Pinch of Chic
chic eats

A Ritual to Eat Well

So the lovely challenge here was to send myself to 5 different eating locations around Toronto using the Ritual native app and eat meals that pertained or at least was fitting to have during the Autumn season. Here we go…

1.) The One That Got Away

Order the fried Halibut wrap with a side of salad and a guava pop! This marked the taking of my Ritual virginity. Allow me to attempt to string together a coherent explanation as to why I got this.. When I think of Autumn… I think of sweater weather…and fishing on a boat on a crisp, golden afternoon (not that I’ve ever gone fishing before… LOL.) Which lead me to believe that getting fish and chips would equate to good meal to have in the Autumn. I came pretty close to getting fish and chips but opt. for a fish wrap instead.

The fish tasted good here– would go again. It honestly beats any form of cooked fish from Joey’s, Moxie’s, Grand Electric or Wilbur (I still love your free little salsas, Wilbur!) In a nutshell, my fish wrap resembled how good the lobster and baja fish tacos served at El Catrin in the Distillery tastes.. but that’s just me!

581 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M1

 

2.) The Loving Hut

For those of you who are vegan or vegetarian: this is a must go-to. I ordered the Spicy Tango and orange creamsicle vegan cake. Honestly, I had wished I ordered Pad Thai instead but I decided to be a little too adventurous and grabbed the ‘Spicy Tango,’ despite the server encouraging me that it wasn’t the most popular item on the menu. 😅😅 The entree wasn’t terrible, but I guess now I know that soy bean curls really isn’t my thing.

As for the cake, what I thought I saw was carrot cake which seemed appropriate to have in the middle of Autumn, aside from pumpkin spiced cakes.. was actually an orange creamsicle cake. I found myself eating more of the cake with my white jasmine tea than my soy curls.

140 Spadina Ave A101, Toronto, ON M5V 2L4

 

3.) Balzac’s Coffee Roast Cafe

Nothing beats a nice cup, or should I say bowl?.. Of vanilla latte and a nice almond-nutella croissant. Perfect hit in the spot for early, brisk mornings. No complaints, no regrets, just happily caffeinated and content.

1 Trinity St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4

 

4.) Fusaro’s Italian Kitchen

I mean… the food in the photos don’t just look great, they taste amazing as well. For me, I tend to eat more carbs during the colder days. Could it be, it’s because I’m trying to gather more than I need and then hibernate? Quite possibly… Or just because the taste and idea of Italian food sounds really warm, cozy and inviting to me. I also have my two girlfriends I work with to back me up on this one.

We ordered the Grosso Panini (salami, capicollo, mortadella, provolone, Italian cole slaw, hot giardiniera, house mayo), Pasquale Pizza (freshly crushed tomatoes, fi or di latte, spicy salami, sautéed onions, asiago), Alla Vodka Pasta (penne, bacon, green onions, creamy tomato vodka sauce) and I got myself a vanilla latte as well… because why not?

*Note: I would like to make a point for anyone who happens to make drink orders from Ritual to remember to click on the drink size after selecting the drink on the menu. I made the mistake of not choosing the size after picking the kind of drink I wanted and went ahead to pick the flavour and additions like cream or milk. Because I forgot this part… my drink order ended up processing as a side of milk and vanilla with no actual latte.

My girlfriends and I pretty much inhaled almost everything on each plate. Enough said.

294 Richmond St E, Toronto, ON M5A 4S8

 

5.) King Rustic

The name of this restaurant kind of did it for me. I like to be where the rustic and charming nooks and hidden gems are during the Fall season I suppose. This place was on the way home from work and the menu sounded like they do great Italian dishes too… Surprised yet?

During this time, I actually used the Ritual app to do pick up after a long day of work. Normally, I would call in advance after ordering to request to sit down instead. The packaged food was nothing short in the taste and goodness. I had half the burger and fries the next day and it still tasted great– lots of flavours, and lots of avocado to enjoy. I’ve had my fair share of burgers but this one honestly takes the cake. 

I ordered the Manchego Burger (lean ground chuck, fries manchego cheese, chimichurri, aioli, avocado, pico de gallo, garlic mayo, argula and on a bakers bun) that comes with a side of beautifully season sweet potato fries as well as the Raspberry Bliss salad which consists of sautéed mushrooms, red peppers, toasted walnuts, cranberries, goat cheese, crisp raw baby spinach, raspberry vinaigrette… Since there was a little hiccup with the Ritual app: I had originally ordered the ravioli on the menu that happened to be sold out, (during this time frame, I didn’t receive a notification that it was sold out until I got to the restaurant) the staff at King Rustic were kind enough to toss in an amazing butternut squash soup along with my re-order. I’m a huge fan of butternut squash, let alone in soup form where it allows me to drink it like water.

926 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V

To end this review, I would like to conclude that King Rustic’s food really stole my heart in terms of taste and atmosphere (had the opportunity to scope out the place during my wait for my re-order.) I had the food over the span of three days since it was a fairly large amount for me to personally finish– despite the timing, the meals were still pretty awesome. Other than what’s mentioned above in my previous blurbs… food ordering was definitely made easier, quick and efficient through Ritual.

Thanks to Ritual for cutting the line and waiting time– not to mention helping me make walletless transactions. 

 

This is a sponsored post by Ritual Co. (Thanks Sarah!)
All Photography done by yours truly.

style file

Two Blocks Away

OUTFIT DETAILS:

Ann Taylor Crepe Colourblock Topper Coat
J. Crew Men’s Stripe Dress Shirt (similar here)
J. Crew Colourblock Cotton Wool Blazer
Banana Republic Sloan Fit Five Pocket Pants
ASOS Gold Arrow necklace (similar here)
Zara Black Pointed Toe Heels (similar here and here)
Danier Leather Black Handbag (similar here)

Ever felt the slightest bit of envy when you’re introduced to one of your new friend’s long time best crew? I’m talking about those who are in their late 20s, 30s, or even 50s and have been the best of buddies as a group since practically grade 2 and counting. Friendships that have grown longer than my own age— now that’s something amazing.

Living in the big city like Toronto, I found myself growing apart from those who I truly wanted to keep in touch with. Despite the ‘No excuse’ cliche which still holds tremendous amounts of truth, I still find myself struggling to try to find ways to rekindle or keep connected. I figured— friendships formulate from two sides. My side and your side. Seems easy right? Both sides should be understanding, accepting and should show some sort of amount of investing effort.

A couple days ago I met up with my one girlfriends who held the status of being my oldest best friend— the thing was I only saw her bi-annually and that did not share the same group of friends. We only lived 50 minutes away from one another as well. Could you say it’s our busy lives? ‘No Excuse.’ I only realized the severe lack of getting together until we met at the same restaurant which we visited from last summer. (Cafe Nervosa on Yorkville Ave) We both share the same love for eating a lot of carbs as a way to catch up… #loveitalianfood.

With all this being said I decided to make new goals to revamp my friendship and family skills:

1.) Make a list of people you haven’t kept touch with but would like to. New or old.

2.) Make a list of the cutest cafes, brunch or dining spots you wish to explore and hold your festive reunion at. Either in your city or theirs. Maybe just pick up a box of donuts and coffee?

If they happen to reciprocate, great. They are probably the kind where you can easily speak to and pick up where you left off. No change in feelings, but just pure excitement. If not, harsh but true— it’s time to move on. No harm in trying right?

3.) Get it together and toss them a text, call or Facebook message. Ask for their availability. 

You can gather from here whether or not it’s worth a shot to keep your friendship going or growing. Being almost 23 years old, I have already found myself weeding out people from my life—something I never found myself doing since I used to want to be everyone’s friend. But eventually you learn you keep the ones who care about you, your health, your sanity, your work, and who’s supportive of your wishes. 

**PS. I dedicate this post to my hometown girls.**

Photos by: Arnold Lan

No matter how far apart your friends or family might be, there are always ways to stay connected. Still count the brief yet great moments you share. That being said, I’m blessed to have the many strong friendships I have today and only want have them further grow and deepen them.

x

Apologies for the MIA. As it was my dad’s birthday this past week and wrap up in projects.
Happy belated Birthday to my dad. x

What are some cute ideas or ways you spend with your old pals?
I’d love to hear. Share them below! If you like for me to share more food posts with details.
Let me know! And PS. Have a good long weekend! xx

GET THE LOOK:

style file

Orange You Glad

Q. Why was the girl staring at the carton of orange juice?
A. It said concentrate.

OUTFIT DETAILS:

Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Fuzzy Duster Robe Coat in White
Forever21 Essential Utility Shirt Dress via The Kind Exchange
Winners Oversized Big Cable Knit Cardigan
Pink Tartan White Suiting Trousers
Zara Black Pointed Toe Heels
Alpha Wool Scarf from Peru
Rayban Polarized Green Aviator Sunglasses
Danier Leather Passport Holder (Used as Clutch)

If you’ve been up to date with my Instagram, you’ve probably seen my recent posts from one of my all time favourite cafes in Toronto–called ‘La Merceria‘ on Adelaide St. West and Portland. It’s not the first time I’ve written a post about them. I wrote a post a few years back on my old blog, Steel Oneself. A cute coffee shop that has never let me down for almost 5 years now. I’ve taken both guy friends and girlfriends there. I decided to take girlfriend, Therese of Artiese Studios there for Nutella Lattes, light eating (their torta pascualina that looks like a pizza) and run some test shots with her new lens for her Mamiya film camera.

My hidden gems are usually comprised of small and cozy restaurants or cafes in Toronto. These are what I consider one of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Toronto. About 4 years ago, I barely touched coffee. Only socially. But now I have a new found appreciation and addiction to it. It’s almost a part of my routine everyday before work– making my mornings easier and feel like I’ve started on the right foot.

Recently, I’ve learnt to give myself an extra good 30 to 40 minutes before work in order walk at a casual pace to pick up some coffee. I think it’s a healthy way to wake up compared to running around like a headless chicken with 5 minutes to spare. I start off feeling relaxed, enjoying my surroundings and gathering my thoughts for the day. Then eventually I’ll feel a gradual transition to becoming alive, sharp and focused for work. Makes sense right?

Photos by: Artiese Studios & Max Kandler
x
LA MERCERIA / 506 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1T5

 

What’s your favourite hidden gem in your city?
I’d love to see photos or links in the comments below too!

GET THIS LOOK

outfit

What the Deuce

Wilfred Cocoon Wool Coat
Goorin Brothers Heritage County Line Hat
Banana Republic Faux-Leather Trim Cable Knit Pullover
Banana Republic Coated Trill Skinny Ankle Pants (See similar below)
J Crew Aggie Suede Booties (See similar)
Banana Republic Bar Necklace
Banana Republic Matchstick Stud Earrings
Banana Republic Mini Gold Stud Earrings
Danier Black Leather Handbag
Zara Scarf

The thing about about working a 9 to 5 is that you barely get any time to plan or coordinate a decent time to shoot! Let alone…get home, have the will power and strength want to jump on the computer again to write…after spending the entire day at one. I guess that’s a conflict that I’ll be facing but hopefully overcoming soon. I still don’t regret it though… and since the holidays are rolling in— breaks and vacations are in order!!

Two days ago, I met up with my girlfriend Therese of Artiese Studios and photographer Derek Hui for a quick impromptu shooting session and lunch at Babur on Queen St. W. Here, we got together to discuss the pros and cons for Canon and Nikon cameras and did a few test shots. (Therese may or may not convert to the dark side… that being Nikon, hehe.) I suppose, here I also learnt that the best time to shoot during our Canadian winters with my schedule..is at noon if you’re looking to shoot in natural lighting.

On another note, you folks might be wondering why is this post titled ‘What the Deuce..’ Right??? It’s actually a homage to the Family Guy’s Stewie Griffin and his famous exclamation he almost always utters. No, I’m actually kidding, but that is what he usually says.

MAISON MICHEL Virginie Felt Hat

 

If you guys have been following my Instagram, I’ve been hinting about getting a Maison Michel-inspired hat for a much more cost-effect price! I’ve been a long time follower of Maison Michel and Janessa Leone‘s designs and couldn’t help but want to own one myself. *Inserts hat obsession* A basic black fedora is something you can wear all year round, and practically forever. Why not invest in creating THE one? The likelihood of passing it down is completely possible too, as long as you take care of it! After countless long searches for places in Toronto that customize hats, I’ve found out Goorin Brothers (just on Queen St. too!) can do the job. May it be with feathers, pins or pinches– in my case for a Deuce Trace! A Deuce Trace is a type of pinch on the hat– created by using merely steam and pinching on the hat. Inspired by this hat‘s pinch, I went on into a deep investigation to make it possible for my hat dreams to come true. Since I’ve only bought the hat at its’ primary stage with only the pinch done, I’ll be writing a separate post to showcase the on-going production and process of customizing my entire hat– including where to look for quality leather trims or bands and hunting for the perfect vintage pins. I’m also going to throw in the idea of getting a custom gold-plated pin, with my monogram engraved… I hope you guys are excited as I am about doing this! Because I’m more than happy as a clam thinking about it right now.

Photos by Artiese Studios

What is your must-have item that you see yourself wearing forever?
Feel free to share your thoughts with me. I’d love to know!
Until next time! xx

GET THE LOOK

style file

Soft Side

Topshop Colour Block Fedora Hat (See similar here.)
Forever21 Collarless Faux Fur Jacket (See similar here.)
Pink Tartan White Suiting Trousers
Zara Stripped Long Sleeve Shirt
Zara Black Thin Strap Mule Heels
Anderson’s Navy Woven Belt 
Anice Stamped Initial Pendant Necklace
American Eagle Astrology and Gold Initial Earrings
Danier Black Leather Handbag

Whether you’re uncertain about something… always challenge yourself anyways. I was deeply contemplating if wearing this fur coat would make me look funny– for instance having any close resemblance to a mountain yeti. It’s out there (for me), it’s fun, it’s also pretty warm, and extremely soft. From my experience living in Canada, we’re exposed to all four seasons. It’s typically hard to make room for coats, but I love layering. I remember vaguely being brought up in North Bay; at age 3 or 4, there was a photograph taken while I was in a white fur jacket and place in the middle of my house covered in snow. All you could see was my round chubby face in a sea of white. I wish I could have done a before and after comparison. Funny enough, that short memory sparked my interest in getting this coat.

Speaking of dressing coats– last weekend was Nuit Blanche. An overnight event (7pm-7am) where you will get frost hands and a sight filled with creativity and art installations on the streets that takes place every year in Toronto. From my point of view, a perfect evening in Toronto can be participating in evening street festivals or events in the nippy weather, accompanied by huge group of close friends and perhaps some warm tea. For most of the event, walking or taking your bike/bixi  is a better way to get from one destination to another. I find that public transportation is not the best idea during this event since it’s ridiculously crowded, most of which a large percentage are over impaired.

Sunday: I enjoyed sleeping in and grabbing Pho for breakfast in Ossington. Sounds like a great way to end the weekend right? Afterwards, I finally went to experience eating at a place called Bang Bang Ice Cream and Bakery, where I got London Fog ice cream and vanilla bean in a fresh made Hong Kong egg waffle cone. Whoever said that eating ice cream in the middle of Autumn was a stupid idea clearly doesn’t know what they’re missing out on. London fog ice cream is just too perfect for this season. I personally love Ossington, being an area where you can find countless vintage stores and the best locally owned restaurants and cafes. Paying a visit here is a good idea since everything is typically less expensive and in my opinion, more rustic and crafty. My favourite place is Bellwoods Brewery.

I’m always interested in what others have to suggest.
What’s your favourite cafe or restaurant in your area?

x

Have a great day! 
Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below and for more: follow this journey

Photos: Maximilan Kandler


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