LCBO Food & Drink Summer 2021

HIDDEN TREASURES

Persians

Although the recipe is shrouded in secrecy, this sweet oval-shaped fried bun that’s frosted with a layer of pink berry icing (raspberry or strawberry) is widely known. Richer than a cinnamon roll, the iconic yeast-risen pastry is said to have originated at Bennett’s Bakery. There’s also a toasted version that sees buttered cut halves— including the icing—griddled in a frying pan until golden. Bennett’s Bakery & Deli 899 Tungsten St., Thunder Bay, look for them on facebook.com

The Persian Man (bennett’s coffee shop) Same address, also on facebook.com

Dill Pickles Promising something for everyone, this seasonal store’s most popular item happens to be located just inside the front door: garlicky pickles fished from a vinegar bath. Attracting pickle enthusiasts for almost five decades, the snappy old-fashioned barrel-aged cucumbers are available between May and October, when the store is open. Young’s General Store 105 Mission Rd., Wawa, youngsgeneralstore.ca

PIZZA BY VINCE NOGUCHI; PERSIANS BY RYAN HILL/PICME PHOTOGRAPHY

Sushi Pizza

This non-traditional spin on sushi is a hash brown-like fried panko-crusted sushi rice patty topped with sashimi salmon or tuna, spicy mayonnaise and tobiko (flying fish roe). Some versions are christened with sliced avocado or scallions. Invented by chef Kaoru Ohsada at down- town Toronto stalwart Nami, the popular appetizer can be found at most casual Japanese restaurants in the city.

Nami Japanese Restaurant 55 Adelaide St. E., Toronto, namirestaurant.ca

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SUMMER 2021 FOOD & DRINK