Grand Opening August 29, 2008
Yesterday, as you may have heard if you’re a Facebook member of Caplansky’s Deli, I made lunch for Getty Lee. I’ve met all kinds of famous people but this was a huge thrill because I grew up on his music and still listen to my Rush vinyl. As I stood watching him enjoy his combo, I wondered what to say. When he got up to leave and I made my move.
“So, we’re doing a Grand Opening Party on August 29,” I said “and I’m looking for a local band to play…”
“Ummmmm,” he said probably wondering how to brush me off – quickly.
“No,” I said, “I’m just kidding, I’m a huge fan and its a thrill to have you here.” He seemed relieved, extended his hand and introduced himself formally. ”When’s the opening,” he asked. “August 29, a Friday. We’re going to have Major Maker, Steve Singh and SoCalled (tentatively). Plus free food.” The rest of the conversation was a total blur although I did save face by resisting the urge to ask for a photo or autograph.
Then a superstar of another sort returned today. Brian Greenspan, widely regarded as one of the best legal minds Canada has ever produced came in to taste my new homemade mustard. The first time we met, Brian told me he has a separate fridge just to hold his collection of mustard so when I made my first batch I sent him an email asking him to come back for a consultation. I didn’t know he was in Greece at the time but as soon as he came back he came in for a taste. Not only did he give it his personal seal of approval but he said the absolute nicest thing to me: “With you and Bagel World opening downtown, my life is now complete.”
Last but never least, Trevor Head Chef Jesse Vallins, the man responsible for teaching me the basic mustard technique, returned to try the second batch. This time I added roasted leeks and garlic as well as grated horseradish. Its got some bite but not too much. I am proud of it and he was too. Two of the finest meals I ever had were made by him at Trevor. My birthday meal a couple months ago and the pre-Coldplay meal when I wanted to impress Lara.
