November 1, 2014: Settling in!

Well, it's been about two weeks since the move to Toronto and I'm pleased to report we have more or less settled in.  We've met quite a few very nice people in that short time - also, a number of weirdoes.  But I suppose that's to be expected. Toronto is a bigger city.  Also, unlike Vancouver,…

August 25, 2012: The Perfect Meal! Cos & Effect Kicks Off!

Last night, I had THE perfect meal.  And, by "perfect", I mean perfect for me.  And no wonder given that my dinner was planned and prepared by Chef Rob Belcham.  No one knows my culinary likes and dislikes, leanings and particulars better than Rob and the gang from Campagnolo/Campagnolo Roma/Fat Dragon. Fellow owner Tom Doughty…

March 14, 2012: A farewell to Refuel! I rundown my Top 16 Most Memorable Meals!

Well, this is sad: Refuel closes; Top Chef Canada contestant takes over space.  Refuel, formerly Fuel, one of my favorite Vancouver dining destinations is closing its doors.  Owners Tom Doughty and Rob Belcham will no doubt remain as busy as ever what with two of their other restaurants, Campagnolo and Campagnolo Roma, doing brisk business and…

April 15, 2009: Kerry Fires the Opening Salvo, Smooth Sailing on the Atlantis Script, and the Mailbag

As I mentioned in yesterday’s blog entry, my fellow co-worker, Kerry McDowall, and I have a little wager heading into the NHL playoffs. She, being the Canucks-obsessed fanatic that she is - has the Vancouver Canucks while I’m going with my hometown Habs, the Montreal Canadians. Whoever’s team advances furthest into the playoffs will be…

November 17, 2008: Chef Belcham at the Plate! Spinning Stargate: Universe Day #5! The Mailbag!

Faced with the prospect of a Tokyo culinary tour comprised of fatty toro, well-marbled kobe, and sinfully decadent desserts, I elected to put myself on a diet and exercise regimen. I wake up, do either a cardio or weight training work-out, have a protein shake for breakfast, a hearty salad for lunch, a protein bar…

September 28, 2008: Fuel’s Chef Rob Belcham Fills Us In On Kitchen Tats, His Iron Chef Dream Battle, and What He’s Cooking the Queen of England

Whenever I peruse the menu at a local restaurant, I’m usually thinking: “What would I like to eat?”. On the other hand, whenever I peruse a restaurant menu in some other city, I’m usually thinking: “What would I like to eat?” and “When’s the next time I’ll be back here?”. In my mind, there’s nothing…