By Alexandra Cohen

I recently had the absolute pleasure of visiting the beautiful city of Vancouver for a week. I have to say, as far as Canadian travel destinations go, Vancouver is certainly among my favourites, with the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban attractions. 

Hoping to explore what nature has to offer? Make your way through the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in North Vancouver, situated in a West Coast Rainforest. In addition to the titular bridge, which is 450 feet long, you can get lost amidst the Douglas Fir trees and walk the cliffwalk. Next, visit the city’s looming mountains, which can also be seen at a distance from most windows and viewpoints – Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Mount Seymour. Check out Stanley Park, a massive urban park spanning over 1,000 acres, which also features the stunning Stanley Park Seawall and multiple natural beaches. 

Vancouver offers plenty of opportunities for those who enjoy exploring fun neighborhoods and shopping – consider Granville Island, which features an impressively large indoor public market, as well as Yaletown and Gastown. All of these neighborhoods also feature plenty of restaurants, including those with patio seating to enjoy some breathtaking views.

During our visit, we stayed at the Hilton Vancouver Downtown. This modern, all-suite hotel is located right in the heart of downtown Vancouver, at 433 Robson Street — one of the city’s main shopping and entertainment corridors. Sitting just at the edge of Yaletown, this hotel is a very walkable home base for those hoping to make their way to BC Place & Rogers Arena, the Granville entertainment district, and the Vancouver waterfront. 

We stayed in a spacious king one-bedroom suite, which also included a pull-out couch and views of both the water and the mountains. In the morning, we enjoyed breakfast at Hendricks Resto-Lounge in the hotel lobby, which included made-to-order breakfasts as well as a full American buffet breakfast. The buffet includes several hot dishes, including scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, bacon and sausage, eggs Benedict, and pancakes. Pastries, toast, bagels, and several cereal options were also available, as well as coffee, tea, and juice. Hendricks is also open for lunch and dinner, and has a dedicated happy hour menu. 

We were lucky enough to have beautiful weather during our stay and were able to spend some time at the hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub – a lovely space to unwind and relax in the sun. The pool is connected directly to the hotel’s fitness center and sauna for those who are interested. 

Vancouver’s culinary scene is as diverse as its visitors. Although known for its outstanding sushi offerings, you can explore plenty of cozy brunch spots, romantic venues, and critically acclaimed restaurants highlighting fresh local ingredients. Fortunately, many of these spaces are thoughtfully designed to ensure accessibility and comfort.

For more information about the Hilton Vancouver Downtown, log on to www.hiltonvancouverdowntown.com

For tourism information, visit www.destinationvancouver.com

The post Vancouver remains one of Canada’s top tourist destinations first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

Mike Cohen

Mike Cohen, born and raised in Côte Saint-Luc, has long been active in the community as a volunteer, journalist, and consultant. He profiles restaurants in Montreal and beyond.

mikecohen.ca and @mikecohencsl

TORONTO– I continue to maintain that Toronto represents the ideal getaway opportunity for Montrealers looking for a change of scenery, even in the winter.

Here are some highlights from my most recent trip.

LITTLE CANADA: As Canada finds itself under a global spotlight, Canadians are rallying together and responding in the way we know best—with resilience, a sense of humor, and a shared national pride. Spanning 45,000 square feet in the heart of downtown Toronto, next to CF Eaton Centre, Little Canada brings the country’s vast geography closer together, shrinking the distance from coast to coast in stunning miniature form. The attraction highlights thousands of stories and iconic scenes through an immersive and uniquely Canadian lens.

I spent a solid 90 minutes exploring Little Canada, and if not for another commitment, I could have easily doubled that time. It was a completely “feel-good” experience.

“Canada is a nation that thrives on collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation, and Little Canada is a showcase of our country’s greatest strengths under one roof,” says president and CEO Brad Ford. “No matter what the future brings, Canadians will meet each challenge with resilience and solidarity. We’re proud to create a space where people can come together to experience the remarkable moments, stories, and landscapes that set our country apart.”

Open seven days a week, Little Canada features seven distinct destinations: Little Niagara, Little Toronto, Little Golden Horseshoe, Little Ottawa, Pétit Québec, Little East Coast, and the newly launched Little West Coast and Little North. Little Montréal is on the roadmap, though a timeline has yet to be announced.

It comes as no surprise that Little Canada has been voted Ontario’s Attraction of the Year for three consecutive years (2022–2024).

Little Canada is the realization of a dream for Dutch-Canadian Jean-Louis Brenninkmeijer, who moved to Ontario with his young family in the late 1990s. His passion for miniatures dates back to childhood, inspired by his father’s model train set—now passed down to him. It was while unpacking this very train set, long stored away in boxes, that the idea for Little Canada first took shape.

Drawing inspiration from attractions such as Hamburg’s Miniature Wunderland and Madurodam in the Netherlands, Jean-Louis set out to bring his vision to life with the support of David MacLean from the Toronto Model Railway Club. Together, they aimed to replicate Canada in miniature—creating a destination where people could learn about and connect with the country in a surprising and meaningful way.

Little Canada is Jean-Louis’s tribute to the country he now calls home—an ode to the landscapes, scenes, and people that welcomed him. It’s also an ongoing educational journey, uncovering stories, histories, and moments that have shaped the nation. Ultimately, it’s a legacy built on wonder, discovery, and delight.

Visitors of all ages can be seen thoroughly enjoying the experience. The miniatures are so exquisitely crafted that you’ll likely find yourself lingering over individual scenes. I was particularly captivated by Ottawa Station and the Parliament buildings. Every ten minutes, it becomes Canada Day, complete with a remarkably realistic fireworks display. The Niagara Falls exhibit is stunning, and downtown Toronto features the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, and more.

One highlight you won’t want to miss is the Littlization Station, where you can be “shrunk” into a 3D-printed Little Me. I struck my favorite pose as 128 cameras captured my image, which will be transformed into a ¾-inch figurine—a process that takes a few weeks.

While you’re free to explore on your own, guests can also join a loosely structured guided tour lasting approximately two hours. The tour offers deeper insight into each destination, sharing whimsical details and behind-the-scenes stories about the buildings.

Building Little Canada has taken more than 600,000 hours. Construction began in a large warehouse in 2012 and continues to this day. Guests can stop by the Maker’s Window to see firsthand how the intricate scenes and moments are created.

Accessibility is a priority at Little Canada. The attraction provides full access for guests with mobility challenges, accommodates service animals, and is designed without tight corridors to allow easy navigation. Turning radii meet wheelchair accessibility standards, seating is available throughout for resting, and audio/visual elements can be adjusted for guests with sensory sensitivities. Story cards are also available for guests who are hearing impaired, offering written versions of information typically shared verbally.

Little Canada is located at 10 Dundas Street East. For more information, visit www.little-canada.ca. I’d recommend taking the subway—Line 1 (Yonge–University) and exiting at TMU Station. Log on to:  https://little-canada.ca/

THE MAPLE LEAFS: I attended my first Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game at Scotiabank Arena. My first piece of advice is if you have access to the subway, it is the best mode of transportation. Get off at Union station and depending upon which gate you need to enter, you might not even have to go outside.

I was fortunate to watch the game from the press box. The place is just as lively as the Bell Centre, with slightly lower seating capacity. More than 18,000 fans were on hand for the Leafs-Senators matchup I took in.    The Canadiens have a mascot, Youppi; for the Leafs, it is Carlton the Bear.  During the game, the PA announcer introduces a member of the Canadian Armed Forces to a standing ovation. Subsequently, a former Leafs player appears with a Toronto sweater to present. On this night, it was Wilf Paiement.  I met veteran broadcaster Joe Bowen, who has been doing radio play-by-play for 44 years. What a nice gentleman!   He is well-known for his “Holy Mackinaw!” catchphrase. He admitted that he has no idea what it means; his late dad, who died when Joe was very young, would repeat that word over and over when he grew up

There are in-house animators, like the Bell Centre, and they do a great job of pumping the crowd up. Some of the promos they do on the scoreboard are fun to watch, such as “Dreaming” when the camera suddenly focuses on some fans with a bubble indicating what kind of prize they are thinking about, and they get it. The old Saturday Night Live skit Night at the Roxbury, where Will Ferrell and Chris Kattan bob their heads back and forth. Well, that is what Leafs fans are asked to do if the camera focuses in on them. The best “shaker” is a winner.  On the scoreboard,d there is also a noise energy meter, which encourages spectators to raise the volume of their enthusiasm.

Oh yes, the Bell Centre has veteran organist Diane Bibeau; Jimmy Holstrom has been doing the same for the Leafs for 37 years. I will seek him out for an interview next time I go to a game.

MR DRESSUP TO DEGRASSI: A multi-disciplinary exhibition at the Museum of  Toronto’s outpost location at the Harbourfront Centre revolves around Mr. Dressup to Degrassi: 42 Years of Legendary Toronto Kids TV. The chronological exhibition is an exploration of the dramatic shifts in the way children’s television in Toronto was created and produced from 1952 to 1994. It runs until March 15 at 225 Queens Quay West.

DINING OUT: We enjoyed dinner at two exceptional downtown locales: Cassius Cucina Contemporanea and Casa Madera.

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN HOSPITALITY: Cassius Cucina Contemporanea is a contemporary Italian restaurant and social venue in downtown Toronto that seamlessly blends elevated cuisine, striking design, and authentic Italian hospitality. Opened in April 2025, the restaurant arrived with strong recommendations—and it more than lives up to the buzz.

Entirely Italian-owned and operated, Cassius offers more than just dinner; it delivers an immersive social experience where every detail, from the menu to the music, is thoughtfully curated. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed like family. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the warmth feels instinctive, genuine, and deeply rooted in Italian culture.

The front-of-house experience is shaped by Manager and Sommelier Andre Marzolla, a native of Italy with a five-star hospitality background spanning Europe, Bermuda, and Toronto’s top dining rooms. Having moved to Toronto 12 years ago “for love,” Marzolla now speaks with equal passion about Cassius. Our server, Samuel, also hails from Italy—Torino, to be exact—adding another layer of authenticity. The clientele reflects the venue’s ethos: tastemakers, creatives, and culture-forward diners who value elevated design, premium ingredients, and curated experiences inspired by Italian excellence.

At the heart of Cassius is its culinary program, led by Executive Chef Michael Frigo, born in Bassano del Grappa, Italy. With global experience in London, Spain, Mexico, and Australia, Chef Frigo brings a refined yet soulful approach to contemporary Italian cuisine. “My love for cooking started in my grandmother’s kitchen,” he says, “where I learned that great ingredients and technique create magic.” That philosophy is evident throughout the menu, which honors tradition while reimagining it for the modern palate.

Cassius also offers thoughtfully designed dining experiences. The Raw Bar features oysters and wine specials, including $2 oysters and half-price bottles every Wednesday evening. From Wednesday to Saturday, guests can enjoy Cenetta Dopo Lavoro—a “small dinner after work” from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.—with a prix fixe menu, $10 classic cocktails, and half-price wine by the bottle.

The atmosphere at Cassius evolves effortlessly throughout the night. Early evening is refined and elegant, with ambient lighting and sound. As the night progresses, DJs and curated playlists usher in a higher-energy vibe without ever feeling abrupt. We began our evening with Rocco cocktails and a glass of prosecco rosé, followed by a series of standout starters: salmone crudo (BC organic salmon tartare with avocado, kataifi, toasted almond, and chef’s special sauce), casapinta Rockefeller (BC scallops with spinach, butter sauce, and gremolata), and the unforgettable crostone di ricotta—whipped ricotta on toasted sourdough with honey and generous shavings of fresh truffle.

Other members of our party had recently traveled to Italy and raved about the Florentine steak, so naturally we ordered Cassius’s bistecca Fiorentina. Made with Canadian prime beef sourced from a small farming community in Guelph and dry-aged for 45 days, it arrived cooked perfectly medium, pre-sliced, and bursting with flavor. Roasted potatoes made the ideal accompaniment. I opted for seafood, choosing the Salmerino Alpino—arctic char served with fennel, orange compote, and aged balsamic—which was beautifully balanced and elegant.

The menu also features an extensive selection of pastas and pizzas, along with dishes such as lamb chops, octopus, and more. Dessert was indulgent and memorable: a dramatic, generously portioned baked Alaska and a delicate semifreddo rochet.

Cassius is more than a restaurant—it’s a multifaceted destination. Upstairs, The Galleria houses the Charles Puma Gallery, a rotating collection that merges Italian artistic tradition with contemporary culture. The space is ideal for cocktail receptions, art-driven gatherings, and stylish private events. Tucked discreetly behind the main floor is Sartoria Meucci, a bespoke tailor shop offering private fittings and made-to-measure Italian garments—an unexpected and luxurious extension of the Cassius experience.

Owned by hospitality veterans Pat Lisi and Bruno Commodari, formerly of the iconic Buonanotte Toronto, Cassius carries forward their legacy of blending refined Italian dining with vibrant nightlife. The result is a venue that feels sophisticated yet energetic, polished yet expressive.

Modern Italian luxury with an edge—Cassius is a place where food, culture, and nightlife converge beautifully.

Cassius Cucina Contemporanea is located at 624 King Street West (near Portland Street) in Toronto’s King West district. It is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 5 p.m. to midnight, and Thursday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., with bottle service available late night. The venue seats 150 for dining and expands to 250 when the dance floor is open. Log on to: www.cassiusonking.com

CASA MADERA: When you first step into Casa Madera in downtown Toronto, you immediately recognize something inherently inviting. Time slows as you dip into a warm, immersive experience that revolves around the ubiquitous tradition of celebrating each meal.

Casa Madera made its debut here on April 5, 2022, inside the 1 Hotel Toronto, the city’s sustainable sanctuary. Both the hotel and restaurant were developed in partnership with Mohari Hospitality, a real estate investment company founded by the entrepreneurial investor Mark Scheinberg. Casa Madera highlights creative twists on traditional Mexican cuisine, inspired by life’s essential elements: earth, air, fire and water.   There are also West Hollywood and Miami locales.

The diverse menu at Casa Madera pushes and transforms boundaries while respecting the bedrock tenets that have served Noble 33, a team of innovators and hospitality entrepreneurs co-founded by Tosh Berman and Mikey Tanha, that has served its guests faithfully for years: bold, inventive flavors structured around sustainably sourced ingredients presented with honesty and passion.

We were pleasantly surprised by our experience, which was greatly enhanced by a superb server named Faiz. He has been there for about a year and is a walking encyclopedia of the menu. I can say that he personally made our night with all of his recommendations on items.

Casa Madera’s impressive beverage program draws inspiration from all the essential life elements. There is a reserve list of the world’s finest tequilas, mezcals, and wines that greet guests alongside a sophisticated but approachable menu of libations crafted from fresh organic fruit and produce.

We started with drinks, the Cielo nocturnal (cocchi americano, peach, white port, simple syrup, lemon, prosecco, peach air),   Agua Rosa   (gin, lime juice, organic agave, grape, rosé, cucumber and flower sphere) and Mayahuel (mezcal, nopales, kiwi, lime, mint, fernet sidecar ), adding a    Playa paradiso ( blanco tequila, watermelon, coconut water, benedictine, lime, agave, eucalyptus & cinnamon Fog)   and POG (reposado tequila, passion fruit, guava, orange, agave, fire water )  later in the dinner. These were all very creative and tasty.

It was then on to the food. We began by sharing some splendid appetizers. The hamachi serrano is a standout item from the raw bar that beautifully showcases the restaurant’s coastal-inspired, fresh-seafood focus. It features slices of fresh hamachi (Japanese yellowtail) served with bright, citrusy fresh lime, crisp cucumber, tangy pickled onion, and a sprinkling of crispy garlic. The combination creates a dish that is clean, buttery, and refreshing, with the serrano element adding a subtle heat that complements the silky texture of the fish.

Also from the raw bar, Faiz suggested the tuna timbale. This was yet another standout item. It’s composed of finely diced, sashimi-quality tuna layered into a delicate tower, then accented with house-made ponzu, creamy avocado, and bright citrus supremes. The dish is finished with chili oil and a light lime air, giving it subtle heat and vibrant acidity that lifts the natural richness of the tuna. Sea beans, charred cucumber, and hand-torn herbs add texture and herbal brightness, making each bite simultaneously clean, refreshing, and richly nuanced

The arrachera is part of the taqueria section of the menu, a vibrant and flavorful interpretation of traditional skirt steak. It’s prepared with wagyu skirt steak that’s marinated and grilled, delivering a rich, juicy texture with bold, savory notes. The dish is served in tacos with complementary accents like cilantro, pineapple, and red onion, enhancing the beef’s deep, smoky character with brightness and a touch of sweetness. The combination balances tender steak with fresh, zesty elements, making it a standout choice for diners who love bold coastal-Mexican flavors.  

It was then on to the main courses.

Two members of our party shared the À la roca, a standout steak dish that perfectly embodies the restaurant’s bold, elevated approach to modern coastal-Mexican cuisine. It features a wagyu striploin grilled to order and served with a rich red wine jus and a signature triple inferno salt, which adds layers of depth and a subtle smoky heat to each bite.

I went for the King salmon. This entrée is a beautifully composed dish that highlights the restaurant’s fusion of coastal flavours and elevated culinary technique. It features a perfectly cooked fillet of salmon paired with caramelized fennel, caper berries, Cerignola olives, cilantro oil, and hoja santa—a combination that balances rich, buttery fish with bright, savory, and herbaceous accents. The caramelized fennel adds a subtle sweet depth, while the caper berries and olives bring briny pop and contrast. The finishing cilantro oil and hoja santa lend aromatic freshness and nuanced complexity to each bite. Guests can also opt to add caviar for an extra touch of indulgence and texture.

Fiaz recommended two sides and he was right on the money! The truffle risotto is a rich, deeply flavorful dish that highlights the earthy elegance of truffles in a refined yet satisfying way.  First, there is creamy arborio rice cooked to a silky consistency and infused with the aromas of wild mushrooms. They finish it off with a Parmesan fondue. You can opt to elevate the dish further with shaved black truffle.

We also added in some confit truffle potatoes.

Yes, we still had room for dessert. The tres leches is composed of mango, vanilla anglaise and gold leaf, while the salted caramel and chocolate truffle is beyond decadent, with Swiss meringue, vanilla pavlova, chocolate almond crumble and chocolate ice cream.

Some dishes here are finished tableside, bringing an element of visual excitement and theatrics to the dining room. Statement items also include the Tomahawk featuring a 44oz Wagyu cut, Campari tomatoes, potato confit, smoked butter and shaved black truffle, and fire-roasted Pacifico striped bass with a fennel citrus salad, fresh corn tortillas, sunburst salsa, avocado tomatillo salsa and cherry chipotle salsa.

Each visit to this place is an immersive, sensory experience, transporting guests to a boho-chic coastal atmosphere where a captivating vibe welcomes wanderers from all paths. Diners will be immersed in a curated environment that smooths the sharp line between coast and kitchen while it complements the menu, service, and commitment to authentically inspired cuisine. Each evening brings a celebration where local and international DJs play alongside tantalizing performance artists and talented live musicians.

“The vision for Casa Madera is to combine our culinary creativity with our passion for Mexican cuisine,” said Tosh Berman, Chairman and Co-Founder of Noble 33. “The Mayan Riviera has established itself as a highly influential food region, and at Casa Madera, we will transport guests there through a fully immersive dining experience, delighting guests with something unique each night.”

Guided by French technique and Japanese precision, authenticity and inclusivity anchor Casa Madera’s impressive menu, which is drawn from the culinary traditions of Mexican coastal cuisine. The menu accommodates a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and keto, a pillar of the restaurant’s ethos striving to ensure every patron is considered. Casa Madera places great importance on local purveyors and sustainably grown products, with fresh and organic ingredients at the forefront. A variety of fresh produce and herbs used for house-made specialties will be harvested onsite. 

Adding yet another important layer to the overall guest journey is the restaurant’s pioneering diverse beverage program led by Beverage Curator, Carla Lorenzo. Once again drawing on the earth’s elements to inspire flavors, colors and ingredients, an impressive selection of premium tequilas, spirits and wines is used to carefully create a vibrant lineup of beverages. The farm-to-glass libations will use fresh, seasonal ingredients and offer non-alcoholic and low-proof options, making this the most sophisticated beverage program to date.

1 Hotel Toronto is a sustainable venue in King West Village, a luxury pet-friendly sanctuary with additional on-site dining and wellness programming. It boasts a seasonal rooftop swimming pool, 91 guest rooms and 21 suites. The rooms were designed to emulate a lakeside escape, while the hotel’s corridor carpets mimic a sandy beach.

The hotel and restaurant entrances are fully accessible, as are the washrooms. There is valet parking and a lobby free of any steps.  Service animals are welcome.

Casa Madera is located at 550 Wellington Street. Log on to www.thecasamadera.com  or call 416-601-3593. It is closed on Mondays and offers brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

The post Toronto Update: Little Canada , Maple Leafs hockey and dining out first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

By Alexandra Cohen

I recently returned from a dream trip to Greece. While island hopping is a quintessential part of the experience, and I certainly indulged, a highlight was my time spent on the island of Milos. Having done a fair bit of research before embarking on this trip, one thing that was made clear to me was that there is no better way to see the island than by boat, which is why I was keen to book a trip with Odysseus A. Cruises. 

While Odysseus offers many services, including both private and group trip experiences on a variety of boats and for a variety of durations, we chose the full-day catamaran tour of Kleftiko, Poliegos, and more. A 10-hour experience offered to a maximum of 25 passengers, this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While the itinerary describes a circling of the entire island of Milos, the boat’s expert crew designs a precise itinerary on a day-to-day basis based on the famed winds of Greece in order to ensure a safe and fun experience, with calm waters for swimming. Possible destinations include swim stops at Kalogries beach, the famous Kleftiko spot, Gerakas beach, the island of Kimilos, and the absolutely beautiful Poliegos (which means island of “many goats” in Greek), which was a highlight with its unreal turquoise waters and tall rock formations and cliffs. During the four scheduled swim stops during your tour, guests are offered plenty of noodles, life vests, and snorkeling equipment to check out the local wildlife. 

In between, guests can enjoy the two-level catamaran equipped with couches and cushioning, music, an enthusiastic crew who are eager to crack jokes and share stories about the region, and an open bar. We passed many other iconic spots on the island, including the region’s “moon beach” also known as Sarakiniko beach, Klima fishing village, and more. Not only that, but this catamaran tour includes a chef on board, who was truly fantastic. We enjoyed a freshly cooked and served breakfast and lunch, as well as a variety of snacks, including fruits, bread, and dip. Guests with dietary restrictions should fear not, as he was easily able to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific allergies. 
For more information about this tour, as well as the other full-day and half-day options available, consult the Odysseus A. Cruises website: https://odysseusacruises.com/

The post Odysseus A. Cruises offers  a wonderful 10-hour experience in Greece first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

By Mike Cohen

Toronto does indeed offer pretty much anything you’d have on your list for a good holiday: professional sports, Broadway musicals courtesy of Mirvish Entertainment, museums, a large amusement park, a zoo, an aquarium, shopping, world-class restaurants and more.

Toronto’s visitor economy is a vital economic engine for the city, generating nearly $9 billion in visitor spending in 2024. Originally incorporated in 1926 as the Toronto Convention and Visitors Association, the appropriately named Destination Toronto  (https://www.destinationtoronto.com) operates in partnership with the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Hotel Association. They   market and promote  the city to attract visitors and major meetings and events, and support local businesses to maximize the opportunities of the visitor economy.`

Summer in Toronto is pure magic. Sunshine sparkles off Lake Ontario, patios buzz with laughter, and every neighbourhood feels like a festival.  Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city you love, these timeless Toronto summer activities are your go-to experiences—the kind of warm-weather moments that never go out of style. Looking for the best Toronto skyline views? Head up the CN Tower for a panoramic cityscape or try the EdgeWalk for the thrill-seekers. Prefer something low-key? Enjoy skyline snapshots from a ferry ride, or lie down on a blanket at Riverdale Park East for a relaxing, photogenic picnic. See the city from a fresh perspective by paddling Lake Ontario. Rentals are available from the Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre or on the Toronto Islands, making it easy to hop in a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the waterfront.  Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, it’s a relaxing way to experience Toronto’s waterfront charm. Consider an Indigenous-led paddleboarding experience at sunset for a truly powerful way to connect with the water.  Toronto’s beaches are summer essentials. Whether you’re diving into the lake at Woodbine Beach, enjoying a quiet swim at Cherry Beach, or soaking up the sun at Hanlan’s Point, there’s a sandy spot for everyone. These beaches are perfect for volleyball, sunbathing, and picnicking with a city-meets-nature vibe

BROADWAY IN TORONTO: Mirvish Productions is Canada’s largest commercial theatre production company. It owns and operates four major downtown Toronto theatres and, in my opinion, serves as a driving force for the city’s tourism industry. Every year, Mirvish Productions produces and presents dozens of plays and musicals, chosen from the best theatre originating in Canada, New York, London, Australia and beyond. The company programs two subscription seasons: the Main Season, which offers popular, large-scale productions, and the Off-Mirvish Season, which specializes in smaller, more challenging productions. It also programs many stand-alone shows featuring new works and revivals, supplemented by special concert engagements of dance, music, and comedy. 

Owned by the Mirvish family, the company got its start when Ed Mirvish, an iconic Torontonian who founded the landmark bargain department store Honest Ed’s, made headlines in 1963 when he purchased and saved from demolition Toronto’s historic Royal Alexandra Theatre, one of the oldest and most famous legitimate theatres in North America. For the next 23 years, Ed Mirvish operated the Royal Alex — as it had been operated for most of its history — primarily as a “roadhouse”, staging short-run touring productions from London and New York and renting the space to local companies, such as the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada. But Ed Mirvish did more than just operate the Royal Alex; he created an exciting neighbourhood in which the theatre could flourish. In 1963, the King Street West area was filled with derelict warehouses and foundries. Ed bought several of these buildings and opened popular restaurants, laying the foundation for what is now the most thriving entertainment neighbourhood in Toronto.

In 1986, David Mirvish assumed responsibility for the family’s theatrical interests. He changed the focus of the company to not only offering touring productions but also producing original plays and musicals, producing local productions of blockbuster international titles starring Canadian talent, as well as co-producing with such regional Canadian theatres as the Stratford Festival, the Shaw Festival, the Manitoba Theatre Centre and the Citadel Theatre and bringing their works to Toronto.

Among the notable early Mirvish productions and co-productions seen at the Royal Alexandra were Brian Macdonald’s acclaimed staging of Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore; the world tour of the English Shakespeare Company’s Henry IV and Henry V; Sweet Bird of Youth with Joanne Woodward; Spoils of War with Kate Nelligan (in her first Canadian stage appearance); Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing, the first Indigenous Canadian play to receive a major commercial production in Canada; the world premiere of the musical Jane Eyre, which subsequently moved to Broadway; and the wildly popular Toronto production and national tours of Les Misérables.

In 1993, in response to the growth of the Toronto theatre community and local audiences, Ed and David Mirvish built the Princess of Wales Theatre, a luxurious 2,000-seat venue one block to the west of the Royal Alexandra (and the first privately financed free-standing legitimate theatre to be built in North America in more than 30 years). The Princess of Wales opened with the box office record-breaking Mirvish co-production (in partnership with London producer Cameron Mackintosh) of the musical Miss Saigon. The two theatres formed the centre around which Toronto’s “Entertainment District” has since grown.

The Mirvish theatre family doubled in size in 2008 when the company purchased two Yonge Street venues: the 2,300-seat Canon Theatre — now the Ed Mirvish Theatre, which was renamed in honour of one of Toronto’s most beloved city boosters — and the intimate 700-seat Panasonic Theatre, now the CAA Theatre.

 Log on to www.mirvish.com

THE OPTIONS: You can also check out Young People’s Theatre. Celebrating 60 years of nurturing young hearts and minds, the 2025-26 season features a slate of six compelling productions, reflecting the many ways young people see the world: from fantastically adventurous to eye-opening and relevant. The list includes Shrek the Musical, Nov. 13 to Dec. 30.

Go Tours Canada is celebrating 20 years of delivering captivating Segway and Walking tours.  With that,  they have launched a brand new tasting tour for 2025 – their Beer & Cheese Tour, along with promotions throughout the year! It blends history, beer sampling from 2 local breweries onsite and a tasty cheese and meat charcuterie board with local artisanal meats and cheeses.  

In 2025, the Bata Shoe Museum is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Opening on May 6, 1995, the Bata Shoe Museum has been dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of footwear from around the world.  

THE ULTIMATE POOL EXPERIENCE: While in Toronto, we were looking for an outdoor pool experience. Having previously stayed at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel downtown, we remembered how beautiful their pool scene was. Fortunately, non-hotel guests can sign up for day passes and that is just what we did. The cost is $250 for two people (extra guests are subject to an additional charge). For this, you get two lounge chairs with an umbrella and side table, two environmentally friendly bottles of water, a poolside snack pack and complimentary WiFi.

The snack pack contains two bags of chips, two chocolate bars, a bag of popcorn and some Twizzlers. It all comes in a nice-sized reusable bag. We were given identification wristbands and key cards for access to the fitness club and the sauna. 

You can order lunch to your seat all via a handy QR code. It asks you to identify yourself as a pool deck guest and to provide the number on the small table next to your chairs. I ordered a double smash burger, with all the fixings, while the other two members of the entourage enjoyed some steak sandwiches. The delivery came within 20 minutes and it was relaxing to enjoy in our chairs.

Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is Canada’s largest property within the Sheraton Hotels & Resorts portfolio and recently underwent an extensive transformation. That journey brought a new arrival experience, a reimagined lobby with town-square energy, world-class culinary experiences, open and collaborative workspaces and over 130,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. The downtown hotel is connected to Toronto’s PATH system, a 16-mile underground network of shops and services. With 1,372 guest rooms and suites, a 24-hour fitness centre, 360-degree skyline views from its 43rd-floor Sheraton Club, a unique outdoor waterfall and garden area and the city’s largest heated indoor-outdoor pool, this is an iconic meeting spot in the heart of the city for friends and business travellers alike. 

The pool was very much part of the upgrades. Framed by lush greenery, the year-round pool and 6,000-square-foot urban and waterfall garden is an urban oasis in the heart of downtown Toronto, offering a premiere location for weddings, social gatherings, and events. It is a popular spot for Montrealers, illustrated by the fact that my optometrist ended up being seated in the row behind me at the pool. He and his wife were in town for a wedding and this venue was their first choice, no doubt enhanced by the outdoor pool option. 

The Sheraton Hotel Toronto is located at 123 Queen Street West. You can call 416-361-1000. Log on to: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yyztc-sheraton-centre-toronto-hotel/overview/ 

DINING OUT

BANGKOK GARDEN: Housed in a historical building on Elm Street in downtown Toronto, Bangkok Garden introduced Authentic Thai food and culture to the city over 40 years ago. Acclaimed as one of North America’s premiere Thai restaurants, Bangkok Garden serves authentic, house-made Thai food based on the Thai principle of balancing the five tastes. In addition, our cuisine caters to many dietary restrictions. From spiced stir-fries to fresh rolls and curries, there are several gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options to suit all.

The main dining room is lushly decorated in teak imported from Thailand. A gently flowing river, with a small school of fish and stones collected from the banks of the famous River Kwai in Kanchanaburi province, is guarded by Naga, a 150-year-old solid bronze protective dragon serpent from the home of a prosperous Thai merchant. Several pieces of statuary throughout the restaurant reflect popular Thai mythology. Furnishings and artifacts were chosen or designed specifically for the restaurant and imported, with special permission, from Thailand. This includes the teak temple bells and the hand-painted blue and white porcelain tableware. In October of 2013, a renovation transformed the bar & lounge area into a vibrant space for guests to enjoy a selection of Thai bites paired with exotic cocktails and martinis. The new interior with its bright colors and contemporary ambiance is a wonderful contrast to the warm teak interior of the main dining room.

I was alerted to this restaurant via a promotion with the Royal Thai Government and their Thai SELECT Certification Program.  This is an internationally recognized certification awarded by the Ministry of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government to restaurants and food producers that offer authentic Thai cuisine. Certified establishments use traditional ingredients and cooking methods, ensuring consistent quality and a genuine taste of Thailand across global markets. Each certified restaurant is held to high standards that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Thailand. You can learn more about the Thai SELECT program at www.thaiselect.ca

Bangkok Garden is one of those restaurants. Several in Montreal have received the same distinction, including Siam Centre-Ville and Épicerie Pumpui.

I was joined for lunch by my old friend Anthony, who told me that this place has always been one of his favorites.  We started off with some drinks:  a serenity decaffeinated tea for me and a mango and lime mint fizz for him.  He selected from the main menu while I took advantage of the unlimited tasting menu buffet, which included a wonderful noodle bar.  The soup was simply fantastic! At the noodle bar,the server allowed me to select exactly what I wanted included and this was a treat. It was piping hot, containing rice noodles, chicken and some garlic bites. Anthony had a similar soup brought to the table by our server.

For the main course, Anthony went with the Phad See EEW,  containing broad rice noodles, vegetables and egg, with chicken added. I am a big fan of buffets and after having my soup, I went back and filled my plate with some spring rolls, chicken drumsticks, chicken fried rice, shrimp and some tasty chicken slices. There are dessert options as well.  Our server brought their in-house sriracha hot sauce for us to try. It is imported directly from Thailand.

From Monday to Friday, 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, the buffet is open. The cost is a very reasonable $24 for adults and $15 for kids (under 12).

See my chat with Brian So, a manager https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Ld414iLn5R4 

Bangkok Garden is located at 18 Elm Street. It is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Friday, from Monday to Friday, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm. You can call  416-977-6748 and log on to https://bangkokgarden.ca/ 

TEA AT THE RITZ:  We have enjoyed the glamorous afternoon tea service at the Ritz-Carlton in Montreal in the past. So, it was very nice to do the same at the Toronto location’s lovely EPOCH Bar & Kitchen (epochtoronto.com). This re-imagined contemporary social hub, featuring a tailored cocktail menu and a chef-driven dining experience, opened on Sept. 1, 2021, inside The Ritz- Carlton, Toronto. It offers a confluence of casual, yet imaginative dishes, focusing on sustainably sourced ingredients and cocktails in an understatedly elegant setting with a warm, inviting atmosphere. 

 This re-imagined British gastrobar first opened on  Sept. 1, 2021, inside The Ritz. It offers a confluence of casual, yet imaginative, food and cocktails in an understatedly elegant setting with a warm, inviting atmosphere. 
The venue boasts 61 seats in the dining room, as well as 88 additional spots on a lovely terrace. This is set amidst lush foliage and Simcoe Park, with a stunning centerpiece bar and a feature wood-fired stone oven. Guests can sip cocktails at the bar, choose from lounge seating, dining tables, or the cozy Green Room with a fireplace and pool table

We were guided to a comfortable table in the restaurant overlooking the terrace. Our server, Lindsay, provided a comprehensive overview of the tea selection and what a treat that was!  They are divided into categories of white, green, black and herbal loose-leaf teas. She brought them over in a box, with each flavor in a different jar. We were offered to first enjoy the scent before making our selection.

While I chose the sugar plum fairy decaffeinated tea (organic rooibos, natural tangerine flavors and rose petals), the other two members of our party went for the eros (black tea scented with essential flavors of natural mandarin orange amd Madagascar vanilla) and the pear tree (organic young hyson green tea naturally perfumed with the essence of freshly plucked ripe pears).

Lindsay brought an hourglass to the table with three different colors of sand to match our selections. We had to wait until each moved from top to bottom before commencing what turned out to be a delightful experience, with the option of adding cubes of sugar and honey.

You can also elevate your experience with a toast and we took advantage of that option with two glasses of champagne.

The service is classy all the way. In no time at all, a tower of delicate butter scones, finger sandwiches and sweets arrived at the table. It was so stunning to look at that I immediately took a photo before the bites began to disappear.

So, what did the towers contain?  The scones, traditional and cranberry,  with house-made Devonshire cream, strawberry jam and rose petal raspberry jam,  came to us hot out of the oven, so we began with those first. The next tier featured was the mini lobster roll (sesame, poppy seed brioche bun),  sablées salés au prosciutto (rosemary sable cookies, whipped goat cheese, apricot jam), mini croissant with smoked salmon (lemon caper cream cheese, pickled onion and arugula) and the chicken sandwich   (milk, bread, gold raisins and dill crème fraiche).  

For sweets, the Meyer’s lemon cake (lemon cake, lemon curd and candied lemon), mango coconut pavlova (crispy meringue, mango compote, coconut chantilly and mango jelly), the Ontario strawberry Paris brest choux (choux croquelin, strawberry compote, strawberry whipping ganache and strawberry coulis) and the tonka chocolate caramel tartlet (caramel tonka cremeux, chocolate cremeux, caramelia whipping ganache and cocoa nib crumble). The EPOCH Bar & Kitchen can accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and vegan preferences, for the afternoon tea experience.

We could not eat them all, so we packed up a few to go. But then came a surprise, a plate full of truffles. We sampled a few and added the rest to our take-home box.

The Ritz-Carlton Toronto and EPOCH Bar & Kitchen are located at 181 Wellington Street. There is valet parking for free. Call  416-572-8094, e-mail info@epochtoronto.com, or log on to https://www.epochtoronto.com. Afternoon tea is available Monday to Friday from Noon to 4 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm

BLACK + BLUE TORONTO:   Two years ago, Toronto welcomed a prestigious addition to its fine dining circuit. In no time at all, Black+Blue Toronto, located on downtown King Street in a vast building that used to house the Toronto Stock Exchange, became a cornerstone of the city’s dining scene.

Black + Blue offers a luxurious and dynamic atmosphere that highlights the finest and rarest cuts of beef and a top-tier seafood program. As part of Glowbal Group, a Vancouver-based hospitality brand synonymous with bold flavours and unparalleled guest experiences, Black+Blue exemplifies the group’s commitment to excellence.

Morgan Bellis is the executive chef.   Black+Blue opened in 2023 amid much fanfare.  The two-storey, 9,000-sq.-ft. The restaurant is located in the First Canadian Place and features a posh outdoor patio sporting hanging greenery and two private dining rooms.

This place exudes class.  We felt that the moment we stepped inside. It was a summer Wednesday evening and the place was filled to capacity. That meant over 300 people. Customer service is key here. Manager Michael Bowers and Matre’d Jesse Melbye circulate throughout the dining room. While we had veteran (and beyond extraordinary) Susie as our server, she was assisted by a team of colleagues. Everything went so smoothly. While Chef Bellis was off that evening, sous chef Michael  came to our table at one point to ensure the food was to our liking,

 The  Glowbal Group is owned by Emad Yacoub, a true success story. He began his culinary career as a kitchen assistant in Toronto and eventually moved to Vancouver, where he became a top restaurateur. He will soon debut another one of his brands here, Rileys.

In Susie, a one-time Griffintown resident, we certainly had a server with encyclopedic knowledge of the offerings. Full of charm and charisma, she walked us through the vast selections and offered us something we had not really experienced that often in our lifetime: a specially curated menu, complete with optional wine pairings selected to complement each course perfectly.

We started with some drinks, a prosecco for me and two rosé sunsets for the other members of the table. Later, there would be some glasses of Chablis. One of Susie’s colleagues, Tyler, was next to visit us with a tray of all of the restaurant’s different cuts of meat. That was true education and helped us a lot in making our final decisions in related to the curated menu.

Black+Blue proudly displays its beef in the center of the dining room. The pale pink and orange wall is made of Himalayan salt bricks and the salt purifies the air and naturally removes moisture. This dry-aging process infuses an unforgettable flavor as it tenderizes the meat. All of the steaks are kept in the cooler for 28 to 45 days, which ensures a flavor concentration of the highest quality. 

Canadian prime-grade beef features abundant marbling (red meat laced with an even fat distribution). The presence of this fat creates a more tender and juicy cut of beef that cooks well in all conditions. Only two percent of graded Canadian beef is rated prime. USDA prime is the most tender, flavorful and highest quality beef that comes from the US. Black + Blue offers the long-bone ribeye steak, charred to perfection.  Japanese Wagyu cattle are known worldwide for producing meat with exceptional marbling, naturally enhanced flavor, tenderness and juiciness. All of the restaurant’s Japanese Wagyu cuts have a quality score of A5 and a marbling score between eight and 10. Black + Blue also takes great pride in being one of the select few dining rooms in North America that offers certified Kobe beef ribeye and striploin cuts. The secret behind this prestige cut of meat is the umami flavor that’s embedded in the “shimofuri” marbling. The fatty “sashi” content dissolves at low temperatures, which literally means it melts in your mouth.

The meal began with some appetizers: a burrata salad, some extraordinary beef carpaccio with small pieces of toast, bluefin tuna roll and the king salmon roll. We savored every morsel of these culinary masterpieces that Susie had suggested.  The beef carpaccio came topped with horseradish crema, pickled shimeji mushrooms, crispy shallot, fried capers and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.

For the main course, Susie truly guided us in the right direction. She arrived with our dinner on a mobile carving station. There was a perfectly grilled Wagyu striploin, which she cut into five slices.

The Beef Wellington was a real treat and Black+Blue has truly mastered the recipe. This was an impressive beef tenderloin, wrapped in a crêpe puff pastry and including mushroom duxelles, truffle jus, seasonal vegetables and pommes purée. Susie cut three mouthwatering pieces for us, with some absolutely delicious sliced carrots. Also on the side were plates of  Wagyu fried rice and lobster mashed potatoes.

For dessert, came the most decadent surprise of them all: the Black+Blue  butter cake. This is a rich vanilla cake with a cream cheese base, topped with white Chantilly cream, drizzled with salted caramel sauce and garnished with fresh berries.

Melbye gave me a tour of the venue, from the elegant second level and private rooms to the patio, which features open windows and a convertible roof in the warm season, while  

See my video chat with Matre’d Jesse Melbye.

We can’t wait to return and have another curated menu prepared for us and we will certainly want to experience their Vancouver location on our next visit there.

Black+Blue Toronto is located at  130 King St West. For more information, log on to  www.blackandbluetoronto.com, e-mail info@blackandbluetoronto.com, or call 647-368-8283. Hours are 11:30 am to 2 pm, lunch; 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm, happy hour;  3 pm to late, dinner;  11 am to 2 pm, weekend brunch.

 
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE: When travelling in the United States, Ruth’s Chris Steak House has always been a favorite stop of ours. There are six Canadian locations, including three in Toronto and others in Niagara Falls, Calgary and Edmonton. Not only were we fortunate enough to dine at the downtown Toronto spot, situated within the Hilton Hotel, but I also got a true history lesson when I interviewed an incredible woman who was friends with founder Ruth Fertel.

In 1965, a time when most women couldn’t even apply for a bank card without their husband’s signature, the restaurant founder Ruth Fertel risked it all and mortgaged her home to buy a small steak house in New Orleans. As a single mom with two boys, Ruth taught herself the restaurant business, endured countless challenges and, in the process, redefined hospitality. When a kitchen fire destroyed Chris Steak House in 1976, Ruth was forced to relocate her business, but the Chris Steak House name wasn’t allowed to come along. Short on time, Ruth improvised, adding her own name to the sign. That made it “Ruth’s Chris Steak House,” and voila, the legendary name was born.

Known as the First Lady of Steak, Ruth Fertel was something special. From a 60-seat steak house, she built a business that spans the globe, but she never lost sight of her original recipe for success: perfect steak, warm hospitality and good times that never stop rolling.

The three Toronto locations are owned by Lana Duke, a native of St. Catharines, Ontario, who grew up in a foster home. Eventually moving on to Toronto, she left there at age 18 and moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, with only $350 to her name. To make ends meet, she took jobs selling pots and pans door-to-door and as a short-order cook. Lana soon graduated to advertising, first at the Clarion-Herald newspaper in New Orleans, where she worked her way up to advertising director. Then, in 1975, with $10,000 in savings, she opened her own ad agency. Duke Unlimited would eventually become the largest woman-owned agency in the Gulf South. In the years to come, Lana would often be called the “secret weapon” behind some of the great success stories in American business.

In 1968, Lana made a sales call on a single mother who was running a popular steak house on Broad Street in Mid-City New Orleans. Before long, Lana’s agency had the Ruth’s Chris Steak House account and Lana began a 26-year professional relationship and personal friendship with Ruth Fertel. She worked hand-in-hand with Ruth to develop the successful marketing program that helped grow Ruth’s Chris Steak House from two restaurants in Louisiana to the world’s largest fine dining steak house brand.

“We were best friends,” Lana told me in an interview. 

For Ruth’s Chris, Lana always kept her focus on selling the steak and the sizzle. “We took one central idea – the sizzling steak is the star – and stayed with it over the years, never wavering but refining the concept, expanding it and building a No. 1 brand,” Lana says. She became a trusted counselor within the Ruth’s Chris organization, becoming involved with much more than the marketing. Lana helped with troubled restaurants and guided them to successful turnarounds; she spent many long days with Ruth and other Ruth’s Chris executives, brainstorming ways to improve the business and to make it even more successful.

Such a believer in the product was Lana that in 1993, she became a Ruth’s Chris franchise owner, opening her first restaurant in San Antonio. The restaurant was profitable from the beginning, and Lana was able to repay her investors early. In June 2000, a second Ruth’s Chris debuted in San Antonio and has since had a very successful relocation to the Grand Hyatt hotel on the River Walk in 2013. In 2015, San Antonio welcomed a third location on La Cantera Terrace next to the Eilan Hotel.

With a love for her Canadian roots, Lana opened her first Canadian location in downtown Toronto in 1995 inside the Hilton Hotel.  This spot continues to be profitable after 30 years of service. Another Canadian location opened in Mississauga, Ontario, in 2003 and made a successful transfer to a stand-alone building near the airport on Dixon Road in 2017. With the expansion of the downtown Markham area, Ruth’s Chris opened a third location in the new Marriott Hotel on Enterprise Boulevard in 2018.

“When Ruth told me of her plans to open in Toronto, I asked if she’d consider me,” Lana recalled. “How proud I was as a Canadian! 

Lana is involved in all her locations, but is also focused on giving more time and attention to giving back by helping to teach others how to be more successful. She is frequently asked to speak to a variety of business organizations, as well as to college and university audiences. Lana shares the advantages of having a vision, thinking big, delivering customer satisfaction, going with your gut and understanding the “Five P’s” of marketing – Product, Price, People, Place and Promotion. These are just a few of her suggested “Ten Tips for Success in this Crazy Business,” a speech she frequently gives to business and professional groups.

Lana has also recently started a Power of 100 Dinner series in Toronto.  The series is comprised of like-minded women dedicated to philanthropy, fellowship and a mission of helping those in need to better the community and have FUN while doing it. Events are held quarterly for fundraising with a twist: food, beverage, fellowship and fun. The attendees nominate their favorite non-profit at registration. Three individuals are randomly chosen, and the nominee has the opportunity to tell us why their non-profit should be considered for selection. During the event, an open vote is taken for the winning featured non-profit. Each attendee then writes their check for $100 to be paid directly to the selected non-profit. With community as a focus, Power of 100 has donated to local Toronto-based charities such as Debra Canada, KIP and Covenant House.

Lana says the greatest lesson she has learned over the years is that something good can come from even the worst experiences and that adversity makes you a stronger person. While Lana didn’t always have the support of a family to guide her, she worked harder to achieve greater opportunities and to open doors for her future, which otherwise might have remained closed. Lana’s mantra became: “Even if you don’t feel confident, fake it ‘til you make it!   Be assertive and learn to speak with confidence.”   She also believes that out of everything bad comes something good, a lesson learned throughout the challenging experiences in her life.

From their expertly broiled USDA Prime cuts and fresh seafood to handcrafted cocktails and warm, attentive service, every meal at Ruth’s Chris is crafted with care and tradition.  

We arrived at the Hilton Hotel at Richmond and University Street, where they serve  USDA prime steaks, the freshest seafood and poultry, imaginative side dishes, unforgettable desserts and an award-winning wine list. 

Our server was Kimberly, who has worked at this location for 27 years and had high praise for Lana. “It is not like working for a corporation,” she said. “We feel very close to Lana. It’s the reason why so many of us have worked here for a long time.”

As some warm bread arrived at the table, we started off with some drinks and allowed Kimberly to guide us through the menu. She was extremely thorough, providing some good recommendations. There were three of us on this night and given the large portions, we were advised to share

We began with some appetizers, leading off with the house favorite, the sizzling crab cakes. The two jumbo lump crab cakes,  with lemon butter, melted in our mouths. We also enjoyed 12 fresh seasonal oysters.

At Ruth’s Chris, your steak is carefully selected from the finest USDA Prime beef available. It is aged to perfection and cut by hand at the restaurant. Then, your cut is broiled to your exact order – at a searing 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit to lock in the corn-fed flavor and natural juices. It’s served hot and sizzling. In fact, you can actually hear your steak sizzling from across the room on a buttered plate at 500 degrees.

We chose the porterhouse for two, a 40-ounce USDA prime cut, combining the rich flavor of a strip and the tenderness of a filet. It was more than enough for three of us to share. In fact, we had two pieces left that we packed up to enjoy the next day.

As for sides, we went for the crab fried rice and the au gratin potatoes. The former had an absolutely delicious taste. This dish contained jasmine rice, crabmeat, ginger, vegetables and fish sauce. The former consisted of  Idaho potatoes and three cheese sauce.

We did save room for dessert and let me tell you that the portions here are very generous. The warm apple pie was truly something special, coming with ice cream. We also opted for the key lime pie.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House can seat over 200 diners.   You enter via a dedicated entrance at street level and take an elevator to the entrance. In 2019, the restaurant underwent a major renovation.

As for whether Montreal was ever considered for a Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Lana told me that there have been discussions in the past, but nothing came of it.

Ruth’s Chris Downtown Toronto is located at  145 Richmond Street West at the Hilton Hotel. For more information, call (416) 955-1455 or log on to www.ruthschris.ca. Hours of operation are Monday to Thursday, from  3 pm to 10 pm;  Friday and Saturday, from  4 pm to 10 pm; and Sunday, from 3 pm to 9 pm. Happy Hour is 3 pm to 6 pm daily.

RED LOBSTER: Now that I will be coming to Toronto a few times a year for family reasons, one of my first scouting missions involved finding the closest Red Lobster location from where we were staying. Only a few blocks away on downtown Bay Street was one of the largest Red Lobster locations I have ever seen. In fact , it seats over 260 people.

Let me first commend the excellent customer service provided by  Director of Operations Sergio Torres, General Manager Senthuran Thevabalan and Restaurant Manager Azaria Thompson. Over the previous four years, my Red Lobster fix was well taken care of via trips to Ottawa.

Last year, Red Lobster came out of bankruptcy protection and had to close several locations in the United States. The chain is present in four Canadian provinces – Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Quebec last saw a Red Lobster some 30 years ago. New ownership has placed Red Lobster back into a good business position.

Our server Ana Maria started us off with some drinks and brought us the always much-anticipated basket of house-made cheddar biscuits.  Be careful! They are so delicious that you can fill yourself up pretty quickly.

For appetizers, we opted for piping hot cups of clam chowder and lobster bisque, accompanied by crackers.

As for the main course, I chose the ultimate feast: Maritime lobster tail, garlic shrimp, snow crab legs and Walt’s Favourite Shrimp.  It was served with rice. I put on my lobster bib and slowly enjoyed every morsel.

The other members of our party went for a one and a quarter pound lobster, with a side of mashed potatoes and  Walt’s Favourite Shrimp. The latter came hand-breaded, butterflied and lightly fried, served with cocktail sauce and a choice of one side.   We had a surprise when Ana Maria brought a two-pound lobster to the table. That meant a nice box of leftovers for the next day.

We saved some space for dessert and shared a delicious piece of key lime pie.

The restaurant is completely handicap accessible, with easy street access and all on one very large level.

Being such a booster of the Red Lobster brand, I arranged for a much-coveted virtual meeting with  Red Lobster Regional Vice-President of Operations David Harling and Brand Marketing Manager for Canada Angela Tsiampas. I had so many questions about the chain and here was my chance to ask them.

Harling was a manager of the Toronto location we ate at for a number of years. Now he not only oversees the 27 restaurants in Canada, but also others in Michigan, Chicago, Central Pennsylvania and Upstate New York.  He told me that since the appointments of Damola Adamolekun and Larry Konecny as CEO and COO, respectively, at Red Lobster, the brand has never been stronger globally. Canada, by the way, was completely unaffected by the turmoil and each of the locations did very well. “We are such an iconic brand that everyone who is a fan of Red Lobster has been rooting for us,” he said.

Red Lobster is indeed the world’s largest and most-loved seafood restaurant company, headquartered in Orlando, Florida. With a proud heritage, Red Lobster is focused on serving the highest quality, freshly prepared seafood that is traceable, sustainable, and responsibly sourced.

 You can call and log on to www.redlobster.ca to access the complete menu.

EGGSPECTATION: I have long been a fan of the Eggspectation (www.eggspectation.com) restaurant chain. A few years ago, I met Enzo Renda, who has driven this business globally with a presence in other parts of Canada, the United States, Egypt, Pakistan, Qatar and the  United Arab Emirates.

There are actually more than 100 items on the Eggspectation menu. This place is a lot more than just breakfast.

The Eggspectation concept was created by Eggspectation Group, with its first restaurant in downtown Montreal in 1993. Since then, Eggspectation restaurants have become synonymous with innovation, high-quality food, excellent service, and a unique and exciting dining experience.

From the get-go, the Eggspectation team wanted to take its favorite mealtime ingredients and creatively expand their culinary taste delights across not just breakfast and brunch but also to lunch and dinner, set in a welcoming and energetic bar and café ambiance. This new level of innovation has led to today’s satisfying and diverse Eggspectation menu, ranging from freshly prepared artisanal brioche French toast, thin French crêpes, Belgian waffles, fluffy buttermilk pancakes, pastas, burgers, seafood, steak, and—of course—eggs Benedict! Those Montreal beginnings have grown to fit today’s fresh, clean, and very tasty modern American cuisine.

Each franchise has a different feel to it.  While in Toronto, I noticed that there was an Eggspectation downtown, at the corner of  Bay Street and Albert, right near a main entrance to Eaton Centre. The manager and franchisee is none other than  Bennett Renda. Yep, he is the son of Enzo and has been running this location for 11  years. My breakfast companion this morning was an old friend whom I grew up with in Montreal, who has lived in Toronto for three decades.  This was his first Eggspectation experience and he was impressed.`

We started off by sharing some gooey goose bread, something not available in Quebec. This is freshly baked bread, coated in house-made salted maple caramel sauce and dusted with cinnamon and sugar. It was a real treat.

My friend went for the Huevos Rancheros,  two free-range eggs, prepared any style, piled on tortillas, layered with refried beans, ground chorizo, avocado, jalapeños, house-made pico de gallo, and cilantro-lime aioli. He told me this is always his “go-to”  item when he orders breakfast at a restaurant. I chose the All American:  two free-range eggs, prepared any style, with applewood-smoked bacon, ham, and sausage. This was served with the trademark Eggspectation’s Lyonnaise-style potatoes.

I sat down with Bennett after my meal.  Watch my interview with him on Instagram.

This attractive location has two entrances, one interior via an office building and another off of Albert Street. There are 90 seats inside, including 12 at the bar and 90 more on the seasonal patio

Bennett grew up in RDP and Pierrefonds and got his first taste of Eggspectation when he worked as a busboy at the then Rockland Centre location. While he considered a career as an electrician, he knew that he was destined to become part of the family business. When the opportunity arose to head up a new Toronto restaurant, the 35-year-old jumped at it.

The place was packed the morning I was there. “Business is good,” he said. “We get a lot of foot traffic and many customers from Montreal. The location is terrific. Indeed, we benefit from the tourist trade and our proximity to Eaton Centre and Nathan Phillips Square.”

This Toronto location recently underwent a significant facelift, closing up shop for four months to spruce the place up.

I will certainly make Eggspectation a regular stop now on my future Toronto visits

Eggspection Toronto is located at 483 Bay Street, #130.  For more information, call 416-979-3447 or log on to www.eggspectation.ca

THE TORONTO BLUE JAYS: I went to see a Blue Jays baseball game at the Rogers Centre in Toronto. It was a privilege to get a press pass with access to the field before the game and a spot in the press box.

The Blue Jays play at Rogers Centre, conveniently located near Union Station as well as within easy walking distance of TTC streetcar stops on King St. (at Peter St. & John St.) and Spadina Ave. (Bremner Blvd.). Drivers coming to Rogers Centre, from either the east or west, can take the Gardiner Expressway to Spadina Ave. and head north to Bremner Blvd.

Rogers Centre offers five Outfield Neighbourhoods (bluejays.com/outfielddistrict): Corona Rooftop Patio, TD Park Social,   The Stop, the  Catch Bar, and WestJet Flight Deck. These spaces are available to anyone with a valid Blue Jays ticket.

The 35-year-old stadium was recently renovated to the tune of $400 million, overhauling the fan and player experiences. In keeping with that, you can take advantage of a ballpark tour by logging on to   bluejays.com/tour

Fans are also invited to shop at Jay’s Shop,   located beside Gate 5. Jays Shop is the largest team store in all of Canada. Fans can enter from street level between 10 am to 5 pm, seven days a week (note: hours subject to change on Toronto Blue Jays home game days). Fans attending Blue Jays games can enter the store at Section 110 upon entering Rogers Centre.  

Log on to www.destinationtoronto.com

The post Summer 2025 in Toronto offers a full spectrum of activities  first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

By Alexandra Cohen

Big Bus Tours is the largest operator of open-top sightseeing bus tours in the whole wide world. Inspiring the spirit of adventure in over 25 cities across four continents. Beginning with a fleet of three, today hundreds of buses and guides are helping over four million tourists explore each year.

Their aims are simple: to make hop on, hop off sightseeing the number one thing to do on your city break, offer a day or two (or three) of memorable, cultured and even educational fun and to help you tick off the best bits their world-famous cities have to offer, and then some.  

While in Rome, Italy, the Big Bus Tours represented our first activity. Seated on the top deck, it represented the perfect introduction to the city and the best photo opportunities of iconic landmarks. This daytime sightseeing tour showcased the Eternal City in all of its glory: the  Colosseum, Circus Maximus, Piazza Venezia, Piazza Navona Fountain, Vatican City, and more, with stops located nearby so we could hop off the bus to explore them at our own pace. During the tour, we were able to  tune in to pre-recorded commentary, which is available in a variety of languages

When you book the tour, you will need to select the date you’d like to hop on the bus. If you’re touring with them for more than one day, your ticket must be used across consecutive days, and the date you select at the time of booking should be the first day of your tour. Some tours also require you to select a time of travel to secure your seat. If your ticket has extra inclusions, you may also need to book dates and times for these inclusions after your purchase is complete via their  Booking Portal.

Services operate daily from 9 am to 6 pm, so see the  Service Information page on their website for tour schedule information and notices. Alternatively, you can check times with a Big Bus Tours team member. Buses pull up at each stop every 20 minutes

Educational and informative pre-recorded commentary is available on board all buses. Tune in via complimentary headphones to learn secrets and stories about the rich history of Rome, its famous inhabitants, dazzling architecture and vibrant culture. Commentary is available in the following languages: English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Brazilian, Portuguese and Mandarin. Your complimentary headphones are distributed when you board the bus. They are brand new and you are welcome to keep them!  Info: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/rome/rome-routes-and-tour-maps

The post When in Rome, the Big Bus Tours will get your trip started first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

By Mike Cohen

There are so many terrific museum-like tours to enjoy when visiting Ottawa and over the last few years, I have taken many of them.  The Royal Canadian Mint was always on my list and I must say the private tour I received from guide Jasmin was a real educational experience.

First off, there are two Royal Canadian Mints: the one on Sussex Drive in Ottawa and the one in Winnipeg.

The Royal Canadian Mint’s headquarters occupies the same historic building in Ottawa where it was founded in 1908.  This facility produces world-renowned collector coins, gold and silver bullion, and medals and medallions that honour those who have made a significant impact on Canada, Winnipeg is where the loonie, toonie, dimes and nickels are produced.

On the tour, you will get a bird’s eye view of the production floor and come away with a better understanding of the numismatic coin-making process. Here you will learn about the skill and precision that goes into coin design while getting a closer look at their state-of-the-art gold refining technology. I stared right into their record-breaking “Million Dollar Coin” and got up close and personal with the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games medals.

Jasmin pointed to a 575 kg piece of coil and asked me what I thought it was worth. I had no idea. When she told me $6.2 million, I was floored.

The boutique offers a wide range of beautiful coins and commemorative circulation sets. There are also offer Mint branded items and Canadian-themed souvenirs that are perfect keepsakes to remember your visit.

In order for the Royal Canadian Mint to comply with its obligations including those under the Proceeds of Crime (money laundering) Terrorist Financing Act, if you are planning on purchasing Royal Canadian Mint bullion product(s) through one of the boutiques, you may be required to provide official Government issued identification and/or any other information deemed appropriate by the Royal Canadian Mint before completing your purchase. Examples of situations when this would occur include cash purchases and larger-value transactions.

Tours last about 45 minutes and they are available in both official languages. Due to a fluctuating production schedule, not all tours are guaranteed to view live coin production during your visit.

All coins manufactured by the Royal Canadian Mint are legal tender. However, unlike Canadian circulation coins, collector coins are non-circulating legal tender (NCLT). As such, these coins are not intended for daily commercial transactions and accepting them as payment or for redemption is at the discretion of businesses and financial institutions.

As collector coins can only be redeemed at face value by businesses and financial institutions willing to accept them, it is recommended that individuals wishing to sell a collector coin first consult with a coin dealer, who is more likely to offer a price above face value.

The first coin officially made at the Royal Canadian Mint was a fifty-cent circulation coin. Governor General Earl Grey activated the press on January 2, 1908, which struck Canada’s first domestically produced coin. A few moments later, Countess Grey struck the second coin ever produced at the Royal Canadian Mint – a copper penny. Jasmin showed me models of two 106 kg coins produced in 2007. Their face value was $1 million each and they were sold to the Royal Ontario Museum and a businessman from Dubai who brought it back to his country and made it into a coffee table. In honor of the 125^th anniversary of the Stanley Cup in 2017, the Mint made a palm-size replica and sold copies for $360 each.

The production of banknotes is the responsibility of the Bank of Canada.

Foreign circulation products and supplies are another pillar of the Mint’s Circulation Business. They have more than 100 years of experience delivering coins, coin blanks and tokens to customers around the world, including central banks, mints, monetary authorities and finance ministries. The Mint also produces high technology dies for international customers, which allows countries to strike their own coins. These contracts leverage the infrastructure and industry-leading expertise in the Mint’s Winnipeg manufacturing facility.

The Mint produces colored circulation coins for international customers, using its high-speed, high-resolution pad printing technology.  Examples include the award-winning 50-cent Armistice coin produced in 2018 for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, the Barbados 2021 $1 “Flying Fish,” the first glow-in-the-dark colored coin produced for circulation abroad, and the world’s first double-sided coloured circulation coin, issued in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Central Bank of the Bahamas.

The Mint is an award-winning numismatics market leader, producing a great variety of innovative and diversely themed collector coins, from entry-level to premium offerings, for every type of customer.  Its numismatic product plan places the customer at the center of its product development so that the coins respond to their needs and interests.  At the same time, the Mint is focused on making coins that represent Canada’s history, culture and values, while also reflecting Canadian diversity.  

Thanks to its world-class designs, the Mint’s global leadership in the art and science of minting is consistently recognized with prestigious international awards in large part due to innovative technology enhancements such as ultra-high relief, selective plating and stunning colour that allow the Mint to create unique and compelling products. Mint.ca continues to rank among the top destinations for online numismatic coin purchases in Canada and around the world, a direct result of the Mint’s focus on building traffic to its website in order to grow direct sales, as well as the secondary market for collector coins. 

The Mint is the recipient of many industry awards for the theme, design or innovative qualities of its numismatic coins. Chief among these are the Coin of the Year Awards (USA) and the Mint Director’s Conference Awards (international).

The Mint is an experienced and respected manufacturer of high-quality, handcrafted medals commemorating events of national significance and honoring Canadians for their military and civilian achievements. Its most notable customers include the Canadian Forces, the Chancellery of Honours (Rideau Hall) and the RCMP.  Among the medals and honours crafted by the Mint are the athlete medals of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games and the 2015 Toronto PAN AM/PARA PAN AM Games, the Order of Yukon and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

The Royal Canadian Mint is located at 320 Sussex Drive. It is recommended you call 1-800-267-1871​ to book your tour at least 48 to 72 hours in advance. Walk-up tours are first-come, first-served and often sell out due to limited space.  The boutique is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm.

Info: https://www.mint.ca/en/visit-the-mint/ottawa-mint

LIVE BUTTERFLIES: Tropical butterflies are once again fluttering around the Canadian Museum of Nature’s solarium. Butterflies in Flight, a delightful exhibition of live, winged beauties, continues for a year until January 4, 2026. Dozens of butterfly species —such as the impressive, large blue morpho—flutter around the solarium at any given time. New interpretive panels in the adjacent Bugs Alive exhibition present information about pollinators and their important role. Pollinators boost the yield of crops such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, oils and fibres. Cross-pollination promotes the genetic diversity of wild plants.

The butterflies are supplied from sustainable farms in Costa Rica and the Philippines— transported to the Museum during their pupal stage and raised by the museum’s Animal Care specialists. Visitors will be able to see the pupae hanging in rows in the solarium and perhaps spot some butterflies starting to emerge. There is a species identification guide, as well as pinned specimens for close-up examination. Brightly coloured clothing is encouraged to attract the butterflies.

Entry into Butterflies in Flight is $6 in addition to the cost of general museum admission. In conjunction with Butterflies in Flight, the museum is presenting the Canadian premiere of the movie, Butterfly Journey. A story of adaptation and survival, the movie follows the vast migrations of the blue tigers of Australia and the monarchs of North America and Mexico. Butterfly Journey is produced by Stranger Than Fiction Films in association with Definition Films and distributed by K2 Studios.   Visit nature.ca to reserve tickets, or for information about hours, admission, and other activities.  

WINTERLUDE: One of the major cold weather attractions in Ottawa for the past 47 years has been Winterlude, with the 2025 edition set to take place from Jan. 21 to Feb.16. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from family-friendly activities to group adventures and date nights!  Visitors can look forward to stunning ice sculptures created by artists from around the world, skating on the world-famous Rideau Canal Skateway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and playing around in a gigantic snow playground called Snowflake Kingdom. 

Check out  https://ottawatourism.ca/en/see-and-do/winterlude 

DINING TIPS:  On each trip to Ottawa, I share with readers tips on where to dine.

Chez Lionel  

Groupe Grandio made its biggest headlines in recent years with the acquisition of iconic steakhouses Moishes and Gibbys. But the highly successful culinary operation has a host of other dining establishments in its stable and that includes the French brasserie Chez Lionel, which presently has five locations and a sixth on the way this spring.

While in Ottawa, we enjoyed our first experience in Kanata near the home of the NHL Senators, the Canadian Tire Centre. Chez Lionel was purchased by Groupe Grandio in 2022 and this locale marks its first outside of Quebec. The intention is to expand across the country. The others are in Boucherville, Brossard, Sainte-Therese and Laval (presently being renovated after flooding last summer).  In March the sixth Chez Lionel will debut in downtown Montreal at 1259 Rene-Levesque Ouest.

Chez Lionel made its debut in Boucherville in 2013. The name was inspired by the street Lionel-Daunais.  “At the beginning, the concept of the name was to be part of the community/neighbourhood, and we liked the name Lionel as it had a traditional French sound,” explained Denis. “After a bit of research, we found that Lionel Daunais was an opera singer – baritone which we found interesting being part of the entertainment district in Boucherville.

Frédéric Dufort has been the executive chef for Chez Lionel since it first opened. He rose to fame after appearing on the TV show Les Chefs! Initially specializing in market cuisine, his talent and creativity led him to familiarize himself with different techniques through internships, notably at Benu, the three-star Michelin restaurant in San Francisco, and then in Brooklyn. At the helm of Chez Lionel, he reinvents the classics of French brasserie-style cuisine.

The Kanata location has 96 seats in the dining room, 25 more at the bar and a seasonal patio that can accommodate 58, notes General Manager James Denis.  

It is located directly off Highway 417 at the ground level of a Holiday Inn. There is ample free parking. The interior is very attractive, with large chandeliers and mirrors.

Our server Rebecca made several menu recommendations.  We started off with some drinks, two Seville in blooms and one Lady Marmalade mocktail.

There is a nice array of appetizers. While I enjoyed a piping hot and absolutely delicious cream of butternut squash soup, with an “L” appearing in the broth, the other two members of our party shared the bluefin tataki, prepped with a wild caraway crust, pickled carrots, orange supreme, sesame carrot purée and carrot chips and the duck confit arancini, served with black garlic aioli, pickled mushrooms, grana padano, parmesan and watercress). I happily split the 12 oysters with them.

For the main course, I jumped at the opportunity to have the duck breast a l’orange. It cut like butter and had a pink peppercorn crust, coming with butternut squash purée, kumquat, marmalade, grand marnier gastrique and puffed wild rice. The others shared the seafood risotto and the braised beef cheek. The former contained lobster bisque, Argentine shrimps, bay scallops, green peas, garlic bread croutons and saffron mayonnaise; the former was prepared with red wine sauce, roasted Nantes carrots, confit cipollini onions, chanterelles and truffled celeriac purée

For dessert, we shared the tarte tatin, a pastry in which apples are caramelized in butter and sugar before being baked and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an irresistible macaron platter of six.

Other popular items on the menu include the ricotta ravioli with duck confit and truffles, tomahawk steaks, salmon and beef tartare, pan-seared Icelandic cod and butternut squash gnocchi. I can hardly wait to go back to one of the Montreal-area locations closer to home.

Chez Lionel is located at 101 Kanata Ave. suite 100. For reservations call  613 518-2113, e-mail kanata@chezlionel.ca, or log on to www.chezlionel.ca

Ember in Ottawa’s Byward Market

One of Ottawa’s newest restaurants is Ember, which opened on Clarence Street in the Byward Market last June.  The name goes well with its Argentinian-style charcoal grill and wood-fired pizza oven. Cody Nicholl and Kyle Wilson are partners in this endeavor; Nicholl is a noted mixologist here while Wilson is the head chef, having honed his skills as head of the food and beverage division at the Canadian Tire Centre. They also run nearby Bar Ocelli and Lowertown Brewery.

Located in the former premises of the Cornerstone Bar and Grill, Ember can accommodate 105 people in the multi-level dining room, with a front patio for 44 and another on the side set to make its debut next summer.  “Honestly, I did not think Kyle would jump ship with me,” Nichol said of his star recruit. “It has been great to see him build a team, all of whom were handpicked. We did not even have to advertise.”  

Nicholl said a goal for Ember is to become a destination higher-end restaurant with friendly pricing. Because of his background as a mixologist, Nicholl is proud of the array of cocktails and wines offered. “The Ottawa restaurant scene is really going through a transition stage,” he said. “I think it has provided a platform for young restaurateurs.

There is live music every Thursday night and an all-round great ambiance here.

At Ember, it is all about sharing and that is precisely what we did. After some drinks, a couple of matcha milk punches and a chardonnay, we ordered a half dozen Quebec/New Brunswick oysters, accompanied by fresh horseradish, lemon, hot sauce and house-made mignonette. Next came beef tartare with roasted marrow, each offering distinct rich flavors and textures. The tartare contained Dijon, gherkins, aged provolone, chives and brioche. As for the bone marrow, it took on a slightly caramelized edge.

Spicy crispy tuna is a fan-favorite at Ember and we could see why. This Nigiri-style dish comes in a beautiful set of three pieces. The flavorful raw tuna is tossed in a red Thai curry aioli and carefully piled on the bed of crispy rice and topped with a ponzu sauce, sesame and serrano peppers. 

The charcoal-kissed salmon crudo was superb, served with miso aioli, citrus ponzu, sesame, serrano, garlic oil, orange soy glaze and crispy shallo.

There was something new we all tried called wood-fired halloumi. Imported from the isle of Cyprus, this Mediterranean delicacy had cheese lovers like us wanting more.  It was pan-fried in a savory brown butter to give it that golden crust, then topped with sweet figs, juicy orange and tart lemon gremolata to bring together this incredibly flavorful appetizer.  It is finished with a honey drizzle, sesame and fresh dill.

The zucchini pesto pizza was another great choice. A lean, green, flavor-packed machine this beautifully unique pizza has a homemade pesto-based and three-cheese blend. Cooked to perfection in the wood-fired oven, it is topped with red onion, sliced zucchini and toasted pistachios to finish.  

We concluded with the 12-ounce char-grilled striploin. It was juicy, tender and grilled over charcoal to perfection, topped with some rich bordelaise sauce.

For dessert, we shared the Turkish lokma, made of leavened and deep-fried dough balls, soaked in syrup and coated with cinnamon.

The menu had many items that we will look at trying on our next visit, such as the whole roasted branzino, the roasted half-chicken and the rigatoni.  Sides include baby potatoes flavored with pesto, dill, and yogurt, grilled asparagus and Brussels sprouts.  

Ember is located at 92 Clarence Street in the  Byward Market. Log on to www.emberottawa.com or call 613-562-4700. They are open Tuesday to Sunday from 5 pm to 1 am. 

 Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd.

What would a trip to Ottawa be for me without dinner at my beloved Red Lobster?  There are two locations in the nation’s capital. However, our “go-to” spot is the one on St. Laurent Blvd. where general manager Ian Forrester, ably seconded by manager Owen Hoyt, has been greeting us for more than two decades.

Red Lobster recently came out of bankruptcy protection and had to close a number of locations in the United States. The chain is present in four Canadian provinces – Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Quebec last saw a Red Lobster some 30 years ago. New ownership has placed Red Lobster back into a good business position.

 There have been no issues of concern here in Ottawa where the parking lot on St. Laurent Blvd. is always packed with cars and it is common to find a lineup for tables out the door.

From lobster and pasta to crab, bacon and shrimp, the newest Red Lobster menu has been leaving guests’ taste buds singing. We felt right at home as the hostess showed us to a table in the very large second dining room. Our server was Karen, who like Forrester has been on board here for more than three decades.

We started off with some spiked strawberry lemonades and soon enough along came the mouthwatering and freshly baked Cheddar Bay Biscuits. They taste especially good right out of the oven. You can order as many as you wish and we do so, bringing some back to where we were staying to enjoy the following day.

For starters, two of us went for cups of piping hot clam chowder while the other member of our party tried the new lobster bisque.

The main course was next and there was no question for two us. We had been craving the live Maritime lobster and it came freshly boiled and nicely cracked so we could enjoy every morsel, along with the dipping garlic butter and two sides each. This was as good a lobster as one could expect at five five-star restaurant. The other member of our party wanted a little variety and she chose Walt’s  Shrimp Your Way; regular shrimp, garlic shrimp, a Maritime lobster tail along with some mashed potatoes on the side.

While we were quite full, the chocolate wave dessert looked too good to pass up so we asked Karen to bring us three forks and plates to share. It came with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream and some chocolate sauce

There are a whole lot more choices at Red Lobster, which is a good reason why Forrester and Hoyt see so many regulars come here often more than once a week. There are also Montrealers who frequently drive in on a weekend evening to dine. They do accept reservations, as well as a convenient take-out service and delivery.

Some of the newer menu options include lobster pappardelle pasta, lemon basil mahi, grilled mahi,  parmesan-crusted chicken and a roasted asparagus side.! Fan favorites include popcorn shrimp snow crab legs, sea scallops, salmon, shrimp and tilapia tacos, burgers and salads as well as a kids menu.

Red Lobster is indeed the world’s largest and most-loved seafood restaurant company, headquartered in Orlando, Florida. With a proud heritage, Red Lobster is focused on serving the highest quality, freshly prepared seafood that is traceable, sustainable, and responsibly sourced. 

This Ottawa Red Lobster is located at 1499 St. Laurent Blvd. They are open seven days a week from 11 am to 10 pm. You can call  514-744-7560 and log on to www.redlobster.ca to access the complete menu.

Cindy’s  Restaurant  

 One of the things I love about the Ottawa dining scene is the wide choice of diner-style restaurants that serve up good old-fashioned breakfasts.

Over the last few years, I have looked for little gems and I found one again in Cindy’s Family Restaurant. It is in a small strip shopping center in an industrial sector of the Ottawa suburb of Nepean.

“Cindy” is owner Cindy Shields who told me that the restaurant has been in her family for 35 years.  I met my friend Jack, who lives in the area, and when I arrived on a Monday morning at about 8:15 am almost all the 54 seats were taken, and it was clear to me these were regulars. On my out, I spoke to a few of the clients, many of whom said they have been coming here for many years. “I like the service and the atmosphere,” one fellow told me. 

Cindy a charming woman who shows people to their tables and does all the serving while her kitchen staff doles out large generous portions of whatever you order. It is her cousin George, a big Dallas Cowboys fan, who has been the main chef for the past three decades. Her mom and daughter help from time to time as do other family members.

I decided to order the I’m Hungry Special, which included three eggs over easy, two slices of bacon, two sausages, ham, home fries, toast, two slices of tomato and a cup of tea. This kind of breakfast is always a treat and I was not disappointed.

Jack went for the veggie omelette, which contained mushrooms, onions, peppers and tomato. He was beyond impressed with the size of the plate and had some baked beans on the side.

There are a variety of egg dishes and omelettes, as well as pancakes,  French toast, sandwiches and bagelwiches.

Breakfast service ends at 11 am and lunch is then served until 2 pm, with more sandwiches, salads, wraps, burgers, chicken tenders and other tasty items.

If you are visiting Ottawa with your family or reside in the area, I think this restaurant is worth the trip. It is just a fun place to dine where everyone has a big smile on their face and so happy to be there. I felt the warmth in this place and while I just met Cindy, I left with a very high opinion of how she runs this operation.

Cindy’s Restaurant is located at 15 Capella Crt # 117. You can call  613-727-9362 and log on to their Facebook page at fb.me/cindysrestaurantottawa.  Take-out items are also very popular.

Dinty’s Restaurant in Aylmer 

Last summer I was driving through the town of Aylmer in the Gatineau region, just across the bridge from Ottawa, when I passed by a place called Dinty’s. Later I did some research on the place and it turned out to be something quite iconic. So, on my most recent visit, I dropped by and met  Jim Sourges. He owns the place with his brothers Andre and Louis.

First established here in the 1930s, the spot was originally named after the Dinty Moore character in the then-popular “Bringing Up Father” comic strip. In 1962, Greek immigrant Peter Sourges purchased the place with his wife Afroditi, undertaking significant renovations by adding booths with mini jukeboxes, pizza to the menu and home delivery.

A fire destroyed the interior of the restaurant in 1976 and it was renovated again, this time with a bar and a dining room. The late 80s saw a return to Greek heritage with the introduction of souvlaki and gyros to the menu along with the famous homemade dressing. In 2000, Peter and his family made a bold move and built a new facility on the same land. The new “Dintys” opened in November 2000, seating 140 inside and 50 more on a seasonal patio. There is a very large parking lot.

More recently, the restaurant was given a complete facelift. They shut down for six weeks and brought in DSD Groupe Design of Montreal, owned by Dimtri Smolens and Terry Construction of Montreal to give the place a much brighter and upscale look, complete with new flooring,  booths, lighting and décor. “We sold all of the old booths,”  said Jim. “So somewhere in Kingston, there is a pizza place that  has become somewhat of a replica of ours.”

Dad Peter passed away in 2017, but Mom is still going strong at age 87 and can be seen frequently at the restaurant. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The majority of customers come from the Aylmer area, including local Member of Parliament, Speaker of the House and West Island Montreal native Greg Fergus. However, my place in Ottawa was an easy 15-minute drive,  so it is well worth the visit if you are looking for a place with a large and diverse menu.

I joined Jim for breakfast, ordering the popular combo with a few extras:  bacon with rye toast, eggs over easy, crispy cubed potatoes, French toast and a cup of tea. It all came quite quickly and hit the spot nicely. There are a variety of other egg dishes, including benedicts and omelettes, as well as wraps, crêpes,  waffles, pancakes, kids’ meals and mimosas. The lunch and dinner menus feature Greek specialties such as souvlaki and pita options, fish, pasta, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, steak and poutine. The place is popular for groups and parties.

There is also a complete wine and cocktail selection.

Dinty’s is located at 620 Chemin d’Aylmer and is open seven days a week from 7 am to 9 pm. For more information  call 819-684-1771, log on to www.dintys.com or e-mail contact@dintys.com

The post The latest from Ottawa: The Royal Canadian Mint, Butterflies and Winterlude  first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

By Alexandra Cohen

The sky is cloudless and impossibly blue. There are orange and red desert mountains in the distance, with palm trees and cacti closer by. You have made it to your majestic and relaxing destination. You have arrived in Scottsdale. 

Scottsdale (https://www.experiencescottsdale.com is Arizona’s premier destination for fine dining, shopping and luxury resorts, and I am fortunate to have just returned from my first visit to the region. Scottsdale has over 240,000 citizens, making it one of the fastest-growing cities and housing markets in the United States, and it borders other well-known locations such as Phoenix, Paradise Valley, and Tempe, Arizona. 

Worried about the weather? There is no need, with Scottsdale boasting 330 days of sunshine per year and year-round swimming weather. 

WHERE TO STAY: Scottsdale has over 70 hotels and resorts, offering travelers a plethora of options. I chose the Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Villas (scottsdaleplaza.com), where I was fortunate enough to stay in a beautiful two-story villa. The hotel is incredibly well-located, where you are a 10 to 15-minute drive from all major shopping malls, Old Town Scottsdale, and the many nearby golf courses. While some of the villas are a longer walk from the hotel lobby due to the large, sprawling property, hotel employees are always happy to drive you across the property on one of their many golf carts, which can be found at the main entrance and appear at your door within minutes of your request. 

Our villa featured a private entrance, an upstairs bedroom with two queen-sized beds, and a main floor that included a living room, dining room, and kitchenette. There was a bathroom on each floor, as well as a balcony on the upper level and a patio on the main floor, where visitors may choose to eat outdoors. The unit also has a fireplace for those wishing to get cozy on one of Arizona’s rare chilly evenings. 

One thing that I was looking forward to about my visit was the opportunity to lounge at the pool and enjoy the lovely weather. The Scottsdale Plaza offers visitors a total of five temperature-controlled pools to choose from, including an upper and lower deck main pool, a villa pool, a courtyard pool, and a casita pool (for those wishing for a quieter experience or those preferring to walk shorter distances from their more peripherally located rooms). All pools are open for guest use between 7 am and 11 pm daily. My traveling partner and I spent the majority of our time at the main pool, which also features a large, spa-sized hot tub, as well as fantastic food and drink service. We were able to sample many tasty menu items, including the crispy cheese quesadillas, the chicken tenders served with kettle chips, and the turkey club wrap. We also enjoyed several of their cocktails, which can be enjoyed from your seat, in the pool, or at one of the many available tables. 

For an elevated pool experience, you can rent one of the hotel’s private shaded cabanas, which come equipped with sofa seating, two reserved lounge chairs, as well as an umbrella. The cabana also comes with a mini fridge that contains water bottles and snacks, a dedicated server, chilled towels infused with aromatherapy oil, as well as a complimentary round of select canned seltzers or beers. This experience can be booked by anybody, regardless of whether or not they are staying at the hotel. My cabana experience was incredibly relaxing, and I highly recommend it – we truly did not want to leave at the end of the day!

For those who are a little bit more athletically inclined, the property also offers tennis courts, which I often saw guests using to play both tennis and pickleball. The court neighbours the property’s 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center, though given the beautiful weather, some may prefer to exercise outdoors by going for a walk or run across the 40-acre property. Naturally, there are also many nearby trails for those looking to hike. 

Moving back in the direction of relaxation, I had the opportunity during my stay to visit the Scottsdale Plaza’s Salon & Spa, located directly next to the main pool. While the spa offers a large menu of options, I chose the 50-minute Shea Butter Melt Massage, which I would do again on my next visit. In addition to offering the relaxation of a traditional massage, the warm shea butter is outstanding for dehydrated skin and enhances the experience. In addition to the salon and massage spaces, the spa also offers a relaxation room with tea, chilled water, and complimentary snacks, and of course, a sauna. To book your appointment, arrange a group visit, or ask any questions, you can call 480-951-5150. It is recommended to book any services two weeks before your treatment day to ensure availability.  

For any dining needs while on-site, the property has a market for grab-and-go needs (which we frequented daily to pick up breakfast items such as croissants and bagels, as well as juice and other snacks), and two restaurants: JD’s Restaurant & Lounge and the Garden Court. Both are available for dine-in, to-go, and in-room delivery. This is in addition to Café Cabana, which is their poolside dining experience. 

The Scottsdale Plaza is located at 7200 N. Scottsdale Road. For more information or to book your next visit, you can call 1-800-832-2025, e-mail resmail@scottsdaleplaza.com, or log on to www.scottsdaleplaza.com. 

DINING OUT

LINCOLN STEAKHOUSE: My first meal of the trip was at The Lincoln Steakhouse & Bar, which is located at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. While I was expecting the fare that one would typically see at any establishment labeled as a steakhouse, I was pleasantly surprised by the special and delicious meal that I was served. 

Named after the Lincoln Red, which is a famous English breed of cattle, this steakhouse serves up locally sourced American cuisine, shareable plates, and craft cocktails. Its menu changes slightly along with the seasons. I arrived just in time for their recently unveiled fall menu, prepared by the very talented Chef John Fraser, who has been at the helm since November 2022. 

Visitors may wish to dine indoors or on one of their several patios. I arrived for my meal just as the sun was setting, and the mountain view, along with the twinkle lights above the dining area, was truly a site to behold. 

To start our meal, we shared some of the chef’s favourite starters, which included the incredibly fresh and light-tasting Hamachi crudo, served with white soy, orange blossom vinegar, pickled grapes, and serrano peppers. We also tasted the creatively plated lobster escargot, which includes pieces of lobster served in traditional escargot format with scampi butter and pieces of noble sourdough bread on the side, and a truly delicious steak tartare dish, which was served with bone marrow alongside capers, cornichons, black garlic aioli, crispy garlic chips, and shaved quail egg. 

The restaurant is located at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn, Resort and Spa (https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/phxcb-jw-marriott-scottsdale-camelback-inn-resort-and-spa/overview/) at 5402 E Lincoln Drive. For reservations, please call 1 480-948-1700. It is open seven days a week, from 5 pm to 10 pm. 

HOUSE BRASSERIE: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Old Town Scottsdale, you will find The House Brasserie, where we enjoyed an excellent meal under the stars. Built in 1939 and nestled in one of Scottsdale’s more historic blocks, The House Brasserie is indeed one of the region’s oldest-standing residences. Aside from having constructed an add-on to their kitchen a decade ago, the building’s exterior is still in its original form. Whether you choose to eat inside the comfortable and air-conditioned dining room or outdoors on the large patio, which truly feels like the well-decorated backyard of somebody’s home, you will undoubtedly feel at ease dining at this establishment. 

For dinner, we of course ordered one of the restaurant’s signature prime steaks, a 14 oz ribeye which was truly cooked to perfection. This steak was one of the best that I have had the privilege to taste; it verged on Wagyu in terms of its quality and truly could have been cut with a butter knife if needed. With the steak, we also enjoyed the goat cheese potato gratin and the wild mushroom risotto, one of the new dishes from the fall menu, which was served with crispy enoki, sherry gastrique, and a spinach foam with an earthy flavour and hints of parmesan. Finally, for dessert we savored the JW cheesecake with raspberry sauce, which was truly delectable, and the Lincoln Rocher, a rich and incredibly tasty chocolate cake. 

While the property is old and historic, the restaurant itself opened in 2012 and was purchased by its current owner, Joseph Ieraci, in 2018. He manages the restaurant alongside his sister Anna and his wife Julie. Joseph told us that, unsurprisingly, he immediately fell in love with the location and its multiple outdoor patios surrounded by towering trees and gorgeous landscaping. “This is not your run-of-the-mill restaurant space,” he said. “It’s a unique indoor-outdoor setup that reminds me of the restaurants we used to own in Southern California, where you want to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather.” 

Joseph said he works very closely with Chef Dustin Wheeler. “We collaborate a lot on the menu,” he said. “I grew up in the restaurant business. It has been at least 50 years since I have been in the kitchen. I remember tossing pizzas and making pasta at the age of eight. From the beginning, Dustin and I talked about similar things like creating experiences, having fun with food, and going to the farmer’s market. We connected right away through the same thought process.” 

Indeed, it was clear from my time spent at this restaurant that those behind the menu were having fun with the food. We started with an amouse bouche – puff pastry topped with parmesan cheese– and the flavourful rose summer sangria. We then went on to sample some of their recommended starters, with my personal favourite being the whipped feta, described on the menu as including crow dairy farm feta, house-marinated house marinated olives, fig jam, honeycomb, and slices of toast. We also tried the escargots de Bourgogne which is served with garlic bone marrow butter, artisan bread, shallots, and fine herbs, as well as another favourite of mine, which was the Hudson Valley foie gras. While I have not always been a fan of foie gras, this dish was not to be missed. It was served with smoked peach pie,  bordelaise sauce, and topped with pieces of sorghum popcorn. 

For our main course, we enjoyed the branzino, which is the perfect light dish for all the fish lovers out there and comes with celery root velouté, sautéed spinach, roasted corn, oregano vert, and pickled radishes. The restaurant’s other popular fish dish, which we did not sample on that night, is the Chilean sea bass, which is served with Israeli couscous, yakitori leeks, pancetta, roasted sunchoke puree, and champagne gastrique. We also tried the filet mignon, a cut that is flown in regularly from Chicago, which was served with toasted farro, grilled cherries, marinated beech mushrooms, apples, poblano romesco, and bordelaise sauce. Finally, for dessert, we enjoyed the housemaid beignets made with smoked cinnamon, sugar, and a salted caramel foam for dipping. 

In terms of accessibility, there are 125 seats on the patio and 60 seats indoors. To enter the indoor dining room, there is one step, though a ramp is also available for wheelchairs. The patios are completely wheelchair accessible, as are the washrooms, which can be accessed directly from the outdoors and take up residence in the house’s former garage. 

The House Brasserie is located at 6936 East Main Street. It is open Monday through Saturday, from 5 pm. You can call 1 480-634-1600 or log on to www.thehousebrasserie.com

MARCELLINO RISTORANTE: Seeking an authentic Italian fine dining experience during your trip? In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, you will find Marcellino Ristorante (www.marcellinoristorante.com), helmed by Chef Marcellino Verzino and his wife Sima. While the restaurant’s patio offers a lovely view of a bustling corner of the old town, we elected to eat indoors because we were fortunate enough to visit on an evening with live music, which is often performed by Sima herself alongside her All-Star Trio. During our meal, we were therefore treated to a wonderful jazz performance. 

During our meal, we were treated to a tasting menu, which featured a starter of bruschetta and cheese, followed by scallops al pesto. The Italian tradition once appetizers are complete is to start with a primi course, featuring pasta, followed by a second course, which features seafood or meat. For our prime course, we sampled two of the restaurant’s pasta dishes: the gnocchi sorrentina served with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella, a dish that truly melted in our mouth, and the spinach and ricotta ravioli topped with butter and fresh sage sauce. Before visitors make the difficult choice of which pasta dish to sample, amidst the restaurant’s many options, their server brings them a large plate that demonstrates the many special kinds of pasta available, including tortelloni stuffed with pureed filet mignon, and handcrafted porcini-infused fettucine with chunks of fresh lobster, sauteed with shiitake mushrooms and truffle oil. For our second, we were served one of the restaurant’s specials, the branzino dish, which was topped with white wine and butter sauce and was served alongside an incredibly fluffy dollop of mashed potato as well as lemon, capers, grilled carrot, and zucchini. Finally, for dessert, we tasted the restaurant’s walnut biscotti and cream, as well as the panna cotta. 

Chef Marcellino Verzino was born on his family’s farm in the Campania region of Italy and began cooking at the age of 12. Throughout his career, he has been a personal chef, opened restaurants in Calabria and Abruzzo, cooked on the island of Poros, Greece, and owned trendy bistros in both Rome and New York City. Today, he and his wife proudly continue to serve historic Italian recipes, with the finest and freshest ingredients. As part of Vezino’s passion for offering a complete dining experience, the restaurant has specifically been recognized for its wine selection, including the 2023 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. The restaurant’s wine menu and reserve lists feature over 100 selections in addition to an exclusive “Secret Cellar” menu. This ultra-reserve list features a collection of rare wines that Chef Marcellino has been accumulating for the past 20 years. Wine dinners and cooking classes are presented regularly. Our meal was paired with a bottle of Falanghina, a tasty and fresh white wine that paired wonderfully with each of our courses. Remaining on the theme of the chef and his roots, this wine hails from his home region of Campania.  

Marcellino Ristorante is located at 7114 E. Stetson Dr.  

THINGS TO DO IN SCOTTSDALE: Looking to explore the city and its surrounding regions? There are plenty of things to do in the Scottsdale area, starting with Camelback Mountain, which is one of the most prominent outdoor destinations in Arizona. Take one of many scenic hikes in the area, or consider engaging in some rock climbing.

The Phoenix Zoo is another nearby option, with 140 animals spanning 125 acres of land. Creatures available to visit include lions, giraffes, monkeys, iguanas, wolves, bears, and more. Additionally, The Phoenix Zoo has partnered with KultureCity to improve its ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory processing needs. Sensory bags containing fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones and other resources, are available for checkout at Reception and the Safari Cruiser Station. Weighted lap pads are also available upon request at the Safari Cruiser Station. 

In the same vein, you may wish to explore Butterfly Wonderland, which is the largest indoor butterfly sanctuary in America. Butterfly Wonderland has a limited number of wheelchairs available on a first-come first come, first serve basis. Wheelchairs are located at the Guest Services desk.   They also offer hearing assistance devices for people with and without hearing aids.

For those who like to shop, there are plenty of neighborhoods and shopping centers to explore. Fashion Square Mall is the largest shopping center in the American Southwest, with over 225 stores and 2,000,000 square feet of retail space. The mall, located approximately 10 minutes from the Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Spa, is anchored by Macy’s, Dillard’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus.  Wheelchair and scooter rental are available, as well as valet parking. Kierland Commons is another beautiful, upscale outdoor lifestyle center with tons of stores and restaurants available. Finally, consider Old Town Scottsdale not only for dinner, but for boutique shopping, cozy restaurants, art galleries, and wine tastings. 

The post Scottsdale stands out as Arizona’s premier destination first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

As Canada’s capital, Ottawa (https://ottawatourism.ca)  is the perfect place to experience some of the country’s best attractions, celebrations and flavors in one welcoming city. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, and vibrant neighbourhoods, the Ottawa region is best explored over several days or more. Since I often go there for family reasons, an extended trip is usually on the agenda as was the case this past summer.

What can we recommend?

Let’s start off with the seat of Canada’s federal government and the setting for national celebrations the year round. Parliament Hill is the most visited Ottawa attraction. Guided tours are free and include the Senate, House of Commons, East Block and Parliament: The Immersive Experience. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance.

Ottawa cultural attractions, museums and galleries invite visitors to experience the best of Canada all in one place. Whether it’s the stunning National Gallery of Canada, with world-class art on display, or the dramatic Canadian War Museum, these are the experiences that bring Canadian culture to life for any visitor.  

A historic farmers’ market and shopping district by day, a favorite gathering place of restaurants and clubs by night is the ByWard Market, just east of Parliament Hill. This is one Ottawa neighbourhood you won’t want to miss.

A historic waterway filled with boaters spring through fall and the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink in winter,  the Rideau Canal winds through the heart of Ottawa before connecting with the Ottawa River through dramatic stepped locks right next to Parliament Hill.

Have you ever considered trying whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Ottawa River, some of the continent’s finest, then top it off with some bungee jumping? The Ottawa region is also a cycling enthusiast’s dream destination, with around 800 kilometres (497 miles) of recreational pathways linking natural areas, parks, gardens and national sites.

Ottawa is a city of celebrations, offering visitors a year-round calendar of parties, festivals and special events. Admire over a million tulips and enjoy special programming throughout the city during the Canadian Tulip Festival in May. On July 1, the city celebrates the biggest party in the country, Canada Day. Visitors will also experience a host of music celebrations, including the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Ottawa Chamberfest, and Ottawa Bluesfest, which welcome some of the world’s biggest acts to our city. In winter, Canada celebrates Winterlude and takes to the ice on the world’s largest skating rink, the Rideau Canal Skateway.

The culinary scene in Ottawa is in full bloom, with a thriving community of Ottawa chefs and diverse restaurants making names for themselves both at home and abroad. To experience multiple venues in one outing, book a dining tour of one of Ottawa’s great neighbourhoods — Ottawa Tasting Tours and Experience Food make all the arrangements for you. Or take a guided gourmet food tour with C’est Bon Ottawa to explore food shops, farmers’ markets and restaurants. The tasty options are endless!

The Capital’s premier performing arts venue, the National Arts Centre, presents a full lineup of music, dance and theatre, plus popular touring acts and shows. Ottawa also has a thriving local theatre scene, including the Great Canadian Theatre Company, Ottawa Little Theatre, The Gladstone and La Nouvelle Scène.

Ottawa is filled with Capital sights and attractions and just about as many ways to explore and see them. Experience a tour on both land and water with the Lady Dive Amphibus, or enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal. Get up close and personal with city sights by joining a walking or cycling tour based on your activity level and interests.  

Unique Ottawa neighbourhoods offer distinctive shopping, dining and nightlife experiences across the Capital. From the must-see ByWard Market area to the Glebe’s community feel, to the trendy Wellington West, there’s lots of local flavor to soak up in Ottawa’s varied districts.

THE BROOKSTREET HOTEL: For the second summer in a row, we were fortunate to spend the day at the magnificent Brookstreet Hotel in Kanata. While we stayed with family, we do want to try out the accommodations here on a future visit.

Since opening in 2003, the Brookstreet Hotel has gained notice as a luxury property noted for outstanding dining, incredible entertainment, luxurious accommodations, inspired green initiatives and world-class golf and fitness facilities.

We arrived for our day of leisure and checked in at Perspectives Restaurant and a table on the beautiful patio looking over the full property. Since this was a Sunday, we were fortunate to be able to order from the brunch menu. What a treat! There were three of us. We started off with some drinks and then perused the different choices, opting for the classic breakfast (two eggs over easy, peameal bacon, breakfast potatoes and their homemade sourdough toast); a three-egg omelet, with mushrooms, brie cheese, spinach, chives, potato, fresh fruit and sourdough toast; and the salmon and avocado toast (salmon gravias, smashed avocado, sourdough, pickled red onions, wasabi cream cheese, sesame seeds, two poached eggs and green salad). Look out for young server Spencer. He was just terrific. 

On our previous visit, I had a nicely prepared club sandwich, grilled chicken breast, cheddar cheese, confit garlic aioli, vine-ripened tomato, bacon, Boston lettuce and Nat’s bakery sourdough. The other members of my party started off with some drinks and each ordered lamb barbacoa tacos- two corn tortillas, lamb shoulder slow-roasted in banana leaf, salsa borracha, pickled cucumber, green olives, fresh cilantro and lime.

Interestingly, a few days later, I received a text from a gentleman I know who asked if was having brunch at the Brookside. He said his wife thought she saw me at a nearby table. Happily, he had read one of my stories last year, which focused on the hotel. As a result, he booked a stay.

The contemporary cuisine of Brookstreet’s culinary team features fresh, seasonal ingredients from across Ontario, creating exceptional dishes that are totally unique to Perspectives & Options Jazz Lounge. The latter, connected to the restaurant, is recognized as the best jazz bar Ottawa has to offer. Here you can fill your ears with live local jazz music and tantalize your taste buds with the culinary creations by Chef Clifford Lyness. All this while surrounded by the stunning contemporary architecture of the lounge itself, which also features panoramic windows overlooking the immaculately manicured Marshes Golf Course

The heated outdoor saltwater pool and the area surrounding it truly is a slice of paradise. We were greeted by Rachel from the hotel’s Flex Fitness Centre who set us up with three comfortable lounge chairs, under a large umbrella to block the sun. Each of us was given towels, bathrobes and slippers. I did not want this day to end. The water was just perfect. After a lengthy swim and dip, I headed to the spacious jacuzzi for another totally relaxing experience. This type of activity is always a novelty for me.

The hotel is now completing an impressive $11 million renovation project, transforming its guestrooms into a haven of luxury and comfort. This upgrade reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience and sets a new standard in upscale accommodations.

The renovation has meticulously reimagined each guestroom with a fresh, modern aesthetic, incorporating sophisticated design elements and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests can now enjoy elegant furnishings, premium bedding, and chic décor that blends contemporary style with timeless elegance. The new design features a bold color palette, wood flooring, and stylish lighting that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the renovation is the integration of advanced technology. Each room is equipped with smart TVs, high-speed internet access, and intuitive climate control systems, ensuring guests stay connected and comfortable throughout their stay.  Energy-efficient fixtures underscore the hotel’s dedication to sustainability and guest satisfaction.

The revamped guestrooms also boast upgraded bathrooms with luxurious fixtures, spacious walk-in showers, and high-end toiletries. The attention to detail in these upgrades ensures that every aspect of the guest experience is catered to with the utmost care.

Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can now enjoy an even higher level of comfort, sophistication, and style.

This hotel has 276 rooms and suites spaced across 18 floors. In the past year, some major room upgrades have taken place. As noted earlier, I do look forward to the day when I get to stay here for a few nights. Plans do call for the hotel to eventually build a second tower. There is now 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, featuring 25 meeting rooms, including three large ballrooms, an outdoor pavilion and the Newbridge Foyer which boasts floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

From my seat at the poolside, I could see the busy activities at the  Marshes Golf course and a lovely pond that converts to a skating rink in the winter months. An 18-hole mini golf course is very popular with families. The NHL’s Ottawa Senators partner up with the property. Brookstreet is recognized as the official hotel and resort of the  Senators and Canadian Tire Centre, which also includes the title sponsorship to the   Brookstreet Lounge (located at the ice level).   

The Flex Fitness Club has 500 members from the community.  Recognized as the ultimate Ottawa gym and fitness studio, it is equipped with extensive fitness equipment, saltwater pools, hot tubs, fitness classes and personal trainers.  Flex Fitness Studio provides a wellness component for those who wish to stay active during their travels.  Members get the advantage of access to the indoor and outdoor pools. The Au Natural Spa looked mighty fine as well.

Indeed, on a warm summer day when you enter these premises and close your eyes imagine being at a Club Med resort. It is that impressive!

The hotel is located at 525 Legett Drive. For more information log on to https://www.brookstreethotel.com,  https://www.marshesgolfclub.com or call 1-888-826-2220.

PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL: The Ottawa Titans began play in the Frontier League in 2022. They play out of the state-of-the-art Ottawa Stadium. This is minor-league professional baseball. The schedule begins in May and continues through early September. It is a wonderful outing for the entire family, even someone who might not even be a baseball fan. The franchise officials work so hard to offer a fun game day experience. I really enjoyed my night out there, especially coming from Montreal. Our professional baseball team the Expos left 20  years ago. Go to www.ottawatitans.com.

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL. I went to my first professional football game in Ottawa in more than three decades to see the hometown Redblacks host the Calgary Stampeders at TD Place Stadium (formerly known as Lansdowne Park), which seats 24,000 for football games and concerts. The Lansdowne neighbourhood also hosts two condominium towers and townhomes with a combined 280 units, a 360,000 sq. ft. shopping/entertainment district, an office tower, 1,300 underground parking spaces and an 18-acre urban park. Construction of “The New Lansdowne” began in the fall of 2012 and the site partially  The Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) owns and operates the Redblacks, the Ottawa 67’s Hockey Club (OHL),  Athletico Ottawa (soccer),  Ottawa Blackjacks (basketball) and Ottawa PWHL (women’s hockey). It was founded in 2008 to re-establish  CFL football in Ottawa; however, the city’s stadium required major renovations which were not feasible without a comprehensive plan for the revitalization of the entire site.  OSEG partnered with the City of Ottawa to develop the plan and oversee the transformation of Lansdowne into a destination of choice for live events, cultural activities, shopping, dining and recreational activities.  

DINING OUT

There are so many wonderful choices for dining out. From my most recent trip, here is my culinary report.

STARLING: The historic York on William (YOW) building, which encompasses Starling Restaurant & Bar and Apothecary Cocktail Lounge, represents a must-visit and we were thrilled to dine there for the second successive year. The latter are part of a multiple-dining concept featuring a rooftop terrace and street-level patio and located in one of the oldest buildings in Ottawa, dating back to 1875. Early occupants included an undertaker, a baker, and a wholesaler, which reflects the diverse commercial activity of the ByWard Market in the 19th Century. 

Starling is Ottawa’s new concept which elevates any night out with hand-crafted cocktails and a refreshing, modern menu that draws inspiration from bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here you step in to an inviting and stylish atmosphere, built for creating an incredible experience.

The 12,000-square-foot building was purchased in 2020 for $5 million. Co-owner John Borsten’s business partners in this venture are Pat Charbonneau and Ian Darveshali. It is spread over four levels, with Apothecary, YOW and Starling each catering to different audiences under the same roof and able to serve 500 diners at a time.  The seasonal patios are big draws: one at street level can seat 50 while the rooftop has room for 60. Capacity for both can be increased for cocktail receptions.

Apothecary is described as “a nod to medicinal cures of which bitters, tonics and spirits all play a role. Here they believe in using real botanicals, house-made syrups and tinctures, to heal the body, mind and soul.”

Starling brings you contemporary dishes from timeless classics to personal recipes with a fondness for locality, designed to be loved by one or shared by many.   Their mixologists can serve up a broad range of tasty concoctions, either mixed, stirred, or shaken and inspired by local ingredients and international techniques.

Starling is named after a highly social bird that likes to travel in large flocks. That is why you will see decorative bird cages in the restaurant. Our table had one.  It was Marketing Director Sofia Santiso Borsten who created the Starling concept and oversaw the design. Even the doors they inherited were restored and now serve as a privacy wall for a table near the bar. The same goes for the original lamps, which were repainted.  Of course, the wallpaper features colorful birds.  

While we dined on the rooftop last year, on this particularly warm evening we chose to be seated in a booth at the beautifully air-conditioned main level.

Our wonderful server Rory started us off with some drinks:  a scarlet tanager, an Elderflower egret and an Abigail placebo drink.

Following a look at the menu, we began with 12 oysters. They were of good size and went very quickly among the three of us

Next, we chose something new, a Mediterranean platter. It was highlighted by freshly baked and piping hot focaccia bread along with marinated roasted peppers, salsa verde and cerignola olives. Now I usually try and limit my bread intake before the main course, but this focaccia bread was simply too good!

We also enjoyed a bowl of caprese risotto with shrimp.  This dish offers a delightful symphony of flavors. The creamy risotto provides a rich and velvety texture, with each grain of rice perfectly cooked to a tender, yet slightly al dente consistency. Infused with a hint of garlic and onion, the base is subtly seasoned, allowing the star ingredients to shine. Tender, succulent shrimp add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness, complementing the dish’s Mediterranean essence.

For the main course, we ordered the steak frites and the beef tenderloin. 

Steak frites is a classic French dish that epitomizes simple, high-quality comfort food. Here it featured a perfectly cooked 10-ounce striploin, served with crispy, golden-brown French fries. The steak was seasoned with salt and pepper and cooked to our preferred level of medium rare. The combination of a juicy, tender steak and crispy fries offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, making it a beloved staple here at Starling. Meanwhile, the six-ounce AAA beef tenderloin came with whipped potatoes and bordelaise sauce.  This is a premium cut of meat renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor. The “AAA” designation indicates a high-quality grade, meaning the beef has excellent marbling, which enhances its juiciness and taste. This cut is often considered one of the most desirable steaks due to its buttery texture and subtle, yet robust, beef flavor.

For dessert, we shared the delicious sticky toffee pudding. This is a classic British dessert that’s beloved for its rich, comforting flavors. Imagine a moist, spongy cake made with finely chopped dates, which gives it a deliciously sticky texture. This cake is drenched in a luscious toffee sauce that is both sweet and buttery. Served warm, it comes with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.

Starling is located at 54 York Street in the Byward Market. Hours of operation are  4 pm to 11 pm Tuesday and Wednesday,  11 am to midnight Thursday and Friday and  9 am to midnight Saturday and Sunday. You can call  613.421.0820   or log on to  www.starlingottawa.ca.

MÉTROPOLITAIN BRASSERIE:  We can never get enough of the fabulous Métropolitain Brasserie in Ottawa, conveniently located next to the Byward Market at 700 Sussex. That is just steps away from Parliament Hill. Each summer we make a reservation the moment we know the date of our trip.

Home to Ottawa’s largest oyster bar, the restaurant is open seven days a week, serving lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends. While we have enjoyed their sprawling patio in recent years, it was quite warm out on the evening we arrived, so we asked for a table in the dining room.  The covered patio can accommodate 125 people while the capacity inside is 300.

The Brasserie presents a Hill Hour every day from 4 pm to 7 pm for discounted oysters and shrimp, and every Thursday for Buck a Shuck. There is an award-winning wine list, and this is considered a prime place for a large event or a romantic dinner for two, adding that certain Parisian flavor.

We started off the evening with some cocktails, two French Rivieras (Strawberry vodka, melon, Chambord, lime) and a glass of Riesling wine. It was then time to take a good hard look at all the options available among the appetizers.   The small size seafood tower was more than enough for three of us to share. It contained shrimp, oysters, mussels, snow crab, cod croquettes, scallop crudo and ceviche. This was just fine to share among the three of us; and we had some leftovers. There is also a larger platter for four or five people available. 

The burrito toast for two was another treat for the three of us to share. It includes sunflower seed and beetroot pesto, avocado, fried sourdough, sprouts and chili oil.

There is a nice selection of main courses.   I have traditionally feasted upon the Duck Confit here. It is an item I do not see available at too many restaurants I frequent. Crispy Duck Confit is a sumptuous dish that combines the rich flavors of duck with a delightful texture.  The term “confit” refers to a method of cooking where the duck is slowly simmered in its own fat until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. In this process, the meat is seasoned, cooked at a low temperature for several hours, and then stored in fat, which preserves and enhances its taste. To achieve a crispy exterior, the confit duck is typically finished in a hot oven or under a broiler to crisp up the skin. The result is a beautifully crisp, golden-brown skin that contrasts with the tender, succulent meat underneath.     As for the others, one opted for the duck as well while there was also the selection of the petit steak frites, a classic French dish known for its simplicity and deliciousness. The term “petit” means “small,” so the dish features a smaller portion of steak. The steak was seasoned with salt and pepper and grilled to achieve a perfect crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

For dessert we shared a decadent piece of flourless chocolate cake, a recommendation from our server Michael.

Other items on the menu include burgers bouillabaisse, steak, fish & chips, cauliflower steak, roasted chicken, pork chops, grilled mackerel, steelhead trout, lobster ravioli, coquille St. Jacques, whole wheat penne, lobster & matane shrimp roll,  sandwiches,  salads,  omelets, beef and tuna tartare, poutine and a charcuterie and cheese board.  

Weekend brunch is available from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and select holidays.  

The restaurant is co-owned by John Borsten and Sarah Chown, with Mike Poliquin as chef de cuisine. Hours of operation are 11:30 am to 11 pm Monday to Wednesday, 11:30 am to midnight Thursday and Friday, 10 am to midnight Saturday and 10 am to 11 pm Sunday Take-out and delivery service is in place each day from 11:30 am to 9 pm. For more details log on to www.metropolitainbrasserie.com or call 613-562-1160.

COCOTTE: The Metcalfe Hotel in Ottawa marks the Gray Collection’s first hotel property outside Montreal. Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, just a few blocks from the historic Parliament Hill, the boutique hotel is home to Cocotte, a  French-inspired restaurant on the ground level, where we dined.  

Gray Collection is comprised of Hôtel William Gray, Le Petit Hôtel, and Auberge du Vieux-Port. Additionally, its restaurants include Maggie Oakes, Terrasse William Gray, Perché, Gaspar, Pincette, Terrasse sur L’Auberge, Bevo, Jacopo, and Vieux-Port Steakhouse, and a spa at Spa William Gray. The hotels, restaurants, and spa are formerly part of the Antonopolous Group, which has almost 50 years of success in the Montreal hospitality industry. Each property is a unique celebration of its neighbourhood and is connected to the other establishments by a shared philosophy of generosity, excellence, and premium service.

Led by Dimitri K. Antonopolous, Gray Collection expands the work of the previous Antonopolous Group while remaining committed to its enduring legacy and a shared belief in the Greek philosophy of philoxenia, which refers to the concept of welcoming and caring for all guests.

Cocotte is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. It can accommodate 96 people inside and 20 on the seasonal patio. We were seated on their beautiful terrace to experience their dinner menu, where French tradition meets local flavours. From veal blanquette to duck confit, the executive chef has crafted a creative menu inspired by French cuisine with market-fresh ingredients.  

Our server Cedric started us off with some cocktails. We then went through the menu and started off with a dozen Canadian oysters, served with fresh horseradish, cocktail sauce, mignonette and fresh lemon. Also from the starters, we enjoyed the salmon tartare, herbs de Provence and lavender cured salmon, ratatouille vegetables, chives and crostini. This comes as an appetizer and a main course, the latter including French fries.

For the main course, the three of us ordered the duck confit, the scallop and truffle risotto and the cod chaudree. Everything was prepared to perfection.

The duck confit consisted of a moulard duck leg, duck fat, fingerling potatoes, small peas, and honey and Vidal gastrique.  As for the scallop and truffle risotto, these were seared scallops, with charred cauliflower and  the truffle risotto in lemon butter. Finally, the Iceland cod was accompanied by pasta clams, chorizo, potatoes, leeks fondue and pineau des Charentes cream.

For dessert, we shared the special of the night, a s’mores log, with marshmallows, chocolate sauce and some other decadent ingredients. 

Cocotte opened in September 2022.  I asked Alexandre Cossette, the marketing director for The Gray Collection, whether any of the chefs were from Montreal. “No,” he responded, “because we wanted to work with local chefs from Ottawa. This decision was made to ensure that we incorporate local flavors and culinary expertise. By collaborating with Ottawa’s talented chefs, we aim to create a dining experience that truly reflects the local culture and ingredients, providing our guests with a fresh and authentic taste of Ottawa’s culinary scene.

“While Cocotte has its unique identity, we have incorporated some of the design aesthetics and culinary philosophies that our guests have come to love in Montréal. However, Cocotte also reflects the local Ottawa vibe, with a menu that highlights regional ingredients and flavors, providing a distinct and fresh experience. Our goal was to create a place that feels both familiar and new, blending the best of what we’ve done in Montreal with the vibrant culture of Ottawa.” Cocotte is located at 123 Metcalfe. Info: www.cocottebistro.com , info@cocottebistro.com, or call (613) 216-2912.

SOMEWHERE DINE BAR:  We had heard a lot about a trendy dining spot called Somewhere Dine Bar in Ottawa’s Byward Market. It offers a delightful dining experience that combines casual elegance with a contemporary European flair and is highly appreciated by its patrons.  The establishment, situated at 110 Murray Street, is noted for its American cuisine and opened in 2020.

Owners Ali Marati and Majd Samrout are hands-on, working in the kitchen and chatting with customers. There are 54 seats inside, including the bar, and 60 on a very attractive seasonal patio.

We were greeted by our server Karime, who started us out with some drinks. It was then time to look at the appetizers and a dozen oysters, accompanied by horseradish, lemon, hot sauce and mignonette.  Keep in mind that during happy hour, between 5 pm and 7 pm, appetizers are half-price; oysters, are $2 and cocktails are $11.

 Next for us was the truffle tuna crudo: yellowfin tuna, truffle oil, truffle salt, pickled jalapenos, micro cilantro and crispy onions. We then went for the Arancini al Agrodolce, with romesco and agrodolce sauce, micro basil and parmigiano reggiano.  Arancini al Agrodolce is a delightful variation of traditional Sicilian arancini. These are risotto balls that are filled with a savory mixture, breaded, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. The “al agrodolce” aspect adds a unique twist: “agrodolce” translates to “sweet and sour,” so the dish is often served with a tangy-sweet sauce or glaze.

For the main course, the three of us shared the most remarkable Somewhere Surf & Turf Board. This was quite the feat:   14-ounce tenderloin, six-ounce poached lobster tails, seared scallops, poached jumbo tiger tail shrimp, glazed cremini mushrooms, garlic roasted asparagus, roasted parmesan potatoes, lemon garlic aioli, torched lemon, peppercorn sauce and clarified butter.  Everything on this plate was beyond excellent and yes, we had leftovers for the following day.

There is a wide array of other menu items we will have to try next time visit:  salad, calamari, steak tartare, wagyu and chicken dumplings, cheese and charcuterie board, pulled beef taco, steak frites, miso-glazed black cod, pasta and a chuck burger.

We did save some room for dessert and along came a decadent trio of tiramisu, fried cinnamon rolls and chocolate brownies.  The tiramisu came with mascarpone, lady fingers, cocoa powder and espresso. The extraordinary fried cinnamon rolls had a caramel drizzle, vanilla ice cream and fresh berries. Who does not love a chocolate brownie?  This one also came with vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, whipped cream and fresh berries.

Dinner is served here until midnight when another menu takes over through 2 am. There is a deejay on hand on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays,

You can call or text  (613) 562- 7244 for more details or   (613) 852-7244 for groups of six or more. Somewhere Dine Bar is open Monday to Sunday from 5 pm to 2 am. Log on to somewhereottawa.com

ZOLA’S RESTAURANT:  Zola’s Restaurant offers Italian fare and a terrific “Blunch” menu for most of each day. Located in the city’s west end, Zola’s remains family-owned and operated. Since 1986 this spot has kept a focus on its mission to deliver Italian food made from scratch, with super friendly service and a wholesome atmosphere. Owner Antonio Vacchio says he is proud to have been at the helm since day one of the first restaurants in the west end of Ottawa to offer an Italian dining experience with an open-concept kitchen. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free? They have you covered. Vacchio and his team have spent time focusing on options for different dietary restrictions and lifestyle choices. They also operate a popular catering arm. 

I met a friend there for breakfast, taking advantage of what they call “Blunch,” served from 8 am to 3 pm each day. Our server Caitrin started us off with coffee and then it was time to peruse the menu.  The Big Budgie caught my eye: three eggs, home fries, corned beef hash, calabrese sausage, capicola ham, bacon plus a breakfast sausage and a choice of toast. I substituted the sausages for some smoked salmon. Everything was prepared to perfection.

My friend has lived in Ottawa for more than 20 years yet was not familiar with Zola’s. He was pleasantly surprised and plans to come back for dinner one day. He chose the eggs benny: two poached eggs, home fries and an English muffin topped with hollandaise choice and a small salad.

Vacchio came to sit with us as we concluded our “Blunch,” the latter of which he introduced about a decade ago. “My bakers were already coming in early to prepare the food for the day, so I figured why not introduce this breakfast service?” he shared. “It is basically available throughout most of the day.  We were very pleased from the start with the reaction. I think people appreciate the creativity and variety of our menu items.”

Besides the traditional breakfast-time items of eggs, French toast, pancakes and waffles, there are also poutine and special breakfast pasta and pizza dishes.

Vacchio said that his kitchen bakes fresh goods every day, including pasta and desserts. The menu and take-out items cater to individuals with celiac disease. Visiting NHL teams and some concert performers, such as Bruce Springsteen, have their meals catered by Zola’s.

The restaurant can seat 84. On weekends you can look forward to live jazz performances.

I will return to Zola’s down the line for lunch or dinner to try the famous semolina dinner rolls. These soft, supple, and sweet little buns are a staple. They are baked fresh every day, beginning at 11:30 am, with a choice of white or whole grain.   Their in-store pasta shop has been a part of the business since the beginning and is something Vacchio takes great pride in.  Customers regularly walk out with their homemade pasta, pizza, meatballs, bread, pies, and quiche.

Zola’s is located at 2194 Robertson Road and is open seven days a week.   For more information log on to https://zolas.ca/  or call 613-721-0227.

NATE’S DELI: Thirty-five years ago I traveled to Ottawa for a job interview and before I headed home to Montreal, while driving on Rideau Avenue, I saw a place called Nate’s Deli. Well, I got the job and while it was in Montreal, it required that I make regular visits to the nation’s capital. That continued for a decade and on every trip Nate’s became a standard stop.

Founded by local and well-known philanthropist Dave Smith, Nate’s Deli opened its doors in 1959 and quickly gained notice for serving only the best-smoked meat in the city. Smith passed away last year.

In 2014 Nate’s relocated to Sparks Street and on my last trip I finally made a return visit for breakfast with my old friend Steve Georgopoulos, a retired hotel executive. Our charming server was Abby Voisard, a 20-year-old student in Environmental Geo Science at the University of Ottawa. She is a terrific representative of the brand.

André  Cloutier is the operating partner of the restaurant, with day-to-day management executed by General Manager Michelle Comeau. There are two other silent partners. 

The restaurant can seat 300 people inside and 60 on the patio, much bigger than the original premises. 

“Since joining the ownership team in January 2024, we have been actively assessing what our guests enjoy and identifying areas for improvement,” said Cloutier. “One change was bringing back rye bread from Rideau Bakery for our famous smoked meat sandwiches. Guests that remember Nate’s from the old days were certainly thrilled with that decision. 

‘Sparks Street is a beautiful area with unique challenges, particularly in attracting diners outside of peak times. Weekday lunchtimes are bustling, and events like Ribfest, Buskerfest, and Canada Day draw large crowds. Our venue can accommodate large groups at reasonable prices, which has proven successful for work events and bus tours. Moving forward, we plan to enhance our offerings for group dining and events to continue supporting the business.”

Nate’s Deli offers an all-day breakfast. Both Steve and I  ordered the King Nate. It comes with three eggs, a choice of bacon, ham, sausage or tomatoes, with home fries,  a pancake of French toast and toast. You can also get items like steak and eggs, omelets, breakfast poutine, eggs benedict, a breakfast sandwich, and bagel and lox.

Steve and I also decided to order smoked meat sandwiches to go. I  brought an ice pack to keep my take-out order fresh. When I ate it a few hours later, the Montreal smoked meat literally melted into my mouth. They have some terrific sandwiches available, as well as burgers, fried chicken,  chicken wings, fish and chips, steak frites, soups, salads, and pierogies.

Nate’s Deli is located at  152 Sparks Street and is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 6 pm and 10 am to 2 pm on weekends. Log on to https://nates.ca and call 613-235-1424.

THE WELLINGTON DINER: Who doesn’t love a vintage diner?  On the busy street it is named after, you will find the Wellington Diner, which is where I met an old university classmate for breakfast. Many restaurants have their own take on breakfast, but the Wellington team is confident that it has the best one in town. From new tastes to the old classics,  the menu was quite impressive.

The Wellington Diner specializes in all things related to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. They use the freshest ingredients to handcraft a distinctive and unique menu in a casual, family-friendly environment. Their unique blend of locally sourced products and innovative takes on classical dishes has helped us craft an environment that flawlessly combines the bold and traditional. I 

I was pleased to meet owner Jeff Frost. He purchased the place in 2015 and truly placed his own stamp on it. The restaurant has a cool vibe, with seating for 88 people over two floors on the inside and 24 more on a most beautiful season patio. Frost constructed it during the pandemic at a cost of $120,000. Inside there is a lot of memorabilia and framed photos on the wall. A lot of the local professional athletes from the hockey Senators and football Redblacks can often be spotted here.

You can order breakfast all day and I must say it took me quite some time to review the selections. I downloaded the QR code at my table and voila, there was the menu.

My dining partner chose one of the many Eggs Benny options, which feature two poached eggs atop an English muffin and smothered in savoury hollandaise. This is served alongside house homies (home fries) or a house salad. I chose the smoked meat hash: juicy smoked meat, sauteed peppers and onions, three cheese blends with two over-easy eggs and chipotle hollandaise. Before I left I also ordered a hot chicken sandwich to go: oven-roasted chicken stuffed between two slices of bread and smothered in-house beef gravy. It is served with fries, a side of peas, coleslaw and a tangy dill pickle.

When Frost bought the place almost a decade ago, he wanted to ensure that the menu had a lot of variety. There is a drink menu and weekly specials. On Mondays, kids eat for free. There is an endless array of egg combinations  (some accompanied by sirloin steaks), pancakes, French toast, breakfast poutines, grilled cheese,  wraps and clubs, as well as lighter dishes such as a smoked salmon platter.

The daily menu has tasty appetizers, fish and chips, burgers, chicken, Mac ‘N cheese combos, more poutines and a kids menu.

Frost told me he absolutely loves Montreal and visits our city often, always checking out local diners. He is a fan of the iconic Cosmos in NDG. That is why he has a poutine menu item called The Montrealer, with loads of juicy diced Montreal-style smoked meat. There is also the  Quebecer: two eggs, a choice of three pieces of bacon, ham, or sausage, served up with a side of pork beans. 

“I was in property management before I bought the restaurant,” he said. “When I was young I worked for a busy restaurant in the market. So this turned out to be the right move for me.”

For more information log on to www.wellingtondiner.ca  or call 613-798-7800, They are located at 1385 Wellington Street West and open every day at 9 am.

RED LOBSTER: Over the last few years I feel as if I have become an ambassador of the Red Lobster restaurant chain. Yes,  I am a big fan, and as a frequent visitor to Ottawa for family reasons, no visit goes without a trip to Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. just as you enter the city via Highway 417. There is a second location at a mall in Nepean. 

 Red Lobster was indeed a staple in Quebec over 25 years ago. But the company pulled out of our province and given the decision in May to file for bankruptcy does not seem to be in the cards. As of this writing, they were to be sold to Fortress Credit Corp., a lender experienced in restaurant management that has financed the chain’s operations, including a new $100 million loan that allowed it to stay afloat during its bankruptcy proceedings.  

In recent months Red Lobster has closed around 100 restaurants and at least a dozen more are set to shut their doors, none in Canada. It has been reported that mismanagement, competition, inflation and other factors brought down Red Lobster. Thai Union, a global seafood supplier, became Red Lobster’s leading shareholder in 2020. Even though they cut costs and removed longtime, promotions such as  $20 endless shrimp resulted in a loss of  $11 million.    It is reported to be  $1 billion in debt.

I first went to the Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. in Ottawa some 20 years ago when I met the general manager Ian Forrester. When I started returning here for family reasons, I was delighted to see Ian was still there. He was excited to tell me about how many Montrealers come for lunch or dinner, whether they are visiting or just coming in for the evening. Yes, Ian confirms, there are Montrealers who drive in for dinner only. I know a few of them.

Well, I am pleased to report that the Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. is doing just fine. When I arrived for dinner the parking lot was full and the wait for tables was so long, the overflow had to sit on benches outside. Forrester was happy to have me spread the word that the Canadian locations have done very well in recent years and they are not impacted  by the threats of closure. Many people only read the headlines, so naturally, Ian and his team keep getting calls to see if they are still open.

For our most recent visit, the three of us started off with a Caesar salad, some clam chowder and the mouth-watering signature biscuits. You get two per serving and there is an option to order a half dozen more – good to wrap in a plastic baggie and take home to enjoy.   These delicious and soft rolls are not something you will find anywhere else.

For the main course, I chose the lobster, shrimp and salmon meal with a side of rice. The others chose the Ultimate Feast (Maritime lobster tail, garlic shrimp, snow crab legs and Walt’s Favourite shrimp, with rice); and the Twin Maine tails (a pair of perfectly roasted Maritime lobster tails with cole slaw and mashed potato). 

Thanks to Owen Hoyt, the manager on duty that night, for taking care of us.  

You can find many other tempting items on the menu, such as Date Night Feast for Two – two butter-poached Maritime lobster tails, two seven-ounce sirloins, two jumbo grilled shrimp skewers and a shareable Bacon Mac & Cheese, plus a choice of one side for each guest. The Lobster-Topped Stuffed Tilapia features tilapia roasted with their signature

Red Lobster is located at 1499 St. Laurent Blvd. You can call (613) 744-7560  or log on to www.redlobster.ca

The post Another terrific stay in Canada’s Capital, the City of Ottawa first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

I recently had the great pleasure of visiting Toronto, Canada’s largest and most bustling city, for a long weekend. For a sense of what might be new, I consulted Destination Toronto (www.destinationtoronto.com). 

In June, Toronto is opening up one of its most anticipated developments, the Waterworks Food Hall (499 Richmond St. W.), which celebrates the city’s dynamic culinary scene in a beautifully restored heritage building. The space spans 55,000 square feet and is located in the heart of the King West neighborhood. Visit to experience this European-style food hall, which hosts more than 20 different food stalls including sushi, ramen, various beverages, and more. 

A lover of cats and exhibitions? Check out Wild Cats at the Royal Ontario Museum from June 15 – October 20. This exhibit presents an array of mounted specimens, interactive displays, cultural objects, and multimedia. Visitors will also learn more about the conservation and protection of these amazing creatures. 

Another treat might be the newest summer concert venue: The Bowl at Sobey’s Stadium. This venue is situated at the York University campus. See their website for more information about upcoming shows (https://liveatthebowl.com/). For those who enjoy more of a Broadway flair, Mirvish Productions always has something up and running. The musical Wicked will run from June 5 – July 21, with Tina – The Tina Turner Musical set to run from June 18 – July 28. See their website for a full list of upcoming offers (https://www.mirvish.com/). 

Upcoming festivals include the Beaches International Jazz Festival from July 4 – 28, Salsa in Toronto from July 6 – 7, the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair from July 12 – 14, and the Toronto Caribbean Carnival from August 1 – 5. 

Dining Out

EPOCH BAR & KITCHEN TERRACE: 

The Ritz-Carlton name is synonymous with class and high quality; that is something that I have known for a long time now, having experienced some of their other properties. During my recent visit to Toronto, I had the great pleasure of dining at EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace (https://epochtoronto.com/). Having opened in the last few years inside the Ritz-Carlton Toronto property, it offers a casual but elegant setting where one can enjoy a series of imaginative dishes and cocktails. 

While the venue’s indoor seating is lovely and appears quite comfortable, the location is perhaps best known for its large garden-style patio. The terrace features outdoor heaters (with the servers also being happy to offer you blankets on a cooler night), a lovely centerpiece bar, and a wood-fired stone oven which is used to make their signature pizzas. 

From a beverage standpoint, the menu was fantastically creative, with the cocktail list divided into various categories based on the general flavouring that you might prefer (“The Secret Garden”, “Lost in Paradise”, “Avant-Garde”, and “Intermission”). I opted for the delicious Pineapple Express from the “Lost in Paradise” list, which featured pineapple and vanilla-induced Tito’s Handmade Vodka, crème de cassis, pomegranate reduction, fresh lemon, pineapple juice, all served on the rocks. For those looking to explore the wine list, there are plenty of options as well, both by the glass and by the bottle.

Helming the kitchen is chef Jeff Crump, a Canadian slow-food pioneer. The menu is a culinary homage to his earth-to-table philosophy and his roots in the U.K. gastrobar scene. From the appetizer menu, my dining partner and I were able to sample delicious offerings including the French Kiss Oysters, the Japanese Hamachi Crudo, the Crab Stuffed Avocado, and a true highlight: the Crispy Coconut Shrimp. From the Mains, we shared the light and flavourful Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass, as well as the Rib Cap Steak, which was cooked to perfection and served with chimichurri. We were also able to sample one of the restaurant’s signature pizzas, cooked on the wood-fired stove oven outside: Mushroom Truffle. For dessert, we shared the Strawberry Rhubarb Upside Down Cake, which was the perfect way to end the night. 

While we did not stay at the hotel, it is certainly luxurious. It is close to the Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, and many other downtown establishments. The hotel is undergoing refurbishment through to the end of August 2024, which will involve redefining the lobby, opening a new retail shop, transforming the Ritz Bar, and more. I certainly look forward to visiting EPOCH again. 

MIKU TORONTO: 

During my visit to Toronto, I was also able to sample some take-out from Miku Toronto, which is part of the Aburi Restaurants Canada group. Miku Toronto first opened its doors in 2015. It is situated in Toronto’s Harbourfront at the corner of Bay and Queen’s Quay. 

Takeout offerings include a variety of sashimi, nigiri, maki, and of course, aburi offerings, as well as a variety of desserts which can also be combined into a dessert platter for the complete tasting experience. We tasted a mix of sashimi and nigiri offerings, as well as their two specialty rolls: the Miku Roll (sockeye salmon, uni, crab, cucumber, rolled in tobiko, served with Miku sauce) and the Red Wave Roll (spicy prawn, avocado, red tuna, served with masatake sauce). The star of the meal, unsurprisingly, was both the Salmon Oshi Sushi and the Ebi Oshi Sushi. Everything was packaged nicely and tasted delicious. 

Aburi  Restaurants is the parent company of Miku Vancouver, Miku Toronto, Minami Yaletown, WA-BAGEL, Minami Toronto, ABURI HANA, ABURI TORA, and Gyoza Bar.  They also have two grocery concepts (Aburi Market and Aburi To-Go ). For more information, visit   https://aburirestaurants.com/ 

Miku Toronto is located at  105-10 Bay Street in Toronto, You can call (647) 347-7347
or (416) 716-1501 (take-out only) for more information. 

The post A City of Toronto update with dinner at the Ritz Carlton and take-out from Miku first appeared on Travel With Mike Cohen.

Orlando, Florida (www.visitOrlando.com) has long been known as the theme park capital of the world, making it an ideal visiting location for people of all ages, including both children and Disney Adults. While I had visited the city with great enthusiasm as a child, this was my first time returning in my adult years, and I am pleased to report that it has not at all lost its magic and wonder.

WHERE TO STAY: While Orlando has more than 490 unique properties to choose from, we chose to stay at the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa, a beautiful hotel that first opened its doors in 2020. Looking for action and fun? The hotel includes not only a pool, but also an Activity Garden for families which features the Mount Chelonia rock-climbing wall, a nine-hole mini golf course, and an open lawn to play giant chess. There is also the sixth-floor Kids Conservatory, which offers access to various games and arts and crafts. When you are ready to explore the city, the hotel offers a free shuttle service to take guests to the Disney World theme parks, as well as to Disney Springs, which is located less than 10 minutes from the hotel. The shuttle service can be booked in advance, and if desired, will also pick you up from any of these destinations. 

The resort has 516 rooms, as well as 18 event/meeting rooms. It is only a 30-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport, and a 10 to 15-minute drive to the main Disney Parks. The property recently received a highly acclaimed Gold Badge from U.S. News & World Report, ranking as one of the Top 10 Best Hotels in Orlando. We stayed in a very comfortable room that overlooked the pools and featured two queen-sized beds, a fridge, both a shower and a bathtub, and an in-room safe. For those traveling in larger groups, consider booking a suite, including one of the Family Suites which has two bedrooms and sleeps up to nine people. 

While Orlando is best known for its amusement parks, the primary purpose of our trip was relaxation, hence our selection of this fantastic hotel. This JW Marriott property features two pools – a larger and more shallow family pool with sparkling fountains and zero-entry, as well as a neighboring, slightly smaller adult pool for those looking for peace, quiet, and a splash-free zone. The adult pool area is completed by a soothing hot tub. 

The service at these pools is truly outstanding. From the moment of your arrival, there is a clear sense of luxury as the poolside attendants happily set you up with towels at whichever pool you choose, opening your umbrella for you and moving it as necessary should you be looking for some shade. There was no shortage of lounge chairs available, no matter the time of day that we came by. Once you are settled in your seats, the staff will bring you your pitcher of water, which is refreshed as needed throughout the day, and they also occasionally come by offering samples of some of the pool restaurant’s menu items or offering to polish your sunglasses for you. We truly never wanted to leave!

For those looking to further elevate their comfort at the pool, one option is to reserve a personal cabana. During my time in the cabana, I was treated to a sectional couch with a fan, a 43-inch Satellite TV, a personal safe, a mini fridge, scented towels, a fruit platter, as well as a platter of sweet and salty snacks. Poolside cabanas must be booked for an entire day. See this link for more information: https://jwbonnetcreek.ipoolside.com/. 

Looking to step up the relaxation yet again? Look no further than Spa by JW, which is 10,000 square feet of luxury. I had the opportunity to try out the 50-minute Magnesium Oil Infused Massage, which was incredibly well done and also included the use of some sound bowls. While I had never incorporated sound bowls into a massage before, the effect was incredibly peaceful and added to the experience. In addition to massages, other options include a variety of facials, body treatments, as well as hair and makeup services. With the purchase of any service or treatment, guests also have access to the co-ed relaxation lounge, spa steam room, sauna, showers, and locker rooms. 

The minimum age for spa access is 18. Upon exiting, you have access to a boutique featuring a variety of high-quality products for all face and body needs. Spa by JW is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.

Hungry? The hotel offers plenty of dining options for any mood and budget. On the hotel’s main floor, consider starting with their signature Sear + Sea steakhouse, which offers both a nice interior and a small patio overlooking the pool. We sampled some of the mouth-watering options on their menu, including some oysters and their creative take on a burrata salad to start, followed by a 16oz ribeye cooked to perfection and paired with a potato puree. For dessert: the chocolate dome, which tastes just as good as it sounds and is covered in a warm salted caramel sauce for extra measure. The restaurant also has a complete wine list and cocktail menu – we tasted the rosemary beret cocktail which certainly did not disappoint. 

For another dining option, consider the ninth-floor rooftop lounge, Illume, which features a menu of creative and hand-crafted cocktails, sushi, and Asian tapas. For dinner, we enjoyed two fantastic maki rolls, including one of the chef’s daily specials and the oki rule, which included snow crab, avocado, cucumber, salmon, tuna, yellowtail, spicy mayo, and fried shallots. We also tried the beef tenderloin bao buns paired with scallions, toasted peanuts, yuzu aioli, and cabbage slaw, which were incredibly satisfying. One of the highlights of Illume, however, is the cocktails, which are both tasty and served beautifully. We enjoyed the ILLUMination cocktail, which includes Casa Noble blanco tequila, passion fruit liqueur, agave nectar, and lime, as well as the Lychee Martini. Later in the evening, we were treated to a view of the Disney fireworks from our rooftop perch. 

Other dining options at the hotel include UnReserved, a European-inspired, food-hall-style restaurant with all-day dining, Palm Cove, the poolside grill, and the JW Market, which serves grab-and-go coffee, drinks, snacks, gelato, and all-day breakfast offerings. 

JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa is located at 14900 Chelonia Parkway. For more information, log on to www.jwmarriottorlandobonnetcreek.com. 

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS: When trying to select a theme park, the options are limitless. While I had visited several as a child, I did not doubt my return to Orlando that the Universal Parks were at the top of my list (www.UniversalOrlando.com). 

Outside of its separate water park, Universal features two distinct parks that one may wish to explore: Universal Studios, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Visit one, visit both separately, or visit both in the same day by purchasing a park-to-park pass. Amongst other attractions, Universal Studios features areas tributing various cities, including Hollywood, New York, and San Francisco, as well as Minion Land and Springfield, USA: Home of the Simpsons. Universal’s Islands of Adventure includes Marvel Superhero Island, Skull Island, Jurassic Park, Seuss Landing, and more. 

That being said, the highlight for me was, without a doubt, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Harry Potter universe is a must-visit for all fans of the books and movies and sprawls over both Universal Parks. Visit the famed Diagon Alley over at Universal Studios, where you can visit all of the shops so well-known from the series, including Gringotts Money Exchange, Ollivanders, and more. The main ride at this location is Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. When you are done in Diagon Alley, make your way to Platform 9 and ¾ and take the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade, which is found over at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. To make this trip, you will need to have purchased a Park-to-Park admission ticket, however, or will need to own an Annual/Seasonal Pass. 

Over at Hogsmeade, which is also superbly decorated to reflect scenes from the films, explore a few more shops, have a bite to eat at famous destinations such as Hog’s Head or Three Broomsticks, and try out a few more rides, including Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which was my personal favourite of the day, as well as Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Flight of the Hippogriff. Stroll by the stage to watch performances by the frog choir or from the Triwizard Spirit Rally – the performance schedule can be viewed on the Universal phone app. Another highlight of Hogsmeade is the beautifully constructed replica of Hogwarts Castle, which is the perfect photo opportunity. 

For an extra fee, guests can purchase the Express Pass, allowing them to skip the regular lines. Buy a regular Express Pass for as little as $79.99 to skip the regular lines one time per participating ride, or buy an Express Unlimited Pass for as little as $109.99 to skip the regular lines as often as desired. Note that most but not all rides at the park offer an express line. The list can be found on the Universal website. 

DINING OUT: While its world-famous theme parks are certainly the headlines, Orlando has increasingly been recognized for its culinary scene in recent years. The website WalletHub recently named Orlando the 2023 Best Foodie City in America. 

During my recent trip, I discovered the wonders of Disney Springs, which is a top-rated entertainment, dining, and retail district formerly known as Downtown Disney. Disney Springs is a completely outdoor district featuring 120 acres of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment. Watch the Magic Kingdom or Epcot nightly fireworks from a patio, or take to the sky in the Disney Springs hot air balloon. Furthermore, families can enjoy the Disney Springs Kids Club every Saturday, a free experience featuring interactive entertainment for all ages located at The Landing. 

WINE BAR GEORGE: For my first visit to Disney Springs, I was pleased to sit out on the patio at Wine Bar George (https://winebargeorge.com/). With Wine Bar George being a predominantly tapas-style restaurant, I decided to embrace the experience and sampled some of their small plates, including an out-of-this-world artisanal cheese plate that featured four different types of cheese paired with almonds, honey, fig jam, and olives. Other delicious treats included their New Zealand Lamp Chops, which are served with black garlic purée, salted onions, and an herb vinaigrette, as well as the crispy mac & cheese bites with tomato nage and pecorino. 

The true highlight of the restaurant, however, is, as its name implies, the wine. Wine Bar George is the only restaurant in North America to offer more than 200 wines, all available by the glass, by the bottle, or in some cases, even by the ounce. A series of wine flights are also available for those keen on multiple tastings. The restaurant servers are incredibly knowledgeable, and my dining partner and I were very well-guided when it came to making our selections. To ensure that such helpful guest interactions are always the standard, the Wine Bar George team conducts regular wine tastings and education sessions. Of course, there are also always Certified Sommeliers, an advanced Sommelier, and/or a Master Sommelier present in the restaurant to support both servers and guests in making the best possible choices. 

Wine Bar George is more than just a dining destination – it is a dining experience. For more information, follow the restaurant on social media @WineBarGeorge or visit https://winebargeorge.com/. 

MORIMOTO ASIA: Also at Disney Springs, the fantastic Morimoto Asia restaurant looms tall. Helmed by famous Japanese Master Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this pan-Asian, two-story destination is not to be missed. Chef Morimoto opened his first restaurant in Hiroshima in 1980 before eventually establishing himself in New York City, where he was eventually head chef at the well-known Japanese restaurant, Nobu. It was while he was at Nobu that he began his career on the Iron Chef television show, where he made his name in particular with his famed dish, “Buri-Bop”, his take on Bibimbap with yellowtail fish instead of meat. I had the pleasure of sampling this delicious dish during my visit – it was cooked table-side with fried rice, egg yolk, and Korean-style yellowtail served in a hot clay pot. Another fantastic dish was the Mongolian Filet, which is a 10oz Angus beef tenderloin served with wok sauteed scallion, bean sprout, mixed mushroom, and sweet Szechuan sauce. The menu truly includes something for everyone, with a series of small plates, dim sum, vegetable dishes, ramen, rice and noodles, and seafood. Another signature dish that I did not have the chance to taste is the Morimoto Peking Duck, which is a carved house-roasted whole duck meant to be shared between two. 

Sushi lovers are in for quite the experience at Morimoto Asia! While sushi and sashimi can be ordered a la carte, another option would be to order one of the several available combos, platters, and towers/pagodas, which allow for the chef’s selections to be brought to the table for a tasting experience. All fish is fresh and flown in daily from Japan, including the seasonal Japanese cherry blossom salmon (Sakura masu) that I had the pleasure of tasting. I also sampled the bluefin tuna (o-toro) and the golden eye snapper (kinmedai), as well as some fresh oysters served with dressings including a yuzu ceviche, cocktail sauce, and soy sauce. 

My meal was coupled with one of their highball cocktails – the restaurant’s Suntory custom highball machine dispenses super chilled, highly carbonated soda water, which is described in the menu to be 5x the carbonation of regular soda water and 1.5x that of champagne. My highball was called The Forgotten, with ingredients including haku Japanese vodka, strawberry rose, yuzu, and soda water. For dessert, I enjoyed the yuzu pie, the restaurant’s unique take on a key lime pie, which was coupled with white chocolate vanilla cream and a blueberry compote. Other dessert options include churro donuts, Japanese souffle cheesecake, gelato, and sorbet. 

While the taste of this excellent meal was the true highlight, the restaurant also features a nice ambiance. The building’s 36-foot-tall layout includes lounges, private dining spaces, a glass-encased kitchen with a view of the culinary action, an outdoor patio, and a second-level sushi bar and lounge with a separate entrance. The custom glass beaded chandeliers and glass mosaics, based on ancient Japanese prints, further add to the aesthetic. 

The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. Call 407-939-6686 or log on to https://www.morimotoasia.com/ for more information. 

 SOPHIA’S TRATTORIA: The Conrad Orlando, which is Orlando’s first Hilton luxury brand 5-star hotel, opened recently this past January, situated at the Evermore Orlando Resort. I had the privilege of experiencing this beautiful new property through the newly launched restaurant, Sophia’s Trattoria (https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/orlcici-conrad-orlando/dining/sophias-trattoria/).

Sophia’s Trattoria is found on the hotel’s first floor, with its patio directly facing the hotel’s picturesque lagoon and man-made beach. Both the restaurant’s aesthetic and menu are meant to celebrate the coastal-inspired Southern Italian cuisine, with dishes including wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, fish, and meat. 

For our meal, we started with the tasty baked fontina, dressed with garlic and thyme, and Bellini cocktails. We shared the whole branzino for our main course, which was served with sauce vierge, lemon confit, and fine herbs. For dessert, we enjoyed a truly decadent tiramisu. 

Dinner service here is from 5 pm until 10 pm. For more information, call (407) 387-2000 or log on to https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/orlcici-conrad-orlando/ 

OTHER ATTRACTIONS: While we did not have time to explore all that Orlando has to offer, here are a few other suggestions for your consideration. 

Within a short distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can find Disney’s Boardwalk. Inspired by Atlantic City, the boardwalk features free admission to stroll along a Coney Island-style boardwalk with complimentary evening entertainment including jugglers, comedians, and fire-eaters. It is connected to Disney’s ferry system via the adjacent Disney’s Boardwalk Villas. 

Whether or not you plan on buying tickets to any of the Universal theme parks, check out the action-packed Universal CityWalk, which features several themed restaurants, nightclubs, a movie theatre, shopping, and access to all of the Universal-themed merchandise. Parking is free after 6 pm. 

Love animals and nature? See more than 500 animals, including some rare and endangered species, and wander through 23 acres of lush, natural beauty at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. As well, Gatorland is one of Orlando’s longest-running attractions, featuring 110 acres with thousands of alligators and crocodiles, plus a flight aviary, petting zoo, nature walk, splash pad play area, Bobcat Bayou, and more.  

This spring, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will debut the LEGO Ferrari Build & Race, which offers guests the experience of viewing a life-sized LEGO Ferrari Car and then building and testing it in one of three obstacle-laden test tracks. Young drivers can also enjoy the LEGO DUPLO Build Zone to design their own custom creations with larger bricks. 

Everything you need to know is at www.visitorlando.com

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