Getting settled in Saint John

Now that I'm in the city for good, I decided it was time to take care of some business. 

Big Tide Brewing Co has a Mug Club, and I'm the newest member, #85. Adam's been a member for years, and I've always been a little jealous of his Mug when it comes to the table. So now we're even. That is actually how big I smile when my mug arrives :)

Big Tide is a great place to hang out and try a few local brews. They also offer flights of 4 beers for $8.50, so if you're having trouble deciding what to drink, just drink them all!

Liquid Gold Tasting Bar & All Things Olive is another place that I've been hearing great things about. They have four locations in Atlantic Canada, on of which is right Uptown. I'm told tasting olive oil is a common practice in the Mediterranean, but new to North America.

At Liquid Gold you have dozens of olive oils and balsamic vinegars to taste at your leisure. The staff is more than helpful, especially if you're unsure of how to match the flavours. You can purchase sample packs with 6 small bottles of oil or vinegar if you just can't decide what you like best.

I chose the Harissa-infused olive oil, the Mango-infused white balsamic vinegar, and a small bottle of Japanese Sesame oil. Make sure to plan more than one visit, as you'll have trouble trying to taste everything in one go.