Hanoi 3 Seasons

Hanoi 3 Seasons 88 Gerrard St 416 463 9940

Five ladies went for dinner after the opera. I am not familiar with the Broadview area restaurants so was delighted to be introduced to the best Vietnamese dining spot. It is a family owned restaurant. Our young server could be a movie star as she is so beautiful. She also was sweet, patient and very charming. The place was busy on a Saturday evening but it was never loud. They also did a mammoth take out business.

The table shared the Sauteed Spicy Baby Clams served with crispy rice crackers.($7.00) The portions for everything were enormous. The food was presented in short time and the flavors were fantastic. Everything was so fresh and tasty. This economical menu would satisfy any budget.

I opted for a Tofu and Lemon Grass prepared with coconut milk.($8.50) It was served in a large bowl with vermicelli. A spring toll was included. The vegetables were lightly sautéed and so crisp and fresh. It was a fantastic dish.

The table also shared several orders. The Chicken and Lemon Grass with vermicelli was a big hit.($8.50) Mussels, shrimp, Squid, Crab, Fish Ball and Bok Choy were a winning combination.($8.50)

Spicy Beef Sate and Garlic Chicken with Bok Choy were also enjoyed.

The Mixed vegetables and Tofu Rice Noodle Soup was calling out to me.($7.50) That will be for my next visit. There are several House Specialty Noodle Soups. The Spicy Shrimp with Lemon Grass and Tamarind is a popular dish.($8.50) Spicy Shrimp. Crab, Mussels, Squid, Fish Ball with Tamarind is offered at $8.50.

Several appetizers would make for a light snack or lunch. Deep Fried Spring Rolls are prepared with taro, yellow beans, carrot and noodle stuffing.($3.00) Crispy Mimi Shrimps are served with a lotus shoot/ carrot salad.($5.00)

Fruit Smoothies are a big winner at this restaurant. A variety of vegetables and fruits are available. Du Du (papaya) and Dau Tay (strawberry) are only a few of the many suggestions. The smoothies are $3.00

The table also shared three of the popular Ice Creams, Black Sesame, Green Tea and Ginger.($3.00)

We were all thrilled with our choices. The food was very special. It is such a colorful part of town. The grocery stores remain open late into the evening. There are many Vietnamese restaurants on the block. We certainly chose the best. You can afford to bring the whole family at these prices. The place is clean and welcoming.

Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre

I had a difficult decision to make. I am going to the opera on Saturday and Reel Talk on Sunday. I am leaving for Florence and Tel Aviv on Tuesday. That meant I could only see one film on Friday. Several good films opened on this day and I was in a quandary. I am currently reading the classic The Mayor of Casterbridge so I opted to stick with the classics and see Jane Eyre, this old favorite story by Charlotte Bronte. I was so pleased with my choice.

The cinematography is noteworthy. The dark grey tones throughout the film set the mood. The cold old stone mansions of the day and the barren windswept terrain add to the mood.

The beginning of the film takes us back and forth from Jane’s earlier days living with her wicked stepmother to the abusive orphanage where she was sent. In one instance she was punished and made to stand on a stool for a whole day without food or water. Her only solace was sketching.

We see Jane as a strong willful child who feels free to speak her mind. After graduating from the orphanage she takes a job as the governess to a delightful young child at the estate of the strange Mr. Rochester. He comes and goes from the estate and appears ruthless and difficult. She is never afraid and feels free to tell him the truth.

Jane thrives at this position. Mr. Rochester takes note of her talent and really begins to see her as a person when she saves him from a fire.

There are secrets at this old mansion and we soon learn what is going on. This is a melodramatic story that has lasted over time. It is a love story and a story of endurance.

Jane faces so many trials throughout her years and she seems to get stronger with each challenge.

The cinematography is superb. Mia Wasikowska is wonderful in her role as Jane. I delighted to see Judy Dench play the part of Mrs. Fairfax, the household manager.

The classics have remained great stories for a reason. I was transported into that era and enjoyed it all.

Fanny Chadwick's

Fanny Chadwick’s 268 Howland Ave. 416 944 1606

I wish I had known Fanny Chadwick. Apparently she was an author, loved parties and was a personality living in the Annex. Proprietors Lianne and Sarah pay homage to this colorful neighborhood figure. They deserve much credit for this enterprising endeavor. The premises were formerly a Chinese restaurant. I have watched the renovations taking place since last year. I kept going by to see what was going to be in this out of the way spot. It is on the corner of Howland Ave. and Dupont. Pictures of the original old restaurant are hung near the front entrance. The inside has been completely gutted and made to feel comfortable and stylish. I was fascinated with the shelves of home made preserves that are used as garnishes. The ketchup is made in house.

My friend told me that the pickled beans were noteworthy. As we left the restaurant we overheard a young gentleman sitting by the door exclaim,” This is the best club sandwich I have ever eaten.” He certainly seemed to be devouring it with pleasure as he read his book, Proust. The restaurant has only been open for 3 weeks. What fun to discover a new spot!

Andrew was our server. He knew all about the food items and was very helpful. He is what a good server should be. He attends to the patrons and makes sure that all is well. He listens to concerns and makes good suggestions .I liked the fact that he so enjoys what he does and he does it very well.

I was craving a Grilled Cheese Sandwich.($8.00) It was served on sourdough bread. The filling was creamy, rich and delicious. I could taste the delicious pommery mustard that blended so well with the cheese flavor. The home made ketchup was sinful and perfect. There was a generous portion of a side salad. The greens were fresh and crisp. I could have chosen frites or soup.

My companion opted for the house cured Gravlax. It was served with pretzel bread, cucumber and those fantastic pickled beans.($10.00) This is a real gourmet treat.

Salads are popular at lunch or as an appetizer at dinner. Fanny’s Warm Winter Salad offers roasted vegetables, blue cheese, sherry walnut vinaigrette.($10.00) The Mixed Greens are prepared with a pommery-poppyseed thousand island or fresh herb dressing.($6.00)

I was tempted with the Mac and Cheese and will come back for that stomach filling dish. The touch of whipped cream suggested I postpone that selection until my waistline diminishes somewhat.

At dinner the Mains are varied.

Leg Of Lamb is served with seasonal vegetables, leek and potato mash and lamb jus.($18.00) A Beef Burger was being presented to another patron. It was plated so beautifully and served with house ketchup, mustard, mayo, cheese, jus, veggies and pickles. Hand cut fries and salad are part of this favorite combination. It is available at lunch and dinner.($16.00) I dare you to eat it all.

Pan-Seared Fish and Chips is not a battered fish. The rainbow trout filet is crispy and served with those delicious hand cut fries, house slaw and house tartar.($!6.00) The Corned Beef and Cabbage is prepared with seasonal cabbage, pierogi and pommery mustard.($20.00)

I hope that pepper will be made available on the table or ground at the table by the server. A pleasant lunch and a welcome new neighbor.

Creme Brasserie

Crème Brasserie 162 Cumberland St. 416 962 7363

Several times a friend suggested this fantastic place. I should have listened sooner. Crème is the ‘cream of the crop’ in fine dining. The location is charming as it is tucked away in a courtyard running between Cumberland and Yorkville. The outdoor patio is great in the summer. The décor inside is elegant and in exquisite taste. When my dining partner and I entered we were fascinated by the large group of people having a fun time. It was bizarre because the ladies were dressed as if they were going to the prom. The men looked as if they were going to a baseball game. One thing is for sure. They were having fun. We inquired of our server who told us they were a music group that had just finished taping. They had been in the restaurant since lunch and it was now well into the dinner hour. We enjoyed their spirit but also were pleased with the quiet and peaceful atmosphere once they left.

Serge was our server for the evening. He is a gallant Parisian who knows the fine art of pleasing patrons. He enhanced our dining experience.

Ricardo Sousa opened this place last summer and brings years of experience to the restaurant business. Ricardo Roque is the masterful chef that produces the exquisite food.

We shared the Beetroot and Arugula Salad. ($14.00) Serge was kind enough to have the salad divided in the kitchen. The presentation was artful. The taste was so wonderful. The goat’s cheese and pine nuts added so much to the full flavor of the beets and peppery arugula. The salad was sprinkled with a fine pink grapefruit vinaigrette.

A Jumbo Lump Crab Cake is served with sweet chili sauce and micro greens.($15.00) Mussels Marinara offers a plate of steamed mussels, white wine, garlic, tomato and chilies.($14.00)

My friend was so pleased with her Grilled Fillet of Salmon. ($24.00) It was served with creamed spinach, roasted celery root, golden beets and green pea veloute.

The Rack of Lamb is crusted with cranberry and mustard. Savoyard potatoes and red current jus compliment the plate.($39.00)

I was thrilled with my Linguine With Shrimp.($17.00) The shrimp were flavorful. The pasta was al dente. Wiled spinach was infused in the portion served in a garlic white wine sauce. I licked my lips after every bite.

We were so tempted by the Three Course Dinner offered at $39.00. There were so many delicious sounding choices. We just couldn’t manage all that food on this evening but enjoyed reading the listed selections. I would have trouble choosing. I know for certain that the Sticky Toffee Pudding would have been my dessert selection. We were both so impressed with every aspect of this restaurant. The location is central but quiet. The service was impeccable. The food was exquisite and we were royally treated. Will I return to Crème. The answer is as soon as possible.

And Everything is Going Fine

And Everything Is Going Fine

The irony is that when I lived downtown I tended to come north to see films. Now that I have moved close to Bloor St I find myself heading to the TIFF Bell Lightbox. The reason is simple. They show the best of the best. I often attend a film without knowing what it is about. If it plays at Lightbox I know it is a great film. Such was the case with And Everything Is Going Fine. I hadn’t even heard of Spalding Gray. When I left I felt I had a clear picture of the total life of this interesting storyteller

Stephen Soderbergh directed this documentary using clips from many of his performances.

Spalding Gray performed on a stage usually sitting behind a small table with a glass of water. He would tell tales about his childhood, his sexual experiences and his life. He had a wonderful voice and a dramatic presentation.

I could picture the barn and the garden of his childhood. His family was noted for having serious anxiety. It seems as if his mother was constantly in a mental deteriorating state. His brother suffered from high anxiety .He tells of one incident when his brother was struggling for breath. He kept asking his mother,” When I die is it forever?”

The audience laughs throughout. Yet I was aware that our laughter is always because of a negative experience of Spalding Gray.

As a child he burnt his arm from placing it on a hot radiator, His mother calmly and quietly said,” Put soap on it dear and know the truth.”

He laughs about the conversation with his father on the 4^th hole of the golf course. Spalding was only 14 and his father was trying to discuss sex with him. He later reminds his father about this incident while they are being filmed.

He freely talks about his sex life. He had a homosexual experience as a youth. He later lived with Renee for several years. When she discovered he also was seeing another woman and she was pregnant the relationship ended. He then moved in with Kathy and proceeded to have several children with her. He seemed to be a loving father and the children are often portrayed as they romp and play outdoors.

I was fascinated with his performances often using audience members. He would call someone from the audience to sit with him on stage. He asked the person questions and it turned out to be very interesting.

He did perform in a few films. A few were pornographic.

He discovered that his mother was dead when he asked his father about his mother. His father replied, “She is gone” One could clearly conclude that this was an unusual family.

We see Spalding getting older through the various film clips. I found him to be a fascinating character. If someone else talked about their life as he does it probably would be boring. His life was so out of the norm and his presentation style was absorbing.

He was known as a poetic journalist. It was an unusual life. It was an unusual film.

West Meets West

West Meets West

This film has not yet opened but expect to see it in a few weeks. I saw it at a fund raising preview and highly recommend putting it on your list. It features the same cast as the film East Meets East.

We first meet this interesting family in their row housing unit in Manchester. Father is from Pakistan. Mother is a warm loving English lady from Manchester. The main character is their son. He suffers at school because of his Pakistan connection. The ruffians at school put his head in the toilet and call him names. As a result he skips school all the time. He also is belligerent and very rude to his parents. The audience laughs and it is funny the way it is all portrayed. Underneath the surface it is very upsetting and the issues are so obvious. The mixed backgrounds added to the son’s confusion. The communication between the teenager and the parents brings up memories for any parent. The father decides to take him to Pakistan to meet his family so that he will better understand his heritage.

The film is very funny but underlying it all is a lot of sadness and pathos. Trying to combine two cultures is not as easy as it may seem.

The young boy is immediately a misfit in Pakistan as he wears his English tailored suit. He didn’t seem to take it off for at least half of the picture.

In Pakistan we discover that the father has a first wife. She hasn’t seen him for 30 years since he left for England. There are now grown children. My heart ached for the poor woman. One night she enters the room of her husband and tries to get into bed with him. Once again she is rejected.

The husband begins to realize the pain felt by this woman. She quietly goes about her work and looks after all his needs (except one) and never complains.

He builds her a better house and tries to cement relationships amongst his first family members. Slowly changes take place and understanding develops .the young English boy meets a friend. They share many interests. Eventually the English suit is set apart and the traditional Pakistani clothing is adapted. It actually looked so much more comfortable and was better suited for that parched sandy terrain.

What a surprise when the English wife and her best lady friend arrive for a visit. The friend is a caricature of a cockney lower class woman. She adds so much humor. The two wives eye each other with suspicion.

I found the film to be refreshing even though it was touching on some serious and often painful issues. Through the humor you get the message. It was a delightful and thought provoking. Do watch for the opening in late March.

Funkytown

Funkytown

I didn’t even know why I went to see this film other than there was nothing else playing. I had no idea what it was about and it was a pleasant surprise. It takes place in Montreal between the years 1976 and 1980.Disco is the rage and the Starlight Disco was the place to go to see the best performers of the day. Apparently the action is based on the actual ‘Limelight Disco’.

One of the main characters is Bastien Lavallee, the MC at the disco. He is big time. All the bright lights of the music world played at this club. People cheered him and he lived a fast life. His charming wife and adorable daughter rarely saw him. A large part of the film shows his rapid decline as he gets more involved with women and drugs. This was based on an actual person.

We see another seedy side of the Montreal scene. Jonathon is an openly gay reporter for Party Disco Dance. He shows us the seamy side of the gay world.

The film is built on many levels. The historical aspect alone is fascinating. We see news clips showing the Parti Quebecois on the news. It is the time of the referendum and the language law is in full force.

We also see the rise and fall of several of the characters. Drugs were part of the problem. The gay scene was very active. The histrionics and jealousy amongst the players caused havoc in many cases.

Gilles is a record producer who loaned money to his son to run the Starlight Disco. He is a controlling father and ruthless in business. The inter personal relations are very interesting. Gilles is also a playboy beyond belief. I was so surprised to see a change of character in Gilles with a satisfying ending.

There is English and French spoken in the film. I believe that this was truly representative of the time.

Other characters play significant roles. Adriana had been a successful model. She wanted to be a singer. At first she went off with Bastien and was responsible for turning him back on drugs. She then took up with the aged Gilles and he made her into a musical success. The fascinating part was that she couldn’t sing. Gilles actually used the voice of a gospel singer (without her permission) and Adriana mouthed the songs in a very dramatic way. Gilles pays a big price for his actions.

Mimi is facing hard times and Gilles won’t help her. She tried to get Gilles to promote her single record. He won’t touch it because it is in French. He also tells her she needs to lose weight.

I imagine these were interesting times in Montreal. The film also gave me a glimpse of the behind scenes of the music world. Discos, the recording business and music reporters are an unknown to me and I was transformed into a different space.

I didn’t like many of the characters. Some ended up tragically. At the end of the film you are informed about some of the characters. I think the film is well done and I found it fascinating.

Ten Feet Tall

Ten Feet Tall ( Greenwood subway stop)

1281 Danforth Ave. 416 778 7333

I get such a rush when I discover a good new dining spot. I admit I went here to listen to Alex Goodman play his great jazz on a Sunday afternoon. Nothing new there. He was fantastic. The place is funky fun with amazing food. Now I can’t wait to go back for dinner. One wall is a blazing red color. The other side features modern artsy pictures of the Andy Warhol type. The tables are well spaced and the jazz groups have their own spot in the middle of the room

Sunday Live Jazz Matinees are from 3:30 6:30 p.m. There is never a cover but a $10.00 minimum. Check the web because there is a lot happening here. www.tenfeettall.ca

Apparently the name came from a song. The place has been in business for many years and is well occupied by jazz lovers and ‘foodies’ in the area. Ryley was our server and we delighted with her natural beauty and her warmth at her job. I didn’t get a chance to meet Carin Redman, the owner but I hope to have an opportunity in the future. It is obvious that she ably combines the best of administration and creativity. I really enjoyed the vibes from this artsy spot so far away from my usual dining. I also want to learn more about Andy Wood, the chef. I saw some very creative dishes emerging from the kitchen. I liked the menu and everything we tasted was delicious.

One guest enjoyed the Butternut Squash Curry Soup. ($5.50) The large bowl was topped with crème fraiche. It was served hot and the flavor was fully enjoyed. It was a large portion.

My next door neighbor came to hear the trio play. She ordered the Sexy Veg.($9.00) I want that next time. It was a work of art and she raved about the flavors of this healthy dish. Grilled zucchini, Portobello mushrooms, eggplant, red pepper and goat cheese are piled in a picturesque formation. It was drizzled with a balsamic reduction and served with slices of a baguette. The Dipping Fries are worth a trip to this venue. The yam fries are the very best I have ever eaten. They are hot, tasty and crispy. For another $1.00 you can order an additional dip. I recommend the Jalapeno Mayo and Wasabi Aioli. It was interesting to see that every table had at least one order of this scrumptious dish.

The Calamari was lightly dusted in cornmeal and flour and served with jalapeno mayo.($7.00) Shrimp Dawgs offers large tiger shrimp coated in their special fluffy dawg butter and served with a wasabi mayo dipping sauce.($8.00)

I have a thing for macaroni and cheese. On this menu they feature a Mac ‘n’ Cheese Boutique. You choose 1 of three sauces and then choose additional ingredients from a long list. The offerings are extensive. Sun-dried tomatoes, Portobello, pesto, spinach and caramelized onions are just a few of the choices.

Pad Thai is offered with chicken and shrimp. Fresh bean sprouts, green onion and rice noodles are topped with grilled tofu, crushed peanuts and fresh coriander.($14.00)

Fancy Meatloaf is a blend of ground Ontario lamb and beef topped with tzatziki sauce and served with roasted garlic mash and tomato cucumber salad.($15.00)

The menu is creative. The food was wonderful. The place is so appealing. What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. But now I need to return for an evening performance and more dining.

Alex Goodman

Alex Goodman upcoming jazz events (repeat notice)

Alex is so excited about the following upcoming events. He is bringing two jazz musicians from Montreal to join him for a weekend of the finest jazz. Rick Rosato is now playing in New York as well as Montreal. Simon Millard is well known in the Montreal jazz scene. You are invited to join this outstanding group at these events .The evening will feature original music.

Friday March 11

Pero Lounge

812 Bloor St West

9:00p.m.- midnight

Alex Goodman guitar

Simon Millard trumpet

Rick Rosato bass

Ethan Ardelli drums

Menu features Ethiopian food

Sunday March 13^th

Ten Feet Tall

1381 Danforth

Greenwood subway stop

416 778 7333

3:30 – 6:30

Menu includes brunch, appetizers and especially known for their yam fries

Alex Goodman guitar

Simon Millard trumpet

Rick Rosato bass

Hope to see you there.

Of Gods and Men

Of Gods And Men

I put off seeing this film because I have just had enough in the news with terrorists and uprisings (which does not mean I am unsympathetic).I didn’t think I could manage to see a film about eight monks living in a village in Algeria constantly threatened by terrorists.

The film turns out to be much more than that and a spiritual experience.

In 1996 Algeria was experiencing a civil war. Needless to say there was a lot of fighting. The eight Trappist monks lived in a small missionary up in the mountains. They did not isolate themselves and they were so caring to the village folk and to one another. They produced honey. They gardened. One of the monks medically cared for the children in the village. They sang their prayers with such love. The film is filled with the Gregorian like chants.

Civilians are being killed daily and the monks are warned that they need military support. They claim that no weapons are allowed in their sanctuary. They vote to stay at the missionary even thought several would have preferred to leave.

One night the terrorists come to the missionary looking for medicine. Christian, the head monk, is able to deflate the issue by standing firm and quietly telling the terrorists that they have no medicine and it is Christmas Eve. The terrorist actually apologized and shakes Christian’s hand.

The beautiful surroundings are such a contrast to the bloody riots. The camera knows when to take you on a visually pastoral scene and then the tension rises. The camera lingers on the faces of the monks. They may have a smile on their face but the camera zooms into the eyes and you can see the tears and the terror.

This is based on a real story. The ending was haunting and I will not soon forget it. It was so beautifully portrayed.

It is more a story of love that a war theme. The men banded together knowing that their lives were doomed. It moves slowly but that also reflects the lives lived. The acting is amazing. More can be said with an expression than words.

The film is powerful and will stay with you for a long time.

Coffee Mill

Coffee Mill 99 Yorkville Ave ( in the courtyard)

416 920 2108

This is an authentic European café and coffee house. When it first opened over 30 years ago it was such a hot spot. There were lineups to get a table for a cup of coffee, Hungarian goulash or European pastries. The outdoor courtyard between Yorkville and Cumberland had the first heat lamps and well into the cool weather crowds would gather. The famous fountain with the sculptures was the meeting place in town. The outdoor courtyard is a great luncheon spot because you are away from the traffic and the noise.

The original owner is a few years older now but I still marvel at her beauty. She is always impeccably dressed and wanders around inspecting everything. It is still a popular lunch spot and very active as a café.

There is a wide variety of coffees and teas. Wines and beer are also available.

The Smoked Salmon appetizer is served with onions, capers and pumpernickel bread.($6.75) A Cabbage Roll appetizer is $8.25. Larger dinner portions are available. I usually opt for one of the many Salads. Grilled Chicken offers sliced white meat with citrus fruit and pineapple.($10.25)The Coffee Mill Salad is prepared with egg salad, cream cheese, sliced ham and cheese.($10.25) Salade Nicoise has often been my favored choice.($10.50)

Two of us enjoyed the Tuna Sandwiches. The filling is spread generously on the open faced rye bread. The carrot and dill pickle added to the presentation and the taste.

Continental Entrees give the place an old world European flavor. They have been serving these dishes for many years.

Quiche Lorraine or Spinach Quiche is served with a salad.($9.25) Chicken Crepes are a house specialty. They a re filled with diced chicken and veggies.($10.50)

Weiner or Chicken Schnitzel comes with mashed potatoes and cole slaw.($12.95) Hungarian Goulash is the signature dish. They claim on the menu that it is a meal in itself.($6.50)

The pastries are always fresh and tasty.

It’s a little like going back in time because the servers and the place itself have been around for a long time. I find it refreshing and soothing to return to The Coffee Mill.

Piccolo Ristorante

Piccolo Restorante 8 Birch Ave 416 975 9150

This is one of the most charming spots in the city .Piccolo is situated in a tiny little old house on a quiet street. At night the twinkling lights in the old tree in the front add so much to the ambiance. The inside has always been my favorite. Only seven tables give so much warmth to a little spot. The red banquettes, red walls and little lamps on the table always make me feel I am in a quaint inn. It just gets better.

The food is lovingly prepared and presented by chef and owner, Sivathashan. It is hard to believe that so much gourmet food can be prepared in that tiny kitchen.

The room upstairs is available for private parties. It holds about 20 people. In the summer the patio is available for quiet outdoor dining. I still prefer the little perfect room inside.

My sister and I were dining with two managers from a very exclusive resort in Algonquin Park. They know all about the presentation of fine food. I knew this little spot would be a treat and a pleasure for everyone.

The Salads are a great way to start the evening. Grilled Radicchio was served with baby arugula and warmed goat cheese. It was tossed with a honey balsamic dressing ($11.50.) We all tasted this dish and agreed it was a generous portion with wondrous flavors. Insalate Toscano offers warm pears and crispy pancetta served on a bed of baby spinach topped with toasted walnuts and Gorgonzola with a balsamic olive oil dressing.($13.00) Funghi Gratine is so delicious with oven baked marinated oyster mushrooms and shaved Parmesan cheese served on a bed of field greens.($11.50)

All of the above were enjoyed with the basket of warm bread. The little pots of olive oil and balsamic vinegar gave a ‘wow’ factor to that delicious bread.

Pennne Milanese is a pasta dish served with Italian sausage and Kalamata olives. Spinach and dried tomatoes add additional flavor.($17.00)

The Risotto Alla Funghi was thoroughly enjoyed. The Arborio rice is topped with a variety of mushrooms, cream sauce and topped with truffle oil.($16.00)

I have a favorite dish at this delightful restaurant. The Angel Hair is always perfectly prepared. Tiger shrimps and scallops are seared in garlic, white wine, fresh herbs and tomato sauce. The dish is topped with a pan seared lobster tail.($22.00) The shrimp were enormous, succulent and so flavorful. There was a hint of hot pepper. The flavors burst on the palate. Exquisite!

Funghi Agnolotti is homemade pasta stuffed with wild mushrooms, in a goat cheese cream sauce with seasoned fresh herbs and spring onions.($17.00) On a past visit a dining companion enjoyed the Lamb shank. Australian Lamb Shank is slowly braised in red wine, rosemary and then drizzled with its own natural juices.($18.50)

The Veal Marsala offers a pan seared scaloppini with wild mushrooms, smothered in our homemade demi-glaze with a touch of cream.($18.50)

We had no room for dessert but I can still savor the taste of the Flourless Chocolate Cake I have enjoyed on past visits.

I have personally tried many of the dishes listed on the extensive menu. My main problem is in making a decision. I have always loved this tiny perfect restaurant.

Woodlot

Woodlot ( a repeat visit) 293 Palmerston Ave 647 342 6307

If you love high energy and a positive atmosphere you will enjoy the hottest spot in town. It is trendy. It is fun. The food is delicious and very creative.

David Hamon is a young chef entrepreneur. He looks so adorable with his baseball hat. When I chat with him I see wisdom, talent and culinary skills way beyond his years. It is such a happy good luck story. David grew up in a culinary family. He then traveled throughout Europe gathering experience and skills working in top restaurants.

The story is too good to be true but I have now witnessed on 2 occasions this success story. David and best friend, Robert, started this business. They hired all young talent. The kitchen staff is impressive. The bartender is a good friend. The baker is also a good friend. Everybody knows their job and they totally work together as a team. On 2 occasions now I was fortunate to have Crystal as the server. She is charming and knowledgeable and so much a part of the total team. I love this place.

You have two choices. You can book 3 weeks in advance and dine in the dining area upstairs. The place is jumping and always filled to capacity.

I love the central area with the communal table. 12 people can sit around this giant magnificent table. On this occasion two glass jars were filled with wild flowers.

You get to see the total action. The wood burning oven is in the corner. Much of the food is prepared in this area.

Jeff arrives at midnight to begin preparing the bread. All the pastries are prepared in this tiny space. The place opens at 7:00 a.m. The large communal table is used for food preparation at this time. You can purchase croissants and basic pastry food as well as fine coffees and tea from early morning through lunch time.

In the evening a reservation is a must for the dining room upstairs. The communal table is on a first come first serve basis. I didn’t even care that the average age was a few generations younger than I am. In this place I feel young.

This is the only restaurant in town that has two different menus, one for vegetarians and the other for fish and meat diners.

On this occasion three diners shared two Salad appetizers. The Marinated Potato and Charred Leek Salad was presented with Tuscany cheese, arugula, hazelnuts and sherry vinaigrette.($9.00) You have to taste it to appreciate this creativity. The Winter Salad of Endive, Roots and Pear was prepared with shaved vegetables, blue cheese, horseradish and pecans.($11.00) Divine. On my last visit I enjoyed the Baked Caramelized Onion Soup ($8.00)

My two dining companions ordered the Braised Duck Cabbage Rolls with wild rice, chestnuts and prunes.($19.00) The filling was rolled in Savoy cabbage and served as balls in a large white bowl. Vegetarians can enjoy the Braised Chestnut and Wild Rice Cabbage Rolls. ($17.00)

Last visit I saw the Braised Tempeh Pie and knew before I even arrived that this would be my choice. Winter roots, cipollini onions and caramelized vegetable gravy are covered in a tasty pastry.($19.00) Roasted Tofu and Almond Gratin is a creative dish of saffron cream, fregola, cauliflower and spinach.($18.00)

The 12 oz.West Grey Farms Striploin Steak was the popular choice this evening.($29.00)

Fine dining in a fun atmosphere. This place works. It is a force of energy.

Four Lions

Four Lions

It might have been a novel idea but it certainly didn’t work for me. I was bored by the four stupid, inept, clumsy men who thought they were terrorists. I should have cheered that it was only themselves that seemed to get blown up.

The terrorists were from England. One is a white convert. They insult one another and use abusive language. They always seem to be yelling at one another.

I suppose the director and writer were trying to show that terrorists are ‘blundering idiots.’

Too often that is not the case and it is easy to recall recent horror stories. Some terrorists obviously have done foolish things but this film was neither a comedy nor a satire. I did wonder why so many in the audience kept laughing.

This is a short review but I truly feel that the film was not worthy of my spending any more time in telling you to stay away.

The Adjustment Bureau

The Adjustment Bureau

Is it science fiction, a romantic comedy or a thriller? It combines all these elements and effectively has you sitting on the edge of your seat.

Matt Damon has made quite a name for himself as a fine actor and indeed he plays the role of David Norris to perfection.

David Norris is a young up and coming politician in New York. He wants to be a senator and there is evidence that he could rise even above that role.

Emily Blunt is so attractive and charming. She plays the part of Elise Sellas. She is a modern dancer who has aspirations and talent to go far in her profession.

The two meet by accident and their lives are immediately changed. They each have chemistry for one another. Strange things begin to happen to keep them apart.

A group of serious men (always wearing somber hats) appear on the scene. Their job is to keep David on the plan. They work for the adjustment department that has control over a person’s will and action. The plan does not include Elise. They warn him that they have power over him and serious things will happen if he pursues Elise. Both of heir careers will falter and their lives will not be fulfilled.

We don’t know who the leader is or who the men really are. It is all very ominous. There are a lot of chase scenes and the music is fantastic. The drums were beating. My heart was beating and it was all very exciting. I am happy to report that there is no violence. There are a lot of chases and strange happenings. Doors play an important part in the film. They don’t always open to what you expect.

I suppose you could put it all down to a theme that stresses pursuing your free will. David defied fate and pursued his strong desires against all odds.

The film takes place in New York City. I loved the many views of the city.

Elise is a magnificent dancer. We do see two superb dance numbers. I would have liked more

The film is based on a short story, The Adjustment Team.I understand there is little similarity between the two.