Monday, April 23, 2012
Lakvino Italian Ristorante
Lakvino Italian Ristorante 525 Bloor St West 647 345 2134
Lakvino came highly recommended from a friend who had recently dined there. Lakvino is a welcome addition to the Annex. Concert goers at Tafelmusik concerts and film buffs at the Bloor Documentary Cinema have a new home for delicious food before a performance. Rumor has it the chef, manager and other workers recently left another restaurant in the area in order to open this establishment.
I found the deep colored walls very soothing. The lighting adds a charm and a pleasant ambiance. The prices are very reasonable but the restaurant has a fine dining atmosphere. The owner and manager were so warm and welcoming. This has to be one of the toughest businesses to establish. I wish them well.
The bread and flatbread are enhanced with the creamy red pepper dip. I was dining with my grandson who quickly devoured every cracker and slice of bead. I love dining with him. He has a healthy appetite and a palate that appreciates fine food.
The Mixed Grill Vegetable Pizza was outstanding.($11.95) The crust was very tasty and thin. The toppings were plentiful and I loved the flavor of the basil pesto, mozzarella and goat cheese.. We shared the pizza and thought it was outstanding. My grandson and I like to sample pizzas in different restaurants and found this one to be exceptional.
Pizza Funghi is prepared with a black truffle paste and a medley of cheeses.($11.95) There are many selections from which to choose.
My grandson also managed a Penne with Spicy Italian Sausage.($13.45) Rapini, red onion and roasted red pepper is infused with chili fine olive oil.
Other pasta dishes were very tempting and will necessitate another visit. Linguini Di Mare offers black tiger shrimp, calamari, scallop, mussels, tomatoes, scallion, and garlic with a fine olive oil.($16.95)
Lakvino Fussili is prepared with smoked chicken, woodland mushrooms, artichoke and a rose sauce. ($14.45)
Sandwiches are popular at lunch time. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with sautéed spinach, goat cheese and a sundried tomato mayo will be my next choice.($7.95) The Smoked Salmon is prepared with deli cream cheese, cucumber, red onion, and lettuce.($7.95)
Hungry diners can enjoy a heartier offering of Free Range Chicken served with sweet mashed potato, sautéed spinach, chicken and natural jus.($16.95)
Grilled Atlantic Salmon is served with fried leeks, red mini potatoes, beans and shitake mushrooms in a grand mustard lemon butter sauce.($16.95)
The menu offers sufficient choices for any palate. The ambiance is pleasant. The service was outstanding. The Annex location is so central to many activities in the area. I do wish them all well at Lakvino. They are trying so hard.
Street Dancing in 3D
Street Dancing (in 3D)
I love any form of dancing. I won’t even answer my phone when Dancing with The Stars is on. If only I didn’t have 2 left feet.
Street dancing has become a high art form in dance.
The film loosely has a story of two competing teams. Both want to be the champions of the Street Dancing contest. Both groups are amazing.
Ash is the leader of one group. He had been made a laughing stock by Eddie, the leader of the opposing team. This sets up the mood of revenge and the need to win. Ash meets Eva. She is the most amazing dancer. She is haughty and very strong in her attitude.
She teaches Ash to be a better dancer. Of course the film shows the romantic side and the tribulations of the group.
Anyone could guess the ending because this is not a new story.
The dancing is spectacular. The 3D makes it even more outstanding.
Damsels in Distress
Damsels In Distress
Several male members of the audience laughed out loud throughout the film. Was it a generational problem? Am I lacking a sense of humor? My film partner also agreed that we were bored and found it to be lacking.
I realize that it was ‘tongue in cheek’. “I was interested to learn that it is based on a true story. The concept is humorous but I found the execution of the film silly and overdone. The characters were all so ‘over the top’ that it wasn’t funny any more. The stupidity actually got on my nerves. I realize that the story takes place in a small college. I am not in that milieu so will concede that I am probably missing the point.
Violet and her three best sorority friends attend Seven Oaks College. They are attractive, intelligent and very arrogant. Violet is definitely the leader. Her goal is to make friends with all the guys that ‘just don’t rate.’ She feels that her sparkling personality and help will make men out of these sad souls. Some of them are truly pathetic and even in jest I couldn’t relate to them.
The girls run a house for potential suicide victims. They are convinced they can alter lives. The girls teach tap dancing to the potential victims of suicide in the hopes of making them feel better.
At times they break into song and dance. Sorry, even that wasn’t well done.
There are flirtations and broken relations. Anybody can relate to that difficulty in college life.
Of course everything isn’t a total loss. Violet is able to send off some good lines to the men. The girl’s dresses were amusing. The concept has potential but just didn’t make the mark in my opinion.
Jacques Bistro du Parc
Jacques Bistro du Parc 126A Cumberland St. 416 961 1893
Oh La La! Authentic French food and atmosphere at its best! Jacques has been the master chef here for 34 years. It is consistently superb. It was such fun to discover that Olivier is Jacque’s son and has been working here for a while. He is so charming and efficient. Jacque’s wife, Martine, continues to efficiently run the front restaurant, greeting the clients and making sure that everything is running smoothly. I like to support a family run business.
I love this little spot in Yorkville because it is small, charming and so authentic with superb French cuisine. Many years ago it was named Jacques’s Omelettes. They still are the best omelettes in town. The name was changed when the big rock and magnificent park was constructed across the road on Cumberland St. If you are lucky enough to get a window view it is such fun to look out over the park and observe the Yorkville passing crowd. The restaurant is on the second floor and perfect for viewing the neighborhood
One continues to come here because it is guaranteed that every bite will be savory to the palate. My dining companion and I had just come from a most unsatisfactory film. We badly required a glass of wine and some fine food. The Salade Nicoise with Fresh Salmon was an excellent choice and one of the daily specials. I literally drool over the tarragon dressing. The bib lettuce was so fresh. The salmon melted in my mouth. It was moist and flavorful. The green beans and asparagus were still al dente. Small cubes of potatoes added to the flavor. Olives, boiled eggs, and anchovies completed this tasty selection.
Omelettes continue to be a favorite and for a good reason. They are the best in town. I was tempted by the Nicoise Omelette. It is composed of tomatoes, cheese, onions, green peppers, and eggplant.($18.95) The Epinards et Fromage is prepared with spinach and cheese.($18.95) There are 10 different varieties of omelettes. They are fluffy and so tasty.
A la Carte ce Soir lists many fine entrée selections. Medallions de Ris de Veau Flambes au Calvados is an offering of medallions of sweetbreads sautéed with mushrooms, apples and flamed in Calvados wine.($27.25)
Le Carre d’Agneau a la Provencale is perfectly prepared roasted rack of lamb with Dijon mustard, bread crumbs and garlic.($33.25) We noticed several orders being presented to the tables. The presentation of the food was so artistic.
Saumon Frais de l’Atlantique au Basilic is offered poached or grilled with basil butter sauce. I have enjoyed this specialty on many occasions.($25.25)
No matter how full you may feel a dessert here is ‘de rigeur’. The French pastry Lemon Tarte or Tarte de Framboise is an unforgettable experience. For me it is an instant ‘happy pill.’ Tarte Tatin is served warm with ice cream. Gateau Honoree is at its best here.
This is fine French cuisine at an affordable price. It is an opportunity to practice speaking French. It is as if you are in a little corner of Paris.
I think it is incredible that Jacques has maintained the high standard for so many years. There are specials listed every day on a board at street level. The regular menu offers a lengthy list of fine choices. The service is excellent. Do make a reservation because the place is always crowded. (with good reason)
I'm Yours
I’m Yours
After a few minutes I realized that the film was very familiar. I had seen it at the Toronto Film Festival. I didn’t even mind seeing it again. I am always delighted to see a good Canadian production. This is a road trip theme about a young man and woman trying to sort out personal problems. The acting is superb and it is a delightful experience.
Robert is a successful stockbroker in New York. He is turning 30 and obviously is facing a middle life crisis.
He meets Daphne at a bar. She is so pretty and the two hit it off. In fact they have wild sex on the first evening. (much of it is shown)
Daphne takes Robert’s satchel and tells him he has to come home with her to North Bay at which time she will return his satchel.
They both have secrets which become unveiled on the road trip. He is quiet and often sullen. She is perky and full of personality. She has a wild streak in her that allows her to act in a spontaneous way.
The road trip is fun in a lot of ways. They have problems with his car and meet unusual people along the way. If you have ever been to North Bay you know that the scenery is spectacular. The cinematography offers a spiritual view of nature.
Robert and Daphne begin to sort out their secrets and problems. It is very touching. Rossif Sutherland plays the part of Robert. Karine Vanesse is a well known Canadian actor and director. She is so appealing on the screen and a delight to watch.
I found the film very refreshing. It was an interesting spiritual journey as well as a road trip. I did question why she never changed her clothes or had a suitcase.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Bully
Bully
I resisted going to see this film. I was in education for over 30 years and always stated that bullying was the greatest problem in education. It is such a painful topic. I’m glad I sat quietly in the VIP section because at least I was in a comfy chair and nobody could hear the sniffling and see the red eyes. The problem with this type of documentary is that those who would really benefit from viewing the film would never go.
We meet several families and hear the trying and upsetting experiences faced by their children. It made me feel ill. The parents seemed to be caring and loving people but were helpless in the situation.
We see photos of one young child. He was his parents pride and joy. The early videos show a happy family. As the child grew he became a loner and didn’t participate in any activities. The father stated that he knew that his child would be victimized. That is an understatement. The child eventually took his own life at 17.
The incidents happen in all states. Tyler lived in Oklahoma. He was constantly bullied. Of course the parents suffered watching the pain. The school did nothing. I became enraged listening to the teachers, principals and superintendents claiming that kids are just playing around. They did not respond to the pleas of the parents.
Alex plays a prominent role in the film. He was constantly called ‘fishface.’ Even his parents acknowledged that he was different. He was harassed on the bus. He was poked, punched and pushed into walls.
Kelby was a lesbian. She was not welcome in her church, school or community. The parents were ostracized. They refused to move because that would be giving into the bullies. This was in the bible belt of Oklahoma. It was stated that someone different is always put down.
Every portrayed incident left me numb. It was the same everywhere. The school authorities did nothing. Even when the parents organized a meeting, after their son committed suicide, the school officials did not attend.
I recall when we started ‘anti Bullying Programs in the schools. I hope it helped somewhat. These school areas were so behind the times.
It has to start with parents being an advocate for their child. The school needs to address the issue. Both the bully and the victim need to acquire skills to face the situation. Too many young children have committed suicide because they could not go on. Others suffer in silence. It is not acceptable.
I felt the film could have presented some ideas for programs to address the issue.
I came away devastated. This film should be shown in every school everywhere. This is a global problem.
Congratulations to the filmmakers for daring to begin a dialog on this serious issue. The problem is that it probably will not be viewed in schools with discussion and at parent teacher meetings with professional staff on hand.
I am truly haunted by this film.
At the end of the film it is written that everything starts with one person. Stop the bullying by speaking up. Bullying can occur in a variety of ways. Verbal and physical abuse must be stopped at every level.
I resisted going to see this film. I was in education for over 30 years and always stated that bullying was the greatest problem in education. It is such a painful topic. I’m glad I sat quietly in the VIP section because at least I was in a comfy chair and nobody could hear the sniffling and see the red eyes. The problem with this type of documentary is that those who would really benefit from viewing the film would never go.
We meet several families and hear the trying and upsetting experiences faced by their children. It made me feel ill. The parents seemed to be caring and loving people but were helpless in the situation.
We see photos of one young child. He was his parents pride and joy. The early videos show a happy family. As the child grew he became a loner and didn’t participate in any activities. The father stated that he knew that his child would be victimized. That is an understatement. The child eventually took his own life at 17.
The incidents happen in all states. Tyler lived in Oklahoma. He was constantly bullied. Of course the parents suffered watching the pain. The school did nothing. I became enraged listening to the teachers, principals and superintendents claiming that kids are just playing around. They did not respond to the pleas of the parents.
Alex plays a prominent role in the film. He was constantly called ‘fishface.’ Even his parents acknowledged that he was different. He was harassed on the bus. He was poked, punched and pushed into walls.
Kelby was a lesbian. She was not welcome in her church, school or community. The parents were ostracized. They refused to move because that would be giving into the bullies. This was in the bible belt of Oklahoma. It was stated that someone different is always put down.
Every portrayed incident left me numb. It was the same everywhere. The school authorities did nothing. Even when the parents organized a meeting, after their son committed suicide, the school officials did not attend.
I recall when we started ‘anti Bullying Programs in the schools. I hope it helped somewhat. These school areas were so behind the times.
It has to start with parents being an advocate for their child. The school needs to address the issue. Both the bully and the victim need to acquire skills to face the situation. Too many young children have committed suicide because they could not go on. Others suffer in silence. It is not acceptable.
I felt the film could have presented some ideas for programs to address the issue.
I came away devastated. This film should be shown in every school everywhere. This is a global problem.
Congratulations to the filmmakers for daring to begin a dialog on this serious issue. The problem is that it probably will not be viewed in schools with discussion and at parent teacher meetings with professional staff on hand.
I am truly haunted by this film.
At the end of the film it is written that everything starts with one person. Stop the bullying by speaking up. Bullying can occur in a variety of ways. Verbal and physical abuse must be stopped at every level.
The Deep Blue Sea
The Deep Blue Sea
Rachel Weisz is at her best in this melodrama written and directed by Terrence Davies. The setting is post war England in 1950. The dark ruins as a result of the war and the muted color of the film cast a depressing tone. The film opens as we witness Hester (Weisz) trying to commit suicide. She is a beautiful woman. What has driven her to this action? The film proceeds to tell the story.
The film goes back and forth into her life telling the various aspects of her story.
Hester has been married to William. He is a successful judge living in splendor. He is very caring to Hester but it is obviously a sexless marriage. William’s mother is a demanding woman and controls her son. The mother is verbally cruel to Hester.
Hester falls in love with Freddie, an ex RAF pilot. He is dashing in his navy blue blazer. He tells her that she is the most attractive girl he has met. There is one exquisite love scene with two nude bodies in motion as if it was a dance.
She leaves her husband and moves to a small flat to be with Freddie. William declares he will never give her a divorce. Over time Freddie begins to change and takes up drinking. He isn’t the same dapper loving man that swooped Hester off her feet. He goes away on a golfing weekend and forgets her birthday. She is frightened to see the change and feels the passion is leaving their relationship. They fight and he declares FUBR (fed up beyond recognition)
At one point in the film a statement is made that is crucial to the story,” Be wary of passion. It always leads to something ugly.”
William is such a gentleman and offers her consolation. He would even have her come back if she was willing.
The film moves at a slow pace. I couldn’t take my eyes from staring at Rachel Weisz. She is exquisite to watch. Her voice is low and sexy. Even the way she smokes her cigarette is passionate.
The war has left he city in ruins. The character’s lives are also in ruin. The cinematography is superb in catching the atmosphere. The music is dramatic and adds so much to the ambiance.
Rachel Weisz is at her best in this melodrama written and directed by Terrence Davies. The setting is post war England in 1950. The dark ruins as a result of the war and the muted color of the film cast a depressing tone. The film opens as we witness Hester (Weisz) trying to commit suicide. She is a beautiful woman. What has driven her to this action? The film proceeds to tell the story.
The film goes back and forth into her life telling the various aspects of her story.
Hester has been married to William. He is a successful judge living in splendor. He is very caring to Hester but it is obviously a sexless marriage. William’s mother is a demanding woman and controls her son. The mother is verbally cruel to Hester.
Hester falls in love with Freddie, an ex RAF pilot. He is dashing in his navy blue blazer. He tells her that she is the most attractive girl he has met. There is one exquisite love scene with two nude bodies in motion as if it was a dance.
She leaves her husband and moves to a small flat to be with Freddie. William declares he will never give her a divorce. Over time Freddie begins to change and takes up drinking. He isn’t the same dapper loving man that swooped Hester off her feet. He goes away on a golfing weekend and forgets her birthday. She is frightened to see the change and feels the passion is leaving their relationship. They fight and he declares FUBR (fed up beyond recognition)
At one point in the film a statement is made that is crucial to the story,” Be wary of passion. It always leads to something ugly.”
William is such a gentleman and offers her consolation. He would even have her come back if she was willing.
The film moves at a slow pace. I couldn’t take my eyes from staring at Rachel Weisz. She is exquisite to watch. Her voice is low and sexy. Even the way she smokes her cigarette is passionate.
The war has left he city in ruins. The character’s lives are also in ruin. The cinematography is superb in catching the atmosphere. The music is dramatic and adds so much to the ambiance.
Sorrento North Ristorante
Sorrento North Ristorante 965 Major Mackenzie Drive
289-553-2132
How crazy do you have to be to drive to Maple for a dinner? It wouldn’t have been so bad if the Google map was authentic. It listed the address west of Keele St. To add to our misery neither of us brought the address. We assumed we would drive along the street and find the restaurant. It is just west of Bathurst St and tucked in behind a small mall. You may rightly ask why any sane person would drive so far for a meal? Recently my gourmet loving fun friend came with me to a restaurant in the Yorkville area. We were smitten with the charming server, Sarah. She told us her boyfriend was the chef at Sorrento North. That was our inspiration.
What a fantastic dining experience from beginning to end. After our arduous trip in trying to find the restaurant we were so delighted to be warmly greeted. The ambiance is tasteful elegance. The service was beyond great. Owner Nino Cioffi, charmed us and treated us as royally. He certainly whetted our appetite to visit Sorrento Italy from where he hails. He even suggested a tour guide and a cooking course in the area. That trip is now marked in my list of possible trips.
We noted that Nino checked with each table and made everyone so welcome. Melissa was our outstanding server. We just wanted to know how she keeps that slim figure while working at this special place .Half the pleasure was watching the exotic trays of food being served to the many patrons on this evening. Everything looked so tantalizing.
We started with a shared Positano Salad.($12.00) The leafy baby spinach was as fresh as if it had been just harvested. Orange slices and bits of goat cheese complimented the flavor. A bottle of the most exotic wild berry balsamic was brought to the table for the dressing. I have never tasted anything so delicious. We were off to a good start.
We did consider the Burrata Cheese Imported from Puglia Italy.($19.00) It is served with cherry tomatoes, arugula and marinated vegetables.
My friend delighted in her Costelette Di Agnello Dell Ontario.($39.00). Three perfectly grilled lamb chops were placed on a bed of sautéed rapini with potatoes and a mint sauce dressing. The food was aesthetically presented and divine to the palate.
My Paccheri Pesce Spada was the best pasta I have ever eaten anywhere.($22.00) Large tubes of fresh pasta were perfectly prepared. The sauce was absolutely exquisite. Small pieces of swordfish and eggplant were simmered in a spicy ‘Vesuvio’ cherry tomato sauce. Words escape me to describe that mélange of flavors. It was an enormous portion but I was not about to leave anything.
There were many pasta and entrée choices that were all appealing. The menu is extensive. Today’s Specials are also offered with the regular menu. I was fascinated with the Costata di Manzo Alla Griglia. A 22 oz prime usda dry aged frenched rib steak is offered for $65.00. I would love to see someone eat that whole piece.
The Gelato is a specialty of the house. Many guests were sharing a sampling of many flavors. We enjoyed the Limoncello. When in Italy I indulge in a gelato daily. I have never discovered a place in Toronto (until now) that can equal the Italian gelato. I found it last evening. The word perfection comes to mind. Every bite was outstanding. We even got to meet, Steve, the very talented chef. The total evening was an experience that I will cherish. Make the ride there part of the adventure. What place to enjoy a special occasion!
289-553-2132
How crazy do you have to be to drive to Maple for a dinner? It wouldn’t have been so bad if the Google map was authentic. It listed the address west of Keele St. To add to our misery neither of us brought the address. We assumed we would drive along the street and find the restaurant. It is just west of Bathurst St and tucked in behind a small mall. You may rightly ask why any sane person would drive so far for a meal? Recently my gourmet loving fun friend came with me to a restaurant in the Yorkville area. We were smitten with the charming server, Sarah. She told us her boyfriend was the chef at Sorrento North. That was our inspiration.
What a fantastic dining experience from beginning to end. After our arduous trip in trying to find the restaurant we were so delighted to be warmly greeted. The ambiance is tasteful elegance. The service was beyond great. Owner Nino Cioffi, charmed us and treated us as royally. He certainly whetted our appetite to visit Sorrento Italy from where he hails. He even suggested a tour guide and a cooking course in the area. That trip is now marked in my list of possible trips.
We noted that Nino checked with each table and made everyone so welcome. Melissa was our outstanding server. We just wanted to know how she keeps that slim figure while working at this special place .Half the pleasure was watching the exotic trays of food being served to the many patrons on this evening. Everything looked so tantalizing.
We started with a shared Positano Salad.($12.00) The leafy baby spinach was as fresh as if it had been just harvested. Orange slices and bits of goat cheese complimented the flavor. A bottle of the most exotic wild berry balsamic was brought to the table for the dressing. I have never tasted anything so delicious. We were off to a good start.
We did consider the Burrata Cheese Imported from Puglia Italy.($19.00) It is served with cherry tomatoes, arugula and marinated vegetables.
My friend delighted in her Costelette Di Agnello Dell Ontario.($39.00). Three perfectly grilled lamb chops were placed on a bed of sautéed rapini with potatoes and a mint sauce dressing. The food was aesthetically presented and divine to the palate.
My Paccheri Pesce Spada was the best pasta I have ever eaten anywhere.($22.00) Large tubes of fresh pasta were perfectly prepared. The sauce was absolutely exquisite. Small pieces of swordfish and eggplant were simmered in a spicy ‘Vesuvio’ cherry tomato sauce. Words escape me to describe that mélange of flavors. It was an enormous portion but I was not about to leave anything.
There were many pasta and entrée choices that were all appealing. The menu is extensive. Today’s Specials are also offered with the regular menu. I was fascinated with the Costata di Manzo Alla Griglia. A 22 oz prime usda dry aged frenched rib steak is offered for $65.00. I would love to see someone eat that whole piece.
The Gelato is a specialty of the house. Many guests were sharing a sampling of many flavors. We enjoyed the Limoncello. When in Italy I indulge in a gelato daily. I have never discovered a place in Toronto (until now) that can equal the Italian gelato. I found it last evening. The word perfection comes to mind. Every bite was outstanding. We even got to meet, Steve, the very talented chef. The total evening was an experience that I will cherish. Make the ride there part of the adventure. What place to enjoy a special occasion!
Wanderlust
Wanderlust
The best part of this film was the trailer at the end of the movie. It showed several cuts of the cast breaking up trying to say their lines.
The film was highly recommended by a friend and I tried to like it. Sorry but I felt it was crass, silly and even crude at times.
I liked the concept. A young New York couple, George and Linda, find they were penniless. They have both lost their jobs. They can’t keep up with their apartment.
They head out to another state to live with George’s brother. He is wealthy and that is the only thing that is positive. He is crude, abrasive and insensitive to both his wife and brother.
The young couple can’t cope with the brother and leave for greener pastures. They end up at a commune. One of the residents believes in nudity. You see him and see him often totally naked (not a pretty sight)
Free love and sharing of everything is the open way at the commune. At first the couple takes to this life style and feels content.
It was absolutely revolting when one young woman who had just given birth brings the baby still attached to the placenta to the table. There is talk of cooking the placenta. What a turnoff.
Linda has sex with another man and the husband takes off. She claims he gave her permission but he had enough of the free love and communal way of living.
I wouldn’t want to ruin the film by giving away the ending. I bet you can guess. Remember it is a Hollywood film.
Jennifer Anniston is always cute and plays all her parts the same way. I just get a little weary of this stereotype in every picture.
I find it hard to find any redeeming qualities. Sorry to my friend who recommended it. We will just have to disagree on this one.
At least the cast didn’t take it all seriously because the trailers at the end were quite hilarious when they couldn’t keep a straight face and kept bursting into laughter.
The best part of this film was the trailer at the end of the movie. It showed several cuts of the cast breaking up trying to say their lines.
The film was highly recommended by a friend and I tried to like it. Sorry but I felt it was crass, silly and even crude at times.
I liked the concept. A young New York couple, George and Linda, find they were penniless. They have both lost their jobs. They can’t keep up with their apartment.
They head out to another state to live with George’s brother. He is wealthy and that is the only thing that is positive. He is crude, abrasive and insensitive to both his wife and brother.
The young couple can’t cope with the brother and leave for greener pastures. They end up at a commune. One of the residents believes in nudity. You see him and see him often totally naked (not a pretty sight)
Free love and sharing of everything is the open way at the commune. At first the couple takes to this life style and feels content.
It was absolutely revolting when one young woman who had just given birth brings the baby still attached to the placenta to the table. There is talk of cooking the placenta. What a turnoff.
Linda has sex with another man and the husband takes off. She claims he gave her permission but he had enough of the free love and communal way of living.
I wouldn’t want to ruin the film by giving away the ending. I bet you can guess. Remember it is a Hollywood film.
Jennifer Anniston is always cute and plays all her parts the same way. I just get a little weary of this stereotype in every picture.
I find it hard to find any redeeming qualities. Sorry to my friend who recommended it. We will just have to disagree on this one.
At least the cast didn’t take it all seriously because the trailers at the end were quite hilarious when they couldn’t keep a straight face and kept bursting into laughter.
Bar Mercurio
Bar Mercurio 270 Bloor St West 416 960 3877
Bar Mercurio has been an institution for years at Bloor St. and St. George. The family run business continues to have the authentic feeling of an Italian bistro. I was pleased to see the updated aesthetics. The large paintings near the entrance add so much to the ambiance. The large vase of flowers on the bar is part of the warm welcoming spirit. Brother Joe (Guiseppe) or sister Theresa are always in attendance to make sure all is proceeding in the most positive way for the clients. Joe and Theresa’s mother used to prepare the pasta and the sauces. She still works daily running around with so much positive energy. Today she was our server. What an authentic touch. She has such a warm smile and is so gracious. I often feel as if I am dining in their Italian home.
The food is outstanding. The Pizzas have a thin crust and are so tasty. The Pasta is home made, prepared al dente and melts in your mouth. There is always variety on the menu. This is gourmet food in delightful surroundings.
The place is always busy. A reservation is essential.
Two of us were dining at lunch. A daily special menu is offered. The Zuppa was a Roasted Butternut Squash with Asiago cheese.($6.00) The Pesce daily specialty was a Pan Seared Tilapia Fillet over sautéed rapini, cauliflower and root vegetables.($16.00)
The fresh pasta selection was a Fresh Fettucini with roast beef and grape tomatoes in a butter wine sauce.($15.00)
My dining companion opted for the Omlet Affuumicata.($14.00) I had raved about the omelets and have enjoyed them on numerous occasions. It was a healthy portion and served with a side salad of mixed greens. The omelet was fluffy and filled with cheese and smoked salmon.
I was in the mood for a pasta dish. The fresh pasta is a gourmet specialty. The Ravioli ai Gamberi ($18.00) was mouth watering delicious. The ravioli was stuffed with cheese. The numerous pieces were in a very special garlic oil sauce. The gamberi were flavorful and very moist. This was one of my favorite dishes. Every bite was perfection. My only concern was the amount of that fresh chopped garlic. I actually asked for a little piece of fresh parsley to cleanse the palate. It worked perfectly.
On many occasions I have enjoyed the Pizzas. They are thin crusted and offered with a variety of toppings.
I adore dining here. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. There is nothing pretentious. The food is always outstanding.
Try to save room for a Dolce. The Assorted Biscotti are still my favorite. Who doesn’t like a Chocolate Flourless Cake? Espresso Infused Panna Cotta is another delectable choice.
You can’t go wrong. Close your eyes and point to the menu and you are guaranteed a gourmet feast. There is a reason I keep coming back.
Bar Mercurio has been an institution for years at Bloor St. and St. George. The family run business continues to have the authentic feeling of an Italian bistro. I was pleased to see the updated aesthetics. The large paintings near the entrance add so much to the ambiance. The large vase of flowers on the bar is part of the warm welcoming spirit. Brother Joe (Guiseppe) or sister Theresa are always in attendance to make sure all is proceeding in the most positive way for the clients. Joe and Theresa’s mother used to prepare the pasta and the sauces. She still works daily running around with so much positive energy. Today she was our server. What an authentic touch. She has such a warm smile and is so gracious. I often feel as if I am dining in their Italian home.
The food is outstanding. The Pizzas have a thin crust and are so tasty. The Pasta is home made, prepared al dente and melts in your mouth. There is always variety on the menu. This is gourmet food in delightful surroundings.
The place is always busy. A reservation is essential.
Two of us were dining at lunch. A daily special menu is offered. The Zuppa was a Roasted Butternut Squash with Asiago cheese.($6.00) The Pesce daily specialty was a Pan Seared Tilapia Fillet over sautéed rapini, cauliflower and root vegetables.($16.00)
The fresh pasta selection was a Fresh Fettucini with roast beef and grape tomatoes in a butter wine sauce.($15.00)
My dining companion opted for the Omlet Affuumicata.($14.00) I had raved about the omelets and have enjoyed them on numerous occasions. It was a healthy portion and served with a side salad of mixed greens. The omelet was fluffy and filled with cheese and smoked salmon.
I was in the mood for a pasta dish. The fresh pasta is a gourmet specialty. The Ravioli ai Gamberi ($18.00) was mouth watering delicious. The ravioli was stuffed with cheese. The numerous pieces were in a very special garlic oil sauce. The gamberi were flavorful and very moist. This was one of my favorite dishes. Every bite was perfection. My only concern was the amount of that fresh chopped garlic. I actually asked for a little piece of fresh parsley to cleanse the palate. It worked perfectly.
On many occasions I have enjoyed the Pizzas. They are thin crusted and offered with a variety of toppings.
I adore dining here. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. There is nothing pretentious. The food is always outstanding.
Try to save room for a Dolce. The Assorted Biscotti are still my favorite. Who doesn’t like a Chocolate Flourless Cake? Espresso Infused Panna Cotta is another delectable choice.
You can’t go wrong. Close your eyes and point to the menu and you are guaranteed a gourmet feast. There is a reason I keep coming back.
The Girl in the White Coat
The Girl In the White Coat
I am so supportive of the new TIFF Bell Lightbox. They provide the finest of worldwide cinema. Art shows, research, lectures and fine dining are all provided within this amazing building. It needs your support and I hope everyone attends events at this location.
This film is a must see. It touched me in so many ways. What a wonderful way to be supportive of the TIFF Bell Lightbox. You are in for a winning cinematic experience in viewing this film.
The film is based on the exquisite drama The Overcoat. I remember being mesmerized by that theatrical production a few years ago. There wasn’t a word spoken in the play but the action and drama moved me to tears.
This story is loosely based on the play but differs in many ways. Bravo to the Quebec production. It is superb.
Elise is rather pathetic. She is very poor and works sorting papers in a factory. Every penny saved goes to support her father who has had a stroke and lives in a private nursing home. Her only love is her tiny bird and a picture of her kissing some boy, obviously many years before. She wears the same clothes every day and lives in a meager cold room. She wears no makeup and always looks as if her hair needs washing. She has a sad look on her face. Her white coat is tattered and torn beyond belief.
She is constantly bullied and ridiculed at work. The women in her department play pranks on her all the time. It is never clear why. I can only imagine it is because she allows it to happen.
She tries to change her department and it doesn’t work out. Her boss is one of the few kind people in the total story.
She takes her coat into a tailor for repair. The tailor takes pity on her and offers to repair the coat at a minimal price. His wife is cruel and nasty and demands more money before returning the coat. For several weeks she is forced to walk in the cold Montreal weather without any coat. I felt myself shivering throughout the film.
The kindly tailor fixes her coat to make it look better than new. It was touching and emotional to see Elise wearing her bright, freshly cleaned and repaired white coat.
For a short time the white coat seemed to elevate her status. It became a symbol of her chance to improve her life. She is invited to a party and she feels good about herself. She is shown respect at work.
It is all short lived and tragedy befalls Elise.
It was all so heart breaking. Everything deteriorates and the ending becomes opera like.
It is an interesting concept of the power of a positive presentation. It affected everything in her life. All the horrors that befall her build to a crescendo.
Pascal Montpetit is brilliant in her performance as Elise. The landlady is quite a character and adds humor to the plot. At the same time she is also a bully and overly demanding of Elise.
The boss and the tailor represent decent people. The other males that she encounters are the most sordid and unethical types and lead to her downfall.
I want to see this film again. It was powerful. I thought it was brilliant.
I am so supportive of the new TIFF Bell Lightbox. They provide the finest of worldwide cinema. Art shows, research, lectures and fine dining are all provided within this amazing building. It needs your support and I hope everyone attends events at this location.
This film is a must see. It touched me in so many ways. What a wonderful way to be supportive of the TIFF Bell Lightbox. You are in for a winning cinematic experience in viewing this film.
The film is based on the exquisite drama The Overcoat. I remember being mesmerized by that theatrical production a few years ago. There wasn’t a word spoken in the play but the action and drama moved me to tears.
This story is loosely based on the play but differs in many ways. Bravo to the Quebec production. It is superb.
Elise is rather pathetic. She is very poor and works sorting papers in a factory. Every penny saved goes to support her father who has had a stroke and lives in a private nursing home. Her only love is her tiny bird and a picture of her kissing some boy, obviously many years before. She wears the same clothes every day and lives in a meager cold room. She wears no makeup and always looks as if her hair needs washing. She has a sad look on her face. Her white coat is tattered and torn beyond belief.
She is constantly bullied and ridiculed at work. The women in her department play pranks on her all the time. It is never clear why. I can only imagine it is because she allows it to happen.
She tries to change her department and it doesn’t work out. Her boss is one of the few kind people in the total story.
She takes her coat into a tailor for repair. The tailor takes pity on her and offers to repair the coat at a minimal price. His wife is cruel and nasty and demands more money before returning the coat. For several weeks she is forced to walk in the cold Montreal weather without any coat. I felt myself shivering throughout the film.
The kindly tailor fixes her coat to make it look better than new. It was touching and emotional to see Elise wearing her bright, freshly cleaned and repaired white coat.
For a short time the white coat seemed to elevate her status. It became a symbol of her chance to improve her life. She is invited to a party and she feels good about herself. She is shown respect at work.
It is all short lived and tragedy befalls Elise.
It was all so heart breaking. Everything deteriorates and the ending becomes opera like.
It is an interesting concept of the power of a positive presentation. It affected everything in her life. All the horrors that befall her build to a crescendo.
Pascal Montpetit is brilliant in her performance as Elise. The landlady is quite a character and adds humor to the plot. At the same time she is also a bully and overly demanding of Elise.
The boss and the tailor represent decent people. The other males that she encounters are the most sordid and unethical types and lead to her downfall.
I want to see this film again. It was powerful. I thought it was brilliant.
The Forgiveness of Blood
The Forgiveness Of Blood
Vengeance and revenge can be lethal and evil. In parts of Albania feuds are still in evidence. Honor killings and revenge are acceptable. There are even accepted standards and rules for the vendettas.
The location is in the back roads in Northern Albania. There are few cars. Some folk use a type of cart on two wheels pulled by a horse. Their living accommodation is simple. These are poor folk. Yet, there is some sign of modernity. Many of the youth have cell phones. One boy has a motorcycle and a few trucks are seen on the road.
One man delivers bread on his wagon. He lives with his wife, two daughters and two sons. They seem like a loving family.
The neighbor blocks the road with large stones and forces the deliveryman to take a circuitous road to deliver his bread.
The neighbors have a fight and there is a murder. The delivery man is ordered to stay on his property and not show is face. He is condemned to keep out of sight. After a period of time a mediator may be hired to negotiate the release. The women and children are free from the vendetta. So the man who delivers the bread makes his daughter take on the role. She becomes a good business person and develops a strong character. She buys cigarettes and sells them to the men in the village.
The teenage son seems to pay the biggest price. He cannot bear to be held up at home. He had aspired to open an internet shop in town. He now cannot go to school or leave the house. He begins to hate his father for putting him in this situation. The father runs into hiding but manages to sneak home on occasion.
They try to hire a mediator. He is expensive. The young teenager goes directly to the neighbor to beg for his lie. He is ordered from the property and told he his only chance for freedom is if he leaves his home and never returns.
Imagine the pain the young teenage had to face. He couldn’t stand being ostracized in his house away from his friends. He had no funds and nowhere to go when he was forced to leave.
The vengeance is terrible. Nobody wins in such a case. There is such hatred. It was amazing how it was accepted by the townspeople. The rules are clearly laid out and followed.
The film was painful and challenging. In many ways the people in the area are living in the past. Yet we see signs of modernity in the cell phones and texting by so many of the young people.
We can only hope that new ideas and technology will bring these old bad habits to an end.
Vengeance and revenge can be lethal and evil. In parts of Albania feuds are still in evidence. Honor killings and revenge are acceptable. There are even accepted standards and rules for the vendettas.
The location is in the back roads in Northern Albania. There are few cars. Some folk use a type of cart on two wheels pulled by a horse. Their living accommodation is simple. These are poor folk. Yet, there is some sign of modernity. Many of the youth have cell phones. One boy has a motorcycle and a few trucks are seen on the road.
One man delivers bread on his wagon. He lives with his wife, two daughters and two sons. They seem like a loving family.
The neighbor blocks the road with large stones and forces the deliveryman to take a circuitous road to deliver his bread.
The neighbors have a fight and there is a murder. The delivery man is ordered to stay on his property and not show is face. He is condemned to keep out of sight. After a period of time a mediator may be hired to negotiate the release. The women and children are free from the vendetta. So the man who delivers the bread makes his daughter take on the role. She becomes a good business person and develops a strong character. She buys cigarettes and sells them to the men in the village.
The teenage son seems to pay the biggest price. He cannot bear to be held up at home. He had aspired to open an internet shop in town. He now cannot go to school or leave the house. He begins to hate his father for putting him in this situation. The father runs into hiding but manages to sneak home on occasion.
They try to hire a mediator. He is expensive. The young teenager goes directly to the neighbor to beg for his lie. He is ordered from the property and told he his only chance for freedom is if he leaves his home and never returns.
Imagine the pain the young teenage had to face. He couldn’t stand being ostracized in his house away from his friends. He had no funds and nowhere to go when he was forced to leave.
The vengeance is terrible. Nobody wins in such a case. There is such hatred. It was amazing how it was accepted by the townspeople. The rules are clearly laid out and followed.
The film was painful and challenging. In many ways the people in the area are living in the past. Yet we see signs of modernity in the cell phones and texting by so many of the young people.
We can only hope that new ideas and technology will bring these old bad habits to an end.
The Salt of Life
The Salt of Life
Fantastic! Humorous! Pathos! Wonderful!
Writer/Director/ Actor Gianni Di Gregorio is brilliant. This delightful film takes place in Rome. It has more of the feeling of a small quaint village.
Gianni is in his fifties and is an early retiree. He is the ‘salt of the earth’. He would do anything for anyone and as such everyone takes advantage of him.
His wife gives him endless lists of things to do. His mother is a character beyond belief. She has the weathered face of an old lady. She dresses in her finery with way too many gaudy jewels. Her makeup is overdone. She constantly asks favors of Gianni. In one episode he is asked to serve the lunch to her card playing fancy lady friends. She calls him over to adjust the TV. She lives in a splendid manor house with beautiful gardens. Yet, she is not willing to help her son out financially. There is much concern when she signs over the deed to her attractive ‘lady housemaid/companion.
Gianni looks after the dog of his downstairs neighbor. She is a flirty beautiful young woman. She also takes advantage of his good nature.
Gianni loves to observe the women on the street when he goes about his business. He still has an eye for a woman but takes no action. It is obvious that at home he and his wife are only companions.
He is jealous of the old man who sits in the street at the cafe with his buddies. The man is having an affair with the young attractive store clerk.
There is so much humor. Underlying the funny incidents is the story of a man who retired too early and is finding life meaningless. He isn’t contributing to the world in any significant way and he is used by everybody. This is never funny.
Gianni is a superb actor. His warm smile would ’melt your heart.’ Anyone would love to have him for a neighbor.
Even his lawyer friend takes advantage. Gianni always ends up with the bill. On one occasion the lawyer invites two exotic, bombastic female twins to join them for lunch. It obviously is an expensive place and Gianni pays the bill.
I wanted to yell out.” Enough already.” It was difficult to see him being used by everybody.
At the same time the film is totally delightful. I loved all the scenes in Rome. The mother is such a character. The stereotypes of the men sitting at the café are truly funny.
This is so obviously a European film. There is much talent and much delight.
Fantastic! Humorous! Pathos! Wonderful!
Writer/Director/ Actor Gianni Di Gregorio is brilliant. This delightful film takes place in Rome. It has more of the feeling of a small quaint village.
Gianni is in his fifties and is an early retiree. He is the ‘salt of the earth’. He would do anything for anyone and as such everyone takes advantage of him.
His wife gives him endless lists of things to do. His mother is a character beyond belief. She has the weathered face of an old lady. She dresses in her finery with way too many gaudy jewels. Her makeup is overdone. She constantly asks favors of Gianni. In one episode he is asked to serve the lunch to her card playing fancy lady friends. She calls him over to adjust the TV. She lives in a splendid manor house with beautiful gardens. Yet, she is not willing to help her son out financially. There is much concern when she signs over the deed to her attractive ‘lady housemaid/companion.
Gianni looks after the dog of his downstairs neighbor. She is a flirty beautiful young woman. She also takes advantage of his good nature.
Gianni loves to observe the women on the street when he goes about his business. He still has an eye for a woman but takes no action. It is obvious that at home he and his wife are only companions.
He is jealous of the old man who sits in the street at the cafe with his buddies. The man is having an affair with the young attractive store clerk.
There is so much humor. Underlying the funny incidents is the story of a man who retired too early and is finding life meaningless. He isn’t contributing to the world in any significant way and he is used by everybody. This is never funny.
Gianni is a superb actor. His warm smile would ’melt your heart.’ Anyone would love to have him for a neighbor.
Even his lawyer friend takes advantage. Gianni always ends up with the bill. On one occasion the lawyer invites two exotic, bombastic female twins to join them for lunch. It obviously is an expensive place and Gianni pays the bill.
I wanted to yell out.” Enough already.” It was difficult to see him being used by everybody.
At the same time the film is totally delightful. I loved all the scenes in Rome. The mother is such a character. The stereotypes of the men sitting at the café are truly funny.
This is so obviously a European film. There is much talent and much delight.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Footnote
Footnote
This amazing film was the Israeli contribution for best foreign film at the Oscars. I saw it during the Toronto Film Festival. There isn’t a lot of action but the film is superb. A father and son are both Talmudic scholars. The father is quiet and not well known. He has not been recognized for his work.
The son is more outgoing and better known for his scholarly works.
The father receives a call that he has won a prestigious prize for his scholarly works. It really was intended for the son.
What to do? Do you hurt the father and report the mistake? Do you accept the mistake and painfully act proud of your father?
It is thought provoking. It is a brilliant concept well executed. Obviously it did not win the best foreign prize at the Oscars. It is certainly noteworthy
This amazing film was the Israeli contribution for best foreign film at the Oscars. I saw it during the Toronto Film Festival. There isn’t a lot of action but the film is superb. A father and son are both Talmudic scholars. The father is quiet and not well known. He has not been recognized for his work.
The son is more outgoing and better known for his scholarly works.
The father receives a call that he has won a prestigious prize for his scholarly works. It really was intended for the son.
What to do? Do you hurt the father and report the mistake? Do you accept the mistake and painfully act proud of your father?
It is thought provoking. It is a brilliant concept well executed. Obviously it did not win the best foreign prize at the Oscars. It is certainly noteworthy
Jerusalem
Jerusalem
It was such a long flight for a short week to visit the family. How blessed I am to be able to spend quality time with my daughter and all the family. Three of the four granddaughters are married and there are now 3 great grandchildren. They all gathered at my daughter’s house and 12 of us spent quality time together taking in the sites and having a lot of fun. What a great memorable experience.
Jerusalem is indeed a special city. It is spectacular in appearance. All buildings new and old are constructed of stone. It gives the feeling of the ancient past and makes for an aesthetic uniform appearance. Be prepared to walk up and down hills and steps. I certainly got my exercise. Needless to say the old city is a must and a visit to the Western Wall is mandatory. There are no cars inside the old city so you certainly will do a lot of walking. My favorite sound is the Arab call to prayer from the mosque in Eastern Jerusalem. At the same time the chanting can be heard from the synagogues. The underground tour of the former ancient city is a must. It begins on the campus by the Western Wall. The Superior Court and the museums are all spectacular. Yad Vashem is the best museum I have ever visited. It is the holocaust museum. It is a series of buildings and exhibits on a large tract of land. It is very emotional and a must visit. I go to Jerusalem annually and thought I knew most of the spots to visit. On this occasion I came across two very tiny eating spots that were both fun and delicious.
Hummus Adumin M’aleh Adumin Jerusalem
This tiny ‘shack’ is located in an industrial area about 40 minutes from the central city. There are automotive places and some light manufacturing. It is quite a desolate area. At the end of the section there is a tiny restaurant that I would label a shack. There are a few tables inside and 2 picnic tables outside. It is very busy as the industrial workers come here during the day. It actually closes at 5:00 p.m. They serve only three items.
My favorite Israeli dish is Shashouka. I actually eat it almost every day when in Israel and love to compare the various recipes in restaurants. Basically it is a tomato sauce prepared in a copper frying pan. Two eggs are poached in the sauce. It is served hot in the frying pan at the table. It is traditional to serve it with a small Israeli salad, hummus and bread. Some recipes add cheese to the top. I have had eggplant and Italian spices at other restaurants. This was the best as the sauce had obviously been prepared with fresh tomatoes.
Falafel and Fries are the other foods served here. The falafel balls were so tasty and not at all greasy. The chef ran out of pita and sent one of the workers to a bakery outlet across the path. We later went to the bakery and of course purchased some of the delicious cookies. It is so exhilarating to discover a small budget tasty food spot. This was a winner for me.
Hummus Ben Sira on Ben Sira St at the bottom of Hillel St.
One of my granddaughters was recently married in Jerusalem. Her husband Chanina is adorable and so much fun. He wanted to show me his favorite spot in central Jerusalem to meet with the ‘guys’. I felt so honored that he wanted to take ‘Nana’ to this delicious hummus spot. There are very few tables and long lines .A very large portion of hummus is served with a variety of toppings with sides of pickles, falafel balls, tomatoes and onions. This was one of the highlights of my visit to Israel. The Mushroom Hummus was a great treat. My granddughter enjoyed the Beef Hummus. What a fun tasty treat!
It was such a long flight for a short week to visit the family. How blessed I am to be able to spend quality time with my daughter and all the family. Three of the four granddaughters are married and there are now 3 great grandchildren. They all gathered at my daughter’s house and 12 of us spent quality time together taking in the sites and having a lot of fun. What a great memorable experience.
Jerusalem is indeed a special city. It is spectacular in appearance. All buildings new and old are constructed of stone. It gives the feeling of the ancient past and makes for an aesthetic uniform appearance. Be prepared to walk up and down hills and steps. I certainly got my exercise. Needless to say the old city is a must and a visit to the Western Wall is mandatory. There are no cars inside the old city so you certainly will do a lot of walking. My favorite sound is the Arab call to prayer from the mosque in Eastern Jerusalem. At the same time the chanting can be heard from the synagogues. The underground tour of the former ancient city is a must. It begins on the campus by the Western Wall. The Superior Court and the museums are all spectacular. Yad Vashem is the best museum I have ever visited. It is the holocaust museum. It is a series of buildings and exhibits on a large tract of land. It is very emotional and a must visit. I go to Jerusalem annually and thought I knew most of the spots to visit. On this occasion I came across two very tiny eating spots that were both fun and delicious.
Hummus Adumin M’aleh Adumin Jerusalem
This tiny ‘shack’ is located in an industrial area about 40 minutes from the central city. There are automotive places and some light manufacturing. It is quite a desolate area. At the end of the section there is a tiny restaurant that I would label a shack. There are a few tables inside and 2 picnic tables outside. It is very busy as the industrial workers come here during the day. It actually closes at 5:00 p.m. They serve only three items.
My favorite Israeli dish is Shashouka. I actually eat it almost every day when in Israel and love to compare the various recipes in restaurants. Basically it is a tomato sauce prepared in a copper frying pan. Two eggs are poached in the sauce. It is served hot in the frying pan at the table. It is traditional to serve it with a small Israeli salad, hummus and bread. Some recipes add cheese to the top. I have had eggplant and Italian spices at other restaurants. This was the best as the sauce had obviously been prepared with fresh tomatoes.
Falafel and Fries are the other foods served here. The falafel balls were so tasty and not at all greasy. The chef ran out of pita and sent one of the workers to a bakery outlet across the path. We later went to the bakery and of course purchased some of the delicious cookies. It is so exhilarating to discover a small budget tasty food spot. This was a winner for me.
Hummus Ben Sira on Ben Sira St at the bottom of Hillel St.
One of my granddaughters was recently married in Jerusalem. Her husband Chanina is adorable and so much fun. He wanted to show me his favorite spot in central Jerusalem to meet with the ‘guys’. I felt so honored that he wanted to take ‘Nana’ to this delicious hummus spot. There are very few tables and long lines .A very large portion of hummus is served with a variety of toppings with sides of pickles, falafel balls, tomatoes and onions. This was one of the highlights of my visit to Israel. The Mushroom Hummus was a great treat. My granddughter enjoyed the Beef Hummus. What a fun tasty treat!
Inbal Cafe
Inbal Café Hama’ayon St Ein Keren ( a suburb of Jerusalem)
I thought I had seen all of Jerusalem during my many visits. This charming area proved to be an unexpected pleasure. The area is noted as a biblical spot favored by John the Baptist. It is said that he met Mary Magdalene on this spot. Until recently it has been a place for Christian tourists to visit. It is now an artist area worth a trip. The narrow winding streets and stone structures are so charming. We strolled on the small side streets admiring some of the gardens and looking into the artist boutiques. There are only 3 restaurants and they are on the main street beside one another.
Eric was our server and so delightful. It should be mentioned that kosher restaurants in Israel are either dairy or meat.
I am intrigued with the Israeli breakfasts. Most restaurants serve them all day. The Israelis love salads and can be seen eating them at all hours of the day. The vegetables are fresh and nationally grown. The bowls are large and filled with yummy healthy ingredients.
The Israeli Breakfast was too much for anyone to eat. It included yogurt, tuna, tahini, eggs (cooked to your choice), bread, cookies and salad. All of the above is 49 New Israeli shekels. I generally divide by 4 to get a close proximity to our money.
Tuna Salad is prepared in a large bowl and topped with a mound of tuna. (52 NIS)
Pizza is very popular here. Generally the crust is a little thicker than our thin crusts at home. (49NIS)
Ravioli is offered for 56 NIS.
We sat on the porch and watched the tourists perambulating. It is a charming spot for a visit. I did notice a Boutique Hotel that would be great for an overnight visit. This area is so close to the downtown Jerusalem and you are transported to a charming village feeling. It is great for lunch.
I thought I had seen all of Jerusalem during my many visits. This charming area proved to be an unexpected pleasure. The area is noted as a biblical spot favored by John the Baptist. It is said that he met Mary Magdalene on this spot. Until recently it has been a place for Christian tourists to visit. It is now an artist area worth a trip. The narrow winding streets and stone structures are so charming. We strolled on the small side streets admiring some of the gardens and looking into the artist boutiques. There are only 3 restaurants and they are on the main street beside one another.
Eric was our server and so delightful. It should be mentioned that kosher restaurants in Israel are either dairy or meat.
I am intrigued with the Israeli breakfasts. Most restaurants serve them all day. The Israelis love salads and can be seen eating them at all hours of the day. The vegetables are fresh and nationally grown. The bowls are large and filled with yummy healthy ingredients.
The Israeli Breakfast was too much for anyone to eat. It included yogurt, tuna, tahini, eggs (cooked to your choice), bread, cookies and salad. All of the above is 49 New Israeli shekels. I generally divide by 4 to get a close proximity to our money.
Tuna Salad is prepared in a large bowl and topped with a mound of tuna. (52 NIS)
Pizza is very popular here. Generally the crust is a little thicker than our thin crusts at home. (49NIS)
Ravioli is offered for 56 NIS.
We sat on the porch and watched the tourists perambulating. It is a charming spot for a visit. I did notice a Boutique Hotel that would be great for an overnight visit. This area is so close to the downtown Jerusalem and you are transported to a charming village feeling. It is great for lunch.
Sisters and Brothers
Sisters and Brothers
What a creative unusual film. I wasn’t sure at first that I was enjoying the film but as time went on I found it humorous, thought provoking and intelligent.
We meet several groups of brothers and sisters. The vignettes jump around and go from one to another. Sometimes we hear a character talking directly to the audience. Sometimes an event or situation is acted out. At times there is animation. Ii all happens quickly and moves at a good pace.
Two brothers are reunited. One is a successful high living character in the theatre business. His brother works for a charity in Africa.
A sister is nurturing to her mentally ill brother. It is touching how she cares for him and looks after him. There is also humor.
A mother is having difficulty with her outspoken insensitive daughter. A young woman, dressed in a sari, arrives at the home. Apparently she is the long lost daughter from a relationship the mother had when living in India. At first the two sisters do not get along.
Each vignette is touching and believable. It is an interesting concept and there is a difference in each episode.
The pattern of the film is creative. I did not find it distracting.
Bravo for a Canadian film that is original and well produced. Apparently this is the final installment of Carl Bessai’s family trilogy. I would love to see the other films. I also understand that there is a lot of improvising. The actors work so well together.
What a creative unusual film. I wasn’t sure at first that I was enjoying the film but as time went on I found it humorous, thought provoking and intelligent.
We meet several groups of brothers and sisters. The vignettes jump around and go from one to another. Sometimes we hear a character talking directly to the audience. Sometimes an event or situation is acted out. At times there is animation. Ii all happens quickly and moves at a good pace.
Two brothers are reunited. One is a successful high living character in the theatre business. His brother works for a charity in Africa.
A sister is nurturing to her mentally ill brother. It is touching how she cares for him and looks after him. There is also humor.
A mother is having difficulty with her outspoken insensitive daughter. A young woman, dressed in a sari, arrives at the home. Apparently she is the long lost daughter from a relationship the mother had when living in India. At first the two sisters do not get along.
Each vignette is touching and believable. It is an interesting concept and there is a difference in each episode.
The pattern of the film is creative. I did not find it distracting.
Bravo for a Canadian film that is original and well produced. Apparently this is the final installment of Carl Bessai’s family trilogy. I would love to see the other films. I also understand that there is a lot of improvising. The actors work so well together.
Vittorio's on Avenue
Vittorios on Avenue 137 Avenue Rd 416 924 7441
Cico, you never fail. You have more energy than anyone I know. You greet the guests as if they are your best friend and your memory boggles the mind.
Vittorio’s is the new kid on the block at Avenue Rd and Davenport. This location has a sad past of failed restaurants. Not this time. Clearly Cico has his following. The place has been crowded on my past two visits to this location.
The restaurant has a charming appeal. When you enter you face a large bar with an oversize mirror. A whimsical mural is painted on the far wall. The tables are well spaced and some are on different levels. This provides a feeling of space. The service is always excellent. The food is authentic Italian and as good as any meal I have had in Italy. The pasta dishes are mouth watering delicious
I was dining at lunch with four family members. We have all followed Cico and his fine food from every restaurant he has owned.
The bread is so noteworthy. A small round loaf of foccacio covered with oil and rosemary is beyond fantastic. I won’t say how many orders we devoured. It was warm and melted in your mouth. Just in case you needed a little spice in your life a little dish with hot oil and spices was sufficient to raise your temperature immediately.
A Caesar Salad was shared as an appetizer. ($9.25) We all delved into it and it was demolished immediately.
My favorite dish is the Cappellini Gamberoni with black tiger shrimp, artichokes, and roasted peppers.($15.90) I salivate even when I think about this dish. It is always perfectly prepared and I can’t get enough of it. The shrimp are so tasty and perfectly prepared. Two of us enjoyed this fantastic dish.
Raviolacci is a ravioli dish with an exotic sauce.($16.25) The Rigatoni Pollo e Funghi is large portion filled with the tasty ingredients. There was nothing left on any of the four plates. We were all licking our lips.
Braciole is a favorite dish here. Stuffed veal with smoked mozzarella is prepared with prosciutto di parma, shallots, rosemary, thyme, sherry in a cabarnet reduction.($24.95)The portion is enormous and I am told the meat is perfectly flavored and very tender.
Grilled Pesce Misto also a big favorite.(market price)
In the past I have enjoyed the Melanzane alla Parmigiana. The baked eggplant with parmigiano cheese and tomato sauce is listed as an appetizer.($12.95) With a bowl of Zuppa del Giorno ($9.25) you can enjoy a full meal.
The Frutti di Mare Risotto offers mussels, clams, shrimps, scallops, calamari in a marinara sauce.($23.95)
Tirimasu and a Chocolate Brule completely finished our feast.
Our only complaint was that we felt we were going to be rolled out of the restaurant.
No matter your choice you are in for a perfection of flavors. The presentation is also inviting.
This is a gourmet dining spot that will indeed impress.
Cico, you never fail. You have more energy than anyone I know. You greet the guests as if they are your best friend and your memory boggles the mind.
Vittorio’s is the new kid on the block at Avenue Rd and Davenport. This location has a sad past of failed restaurants. Not this time. Clearly Cico has his following. The place has been crowded on my past two visits to this location.
The restaurant has a charming appeal. When you enter you face a large bar with an oversize mirror. A whimsical mural is painted on the far wall. The tables are well spaced and some are on different levels. This provides a feeling of space. The service is always excellent. The food is authentic Italian and as good as any meal I have had in Italy. The pasta dishes are mouth watering delicious
I was dining at lunch with four family members. We have all followed Cico and his fine food from every restaurant he has owned.
The bread is so noteworthy. A small round loaf of foccacio covered with oil and rosemary is beyond fantastic. I won’t say how many orders we devoured. It was warm and melted in your mouth. Just in case you needed a little spice in your life a little dish with hot oil and spices was sufficient to raise your temperature immediately.
A Caesar Salad was shared as an appetizer. ($9.25) We all delved into it and it was demolished immediately.
My favorite dish is the Cappellini Gamberoni with black tiger shrimp, artichokes, and roasted peppers.($15.90) I salivate even when I think about this dish. It is always perfectly prepared and I can’t get enough of it. The shrimp are so tasty and perfectly prepared. Two of us enjoyed this fantastic dish.
Raviolacci is a ravioli dish with an exotic sauce.($16.25) The Rigatoni Pollo e Funghi is large portion filled with the tasty ingredients. There was nothing left on any of the four plates. We were all licking our lips.
Braciole is a favorite dish here. Stuffed veal with smoked mozzarella is prepared with prosciutto di parma, shallots, rosemary, thyme, sherry in a cabarnet reduction.($24.95)The portion is enormous and I am told the meat is perfectly flavored and very tender.
Grilled Pesce Misto also a big favorite.(market price)
In the past I have enjoyed the Melanzane alla Parmigiana. The baked eggplant with parmigiano cheese and tomato sauce is listed as an appetizer.($12.95) With a bowl of Zuppa del Giorno ($9.25) you can enjoy a full meal.
The Frutti di Mare Risotto offers mussels, clams, shrimps, scallops, calamari in a marinara sauce.($23.95)
Tirimasu and a Chocolate Brule completely finished our feast.
Our only complaint was that we felt we were going to be rolled out of the restaurant.
No matter your choice you are in for a perfection of flavors. The presentation is also inviting.
This is a gourmet dining spot that will indeed impress.
Guantanamo Trap
Gunatanamo Trap
I urge everyone to support the new Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. It is revolutionary to have a theatre totally dedicated to documentaries. They have done a superb job in refurbishing the old Bloor Cinema. It has come a long way since 1913 when the original Madison Theatre was founded on this same spot.
This remarkable film strives to show 2 sides of the Guantanamo issue. I was spell bound. The director and producer were present and added much following the presentation.
We were reminded that Obama had promised to get rid of Gunatanamo Bay His promise has not been kept and for politically reasons he can’t do anything at this time before a new election. It will be fascinating to see what happens after the next election.
Diane Beaver is one interesting woman. She was a high ranking army officer at Guantanamo Bay. She speaks freely throughout the film. She claims that it was necessary to separate the prisoners and deprive them of sleep. It was her direction that authorized some of the horrific torture on the prisoners. She felt she was doing her job. It was interesting that higher officials did not sign any of the authorization so she was left holding the bag. She does pay a price for her actions and has some difficulty adjusting when she returns home but does state that she did her job because she loves her country. Her family supports her entirely and she feels she did nothing wrong. At one point she states, “How do you stop this (terrorism) if you don’t understand the enemy?”
For me the most interesting character was Morat Kuntzer, a German. At 19 he went to Pakistan and converted to Islam. He was picked up and sold to the Americans and later sent to Guantanamo. He tells of his horrific conditions. He was placed in a cage smaller than a dog cage. He was naked at times, poorly fed and given no water. The torture was totally inhumane. Lights were left on 24/7.His mother did so much in helping gain his release.
Matt Diaz was an army officer working at Guantanamo Bay. He did not like what he saw and provided a list of the prisoners to an activist in New York. As a result he lost his job and his pension. He went to jail. His marriage broke up. He lost his house,
A group of lawyers in Spain were trying to charge George Bush and Rumsfeld with war crimes. Morat Kuntzer went to Spain after he was released and gave a lot of information to this Spanish counsel. After the recent bombing in Madrid they wanted information to help them find the terrorists responsible. They have received no help from Obama.
At the end of the film we learn more about the characters and how they are currently coping.
It was very emotional and I found it fascinating to hear people speak from both sides. The director stated that he wants the audience to interpret the film as they wish. He was not attempting to spoon feed the audience. When asked a question he agreed that there was no redemption for any of the characters in the film. The film has not been accepted in the United States and this was the Canadian premiere.
It was explained that some of the prisoners will not be retuned to their home countries because they will be tortured. What an irony after the treatment many face at Guantanamo Bay. The director told the audience that one man was sleep deprived for 11 months and he was ill in every way as a result.
This is an exceptional documentary. It will make you cringe. The German Turkish director is exceptionally talented.
I urge everyone to support the new Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. It is revolutionary to have a theatre totally dedicated to documentaries. They have done a superb job in refurbishing the old Bloor Cinema. It has come a long way since 1913 when the original Madison Theatre was founded on this same spot.
This remarkable film strives to show 2 sides of the Guantanamo issue. I was spell bound. The director and producer were present and added much following the presentation.
We were reminded that Obama had promised to get rid of Gunatanamo Bay His promise has not been kept and for politically reasons he can’t do anything at this time before a new election. It will be fascinating to see what happens after the next election.
Diane Beaver is one interesting woman. She was a high ranking army officer at Guantanamo Bay. She speaks freely throughout the film. She claims that it was necessary to separate the prisoners and deprive them of sleep. It was her direction that authorized some of the horrific torture on the prisoners. She felt she was doing her job. It was interesting that higher officials did not sign any of the authorization so she was left holding the bag. She does pay a price for her actions and has some difficulty adjusting when she returns home but does state that she did her job because she loves her country. Her family supports her entirely and she feels she did nothing wrong. At one point she states, “How do you stop this (terrorism) if you don’t understand the enemy?”
For me the most interesting character was Morat Kuntzer, a German. At 19 he went to Pakistan and converted to Islam. He was picked up and sold to the Americans and later sent to Guantanamo. He tells of his horrific conditions. He was placed in a cage smaller than a dog cage. He was naked at times, poorly fed and given no water. The torture was totally inhumane. Lights were left on 24/7.His mother did so much in helping gain his release.
Matt Diaz was an army officer working at Guantanamo Bay. He did not like what he saw and provided a list of the prisoners to an activist in New York. As a result he lost his job and his pension. He went to jail. His marriage broke up. He lost his house,
A group of lawyers in Spain were trying to charge George Bush and Rumsfeld with war crimes. Morat Kuntzer went to Spain after he was released and gave a lot of information to this Spanish counsel. After the recent bombing in Madrid they wanted information to help them find the terrorists responsible. They have received no help from Obama.
At the end of the film we learn more about the characters and how they are currently coping.
It was very emotional and I found it fascinating to hear people speak from both sides. The director stated that he wants the audience to interpret the film as they wish. He was not attempting to spoon feed the audience. When asked a question he agreed that there was no redemption for any of the characters in the film. The film has not been accepted in the United States and this was the Canadian premiere.
It was explained that some of the prisoners will not be retuned to their home countries because they will be tortured. What an irony after the treatment many face at Guantanamo Bay. The director told the audience that one man was sleep deprived for 11 months and he was ill in every way as a result.
This is an exceptional documentary. It will make you cringe. The German Turkish director is exceptionally talented.
Ticho House
Ticho House 9 Harav Kook St 02-6223218
In central Jerusalem
I was hosting all 12 members of my Israeli family. It was important that there was room for the children to run around. I also wanted to makes sure that everyone could choose something satisfying. Wine was important. I have dined here before. Ticho House is a must on a visit to Jerusalem. The charming old manor house was the home of Dr Ticho and his artist wife Anna Ticho. Her beautiful pictures of flowers decorates the many pages of the menu. A collection of her work can also be seen at the Israel Museum.
One of the interior rooms is gallery of paintings.
The terrace is leveled and huge. Flowers are everywhere. We chose a large table in the garden. It offered all the ambiance we desired. The place was crowded but the noise level was never a problem because we were outdoors in the warm sunshine. I felt as if I was on a movie set. It is gorgeous, tranquil and offers great food. It is hard to believe you are in central Jerusalem.
There are weekly programs.
Tuesdays offers jazz with wine and cheese at 8:30 p.m.
Wednesdays offers classical music at 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays the program is Jewish soul music at 8:30 pm
Several members opted for Pasta dishes. Spinach Ravioli and Pumpkin Ravioli were large portions and very tasty. (52NIS) You can choose your sauce for the pasta dishes. Pesto, Alfredo, Salsa Rose and Funghi are just a few that are available.
The Mushroom and Cream Blintzes were a treat.(55NIS)
Stuffed Artichokes are prepared with lemon sauce and served on a bed of fresh herbs and lettuce.(52NIS)
Salmon Fillet is grilled and served with potatoes with rosemary and stir fried vegetables as well as a green salad. (82NIS)
The Ticho Salad is a mixture of lettuce, fresh herbs, seasonal fruits, Roquefort cheese and sugared pecan nuts.(55NIS)
Once again I enjoyed the Israeli Breakfast for 2. Eggs of your choice and an abundance of salads and tahini were offered with juice and coffee.
The menu is extensive. It offers a Children’s Menu of pizza or pasta with a drink and ice cream. (45NIS)
There is even a Seniors Menu but I was much too proud to declare the fact.
One can dine on an extensive meal or have a drink and an appetizer. I was tempted with the Eggplant Rolls with cheese on a fresh tomato sauce with herbs. (38NIS)
We all enjoyed the family reunion. It was a memorable visit for me. The beautiful surroundings and warm Israeli breeze just added to a perfect day. We all left totally satiated and happy.
In central Jerusalem
I was hosting all 12 members of my Israeli family. It was important that there was room for the children to run around. I also wanted to makes sure that everyone could choose something satisfying. Wine was important. I have dined here before. Ticho House is a must on a visit to Jerusalem. The charming old manor house was the home of Dr Ticho and his artist wife Anna Ticho. Her beautiful pictures of flowers decorates the many pages of the menu. A collection of her work can also be seen at the Israel Museum.
One of the interior rooms is gallery of paintings.
The terrace is leveled and huge. Flowers are everywhere. We chose a large table in the garden. It offered all the ambiance we desired. The place was crowded but the noise level was never a problem because we were outdoors in the warm sunshine. I felt as if I was on a movie set. It is gorgeous, tranquil and offers great food. It is hard to believe you are in central Jerusalem.
There are weekly programs.
Tuesdays offers jazz with wine and cheese at 8:30 p.m.
Wednesdays offers classical music at 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays the program is Jewish soul music at 8:30 pm
Several members opted for Pasta dishes. Spinach Ravioli and Pumpkin Ravioli were large portions and very tasty. (52NIS) You can choose your sauce for the pasta dishes. Pesto, Alfredo, Salsa Rose and Funghi are just a few that are available.
The Mushroom and Cream Blintzes were a treat.(55NIS)
Stuffed Artichokes are prepared with lemon sauce and served on a bed of fresh herbs and lettuce.(52NIS)
Salmon Fillet is grilled and served with potatoes with rosemary and stir fried vegetables as well as a green salad. (82NIS)
The Ticho Salad is a mixture of lettuce, fresh herbs, seasonal fruits, Roquefort cheese and sugared pecan nuts.(55NIS)
Once again I enjoyed the Israeli Breakfast for 2. Eggs of your choice and an abundance of salads and tahini were offered with juice and coffee.
The menu is extensive. It offers a Children’s Menu of pizza or pasta with a drink and ice cream. (45NIS)
There is even a Seniors Menu but I was much too proud to declare the fact.
One can dine on an extensive meal or have a drink and an appetizer. I was tempted with the Eggplant Rolls with cheese on a fresh tomato sauce with herbs. (38NIS)
We all enjoyed the family reunion. It was a memorable visit for me. The beautiful surroundings and warm Israeli breeze just added to a perfect day. We all left totally satiated and happy.
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