Robbie Burns Day Toronto 2012
Robbie Burns Day 2012 means Toronto pubs and restaurants will soon be stocked with an unusually large quantity of haggis. Come Wednesday, January 25, Robbie Burns fans (or else, just fans of haggis — and yes, I hear they do exist) will gather to pay tribute to the 18th century Scottish poet, if only by sampling single-malt scotch and sitting patiently during "Address to a Haggis." Many of these events also feature live music, highland dancing, and a lack of odd stares if you show up in a kilt. Finally. Here are a few Robbie Burns Day suppers and events happening around Toronto this year.
The Caledonian
Ever the popular Robbie Burns Day spot, The Caledonian is already sold out the night of the 25th. However, the pub is planning on a second supper night, will likely be held the evening before. Scotch tasting Monday the 23rd, and all will include spoken word, dancers, and pipers. Call for reservations. 647.547.9827
Murphy's Law
Starting at 6:30 p.m. on January 25, Murphy's is offering a traditional Scottish supper with all the fixins; a Scotch egg, haggis, Cock-A-Leekie soup, filet mignon (?), and more. And, of course, a bottle of Innis & Gunn Scottish oak-aged beer to wash it all down. $40. 416.690.5516
Monk's Table
The Monk's Table is extending the ode form the 25th onward. With Toronto Star beer expert Josh Rubin in attendance and leading a discussion, the first event will feature a three-course prix-fixe meal and a variety of Scottish beers ($45 in advance). The next several days at The Monk's Table will include haggis sampling, single-malt sampling, and crowds trying their best to pace themselves. Call for more info: 416.920.7037
Allen's
Allen's Burns Day feast is slightly pricier than the other pub suppers, marked at $65 per person for a traditional three-course menu. The night features music by The Scarborough Pipes and Drums, live highland dancers, and a scheduled ode to the haggis slotted for 7:15 p.m. January 25, call for tickets in advance. 416.463.3086
Auld Spot Pub
The Auld Spot Pub(s) — Danforth and College — are hosting mirroring events the evening of January 25. Both will address the haggis, of course, and offer complementary samples along with music and highland dancers. No need for reservations, but best to arrive early. The Auld College starts at 6:00 p.m., and the Danforth location at 7:30 p.m.
The Brazen Head
Sister to Murphy's Law, but serving the west (ish) end. The Brazen Head is offering, essentially, the same meal of filet mignon, Cock-A-Leekie soup, haggis, a Scotch egg, and a bottle of Innis & Gunn Scottish, but for $5 more. Hey, maybe the atmosphere is worth the extra fiver. January 25 starting at 6:30 p.m. 416.535.8787
Mill Street Brew Pub Brew Master's Dinner
For those brave souls who can handle two Robbie Burns days, the Brew Master's dinner on Thursday the 26th could just be the ticket. But be prepared, this is a five course meal with beer pairings that'll test the mettle of those lacking hearty appetites. It's not cheap at $60, but there's lots on offer here — and if you like to pontificate about beer, you'll likely have an audience. 416-681-0338
Photo by Kris Williams on Flickr
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