Where to sip and be seen during the 2014 TIFF

By Patricia Noonan It's that star-studded time of year in Toronto again... and not only does that mean movies and after parties, it also means swanky, star quality cocktails. And hotel alley, AKA Wellington Street West, is close to all the TIFF action. The Ritz, Soho and of course The Thompson Hotel will make for all sorts of people and star gazing. So if you're just milling around wondering where to find quality cocktails, find your way over to the bar or patio at Colette Grand Cafe, in The Thompson Hotel. Lead bartender Zak Doy is a world seasoned pro with numerous bars behind his belt. From the Middle East, Australia, London, Barcelona and other spots throughout Europe, Zak has a global feel for the latest cocktail trends. Elegant, harmonious and full of flavour, Zak’s cocktail creations make use of some elusive star ingredients. Jasmine's Secret is a champagne style cocktail with a unique twist. Zak uses tea syrup and fresh, edible flowers for a stunning take on this classic. Have one of these and you'll definitely feel like a star.

3/4 oz Remy VSOP cognac 1 oz Jasmine tea syrup 4 oz Sparkling wine Method: Combine syrup with cognac in a Yarai mixing glass. Add 2-3 ice cubes, stir to chill, strain into champagne flute and top with sparkling wine. Garnish: Jasmine flowers Glass: Champagne  flute Zak uses an unusual poppy liqueur from Dijon, France for this feminine cocktail that looks like a throwback to Hollywood days.

1 oz Botanist Gin 1 oz Lemon juice 1 oz Rich simple syrup 1 oz Poppy liqueur (Liqueur de Coquelicot de Nemours) 4 Fresh strawberries Black Walnut bitters 1 Whole egg Garnish: Strawberry Glass: Coupe I can imagine having a cocktail like either of the next two at Rick’s Café in the movie Casablanca!

11/2oz Green Chartreuse 1/2oz Dolin Blanc Vermouth 1/4oz Ginger syrup Saffron bitters Fresh Kashmiri saffron Garnish: Kashmiri saffron threads Glass: Coupe

11/2oz Havana Club 7 Year Old Rum 1/2oz Lime juice 1/4oz Luxardo Maraschino liqueur 1/4oz Black walnut-dark cherry syrup Lime essence Garnish: Maraschino cherry Glass: Coupe Enjoy TIFF!