Kingston’s Finest: Author Favourites
Miss Bao
Today, we’re going over author favorites! What do each of us like to go and do on a perfect night out? Let’s find out:
Chanelle — One of my favourite things to do is going out for a nice, moderately fancy dinner with friends where we can take cute pictures and eat good food. The place that checks all the boxes has to be Miss Bao. Not only is their food amazing, but I have to say it’s one of the best places in general for East Asian cuisine in Kingston. My favourite to get is the Taiwanese Braised Pork Belly Bao, but if you want to try other flavors they have the Bao Sampler as well where you can choose three different flavours of Bao. I also really like their drink menu which has some more unique flavors like Mango Blossom and Plum Sour if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different. In general, they’re a bit more on the expensive side, but I would say it’s worth it if you’ve mentally prepared yourself that you’re going for a nice dinner, and not a dinner where it’s a quick, cheap bite. The vibes are amazing, and the decor is beautiful. Check them out at 286 Princess Street!
Sophie — Every girl loves a good cocktail, and I am one of those girls. Plus, as a jazz lover, I have been around to some of the best live music spots in Kingston. My top choice tends to be Musiikki Café and Whiskey Bar on Brock. I promise they have drinks that do not include whiskey, but my go-to has been a whiskey sour with frothy egg whites on top. With live music every night, and a great happy hour selection, Musiikki is always a place to turn to for a good time. While they don’t serve food, any outside food is allowed in, and I often find myself bringing in some A&W from across the street. The upstairs stage is perfect for intimate artists performances– jazz music on Monday evenings has been my favorite. The downstairs bar hosts atmospheric daytime music, and a more chatty and engaging environment for catching up with friends.
Musiikki Cafe
Back to drinks– they have a huge fine whiskey selection, specializing in Irish whiskey, scotch, Canadian Rye and American Bourbon. Plus, they can make just about any whiskey cocktails, or provide a twist on your favorite drinks you know and love. The staff is extremely friendly and have helped me discover my new favorite drinks. Plus, they serve coffee, non-alcoholic beverages, and have a great selection of Craft Beer favorites.
Whether you’re searching for your new favorite local band, an ambient music setting on a chilly Kingston evening, or looking to expand your palette by trying new drinks, Musiikki has never failed to make a great night out. Check them out at 73 Brock Street!
Jenn — If you read my intro, you already know that I really like dollar beers. Sure, the drinks could be better, the floors could be less sticky, and the crowd could be a little less… crowded, but honestly, where else can you grab a beer for a buck? I’m not complaining. But would I ever admit that Dollar Beers is my favourite? Probably not. So here’s the real winner: Miss Bao’s trivia nights. Did you know a group of giraffes is called a tower? Or that a group of fish is a school? I’ve been collecting little fun facts like these to share with my friends, all thanks to those Friday nights. The appies and drinks are unreal, and you can never go wrong with the Taiwanese braised pork belly bao. If you didn’t know about the trivia nights, now you do. Add it to your Friday plans, grab a few friends, and I promise you’ll leave with at least one new fun fact and a full stomach. Hope to see you there next time, and no stealing my answers ;)
Miss Bao
Until next time,
Chanelle, Sophie, and Jenn :)