A New Croc World

We all know the Croc. The big plastic shoe with holes that come in a variety of loud colours. Most of us look at those shoes and say we wouldn't be caught dead in them. Who cares how comfortable and good they are for our feet. They are ugly and represent a certain "hippie" theme to them.

During a recent trip to the B.Lo (Buffalo, NY) we found ourselves in a random "cheap" shoe store. I came across a fabric walking beach shoe. I figure I'd give them a try...and whaddya know they were right! Light as hell, comfortable and feel great on the feet. They also look great. I have been officially converted. I even bought the same shoe in a different colour.

I took it a step further and bought a pair of non slip work shoes too. There is a lot to be said about happy feet at work. I'm constantly on my feet all day and compared to my previous work shoes with orthopedic insoles in them these are heaven. Both pairs of shoes were under $90 but unfortunately they are only available in the States.

I grew up in a Nike world. I've rarely owned anything else. I even own two pairs of Cole Haans (with Nike Air tech in them) for dressy occasions. I love rocking a Nike Air bubble with my dress pants. My first real kicks were the Air Jordan V. I haven't worn a different brand since BUT I love my Crocs and are so happy they finally started making shoes that look good. I haven't worn another pair of shoes since..

Now I need to figure out how to get Nike and Croc to make a show together. I can only dream...

Artisano Bakery and Cafe North York, ON

Artisano Bakery and Cafe has just opened on York Mills and Don Mills area. The first of many restaurants built in a brand new complex which will attract many people to the area north of the Don Mills center. The cafe holds about 110 seats, a variety of couches, high table tops and 4 top seating tables. Free Wi Fi and one flat screen TV on CP24. The Menu consist of a small variety of freshly baked bread, pastries, pastas, salads, pizzas and gelato. A very limited sandwich style breakfast is also offered. The prices are comparable to a Starbucks for the cafe menu and about $10 for entrees.

During my first two visits to the newly opened store I enjoyed both meals. The 10"  chicken, brie and goat cheese pizza was very good. The Agnolotti, although sauced incorrectly with a blush meat sauce tasty and the danish and cinnamon rolls were very fresh.

My first impressions of the operation was "if they ever get their act together this place will be great to go to". Artisano has a great concept here. An Italian bakery and cafe where you can go no matter what time of the day to just hang out and eat good food with bottomless coffee. A few key details need to addressed before their grand opening. A manager presence for the staff. No one really knows what they are doing in the cafe and cash area. I had to walk back and forth from cash to bakery because the place has an odd flow to it. Normally when you walk into a brand new establishment you notice they are overstaffed and over greeted, this was not the case. Direction is needed to allow the guest to understand the flow. I ordered a coffee and was given an empty cup? ok? where's the coffee? It was located on the far left wall beside the gelato opposite side of the pick up window and the cashier. On my second visit we were disappointed that the cinnamon bun that we ate previously was not in stock. Having gone there specifically for that in the early afternoon was definite let down.

I still look forward to visiting this cafe in the future and trying more of the menu.

www.artisanobakery.com

Mexican Food in North York, ON

Mexican Lindo ( Bayview South of Eglinton)
Living in Toronto Mexican food is one of the rare cuisines that you can find. South of Eglinton on Bayview a little restaurant Mexican Lindo resides. The place has been previously occupied by two other Mexican restaurants.
Right away you can tell it's a "ma and pa" "hole in wall" joint. About a 40 seat capacity with 10 seats on the cramp patio. The atmosphere is tacky. Imagine every piece of anything Mexican, now imagine all those pieces hung up on the wall, hanging from the ceiling and pinned to the doors. Typical Mexican "stuff" everywhere!

Initially the first odor that hits you is the restroom downstairs. The distinct smell of urinal pucks and bathroom fragrance. As you head to be seated you notice the Mexican Mother and Son and Daughter in the kitchen. A comforting sight. The menu isn't anything spectacular but the basics are covered.

The guacamole was  freshly made and served in the mortar and pestle set with freshly fried nacho chips and a homemade hot sauce for dipping too. Nacho refills were complimentary and freshly fried to order as well. The margarita was freshly made with an old school blender and was perfect! We ordered the tacos. Tacos are served on corn tortillas (my favorite) with re-fried beans, Mexican style rice and salad. The beef or chicken is sauteed with Spanish onions. The food was very good and hit the spot for my Mexican craving. The food felt like I went to someones house in Mexico and they cooked it for dinner. The final bill wasn't cheap but not unreasonable. ( 1 beer, 1 margarita , guacamole app, 2 taco dinners = $45 incl HST)

Although the atmosphere and ambiance leaves nothing to desire....at all. The food (as long as it stays fresh and made to order) will always have me coming back for more.

***24 hours later...All good  : p

Can't wait to go back.