G20: The Grub

Ah, the ever-lovin’ G20 and its attendant stream of madcap developments. Whatever will the good burghers of Toronto talk about when the world’s big-name politicos pull up anchor and head home? It’s a thought too barren to contemplate. For now, best to busy ourselves with more summit chatter.

Water cannons? Check. Wool underwear? Check again. Three squares a day? Let’s check.

The vast influx of world-stage power players and their entourages is gonna have to eat. Precisely what, however, is clearly a matter of international security that rivals who’s got permission to fly a kite during this highly structured weekend.

Word is that the hotshots and their posses are spreading their hospitality across the security zone, upping occupancy at the likes of the Sheraton, Hyatt Regency and Fairmont Royal York. The resident restaurants, and executive chefs contained therein, are no doubt even now in a preparatory flurry, sourcing and securing the exacting ingredients that will paint the rarified palates of the attending delegates.

Could be that Barack will fancy the Sheraton club sandwich at the Bistro on Two or that Sarcozy will get his fingers dirty on the sticky ribs at the Hyatt’s King Street Social Kitchen and Bar.

As for the anticipated libations, the top drawer at Epic, the Royal York’s resident eatery, is reserved for a Cave Springs 2004 Riesling. There’s every reason to believe that Steve Harper will pop his cork on that one.

The G20 protesters, meanwhile, will nosh on the fruits (and veggies) of community gardeners and Kensington Market greengrocers, and on the breads and pastries dropped off by “activist bakers.”