Pedal Pub Food Tour - The New Foodie Experience You Need to Try!

Toronto is a city full of life, culture, and most importantly, incredible food. As someone who is always on the lookout for unique ways to experience the city’s culinary scene, when I heard about Pedal Bike Toronto and their new Food Tour, I knew I had to check it out and share my experience with you all!

• Also check out Toronto’s Only Brunch Food Tour with Culinary Adventure Co

The Pedal Bike Experience

You may have seen these giant bikes in various cities around the world on your previous travels just cruising down the streets. Did you know that Toronto also have these same bikes?! Imagine cruising through Toronto’s bustling streets on a giant bike with 14 other adventurous souls. That’s what you get with Pedal Bike Toronto. This isn’t your average bike ride; it’s a pedal-powered pub on wheels. With everyone working together to pedal, it’s a fantastic way to bond with friends or make new ones while exploring the city. The energy is infectious, and the laughs are plenty as you navigate through the heart of downtown.

Each ride is a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and a good workout (yes, you’ll be burning calories!). The pedals are not a gimmick. They do work and teamwork is required to move the bike. The bike itself is designed for comfort and fun, with a professional driver (or “Beerless Leader” they call it) guiding the way so you can focus on pedalling, chatting, and enjoying the ride. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this experience offers a fresh perspective on Toronto’s vibrant cityscape.

The New Food Tour: A Culinary Adventure

Pedal Bike Toronto has upped the ante with their newly launched Food Tour, running every Thursday and Sunday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. For $79.99 per person (plus 18% gratuity and HST), you get a two-hour tour that combines the thrill of the pedal bike with the joy of sampling some of the best food Toronto has to offer within the Entertainment District. Drinks aren’t included in the price, but they’re available for purchase at each stop.

Our journey began at Fat Bao at Stackt Market, a trendy spot known for its delectable bao buns. Serving delicious neo-Chinese snacks anchored by their famous bao line up and an array of Asian snacks, the flavors were explosive and set the perfect tone for our culinary adventure.

From there, we pedaled our way to WVRST, a modern beer hall that specializes in artisan sausages, craft beer, and good times. The variety of sausages, from traditional to exotic, paired with their wide selection of craft beers, made this stop a highlight of the tour. The lively atmosphere and communal tables added to the fun, making it a place where you could easily lose track of time enjoying the company and the food. If you’re an adventurous eater, they even serve Kangaroo sausages here.

Next up was Saint John's Tavern, where we immersed ourselves in the charm of a British tavern and oyster house. From fresh oysters to hearty pub classics, the authentic flavors transported us straight to the UK and Ireland. The ambiance was cozy, and the dishes were comforting, making it a great place to relax and refuel. Lobster rolls were on the menu here, and you bet I grabbed more than just one!

Our final stop was Courage Cookies, a sweet ending to our savory journey. Born out of the lockdown, Courage Cookies started with a simple idea: to share the surplus of delicious treats with friends and loved ones. Their cookies are simply divine, with the perfect balance of chewiness and flavour. I had to choose Oreo, there was just no other choice for me! Each bite was a little piece of heaven, making it the ideal conclusion to our food tour.

Conclusion

The Pedal Bike Toronto Food Tour is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to explore the city, meet new people, and enjoy some of the best food Toronto has to offer, all while getting a bit of exercise. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening, this tour is a must-try. I absolutely loved seeing all the stranger’s reactions as we biked throughout the entire tour. So many people were dancing along with us, waving, taking pictures, and just absorbing all of the infectious positive energy the Pedal Bike experience naturally exudes.

So gather your friends, put on your pedalling shoes, and get ready for a unique and delicious adventure. The Pedal Bike Toronto Food Tour is waiting for you, and trust me, you don’t want to miss it!

Toronto’s Only Brunch Food Tour with Culinary Adventure Co!

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of getting a sneak peek into Toronto’s only brunch food tour, set to officially launch on August 4th, 2024. Hosted by Culinary Adventure Co., Toronto’s number one rated food tour company, this experience was nothing short of spectacular. Guided by the ever-enthusiastic Kaitlin, we embarked on a culinary journey that showcased the best of King West and the Entertainment District neighborhoods.

A Journey Through Toronto’s Hippest Hoods

Our adventure began with a stroll through King West and the Entertainment District, an area known for its trendy eateries and vibrant nightlife. As we wandered the streets, Kaitlin pointed out significant landmarks and shared fascinating stories about the neighborhood's history and culture. Our first stop was at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, where many top musicals play to sold-out crowds every night. Did you know that Toronto is the third most popular city in North America for watching musicals, only behind New York City and Chicago? And that Ed Mirvish, the man behind the theater, is the same Ed from Honest Ed’s? I’ve lived in Toronto my whole life, and there are still facts about the city that surprise me. This brunch tour offers something new and educational to locals and tourists alike.

A Surprise Treat: Lemon Meringue Caramel Popcorn

One of the delightful surprises of the tour was the Lemon Meringue Caramel popcorn from Comeback Snacks. Kaitlin pulled this treat out of her bag of goodies, highlighting local businesses. This unique treat offered a perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet caramel, creating an explosion of flavors that was both unexpected and delightful. The best part was learning its origin story: the founder came up with the business idea while in prison. Their slogan, “Popcorn So Good, It’s Criminal!” is spot on! This was the ideal snack to keep us energized as we continued our journey, and I was thrilled to take home an entire bag of this delicious popcorn.

A Visit to the TIFF Lightbox

No tour of the Entertainment District would be complete without a stop at the TIFF Lightbox. Home to the Toronto International Film Festival, this cultural hub celebrates the art of cinema and was a fitting venue to highlight the tour’s inspiration. One of the fun stops included Varda at TIFF Lightbox, inspired by the film festival’s red carpet elegance. The Lightbox’s sleek, modern architecture and rich cinematic history made it a memorable stop on our journey.

Capturing Iconic Views

Kaitlin ensured we had ample opportunities to capture the best photo ops of the iconic CN Tower. The towering structure, set against Toronto's skyline, provided a breathtaking backdrop for our photos, adding a touch of grandeur to our brunch adventure. Even though this tour focuses on Toronto’s brunch scene, it also highlights picturesque moments along the way with plenty of photo opportunities.

Middle Eastern Brunch at East Tea Can

Our brunch experience reached new heights at East Tea Can, located at Wellington Market at the Well. Here, we indulged in a Middle Eastern feast that was both exotic and comforting. It’s not everyone’s typical idea of brunch, but that’s what makes this tour worth every penny. It challenges our taste buds and our view of brunch, proving it’s more than just eggs benedict and pancakes. The aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and beautifully presented dishes transported our taste buds to distant lands with a variety of dips and spreads served with freshly baked Samoon bread. It was a true testament to the diversity and richness of Toronto’s culinary scene.

Sweet Endings at Forno Cultura

The tour concluded on a sweet note at Forno Cultura, an Italian bakery renowned for its delectable cookies and treats. We sampled a variety of goodies, each one more delicious than the last. The highlight for me was the Coffee Lemonade – a unique concoction I was initially skeptical about but ended up loving! Created by a company based in Quebec, this drink, called the “Cafelimo Fizz,” paired refreshing citrus with robust coffee, creating a carbonated drink that was both invigorating and refreshing.

Tour Highlights

• 18+ tastings … get ready to indulge.

• Bubbly + boozy Mimosas

• Australian morning classic

• Hand-crafted Turkish Coffee

• Decadent French Pastries

• Savory Middle Eastern

• Artisan Canadian Cheeses

• Locally made ‘Movie Snacks’

• Italian Cookies + Treats

• Fun and filmic stops

• A perfect tour for friends + celebrations

• Our most decadent food tour

Cost

• $129 Adult

• $119 Senior (60+)

Final Thoughts

Toronto’s only brunch food tour is set to redefine Sunday brunch. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour promises an unforgettable culinary journey through some of Toronto’s trendiest neighborhoods. So, invite your friends, pick a Sunday, and get ready for a brunch experience that serves laughs, memories, and special moments with every bite. As Culinary Adventure Co. aptly puts it, “Come Hungry… Every Bite Tells A Story.”

Stay tuned for more delicious adventures and make sure to book your spot on this decadent brunch tour. You won’t want to miss it!

Inside SIAL Canada 2024: The Best of Food Innovation in Montreal!

For the past six years, I have had the incredible opportunity to partner with SIAL Canada, one of the premier food innovation trade shows in North America. This is my third time attending the event in Montreal, and each year it feels like a homecoming. SIAL Canada has become one of my favourite tradeshows to look forward to, not only because of the sheer scale and diversity of the event but also for the unparalleled networking opportunities it offers. As a food blogger, there is nothing quite like witnessing firsthand the unveiling of amazing, innovative food and beverage products that push the boundaries of the industry.

Read a recap of my Montreal SIAL Canada 2022 experience here.
Read a recap of my Toronto SIAL Canada 2019 experience here.
Read a recap of my Montreal SIAL Canada 2018 experience here.

Every year, the creativity and passion of the exhibitors just gets better and better. It's a fantastic chance to meet like-minded individuals who share a deep love for food and innovation. The atmosphere is always electric, buzzing with excitement as thousands of professionals gather to showcase their latest creations and explore new possibilities. This year was no exception, and I was thrilled to dive into the culinary wonders that SIAL Canada 2024 had to offer. The anticipation of discovering new trends, tasting cutting-edge products, and attending insightful conferences makes this tradeshow a highlight of my calendar year.

Being a media guest at SIAL Canada not only allows me to stay ahead of the curve in the food industry but also gives me the privilege to share these experiences with all of you! It’s an event that truly celebrates the future of food, and I’m always eager to bring those stories and innovations back to you. So, join me as I recount my incredible journey through SIAL Canada 2024, starting with my delightful stay at Hotel Monville and exploring the myriad of experiences that made this trip unforgettable.

A Cozy Stay at Hotel Monville

My home base for this adventure was the chic and contemporary Hotel Monville, nestled in the heart of Montreal’s Quartier international on De Bleury Street. Hotel Monville is a four-star hotel that targets both business people and tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the Montreal experience. From the moment I checked in, Hotel Monville impressed me with its sleek design and modern amenities. The location couldn’t have been more convenient—just literally a one minute walk from Palais des Congres de Montreal where SIAL Canada was hosted. My room was a perfect blend of comfort and style, featuring a stunning view of the city skyline.

One of the unique features of Hotel Monville is its autonomous delivery robot, developed by the California firm Savioke. This robot carries orders directly to guests’ rooms in record time, making room service a truly futuristic experience. Guests can also check in easily and quickly at electronic kiosks, where they automatically receive their room keys. This efficient system allows the hotel’s human receptionists to dedicate more time to helping guests discover Montreal’s many attractions.

The hospitality at Hotel Monville was also top-notch. The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, ensuring my stay was as pleasant as possible with room service every day so you know you’ll be coming into a clean and made-up bed each and every night. After long days at the trade show, it was a relief to return to such a welcoming and restful environment. I couldn’t have asked for a better home away from home during my Montreal trip.

Exploring SIAL Canada 2024

SIAL Canada 2024 was a gastronomic wonderland, with over 1,000 national and international exhibitors from 44 countries showcasing their innovative products. There were so many exhibitors this year that it was the very first time the tradeshow took place over two floors. Walking through the expansive halls, I was amazed by the diversity of offerings, from gourmet snacks and beverages to cutting-edge food technology. Each booth told a unique story, reflecting the passion and creativity of its creators. I had the chance to sample an array of delectable foods and drinks, many of which were new to me. It was inspiring to see so many businesses pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the culinary world and to me is one of the key reasons why anyone should make a visit to SIAL Canada.

The SIAL Innovation Awards

One of the highlights of the event was the annual SIAL Innovation Awards. This prestigious ceremony recognizes the most groundbreaking products in the food industry. Among the 200 applications from 17 countries, competition co-presidents Isabelle Marquis and Xavier Terlet selected 74 products from 13 countries that embody the innovative spirit of SIAL Canada exhibitors.

These products were chosen by the Grand Jury based on several criteria:

• The product was launched from January 2023 onwards.

• It offers something new or different from what is known in the Canadian market and has the potential to expand to several markets.

• It creates value for the intended target and is likely to inspire other food companies to replicate or enhance the concept.

• It is innovative in at least one of the following areas: recipe and composition, packaging, manufacturing process, or marketing positioning.

This year’s grand winners were particularly impressive. The Gold Award went to El Gusto Foods, a high-quality ground coffee in a compostable bag that clings to the rim of the cup for perfect brewing. This product was selected for its practicality and quality of execution, allowing premium coffee to be enjoyed anywhere.

The Silver Award was claimed by Huile d'Olivia by Dear Goodness, a line of olive oils created to pair with specific dishes. The jury was impressed by the blending of selected olive varieties to match distinct dishes and the aromatic descriptions provided for each type.

The Bronze Award went to La Presserie for their line of Asian-inspired frozen and vacuum-packed soups made from natural ingredients. These soups were selected for their authentic recipes and the innovative skin pack packaging.

Additionally, the Packaging Award was given to ABC Emballuxe Inc. for their reusable pizza box, suitable for three sizes of pizza. This product was recognized for its sustainable attributes and design flexibility.

The Opening Ceremony

The excitement began with the grand opening ceremony right after the all the SIAL Innovation Awards were handed out to the recipients. The opening ceremony is a vibrant celebration that will set the stage for the three-day event. It featured keynote speeches from industry leaders who shared their insights on the future of food innovation with a blend of inspiration and enthusiasm that highlighted the event's significance. The energy in the room was infectious, and it was clear that everyone in attendance was passionate about the future of food.

The Start Up Pitch Competition

Another event that stood out was the Start Up Pitch Competition. This competition gave emerging food startups a platform to showcase their innovative products, technologies, or services to a panel of judges and an enthusiastic audience. The creativity and ingenuity on display was truly remarkable. I found myself rooting for several of the participants, each presenting unique solutions to some of the industry's biggest challenges. The competition was fierce, but it was a fantastic opportunity to see the next generation of food entrepreneurs in action. With only three-minutes to impress the panel of judges, each competitor needed to quickly showcase and convince them why their product is unique from everything out there already and deserves the spotlight.

This year’s competition highlighted some truly inspiring startups. The first-place winner was Epic Tofu, a company offering pre-chopped, marinated, and ready-to-cook tofu products that taste out of this world. Artisan-made in Montreal, Quebec, with non-GMO and organic ingredients. Epic Tofu stood out for its convenience and commitment to quality. As a busy food blogger who loves plant-based options, I was particularly impressed by how easy and delicious Epic Tofu makes it to enjoy a healthy meal. Their innovative approach to tofu preparation is set to revolutionize how we incorporate this versatile protein into our diets.

The second-place award went to Dunord, which offers plant-based meal kits made from local farm surplus and inspired by the abundance of the boreal ecosystem. Dunord’s focus on sustainability and reducing food waste resonated deeply with me. Their meal kits not only provide nutritious, plant-based meals but also support local farmers and promote eco-friendly practices. It’s a win-win for consumers and the environment, and I’m excited to see how Dunord will continue to grow and impact the food industry.

In third place was Maison Théier, a company brewing alcohol-free wine made from the finest tea in the world. Their alcohol-free tea wine is a new product based on the fermentation of exclusively imported tea from Asia. They import very high-quality tea from terroirs in Asia and infuse it with high-quality water, creating a unique and sophisticated beverage. As someone who appreciates both fine tea and innovative non-alcoholic beverages, I found Maison Théier’s product to be a refreshing alternative to traditional wine. It’s perfect for those who seek the complexity and enjoyment of wine without the alcohol content.

These winners not only showcased incredible products but also demonstrated how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. The Start Up Pitch Competition was a highlight of SIAL Canada 2024, offering a glimpse into the future of the food and beverage industry.

A Feast for the Senses

One of the most enjoyable aspects of SIAL Canada was the opportunity to sample an incredible variety of food and drink. Walking up and down the two floors of the event, I was treated to a sensory overload of tastes and aromas. From artisanal cheeses and gourmet chocolates to exotic beverages and innovative snacks, there was something for every palate. Each sample provided a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship of its entrepreneurs. It was a food lover’s paradise, and I made sure to savour every moment. Here were some of my favourite booths this year!

Conferences and Industry Insights

SIAL Canada is not just about showcasing products; it’s also a hub for knowledge exchange. The event hosts a plethora of conferences where speakers from across the industry share their expertise and insights. I attended one of the final conferences on the last day of the tradeshow, which focused on food marketing on TikTok in the social media space. It was fascinating to learn about the strategies brands are using to engage with a younger audience on this rapidly growing platform. Lindsey Tracey - Head of Industry (Growth) who currently works at TikTok provided valuable tips on creating viral content and leveraging TikTok’s unique features to boost brand visibility. This session was particularly relevant for me as a food blogger, offering fresh ideas to incorporate into my social media strategy.

Conclusion

My trip to Montreal for SIAL Canada 2024 was an unforgettable experience. It was a privilege to be a media guest at such a significant event in the food industry, and I returned home with a wealth of new knowledge and inspiration. I can’t wait to see how the innovations I witnessed will shape the future of food. Until next time, Montreal! We’ll be back in Toronto for SIAL 2025!

Savour the Magic of Winterlicious: Culinary Wonders Await in Toronto's Entertainment District!

As the chill of winter blankets the cityscape, Toronto transforms once again into a culinary haven during its much-anticipated Winterlicious festival, and something I look forward to year after year. A gastronomic celebration that has become a staple in the city's cultural calendar, Winterlicious 2024 promises to be a feast for the senses, offering an array of delectable dishes, cozy atmospheres, and unforgettable dining experiences. This year I had the opportunity to indulge in a few new restaurants perfect for locals and tourists alike. You’ll find these featured restaurants situated conveniently inside luxury hotels within Toronto’s Entertainment District, restaurants that offer up jaw-dropping and unique views you won’t be able to get anywhere else in the city, or even find the best of both worlds! But first, here are a few reasons why I absolutely love Winterlicious!

Embracing Culinary Diversity: One of the hallmarks of Winterlicious is the city's diverse culinary landscape coming together to showcase the best of Toronto's food scene. From upscale bistros to cozy neighbourhood gems, participating restaurants curate special prix-fixe menus that allow diners to explore an assortment of culinary delights at affordable prices. Whether you're a fan of international cuisine or seeking a twist on classic comfort food, Winterlicious menus cater to every palate.

Ambiance Amidst the Winter Wonderland: Toronto's charm is only accentuated during Winterlicious, as participating restaurants embrace the season's magic. Picture warm, dimly lit interiors, tables alongside glorious views, creating an ambience that perfectly complements the city's frosty and cold landscape that we’ve all grown to love. From intimate date nights to lively gatherings with friends, each restaurant participating in Winterlicious brings its unique flair to the winter season.

Culinary Highlights and Trendy Hotspots: Winterlicious 2024 promises a myriad of culinary highlights and trendy hotspots for food enthusiasts to explore. Just alone in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District there are 40 unique restaurants to choose from. Highlights include innovative dishes crafted by world-renowned chefs, exclusive tasting menus, and opportunities to discover hidden gems tucked away in Toronto's culinary scene that you may not have discovered otherwise.

Now that I’ve whet your appetite, here are some of my favourite restaurants that you do not want to miss out on this year!

Reign

Nestled within the heart of the city and inside one of Toronto’s most iconic hotels - The Fairmont Royal York, Reign offers an exquisite culinary experience inside a distinguished dining room in the heart of the noble manor house. As you step into the warm and inviting ambience, you'll be greeted by a curated Winterlicious menu that showcases the culinary prowess of Reign’s Executive Chef Roland Ducharme. From the tantalizing Albacore Tuna Crisp to the savoury 6oz Flat Iron Steak, each dish is a celebration of flavors, sourced from local farmers, and meticulously crafted to elevate your winter dining adventure. Lunch - $55, Dinner - $75.

Bosk

Step inside Toronto’s luxury hotel, the Shangri-La, and head on over to their signature restaurant Bosk, one of Toronto's premier dining establishments. With a recent menu transition to Northern Italian cuisine, the menu is meticulously crafted to pay homage to the dedication of local Canadian farmers and purveyors. The Winterlicious menu at Bosk is a symphony of flavours, featuring delights such as my ultimate favourite, the Scallop Risotto and the indulgent Champagne Cheesecake. Each dish is a testament to Bosk's dedication to culinary excellence. Make sure you add in their wine pairings curated specifically for Winterlicious to really elevate your dining experience. Lunch - $48, Dinner - $65.

Sportsnet Grill

Who says sport fans can’t enjoy Winterlicious?! Sportsnet Grill is Toronto’s premium destination for sports fans tucked away inside the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel, and most remarkably offers up floor-to-ceiling views directly inside the Roger’s Centre! Once the full renovations are done, come back here and watch a Toronto Blue Jay’s game with the best seats possible! This restaurant offers up the thrill of sports and the delight of culinary excellence all into one as you can also watch your favourite sports team on their big-screen TVs mounted throughout the space. From the mouthwatering Southern Flavoured Beef Tacos to the hearty Duck a l’Orange, each dish caters to both sports enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike. Lunch - $34, Dinner - $45.

360 Restaurant

Elevate your winter dining experience to new heights at Toronto's 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower! I can confidently say that you will not be able to find a dining experience at this height anywhere else in the city. Perched above the clouds and cityscape, this iconic restaurant invites you to indulge in a spectacular culinary adventure in a setting truly like no other. Hopefully you can find a day to visit when the skies are clear and sunny because these panoramic views of the city are simply stunning. The Winterlicious menu at 360 offers a panoramic feast, featuring a hearty soup like the Mushroom and Herb Potage, and a delicious Foraged Mushroom Pappardelle that complements the breathtaking views. This is an iconic dining destination you do not want to miss out on, and when your meal is done, walk down the flight of stairs and jump on the glass floors (if you dare)! Lunch - $55, Dinner - $75.

District Restaurant & Bar

Experience the best of both worlds at District Restaurant & Bar, where clean eating meets dirty drinking. As an award-winning cocktail bar with an inclusive menu catering to both vegans and meat lovers, District offers a culinary journey that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients, and nourishing flavours. Whether you're in the mood for a detoxifying mocktail made with cold-pressed juices or craving the savoury delights of their Buffalo Cauliflower Bites and Honey Dijon Chicken, there's something for everyone. Plus, with the largest rooftop patio on King Street, District is the perfect spot to revisit when the temperatures rise. Lunch - $27, Dinner - $35.

For those looking to make the most of their Winterlicious experience, planning is key. Head on over to the official Winterlicious website to discover participating restaurants, peruse menus, and make reservations in advance. This will ensure a seamless and delightful journey for your 2024 Winterlicious experience. To me, Winterlicious is more than just an annual two week fling of prix-fixe menus. It's a celebration of Toronto’s culinary prowess and a testament to our vibrant winter spirit. As locals and visitors alike come together to savour the flavors of the season, Winterlicious becomes a communal experience that warms the soul and leaves lasting memories. So bundle up, embark on a culinary adventure, and let Toronto's Winterlicious be the highlight of your winter escapades in 2024.

Here are the rest of the participating restaurants located in Toronto’s Entertainment District!

• Lee Restaurant - 497 Richmond St W (Asian, French, Fusion)

• Little Sister - 102 Portland St (Dutch Indonesian fare)

• Sara Restaurant - 98 Portland St (Canadian)

• Vela - 90 Portland St (American)

• Margo - 600 King St W (Mediterranean)

• Dasha - 620 King St W (Asian)

• Pink Sky - 480 King St W (American, Seafood)

• Northern Maverick Brewing Co. - 115 Bathurst St (Brewpub, Comfort Food)

• The Parlour Restaurant - 642 King St W (American, Italian)

• Lapinou Bistro - 642 King St W (European, French)

• Baro - 485 King St W (Latin American)

• Cheffry’s Artisanal Bistro - 388 Richmond St W (Canadian Global)

• Bar Chica - 75 Portland St (Spanish)

• Paris Texas- 461 King St W (American, French)

• Lavelle- 627 King St W (American, Brazilian, Comfort Food)

• Orettta King - 480 King St W (Italian)

• Miss Likklemore’s - 433 King St W (Caribbean, Jamaican)

• Le Select Bistro- 432 Wellington St W (French)

• Hibachi- 550 Wellington St W (Asian, Japanese)

• Mother Tongue - 348 Adelaide St W (Asian, Filipino, Japanese, Korean)

• Kost (Bisha Hotel) - 80 Blue Jays Way, 44th Floor (American)

• King Street Social (Hyatt Regency Hotel) - 370 King St W (American, Canadian)

• Petros82 - 299 Adelaide St W (Greek, Mediterranean)

• Victor Restaurant (Le Germain Hotel) - 30 Mercer St (Canadian, European, French)

• La Fenice Tuscan Chophouse - 329 King St W (Italian)

• Fox on John - 106 John St. (British)

• Luma - TIFF Bell Lightbox - 330 King St W (Canadian, International, Seafood)

• District Restaurant & Bar - 303 King St W (Canadian)

• Canteen - TIFF Bell Lightbox - 330 King St W (Continental, International)

• Aanch Modernistic Indian Cuisine (Marriott Residence Inn) - 259 Wellington St W (Indian)

• Hey Lucy Café - 295 King St W (Italian)

• Milagro Cantina - 5 Mercer St (Mexican)

• Minami Restaurant - 225 King St W (Asian, Japanese, Sushi)

• TOCA (The Ritz-Carlton Hotel) - 181 Wellington St W (British, Canadian, Fusion)

• EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace (The Ritz-Carlton Hotel) - 181 Wellington St W  (British, Canadian, Fusion)

• Azure Restaurant & Bar (Intercontinental Toronto Centre Hotel) - 225 Front St W (Canadian, Continental, European)

Uncovering the Versatility of Parmigiano Reggiano with a Pear and Honey Tart Dessert Recipe!

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Parmigiano Reggiano? Personally, my mind goes immediately to pasta. There’s nothing better to elevate a pasta dish than to sprinkle some cheese on top. But what if I stepped outside my comfort zone? Will my taste buds react negatively if let’s say I incorporate cheese into a dessert? From all the previous years of having cheese in savoury dishes, there’s admittedly some doubt telling me that cheese would not work well with my sweet tooth cravings. Cheese belongs on pizza. It belongs on pasta. Heck, if it’s a cheese curd, it definitely belongs on a poutine. Dessert though? I don’t know about that. Can it!?

Let’s make one thing clear here though. Parmesan and Parmigiano Reggiano are not the same thing. When you go to a restaurant in Toronto and your server comes by your table and asks if you want any Parmesan sprinkled on top of your pasta, most likely you are not getting Parmigiano Reggiano but instead an imitation of it which many of us in North America know as Parmesan cheese.

Italy has strict laws governing the ingredients, production, and aging process of Parmigiano Reggiano. In fact, authentic Parmigiano Reggiano is only produced in five regions of Italy - Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua. That’s why it’s also a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) product as it embodies the strongest links to the place in which they are made from. Every part of the production, processing, and preparation process must take place within their designated regions in order for it to be registered as PDO. Within these five regions specific to Parmigiano Reggiano production, you’ll also only find three ingredients used to produce this naturally lactose-free cheese.

• Milk - raw, unpasteurized milk produced only in the Parmigiano Reggiano area of origin and is delivered within two hours from the end of the milking session

• Salt

• Rennet - a natural enzyme from calf intestine

Even with its simple and limited ingredients, the production and aging process is precise and perfected. Each wheel is aged minimum for a year and goes through a thorough inspection from the Consortium before it can even get an official seal of approval. And just like fine wine, Parmigiano Reggiano also gets more flavourful the longer they age:

• 12-18 month maturation tends to be mild and sweet

• 22-24 month maturation develops a grainier and savoury flavour

• 36 month maturation has a strong salty and nutty flavour

No matter how long it’s aged for though, each wheel of cheese takes 550 litres of milk to make and weighs on average 40kg. And if you want to know if you are buying genuine Parmigiano Reggiano, here’s a tip! The rind will always be embossed with dotted letters that has the name of the cheese, date of production, and seal of approval from the Consortium. If you do not see this then you’ll know immediately the Parmigiano Reggiano is not authentic. However, if you do notice all of those features on the rind then bingo, you got yourself some genuine Parmigiano Reggiano! Don’t forget to eat the rind too as it actually contains tons of flavour.

Keeping all of that in mind, I’m here to tell you today that cheese is not just for savoury dishes and it’s time for all of us (including myself) to step outside of our culinary comfort zones and enjoy cheese in sweet dishes as well! Parmigiano Reggiano should not just be sprinkled on pasta alone. You can also incorporate it into desserts for a perfectly balanced sweet and savoury dish that can be enjoyed with friends and family! This Pear, Honey, and Parmigiano Reggiano Tart recipe I created highlights these sweet and savoury flavours from its juicy red pears, a flaky crust, fragrant honey, and of course garnished by our star ingredient here - genuine Parmigiano Reggiano! Feel free to also eat the cheese alone during the baking process because I sure did.

For this recipe I chose a 24 month maturation (however any maturation will be just as tasty) as the Parmigiano Reggiano has reached its optimal age to be enjoyed with its richness of aromas and flavours that are in perfect balance and harmony. The taste evolves through a balance of sweet and savoury notes with hints of fresh fruit (banana, pineapple), citrus, alongside notes of nuts (walnut, hazelnut) and spices (nutmeg) that can generally be experienced. The cheese now becomes perfectly soluble, crumbly, and grainy which adds an incredible texture to this delicious tart.

This dessert recipe is exceptionally simple to make and great for beginner bakers with a limited list of ingredients required. My full recipe is below and I cannot wait for you to try!

Pear, Honey, and Parmigiano Reggiano Tart Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Bake Time: 30 to 35 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound firm ripe-red Anjou pears (unpeeled), cored, and cut into 3/4 inch thick wedges

• 1 pack butter Puff pastry (rolled and room-temperature)

• 1 large egg beaten

• 1/4 cup honey

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Shaved Parmigiano Reggiano

• Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, toss together pears, honey, butter, lemon zest and lemon juice. Add in the cornstarch, pepper, and salt; stir until well combined.

2. Arrange the pear filling in the centre of the pastry dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold uncovered dough edges inward by about 1 & 1/2 inches, pleating dough to form a crust and gently pressing down. Brush crust lightly with a beaten egg.

3. Bake in preheated oven at 375F until crust is golden brown and filling is thickened and bubbly for 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from oven; let it cool for at least 15 minutes. Drizzle with additional honey, and garnish with shaved Parmigiano Reggiano. Slice and serve.