It seems like only yesterday we were writing about what’s hot for the Labour Day long weekend, and now we find ourselves but a couple days shy of the Thanksgiving stretch. Of course, an extra day off is always cause for some added weekend notability…
On Friday night, stop by Fishbar for an Octo’Pussy Martini (we suggest it with gin) and some delicious deep fried smelt – be sure to squeeze on some lemon juice for added tang. Stick around this Ossington south spot until you’re ready to head over to the Great Hall a couple blocks away on Queen for the Big Cheese. Spend the night dancing to the fromagiest of pop – NKOTB, Kelly Clarkson, Ace of Base, and the like – and ring in the long weekend with a night of lost style.
On Saturday, head out to Brickworks or the St. Lawrence Market for some Fall harvest goodness from local farmers. You seriously won’t get a better haul than at this time of year. Spend the day catching up with your own Notables with brunch at L’Ouvrier Kitchenbar or Saving Grace on Dundas West, or hit up Chinatown and grab some pho at Pho Pasteur, or meet up on Church south of Bloor and grab a late lunch at Sugo. Spend the afternoon with some much needed R&R, then head out Saturday night to Harvest Moon at Maro, or Happy Thanksgeeving at This is London (with turkey sandwiches being doled out throughout the night), or Turkey Dump at C Lounge (supposedly named for those whose relationships dissolve prior to the holiday), or enjoy Thornbury Premium Cider at Courthouse.
On Thanksgiving, we obviously suggest spending the day with your family and friends. But, if you’re so inclined, why not grab a group and head over to the Thanksgiving Royal Brunch at Casa Loma. Seriously, we took a look at the spread, and this brunch will definitely be one of the best foodie events of the season. (Call 416-923-1171 Ext. 202 or 213 for reservations.)
Whether you opt for a big brunch out, stay in with your closest kin, or head to dinner at any number of the fine TO restos still open on the holiday, let’s face it, the only cure for the ensuing food coma from a bountiful feast is a night out on the town. Being that Monday is that extra helping of a day off, there’s a slew of Thanksgiving themed parties like the Brant House and Cobra’s Thanksgiving Block Party, or Crown Lounge’s Happy Thanksgiving, Stirling Room’s Last Call Thanks to All, Maison’s Give it to Me Old School Thanksgiving, or Embassy’s Recession Sunday Thanksgiving Edition. In other words, pick your favourite hotspot and do a quick Google. You’re almost guaranteed to find a “Thanksgiving” party to check out.