# Culinary Escapes in Toronto: A Food Enthusiast’s Retreat

When it pertains to gastronomy, Toronto is a destination that consistently exceeds expectations. Recently, Mike and I opted to commemorate our anniversary with a brief escape to this lively city, excited to immerse ourselves in its eclectic food scene. With the allure of smooth udon, exquisite sushi, and mouthwatering Italian cuisine, we embarked on a culinary expedition that promised to delight our palates.

## Takja BBQ House

Our initial destination was **Takja BBQ House**, a stylish and contemporary Korean BBQ establishment. The atmosphere was welcoming, featuring an exceptional ventilation system that maintained a fresh environment despite the grilling taking place at every table. Takja focuses on dry-aged meats and fresh seafood, paired with an assortment of banchan (side dishes) and house-fermented sauces.

We chose the **Hansang**, a banquet that highlighted some of their finest selections. The crispy seafood pancake, juicy pork shoulder, and tender kalbi were standout features of the dinner. The banchan paired beautifully with the meats, and we concluded our meal on a delightful note with a strawberry matcha bingsoo. This venue is essential for anyone in search of a genuine Korean BBQ experience.

**Location:** [Takja BBQ House](https://www.takja.ca)
962 College St, Toronto, ON
Tues-Sun 5-10pm

## Giulietta

Next, we explored **Giulietta**, a delightful Italian eatery that serves as the charming younger sibling to the Michelin-starred Osteria Giulia. With a relaxed ambiance, Giulietta presents a menu brimming with homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas.

We savored calamari fritti, tonnarelli cacio e pepe, and a tasty mushroom pizza, concluding with a classic tiramisu. The vibe was vibrant, filled with guests dressed in a range of styles from formal to casual, creating an ideal atmosphere for an enjoyable evening out.

**Location:** [Giulietta](https://giu.ca)
972 College St, Toronto, ON
Mon-Wed 5-10pm, Thur-Sat 5-11pm, Sun 5-9:30pm

## Sushi Yugen

As sushi lovers, we had to visit **Sushi Yugen**, a place that provides a genuine omakase experience. The simple decor and intimate environment created the perfect setting for dining.

We were amazed by the creative kaiseki-inspired dishes and the sushi’s quality. The rice, seasoned with a distinctive blend of akazu red vinegar, was outstanding, and the seasonal fish was fresh and flavorful. Highlights included the kohada and nodoguro, making this among the finest omakase experiences we’ve encountered in North America.

**Location:** [Sushi Yugen](https://sushiyugen.ca)
150 York St, Toronto, ON
Mon-Tues 11:30am-3pm, 5:45pm-10:30pm, Wed-Sat 11:30am-3pm, 5:45pm-11pm

## General Public

**General Public**, established by acclaimed restaurateur Jen Agg, presents an eccentric mix of English pub and American brasserie cuisine. The diverse decor, featuring 80s-style glass blocks and plush seating, creates an unforgettable dining atmosphere.

We relished classic fare like thick-cut fries, Yorkshire puddings, and cheeseburgers. The mood was laid-back, making it an ideal location for a relaxed lunch. Mike particularly enjoyed the double-barrel shotgun martini, while I delighted in the creamy butterscotch pudding.

**Location:** [General Public](https://www.generalpublic.ca)
201 Geary Ave, Toronto, ON
Everyday 11am-11pm

## Gateau Ghost

For dessert, we headed to **Gateau Ghost**, a cafe celebrated for its scrumptious madeleines and whimsical ghost-themed decor. The madeleines, influenced by owner Jayden Park’s Korean background, were fluffy and flavorful.

We also sampled the GG’s Caesar, enhanced with hoisin and gochujang, which provided a unique twist to the traditional drink. The cafe’s aesthetic and delicious treats made it a memorable stop on our culinary adventure.

**Location:** [Gateau Ghost](http://gateaughost.com)
974 College St, Toronto, ON
Tues-Wed 7am-7pm, Thurs 7am-10pm, Fri-Sat 7am-11pm, Sun 7am-9pm

## Raku Toronto

A trip to Toronto wouldn’t be complete without savoring udon at **Raku**, known for its smooth noodles and authentic Japanese flavors. The restaurant’s clean and welcoming atmosphere provided a delightful dining experience.

We sampled the chikara udon with mochi and chicken, and the gyunan with Canadian beef. While the noodles

It’s a classic!
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# Salt and Pepper Shrimp: A Crisp and Light Treat

Indulge in these crisp and light Salt and Pepper Shrimp, a dish that harmonizes flavor and freshness beautifully. This recipe includes fresh shrimp that are gently breaded and sautéed with a variety of diced vegetables, making it a perfect option for seafood enthusiasts looking for a satisfying yet nutritious meal.

## Introduction

This salt and pepper shrimp recipe is not just light and fresh but also guaranteed to fulfill your seafood desires. The shrimp are encrusted in a fine layer of cornstarch and seasoning, then cooked flawlessly. Mixed with a vibrant assortment of diced vegetables, this dish is a visual and flavorful delight. Serving it on white rice creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

## Recipe Ingredients

– **Jalapeno**: Introduces a touch of heat to the recipe.
– **Cornstarch**: Offers a light and crispy covering for the shrimp.

For a complete list of ingredients and their quantities, please consult the recipe card below.

## How to Prepare Salt and Pepper Shrimp

### Step 1
Dry the shrimp using a paper towel and sprinkle them with ½ teaspoon of garlic salt.

### Step 2
Place the shrimp in a bowl with cornstarch and set them aside.

### Step 3
In a wok heated on high, add vegetable oil. Once the oil reaches 375 degrees Fahrenheit, introduce the first batch of shrimp, ensuring the pot isn’t overcrowded.

### Step 4
Fry the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side, then remove and place on a plate. Continue the process until all shrimp turn a lovely golden brown.

### Step 5
After cooking the shrimp, switch off the heat, keep 1 teaspoon of the oil, and discard the rest.

### Step 6
Clean the wok, turn the heat to low, and add the reserved oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.

### Step 7
Incorporate the onion, bell pepper, jalapenos, and white parts of the green onions into the pan and sauté for 1 minute.

### Step 8
Then, add the shrimp, half of the seasoning, and chives. Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated and well-mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

### Step 9
Lastly, serve and savor!

## FAQs

**Is it necessary to use vegetable oil for this Salt and Pepper Shrimp?**
No, you may opt for canola oil, corn oil, or any preferred deep-frying oil.

## Storage Guidelines

Any remaining salt and pepper shrimp can be kept in an airtight container in your refrigerator for 2-3 days. Freezing is not advisable as it may make the shrimp coating soggy.

To warm up, use your oven or air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes, or reheat in a skillet over medium-high heat until heated through.

## Conclusion

Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a delightful meal that melds the freshness of shrimp with the lively tastes of vegetables. Ideal for a light dinner or a special event, this recipe is bound to impress. Enjoy it over white rice for a wholesome meal, and be sure to check out more shrimp recipes for further culinary inspiration!

They’re just $7!
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### Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread: An Irresistibly Tasty Temptation

Chocolate zucchini bread presents a delightful blend of tastes, merging the deep flavor of chocolate with the gentle moisture from zucchini. This recipe not only caters to your cravings for sweets but also cleverly incorporates a portion of vegetables, rendering it a guilt-free pleasure. The narrative surrounding this recipe is as enchanting as the bread itself, grounded in personal stories and culinary adventures.

#### The Backstory

The path to mastering chocolate zucchini bread is linked to the author’s personal experiences, commemorating significant events like a 20th wedding anniversary. The author amusingly recounts how their passion for cooking blossomed from a blog focused on dating and life in New York City. This recipe stands as proof of the author’s husband’s encouragement to include chocolate in various dishes, a successful mission that has pleased many.

#### The Recipe

This double chocolate zucchini bread is an impressive, fudgy loaf that tips the scales at 2.5 pounds, considerably heftier than most traditional recipes. It boasts a crunchy crust and is filled with nearly a pound of grated zucchini, which remains unnoticed by the taste buds. The outcome is a moist, decadent bread that could easily be mistaken for a brownie.

**Ingredients:**

– 2 cups (13 ounces or 370 grams) grated, packed zucchini (not wrung out)
– 2 large eggs
– 2/3 cup (160 ml) neutral oil, olive oil, or melted unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (95 grams) packed dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional)
– 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 1/3 cups (180 grams) all-purpose flour
– 2/3 cup (55 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 1/3 cup (8 ounces or 170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips (divided)
– 2 tablespoons (25 grams) raw or turbinado sugar

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 6-cup or 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two long sides with parchment paper for easier release.

2. In a substantial bowl, mix the grated zucchini, oil, eggs, sugars, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until thoroughly blended.

3. Add the cinnamon (if using), baking soda, and baking powder to the batter and mix until well combined. For added assurance, stir the mix an extra ten times.

4. If your cocoa powder has lumps, sift it over the batter. Incorporate the flour and mix until just combined. Set aside 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips and fold the remaining chips into the batter.

5. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, leveling the top. Top with the reserved chocolate chips and raw sugar.

6. Bake for 1 hour 20 to 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should not come out clean due to the fudginess, but it shouldn’t appear like raw batter either.

7. Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan to achieve the best texture. To serve, gently lift it from the pan and slice.

**Storage:**

This zucchini bread can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, though it is safe at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. For the best texture, it should be stored cold, with the top exposed to preserve its crunchiness.

#### Conclusion

This double chocolate zucchini bread represents more than just a recipe; it’s a tribute to love, family, and the pleasure of cooking. Whether you prepare it for a special event or simply for enjoyment at home, it is sure to be a favorite among all who taste it. The fusion of chocolate and zucchini offers a distinctive dessert that is bound to become a staple in your baking collection.