by Wolffy

Where can you instantly feel part of the local scene, plugged into PR’s art world, and well fed in sophisticated fashion without spending a fortune? BeMused more than comes up to the mark, and on sunny days there’s a great view from the deck as well.

There’s intriguing art on the walls—a different show every few weeks—a variety of comfortable seating, your very own hand towel in the restroom, and a red-and-gold kitchen to stimulate your appetite and make you forget the gray bluster of the day.

Owner Jeffrey Renn and his sister, Andrea Howey, provide guests with a well discerned red or white wine by the glass. The menu is short enough for Jeff to write it on a framed mirror, a lovely touch. For those whose eyes go crazy reading mirrors, he writes it out in an elegant hand. All one needs to do is point. Point to anything—it will be good.
Appetizers, like a cucumber salad with gazpacho sauce or the recent delicate brain-mushroom soup, run $6 to $8. Light entrees like salami-and-mozzarella calzone or vegetable curry are about $10. Bring a big appetite to do justice to bigger entrees like spice-seared beef tenderloin with red pepper, goat cheese, and mini red potatoes, or crab-and-cream-cheese-stuffed sockeye pinwheels with asparagus and carrot salad, which hover around $15. Portion sizes leave room for a classic dessert like crème brulee, cheesecake varieties, or tiramisu. A light dinner for two with a glass of wine will run about $40; a full dinner, $75 or so. (Cash or cheque only at this time.)

Jeff Renn loves fresh peasant food with Mediterranean manners. He is delighted to show off his year ‘round supply of greens from his father’s farm or talk cooking secrets with his guests whenever he’s not run off his feet. The modest but meticulously organised kitchen can serve lunch parties of ten or more. With one stove and no microwave (hurray!), however, it can keep the cook hopping. No problem for Jeff, a successful Shakespearean actor at Stratford and in Toronto for many years and therefore no stranger to timing, deadlines, and small spaces.

Jeff and Andrea put on a great show for the community on their private stage at Bemused Wednesdays through Saturdays for lunch and dinner. Next dark and wintry day, don’t deny yourself the warmth, laughter, and darned good food at 4623 Marine Avenue. You’ll have a heck of a good time and be well fed, body and soul.

Location:
4623 Marine Avenue

Hours:
Lunch: Tues. thru Sat from 11:30
Dinner: Wed.& Thurs., 5:30 till 9; Fri. & Sat., 5:30 till mid.