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Roll into Action with BSE Skateboard Shop & Coffee Bar

Roll into Action with BSE Skateboard Shop & Coffee Bar


Downtown Kingston is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and a laid-back vibe that captures the essence of this beautiful city. Nestled within this community is BSE Skateboard Shop & Coffee Bar on Princess St, a gem that perfectly embodies downtown Kingston's eclectic spirit, and a place where skateboarding and coffee unite to build a vibrant hub. 

BSE Skateboard Shop t-shirt merchandise on left side and owner Jay Bridges on right side smiling.

Get Geared Up & Fuel Up for the Ride

If you're a skateboarder or enthusiast, you've hit the jackpot. BSE has an impressive selection of decks, wheels, trucks, bearings, and accessories to fulfill all your skateboarding needs, as well as apparel, and shoes. But it's not just a place to buy gear. It's a hub for the skateboarding community, a place where novices can learn the ropes and experts can share tricks and stories.

Skateboarding can be an energy-draining pursuit. That's where the coffee bar at BSE comes in. Crafting the perfect brew, they offer a variety of coffee options, from espresso shots to creamy lattes. Don't miss out on their specialty drinks – if you visit, you must try the popular "Lemon Drop," a unique concoction of lemonade and espresso. It perfectly complements the energetic and vibrant atmosphere of the shop. Pair your coffee with a locally made baked treat, and you've got yourself a complete meal.

Exterior of BSE Skateboard Shop & Coffee Bar in Downtown Kingston

Kickflip into the Past

Partners in both life and business, Jay Brides and Jenna Richmond have a unique story that's intertwined with the evolution of BSE Skateboard Shop. The tale began on Princess Street in Kingston, where Jenna used to work at Hip Kids, and BSE Skate shop was located at its previous spot. Fate brought them together, and they found themselves at the center of Kingston's skateboarding culture.

The year 2020 brought its fair share of challenges as many businesses faced closures and uncertainty. BSE Skateboard Shop, like many others, took a break. However, Jay and Jenna saw an opportunity amid adversity. They decided to make a bold move during the pandemic by relocating their shop. It was a serendipitous moment, as Jay’s previous lease ended just as a more spacious and inviting space next door became available.

Latte cup being filled on the left side and female store owner making drinks on right side.

Dropping into the Present

The new location is brighter, wider, and welcoming, reflecting the spirit of the skateboarding culture it champions. With a serving counter already built in, it was a win-win situation that allowed them to reinvent the store while keeping its roots intact.

Jay's deep connection to the skateboarding world and Jenna's retail and coffee expertise were a perfect match. Together with the support of the community around the skate shop, they reopened in their new and bigger location. And that's not all; they also have a hidden gem – an intimate private back courtyard that has now hosted several events such as Art After Dark. It's a place that captures the essence of Downtown Kingston while providing an escape from the bustling streets. But perhaps the most exciting addition is the coffee bar, making BSE Skateboard Shop & Coffee Bar more inclusive and welcoming to all ages.

Interior of BSE Skateboard Shop with rack of skateboards and wall of shoes plus merchandise.

A particularly neat aspect of this shop's story is Jay's deep passion for the skateboarding world. It was his love for the sport that inspired him to open his shop back in 1997. In those early days, the shop was more of a mobile affair, operating out of a van. Jay would roll up to skate parks and various locations, sharing his love for skateboarding. He eventually found a brick-and-mortar location in Belleville, but his journey didn't stop there.

Before settling down in Downtown Kingston in 2013, Jay made a name for himself in the skateboard world as a senior photographer for SBC Skateboard Magazine. His job took him to skateboarding hotspots around the globe with some of the top legends, capturing the essence of the sport and sharing it with the world.

Today, BSE Skateboard Shop & Coffee Bar is not just a place to buy skateboarding decks, gear, apparel, and shoes - it's a spot where people can come together, connect, and celebrate their shared passion. It's a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the spirit of skateboarding.

With a rich blend of skateboarding, caffeine, and community spirit, it's more than just a shop - it's a lifestyle. Roll on down to BSE and experience the thrill for yourself!

Fun Fact

Did you know that at BSE, they offer a unique and extensive selection of Nike shoes, making it a sneaker lover’s dream come true? Not only do they carry a wide range of Nike footwear, but they also offer a diverse array of merchandise and gear, ensuring that you can find everything you need to up your style and performance game in one place. Whether you're looking to ride in style or spice up your outfit, BSE has you covered!

Favourite Local Spots

When Jay and Jenna take a break from the hustle and bustle of their shop, they take the opportunity to stroll through the lively heart of downtown Kingston. Among their favourite spots is the Montreal Street Collective, a treasure trove of thrift clothing, vintage gems, and antique finds. But when the sun sets, it's Olivea that calls to them for the ultimate date night. 

Where: 225 Princess St, Kingston, Ontario 

Previously published on Downtown Kingston's The Downtown Dish blog.

Photo Credit: Jay Bridges

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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New Foodie Brunch Spot: Lay Low Cafe in Downtown Kingston

New Foodie Brunch Spot: Lay Low Cafe in Downtown Kingston


 Nestled on the vibrant intersection of Princess St and Sydenham St in downtown Kingston, Lay Low Cafe has burst onto the Kingston foodie scene, promising a laid-back atmosphere, chic interiors, and a menu that'll leave your taste buds dancing. Opened in mid-November 2023 by Erica Braunstein, this brunch spot is destined to become a favourite for brunch enthusiasts of all ages.

Eggs benny on the left side and interior coffee counter at Lay Low Cafe.

Picture this: sleek mid-century modern vibes adorned with lush greens and rich browns. As you step inside, don't miss the dazzling disco ball that sets the tone for the groovy experience that awaits you. It's the kind of place where time seems to slow down, and every moment feels like a lazy Sunday morning.

Interior of Lay Low Cafe with sleek mid-century decor with lush green booth seating and rich brown tones.

Lay Low Cafe offers an array of beverages to kickstart your day, from lattes and cappuccinos to refreshing smoothies, freshly squeezed juices, and playful cocktails like mimosas and espresso martinis. Whether you're catching up with friends or treating yourself to a solo brunch date, Lay Low Cafe beckons to everyone, young and old alike.

Erica Braunstein, the brains behind this brunch haven, brings with her a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, spanning 14 years. With a family history rooted in running restaurants, Erica's journey led her to pursue her passion by attending school for hospitality and tourism. After graduating, she teamed up with her father to open a restaurant, honing her skills and gaining insights into the intricacies of the business.

Exterior of Lay Low Cafe on the left side and a cup of latte with heart design on the right side.

Lay Low Cafe is a manifestation of Erica's wanderlust, reflecting her travels and the diverse culinary experiences she encountered along the way. The name itself, 'Lay Low,' is Erica's personal mantra, embodying the essence of chilling out, casual vibes, and laid-back living, all of which you'll sense as soon as you step through the door. 

The interiors are a blend of modern simplicity with vibrant pops of colour, creating a welcoming environment where friends can relax and unwind. The casual breakfast and lunch spot offers upscale and fresh cuisine, with a variety of options for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan preferences.

Speaking of the menu, don't miss Erica's top pick – The Nest. This dish features a potato nest cradling a perfectly poached egg, accompanied by porcini and cremini mushrooms and sautéed kale. Another standout is the Brekkie Board, a tantalizing combination of smashed avocado on sourdough with goat cheese, coconut yogurt granola with seasonal fruit, and the supreme house fries that are a must-try! 

breakkie board with bacon potatoes plus avocado toast on left side and waffles with fruit on right side.

Lush green booth seating at Lay Low Cafe on the left side and chorizo breakfast wrap on the right side.

Lay Low Cafe is open seven days a week, ensuring you can satisfy your brunch cravings any day from 7 am to 5 pm. And if you're on the lookout for the perfect venue for your next event or party, look no further – Lay Low Cafe has got you covered with its inviting ambiance after hours.

So, whether you're a Kingston local or just passing through, make sure to make Lay Low Cafe your next brunch destination. It's not just a meal; it's an experience, and it's waiting for you to come and lay low for a while.

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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An Evening in a Crop Circle: Dining at Enright Cattle Company

An Evening in a Crop Circle: Dining at Enright Cattle Company


Picture this: a mesmerizing evening nestled in a crop circle's embrace and the allure of the unknown. Bae and I had the lovely opportunity to be hosted by the incredible Enright Cattle Company this past weekend at their annual dinner in a crop circle event in Tweed, Ontario, just an hour away from Kingston. The evening was so lovely, and I couldn't wait to share it with you all!

As we stepped onto the site, strolling amidst the towering corn stalks, a heartwarming scene unfolded before us. Imagine being welcomed by a stunning dinner setup featuring expansive wooden tables, cozy seating on hay bales adorned with lovingly crafted handmade quilts, and bouquets of freshly picked flowers. It was truly a sight that brought smiles to our faces.

A celebration of family, local food, and community.

Taking its root back in 2018, this one-of-a-kind event is all about embracing community, highlighting the essence of family-run businesses, and cherishing the farm-to-table connection. It's a delightful showcase that puts Enright beef and exceptional locally sourced ingredients in the spotlight, creating an experience that's nothing short of amazing!

But before I dive deeper into the wonderful delights of the evening, let’s take a moment to give appreciation to our hosts – Kara and Darold Enright!

Guests seated at long family style tables in a crop circle.

Two side by side images of  a cornfield path and Enright Cattle Co ribeye topped chimichurri and a morel and trumpet mushroom sauce.

ABOUT ENRIGHT CATTLE COMPANY

Enright Cattle Company stands tall as a fourth-generation family-owned farm, beaming with pride in their commitment to sustainability. Their focus on ethically raising purebred Simmental cattle shines brightly, resulting in the finest quality beef gracing the tables of Kingston's most esteemed restaurants and beyond, spanning across the vibrant province of Ontario. Among these culinary spots are some of my personal favourites, including the delightful likes of Bella Bistro, Tango Nuevo, Olivea, Chez Piggy, and a host of other cherished establishments!

What truly sets this business apart is its remarkable approach – at Enright, every resource is valued and utilized to the fullest. Their commitment to minimizing waste is truly inspiring. While beef holds a special place in their operations, their ingenuity shines as they offer bones perfect for soups, transform fats into soap, repurpose offal for gourmet dog food and treats, and fashion exquisite leather goods from the hides. And here's the cherry on top: even the animals' manure finds purpose, enriching their fields as a natural fertilizer. It's an exceptional cycle of sustainability and creativity!

Two side by side images of black coloured cattle with barn in the background and rock facade with Enright Cattle Company branding.

Two side by side images of home mailbox and light brown coloured cattle.

Let's set the scene and get into the evening! The air was filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation, as guests came together for an extraordinary culinary experience. And who better to spearhead this gastronomic adventure than the talented chef Étienne Cuerrier of the former Meat Press in Ottawa.

Cooking over an open fire, Étienne and his wife Myriam worked their magic to create a spectacular feast. From farm-fresh ingredients to innovative flavours, each bite was amazing and left taste buds in a state of sheer euphoria!

But the night didn't stop at good food and good company. Tweed & Company Theatre stepped onto the field, filling the evening with wonderful acoustic music!

WELCOME APPETIZER

Stepping into the enchanting crop circle, we were met with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The culinary journey commenced with a delightful welcome appetizer: thinly sliced rib lifter meat from Enright Cattle Company. Served alongside a crisp and flavourful slaw, and accompanied by pastrami, it was a true treat for the senses. This appetizer set the stage for the evening!

Étienne and his wife Myriam preparing dishes.

DINNER IS SERVED

Kicking off the evening's culinary journey was a delightful first course that brought a touch of rustic charm to the table. A grilled Caesar salad, adorned with the flavourful Enright bresaola – a delectable air-dried, salted beef. The pairing was a true masterpiece, coming together in perfect harmony to tantalize the taste buds.

The centerpiece of the meal was a succulent fire-roasted Enright ribeye topped with a vibrant chimichurri and a velvety morel and trumpet (mushroom) sauce, rich and earthy elevating every bite.

And let's not forget the drool-worthy sides - smoked cheddar and garlic-infused potatoes, grilled zucchini and local sweet corn to offer a delightful contrast – a medley of freshness and charred perfection.

Wrapping up the evening on a sweet note, guests were treated to a truly refreshingly delicious blueberry cheesecake served in jars. What made it even more special was the use of locally sourced Wilson's organic blueberries, adding a burst of local flavour to every bite. This splendid dessert was the perfect finale, a delightful ending to a memorable evening that had already showcased a wonderful array of Enright beef dishes.

Two side by side images of Enright Cattle Company dinner in a crop circle menu and fire-roasted Enright Cattle Co ribeye topped chimichurri and a morel and trumpet mushroom sauce.

Two side by side images of a grilled Caesar salad with Enright Cattle Company bresaola and blueberry cheesecake in a jar.

Two side by side images of smoked cheddar and garlic-infused potatoes, grilled zucchini and local sweet corn.

CHEERS TO TOAST-WORTHY BEVERAGES

Of course, no dinner is complete without a glass of something special to raise in celebration. MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Co. and Closson Chase brought their A-game, offering a delightful selection of local beverages that perfectly complemented the culinary journey. The local beverages perfectly matched the flavours of the night, making every sip even more special.

Two side by side images of beverage vendors MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Co. and Closson Chase.


FASHION SHOW AND FARM-TO-FASHION LEATHER

As the evening progressed, fashion took center field, thanks to local boutiques Chris James and Curate Social – both of which are located in downtown Kingston. A dazzling fashion show showcased the latest trends while showcasing Enright Cattle Co leather bags that are all beautifully handmade using their cattle hides!

Did you know you can visit the Grain Bin featured below on Saturdays between 10am and 2pm for a chance to explore their fantastic range of leather goods and top-quality beef?!

Two side by side images of converted grain bin and Chris James and Curate Social clothing being modelled with Enright Cattle Company leather purse.

CHAKA CHIKODZI VOLCANIC ROCK CREATIONS

And, saving the best for last – the absolutely stunning artwork by Chaka Chikodzi. He's a talented Zimbabwean-Canadian Stone Sculptor residing in Kingston, and his creations are truly something to behold. 

We admired his beautiful creations as we walked through the cornfield path to dinner, all crafted from volcanic rock sourced all the way from Zimbabwe. It's like encountering a gallery of wonders right in the midst of nature, a magical touch that added an extra layer of enchantment to the experience.

Two side by side images of artwork by Chaka Chikodzi, Zimbabwean-Canadian Stone Sculptor.

So, there you have it – an unforgettable evening in a crop circle! 

Thank you once again to Enright Cattle Company for a wonderful hosted experience! To learn more about this passionate and dedicated family-operated business as well as its online offerings including their boxes delivered right to your doorstep, click here.
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Rosalyn Gambhir
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Foodie Spots to Visit in Belleville and Quinte West in Ontario

Foodie Spots to Visit in Belleville and Quinte West in Ontario


Buckle up, fellow foodies! Get ready to join me as I recap my mini overnight foodie road trip to Belleville and Quinte West in Ontario. Located just about an hour and a bit away from Kingston, prepare to drool over some amazing culinary spots and discover why this region is a hidden gem for food lovers. And let's not forget to mention my wonderful stay at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Belleville, where comfort and convenience met my foodie needs. So, grab your virtual fork and let's dive into this delicious journey!

Female in black pyjamas holding Bay of Quinte guide over her face in bed and box of donuts and cronuts on the right side.

CHECKING IN

Our foodie adventure began with an overnight stay at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Belleville. With kitchenettes in each room, it provided the ideal opportunity to stock up on local goodies and indulge in late-night snacks. And oh, did I mention the indoor pool? It offered a refreshing break after a day of exploration, while the hot breakfast in the morning fuelled us up for the adventures ahead. And of course, the free WiFi was a must for documenting our culinary adventures on social media!

Where: 400 Bell Blvd, Belleville, ON

THE BRAKE ROOM

Our first stop in Belleville was The Brake Room, a delightful café known to be a hub for community, coffee, and cycle culture. It served up a heavenly flat white and savoury breakfast sandwich made by the fine folks at Flossie’s Sandwich. The combination of the perfect caffeinated beverage and sandwich set the tone for the day, leaving us eager for more culinary delights!

Where: 34 Dundas St E, Belleville, ON

Young adult female seated outside sipping on a flat white and interior of the Brake Room coffee ship.

SMALL SCALE BREAD 

Next up, we discovered Small Scale Bread, a hidden gem known for its delectable treats. From mouthwatering pastries to artisanal bread. The aroma alone was enough to draw us in, and we left with a few goodies to savour later.

Where: 14 Front Street North Unit C, Belleville, ON

Display of baked goods including croissants and a bakewell tart.

THE LARK

For dinner and cocktails, The Lark stole the show. With its cozy ambiance and innovative menu, it was a feast for both the eyes and our bellies. From creative appetizers to flavourful mains, each dish was a true masterpiece. The cocktails were equally impressive, adding an extra touch of sophistication to the evening.  

We savoured the braised short rib with creamy polenta, relished in the brown butter gnocchi, and ended with the decadent dark chocolate pudding with salted dulce de leche. Each dish was wonderful, a symphony of flavours that left us in awe of The Lark's culinary ingenuity. Prepare to be captivated by Belleville's gastronomic wonders at this remarkable eatery!

Where: 199 Front St #104, Belleville, ON

Young adult female sipping on a cocktail with a side of creamy brown butter gnocchi to the side.

Braised short ribs with a creamy polenta and a plate of poached egg with asparagus.

THE LOCAL SOCIAL HOUSE

No foodie adventure is complete without brunch, and The Local Social House provided the perfect setting. This brand new foodie spot in downtown Belleville offers a charming atmosphere as you walk in and delicious brunch fare, it was a delightful spot to start the day. The menu offered a variety of mouthwatering options, from classic eggs Benedict to unique twists on traditional favourites.

Where: 211 Coleman St, Belleville, ON

French toast topped with a chutney and poached egg with avocado toast to the other side.

BENJI'S AT POP-UPS ON THE BAY

No foodie adventure is complete without a stop at Benji's Waffle Hut & Beverage Bar, part of Pop-Ups on the Bay in Belleville located at West Zwick's Island Park. This spot offers a sanctuary for coffee lovers seeking a refreshing beverage. From indulgent lattes, frappes, fruit chills and iced caffeinated creations, Benji's had it all. 

Pop-Ups on the Bay offers a wide variety of unique flavours from Royal Haveli for Indian, Souvlaki Ville for traditional greek cuisine, Brick Oven Pizza Truck for Italian wood fired pizza and much more!

Where: West Zwick's Island Park | 10 Bay Bridge Rd, Belleville, ON

Young female wearing hot pink linen blouse with black pants and tank top sipping on iced coffee beverage.

If you find yourself with more time to explore the Belleville area, there are a few additional foodie spots that are worth a visit: 

Capers
L'Auberge de France 
Burger Revolution 
Tropical Blends Cafe 
The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant And Waterfront Patio

WANNAMAKER'S BAKESHOP

In Quinte West, I had the opportunity to cross off a spot from my foodie bucket list: Wannamaker's Bakeshop. This place was a haven for donut lovers, with an impressive array of flavours and eye-catching treats. Each bite was a heavenly experience, and I couldn't resist trying a few extra to take home for later. Highly recommend the maple bacon donut and cronut filled with strawberry jelly!

Where: 391 Dundas St W, Quinte West, ON

Box of donuts including maple bacon, strawberry jelly filled cronut and apple fritter with exterior shot Wannamakers Bakeshop in Quinte West Ontario.

TOMASSO'S ITALIAN GRILLE

Tomasso's Italian Grille was another gem we discovered in Quinte West. It offered authentic Italian cuisine that left us craving for more. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas, it was a true culinary delight. It had the most perfect waterfront views of the Trent River, while sipping on sangria and enjoying the summer sunshine. We indulged in their seafood manicotti with shrimp, scallops, and a creamy mozzarella sauce. Prepare to be captivated by the flavours that will make you drool!

Where: 35 Front St, Trenton ON

Young female sipping on sangria with waterfront view of the Trent River in Quinte West Ontario.

Glasses of sangria and plate of seafood manicotti.

THE GRIND & VINE

To end our foodie journey in Quinte West, we visited The Grind & Vine just a short walk away down the street, a charming café that served up lattes and wine. It was the perfect spot to relax and reflect on the incredible culinary adventure we had just experienced!

Where: 45 Front St, Trenton, ON

Interior of The Grind & Vine a cute coffee shop in Quinte West Ontario.

Thank you to Bay of Quinte for a lovely experience!

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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 New Foodie Spot: House of Donair in West End Kingston

New Foodie Spot: House of Donair in West End Kingston


Mixed plate of chicken shawarma and donair plate and House of Donair restaurant sign.

Congratulations to House of Donair for opening their fourth and newest location in the west end of Kingston on Bath Rd! Serving up Lebanese cuisine from tabouli, falafel, kibbeh, pitas and shawarma, as well as dishes with a twist from donair poutine and donair pizza! Bae and I stopped in recently for lunch for his and her meals. My absolute favourite was the intensity of the flavours of the chicken and sauces served on the potato aka you best like garlic. We enjoyed the below meals and will certainly be returning soon!

MIXED PLATE

Mixed plate of chicken shawarma & donair served with salad, rice, hummus, garlic paste, pickled turnips, pickles + pita bread.

CHICKEN SHAWARMA PLATE 

Chicken shawarma plate served with salad, rice, hummus, garlic paste, pickled turnips and pickles.

Where: 1755 Bath Rd, Kingston | Corner of Bath rd & McKewan Dr
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Rosalyn Gambhir
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My Favourite Kingston West End Restaurants You Have To Try

My Favourite Kingston West End Restaurants You Have To Try


As we know, Kingston is a city that is renowned for its thriving culinary scene. While many have associated downtown Kingston with the city's most notable culinary offerings, the west end of Kingston is often overlooked when it comes to foodie destinations. However, those who have taken the time to explore Kingston's west end have discovered that it is truly a unique area with several hidden culinary gems and having moved to the area a few years ago, I've discovered quite a few special spots.

So whether you're in the mood for takeout, a special night out, authentic ethnic cuisine, or something in between, there are plenty of options to choose from. Below you'll find my list of favourite local drool-worthy spots:

Macaroni and cheese burger and iced latte beverage on table.

LUNCH & DINNER SPOTS

Bella Bistro

GO Italian Restaurant

Days on Front

Ottercreek Kitchen

The Pasta Shelf

Mesa Fresca

Red House West

Smoke N Barrel 

Golden Damrei

Shawarma El Mina

Pita Land

House Of Donair

Bustini’s Food Truck

Mozzarella cheese bites and fully loaded chimichanga.

GREEK FOOD

Greektown Grill & Takeout

Minos Take Out West

PIZZA

Mamma Mia Pizzeria

Riverhead Brewing Company

Score Pizza

Arancini rice balls and all dressed pizza.

BRUNCH & CAFÉ

Toast & Jam

Juniper Cafe

Patriam Coffee

Nora's Coffee + Sandwiches

Carmelinda's

FISH & CHIPS

Rose & Crown

Gourmet donuts and breakfast avocado croissant.

BAKERIES & DELI

Bread & Butter Bakery

MAC'S Chocolate & Bakeshop

Baltic Deli

SUSHI

Kino's Sushi

Akira Sushi

Sapporo Sushi


Chicken shawarma plate and a variety of sushi.

What are your favourite spots? Leave them in the comments.

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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Napanee Foodie Spot: Fool's Kitchen

Napanee Foodie Spot: Fool's Kitchen



Say hello to Fool's Kitchen - a new Asian fusion restaurant located just 30 minutes from Kingston in Napanee, Ontario and is an absolute must-try! It’s already booking up quite quickly so definitely call for reservations and takeout orders.

You won’t be disappointed as the dishes are so dang flavourful from dim sum, Vietnamese pho, Chinese bbq pork + chicken and so much more. Prep work starts as early as 3am in the morning and it certainly shows! So if you’re wanting to head out for a scenic foodie day trip, add Fool’s Kitchen to your foodie bucket list. Bae and I were thoroughly impressed and bellies full afterwards. Drool-worthy indeed!

Also, the service is just amazing and the staff are so friendly!

Scroll down to see a few of the dishes we sampled:

SUI MAI (PORK & SHRIMP DUMPLING)

Chinese canton-style open-wrapped dumpling with pork.

CHICKEN PHO

Vietnamese noodle soup with a homemade broth filled with spices like roasted star anise, noodles, grilled bbq chicken thigh and served with lots of mix-and-match toppings. A perfect dish to share.

SESAME MAPLE RIBS

Half rack of fall off the bone ribs marinated overnight, grilled, baked and glazed with the sweetest organic maple syrup. Served with house-made Japanese sweet potato chips with a spicy mayo and Japanese-style salad.

HAR GOW

Steamed translucent dumplings filled with shrimp.

Sesame maple ribs with har gow dumplings.

VIETNAMESE FRIED SPRING ROLLS

A crispy and crunchy entrée bursting with flavours. Minced pork, shrimp, wood ear mushrooms and vermicelli wrapped in rice paper and then fried to a golden brown.

Vietnamese fried spring rolls with tea.

SHANGHAI SOUP DUMPLINGS

This appetizer is bursting with deliciousness and is a must-try! It consists of a paper-thin steamed wrapper enveloping a dup of seasoned pork filling and hot flavourful soup. 

JAPANESE SWEET POTATO CHIPS

These housemade chips are a purely addictive snack!

Shanghai soup dumplings with Japanese sweet potato chips.

Open 11am-2pm for lunch and 4pm-7pm for dinner. Closed Sunday and Monday.

For reservations and takeout, call 613-354-9888

Where: 19A Market Square, Napanee, ON

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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New Winter Wellness Outdoor Experience: Stoked Sauna Co.

New Winter Wellness Outdoor Experience: Stoked Sauna Co.


Stoked Sauna Co. and cheese fondue.

There’s a new steamy winter wellness outdoor experience called Stoked Sauna Co. at the Frontenac Club! This gem of an oasis is the perfect wellness moment you need this season for your mind and body to unwind, and feel relaxed and refreshed. And it’s right in downtown Kingston.

Stoked Sauna Co in Kingston Ontario.

Each 75-minute guided session uses the natural nordic practice of sauna bathing. With three rounds within the sauna, while also enjoying time on the patio in between by the fire, you also have the opportunity to try the ice baths if you're brave enough!

 Did you know it offers so many health benefits from soothing sore muscles⁠⁣, to improving your heart health and boosting your mood⁣?!

 It’s a must-try experience whether you go solo, with a friend or as a group.

Non alcholic cocktail and Frontenac Club restaurant menu.

And once you’re all good to go, you can head inside the Bank Gastrobar at the Frontenac Club for an après spa menu to end your experience with an amazingly curated drink and a delicious meal from a cheesy fondue, split pea soup or candied salmon.

WHAT TO BRING?

Swimsuit, flip flops, water bottle and your favourite winter hat or headband.

Book your session online: www.stokedsaunaco.com

Where: 225 King St E, Kingston, ON

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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New Restaurant: Heist Restaurant and Wine Club in Downtown Kingston

New Restaurant: Heist Restaurant and Wine Club in Downtown Kingston


The wait is officially over!

📍: Kingston, Ontario

The brand new and most anticipated spot in downtown Kingston has officially opened its doors and I had the pleasure of being invited for a sneak peek of Heist Restaurant + Wine Club with bae and my mum. This foodie adventure was truly unique and a spectacular experience. From pasta, and pizzas to seafood and classic dishes, this restaurant is absolutely stunning - having been a bank before, the CaraCo Homes family ventured into the restaurant space to plan the most perfect culinary destination with the most beautiful space. It’s so warm and inviting.

p.s. online reservations are available, click here!

Tagliatelle bolognese and restaurant menu.

Scroll down to see a few of the dishes we sampled:

Beef carpaccio and arancini.

BEEF CARPACCIO

Baby arugula, grana padano, truffle aioli, crouton. Simply melts in your mouth!

ARANCINI 

Crispy saffron, lemon + sweet pea rice balls,  homemade tomato sauce + grated grana padano. The flavours are so complimentary of one another!

PAN SEARED DEEP SEA SCALLOPS

With grilled corn, leek crema + toasted pistachio. Highly recommend!

GRILLED LAMB SAUSAGE

Creamy polenta, charred rapini with a grainy mustard demi.

Pan seared deep sea scallops and grilled lamb sausages.

MEZZA RIGATONI VODKA

Made with pancetta, scallion, chillies in a vodka-tomato-cream sauce. You might have to wear your stretchy pants as portions are quite generous and the dish itself is so nice, especially in the winter.

TAGLIATELLE BOLOGNESE

Slowly braised ragout of pork, beef + veal with sweet onion, fresh basil, shaved grana padano, d.o.p. tomato sauce. 

Tagliatelle bolognese and mezza rigatoni vodka pasta.

CHICKEN PARMESAN

Pan-roasted chicken cutlet with tomato sauce + buffalo mozzarella. Such a perfect dish to share

DESSERT 

As our meal was coming to an end, our bellies were filled with so much goodness that we decided to share a tiramisu. The dessert menu aka the getaway included other wonderful options such as fruit + sorbet, banana toffee pudding, vanilla crème brûlée, flourless chocolate torte and vegan cheesecake. So many drool-worthy sweet treats to try! 🤤

Outdoor sign of Heist Restaurant + Wine Club in Downtown Kingston next to tiramisu cake

NEXT UP

I’m already thinking of my next visit - I’ll definitely be ordering the lobster and prawn dumplings, pan roasted potato gnocchi, and Australian lamb!

Congratulations to the entire HEIST team! Our dining experience was truly wonderful from the food, service and ambience. Kingston is so lucky to have this great new addition to its culinary scene! 🎉

Where: 168 Wellington St, Kingston, ON

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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Let Me Reintroduce Myself

Let Me Reintroduce Myself


Hi, I’m Rosalyn! 👋

Dozen donuts from Coffeeway and portrait of Rosalyn Gambhir smiling

For those of you who are new here, I thought I’d reintroduce myself. Originally from Montréal, Québec, I moved to Kingston to attend Queen's University as a Queen's Engineer back in 2008 and well, I’ve stayed ever since. 

I met my other half who completed me in every way possible. Together for over ten years now - this Kingston native, my partner-in-crime and foodie accomplice has brought out the best in me one day at a time. Our passion for cooking and trying new things led me to creating a foodie bucket list in 2012 of restaurants to try out in Kingston and document my experiences on my blog, which was well before Instagram was super popular. (I may have just aged myself LOL 🫣🤣)

Whether it's exploring the local food scene, going to amazing local events or taking foodie road trips to nearby towns, I'm all about being a tourist in my own city and beyond. This site and my social channels are all about allowing you to discover hidden gems in your own backyard and supporting our truly wonderful restaurants, businesses and passionate individuals behind the scenes, while also sharing who I am as a person, my likes, my life, my adorable pup Dakota and more.

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Rosalyn Gambhir
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[name=Rosalyn Gambhir] [img=https://i.imgur.com/9rNiMGU.jpg] [description=Rosalyn Gambhir is the gal behind the blog The Staycationer. Whether it's exploring the local food scene with her foodie partner-in-crime or taking in the view from her favourite cafe, Rosalyn is always a tourist, looking for the next exciting adventure within Kingston, Ontario and beyond. The Staycationer allows you to rediscover hidden gems in your very own backyard.] (facebook=https://www.facebook.com/thestaycationer) (twitter=https://twitter.com/rosalyngambhir) (instagram=https://www.instagram.com/rosalyngambhir/)

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