An essentially comprehensive review. The five pillars of the Kingston food scene are Sima (Sushi), Woodenheads (Pizza), Le Chien Noir (French), Harpers (Burgers) and Olivea (Italian). They are each best-in-class and are world-class establishments that can compete against their Toronto equivalents. In the next few weeks, these five and many other Kingston restaurants will be reviewed in an effort for Random Walk to become the headline food blog for the Kingston area. I think this will be a fun and useful exercise.

Oct 17: Atomica ★★★★ The hip offspring of Le Chien Noir is a dark, ultramodern hub with florescent blue bar lights that are too foolish for haute-cuisine.

Oct 15: Woodenheads ★★★★★ Most pizza variations are filled to the brim with forward, guilt-inducing toppings. A particular favourite is the Dynamo, an exultation of sweet (honey) and savory (pesto).

Oct 14: Chez Piggy ★★★ The atmosphere is dominated by les anciens (which suits the occasion of my mother’s fiftieth birthday). Perhaps that is why the food is so boring and flavourless.

Oct 10: Sima Sushi ★★★★★ Owners June and Daniel Kim worked 11 years at Toronto’s best sushi restaurants and now dominate Kingston’s scene.

Oct 6: Kingston Brewing Company ★★ The brew pub experience is one of eclecticism. Memorabilia line every inch of useable wall-space and the meandering menu is a comedy routine.

Oct 3: Olivea ★★★★★ The chicken is brick-pressed to colourful perfection. Burn marks are so satisfyingly bitter. The arugula salad hits high notes and crunch frites dip into a sour aioli.