The thing about copper is that it can tarnish. That's why the Copper Penny owners decided it was time to polish up the Clayton Park bar and restaurant. " spent $100,000 on renovations to the interior and there are going to be renovations outside as well," says manager Scott Samways. "The new look is far removed from the Copper Penny. It's a very current pub-look." The new image includes dark wood throughout the restaurant, lots of natural light and a brand new name. The bar now goes by the very proper and British name Winston's Pub and Eatery. Asked why the decision was made to overhaul the Penny, Samways explains, "Clayton Park has changed demographically in recent years. We're keeping up with the Joneses." Winston's will be unveiling a new menu soon. The drink menu will also feature classy beverages such as martinis. And did somebody say entertainment? An upgraded look and image means upgraded entertainment. Trooper and Honeymoon Suite are both heading for Winston's this summer to "Raise a Little Hell" and "Feel It Again," respectively. The Irish Descendants will also be hitting the stage during the summer for what Samways calls "St. Patrick's Day in July." For more information, call 443-7024.
Sweet moves
What's better than chocolate? Answer: Lots of chocolate. Rosemary's Chocolates has long been the place to go in Halifax for handmade Belgian chocolates and truffles. Now, owner Rosemary Bowman has decided to move her shop from Robie Street to the Atlantic City Centre Mall on Spring Garden Road. "It's a more convenient location for most people," Bowman says. The new upscale shop is now open seven days a week, upstairs from Pete's Frootique. Bowman says there will be lots of new products, but promises that old favourites such as chocolate-covered ginger will still be available. Rosemary's also offers specialty products such as dairy-free chocolate and the entire shop is peanut-free. A grand opening is planned for Sunday, June 10, with chocolate fountains and lots of free samples. Call the store at 454-9588.
Tweed whacker
Turning our attention back across the Harbour to Dartmouth Crossing, another store is set to make its HRM debut. Tweed & Hickory is an Ontario-based chain that promises "An Adventure in Lifestyle." This adventure includes high-end casual wear for men, women and children, plus a wide selection of upscale products for homes including kitchenware. The boutiques area of Dartmouth Crossing should be opening this spring. To learn more about Tweed & Hickory, see www.tweedandhickory.com
Tarek yourself
Tarek Kostec loves his customers so much, he's willing to go to them. The owner of Tarek's Cafe, the incredibly popular middle eastern restaurant on Robie Street, has opened a second location in the Spring Garden Place food court, across from Ko-Doraku. "Lots of customers told me they need me downtown because they don't have time to come uptown," Tarek explains. "I listen to my customers." The space occupies one that has been vacant since 24 Carrots Bakery left. Tarek says the menu is 95 percent the same as the original location and serves the same "good quality, healthy food" that has made him famous. The new spot will be open until 5pm every day except Sundays. For more information call 444-8723.
Holy crepe!
The waterfront has long been a place to stroll leisurely along with a tasty snack in your hand. Now there's one more delicious option for tourists and snackers. La Petite Creperie is a new stand offering an array of European-style crepes and Belgian waffles. This may not sound portable, but the crepes are rolled in paper so you can walk and eat. La Petite Creperie has taken over the small stand right on the boardwalk that formerly housed Black Bear Ice Cream. The menu offers sweet treats such as sugar and butter crepes, and also crepes with savoury fillings if you'd rather make a meal of it. After its first week of operation, manager Marilyn Conrad says people are starting to take notice of the new kid on the block. "It's a nice, light meal," she says. "And it's something different." For more information call 444-8680.
Bits and bites
You may have noticed some new automated DVD rental terminals around town. Swipe & Go DVD Rentals is the latest company to bring the concept of self-serve movie rentals to Halifax. Customers choose and rent their movies from an automated kiosk using their credit cards. The Swipe & Go kiosks hold more than 110 new releases and no membership is required. The DVDs come in their original packaging and cost $2.99 plus tax per day. There are presently two kiosks in Halifax, one in the lobby of the Maritime Centre at 1505 Barrington Street and one at the Perks Newsstand at 1781 Lower Water Street. For more information call 429-4282...Rumour has it that Scotia Square is going to be the home of the latest Quiznos Subs restaurant. It will be the fifth Quiznos location in HRM...The paper covering the windows of the former Nail and Kneecap restaurant on Quinpool Road is now also covered in Greek Fest posters. Is this a clue to what might take over the space? Stay tuned....
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