Keep The Lights On

Keep The Lights On




I have just spent an afternoon with heavy manly sex. To be more accurate I saw a film with lots of raw emotion and sex. Ira Sachs is a gay documentary filmmaker. I think he knows what he is doing.



The story takes place over many years and portrays a relationship of two men. Erik is a film maker. He meets beautiful Paul. They are immediately attracted to one another. Their relationship covers all emotions. They truly love one another. Paul is addicted to drugs and that causes many problems. He tries rehab but can’t get himself clean.



The two men have other relationships when their union ‘goes sour.’ It is a real rip into the gay world and the story is well told. It is also beautifully filmed.



At one point Paul is having sex with another man and Eric sits on the bed holding his hand.



It is touching and believable. I could feel Eric’s pain as he wants so desperately to have a good relationship. He wants Paul to be well and he wants to live with him.



We meet some of their other friends and feel the closeness of the group. No doubt this film would not please everyone. It took me into a world I do not know. I liked the characters and felt their pain. The cinematography is superb.

Buca 604 King St West 416 855 1600


The hottest spot in town! Wow!



Walk up a dark lane to the front door. I felt I was in an old ruin that had been upgraded. It is a blend of old brick, wood wall siding and magnificent modern lighting. It is beautifully designed and outfitted. You walk down the stairs and face an elegant vibrant bar scene. Long narrow tables and many people happily sipping drinks make for a friendly greeting. There are dining rooms on either side of the open bar area. There are long communal tables as well as individual dining spots. The walk in bar is like a sculpture. To get to one of the dining rooms you walk through a semi dark tunnel. The word ‘buca’ means hole. This is no hole in the wall but it has a wonderful feeling of descending from the real world down into this magical dining space.



Executive Chef Rob Gentile, Chef de Cuisine Ryan Campbell and Sous Chef Yong Soo Do have developed a very eclectic menu. Two of us were dining here and exclaimed at every bite of this fine gourmet dining.



We shared the Parmigiana Di Melanzane. Preserved tomato and fried eggplant are layered with buffalo ricotta and burrata cheese. The fresh basil on top of this layered gastronomical delight added the final touch.($14.00) We could have shared another one and called it a fine dinner.



I love dining with this friend. She is fun and great company. She enjoys fine food and it is always an adventure to dine with her. She chose two appetizers rather than an entrée. The Barbabietola E Bufala was an exquisite salad of marinated Italian Buffalo mozzarella with Cookstown beets, preserved lemon, Tuscan pistachio and house made concord grape.($16.00) The plate was a visual delight. The flavor was exotic. This restaurant uses a lot of ‘designer cheeses.’ It is amazing.



My dining companion also enjoyed the Arrosticini. Grilled lamb’s meat skewers were served with salmoriglio, lemon and olive oil finished with ricotta salata.($10.00) My friend stated that she had never tasted such delicious perfectly cooked lamb.



I enjoyed my Cavatelli Al Pomodoro ($21.00) Fresh hand rolled pasta was prepared with seasonal ripe roma tomatoes finished with fermented ricotta, basil and ottobratico olive oil. Handmade pasta is the best. It is even better when prepared al dente.



This is a very unusual menu. How about Cervello? ($9.00) It is lamb’s brain alla saltimbocco with nipitella agliata. Orecchio di Maiale are plated pig’s ears with wild fennel salt.($8.00) Lingua di Amanzo is a house cured grass fed beef tongue rubbed with black pepper. A choice of three Salumi di Buca is offered for$18.00)



Not all the dishes are unusual gourmet delights. The Orata is a whole Butterflied Grilled Nova Scotia Sea Bream served with barile olives, preserved lemon and organic oil.(426.00) Tagliata Di Bisonte is a calabrese spiced bison, clod tender with Sicilian cicoria, spring onion, autumn berry and panetta.($36.00)



Save room for dessert. The Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato was so delicious. I enjoyed a sampling of one of the unbelievable cheese served with preserved strawberries. Gourmet food at its best. The well heeled crowd would agree.

The Words

The Words

Have you ever done something against your better judgment? I have just finished viewing many wonderful international films at the Toronto Film Festival. Why would I go to see a second rate American film that opened a week ago? This week was the first time I can remember that no new film opened on the Friday. Get ready for a burst of openers of the finest films from the festival. The season has now started.

This film does have flaws but I was intrigued with the basic premise. It held me captivated. A young man is passionately in love with his wife. He just cannot make it as a writer. He has written one good novel but the publisher cannot take it on because the economic situation wouldn’t allow it.  During his honeymoon in Paris he discovers an old briefcase in an antique shop. His loving wife purchases it for him. When he returns he finds a secret pocket with an even more fascinating secret. Inside is a manuscript. He becomes riveted while reading the script. The original writer had written about his love affair as an American soldier meeting his French wife while in Paris. It occupies his mind totally and he can think of nothing else. He copies the script word for word and submits it for publication. What a turnaround in his life. He becomes famous. He has finally won approval from his doubting father. He becomes the ‘talk of the town’. He is invited to readings and to talk shows. He even wins a prestigious prize. I loved all of the above moments.

Lurking in the background is an old man. Who is he? We soon learn that he was the original author of the book, The Words. The two men have a confrontation. We begin to learn his real story. It was actually very touching. The script had been lost on a train ride. The wife was coming back to Paris to patch up their break up. She was bringing the script with her. The loss of the script causes further problems in the marriage.

Bradley Cooper plays the role of the desperate young writer. Jeremy Irons plays the role of the old man who was  the original author. The story gets convoluted and mushy at times. The basic concept makes for good discussion. In the past many books have been plagiarized. Should the original writer get credit? In this case Cooper’s character does offer to right the wrong and to pay the Irons character for the injustice. I didn’t find it too believable that he doesn’t accept. If someone has written something that is acclaimed as fine literature I can’t imagine allowing someone else to claim the rewards. (financial and otherwise) One could have a good discussion on the idea of walking away from his deserved reward.

There are several minor sub plots but the main theme is what kept my interest. It wasn’t so bad after all.

Peter Pan

Peter Pan Bistro                373 Queen St West                            416 593 0917

You know the wonderful feeling when you return home after being away from so many familiar people and things. I have been visiting Peter Pan Restaurant for over 30 years. It has always been a favorite. It has been far too long since I have returned. I remember it as the first re-furbished diner in Toronto. Crazy art work hung on the walls and the servers were usually dressed in black leather and worked between their acting and art jobs. Over the years the place has become more gentrified. The stylish tin ceiling remains. The banquettes still are my favorite. White table cloths and little vases of fresh flowers have been added to the other tables along the wall. The paintings are a different caliber and are more serene and elegant. One thing has remained constant. The food was always creative and beautifully presented. It is one of the few restaurants in this city where there are so many beckoning suggestions I have trouble deciding what to enjoy.

How happy I was to greet Jeff Berg once again.(Obviously he has not been managing for over 30 years but is has been many years that I have appreciated his outstanding service) He remains as friendly and welcoming as ever and has maintained the superb quality of food. This is a reasonable place to enjoy exquisite cuisine. The presentation of the food deserves a gold medal. You would think you were dining in the high end restaurants of town. I plan to return soon for the $15.00  3 course lunch offered daily.

I must mention the bread. It is actually made in house. It is so delicious and the dipping sauce

of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar was wiped up with this tasty bread.

My friend and I had just come from a film at the Toronto International Film Festival. We were starving.  In the evening a $25.00 Prix Fixe offers 3 courses. The regular daily menu is extensive. The Prix Fixe was too good to refuse.

The Vegetable Spring Roll was presented in 2 rather large sections. They were served with an Asian dipping sauce and some fresh arugula salad. Amazing. The Herb Crusted Salmon was a very generous portion placed on top of roasted baby potatoes, sautéed red peppers and spinach. The fish was moist and tender. The flavors were incredible. The plate looked like it should be photographed for Gourmet Magazine (even if it doesn’t exist anymore) and the taste was appreciated bite by bite. The Prix Fixe included the best Tiramisu. It wasn’t too sweet. The chocolate and other flavors melded together for a tasty conclusion to our perfect meal.

On many occasions at lunch or dinner I have enjoyed the Roasted Beet Salad with poached pear, spiced walnuts, chevre and mixed greens.($12.00)

The Peter Pan Burger served with a mixed green salad or hand cut fries is a house favorite.($14.75) I also love the Quesadillas.($14.95) The chef has a way with using spices and herbs to enhance the natural flavor of the food being prepared.
I have enjoyed many Pasta dishes here. The Linguine Primavera offers al dente pasta with garden fresh vegetables in a light cream sauce. ($17.50) There are always several options offered each evening.

I never know what to choose because everything is so delicious. At these prices you can come many times and enjoy a variety of gourmet prepared meals. It is such a friendly place. I was so happy to be back home.

The Queen of Versaille

The Queen of Versailles
Funny! Pathetic! Bizarre! Extravagant! Sumptuous Greed! Gauche!

This is a documentary so of course it is true. It is so ‘over the top’ that I heard several people ask if it was for real. My friend and I couldn’t stop talking about this bizarre family long after the film was over. Jackie and David Segal were amazingly rich. He owned 28 time sharing properties in 10 states. They lived a life of extreme wealth. Jacqueline is 30 years younger than her husband. She was a former model. He had been married a few times before.  They had 8 children. Their home was enormous and there was a staff of cooks, chauffeurs and nannies. They owned a private plane. Pictures of Jackie were posted all over their gigantic house. She really did seem to care for her husband and had a lot of patience when everything seemed to tumble in front of them. I had a love/hate relationship with her. We learn that she was a university graduate but she dressed and acted like a ‘bimbo.’ She always had a smile on her face and I had to admire that. Jackie had been married before in an abusive relationship. She stated that she felt adored by David. He stated that she had a good heart and was a good mother.

I had quite a laugh when one (of the many dogs) was playing with a cockroach in the sumptuous house. Jackie just laughed. Did she realize that the camera was making a film to be seen by many?

David and Jackie were realizing their dream by building the largest house in America. It was to have 30 bathrooms and was 90,000 square feet. It was inspired by French architecture. There were 10 kitchens and 2 tennis courts. The baseball field would also serve as a parking lot for big parties. The children’s playroom had a stage. Jackie was showing the structure to a friend. The friend commented on the bedroom. Jackie stated,” That is not my room. That is the closet.” David was asked why he would build such a large house. He answered, “Because I could.”

The house never did get completed and when the fortune crumbled the house went on the market but did not sell.

We witness staff meetings and the ‘super selling’ of the time shares. David’s eldest son by another marriage was in charge of the time share selling. It was humorous but annoying to see how they pressured clients into buying. No wonder the economy went on a downward spiral. People were almost forced to buy shares beyond their means.

When the market began to implode David lost a lot of money. They began to cut back on staff at home and in business. They were down to 1 cook and one nanny as well as the chauffeur. The house was a mess. Dog feces were all over the house. Jackie laughed when her son stepped in some dirt. The big unfinished house went up for sale for $100,000,000. It did not sell.

One of the nanny’s was from the Philippines. She was so loyal and loving. My heart broke when she spoke of her own son who was 7 when she left her home country. He was 26 when the film was made. It sounds as if she had not been home. She thought of the Siegel children as her own and was caring and loving with them.

When they were forced to take a commercial plane one of the daughters asked, “Why are all these people coming on our plane? Even when things were financially bad Jackie went to Wal-Mart and purchased 3 carts of toys for the children. She also went for a Botox injection.

Love them or hate them they were a colorful family.

Darwin

Darwin

Darwin is possibly the strangest town in the world. Thanks to this documentary I have been able to meet the unusual people (all 35) who live in this little village in the midst of the desert in California. I was surprised that they allowed themselves to be so exposed and to tell their stories. The town is very remote. From the sky it looks like a few dotted huts placed in the middle of dry barren rolling land. Darwin has been known as a haven for anti establishment characters.

Many of the habitants tell their story. We learn a bit about their past and why they came to Darwin. What a diverse group. They seek to live in harmony in the town.

The post office is a trailer that opens at 11:00 am in the morning. The lady who acts as the postmistress thinks she has the best job in town. She talks as if she is drugged. Her plain face and long straight hair make her feel as if she is an ‘oddity’. Her story about her son is actually very sad.

Molly and Hank are also plain folk who think that Darwin is the best place to live. Hank tells us of his past bad boy life. She looks as if she hasn’t had a hair cut in years and of course lipstick doesn’t exist. Her daughter who sees herself/himself as a male lives there with his girlfriend. The town is accepting and there is no problem.

One of the residents has the potential for being a fine sculptor. In front of his small house there are two giant Buddhas. He has also made many pictures and sculptures. He claims he has never had an art lesson.

I saw no sign of a store anywhere. Most of the people seemed to drive but there was no sense of where the nearest town might be.

One gentleman laughs when he said there is no mayor. Years ago a lady appointed herself as a mayor but she had died. The cemetery is small and parched but could probably tell a few good stories. The history of the town throughout the years is fascinating. For years it was a lawless town where even the police feared to go.

These people are different but absolutely fascinating. Truth is stranger than fiction. I almost want to go to see this place for real.

Hope Springs

Hope Springs

I have been breathlessly waiting for this newest Meryl Streep film. She does not disappoint. Streep plays the role of Kay, an unhappily married woman for over 30 years. Life is a routine. She makes the bacon and eggs in the morning. Her husband, Arnold (Tommy Lee Jones)    dutifully kisses her goodbye on the way to work and that is the extent of their intimacy. They do not have meaningful conversations. He sleeps in the spare room. When she did try to suggest sex by coming into his bedroom in a negligee he ‘sends her packing’. They don’t even exchange gifts on their anniversary.

Good for Kay. She spends her own money to book a ‘working holiday’ in Maine at a clinic to improve her marriage. It was touch and go if Arnold would even attend. He grudgingly goes along and is obviously humiliated and embarrassed at having to talk about the dysfunctional relationship. At first they sit on opposite ends of the couch. He looks grumpy and she has pursed lips. At one point she runs out of the room and goes to a bar. It is sad and funny at the same time. It is a Hollywood film so nobody will be surprised that the sessions help to make for a more meaningful satisfying relationship. The sex counselor is aptly played by Steve Carrel.

Dare I state that more women will relate to this film than men. This is a different type of role for Tommy Lee Jones. He is so believable as the insensitive, unknowing and unfeeling husband. Meryl Streep plays the part to perfection. She tries so hard and gets nothing back in return. It is a story told by many. After 30 years of marriage it is easy to get into bad habits and forget the ‘niceties’ of a bonding relationship.

The sessions with the sex counselor were humorous and touching. The re-incarnation of Arnold was delightful and very satisfying. It probably is a little over the top to believe he could do a 360 degree change but the audience loved it. The title has a double meaning. The name of the town in Maine was Hope Springs. The central theme of the film is for hope in restoring the relationship of Kay and Arnold.

Searching For Sugar Man

Searching For Sugar Man

This film has returned to a mainstream cinema house by popular request. It formerly played at the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. It showed at impossible times and I was unable to get there. I only knew the film was about a folk singer and nothing more.

The film was delightful and I loved learning more about the life of Rodriguez. He still lives in his run down house in Detroit. He is a calm man who seems to take life as it comes. He was a 70’s singer of   anti establishment songs and never made a hit in the United States. He wasn’t seen or heard of for over 30 years.

By some strange route one of his songs was smuggled into South Africa. You need to listen to the words. There is always deep meaning. He became a folk hero in South Africa.

Journalists and musicologists are interviewed and talk about his work. He was called a prophet and a wise man way beyond a musician. His sad songs just didn’t move in the US.

His singing is delightful and I found the music wonderful. His story is even more amazing.

A very determined musicologist in South Africa wanted to find out about the life of Rodriguez. He was presumed dead. He was virtually a hero in South Africa. His words became ammunition in the fight against apartheid. A sleuth in South AFrica started research on Rodriguez. Where were the funds going from his sold records in South AFrica? What a great surprise to discover the man was alive and working at odd jobs in Detroit.

The interviews with his daughters were informative and delightful. He gets invited to South Africa to sing at a concert. The crowds treated him like a great hero. He tells the crowd,” Thanks for keeping me alive.” He has since gone back for several  sold out concerts.

The film was delightful from beginning to end. I loved learning more about this wonderful man who was so unknown in the United States but was so revered in South Africa, a country he had never previously visited.

Dig

Dig
I am not a fan of rock and roll. On the other hand I love to learn something new. The Bloor Hot Docs offers the most wonderful opportunity to learn about a variety of topics. The Toronto International Film Festival begins this week. I don’t review films that have not opened. I take notes and will write them up if and when they open. This was my last chance to see a film before the festival. I love to support this amazing documentary house. That is why I headed to see a film about a topic that was quite foreign to me.

I had never heard of The Dandy Warhols or the Brian Jonestown Massacre. Both are famous rock groups. The Dandy Warhols have gone on to become famous. The other group still plays but has never made a lot of money.

What a life! We meet many of the members of the bands. We certainly get to hear a lot of the raucous music. Anton, the leader of the Brian Jonestown Massacre was a character. It probably is safe to say he also had mental problems. He couldn’t get along with people. He saw himself as a messiah of rock and roll. There often was mayhem on the stage. He threw instruments and sometimes stormed off the stage. He didn’t listen to anybodies suggestions. His language was offensive all the time. Anton actually felt that nobody could play music like him.

One of his alums was called. Thank Goodness for Mental illness.  

I was interested in the interview with his mother and father. His father was an alcoholic with psychological problems.

It was interesting that Anton’s group was a big success in Europe and Japan.

The players all took drugs. They lived in dirty messy places. Some of the scenes felt as if I was watching psychedelic music. I can imagine that someone could actually have a migraine triggered by the wavy photo shots and the raucous music. Anton was called a ’brilliant monster.’

The path of the two groups overlaps. It was pointed out that many of the people that worked with Anton went on to success but he has remained in the same place.

It certainly was a different experience. How interesting!

The Boulevard Cafe

The  Boulevard Cafe                  161 Harbord St                           416 961 7676

I am a happy camper this week. The Film Festival is well under way and I have been enjoying many international films. It is a chance to travel the world and learn so much while seated in a seat at the theatre. The movies have been extraordinary.

Following a bizarre German film I met with my son and daughter-in-law for a Peruvian dining experience. Our family views the Boulevard Café as a second home. We love the savory taste of the Peruvian flavors. The food is always fresh and delicious. I actually don’t even have to look at the menu anymore. I know it by heart. Each day the specials are listed on the blackboard. There are always some unusual Peruvian flavored dishes. The food is exceptional.

It is a small restaurant. In the winter the interior is cozy and charming. During the warmer months the large outdoor patio is well used. The large awning protects against rain and extreme heat. It may be mid September but we dined on the patio and so did everyone else.

The crusty bread is exceptional. It is hard to stop indulging in it. A carafe of Sangria was so enjoyable.

My son opted for 2 of the daily specials. The Soup of the Day was a creamy rich Avocado Soup.($8.00) It was filling and ever so tasty. He finished dining with a Calamares al Olivo.($13.95) this was supposed to be an appetizer portion but was extremely generous and perfectly prepared.

The Anticuchos are perfectly flavored brochettes. It is possible to order shrimp, beef or chicken. They are absolutely amazing. My daughter-in-law opted for the Chicken Anticuchos. They are marinated and grilled on a brochette. Potatoes or rice are offered. The potatoes were fried but were well worth every calorie. Large potato pieces were crispy on the outside and tender inside. A lovely green salad is also part of this reasonable dish. The chicken was moist and full of flavor from the marinating and the grill.($23.00) I usually order the Shrimp Anticuchos. You have a choice of 6 or 8. I couldn’t possible eat more than 6. They have that wonderful taste of the grill. Each shrimp was plump, flavorful and totally enjoyed. A small dish of sauce is presented with the Anticuchos. A song could be written about this sauce. It is composed of goat cheese, olive oil, garlic and parsley. There are probably other goodies as well. The flavor bursts on your tongue.dip each shrimp (or chicken piece) in the sauce. I also put it on my salad. Dare I say we went through three dishes of this sauce? It is remarkable.

At lunch time I usually order the Creole Salad or the Peruvian Salad. Both come with a Tarragon dressing that is so delicious you want to run your finger around the bowl.

The portions are generous in size and the bowl is  filled with delicious fresh ingredients. The Grilled Daily Fish (market price) is always very special .On this occasion I noticed that three different types of fish were offered. Marlin was a tempting choice.

Try and save room for the Key Lime Pie. It was tart, creamy and melted on the tongue .It is the best in town. I salivate when I even think about it.

This is a favorite neighborhood restaurant. They do splendid brunches on the weekend. A small private room is available upstairs. I think I must have been one of the first customers when this place first opened up many years ago. I won’t say how long it is because it will certainly age me. I have continued to come back because the quality has remained. Each time I visit I extol the flavors and the fine preparation from this teeny tiny kitchen. Our family calls it a second home. I think the food here is better than my home.

Cardinal Rule

Cardinal Rule                               5 Roncesvalles Ave.                                  647 352 0202

I had dined here once before and was looking forward to a return visit. A dear friend of mine is in St Joseph’s Hospital. I like to visit with her. I was also concerned about her brother and son who have been providing extended loving care. They needed a treat. I suggested a brunch at Cardinal Rule. It is only a few blocks from the hospital.

Marta is the creative chef. Her menu provides many tasty options. The portions are very generous and each plate is nicely presented. Best of all the food is delicious. Kate is a co-owner with Marta. The two provide such a friendly atmosphere in the restaurant. It has been under their operation for less than a year. They claim the former establishment was a ‘Parkdale dive’. The place is dark. It has a diner feeling. The warmth of the staff and the great food make this a total positive experience. This is going to continue to be a successful venture.

All three of us raved about our food. My friend’s brother stated that his French Toast was the best he has ever eaten.($8.00) It was topped with peaches and brie cheese.($2.00)

My other guest opted for the Salmon Eggs Benedict.($13.00) Poached salmon was placed on the English muffin. The poached eggs were placed over the fish.  A very light and flavorful Hollandaise Sauce topped this exquisite dish. Two potato latkes also were included. I love their latkes. They have spinach inside the potatoes and it is all very crispy. What a tasty dish!

I enjoyed my Huevos Cardinales Quesadilla.($10.00) It was an enormous portion. I was happy to send some home with my guests. The fresh tortilla was stuffed with scrambled eggs, beans and cheese. What a combination. A scoop of guacamole on top made this a great brunch feast. It was healthy, flavorful and so filling.

The Wallop Burger was featured in Now Magazine. Just imagine a concoction of a beef patty, potato latke, bacon and cheddar cheese topped with a fried egg.($13.00)

The Breakfast Pie is a favorite. Potato latkes and eggs are layered and baked in a bacon crust and served with a side of greens.($9.00)

The food is imaginative and well prepared. It is a treat to read the suggestions on the lunch and dinner menu. I guess I will have to return and try some more of this gourmet food.

Banjara

Banjara

Once a year I meet with a couple with whom I worked. It is such fun to catch up on our lives and to
relive past experiences. They both love Indian food. I suggested Banjara because I think it is the best
Indian food anywhere (including India.) The restaurant itself is situated back from the street allowing
many cars to park in front. Banjara features food from Northern India. The attached restaurant MarsalaMasala features Southern Indian food. Both are outstanding.
I always marvel at the efficient pleasant service. This place is always busy but I manage to get a table
promptly. The food arrives hot and tasty in no time. It is a reasonable way to have a fine feast and to
share a variety of dishes. We started with the Veggie Pakora.($3.95) There were supposed to be 4. For
some reason a basket with miniature pakoras were delivered to our table. We ate them all with relish.
They are always so flavorful. Veggie Samosas also make for a wonderful appetizer.($3.50) Onion
Bhajia are crispy onion rings prepared with a chick pea batter.($3.95) What a treat.
Indian food is healthy and always flavorful. The mélange of spices is incredible. It is so much work to prepare this exotic food and that is why I go out for Indian food rather than attempting to prepare it at home.
Vegetarians can feast like royalty because there is so much choice. I always have my favorite dish of
Palak Paneer. The creamy spinach and cubes of homemade cheese are flavorful as well as being
healthy. We also enjoyed the Baingan Bharta.($9.99) Whole eggplant is baked in the Tandoor, mashed and sautéed with tomatoes, onions, cream and fresh herbs. We also had the choice of ordering the Aloo Baingan.($9.50) In this preparation, potatoes and eggplant are slowly cooked with aromatic spices.

There are so many varieties of rice to enhance the dishes. We opted for Plain Rice ($3.25) because
we wanted to fully enjoy the aromatic spices in the cooking. This is the second time I have enjoyed
the sizzling hot Tandoori Prawn. Jumbo prawns are marinated in spices, lemon juice and cooked in
the Tandoor.($15.95) On my next visit I intend to order the Tandoor Fish.($12.99) Boneless salmon is
marinated and cooked in the Tandoor.

Most Indian food lovers claim Butter Chicken as their favorite.($11.95) The chicken is simmered in
tomato, onion and cream gravy. So many chicken and meat delights are offered.

I usually settle for the Naan, the traditional Indian bread baked in the Tandoor. ($2.49) It is The music is great. It is a last look at Whitney Houston
great for dipping into the sauces. On this occasion we all enjoyed the famous Garlic Naan($3.95)
Superb!
It is fun to share the dishes. The only problem is trying to make a selection. I love the little doorbell
by the table. Ring it when you are ready and someone comes immediately to take your order. This is
healthy, flavorful food. That is why I keep coming back.

796 Bloor St West

416 963 9360

Hotel Ocho

Hotel Ocho

I first experienced this new hotel at a birthday party. I was so impressed with this old building that has been remodeled in incredible taste. The hotel was a former industrial site. It is on the corner of Phoebe and Spadina, one block north of Queen. The inside is completely gutted and refitted. Wooden beams remain. Large new windows have been replaced. Apparently the 12 guest rooms of the hotel are also well designed. Modern industrial furnishings and artwork make this a notable place to visit. The desk for the hotel is a simple wooden table at the back of the restaurant. I loved it. I could see residents of the hotel coming and going as we dined.
The second floor is quite open and was the location for the birthday party. It was an incredible space.
The restaurant is casual in design but in such good taste. The menu is impressive. I was intrigued by the $35.00 3 course Prix-fixe. The Grilled Garlic Shrimp caught my eye as an appetizer. Roasted Tomato and Goat Cheese Soup as well as a Spring Mix Salad are offered as a first course. Pan-seared Salmon Fillet would have made for a delicious second course. Chicken Supreme and Linguini in Garlic Chili Oil were tempting choices. There was no question about dessert. The Chocolate Brownie would have won out over the Orange Cheesecake. My friend and I had just been to a wonderful film. We were craving a fine glass of wine and some gourmet food while we continued our discussion of the film. When we looked at the regular menu we noticed Baked Tuna.($22.00) We both quickly decided on this favorite food. At this point the evening became a comedy of errors. Our sweet young server was new on the job. We ordered our wine but it didn’t taste quite right. She did quickly exchange the wine for us.

We started with a Spring Salad.($5.00) Fresh mixed greens were lightly flavored with a lovely tasting
vinaigrette. We did need to ask for salt and pepper. It was a generous portion and we could have shared it. Our main course arrived before we had barely started the salad. For some reason our newly hired server thought we were going to share the main course. I can’t imagine what made her think that. The main course was returned to the table but I have a feeling it was the same dish that had arrived too early. We did in fact share that main course as she scuffled off to the kitchen to order another main course .The tuna was flavorful and nicely prepared. A small mound of rice was on the plate. The stir fried vegetables suffered from an overdose of jalapeno peppers. I can eat hot food but this was beyond comfortable.
The second platter arrived and we noticed two pieces of tuna on the plate. It was getting very bizarre
but we did see the humor in it all. The flavor was wonderful. We shared an Apricot Biscotti that needed a few more minutes of baking. We were appreciative of the
wrapped dark chocolate piece that accompanied the Espresso. Our young server was not familiar with the menu. I think this had to be her first serving experience. For
that reason we chose to enjoy the experience and not complain. My dining companion loves a good
adventure and this was a new experience.
We loved the location. The tuna was excellent. I would return again for lunch to see if the problems
have been ‘ironed out.’

195 Spadina Ave

416 593 0885

Catch

Catch

This is the hottest new place in town. It certainly is a great spot to view the ‘beautiful people.’ I had
heard so many raves about the place. It is on the corner of Rushton Rd and St Clair. The patio was filled
and the inside was booming. Everybody was ‘well heeled’ and believe me they need to be. I have mixed
feelings about this place. Would I ever return? Not likely.
I found the prices to be excessive. Perhaps if the food had of been better I would not have minded the
process. All the people around us were indulging in first and second courses and seemed to be jovial and
happy.
I love dining with this dinner companion. She is such a good sport and will try anything. We love people
watching and both enjoy a fine glass of wine and gourmet dining. We usually share a salad to begin.

The only salad listed was Market Slaw ($7.00) or Grilled Lobster Salad. ($24.00) Neither appealed

to us. The Halibut Croquettes with harissa aioli were probably a good option but too filling for an
appetizer.($9.00)
The menu features large and medium items. The medium items are meant as an appetizer or a side.

Nothing appealed. Clam Linguine is served with chilies and basil.($22.00) Grilled Octopus comes with
fingerling potatoes, roast pepper and salsa Genovese.($17.00)
The large items are obviously the entrée courses. They are costly and many do not come with any

side dishes. All the sides are extra and can add sufficiently to a bill. We did share a side of Grilled

Asparagus. ($6.00) Each piece was delicious. There were not that many pieces on the dish. We noticed the Lobster Mashed potatoes at the next table ($20.00) This was just a side dish.

My friend ordered the BC Red Spring Salmon with sweet corn succotash and fresh fig.($32.00) The
portion of the fish was generous. The salsa was sufficient but there wasn’t anything else on the plate.
The worst part was the salmon was overcooked and slightly rubbery. I would have sent it back. In my
opinion it was unacceptable.

I ordered the PEI Halibut.($34.00) It came with roasted mushrooms, brussels sprouts and hazelnut
sauce. The fish was a generous portion. It was flavorful and perfectly cooked. One half of one brussel
sprout was a bad joke. It tasted delicious but there wasn’t enough to saver. The mushrooms were
outstanding. The hazelnut sauce was exquisite but merely a teaspoon of it on the plate.

A 2 lb PEI Halibut is listed for $70.00. That is more than enough for 2 people to share. A 2.5 lb Dry

Aged bone-In Rib Steak with tiger blue cheese is offered at $75.00

If those sizes and prices do not excite you there is an XX Large section on the menu. A Clam Bake for 6
is $300.00
I guess some people are impressed with the large portions and the excessive prices. I would prefer a
dinner size portion with some vegetables on the plate. Good for them for offering Ocean Wise seafood.
I found it all to be excessive and ‘over the top’ I have no need to return.
The two of us went for an ice cream and enjoyed that more than the dinner. We chatted with people in
line and felt we were more at home.

744 St Clair Ave W

416 658 0568

Union Square

Union Square

I knew the bubble was about to break. I had such an exceptional week with Summerlicious and good films. Fortunately I had a pass for this movie or I would really be upset. It is so annoying when a good idea is poorly represented. I usually enjoy films about family dynamics and interpersonal relationships. Not so this time.

Lucy arrives at her sister’s apartment. She has been dumped by a married boyfriend and is totally upset. She wears ridiculous clothes and looks like a whore.

Her sister is totally the opposite. She has a charming young boyfriend. They don’t smoke or drink and eat only healthy food. Basically their life is quite dull.

Lucy upsets everything. We learn why the sisters had not communicated in a long time. We learn more about their mother who played a major role in their type of personality.

Both characters change as the film develops but I didn’t really care about either of them.

Bistro Tournesol

Bistro Tournesol                406 Dupont St                  416 921 7766

Forgive me for starting with the dessert. The Zesty Lemon Tart is without doubt the best in the world. I have dined here on many occasions and always salivate at the thought of this perfect pastry. On this occasion I asked for the lemon tart first. Wisely and with good humor it was suggested that I should earn it and save it for the last.

Each year at Sumerlicious I have the fun of selecting a restaurant for four dear long standing friends. I won’t tell you how many years we go back. We love to get together to discuss old and new times. I knew Bistro Tournesol was going to be my choice this year. It is the best value in own. During Summerlicious July 6-22 Bistro Tournesol offers 3 unbelievable gourmet courses for $25.00

During the year I consider it good value to dine here for 2 courses at $29.99. Take advantage of this Summerlicious special. Bistro Tournesol is always great value and exceptional food.

Philip is the charmer at the front of the house. He makes each person feel as if they are a private guest. Mel works the bar and does much of the administration. Let’s not forget Craig. He is the tireless creative masterful chef. This place never fails. The food is sublime.

Three of the women had the East Coast Crab and Fish Cake served with a fresh Knappa slaw. It melted in my mouth. We ‘oohed’ and ‘ahhed’ our way through this first course. The fourth diner chose the Tournesol Greens with sunflower seeds and tasty shallot vinaigrette.

We all remembered the Salmon from our last visit. Each portion is served on a miniature plank. The Cedar Planked Grilled Salmon is tender and flavorful. The side sauce had a taste of mustard which enhanced the already perfectly prepared salmon. The grilled zucchini slice and perfectly cooked baby asparagus made for a picture perfect dish and a gourmet delight.

I am running out of superlatives. It was a masterful meal. One of the diners opted for the Ballotine of Chicken dish. The chicken was stuffed with mushrooms, leeks, basil and natural jus. Another winner.

You guessed the ending. All four of us enjoyed a Zesty Lemon Tart. They were even better this time. I have eaten lemon arts all over the world. Trust me. These are the best. the Chocolate Callebaut Cake with white chocolate shavings was tempting but I am not fickle when it comes to dessert at Bistro Tournesol.

Plan to go before Summerlicious ends. You must have a reservation. The restaurant was completely packed for 2 seatings. The restaurant closes for a well deserved holiday in August. If you miss this round make sure it is on your wish list for a fall outing.

Sassafraz

Sassafraz                    100  Cumberland Ave                       416 964 2222

Summerlicious is a wonderful opportunity to try great food at different restaurants. I wanted a place close to home. I was taking my grandson out for a gourmet lunch.

Sassafraz is a jewel in the Yorkville area. The outside patios are always full. I was pleased we were ushered inside. The interior room is elegant and bright. The tables are very well spaced. The skylights and white walls make for a warm ambiance. I am especially fond of the tables at the back close to the waterfall and the wall of lush green plants. It is really quite spectacular.

Thank you Jams for outstanding service. The Summerlicious program offers 3 courses for $25.00 for lunch. The dinner is $45.00.

 My grandson began with the Vichyssoise. It was served with lobster and truffle essence. I thought it was a large portion. This is a rich thick soup. It was totally enjoyed and completely finished. I loved the Spinach Salad with roasted beets and parsnip chips. The violet mustard maple vinaigrette was flavorful and enhanced the fresh taste of the greens. The other choice on the prix-fixe is a Cucumber Strawberry Arugula Salad served with pink peppercorn honey vinaigrette with crisp prosciutto.

The server recommended the Roasted Chicken for my grandson. It was prepared with double smoked bacon, red onion, quinoa, braised leeks and a natural jus. He found it to be moist and very tasty.

I love to try Salmon in different restaurants. It is good to compare. The grilled Atlantic Salmon was moist and delicious. I loved the lemon caper orzo. Green beans and a blood orange emulsion completed this gourmet feast.

Pappardelle with roasted tomatoes, artichokes, goat cheese and basil pesto is a vegetarian option that sounded very tempting.

The other main course is Pork Tenderloin with roasted garlic, sweet potato mash, and asparagus with a sweet apple cider glaze.

The Chocolate Brownie with a brandied cherry was tempting for dessert. I opted for the Gotham City Cheese exclusive to Sassafraz. A small firm flavorful cheese was served with flatbread and an assortment of dried fruits. I found it so satisfying after eating two full courses.

The Banana Cream Tart with toasted coconut and mango sherbet was a big winner in the dessert department.

We were so happily full. The ambiance is charming. The service was superb and we totally enjoyed our dining experience in this exquisite restaurant.

Beasts of the Southern Wild

Beasts of the Southern Wild

Magnificent!  Creative! Oscar Noteworthy!

You will be haunted by this exquisite film long after it is over. Quevenzhane Wallis was only 5 she was discovered and asked to play the part of the young child. She was almost like a wild child with survival skills. She loved the animals and birds and would cuddle up to the birds as if they were part of her. She was left mainly on her own to survive. She and her father lived in the worst poverty in shacks in Louisiana. The poverty was startling. A few simple folk (mainly alcoholics) lived in squalor in this low lying land. Off in the distance can be seen the high electrical towers. The dam divided the two sides. We are constantly warned that a storm is coming and it will wreak havoc in this area.

Hushpuppy, as she was called, lives with her alcoholic father. You have the sense he cares about her but never shows it. He does curse and slap her a few times. The two never change their clothes throughout the film. She wears underpants and a dirty T shirt. Most of the time she wears white rubber boots which are necessary to walk through the ‘muck’. Wild pigs and chickens roam freely. Cooking is more than primitive. Sometimes her dad goes off and she is actually on her own for days. She meagerly gets by. She often calls out to her mother and talks with her. We never actually find out what happened to the mother. Apparently she was a beautiful woman but left the home scene.

At one angry moment she says to her dad,” I hope you die. After you die I will go your grave and eat birthday cake all by myself.”

The storm comes and the water rises. The people are asked to leave. They refuse. They gather together in a shed and make a party. There is a lot of drinking and eating crabs and shrimp.

The destruction is horrific. I constantly had Katrina in mind as I watched the devastation. At one point they are forced to evacuate. Her father is discovered to be very ill and hospitalized. These people could not live in the shelter. It is hard to understand because it was clean and they were well looked after. They sneak away and go back to their destroyed shacks.

Throughout the film we see wild beasts running cross the terrain. It added a folk like quality and mystical aspects to the story It is fun to speculate what the film maker really intended. I immediately thought of the Maurice Sendak children’s book, Where the Wild Things Are.

I felt as if the wild animals were symbolic of   the wild life these folk were living in this poor terrain. It added a folk like quality and mystical aspect to the story.

The young girl was so unbelievably great in this film. Her pouting looks and gestures were right on. Dwight Henry plays the part of her father. Apparently he is a baker and has also never acted. Amazing performances!

I saw the father and daughter characters interviewed on TV. She is now a few years older and a very self assured precocious young lady. Henry is a gentle handsome man. He was so dirty in the film that it was hard to see his features. What fun to see these two attractive people dialoging together in a TV interview.

This is an amazing story of struggle. The added touch of fantasy adds to the total picture. I definitely see Academy Awards looking in this direction.

Steve Jobs: The Lost Interview

Steve Jobs: The Lost Interview

This documentary was a rare opportunity to learn more about the wizard, Steve Jobs. The tape from 1995 was found after his death. It has a short run at the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. I wouldn’t be surprised if it comes back again.

I was totally fascinated with his resume. He worked at Apple, then at Next. He sold Next to Apple. His knowledge of computers was amazing. His technological inventions have truly changed the world.

He started to work with computers when he was only 11 years old. He reminded us of the enormous bulky computers of the day. They were complicated to program and very difficult to use. He actually was hired by Hewitt Packer at the age of 12. There was no doubt this man was a genius. He was offered a full time job with the company.

He was around 15 when he met Steve Wozniak who was five years older. Jobs had such respect and admiration for this man. They worked together for years,

He went on to discuss the many inventions and creations. Many were hard to understand and he spoke of them as if it was nothing.

He had tremendous self confidence and thought nothing of calling famous people to ask them questions.

He feels that everyone should learn about computers and programming. He sees it as a liberal art.

He openly discussed the millions of dollars that he earned. At the same time he stated that he didn’t work for the money. He claims he never sold his stock and money didn’t mean anything to him.

He praised the Apple for its graphic capability He didn’t hesitate to tell you who he disliked and why. He felt that Microsoft had no spirit and was very pedestrian.

Job found web building exciting. He stated that the web will be the defining social moment of the new generation. He said,” The computer is the most awesome tool ever invented.”

What a genius. We don’t learn much of Steve Job as a person other than his intelligence and capability. Other books give us a better picture of the total person with all his flaws. It was fascinating to watch him prepare mentally to answer a question. He thought a long time before speaking.