I am not generally a fan of groupon type things. Except sometimes, when my email reveals they are doing half-price admission to the bridal show I'm going to anyway, or that there's a theatre production I'm excited about doing discount tickets. Back in March there was a deal for half-price tickets to see Avenue Q at the Lower Ossington Theatre and of course I had to snap them up.
I also had to send the deal to my university roommate, because clearly she would want to go. That being the case, at the end of June we had a double-date night out, and decided to make it extra fancy by going out to a great dinner. I let my old roomie choose the restaurant, and she came up with the Drake Hotel. Off and away!
Our dinner? It was magnificent. One thing I did find a little weird here was that there was no complimentary bread basket; if you want bread with your meal, be prepared to order the appetizer of bread and dips (it was round $7). It seems a sort of petty complaint that they didn't offer a bread, but it's just a tiny thing that I've almost come to expect at restaurants and peeved me just a touch.
Bunny was daring and ordered an appetizer - the gazpacho soup. He said it was a little "chewy" but really really good. Being that I'm not so into tomatoes, I did not try it. The guys both had cheeseburgers, and seemed to enjoy them immensely. My friend, who had chosen the Drake based on its vegetarian selection had a sweet potato bake over farro, and thought it was pretty good. She said there was eggplant in it and she didn't mind, which is a huge food compliment from her. (Note: a piece of eggplant is not a realistic vegetarian meal. While in university the two of us had this complaint many a time.)
I, on the other hand, got sucked in by the gnocchi. How could I not? Ricotta gnocchi, with sweet peas and oyster mushrooms and sauted red onions. The gnocchi was soft and pillowy, much less dense than I'm used to. It was quite glorious. The brightness of the peas complimented it well, and I loved the way a pea would burst in my mouth as I was eating a mouthful of gnocchi. As far as the onions and mushrooms go ... I'm not 100% sold. The onions were good, and really complimented the rest of the dish but there were just too many, and they were a little overwhelming. With the mushrooms, I found them a tad tougher and chewier than I prefer, but still good. A generous sprinkling of pecorino cheese brought it all together.
The verdict on the Drake? We all enjoyed it, and I wouldn't complain if I went back. All in all, though, Bunny and I spent about $85 after tip, for our food (and we each got a drink). Somehow I think I'd be more tempted to try something new or go to an old favourite like Terroni or Coquine next time we do an expensive dinner.
We had plenty of time after eating and before the show, so we decided to go on a hunt for ice cream. After a quick Yelp! on my friend's iPhone we wandered about five minutes west to the Boreal Gelato Cafe and indulged in some extra yumminess. Can I tell you how thrilled I was that they offer a mini size? Which was even a little bit too big for me, but whatever. Bunny went with the coffee gelato, and I ate his while he went to the bathroom; us girls both went with a chocolate hazelnut crunch. It was good, though I've had better gelato. It wasn't as rich or creamy as I like, and the flavours weren't super pronounced. One thing I adored, though, was how the serving options were a waffle cone or a bowl. It was nice that waffle cone was the default, rather than being an extra charge.
After that, it was off to the show. And oh, what a show. It was brilliant. Hilarious. Well performed. The only complaint we had was that sometimes we got distracted from the puppets by the puppeteers because they were acting so well along with everything and their faces were so expressive, but at the same time that added to the whole performance. I was a little bit blown away by how well rehearsed and co-ordinated everyone was, especially when the puppets needed two puppeteers or when an actor/singer was playing two puppets that were onstage at the same time.
Myself and my roommate, and her fiance, were all fairly familiar with the show to begin with. Bunny had never heard any of the songs before, though, so it was hilarious watching him get introduced to them the first time.
All in all? Great night out.
Showing posts with label out and about. Show all posts
Showing posts with label out and about. Show all posts
Friday, July 06, 2012
Friday, April 06, 2012
Outfits 5 & 6: Incorporating New Pieces
I've been a bit of a busy bee lately. Spring has sprung, and it seems to have brought my social life along with it. Coffee dates, sushi nights and general fun have been taking a bigger role in my life lately. The sort of occasions that call for a more casual style, and on recent outings two new items got some play.
The other weekend my university roommate and I went to a spa sampler (trying to sell us on their wedding packages, we decided to try them out). I wore an old staple, my favourite black and white graphic floral dress. I love this dress. Accessories were kept very simple: black boots and a wool coat, my silver heart pendant. I did, though, have to get a pop of colour into that outfit somehow. Remember the new pink cardigan? That, in addition to a fuschia camisole provided that pop. Because both bits of colour were in the same family it worked so easily. The look almost pulled itself together. It always feels fancy when I put on a dress, but really it's the simples of all possible outfits.
I can't always wear dresses, as much as I might like to. On a recent coffee date with a friend, I gave in to the lure of pants. The lure of trouser jeans. (Which are new, but don't really count.) Many elements were standard; I even wore the same boots and jacket as I'd worn with the dress. What I did get to add into it was the green and black patterned shirt I picked up recently. Add in my black and gold beaded necklace, which is quickly becoming one of my favourite accessories, and the look was done.
The best part about both of these outfits was that they allowed me to match new pieces with my existing wardrobe. It makes everything feel fresh and new, and it makes me feel comfortable that I've selected new items that will fit into my current closet.
How's the closet overhaul going, you ask? Quite well. New pieces are working with what I already love, and I've got a growing pile of "to donates". I'm getting rid of clothes I don't want to wear. Woo!
The other weekend my university roommate and I went to a spa sampler (trying to sell us on their wedding packages, we decided to try them out). I wore an old staple, my favourite black and white graphic floral dress. I love this dress. Accessories were kept very simple: black boots and a wool coat, my silver heart pendant. I did, though, have to get a pop of colour into that outfit somehow. Remember the new pink cardigan? That, in addition to a fuschia camisole provided that pop. Because both bits of colour were in the same family it worked so easily. The look almost pulled itself together. It always feels fancy when I put on a dress, but really it's the simples of all possible outfits.
I can't always wear dresses, as much as I might like to. On a recent coffee date with a friend, I gave in to the lure of pants. The lure of trouser jeans. (Which are new, but don't really count.) Many elements were standard; I even wore the same boots and jacket as I'd worn with the dress. What I did get to add into it was the green and black patterned shirt I picked up recently. Add in my black and gold beaded necklace, which is quickly becoming one of my favourite accessories, and the look was done.
The best part about both of these outfits was that they allowed me to match new pieces with my existing wardrobe. It makes everything feel fresh and new, and it makes me feel comfortable that I've selected new items that will fit into my current closet.
How's the closet overhaul going, you ask? Quite well. New pieces are working with what I already love, and I've got a growing pile of "to donates". I'm getting rid of clothes I don't want to wear. Woo!
Monday, March 26, 2012
outfit 4: a night on the town
It's March, but based on the weather I'd say it's May or June. It's also Canadian Music Week or Music Fest (I know what's going on, really I do - I promise!) and Bunny's best friend's band was playing the Cadillac Lounge. A Thursday, and a night on the town? Craziness. Clearly I needed to step up my game.
So, I thought about things a bit, and clearly I needed to wear my trouser jeans. Dark indigo, long enough for boots, and a great neutral that goes with everything else. With the jeans, it seemed only fair that I'd wear simple black boots. The simplest black, square toe, square heeled boots you've ever seen. Have I ever mentioned how much I gravitate to square or almond toes on shoes and boots?
An old top. A great top - brown and rose, lightly patterned, smocked hemline, peasant neckline. This top always makes me happy; the fabric is loose and drapey in such a way that suggests, rather than shows. I just think I look damn good in it. Throw on a hand-made necklace and the terra cotta leather jacket and things were looking good.
It was a great outfit. Dressed nicely for a night on the town, a little bit of polish and edge added by the jacket. But also sort of an every-day comfortable.
Also: If you ever have the chance to see Dirty Penny play, go. The lead singer, bless his soul, likes to do something completely original every single show. Last night? He was a giant mattress. It slayed me.
Final Note: I'm such a little old lady, I ordered a vodka seven when we got to the bar, and after my first couple of sips turned to Bunny and said "This is pretty heavy on the vodka" as if that were a problem. Poor vodka seven, it didn't do anything wrong.
So, I thought about things a bit, and clearly I needed to wear my trouser jeans. Dark indigo, long enough for boots, and a great neutral that goes with everything else. With the jeans, it seemed only fair that I'd wear simple black boots. The simplest black, square toe, square heeled boots you've ever seen. Have I ever mentioned how much I gravitate to square or almond toes on shoes and boots?
An old top. A great top - brown and rose, lightly patterned, smocked hemline, peasant neckline. This top always makes me happy; the fabric is loose and drapey in such a way that suggests, rather than shows. I just think I look damn good in it. Throw on a hand-made necklace and the terra cotta leather jacket and things were looking good.
It was a great outfit. Dressed nicely for a night on the town, a little bit of polish and edge added by the jacket. But also sort of an every-day comfortable.
Also: If you ever have the chance to see Dirty Penny play, go. The lead singer, bless his soul, likes to do something completely original every single show. Last night? He was a giant mattress. It slayed me.
Final Note: I'm such a little old lady, I ordered a vodka seven when we got to the bar, and after my first couple of sips turned to Bunny and said "This is pretty heavy on the vodka" as if that were a problem. Poor vodka seven, it didn't do anything wrong.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
shopping day!
I think it goes without saying that this has been a hard week. If I can manage to keep my mind off of Cheyenne and how much that hurts and how terrible and guilty I feel for a couple of hours I'm doing well. It's hard to keep the last image I had of her from the backs of my eyelids. Keeping the TV or music on in the background helps a lot. I've been running around keeping super busy, simply because I want to be mindlessly busy. Going to bed if I'm not exhausted is almost asking for trouble. Originally we had plans three evenings this week. None of those really happened: I just couldn't handle the idea of going out and being social.
Friday though, Bunny asked what I wanted to do this weekend. I may be feeling pretty down in the dumps, but I really do need to get out and not just become a hermit. He knows I get like that and that sometimes I need to be pushed out of the house. His suggestion: a day out shopping.
A day wandering the streets of Toronto. Hitting his favourite clothing store for pants and a great chat with the owners, then off to Queen West for a little bit of everything. Weather warm enough to be able to wear my leather jacket and a dress, and the freedom of not having to be anywhere.
So, we wandered. We went to about a million different stores. I found the cutest dress, with a deer on a it, but decided that spending $150 on a dress right now wasn't in my best financial interests. We looked at art (including the neighbourhood map of Toronto that he's in love with) and furniture and discussed what we did and didn't like, and what we would be doing with some of the art we currently have and nee to hang. We oggled over heavy bottomed glasses and structural wine glasses. Talked about the sort of dishes that we want to register for.
I can't even remember how many stores we went into. Bunny hit a home run with the clothing shopping. At Black Market he grabbed three adorable graphic tees, and then he discovered Ironhead and fell in love with their screened workman's shirts. He even got two pairs of pants - sexy jeans and some simple shop pants that actually fit. I was a little more reserved, only picking up a great green and black patterned shirt and two books.
After that? We went out for our belated-Valentine's dinner. I'll tell you about the tiramisu later. It was that damn good.
All in all, Bunny came up with exactly the day I needed.
Friday though, Bunny asked what I wanted to do this weekend. I may be feeling pretty down in the dumps, but I really do need to get out and not just become a hermit. He knows I get like that and that sometimes I need to be pushed out of the house. His suggestion: a day out shopping.
A day wandering the streets of Toronto. Hitting his favourite clothing store for pants and a great chat with the owners, then off to Queen West for a little bit of everything. Weather warm enough to be able to wear my leather jacket and a dress, and the freedom of not having to be anywhere.
So, we wandered. We went to about a million different stores. I found the cutest dress, with a deer on a it, but decided that spending $150 on a dress right now wasn't in my best financial interests. We looked at art (including the neighbourhood map of Toronto that he's in love with) and furniture and discussed what we did and didn't like, and what we would be doing with some of the art we currently have and nee to hang. We oggled over heavy bottomed glasses and structural wine glasses. Talked about the sort of dishes that we want to register for.
I can't even remember how many stores we went into. Bunny hit a home run with the clothing shopping. At Black Market he grabbed three adorable graphic tees, and then he discovered Ironhead and fell in love with their screened workman's shirts. He even got two pairs of pants - sexy jeans and some simple shop pants that actually fit. I was a little more reserved, only picking up a great green and black patterned shirt and two books.
After that? We went out for our belated-Valentine's dinner. I'll tell you about the tiramisu later. It was that damn good.
All in all, Bunny came up with exactly the day I needed.
Friday, March 02, 2012
excursions!
Yesterday afternoon, I headed down to the front door, looked at the barricade of cuteness that Jethro likes to make when I want to go out (he'll sit in front of the door and give me the puppy dog eyes. The sad ones. It melts me and makes it very hard to leave) and headed out for a trip to Mississauga. I had plans with Ye Olde University Roommate, who is probably my bestest friend in the world. Last couple of visits she'd headed in to Toronto so it seemed only fair that I make my way out to her.
Can I just say what a good idea the visit was? Sometimes being unemployed turns me into a Hermit (well, I have some natural hermit in me, so it shouldn't be a surprise) and I don't see anything outside the dog walk for days on end. I look at cross stitch patterns and read books and blogs and news. I cook, and do dishes. I snuggle with the puppy and Bunny and sometimes even the cat. Some days the highlight of my social interaction is a conversation with the gentlemen at the convenience store when I go pick up milk (wearing Bunny's pajamas, my hair all everywhere and super gross because I just woke up and how am I supposed to have coffee if there is no milk????) This is a somewhat sad state of affairs. f
The solution is of course to socialize more. Cultivate my social network more highly. Push myself to spend more time with the people I love, even if I'm feeling hermetic and anti-social. Realize that even though spending money on GO fare to another city and coffee or dinner with friends is not in the budget at all that it is perfectly OK and that I'm better off putting a little money into social trips and outings and just taking care of me.
So we had a really awesome day. We went on a walk in a park, got coffee to warm up, went in three different malls and bought candy (I love the Bulk Barn) and clothes (a cute cardigan and a pair of jeans for a total of $18, because I need more than two pairs of pants that fit) and went out for dinner.
We talked. Laughed. Caught up. Talked about how her wedding plans are coming along (smashingly! I'm so excited for some of the great things that are going on there) and how I'm so incredibly laissez-faire about wedding planning that it's a little nuts. I got yelled at to REGISTER FOR SHIT (oh, you like those glass kitchen cannisters? REGISTER FOR THEM YOU NUT). We looked and laughed at some terrible prom dresses. Drank chai lattes. Ate sushi. Lost (and rescued) my phone. Talked about some politics that annoy us. Laughed at how both our fiances are in school and loving it. Reminisced about our party days, and Mackenzie Chown complex, and just in general had a great time.
I need to do this more often. In fact, I think I'm going to make a commitment to take some of this time off to actively visit more of my out of town friends. Spending the money hurts like crazy .... but seriously? I would so much rather have the time spent with the people I love.
Can I just say what a good idea the visit was? Sometimes being unemployed turns me into a Hermit (well, I have some natural hermit in me, so it shouldn't be a surprise) and I don't see anything outside the dog walk for days on end. I look at cross stitch patterns and read books and blogs and news. I cook, and do dishes. I snuggle with the puppy and Bunny and sometimes even the cat. Some days the highlight of my social interaction is a conversation with the gentlemen at the convenience store when I go pick up milk (wearing Bunny's pajamas, my hair all everywhere and super gross because I just woke up and how am I supposed to have coffee if there is no milk????) This is a somewhat sad state of affairs. f
The solution is of course to socialize more. Cultivate my social network more highly. Push myself to spend more time with the people I love, even if I'm feeling hermetic and anti-social. Realize that even though spending money on GO fare to another city and coffee or dinner with friends is not in the budget at all that it is perfectly OK and that I'm better off putting a little money into social trips and outings and just taking care of me.
So we had a really awesome day. We went on a walk in a park, got coffee to warm up, went in three different malls and bought candy (I love the Bulk Barn) and clothes (a cute cardigan and a pair of jeans for a total of $18, because I need more than two pairs of pants that fit) and went out for dinner.
We talked. Laughed. Caught up. Talked about how her wedding plans are coming along (smashingly! I'm so excited for some of the great things that are going on there) and how I'm so incredibly laissez-faire about wedding planning that it's a little nuts. I got yelled at to REGISTER FOR SHIT (oh, you like those glass kitchen cannisters? REGISTER FOR THEM YOU NUT). We looked and laughed at some terrible prom dresses. Drank chai lattes. Ate sushi. Lost (and rescued) my phone. Talked about some politics that annoy us. Laughed at how both our fiances are in school and loving it. Reminisced about our party days, and Mackenzie Chown complex, and just in general had a great time.
I need to do this more often. In fact, I think I'm going to make a commitment to take some of this time off to actively visit more of my out of town friends. Spending the money hurts like crazy .... but seriously? I would so much rather have the time spent with the people I love.
Monday, January 02, 2012
"new"
I had a lovely New Years. Very low key, fun, full of good friends.
Bunny and I actually had a quite busy day: my university roommate came into town with her fiance and parents. We trekked to the ROM (specifically to see the Mayan exhibit), went out for dinner. Then the roomie and her parents headed off to see American Idiot while myself and the menfolk came home. I napped, they played Halo.
After that, we met up with my friend, ditched the 'rents and went off with borrowed skates to do some ice skating. This part of the plan drove us nuts deciding on: initially we were going to go to Mississauga and skate there, but couldn't find a dog sitter. Then we were talking about Nathan Phillips Square ... but oi the crowds on New Years there. (I had a fit of claustrophobia there a few years back). Bunny saved the day, though, suggesting Lake Devo, which is this tiny ice rink on Ryerson's campus that was just barely populated, and perfect.
Now, I hadn't been on skates since I was maybe .... 12? Sounds right. I'd taken figure skating lessons as a child and dropped out because of poor balance and shitty ankles (thanks Mom :p). Haven't been on ice in years. So I borrowed some old skates from my roomie, Bunny borrowed her dad's old skates, and off we went. He was bloody brilliant, the rest of us tottered around with some level of trepidation and had a load of fun.
I almost fell, and then freaked out when Bunny tried to catch me. Overactive screamer, much? Surprisingly I stayed on my feet other than that. The whole time I felt a little extra wobbly on my right foot, like the blade was sneaking away from me. Taking the skate off, we realized why ... the boot and skate connection was pretty completely broken. So I stayed on my feet, even with broken skates!
After skating, we wandered around. Stopped in the Imperial Library for a couple drinks and to ring in the new year. Wandered up to a TD. Walked half an hour home, because it was as fast as waiting for a streetcar.
A lovely night, spent with lovely people, just chill, relaxed and having fun. What more can I ask for?
Bunny and I actually had a quite busy day: my university roommate came into town with her fiance and parents. We trekked to the ROM (specifically to see the Mayan exhibit), went out for dinner. Then the roomie and her parents headed off to see American Idiot while myself and the menfolk came home. I napped, they played Halo.
After that, we met up with my friend, ditched the 'rents and went off with borrowed skates to do some ice skating. This part of the plan drove us nuts deciding on: initially we were going to go to Mississauga and skate there, but couldn't find a dog sitter. Then we were talking about Nathan Phillips Square ... but oi the crowds on New Years there. (I had a fit of claustrophobia there a few years back). Bunny saved the day, though, suggesting Lake Devo, which is this tiny ice rink on Ryerson's campus that was just barely populated, and perfect.
Now, I hadn't been on skates since I was maybe .... 12? Sounds right. I'd taken figure skating lessons as a child and dropped out because of poor balance and shitty ankles (thanks Mom :p). Haven't been on ice in years. So I borrowed some old skates from my roomie, Bunny borrowed her dad's old skates, and off we went. He was bloody brilliant, the rest of us tottered around with some level of trepidation and had a load of fun.
I almost fell, and then freaked out when Bunny tried to catch me. Overactive screamer, much? Surprisingly I stayed on my feet other than that. The whole time I felt a little extra wobbly on my right foot, like the blade was sneaking away from me. Taking the skate off, we realized why ... the boot and skate connection was pretty completely broken. So I stayed on my feet, even with broken skates!
After skating, we wandered around. Stopped in the Imperial Library for a couple drinks and to ring in the new year. Wandered up to a TD. Walked half an hour home, because it was as fast as waiting for a streetcar.
A lovely night, spent with lovely people, just chill, relaxed and having fun. What more can I ask for?
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
braising notes & general musings
So, despite the fact that we make an awful lot of roasts here, one thing that very rarely happens (or at least, not intentionally) is a braise. Cuts of meat seared off and then stuck in the oven to cook low and slow for long periods of time, until they reach deliciousness.
Sunday night, I made one. It wasn't perfect, but it was good. A couple of lessons learned along the way:
With that, we are off! (I have an excited Bunny beside me here.) Also, as a tease for later, Bunny and I tried a new dim sum place yesterday that we'd like to share.
Sunday night, I made one. It wasn't perfect, but it was good. A couple of lessons learned along the way:
- Put your vegetables in the bottom of your cookware
- Sear your vegetables beforehand - this equals deliciousness (seriously, some of the best carrots I have ever had resulted from this)
- Sear your roast
- To dredge or not to dredge? I vote not to, but that's simply because I don't think that it added anything. I actually strongly disliked the crust on my meat after dredging, whereas I love a good seared edge. It also did nothing to help thicken up the gravy afterwards, even though it had been suggested to me for just that reason
- The juices from a braise will taste heavily of the spices you use on your meat, moreso than pan drippings from a roast - I liked this, but I might use a lighter hand next time. I did an Indian spice mix (cumin, tumeric, garam masala and garlic for kick because why not) and my gravy tasted very strongly of that after the fact
- Use more vegetables than you think you should, because they will be delicious!
With that, we are off! (I have an excited Bunny beside me here.) Also, as a tease for later, Bunny and I tried a new dim sum place yesterday that we'd like to share.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
the perfect coat
In our wanders in Kensington, Bunny and I went to quite a few vintage clothing stores. I've been really wanting to use thrift and vintage stores for a bigger portion of my wardrobe. I have had some decent thrift store finds in the past, but I don't know that I've ever found something that I'd truly call vintage, or that I think is out-of-this-world special. Mostly I just use thrift stores when I'm between sizes (and I do need to get a couple of between sizes pairs of jeans, come to think of it).
However, I have these obsessions with boots and coats. When I find a perfect pair of boots, or a perfect coat, I have no ability to say no. If I try it on and I love it, there is no question. It comes home with me. I hate though when I'm just running around the city and I see my coat or my boots on other people. And my heart does a little jump for joy when I put a perfect coat on.
It should also be said that I by no means needed a new coat. I mean, I'm all coat-ed out. See the following:
It's perfect though. It's this gorgeous super dark hunter green (Bunny can only see the green in the sunlight, it's so dark) with a double row of brass buttons and a few little details on the wrist. This coat gave me that instant reaction, again.
It goes to just past my knees, so will be nice and warn for the winter season. It's 1960's vintage and is super super perfect. What's amazing is that as much as it's from the 60's, it's a very classic styled coat, so it doesn't look dated at all. It's heavy wool, and has a good lining. Super super warm. The sleeves are maybe a half inch short, but I can live with that. I mean, I wear gloves.
This is the coat that I've been waiting for. A warm, stylish winter coat. Something dressy enough that I could wear it to an event, if I had one. Something that will keep my knees warm when I wear skirts. Something that gives me more coverage than my other (other! because I'm a freak and have way Too Many Coats) wool coats, without going into parka territory.
Because let's be honest: this girl lives in Canada. Canadian winters are not "mild" even on a good year. We damn freeze here, and I don't freeze well. I mean, I have heat on and am wrapped in two blankets right now. Not so good with the cold. There's a reason everyone I know is into the Canada Goose and North Face winter coats. Not particularly stylin' (though they aren't ugly ... but there's only so nice a thick puffy coat will ever be stylish), but practical and warm.
I really don't know how I made it through Barrie winters as a child. Hip deep snow wading? Nuts.
But this coat? This is a coat I'm excited to wear this winter. Stoked.
However, I have these obsessions with boots and coats. When I find a perfect pair of boots, or a perfect coat, I have no ability to say no. If I try it on and I love it, there is no question. It comes home with me. I hate though when I'm just running around the city and I see my coat or my boots on other people. And my heart does a little jump for joy when I put a perfect coat on.
It should also be said that I by no means needed a new coat. I mean, I'm all coat-ed out. See the following:
- Costco camel-coloured coat that I should ditch but I wore the first night Bunny and I stayed up all night and has sentimental value. (maybe I'll toss it when I donate the pile of clothes upstairs to goodwill. I really should)
- The black wool coat (you know, the same wool coat that everyone has the past few years? One of those) that's missing buttons and is too big for me this year (yay?)
- Blue and white plaid wool coat with the thinsulate lining that I got last year because it was $40 on boxing day sales and it was warmer than the black wool
- The monster snow coat that should never been seen outside of a blizzard
- My (multiple) Danier jackets
- Black suede - this one fits like it was made for me, is super flattering ... and used to be my mom's
- Red leather - this one fits like it was made for someone half a foot taller than me, isn't especially flattering but everyone loves on me, and is a blazer so tends to get cold (in the chest/neck area) ... and used to be my mom's
- Orange leather - I lovelovelove this coat. I put it on and couldn't leave the store and accidentally spent $200 on earlier this year. But I feel like a million bucks every time I put it on, and Bunny loves is
It's perfect though. It's this gorgeous super dark hunter green (Bunny can only see the green in the sunlight, it's so dark) with a double row of brass buttons and a few little details on the wrist. This coat gave me that instant reaction, again.
It goes to just past my knees, so will be nice and warn for the winter season. It's 1960's vintage and is super super perfect. What's amazing is that as much as it's from the 60's, it's a very classic styled coat, so it doesn't look dated at all. It's heavy wool, and has a good lining. Super super warm. The sleeves are maybe a half inch short, but I can live with that. I mean, I wear gloves.
This is the coat that I've been waiting for. A warm, stylish winter coat. Something dressy enough that I could wear it to an event, if I had one. Something that will keep my knees warm when I wear skirts. Something that gives me more coverage than my other (other! because I'm a freak and have way Too Many Coats) wool coats, without going into parka territory.
Because let's be honest: this girl lives in Canada. Canadian winters are not "mild" even on a good year. We damn freeze here, and I don't freeze well. I mean, I have heat on and am wrapped in two blankets right now. Not so good with the cold. There's a reason everyone I know is into the Canada Goose and North Face winter coats. Not particularly stylin' (though they aren't ugly ... but there's only so nice a thick puffy coat will ever be stylish), but practical and warm.
I really don't know how I made it through Barrie winters as a child. Hip deep snow wading? Nuts.
But this coat? This is a coat I'm excited to wear this winter. Stoked.
big mess of mess
Today was good, other than the fact that I can't get the damn work situation off of my mind.
Bunny and I had a bit of a day out in the city. Luckily the weather was nice, because we spent the majority of the day out of doors, walking around Kensington Market. We picked up a couple of cheeses from Global Cheese - a nice stinky blue for him, and a creamy brie for me. So we'll be enjoying those over the weekend.
I'm surprised I don't spend more of my shopping time in Kensington, actually, because it's pretty perfect. I love the mix of what you find there. Great thrift and vintage stores, little boutiques, weird jack of all trade places (Blue Banana or whatever its called? That place is crazy nuts!), stores that are very new agey and I think I should drag my mom to (that's her thing), skateboard shops, the works. And then, if you get bored or aren't finding the deals you want, hop over a couple of streets to Chinatown.
Then, of course, there's the FOOD. Kensington is full of food. Coffee shops, restaurants, bakeries, cheese shops, chocolate shops, independent grocers with beautiful produce, fishmongers. Actually, the first time Bunny ever took me out anywhere it was to Kensington where we had the worst Pad Thai I've ever had, and I told him how freaking awesome Jose Saramago's Blindness was. (And I'd have that Pad Thai again for the nostalgia factor.) Within a couple of blocks there is Thai, Indian, Mexican, vegan - you can find almost anything food-wise in Kensington. Including, apparently a shop dedicated to grilled cheese. (Next time!!!!)
Bunny and I had a bit of a day out in the city. Luckily the weather was nice, because we spent the majority of the day out of doors, walking around Kensington Market. We picked up a couple of cheeses from Global Cheese - a nice stinky blue for him, and a creamy brie for me. So we'll be enjoying those over the weekend.
I'm surprised I don't spend more of my shopping time in Kensington, actually, because it's pretty perfect. I love the mix of what you find there. Great thrift and vintage stores, little boutiques, weird jack of all trade places (Blue Banana or whatever its called? That place is crazy nuts!), stores that are very new agey and I think I should drag my mom to (that's her thing), skateboard shops, the works. And then, if you get bored or aren't finding the deals you want, hop over a couple of streets to Chinatown.
Then, of course, there's the FOOD. Kensington is full of food. Coffee shops, restaurants, bakeries, cheese shops, chocolate shops, independent grocers with beautiful produce, fishmongers. Actually, the first time Bunny ever took me out anywhere it was to Kensington where we had the worst Pad Thai I've ever had, and I told him how freaking awesome Jose Saramago's Blindness was. (And I'd have that Pad Thai again for the nostalgia factor.) Within a couple of blocks there is Thai, Indian, Mexican, vegan - you can find almost anything food-wise in Kensington. Including, apparently a shop dedicated to grilled cheese. (Next time!!!!)
Friday, November 11, 2011
the dining experience: cafe crepe
There's this one restaurant in Toronto that is a bit of a go-to spot for me. Particularly when I'm out with Emma. (She introduced me to it, and we both adore it).
So we've not been doing a lot of social stuff together outside of work lately. Partly because we are bad influences on each others spending and eating habits (we both have big financial goals that give us very tight budgets and not much spending money and are both watching what we eat for very different reasons) and partly because I've been a really big homebody lately since Bunny's big career change. It has a weird affect on our friendship when that happens, because we are the "pick up where we left off" type people, but we are also (because of work circumstances) seeing each other every day (which is a really good thing).
But when someone you've been friends with since 3rd grade says they miss being your friend, you listen. So we're going to do stuff more out and about. Going to force me to be more social - and sometimes I need that. (And I know it!)
So last night, we went to Cafe Crepe. Now, I've been craving crepes for about a month now, and this place does them very well at a very reasonable price. Much higher quality and a better experience than the normal mall-type crepe places that are popping up everywhere lately, and it's great because it feels so much fancier. The staff seats customers, and there are servers, which makes the whole experience feel a little more upscale.
So we started just having savory "dinner" crepes. Emma, I think, had a ham & swiss cheese crepe, and I did the same but with the addition of mushrooms. (I needed some sort of vegetable in my meal. I like them a lot and I still don't eat enough.) I would have preferred spinach, but Emma was very adamant in reminding me that I wasn't impressed with the spinach last time I was there. I also had a really lovely green apple Italian soda. I love how you get the carbonation, the customized flavours, and it feels terrible for me than a normal pop. Plus, not too many places carry them so I tend to be inclined to indulge when I see them.
As far as the savory crepe went, I think I'd give it a B -. Not my favourite, but I enjoyed it. So the crepes come out, and they do triangles there, rather than wraps, which I like. The folded crepe just feels more authentic to me, whether it is or not. I kinda cheated, starting at the corner where all the best, gooey-est bits are ... but I know I never finish what I order and I wasn't leaving that bit untouched.
As far as the crepe itself, I found it overly sweet. There was enough sugar in the batter that things tasted a little bit off having that with savory fillings, but I was able to ignore it. I love how they do a super thinly sliced ham, just spread over the in layers. The first time I ordered it I expected it to be chunky and was rather shocked how much I enjoyed the thin slices. It works so well. The ham is cut thin enough to feel as if it melts in your mouth, but just barely thick enough to have texture. Then there's the lovely, gooey swiss cheese sprinkled on top of that, melting in between every layer. Actually, I might have reduced the cheese amount just a touch.
Really, the issue that pulls the crepe from being a strong B is the mushrooms. I wish that Crepe Cafe treated their vegetables better. I love me a veggie in my crepe. I didn't really feel like I had a veggie in my crepe, which kinda pissed me off because I paid an extra $1.25 for the shrooms. It was maybe a dozen tiny slices of mushrooms scattered throughout.
What I would have done had I made them? First off, I would have loaded up the crepe with a pile of mushrooms. There should have been as much mushroom as ham in every bite. I also would have done something with the mushrooms - sauted them up a little bit, seasoned them, instead of just tossing them on top.
The thing is, I didn't go to Crepe Cafe for the dinner crepe. I went for the dessert crepe.
It's the simplest thing ever. I had the lemon crepe. Lemon juice and sugar on a crepe. You wouldn't think it would be much of anything special, but I swear this crepe is heaven. The way each bite is the perfect pillow of thin, carby, crepe-y goodness with this lovely tart lemon flavour and just enough sugar to mellow out the acid. This crepe is one of the most delicious things I have ever consumed. It's so simple and yet everything just melds together into the perfect mouthfuls over delight.
It's not my favourite restaurant by any stretch of the imagination. (I mean, I'm not having my wedding there and I didn't get engaged there). But it is the single best crepe place I have ever eaten at, and I am constantly wanting to go back.
Price wise it's pretty perfect, too. A twenty was dinner, dessert, my drink and tip. More expensive than other crepe places, but not by much, and part of what you're paying for is the experience.
So we've not been doing a lot of social stuff together outside of work lately. Partly because we are bad influences on each others spending and eating habits (we both have big financial goals that give us very tight budgets and not much spending money and are both watching what we eat for very different reasons) and partly because I've been a really big homebody lately since Bunny's big career change. It has a weird affect on our friendship when that happens, because we are the "pick up where we left off" type people, but we are also (because of work circumstances) seeing each other every day (which is a really good thing).
But when someone you've been friends with since 3rd grade says they miss being your friend, you listen. So we're going to do stuff more out and about. Going to force me to be more social - and sometimes I need that. (And I know it!)
So last night, we went to Cafe Crepe. Now, I've been craving crepes for about a month now, and this place does them very well at a very reasonable price. Much higher quality and a better experience than the normal mall-type crepe places that are popping up everywhere lately, and it's great because it feels so much fancier. The staff seats customers, and there are servers, which makes the whole experience feel a little more upscale.
So we started just having savory "dinner" crepes. Emma, I think, had a ham & swiss cheese crepe, and I did the same but with the addition of mushrooms. (I needed some sort of vegetable in my meal. I like them a lot and I still don't eat enough.) I would have preferred spinach, but Emma was very adamant in reminding me that I wasn't impressed with the spinach last time I was there. I also had a really lovely green apple Italian soda. I love how you get the carbonation, the customized flavours, and it feels terrible for me than a normal pop. Plus, not too many places carry them so I tend to be inclined to indulge when I see them.
As far as the savory crepe went, I think I'd give it a B -. Not my favourite, but I enjoyed it. So the crepes come out, and they do triangles there, rather than wraps, which I like. The folded crepe just feels more authentic to me, whether it is or not. I kinda cheated, starting at the corner where all the best, gooey-est bits are ... but I know I never finish what I order and I wasn't leaving that bit untouched.
As far as the crepe itself, I found it overly sweet. There was enough sugar in the batter that things tasted a little bit off having that with savory fillings, but I was able to ignore it. I love how they do a super thinly sliced ham, just spread over the in layers. The first time I ordered it I expected it to be chunky and was rather shocked how much I enjoyed the thin slices. It works so well. The ham is cut thin enough to feel as if it melts in your mouth, but just barely thick enough to have texture. Then there's the lovely, gooey swiss cheese sprinkled on top of that, melting in between every layer. Actually, I might have reduced the cheese amount just a touch.
Really, the issue that pulls the crepe from being a strong B is the mushrooms. I wish that Crepe Cafe treated their vegetables better. I love me a veggie in my crepe. I didn't really feel like I had a veggie in my crepe, which kinda pissed me off because I paid an extra $1.25 for the shrooms. It was maybe a dozen tiny slices of mushrooms scattered throughout.
What I would have done had I made them? First off, I would have loaded up the crepe with a pile of mushrooms. There should have been as much mushroom as ham in every bite. I also would have done something with the mushrooms - sauted them up a little bit, seasoned them, instead of just tossing them on top.
The thing is, I didn't go to Crepe Cafe for the dinner crepe. I went for the dessert crepe.
It's the simplest thing ever. I had the lemon crepe. Lemon juice and sugar on a crepe. You wouldn't think it would be much of anything special, but I swear this crepe is heaven. The way each bite is the perfect pillow of thin, carby, crepe-y goodness with this lovely tart lemon flavour and just enough sugar to mellow out the acid. This crepe is one of the most delicious things I have ever consumed. It's so simple and yet everything just melds together into the perfect mouthfuls over delight.
It's not my favourite restaurant by any stretch of the imagination. (I mean, I'm not having my wedding there and I didn't get engaged there). But it is the single best crepe place I have ever eaten at, and I am constantly wanting to go back.
Price wise it's pretty perfect, too. A twenty was dinner, dessert, my drink and tip. More expensive than other crepe places, but not by much, and part of what you're paying for is the experience.
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