MAKE[-]UP FROM LAST NIGHT

Whether you’re a Giants or Pats fan – or heck – just want to see Madonna lip sync the half-time show (we know who you are), there’s a ton of places to check out the big game no matter what your group’s budget is.

Here’s the scoop on a few of my favourite places to hang out and grab a brew.

Heads up: the budget prices are based on ordering nachos, a burger meal, and two pitchers.

Real Sports Bar 15 York Street. BUDGET $90

Showcasing the largest indoor HD screen in North America, 29 beers on tap, and seating for close to 1000 guests, this MLSE owned bar is just like any ol’ sports bar, on acid. Its definitely one of the best places in the city to watch the big game despite a few minor set backs: don’t go in a large group. The place isn’t known to have the best service in the city and is really tough when it comes to accommodating larger groups.  Be prepared to pay a cover charge if you’re coming to watch the Super Bowl. They typically have a  $10 cover for UFC nights so I wouldn’t second judge a cover charge for this Sunday. One last thing: If you’re banking on some rowdy commentary, I’d recommend a place with a little less suits, and a lot more heart for the game.

The Dog’s Bollocks 817 Queen Street West. BUDGET $55

Even though they may not have the best screens to watch the Super Bowl, I’ve yet to have a boring time at this bar. The food is reasonably priced and with 20 different beers on tap, you really can’t go wrong. If you get there early enough, they have some pretty comfy seating sections just in case you need a beer time-out and melting into some cushions is the only option.

Hoops 735 Queen Street West. BUDGET$65

You asked for screens – you got your screens! You asked for ladies in super short-shorts? You got ‘em too! You asked for an over-priced questionable burger – look no further! With four locations in the city, I would leave this as my last resort to watch the Super Bowl. The prices are a little outrageous compared to the quality of the food and there’s not anything special on tap. Maybe have a little pre-game beverage action at your place before heading out with your buddies to Hoops. You won’t be so agitated when coughing up your share of the bill.

Football Factory 164 Bathurst Street. BUDGET $70

Not to be biased here, but this is definitely my favourite sport’s bar in the city. My partner is Scottish so we’ve been here quite a few times to watch Scottish premiere league matches throughout the season. The service is pleasant and I always seem have a good chat with the patrons. The menu is great and there’s some amazing alternatives to your average pub fare. With seating for around 80 people, I would advise getting here sooner then later especially if you have a big group this Sunday. Super Bowl setbacks: despite the amount of screens in the place, they definitely lack numbers in big screens to watch the game. Also, no nachos. I recommend the Venison Carpaccio, but if you’re traveling with anyone quite like my Scottish counter-part, “we’re nae orderin’ that shite. Its football honey.”

x.

Ever wonder what the heck was under all that construction at the southeast corner of Queen & Bathurst?

Well, what used to be The Big Bop (which some will remember as the ol’ all-ages venue in Toronto) for twenty years, is now a CB2. With The Big Bop being closed for two years now, I was anticipating something exciting to go up. It just seems like yet another over-priced chain store has squeezed – or might I say paid an arm & a leg-  to open its doors into the omni-present Queen West strip.

I guess its still game-on for gentrification?

BEFORE:

AFTER:

To check out CB2′s website : click here! (its honestly not that bad – I’m just bitter)

Photos courtesy of The Grid & BlogTO

x.

BOSCIA Luminizing Black Mask!

Last week I went over to a girlfriend’s house for a serious Tikka Masala dinner and an evening of detoxifying face masks. Good times, riiiiight?

Being a big fan of all things natural and hypo-allergenic, I gravitate towards lines like Boscia who boast that their stuff is free of harsh chemicals and is the world’s first preservative-free, botanically-based skincare line.

WHAT IS IT SUPPOSED TO DO?

This mineral-rich mask detoxifies and purifies the skin leaving it super radiant and bright.

HOW DO I USE THIS SHIT?

When they say its black, its black. I was kind of nervous initially applying it to my skin, but after the first shock of the colour, it goes on surprisingly smooth. Keep this product away from your eyes - SERIOUSLY. I have extremely sensitive eyes and wear contact lenses. Its better to wear your glasses in this situation and apply the mask so you look like an inverted panda bear (see photo).

Leave the mask on for about fifteen minutes. You’re skin will begin to feel very taught. At that point, peel the mask off very slowly and carefully.

DOES IT ACTUALLY WORK?

My skin was a lot brighter and softer after I took the peel off. Made a HUGE difference in my complexion as well. My skin tone was a little bit more even and felt very moisturized after the application.

DISCLAIMER:

The only problem I have with the stuff is that it KILLS when you peel it off. I was actually tearing up thinking that the stuff was removing a layer of my skin.

$34

www.sephora.com/Boscia

x.