Rating: NNNNN
play the Mod Club tonight (Thursday, October 25). $15. 416-588-4663.
Where do you eat in Toronto before a show?
I love Bo De Duyen , a Chinese vegetarian restaurant on Spadina. Everything on the menu that I’ve tried has been delicious, and the prices are great. Sadly, it just closed down for a month to relocate, but Adrian [Jewett] and I were lucky enough to enjoy a feast including hot golden balls and “beef” brisket a few nights before they shut down.
What club do you hit when you want to party after the gig?
We’re not really club-hitters, but I recall going to the Green Room a few times after shows to have some drinks and good conversation. It has a warm, jazzy atmosphere.
What do you love most about Toronto?
The lake, the street meat, the familiarity.
What do you hate about it?
I guess the same things one can hate about any booming metropolis — the loudness, the speed, the reminder that there are so many people who have made the journey to the big city to live their dreams, but that so few will succeed.
Hotel of choice?
The Fairmount for its classic appeal and luscious bed linens.
How do you spend your day off here?
BMV on Bloor is a great place to get books and DVDs, especially Star Trek collections, for a very reasonable price. Soundscapes has always been the music source, and a tour of the Steam Whistle Brewery is always a good time.
What was your biggest misconception about Toronto?
Growing up in Burlington, as a youngster Toronto always seemed to be this scary place where you could end up disappearing. Most visits were with my mom, and we would go the ROM or the Science Centre. When I was in high school, Queen Street became the place to hang out for a day. We’d go to the Friendly Stranger, buy old band T-shirts, just walk around in awe of the many different faces and the tall buildings. Now it just feels like home.
Most memorable border crossing experience heading to Toronto?
It’s much easier getting back into this country than leaving.
What was the wildest time you’ve ever had here?
The night I was injured by a bow and arrow.
