Nellie’s top things to do in downtown SSM.

What about everything else going on downtown?

Here’s the list I promised…

#1 Have a morning coffee at Dish Espresso Bar.  All coffee is from Ideal coffee in Kensington Market, from what Steve (owner of Loplops) would call a coffee guru. Dish’s relaxed atmosphere and lovely baristas will get your day off to the right start.

#2 Try yoga at Jade Wellness Studio. Jade offers various classes for all levels of yoga and pilates practitioners. My suggestion is to try the hot yoga for a more intense and detoxifying experience.

#3 Now that you’ve detoxed get your Indian on and eat lunch at Tandoori Gardan, the Soo’s only authentic Indian restaurant. The food here is great. I’ve been to other Indian places in other cities and Tandoori Gardan is definitely in the same league, but for a cheaper price. Try the Lamb Korma, or everyone’s favouirte Tikka Masala. To cut the heat order a Lassi.

#4 Shop at Atrebla. This adorable little shop recently opened up and features women’s fashions handmade by the owner. Classy and fun for a reasonable price. If you need tailoring done quickly and inexpensively this is the place to go.

#5 Learn how to knit that perfect scarf with a class at Shabby Motley Handcraft and try one of Ray’s award winning hot chocolate’s in the process. A yarn shop, a café, and a space for showcasing an array of regionally produced goods.

#6 On a Wednesday or Saturday a must do is the Mill Market located at 35 Canal Dr. The market is new to the Soo this year, and has quickly become a favourite amongst residents. Under one roof you can purchase the best that this area has to offer. Farmers, ranchers, fishermen, artists and artisans; have come together to showcase their products each week. Get that meat and veggies for dinner, and don’t forget the bread. Stillcroft Bakery hands down has the best artisan bread around; get there early they usually sell out within a hour of opening.

#7 Have a late afternoon or early evening drink and appetizer at Embers Grill & Smokehouse. If you’re into meat this is the place to go. My go to is the Stone Cellars Merlot with an order of the Fresh Mussels simmered in a Smoked tomato Sauce.

#8 Stop in at Cafe Natura located at 75 Elgin St. Home to all ages music shows & vinyl listening parties organized by Ears and Eyes (collective promoting the local music, art and creative culture scene in Sault Ste. Marie).

#9 Taste some local suds at Outspoken Brewing. Steve talked about these boys in the blog previously, check out his post here. The space they’ve created to house their craft is unlike anything else in the Soo. A retail store in the front, with an open concept event and brewing area in the back. Featuring a long bar in the centre of the room, wooden flooring, and repurposed tin on the walls, it’s the perfect atmosphere for a pint or two, or three.

#10 Head to Gore street for eats and music at Low & Slow. Low & Slow specializes in smoked meat, brisket and pulled pork. Crowd favourites include sweet cheese mac and the meat sampler platter. Don’t forget the sweet tea to wash it all down. Catch live entertainment on the weekend, for an even more fulfilling dining experience.

#11 Also on Gore St. check out 180 Projects home to local art and music. Weekly 180 Projects showcases exhibitions, workshops, and musical performances from local and out of town acts. Most events are by donation only, listing can be found here.

#12 Lastly, for a fun night out head to Coch’s Corner located at Queen & East, especially on a Thursday. For a proper Bad Idea Thursday start the night with pizza & a pint at Loplops. Homemade specialty pizza’s and any pint you like for just under $10. Afterward walk up to Coch’s for a drink and the musical styling’s of Frank Deresti, Jay Case, and Josh Norling. Great music, with some comedy on the side.

Author

Elise Nelson

20 something event organizer, barmaid and promoter of all things hip in Sault Ste. Marie and beyond. Projects include: Festival of Beer, The Emergency, and Festival of Trees.