If you’re looking for decent Caribbean food from the twin island republic of Trinidad and Tobago and you don’t have a vacation booked to visit the islands, you must check out Drupati’s Doubles and Roti shop in Toronto. Though I won’t recommend that you plan a night out to have dinner here, since it’s a very small and busy establishment and they just don’t cater to in-house dining. I’ve visited this spot a few times now and I’ve always been pleased with what we ordered.  Dishes such as roti with an assortment of curry meats, doubles, pholourie, Caribbean style stews and a variety of vegetarian dishes with a unique Indo Caribbean twist.

I must confess, though their curry dishes are probably the best (Caribbean style) you can get in Toronto (possibly outside Trinidad and Tobago), their stew dishes like chicken, red bean and fish as well as their callaloo is somewhat mediocre. But then, I’m a budding chef who specializes in these foods so I can be a bit more objective. And I’ve been spoiled by my mom who’s an expert in Caribbean cooking.

Contact Details:

Drupati’s Doubles & Roti Shop

925 ALBION RD, Toronto, ON M9V 1A6

Phone: 416-745-4189

You MUST Order.

1. The doubles. I’ve had doubles from Trinidad, Miami, NY and Toronto and without a doubt the doubles at Drupati’s can rival the best from Trinidad and Tobago, the home of doubles. The bara, curried chickpeas and the wonderful hot sauce that makes up the doubles at Drupati’s is simply mouth watering.

2. The Pholourie. Little dough balls deep fried and served hot, with spicy dipping sauce.

3. Don’t miss out on getting a chicken roti. Though many people tend to get the boneless (white meat) I love the added flavour you get from the “boned” chicken roti. Basically a flatbread stuffed (folded) with curry potato and chicken cooked in a rich curry sauce. The type of curry you can only find in the Caribbean. Not as pungent as many of the East Indian curries, but loaded with flavour. Plus the herbs used in pre seasoning and marinating the meats are very unique to the Caribbean.

4. Snacks – There’s kurma, pone (a cassava cake), preserved fruits (like red mango,and plum) and how could one forget the currant roll. That wonderful pastry filled with currants, in layers.

5. Their bus-up-shut roti is well done as well.

Some Negatives…

- closes on a Monday. Don’t people eat on Mondays in Toronto?

- establishment is very small and the interior is very basic. No money or creativity was spent on this place. If you’re new to Caribbean (pick up your order and leave) type restaurants, you’d even think the place was dirty from the lack of any real care as far as the customer’s experience is concerned.

- I’m not sure if it’s vented well, but I hate smelling like curry when I leave the restaurant. On entering you’re overwhelmed with the smell of what’s cooking in the back and that smell does stay on your clothes. Now, don’t get me wrong.. I love walking into a restaurant and getting the rich scent of food cooking.. but this was a bit overbearing.

- parking is a HUGE problem, as the sort of strip mall the restaurant is located in is very busy with all the ethnic type stores.

Overall, some of the best food from the Caribbean you’ll get outside Trinidad and Tobago (Indo Caribbean) and though the place can be very busy, orders are filled very fast by very friendly staff. By the traffic that goes through this restaurant, you know the food must be good.

BTW, you can also purchase food in large quantities in the event you’re having  a large gathering at your home. I would suggest you call in your order to ensure they can fill it and to avoid having to wait.

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A stormy weekend packed with one of the best lighting storms I’ve ever witnessed, hail and torrential downpours could not keep us away form this years Festival of Friends at Gage park in Hamilton Ontario. After-all this was the very same festival that I met Caron all those years ago. It was our anniversary and I just had to go relive that amazing day. This time however we went as a family and not two youngsters looking for summer love.

The weather was horrible the entire 3 days of the festival, but as the skies cleared up on the Sunday we made our way down. There was the normal search for parking in the surrounding streets for the “cheapos” like us, but there was also paid parking within the park itself.

The festival, though well organized from the outside (looking in), seemed to have lost something. Maybe it’s because we’re older now and we’re looking at things differently, but it didn’t have that once lively vibe to it. I couldn’t but a handle to it, but it did seem a bit commercial.

Food, music, beer and tons of crafty type shopping were abundant and “pricey”. Maybe it was the heat or the fact that we’ve had a crappy summer so far, but people didn’t seem to be in a good mood. No smiles, no groups of people just chatting and the few who were taking in the live performers seemed to be disassociated from the performers. The performers hardly ever got a reaction from the crowd when they tried to get them involved.

Some pics, followed by some additional info about the event itself and the record they were trying to break.

Besides the obvious spiritless mood of the people at the festival this day, the vendors were full of vigor and willing to accommodate you to close in on that sale. From jewelery to carvings, sketches and an assortment of crafts on sale, you did have a wide selection to choose from. The kids all seem to be enjoying themselves at the rides and at the many ice cream trucks that were there. Same could be said for the adults at the beer tent that was to the right side of the main stage/bandshell.

Gage park is also widely known for it’s amazing rose garden, so you also had the option of strolling though and taking some pics with your family. I must say though that the roses were not as vibrant as they normally are and I suspect that this is due to the strange weather we’ve had this summer.

The bench that Caron and I sat on that memorable night is now gone and the festival may have lost it’s appeal to me/us, but it’s still an integral part of life in this wonderful city we call home. Though I won’t list it as a “must-do”, it’s still a good option for a summers evening to take in some live performances and enjoy the sights!

Some of the live performer included:

David Wilcox
The Road Hammers
Steven Page
Finger 11
Crystal Shawanda
Kim Mitchell
Leon Redbone
The Wilkinsons

Festival of Friends, place and time:

Gage Park, Hamilton Ontario.
Noon – 11 pm
August 7, 8 and 9th.

World Record Attemptt – Largest Guitar Ensemble. Germany – 1802 playing “smoke on the water” simultaneously. It was the goal of the organizers to try and beat the Guinness record set in Germany, but they fell short after the final tally.

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I’d like to start off by saying thanks to Steven Weir and the media services at the Caribana offices for granting us media accreditation for the Caribana events, even though we were a bit late in applying. As a son of the soil of the Caribbean islands, Caribana and other such events are dear to me. My sister who’s also actively involved in many Caribana events as a food vendor was also there that night, so was I doing double duty as a media rep for OntarioAlive.com and assistant cook for my sister’s food stall.

We’re notorious for never being on time or organized and it was proven again here this night. As I made my way around the stadium (Allan Lamport Stadium) it was clear that none of the security or people wearing the event shirts had any clue where I should go to get my media badge. After a relentless search I was told that last year the media desk was setup at the far end of the stage. Finally I had my badge and briefed as to what the badge gave me access to.

Other small glitches that night was a somewhat late start and during the actual event, there were some issues with band leaders (king, queen etc) not going onto stage in the order they were supposed to. But if a costume is not ready, there’s not much organizers could do.

Overall a great show full of  culture and people just having a good time with friends and family as they were entertained by the mas people and the booming sounds of the Caribbean. One cannot forget the opportunity to experience the cuisine from the Caribbean and Latin American region. Besides the normal, doubles, bake and shark, roti and assortment of curry side dishes, the jerk chicken with peas and rice, one could also enjoy deep fried plantain (so good) with Spanish rice and BBQ chicken smothered in that wonderful Latin American sauce. The scent bellowing from the various food vendors was like a signal to your senses, urging you to get something to eat. Even if you just had dinner before arriving at the event.

After my camera battery died (thus the lack of more pics) and I made my way into the stands and food area it was very clear that people were having fun, even the police that were in attendance were mixing with the people and stole a minute or two to dance along to the pulsating soca music. While on the topic of police, I was also very impressed at the number of security and event staff that were everywhere giving the event a very safe and organized feel.

Here are some of the pics I was able to take before my camera batteries died on me. Yes, I did take 2 cameras, but as luck would have it they both were low on power.

People started lining up very early to sample many of the food options this night. This spot “Famous Recipe” was one of the more popular options, and from speaking with customers they all claimed that the top choice was the bake and shark and/or the bake and saltfish. For me it was the roti with curry potato and chicken. Directly across this food stall were free samples of sorrel drink… something you must try if you ever get the chance to.

I would strongly recommend that you make this event as well as the many other Caribana events a must-do on your summer to-do list. This is Toronto and Canada at it’s best and don’t feel that if you’re not from the Caribbean region you would feel excluded. Everyone were very welcoming and as I mentioned above it a good way to learn and experience some of the wonderful culture and diversity that makes us so uniquely Canadian.

For more on the 2009 Scotia Bank Toronto Caribana, you can visit the Caribana website.

For a full list of the winners at the King and Queen event, click here.

On the Thursday evening before Caribana Day the Kings and Queens of the Bands meet to do battle. Like peacocks they will primp and preen, eliciting “oohs” and “aahs” from the audience. It is an honour for any participant to be enthroned the King or Queen of Scotiabank Caribana 2009. The King and Queen symbolically have the keys to the city, freedom of the streets. Their movements are supposed to be uninhibited. Band members and onlookers alike are to give them the respect, even if mockingly, usually accorded to real-life royalty.

It’s been a few years since we first drove through Niagara on the Lake during our hunt for “pick your own” cherries and I always wanted to go back and take in the vibe of this hip little town. Flooded with tourists when we first drove through, today was no different. But it was nice hearing all the different accents and languages spoken as we browsed the many specialty stores.

Last summer was a bust for us and we didn’t do much with our girls, so this year it’s our intention to do as much as we can… the winter takes a toll on us so we MUST enjoy the few warm months we get. From Hamilton it’s a short 40 minute drive and as soon as you get off the QEW you find yourself driving through all the beautiful vineyards and fruit orchards. And do watch out for the many people you’ll pass on bicycles.

Parking! Is a bit on the premium side, as the place gets packed in the summer months. There are plenty metered parking spots, but who wants to have to go back to feed the metal beast every couple hours? WARNING – there are tons on parking “police” so be sure to watch all signs and ensure you’re parked where you’re supposed to or risk getting a ticket.

Dining! Niagara On the Lake is a bed and breakfast type town fueled by tourists, so we were prepared to pay “tourist” prices in the restaurants and other specialty food stores. Lunch for the 5 of us (no dessert or booze) cost us about $75 with tip, and well worth it. The atmosphere was great, service tops and food excellent. There are many patio type restaurants where you’ll find a wide assortment of menus to choose from. Bear in mind that as a tourist town, you may have to join a line to get a good seat… especially if you want a seat at a popular patio.

Rather than go on writing about the town, I’ll let some of the pics we took help you appreciate Niagara On The Lake (great for a day trip with your family or a romantic evening with someone special)…

Niagara-on-the-Lake, often called the loveliest town in Ontario, has a long and distinguished history. Site of the old Neutral Indian village of Onghiara, it was settled at the close of the American Revolution by Loyalists coming to Upper Canada, many of whom had been members of the much feared Butler’s Rangers based during the American Revolution at Fort Niagara, then under British control.

Its many attractions include historic sites – Fort George and the Historical Society Museum, the Shaw Festival with its three theatres, the marina, our heritage business district for shopping, golf courses, parks and beautiful farmland, agricultural markets and our world famous Niagara wineries. Take a carriage ride through the Old Town, or a jet boat up the Niagara River. A short drive along the scenic Niagara Parkway leads to Queenston Heights and Niagara Falls. Check out the Butterfly Conservatory at the Niagara Parks Commission site.

Directions….

From Toronto and destinations east/west via QEW:
Follow the QEW towards Niagara. after crossing the Garden City Skyway at St. Catharines exit the QEW at exit 38B, follow the Niagara-on-the-Lake signage onto Highway 55. Take Highway 55 12km(7mi) northeast until it ends at Queen Street. A right turn will take you into the Heritage Business District.

From New York State and USA destinations

Via Buffalo:
Take the QEW to exit 38 and follow the signage onto Highway 55 and into town as above. OR – follow the signage at the Peace Bridge to the scenic Niagara Parkway and follow it from Fort Erie right into Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Via Niagara Falls:
Cross the Rainbow Bridge and follow signage to the Niagara Parkway north to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Via Lewiston:
Cross the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge and follow signage to the Niagara Parkway north to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Via Detroit:
Take Highway 401 and 403 to Hamilton, Ontario and then follow directions above from Toronto down the QEW to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

What a great weekend it was for the Wingfest in Hamilton as we enjoyed one of the best weekend in Southern Ontario as far as the weather goes, this spring. With sunny skies and hot temperatures (almost too hot) we headed down to the waterfront to take in the action.

Parking was pretty much left to doing what you can on the streets, except there was the option to park very close to the venue, with a $5 charge (per visit) that we were told went to some sort of charity. It being as hot as it was and the fact that the surrounding streets were already jam-packed, we opted for the paid parking.

It was a very vibrant atmosphere as we made our way into the venue, with people streaming and and out. One of the first things you’ll notice is the huge ferris wheel and the amusement park area they have set up for kids. After an experience we had  a few years back at another park with these temporary rides that move from town to town, we no longer opt for taking these rides. But I’m sure the people who were at this part of the venue, had fun. Though they had to pay for the tickets, as expected.

No entry fee. Like the Ribfest that’s held across the bay in Burlington, the Wingfest was free to enter. It being a wonderful sunny day, it seems everyone was in a good mood and having a great time. When you see fellas with beer bellies walking around with their shirts off, you know people are in a good mood. The lines at some of the places serving wings were quite long and the food and beer tents were also packed. I think people were just happy to get out of the sun for a bit and cool down with a cold beverage and sticky wings. I do hope the long lines meant good wings.

The event was well staffed as far as I can tell. There was a police presence and there was a station for medical attention if that was ever required. (great job organizers).

We were probably there a bit too early in the day, but there was a stage set up, so I assume there was live performers later in the day and into the night. With these tough economic times, a free concert is always good. I also believe (again we were too early) there was a fireworks show at night.

Areas for some improvement?

Promotion. The people I spoke too (not at the event) knew nothing about this event, even though this in not the first year for staging it. Better job can be done with marketing or maybe the organizers are hoping for the guests this to spread the word?

Location. Unlike with Ribfest in Burlington where the backdrop is very nice, this event is held at a location that a bit too industrial looking. And when you did walk out to the water front area..don’t look to the right – the steel plants are there and not all that pleasant to look at. The organizers good do a much better job at finding a nicer location. Somewhere that showcases the natural beauty of Hamilton. A grassy area at least?

The Food. Well, the wing options were plenty, but to be honest I did not make a purchase. The wings all seemed like the same wherever you went, wings with some sauce or the other on it. Would be nice to see people trying different techniques in the preparation, as they all looked grilled and bath in sauces as I mentioned before. Where were the dusted, the deep fried with breading and the other ways you can cook wings?

Caron and Indy had some of the fresh cut fries that were served at the “Hutches” booth since all the onion rings at the event was sold out, as well as the nachos at the “Hooters” booth. Both items got full marks, especially the sort of spiced cheese that came on top of the nacho plate. Price-wise, it what’s expected at these type of events. The container of fries were $4 and the nachos were $5 (there wasn’t any salsa or beef on the nachos). Oh the wings… 1/2 LB was $5 and $10/lb at the places were I did poke my head in to see what the wings looked like.

Judging from the long lines at some wing stalls, there seems to be some favorites and my guess it’s due to the sauces they used at those booths or how big the display signs were that advertised the booth.

Why didn’t I make a purchase? I love me some good wings, but I really didn’t see or smell (BTW, how the heck there wasn’t a mouth watering scent at this park?) anything that looked appealing to me. The closest I came to making a purchase was the “sweet chili heat” ones I saw as it was a bit intriguing, but the pale colour of the cooked wing turned me off, though it was covered in that chili bbq sauce. I’m very visual with my food and I like some clour on my cooked meats.. golden brown from frying or grill marks would be nice.

Overall not a bad experience for my first time at the Wingfest. With some marketing and a better location, this event will be one to mark on your calendar to start off the summer season! Maybe next year I’ll grab me some wings?

Enjoy the pics and be sure to leave me your comments in the area provided below.

Almost forgot to mention… Art at a Wingfest? There was a huge tent (display) area with artwork at the Wingfest, but I just couldn’t connect to two – art and wings!

Date / Location: June 12th and go on until Sunday, June 14th at Pier 8, 47 Discovery Drive, Hamilton, Ontario.

For more information, please contact event co-ordinator, Julia by email at specialevents@hamiltonwaterfront.com or by phone at (905) 525-4498.

The History of Hamilton Wingfest

In late 2007 a movement began to bring the Wingfest phenomenon to Hamilton. Our city is a natural site for such an endeavor: Ward 4 Councillor Sam Merulla pointed out that Hamilton is the one of the first Canadian cities to offer chicken wings.

On December 19, three Hamilton councillors, backed by the Hamilton Waterfront Trust, challenged the mayor of Buffalo, NY, to a “chicken wing showdown”, as it was termed in the December 20 issue of The Spectator. Buffalo is widely recognized as the birthplace of the chicken wing snack, and its proximity to Hamilton resulted in the new culinary creation catching on here before anywhere else in Canada.

Website for the wingfest.

This morning as we walked through Jackson Square to pay a parking ticket that Caron got a few days back we decided to hit the Farmers Market. As we approached the market we noticed that it was closed for renovations (as soon as it’s open again, I’ll post a review), but in the same direction to the market is the central location for the Hamilton public library system.

I have very fond memories of that library. That was my connection to all the international soccer when there wasn’t much media coverage as there is now in Canada. All the soccer magazines could be found there. A couple months behind… but at least I got my fix. I’d grab a bunch of magazines, then go to the audio department to get some groovy tunes  to listen to while I read. All you had to do was hand the attendant your library card and they would loan you the head phones.

This was a bit before computers and the internet became mainstream, so this was also my spot for doing homework and research on projects etc. As our girls came along, we’d take them every Saturday to play in the kids area and grab books for them to read and for us to read to them.

Do people still go to the library? Get to know the Hamilton Public Library.

Location (there are 2 entrances. 1 from inside the Jackson Square mall and the other from York Blvd.

55 York Blvd.
Hamilton, ON
L8N 4E4
Phone: 905-546-3200
Fax:     905-546-3202

Hrs of Operation.

Mon.:  9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Tue.:   9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Wed.: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Thu.:   9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Fri.:    9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sat.:   9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sun.:  1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Computer/Internet Bookings: 905-546-3232

Collections Available

Adult Literacy Materials
Career Information Collection
Children’s collection
City Directory
Fiction books (hardcover and paperback)
Large Print Collection
Learning Centre (English as a second language materials, including TOEFL kits)
Leonardo Sciascia Room
Multi-media Collection (videos, DVDs, books on CD & cassette, CD-Roms, language kits, international language videos)
Multilingual Collection (books, newspapers & magazines in languages other than English)
Music on CD
Non-fiction books in numbered sequence 000 to 999
Picture Collection
Sheet Music
Teen Territory

Services

Art Exhibition Space
Book Drop (when library closed)
Disability Information Service Helpline (DISH)
Internet Workstations
Piano Practice Room
Public Phones (Main floor lobby including one TTY phone)
Local History and Archives
Wireless Access Available:  Homework Help Area (2nd Floor) and Local History and Archives (3rd Floor)

Programs

Book Clubs:
The Hamilton Public Library offers over 40 book clubs in our branches and supports many book clubs in the community.

Book Sales:
Enjoy library seasonal Book Sales.

Computer Classes:
Small group training programs at Central Library and other branches.  Check the details for every season!

Programs available at the Central Library and surrounding Hamilton area..

Story Time Registration

We offer story times for different age groups.

Maybe next time I’ll ensure I have some extra time to go and reconnect with the library and all it has to offer.