The post had included few details beyond the promise of an exhilarating weekend with both paid and free events. I took to conducting my own research as the party settled on an appropriate date. Some events had ended, while others appeared too dull to justify the additional mileage. Eventually, I settled on the Wonders of Winter exhibit in Waterloo, tacking on stops before and after as my heart desired.
The Maple Spiced Pecan Old Ale was a fall exclusive, or so I was told, and had indeed made its comeback to the brewery earlier in the year. Its notes were supposedly akin to the Signature Collection, a stout series incorporating more sweetness than preferred.
A placeholder for a local coffee shop had been inserted into the itinerary for a mid-afternoon refuel, and in review of its lasting impression from last time and a Buy 2 Get 1 Free Boxing Dale offer, the stop was too difficult to resist.
Blade imprints were already quite deep within minutes of resurfacing, but probably not more than the narrowest section of Harbourfront's. A few trips were executed before retreating into the Shops At Waterloo Town Square for washroom facilities.
Attempts to try several nearby eateries were in vain; we pulled up to dark windows and deserted plazas. It would appear that, with the absence of students on campus during the holidays, restaurants would temporarily cease operations in response.
The front desk staff had demonstrated incredible patience with our indecisiveness, responding to inquiries as they were raised and suggesting orders for item variety and ease of consumption. Bento boxes and maki courses included miso soup and salad, ensuring adequate sustenance for a small group. Karaage, as she pointed out, was a more reasonable sharing option than grilled flatfish.
In the biting cold, the article were unveiled one by one.
The bento comprised of airy tempura, six California rolls, three pieces of salmon sashimi, and two buttery fillets of Salmon Teriyaki over rice. Sauces were kept in their original containers, unused for the duration of our meal, since wielding chopsticks with numb digits was tragic enough.
Three varieties occupied the Maki Set: Mango Salmon, Tuna, and Cheese Eel (charged at a $2 premium). Karaage with mayo dipping sauce rested atop.
Dining conditions were less than enjoyable, yet there were no complaints to be extended towards the izakaya in terms of quality, value, or service. All of the items were scrumptious! From the charred skin of the sweet-and-savoury Salmon Teriyaki to the supple Karaage bites to the fresh slices of sashimi to the plump grains of sticky, short-grain rice, contentment was experienced all around.