Back in 1994, I ate at P.F. Chang’s in Las Vegas. See, I was a foodie even in 1994! I remember how impressed I was with their vegetarian options and can still remember ordering their famous Lettuce Wraps. (which are still on the menu). Now I don’t have to eat at P.F. Chang’s in the States anymore , as they have finally arrived in Canada! Just last week, they opened at Shops At Don Mills. I’m pleased to say…that they still have vegetarian options and now offer gluten free options as well.

Here were a few highlights of the evening.

Described on the menu as: Sushi grade ahi tuna served with a spicy mustard vinaigrette on a bed of fresh mixed greens.

Described by my belly and taste buds: I want more.

Described on the menu: Fresh green beans lightly battered and served with a tangy dip.

Described by my belly and taste buds: Goodness.

Dessert was epic. I’m not kidding. My eyes were popping out of my face.

Described on the menu: 6 rich layers of frosted chocolate cake topped with semi-sweet chocolate chips, served with fresh berries and raspberry sauce. Appropriately called: The Great Wall of Chocolate!!

Described by my belly and taste buds: There are no words.

Described on the menu: 6 warm, crispy bits of banana served with coconut pineapple ice cream and drizzled with caramel and vanilla sauce.

Described by my belly and taste buds: Please take me back to P.F. Chang’s.

As you know, I’m on a carb free diet so I tried hard to just nibble my way thru the media dinner. I can’t wait to go back when I’m not on this diet and can really indulge.

I’m not kidding..it’s great to see this fabulous restaurant in Toronto. What a welcome addition to the already amazing selection of restaurants at Shops at Don Mills.

P.F. Chang’s can be found at Shops at Don Mills, 1090 Don Mills Road, 416 510 8838

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.