled layers of vegetables. All sandwiches are $8.00

Pasta Dishes are a specialty here. Fusilli is serve with a tomato sauce and fresh basil.($10.00) Rigatoni is served with a rose gorgonzola sauce.($11.00) I was also tempted with the Macaroni and Three Cheese Bake.($11.00) That is the perfect lunch in my opinion.

I was being calorie conscious and ordered the Grilled Salmon.($16.00) It was the best. The pepper crust on top was superb. The salmon was moist and flaky and cooked to perfection. A small arugula salad was served on the side. I was a very happy guest. Meat lovers ( and I saw a few there) were enjoying the Angus Beef Burger all dressed.($10.00)

The desserts are listed on a large blackboard over the bar area.

The afternoon was totally satisfying.

The owner Gian Carlo brings years of experience to this restaurant. He formerly had a restaurant in the ‘Little Italy’ section of Toronto. I imagine many of his clientele have followed him to this modern new surrounding. It is a popular spot and has all the ingredients to be a great success.

L'Espresso Bar Mercurio

L’Espresso Bar Mercurio 321 Bloor St. West 416 596 2233

Guaranteed you will meet someone you know at this very popular neighborhood restaurant. It is a ‘hangout’ for the OISE crowd and the Annex folk.

The place is huge but divided up with plants and tables so you have a feeling you are in a smaller space.

You order your food from a list on a paper. You sit at your table and the food is brought to the table in quick order. The food is always fresh and beautifully plated.

This is a family run business. Bar Mecurio across the street has been in operation for years. This family really knows the business and work hard to please their clients. Most days Theresa or Brother Joe are seen running around greeting everyone and keeping the flow of food from the kitchen. The baking on the large counter always drives me crazy and on occasion I do give in .to the Biscotti and Small Pastries. They are so satisfying after a meal. At lunch time the place is packed. You definitely need a reservation for brunch on the weekend. At lunch all food orders are taken at your table.

The Paninis are the best in town. Classic Club Panino offers roasted chicken breast, avocado pancetta, aioli, lettuce and tomato on multi grain bread($10.75)

I love the Vegetarian Panini filled with bocconcini, zucchini, spinach and roasted peppers on an artisan baguette.($8.95)

Angus Burger is the in house Angus burger topped with tomato, lettuce and onions served on an artisan baguette. All paninis can be ordered with gluten free bread.

The Salads are always so tasty and well presented. I enjoyed the Nicoise Salad. Italian tuna is served with Yukon potatoes, tomatoes, dried black olives, green beans, organic eggs and drizzled with a citrus olive oil dressing. ($12.95)

New L’ Espresso Salad is composed of white Tuscan beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, scallions, ciabatta croutons and feta cheese in that tasty citrus olive oil dressing.($11.95)

I like the fact that special prices are offered to students. Students can order a Tuna Wrap with fries for $8.95. There are many choices for students at a special price.

The coffee list is extensive. Try and find room for one of the special pastries.

This restaurant is consistently delicious. It is certainly the meeting place in town. I have never found the noise level too high even though the place is always at capacity.

I really like the private room at the back. I plan some day to invite 10 friends for a lunch so I can enjoy their company, the good food and the privacy offered in that attractive room. In the summer the enormous patio is always filled. It is at the side of the restaurant so you don’t get the noisy Bloor St traffic.

The family also runs the popular Bar Mercurio across the road. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is an upscale restaurant featuring the finest of authentic Italian food. This family knows how to make you feel welcome and they certainly know how to run an efficient business. That is why it is such a success.

Flip Toss Thai Kitchen

Flip Toss Thai Kitchen 141 Harbord St. 416 966 6955

Cheap and cheerful comes to mind. This small restaurant does a big take out business. There are about 5 tables and a counter for inside dining. You order at the desk and your food arrives hot and delicious. The menu is listed on a giant blackboard and there is a daily special. This has to be one of the most economical places to dine. The most important factor is the delicious food. Outstanding. It was an impromptu family outing. Everybody in my family is always running in circles and a million directions. It was amazing that we found time available to get together. The place was quiet. The food was amazing and we had a chance to get caught up on all the news.

The soups are served in a small white bowl filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. Hot And Sour Shrimp Soup is $3.89

Street Noodle Soup is served with shrimps, rice noodles, tomatoes, bean sprouts and simmered in an authentic Thai broth.($5.53) I ordered a Vegetable Soup. The bowl was overflowing with mushrooms, carrots, sprouts and tofu. It was peppery hot and I loved every spoonful. The other three ordered a variety of soups and everybody was happy.

I ordered the Veggie Spring Rolls from the appetizer section.($2.79 for 3) How do they do it? They were piping hot and filled with vegetables. The outer layer was crispy and the dipping sauce completed the dish. Cashew Chicken with carrots, onions, bell peppers, cashews in a mild Thai sauce was totally devoured.($8.04) Lime Leaf Chicken is served with snap peas, red peppers, carrots, lime leaves in a spicy sauce.($7.82)

Delicious Fish is lightly fried with garlic, basil, onions, bell pepper and comes with a black bean sauce.(8.448) Penang Fish is lightly fried. Bell peppers, peanuts and a red curry sauce complete this tasty dish.($8.48)

Beef dishes can be substituted for the chicken. Stir Fried Noodles are very popular. Pad Thai offers chicken or shrimp. Rice noodles, tofu, green onions, bean sprouts, carrots and peanuts compliment this dish.($8>04) Thai Bangkok Noodles offers broccoli, carrots, red pepper, bean sprouts, tofu and peanuts with glass noodles.($8.54)

You are asked what amount of heat you wish on a scale of 1-5.

Vegetarians are well looked after on the menu. Spicy Eggplant is cooked with bell peppers and onions in a garlic black bean sauce.($7.29)

Evil Jungle Prince is a preparation of eggplant, baby corn, bamboo shoots, carrots, onion and peas.($6.84)

The place is small and cozy. The food is outstanding. Our server was very friendly and so willing to please.

We had a wonderful family gathering without breaking the bank. Our only problem was making a selection from all those tasty dishes. Check the web for a complete menu www.fliptossthai.com

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Morning Glory

Morning Glory

Sometimes I just want to relax and have a laugh. I don’t want terror, killing and heavy drama. This film suited my needs perfectly. I loved every minute.

Rachel McAdams is so perky and adorable in this delightful film. We can all be proud that she is Canadian. She plays the part of Becky Fuller, a TV producer of a morning program in New Jersey. She is constantly on her phone and in action trying to be a good producer.

Her break comes when she is hired to be an executive producer for a New York morning program called Daybreak. The show is not doing well. The ratings are at the bottom. The organization is in disarray. She is quickly told that many others have failed and she shouldn’t get too settled. Becky accepts the challenge and goes about trying to get better results for the program. The first thing she does is to fire the egotistical co-anchor. His pictures were all over his dressing room. He was so filled with himself and didn’t participate well in communicating with the staff.

She hires Mike Pomeroy (played by Harrison Ford). He is the meanest, nastiest, unpleasant soul. He was a former news journalist and is bitter and frustrated. He detests the morning programs and sees them as ’fluff’ and he doesn’t want any part of it.

To make matters worse he co-anchors with a cheerful Colleen ( Diane Keaton) Colleen is willing to interview anyone and do anything to make the program successful. Colleen and Mike working together is a bundle of laughs. They jab and make barbs at one another the minute the camera is turned off. He refuses to do anything that is not newsworthy.

Becky is told that the program will be cancelled if she cannot get better ratings. She works her heart out and tries cooking segments and news items. She brings in exotic animals.

A darling young producer (of a different program) has his eye on her. We see them trying to build a relationship. It keeps running into obstacles because Becky cannot leave her phone alone or stop thinking of ideas for the show.

It was a lot of fun to see the antics. I was also interesting in the glimpse it gave me of the behind the scenes of a morning show. At 1:30 a.m. Becky’s alarm went off. She cheerfully headed to the studio for makeup and meetings. Many of the workers are yawning and closing their eyes. She is always perky and full of cheerful energy.

We see the meetings where the staff decides on topics and issues to be presented at the program.

Becky is so good she is offered a producer’s job on the Today Show.

This is a typical Hollywood film. The endings always work out in a positive manner. You can figure it out for yourself or go to the film and have an enjoyable few hours.

Fair Game

Fair Game

I apologize for letting my bias show so blatantly. I was so furious when I saw this picture.
I remember the story of the outing of the CIA agent by Bush and his cronies. It was a bad
story then and I am still fuming about the evil side of politics.
The film contains many actual news clips from that time. Sean Penn plays the role of
Ambassador Joseph Wilson. Wilson had been sent to Niger to get the ‘dirt’ on Niger
selling uranium to Iraq. It was thought that uranium was being shipped to Iraq in pipes.
Wilson tells the news and the government that there was no deal. Bush, Cheney and Rove
are angry because they are set on starting the Iraqi War based on their information that
Iraq had weapons of mass destruction. The government wants to punish Joseph Wilson
and lets the news out that his wife, Valerie Plume is a CIA agent.
Naomi Watts is magnificent in the role of Valerie Plane. We see her doing her
undercover work. She travels to Cairo, Amman and Baghdad in undercover missions.
Her work was dangerous. Her family and friends did not know what she was doing. At
one point Joseph Wilson tells his wife,”I don’t know where you go. If you went missing I
couldn’t tell anyone because you aren’t there.”
Once the cover ‘was blown’ there were terrible ramifications. Valerie was trying to get
some leading scientists out of Iraq. They disappeared and were never heard from. Many
of her operations were cancelled. The tension plagued havoc on her marriage.
Wilson wants Plane to give evidence against the government but she is so down
heartened that she just wants peace and quiet in her life. She exclaims that the White
House has all the power and there is no way for her to tell her story. She is hounded by
news people and even neighbors threatened her with death.
It was so uplifting to hear that at least Scooter Libby was found guilty of exposing the
secret information. He was Chief Of Staff to Cheney. Everybody knew that he took the
fall for Cheney , Bush and Rove.
The film does tell us how Valerie and Joseph resolved the problem. Some news clips are
shown of the real Valerie Plane speaking out in a hearing. It is amazing how much Naomi
Watts and Valerie Plane are similar in appearance.
This was a dirty political game and Fair Game tells the story well. It was fascinating.
The actors do an exceptional job. It is amazing how close some of the actors look to their
real character. I would have sworn that Carl rove was acting in the picture.

By the Way Cafe

By The Way Café

If your restaurant is busy for breakfast, lunch and dinner and you have been in business
for over 30 years you are doing something right. By The Way is doing it all right. This
community restaurant is a welcoming second home to the Annex neighborhood. Owner,
Amir, was walking around and greeting the patrons. That makes everyone feel so special.
At all times of the day and evening the regulars are seen sipping coffee and enjoying this
delicious food. It has a decided Mediterranean flavor but all palates will find something
tasty. In the warmer weather the large patio is always filled. The patio is enclosed by a
tent so even rain can’t be a deterrent in summer and early fall.
Three cousins arranged to meet at this central location. How wonderful to walk to our
luncheon appointment! How warming to be greeted as long last family! How delicious
to enjoy the wonderful food! The menu is extensive and I can honestly say that I have
always enjoyed my meals over the 30 years I have been a patron.
Each day the Specials are posted. On this day the restaurant was featuring two types of
Soup, Tomato and Rice and Egyptian Lentil ($6.00) Both are flavorful and warming
on a cold fall day. The Omelette special was offered with proscuitto. tomato and
havarti.($9.00) I could see that the Battered fish and Chips was a favorite on this
day.($12.95) The combination of fish and chips is served with veggie chips and tartar
sauce.
I opted for the Breaded Eggplant, Red Pepper, and Bocconcini Sandwich with
fresh basil and tomato. It was served on delicious multi grain bread. ($9.95) It was an
enormous sandwich filled with all those wonderful items I even demolished the crispy
frites served on the plate.
I was tempted with the Stuffed Pepper Squash with quinoa, dates and spinach. It is
baked in a tomato sauce and served with a garden salad.($12.95)
I usually order from the regular menu. One guest had the Middle Eastern Chicken in
Pita. ($10.00) served with a side salad.
My usual order is the Salad Nicoise with Fresh Grilled Tuna. I always have this dish
but decided I needed to have a change. It is fantastic.
One of the cousins had a plate made to order. The Fresh Grilled Tuna was served with
a plate of cooked vegetables. That was an amazing looking plate and I wished I had
ordered that dish.
The Mediterranean Plate is always so tasty.($10.00) tabuleh, babagannough, Israeli
salad and hummus are served with pita bread on the side. It is a great sharing dish.
Egg Dishes are offered all day. You can order your eggs any style or opt for a pedigree
preparation of Benedict or Florentine, or an Omelette of your choice.
One of my favorites is the Original Quesadilla filled with cheese with a salsa piquante
and sour cream on the side.($7.00)
I love the homey atmosphere. It is not high tech and sleek. It is welcoming. The food is
well prepared and always delicious. By The Way is in the heart of the Annex and offers
tempting dishes at the most affordable prices. It is crowded but never too noisy. Just ask
any regular. There is a good reason they all keep returning.

400 Bloor St West

416 967 4295

Asian Legend

Asian Legend 418 Dundas St West 416 977 3909

I haven’t had Chinese food for a long while. I was so pleased when my two dining companions recommended this restaurant. It is in the middle of Chinatown but so different from the other restaurants. It is new and very well designed. It is also very popular. At 6:00 p.m. there was a waiting line. Fortunately we had a reservation and took the last table available.

The hot tea was waiting for us in a gleaming white pot. The service was very friendly and efficient. We raved about every bite. The food was outstanding. Even the take out menu is above the grade. It is on glossy paper with beautiful photos. I wanted to eat the food pictured on the brochure. Like all Chinese food restaurants the menu is so extensive and it is difficult to choose. Whatever we chose was totally enjoyed.

Hot And Sour Soup with shredded chicken was spicy and full of tasty ingredients.($4.95) We all dipped our spoons into this delicious beginning.

The Boiled Dumplings were steaming as presented in the steam basket.($4.50) There were 8 and demolished in quick order.

The Sesame Biscuit stuffed with sliced beef was gone before the next dish arrived.($4.50)

I don’t eat meat but never fear. I was able to enjoy the Sauteed Green Beans.($9.50) It was an enormous portion. The greens were crisp and garlicky with so much flavor. The Sauteed Shrimp were served on a large white platter with crispy pieces of carrot and celery. The shrimp were moist and perfectly cooked. The flavor was so enjoyable.

The menu is enormous in every category. We enjoyed watching the platters of sizzling food being presented at the various tables. The aroma was tantalizing. There are numerous dishes with noodles in soup. .Assorted Seafood Noodle Soup is a large bowl offered at $7.95. Fried Noodles and Dry Noodles are widely offered.

Chicken, Beef, Duck and Pork offer so many suggestions.

Eat in or take out this is a hot spot on Dundas Street. Do make a reservation. I suggest dining at the restaurant because it is so well designed and so attractive. Also the food arrives very quickly and is served hot. The serving dishes are all white and the table looks so attractive. We all agreed that this was a great treat.

The takeout menu lists all the other Asian Legend locations in the city .In North York 5188 Yonge St is home to one of their restaurants. I consider this a great find.

Langolino

Langolino 50c Clinton St 416 530 4710

Megan Davies is a most amazing person. She owns Langolino. She is the chef. She works every day preparing the superb cuisine in this favorite restaurant.

I love the warm homey atmosphere. This is not a high tech glitzy restaurant. It has the feeling of a restaurant in a small Italian town. The old wooden armoire speaks of the past. The twinkling lights on the outside patio beckon you inside. On summery days the patio is filled .I love the fact this restaurant is in the heart of ‘Little Italy’ but it is a few doors north of the popular College St. You have all the fanfare of being in this viable neighborhood but you are watching from the side.

I was meeting a very special couple for dinner. They live in my former condo and I haven’t seen them for a while. We commented all evening that even thought the restaurant was filled it was never noisy. We were able to have a stimulating conversation and enjoy each others company.

We also had a special treat on this evening. It was the first day on the job for our server, Hicham. He has recently arrived from Morocco and couldn’t do enough to help out. He was charming and looked after every table on this busy evening. He certainly has a future.

The food is consistently delicious. I was so happy to return to a place I have enjoyed so much. Daily specials are listed on a blackboard. The regular menu offers a large variety of tempting food.

The bread was so delicious. We asked what bakery made this amazing bread. Apparently a very good friend of Meagan bakes 12 loaves at a time for this restaurant. I suggest a visit to Langolino just for the bread is worth the trip.

The Special Soup of the Day was a Pureed Squash. The bowl was enormous and all three of us shared the hot flavorful portion. It was outstanding.

The special dish of Grilled Salmon was chosen by one of my friends. The fish was beautifully plated and there were an enormous amount of freshly cooked vegetables. It was a winner in every way.

There are many choices of appetizers to begin your meal. On a former visit I enjoyed the Warm Mushroom Toasts. Sautéed mushrooms, herbs and garlic are on that wonderful toasted bread.($8.00) Steamed PEI Mussels are served with garlic, tomato, fresh herbs in a white wine broth.($10.50) Roasted Peppers are prepared with feta cheese, capers and is drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil.($!2.00)

The Roasted Grilled Vegetables is served warm and drizzled with homemade goat cheese dressing.($13.00) Warm Mushroom Salad is served over baby greens with roasted red pepper, tomato and feta cheese.($13.00)

The Pasta dishes are superb. I ordered the Linguini Irina, with mushrooms and shrimp. I changed the pesto cream sauce for the tasty olio. ($15.00) It was so flavorful. The linguine was perfectly al dente. There were so many mushrooms and shrimp. It was a gourmet feast.

My other dining companion opted for the Special Pasta. Linguini was served with chicken, spinach, tomatoes and was topped with goat cheese.

Main courses are always available offering meat, chicken or fish. Grilled chicken Breast is served with a tart lemon butter sauce ($16.00) The food is amazing. It is priced so fairly. The service is impeccable. We had a great evening.

Tamara Drewe

Tamara Drewe

This is a delightful frolicking film. If you take it seriously and start to analyze the action you probably will not enjoy it. It is much like an English version of Desperate Housewives but I like this much better.

It takes place in the English countryside. Beth runs a writers’ retreat on her farm. The rolling hills and calm pastures make a perfect background for all the frivolous, antics that place on the farm and in the area.

I adored watching Beth mix up the biscuits for afternoon tea, prepare breakfasts and dinners without even looking tired. She also attended to the farm and edited her writer husband’s works. She was caring and giving to all the writers in residence as well as to her husband.

Her husband has a roving eye. There always seems to be a mistress hanging on. He leaves her, begs forgiveness and then moves on the next one. What a cad! I really enjoyed the scene where Beth shows up at one her husband’s readings. In front of all the audience she asks him where he got the information for the adultery in the story.

All the residents at the retreat are characters. It is such fun being a voyeur at the dinner table listening to them chat away.

Two cheeky brazen young school girls provide a lot of humor in the story. It is almost as if they are telling the tale. They continuously hide behind walls and watch all the goings and comings in this quiet seemingly pastoral boring community. Their only action seems to be throwing eggs at passing cars.

Of course there has to be a handsome gentleman in the picture. He works on the farm and tends to the cattle. He longs for his ancestral home that is a country house nearby. It was somehow lost to the family and now is owned by the Tamara Drewe family.

Enter Tamara Drewe. She is currently a journalist for a big city paper. Her mother has died and she comes back to sell the family house. Tamara has blossomed into a beautiful young sexy woman. She wears short shorts( really short) and knows how to flirt. She used to be an ugly duckling but time has worked in her favor. The hired hand had a relationship with her in the past and obviously still cares for her.

Tamara has a series of relationships. The ‘peeping tom girls’ look on at all the action. Beth gets fed up with her carousing husband.

There are twists and turns and a surprising ending.

I delighted in the film and just smiled all the way through.

Posy Simmonds wrote the book (with the same title) that was serialized in the Guardian in 2005.The book was based on the Thomas Hardy book, Far From The Madding Crowd. I now feel compelled to go back and re- read that book.

Jacques Bistro du Parc

Jacques Bistro du Parc 126A Cumberland St 416 961 1893

I remember when this spot was Jakes and then later Jacques Omelettes. When the artistic giant rock was placed in the park in Yorkville the restaurant became Jacques du Parc. The name may have changed over the years. What has remained constant is the high quality of the food. Jacques is still in the kitchen waving at the patrons and creating his masterful French cuisine.

Omelettes remain on the menu. There is so much choice and the presentation is always inviting. Epinards et Fromage offers spinach and cheese within the fluffy tasty omelette. Nicoise is prepared with tomatoes, cheese, onions, green peppers and eggplant. Gourmande is a specialty omelette with smoked salmon, sour cream and chives. The omelettes are $18.95 and $19.85.Without doubt they are the tastiest best omelettes in town. Beautifully prepared vegetables are served on the side of the plate. They are perfectly cooked. My host enjoyed one of the omelette choices.

This is a classic French restaurant. The Soupe a L’oignon Gratinee gets a gold star for best performance in taste and texture.($8.95) Vichyssoise du Jour is available daily.($7.50)

We had just come from seeing a powerful film. Three of us had so much to discuss. It was late and we wanted a glass of wine and some light but delicious food.

Two of us opted for the Salad Nicoise with Salmon.($18.95) It was one of the daily specials. Every bite was magic. The greens were light and fresh. The classic pieces of potatoes and slim French style green beans added much flavor. The salmon was perfectly cooked. I don’t know what the vinaigrette was but I can honestly say I scraped the plate hoping to enjoy every speck. It was a most generous presentation and I feel like returning immediately and doing it all over again.

Every day the specials are listed on a blackboard. The regular menu items are tantalizing and perfectly prepared.

Supreme de Poulet Fermier aux champignons Des Bois is a favorite classic dish. ($24.95) Free range chicken breast is sautéed with shitake, Portobello and oyster mushrooms in a Medeira sauce.

Medaillons de Ris De Veau Flambes Au Calvados ($26.95) offers medallions of sweetbreads sautéed with mushrooms, apples, flamed in Calvados wine.

Saumon Frais se L’Atlantique Au Basilic allows you to choose grilled or poached with a basil butter sauce.($24.95)

I have dined here for years. It was thrilling to return and see that the menu still offers a variety of authentic French cuisine. This is gourmet food at every bite.

The restaurant is small and charming. Even the menu cover puts you in that French mood. The cover has an illustration of the front of the restaurant.

Save room for dessert. The very best French tartes are offered. Raspberry or Lemon are the choices. Have one of each because they are that fantastic. Gateau Honore is also available.

Our conversation could have gone on forever but we were sitting in front of empty dishes and the place was about to close. Good friends and exquisite e cuisine are a life’s delight.

The Boulevard Cafe

The Boulevard Café 161 Harbord St 416 961 7676

This establishment has been going strong for over 30 years. I remember when it first opened. I have been a continuous patron of the fine cuisine. The Peruvian flavor is so tasty and tantalizing. Boulevard Café is a small restaurant so there is a homey welcoming atmosphere. The paintings on the wall change but the food remains consistently delicious. In the summer the large outdoor patio is always filled. It is advisable to have a reservation because the restaurant is very popular in the neighborhood. I have dined here for brunch, lunch and dinner. I have never been disappointed. I love the food and the friendly atmosphere.

Daily specials are posted on the blackboard. There is always a fresh fish, chicken and a special Peruvian dish.

For lunch I often choose the Peruvian Plate.($12.75) A large platter of steamed vegetables is presented on a bed of lettuce with the famous house huancaina sauce. It has a flavor of tarragon and just a little kick to the taste. Dip the vegetables in the sauce and delight in the healthy feast.

I’m always tempted with the Creole Salad.($11.95) Artichokes, chick peas, fresh greens, tomatoes, onions, eggs and olives are enhanced with that special sauce so famous here.

The Anticuchos are a signature dish and usually my dinner choice. Brochettes can be ordered of Shrimp,($18.95) Beef ($18.95) or Chicken($16.95) Charbroiled brochettes are marinated in wine, herbs and spices. Perfection on the palate. Fries, rice or home style potatoes comes with every order. A delicious fresh salad of greens completes this very generous dish. I salivate thinking about it. I never tire of eating this tasty well flavored food.

Salpicon de Pollo offers grilled chicken breast on a bed of mixed greens and steamed vegetables in a cilantro, lime and olive oil vinaigrette.($14.95)

The Sandwiches are enormous and are served with greens and Yukon gold fries. Butifarra de Salmon is composed of smoked salmon, smoked gruyere, grilled zucchini, roasted jalapeno and sweet peppers. It is served on rye bread with caraway.($11.95)

The Boulevard Burger has been a benchmark for burgers anywhere. Exquisitely-spiced lean ground beef is charbroiled and served on a toasted onion bun with guacamole.($14.95)

This week I noticed the introduction of a Prix- Fixe Menu for $25.00. What a great way to taste a variety of dishes.

I like the fact that the menu is not pages in length. It is a small kitchen and the chef is a master at preparing the food. Whatever they cook is done with a loving hand and great skill. The food is consistently tasteful, beautifully plated and warmly served. What more could anyone want? Even when the place is at capacity it is possible to have a conversation with your dinner companion without fighting a loud din.I know I will be back again before too long.