I
do not follow the cult of the celebrity (chef or otherwise). This
means that I do not follow famous chefs around (the internet, or
their restaurants) worshipping at their feet. This means that just
because the words “pop-up” or “underground” are used I will
not fawn all over it. I volunteered at the Toronto Underground Market
(TUM) to see if the event was worthy of the buzz surrounding it.
The
information emailed to me was lacking. There was very little
information on where to meet with no signs guiding the way. The email
insisted on early arrival but information was not passed on to
volunteers for 30 minutes after the stated arrival time. Volunteers
were very badly managed with very little organization. Organization
sets up volunteer accountability. More than a few volunteers simply
disappeared into the event where a free drink ticket and free entry
was granted to volunteers.
The
event is held in Evergreen Brickworks, an organization with clearly
stated environmental guidelines. While TUM has both garbage and
recycling bins they do not recycle. Contents of both bins are thrown
into the same dumpster. Additionally, volunteer safety is not
considered as volunteers had to walk through a dark parking lot to
the dumpster.
The
event is well attended, usually selling out, but I did not enjoy it.
People around me were excited by pedantic items such as coconut
marshmallows. They lined up for an hour to get a taco. By the end of
the night most people were drunk. The event seems like an excuse to
drink heavily and eat to excess. TUM is an exercise in personal
gluttony. I wanted it to be an exercise in palate development.
However, TUM is not without merit, it's ideals are to help fledgling
food businesses gain a foothold in a difficult market. Which is
certainly something I can get behind!
Check it out at TUM.
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