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358 Bathurst St
Toronto, ON M5T 2S6
(416) 603-7817

Kim Bo Restaurant  

Category: Vietnamese
Neighbourhood: Little Italy

4.0 star rating
1/7/2012
New Years Day was moving day for me, which was definitely a test of endurance. Amidst the laborious duties of changing homes, I would let my OCD get the best of me (cleaning, organizing, situating), and it wasn't until the haze of a moonlit hour that I realized I was A) famished, B) with an empty fridge, and C) in a new hood where it was all about 'first times'.

Hmm... something close that wasn't MacDonald's or Tim Hortons (scowl) should do the trick. I was flexible and less fussy than usual, and this 'Kim Bo' spot was the wildcard for me. Popping into its humble abode, I spent a hard 5 minutes scouring the menu for something veggie-friendly I could eat.  Lots of meat, lots of BEEF, but simple rice and veggie options were listed. No extraordinary dishes a la veg, however.

I went with the spring rolls and veggie rice dish. Classic.... easy... DELICIOUS! They happily offered a no-eggs option! I'd go as far to say these spring rolls were fiiiine, and the greasy gates to heaven in my mouth. The rice dish was a large portion, one that I felt I could save some for later; however it was taken care of in one sitting. It came with some kind of buttery sauce which I'm still uncertain of its make-up, but was a nice addition.

I will be back for more spring rolls. A tasty surprise and an encouraging first pitstop in my new hood. Hooray!

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20 Cumberland St
Toronto, ON M4W 1J5
(416) 646-0705

Rawlicious  

Categories: Vegan, Vegetarian
Neighbourhood: Yorkville

4.0 star rating
5/28/2011
An inspired and unassuming spot, this raw trip went down well. Rawlicious may be more geared towards the Green Party of palates, but come on, carrot-on-a-plate stereotypes are hardly the case.

The purpose of this outing was to catch up with a gal-pal, and so the small and cosy quarters were suiting. Pops of colour filled the space-- vibrant and with art. The resto's Victorian framework played on plush modern accents and tasteful upkeep.

I was advised to skip the spring rolls (Kent P), and so the Zucchetti Pasta was my mission. Swirls of zucch dressed in fine basil pesto for $9? Absolute steal. My only complaint is the wine (I ordered the house) was a little pricy for the weight of it. Perhaps I am used to my own fishbowl glass at home, but the pour seemed bitty. And the "organic" clause is a slippery slope when it comes to liquid grapes-- a little more please.

Our server was a precious young fellow who did a fine job-- attentive, endearing, and helpful in menu selections. This meal was an overall success, and I've told my friends. I will be heading back for raw dessert.

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1717 Barrington St
Halifax, NS B3J 2A4
(902) 405-7007

Oddjects  

Category: Home Decor

4.0 star rating
10/26/2010 8 photos
Oddjects breathes some life back to the lonely lanes of Barrington Street. It was an open door on a dreary day that musseled my intrigue and the inner tidings that kept me there!

This space is a fusion of things. High-rise ceilings and the exposed brick backdrop indulge visitors with atmosphere. The extended bar provides the center-point, to which patrons can order up expressos, coffee, treats and quiche pies for here or to go. A small cluster of tables allows ample sitting room, and it's all amongst the clean, modernist themes that home decor can be perused and acquired. Ah, it is an era of multi-offerings.

Decor (for sale) was pleasant. The lamps were a favorite, made of driftwood and overall elegance. A few pretty nic-nacks peaked my ponder--- the coaster selection, Canadian art, glassware, and a pretty paperweight to be specific! Prices appeared to be reasonable, although not for those looking for a bargain.

I'll be back to test out a florentine. All sweets are made by a local German baker, and this sugared almond/fruit treat looked tasty. Quiches are made in the store itself daily, and all the delicately encased sweets come from an outside source. (Says the friendly counter girl)

All in all, I am assured. This spot adds a nice flare to downtown Halifax. Not necessarily a "one of a kind" concept, but there is an attention to detail, sweets to swoon over, and an overall awareness that makes Oddjects a winner. Bonne å decor!

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5244 Blowers St
Halifax, NS B3J 1J7
(902) 492-1133

Fujiyama Restaurant  

Categories: Japanese, Sushi Bars

4.0 star rating
10/18/2010
Fujiyama is a spot I came across purely by referral. It was a birthday celebration with some besties, and we'd opted for a cosy evening of drinks and take-out sushi. For me, it was lands of the unknown... I have my top-spots on mental file. Alas...  how could I refuse such rave reviews from the people I care about? I could not.  And with an oversized order to share amongst friends, this sushi experience was to become a clear sample sesh. Oh ya.

I am a fan! Delicious, hearty, and top notch bites. Veggie, salmon, shrimp, and sweet potato heaven-- and hearts go out to the divine seaweed salad. I've heard great things about the actual resto as well... such cave-like descriptions fare well with me! (Atmospheric effect, my friends.)  

Glad to have broadened my horizons with this Bloor Street bizz. Clustered exteriors make it easy to pass by, but give this guy another look-- its a menu worth exploring.

Listed in: The Sushi Experience

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1579 Dresden Row
Halifax, NS B3J 2K4
(902) 425-8888

Suzuki Restaurant  

Categories: Japanese, Sushi Bars

5.0 star rating
Update - 10/18/2010
Doraku- it'd been a while. Of course, with a visitor in town who happens to be proactive in sushi shananigans, a reunion was imminent. Hop to it!

Yes to this intrinsic setting. Privacy is ensured with secluded booths and a space all your own-- which is especially lovely for a date or low-key meal out. Regular table service is provided as well, but its the quiet nature and mindful approach to dining that gets my vote.

The food is equally brilliant. Small in size and made with care, sushi presentation is right on for a fuss-free chow-down. Always a little overzealous in the selecting, my friend and i went with sashimi, the Doraku Salad (Minus the egg-- the best ginger salad in the city!), spider roll, sweet potato tempura (my favourite), smoked salmon roll and .. a veggie roll to top it all off.

Results were delicious and at a modest price. Doraku is certainly my top spot for sushi in the city, with its heart-filled charm. Its enough to take periodic tendencies to the next level.

Listed in: Girls Night!, Flying Solo, The Sushi Experience

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1 Previous Review: Hide »

  • 5.0 star rating
    4/21/2010

    My cousin-- the sushi nut-- advised me to stop in to Doraku for some of Halifax's best Japanese cuisine. So I went.

    Dorako intermingles gentle ambience with its dining experience. The traditional esthetic is elegantly portrayed through colors, lighting and cushy floor seating, which is optional. There is an immediate vibrance to the restaurant that is not so evident on the exterior. Perhaps a hidden treasure of sorts? With its demure and thoughtful atmosphere, patrons will be swept away in a full-on cultural experience.

    Luckily, my initial awe continued to roll on a high note. Service was sweet and efficient; our waitress offered an assertive knowledge on the menu and helped our table with a few suggestions. I had the miso soup, in addition to the rainbow roll. Tuna, salmon, shrimp and squid-- I do love my sea creatures!

    There were many dishes that peaked my curiosity... it was tough to make the final decision. However, in this menu's case, more is more. There is food for the veggie, sushi pros, and those looking for the Japanese cuisine without the raw fish. (Salmon, Chicken Teriyaki, Tempura, etc) Its everything and more. Going down with a splash of sake, my meal was ultra delish.  With such reasonable pricing, easing aromas and tasty bites,  this place has my vote. I'll be back soon.

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1520 Queen Street
Halifax, NS B3J 2H8
(902) 420-0331

Minato Sushi Japanese Restaurant  

Categories: Japanese, Sushi Bars, Korean

4.0 star rating
10/14/2010
Minato may close its doors for the month of October, but with a sudden rebirth of sushi desire-- I'll sweat out the wait. Teetering its two-story presence on the upper crust of Queen Street (ooh the sweet line of vintage and clothing boutiques), this spot balances quaint confines with extravagant Japanese + Korean tastings.

My bf and I popped in for a lunch date during his recent Halifax visit-- such relations to a sushi addict had me jumping all around town, awakening a  new palate! It was a crisp fall day, and the window seat with a just few other seated patrons made for a relaxed setting. Service was sweet and a little shy, but it was all very becoming. Our gal clearly knew the menu and maintained efficiency as the visit played out.

One Seaweed Salad, ginger house salad, an assortment of sashimi, dragon roll, sweet potato tempura roll, and avocado fix later-- we were both a few steps beyond comfortably full... but with such plate presentation and the YUM factor to back it up, it was difficult to put down the chop sticks. (Regrettably, there were leftovers.)

The sushi here is a bit larger in size than, say, Doraku. Its a little more dramatic and adorned-- so for those who prefer a simpler sushi experience, Minato may not be my first resto recommendation. Its exquisite in experience and taste, so all a matter of preference. A full fledged menu with personal touch, well made selections and an understated spot to dine, I can't wait to return and renew my Minato love.

Listed in: The Sushi Experience

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5486 Spring Garden Road
Halifax, NS B3J 1G2
(902) 422-7617

DAVIDsTEA  

Category: Coffee & Tea

5.0 star rating
9/30/2010 First to Review
David's is the new downtown haven for tea lovers. Those who like it loose, varied and less than ordinary can stop into this Canadian owned chain for its wall of opportunity.

White, green, black, herbal and all thats between--- its provided in color coded tins and with a staff to show you the way. Perhaps a connoisseur of the tea lands? My visits have been sided with sample tastings, expert service and the general uplifting of healthful remedies.

The tea list is phenomenal. Rosemary and peppermint makes a tea titled "Romance". "The Skinny Tea" combines chamomile and lemon ginseng to aid digestion, boost metabolism and increase energy levels. The lime green tea is divine, and I was more than excited to see the Ayurvedic teas available according to the 3 doshas. (*Ayurveda: an ancient healing system of a holistic platform) Whether its sweet, spicy or simple, David's has me excited about hot bevies.

Its a smaller space, but filled with easy 'n' breezy lightness. Tables and thick wicker chairs align beside the garage-style windows that open up onto the street. There are tons of top-notch tea accessories to peruse, and moderately priced at that. (Some more expensive than others) And while there is currently no food option to accompany a fix, the spot is shopping around for the right fit.

Selling fair trade, a Canadian company, kind and knowledgeable staffers, extensive botanical opportunity-- all signs point to YES. The variety is fresh, inspired and ahead of the game. Tea lovas will rejoice while java drinkers can quench as well. (Try the "Jumpy Monkey" for a coffee kick.)

Listed in: Mindful Eating, Namaste, Tea Time

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5435 Spring Garden Rd
Halifax, NS B3J 1G1

Booster Juice  

Category: Juice Bars & Smoothies

5.0 star rating
Update - 9/18/2010 1 photo
I made it here within hours and have realized it as my downtown smoothie spot. Not only are these smoothies mondo-huge in size, they're also reasonably priced, flavourful, and filled with healthful options for those who prefer to keep it au natural. Win, win, win.

I was more than pleased to have a dairy-free option, with a honey sweetened berry treat. It was 3 times delicious and a great density--- aka it lasted longer than 3 minutes to slurp down. Fully satisfying, I will head here for a quick fix any day of the week. Booster juice has my vote.

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  • 4.0 star rating
    5/27/2010

    I have a history of only being in the area when Booster Juice is off duty. Its been years of downtown jaunts, and only recently did I have my first BJ experience.

    And, OH-- it was erotic-exotic. Fresh blends in jumbo sized portions? In this case, its exactly what I'm looking for. I do admit to a slight smoothie fetish, and I'll say that there are quite a few great smoothie spots around the city. Booster Juice is certainly amongst the top contenders, although I cannot confidently crown it as the clear winner.

    Its got everything you'd want in a smoothie, and its great to have such option. A little pricey... yes. But with a spectrum of delicious and a downtown locale, Booster Juice makes for a perfect summertime stop.

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154 Peggy's Point Road
Peggy's Cove, NS B3Z 3S2
(902) 832-1960

Jo Beale Gallery  

Category: Art Galleries

5.0 star rating
9/15/2010 First to Review
Original sights that stretch beyond visuals, Jo Beale is an artistic experience and an honest one. The gallery maintains the simplicity of seaside surroundings along Peggy's main drag. Its hilltop perch and country home parallel with fine art and the tranquility of nature.

The owner, Jo, was a very cool lady to speak with, seemed happy to let visitors browse on their own or engage in conversation. Photography, paintings, and some truly gifted artists-- most local. Anyone holding onto the idea of small towns being all a bunch of landscape realism can bite their tongues. Landscapes? Sure. But there were more than many to take my breath away, and a spectrum of styles.

Louie Armstrong sang in the background, and the work of Brian Atyeo provided me an equally jazzed highlight. This is art to take one from spectator to collector. Oh, I cannot wait to be able to afford good art.

One of a kind and magnificent works. Jo Beale is an oceanside dream, and I highly recommend art lovers to get on down.

Listed in: Culture Cool, Art World

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1735 Grafton St
Halifax, NS B3J 3P9
(902) 480-1111

Pizza Pizza  

Category: Pizza

3.0 star rating
9/13/2010 First to Review
It wasn't until a recent jaunt along some downtown side-streets that I noticed the existence of Pizza Pizza. A small, fresh looking little shop, my curiosity could only lead to a pop-in.

This place has a whole lotta 'za selection. Great for both veggie and meat lovers, its a chain semi-new to Halifax thats housed in cities all over the country. Despite the obvious stamp of generic, there's no need to be cynical, as PP divvies out a variety of well made pizza pies.

I opted for the garden veggie--- fresh, plentiful and hit the spot. As well, it seems very into the "online order", where clients create a profile and order up their favorites with a few clicks of the button. Not sure how well this will fare, as it seems more of a process than to simple call and place an order. But, hey--  perhaps its an adjustment worth trying. The website is clear cut and pretty efficient. And for those who like to know what they're eating, there is a complete list of every pizza and sauce with nutritional details. Sodium, fat, calories, --- do you really want to know? The option is there, but as I notice the Grilled Veggie Goat Cheese slice has 1670 grams of sodium... I may go with avoidance on this one.

Pizza Pizza serves up a solid slice and takes a fresh approach to pizzeria. Its no custom experience, but it'll quench a craving and provide lots of option. I'd suggest checking out their website to get the full idea.

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Former Scout

Review votes:
1818 Useful, 385 Funny, and 1156 Cool

Location

Toronto, ON

Yelping Since

February 2010

Things I Love

cycling, music, film, wine, treats, ambient lighting.

Find Me In

Kensington, LIttle Italy, the Annex.

My Hometown

Rothesay, NB / Halifax, NS

My Blog Or Website

http://www.lolanovella... /   http://twitter.com/#!/...

Why You Should Read My Reviews

curious george and fly on the wall

The Last Great Book I Read

The Fran Lebowitz Reader

My First Concert

The Beach Boy(s)

My Favourite Movie

The Dreamers, Trios Coleurs Trilogy

My Last Meal On Earth

apple crumble with hot tea.

Don't Tell Anyone Else But...

i'll lick my plate

Most Recent Discovery

raw cacao... in my smoothie.