appy St. Patrick’s Day!

In addition to the big celebrations, this week brings with it lots of tea, pastry and snack shops and an exciting new Middle Eastern/Mediterranean restaurant.

Here is the very latest:

 

Open:

BeaverTails
145 Queens Quay W., Pier 6

BeaverTails, the makers of the iconic Canadian pastry served hot and topped with numerous choices (including cinnamon & sugar, chocolate hazelnut spread, etc.), are setting up permanent shop at the Waterfront.

The Grand Opening party happens this Saturday from 12-3pm. Enjoy free BeaverTails pastries and moozoo products (while supplies last). There will also be a BeaverTails eating contest, face painting and boat tours - weather permitting. 

Fat Beet
7330 Yonge St.

Ooh you're going to want to check out this new Middle Eastern and Mediterranean spot north on Yonge in Thornhill, opening Saturday.

I’ll have a closer look soon.

Knuckle Sandwich
969 Coxwell Ave.

Sandwiches that are sure to elevate your office lunch include Grilled Peri Chicken ($9.50) with bacon, avocado, onion jam, tomato and arugula; Shrimp Po Boy ($9.50) with remoulade, pickles, tomatoes and romaine; and Beer Braised Brisket ($9.50) with horseradish aioli, pickled red onion and arugula, to name just a few.

Also on the menu – salads, soups, poutines and sides. And to drink - local craft brew Tall Cans ($6.50).

Plentea
1205 Queen St. W.

This new tea bar in Parkdale features tea sommeliers and a complete menu of black, green, oolong, tisanes and matcha blends.

Tsujiri Toronto
147 Dundas St. W.

Straight from Japan, this traditional tea house brings its famous matcha tea drinks, soft serve ice cream and baked goods to the T-dot.

Closed:

Another diner is closing. Olympos Crow-Bar Restaurant, known to most as "Jimmy’s," closes after service on Friday.

News:

There was a recent uproar when Loblaws decided to remove French’s Ketchup from its shelves. The reason for the outcry? It uses local tomatoes at its Leamington, Ontario facility. The giant grocer has since decided to keep French’s on the shelves.

Events:

Tonight and this weekend, it’s all about St. Patrick’s Day. Check out this week’s Best Of for the top 5 spots to drink up and chow down. We’ve also got a St. Patrick’s Day Guide and 7 days of whiskey. 

This Sunday head to the 8th Annual Totally Fabulous Vegan Bake-Off. 

Also on Sunday celebrate Macaron Day. 

On Monday and Tuesday, Goût de France is celebrating French cuisine around the globe. Visit participating Toronto restaurants Batifole and Le Paradis for their celebratory menus.

There’s still time to enjoy Beach-a-licious.

And lastly:

Take a peek inside 70 Down in Yorkville.

Grab a drink with that 'za at Jz's Pizza. 

The Crooked Cue gets new additions for 2016.