Cold Smoke

A dependably decent smoke for the money.

I've had a Brevill entry level espresso machine, a brace of french presses, a gaggle of different sized Bialetti pots and was going nowhere fast. In fact, I was so unsatisfied, I simply put all the gear in the back of the cupboard and was picking up a Tim Hortons on the way to work. Yeah, that bad! Like @canadianbeaver, I discovered the Technivorm Mokkamaster and haven't looked back since. I've gone through a few bean grinders and just sprung for a Kitchenaid Pro-Line grinder which I am - so far - happy with. I'm getting an itch to roast my own beans but haven't a clue where to start and roasting machines remain a bit of a mystery to me. I'd be appreciative of any pointers or recommendations from the home roasters out there.

Major cringe!

Not that hard to find and yes, they are very good. A regular favourite of mine.

Montreal Airport Duty Free is a bit on the pathetic side. Not much stock and while cheaper than outrageous Canadian B&M prices, it's still no bargain. Unless you're a desperate American, Canada just isn't much of a cuban cigar mecca.

Canadian taxes are horrible. You might do better at one of the cigar stores on the reserves.

Iqaluit, Baffin Island. Nunavut. Arctic Canada.

Do Canadian regional editions ever appear in Canadian airport Duty Free stores or are they B&M only?

With all due respect to the Welsh, I detest leeks. The vile things simply won't pass my epiglottis.

Would anyone know when the Rafael Gonzalez North Star regional edition is supposed to arrive in Iceland if it hasn't already and where it might be retailed? I have potential mules going through Reykjavik this month and was hoping to get them to bring me back a box.

Maison Publique in Montreal is a favourite of mine. Shabby chic bistro decor, great beers and awesome food. The "Tasters Menu" is a favourite of the wife and I. They just keep bringing out little taster plates of everything on the menu. It's reasonably priced for the quality (The chef used to work with Jamie Oliver and Oliver if also an investor). Schwartz's deli is a classic stop for a traditional smoked meat sandwich on rye.

Why does this topic make me think of civet coffee?

Dirty Deeds done Dirt Cheap. I keep wanting to leave it as the business answer machine message.

Do my eyes deceive me or are those Capitols wrapped in cellophane?

Ha! These aren't so much man caves where a bloke gets away from the missus as party palaces where one gets saucy with cheerleaders.