Where will I Eat and Drink?

Last night, I enjoyed a pint with some great friends. They were asking me about this challenge: When will it start? What will I eat?  

I am meeting with Meghan on Dec. 2 to go over the Official program. Until then, I’m trying to eat up some of the products that will be no-nos, such as my refined pasta, flour and white rice.  

As for what/where I will be eating, it suddenly occurred to me that while I can sustain the new diet with store-bought groceries and home-cooked meals, I have no idea where I will socialize with my friends.  

If I don’t find a good local pub soon, this will be a very lonely challenge! 

I started doing  a bit of research today about restaurants and bars in Toronto that serve local and/or organic foods.  Thanks to Tongue & Cheek, I came up with a short list: 

• Fresh  A fresh juice bar and natural food choices in a warm and relaxed setting.  
  3 locations: 326 Bloor St., (416) 531-2635 894, Queen St. West, (416) 913-2720, 147 Spadina Rd. (416) 599-4442
• Rebel House Ontario micro-brews and some food from local sources in a casual bar setting. 1068 Yonge St.  (416) 927-0704 
• Tinto Coffee House  A taste of Latin America with local and organic ingredients, minus the coffee beans. 89 Roncesvalles Avenue ( 416) 530-5885 
• Camros Organic Eatery  Persian inspired cuisine that takes advantage of local and organic ingredients while offering biodegradeable takeout containers. 25 Hayden St. (416) 960-0723
• Guerrilla Gourmet  Maria is behind the Guerilla Gourmet and offers local and organic meals in her home. Previously the locations were undisclosed, but food is now the major focus with brunch, lunch and dinner offered. (647) 831-3377 
• Splendido Bar & Grill known for their commitment to creating dishes that are fresh, interesting and constantly evolving. 99 Harbord St. (416) 929-7788
• Niagara Street Cafe   French, mediterranean bistro. Fine dining in a cosy and
  relaxed setting. 169 Niagara St., (416) 703-4222
• Commensal  Casual dining, but excellent vegetarian food.The buffets also
  offer vegan,ovo and lacto dishes. 655 Bay St. (416) 596-9364 

Do you have any suggestions?  I know there are some fantastic restaurants like
Jamie Kennedy Wine Bar, but I also need a place that’s not too expensive where my
friends and I can enjoy a drink and a casual meal. 

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