I’ve decided to write two blog posts about Montreal. The first blog post was “What I ate in Montreal” and now this blog post will be dedicated to “What I Bought in Montreal”. It wasn’t hard for me to whip out my Visa every few minutes while walking thru Jean Talon Market saying “I want this – I want that”.

Here’s a list of what I brought back to Toronto:

a) BLACK GARLIC: I’ve seen dried black garlic sold in packages in grocery stores but have never seen fresh black garlic. Have you? I will be roasting it this week and shmearing it on a toasted baguette. Will get back to what it tastes like. At $120/lb it better be freakin’ awesome. I think this ONE bulb cost a few dollars. P.S. I found the black garlic at Chez Louis, which is a well known fruit/veggie vendor at JTM. (Jean Talon Market)

b) BEER: There’s quite a few beers that are brewed in Quebec that aren’t available at the LCBO. Sad but true. Seeing as I’m all about “flavor”, I selected a few unusual beers: El Lapino, which is a Jalapeno Beer (you can actually see the jalepeno floating around in the bottle), La Carotte Du Lievre which is a Carrot Beer, and Spruce Beer (which isn’t alcholic).

Not a bad line up:

c) ETHIOPIAN BEBERE: Bought this spice at a popular store in JTM that called Olives & Epices. Not sure why I selected this spice but looks like I will be bringing out my mortar and pestle soon. All I know is that this 150 g pot is going to last me for years!! Infact there is an expiry date on it: 2016/08/07. HA.

d) BEURRE DE PATRIMONIE: Discovered this butter a few years ago, and now I can’t seem to visit Montreal without buying a tub or two. Ingredients: cream and sea salt (with no preserving agents). This is as pure as it get. I hear all their products are awesome but sadly haven’t had a chance to try their yogurts or their milk. One day..One day.

As you can tell, my trip to Jean Talon Market was a success!!

Jean Talon Market, 7070 Avenue Henri Julien, Montreal, Quebec 514 247 1588 (opened 7 days a week)

 

 

My last visit to  Montreal was THREE  years which meant that I was long over due for a trip. Sadly I was only there for 24 hours but I certainly did use that time wisely!!

Naturally I connected with a Montreal Food Blogger (via twitter of course) called Will Travel For Food, who graciously sent me her list of favorites.

Here’s a few places that made my tummy happy:

1. St. Viateur Bagels; Nothing beats breaking a no carb diet with a hot, fresh Montreal bagel. No need to explain, right? I inhaled one before I even had the chance to put my seatbelt on.

2. Patati Patata: Breaking a no carb diet with poutine was a great idea too!! I’m smart eh?

3. Depanneur Le Pick Up: This was my favorite discovery! What a gem of a place. It was perfect – the food, the vibe and the service.

But they are really famous for this sandwich:

5. Patisserie Kouign Amann: The highlight of the weekend was my visit to this bakery. I actually met Will Eat For Food at this bakery and after chatting away over a coffee and a croissant, she suggested that I buy their Kougin Aman. I did (like a good food blogger). It was heaven. I asked her “what is it”…She replied “Pastry. Butter. Sugar. Repeat”. Wish I could find this in Toronto!! Please google “best croissant in Montreal” and guess what will pop up? Plus if you google Kouign Amann you will get a better definition of this pastry.

Next blog post will be: What I Bought in Montreal. Stay tuned.

Kougin Aman: 322 Aveue Du Mont-Royal Est (514) 845 8813

Depanneur Le Pick Up: 7032 Waverly 514 271 8011 (I walked there from Jean Talon Market)

Patati Patata: 4177 Blvd Saint-Laurent 514 844 0216

St. Viateur Bagels: 263 Rue Saint Viateur 514 276 8044

Collingwood is one of my favorite places to visit.  Here’s a few reasons why:

1.  The Westin Trillium House: For the last 10 years, I have preferred to stay at a Westin Hotel.  Probably because of their Heavenly Bed! Infact  I was given a Heavenly Bed as a gift about 8 years ago. ( the mattress and the box spring). Besides the Heavenly Bed…I’m also a huge fan of their customer service, the over all feel of each property and those little “things” that make a difference. Remind me to share with you the collection of ducks I have from another Westin hotel.

2.  The Plunge Aquatic Centre: Perfect for the inner kid in me that I got to unleash.

3  The Apple Pie Trail: For a Foodie like me, this activity is ideal!  We visited a few bakeries on Monday morning in Meaford and Thornbury! Not a bad way to spend your morning.

4.  Blue Mountain Activity Central; We loved the friendly staff (ie Barb) who set us up on bikes so we could bike along the Georgian Trail with the intention of getting to the beach. This was a great idea and way more fun than taking the car.

5. The Gondola Ride: Nothing beats a quick ride up Blue Mountain so that we could enjoy a picnic lunch and a small hike.

6. Ridge Runner: My BF had so much fun on this ride that he did it twice!!

7.  Maple Syrup: Everytime I visit Collingwood I have to stop at this store to enjoy this treat. It reminds me of my childhood and always brings back great memories.

8. The fact that we didn’t have to use our car to go anywhere….all our needs were met right in the Village. Sweet.

9.  I also love the fact that Blue Mountain is a 4 season resort and can be enjoyed in ANY season. I’ve visited during the Spring, Summer, and Winter but have yet to go there during the Fall. Hmm…something for me to put on my to-do list!!

10. Collingwood is small enough but has all the right amenities. This means, that there is plenty to do if the weather is less than perfect…bowling, movie theatres, shopping etc.

10. Georgian Bay: the beach that we went to was absolutely stunning, with clear warm water! I was a happy camper. Speaking of camping, we stopped by the Craigleith Provincial Park to get some info about camping there in 2013. Nothing like planning ahead, right?

Clearly I think Collingwood is an ideal vacation spot.  I really hope you get to visit soon. You won’t regret it.

This is going to be a fun blog post as the theme will be a He Said/She Said perspective of our pedicures that we had at the Pillar and Post. I copied this idea from a wonderful food blog that I have been following that also has a he said/she said perspective called: Tips Are Included.

I think now would be a good time to ask you to please welcome my first guest blogger, Matt, as he shares with you his experience having his first spa pedicure at the Pillar and Post.

HE SAID:

My First Spa Experience (But Second Pedicure)

With little frame of reference, I have to say it was a great experience! Having my hot tired feet declawed, smoothed massaged and painted (clear – though I was offered a colour) was a great way to spend an hour on a lazy Sunday. Following a morning splash in  the Pillar and Post’s outside pool  – in the rain – and a half hour lying on a lounger when the sun returned, set me up for the guilty pleasure (for blokes anyway!) of a pedicure.

The seat had a built in massage ‘thing’, that I had never experienced before!  After a while, I turned it off and let the expert do her thing on my feet….. it was amazing. I’ll go back for sure!

SHE SAID:

I was delighted to enjoy a quick get away to Niagara on the Lake to  visit some relatives. Every year that I visit, I end up booking an appointment at the Pillar and Post as I’m in love with their outdoor pool. Just so you know, its the ONLY hotel property with an outdoor pool in Niagara on the Lake. This year, I was going to share the experience of the Pillar and Post with Matt, who had never been to a spa before. This was really going to be a special few hours!!

Sadly, the weather  was kinda crappy that day but that’s ok…we still enjoyed the pool WHILE IT WAS RAINING. I mean it……it was peaceful to be out there while it rained. We didn’t mind at ALL.

After a dip in the pool, it was mandatory  to visit  the outdoor hot springs. I totally love this oasis that they have created. Not your average hot tub – that’s for sure.

Then we chilled in the “quiet room” as we waited for our matching pedicure session. It was interesting to note that there were lots of other couples relaxing in white robes as well. It was clear we weren’t the only couple enjoying a spa day!!

Finally it was our turn for our matching pedicure appointments. I was introduced to a new line of vegan friendly polish called “sparitual” and was given an extremely professional and thorough pedicure. No complaints at all.

FINAL RESULT: VERY HAPPY FEET.

As for the service at the Pillar and Post: I have to say that everyone we encountered was friendly and courteous. Special mention to their front desk manager, Shane Howard and Ludmila at the 100 Fountain Spa, who went out of their way for me. Plus the guy at the pool who brought us towels and even hid them under a lounge chair so they would be dry!

We will certainly be returning to the Pillar and Post again!! It was great to hang out with my boyfriend in a spa and enjoy a few hours of pure relaxation and pampering.

Pillar and Post, 48 John St. West, Niagara on the Lake, 1 888 669 5566

I went to Arowhon Pines last year for my first time and was thrilled to be able to return. I love this property for these reasons:

a) Peace and Quiet: you will not hear powerboats or ski doos. The only thing you will hear will be the loons on the water and the birds. Sorry – no photos. The loons weren’t cooperative and kept diving underwater.

b) The Scenery: you can’t beat the scenery that comes with being in the heart of Algonquin Park.

 

d) The Food:  Everything at this resort is made in house. Everything. Each meal is outstanding not to mention the outstanding service. Plus you are dining in this spectacular structure. It truly is an experience.

d) Nature: This particular visit, we had the chance to see not just moose…but a fox and a HUGE turtle (on land and in the water). These encounters make the visit even more special.

e) Their Commitment to Local Food:  They are so committed to using local suppliers that they are holding their  2nd Annual 100 mile Challenge Summer BBQ on Monday Aug 6th from 12 p.m to 3 p.m. All food served will be grown within 100 miles of the resort. Tickets are limited and are $32 p.p. Click here for more information about this amazing event.

f) The Service and The Staff: Everyone is friendly, personable and professional. From the grounds keeper to the front desk staff! This property understands the word: hospitality!!

To find out more about this spectacular Ontario resort (which is only 3 hours North of Toronto) ..please call: 1 866 633 5661

 

Just returned from a whirlwind trip to Ottawa. Nothing quite beats spending Canada Day in Ottawa. Naturally I started off celebrating Canada Day at the Ottawa Farmers Market. (now located at Brewer Park and not at Landsdowne Park). The trip  to the market was highlighted by the fact that I saw Toronto Foodies: @AS_Toronto and A Food Gypsy there!

We all seemed to bump into each other infront of Michaels Dolces Booth. After hugs, photos and introductions I had the chance to wander thru the market to discover Brewgels. What a awesome concept (in my humble opinion). I ended up my visit to the market by bumping into FoodiePrints. How perfect.

ps Sorry didn’t taste the bagels as I’m still on this carb free diet! (argghhh)

On our way back downtown, we stopped into Bridgeheads’ new Roastery, which just opened this past week. (thanks Twitter for the update!!). I am so glad that we stopped here to see this 15,000 sqf space that now houses their head office, a coffee shop, and training centre. Congratulations Bridgehead!!

After enjoying our coffee it was time to walk by the Parliament buildings. No shortage of proud Canadians. Downtown was mobbed and it was GREAT to be there.

Then we went to the Byward Market to walk around and watch the soccer game at Smoque Shack.(129 York St).  The air condioning, great staff, amazing deep fried pickles and the beer – made it a welcome stop for us to get out of the sun and rest our feet for a bit.

On the stroll back to my parents condo we stumbled across this vendor on Sparks St. I just HAD to try it. I have never seen this “new way” of serving potatoes before, have you?

At 10 p.m, we stood behind the Supreme Court building to watch the spectacular fireworks. Not a bad way to end a great day!! Hope you had a meaningful Canada Day as well.

PS. One more thing: I really meant to try two new restaurants: Brothers Beer Bistro (366 Dalhousie) and Big Rig BrewPub (2750A Iris St). Sadly didn’t have enough time, but these two restaurants will be on my radar for my next visit. Tweet Up anyone?

I knew I wanted to drive somewhere special on my last day driving the Chevy Volt. I also knew I wanted to go somewhere I had never been to before. I quickly realized that a day trip to Ste. Anne’s Spa would be ideal.

I have been known to be a unhappy customer at a few spas in Ontario…you know, where everything that is suppose to be right goes wrong? Well Ste Anne’s was simply perfect. I cant complain about anything!.

From the minute I arrived till the minute I left – everything was truly thought of.

Here’s how my day went:

7:00 a.m. left Toronto

8:30 a.m. arrived at their beautiful property and was warmly greeted with a complimentary bag. What a genius idea as I was shlepping a lot of “stuff” and really needed this extra bag.

9:00 a.m. My day started off with a Caribbean Aqua Therapy Treatment (new for me)!! My skin was exfoliated and then I was rolled under (well the table was rolled) under the Vichy Shower. Following the Vichy Shower, my body was massaged with the Caribbean Therapy Line. If my skin could talk it would scream, say “THANK YOU”.

9:30 a.m – 10:30 am Had fun in the outdoor cold plunge pool, hot tub, and small lap pool. Then went indoors to enjoy the eucalyptus steam room (heaven)

11:00 am – Stretch class. I have never done this type of class before but I was intrigued. Let’s just say that I was relaxed before the class and certainly feeling relaxed after the class.

12:00 – 1:30 p.m Lunch with Marketing Manager of Special Projects. What a treat!! I was not surprised when she told me that 25,000 people visit Ste. Annes each year. The place was packed on a Monday before the summer has even started. She took me on a tour of their beautifully appointed rooms and it was evident that she is passionate about her job. Oh yeah – she introduced me to St. Annes own line Nourishment Line. Guests have the opportunity to use these “unadultered botanical” products while they shower. Then they line up to buy the products in the retail store!! I swear – the products are that good.

1:30 p.m – 3 pm – hung out by the pool

3:00 p.m had to leave (boo) so that I could return the Chevy Volt (boo). Two very sad events for me as I had a blast driving the Chevy Volt and a spectacular experience at Ste. Annes.

Here is a list why this property stood out amongst the other spas I have visited:

-plenty of friendly staff. Staff was everywhere I looked – either they were cleaning, or helping clients answer questions, or greeting clients. There was no shortage of staff to help you.

-everything was clean and well maintained.

-nothing was overlooked. i.e a schedule was sent to me prior to my arrival, the complimentary bag, the electronic locks (no need for a key to hang from my wrist) etc.

-the property and the buildings are gorgeous….trees galore, sitting nooks, patios…I had plenty of options!!

Hope you get to visit Ste. Anne’s one day soon.  You won’t be disappointed.

1009 Massey Road

Grafton, ON

1 888 346 6772

 

 

 

As you know (or perhaps you don’t kn0w), I had the opportunity to drive a Chevy Volt for four days as was determined NOT to have it parked in my underground garage. I knew that I wanted to go on day trips but selecting WHERE to go was not easy:

a) I had just visited  Niagara on the Lake in April

b) Hamilton was on the list re: checking out food trucks

c) Peterborough was on the list too but barely

d) Cobourg was on the list too but I go several times each summer to enjoy the beach and it was a bit too early to do that

After a lot of deliberation, I finally decided to go to Elora on one day and  St. Jacobs plus Stratford on another day.

Elora is probably my favorite small town – I love the gorge, the galleries, and of course …the deep fried pickles from Something Fishy. This town has done it right. It’s truly charming but not in a tacky way. Do you know what I mean?

St. Jacobs was a bit disappointing. Then again I went on a Sunday and most things were closed so I quickly decided to go to Stratford.

After a quick drive (app. 30 minutes), I was in Stratford.  The downtown core has just the right combination of stores and restaurant. But I really love walking by the river . I couldnt stop taking photos.  The trip was highlighted by my Goat Cheese Poutine at Boomers Gourmet Fries. (who were featured on You Gotta Eat Here on the Food Network). Seriously, it was one perfect day….life couldnt get better!!

 

Do you have a favorite city for a day trip? As you can see..I have a few favorite day trips

 

Well it’s that time of year again…it’s called “Getting Ready for Camp” . For some reason, I find it more relaxing to buy 15 pairs of socks, 14 pairs of underwear, 4 bathing suits etc etc etc…in Buffalo than in Toronto. This year, I decided to stay overnite in Buffalo to make the trip even more relaxing. (I’m a smart mom).

We booked a mother/daughter trip along with another mother/daughter team!! Another smart move.

SCHEDULE:

8:00 – Left Toronto

11:00 a.m Arrived at the Walden Galleria

11:00 – 12:00 The kids shop while the Moms drink!! er….sample!!

We started off at Taps for a lovely line up of Wood Chuck Cider, Magic Hat #9, Edmund from Great Lakes Brewery, Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA (from Colorado), Holy Moses White Ale from Great Lakes Brewery, Rusty Chain from Flying Bison Brewery, and Blue Pointe Long Island Summer Lager.

12:00 p.m to 1:00 p.m – Bar #2: Gordon Biersch for another line up of beers: Marzen, Golden Export, Czech Pilsner, Hefewerzen and more!!

1:00 p.m – The Cheesecake Factory; We were 4 people so we HAD to try 4 cheesecakes right? We decided on OREO, Original, Ultimate Red Velet and Adam’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple. Ps this was not an easy decision to make!!

We were happy, happy, happy.

3:00 -5:00 p.m More shopping at Target

5:00 pm Check into the lovely Embassy Suites in Downtown Buffalo. We were thrilled to find  out that our spacious 900 sqf room, included a pullout sofa with a TV, 2 Queen beds with a TV, and a room with a wet bar, microwave and  fridge.  Can you say “HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY”.

5:30 -6:30 p.m Managers’ Reception: This was a total bonus. Complimentary drinks and snacks. What a nice treat.

7:00 p.m Went to Chipotle for dinner. (my friends had never been before). Everyone inhaled their burritos.

8:30 p.m. Back to the hotel to swim.

10:00 p.m Everyone is EXHAUSTED but HAPPY and finally in pyjamas and in bed.

Next Day:

9:00 am Complimentary Cook to Order Breakfast (oh how I love this feature).

10:00 am Bye Bye Buffalo

12:30 p.m Hello Toronto

ps The Walden Galleria has lots of dining options: The Melting Pot, PF Changs, Johnny Rockets, Yogen Fruz and more. No shortage of great shopping OR dining options at this mall.

 

 

 

 

Last week, I appeared on a Food Network Show called “Ice Cold Cash“.  Not only was it a fun experience to participate in this quiz show, but I also WON $1200!! It’s not every day that I win $$….infact I have never won any $$$ because I have never bought a lottery ticket or a raffle ticket. (Fact).

I have set this money aside so I can TRAVEL AND EAT (or should it be EAT AND TRAVEL?)….whatever…you know what I mean!! I am still in “the thinking stage” and have not done any research but here’s my list of where I would potentially spend my prize money. Note: this list is not in any particular order. Plus…Chicago, New York or Las Vegas are not on this list as I have been to these cities numerous times and would like to go somewhere I have never been to. Does that make sense?

1. Barcelona, Spain: I hear this city is spectacular if you are a foodie. I’ve seen photos of the markets and think I would make a b-line from the airport to the market.

2. East Coast of Canada: I have never been to the East Coast and dream of taking Via Rail so I could get on/off the train and explore different restaurants in a variety of different cities.

3.  San Francisco: I went years and years ago (pre-food-obsession) and know that there is some great markets and restaurants in this city.

4. The Far East: $1200 won’t cut it eh? Shame.

By the way, I know $1200 is not a tremendous amount of money but I would be travelling during the off season and would not be eating in 3 star Michelin restaurants. Plus I’m happy to hunt for internet deals that would offer air and hotel.

So what do you think of this list? Where would YOU go if you won $1200 and wanted to travel and eat?  All I know is that the money is just sitting there in the bank waiting to be used and my stomach is waiting to have new experiences.