#Tbay lunch walkies

A co-worker and I have made a habit of walking to the Bay St. Area at lunch once a week.  We find it really helps the creative process to disconnect from all the technology we work with every day - we are Systems Administrators. 

We try to vary the walk and get perspectives on the neighborhoods and see what new developments are occurring.  Thunder Bay is in a state of transition - its turning over a new leaf - but only by walking can you really see the subtle changes.  

Eventually it will explode and will be very apparent.

Today's walk took us down Red River by the new Law School.  It is possibly one of the most stunning buildings in the city.  There's a mock up of the interior court house simulation on a billboard.  I'm sure it could double as film set when not in use.

Down Algoma and over to Bay Street we went, eyeing up all the residents that have been spruced up, and sadly many that have not tried.  If only I had some extra money to throw around and develop some of these run down buildings. But that's a rant for another day.

Some other sightings included a protest in front of a fairly prominent food place, a cheery fellow in Leafs attire busking outside the Hoito, a residential apartment undergoing some serious renovations and the backside of Hill Crest park.

Love Living In Thunder Bay, Love Eating In Thunder Bay

Its by no means breaking news, but Thunder Bay has some damn fine dining establishments.  The Bay and Algoma district especially.  (Say it again - Bay and Algoma District).  There are more great places to eat in this block than any where else in the city.  (this bodes well for my previous suggestion of closing off bay street to create a piazza -  Bay St Piazza)

When i find something I like, the norm for me is to be addicted.  Chipolte unrwrap with Tofu with a side of WheatGrass.  The mix of roasted red peppers, bean sprouts, tofu and the vinaigrette is amazing.   And satiating. I am full when i eat this dish.  And with mostly greens, that's hard to accomplish.

Growing Season is very popular.  So if you're in a rush - avoid the lunch crowd.  If you've been before, you know it can get a bit crowded very quickly.  Regardless - its worth the wait.

I haven't had a 'juice' yet but noticed a lot or patrons with colourful beverage  in hand.  Can anyone make me a recommendation for my next visit?

Bay Street

I really love whats going on with the downtown core initiative with the marina development and the focus of making this area the 'entertainment' district. Like every successful city - there needs to be a focus for the main stream citizen and tourist. Any time I have visited friends in other cities, we've always gone to the 'happening' spots for drinks and entertainment.


In some cities - there's one main part of town. In larger cities you have multiple 'districts' that offer their own unique style and flare. It's what i think helps nurture an identity for the city and fosters a culture.

What I find really fascinating is when there is a little area that's a little lesser known. Its where the locals hang out and it smacks of culture. Its even better when someone you're visiting knows of this sort of area and takes you there. You get this sensce of authenticity.

I believe there's a place in Thunder Bay that speaks to this. Its the Bay Street block where the Finnish Labor Temple, Calico, Trip Out Doors, Kitchen Nook are all located. You know the block i'm referring too. It's one way only.

This block has the potential to really make its mark on the city of Thunder Bay in the way i just described. And I think the way to do it is to block off that entire block - make it pedestrian only. Its already one way - why not just go the distance and make it 'no-way'.

This would allow for a small square to be built. Put in permanent tables, chairs and benches for patrons to have a coffee and lunch. Plant more trees. Encourage the rest of the tenants to paint and update their store fronts. Maybe a licensed establishment could start up and serve fresh suds on the patio.

I can just imagine grabbing a cup of dark roast from calico and sitting at a table under some trees in the shadows of the Hoito while soft music echoes from a local musician(s) playing in the court yard. I sit at my table checking things out on my mobile (with free wi-fi access of course) and sink into this little pocket of serenity. If you have been to Italy or France and sat with an espresso in the local square - you know what i'm talking about.

So with all the fan fare about the Prince Arthur's Landing, I really think the city could throw the locals a little something for 'us'. It should be the Bay Street District. You'll know what it is and you'll want to bring visitors their for an authenticate slice of Thunder Bay!