Pulp Wars: A Citrus cooking showdown at Mildred’s Temple Kitchen

It all came down to citrus, $2,000 in prize money and gastro excellence on February 8, when three student chefs went head-to-head in the “Rising Chef Citrus Cook-off” competition at Mildred’s Temple Kitchen in Liberty Village. The showdown was part of the Winterlicious 2011 Culinary Event Series and presided by five Toronto-based foodie heavyweights: Christine Cushing (host of “Fearless in the Kitchen”), Anthony Walsh (Canoe’s executive chef), Ivana Raca (executive chef at McEwan), Anne Yarymowich (Frank @ the AGO’s executive chef) and Daniel Muia (chef and owner of Mogette Bistro).

Winterlicious 2010: Eat Like A King

While most people mark the start of the year by counting down until the ball drops, Toronto food lovers ring in the year by attending our city’s deliciously awesome food fest, Winterlicious. From January 29 to February 11, eateries of all kinds are serving up prix fixe  menus at discounted prices. Restaurants across the city are partaking in this, but we think the King West ‘hood is boasting a particularly stellar Winterlicious lineup. Learn a bit more about the restaurants that will help you ‘Eat like a King’ this year:

Big Daddy’s Crab Shack
Lunch $15 Dinner $25

Across from Roy Thompson Hall, this restaurant is famous for it’s seafood appetizers and platters. It’s decorated with a New Orleans flair that will cause you to wonder if you’re still in the city.

Conviction
Dinner $45

This restaurant is famous for having rehabilitated ex-convicts prepare the food and wait tables, in fact there was even a TV special done on this spot. The food here is amazing to say the least, but be sure to reserve early.

Crush Wine Bar
Lunch $20 Dinner$35

This wine bar may be famous for its vintage merlot and shiraz, but the real treat is in the culinary masterpieces. The food is created with a British flair that can be tasted in everything from the lamb to the beef wellington.

Fred’s Not Here
Lunch $20 Dinner $35

The dishes here are not to be missed as they are made from a variety of animals ranging from lamb to emu and ostrich.

Madeline’s
Dinner $45

This spot has something for everybody with steamy seafood, succulent meats and even fresh vegetable dishes.

Spice Route
Lunch $15 Dinner $25

This spot will have your mouth agape upon entering just with the decor. The Asian-inspired dishes will tantalize the tastebuds while the expansive bar will keep you there long after your meal.

Vertical Restaurant
Lunch $25 Dinner $45

Presentation is everything, and Vertical does it right by preparing its Mediterranean  foods in a way that’s not only appealing to the stomach, but also to the eyes. Be sure not to skip out on dessert, as some say it’s the best part of the meal.
Are you planning on celebrating Winterlicious this year? King West and beyond, we would love to hear about your Winterlicious experiences on OurFaves.

Enjoy!