You will hear me write this over and over but it truly is one of my most favorite aspects of getting out to the markets and that is meeting the folks behind the stalls and hearing their stories on how they got their start and why they enjoy what they do best. I recently toured the new farmers’ market at the Distillery District…the Sunday Market and what a nice addition to the Distillery District!
Make it a to do on your list this summer from now until September 28th. A special thanks to a few folks…firstly, our lovely tour guide Audrey Ooi from Tasty Tours who hosted my very first sweet tasting tour this past Father’s Day weekend. You have got to do this at least one if not all of their delectable tours;) We were also greeted by the Distillery’s very own Candace Shaw who gave us a bit of background on the start of the market and what criteria they work with when making their vendor selections. Our first stop was with Adam and Blythe from Spade and Spoon who allowed us to sample their fine maple syrups, and jarred preserves. I now know feel a bit more enlightened about the different shades of syrup and their best attributes and have a new appreciation for ketchup, tried their Hot’n Spicy version and what better timing to discover than during bbq season. Next stop in was with Shane from Haute Goat who shared his story on how he and his wife combined their two passions to become what was meant to be. Find out why you will be glad that they did! I’ll give you a clue, think goat’s milk. Lastly but not least, we were introduced to Karen McKenna from Hi Honey whose passion for bees and their honey of a cause is not afraid to take a stand when it matters most. Did not realize how much variety honey had to offer. Karen also showed us how versatile honey is for cooking by allowing us to sample her delicious Rhubarb Compote. Read this interesting article which Karen penned for edible Toronto.
Toronto has many fantastic tour companies that will help you get up close and personal and show you the hidden gems behind some of our cities amazing markets. (yes and still made it to my dad’s on time–thanks Audrey;). I was 20 minutes late for my father’s big day but the saving grace was the Whiskey Chocolate Cake exclusively made by Jill Lawrence at the Canadian Whiskey Cake Company (also known for her Apple Crumble Company)that I brought back with me–I owe you one Jill!
Off To The Market 