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The UK CONNEXION

Event Reviews

Dinner at the Bull & Firkin
Fri, Sep 27, 2024
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Seven of us got together at The Bull on Friday Sep 27 and enjoyed some good conversation, a delicious meal and a drink or two. The atmosphere at the pub is always relaxed and we get great service. There's a wide menu with specials each day and prices are reasonable. (The chicken curry is excellent.)

We meet the last Friday of the month so hope to see you there soon!
Christine Q.

Golf Fun Day & St. James Gate Pub
Sat, Sep 21, 2024
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It was a beautiful sunny and warm autumn day for 6 UKC members and 1 guest participating in UKC fun golf outing at Scarlett Woods Golf Course on September 21. Given the lovely weather, the golf course was very busy. Fall was evident with the leaves changing colour, falling and cluttering the fairways. The UKC groups played hardily completing all 18 holes.

Afterwards, the group met in the clubhouse for refreshments, tally scores and give out the prizes. Kudos to Frank winning the longest drive prize on the 14th hole. Unfortunately, nobody got on the green on the 5th hole to secure the closest to the pin prize. There will be one more opportunity this season in October! Afterwards, the group went for dinner at St. James Gate, a new venue given London Gate Pub was not available. The group enjoyed great Irish brew and dinner in our own private enclave. Lively chatter and great conversation was had by all during dinner. The group dinner concluded and all departed for the evening.
Jo-ann D.

Dinner at the Hot House Restaurant
Sun, Sep 8, 2024
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Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's Tavern
Sat, Sep 7, 2024
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Danny Marks at the Smokeshow & Brew
Sun, Sep 1, 2024
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Dinner at the Bull & Firkin
Fri, Aug 30, 2024
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Golf Fun Day
Thu, Aug 29, 2024
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On August 29th, six UKC members met at Scarlett Woods Golf Course to play a round of golf. It was a perfect day with plenty of sunshine, fresh air and an abundance of foliage everywhere with fall approaching, as the group completed the 18 holes.

Afterwards, the group met in the clubhouse for refreshments, tally scores and reminisce about the great and sometime peculiar golf shots that occurred during the game. Congratulations to Tony for winning the prize for longest drive on the 14th hole. Nobody was successful in landing the ball on the green at the 5th hole to secure the closest to the pin prize. There will be another opportunity in September to claim this prize!
Jo-ann D.

Lunch at the Rose & Crown
Thu, Aug 8, 2024
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Another enjoyable Thursday lunch at the Rose and Crown on Yonge Street just north of Eglinton – so easy to access by TTC. Nine people joined our gracious host Mary V. Mary always makes sure that everyone feels welcome. Our table was near the window so we could see the busy activities on Yonge Street – seeing the "world go by". During our lunch there was a lot of chatting/discussion and laughter, all part of enjoying our get-together.

Until next time…
Mary B.

Dinner at Hemingway's
Sat, Aug 3, 2024
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Golf Fun Day
Thu, Aug 1, 2024
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It was a very hot and humid day for eight UKC members participating in UKC fun golf outing at Scarlett Woods Golf Course. Peter, a new UKC member, joined for this round of golf. A few UKC members played extremely well, scoring below 100! Afterwards, the group met in the clubhouse for some well-deserved refreshments, tally scores and give out the prizes.

Kudos to John winning closest to the pin prize on the 5th hole and Tony longest drive prize on the 14th hole.
Jo-ann D.

Bull & Firkin
Fri, Jul 26, 2024
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Dinner at Soulas
Tue, Jul 23, 2024
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Legendary Grossman's Tavern
Sat, Jul 13, 2024
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Smokeshow BBQ & Brew
Sun, Jul 7, 2024
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Dinner/Mingling at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Jul 7, 2024
A lovely evening on the Patio was experienced by the UK Connexion on Sunday, 7th July. Both the weather and the service were great and most of us took advantage of the Summerlicious menu. Although Owen was "off duty", Ryan was a great substitute for the busy evening.

We look forward to returning next month. Maureen was our hostess as usual.
Maureen D.

Goodman Pub & Canada Day Concert
Sun, Jun 30, 2024
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It was a sunny, breezy prelude to Canada Day when UKC members met at the Goodman Pub and Kitchen at Queens Quay. Delicious meals were consumed during convivial conversation until it was time to leave for the concert. The walk was brisk, among so many visitors to the lake front amidst a cacophony of sound and chatter.

We were treated to some family-friendly comedy from our MC who introduced the audience to the Toronto Youth Symphony music director who conducted 2us through a program of classical and modern works. Farewells were given as the group made their ways east and west among the holiday makers to transportation home.
Filomena D.

The Bull and Firkin
Fri, Jun 28, 2024
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Seven of us sat down for drinks and supper at The Bull & Firkin on June 28. We engaged in lively and varied conversation, which included opinions on the upcoming UK general election and the presidential debate, as well as getting to know each other a little better. I think these gatherings greatly add to one’s social life - very important. Thanks to Tesla and the staff at the pub. Always great service. The food is good and nicely presented (I recommend the shepherd's pie) and the prices are reasonable.

We get together the last Friday in the month and invite you to join us.
Christine Q. (Host)

Imperial Pub
Fri, Jun 21, 2024
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Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Jun 13, 2024
The UK Connexion luncheon group had a delightful get together at the "Rose and Crown" pub on Thursday, June 13. We shared some interesting stories from the extremely pleasant group. Host Mary commented that because most of our members are retired, people tend to forget that we all had interesting backgrounds and it is a joy to share all the different challenging scenarios. The UK Connexion is a wonderful way to meet new people and to expand our own lives.

Thank you all for coming, hope to see everyone again very soon.
Mary V.

Gatherings Restaurant
Sat, Jun 8, 2024
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Four of us joined Chris at Gatherings for Saturday night dinner on June 8, including the introduction of a new member. The service was prompt and the waitress handled tasks efficiently. The restaurant is spacious with several events on their calendar.

More than just enjoying the flavourful food, everyone shared conversation for an agreeable experience.
Gayle T.

Fish and Chip Supper, the Port Credit Legion
Fri, Jun 7, 2024
Eight of us (six ladies and two men) really enjoyed the fish and chip supper that Oli kindly organized. She greeted everyone as they arrived. We had some lively conversation and a lot of laughs during the evening. Live music was also being played during dinner.

Looking forward to another event at the Port Credit Legion during the summer. Thanks again, Oli.
Jan W.

Golf Fun Day
Sat, May 25, 2024
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Seven of us made it to Scarlett Woods Golf Course on a rather rainy Saturday, which prompted some who had reserved to decide not to come. Luckily for the ones who did play, the weather cleared, and we all had a fun day indeed. The regulars were joined by a new member, Tim, who came all the way from Ajax. Our host Jo-ann greeted us, took pictures (including those of a family of Canada geese crossing our fairway) and won the "closest to the pin" challenge. Tony won the "longest drive" challenge. We met up at the club house for 19th hole refreshments, then went to the London Gate Pub for a pub dinner where we were joined by a half dozen non-golfers.

Thanks, Jo-ann, for organizing a good, fun day for us.
Tony A.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, May 16, 2024
Our cheerful host Mary V greeted five ladies for a leisurely lunch – such a fun thing to do during the week. There is a variety of choices on the menu and at a reasonable price, so along with a beer or glass of wine all was enjoyed by the group. Although it was Spring it felt more like Summer was on its way. Mary is a great host making sure everyone joins in with the conversation/discussion.

Lots of laughter - so until next time.
Mary B.

High Park Cherry Blossom Walk
Wed, Apr 24, 2024
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Two of us braved the rather chilly temperatures for a walk in High Park. The cherry blossoms and daffodils were beautiful and worth the visit despite the considerable crowds.

We stopped in the Grenadier Café to warm up and have a light snack before heading home.
Elaine P.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Apr 18, 2024
On a beautiful spring day our host Mary V. welcomed seven ladies to lunch in a quiet area of The Rose & Crown Pub on Yonge St. just north of Eglinton. We chatted for a while enjoying the company, and a beer or wine before ordering lunch. The menu had some new items, was interesting and reasonably priced. There was a good variety of food available and large portion sizes.

Many thanks to our host Mary, and I will definitely be back at her Pub Lunch in May.
Marilyn G.

Springtime with Audrone at her Etobicoke Studio
Sat, Mar 30, 2024
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On March 30, a group of UKC members enjoyed a pleasant afternoon at Audrone's Etobicoke studio. We were treated to a delicious array of luncheon snacks and were delighted to meet her pedigree Papillion dogs and play with their super cute puppies. Audrone also showed us some of the stunning ceramic art pieces that she created over the years.

Many thanks to our host for her kind hospitality.
Vanessa J.

Mingling/Dinner at the Squire
Sat, Mar 23, 2024
The mix and mingle and dinner at the Squire was a great success. 13 people attended; 7 women and 6 men. The complimentary hors d'oeuvres were snapped up in minutes and very well received. Dinner choices and specials on the board were great. Portions were ample with many taking home "doggie" bags.

Many thanks to Ada for hosting this event.
Cheri W.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Mar 21, 2024
Such a nice thing to do – having lunch together on a weekday with a group of ladies from our UK Connexion. Our host a gracious lady Mary V. welcomed us all along with 9 other ladies. While enjoying a variety of menus there was a lot of chatting, discussion and laughter. Despite the rather chilly weather (winter has not forgotten us!) some of the group arrived from nearby and others on the TTC. The Rose and Crown is just north of Eglinton and so easy to get to.

We had an enjoyable fun time together and a big thank you to Mary V. for arranging - until next time!
Mary B.

Dinner at Gatherings Resto Bar
Sat, Mar 9, 2024
Mingling/Dinner at Granite Brewery
Sun, Mar 3, 2024
Jazz at the Smokeshow BBQ & Brew
Sun, Mar 3, 2024
Mingling/Dinner at the Squire
Sun, Feb 25, 2024
Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's
Sat, Feb 24, 2024
Bull & Firkin
Fri, Feb 23, 2024
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Less is more as they say and though only four of us sat down to dinner at The Bull & Firkin on Friday February 23, it was a pleasant evening. The conversations, as usual, ranged from vacation destinations, upcoming UKC events, current affairs and general chit-chat. The staff is always cheery and efficient, and the "pub grub" is good comfort food. They serve a variety of beers and wines and prices are reasonable.

Hope you'll join us in March!
Christine Q.

Toronto City Opera, Susannah
Thu, Feb 22, 2024
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Marilyn, Maria and Susan joined Beverly at the Victory Café for dinner before the Toronto City Opera production of Susannah on Thursday, February 22. Then a short walk to the Al Green Theatre for a pre-performance opera chat where Musicologist, Margaret Cormier discussed the background and history of the opera written by Carlisle Floyd during the 1950s McCarthy era in the USA. Everyone enjoyed the talk and the opera commenting on the high energy of the performance and the talented singers.

"Great to attend a social and cultural event!" After the show, some of the group headed to the Madison Avenue Pub for an opening night cast party.

Hope to see you at the next one!
Beverly G.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Feb 15, 2024
Even a snowstorm couldn't deter UKC'ers from attending another fun lunch hosted by Mary at the Rose and Crown, near Yonge and Eglinton. All 10 attendees thoroughly enjoyed the "eat, drink and be merry" atmosphere, including an unexpected reunion by two hiking friends! Mary shared a toast to the table about the importance of getting out and socializing and that's what the UKC is all about!

Hope to see you at the next one!
Pat M.

Colossus Restaurant
Sat, Feb 10, 2024
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Saturday lunch on February 10 at Colossus Restaurant on Lakeshore was hosted by Jana and Oli. Thank you for welcoming me there, it was a pleasure meeting everyone and learning about the group, as well as enjoying being with other Brits for a change.

The food was delicious and our waiter accommodated us with separate bills (not normally done for a larger group)!
Christine C.

Considering the pop-up nature of the February 10 lunch at the Colossus Greek Taverna in Port Credit, we were happy to have 8 attendees. All had a good time, and enjoyed the food as there was a great variety of healthy dishes. Oli suggested a walk down to the Adamson Estate afterwards, but we only had three takers in spite of my suggesting that some might like to take a refreshing dip in the lake! Perhaps when the weather warms up!

All in all, the experiment was a success, and we are looking forward to other suggestions for venues in the Mississauga area.
Jana S.

Dinner/Mingling at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Feb 4, 2024
Seven UK members attended The Granite Brewery on Sunday, February 4. We were fortunate that their Winterlicious menu was available at a reasonable price. Most of us ordered from the Winterlicious menu that featured items such as grilled lamb shank and pickerel along with a good choice for appetizers and desserts. We all enjoyed our meals and friendly conversation. As usual, the service provided by Owen was excellent.

Thank you, Maureen, for another great event!
Ron K.

Play, Village Players Theatre
Sun, Jan 28, 2024
Seven UKC members were heartily entertained by the Village Players on January 28 at the wonderful production "Social Security". The play was hilarious and witty and the cast performed brilliantly. After the play most of us, including one member on his first outing with the UKC, enjoyed coffee and treats at Bread & Roses, a favourite stop nearby from years past for our post-theatre refreshments.

A very enjoyable afternoon out!
Vanessa J.

Drinks/Conversation/Dinner at the Bull & Firkin
Fri, Jan 26, 2024
Although only a group of five UKC members gathered at The Bull & Firkin on Friday January 26, lively conversation ensued on a variety of topics. Each of us chose a different item from the menu. The meals are always good, with specials on food and drink each day. We had excellent service led by Alex, and our meal was graciously served by the kitchen staff.

Hopefully as the weather improves, we will see more members out and about.
Christine Q.

Dinner Mingling at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Jan 7, 2024
2024 got off to a great start with another good event on January 7 at The Granite Brewery hosted by Maureen. Ron and seven of UKC's finest ladies enjoyed another night of good food and great conversation. Again, the service provided by Owen was outstanding and, to celebrate the New Year, he and his chef treated all of us to another free dessert that was enjoyed by all. I encourage everyone to come out.

Thank you Maureen for hosting another great event!
Ron K.

Dinner Bull & Firkin
Tue, Dec 19, 2023
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Eat your hearts out guys! On Tuesday, December 19, I (Ron) enjoyed the company of ten of UKC’s finest ladies all to myself. Include was a new member – Cathy. There was plenty of genial conversation including what everyone was planning for Christmas. As usual, the food and service was great, with a variety of meals being chosen by the ladies.

Thank you Christine for hosting the event and we look forward to many more in 2024.
Ron K.

Lunch at the Rose & Crown
Thu, Dec 14, 2023
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Seven ladies joined our Hostess Mary for lunch at The Rose and Crown on December 14. Usually this is a fairly quiet place for lunch, but a Canadian Tire Christmas Party in the main area – 150 people – so it was definitely very festive. We all enjoyed a good lunch and a chat with out lovely Hostess making sure we all were taken care of and had what we needed. Later we were serenaded with Christmas Carols from the party next door.

Many thanks to Mary V. for arranging such an enjoyable lunch.
Marilyn G.

Dinner at Budapest Restaurant
Tue, Dec 12, 2023
Dinner/Mingling Granite Brewery
Sun, Dec 3, 2023
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On December 3, Trevor, Ron and six lovely ladies were treated to a very special evening at The Granite Brewery. We enjoyed the usual excellent service, good food and genial conversation. Since it was our last gathering at The Granite prior to Christmas, Owen and Oscar prepared a special dessert that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Thank you Maureen for hosting the event and we look forward to many more splendid events at The Granite Brewery in 2024.
Ron K.

Christmas Carol Concert
Sat, Dec 2, 2023
On Saturday December 2, four UKC members got together to listen to a carol concert at Yorkminster Park Baptist Church. The concert benefitted the Daily Bread Food Bank. People were able to give a monetary donation at collection time as well as being encouraged to bring along one or two canned goods for the food drive. It was very well-attended, with marvelous singing, music and commentary. And our group sang their hearts out - as did most of the congregation.

Thank-you, Maureen C., for hosting this event. The concert will be televised on Christmas Eve and Christmas Night courtesy of City TV at 11 pm.
Christine Q.

Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's Tavern
Sat, Nov 18, 2023
Mingling/Dinner at the Bier Markt
Sun, Nov 12, 2023
Dinner at the Budapest Restaurant
Tue, Nov 7, 2023
Drinks & Dinner at the Bull & Firkin
Fri, Oct 27, 2023
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At the Bull & Firkin hosted by Christine on October 27, eight members attended and our table was overlooked by a very large Halloween ogre hanging from the ceiling. After receiving our beverage order we ordered from the variety of pub food offered. As usual conversation ranged over many subjects which makes these UKC gatherings so interesting. It was lovely to see Anice again after so many weeks away. By the end of the night we agreed to disagree on many of the subjects and left well fed and relaxed.

Thanks Christine for organizing the evening.
Rosemary P.

Golf Fun Day & Dinner at London Gate Pub
Sat, Oct 21, 2023
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It was a great golfing fun day on Saturday October 21st as 7 UKC golfers played their final game for the season at Scarlett Woods. The golf course was fairly dry despite all the rain previous day and some trees were exhibiting brilliant orange and red colour. At the 3rd Hole, UKC golfer hit from the tee off and as the ball landed a cat leaped from the nearby bushes after the ball but was quickly disappointed and retreated realizing it was not chewable/edible. The golfers completed their full round of golf before convening in the club house to tally scores. determine prize winners and enjoy some refreshments. Bob achieved an awesome score of 87 - good going Bob! Congratulations to John for the longest drive and Dorothy for closest to the pin! Many thanks to Ross for donating sleeves of golf balls to UKC for prizes - greatly appreciated!

Afterwards some golfers and additional UKC members indulged in refreshments and dinner at the London Gate Pub. All enjoyed their savoury favourites - Cajun Chicken Caesar Wrap, Bangers & Mash, Jambalaya Pasta and Cobb Salad while engaging in lively conversation and laughter before departing for home.
Jo-ann D.

Lunch at the Rose and Crown
Thu, Oct 19, 2023
A group of seven ladies met for a late lunch on October 19 at The Rose and Crown, a popular pub close to Yonge and Eglinton. Our gracious hostess Mary greeted everyone as they arrived and we settled in for a drink before ordering lunch. There was lots to choose from on the menu, plus some tasty sounding specials.

It was a very enjoyable lunch with lots of chat and we hope to do this again soon.
Marilyn G.

Smokeshow BBQ & Brew
Sun, Oct 15, 2023
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Dinner at the Granite Brewery
Sun, Oct 15, 2023
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On a crisp October evening, October 15, we joined our exuberant host Maureen in the snug at The Granite Brewery and Tied House once again. As well as each others company, we enjoyed the delicious and varied food offerings accompanied by the Granite beers or wines of our choice.
Our super friendly waiter Tinna brought us everything from crab cakes and soup of the day to lamb curries, burgers and fries, breaded fish and salad and veggie gluten free pasta. One meal arrived a bit late (new chef apparently) and as a result we were given a number of desserts to share – just happened to be a delicious chocolate mousse cake topped unnecessarily with both chocolate sauce and real whipped cream. As a family run Brewery, the Granite is always very welcoming and offers free parking on a lower level – amazing for the area.

Cheers until next time!
Brenda W.

Dixieland Jazz at Grossman's Tavern
Sat, Oct 14, 2023
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ROM Walk in Queen's Park
Sun, Oct 8, 2023
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On a blustery fall day, October 8, three brave and appropriately dressed UKC members met some ROM volunteers for a tour of some 11 monuments around Queen’s Park. Of note was a statue of Dr Bethune in the U of T grounds and the Canadian Volunteer Memorial in remembrance of the Fenian Rebellion in Canada. Though the weather was challenging, we learned about many interesting historical events in Canada.

At the end of the walk we made our way to the Aroma Espresso Bar on Bay and Bloor for some hot beverages and a snack to fortify us for the trip home.
Filomena D.