Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

Directly from the Toronto Harbourfront Press Release:

The 13th edition of the popular Hot & Spicy Food Festival adds extra heat to Toronto’s sweltering summer season with sizzling culinary, music, film and dance offerings Aug. 13-15 on the lakefront at Harbourfront Centre.

Free activities include:

MUSIC:

The Rhyming Chef

Friday, Aug. 13, 7–8 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 15, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

The Rhyming Chef (Philman George) combines a professional food demonstration with elements of hip-hop cultures to create a unique and highly entertaining show.

The Persuasions

Friday, Aug. 13, 9:30-11 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

The Persuasions have been a part of the a cappella society for over 40 years and are part of the reason it exists today. Their singing, style, and musical inventory include the heavy influence of gospel, a major measure of soul and a dose of pop.

Delhi 2 Dublin

Saturday, Aug. 14, 9:30–11 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Delhi 2 Dublin is a Vancouver-based band made up of five musicians who mash up electronica and world music (Bhangra, Celtic and Dub ) to create an original sound and high-energy show.

FOOD:

10 Tastes to Try Before You Die

Friday, Aug.13, 8-9:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

Saturday, Aug. 14, 1-2 p.m. & 3-4 p.m. & 5-6 p.m. & 7-8 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

Sunday, Aug. 15, 1-2 p.m., 3-4 p.m. & 5-6 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace) & 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Marilyn Brewer Community Space)

The best chefs share their secrets and recipes, and you get to taste the results! Chefs include Suman Sandillya of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and John Mitchell of Azure Restaurant and Bar.

Longo’s International Iron Chef Competition

Semi Finals Saturday, Aug. 14, 1:30-2:30 p.m. & 4:30-5:30 p.m. & Finals Sunday, Aug. 15, 2-3:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

Gourmet chefs from around the globe show off their skills with secret ingredients and top culinary creativity. Competing chefs include, Kevin Zinc of New Mexico, Jorika Mhende of Turks & Caicos Islands, Joshna Maharaj, the winner of the Canadian Iron Chef Competition.

Best Spicy Dessert in Toronto

Sunday, Aug.15, 5-6 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

Jalapeño peppers find their way into chocolate, wasabi becomes part of ice cream and of course cacao circles the globe in many hot & spicy forms.

THEATRE:

Fireguy

Friday, Aug. 15 & Saturday, Aug. 14, 9-9:30 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Fireguy (Brant Mathews) is an expert in fire eating, juggling and breathing and enlightens his audiences with energetic expertise.

Directly from the City of Toronto Press Release:

FRESH WEDNESDAYS at Nathan Phillips Square
Until August 25, 2010
10 am to 2 pm

Live, free, noon-hour concerts to complement the Nathan Phillips Square’s annual Farmers’ Market. Savour your favourite fruits and vegetables at their peak of perfection while listening to great Canadian music.

August 18:  Sundar Duo
August 25:  PoetiKs: a Live Exhibit of WORD and Sound

For artist information: www.toronto.ca/special_events/wednesdays/2010/index.htm

Farmers’ Market continues until October 13
Wednesdays  10am to 2pm

Ontario farmers will provide an array of crisp vegetables, juicy fruits, pastries, fresh-cut flowers and more at Nathan Phillips Square.

TASTY THURSDAYS at Nathan Phillips Square
Until August 26, 2010
Food 11am to 2 pm
Free Concerts Noon to 2 pm

A combination of live music and food hot off the grill makes for the perfect summer lunch hour escape. Tasty Thursdays features a variety of Toronto restaurants bringing their international cuisine to the square for $5 or less.

Live Music
August 19:  Andrea Koziol
August 26:  The Maryem Tollar Ensemble

For artist information: www.toronto.ca/special_events/thursdays/2010/index.htm

SUNDAY SERENADES at Mel Lastman Square
Until August 22, 2010
7:30 to 9 pm  |  Free!

Sunday Serenades features the very best in swing, big band and jazz acts to compliment Toronto’s warm summer evenings. Come early for “Dancing with John” to learn the fox trot and jive beginning at 6:30 pm, followed by a live show at 7:30pm.

August 15:  Eddie Graf Orchestra
August 22:  Metro Big Band

For artist information: www.toronto.ca/special_events/serenades/2010/index.htm

Directly from the Jackson Triggs Press Release

Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate Winery is pleased to present the 2nd annual

The Best of Canadian Food, Wine and Song
Featuring Host Steven Page with Sarah Slean, Joel Plaskett & Hawksley Workman

In short:
On Friday, August 27, 2010, The Amphitheatre at Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate Winery, Niagara on the Lake, will host the second annual ROOTSTOCK. The evening will feature four of Canada’s top musical artists - Steven Page, Sarah Slean, Joel Plaskett and Hawksley Workman and will truly be a celebration of fine Canadian music and wine.

More detail:
ROOTSTOCK is a unique gathering that will feature four of Canada’s most revered singer-songwriters in performance at The Jackson Triggs Amphitheatre, one of Canada’s most intimate and unique venues. The entertaining and talented Steven Page, a founding member of Barenaked Ladies, will serve as host and will guide these three unique musicians through this special evening.

Rootstock concert tickets are on sale now ($61.00 p.p. plus tax). The evening will begin at 8:00 p.m. For tickets call 1-905-468-4637 x 2, or for further information please visit www.jacksontriggswinery.com.

Steven Page
For twenty years, Steven Page was the lead singer and songwriter with Barenaked Ladies, the Toronto-based band he formed in 1988 with Ed Robertson. Known for his dynamic, physically exuberant performances, his powerful tenor, quick wit, and an arsenal of songs that span the gamut between humor and pathos, Steven and the band toured the world, selling out venues ranging from Madison Square Garden to the Royal Albert Hall. Steven left the band in 2009 to pursue a solo and theatrical career. On his own, Steven released an album written and produced with Stephen Duffy, called The Vanity Project in 2005. He has composed music for Shakespeare’s As You Like It, (2005) Coriolanus, (2006) and Ben Jonson’s Bartholomew Fair (2009) for Canada’s Stratford Shakespeare Festival. In 2007, he hosted his own national radio documentary series, All The Rage on Canada’s CBC Radio One. Singer Must Die, an album of songs recorded with the Art of Time Ensemble, was released in February 2010 and followed by a critically acclaimed tour. Steven Page’s solo album Page One will be released on September 28th, 2010 and the first single “Indecision” is currently gracing the airwaves.

Sarah Slean
Over the course of her twelve-year career Sarah Slean has made six albums, starred in short films and a movie musical, published two volumes of poetry, held exhibitions of her paintings, and shared the stage with four of the country’s leading orchestras. She has been nominated for two Gemini Awards and three Junos, and her records have been released in multiple countries world wide. Her latest album is called the The Baroness. An EP of its outtakes entitled The Baroness Redecorates showcases her remarkable talent as a string arranger. She has just completed a degree in music and philosophy at the University of Toronto. Her current project is a double album entitled Land & Sea that will capture the two most prominent sides of Slean’s musical personality: the clever, infectious pop reminiscent of Sweet Ones, her first major radio hit in 2002, (Land, produced by Joel Plaskett) and dreamy, dark, string-soaked cabaret balladry (Sea, produced by film composer Jonathan Goldsmith).

Joel Plaskett
Canada has produced some of the world’s most enduring songwriters and Joel Plaskett is being hailed as one of the best. Over the last three years, Joel has toured extensively both solo and with The Emergency, to sold-out clubs, theatres and headlining festivals throughout Canada, the United States and Australia - all on the heels of great Canadian success with his Make A Little Noise DVD & EP (2006) and concept record, Ashtray Rock (2007). Topping that off was Joel’s Juno Award nomination for Songwriter of the Year and his placement as First Place Winner in the 2008 Great American Song Contest and the Billboard World Song Contest for his single Fashionable People (in the Pop Category). Joel’s latest release, triple album Three, is his most ambitious work to date and features a stellar line up of guest musicians including his father Bill Plaskett, Rose Cousins, Ana Egge and his band, The Emergency (Chris Pennell, Dave Marsh and Peter Elkas). Received with overwhelming response from media and radio programmers across the country, the reviews were stellar for lead single, “Through & Through & Through”. Joel and his latest effort, Three won the 2010 Juno for Best Alternative Album and received a nomination for the prestigious 2009 Polaris Music Award. Without a doubt, another personal career highlight for Joel and his band was sharing the stage opening for the legendary Paul McCartney (in Halifax, Nova Scotia) performing to an audience of over 50,000.

Hawksley Workman
A musician of incredible velocity, Hawksley Workman is at the top of his game when he has the solitude and serenity to write and record his music in atomic bursts, focused into monastic postures, accessing grace and brilliance in fluid, sweeping motions. With his increasing rock triumphs, growing fan communities and formidable body mass, Workman has evolved from the slight, pin-striped oddball with a critically-acclaimed diamond voice, to the panoramic, guitar-punishing superstar with no performance limits.

There are many exciting ways to enjoy ROOTSTOCK along with our Wine Bar featuring fine Jackson-Triggs, Le Clos Jordanne and Inniskillin VQA wines.

CULINARY OPTIONS PRIOR TO THE CONCERT:

ROOTSTOCK offers a unique and relaxed way to enjoy wine country at its best - catching some of Canada’s premiere musical artists while savouring Niagara’s outstanding wine and local fare. To enhance the ROOTSTOCK experience we are pleased to offer a variety of culinary options under the direction of Chef David Penny.

BARREL CELLAR DINNER
A four-course locally sourced menu paired with VQA wines in the underground barrel cellar. ($84.96 plus tax & gratuity) Wine included.
Must be pre-ordered at time of ticket purchase

VINEYARD DINING (food prices only)
The Vineyard Escarpment Package: Seared flat iron steak on Soba noodle salad, heirloom tomato panzanella salad, local charcuterie and Artisan cheese, vegetables and humus dip - $25.00 plus tax. Vegetarian option available. Must be pre-ordered at time of ticket purchase.

VINEYARD TERROIR PACKAGE
Rustic sandwich with local Pingue Prosciutto, Niagara Gold local cheese and arugula pesto, quinoa salad with Rick’s beets and fresh herbs, baby  vegetables and hummus dip - $15.00 plus tax (Vegetarian option available). Must be pre-ordered at time of ticket purchase.

For those guests looking for a more casual experience we will have available the following options:

UNDER THE HOSPITALITY MARQUEE
Starting at 5:30 p.m. enjoy delicious concession snacks ranging from gourmet popcorn, house-made spiced nuts and house made potato chips.($2.50-$5.00 including tax).

THE TASTING GALLERY
Will remain open until 7:45 p.m. with its lighter fare menu of Pulled Pork Sandwich, Seasonal Soup, Salad, Cheese & Charcuterie. ($5.00 and $10.00 plus tax).

The 2010 Twilight in the Vineyard Series has been enhanced by the Celebrate Ontario Grant.

For concert tickets or booking contact 1-905-468-4637 x 2
or for further information visit: www.jacksontriggswinery.com

Directly from the Taiwanfest Press Release:

TELUS TAIWANfest: Crossover
Aug.27 – Aug. 29

Part of World Routes Summer Festivals 2010 at Harbourfront Centre

TORONTO, ON (Aug. 5, 2010) – The fifth edition of TELUS TAIWANfest: Crossover returns to Harbourfront Centre Aug. 27 - Aug. 29, 2010.  This year’s festival is organized in eight parts and includes an electrifying focus on Taiwanese indie music, a glamorous fashion show from some of Taiwan’s top designers, food demonstrations from local chefs along with traditional puppet and Hakka opera performances.

Friday night kicks off with the return of the CLASH: The Battle of Elegance fashion show that sets top Taiwanese designers against each other for runway supremacy. Designers Chiui Hsu and Jasper Huang, showcase their signature styles (which are some of edgiest in Asia) alongside Vancouver-based designer Angela Chen.

Also returning is the highly anticipated UMUSICLIVE concert series that explores the concept of ‘crossing over’ in the context of musical expression with 10 high-energy indie rock bands from Canada and Taiwan. Some of the acts representing Taiwan include Aboriginal reggae singers Matzka, Taiwan’s ambassadors of rap Kou Chou Ching and Peaches-esque rocker chicks Go Chic. Hip-hop jazz performer Leo 37 and female MC Masia One represent Canada and supply the audience with a dose of uniquely Torontonian hip hop flavours.

Taiwanese cuisine is also showcased at the Crossover Kitchen food demonstrations. Foodies will rejoice as chefs prepare signature Taiwanese dishes including an assortment of Hakka, aboriginal and local derivatives of Chinese cuisine. They will also prepare vegetarian dishes made with an innovative use of spices packed with flavour.

The big idea behind all programming in this year’s World Routes summer festivals is “globalocal”, or global to local, a theme programmed into each festival to bring together rich artistic traditions from around the corner to around the globe!

For additional information and complete event listings, the public may visit harbourfrontcentre.com/worldroutes or call the Information Hotline at 416-973-4000. Harbourfront Centre is located at 235 Queens Quay W. Toronto, ON.

Full Event Listings by Genre:

MUSIC:

Invading the Dragon Palace: Rom Shing Hakka Opera

Friday, Aug. 27, 6:30 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

For the past 20 years the Rom Shing Hakka Opera Troupe has actively participated in a variety of performances around Taiwan to help promote the art form of traditional Hakka opera. The troupe combines the nine styles and 18 modes of Hakka opera with comedic and humorous dialogue.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Nick Fothergill

Saturday, Aug. 28, 1 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Toronto-born musician, Nick Fothergill incorporates traditional North American folk, acoustic rock and ballad-style story telling into his performances. After moving to Taiwan in 2002, Fothergill has performed across Asia and North America.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Suming

Saturday, Aug. 28, 2 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Suming, from the Amis tribe of Taiwan, is the front man and song writer for three rock bands including the popular Taiwanese band Totem. He uses his songs to transport an audience back to a simpler time (in his indigenous language).

The Rise of Indie Nation: 1976

Saturday, Aug. 28, 3:15 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Named after the year the members were born, 1976’s work contains elements of psychedelic-folk, Brit-pop, electronic-rock, glam rock and modern rock. In 2009, the band opened for the Oasis Live Forever Tour in Taipei and was the first Taiwanese band to open for a world-class rock band.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Double X

Saturday, Aug. 28, 5 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Double X is the pioneer of Taiwanese indie music and has been singled out by Taiwan’s Government Information Office as an artist with significant international potential.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Aphasia

Saturday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Aphasia (a medical term meaning the inability to speak) use their instruments and music to speak for the voiceless. The band uses the name to poke fun at politics with their post-rock, punk and metal sound.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Go Chic

Saturday, Aug. 28, 8 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Go Chic, a Taiwanese band consisting of all girls and one male drummer, has been pumping out raw, catchy and dance-electro music since 2007. The band is known for engaging the audience with their humour and energy and encouraging them to dance and sing along!

The Rise of Indie Nation: Matzka

Saturday, Aug. 28, 9 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Matzka are one of few indigenous bands to illustrate traditional songs infused with reggae. Together they celebrate Taiwanese aboriginal culture with a live concert full of humour and energy.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Kou Chou Ching

Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Known as Taiwan’s ambassadors of rap, Kou Chou Ching expresses the creativity and vitality of Taiwan’s independent music scene with their explosive lyrics and energetic live performances. The group won “Best Remix of the Year” and “Best Group of the Year” at the Just Plain Folks Music Awards, the world’s biggest awards show for independent music.

The Rise of Indie Nation: LEO 37

Sunday, Aug. 29, 2 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

LEO 37’s music uses influences from a number of genres including hip-hop, soul, jazz,

electronica and pop. His performance is grass roots, original and worldly.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Masia One

Sunday, Aug. 29, 4 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Masia One, a Singapore native who now resides in Toronto hits the stage with a performance showcasing her rap skills. She was the first female to be nominated for a Much Music Video Award for rap and is currently completing a project with American record label Kops & Robbers. Her most recent project features Pharrell, The Game, Talib Kweli and RZA.

FOOD:

Crossover Kitchen

Saturday, Aug. 28, 2 p.m., 5 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m. & 4 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

At Crossover Kitchen, local chefs are challenged to prepare signature Taiwanese dishes using ingredients from Canada. Chefs include, David Chung, Ku Lai Wen and Elsa Chang.

DANCE:

Treasure our Mother Nature

Sunday, Aug. 29, 1 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Tzu Chi Foundation (a volunteer-led charitable organization) hits the stage with a performance that combines sign language, martial arts and dance. Treasure our Mother Nature was created to raise awareness of the foundation’s green mandate with the help of volunteers and students.

FILM:

E Sha Age

Saturday, Aug. 28, 3:30 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 4 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

E Sha Age, a documentary by filmmaker Waro Hsueh, explores the history of the E. Sha Singing and Dancing Group. E Sha was an all-female musical theatre group that dominated Taiwan’s entertainment industry for 25 years. The documentary focuses on rejuvenating old memories of the group and creating new ones for the younger generation.

Viva Tonal – The Dance Age

Saturday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Viva Tonal – The Dance Age blends together interviews, songs and footage from Taiwan’s ‘dance age. As a historical documentary, it aims to portray the ‘Dance Age’ of the 1920’s and 30’s when youth culture and artistic freedom started to become popular.

FAMILY:

Taiwanese Traditional Lantern Making

Saturday, Aug. 28, 2-3:30 p.m. & 5-6:30 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 2-3:30 p.m. (HarbourKIDS Zone Tent)

Kids can learn the Taiwanese tradition of lantern making, a practice that dates back to the 3rd century. An annual lantern festival is still held in Taipei County of Taiwan, where lanterns are released into the sky.

THEATRE:

Legendary Puppeteers I-Wan-Jan Puppet Troupe

Saturday, Aug. 28, 1 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 2 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

At Telus TAIWANFest the story of Monkey King is presented by the I-Wan-Jan puppet troupe which was founded by world renowned Master Puppeteer, Tien-Lu Lee. Lee is known for his innovative approach, such as incorporating martial arts sequences and acrobatic stunts into the scenes acted out by his puppets. Lee’s lively choreography results in tightly knit, action-packed stories filled with thrilling fight scenes.

LITERARY:

Remembering Teresa Teng Singing Contest

Sunday, Aug. 29, 3:30 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

The public is invited to a special tribute to the late Teresa Teng (Asian music icon) that includes a Teresa Teng singing contest.

VISUAL ARTS:

Formosa Mambo

Saturday, Aug. 28 & Sunday, Aug. 29, 1 p.m. (Marilyn Brewer Community Space)

The National Museum of Taiwan History presents a visual arts event that displays the ordinary lives of Taiwanese people by combining music with historical scenes from traditional times to modern day.

FASHION:

CLASH: The Battle of Elegance

Friday, Aug. 27, 9 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Two designers from Taiwan, Chiui Hsu and Jasper Huang, battle alongside Taiwan-born, Vancouver-based designer Angela Chen for runway supremacy at CLASH: The Battle of Elegance fashion show. Each designer will showcase their signature styles which are some of edgiest in Asia.

Toronto:

Directly from the Harbourfront Centre Press Release:

Fortune Cooking Food Festival Aug. 20-22, 2010

FOOD

Best Night Market Cuisine Revealed

Friday, Aug. 20, 8-9 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

Vote for your favorite night market treat online and the winner will be invited to demonstrate their tasty night market cuisine on opening night of the festival! Will it be Smelly Tofu or Takoyaki (Japanese octopus balls)? Also, learn about Chinese food etiquette in partnership with Power Unit Youth Organization, organizers of the night market, Night It Up!

Just Desserts Market

Saturday, Aug. 21, 1–12p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 22, 12– 6p.m. (Ann Tindal Lawn/Sculpture Court)

Created specifically for the Fortune Cooking Food Festival, Just Desserts Market is where visitors can buy and sample an eclectic variety of Pan-Asian sweets, treats and desserts. With vendors representing Asian desserts in all their varieties, audiences are offered a taste of what the city has to offer from Canadian culinary artisans of Asian heritage.

Longo’s Fortune Cooking Iron Chef

Semi Finals: Saturday, Aug. 21, 1:30-2:30 p.m. & 4:30- 5:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)
Finals: Sunday, Aug. 22, 2-3:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

Experience the high-stakes reality of modern gourmet cooking in this two-day competition as Toronto chefs of contemporary Asian cuisine compete against each other for Longo’s Fortune Cooking Iron Chef supremacy. The chefs competing are: Chef Sasi Meechai-Lim of Mengrai Thai Restaurant vs. Chef Winlai Wong of Spice Route Asian Bistro and Bar and Chef Manh Nguyen of Supermarket Restaurant vs. Chef Leemo Han of Swish by Han. Judges confirmed thus far are: Andrew Chase (Food Editor, Homemaker Magazine; Contributing Food Editor, Canadian Living Magazine), Matt Galloway (host of CBC Radio’s “Metro Morning”) and Susur Lee (chef and owner of Toronto’s Lee Restaurant, among others).

Dumplings to Desire: Mother’s Dumplings & Pork/Chives and Pork/Bok Choy Dumplings

Saturday, Aug. 21, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

This food series will explore dumplings and their various incarnations across provinces, countries and regions. Critically acclaimed Mother’s Dumplings teams up with the Chinese Canadian National Council Toronto Chapter to not only demonstrate how to create their favorite Chinese dumplings but also to tell fascinating stories about owning a dumpling restaurant in Toronto.

The Art of Hand-pulled Noodles

Saturday, Aug. 21, 3:30-4:15 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Noodle specialist Chef Ken Sun demonstrates the fine art of “La Mian” (hand-pulled) and “Dao Xiao Mian” (hand-shaved) noodles along with musical accompaniment. Families are invited to take part in a handmade noodle-making workshop after the demonstration. Performance includes drumming and martial arts demonstration by Apex Shaolin Kung Fu Academy.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Jong Beom Park & Kimchi and Beef Dumplings

Saturday, Aug. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Jong Beom Park, of North York Man Doo Hyang, uses his traditional Korean culinary skills to demonstrate how to create Kimchi and Beef Dumplings.

Noodle Walk: Chef Marietta Murillo & Pancit Noodles

Saturday, Aug. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Marietta Murillo, of Mayette’s International Cuisine in Toronto, uses her Filipina cooking skills to create Pancit Noodles.

Noodle Walk: Chef Anthony Lin & Hakka Chow Mein

Saturday, Aug. 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Anthony Lin, of Danforth Dragon in Toronto’s Greek town, creates his famous Hakka cuisine, Hakka Chow Mein.

Healthy Contemporary Chinese Cuisine with Martin Yan

Saturday, Aug. 21, 7 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

The celebrated host of over 3,000 cooking shows broadcast worldwide, Martin Yan is a certified Master Chef, highly respected food consultant, cooking instructor and prolific author (over 30 cookbooks). Since his television debut in 1978 with the now classic Yan Can Cook, he has worked to

dispel the mysteries of Asian cooking by sharing his extensive knowledge of these excellent cuisines and the cultures that created them, accompanied by his trademark wit and sense of fun. In this intimate food demo, Yan uses a whole chicken to create three dishes: Chinese Chicken Salad, Refreshing Lettuce Cups and Three-Cup Chicken.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Tenzin Yewong & Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos

Sunday, Aug. 22, 1-2 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Tenzin Yewong of Tibet Café & Bar, located in Kensington Market, demonstrates how to create Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos.

Noodle Walk: Chef Minh La & Tasty Good Burritos

Sunday, Aug. 22, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

In this series exploring the noodle and all its incarnations, Chef Minh La of Chino Locos fuses Tex-Mex with the Far East to create his house specialty, a burrito stuffed with Chow Mein noodles and fresh, traditional burrito toppings.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Mina Makimine & Lotus Root Dumplings

Sunday, Aug. 22, 4-5 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

As chef at the Official Residence of the Consul-General of Japan in Toronto, Chef Mina Makimine demonstrates her culinary skills while making the Lotus Root Dumpling. She has showcased her culinary artistry for various esteemed guests of the Consul-General of Japan including their Majesties, the Emperor and Empress of Japan. With generous support from the Japan Information Centre and Consul-General of Japan in Toronto.

Noodle Walk: Chef Nuit Regular & Sukhothai Pad Thai

Sunday, Aug. 22, 5-6 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Nuit Regular, of the critically acclaimed Sukho Thai Restaurant in Toronto, uses culinary skills learned in Thailand to create Sukhothai Pad Thai.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Robin Pradham & Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos

Saturday, Aug. 21, 6-7 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Robin Pradham of Rocky Raccoon Café, located in Owen Sound, demonstrates how to create his brand of Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos featuring local Greenbelt and international ingredients.

Greenbelt Farmers. Tasting Market

Saturday, Aug. 21 & Sunday, Aug. 22, 1-6 p.m. (Brigantine Tent)

Tables are set up featuring fresh produce from all over the Greenbelt. Produce is not for sale, but patrons can enjoy a wide array of samples.

FILM

The Killing of a Chinese Cookie

***Canadian Premiere***

Friday, Aug. 20, 7:30–9 p.m. (Studio Theatre)
In a film that takes a comical look at the origins of the Chinese fortune cookie, director Derek Shimoda examines the heated debate over the true origin of the treat, the mixing of eastern and western cultures that produced it, and the cookie’s rise from a simple pastry to a pop culture phenomenon. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Chinese Restaurants: Beyond Frontiers

Saturday, Aug. 21, 5–7 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

This film is a part of a 15-part documentary series that tells the story of the Chinese Diaspora through its most recognizable icon – the family-run Chinese restaurant. Filmmaker Cheuk Kwan travels to the cities of India and into the jungles of Brazilian Amazon to interview Chinese restaurant owners and learn about their experiences and the differences between foods from different regions. The screening is followed by an interview with associate professor Lily Cho of the University of Western Ontario, author of the upcoming book Eating Chinese: Culture on the Menu in Small Town Canada, and a question and answer session with Cheuk Kwan. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Kung Fu Chefs

***Canadian Premiere***

Saturday, Aug. 21, 8-10 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Directed by Wing Kin Yip, this film follows the story of Wong Ping Yee (legendary Sammo Hung) as he is ousted from his village and finds his way to sisters in need of help with their restaurant. Here he finds a young chef, whom he trains to compete at the Imperial Palace for the title of top chef. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Agrarian Utopia

Sunday, Aug. 22, 3:30-5:30 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Directed by Uruphong Raksasad, this award-winning film tells the story of two families facing seizure of their lands. They find themselves farming together on the same field, hoping to get through another rice-farming season, all while trying to grasp the ideology of happiness. Winner of the 2009 UNESCO Award at the Asia-Pacific Screen Awards. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Seattle:

Directly from the Blackboard Bistro Press Release:

Blackboard Bistro coming to West Seattle

Jacob Wiegner to open nostalgic “American bistro” August 13th

For Immediate Release:

Seattle, Wash., July 29, 2010: Jacob Wiegner, a chef who trained at Le Cordon-Bleu London,  worked in top kitchens in London and Florida, and has spent the past two years as sous-chef at Olivar on Capitol Hill, will open his own 40-seat restaurant, Blackboard Bistro, in West Seattle next month. The emphasis, Wiegner says, will be a nostalgic nod to the chef’s past, prepared with Northwest ingredients.

Superstitious? Not Wiegner. He is opening on Friday the 13th in a space that’s been a virtual graveyard for restaurants: Ovio Bistro, 02, Beato and Eness have all come and gone.  “Blackboard Bistro is here to stay”.

Wiegner’s philosophy is to focus on simplicity, technique and fresh ingredients. “I have worked in a variety of restaurants from French and English to Mediterranean, and I want to bring all this cuisine together,” he says. “This is where the idea of an American Bistro comes alive, a melting pot in all senses of the word.”

Blackboard Bistro will avoid a formal menu. All dishes will be listed on blackboards throughout the restaurant. The atmosphere will be casual and prices will be moderate so guests can return often.  While Blackboard is not setting out to be a “family restaurant,” Wiegner does want families with children to feel welcome. “We’ll have a three-course children’s tasting menu so families can share an entire mealtime,” he says.

Among the menu items Wiegner expects to offer:

Tomato and horseradish sorbet, warm goat cheese, arugula, confit tomato and garlic ($12)

Pork chili verde with cast iron corn bread ($12)

A classic Frogmore stew ($20)

Cherry upside down cake, cherry, white chocolate and ginger ice cream ($7)

The Frogmore stew (whole prawns, spicy house-made sausage, clams, fingerling potatoes, and corn on the cob), a South Carolina specialty, represents one of the American regional influences on Wiegner’s culinary personality. Other influences include his Pennsylvania-Dutch origins, his classical French training, and his formative years in England, New Zealand, Australia and the many parts of the United States.

He found his calling as a chef while working in restaurants in London. He worked his way up to Chef de Partie and Sous Chef at the famous oyster bar Bibendum, Sir Terrance Conran’s famous restaurant in Chelsea.

In addition to the blackboard items, Blackboard Bistro will offer a “name your price” tasting menu. Guests will name a per person amount (for example, $30), and Chef Wiegner will send out plates until the budget is reached.

Blackboard Bistro will have a full liquor license and offer a selection of Chef Wiegner’s favorite liquors, microbrews and wines. The bar will not offer complex cocktails; rather, a small cocktail list featuring half a dozen house drinks will be available.

Blackboard Bistro 206 257 4832, 3247 California Avenue SW. 98116. Open Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, and until 11 PM on Friday & Saturday.
More information at  http://blackboardbistroseattle.com/

Blackboard Bistro Opening Menu

watermelon salad with feta, fresno oil and pumpkin seeds

8

slow roasted pork belly with frisee and deviled red beet egg

10

tomato and horseradish sorbet,  warm goat cheese, arugula, confit tomato and garlic

12

scallop ceviche with grilled corn and poblano, fry bread

15

beer battered okra with watermelon rind ketchup

6

roasted cauliflower, pine nuts and currants

6

pork chili verde with cast iron corn bread

12

gnocchi, house smoked trout, peas and mint

14

braised eggplant, oven roasted tomato and yoghurt

13

four sliders.  red wine and shallot, foie gras, truffle and blue cheese. shallot rings

12

pan fried halibut with sweet potato, brown butter, capers and oregano

18

Chicken and wild mushroom pie

16

frogmore stew. whole prawns, spicy house made sausage, clams, fingerling potato,

and corn served on the cob

20

tasting menu- name your price

Sweets

chocolate and peanut pasty, peanut butter ice cream and grape jelly

8

oatmeal cookie sandwich with rum raisin parfait

6

cream cheese flan, lavender cream and fresh berries

6

cherry upside down cake; cherry, white chocolate and ginger ice cream

7

cheeseboard with house made chutney and crackers

12

Directly from the Vovito Cafe Press Release:

Vovito Caffè & Gelato Comes to The Shops at The Bravern in Bellevue

In a region renowned for its coffee, what will take the ubiquitous drink to a new level? Java connoisseurs will find out July 30 when Vovito Caffè & Gelato officially opens in The Shops at The Bravern  in Bellevue, just off teh 110th Avenue arrival court.

Home to two of the region’s three Slayer espresso machines, the Italian-inspired specialty cafè will offer hand-crafted espresso, coffee and beans in Premium Blend and Single Origin varieties, as well as a full selection of gourmet teas and chai beverages.   Along with coffee and tea drinks, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will feature house-made gelato, sorbetto, a wide variety of paninis, salads and baked goods -– all made fresh daily.

The café will open at 6:30 am Monday through Friday (8:30 am on Saturdays and 10:00 am on Sundays) to satisfy coffee and breakfast cravings, including freshly prepared Panini breakfast sandwiches, pastries, fresh orange juice and gelato smoothies.

Vovito is a welcome addition to The Shops at The Bravern, which has been seeking a coffee purveyor.  “We’re extremely pleased to have Vovito Caffè & Gelato open at The Bravern,” said Mark Netherland, senior investment manager for project developer Schnitzer West, LLC.  “The quality of the product we can now offer visitors was worth the wait.”

Founded by Eastside entrepreneurs Ariff and Shairose Gulamani, Vovito Caffè & Gelato represents the third start-up venture for the couple.  It was a personal passion for unique artisan products that led the two to begin development of the Vovito concept a year ago.   Bellevue seemed the perfect location to launch their flagship store.

“We see Bellevue as the new hub,” says Ariff Gulamani. “It’s vibrant, it has the right demographics, and it has become the new center of activity for the region. We were very excited when we heard about The Bravern.  Its inviting, upscale environment is the perfect setting for our concept.”

Much like vintners and sommeliers, Vovito’s baristas will further refine the art of coffee, exploring the nuance of single origin sources right down to the farms or hillsides; to blending, brewing and extracting for various flavor profiles and themes.

“Vovito will offer the very best coffee for connoisseurs,” Ariff points out. “For us, this is an opportunity to build social connections around coffee while connecting people in the café with our sustainable business relationships with direct coffee farmer co-ops where we will source the world’s best coffee beans.”

After much recipe research, consultation with Italian Master gelato chefs and menu development, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will offer flavor-rich gelato and sorbetto made fresh daily. The café will open with 24 flavors of colorful gelato and sorbetto, as well as delicious gelato cakes. The gelato offering, says Shairose Gulamani, will accommodate customer preferences with new gelato flavors featured every month.  And there is a focus on fresh, healthy ingredients:  “Most people don’t realize that gelato has fewer calories and less sugar A006Ed fat than ice cream,” she explained. “It’s a great way to treat yourself.”

Vovito Caffè & Gelato will occupy 2,444 square feet in The Shops at The Bravern and seat approximately 35 inside the shop. Vovito Caffè & Gelato plans to open its doors July 25 with grand opening festivities set for July 30. Reflecting the Italian origins and artisanship of its signature products, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will feature Italianate design throughout, from the custom-made, curved gelato cases to the stone counters and stairs to the warm colors enveloping the interior design of the space. Comfortable and contemporary bar stools and ledges line the walls, with table seating provided for small or large groups as well as lounge chairs for a relaxed alternative. The café will offer free WiFi service and will be family friendly and wheelchair accessible.

Directly from the Scotiabank Nuit Blanche Press Release:

Toronto’s annual sunset to sunrise celebration of contemporary art returns on October 2, 2010 to mark a five-year milestone.

Discover art in galleries, museums and unexpected places. From building façades and city parks to alleyways and heritage buildings, choose from more than 130 destinations and chart your own path.  This year’s event will also present a series of special events celebrating the fifth anniversary and extending Scotiabank Nuit Blanche beyond one night.

Full details are available at www.scotiabanknuitblanche.ca.

Follow @sbnuitblancheTO on Twitter, or visit www.facebook.com/sbnuitblancheTO for behind the scenes information and updates as the event draws near.

Scotiabank Nuit Blanche is a signature event produced by the City of Toronto in collaboration with Toronto’s arts community.

City-produced exhibition highlights

The City-produced exhibition projects will be positioned directly on the Yonge-University TTC subway line. Yonge Street will be entirely closed to car traffic between Bloor Street and Front Street, giving pedestrians safe and easy access to the exhibitions.

Curator Gerald McMasters exhibition entitled “The Good Night” features 10 projects in and around Yorkville, from Yonge Street to St. George. Highlights include the Lower Bay Station, which will become an interactive landscape of light in Daan Roosegaarde’s installation “Interactive Landscape Dune”, while the Village of Yorkville Park will feature a billion-year-old chunk of the Canadian Shield transformed into the pulsing heart of Mother Earth by Kent Monkman’s alter-ego Miss Chief Eagle Testikle in “Iskootāo”.

Anthony Kiendl will curate seven projects along the west side of Yonge Street from Dundas Street to Queen Street West in Sound and Vision. Nathan Phillips Square will be transformed into a sensory oasis as Daniel Lanois prepares, produces and performs the soundtrack to a multi-channel, multi-screen media experience in “Later That Night at the Drive-In”. Atop the new Podium Green Roof at City Hall, Dan Graham’s “Performance Café with Perforated Sides” will feature one of the artist’s world-renowned reflective pavilions, beckoning as a space for human interaction on a grand or intimate scale.

Sarah Robayo Sheridan’s exhibition entitled “The Night of Future Past” will be located on the east side of Yonge from Carlton Street south to Queen Street. She will curate eight projects, including Ryan Ganders “Just Because You Can Feel It, Doesnt Mean It’s There”, which will set Yonge-Dundas Square ablaze in a social sculpture of ambiguous designation but of unmistakable scale and presence. In “Reunion” on the Ryerson Theatre Stage, the historic artistic convergence of the same name that occurred in 1968 will be celebrated and remounted by local and international performers influenced by the twin legacies of Marcel Duchamp and John Cage.

Christof Migone will curate 15 projects in the Financial District, straddling Yonge Street from Queen Street to Front Street. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” will feature Max Streicher’s “Endgame (Coulrophobia)”, which will either delight or frighten audiences who discover the giant inflatable clown heads wedged between two buildings in a back alley.

At Commerce Court, Davide Balula’s performance entitled “The Endless Pace” will feature 60 dancers mimicking the passage of time in a clock formed from human movement. Kim Adams’ “Auto Lamp” will become a beacon of light for night owls; a sculptural lighthouse on land at the corner of Yonge and Queen. At Brookfield Place, Martin Arnold and Micah Lexier have collaborated to present “Erik Saties Vexations” - two pianos playing a score simultaneously 840 times over 12 hours - the first time this difficult score has been played in such a way and in such short a time.

Community-produced independent project highlights

The community-produced portion of Scotiabank Nuit Blanche will feature new or existing installations created by cultural and educational institutions, neighbourhoods and individual artists that extend the boundaries of the event city-wide and showcase the diversity of Toronto’s arts community. Casa Loma, CN Tower, the Bata Shoe Museum, Ryerson University, TIFF and many more organizations are hosting important projects in their unique venues. Entire neighbourhoods like Parkdale, Liberty Village, Queen West, the Distillery District and the area in and around Trinity Bellwoods Park will feature multiple installations by local artists.

Canadian Iron Chef Competition
Greenbelt Tasting Hall

July 3, 1-6pm & July 4, 1-6pm (Brigantine Tent)

Harbourfront Centre and the Greenbelt Foundation present a tasting from farmers whose livelihood is integrally connected to the earth. Modeled after the international Terra Madre conference which takes place in Italy every two years, this tasting hall opens the dialogue between farmers and the general public. Join the conversation about the work farmers do and the wide range of foods that are available right here in Ontario.

*During the Longo’s Canadian Iron Chef competition the competing chefs will choose produce from the Greenbelt Tasting Hall to be used in mouth watering creations.

Longo’s Canadian Iron Chef Competition

Semi Finals July 3, 2pm & 5pm & Finals July 4, 3pm (Brigantine Room)

Top chefs from across Canada (including Chef Scott Vivian from Wine Bar & Chef Joshna Maharaj of Stop Food) show their stuff using secret ingredients combined with masterful culinary creativity in an event that promises to satisfy even the most discerning appetite. This edition focuses on chefs who prefer local ingredients and fare. The winner of the competition goes on to compete in the Longo’s International Iron Chef Competition at the Hot & Spicy Food Festival presented by NOW magazine.

Expressions of Brazil

July 16-18

Part of World Routes Summer Festivals 2010 at Harbourfront Centre

TORONTO, ON (June 24, 2010) –The first-ever Expressions of Brazil Festival brings sizzling Brazilian flavours to Harbourfront Centre from June 16-18 2010. This FREE three-day festival celebrates Brazil’s rich cultural traditions and multiculturalism through contemporary Brazilian music, food, film and art.

International concert highlights include performances from Brazil’s 25-year music veteran Laura Finnociario who gracefully combines bossa-nova, samba, jazz and funk, followed by 17-year-old pop sensation Mallu Magalhães and a late-night party with Brazil’s DJ Raul Vax (with local DJ Branko) spinning the hottest progressive and electro house music. Local musical contributions are provided by Toronto’s own Sinal Alberto, an exciting new jazz quartet featuring Luanda Jones and Gordon Sheard, newcomer Bruno Capinan who croons his sensual and provocative Portuguese prose and the vibrant high-energy beats of Baque de Bamba, lead by Aline Moralis, Sambacana, Roda de Samba, Batacuda Carioca, Mulambo Groove and Escola de Samba

Expressions of Brazil also showcases international and Canadian visual artists at the Brazil: Many Eyes, Different Visions exhibition. Renowned Brazilian artists Emilio Boschilia, Ivana Panizzi, Renato Soares, Soraya Montaheiro and Gabriela Greeb join with local artists Avi Neto and Chris Harrison to present a survey of contemporary Brazilian art.

Of course no Brazilian festival is complete without traditional Capoeira, presented by Capoeira Camará and food programming. Chef Mario Cassini of Cajú Restaurant prepares delicious culinary offerings that represent the diverse tastes of Brazil. Families can also enjoy kid-friendly programming with special workshops including soccer by Brazilian Soccer Academy, pinhole photography by ImageMagica and drumming along with three days of film screenings in partnership with the Brazilian Film Festival of Toronto (BRAFFT).

The big idea behind all programming in this year’s World Routes summer festivals is “globalocal”, or global to local, a theme programmed into each festival to bring together rich artistic traditions from around the corner to around the globe!

For additional information and complete event listings, the public may visit harbourfrontcentre.com/worldroutes or call the Information Hotline at 416-973-4000. Harbourfront Centre is located at 235 Queens Quay W. Toronto, ON.

Le Clos Jordanne announces changes to the winemaking team

Sébastien Jacquey assumes the role of winemaker as Thomas Bachelder moves to set up his own consultancy business

In short:

Thomas Bachelder, the man who took Le Clos Jordanne from the conceptual stage to international acclaim has announced that he will step down in his role as winemaker to open his own winemaking consultancy business in conjunction with his wife, Mary Delaney. Sébastien Jacquey, who has been working with Thomas for the past three years as assistant winemaker, will assume the role of winemaker. Since its launch in 2006, Le Clos Jordanne, of Jordan Station on the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario, has quickly become a producer of a highly coveted, world-class wine. The winery is focused exclusively to the production of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grown from several coveted vineyard sites.

More detail:

Keith Brown, vice president of winemaking for Vincor Canada, announced today that Thomas Bachelder will be leaving Le Clos Jordanne to start own winemaking consultancy business in conjunction with his wife, Mary Delaney. Thomas, who took the winery from conceptual stage to international acclaim as Ontario’s top “garagiste winery”, has been a tireless champion of the Niagara Peninsula and specifically of its ability to produce world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. One of the pinnacle events for Le Clos and Thomas was the Judgment of Montreal in 2009 for the 2005 Claystone Terrace Chardonnay. His beliefs in what the region could achieve were further substantiated when Le Clos Jordanne was named one of the world’s top 10 organic wines by The Independent in the UK; also in the UK, one of the most highly respected members of the international wine critics’ circle, Jancis Robinson, has called Le Clos Jordanne “the Ontario Pinot producer I have found to be most impressive”.

Working at Thomas’ side for the past three years, Sébastien Jacquey is now ready to assume the role of winemaker and continue the legacy that Thomas created. Thomas will remain as a consultant to Le Clos Jordanne and continue to provide vision and direction.

“I am very excited about the new opportunities that have been presented to me and also happy that Thomas will be by my side as I take the next steps in my winemaking career”, notes Sébastien. “The wines are being handed over to me with a pedigree that I will work tirelessly to uphold.”

Le Clos Jordanne is a remarkable collaboration between Vincor Canada and Boisset, La Famille des Grands Vins, in France. It symbolizes the extraordinary vision of fusing tradition and innovation with passion and expertise. Using traditional Burgundian methods, wines are crafted to exemplify the distinct Niagara terroir. Located in the town of Jordan Station on the Niagara Escarpment in Ontario, the winery owns four distinct vineyards: Le Clos Jordanne, Claystone, La Petit and Talon - totaling 56 hectares (138 acres). Exclusively planted to Burgundian varietals Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the vineyards are farmed using organic and biodynamic techniques.

Le Clos Jordanne wines are available at select retailers across Canada and may be purchased online at www.leclosjordanne.com.

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature article and two new cocktails:

Food Ontario Select Guide: Summer Entertaining Tips

Great Escape Cocktail and Just Peachy Cocktail

Directly from the Summerlicious Press Release:

SUMMERLICIOUS presented by American Express July 9 – July 25, 2010

A highlight of summer in Toronto! Summerlicious offers restaurant lovers an opportunity to satisfy their appetites for delicious food and perhaps discover a new favourite restaurant in the process.

Take advantage of the incredible value and exclusive prix fixe menus offered at 150 of Toronto’s top dining establishments. Reservations will be accepted starting June 24.  American Express® Cardmembers can go to the Front of the Line ® to book early reservations on June 22 & 23, 2010. For full details, visit the Summerlicious website.

New this year, the Summerlicious website now has mobile accessibility so Android and iPhone users can easily find restaurant descriptions, menus and maps.

Summerlicious menus are now posted!
www.toronto.ca/summerlicious

The Summerlicious restaurant promotion is produced by the City of Toronto.

Directly from the Harbourfront Centre Press Release:

Discover a world of culinary events at Harbourfront Centre. Part of World Routes Summer Festivals 2010

TORONTO, ON (June 8, 2010) – This summer Harbourfront Centre is cooking up something more delicious than ever! From July 1 through to September 6, taste exotic, spicy and sweet culinary offerings from around the globe while exploring the cultural diversity of each summer festival.

The big idea behind all programming at this year’s World Routes summer festivals is “globalocal”, or global to local, a theme programmed into each festival to bring together rich artistic traditions from around the corner to around the globe!

From Brazilian delicacies at the Expressions of Brazil Festival, Caribbean treats at the Island Soul Festival, to the fiery dishes prepared at the Hot & Spicy Food Festival, this summer’s lineup of food programming has something to please everyone’s palate!

World Routes Summer Festivals with culinary programming:

Canada Day (July 1)
Harbourfront Centre is celebrating Canada’s 143rd birthday with programming for all ages that explores the many cultures and artistic genres which form our Canadian identity.

•    Global Turns Local cooking demos
July 1, 3:30 & 5:30 (Lakeside Terrace)
Mexican food with maple syrup and Indian food with a Canadian Slant are two of the       dishes presented by Chef Jose Haddad of Frida Restaurant and Bar, Chef Luis Venezuela, of Toritos Tapas Bar and Chef Preena Chauhan of Arvinda’s.

The Hot Spot (July 2-4)
The Hot Spot festival celebrates our global community by bringing together the hottest trends in food, music, film and dance. It takes a look at “globalocal” and how endangered local cultures have led to international efforts that have brought together food and music in the hopes of raising consciousness, while highlighting global edible creations and paying tribute to their emphasis on locality.

•    Longo’s® Canadian Iron Chef Competition
July 3, 2–6 p.m. & July 4, 2 p.m. (Brigantine Room)
Focusing on local ingredients, top chefs from across Canada, like Chef Scott Vivian and Chef Joshna Maharaj, will be showing their culinary creativity in the hopes of becoming the 2010 Longo’s® Canadian Iron Chef Champion. Hosted by TV personality and Chef Christian Pritchard, the semi-finals take place on July 3 from 2–5 p.m. and the finals are July 4 at 3 p.m. The chef who comes out on top during the finals goes on to compete at Hot & Spicy Food Festival presented by NOW Magazine (August 13-15).

Expressions of Brazil (July 16-18)
The inaugural Expressions of Brazil festival showcases the connection between Canada and Brazil by presenting both international and local artists through culinary arts, music, dance, film, visual arts, theatre, family activities and workshops. Brazil is a country that combines a rich history and a contemporary appreciation for their culture.

•    Brazilian Cooking Demo
July 17, 2:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)
Chef Mario Cassini, the successful owner and executive chef of the award-winning restaurant, Cajù, demonstrates his kitchen prowess for the public. Famous for its innovative Brazilian food served in a contemporary atmosphere, Cajù brings the true essence of Brazil to the people of Toronto through its culinary excellence.

Love, Saskatchewan (July 23-25)
Toronto unites with Saskatchewan to shatter stereotypes about the prairie province in the 21st Century. Chefs from out west show us what true Canadian cuisine is all about.

•    Taste of Saskatchewan Cooking Demo
July 24, 4:30 p.m. & July 25, 4 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)
Chef Beemal Vasini, Sous Chef Restaurant will be serving up some of Saskatchewan’s home grown tasty recipes that are easy to make and ready to eat meals from Farm to Table.

•    Taste of Saskatchewan Cooking Demo
July 25, 2 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)
Chef Dicki Yuzicapi presents a selection gourmet aboriginal dishes prepared with a modern twist. Dicki Yuzicapi has been a chef since 1999 and became the owner of Sioux Chef Catering in 2002 and his mission is to provide the highest quality of food with the best service.

Island Soul (July 30-Aug. 2)
Caribbean culture is celebrated through food, music and art. Island Soul is a weekend-long festival bridging the gap between Canada and the Caribbean Islands.

•    Caribbean Cooking Demos
Aug. 1, 3 p.m. & Aug. 2, 3 & 5 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)
Three top chefs demonstrate how to make the many variations of Caribbean dumplings and the island dishes to cook with them.

•    Best Caribbean Dumplings in Toronto Cook-Off
Aug. 1, 5-6 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)
Vote for whomever you think makes the best Caribbean dumplings in Toronto. Voting is open from June 15-July 15, and on August 1 there will be a cook-off to determine the winner.

Hot & Spicy Food Festival presented by NOW Magazine (August 13-15)
The 13th anniversary of the Hot & Spicy Food Festival presented by NOW Magazine explores the lost origins of spices and foods, and their transformation as they move across the world. This festival brings global to local by showcasing local chefs who specialize in multicultural cuisine as well as international guest chefs and demonstrating how they each fit on the global culinary scene.

•    The Rhyming Chef
Aug.13, 7-8 p.m. & Aug. 15, 5 p.m. (Redpath Stage)
Combine hip hop with culinary arts and you have The Rhyming Chef, a unique and highly entertaining live show that features The Rhyming Chef (Philman George) cleverly infusing a spicy food demonstration with the hottest elements of hip hop culture.

•    Longo’s International Iron Chef Competition
Aug. 14, 1:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. (semi-finals), Aug. 15, 2 p.m. (finale) (Brigantine Room)
Gourmet chefs from around the world and Longo’s Canadian Iron Chef Competition Champion show off their skills with secret ingredients and top culinary creativity. The winners of Saturday’s semi-finals will compete in Sunday’s finals to become the 2010 Longo’s International Iron Chef Competition Champion, hosted by T.V. personality and       Chef Christian Pritchard.

•    10 Tastes to Try Before You Die
August 13, 14, 15 (Lakeside Terrace)
Some of the best chefs in the city explore the transformations of spices and foods around the world as they prepare dishes that everyone should try before they die.

Fortune Cooking Food Festival (Aug. 20-22)
The inaugural edition of this food festival will explore the delicious diversity of Pan Asian cuisine through demos, music and dance.

•    Best Night Market Cuisine Revealed!
Aug. 20, (Lakeside Terrace Tent)
Night markets provide an opportunity to leisurely stroll, shop and above all eat! Participants can vote on-line for their favourite night market treat. The winner will be invited to demonstrate their tasty night market cuisine on the opening night of Fortune Cooking Food Festival.

•    Dumplings to Desire
Aug. 21 & Aug. 22 (Lakeside Terrace Tent)
Dumplings to Desire is a two-day food series exploring the dumpling and its incarnations across provinces, countries and regions. We’ll serve up diverse dumplings from across Asia, anything from Tibetan Momos and Korean Mandu to Chinese Jiãozi and Japanese Dango.

·         Dumplings to Desire (Chinese Jiãozi) - Chef Zhen Feng
Aug. 21, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)
Mother’s Dumplings teams up with Chinese Canadian National Council Toronto Chapter and demonstrates how to create their favourite Chinese dumplings.

•    Dumplings to Desire (Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos) - Chef Tenzin Yewong
Aug. 22, 1-2 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)
Chef Tenzin Yewong from Tibet Café & Bar, located in the heart of Kensington Market demonstrates the art of creating Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos.

•    Dumplings to Desire (Japanese Dango) - Chef Mina Makimine
Aug. 22, 4-5 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)
Chef Mina Makimine, the official chef at the residence of the Consul-General of Japan in Toronto, shares her passion for the culinary arts by serving up diverse dumplings from across Asia.

•    Dumplings to Desire (Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos)- Chef Robin Pradham
Aug. 22, 6-7 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)
In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Robin Pradham demonstrates how to prepare Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos using both local and international ingredients.

•    The Art of Hand-Pulled Noodles
Aug. 21 3:30-4:15 p.m. (Redpath Stage) & 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Kidzone Tent)
Noodle specialist Chef Ken Sun of Sun’s Kitchen demonstrates the fine art of “La Main,” (hand-pulled) and “Dao Xiao Main,” (hand-shaved) noodles along with musical accompaniment provided by Apex Shaolin Kung Fu Academy Drummers. Families are welcome to take part in a handmade noodle-making workshop with Chef Ken Sun following the demonstration.

•    Fortune Cooking Iron Chef | Semi-Finals
Aug. 21 1:30-2:30 p.m. & 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)
The Fortune Cooking Iron Chef competition features Toronto restaurants representing       various regions in East and South East Asia. Judges will grade competitors based on their creativity, fusion and ability to go beyond traditional recipes.

•    Fortune Cooking Iron Chef | Finale
Aug. 22 2-3:30 p.m.  (Brigantine Room)
The winner of Fortune Cooking Iron Chef 2010 will be decided and announced at the finale of this competition.

TELUS TAIWANfest Crossover (August 27-29)
TAIWANfest examines how people can cross over and keep their identity rather than abandon it. Taiwan is an island with cultural influences from all over the world and while the debate of new vs. old continues, the evolution of culture never stops.

•    What’s Cooking
Aug. 28, 2 p.m., 5 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. & Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m. & 4 p.m.
Featuring a Taiwanese focused exploration of the culinary arts. Andrew Chase, renowned food editor of Homemakers/Canadian Living magazine, shares his favourite recipes.

For additional information and complete event listings, the public may visit harbourfrontcentre.com/worldroutes or call the Information Hotline at 416-973-4000.

ABOUT WORLD ROUTES SUMMER FESTIVALS
World Routes is Harbourfront Centre’s annual summer series of FREE festivals running every weekend from Canada Day through Labour Day. World Routes explores ideas in contemporary culture, bringing together rich, artistic traditions from around the globe. For summer 2010, Harbourfront Centre explores the idea of “globalocal” (global to local and local to global) with a festival line-up promising to entertain, stimulate and provoke.

ABOUT HARBOURFRONT CENTRE
 Harbourfront Centre is an innovative, non-profit cultural organization which provides internationally renowned programming in the arts, culture, education and recreation, all within a collection of distinctive venues on the 10-acre site it operates in the heart of Toronto’s downtown waterfront.

Don’t miss the May 6th, 2010 newsletter.  There will be 2 giveaway prizes:

The winners will receive a Mott’s Clamato Caesar Kit + 4 tickets to the Eat Vancouver Food and Cooking Festival.

In order to have a chance to win you have to sign up. Sign up here.

Directly from the Villa Maria Estate Press Release:

New Zealand Winery Takes Centre Stage
Sir George Fistonich of Villa Maria Estate to Attend Vancouver International Playhouse Wine Festival

(Vancouver, BC - April 13, 2010) Sir George Fistonich, esteemed founder of New Zealand winery Villa Maria Estate, will attend the 32nd Annual Vancouver International Playhouse Wine Festival from April 19-25. New Zealand, along with Argentina, is a theme region at this year’s event.

Sir George Fistonich founded Villa Maria Estate in Auckland in 1961. With vision, passion and determination, has steered the company to become New Zealand’s leading wine award winner, both locally and overseas. Today, Villa Maria Estate operates the Auckland Winery and Cellar Door, along with the Marlborough Winery and Cellar Door, located in the South Island’s highly regarded Marlborough wine-growing region. Along with Auckland and Marlborough, Villa Maria Estate Winery’s premium grapes are grown in the North Island’s Gisborne and Hawkes Bay regions.

In 2009, Fistonich was knighted for his significant contribution to the New Zealand wine industry, becoming the first person to be acknowledged for services to New Zealand’s wine industry. In 2004, Fistonich was shortlisted as one of the 50 most prominent figures in the wine industry by UK Wine International magazine. In 2005, he was named New Zealand’s Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

Fistonich has long focused on the importance of regional differences in relation to grape quality and wine styles. He pioneered the use of contract growers and led Villa Maria to become the first New Zealand wine company to initiate payment for grapes based on quality rather than a flat contract price.

Villa Maria Estate wines will be featured at the following 32nd Annual Vancouver International Playhouse Wine Festival events: Get Uncorked! (April 19); Big Sky Party & Grill (April 20); International Festival Tasting (April 22-24); A Celebration of Passion (April 24); and Vintners Brunch (April 25). Tickets can be purchased online at www.playhousewinefest.com.

Directly from the Le Clos Jordanne Press Release:

Ontario’s Le Clos Jordanne 2006 Pinot Noir Named ‘Best New World Red Wine’
By Decanter Magazine’s Steven Spurrier

In the world of fine wine, few names are held in as high regard as Decanter magazine’s Steven Spurrier. He is the world’s quintessential voice of wine appreciation.

It is with great excitement that Le Clos Jordanne announces Spurrier has named Niagara’s Le Clos Jordanne’s 2006 Pinot Noir from Niagara, Ontario the ‘Best New World Red Wine’ in the May 2010 edition of the UK’s Decanter magazine.

“After the ‘bottle shock’ of last spring’s ‘Judgement of Montreal’, the Father of the original 1976 tasting, Steven Spurrier, sends us his blessings via his review in Decanter magazine,” says Thomas Bachelder, Le Clos Jordanne Senior Viticulturist.

Le Clos Jordanne caught the attention of the world’s wine community last spring at the ‘Judgement of Montreal’, a blind tasting held in Quebec for Cellier magazine, when their 2005 Claystone Terrace Chardonnay captured the top spot for Chardonnay in the experts’ tasting.

Since its launch in 2006, Le Clos Jordanne, of Jordan Station on the Niagara Peninsula, Ontario has quickly become a producer of a highly coveted, world-class wine.

In steady demand, Le Clos Jordanne winery has consistently received critical acclaim since inception. Highlights of this praise include being recently named one of the world’s top 10 organic wines by The Independent in the UK; also in the UK, one of the most highly respected members of the international wine critics’ circle, Jancis Robinson, has called Le Clos Jordanne “the Ontario Pinot producer I have found to be most impressive”.

Le Clos Jordanne wines are available at select retailers across Canada and may be purchased online at www.leclosjordanne.com.

Directly from the Ontario Cheese Society Press Release:

Calling all cheese lovers! Join us at the Canadian Cheese Marketplace & Prince Edward County Wine Tasting on April 26, 2010

TORONTO [APRIL 6, 2010] – For one evening only the Ontario Cheese Society skips the middleman and brings the cheesemaker to the people at the Canadian Cheese Marketplace & Prince Edward County Wine Tasting. This special event is sponsored by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Authentic Artisan Canadian Cheese, Culinarium and Invest in Cheese.
Join us for a cocktail event that all cheeselovers would dream of on Monday, April 26, 2010 at University of Toronto’s Hart House (6:00 pm to 9:00 pm). “Imagine the Great Hall filled with the aroma of delicious Canadian cheese, made with cow, goat and sheep’s milk, some you may not know of. The buzz from people talking with the cheesemakers will be amazing. It is a cheeselover’s dream come true!” said Gurth Pretty, Chairman of the Ontario Cheese Society.

The event is open to all – chefs, food writers, restaurateurs, students, foodies and cheese enthusiasts welcome. It is an opportunity to chat with the cheesemakers themselves, sample some of Canada’s most unique cheese and pair them with Prince Edward County Wines (and beer and cider) as well as handcrafted artisan loaves provided by epi Breads. Better still, much of this delicious fare will also be available for purchase to take home. All proceeds go to support the Ontario Cheese Society. Tickets are only $35 and can be purchased online at www.ontariocheese.org/cheese. Tickets are limited, so get yours today!

The Ontario Cheese Society has a mandate to support the revival of the cheese industry in Ontario through networking, education, research and advocacy. Founded in 2004 with fewer than a dozen members, the O.C.S. now has a gathering of well over 100 cheese producers, chefs, retailers, distributors, food writers and cheese lovers. In 2010, the Society is changing its agenda and name from Ontario to a nation-wide focus. For further information about the Ontario Cheese Society, events and news, please visit our website at www.ontariocheese.org