Out & About #1039 | Aga Khan Museum, Jim Chai Kee + More Scarborough

For the past month, museum and gallery outings have somehow become a regular outing for my coworker and I. Starting from the Bata Shoe Museum to the AGO to the Free Tuesday Nights at the ROM, the trips have revolved primarily revolved around the downtown area on mandatory office days.

Upon observing an ad for Aga Khan Museum's 10th anniversary celebrations, I presented the prospect of a weekend visit to my coworker. The two-day event would include complimentary admission to the Main Floor of the museum, as well as $10 discounted admission to a rotating immersive exhibit, LIGHT: Visionary Perspectives. Her enthusiastic response led us to plan for a Saturday sojourn.

​We'd travel separately, given that we were coming from opposite directions. While the TTC had miraculously enabled her early arrival, my commute along the 403, 401, and DVP were nowhere near as smooth. Congestion upon congestion - plus a car lodged in a ditch - had resulted in nearly sixty minutes of driving.
By the time I exited the DVP, I was more than ready to call it a day. Aga Khan Museum was not located in convenient coordinates whatsoever.

Google Maps had directed me to the underground parking garage. In fear of paid parking being enforced, I exited the loop and entered through the main access path. There, members of security directed me back to the garage, confirming that the gate would remain open and my stay would be complimentary.

Re-routing back to the garage, it was indeed confirmed that neither a key pass nor proof of payment would be required. The drive aisles were incredibly narrow - and even narrower still in the presence of the local population's abnormally large, wide vehicles. Behind the wheel were those possessing the most obscene maneuvering skills observed in suburban Toronto. At the very least, plenty of security had been positioned on site to facilitate traffic flow.

The below-grade garage would connect to Aga Khan via a sloped corridor illuminated with LEDs and Museum highlights. A numbered ticket was bestowed upon me by a member of staff at the top of the corridor.

Residing on the basement level would were bathroom facilities along with servicing rooms. These stalls were noted to be far cleaner and more spacious than those on the ground floor, likely due to frequency of use.

​Residing on the basement level would were bathroom facilities along with servicing rooms. These stalls were noted to be far cleaner and more spacious than those on the ground floor, likely due to frequency of use.

The Main Floor featured common art and culture institution elements of a ticket booth, gift shop, and plenty of signage promoting celebratory activities and performances. In spite of the museum's tall ceilings, the establishment merely spanned one floor and a half (the secound level did not utilize the entire floor space) - the decision to replace additional exhibition grounds with tall glass windows for light appeared to be intentional.

I gradually made my way towards the exterior of the building. Upon stepping outside, I was met with the most breathtaking courtyard -  Aga Khan Park. Although my drive from the west had been grey and dreary, the skies of Toronto had revealed cloudy swirls against a backdrop of luminous blue. Sunshine could be even be perceived sporadically bits of the stay. Weather was perfect.​

​Truly remarkable was the scene that lay before me: an unobstructed view of Aga Khan Museum and Aga Khan Park, surrounded by fountains so clear that the skies and sophisticated architecture were reflected with utmost clarity. The contrast of off-white tile, glass, shiny waters, and lush shrubbery had me starstruck. Elegant yet lively, I found myself strolling about the aisles with absolute awe and admiration.

Basking in the magnificence of it all, I had momentarily forgotten about providing my coworker an update regarding my arrival. We soon found one another outside the main entrance, though, then decided to head inside for the 12 PM Cake Cutting.

View the full album HERE !

At the centre of the Museum was an uncovered outdoor space fitted with turquoise tiles. Dependent on one's positioning within the space, the glass panels would reflect light, dispersing rainbow trails on the walls according to the direction of the sun's penetration. This design consideration was very impressive, for it strategically employed of light as a tool to enhance visual appeal and deepen contrast with angular shadows.

​Suffice to say, there was no shortage of aesthetic interest as we huddled in the space in wait of cupcake distribution.

​A speech would be delivered by members of the Museum board, followed by the local MP and MPP. Neither my coworker nor I had anticipated this lengthy stopover, thus exited the premises for the time being.

​Needless to say, we'd return for cupcakes later on. The base was moist and quite tasty, though the buttercream was too heavy for my liking.

​The Main Floor comprised of a U-shaped exhibition hall featuring elements of Arabic, Syrian, and Islamic culture.

​Artifacts on display ranged between scripts and writing materials, pillars and decorative furnishings, ceramics, and even fabric and attire.

Both of us were intrigued by the mannequin donning jewel-toned traditional garments. In place of the standard, face-less body was a black wire frame that outlined the conventional facial structure (inclusive of eyes and facial hair) of an Arabic man. Even the clasped hands had been constructed of wire! The attention to detail was stunning.

​Navigating past the ceramics was seating area with quilted couches and a moon affixed overhead. The family-friendly work station would likely serve as an introduction to the Light exhibit on the upper level.

​While we had seriously contemplated visiting the display, hunger and scheduling would prevent us from taking advantage of the discounted rate. Timing had even tighter as I had arrived late due to inadequate preparations coupled with drizzly weather and traffic concerns - but what's new on the 401?

​A separate room showcased embellished tableware, referred to as the Prince and Princess Sadruddin Aga Khan Collection.

These two closely-monitored rooms would assume the extent of the complimentary Main Floor attractions.

Outside, we found food trucks, a live stage, and the Family Tent.

Past more security and a handful of chandeliers, we arrived at a covered area that showcased a Calligraphy booth, an Ontario Science Centre booth, a DIY station for young children, and interactive drum performances.

The first booth caught my attention immediately. Visitors had the opportunity to print their name on a notepad and request to have it written in Arabic script. Naturally, I partook in this educational experience. My coworker giddily showed me her own rendition in her notebook, noting the similar shape and placement of accents.

While my coworker relived some of her childhood and high school nostalgia through the installations and performances, I relished the event as a means of experiencing cultures other than my own. In this regard, it was interesting to learn how the same occurrences could be perceived in entirely different ways based on one's background and upbringing. Canada persists as a wonderfully diverse destination for various ethnic groups to embrace their own origins while learning about other cultures in a respectful, authentic manner.

Marching band performances would take place inside the assembly room. Meanwhile, classrooms lined the inner perimeter. We had actually stumbled into one of the hallways of the school, then found ourselves gently escorted out by probable members (teachers?) of The Ismaili Centre.

​Truthfully, we had enjoyed the exterior elements more than the museum itself. After all, the architecture was a beauty to behold!

​Clean outdoor spaces, in conjunction with well-maintained fountains and seating areas, had succeeded in solidifying a memorable impression of Aga Khan. Overlooking the bustle of the DVP, the scene is likely even grander come the seasonal transformation of fall foliage.

​A mandatory stopover was made at the extremely compact gift shop. The retail space did not carry the typical selection of souvenir-style offerings, but appeared to cater towards a more mature audience in its offerings of laser cut bookmarks, scarves, jewellery, felt cases, and China.

​It was worth nothing that visitors to the Museum were generally refined as well. A substantial number were dressed presentably, attending the event as a social/family outing. Many guests would also refrain from entering the frame if I was in the midst of filming or taking photos. A few even apologized for accidentally "interrupting", though they had no reason to do so. I must admit: I was utterly astonished, for such kind, courteous treatment surely hadn't be experienced elsewhere in the city (or with younger crowds).

Aga Khan had been wonderful, and I couldn't wait to share the scene with my browsing partner in the future.

It was nearing 1:30 PM by the time we departed for OOMOMO. Alas, with the delightful Japanese retailer being just minutes away, I couldn't refuse the chance to pick up a few items.

​The mission at hand was to obtain a replacement basket for use in the bathroom. When unable to find one with dimensions corresponding to my existing basket, my mind drifted elsewhere, eventually landing near the Sikiri cases.

​Two Sikiri cases would be placed into my cart, along with a 10 kg rice container with wheels. I prayed that it would fit my 10 kg bag of Robin Hood, for I knew that rice was denser than flour and could vary drastically by volume. Thankfully, it did! I am now one step closer to my dream kitchen setup.

​At checkout, my gaze would fall upon a one-dollar bottle of UCC Cold Brew Coffee. Despite the alluring price tag, I'd advise against acquisition of the product; the liquid was positively foul and devoid of coffee essence.

​Jim Chai Kee, a recommendation extended by my browsing partner, would assume the spot for our extremely late lunch.

Initially worried that my coworker would not enjoy wontons, I was pleasantly surprised to discover her affinity towards East Asian cuisine - sushi, ramen, izakaya - you name it! - and low tolerance for spice. Phew! I excitedly declared, "We can eat together!"

Our picks spanned:

• C5 Wonton (Shrimp) + Beef / 上湯淨雲吞+牛肉
• C6 Wonton (Shrimp) + Fish Ball / 上湯淨雲吞+魚球
• Veggie Plate / 油菜

Little had I known my go-to platter of choy would be mine alone, as fibrous stalks were far from being braces-friendly.

Where tender beef strips floated within my bowl, gargantuan fish balls were found in that of my coworker's. One of each ingredient would be exchanged between us, allowing for maximum sampling opportunity.

Both bowls rang in at twelve dollars, while the choy sum at five dollars. Priced well below market price, I was grateful to witness vibrant, fresh greens accompanied by just a spoonful (not a drizzle) of oyster sauce. Neither of us sought out noodles, though I'd return in a heartbeat for their wontons. The soup was passable, but nevertheless inferior to Congee Queen.

Mind you, takeout containers incur a fifty-cent surcharge. I'll be bringing my own for leftovers next time, thank you very much.

​I'd then lead the way to an Orient Retreat pickup and purposeful stroll through the Sky City plaza. The intent had been to alleviate feelings of fullness while evaluating potential snack options in the vicinity.

Exposing herself as a lover of matcha, I hesitated not in introducing Daigyo's Tsujiri-inspired assortment of beverages and treats. Despite their staggering prices, the outlet welcomed a constant inflow of customers. My coworker danced in delight at the first sip of her Matcha Latte, similar to my wide-eyed-but-stationary response to their Matcha Float almost two winters ago.

My appetite remained stifled until reaching Cakeview.

The self-proclaimed Bakery & Café operated longer hours than Akko back home, with a surprisingly vast selection of buns and cakes available at the late hour of 5:30 PM.

​For immediate relief from the gradually accumulating humidity, I'd request a Fresh Mango Slush. For the trip home, a total of six items were added to the tray to ensure a tax-free transaction.

​The lady behind the cashier was none too friendly towards us and appeared to prefer juggling phone orders and cake pickups. Google Reviews announced the bakery's Mango Cake as being an acclaimed local favourite, though I wasn't about to invest in a 6" round for forty dollars.

My Fresh Mango Slush had been made to order, then presented in a clear plastic cup (gasp!) and plastic-covered (gasp x2!) green plastic (gasp x3!) straw. The concoction was refreshing, not too sweet, and, shockingly, entirely smooth, bearing not a shred of detectable mango chunks. It succeeded in curbing cravings without suppressing my looming suppertime needs, and had also been priced fairly given modern-day smoothie charges.

On the other hand, the buns and pastries were essentially throwaways.

• Pineapple Bun / 波羅包; $1.80

Many Pineapple Buns had remained even in the early evening hours, and I'd discover why the next morning. Although the topping was crunchy and golden, it was oddly dense and contained a noticeable amount of milk powder. This ingredient would cause the topping to retain moisture after reheating, as opposed to dissipating to yield a wispy crunchiness. The bun lacked complexity and volume, being extremely chewy instead of airy and plush. The dough appeared to have skimped on ingredients that would have rendered it brioche-like: butter, sugar, and possibly inadequate yeast paired with proper fermentation time. Perhaps worst of all was the poor attention to dough formation resulting in tacky "flabs" underneath the surface.

• Walnut Cookie / 核桃酥; $1.90

Delicious at first, this specimen later revealed the same issues as the Pineapple Bun topping, in which the sheer proportion of milk powder would lead to eventual satiation and halting of consumption.

• Garlic Bread / 蒜蓉包; $2.00

All but one side of the block had been buttered and seasoned. But, even with dismissal of the unseasoned side, the portion would not exude sufficient garlicy-ness to satisfy my North American taste buds. Furthermore, the bread was still dense and unappealing.

• Walnut Cake / 合桃牛油蛋糕; $1.60

This muffin-like creation combined a crumb devoid of structural integrity with the damp properties of oil, contradicting its description as a butter-based formula. As expected, I'd scoff at the miserable, detached morsels and assert, "I can make this better." for it was ̶p̶r̶o̶b̶a̶b̶l̶y̶  true.

Other items would not reviewed, though the conclusions were fathomable:

• Sweetheart Pastry / 老婆餅; $2.50
• Chicken Pie / 雞批; $2.50

An impromptu trip to Pacific Mall would assume the final stop of the day. Indoor plumbing facilities were deemed necessary prior to the grueling drive back home. This presented yet another chance for egg waffles and crispy egg rolls.

​It was evident that my coworker had enjoyed the outing and was in no rush to return, but was more than willing to accommodate my schedule as needed. She had even commended my parking skills, noting swift maneuvers and smooth drives. Rounding off the day, we merely sat in the asphalt lot discussing respective plans for the future.
Balancing quality of life with cost of living has undeniably emerged as a prime topic amongst those around me. This comes as no surprise, for life in the GTA certainly bears a lot of uncertainty ahead.