French grapes dominate much of the world’s wine production but their treatment varies widely in wine-growing centres across the globe. At JAMcafe (195 Carlton), Av and Joe Atikian are pouring six robust California-grown French varietals and matching them with specially prepared hors d’oeuvres: McMurray Ranch pinot gris, Scott Estates Dijon clone chardonnay, Bogle Vineyards cabernet sauvignon, Tandem “Auction Block” pinot noir, Melville “Verna’s” pinot noir and Melville “Verna’s” syrah. Thursday March 15 at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $25. These events sell out so reservations are recommended at (416) 921-1255. http://www.jamcafe.net/eventsTime to get ready for St Patrick’s Day
All Cabbagetowners know that Irish settlers were the first to live and work in Cabbagetown. They came here in the 1850s and our part of Toronto has honoured their lives and struggles ever since.
That makes St Patrick’s Day a special time for us.
Erin at Stout Irish Pub (221 Carlton) has a big weekend planned. You can start with a big party on Friday night, St Paddy’s Eve. On Saturday, celebrations continue from 11 am with Celtic Dancers, green beer, a heated tent on the patio and specially priced jello shots and Jameson’s whiskey. http://www.stoutirishpub.ca/
Robert at The Ben Wicks (424 Parliament) has a special menu and entertainment waiting for you. There’ll be cheddar & ale soup, corned beef & cabbage stew and Irish coffee cake. The One Shot Band is providing the entertainment. Saturday March 17 from 8:30 pm. http://www.benwickspub.com/ and http://theoneshotband.com/
Customer appreciation at Peartree 
You’re invited to Pear Tree (507 Parliament) to take part in their Customer Appreciation Month. During this celebration, you can enjoy a New York sirloin for $12.99 (regularly $17.99) and grilled Atlantic salmon for $11.99 (regularly $14.99) While you’re there, enter the weekly draw to win a dinner for two. Check out the menu and specials at http://dine.to/profile_features.php?feature=website&id=3146
Congratulations to The Flying Beaver
Heather and Maggie are celebrating their first anniversary this weekend. They’ll be opening at noon on Saturday with giveaways, specials and all kinds of party events. On Sunday, they’re highlighting the Rosemary Galloway Trio at their Jazz Brunch (tickets are $20 including brunch) and in the evening, it’s time for their official Anniversary Party. Find out more at http://www.pubaret.com/. 488 Parliament.
Merryberry is open again on Mondays
Over the winter, Cyril closed Merryberry (559 Parliament) on Mondays but his customers kept stopping by. So he got the message! He’s reopening for lunch on Mondays. His new hours are Monday from 11 am to 3 pm, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. And don’t forget the weekly young mothers’ gathering that happens every Thursday at 10:30 am. http://www.merryberry.ca/
Vegetarian brunch on the weekends
Elaine and Toni at Mylk Uncookies (253 Gerrard) are joining up with Chef Pascal Poilbout to create weekend vegetarian brunches. They’re starting on Saturday March 24. Their sweet and savoury crepes will be organic and vegetarian with vegan and gluton free options. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. (Regulars at the Riverdale Farmers Market will recognize Pascal – he makes his crepes there.)
Introducing Mobilicity
Mobilicity (439 Parliament) is one of three neat phone shops that have opened on Parliament south of Spruce. Ashfak explained the specials that they’re offering for a limited time. All their phones are currently on sale at prices from $49.99. Then, for $25 a month, you’ll get unlimited data, talk and text – all with no contract and no credit check. For more details, call him at 647-760-6624.
Olio Part II
Mark at MJG Gallery (555 Parliament) continues to show Olio Part II in the gallery. It’s a collection of works by 18 artists, including Mark. The show runs from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm. Every week in our Newsletter, we show a “Painting of the Week” from MJG in the right-hand column – and this idea has prompted wider coverage of other shows being presented in galleries and restaurants across Cabbagetown.
Tax time is all over us 
AAA Tax (462 Parliament) is ready now with tax filing that doesn’t tax your patience. Owen offers you personalized service and a wealth of tax experience. To learn more about his services, visit http://www.aaatax.ca/ and to book an appointment, call (416) 921-0002.
CBC stuff at Labour of Love
Regina is always happy to stock up on CBC memorabilia and souvenirs. It’s a reminder of the days when a CBC studio was located on Parliament Street, here in Cabbagetown. She’s now featuring CBC Radio-Canada Tee shirts and messenger bags. You can see more at http://www.thelabouroflove.ca/ 240 Carlton.
A night with Susan Klonowski
Susan is a Toronto painter who produces vibrant works of art on traditional subjects. You’re invited to meet her and see her engaging works at Cranberries (601 Parliament) on Friday March 23 from 7 to 10 pm. More about Kendall’s moving sale
It’s now or never. Kendall & Co (541 Parliament on Winchester) has big markdowns in their storewide moving sale! Up to 30% off their beautiful rugs and up to 40% off exquisite handmade furniture. Save also on lamps and accent décor. One of their designers, James, will also be on hand this Saturday to offer decorating advice to help with your selection. http://www.kendallandco.ca/Insomniac specials at Number 9
Our regular day rates are more than fair (everyone says so) but it still surprises us how few know that our studio runs 24/7… just like your creativity. Take advantage of our “late 8″ special – book the block of 8 hours between 6pm and 2am and pay only $520.00. Want to watch the sun come up? Book the studio from 2am-8am and pay only $360.00. Or just come in through the day – we won’t say no. 222 Gerrard. http://www.number9.ca/spring-forward-into-number-9/Acceleration 2012
The School of Toronto Dance Theatre is again hosting Acceleration. Works by five acclaimed choreographers will be performed. March 28 to 31, 9 pm, Winchester Street Theatre (80 Winchester). Tickets are $15 and $19. Call (416) 967-6887 and http://www.schooloftdt.org/Cabbagetown Barbers
Last week, we told you about the feature article and cover story in Panoram Italia featuring Jimmy and Frank at Cabbagetown Barber Shop (525 Parliament). At that time, we didn’t have the magazine’s pictures but now we’ve been able to download one from their website. Their photographer, Gregory Varano, has created very amusing images. Check out the full story here: http://www.panoramitalia.com/en/magazine/current-issue/Mary took our Tee to New Zealand
Mary Spence Thomas has been visiting her friends Carrie and Charlie in New Zealand and touring the country with them. These pictures were taken at the geyser at Rotorua on the North Island. Charlie is a former Cabbagetowner and so he kept his Tee for its fond memories.
