If you were thinking that food festivals were going to become a scarce commodity with the onset of winter and less daylight, fret not! It seems like the gatherings based around libations and cuisines are here to stay, be it sunshine, rain, or, given this time of the year — snow.
Locals will be able to enjoy local art, music, food and drink while supporting the vibrant East Side communities at the Leslieville Food & Drink Festival. The event will take place from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Nov. 26 at 388 Carlaw Ave. in the eastern side of Toronto. Tickets cost $25 beforehand and $30 at the door. Each ticket includes one beer or caesar sample and children under the age of 19 enter for free.
Housed in 10,000 sq. ft. of industrial-chic space, the festival is Leslieville's way of coming together to create a great night for locals and Torontonians to enjoy and explore. As for the drinks and food, the winter menu prices will range from $4-$10 and drinks will cost between $2 and $10.
The dishes at the festival showcase the kind of diversity that Leslieville encompasses. From traditional mac and cheese and burgers to a cornucopia of sushi (hand rolls, maki, dragon rolls), as well as Thai food like khao soi chicken and spring rolls.
As for drinks, patrons can enjoy red and white wines at $1/oz, caesars, seasonal ciders, iced teas and coffees and locally-brewed craft beer.
This festival is not just about the food and drinks, as it also includes a local artisan market, an eclectic selection of DJs and live bands and a philanthropy tangent as well — $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to the local Michael Garron Hospital.
There is also an opportunity to learn more about the food from industry professionals in the form of educational workshops. There will be four different workshops for patrons to attend and learn from:
- Sushi-making class: hosted by Roll it this Way
- Cocktail-making class: hosted by Green owl Vodka
- Wine tasting and food pairing class: hosted by wine consul Ellen Lainez
- Oyster shucking class: hosted by Conner Marvin, former restaurateur and competitive oyster shucker.
So whether you're interested in learning about the vibrant and bustling community of Leslieville, sampling a variety of local food and drink, or just looking for a fun way of spending your Saturday, the Leslieville Food & Drink Festival is the place to be!
The event will take place from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Nov. 26 at 388 Carlaw Ave., unit 207. Tickets are available for $25 beforehand and $30 at the door on the day. For more information, visit the festival's website.
