glass monkey’s ukrainian night, twilight picnic at u of a gardens, restaurant openings, plus: where to find violet chocolate

glass monkey’s ukrainian night is tomorrow

Wednesday is the regular night for The Glass Monkey’s Ukrainian Feast, but since it’s Canada Day, they moved it to Thursday. The popular curbside take-out dish has house-made pork and garlic sausage, pyrohy; kartoplyanyky (potato croquette); holubtsy (cabbage rolls;) nalysnyky (cottage cheese crepes); perizhky (cheese buns) and cole slaw. Feeds two generously, $62. Email rob@theglassmonkey.ca to order.

The Glass Monkey’s Ukrainian Feast

a new way to enjoy summer nights

Imagine wandering around a beautiful garden at dusk, with the scent of evening blooms, the sounds of nature in the background and laughter nearby, but not close, at least six feet away. Now, imagine popping the cork and delving into a deluxe picnic. Liking this picture? It’s the Twilight Picnic Experience, at the University of Alberta Botanic Gardens. Each picnic for two is designed around what is deliciously in season from several local farmers and purveyors (La Boule, the Italian Centre, Meuwly’s, Steve & Dan’s and the Happy Camel, for example). There is also a good wine and beer list curated by Sherbrooke Liquor. You can add-on (caviar, smoked salmon, foie gras), personalize your box with flowers or a card, or, have it set up in advance for the total surprize package. Love this clever and delicious way to enjoy the Gardens. Visit here for all the info and to book, $125+box.

The Aga Kahn Garden at night. Photo courtesy University of Alberta Botanic Garden
The Aga Kahn Garden at night.
Photo courtesy University of Alberta Botanic Garden

open for dine in

The Marc, RGE RD, XIX (both locations), Pampa (all locations) and the Butternut Tree are now open. Cibo Bistro is opening July 6 as is Workshop Eatery; Biera on July 7. All offer special take-out menus as well. Woodshed Burgers, including their new location at 2307 Ellwood Drive SW opens July 2. Kitchen by Brad is now taking bookings of up to 16 people. Slowly, we get back to the new normal. Stay tuned for future openings throughout the summer.

Restaurant reopenings

violet online is good, yes?

The Violet Chocolate Company will not be at the farmers’ markets this summer. But, you can find stores carrying the delicious bars, or shop online, here. The official Summer Collection launches July 6.

Violet chocolate

happy canada day

Rainy Canada Day? Make chili! Not just any old chili—space chili!