Meet Shanea
I may not be a professional writer, but I consider myself a professional eater ... on the recommendation of friends and family I've started this blog. I love to eat, read about food, travel, shop, take in the arts, and explore new places. Focusing mostly on Toronto, my home base, Miami, my second home and New York and Italy where I travel to the most, while also featuring other places I'm fortunate enough to visit, I'll share with you my most savoury tidbits along the way. I hope you can take something away with you, a restaurant to try, fantastic shopping experience, great hotel to stay in or something to do next time you visit a new locale.Happy dining,
Shanea
Out and About ...
September 23, 2020
Pastel restaurant in Old Montreal has a globally inspired cuisine that is Instagram worthy, showcasing innovative, original and artistic presentations. Opened in Old Montréal in 2018, it's already listed as #22 on Canada's 100 Best Restaurant list.
September 17, 2020
It would be hard to visit Montreal and not be impressed by the culinary scene. One of my favourite meals was at a brassiere called Monarque at 406 Saint-Jacques Rue, in the business district of Old Montreal off Victoria Square, which is voted number 42 on Canada's 100 Best Restaurant list. Inspired by New York's famed Grammercy Tavern, father and son duo, executive chef Jérémie Bastien, and chef and co-owner Richard Bastien are seasoned veterans of Montreal's culinary scene and know how to combine classic and modern flavours. I know everyone touts the restaurant and institution L'Express on Saint Denis, but I found our meal here far superior.
September 10, 2020
Dova is Toronto's newest restaurant, located at 229 Carlton Street in Cabbagetown, near Carlton and Parliment St. Some of you may be very familiar with chef Marotta from his other established restaurant Ardo. The food here is similar to Ardo. They serve delicious artisanal pastas, woodfire pizzas, fresh caught fish and ethically sourced meats. The food is reflective of the chef's family Sicilian heritage. The chef has a deep connection to Sicilian and Mediterranean food, thanks to the influence of his mother's cooking.
September 3, 2020
I never thought I would be writing about a new restaurant opening during the COVID-19 pandemic since so many establishments are struggling, but I'm thrilled to announce the opening of a brand-new gem called Pompette at 597 College Street. Combining classic with contemporary, along with warm hospitality and a charming vibe, this restaurant has all the elements that people desire.
August 27, 2020
Does Toronto really need another steakhouse? When an establishment like The Butcher Chef at 8 Harbour St. offers quality meat to suit everyone's taste, along with an extensive global wine list and hospitable service, the answer is a resounding yes.
August 17, 2020
Pearl Morissette Restaurant and Winery at 3953 Jordan Road in Lincoln Ontario has opened an open air terrace. Their "wedding style" tent, open on three sides with views of the farm and vineyard, is romantic and charming. They now serve a smaller changing multi 6-course menu at $100 per person. Reservations are available for parties of 2-6, booked on the Tock app. They are currently open Thursday to Sunday for dinner and lunch on Saturday and Sundays as well.
August 10, 2020
Chef Patrick Kriss has thrown Toronto foodies a lifeline, during Covid-19, by creating a temporary oasis at 485 Wellington Street West and calling it Alo Midsummer. He is offering a luxurious, and premium ten course blind tasting for 2-4 guests per well-spaced table. It opened on Friday, July 24th and is open till the end of September.
August 3, 2020
A new dessert/catering business was born in Toronto in January 2020, called Toronto Food Boss. Amanda and Rohan started out by making desserts for loved ones to create happiness during uncertain times, and later decided to open shop. Rohan has 15 years in the culinary arts and his partner Amanda has an eye for beauty and modern styles. I honestly have never seen such beautiful cupcakes.
July 23, 2020
I have always longed for delivery from upscale and delicious purveyors. Unfortunately, it took a pandemic for eateries in Toronto to bring delivery and takeout to the masses. Here is my latest list of restaurants in Toronto offering takeout and or delivery.
July 16, 2020
I love discovering or being recommended to small family owned and small independent businesses and supporting our home-grown local talents. One such, is by gifted baker, […]
July 9, 2020
I have always longed for delivery from upscale and delicious purveyors. Unfortunately, it took a pandemic for eateries in Toronto to bring delivery and takeout to the masses. Here is my latest list of restaurants in Toronto offering takeout and or delivery.
July 2, 2020
Lapinou Bistro is one of Toronto’s best French restaurants. everything we ordered had dynamic and vibrant flavours. I’m usually wary of restaurants in the entertainment district because honestly there are so few that are any good, but Lapinou is an exception.
June 25, 2020
As the restaurant industry struggles to reopen, Toronto Chef Patrick Kriss serves Alo fans takeout pastries, desserts, wines and more from their beautiful popup cafe venue in the heart of Yorkville.
June 15, 2020
Do you adore dining out, but are afraid of what awaits us when restaurants finally open?
Well, you are not alone. If you are prepared to adhere to the proper guidance and protocols you will be rewarded with a night out and someone other than yourself to prepare your food and clean up after you.
June 7, 2020
While many businesses have been adversely impacted by the recent global pandemic, one group that has particularly been hit hard is the tourism industry. Here are some of the new policies and procedures you can expect now when visiting a hotel.
June 4, 2020
The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Hong Kong provides you with a luxury level of facilities in the heart of the city. It sets new standards in Asia and abroad for ultra-chic accommodations and customer service that's unparalleled.
June 1, 2020
I have always longed for delivery from upscale and delicious purveyors. Unfortunately, it took a pandemic for eateries in Toronto to bring delivery and takeout to the masses. Here is my latest list of restaurants in Toronto offering takeout and or delivery.
May 14, 2020
More Toronto eateries are jumping on the takeout/delivery bandwagon offering first-rate meals and groceries direct to your home. Many of these places have very difficult reservations to snag, so now is your chance to sample their fare!
April 30, 2020
In the hope people are continuing to support local eateries and caterers by ordering takeout or delivery from participating restaurants, I've created a second edition of my favourite spots in Toronto for takeout / delivery.
April 23, 2020
I have shared some of my favourite places in New York open for takeout or delivery during the Covid-19 social isolation quarantine. Many of these establishments need our support now more than ever.
April 18, 2020
I have shared some of my favourite places in Miami open for takeout or delivery during the Covid-19 social isolation quarantine. Many of these establishments need our support now more than ever.
April 2, 2020
I have shared some of my favourite places in Toronto open for takeout or delivery during the Covid-19 social isolation quarantine. Many of these establishments need our support now more than ever.
March 19, 2020
Chef Mendin’s menu at Rivertail Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale is large, featuring a raw bar, snacks and such, on a bun, from the grill, chef’s specialties and sides. Would I recommend people driving from Miami? No.
March 14, 2020
Le Chick is a unique addition to the Miami's Wynwood scene. They take their chicken seriously and source high-quality ingredients, you can tell in every bite you take. Chef Ernesto Tapia is cooking up a whole lotta love.
March 12, 2020
Cafe La Trova in Miami has a small but well-edited menu that raises the bar on Cuban food. Chef Michelle Bernstein pays attention to the history and flavours of the Islands, intertwined with Miami style and culture.