MANH AT T ANS :
144
GOR
WHERE PEOPLE WANT TO BE
DON
BY CHRIS TIESSEN
ST
KORT
R IG H
W T RD
GUELPH
‘My friend – you’re an exquisite anachronism,’
a natural at making people feel at home at
I propose to Thomas Aldridge – or ‘Big Daddy
Manhattans – in some ways the Royal City’s
T’, as he’s had me address him over the
best kept secret. Indeed, the restaurant,
years. I raise the flute of champagne he’s
located in a strip mall along Gordon Street
just poured me, and continue: ‘A veritable
somewhere between the heavily-promoted
throw-back to figures who once inhabited
downtown core and the heavily-populated
some fabulous romantic age. Like Fitzgerald’s
South End, is perhaps Guelph’s most
Gatsby. Hemingway. Or,’ I add, ‘Morrissey.’
underappreciated culinary and entertainment
We’re standing by the bar at Manhattans
destination. Despite its (relatively) obscure
– Thomas’ pizza bistro and music club in
location, this beautifully appointed
Guelph’s Midtown district. It’s early afternoon,
establishment is the ideal destination for
and the restaurant won’t open for another
anyone looking for a great place to eat. The
couple hours. Yet Thomas – ever the vigilant
perfect place for anyone who loves to listen
host – is making sure that I’m being taken
to live jazz (on Thomas’ one hundred-year-old
care of.
Steinway, to boot). An uncommon retreat for
Which is nothing new for this elegant, eloquent man. Indeed, Thomas is more than
anyone who enjoys the diversion of stand-up comedy. Indeed, there’s live entertainment almost every night at Manhattans.
