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Indulge in CRAVE Coffeehouse and Bakery


Crave (krāv) verb. to have a very strong desire for (something).

First dates, catch-ups, business meetings or a simple treat for yourself - CRAVE Coffeehouse and Bakery serves your bean bliss as the new go-to neighbourhood coffee shop in downtown Kingston, offering creative and feel-good alternatives.

Having opened its doors in early 2016, CRAVE resonates with an incredible vibrant coffee culture with their desire to brew the perfect blend for customers and their fine attention to detail. With a fresh pair of eyes and outlook on the future after a few setbacks to grand opening, owner John Stathopoulos successfully filled the void of offering enough seating married with the idea of a bakery. He compliments having grown up in the restaurant industry as a reinforcement and family support to move forward with his decision to opening.

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

This new addition to the downtown core is more than just a coffee house. Offering quite the dynamic atmosphere, this is a space that invites you in to stay. Free wifi to decadent treats (ding ding I'm onboard!), the flow of the space transforms as you make your way towards the back end - from a more formal traditional setting to a nice and cozy feeling where a brimming fireplace allows you to unwind. It is the little things that add up and make the space unique allowing customers to fully appreciate the venue they are in. A great conversation piece that brings warmth hangs to the back and to my dismay are barn doors that scale the ten foot high wall originating from the CNE in Toronto. Neat right? Always exciting to hear the details and stories behind such items.

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

Let's not waste anymore time and dive right into the glorious food talk and let me warn you, CRAVE will be your new best friend after your first visit. While the signature lattes are flavourful and frothy, the freshly baked pastries are oh so buttery and heavenly, making you want more. It's life's little pleasures we seek out and those made at CRAVE thanks to pastry chef Sarah will certainly satisfy anyone's sweet tooth. 

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery
{Chocolate and Regular Croissants}

If you have time to indulge, CRAVE is a slice of European sentiments in the middle of downtown Kingston. A coffee should be savoured, and the endless amount of seating allows you to take a break from your busy day. But also caters to those with a hectic schedule with to-go options as you walk in.

As a whole the food offerings are fresh, creative and widely different as well as caters to vegans, vegetarians and celiacs - panini sandwiches are pressed and staff are always reinventing the wheel when it comes to salad. A place where everyone shares the same passion, CRAVE truly is an inclusive environment where owner John truly harnesses the creativity of the staff and local surroundings allowing for ideas, feedback and insight to come to fruition. With that said, upon arrival staff are always charismatic and smiling - waiting to make your experience unique.

But most importantly, CRAVE has their coffee game right on point with quite the selection of flavour profiles from areas such as Guatemala, Honduras and Ethiopia. Expect every cup of coffee to be smooth. Not a caffeine lover? Smoothies, lemonades and freshly squeezed juices are also available!

Are you ready to get your appetite on?

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery
{Apple Turnover}

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery
{Double Chocolate, Ginger Molasses and Chocolate Chip Cookies}

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery

Indulge in Crave Coffeehouse and Bakery
{Chocolate Mousse Cake}

Stay tuned for lots of exciting news in the next few months and get ready for a summer patio!

Where: 166 Princess St, Kingston, Ontario
Rosalyn Gambhir
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Art After Dark in Downtown Kingston


The title says it all - a bright idea by the fabulous folks at Downtown Kingston where galleries are open late for one night from the hours of 7pm to 10pm. An annual event, the trip is certainly worthwhile to the downtown core and take on the adventure of discovering new local spots and talented artists in the area as well as hearing their inspiration and stories. All within walking distance of one another, it is a lovely evening well spent whether alone or with a group of friends. 

Art After Dark Downtown Kingston

And to be frank, I spent this time for me, myself and I to relish in the city I love and to clear my mind. Though I started my walking journey after a quaint social get together with a friend at the Iron Duke on Wellington and it seemed quite fitting that my first spot of the evening brought me to Martello Ally just next door. A gallery like no other in the city of Kingston, I was greeted by the gracious David Dossett who sparked my interest of the Alley and the art. Filled with surprises at every corner of eclectic works, this is a true Kingston artistic gem that is sure to make you smile.

Art After Dark Downtown Kingston
{Where: Martello Alley, 203 Wellington St, Kingston, Ontario}

Along the walk I stumbled upon Metalworks located on King St. Let's just say I was immediately drawn in by the stunning one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry and their designers. The space though small was inviting and the ladies charming as ever! As I continued down the road, I ventured into Studio 22 overlooking historic market square - an open gallery space and a creative design studio. From oils, acrylics, mixed media to photography, the gallery had a wide assortment of artwork that sure made me wanting more!

Art After Dark Downtown Kingston
{Where: Studio 22, 320 King St E, Kingston, Ontario}

The item I truly admired was that each space I visited catered to more than one form of medium - I was most impressed by the below piece by Rick LaPointe found at the Kingston Glass Studio and Gallery. On the one side, you saw first hand how glass art was made while on the other, you were captivated by a piece of work made of steel in the form of a dinosaur no less. This space brought to life the artistic visions of emerging and established artists where each component would some how miraculously be the finishing touch to complement your life and surrounding.

Art After Dark Downtown Kingston
{Where: Kingston Glass Studio & Gallery, 56 Queen St, Kingston, Ontario}

My last stop included Frontenac Club Inn where I was most excited for local photographer Bernard Clark's exhibition Notorious. It essentially consisted of grid portraits of infamous figures in history but the highlight was that each photograph was composed of images of computer keyboard function keys and Scrabble tiles. How amazing is that?! As a person with a tech background (yup I studied Computer Engineering) this tickled me with joy as art was being superimposed with the digital realm.

Art After Dark Downtown Kingston
{Time sculpture}

As I made my way back home I simply had to stop and admire the view of Lake Ontario and the Time sculpture. I say this because, it is my interpretation of Art After Dark but most importantly I always find pleasure in enjoying the small moments of life. They motivate me to move forward and see what other beauty I can surround myself with - whether it is work, an art gallery or with dear friends. This year I made a point to snap a picture through Instagram and record each daily moment that brought happiness in my life where I would ultimately be making a picture book such that I can reflect on that year. Hello new coffee table book!

How do you cherish each moment?

-xoxo
Rosalyn Gambhir
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Tips to Enjoying YGK Craft Beer Fest


Summer is in full-swing and if you haven't already heard, Fort Henry is gearing up for their annual YGK Craft Beer Fest this June. It's a great time to discover new beers, indulge in local food and to enjoy the classic summer festival vibes.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or a newcomer to the scene, a little bit of planning will help you get the most out of this event, trust me there are a few rookie mistakes you don't want to make. With the picturesque downtown Kingston as a backdrop, maximize your #chillonthehill with these helpful tips to help you have fun no matter what kind of crowd is swirling around you while also being responsible:

Tips to Enjoying YGK Craft Beer Fest Kingston

1. Slow Down

With a laid back atmosphere, there's no rush needed at this day long event. Better yet once on site, spot your targets i.e. breweries, grab some local gourmet munchies to build a base, locate the washrooms and ease into the afternoon one sip at a time. This is your chance to create new memories, try a new brewery as well as making a connection with the people behind the product. A must try is Skeleton Park Brewery - a new addition to the local beer circuit right here in Kingston this year.

2. Be Adventurous

Don’t be afraid to experiment at the Beer Fest - skip the brews you can normally get and seek out for the unique and exciting kinds. It never hurts to try new things and find a brewery that fits your taste buds. Forget the hype and cool factor - it's time to get out of your comfort zone, expand your palette and go taste a broad selection of beer that just sound good to you. Chances are you you might go home with a new favourite!

3. Bring Cash

Avoid waiting in line only to be told that your plastic cards are not accepted and as ATMs may not be readily available on site, plan ahead and bring good old fashion money.

4. Be patient

Take a deep breathe and leave all your worries at the door as you are entering a world of pure bliss with an expected attendance of over 2,000 people. Be sure to visit the event's website to get the full low down and come prepared with your own game plan whether it is arriving early and avoiding the crowds or fully immersing yourself and trying out every vendor.

5.  There's More Than Just Beer

The YGK Craft Beer Fest boasts more than just what flows out of the taps - good food and live music set the tone giving it a mellow chill feeling. The lineup brings a refreshing mix of eclectic beats of pop, accoustic to rock ‘n roll and is sure to have you grooving to the sounds. But of course, where there is beer there is local goodness. Get ready to indulge in cheese from Wilton Cheese, savoury ooey gooey poutine from Smoke's Poutinerie, gourmet hot-dogs from You Found us HDC, delights from Dianne's Fish Shack & Smokehouse and the list goes on. You certainly will not be disappointed with the offerings and bonus a Root Beer Fest for the kiddos will also be on site, so be sure to bring the family as well as your furry friends!

6. This Isn't a Fashion Show

Be sensible and choose comfortable style options - wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes as you will be spending a lot of time on your feet. Girls, forgot the cute wedges especially on a hill and fellas, get your snapbacks on and plaid shirts ironed.

7. Bring a Blanket

Enjoy the brews while sitting back and admiring the view atop Fort Henry hill - give your footsies a rest by relaxing and bringing a blanket or foldable camping chair.

8.  Have Fun

The number 1 rule is to have FUN! Keep being adventurous but also be spontaneous with your choices. After all, it is a day of beer drinking and spending time with friends.

9. Drink All The Water

Staying hydrating is key especially on a warm sunny day in June - water is crucial to survival and it is no different when sipping on beer for an entire afternoon. Also let's face it the more H20 you consume, the less of a hangover you may have the next day.

10.  Self explanatory - don't drive!

By taking these tips into consideration you’ll be Beer Fest ready and have no regrets. Now let’s go cheers with some beers!

Don't Forget:

Be sure to skip the line and save when you buy your tickets online for $15 or pay $18 at the door.

Don’t miss a beat to #ChillontheHill - follow Fort Henry on Twitter and Facebook to keep up to speed.

When: Saturday, June 11th from 11am-7pm

Where: 1 Fort Henry Drive, Kingston, Ontario
Rosalyn Gambhir
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May Long Weekend Adventures


Whether you're at a cottage, on a patio or your own backyard, May long weekend resonates with the start of summer and with so many great things to see and do, you don’t have to go far to enjoy yourself! Staycations get a bad reputation, and contrary to popular belief, there are a lot of perks you'll notice when staying home for the long weekend. There are so many hidden gems to discover in the area that it simply takes some digging around to find out the happenings in town. I've realized that staying close to home actually ends up creating my most exciting, relaxing and productive break yet without having to pack my bags or spend a lot.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

This year my foodie partner-in-crime wasn't working a weekend (finally!) so we made the decision to stay local and take a foodie road trip to Prince Edward County on Saturday followed by Sharbot Lake, Ontario on Sunday. Remember people that Kingston is driving distance from some incredible places and day trips are easier to plan and execute while still giving you the escape from regular life that you so deserve and not spending a fortune.

First Stop: Vicki's Veggies Heirloom Tomato Seedling Sale & Festival

Our first stop included picking up tomato seedlings for our urban garden from Vicki's Veggies, an event which I found thanks to Facebook and so happy I did. The sale was set up festival style and boy was I impressed - it included some of my favourite Prince Edward County artisans and their products such as wood fired Pizza by Pizza Via, sweet treats by Pink Lunch Pail, honey from Honey Pie Hives & Herbals, sauerkraut from Pyramid Ferments and the list goes on. The afternoon was filled with amazing food and delights from artisans living the dream in PEC.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

To satisfy our hunger and quench our thirst, we had some refreshing lemonade and meatball sandwich from WooHoo Farms. For only $10, this was amazing and perfect for two.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

Second Stop: The County Cider Company

Whilst driving around in the County on Saturday, we decided to stop by the County Cider Company to pick up our favourite bottles of peach and pear cider. Though a bit crowded as it was the long weekend, it was worth the long lines and wait.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

Third Stop: Seed to Sausage's Day of the Pig

The long weekend festivities continued on Sunday in Sharbot Lake, Ontario at Seed to Sausage's annual food festival dubbed Day of The Pig. Celebrating their fifth year, the party showcased hand-crafted artisan meats, roasted pork, local and area artisan cheese, local wines and oh so much more.

The party was filled with a slew of great individuals supporting local foods and producers having a good time. From a family business to a full fledge successful operation, Michael McKenzie has certainly made a name for himself as he celebrates the essence of local goodness and the supportive community at their day event every May long weekend with talented chefs on site roasting up a few pigs and serving the masses.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

After scouting out the different vendors and eateries to satisfy our empty bellies, my foodie partner-in-crime and I shared a tasty chicken shawarma made by the fabulous folks at Black Dog Hospitality which included Chef Eric from Le Chien Noir and Chef Paul from Dianne's Fish Shack & Smokehouse. With brews in hand thanks to Mackinnon Brothers and Kichesippi (you have to try their Radler!), we proceeded to the main attraction of the event - the pig roast. 

Say hello to the finest piece of pork I have ever tasted! After chatting with Chef Derek Macgregor, formerly of Le Chien Noir Bistro, he mentioned that it was a brine mixture of molasses added to a blend of apple juice from concentrate that gave the roast its moist and sweet finishing taste.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

Here's a tip I've found after attending quite q number of food related festivals - don't be afraid to share! My foodie partner-in-crime and I made a point to try everything for the most part by ordering one of each and simply sharing. Why limit yourself when you can sample it all - though we did miss out on The Grizzly Grills fried mozzarella burger though to make up for it we couldn't pass up a cheese plate by Back Forty Cheese Artisan.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

After our foodie road trip came to an end, drinks on a downtown Kingston patio were had while enjoying the sunny weather and stunning views.

May Long Weekend Foodie Adventures

Remember: Be a tourist in your own city, so you can turn any staycation into a dream vacation. New experiences await, just around the corner!
Rosalyn Gambhir
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Celebration of All Things Cheese


It is that time of year where all things cheese is being celebrated. Award-winning artisan and farmstead cheese from coast to coast will be the spotlight at the sixth annual Great Canadian Cheese Festival taking place June 4-5, 2016, at Picton Fairgrounds in the heart of Ontario’s must-visit Prince Edward County.

Celebration of All Things Cheese | Great Canadian Cheese Festival

This weekend affair is a sure delight for newcomers as well as returning cheese lovers. As the biggest artisan cheese show in Canada, indeed, in North America, expect to find cheesemakers, artisan food producers, small-batch wineries and craft breweries as well as other exhibitors and vendors. The real treat is that the Canadian Cheese of the Year and other winners in the 2016 Canadian Cheese Awards will be in prominent attendance and you have the wonderful opportunity to get to know Canada’s outstanding cheesemakers face-to-face.

From cheese seminars, live animals and food trucks, there is an endless amount of things to do at the Cheese Festival and in Prince Edward County - that you'll want to make a weekend of it. You'll be set with a festival tote bag for your purchases and a glass for sampling wine, beer and cider but here's an inside tip: bring a cooler with ice if you plan on purchasing lots of cheese or coming with a group of friends and leave it in the car.

Order your tickets now and don't forget to use promo code CF16STAYCAY to save 25% tickets: www.cheesefestival.ca/tickets

Celebration of All Things Cheese | Great Canadian Cheese Festival
{Meet Canada's best cheesemakers all in one venue!}

Celebration of All Things Cheese | Great Canadian Cheese Festival
{Get the chance to meet the sweetest water buffalo you'll ever meet at The Festival's own Cheese Dairy Farm} 

Celebration of All Things Cheese | Great Canadian Cheese Festival
{A cheese lovers heaven is awaiting your arrival.}

Celebration of All Things Cheese | Great Canadian Cheese Festival
{Have your thrill as you can also sample craft beer at the festival!}

Event Details:
Show open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days, Saturday and Sunday. Two entrances for speedy access to all the deliciousness. Families welcome. Children 15 and younger FREE when accompanied by an adult. Bonus: FREE parking!

Satisfy your cheesy side by visiting the festival's site: www.cheesefestival.ca

-xoxo
Rosalyn Gambhir
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Flavours of Spain at Tango Nuevo


Tapas (tapəs) n. Spanish. A variety of small, savory dishes shared communal style amongst friends.

Flavours of Spain at Tango Nuevo
{Polenta Frita - Crispy polenta fries with a roasted red pepper & goat cheese sauce}

A short distance from the shores of Lake Ontario stands a restaurant that embraces the concept of fusion tapas, welcome Tango Nuevo - a refreshing addition to the downtown Kingston eatery scene. It offers quite the exceptional experience as it encourages conversation and flavours to flow in a casual, friendly and warm atmosphere. This establishment thrives at its location on King Street and is a sure foodie spot thanks to Gokhan Cifci’s management.

Flavours of Spain at Tango Nuevo

Flavours of Spain at Tango Nuevo

The Food

Led by head chef Daniel Cholewa and his team, Tango Neuvo presents fresh, quality dishes using flavours and inspiration from all around the world, creating a menu that is certainly unique and delicious. Their dishes are not your typical full plate meals, but rather a varied selection of complementary small plates that allows people to mix and match and create their own experience. My personal favourites include the pan-seared fresh Atlantic scallops, white wine mussels and the crispy polenta frita with a side of fruity sangria. There is something for everyones taste buds.

Local Aspect

Filled with local essences, seasonal menu changes allow for the chefs to take advantage of fresh produce and to experiment with new flavours and combinations, knowing that their customers come to Tango Nuevo to experience new things as much as they come for their favourites (guilty there!). As an immense supporter of locally sourced ingredients, you can find products from Wendy's Mobile Market, Forman Farms, Seed to Sausage, Pasta Genova and Barriefield Meat Market.

Flavours of Spain at Tango Nuevo

Flavours of Spain at Tango Nuevo

But more than just using the ingredients, Tango Nuevo makes it a point to acquaint their customers on how important it is to support local producers and businesses. Their beautifully designed chalkboards within the restaurant highlights this focus and staff is quite knowledgable about how buying local not only means quality products, but aids the community to bind it together. 

The staff is what makes Tango Nuevo special. Both behind the scenes in the kitchen as well as the servers and managers, the faces that their customers see day to day, everyone believes in the restaurant's philosophy of great service and involvement and truly care about their jobs. Every guest feels welcomed, satisfied and is provided with an experience they will not forget till the very last bite.

So if you're looking for a warm and inviting place to gather over good conversations and delightful blends of food and drinks, Tango Neuvo is the place to be.

Where: 331 King St E, Kingston, ON K7L 3B5

Give 'em some love: www.tangonuevo.ca

Tango Nuevo Tapas & Wine Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato
Rosalyn Gambhir
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Local Brews Local Grooves at YGK Craft Beer Fest


Get ready folks - the craft suds will flow next month so it's time to get your shades on and your summer vibes going. Join the excitement at Fort Henry hill on Saturday, June 11th from 11am-7pm as we kick off Ontario Craft Beer Week with the annual YGK Craft Beer Fest. An event dedicated to the celebration and growth of the craft beer movement, discover a wide range of local microbreweries, nibble on delicious local food from Kingston's best restaurants situated in the heart of downtown and savour the sounds of live entertainment.

The festival flourishes in number with an astounding attendance of over 2,000 people last year. This is no surprise as the venue is filled with vast historic significance and bolsters a relaxed, yet cool vibe as we invite Kingston's vibrant and dynamic community to spend the day enjoying good music, beer and food with friends and family.

Local Brews Local Grooves at YGK Craft Beer Fest
{Barley Days Brewery - One of the many breweries who will be in attendance}

The one-day Craft Beer Fest is a pay-as-you-go affair with local favourites by the name of Mackinnon Brothers Brewing and Gananoque Brewing Company. Each brewery in attendance will be bringing old favourites, new innovations, exciting collaborations and more, with guests able to sample the most exciting and unique craft beers.

As our city's love affair with craft brews intensifies, our passion for local fare brings a whole new dimension to beer festivals. While the beer may take center stage, you're in for a delightful treat as downtown Kingston restaurants take the spotlight with gourmet offerings aplenty to line your beer-filled stomachs. Dianne's Fish Shack & Smokehouse, Harper's Burger Bar, The Grizzly Grill and The Merchant Tap House will be on site to satisfy your cravings with mouth-watering creations.

A celebration of beer, good vibes and good food, YGK Craft Beer Fest will also showcase a sweet lineup that will have you embrace your sense of musical nostalgia. With a mix of pop, rock ‘n roll and acoustic, you'll be grooving to the sounds of The Elwins, Rueben deGroot with Rocket Surgery, Sun K and The Dead South on the main stage.

Let's not forget the kiddos - this year brings several new additions to the festival with an exciting Rootbeer Fest for little ones and 4ft by 8ft colouring walls along side a variety of activities and surprises to be shared closer to the event. There's also a buzz going around that a new limited edition Fort Henry Tattoo Ale may potentially be released - so to celebrate Fort Henry is putting the word out to local tattoo artists to enter their beer label design contest for chance to have their work featured on a brew bottle and win $1000!

This is your chance to come together to have the best time possible while leaving your worries at the door. Savour the sights, smells, tastes and sips at this year's YGK Craft Beer Fest as you experience the past of Fort Henry and create memories for the future. Stay tuned as we share more details on the brewers, restaurants, lineup and tips for having a swell time.

Be sure to skip the line and save when you buy your tickets online for $15 or pay $18 at the door.

Don’t miss a beat to #ChillontheHill - follow Fort Henry on Twitter and Facebook to keep up to speed.

-xoxo
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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