Lately, I’ve been hearing a lot of praise about Nora Gray’s Southern Italian modern cooking and although this restaurant recommendation came from non-Italians who understand how good I have it at home, I always take the word of a fellow foodie.  The name Nora Gray doesn’t sound Italian to the ears and when you walk inside this chic and tiny restaurant with its dark-paneled walls and minimal decor, you almost forget what type of food they serve.

I started with a wonderful bubbly Prosecco sparkling wine while I studied the menu divided by Antipasti, Primi, and Secondi. I didn’t feel like having a green salad as an appetizer, so I went with comfort; a pork-stuffed cabbage roll laid in a thin layer of broth. The dish didn’t quite satisfy me in terms of flavor. There was lacking that punch here, perhaps due to the watered down broth or not enough seasoning. What came next, however, totally obliterated the last dish and awakened my palate. It was a generous portion of halibut with a perfect melange of oyster and mushroom savory to the last bite. The halibut was a perfect texture and was further complimented by the tasty mushroom sauce that almost kicked me off my seat. And I can tell you that I sampled some of my friend’s orecchiette pasta dish and it was pretty flawless as well.

Dear Readers, word of advice: do not skip out on an Italian dessert. You will regret it, especially at Nora Gray’s. Our choices included the Italian classic panna cotta, pine nut tart, and a funky layered cake topped with buttercream, each a hit at our table. It was hard to even share my cake with my friend as it was light, delicious, and had you wanting more!

Walking out of there, I can honestly say that I now have a unique and commendable Italian restaurant to propose to people who are looking for an authentic, affordable meal. Nora Gray doesn’t put up a front by selling overpriced cheap Italian food with a laughable recipe that you can cook up at home. It doesn’t aim to commercially appeal to clients with ostentatious Italian representation. It delivers passion and good food without seeming pretentious which makes this place worth telling my Mamma about.

Nora Gray
Phone: 514-419-6672
Open: Tues.-Sat. 6p.m. to 10p.m.
Website: noragray.com
Cards: Major cards
Price range: Antipasti: $9-$15; mains: $19-$40; desserts: $8

Bette Midler was the main reason for my recent visit to NYC. In her one-woman Broadway show, I’ll Eat You Last, Midler materializes as the late super Hollywood agent Sue Mengers from her comfy couch, accompanied by her favorite pastimes, smoking, drinking, and especially gossiping. Before the start of the show, the curtain displays a warning: “This play contains profanity, smoking, alcohol consumption, drug use and gossip” and she did not miss a beat. As fascinating as the play was, my eyes were sparkling for the highly-intelligent, divinely talented, Better Midler. However, there was also another mighty presence in the room, one row in front of me to be exact. This “twinkly” as Sue Mengers would say was none other than Sarah Jessica Parker in all her fabulousness. She was the source of my distraction and my near meltdown. If I’d say I ogled her throughout the entire time, it would be an understatement. I was transfixed on her profile; the elegant bun on her head, her radiant skin, the way she chewed her gum like a mad cow, the way she gracefully ate a stick of a Kit Kat chocolate bar, her bubbly laugh. Okay, I’m realizing that this is starting to sound a little creepy. On to the next star.

Just one door away from where Bette Midler was performing, Mr. Alec Baldwin was lighting up the stage playing in a Broadway show, Orphans. Despite his reputation for having a stormy personality, he so generously autographed for a fairly large circle of fans. Calm and unsmiling, his sensible manner was unanticipated and it was a hit with even the passive gapers like me.

Bette Midler looking like an unrecognizable grandma after her show.

Sarah Jessica Parker exiting the theater with Andy Cohen where Bette Midler performed her one-woman Broadway play.

Alec Baldwin taking the time to autograph after the drop of the curtain of his Broadway show.

Those same memories were revisited in witnessing a performance by performer and friend, Tranna Wintour (Anna Wintour’s lesser evil counterpart), who wrote and produced “I Am No Man” which debuted as part of The Home Theater Festival. The atmosphere was intimate and among friends, all waiting to get a glimpse at her first ever live production doing what she’s been preparing for all her life: to perform . The show captured the essence of creativity, art, passion, and the inherent quality of playfulness. Running a pop-cultured obsessed, ‘tranny on a budget’ fashion blog, this no-bullshit, outspoken diva had us moved and amused by her personal anecdotes on sex and bullying, motivational speeches about female empowerment, celebrity spoofing, and had us entertained with musical numbers dedicated to 70′s disco including a personalized song about losing her mind over Liza Minnelli to whom the show was paid homage. It was a tribute to all women including her muse, the Wicked Witch of the West, and a motivational wake-up call for us all to aspire to our most basic dreams.

Irresistibly, I was whisked away to a make-believe land of pretend, play, and happiness. It was a familiar enjoyment, a time that I had missed as I watched a friend transform into a spectacular apparition of fantasy and theatrics and simultaneously exuding confidence, humor, and heart. As the show concluded and an invisible curtain dropped, the audience’s explosive reaction revealed the beginning of a promising future in the footlights as Miss Tranna left us walking away feeling inspired and like a kid again.

Visit Tranna Wintour’s blog: http://trannawintour.blogspot.ca/

The Chateau is undoubtedly one of the most famous achievements of 18th century French art and a symbol of absolute monarchy. With three generations of kings and queens who lived there until the  monarchy’s demise during the French Revolution, the ever-evolving parks and gardens on the terrain impressed me more than all the gold throughout the palace with its cone-trimmed shrubs, quaint little bodies of water, gorgeous sculptures, and an utterly romantic and dreamlike feeling as you stroll through it all. The Grand Trianon, a one-storey palace on the site where Marie-Antoinette gave several performances, won me over with its pink marble and peaceful landscapes. Check out some of my favorite snapshots:

p.s: The shack is a beverage, ice-cream, and snack bar.

Park has an open kitchen, a fun feature that always brings forth behind-the-scene glimpses, with the master chef himself, Antonio Park present at the sushi bar. Trained at the Culinary Institute of Japan and in rare possession of a private fish import license, Chef Park adds an extraordinary imprint in Montreal’s list of Asian fine-dining.

Fresh and aesthetically exquisite is how I’d sum up my Park experience. The menu is divided by appetizers ranging from $9-$21 and main courses from $19-$49 and a lunch menu to boot. The food’s organic and homemade qualities adds privilege to its name. The sushi is the main attraction, but don’t overlook the meat on the menu because it’s just as delectable! The lamb chops topped with seared foie gras with a smear of cauliflower garnish was to die for.
The starter was a delicate presentation of crab salad laid on beets. Though nice and light, it opened up my appetite for more. So in came the gorgeous nigiri sushi platter boasting an array of fresh fish, beautifully garnished and glazed; admittedly, I wished it was accompanied with soy sauce. Dessert was surprisingly outstanding, Japanese-style tirimusu with citrus and green tea which left me simultaneously full and refreshed.

Former chef at Masa in New York City and Kaizen in Montreal to name a few, Chef Park has deservedly earned high acclaim. That said, I look forward to exploring more of Park’s seasonal menu upon my return.

Park Restaurant:
tel. (514) 750-7534
378 avenue Victoria
Westmount

http://www.chuckhughes.ca/

Belém

Rich in architecture, elaborate gardens, and majestic monuments stemming from the finest Gothic and Renaissance artistry, this western suburb was once the main spot where ships anchored and sailed to overseas expeditions.   Be awed by Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a massive monastery complex built in 1460 to provide spiritual comfort to sailors, its carved stonework is a mix of Gothic, and Renaissance style. Approaching the waterfront in this historical neighborhood stands the modern Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries) erected in 1960 and which celebrates Portuguese national  triumph inspired by 15th and 16th century explorations. Walking by the waterfront, Portugal’s national landmark comes into sight, the Belém Tower, nestled in the water. This 16th century four storey edifice is a composite of towers, turrets, and battlements. Be careful, however, as the stairs up the tower are steep and narrow.

Transportation to Belém is very accessible with various city bus routes, a rail station, and even with one of the city’s oldest means of public transport, the tram.

Baixa

The downtown commercial district of Baixa was rebuilt and entirely changed following the 1755 earthquake to make for a grid of ordered streets easily accessible by an excellent underground subway system. Old-fashioned boutiques and modern international chains line the streets along with busy cafes and restaurants. I can gladly say that my time in this area was mainly spent on shopping, eating traditional Portuguese pastries with coffee, and walking leisurely. Some of the best gift finds and souvenirs are purchased here. The pedestrian-only street called Rua Augusta connects to Rossio square and the riverside Praça do Comércio boasting a scenic open space of the waterfront.

Chiado

A thriving square of aesthetic proportion, Chiado is known to have been basked in the presence of 19th century artists, poets, and writers. A 1988 fire damaged much of the area’s historical buildings, but the reconstruction of the district kept true to the original structures. Today, Chiado charms visitors with its luxury shops, fine old cafés, and beautifully restored facades, maintaining its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. I visited Chiado on my first day in Lisbon and shared coffee and pastries with my two friends who have Portuguese backgrounds. It was then that I witnessed the first of several typical quarrels between a tourist and a European: the waiter had shortchanged my friend. Waiters often take the liberty to remove money from your change for their tip without the tourist realizing.

Bairro Alto

I was terribly confused as to how to access this bohemian little neighborhood that stands high above the city until I noticed a tram that provides lifts from Chiado and Baixa districts. Once up there, the streets are cobbled and narrow, but the city view is a stunner! The area is distinctively unique in appearance and lifestyle; the old and narrow sloping roadways, lanes and building walls have a medieval sense, and its residents are young and vibrant. Bairro Alto or Upper Town is considered as one of Lisbon’s liveliest and distinctive quarters. I paid a visit to the 16th century Church of São Roque which is nothing special from the outside, but makes quite an impression upon entrance. The interior is lavishly adorned with riches and extravagant pieces of gold, gilt, marble, mosaics and more. I was lucky to find the interior of the church mostly empty which gave me more time to admire the spectacle of wealth.

Alfama

Honestly, I did not explore much of Lisbon’s oldest part of the city. Alfama’s labyrinth of steep and narrow streets is a challenge on foot. It has shops, restaurants and bars overlooking the city and beautiful churches. My main interest in this area was discovering the castle on the hill. Castelo de São Jorge dates back to the medieval period of Portuguese history. Touring the ancient fortress is actually a peaceful and serene experience as you walk on winding pathways around and inside the open-air castle, encountering shady resting areas and free-ranging peacocks. Transportation to Alfama is by tram (unless you’re part of a tour bus) which makes for an interesting ride up the hill.
Happy travels!

During my 2-hour ride on a voyager bus getting the hell out of my unforeseen predicament in Naples and in to Molise, I spotted from a distance a magnificent, Gothic cathedral nestled on a towering mountain. Any architectural structure in its original Gothic state is a masterpiece that must be observed up close.

Upon my arrival to the town of Bojano in the region of Molise in Southern Italy and my final destination, I was met with my several cousins, aunt, and uncle who promised to take me to see the Santuario Maria Santissima Addolorata di Castelpetroso.

In translation, the Sanctuary of Sorrows of the Blessed Mary is situated in the municipality of Castelpetroso in the province of Isernia, a one hour drive from where my family resides. My wonderful cousin Erica had whisked me into her car and began to narrate the legend behind this enchanting build as we headed to Mount Patalecchia on which the sanctuary rests.

The Story

It was March 22, 1888, Fabiana Cicchino and Serafina Valentino, two peasant women of the area, were about to retire from the fields after a hard day’s work to gather their flock of sheep and return home. It was then that they noticed the sheep were missing. As they searched for the herd, Fabiana stumbled upon a ravine where she witnessed a bright light whose rays formed the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary and at her feet lay her dead son.

They shared their story of the celestial apparition upon their return home, but few believed them. A few days later, the apparition appeared again to the two peasants in the same place. This time, more people began to believe and they went to the shrine to bask in the privilege of seeing the Apparition. The image was described as the Blessed Virgin Mary on her knees with outstretched arms, her heart pierced by seven swords, eyes turned to Heaven and Christ lying dead beneath her. The Bishop of Bojano at the time, Bishop Francesco Palmieri Macarone, traveled to Isernia to witness Our Lady of Sorrows.

The Apparition came with another phenomenon; the body of water at the foot of the mountain bestowed miracles. Soon, believers from neighboring regions and countries came in masses to behold and experience the extraordinary events and the fountain of miracles.

The Sanctuary

Today, Isernia is the symbol of devotion to the Blessed Virgin. Surrounded by greenery, stands the sanctuary designed by Francesco Gualandi of Bologna. It’s completely carved in stone whose construction began in 1890, yet its consecration took place in 1975. The layout symbolizes a heart with seven chapels at its center representing the seven sorrows of Mary, the seven swords piercing her heart. A striking feature inside is the 54 meter high dome, illuminating the seven chapels. The open space and the profusion of natural lighting are prominent characteristics of the Cathedral that creates a mystical air. However, it was the exterior of the cathedral that fascinated me more. Hand-built, neo-Gothic style, and projecting an eerie appearance, especially at night, and not to mention it’s settled on a mountaintop, had a hold on me at first sight from the voyager bus. That trance was only magnified at close proximity as I ran my hands along its ancient stones.

Well…here’s another:

After exactly a year, I revisited Le Bremner, Hughes’ second and most current fine-dining resto/bar set in a basement locale in the charming district of Old Montreal near the Bonsecours Market and identified by only the name “Restaurant”. Where you’ll find revelry, trendiness, and a hipster-like environment at Garde Manger restaurant, Hughes cleverly created a contrasting effect at Le Bremner, highlighting its rustic, dim, cozy, and intimate characteristics that also reflect the spirit of the food.

Hughes himself was present that night and visibly hard at work in an open portion of the kitchen. I couldn’t help wonder if he had manually worked on our food!

Changes were made to the menu upon my second visit that is now short and simple, always seafood-centric and includes a section of dishes that can be shared with your company.

First let me say that one of the things that stays ingrained in your memory about Bremner are the homemade cocktails and beverages. Do not skip out on this grand savor!! The special cocktail of the day will depend on what’s in season. In my case, the apple cider cocktail mixed with Jameson, ginger, cinnamon, and a slew of other ingredients that made this drink fantastic and a popular order at my large table!

The main dish of cabbage roll presented sushi-style gorged with seasoned pork, scallop, and shrimp was fantastic, heartwarming, and delectable. The crunchiness of the cabbage was further complimented by the soft combination and textures of the pork and seafood within the roll.

The half lobster was another winner accompanied with Québec wild mushrooms and veal sauce. Just like our waitress promised, this sophisticated meal tickled the senses and makes you wish it was a whole lobster instead. And then, of course, came the sweet part. As much as the fried chocolate Mars bar is Garde Manger’s famous dessert, so are the homemade doughnuts at Bremner. This time, the 5 sugar-coated doughnuts were filled with spicy light chocolate, lemon, and blueberry. They can be gobbled in one single bite and warm your heart in a second.

I couldn’t resist choosing the S’mores garnished with velvety chocolate and a mild addition of orange, very sweet to the palate but equally as gratifying. Whether it’s Garde Manger or Bremner, I’m already thinking about my next gourmet experience at either place hoping that I’ll get to catch Chuck on break to express my gratitude.

*Note that reservations are made a month in advance.

Le Bremner restaurant information:
361 St. Paul St. E. (near Bonsecours St.), Old Montreal
www.crownsalts.com/lebremner/
Phone: 1-514-544-0446
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 6 p.m. to closing
Price: Savory dishes $9-$40; desserts $8-$12.
Payment: Cash, Credit Cards