Bits by Ree

Perhaps because it’s more out of the way, smaller, and slightly less spectacular than the Mercato Centrale, the Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio is frequented mostly by genuine Florentines and their wannabe compatriots.

However, since it’s only a 15-20 minute walk from the Duomo, it can’t really be considered off-the-beaten track, and certainly such a convenient yet relatively uncrowded market deserves a gastronomic visit... More»

The Trattoria da Rocco, inside the Mercato Sant’ Ambrogio is one of the rare places in Florence where you will still hear more Italian than English at mealtime. Everyone eats lunch here, from the occasional bewildered tourist to businessmen to construction workers. It’s open for lunch, from about 11 to whenever they run out of food.

The market itself is wonderful and deserves a review of its own, so suffice it to say that the trattoria is the same size as the regular stalls in the market but it’s the one that looks more like a greenhouse. Don’t be concerned if you can’t find the door, there isn’t any. Simply open one of the windows/walls and slide into a booth and prepare for a cheap, simple, and simply good meal... More»

The plaster dust from recent renovations has finally settled at Holt Renfrew, arguably the finest department store in Montreal. The store is shinier than ever, and designer clothing and fine perfumes await your every glance. However, if like me your idea of a good time doesn’t usually include shopping, then you are in luck - Holt Renfrew is also home to unarguably some of the best in-store dining in the city. In fact, the basement Cafe Holt is a destination in itself, and not just for weary shoppers as I imagined.

Cafe Holt’s modern decor is accompanied by a thoroughly modern gourmet menu, which is in turn centered around a very traditional bread.... More»

Traditionally considered to be a classic “outing with the kids,” apple picking is fun for really big kids, too (I happen to fall into the second category). The perfect place is only a half hour drive from Montreal, right next to Oka Park (for those of you who are familiar with its pristine beaches).

Saint Joseph-du-Lac is a town completely devoted to planting, growing, cultivating, juicing, and baking apples. In short, everything to do with apples except picking them - that you have to do yourself... More»