Mr. Greek at 1000 Finch Ave. West, Phone: 416-661-2300Opa! That seemed like the only fitting way to commence this review of a genuinely fine restaurant. I’ve dined there on several occasions such as birthdays and also for lunch. It has never disappointed.The wait staff are mature and respectful. There is parking out front (after paying you can ask for it to be validated by the concierge). The washroom facilities are always kept very neat, tidy, and clean. The décor is typical of Greece which gives the restaurant some excellent ambience.Most of the staff are up on current events so it’s wonderful to exchange a few convivial words before your meal and beverage orders are taken. The restaurant is very spacious and has an event space which can be used for wedding receptions or baby showers (for those with deep pockets), of other private affairs.Since I usually attend with a large contingent, we like to do some food exploration. For appetizers we order long platters of hummus, spanakopita, and Greek Kalamari. All the upturned corners of mouths and the licking of lips are positive proof that the appetizers all have a great desired effect.If you are counting your calories you can opt for authentic Greek salads, with feta cheese, black or green olives, all dressed down with Greek or Italian dressing. Um, um, good.When it comes to visiting an authentic Greek resto, souvlaki is a go to option. Take your pick: you have succulent chicken, delicious pork, or tasty lamb. To augment your protein, you have the choice of one: their famous salads, rice, or vegetables. I would suggest go the salad and rice! But, that’s just me.A dinner date at Mr. Greek typically won’t break the bank. It’s great for business lunches, to catch up with an old friend, meet up with a sibling, to while away the hours with your lover or spouse, or to capture the great nightlife Toronto is already famous for with great food and libations.Major credit cards are accepted and if you need to split the bill using debit or credit, no problem! For the sports enthusiast there are a few flat screen monitors located near the bar so you don’t miss the latest replay.It’s not exactly like being in Greece but it’s the closest you will get without having to pay the expensive airfare and enduring the long flight!
York University Farmers’ Market Offers Student’s a Yummy Alternative
Every Thursday from September - April, York University Food Services and Regenesis York holds a weekly farmers' market called the York University Market (YUM!). The goal of YUM! is not only to provide a healthy food option on campus, but also to reflect the cultural diversity of the students who attend York University.In the midst of fast food and cafeteria food options, the market provides a change of scenery and an alternative option. It is a space that expresses community, passion and dedication to sustainability, and place for great conversation on food matters.The vendors offer fresh produce, baked goods, and hot foods that come from local and sustainable sources. There are also vendors selling arts & crafts, some of them being York students from the Arts, Media, Performance and Design program.A farmers’ market at York University works with the university’s ongoing mission to becoming a more sustainable campus. It provides students the opportunity to engage and participate in local food matters, and understand their options when it comes to ethical purchases.This market was created by Regenesis York in 2013. Regenesis York is a grassroots environmental and social justice organization. Its mission is to empower students as initiators of change in addressing today’s social and environmental concerns. Regencies York creates and manages initiatives such as YUM! to provide services to the university community as well as providing quality leadership experience for students.YUM! is held every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. excluding holidays and reading week/co-curricular days. It is located in the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Building on the south side of campus.For more information, or to be a potential vendor at the market, contact them at yumarket@regenes.isYork Food Services: http://foodservices.info.yorku.ca/Twitter and Instagram: @yorkufoodRegenesis York: www.regenes.isTwitter: @RegenesisYorkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/yorkumarket/?fref=ts