Hamilton is alive with culinary culture and U SHAO BBQ, Hamilton’s first Korean BBQ  is just another wonderful addition to our ever-expanding culinary landscape. Last weekend my friend Marco and I were invited down to the grand opening of U SHAO BBQ at the corner of John and Main Street East for a BBQ experience unlike any I’ve had before. At first I found myself asking why would I go to a restaurant to cook food for myself, but within the first fifteen minutes I wanted to grill everything in front of me. And I think I did.. poor Marco had piles of food on his plate.

Four days later and we were back down At U SHAO BBQ for a delightful family night out. As soon as Tehya and Dan heard about my experience the Sunday before they were excited to come along and now that Caron is quickly coming out of her dining “shell”.. she was game as well. Little did she know that she had to do the cooking, something she abhors.

A modern interior with clean lines and a sort of minimalistic feel, U SHAO is very inviting and the vibe you get from the staff compliments that warm and inviting feel. If you’ve never been to a Korean BBQ as I was the first visit, you’ll find it strange to see a grilling surface centered on every table in the house. With both sides of the restaurant dedicated to individual tables (could easily work for larger parties and handicap seating) and the middle of the restaurant is filled with ‘booth’ like seating. These booths can accommodate up to four people as is a bit of tight fit once the food starts to arrive. With the grill in the middle of each table, your leg room is a bit compromised with the gas and other pipes which feed and vent the grill. If you have tall or heavey people in your group, I would suggest getting one of the outer tables.

After ordering our drinks, we settled in to complete the order form. Basically all you’re doing is saying how many orders of each item you’re interested in eating, in the little boxes next to each item on the menu. By his time our waiter had already cranked-up the fire under our grill and we could already feel the radiating heat of the flame. The grill is designed in such a way that there are vents on the side to suck all the smoke and any sort of grill scent away from the restaurant itself so you don’t leave smelling like grilled meats.

Since the list of items to order is huge, I’ll try my best to remember what we ordered. I must also mention at this time that when Marco and I first went, we ordered  2 of each meat and vegetable we wanted to try.. we struggled to finish it off. So I would suggest if you’re a party of 2, get 1 of each item you want and as you go along you can get more. Since there were 4 of us, we got 2 of the following… chicken, lamb, short ribs, beef, shrimp, fish, pork, mushrooms, pineapple, onions, green peppers and I got a single order of sticky rice. If I recall correctly there was also, calamari, tofu, lettuce, kimchi, beansprouts and few other items on the menu. The grilled pineapple was a hit with the ladies so you may find that you’ll want to order more.

When the waiter arrived he was carrying stacks of perfectly marinated meats for us to get grilling. The head chef is very proud of his marinades and rightly so. The thinly sliced pieces of meat is marinated perfectly and with the grilling over the flame, all the sugars and flavors are only heightened. Dining at a Korean BBQ is a sort of community effort, as everyone gets involved in the cooking process.

I’m sure you’ll find what works for you, but we loaded our grill with a full assortment of meats and vegetables and allowed that to cook. Since they’re sliced very thin they don’t take long to cook. Trying not to cross contaminate we used the tongs for handling the raw meats and our chop sticks for the fully cooked food (ask for forks if you struggle with chop sticks) … we then moved the fully cooked meats onto our plates. As we dined we added more raw food onto the grill so at no time were we ever out of cooked food. Be sure to ask for the hot sauce and the sort of sesame oil / soy sauce combo they created inhouse. Remember that if you run out of anything you’re free to ask fro more… it’s all you can eat. Your waiter may ask if you want your grill changed.. if you find that it’s coated with burnt meats etc have them change it.

It’s great fun grilling at your table, something I didn’t appreciate until I actually tried it and the food is simply outstanding. Hats off to the chef for some amazing marinades which are all uniquely different, but compliment each other. Don’t forget to leave room for the frozen desserts which also come as part of your dinner and be sure to try the mango ice cream.

I strongly believe that not only is U SHAO BBQ a spot to dine out when you’re ready to try something international, but it’s an experience in itself and I love the concept. The staff are very friendly and always at your call so don’t feel intimated if it’s your first time. With wide aisles, automatic doors and tables which can accommodate people in wheel chairs and other mobility devices, they’ve thought about everyone at U SHAO BBQ.

Look for a lunch menu in the coming weeks and we were told that they’re working very hard at a take out menu which will also be released in the coming weeks.

U SHAO Korean BBQ Restaurant

27 John St. South Hamilton Ontario L8N 2B8
905 521 8880 (for reservations)

Before you go we’d love for you to leave us your comments below, even if it’s just to say hello. And don’t forget to join us on FaceBook (for our latest updates, including discounts, coupons and more pictures from our time at U SHAO BBQ) and do tune in to our videos (escapades!) on our youtube channel we’ve created.

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I’ve seen it happen countless times on episodes of Cheers and as we walked though Teddy’s Restaurant Sports Bar in Grimsby we got the feeling that everyone there knew our names and were about to shout it out. As on the popular tv series from the 90′s. Sandy (owner) had invited us down on their famous ‘wing night’ and from our brief chat on the phone, I could already tell that this was not your typical bar, but  a sort of meeting place for locals with their family. We’ve been searching high and low for the past few years for wings that stood out.. like the ones we would get back when Caron and I were dating, at Grapes And Things in downtown Hamilton. So wing night was an eager anticipation for us and we hoped that Teddy’s would deliver.

Seems during the day (Thursday) the main street in Grimsby (in front of Teddy’s) is closed off to local traffic and there’s a festive sort of open-air market where local farmers would sell their produce. Really wished we had gone down a bit earlier in the day so we could get some pics to share. With the street still blocked off, we parked about half a block away and walked over. Typically, you’re able to find parking directly in from of Teddy’s and we didn’t realize that there was also free parking at the rear of the building.

After a brief introduction by Sandy and our waiter for the night, we settled in to enjoy our drinks (the coffee is excellent) and await the massive onslaught of food we were not prepared for. Since it was wing night, we had come with a craving appetite for succulent wings, drenched in good sauce and we were not disappointed. It took about 10 minutes from the time we placed our order for the entire feast to be sitting in front of us, even though the restaurant was packed.
We started off with the deep fried pickles (Tehya’s recommendation) and the to-die-for Bruteddy bread. This is absolutely one of the best starters we’ve ever had a bar/restaurant. Garlic bread topped with sauteed onions, green peppers, tomato, bacon and a ‘secret’ sauce.. then finished with melteda cheddar and mozzarella. You could easily fill up on this tasty treat as the portions at Teddy’s restaurant comes in one size – massive and it’s alluringly tempting.

Up next were piles of onions rings, fries and the reason everyone goes to Teddy’s Restaurant in Grimsby on a Thurstan night… the chicken wings. Caron and the girls got the mild, medium and hot. But had we known how delicious the “Teddys Style” was, it would have been the only dressing we would have opted for. A perfect balance of sweetness, heat and undertones of richness made this sauce absolutely perfect for wings. At last we found wings we could recommend.

As we fought our way through the appetizing pile of food in front of us, we could only gasp when the rest of what we order arrived. Indy got the chicken fingers with.. yes more fries and I was convinced that I ‘had’ to try the TJ Deluxe burger. Two massive beef patties stacked with an assortment of cheese and all the fixings of a classic burger… even fried onions. What looked like a skyscraper of a burger was perfectly cooked and very challenging to finish due to it’s enormous size.

With piles of food still watching us menacingly from the crowded table we simply had no room for dessert, but I must admit that the brownie delight did sound tempting. We hung around to people-watch a bit and it was clear that this was indeed one of those “family friendly” restaurants we seem to be losing to those chain restaurants which are popping up at every street corner. The fellow diners, staff and general feel at Teddy’s is not one that’s pretentious or stuffy. The food is excellent and probably some of the best wings we’ve had in years. The portions are massive and probably the best bang for your buck in Southern Ontario, as far as dining out is concerned.

Special thanks to Sandy, her brother and all the wonderful staff at Teddy’s Restaurant And Sports Bar in Grimsby for not only making us feel so welcome, but for the amazing atmosphere you’ve created for people looking for good food, at prices they can afford and in such a positive vibe. You’ve perfected the art of making people comfortable.

To contact Sandy or anyone at Teddy’s…

Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits
30 Main Street West
Grimsby, Ontario
Canada
L3M 1R4
905-945-5013

Before you go we’d love for you to leave us your comments below, even if it’s just to say hello. And don’t forget to join us on FaceBook (for our latest updates, including discounts, coupons and more pictures from our time at Teddy’s Food, and Spirits) and do tune in to our videos (escapades!) on our youtube channel we’ve created.

Check out the quick video clip from our evening at Teddy’s:

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Indian cuisine is one of those dining experiences which may seem a bit intimidating to many, especially with it’s reputation for being overly spicy. However, with our recent dinner date at Tandoori Flame in Brampton Ontario, we’re about to set the record straight for all of you who’ve not given the Indian dining experience a try. Caron isn’t as daring as Tehya and I when it comes to trying foods she didn’t grow up on, but she was game this night. Kieana and Indy didn’t accompany us to the Tandoori Flame, billed as the largest Indian buffet restaurants in Ontario as they had other plans.

I grew up eating a fair amount of spicy food in the Caribbean… many of which had a strong Indian influence. But the only other time I had anything close to authentic Indian cuisine was back when I went to Germany for the World Cup in 2006. With that teaser in mind I went with an eager anticipation.

After a warm welcome when we arrived, we headed over to our table where we met with our waiter for the night (a pleasant, but quiet gentleman) who offered us drinks and gave us some tips on what we must try off the menu, being it was our first time at the Tandoori Flame. The restaurant itself is very modern and does not really have the sort of motif I thought we’d see at an Indian restaurant. Brightly lit, well staffed and roomy enough for those who may require the use of a wheelchair or other assistance in moving about.

After our first trip up to the salad bar we could already tell that the restaurant was getting packed.  As we walked pass the entrance back to our assigned table, we could see a huge line of eager diners waiting to be seated (that line grew bigger as the night progressed). This was a Saturday night so we assumed it would be their busiest, so you may to keep this in mind when planning your trip to the Tandoori Flame.

Not only was the restaurant packed as I mentioned above, there was a huge cross-section of people in attendance and not only people of Indian heritage. I got into chatting a few times while in the line at the grill area and the one thing the other diners all raved about was not only the wide variety of dishes they could choose from, but the quality of food they’ve come to expect from the Tandoori Flame.

Caron and Tehya started off at the salad bar where they went into overload with all the tasty options there were attractively displayed and well stocked. Since I’m not much of a soup or salad person I immediately headed pass the pizza area and went directly to the sizzling sound of the tandoori oven. The rich aroma of the seasoned meats as they’re introduced to the heat of this unique cooking method was just captivating.

I could not wait to get back to my table to try the assortment of grilled vegetables, chicken kebabs and tandoori chicken. With the bright colors, Caron mentioned that my plate looked like “Christmas”. Little did she know I was like a kid at Christmas with this delicious assortment of food daring me to dig in.

If you recall I mentioned that Caron can be a bit conscientious when dining out, but she was quite impressed by the many options that she could identify with. As we all know part of the dining experience is the way food looks, so some of the curry sauces were not as appealing to her as it was for myself and Tehya.  Additionally, the dishes were not overpowering, but rather a nice blend of spices, mild heat and richness from the cremes and yogurt used in Indian cuisine. If you’re a really fussy eater you can certainly keep away from the curry dishes and still have what would be a full menu at other restaurants to choose from.  An unexpected surprise as I mentioned above was the pizza station with some mouth-watering options… but we we’re not here for pizza!  However,  I did see some of the kids in the dining room indulge to the extreme.

With regular visits by our waiter and his assistants who cleared the table as we made our way through the many trips to the buffet and to top up our glasses with water, we felt well looked after without being overwhelmed. Please note that there are no free refills on soft drinks.

I’m one of those people who’s always aware of my surroundings and sometimes I can be a bit nosy. I noticed the guys sitting one table away from us were eating this sort of puffed pastry-like thing, that had the shape of a ping pong ball which they were dipping into an interesting sauce. Using their spoon, they would crack it  as you would the shell of an egg, then scoop up the sauce which they seemed to be really enjoying. Not only did my curiosity got me into a conversation with them, they also explained what it was and how to eat it.  Yup…guess who was breaking, dipping and crunching minutes later?

To be honest, it wasn’t anything special and I really didn’t care for the sauce it came with.  This and the spinach dish I tried were the only two things I didn’t really like of all the dishes available. It wasn’t so much the taste of the spinach dish, but the texture which just wasn’t to my liking.

It was time for another round at the buffet, so I sampled the Chicken Biryani, Butter Chicken, Goat Curry, Daal, Palak Paneer and Matter Paneer all of which was quite satisfying.

We’re not ones to have wine or other alcoholic beverages with our meals, but I must mentioned that there’s an attractive bar as you enter the restaurant with a small lounge attached, which looks very inviting if you were waiting for friends to arrive for dinner.  With a couple huge T.V.’s,  I’m sure you could catch the game or just sit back and enjoy some drinks.  I’m not sure if you could dine in this area, but it would be appealing.  Additionally there’s bar service at your table in the main dining room.

Surrounded by satisfied faces,  it was time for us to call it a night as there wasn’t much room left though we didn’t even sample half of the offerings.  However I had to make room for the delicious mango ice cream and gulab jamun that called out to me temptingly to give them a try.  Caron and Tehya settled for some of the fresh fruit and pastries and watching them eat I could only think what a paradise this would be a for vegetarians.

This night we learned that Indian food is not only very creative and full of amazing flavours,  but the idea that everything is curried or heavy on the spices is a bit misleading. From young to old, accents which represented a sort of global village…everyone was enjoying the dining experience at Tandoori Flame.

We finished off the night by taking advantage of the complimentary Mehndi as there was no way Tehya was about to leave without having a henna design placed on her hands. Seems this was a hit with many of the ladies in attendance as well,  as there was a short line, but the efficiency of the talented lady applying the artwork meant the lines went relatively fast.

The Tandoori Flame is a wonderful place to dine and a good introduction to Indian food as you have so many options to choose from.  The only thing I wished they did was to have a sort of info ticket posted near each dish to not only tell you the ingredients and how it was prepared but how to eat it.  Maybe it’s something their waiters could do?  I mean, if one dish is usually paired with another it would be nice to know.  The few regular diners we spoke with only had good things to say about the food and service…we even spoke with people, who like me, were born in the Caribbean and love coming here to explore authentic Indian cuisine.

For more info on the Tandoori Flame restaurant in Brampton Ontario, check out their website.

TANDOORI FLAME
8150, Dixie Rd,
Brampton, L6T 5N9

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Sun burn, sore throats and tired feet, but we didn’t want to leave Canada’s Wonderland after a day of unimaginable fun. Our latest escapade saw us (entire family this time) at Canada’s Wonderland having a go at all the thrill rides… though one of us (Kieana) was too chicken to wander far from the tame rides and confines of the water park area. Myself, Caron, Tehya and Indy are all roller coaster and thrill ride junkies, so we were like kids in a candy store from the time we entered the main gates of the park.

The gates had just opened by the time we arrived and checked in at guest services, so there were huge lines to enter the park. But within a few minutes we went through security and were on our way to our first encounter with the new ride for 2011, Windseeker. With map in hand and an eagerness in our steps, we headed over to Windseeker expecting huge lines. There was a group of people in front of us, but within 10 minutes we were buckling into our seat getting ready to go up over 300 ft. On the way up the rotation started and at full speed we were doing about 25-30 mph (40-48 kmh) at a 45 degree angle. The view from the top is stunning as you can see miles around you and if you want to add a little more excitement to your ride, look down on the inside of the ride (to your left). You’ll truly appreciate how high up and fast you’re traveling.

We couldn’t decide if we were all hungry or not and due to some miscommunication we ended up at the The Marketplace – International Buffet where it seemed like only Caron and I were the only ones eating. Kieana, Tehya and Indy nibbled on some fruit, tacos and pasta dishes, while Caron and I had LUNCH! The options are plentiful at the International Buffet and we highly recommend the fried chicken, pizza, hamburgers which are grilled in front of you and I so wish I had gone back for some of that juicy looking roast beef. You can see some of the pics we took at the International Buffet on the Facebook Fan page. You’re free to pack a lunch picnic but I’m not sure if you’re allowed to bring it into the park (there’s a park-like area at the front where you could certainly picnic). The night before Caron made some delicious sandwiches so we went back to the car to change shoes and have dinner around 6 pm, plus we needed the short break.

There are many dining options throughout the park, from pizza to Chinese to some of the longest hot dogs I’ve ever seen, which are reasonably priced bearing in mind that you’ll pay park prices. There’s also a Starbucks on site for those needing a coffee rush or a gourmet drink! Don’t forget to get a funnel cake  at some point.. it’s a tradition for Caron going back many years now. A light batter deep fried then topped with icing sugar, strawberries, ice cream and whipped cream.

There’s something for every age group at Canada’s Wonderland so you can make it a true family day trip. There’s the largest assortment of thrill rides in Canada, the Splash Zone water park,  family rides and then there’s Planet Snoopy for the little ones, with all the fun of Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts Gang! In between jumping from ride to ride we did have time for a couple of the live shows which runs at different times throughout the day (signs posted). We caught the diving and trampoline shows and they were amazing.

Some tips if you’re planning a trip to Canada’s Wonderland; pack sunblock, wear comfortable shoes, bring a change of clothing if you plan on doing any of the water rides (tons of fun), there are height requirements for many rides so get the little ones measured as you enter the park, be sure to get stamped on the way in especially if you plan on going out and coming back in and be prepared to have fun.

Parking was $10 I believe and this allows you to leave and return without having to pay each time (for that day). But remember to keep the receipt so you can display it on reentry. I’d try to arrive early as the parking lot is huge and all the prime spots close to the entry gates do fill up very fast. There’s a huge area dedicated to handicap parking at the very front as well.

Teenagers will love the water park, so encourage them to pack their swimsuits. While Kieana, Tehya and Indy were busy taking in the rays and splashing around in the water park, Caron and I were busy taming as much thrill rides as time would allow us. After the Sky Rider we recommend going on Behemoth which will have you on the edge of your seat as it takes you up 230 feet and then sends you speeding down at a 75 degree angle of descent with speeds reaching 125km/hour. Did I mention that it’s open air seating? Next up was the Fly which looks tame, but trust me it’s not. This is one of our favorite rides. We then went from Dragon Fire to Flight Deck to Psyclone and we then cooled things down at Riptide. After a short break we then headed over to Shockwave, then Sky Rider and we were disappointed when we saw that Sledge Hammer (Caron calls it the ‘claw’) was closed. All this while we were cooking in the open sun since we simply forgot to pack sun block and it never occurred to us to check the store within the park for some. It was a hot and humid day, so we took mini breaks between rides to hit the “cool zone” where you’re hit with a gentle mist of refreshing water. A full day of absolute fun at Canada’s wonderland and only on our way out did we realize that we didn’t go on Back Lot Stunt Coaster nor did we stay for the laser light show at the end.. FYI, you’ll need most part of an entire day to really appreciate all there is to do and see, so be prepared.

We really wish we could comment on the area designated for younger children, but with our girls being teenagers we tend to overlook these areas. Howbeit from our experience when they were younger… they’ll have tons of fun with their own little thrill rides and fun activities.

We saw many people walking around proudly with huge stuffed animals they won at the many games scattered throughout the park and this was the first time in all my years coming to Canada’s wonderland that I failed to win something at the games (hurt my pride). This was great opportunity for us to spend the day as a family and with the huge area the park covers, it gave us the opportunity to separate from the girls when they started to complain (always happens). You’re getting your money’s worth and more when you pay the admission fee to get in and I would even argue that it’s the best bang for your entertainment buck in Ontario. Oh yea! We even lost our voices from all the screaming on those electrifying roller coasters.

Address and Contact Info:

Canada’s Wonderland
9580 Jane Street, Vaughan, ON L6A 1S7
(905) 832-7000

For updated prices on admission as well as how to get discounts and coupons, visit Canada’s Wonderland official website.

Before you go we’d love for you to leave us your comments below, even if it’s just to say hello. And don’t forget to join us on FaceBook (for our latest updates, including discounts, coupons and more pictures from Canada’s Wonderland) and do tune in to our videos (escapades) on the youtube channel we’ve created.

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As the floor tilted below our feet and the room thundered around us, we were caught in a blizzard… but it’s was summertime!  Last week we spent the day in Niagara Falls and one of the first attractions we did was Niagara’s Fury The Creation Of The Falls. We had seen the huge billboard a few times on entry back to Canada at the Lewiston boarder crossing, but never really gave it much thought. However we were soon to find out exactly what a 4D experience was!

Tickets can be purchased online for Niagara’s Fury The Creation Of The Falls (see website link below) or at the main ticket booth at the visitors center on Table Rock. However, you must check in with the “Welcome Center” on the 2nd floor where the actual attraction is located (take the escalators up) to verify your show time. We didn’t realize that we had to check in to reserve our spot, so with tickets in hand we joined the line. We were later told that though we had tickets we still had to make reservations. No big deal as the view of the falls from the huge glass walls from the second floor is truly breathtaking. With amazing views of both the Horseshoe Falls and the US Falls, you’ll definitely want to have your camera. Plus, being indoor your camera will be protected from the spray generated by the falls, if you were outside taking pics.

The next show was about 40 minutes away so after killing time exploring the visitor center (and looking for batteries) we headed back to the area where the ushers took your ticket. In true fashion, we were early (that’s our trademark), but soon a line was already starting to form behind us. The usher then took of tickets and gave us a blue plastic poncho. With confused looks on our face we gathered just outside the main door of the theater. We had  no idea why we would need these ponchos but like everyone else around us, we put then on and with eager anticipation we waited for the doors to open. (there’s a countdown clock on the top left side of the door)

The area around us was packed and as the doors opened we entered a room that appeared to be a a sort of movie theater, but without seats. There were a couple benches at the rear where some of the older folks gathered and like zombies… we were all facing the massive screen in front of us. (no pictures or video clips are allowed) This is when the 8-minute animated pre-show started. The kids will love this, as the characters led by Chip The Flat Tail Beaver and his friends are quite amusing. Still wondering why we had to wear these blue ponchos, Caron looked over to me with a sort of questioned look on her  face.

The history lesson ended and another set of doors directly below the massive screen opened and we funneled into the a room with a 360 degree screen and some metal looking pipes (not sure how else to describe them), that we assumed were for holding on. The floor was wet, so alas we had an idea why we were wearing the blue ponchos. This is when the fun started!

You could immediately feel a drop in temperature and then the screen lit up around us with amazing picture quality and the matching sound coming out of the speakers actually rocks you where you stood holding on the sort pipe rails throughout the theater. As the show progressed you’re smack in the middle of a blizzard and as the formation of the falls begin, the floor below you rumble and rock as if you were riding a massive wave on a surfboard. The snow changed to mist of water then you’re hit with a blast of water as if you were directly under the fury of the falls. With wonderful aerial views of the falls, you feels as if you’re on the wings of a majestic bird as you soar from many directions up the Niagara gorge to the foot of the Horseshoe Falls.

Drenched a few times, shaken as the floor tilts below you and with soaring views of the falls from the time the glaciers began to carve it’s way through the gorge to the change in temperature and use of water jets to mimic the falls, this was an awesome experience. The sound, 360 degree screen around you and the movement of the floor, truly gave us the experience of being there while the falls were created.

Important Notes:

Niagara’s Fury is open year-round except December 25. Shows run daily every 30 minutes from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Later hours on weekends and holidays.

Admission prices (shown in Canadian funds before taxes)
Adults (13+ years) $15.00, Children (6 to 12 years) $9.75, Kids 5 and under are admitted for free!

Location: Table Rock, 6450 Niagara Parkway. Paid parking is available across the street at Falls Parking Lot ($20 / day)

For more on Niagara’s Fury The Creation Of The Falls, including discounts and other savings, go to:  http://www.niagarasfury.com/

Before you go we’d love for you to leave us your comments below, even if it’s just to say hello. And don’t forget to join us on FaceBook (for our latest updates, including discounts, coupons and more pictures from the Niagara’s Fury The Creation Of The Falls) and do tune in to our videos (escapades) on the youtube channel we’ve created.

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What did three grown adults do at Marineland for an entire day? Have some fun! What an amazing time t we had last Sunday at Marineland in Niagara Falls Ontario. Our good friend Toni decided to join us on this trek as it seems lately that we’re not cool enough for our girls to join us on our escapades. Getting to Marineland is pretty easy once you’re in Niagara Falls (Canadian side), since it’s a major attraction and there’s tons of signs posted everywhere.

With tons of free parking and hardly any lines (even on this busy Sunday) at the entry gates, you’ll find that you’re inside the park and enjoying the many attractions in no time whatsoever. This park is huge and very spread out, so the first thing I recommend doing is to use the bathrooms and get a map so you can get your bearings. Situated next to the gift shop under the stadium used for the shows (right side as soon as you enter the main gates), the bathrooms are very clean and there’s ample space to allow for wheelchair and baby stroller access.

At the gift shop is where you can get the famous blow-up whales that just about every kid seems to leave the park with and we also got bottled water here when it was time for some quick hydration. You’ll also find many snack stations around the park with soft ice cream, waffle cones, fresh popcorn, soft drinks, bottled water and Minute Maid frozen treats. So don’t think you have to walk all the way back to the main entrance if you need a drink.

Also as you enter the park, next to the gift shop is the cafeteria-style restaurants which serve rotisserie chicken, chicken strips, grilled chicken on a bun, pizza, hamburger, cheeseburger & hot dog platters, french fries, nachos, sausage, salads, soups, bagels, desserts and cold drinks, including beer. Immediately outside is a huge patio dining area with tables covered with umbrellas in a park-like setting.

If packing a picnic is your thing or you just want to save money you’re allowed to bring outside food in. But alcoholic beverages and glass bottles are not permitted. With all the assigned picnic areas we saw and the many people pulling coolers around, it seems that this is very popular with guests.

Rather than give you a boring detailed report of all there is to do and see at Marineland, I’ll touch on what really stood out for us and I’ll included a few pictures to give you a pictorial account of how we spent our day frolicking in the sun.

Beluga At Arctic Cove.

The highlight for us on this trip was the opportunity to pet and feed the belugas. I could see the joy in the faces of Caron and Toni as well as the apprehension as they were led over to one of the trainers to begin this experience. There’s a small fee besides the entrance fee you pay at the main gates for this opportunity. First you’re asked to clean your hands with some sort of anti bacterial solution and you’re then called over to where one of the trainers are. They explain to you how to feed and pet the belugas, but it does not end there. You’re encouraged to ask questions and you walk away not only just having done an experience of a lifetime, but you’re armed with a tons of knowledge on belugas and the ones you interacted with.  For those of you who may not want to pay the extra for this experience, head to the viewing area below the main aquarium. You’ll be mesmerized seeing them swim and go about their business in their special playful way. WARNING! It’s such a beautiful thing to watch, you may be stuck there for a while. In the pics below you’ll see both Caron and Toni playing with the belugas…

Killer Whales.

These massive but playful predators are truly awesome to see in action. We were just in time when we arrived at this exhibit, for the show that’s put on in regular intervals throughout the day. You’re warned that if you don’t want to get wet to move all the way to the right .. basically to the back of the huge tanks/aquarium. I’m so glad I took the advice of staff as during the show many people got drenched. But with the huge smiles on their faces and the fact that it was a scorching day.. they seemed to love it. Again, you must make your way to the underground viewing area to get another perspective of these giants swim around.

As we made our way through the park we came across the bears, deer enclosure (you can actually go up and be with them), the buffaloes (another one of my fave) and a few other animals which I can’t remember at the moment. Since Toni is not really into thrill rides, she was the assigned bag and camera holder, while Caron and I tamed the rides. The two rides which gets all the attention are :

Sky Screamer – the world’s highest triple tower ride, will take you over 137.2 metres (450 ft.) skyward giving you a thrilling ride not to mention a spectacular view of the Falls and surrounding Niagara landscape. You will also be launched up and down at speeds of up to 96 km/h (60 mph). (48″ height requirement).

Dragon Mountain® roller coaster – ride the world’s largest steel roller coaster, Dragon Mountain® found only at Marineland. Spread over 30 acres of land, it is the world’s largest non-stop roller coaster. Dragon Mountain also features more travel through tunnels – 1,163 feet – than any other coaster in the world (48″ height requirement).

We pretty much went on all the rides and must say that not only were the lines to get on very short, they were just as much fun as the two mentioned above. For the kids there’s a designated area with suitable rides, just to the left of the main restaurant at the main gates. For the older kids, you’ll have to check with height requirements before being allowed onto the adult rides.

As mentioned the park is huge, in the open (in direct sun) and very spread out, so do wear comfortable shoes, paste on the sun block, have water ready and if you have kids who tire easily and forgot to bring a stroller, you have the option of renting one. I believe you can also rent wheel chairs as well. Head over to the  Aquarium Dome adjacent to the main entrance (limited and there may be a small fee).

We decided to end our day with the show at the aquarium done at the front of the park. This is a very popular event so do check for showtimes and try to arrive a bit early to secure good seats. The dolphins were spectacular and the sea lions just as dazzling, but the fella that really got my attention (and a crowd fav) was the walrus. The trainers and entertainer really got the crowd involved and one lucky guest got the opportunity to pet the dolphins.

Marineland’s admission fee provides a day of entertainment featuring amazing dolphins, walruses, sea lions, killer whales and beluga whales; land animals; thrilling amusement rides including the world’s largest steel roller coaster, Dragon Mountain; the world’s highest triple ride, Sky Screamer and other attractions that will appeal to the entire family. We had a wonderful time and I’m sure you and your family will make it a great day as well. With short lines, picnic areas and the fact that you’re getting the experience of a zoo, aquarium as well as thrill rides for one price, it’s a total steal if you ask me. Just seeing the majestic killer whales was enough for me to want to plan another visit to Marineland.

Regular Rate ( 10+ yrs. ) $41.95 CDN Funds
Child ( 5-9 yrs. ) $34.95 CDN Funds

Location: Marineland Theme Park, 7657 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Mailing Address: Marineland, Marketing/Group Sales Department, 8375 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8

for the lastes news and info when planning your trip to Marineland:

Operating Schedule
http://www.marinelandcanada.com/general/operating_season/

Camping
http://www.marinelandcanada.com/camping/

Before you go we’d love for you to leave us your comments below, even if it’s just to say hello. And don’t forget to join us on FaceBook (for our latest updates, including discounts, coupons and more pictures from our Marineland trip) and to tune in to our videos (escapades) on the youtube channel we’ve created.

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Ever felt like being a kid again…. eat with your hands, yell and scream when you want a refill on your drink or have a wench clean up after you?  Our daughters reluctantly came along with us as they’ve been to Medieval Times in Toronto before on class trips, but one threat to take away their cell phones and they were buckled in their respective seats in the car rearing to go. The things you have to do these days to spend some family time! (btw in the pics above you’ll see Indy texting away on that home-wrecking cell phone)

We had spent time earlier in the day cruising the Harbourfont in Toronto on board the Kajama and though we had over an hour to kill before the 7.30 pm show, we used most of that time navigating through rush-hour traffic to the CNE grounds where Medieval Times is located. A 10 minute drive took close to one hour and we were getting hungry and tired. We hurriedly got a parking spot (on site) , but since we didn’t walk with the ten dollars in cash it costs, we had to use one of those machines where you use your credit card to pay for the parking ticket (you must display on the dash of your car). Funny when you’re late how everything seems to go wrong at the same time. Within 3 minutes we were parked and collecting our tickets from the reservations desk. The kind people at Medieval Times, afforded us the King’s Royalty Package, which included VIP first-row, all sections or second-row, center section seating, Framed group entrance photo, “Behind the Scenes” DVD, Commemorative program and Knights cheering banner. With our rush to get to our seats we didn’t take true advantage of the perks. We did settle into our VIP seats (front row at what could be considered the 50 yard line) and with banners in hand we began the feast. Where’s our wench?

As you make your way through the main doors you get the feeling that you’re in a Harry Potter movie (so describes Caron) , as you’ve now entered the castle. In front of you will be the reservation/box office area, then to the right is where you enter the main halls. The area immediately gets a bit dark and you get the feel like you’ve been transported back to the 11th century, with  tall banners hanging from the ceiling and mounted figures in full battle armor perched on top of some sort of stool, so they’re looking down at you. As you go to the color coded section your ticket level dictates, you do pass the main hall where the gift shops are as well as the bar area.

The main “stage” area is dark as well, but there are staff members to guide you to where you seats are (you can also use your ticket color code to find your seating area). If you’re late as we were, you will encounter a noisy crowd who have already adapted their new persona and they do get ‘really’ involved.

Our seats were front row as I mentioned above and the table itself was already set with sort of metal plates, a cup, napkin, ore crowns and the banner to cheer on our Knight for the night. Too bad he was one of the first Knights to fall victim to the evil green night. You will not see any sort of cutlery… so I hope your hands are clean (a wet nap is provided).

Out came our wench with pitchers of pop and water, then the tomato bisque (Drangon’s blood) is poured into your soup cup and a lovely slice of garlic bread is used to sop-up any remaining soup. This is then followed by a half of a herb roasted chicken. Start eating and don’t do as we did and wait for the other items on the menu to get started. Rip into that juicy chicken and fill your face with it’s tender and succulent meat. As the meal progresses and you’re brought the baked potato, which also seemed to be herb roasted as well.. the show in front of you is well away. The knights are introduced and it seems our section was the most boisterous when our Knight made his introduction to us. The plot is explained by the host on the magnificent horse and the King and his daughter-in-law the princess also gets involved perched high above the crowd on their thrones.

I won’t go into details of the show or the plot, as I don’t want to spoil it for you guys. But we will say this, be prepared for fun and do get involved or you’ll miss out on half the fun.

Next up is the massive rib, which so tender it falls off the bone and the bbq sauce is a wonderful compliment to to. Finally dessert is served and it was a lovely crusty pastry filled with apples (I think.. by this time I was already full and deep into the battles in front of me).

During the sort of intermission between the battles and plot, there’s an amazing display of houses dancing and doing other tricks. I believe they’re Spanish horses and their handler is just as talented by the effortless way he gets them to do their thing. Not only are these horses magnificent, they almost seem to like the attention they get from the crowd.

The winning Knight is revealed and the show comes to an end and you make your way back to the great hall, where you have the opportunity to meet the entire cast. the Knights, Princess and King are very welcoming and you can ask for autographs and certainly take pics with them for your travel scrap book.

* I forgot to mention above that with dessert you’re served coffee and tea (coffee is very good) and there are vegetarian options for dinner as well. But I believe you must specify this when making your reservations. During dinner there will also be bar service at your table and if you’re into those glow in the dark things, there will eb people passing by selling them.

Dress is pretty much casual and since you’ll be eating with your hands, I’d recommend that you don’t wear white or at least walk with a bib or tide to go.

We had an amazing time at Medieval Times Toronto and highly recommend it as a destination for fun, play and letting go.. even if just for a couple hours. From high above King Philippe and his daughter-in-law, Princess Leonore, preside over your four-course feast giving you the feel that you belong to the royal court.

Medieval Times Toronto.

10 Dufferin St., Exhibition Place
Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3

2011 Rates
ADULT: $63.95 (+tax & processing fee)
CHILD 12 YEARS & UNDER: $40.95 (+tax & processing fee)
Gratuities are not included.

For current rates and ticket packages like the King’s Royalty Package, Royalty Package or the Celebration Package. Rates and Packages

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This past Sunday saw us make the trip down the QEW to Niagara Falls, where the Niagara Food And Wine Expo was in full swing. This year being the inaugural year for the Food and Wine Expo, so we wasn’t sure what to expect when we arrived at the Scotiabank Convention Centre off Stanley Avenue in Niagara Falls. A quick registration process to basically get out media badges and we were directed through to the main tasting floor.

It was around 3 pm and Winemaker Jeff Innes of Palatine Hills Estate Winery was busy on the tasting stage going though the motions of his presentation, where guests enjoyed specially selected wines and learn a little bit about how they were made and how to serve them for best enjoyment. It was interesting listening in from the outside of the marked area and really wish we had more time to be part of this group.

The show floor was broken up into specific areas, which included…

The “Chef Stage” where celebrity and accredited chefs hosted complimentary cooking demonstrations. The “Tasting Stage” where there were several 30 minute wine tasting courses held throughout the three days of the event. The “Tasting Floor” where we spent most of the two hours we were there (see pics below) and in the center of it all was the “Central Entertainment Area”, where you could sit with the food and wine samples of choice and be entertained by any of the live acts who were carded for the weekend. During our time Juliet Dunn & Peter Shea were supposed to be on stage, but we were busy sampling to really appreciate their music.

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As I’ve pointed out in previous similar reviews, we’re not really “wine” people so I can’t comment from a tasting standpoint, but I can tell you there were many Wineries in attendance and at just about every booth, there were crowds. We could tell that wine lovers were enjoying the sampling and overall conversations with the respective reps. There were hundreds of wines, spirits and beers from Ontario and around the world are readily available for guests to sample and learn about. And if memory serves me correct, I recall seeing a booth with representatives from as far as Georgia (the country).

Tickets for tasting were $10 a sheet, which had 10 tickets I believe and for 1 to 3 tickets you could sample just about everything on the “Tasting Floor”. There were a few exception, but those were massive potions and I believe one was a seafood tray, with lobster etc.

With many of the top gourmet restaurants in the region well represented, one had the opportunity to sample some amazing culinary delights, cooked in front of you by distinguished chefs. From speaking to some of the attendees, it was clear that the cinnamon/sugar grilled pineapple served up by Brassa (restaurant) was a hit and for me it was the grilled Kobe steak (still can’t remember which restaurant it was) that stood out. Caron was quite happy with the chocolate strawberry station and even purchased a few to bring home. Fresh plump strawberries on a skewer, dipped in chocolate and topped with almonds, coconut or other toppings which I don’t recall at the moment.

The event itself was run very professional and I must commend the organizers for having so many recycling bins throughout the event. The Scotiabank Convention center is a beautiful new building and it was a great choice by the organizers when they decided on this venue.

For more info on next year’s dates, do check out their website at: http://www.niagarafoodandwine.ca/sitepages/

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There’s a new “night out” option on Hamilton’s East Mountain and from the look of things it’s already etching it’s way into the fabric of Hamilton’s dining and nightlife scene. We arrived at 7 pm for our reservation at Milestones Grill and Bar on Paramount Drive of Hamilton’s east mountain and were greeted by two lovely ladies who welcomed us and directed us to our table on the left side of the restaurant with a wonderful window view. Looking around we could tell that it was going to be a busy night for the kitchen and wait staff, so what better time to see how they handle the pressure of a full restaurant.

We had been here a couple weeks ago for a quick drink and dessert, but at that time it wasn’t about a review so I didn’t have the camera or in that frame of mind. During that visit I had glanced at the open concept kitchen at the rear of the restaurant  and was dying to have a peek. Separated by huge etched glass windows, the kitchen is a buzz of organized activity as would be expected and as someone who loves to cook… exciting to see.

After a warm welcome by our waiter for the night, we decided on drinks and started to work our way through the impressive menu. I’m not really into beverages, but I do huger for a good cup of coffee and since I don’t drink the regular stuff, finding a good cup of decaf can be a bit challenging. Not tonight! The coffee was superb and I especially like that a small container with cream is provided and not those little creamers you usually get, that’s never enough. Caron started off with a Bikini Martini (Smirnoff Vodka, Blue Curacao, peach liqueur, cranberry juice $8.49) which was recommended by our helpful server. Caron raved how delightful this and the White Grape Cosmo (Smirnoff White Grape Vodka, Triple Sec, cranberry juice and lime $8.49) were and was quite happy that our waiter suggested them.

I try my best to try new things at the different restaurants we visit, so I decided on the Kobe Style Classic Beef Sliders (Three  Kobe style classic beef mini hamburgers, simmered in a roasted garlic au jus and topped with pizza Mozzarella and crispy onion strings. Served with mustard sauce, splash of basil oil and toasted sesame seeds. $10.79) and Caron opted for the starter size roasted garlic Caesar (house made Ciabatta croutons, Reggiano cheese, signature Caesar dressing,.. topped with shaved Asiago cheese and roasted garlic – 5.99). WOW! Those little beef sliders actually melted  in my mouth, and if I didn’t pace myself I could easily have been full with these (though they looked small). The starter size salad that Caron got was a huge portion and to be quite honest, these two starters could easily count as our meal. Though Caron didn’t care for the roasted garlic pieces she got with her salad, I devoured then. The sweetness of perfectly roasted garlic is not to be wasted and it complimented the crisp pieces of lettuce and just the right amount of creamy Caesar dressing.

After pretty much filling up on the starters, we decided to slow down a bit before the main course. It was at this time we really took time to look around at the interior of the restaurant which had a sort of contemporary design. The lighting and overall setting had a very calming and somewhat romantic feel to it and it was nice to be in an establishment that didn’t have some sort of theme. With cowboy, sports and outdoor/wilderness motif the restaurant in the area seem to adopt. We liked that it was casual, but still felt kind of fancy.   As I pointed out, the kitchen was at the back of the restaurant and from the upper level where we were sitting, we could easily see across to the right where there’s a lower level. Past that lower level is the main bar area where there were people enjoying beverages, conversation and whatever game was on the two fairly large tv screens. Seemed like a good spot to hang out after work with friends!

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Again the suggestions by our sever were on point. Our dinner was everything we expected after the wonderful starters and more. Caron had the New York striploin (New York Striploin – cut from Canada AAA beef. With a trio of signature steak sauces – house made Worcestershire, Spiced Mustard and Gaucho sauce. Served with choice of side and seasonal vegetables – $29.99) with fresh cut fries and the seasonal vegetables were asparagus and what seemed like grape tomatoes. I don’t recall any complaints from Caron other than “how do I finish all of this”. Yes, the servings were large and beautifully presented. With my choice I didn’t realize that it also came with a side roasted garlic Caesar, so when it arrived I was quite surprised, but I worked my way through the divine roasted garlic dressing.

If I had one complaint during this night, is that for some reason the steak I got didn’t really stand out (Fire grilled NY Striploin (Angus beef), with Chilean Crab and tiger shrimp, in a lobster butter sauce. Came with mu choice – garlic mashed potato and asparagus and grape tomatoes. $31.99). But that could be attributed to the fact that I found out that I didn’t like the taste and texture of the of the crab meat which was used as a topping on my steak and I did find that the shrimp had a texture that had be believing that they were sitting in liquid for quite some time. The steak itself was perfectly grilled to my request and quite tasty (must be aged). The star on my plate had to be the garlic mashed potato. With a rich creamy and buttery base, followed by the perfect balance of garlic flavor… I was in my personal nirvana.

It was time to order dessert, something I normally had a problem with, especially when you get a menu with items that all sound magnificent. We finally settled for the cheese cake after once again consulting our waiter for his input (White chocolate cheesecake – Italian style, rich white chocolate, espresso creme Anglais and whipped cream – $7.49) and Caron had the apple crisp (caramel gingered Apple crisp – Slivered apples stewed with brown sugar, ginger and spices, topped with walnut crumble and house made caramel sauce. 7.49) By this time we were bursting from the seams, but these decadent desserts were not going to be wasted. Tip – if you’re on a date, get one dessert to share. Once again, you’re getting large portions.

With top notch service complimented by wonderful surroundings and food which can only be described as delectable, Milestones Hamilton location scores high with us. Even if it’s just to hang out at the bar and enjoy some appetizers and beverages  or have a romantic dinner with a loved one, you can’t go wrong. Our waiter (still can’t remember his name) was quite honest in giving his opinion on the menu and even pointed out what he think we wouldn’t like after hearing our likes and dislikes. With a constant smile, polite service and an overall attentive and professional nature, he was an excellent reflection of the service we’ve now come to expect at Milestones.

Location:

787 Paramount Drive, Hamilton, Ontario, L8J 0B4 (Red Hill and Mud St.)
Hours: Mon-Fri 1130 am open/Sat-Sun 1130am open/Sun-Thurs 11 pm cls/Fri-Sat 12 am cls
Tel: 905-573-7317

Be sure to check their website for specials they run, which include “Girls Night Out”, “Date Night” and many drink and dessert specials. As luck would have it, this night there was a special price on all Martinis and from the way Caron now speak about the Bikini martini she had, they must be very good.

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Last weekend we had the opportunity to attend our very first “band launch” and it turned out to be a spectacular event, put on by the Toronto Revellers Mas Band. Basically a ‘mas band” is an organized group of masqueraders who take part in a street carnival of some sort, in extravagant costumes skilfully created by designers from the ‘band”. For the band launch itself, think – runway fashion show with the latest designs in costume for the season.

According to wikipedia…

Caribana is a festival of Caribbean culture and traditions held each summer in the city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Annually, Caribana draws hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the globe to Toronto’s lakeshore. Caribana is a Caribbean Carnival event, that has been billed as North America’s largest street festival, frequented by over 1.3 million visitors each year for the festival’s final parade.

As you arrived at the event, you were greeted by friendly security who guided you through the doors of a massive tent with the wonderful sound of soca in the back ground. We were a bit early and though they were still going through last minutes preparations, there was a wonderful vibe in the air. To the left as you walked in was the bar and food station, directly in front was a massive stage  and the far right was the dj who was responsible for that “vibe” I mentioned earlier. This was carded as an outdoor event and if you know anything about Canada in the Spring.. it’s cold. The question on our mind on the drive to the event was, “how will they pull this off being so cold?”

The massive tent was either heated or with the overall excitement and later the crowd, we were quite comfortable. This temporary venue felt very intimate, but roomy at the same time. Carded to start at 11.30 pm I believe, it was a much later when the hosts for the night finally got things going. If you arrived early as we did, you lucked out with some prime seating adjacent to the stage, with the best vantage point of the night. As I looked around as the show got started I soon realize that  a huge crowd had gathered this night, all with with a clear sign of anticipation on their minds.

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There was a very coordinated flow to the show and with the arrival of each section on stage, mixed in with the music supplied by the dj.. this event was now rocking. Still boggles my mind as to how these models in their costume and high heels navigated what seemed like a slippery surface on the runway. All to the beat of a themed song for their presentation. We had gone through all the sections… Courage, Lullaby, Heartless, Dorothy, Emerald City, Wizards Fury, Glinda & Lollipop Guild, Over the Rainbow, Ruby, Scarecrow, Weathering the Storm, Wicked & Winkie Guard, Witch of the East & Fly and Yellow Brick Road and were left wanting more. The crowd was captivated by some amazing design work, which kept to the overall theme for the most part. OZ was interpreted and created by the designers in such a way that even as a novice I could understand the logic behind the designs and what they were trying to portray.

After the show which lasted about 40 minutes, we had the opportunity to see all the costumes on the models even more upclose as they mingled with us during the after party and even took time to take pictures with you, if you so desired. By this time the volume of the music was turned up, people were dancing and having a good time, but I was on the hunt for a plate of that food which caught the attention of my senses earlier. At $5 a plate, you could not go wrong with a wonderful mix (sort of combo plate) of West Indian style Chinese food.

It was close to 2 am when we forced ourselves to leave. The party was at it’s peak at this point and we were engulfed in “vibe” which by now had reached critical levels,  but we had a long drive home.

Caribana happens every year during the Civic Holiday weekend in Ontario, Canada. The official parade date for 2011 is Saturday July 30th on Lakeshore Blvd. in Toronto.  Future dates are: 2012 – Saturday August 4 | 2013 – Saturday August 3 | 2014 – Saturday August 2 | 2015 – Saturday August 1

To learn more about Toronto Revellers or to be part of their mas presentation for Caribana 2011, you can visit their “mas Camp” at

2135 Sheppard Avenue E.
North York (Toronto), ON M2J 1W6
@ Consumers Road (Between Victoria Park and DVP)

From what we saw and experienced this night, I can only praise the Toronto Revellers group for a job well done. Your professionalism was apparent in the way you produced such a vibrant and effectively run event. The offerings for Caribana 2011 in your OZ them are beautiful and very creative. The hospitality which was extend to us is very much appreciated.

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Who goes to a Santa Claus Parade and leaves before the main attraction arrives? Me! Our girls were part of the parade, so even though we covered the event last year (2009 Santa Claus Parade) and I had no real intentions of doing so this year, I still took my camera and decided to share some pics with you. Unlike last year where we had a view from high above the parade route, I was at street level and it was nice to be among the crowds of excited kids and tired parents.

There wasn’t anything different to last year’s event, other than it was a beautiful November day (mild and sunny for the most part), so this is not much of a review but an opportunity to share some pics with you guys…

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There’s absolutely no better way to enjoy the Santa Claus parade than with a hot drink in hand (Go Canadian – Tim Hortons), at street level among all the crowds of people who are drunk on the Christmas spirit. Sometimes in our hectic lives we tend to forget what being a kid is all about and the innocence of believing in Santa and the countdown to Christmas morning.

As usual it was a well organized and managed event, that’s well worth the drive to the downtown core of Hamilton.. even though parking may be an issue. Which is why I had to leave a bit early before the event ended and the big guy made his appearance. Now, does this count as being naughty? Let’s see if he remembers me Christmas morning. Enjoy the holidays.

“Can’t wait to go t the ballet!” People who know me would think I’m going bonkers if they ever heard me say this, but that’s reality now. Every Christmas season the Nutcracker comes to town and I’ve always wanted to experience it, but never really gave it much more than a thought. However after seeing Mao’s Last Dancer, I can’t wait to go to my first ballet production.

A few weeks back The Art Gallery Of Hamilton put on their annual World Film Festival and we were invited to cover it on OntarioAlive.com. Have you heard of the World Film Festival, put on every year in Hamilton? Unlike the Toronto Film Festival which is all over the news every fall, this festival is only just gaining some notoriety. Though we didn’t have time to go to any of the other shows or to any of the planned parties, it was such a wonderful experience that we can’t wait until next year.

The festival takes place across the city: at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Mohawk College’s STARRT Institute and McIntyre Theatre, Empire Jackson Square, Westdale Theatre, Ancaster Silvercity, and there’s even free movies shown on the street (check official website for locations and show times).

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After checking out the movie trailers which were going to be featured at this year’s event, we were intrigued by Mao’s Last Dancer and marked it our calendar to not this miss this presentation. After arriving at the Westdale Theatre and hurriedly finding parking on the street as there’s no designated parking, we realize that we were a bit early. So we had enough time to browse and get a feel for the chatter the others who were here for the show had to say about this movie and the others presented during the film festival. The Westdale Theatre was like stepping back in time, before digital surround sound and mega screen as we’ve now grown accustom to. A lovely setting and I could only imagine how grand this place was back in it’s hey-days. The seats were not the most comfortable and I’m sure the patrons at the back of us got annoyed at me for constantly having to move due to my fidgeting. But I wouldn’t change using this venue in the future, since it does give the film festival a sort of romantic ambiance. When movies were appreciated for the acting, directing and story telling and not the cgi stuff we’re bombarded with today.

Mao’s Last Dancer was an amazing movie and if this was any indication of the quality of movies at this years festival, I’m sure it was an overall success. I believe that 30 movies were screened in 10 days.  Films include The Coca–Cola Case, Ajami, Everything Is Fine, Captain Abu Raed, I Am Love, Mother, The Disappearance of Alice Creed, Rude, Pax Americana, Mao’s Last Dancer, Six Miles Deep, Tokyo Sonata, Amandala!, Police Adjective, The Necessities of Life, Animal Kingdom, Fish Tank, L’Affare Farewell, Land, Life During War Time, Life is Rosy, The Maid, Mid–August Lunch, Please Give, Poor Boy’s Game, Rocking Popenguine, Rudio Y Crusi, The Square, Tehroun, and White Ribbon.  Just wish we had time to catch a couple more, especially Captain Abu Reid, which did look like it had some promise from the trailer we saw.

The Art gallery Of Hamilton World Film Festival is one of those events that I highly recommend that you not miss! It’s your chance to support the arts in Hamilton and at the same time enjoy movies that you’d probably miss, since many of them are independent and not mass marketed. It’s very affordable at only $10 a showing and the events are well organized.

For the 2011 event, be sure to check out their official website at: www.aghfilmfest.com as I’m sure they’ll have updates on there very soon. Come out and support the Art Gallery Of Hamilton and the World Film Festival.

After spending a few hours at the Niagara Regional Exhibition, we jumped back on the QEW and headed down to Niagara Falls for dinner at Copacabana Brazilian Steakhouse on Fallsview Blvd (see full address and directions below). With the help of my good friend “google” I did some research on the experiences other guests had… it wasn’t promising. However, I know how easy it is to complain about silly things so I brushed aside what I read and decided to give it a shot.

Parking is usually at a premium in Niagara Falls and since the restaurant was located directly in the heart of the hotel district (opposite  from the Embassy Suites) we figured we’d have a problem finding a spot to park close to the restaurant itself. However we did find free parking (not sure if we had to pay since there wasn’t any signs) about 5 minutes walk away (at the back of the Sheraton hotel). Since we did arrive a bit early for dinner and we had those wonderful beef brisket sandwiches earlier, we were not in the mood for dinner yet.

We’ve been to Niagara Falls countless times, but our daughters were usually with us so we’ve never ventured into the Fallsview Casino. This was our opportunity to check out what the big draw is. BTW, if you’re a club member (free) and as long as you have your card and use it on any of their gaming machines you can park for free within their parking complex. I believe you have 12 hours from the time you play (and register with the players card) in which you can use the free parking option.

The casino, the gardens and entire surroundings is gorgeous and even if you’re not into gambling you should still go for a visit. On the lower level, through the mall, you can exit into a beautiful garden with wonderful views of the falls. Without all the crowds. Check out these video clips : Fallsview Casino, Niagara Falls Ontario.

Earlier this day I had called and left several messages to the management of the restaurant asking if it was ok for us to come out do this review. I did receive a call back from someone claiming to be management and after I explained that we’ll be there and wanted to do the review she mentioned that she had to speak with the owner and would get back to me in 5 minutes with an answer. Still waiting for that call back. I must make note that one of the main gripes I read online with Copacabana is that you can never get through to speak with a live person on the phone, even if you’re just trying to make reservations.

After checking out the area for a couple hours we headed over to the restaurant for dinner. As we entered through the main entrance we could see the patio area was sparse so we figured that would be an option if the inside was crowded. The ladies managing the seating was somewhat clueless and gave every person that tried to check in a different story. The people directly in front of us were told that there were no available seating inside, but the patio was basically empty and they could eat out there if they wished. However when it was our turn, we were told there were no seating, even on the patio. We would have to wait 30-45 minutes for a table inside. No worries, the inside seating was indeed crowded but the patio was still empty according to what I saw.

We headed over to the bar and settled in to wait the 30 minutes, best case scenario. A rum and coke, Caesar and coffee cost us $20 with a tip.. kinda steep if you ask me. I guess it was a break on our wallets that within 5 minutes we were told that our table was ready. It was lovely table on the upper level, with a direct view of the area where the show would be staged. Yes, during dinner you’re entertained by dancers… that’s what I read in the reviews.

You’ll notice that there’s no album of pics in this post as we normally do, but I didn’t want to chance getting kicked out if I took along my camera. So I’ll post a short video clip below to give you a basic idea of the inside of the restaurant. It’s dark and a bit grainy, so I do ask for your understanding.

Here’s how this dining experience works…

It’s basically a buffet, with many choices at the salad bar, then all the meats are brought to your table by the servers on skewers fresh off the grill and you have the option having as much as you want. However you will notice that the servers will give you very small portions, but you’re free to ask for more and if you find a meat you like you can certainly request it again. The salad bar did have a lot of coulorful options that all seem very appetizing, but sadly that was not the case. Other than the mango salad and garlic mashed potato, it was tough finding something that was tasty. I don’t limit myself to trying new things, so I did and was very disappointed time and time again with this salad bar selection.

Salad bar aside, you really can’t go wrong with the meat selection. On entry you’re given a card to place on your table, with two options. Option 1.  Fire It Up (means ot keep bringing the meats) and option 2. Cool it Down. For when your table is ready to take a break or you’ve had your fill. FIRE IT UP! We must have tried every meat that came our way and with the exception of the chicken drumstick and the cheese stuffed prime rib, they were all excellent. Our table’s favorite for the night included the Moroccan Chicken, top sirloin, beef ribs, filet mignon and parmesan filet. And though it was listed that Salmon, suckling pig, and rib eye were on the menu, it was never introduced to our table.

Be sure to order water, as we did find that most of the meats were rather salty and do remember to pace yourself if you’d like to sample everything. BTW, the sausage is nothing to write home about either. And if you’re ordering soda, be sure to ask if there’s a charge for refills as I’ve read that some people have been charged in the past.

Our servers were all very friendly and our assigned sever was polite, friendly and always there if we wanted something. great job all around!

After about 20 minutes or so into dinner the center area of the restaurant was transformed into a stage and the Brazilian dancers hit the floor. Personally they too were nothing spectacular and though we had a great view of the proceedings after a minute or two I was back to concentrating on my dinner.  Even their skimpy dress was not enough to retain my attention. The show itself was not long and lasted about 10 minutes in total, after the men performed.

The bath room are to the right side (far back wall) as you enter the restaurant and I must commend them on having very clean facilities, even during the peak of the night when the restaurant was at it’s busiest.

We were a party of four and besides the $20 we shelled out at the bar at the beginning, we didn’t order any drinks except for the water (free). That said, our bill came to over $200 and that didn’t include tips. Yes, the variety of grilled meats were awesome, but I’m sure I didn’t eat more than a 12 oz steak in total and as I mentioned I had a difficult time finding something I liked at the salad bar. Was it worth it? Except for the fact that it gave us the opportunity to have dinner with friends… absolutely NO! At  over $44 a person, we could have done much better at another restaurant. Even if you factor in the “show”, we left thinking we didn’t get value for our dollar.

I saw several tables where kids were dining and I do hope the parents didn’t have to pay the same price as us, since I’m sure those kids didn’t eat a 1/4 of what I did. Especially  the meats that were coated with spices and the ones that were stuffed. Not something I could see kids enjoying. Oh! I must also mention that if you like you meat well done, you’ll be out of luck for the most part as much of what’s served is medium to rare.

According to our group… it’s one of those places we can say we tried, but may never go back.

CopaCabana Brazilian Steakhouse
6671 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls, Ontario  L2G 7G1
905 354 8775

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The Keg Steakhouse on Upper James street on Hamilton’s “Mountain” is one of those restaurants where you’re guaranteed to get a good steak without having to break the bank (but, seems good things don’t last long). After our last visit it should have been enough to confirm that the quantity and quality of their food is no longer what we’ve grown to expect, but we didn’t think much of it and decided that we would give them another try.

It was a Friday night so we went with the expectation that we’d have to wait to be seated as we’d be dealing with the weekend dinner crowd, plus the weather was great so the patio crowd was also there. It took us about 30 minutes to be seated and it was a great opportunity to people-watch as we tormented ourselves with the lovely scent of grilling steaks from the kitchen. Our server for the night was very good at his job, something we’ve also grown accustomed to at the Keg (good service).

We started off with  non-alcoholic beverages and I settled for my normal decaf coffee which was hot. I can’t say much more of this coffee as it was bland and if not for it being dark like coffee, I could easily be drinking a hot glass of water with cream and sugar. After placing our dinner order we settled for the Garlic Cheese Bread appetizer (Cheddar, Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses oven toasted to a golden brown on French stick), which I must confess was the hit of the night. The sort of tangy taste of the aged Parmesan was simply delightful and overall very filling.

As we waited for our meal to arrive it gave us the opportunity to chat, scope out some of the dishes that were making it’s way to the other tables ( the lovely scent was so punishing when you’re hungry… lobster seems to have been the hit this night) and take in the general ambiance. A multil-level restaurant, with different size tables and booths, filtered light to give a sort of romantic feel and there was a buzz of activity since it was a full house.

Indy wasn’t very hungry so she ordered the Keg Caesar – Crisp romaine and aged Parmesan cheese in a creamy dressing, which she mentioned was excellent. Tehya ordered off the kids menu and settled on the Kids Sirloin Steak – Each meal includes your choice of fries, Caesar salad or seasonal vegetables. All meals include a vegetable plate, ice cream for dessert and a soft drink, juice or milk. In the pics you’ll  notice two things about this kids meal. It was similar in portion size to the steak Caron ordered off the main menu and with the inclusion of the vegetable plate, you got the impression that you got much more for your money by ordering off the kids menu.

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As mentioned above, Caron got the  Grilled Top Sirloin served with fries. (choice of baked potato, fries, salad) Generally the steak was rather small and bland, but at least it was cooked to her liking. I strongly believe that if you’re going to have a scanty plate, use a smaller plate so at least we get the impression we’re getting a full meal. In my quest to move away from my traditional order of “steak” I opted for the grilled chicken topped with lobster sauce with chunks of perfectly cooked lobster pieces and asparagus. Just wish there was more lobster and less of the overcooked chicken breast. I’m no fan of chicken breast and this horrid attempt at grilling only confirmed this. My meal came with garlic mashed potato, which is why I keep coming back to the Keg. Their garlic mash is probably the best in the city.

Our bill with tip came to just over $100 ( we didn’t order any alcoholic beverages) and though the service was excellent and it also gave us the opportunity to spend time out as a family, I would really have to think twice before going back to the Keg for dinner. There’s some work to be done on quality and quantity to get back to the standards they originally set for patrons. I realize that this night was very busy, but it’s my opinion that a good restaurant can be judged on a busy night to see if they can maintain a level of standard when more is demanded from the kitchen.

Hamilton Mountain Keg
1170 Upper James Street
Hamilton, Ontario
L9C 3B1
Canada
(905) 574-7880

HOURS:

DINING ROOM
Monday – Thursday 4:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Friday 4:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Saturday 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Sunday 3:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

BAR
Monday – Thursday 4:30 p.m. – Midnight
Friday 4:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Saturday 3:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Sunday 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

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