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Event Reviews

Mingling/Dinner at the Squire
Sat, Mar 23, 2024
The mix and mingle and dinner at the Squire was a great success. 13 people attended; 7 women and 6 men. The complimentary hors d'oeuvres were snapped up in minutes and very well received. Dinner choices and specials on the board were great. Portions were ample with many taking home "doggie" bags.

Many thanks to Ada for hosting this event.
Cheri W.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Mar 21, 2024
Such a nice thing to do – having lunch together on a weekday with a group of ladies from our UK Connexion. Our host a gracious lady Mary V. welcomed us all along with 9 other ladies. While enjoying a variety of menus there was a lot of chatting, discussion and laughter. Despite the rather chilly weather (winter has not forgotten us!) some of the group arrived from nearby and others on the TTC. The Rose and Crown is just north of Eglinton and so easy to get to.

We had an enjoyable fun time together and a big thank you to Mary V. for arranging - until next time!
Mary B.

Dinner at Gatherings Restobar
Sat, Mar 9, 2024
Mingling/Dinner at Granite Brewery
Sun, Mar 3, 2024
Jazz at the Smokeshow BBQ & Brew
Sun, Mar 3, 2024
Mingling/Dinner at the Squire
Sun, Feb 25, 2024
Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's
Sat, Feb 24, 2024
Bull & Firkin
Fri, Feb 23, 2024
Bull & Firkin 1 Click on image for Slideshow
Less is more as they say and though only four of us sat down to dinner at The Bull & Firkin on Friday February 23, it was a pleasant evening. The conversations, as usual, ranged from vacation destinations, upcoming UKC events, current affairs and general chit-chat. The staff is always cheery and efficient, and the "pub grub" is good comfort food. They serve a variety of beers and wines and prices are reasonable.

Hope you'll join us in March!
Christine Q.

Toronto City Opera, Susannah
Thu, Feb 22, 2024
Susannah 1 Click on image for Slideshow
Marilyn, Maria and Susan joined Beverly at the Victory Café for dinner before the Toronto City Opera production of Susannah on Thursday, February 22. Then a short walk to the Al Green Theatre for a pre-performance opera chat where Musicologist, Margaret Cormier discussed the background and history of the opera written by Carlisle Floyd during the 1950s McCarthy era in the USA. Everyone enjoyed the talk and the opera commenting on the high energy of the performance and the talented singers.

"Great to attend a social and cultural event!" After the show, some of the group headed to the Madison Avenue Pub for an opening night cast party.

Hope to see you at the next one!
Beverly G.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Feb 15, 2024
Even a snowstorm couldn't deter UKC'ers from attending another fun lunch hosted by Mary at the Rose and Crown, near Yonge and Eglinton. All 10 attendees thoroughly enjoyed the "eat, drink and be merry" atmosphere, including an unexpected reunion by two hiking friends! Mary shared a toast to the table about the importance of getting out and socializing and that's what the UKC is all about!

Hope to see you at the next one!
Pat M.

Colossus Restaurant
Sat, Feb 10, 2024
Colossus 1 Click on image for Slideshow
Saturday lunch on February 10 at Colossus Restaurant on Lakeshore was hosted by Jana and Oli. Thank you for welcoming me there, it was a pleasure meeting everyone and learning about the group, as well as enjoying being with other Brits for a change.

The food was delicious and our waiter accommodated us with separate bills (not normally done for a larger group)!
Christine C.

Considering the pop-up nature of the February 10 lunch at the Colossus Greek Taverna in Port Credit, we were happy to have 8 attendees. All had a good time, and enjoyed the food as there was a great variety of healthy dishes. Oli suggested a walk down to the Adamson Estate afterwards, but we only had three takers in spite of my suggesting that some might like to take a refreshing dip in the lake! Perhaps when the weather warms up!

All in all, the experiment was a success, and we are looking forward to other suggestions for venues in the Mississauga area.
Jana S.

Dinner/Mingling at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Feb 4, 2024
Seven UK members attended The Granite Brewery on Sunday, February 4. We were fortunate that their Winterlicious menu was available at a reasonable price. Most of us ordered from the Winterlicious menu that featured items such as grilled lamb shank and pickerel along with a good choice for appetizers and desserts. We all enjoyed our meals and friendly conversation. As usual, the service provided by Owen was excellent.

Thank you, Maureen, for another great event!
Ron K.

Play, Village Players Theatre
Sun, Jan 28, 2024
Seven UKC members were heartily entertained by the Village Players on January 28 at the wonderful production "Social Security". The play was hilarious and witty and the cast performed brilliantly. After the play most of us, including one member on his first outing with the UKC, enjoyed coffee and treats at Bread & Roses, a favourite stop nearby from years past for our post-theatre refreshments.

A very enjoyable afternoon out!
Vanessa J.

Drinks/Conversation/Dinner at the Bull & Firkin
Fri, Jan 26, 2024
Although only a group of five UKC members gathered at The Bull & Firkin on Friday January 26, lively conversation ensued on a variety of topics. Each of us chose a different item from the menu. The meals are always good, with specials on food and drink each day. We had excellent service led by Alex, and our meal was graciously served by the kitchen staff.

Hopefully as the weather improves, we will see more members out and about.
Christine Q.

Dinner Mingling at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Jan 7, 2024
2024 got off to a great start with another good event on January 7 at The Granite Brewery hosted by Maureen. Ron and seven of UKC's finest ladies enjoyed another night of good food and great conversation. Again, the service provided by Owen was outstanding and, to celebrate the New Year, he and his chef treated all of us to another free dessert that was enjoyed by all. I encourage everyone to come out.

Thank you Maureen for hosting another great event!
Ron K.

Dinner Bull & Firkin
Tue, Dec 19, 2023
Bull And Firki 2 Click on image for Slideshow
Eat your hearts out guys! On Tuesday, December 19, I (Ron) enjoyed the company of ten of UKC’s finest ladies all to myself. Include was a new member – Cathy. There was plenty of genial conversation including what everyone was planning for Christmas. As usual, the food and service was great, with a variety of meals being chosen by the ladies.

Thank you Christine for hosting the event and we look forward to many more in 2024.
Ron K.

Lunch at the Rose & Crown
Thu, Dec 14, 2023
Rose & Crown 2 Click on image for Slideshow
Seven ladies joined our Hostess Mary for lunch at The Rose and Crown on December 14. Usually this is a fairly quiet place for lunch, but a Canadian Tire Christmas Party in the main area – 150 people – so it was definitely very festive. We all enjoyed a good lunch and a chat with out lovely Hostess making sure we all were taken care of and had what we needed. Later we were serenaded with Christmas Carols from the party next door.

Many thanks to Mary V. for arranging such an enjoyable lunch.
Marilyn G.

Dinner at Budapest Restaurant
Tue, Dec 12, 2023
Dinner/Mingling Granite Brewery
Sun, Dec 3, 2023
Granite Brewery 8 Click on image for Slideshow
On December 3, Trevor, Ron and six lovely ladies were treated to a very special evening at The Granite Brewery. We enjoyed the usual excellent service, good food and genial conversation. Since it was our last gathering at The Granite prior to Christmas, Owen and Oscar prepared a special dessert that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Thank you Maureen for hosting the event and we look forward to many more splendid events at The Granite Brewery in 2024.
Ron K.

Christmas Carol Concert
Sat, Dec 2, 2023
On Saturday December 2, four UKC members got together to listen to a carol concert at Yorkminster Park Baptist Church. The concert benefitted the Daily Bread Food Bank. People were able to give a monetary donation at collection time as well as being encouraged to bring along one or two canned goods for the food drive. It was very well-attended, with marvelous singing, music and commentary. And our group sang their hearts out - as did most of the congregation.

Thank-you, Maureen C., for hosting this event. The concert will be televised on Christmas Eve and Christmas Night courtesy of City TV at 11 pm.
Christine Q.

Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's Tavern
Sat, Nov 18, 2023
Mingling/Dinner at the Bier Markt
Sun, Nov 12, 2023
Dinner at the Budapest Restaurant
Tue, Nov 7, 2023
Drinks & Dinner at the Bull & Firkin
Fri, Oct 27, 2023
Bull and Firkin Click on image for Slideshow
At the Bull & Firkin hosted by Christine on October 27, eight members attended and our table was overlooked by a very large Halloween ogre hanging from the ceiling. After receiving our beverage order we ordered from the variety of pub food offered. As usual conversation ranged over many subjects which makes these UKC gatherings so interesting. It was lovely to see Anice again after so many weeks away. By the end of the night we agreed to disagree on many of the subjects and left well fed and relaxed.

Thanks Christine for organizing the evening.
Rosemary P.

Golf Fun Day & Dinner at London Gate Pub
Sat, Oct 21, 2023
Golf Fun Day 6 Click on image for Slideshow
It was a great golfing fun day on Saturday October 21st as 7 UKC golfers played their final game for the season at Scarlett Woods. The golf course was fairly dry despite all the rain previous day and some trees were exhibiting brilliant orange and red colour. At the 3rd Hole, UKC golfer hit from the tee off and as the ball landed a cat leaped from the nearby bushes after the ball but was quickly disappointed and retreated realizing it was not chewable/edible. The golfers completed their full round of golf before convening in the club house to tally scores. determine prize winners and enjoy some refreshments. Bob achieved an awesome score of 87 - good going Bob! Congratulations to John for the longest drive and Dorothy for closest to the pin! Many thanks to Ross for donating sleeves of golf balls to UKC for prizes - greatly appreciated!

Afterwards some golfers and additional UKC members indulged in refreshments and dinner at the London Gate Pub. All enjoyed their savoury favourites - Cajun Chicken Caesar Wrap, Bangers & Mash, Jambalaya Pasta and Cobb Salad while engaging in lively conversation and laughter before departing for home.
Jo-ann D.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Oct 19, 2023
A group of seven ladies met for a late lunch on October 19 at The Rose and Crown, a popular pub close to Yonge and Eglinton. Our gracious hostess Mary greeted everyone as they arrived and we settled in for a drink before ordering lunch. There was lots to choose from on the menu, plus some tasty sounding specials.

It was a very enjoyable lunch with lots of chat and we hope to do this again soon.
Marilyn G.

Smokeshow BBQ & Brew
Sun, Oct 15, 2023
Granite Brewery 6 Click on image for Slideshow
Dinner at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Oct 15, 2023
Granite Brewery 6 Click on image for Slideshow
On a crisp October evening, October 15, we joined our exuberant host Maureen in the snug at The Granite Brewery and Tied House once again. As well as each others company, we enjoyed the delicious and varied food offerings accompanied by the Granite beers or wines of our choice.
Our super friendly waiter Tinna brought us everything from crab cakes and soup of the day to lamb curries, burgers and fries, breaded fish and salad and veggie gluten free pasta. One meal arrived a bit late (new chef apparently) and as a result we were given a number of desserts to share – just happened to be a delicious chocolate mousse cake topped unnecessarily with both chocolate sauce and real whipped cream. As a family run Brewery, the Granite is always very welcoming and offers free parking on a lower level – amazing for the area.

Cheers until next time!
Brenda W.

Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's Tavern
Sat, Oct 14, 2023
Grossman's Tavern 4 Click on image for Slideshow
ROM Walk in Queen's Park
Sun, Oct 8, 2023
ROM Walk Click on image for Slideshow
On a blustery fall day, October 8, three brave and appropriately dressed UKC members met some ROM volunteers for a tour of some 11 monuments around Queen’s Park. Of note was a statue of Dr Bethune in the U of T grounds and the Canadian Volunteer Memorial in remembrance of the Fenian Rebellion in Canada. Though the weather was challenging, we learned about many interesting historical events in Canada.

At the end of the walk we made our way to the Aroma Espresso Bar on Bay and Bloor for some hot beverages and a snack to fortify us for the trip home.
Filomena D.

Mingling/Dinner, Squire Pub Restaurant
Sun, Sep 24, 2023
Squire Pub 4 Click on image for Slideshow
Golf Fun Day and London Gate Pub Dinner
Sat, Sep 23, 2023
Golf Fun Day 5 Click on image for Slideshow
On a beautiful, warm and sunny first official day of Autumn, seven UKC members set out to play golf at Scarlett Woods on Saturday September 23. The group was met by a gaggle of geese at the third and seventeenth hole but this did not deter the golfers from completing all 18 holes. Afterwards, the group gathered in the clubhouse for refreshments and tally of scores before departing.

Some of the golfers and additional UKC members gathered at London Gate Pub for dinner afterwards. As always the service and food was awesome. Good conversation and camaraderie was enjoyed by all before the group concluded the evening.
Jo-ann D.

The Granite Brewery
Sun, Sep 17, 2023
Granite Brewery 7 Click on image for Slideshow
The Rose and Crown
Thu, Sep 7, 2023
The Rose and Crown 1 Click on image for Slideshow
On Thursday, September 7, twelve members, all women, joined co-hosts Mary V. and Christine Q. at The Rose and Crown to mingle and have dinner. This is a new venue for us, a comfortable British style pub and we sat in a lovely room at the back, big enough for a smallish party. We didn't actually mingle this time but found seats and got comfortable. There was an interesting menu of mostly popular pub food which was plentiful and in my case very tasty.

It was a very enjoyable evening and my thanks go to our co-hosts Mary and Christine with the hope we can all gather again soon at The Rose and Crown.
Marilyn G.

Scrabble and Dinner
Sat, Sep 2, 2023
UKC members gathered at Jackie's on Saturday, September 2 for a lovely chicken dinner with salads and corn, delicious desserts and some lively games of Scrabble. Lots of chatter and fun as newer members got to meet (and match wits!) with some longer-term members. Jackie is a wonderful host, making sure everyone had a good time.

I'm sure I'm not the only one looking forward to the next Scrabble night!
Sue P.

Dinner/Mingling, The Granite Brewery
Sun, Aug 20, 2023
Granite Brewery 5 Click on image for Slideshow
It was steamy and smoky outside on August 20 but delightfully cool inside the Granite Brewery as thirteen of us joined the always gracious Maureen to enjoy the great menu and the exuberant company. We welcomed two new members to the table this time which always adds some fun elements to the conversation.

The feature menu was interesting and ranged from falafel and tzatziki appetizer to Creamy Risotto with veg topped with grilled hot Italian sausage, Chicken Tikka Masala and Steak and Shrimp among others with a summery lemon meringue pie for dessert. The regular menu has great appetizers (Crispy Calamari, Buffalo Cauliflower) and includes a range of salads, burgers, wraps and interesting mains (Lamb Curry is always popular with our group or how about a Peculiar Meatloaf?). As a family run brewery the Granite beers are wonderful, among them Peculiar (“malty and full flavoured”), Ringwood (“blonde and crisp”) and Ringberry (“fruited with raspberry”). And wines and ciders available as well.

Cheers until next time!
Brenda W.

Danny Marks, Smokeshow
Sun, Aug 20, 2023
Snokeshow 1 Click on image for Slideshow
Danny Marks is a guitarist and songwriter, born in Toronto, who in 1966 became a founder member of the group Edward Bear that had hits with songs including "You, Me and Mexico", "Last Song" and "Close Your Eyes". The UKC had the pleasure of seeing him at the Smokeshow last Sunday, August 20. Danny always gives a great show with lots of jokes, fun and above all fantastic guitar playing of many songs that we all knew and could sing along to. Great for dancing and "shakin' our booties" to his great guitar beat. Not for the faint of heart but all of the UKC attendees were up on the dance floor at least once!

Thank you, Marilyn, for organising such a fun time with Danny Marks. Let's hope we can fit it in again in the near future!!
Maureen D.

Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's Tavern
Sat, Aug 19, 2023
Grossmans Tavern 3 Click on image for Slideshow
Golf Fun Day
Thu, Aug 17, 2023
Golf Fun Day 4 Click on image for Slideshow
A group of 7 UKC members hit the links at Scarlett Woods on August 17th for a fun and casual golf game. It was a very warm, humid, sunny day and a periodic breeze wisped through the trees to cool us down providing motivation to keep playing hard. The one-hole score of the day goes to Bob who parred the 308-yard 18th hole; he was on the green with only two strokes!

Afterwards, the group enjoyed refreshments in the club house and tallied scores before departing for the day.
Jo-ann D.

Beaches Walk/Dinner - Wed, Aug 2, 2023
Beaches Walk Click on image for Slideshow
Six ladies led by Elaine met on this gorgeous afternoon for a leisurely stroll in the Beaches. The weather was perfect: light breezes, no humidity and full sunshine! The wide boardwalk is in terrific condition, some sunbathers were on the beach and several boats were enjoying the smooth water of Lake Ontario. It's hard to accept that this body of water is not actually the ocean! Elaine then led us up a picturesque street to reach Queen St, where interesting and quaint shops beckoned.

We wrapped up our outing with a meal on a shady patio, with lively conversation ...thanks again to Elaine for organizing this event.

Our picture covers the historic lifeguard station, an original structure first erected in 1920.
Jackie B.

Mingling/Dinner at the Squire - Sun, Jul 23, 2023
The Squire Click on image for Slideshow
As a new member to the UK Connexion, it was my pleasure to attend the pub night at the Squire on Sunday July 23. The weather was inclement that day, and there was a Severe Weather Alert on my phone with predictions of Doom and Gloom, so I wondered if I should attend, and if the event would be cancelled. However, at the last minute the weather warning went away and in fact the event was very well attended, as you can see from this picture. (A few people had left before the picture was taken.) Judging from the merriment at the table, I would say that everyone had a great time! I certainly did. All the members are extremely kind and welcoming to this new member, and I found that not only do the members have a UK connection, many have connections in other parts of the world, which led to some very interesting conversations!

To sum up, I would say that "A Jolly Good Time was had by All!"
Jana S.

Dinner/Mingling, The Granite Brewery - Sun, Jul 16, 2023
Granite Brewery 4 Click on image for Slideshow
This mid-town brew-pub, the Granite, has been a favourite with UKC members for a long time. On July 16 host Maureen was able to seat all 12 UKC members at one large table outside for the first time this year. We were covered by an awning and had a great view of the garden filled with white snowball hydrangea bushes. Our waitress Tasha introduced us to the various menu items and advised us that there are "Summerlicious" specials on the menu which included three courses for those with larger appetites. Libations were satisfied with beer brewed on site (called “Peculiar”!) as well as many other types of beers, ciders, and wines.

After lively conversations members headed home, some going downstairs to their cars, having received a token to get out of the garage free of charge.
Ed S.

Dixieland Jazz, Grossman's Tavern
St, Jul 15, 2023
Grossman's Click on image for Slideshow
Stirred by the soulful rendition of “I saw the light”, all eleven of us at Grossman's Tavern got to our feet in the second half of the event and danced our best undulations and gyrations. After working off steam seven of us crossed the street to 444 Spadina. We enjoyed Pad Thai and Stir Fry but warn you against the hamburger.

All enjoyed the aftertaste of the Happy Pals band at Grossman's along with wine courtesy of host Peter.
Polly C.

Golf Fun Day
Thu, Jul 13, 2023
Golf Fun Day 2 Click on image for Slideshow
Despite the heavy rainfall early morning, a group of UKC golfers had a great fun game of golf on July 13 at Scarlett Woods. The course was wet in some places and there was some pooling of water in the lower portions of the course prohibiting the use of any power carts. It turned out to be a beautiful summer day with a mix of sun/cloud and perfect temperatures for golfing. A hawk was spotted circling and squawking loudly around the 18th hole fairway swooping down quite low at times seemingly concerned with our presence. None the less, everyone completed all 18 holes without incident.

Afterwards, the group met in the clubhouse to tally scores and enjoy some refreshments before departing.
Jo-ann D.

High Park Walk/Dinner
Wed, Jul 12, 2023
High Park Walk Click on image for Slideshow
The temperature on July 12 was just right for a stroll in High Park. Four of us enjoyed the sun and scenery, and had fun with all the photo opportunities. Many folks were out walking their dogs.

After an hour's walk we relaxed in the Grenadier Restaurant for an early dinner.
Elaine P.

Mingling/Dinner at the Bier Markt
Sun, Jul 9, 2023
On Sunday July 9, thirteen members got together at The Bier Markt which was hosted by Ron. The men outnumbered the women which made a change! The Bier Markt is a pleasant and relatively quiet place to meet and eat, and there is a varied and reasonably-priced menu including their specialty veal dishes along with various wines and numerous brands of beer. We enjoyed good conversation, some laughter, and got to know a little of each other’s heritage.

Our server, Nessa, did a great job looking after us and I hope Ron will continue for a long time to host this most popular event. Thanks, Ron.
Christine Q.

Canada Day at Harbourfront
Sat, Jul 1, 2023
Harbourfront Click on image for Slideshow
Hosted by Filomena, this was a delightful Canada Day Celebration. Starting with dinner by the waterside, members had an opportunity to get to know each other and discover shared interests over a range of topics. After dinner we attended the Canada Day Harbourfront Concert, performed by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. What an exceptional concert this was! The program was very entertaining and the selections ranged from both classical and popular music. Great orchestra and vocalist. I would strongly recommend attending this event with the UKC next year.

Thank you to our very approachable host, Filomena, who ensured that everyone felt welcomed and included.
Paulette K.

Drinks/Conversation Bull & Firkin
Fri, Jun 30, 2023
Ten members enjoyed dinner and drinks on Friday, June 30 from the varied and imaginative Bull and Firkin menu at Christine's event just south of Davisville on Yonge. Conversations were lively and the guests mixed well, proving that this number ensures everyone is engaged and having fun.

This is a most enjoyable way to end the week/welcome the weekend for everyone!
Jackie B.

Opera Die Fledermaus/Drinks Goodman Pub
Sat, Jun 24, 2023
Opera Click on image for Slideshow
A small group of opera lovers attended Johann Strauss II’s classic comedy satire, Die Fledermaus, on a warm Saturday by the lake. Toronto City Opera gave the production a very funny and contemporary spin with the action taking place in a Manhattan luxury condo and with rich people actually being punished and going to prison for tax fraud and stolen documents. Now that is funny! UKC member Beverly sang in the chorus as part of a bevy of partygoers at a soiree attended by the super-rich. A pub dinner followed with fresh breezes wafting in from the lake and stimulating conversation solving the world’s problems in one sitting.

(Beverly in white with beret and sunglasses as part of the chorus in Die Fledermaus)
Beverly G.

Ferry, Hike and Lunch at Toronto Islands
Fri, Jun 23, 2023
Toronto Islands Click on image for Slideshow
On June 23rd, a group of seven UKC members ignored the threat of rain, and joined alternate host Susan Brunner on a ferry ride to Centre Island, followed by an hour and a half walk to the inhabited Ward's Island for lunch at the Island Cafe. The cloudy day provided a bit of relief from the heat of the sun. Lunch was good and the rain held off till we had to head for the ferry back to the city. Comments by the participants included reference to how long it had been since they last visited, and how it refreshed memories of how beautiful Toronto Island is. Two of us veered off in the rain to see the opening of the new Love Park just a half block away at York Street.

Photos taken on the Ferry and at the Island Cafe.
Liz M.

Dinner/Mingling at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Jun 18, 2023
Granite Brewery 3 Click on image for Slideshow
Hosted again by Maureen, the Sunday dinner on June 18 at the Granite Pub was a great success. Thirteen members attended of which three were new members. After settling in with either a glass of wine or a brew from the in-house brewing vats, we ordered from a menu with a great variety of dishes.

As it happened to be Father's Day there was a Father's Day special with appetizer, main course and dessert which was enjoyed by a few. Also enjoyed by a few was the underground parking, including yours truly.
Edward S.

Golf Fun Day & London Gate Pub
Sat, Jun 17, 2023
Golf Fun Day 2 Click on image for Slideshow
A group of talented UKC golfers teed off at Scarlett Woods Golf course and played an awesome round of golf on June 17th. Two of the golfers joined us for the first time in several years. It was a very bright and sunny day putting all the golfers in a very positive and motivated mood to play their best game. At a few holes the strong wind gusts altered golf balls directions much to the chagrin of the players negatively impacting their scores. At the 18th hole, a family of geese casually made their way across the fairway pecking at the grass until reaching the creek. After the game concluded the group stopped for refreshments at the newly renovated clubhouse before proceeding to the London Gate Pub where additional UKC members joined for dinner. We were fortunate to sit on the patio on this beautiful Saturday evening.

Good conversation and friendliness was had as everyone enjoyed their favourite pub meal and refreshments.
Jo-ann D.

Hot House Cafe Dinner
Thu, Jun 8, 2023
It was "Martini Thursday" on June 8 at Hot House on Front Street. Eight of us had a pleasant time chatting and enjoying the menu offerings. Our server was very attentive as per usual and we all agreed the food was tasty. We welcomed one new member to the group that evening.

It's always a good time at Hot House!
Elaine P.

Scrabble Dinner Party
Sat, Jun 3, 2023
Scrabble Click on image for Slideshow
UKC members gathered at Jackie’s on Saturday, June 3 for Scrabble, dinner, and an evening of fun and friendly chatter. Jackie is a wonderful host and served a delicious chicken dinner, along with salads and desserts. Then we settled down to play Scrabble and got to know each other a little better.

Thanks, Jackie, for your kind hospitality – we had a wonderful time and hope you’ll do another evening in the fall or before!
Liz H.

Mingling/Dinner, Squire Pub Restaurant
Sun, May 28, 2023
Squire Pub 3 Click on image for Slideshow
Eleven members attended the popular Squire on May 28 (4 men and 7 women). The free hors d’oeuvres were a little different this time and very well received.

The menu and the specials on the board are varied and overall well priced.
Cheri W.

Dinner/Mingling at The Granite Brewery
Sun, May 21, 2023
Another great evening at The Granite was enjoyed by all on May 21 with Maureen as our gracious host! This time about a third of our group was new to the dinner which always makes for some interesting conversation. The Granite is a family-run independent brewery and tied house which accounts for the delicious craft beers (Ringwood Ale, Peculiar Ale, Hopping Mad are some interesting examples) and the excellent service. Free parking is offered below in an underground garage.
The food is always high quality. There are appetizers from calamari to buffalo cauliflower, soups and salads, burgers from stout drunken to beet and sunflower, wraps, sandwiches and entrees which are monstrous and delish such as almond crusted salmon. Even the Fish and Chips is superior beer battered and served with fries, salad or other accompaniments. The specials are interesting and numerous.

And this time we were offered complimentary chocolate and whipped cream desserts to share and coffee – a lovely end to another delightful evening!
Brenda W.

Golf Fun Day & Dinner London Gate Pub
Sat, May 20, 2023
Golf Cun Day 1 Click on image for Slideshow
A small but hardy group of five golfers met at noon on May 20 just as a continuous rain through the morning was coming to an end. This was as forecast, but a few other golfers had cancelled their participation during the morning downpour. We teed off in two groups. Further rain held off, but the grounds were wet and there were mid-fairway ponds that had not been there before, enjoyed by the ducks. Geese and their new broods of goslings pecked at the grass, undisturbed by the golf games going on.
Our UK Connexion golfers welcomed first-timer Vijay, who had a marvellous game and beat the rest of us. We all had fun, though, and enjoyed the now sunny and mild weather and the beauty of the green course. We gathered for (mostly soft) drinks in the new clubhouse after the game and reviewed our scores. We then went to the London Gate for a pub dinner, joined by several non-golfers plus the golf dropouts from the morning.

Thank you to Jo-ann, our host, for organizing an entertaining golf day and dinner.
Tony A.

Bier Markt
Sun, May 14, 2023
Bier Markt Click on image for Slideshow
Dinner/Mingling Squire Restaurant
Sun, Apr 30, 2023
Squire Click on image for Slideshow
Dinner/Mingling at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Apr 16, 2023
Twelve of us met for Sunday dinner at the Granite Restaurant and Brewery on April 16, seven ladies and five gentlemen. This is a very comfortable spot to eat and drink with a wide selection of beers including their own with it being a craft Brewery. As a wine drinker I was not left behind and we keep coming back 4for the terrific food. The menu offers a wide selection of dishes and the food is delicious.

Our excellent waiter Ryan added a lot to the light atmosphere of friends old and new together for an enjoyable evening. This is an event I highly recommend.
Marilyn G.

Dixieland Jazz at Grossmans's Tavern
Sat, Apr 15, 2023
Grossmans Tavern Click on image for Slideshow
Saturday afternoon at the legendary Grossman's Tavern on Spadina is back as a UKC event. And a lot of fun was had on April 15 by the 11 UKC members that had signed up with host Peter Warth. Promptly at 3:30 p.m. the Happy Pals band started blasting out their Dixieland Jazz Tunes. The place was packed like never before. But a previously reserved big table allowed most of the UKC attendees to sit together. The 4-ft wide dance floor did allow dancing, but it was difficult not to step on somebody else's toes. One also had to be careful not to dance in front of the youthful trombonist. This Lady in Black looked more like a Mennonite child in her black ankle length dress. She almost struck a dancer with her trombone when she played a very low note. One thing about any jazz band is that they play entirely without notes but never a wrong one!

Even though Grossman's features a well stocked bar at reasonable prices it is not known as a gourmet restaurant. For that reason some members went across the street to the Red Room Restaurant for dinner after the band finished.
Ed S.