With patio season still with us, what better place to have lunch than Kingston’s hopping waterfront scene? With so many great spots to choose from, it was difficult to narrow it down to one to review. Wooden Heads, located on the main waterfront dining strip, (Ontario street), offered one of the quintessential summertime patio delights – wood oven fired pizzas. Throw in comfortable chairs and excellent service, and this creates a winning combination as a top casual dining destination.
Besides pizza, they offer an eclectic offering of Caribbean, South East Asian and Italian dishes. Usually one’s a little suspicious of mixing too many cuisines in one kitchen. This restaurant seems to make it work because the flavour combinations are bold, complimentary and contemporary.
First came the Calamari Mumbai. This can be a tricky dish to execute as squid can become very rubbery if overcooked. This kitchen executed it perfectly with a well-seasoned and balanced tomato sauce spiked with Indian spices and lobster butter (yes lobster butter), providing a great backdrop for scooping up with the warm pita triangles. Definitely a great first choice to awaken the taste buds.
Other notable appetizers on my list for the next time – Satay Kai, grilled chicken skewers served with a coconut cashew lime and Thai cucumber sauces. Plus, the Lumpia Diavolo which are spring rolls stuffed with blackened chicken, feta and red cabbage, served with cambazola cream sauce and papaya habanero salsa.
The main star of this lunch was the pizza.
It’s a decent size for sharing or on its own for the hearty appetite. The pizza menu is split between tomato based foundations or other bases, described as “White, Green or in between”. The latter is what makes this pizza offering unique.
With over 25 plus combinations, it took a while to decide – but I ultimately selected the Nonna Mela with apple butter, roasted garlic, cheddar, onions and blackened chicken; a flavourful combination made even better with my addition of a few drops of Srircha hot chili sauce. The sweet and hot, combined with the charred crispy crust and chicken was a winning combo. Some other interesting toppings on the menu were sweet potato, mushroom veloute, chipotle salsa, smoked chicken and curried lobster veloute.
If pizza is not your fancy, they also offer a number of Italian influenced mains and salads.
Wooden Heads’ salad menu was refreshing with a few tasty combos. I went for the bold mixed Mushroom Salad featuring grilled smoked oyster mushrooms – the portions are a good size though for sharing. Attentive service gets a top rating, as do the comfy patio chairs and large umbrellas for shade. The patio is small, so get there early or enjoy a later lunch: it’s a busy spot.
And if you’re indecisive, take a look at their website before you go and cruise their extensive menu.
Cheers to casual waterfront dining al fresco this summer. #lunchKingston
Tattoos likely aren’t the first thing that come to mind when you think ‘Kingston’ – but the collective at the Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival are hoping to change that when the inaugural festival kicks off this month on the weekend of September 17.
Although, truthfully, the Kingston-tattoo connection shouldn’t be a surprising one; tattooing has long been a part of Kingston’s cultural landscape, with a vibrant community of tattoo enthusiasts, artisans, students and military personnel having revelled in tattoo culture for quite some time now.
I spoke with some of the creative forces behind the festival: Andrew Ottenhof, owner and sole artist at The Foundry Tattoo; Ashley Silversides, partner at The Foundry Tattoo and owner of Painted Lady Fitness; and Benjamin Campbell, Director of Business Development at Eikon Device (Canadian tattoo artists’ premiere choice for tattoo equipment and supplies) to chat about this year’s festival.
What was the motivation behind creating the festival?
Andrew: The motivation behind creating the festival was bringing the tattoo and art culture to Kingston, as it had never been seen before. Tattooing and the culture that surrounds it can often seem intimidating to anyone who is new to it, and we sought to present tattooing and the art of tattooing in a way that invited the most seasoned collector or timid first-timer into the fold. The Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival is presenting some of the best tattoo artists from across Canada and the United States, and is a platform to present the art and culture in a positive light. The festival also gives Kingstonians an opportunity to see and be tattooed by artists who may otherwise never make it to the city, in a family-oriented and friendly environment.
Owner and sole artist of The Foundry Tattoo, Andrew Ottenhoff. Photo by Adam Correia.
Ashley: The motivation for the festival was to bring a new and exciting experience to the Limestone City. Both my business partner and I wanted to create an experience that this city hadn’t yet had. We love this community, the history, the art and the people everything that makes Kingston great! Combined with our love for tattoo culture it just made sense. Partnering up with an incredible duo from Eikon Device (Benjamin and Laura) we had created an unstoppable collective that had a remarkable passion to bring the subculture of tattooing to the city.
Benjamin: The style and quality of tattooing has progressed exponentially in the last 5 or so years. Tattoos no longer represent the image of a community’s less desirable people; they’re now proudly worn by people of all walks of life. We see a growing number of people in Kingston walking the streets during the warmer months with great tattoos exposed proudly on their skin. We wanted to bring the culture and amazing art of tattoos to residents of Kingston and the surrounding area.
What makes Kingston an ideal location for the festival?
Andrew: Kingston is one of Canada’s most historic cities, and this event will hopefully bring heritage and progress together under the banner of art and culture. With the recent rise in popularity and social acceptance of tattooing and the tattoo culture, creating an event of this nature seems like an ideal way to present tattoo and art culture to a city that has always been a hub for creativity and new ideas. Kingston is a beautiful and thriving city, and deserves as a whole, to have tattooing and the culture presented in a manner that highlights the positive aspects of a once subversive medium and culture.
What can visitors expect?
Ashley: Outside of the awesome tattoos that will be created over the weekend, visitors can expect to see different types of art in our gallery exhibit from local artists and artists from the surrounding area. We will have a very interesting installation piece that will involve our visitors and artists, along with artwork being made in the gallery over the course of the weekend.
We are happy to call ourselves a family-friendly event that has activities for kids big and small. We will have a coloring station and coloring contests throughout the weekend for kids, along with a “Kids Tattoo Station” where you can have a stencil tattoo applied for kids or adults who just can’t make the commitment. We will also have a fun Punch Meter and a “Try Your Hand at Tattooing” area where you can put the machine in your hand and see what tattooing is like, not on a living canvas of course. All around we are quite excited to have tattoo artists, vendors, gallery artists and some acoustic entertainment happening at the festival.
Owner of Painted Lady Fitness, Ashley Silversides. Photo by Dylan Simpson.
There are 40 artists attending the festival this year from Canada, the US and beyond – what was the selection process like for choosing participants?
Ashley: The Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival is a little different then most conventions in that this is an invitation only show – to provide a platform of high quality artists who represent the different styles that have exploded in the industry, along with some legends of tattooing and offering a history lesson here and there. These artists were carefully curated by our festival collective to make sure that we were giving Kingston the best of the best and a taste of every art style. We are delighted to show Kingston all that this remarkable subculture has to offer.
Benjamin: Quality of artwork, diversity of styles and experience in the industry.
While the concept itself might surprise a few, what do you think attendees will find the most surprising about the festival?
Andrew: The Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival is an event that is geared towards bringing everyone, from all walks of life, together to celebrate and experience tattooing and tattoo culture. The festival has been promoted as an inclusive event, inviting everyone and anyone to participate, regardless of whether they have been involved in tattooing, or whether they are new to the art form and culture. The Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival aims to make people feel welcome to enjoy the event as a family, with friends or a community as a whole. Anyone is welcome, and will be received with open arms which may be contrary to the stereotype of tattooing being counter-culture and intimidating.
Benjamin:How open and welcoming the tattoo community is to those with no tattoos and no experience with tattoo culture. We welcome everyone in the community to come learn more about how tattoos are created, the people who apply tattoos and the people who wear their tattoos proudly every day – and the culture that has grown immensely over the past few years since tattoos made their debut on television.
Check out The Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival on September 17 and 18, downtown at the Four Points by Sheraton with a $15 day pass, or $25 weekend pass. For more information, visit limestonetattoofestival.com.
Click for full contest details, rules and regulations
September is shaping up to be a pretty exciting month in Kingston! With thirteen – count ’em – thirteen festivals, plenty excuses to get outside and enjoy the weather, a fall fair and much more – you’ll be keeping busy all month long. Check out the events below and start planning your Kingston getaway.
Back by popular demand and building on the success of last year – the MacLachlan Woodworking Museum is hosting its second annual Lumberjack Survival Summit in Kingston on September 17 and 18.
So, you might be wondering: What exactly is a Lumberjack Summit?
Glad you asked.
If you’re outdoorsy, adventurous, looking for a new experience, wanting to challenge yourself or just plain ol’ curious (and over the age of 19): this summit may very well be the one for you.
This two-day event was designed to test your abilities and hone your skills in a variety of lumbertivities – from camping and outdoor cooking to emergency medicine and woodworking (and many more). Not interested in learning about tools? No problem – participants get to create their own experience by choosing the lumbertivities that interest them most, like:
Nature Teas: Hike + Brew
Drink in the outdoors in the most literal sense as your guide takes you through the harvest, preparation, tasting and used of various nature teas like birch, cedar, wintergreen, chaga and Labrador tea.
Jam, or perhaps late pickle
As a lumberjack, a wannigan (kitchen boat) full of canned goods might be the only thing floating between you and scurvy – so join instructors in making a canned-spread full of flavour and vitamins.
First Peoples’ Cooking
Join your instructor as she shares her knowledge of traditional indigenous recipes cooked over the campfire, leaving room for the collective learnings and wisdom of this land’s First Peoples.
Brewing 101
Sure to be a popular lumbertivity, the experts from Mackinnon Brothers will lead you through a talk and lesson on brewing and show you how you might guarantee the safety, storage and deliciousness of your water supply for years to come.
Wilderness Medicine
There are plenty ways that the art of lumberjacking can turn deadly, which is why some of Queen’s University’s daring doctors will be on hand to teach you how to address some of the most common wilderness-related injuries with limited supplies.
Maps + Compass
Cell reception is virtually non-existent in the wilderness, so you can’t really rely on Google Maps to find your way home. Learn the ins and outs of Map and Compass navigation from the experts that goes beyond what you learned in boy scouts or girl guides.
“Can it hurt me?” Nature I.D. + Hike
Nature can be as deadly as it is beautiful – and if you’re not familiar with your surroundings, you can get real sick, real fast. Learn from the experts what to avoid out there in the wild so you can stay in good health.
Keeping Grandpa’s Axe
Learn what you can do to make sure your camp tools stay in good shape for a couple generations – proper storage, care, and minor repairs of your wood, leather and metal stuff will be covered.
Make a Camp Stool with a Hatchet
When you have a simple hatchet by your side, you have everything you need as a lumberjack. Join MacLachlan Woodworking Museum Curator Tom Riddolls as he teaches you to make a stool to sit on using just a hatchet and auger.
Fire Building
Think that a fire is a fire is a fire? Ha. Think again – some fires cook your food, some smoke your meat, and some save your life, while poorly built fires can endanger it. Join your instructor as he walks you through the appropriate log and fuel structures of fire building.
Straight Razor Shaving
Regardless of your gender, learn the fine art of straight razor shaving and never buy those undignified safety razors ever again.
Camp Music
Get introduced (or continue to practice) some of the staples of traditional French Canadian/Anglo-Celtic music the way they were meant to be learned: through the apprenticeship of a very talented folk-musician.
Plein Air Painting
Plein Air is French for ‘in full air’ and refers to the act of ‘taking it outside’, so join local artist Mathieu Poirier, in an outdoor oil canvas workshop that is destined to get you in touch with your artist.
Efficient Packing
Trail guides generally recommend that your backpack carry no more than 20 – 40% of your bodyweight, but modern standards of hygiene dictate that we find other ways to keep the weight of our luggage down. Learn how to pack smart for your trip and body while making savvy sacrifices.
Participants also have the option of camping onsite as part of the registration fee (which runs $120, and also includes 2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast and 1 snack), although are welcome to retreat to a more comfortable option if preferred.
And what would a Lumberjack Summit be without any challenges? Participants are encouraged to take part in the end-of-weekend festivities designed to test their mind and mettle for some pretty awesome individual prizes. Challenge your friends to a 2-person crosscut saw race, nail driving face-off, and of course – log rolling.
The rain stopped and the masses poured in for the second annual Mackinnon Brothers Brewing Festival, #BacktotheFarm! The Back to the Farm Festival has quickly become a hotspot for the best beer, food, and music – and a place to find some of Kingston’s fashion trendsetters.
Curating the perfect festival outfit can be tricky when you’re trying to balance a look of style and comfort. It’s even more difficult when there is conflicting weather changes. But even after a heavy rain, our fashionistas/fashionisters seamlessly embraced the rain and created stylish looks that highlighted summer’s best while introducing some of fall’s new looks.
Meet Kingston’s alternative pop singer Rae Corcoran of Needless Love Endorsement, as she rocks a simple British-inspired look for the stage. Rae’s white t-shirt dress from Kingston’s Agent 99 and her black rubbers are well complimented with her black nails, red lips and round shades. Let’s also not forget to take in that stylish blonde, blunt hairstyle that makes Rae’s look complete. Bonus points for rocking the ever-edgy “I don’t care” roots!
After a fantastic set by Needless Love Endorsement, I had the chance to photograph entrepreneur and co-owner Niki Hodgskiss of The Loft Girls Fashion Mobile Truck. Niki’s style always airs on the casual and industrial side. She keeps a simple look of ripped jeans and white top that allows the handmade wrap choker to be a statement piece by our local Vanderzee Jewelry.
Once inside the truck, I had the chance to talk to Sarah from Picton’s very own Acoustic Grill. She was delighted to start her fall shopping with a camel brown floppy hat to mix with her neutral tone fall collection while sipping on a tasty Red Fox by Mackinnon Brothers. If you get the chance, shop the pink truck, The Loft Girls, and get a sneak peek into the best fall fashion finds of 2016.
As late afternoon rolled in, so did the sun and hundreds of more festival-goers. I couldn’t help notice this young man’s simple yet cosmopolitan and urban flair, as he made his way through the excited crowd.
Michael has recently settled down in Kingston after years of travelling and working as a musician, artist and catering chef. Michael’s look was born out of functionality and style. Fortunately it was cool enough to premier this off-white Matinique fishermen knitted sweater, which pairs perfectly with Zaneroble drop-crotch camo pants.
Meet Ashley (above), Joana (left), Heather (right). If anyone perfectly captured the youthful energy that people often associate with music festivals, it was these lovely young women. I loved spending time chatting with these bohemian beauties as they danced around the festival grounds. Denim, shawls and colourful sundresses bring a late 60’s throwback look that is the perfect staple for any music festival.
Beards. They will never go out of style. They keep getting better every season. Eric takes home the best beard of the festival.
As the late August evening rolled in, you could feel the beginning of the fall breeze settle in as Busty and the Bass played into the night. Festival season may be coming to a close but it’s just the beginning of fall fashion looks!
I’m excited to see what the stylish Kingstonians will be pulling out of their closets for Fall 2016!
The festivals lineup this month has to be the most diverse I’ve seen in a couple of years in Kingston. Kicking off with a classic car show and ending with Kingston WritersFest, in between there’s a tattoo festival, Chilifest, lumberjack summit and sailing regatta. Here’s the lowdown on all that diversity and seven more festivals set to hit the city this month.
4th Annual Limestone City Car Classic
September 3, 8:00am – 4:00pm | Lake Ontario Park
Photo via Wai Kin Fong Flickr
A car show with over 300 classic and modified beauties on the shores of Lake Ontario. Started by Brian Beatty after melanoma took the life of his daughter Melonie, this all-day display is a charity event where all proceeds go to the Kingston Melanoma Cancer Clinic. Music, raffles and food vendors, too. Free admission for spectators. Car registration: $10.
Kingston Ribfest + Craft Beer Show
September 9 – 11 | Memorial Centre Park
A fest for those who appreciate the finer things in life, like barbequed ribs and chicken, great craft-brewed beer, live entertainment – all in the great atmosphere of Memorial Centre Park. Returning this year is the Family Fun Zone brought to you by Extreme Rush Adventures, featuring a climbing wall, inflatables and more. Free admission, but donations to the Partners in Mission Food Bank will be accepted at the gate. kingstonribandbeerfest.com
Celtic Kitchen Party
September 10, 1:00pm – 11:00pm | South Hill, Fort Henry
Photo via Sean McCann
A fest for those missing the Maritimes or just craving a little fish-and-chips and Irish jig. Nine bands of the Celtic persuasion will play overlooking Lake Ontario, including Next Generation Leahy, Breabach, The Mahones and Great Big Sea’s Séan McCann (pictured). Pair with British eats, Celtic artisan vendors, highland dancing workshops and more. $12 – $30. forthenry.com
Garrison Family Fun Fest
September 10 – 11 | CFB Kingston Base Gym
Photo via CFB Kingston
One evening and one full day of good times whatever your age. On Friday night, Canadian country music singer-songwriter Tim Hicks will take to the gym stage ($15), and then on Saturday take your pick from bouncy castles, a 22-foot slide, military exhibits, an obstacle course, food area, beer garden, Hockey Hall of Fame exhibit and more (free).
Kingston Multicultural Arts Festival
September 11 | Confederation Park
Photo via Kingston Immigration Partnership Facebook
Enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours from Africa and the Caribbean, China, Egypt, Japan, Korea, India, Ireland, Latin America, Mexico, Philippines, Poland and many other regions at Confederation Park. Local and out of town artists will be showcased at the main stage featuring world music and dance performances. Free. downtownkingston.ca
Kingston Dragonboat Festival
September 17 | Emma Martin Park
Image via Kingston Dragonboat Facebook Page
A thrilling festival for contestants and spectators alike, get out to Emma Martin Park to discover your inner dragon. Have fun, meet new friends and enjoy a team building healthy experience in the great outdoors while helping support your local charity – cap the day off with a huge barbecue to celebrate your participation. Free admission. kingstondbfestival.com
Limestone City Tattoo & Arts Festival
September 17 – 18 | Four Points by Sheraton
Photo via Limestone City Tattoo Festival
Open to the inked and non-inked, young and old, this first showcase of all things tattoo in Kingston will welcome 45 tattoo artists from as far away as Denmark. Get tattooed, browse or purchase artist prints and original artwork, pick out tattoo-related merch, or just take a wander and see how vibrant tattoo culture is in Kingston and around the world. $15/day. $25/weekend. limestonetattoofestival.com
Lumberjack Survival Summit
September 17 – 18 | MacLachlan Woodworking Museum
Dig out the plaid and suspenders, this crazy popular lumber-lovers weekend is back with 16 workshops (aka “lumbertivities”) to pick from. Taught by experts, each lumbertivity will help you brush up on camping, cooking, tools or woodworking skills. Camp overnight on museum grounds. $120 fee includes all workshops, camping and food. 19 + event. woodworkingmuseum.ca
Fare for Friends
September 18, 2:00pm – 6:00pm | Vimy Officers’ Mess
Photo via United Way KFLA
A garden party supporting the United Way on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Think tasty eats from the likes of Chez Piggy, Curry Original and 23 other restaurants; beer, wine and cocktails from Barley Days, Sandbanks Estate Winery and 18 others; and a silent auction featuring local potters, painters and jewellery makers. Live music, too. $160. unitedwaykfla.ca
CORK Fall Regatta
September 23 – 25 | Portsmouth Olympic Harbour
Photo via Queen’s University
The Canadian Olympic-training Regatta, Kingston (CORK) comes to a close for another season at this three-day sailing comp. Watch from the shore as 130 sailors compete in radials, lasers, optis, 29ers and 420s, and then find out who won at Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, where the 1976 Summer Olympic sailing events occurred. Free. cork.org
Chilifest
September 24, 12:00pm – 3:00pm | Confederation Park
Photo via Gwen Flickr
Think you have the tastiest chili around? Then serve it up at Confederation Park, where you’ll compete alongside others for the title of best family style, vegetarian, original or ethnic chili in the city. Just want to taste? Bring a bib, an empty belly and a discerning palate — you’ll need them to pick the People’s Choice Award. Proceeds go to Hospice Kingston. $6 – $12. chilifest.ca
September Fest
September 29, 6:00pm – 8:00pm | Hatter’s Cove Restaurant at the Seniors Centre
Photo via Justin da Silva
A culinary and craft beer adventure supporting the local Seniors Association and featuring head brewer Justin da Silva of Stone City Ales (pictured). Justin will guide you through the tasting of four brews and their ideal food pairings. The beer glass is yours to keep, and the limo ride home is complimentary for everyone. $35. seniorskingston.ca
Kingston WritersFest
September 28 – October 2 | Multiple locations
Photo via Chris Boland Flickr
Just when you thought this contemporary writers’ festival couldn’t get any better, it goes ahead and lands 75 writers in 2016 that include powerhouses David Mitchell (pictured), Lisa Moore, Emma Donoghue and Annie Proulx. They’ll all gather for readings, performances, onstage discussions and masterclasses ranging from “Writing a Bestseller” to “Writing the LGBTQ Voice.” Various prices. kingstonwritersfest.ca
After sitting down with local graphic designers Vincent Perez (Everlovin’ Press) and Benjamin Nelson (Benjamin Nelson Design), it’s easy to see why such talented individuals chose Kingston to grow their businesses. They are laid back, kind and warm artists who quickly feel like friends after a 30 minute chat; they embody the Kingston charm. Find out why these creatives call the Limestone City home.
Vincent Perez – Everlovin’ Press
Photo by Scott Adamson
I meet Vincent Perez at a Farm to Fashion Show hosted by Fete Events. He suggested this shindig as an alternative to coffee (Fete is a client of his) and it’s the perfect landscape for our interview – clinking wine glasses, loud chatter and all. The aesthetically pleasing space is fitting considering Perez’s work as a designer.
Originally from Kitchener, Waterloo, Perez came to Kingston to study – and like many – ended up falling in with the community, “I’ve certainly taken breaks from Kingston. I’ve studied in Halifax, but I came back here because I felt there was a lot of support here for me,” says Perez. Adding, “I don’t take it for granted that there’s something special about this city. I felt like it was very easy to integrate and get to know folks.”
Perez started his Letter Press business, Everlovin’ Press, in Kingston about 7 years ago but explains that his clients are not strictly local. “A lot of my work is for clients outside of Kingston, so Kingston is a base which provides affordable rent, a great location in terms of being in between larger cities, Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto – where a lot of my clients are located.”
So, why letterpress, you might ask? The medium is quite unique and very retro. Perez explains with a few reasons, “Printing has arrived at sort of this perfect grail that it’s always been pursuing, so digital offset printing is perfectly regular, wonderfully detailed – all of this stuff. And I think we’re used to that now and that’s great but I think there’s a bit of a backlash and we’re returning to something like an admiration for human error.”
He adds that besides the satisfaction he gets from following a project through from start to finish, he also enjoys the physical demand in a world where so many are sedentary, “It’s also really nice to just sort of sweat and at the end of the day be physically exhausted instead of just mentally exhausted. I didn’t have that in my life previously and I’ve seen that with colleagues, too, that were doing things that were computer driven and have turned to things that are hand done.”
I meet Benjamin Nelson at the Toucan for a pint and find him nestled in a corner booth with a special gift for me – a person he’s never met before – a bright orange and gold, chevronprinted journal. “Are you the sweetest person?” I ask in a surprised (very high-pitched) voice. “Not really,” he contests.
Nelson is not only a designer, he’s half of the band PS I Love You, and has travelled the world to places like Tokyo on tour, yet chooses Kingston as his base. “I think probably because I am very much a homebody. I like being home and I like being in a comfortable space. It was a good community and a good group of people that I was involved with in terms of music and art,” says Nelson. And he’s involved with a lot of artists in the community, including Perez and Julian of Ironclad.
Nelson also designs for Paper Bag Records which is something he always imagined himself doing, “When I was starting out doing posters when I was 23, in the back of my mind I knew I wanted to work for a record label and be the main designer and then last year I was like ‘you’re doing that now!’ and it felt kind of good.” Nelson prides himself on his ability to reference nostalgia in his work and emulate old design.
When he was young, he was most inspired by iconic 90s branding like the Ghostbusters and the Blue Jays, “the Blue Jays’ logo is the best logo with the best colour combination,” he says. Overall Nelson just loves what he does, “It’s rewarding when you can see something from the idea in your brain printed on paper and bound. Seeing it from beginning to end is extremely satisfying.”
Kingston is known for its many restaurants – and in the summer just about every downtown dining spot moves out onto the streets and back courtyards. After my first piece covering Kingston’s hidden patios, I gathered up another group of willing friends and family, and went on another patio tour – and I strongly encourage you to do the same!
Jack Astors
You can’t go patio hopping without making sure you make a stop at Kingston’s roof-top patio, overlooking Market Square. Beat the heat under the shady umbrellas and the super-convenient misters. Apply some sunscreen (note: it is NOT mayo) waiting for you on every table and take in the sights. With many brews on tap, including local MacKinnon Brothers served up in glasses with clever sayings – Jack Astors also features one of the meanest Ceaser’s I have ever tasted – plus and some delicious looking sandwiches and burgers. Website 330 King St East 613-549-1207
The DOX Restaurant & Lounge
For a waterfront town, one would think that there would be more patio real estate on the shores of Lake Ontario. Many come close, even within view of the lake, but The Dox is only one of two (Juniper Cafe is the other) that are actually lakeside. Strangely, the patio isn’t very busy, staff tell us that perhaps people don’t think to go here, as it is the hotel restaurant. Fine by us! We quickly secure a cozy nook of couches and order some drinks and a few baskets of delicious house-made kettle chips. The breeze off the lake cools us down as we watch the Island Belle dock and unload her passengers. We also learn that on Friday night, they feature live music, and get this: locals get a discount on summer lunch and dinner features! Website 2 Princess Street 613-549-8400
Margaritaville
We are talking about the patio of The Lonestar, not the Jimmy Buffet song! Stellar fajitas (great for sharing), free chips and fresh salsa (treat yourself to the queso), country music and wait staff with monikers like Stallion, Cactus & Dallas round out The Lonestar experience. Gather up a bunch of your besties (or the family) for a meal that you can be a little loud over. You won’t find a wide selection of beer on tap, “But there’s booze in the blender/And soon it will render/That frozen concoction that helps me hang on. Seriously, try their margarita. Better yet, the Rita Coronita. Afterwards, exit by the back and take a stroll along the waterfront. Website 251 Ontario Street 613-548-8888
Pan Chancho Bakery & Cafe
Pan Chancho features a lovely little back patio, completely fenced in from the bustle of downtown, and covered in umbrellas to protect you from the sun – where you can treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or weekend brunch. In the summer, they also host a Backyard BBQ & Band on Thursday evenings. My boys enjoyed a selection from the kids menu, while I had the Bahn Mi (which was a no-brainer, as I LOVE both spring rolls and Pan Chancho bread; this combination seemed like an obvious choice). After we ate, we went shopping in the bakery and took home a selection of cheese and bread and of course – giant cookies for the boys! Website 44 Princess St 613-544-7790
Since the almost completion of the Big Dig Three, a few new patios have popped up: The Copper Penny, Megalos, the new Crave Coffee House & Bakery and Stone City Ales have all moved their offerings street side. We have all recovered from our second round of patio tours, and we are by no means done! I would love to hear about your favourites – maybe we’ll meet under the sun!
King Street Sizzle Restaurant + Bar
Sometimes great restaurants in the city get overlooked – like King Street Sizzle, located downtown at 285 King Street (inside the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel), just steps away from the waterfront. Elegant yet unassuming, it’s the perfect spot for al fresco dining and enjoying Sizzle’s outstanding Mediterranean-inspired menu consisting of fresh-made selections using the finest organic ingredients Kingston has to offer. Great service and atmosphere are hallmarks here, as is value – you definitely get a lot of bang for your buck here.
I grew up in Toronto. Nowhere near the water. But lucky for me, someone introduced me to canoeing at a young age, and my love for being on and near the water was born.
I live on a road with three lakes. I work less than 1km from Kingston’s shores of Lake Ontario. And my job requires me to sometimes be on the water, and to help others experience water activities. Being a waterfront town, we are so fortunate to be able to get out onto the water from our lovely downtown! So, apply some sunblock, slip into some quick dry clothing and come and check out all the fun you can have exploring the Kingston waterfront!
Explore by Paddle: Kayak
Downtown Kingston is situated at the confluence of three great waters: Lake Ontario, The St. Lawrence River, and the Cataraqui River (which is the south end of the the Rideau Canal). You can walk the shoreline via the Waterfront Trail, but why not take in the views from the seat of a kayak instead?
At the inner harbour, at the mouth of the Cataraqui River, you will find Douglas Fluhrer Park – you can slip your kayak into the water here, or at the dock at the Kingston Marina. From here you can paddle up the Cataraqui River on the Rideau Canal towards Ottawa, or slip out under the causeway and paddle the shore of Point Frederick, the peninsula that RMC is housed on. Check out the view of Fort Henry from the water, and paddle up the St. Lawrence a bit and circumnavigate Cedar Island.
Need a kayak? Ahoy Rentals offers hourly kayak rentals, and Trailhead offers daily rentals!
Not ready to venture out on your own? Trailhead offers a 3 hour Discover Kayaking clinic, designed for the beginner, as well as their Paddle & Pint, a two hour evening tour of Kingston’s waterfront, followed by a pint at one of our many local pubs.
Explore by Paddle: Stand Up Paddling
Photo Credit: Rob Whelan
A relatively new paddling sport, Stand Up Paddling (SUP) has taken Kingston by storm.
You will see SUP’ers at beaches, in cottage country, as well as paddling out in the waves of Lake Ontario. SUP boards are light, easily transported and give you a completely different experience on the water than any other paddle sport. And the learning curve is pretty quick! Ahoy Rentals rents by the hour, and offers SUP yoga classes and early morning social paddles. At Trailhead you can rent by the day and take a board to explore the waters north of town, or take their 90 minute intro clinic.
Explore by Wind: Sailing
We’re a sailing town. We have a number of sailing schools, we host an international sailing regatta (CORK), and we are a destination for sailboats from around the world.
I am not a sailor. But, I did have the opportunity to go out for an hour long sail with Andrew from Ahoy Rentals earlier this summer, and it was pretty great! If you have experience, you can rent your own sailboat, but if you are like me and have no experience you can also book a charter. Offering anywhere from a one-hour to full-day charter (ranging from $110–$450 for up to 5 people), a 2-hour sunset tour, or a 3-hour picnic tour (catered by Pan Chancho) – you can design your own sailing experience!
My boys and I hopped aboard his 24 foot sailing sloop, the Cygnet, and followed the shore towards Cedar Island. The conditions were perfect that day, with other boats out and enjoying the wind. As we returned back to the dock, the kids camp at the Yacht Club were just heading out for their daily lessons.
This has been a hot summer! Take to the water to cool down…and see our magnificent waterfront from a different angle, by the power of wind, or by your own muscle. However you do it, you won’t be disappointed!
It’s history in the making: The Tragically Hip will be performing a once-in-a-lifetime concert in Kingston on August 20 to a sold out crowd at the K-Rock Centre.
Didn’t get tickets? Neither did we – it literally sold out in seconds.
But fear not – the show (which starts at 8:30pm ET) will be broadcast and streamed (commercial free!) on CBC Television, CBC Radio One, CBC Radio 2, cbcmusic.ca and CBC’s YouTube channels, and there are plenty of places in Kingston where you can experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Market Square
Kingston is celebrating The Tragically Hip’s final show with a live-stream concert in Springer Market Square. In partnership with the Downtown Kingston BIA!, Kingston Accommodation Partners and Kingston Police, the event will feature concert-quality audio visuals and screening designing to expand the capacity of the Square into surrounding streets. Fun fact: August 20 will officially be proclaimed ‘The Tragically Hip Day’.
“The Tragically Hip are an iconic Canadian band who have made tremendous contributions to our country and the Kingston community in particular, through their music and philanthropy,” Mayor Bryan Paterson said in a release. “We look forward to welcoming The Hip home and giving Kingston fans the opportunity to show their love and support of the band.”
216 Ontario Street
Kingston Brewing Company
Photo from Kingston Brewing Company’s Facebook page.
The Kingston Brewing Company is Ontario’s oldest brew pub, established in 1986, and is Canada’s oldest wine-producing pub. Beers, wines, ciders and soda pops are made on the premises and are the perfect accompaniment to Gord’s singing.
Food is pub standard, but with unique twists and beer used in many of the recipes. Show up early to grab a seat on the courtyard or street-front patios – they’re guaranteed to fill up fast.
The Iron Duke on Wellington in downtown Kingston is a great spot to catch the concert while enjoying delicious, fresh, local food in a friendly, welcoming environment. While you’re waiting for the show to start, enjoy one of their creative dinner specials or bask in the deliciousness of their Lager & Cheese Fondue, or Chicken Wings with Herb & Bacon Salt.
There’s a reason The Iron Duke is known in Kingston as The Food Lover’s Pub.
Local favourite Tir Nan Og will be streaming The Tragically Hip Concert live, and you’ll want to arrive there early to guarantee a spot. Dubbed ‘a place for everyone’, Tir Nan Og is a homey, old-fashioned Irish bar with cocktails, brews and elevated pub grub. Weekends feature live music and you’ll want to make your way back on Thursdays for their jam-packed karaoke nights.
Photo from The Merchant Tap House’s Facebook page.
Another local favourite is The Merchant, located right smack downtown (stumbling distance to Market Square!) on the waterfront, and set in a historic building that dates back to 1836.
While you’re there, take your pick of over 25 draught beers, a creative menu boasting pub favourites and classic specialities (like their Merchant’s Fish + Chips or 40 Creek Whiskey Burger). Their huge 150-person capacity patio overlooking the lake is the perfect spot to hear ‘Bobcaygeon’.
Located just along Princess Street is another viable option for catching the concert of your lifetime – The Toucan, Kingston’s local pub since 1986. This classic Irish pub with beautiful stone walls is always a great choice for trying out different draught beers or enjoying some standard pub fare – make your way over early on August 20th to secure your spot to see The Hip.
Last, but certainly not least is The Rose + Crown in the city’s West End – a traditional English pub known for their fish and chips. Enjoy the concert from their cozy patio while enjoying some imported favourites like Harp, Guinness or Stella, or indulge in some treats like their famous homemade rice pudding.
Get ready for another fun-filled month in Kingston, with plenty of special events, festivals, musical performances and much more to keep you busy while you’re in town. With several annual festivals, delicious food events, and a visit by some of the Canadian greats (to name a few) – there’s plenty to see and do in Limestone City in August. Without further ado (and in no particular order) – here’s the list!
Who says you have to break the bank to get some seriously good food around Kingston? Likely no student — or frugal foodie — who has downed a late-night slice at Bubba’s, spring rolls at Saigon Delights or sushi at Sima. Here are 10 options under $10 that have to be on your K-Town cheap eats list.
Since 1992 this much-loved Vietnamese restaurant has sold over 1.5 million of its spring rolls. Made daily from rice paper, they’re filled with a minced pork and shrimp mixture and deep fried until they have a perfectly bubbly-crunchy exterior that only slightly softens when dipped in Nuoc Mam, a light fish sauce.
The journey to this popular east-end seafood shop in a strip mall is well worth it for the fish and chips alone. Unlike some beer-battered fish “experts,” the exterior on these haddock pieces are crunchy all the way through. Inside, the fish is flaky and not overly cooked, while the fries are just as they should be — thick and golden with a slight crisp.
It’s no wonder SIMA Sushi is one of the busiest sushi restaurants in Kingston: you simply can’t find Japanese food this fresh, delicious, and affordable in town. The lunch menu has eight combo options under $10. We recommend the Spicy tuna roll featuring crispy tempura bits, cucumber, and beautiful tuna.
A few doors down from White Mountain, this gelato shop gives the Ontario Street ice cream haven a run for its money. There are almost 30 gelato flavours, six sorbettos and four yogurts to choose from; you can’t go wrong. All are made onsite with local ingredients whenever possible, and each is as thick and decadent as those found in your summer dreams.
Sometimes Old El Paso tacos just won’t do! If you are looking for the perfect taco, look no further than Baja Craft Kitchen. All single tacos are under $10 and with their 8 different flavors it’s sure to smother that craving! We recommend the Tinga de Pollo, which comes with mouthwatering chipotle tomato chicken, cilantro, queso fresco, and corn tortilla. They have a taco for everyone including tuna, mushroom, battered fish, chorizo, and brisket.
Samosas are a gift to this earth! Namaste is serving up flavourful Indian cuisine at a reasonable price, they are the perfect place to go if you are looking for the best bang for your buck. The samosas are crispy, soft, and full of flavour. This dish is perfect for wanting to feel full and satisfied! These are vegetarian samosas served on a bed of curried chickpeas with a trio of sauces. Who doesn’t love sauce options?!
If you have been in Kingston long enough, you know there is no poutine like Bubba’s. They don’t scrimp on the curd or the gravy. It’s the perfect late-night treat or for survival purposes the next day. Bubba’s is known for its hangover-curing magic! Not only can you get 4 different kinds of poutine, but you can also get burgers for under $10. Although the original poutine gets all the attention, we suggest trying this truly unique onion ring poutine. Hopefully, you don’t have plans after because a nap is more than likely required.
We can’t not have a burger on this list! There is no burger quite like the ones Otter Creek is serving up. They raise their own Angus Wayu cows, giving us a truly wonderful burger eating experience. The Lil Otter may be smaller in size, but it packs that beef and cheese flavour you are looking for in a burger. This 3 oz patty is served with your choice of topping and all the greasy love in the world. It’s the perfect size to fill you up without slowing you down.
Pan Chancho’s Deli is the place to go when you’re looking for something quick to grab for your lunch. Their earlier hours make it easy to stop in on your way to work to grab what you need. The Calabrese sandwich is what you want! This Italian sandwich is served on a beautiful fresh chewy calabrese bun with prosciutto, capocollo, genoa, calabrese, asiago cheese, drizzled with olive oil, roasted red peppers, olives, garlic, and capers. Not craving a sandwich? No worries their deli is filled with different salads and soups, we recommend trying the Dragon Noodles!
Pizza is such a personal food. There are so many topping options, crust thickness, and debates on how much sauce to use. Paradiso has you covered with a build your own 4 topping 9” pizza, you are totally in control! These pizzas are made fresh, which beats out the option of walking into a pizza parlor to grab a slice. This is made 100% for you by you. Some toppings to consider are; pepperoni, ham, black olives, green peppers, mushrooms, and pineapple, but it’s completely up to you!
How can we not offer one more option to this list? Sally’s is the perfect place to get some doubles for under $10. Made with delicious curried chickpeas between two pieces of roti, it’s extremely comforting. Two doubles will definitely be enough to fill you up for the night.
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