Look Local Magazine Oakville & Burlington 10.10

“We think the Berkshire Hathaway name will be good for HomeServices and HomeServices for Berkshire. When people are making the decision of the magnitude of buying a house, it’s the biggest decision a great many families will ever make. They want to know who they’re working with and we think that the Berkshire Hathaway name will be reassuring to many of those people.”

WARREN BUFFETT CEO Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

WHEREVER LIFE TAKES YOU

DARIO ZECEVIC & MARA ZECEVIC

A family-oriented real estate agent is someone who is sensitive to the needs and concerns of families. They may have experience working with families and can understand the unique challenges and priorities that come with buying or selling a home as a family. They may also be able to offer advice and resources to help clients navigate the real estate process, such as recommendations for schools, child care, extra curricular activities for children and other familyfriendly amenities in the area.

Meet Dario & Mara, a married couple who are both dedicated and experienced real estate agents. With over 20 years of combined experience in the industry, they have a deep understanding of the local

market and a passion for helping families find their dream homes.

As parents themselves, Dario & Mara know firsthand the importance of finding a home that meets the needs of a growing family. They understand the challenges and priorities that come with raising a family and are committed to providing personalized support and guidance to their clients throughout the buying or selling process.

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an experienced seller, Dario & Mara are ready to provide the support and expertise you need to achieve your real estate goals. Contact them today to begin your journey to finding the perfect home for your family.

INTRODUCING

Welcome to the 2023 Winter Edition of Look Local! We’re excited to share our great line-up of stories with our readers as we approach the end of our 10th year of publishing. Our major initiative this winter is to work with Visit Oakville and Tourism Burlington in support of their upcoming Taste of Oakville and Taste of Burlington events. Look out for all the details in this issue, together with some tantalizing ads from some participating restaurants. We encourage you to get out and enjoy this event. The hospitality sector STILL needs support recovering from the devastation of the pandemic. There will be new and exciting additions to their menus, and attractively priced prix-fixe meal plans. Plus, we all need to get out in the depths of winter to enjoy a warm ambience, a delicious meal, and the company of friends and family. Please Support Local and Support Taste this year!

ere it comes again, the "off-season" between the joy of Christmas and the first Spring bloom. Or what I call the season of "blah." Thankfully, the winter months don't weigh as heavily on me as they once did. I've almost come to look forward to this cozy time of year. Almost. While I'll always prefer a summer dock to an icy rink, there is one thing about winter that has my heart: the food that comes with it.

Burlington and Oakville are culinary hot spots, and this February kicks off the anticipated "Taste of" programs in both towns. We're giving you a sneak peek of the events (and some participating restaurants) in our Special feature.

Are you a fan of the Super Bowl? What about super bowls? Bite into this super easy-to-prep (and super yummy to eat) one-container meal trend in our Food feature.

When stowing away winter gear, you often discover an issue with "space." After a big purge - many runs to the donation centre - and meeting with a designer, we figured out how to make the most of our home's awkward nooks and crannies. See the big reveal (and other great ideas) in our Home and Garden story.

Speaking of snowy gear, Cootes Paradise, in the west end of Burlington, transforms into a beautiful naturalized rink in the winter. But did you know this one-of-a-kind marshland has an icy past? Our History feature will take you back to where it all started in the 19th century.

It's the season of love. But do you know the right things to say? Our Valentine's feature walks you through the Five Love Languages - and the perfect gift for each one.

A new year always comes with new resolutions. We found one that benefits your home, the environment, the local economy, and, most importantly, your health. Even better? It's easy to implement! Learn about greenwashing, deciphering ingredients, and how simple green products can make a big difference.

Now, who's hungry!?

Anneliese Lawton

Nooks AND Crannies

by LISA EVANS

Every home has it: dead space without a designated purpose. There’s the hall closet where you toss shoes, backpacks, and coats, and…is that a pair of ski boots? Plus, the spot under the stairs where you house bins of outgrown baby clothes and keepsakes…just in case. You might have grandchildren one day. These spaces, while often underutilized, are valuable real estate in your home.

Dominique Rutledge of Rutledge Improvements has transformed underutilized spaces like these into fun and functional spaces. Most recently, Rutledge worked on our Editor, Anneliese Lawton’s basement, turning the empty wasted space under the stairs into a fun playhouse for her three children (all under the age of 6).

“We cut it all open, drywalled, trimmed it out, made an entranceway,” says Rutledge. To make it look like a house, Rutledge added a shiplap to the front of the entrance and a window with a hanging basket to put a pretend garden. A platform at the upper level of the stairs provides a fun, enclosed fort area below, and a ladder allows the kids to use the platform as a lookout.

Rutledge says under the stairs is one of the most common spaces homeowners like to transform for storage solutions, but this is the first time he’s used the area to add functional living space to the basement.

From a design perspective, Katie Campbell from Katie Campbell Interiors & Design says that her goal is to always maximize space and functionality in a home. Adding, “We hate wasted or unused space. At a recent project, we were redoing the staircase – so we decided to leave it open underneath and create a built-in bench seat. We added a niche in the underside of the stairs to be used for books, a wall sconce above, and a comfortable seat cushion...it became the perfect reading nook for their kids.” When designing new builds, Campbell notes that the elimination of wasted space should be considered during the initial design stages, such as making rooms larger to remove dead corners.

But if you’ve purchased a home that already has awkward spaces, Rutledge has some fun recommendations. He once created a wine cellar under a set of stairs. With six feet of space at

That tucked under-thestairs space isn’t the only underutilized area in your home. Closets can be transformed into living spaces - from a home office to a nursery.

the highest point, the wine cellar was tall enough to be a walk-in.  “It was custom with glass on the outside, all cedar on the inside, and custom wine bottle holders,” says Rutledge.

That tucked under-the-stairs space isn’t the only underutilized area in your home. Closets can be transformed into living spaces - from a home office to a nursery.

A closet can provide a perfect solution for families who don’t have a spare bedroom to house a nursery. By removing the walls on either side of the door to widen the entryway, you can easily fit a crib. Having the crib within steps of your bed is not only a convenient space-saving solution but means you don’t have far to go for all those late-night wakings.

If you’ve always wanted a home office or crafting space but don’t have a spare room, a closet can provide the ideal workspace. Add a desk and some floating shelves, and some fun wallpaper for an inspirational office. Simple wall-mount Kallax drawers are a great storage solution for supplies that you want to keep hidden away. Rutledge suggests opening up the walls when removing the closet door so your office doesn’t feel closed in and instead becomes a nook, an added extension of the room’s space.

By utilizing tucked-away spaces, you can reclaim square footage into something cozy, functional – and completely unique to your needs.

UNIQUE

Boutiques

LOCAL REFILLERIES OFFER MORE THAN SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

by ANNELIESE LAWTON

I've been working as a writer for just over five years now, but in my previous life – before kids – I carried a fast-paced nine-to-five job in environmental management and sustainability. My career kicked off with the Town of Oakville as a sustainability educator in their Environmental Policy Department. It was a meaningful and fulfilling job, where I collaborated with internal departments, local school boards, conservation authorities, and Halton Region to develop community-based environmental programs. My deep love for our natural environment inspired that career. And while my path in life has changed, my appreciation for the seas and the sky has not.

Environmentalism dates back to the late 19th Century, but the 1960s saw a second wave in environmentalism, marking a different area for conservation. Land and water pollution became a growing concern, not just for naturalist groups but the Canadian population as a whole.

At the turn of the 21st Century and in the early 2000s, Canada experienced a third and fourth wave of environmentalism. Youth began to take an interest in the future of our planet, and large corporations received pressure from both consumers and government to improve sustainability. Greenwashing became a prominent marketing tactic to create a false impression of a company's "green" practices. While greenwashing is still a thing, today many companies have stepped up to meet or exceed government requirements, earning themselves accreditations (which really helps us as consumers).

This idea of "sustainable" or "eco-friendly" products extends beyond our environment. Intending to live a full, healthy, and long life, consumers have pushed for non-toxic products containing either organic or natural ingredients, especially in items we put on our bodies or use on our most

Local Links

1 Ten & Co., Oakville tenandco.ca

2 Refillery Market, Burlington refillerymarket.ca 3 A Greener Place, Waterdown agreenerplace.ca 4 The Kind Matter Company, Oakville thekindmattercompany.com 5 EcoFillosophy, Oakville ecofillosophy.com 6 Masion Apothecare, Oakville masionapothecare.ca 7 Oneka onekaelements.com

precious population – children and babies. There has even been increased demand for all-natural pet products. The goal: to limit exposure to less-than-ideal ingredients in our environment and our bodies.

But how can you read between the lines on a label? Refillery Market’s Koby Hicks says to start with the ingredients. Victoria Garofalo, founder of A Greener Place in Waterdown, agrees, saying, "Hard-to-pronounce ingredients aren't necessarily a bad thing (plant names can be long and confusing!), but there are some common words you should look for. Parabens, parfum, aluminum, and mineral oils aren't something you want to put on your skin."

Where’s the best place to find these types of natural products? Look for businesses that not only sell clean products but root themselves in ethical business practices. A Greener Place, EcoFillosophy, Refillery Market, The Kind Matter Company, and Ten & Co. – locally-owned businesses based in Waterdown, Oakville, and Burlington – strive to do just that.

With a "refillery" business model, these zero-to-low waste boutiques carry consciously selected products for home, body, and beyond. Customers can refill glass mason jars (provided with a deposit) with their favourite soap, shampoo, cleaning products, or laundry detergent. Even toothpaste and deodorant can be refilled.

Each boutique meticulously reviews the lifecycle of every product or brand they source, considering ingredients, ethical manufacturing, packaging, and end-user consumption. Oneka, available at Refillery Market, The Kind Matter Company, and A Greener Place, is a popular Quebec-based bulk supplier. They farm their own botanicals for personal care products like shampoo and conditioner. Garofalo notes, "For babies, children, or highly-sensitive individuals, look for products that are unscented or minimally scented with natural oils." Despite being naturally derived, essential oils can cause skin and breathing irritation to those with sensitivities. Sleepy Owl Baby, an all-natural, small-batch baby care line by Natacha Rey is produced right in Oakville. Rey also created popular

A GREENER PLACE

TEN

THE KIND MATTER COMPANY

REFILLERY MARKET

cleaning brand, Lemon Aide, and an extensive line of bath, body, and beauty products available through her company, Maison Apothecare. Oh, and those beautiful Swedish Sponge Cloths that everyone loves so much? They’re designed by Ten & Co’s founder, Christen Irwin.

These small-batch products and safer ingredients usually come with a higher price tag - but that's actually a benefit. High-quality ingredients and ethical business practices (such as not testing on animals and limiting waste) require more time and resources. Plus, Hicks adds, “The cost savings come with refilling.” An example would be that a bottle of Oneka shampoo costs $15 before tax. Refillery Market on the other hand, charges $11 pre-tax when you fill your own bottle. “That’s a $4 saving every time you refill,” notes Hicks.

Of course, in the end, the biggest benefit is how a product makes you feel - from the experience at the local refillery to the soft touch of the product on your skin to the impact you leave behind on the seas and the sky. Feeling good can come naturally.

A

FROZEN ERA

COOTES PARADISE HAS AN ICY HISTORY

by JULIAN KINGSTON

Kitty-corner to the bustling hub of McMaster University and Children's Hospital, you'll find 600 acres of preserved paradise. Birdwatchers flock to the boardwalk that meanders through the marshland, but back in the early 19th Century, hunters frequented the spot for its hearty waterfowl population. Captain Thomas Coote, a British naval officer, was one of those hunters. He spent many days pursuing the land for fowl in the 1780s. Rich in history and named in Captain Coote's honour, "Cootes Paradise" is a crucial wildlife habitat and the only remaining wetland in western Lake Ontario.

But there were other uses for this popular spot. Because of its sheltered location, accessibility, and tendency to freeze at a suitable depth, it was an ideal spot to harvest ice. Before the development of refrigeration, ice harvesting was an important activity for many communities across Ontario. It provided a much-needed income source and helped sustain local economies. The practice continued until well into the 20th century when artificial cold storage methods became more widespread.

FLORENCE MEATS

Natural ice was used domestically to preserve food, and was also an essential element of commerce throughout the 19th and early 20th Centuries, with many industries relying on it for refrigeration. Breweries utilized extensive quantities to cool their wort before the advent of artificial means. Railway shipping used such a considerable volume that the Canadian National Railway maintained its own ice operation on Lake Simcoe, with steamboats packed full of natural ice to keep goods fresh while enroute.

The harvesting process involved cutting large chunks of ice, called "cakes," up to twenty inches thick, with longhandled saws and loading them onto sleds pulled by horses or oxen. The harvested blocks were then transported off the lake, packed in straw and sawdust, and stored in icehouses until sold off in the summer months. The practice was an arduous job that required a great deal of skill, effort, and perseverance. Drowning and hypothermia were a dangerous and very real possibility, as workers and animals risked falling through the ice.

For many years, ice harvesting from Cootes Paradise and the adjoining Burlington Bay, known now as Hamilton Harbour, was a significant source of employment for the local community and provided ice to many cities around Lake Ontario. At its peak in the early twentieth century, over 600 workers were employed in the trade, cutting ice daily while the conditions were favourable. Over 60,000 tons of ice were cut in a typical winter season.

Today, Cootes Paradise is a protected area - and while ice harvesting in the marsh is a thing of the past, this picturesque and naturalized gem is a popular spot

Many ice harvesters were farmers, and there are strong parallels in the language and equipment used in the process. Ice blocks were referred to as "the winter crop" and cut with a specialized "ice plough" using the same draft animals used to work the land. An example of overlap between farming and ice harvesting was the Raspberry family,

whose 1864 farmhouse still stands on the north side of the marsh. The Raspberrys had a dairy farm and operated an ice-cutting business in the winter. In her journal, then-teenage Elva Raspberry tells us how in the winter of 1912, one of her brothers bought his own ice cutter to help with the family business.

Today, Cootes Paradise is a protected area - and while ice harvesting in the marsh is a thing of the past, this picturesque and naturalized gem is a popular spot for leisure activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Cootes Paradise is owned and managed by the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG), which plays an integral role in conserving and protecting these precious wetlands for generations to come. The Raspberry Farm is now the RGB Arboretum.

Ice harvesting is still occasionally practiced in Canada, serving as an important touchpoint with history and our continued dependence on the natural world. As we work towards a more sustainable future, it helps to remember our roots and the traditions that sustained us in the past.

Thoughtfully Curated Products

FOR HOME + BODY

Eco-friendly" products aren't only beneficial for the environment; they have other benefits, too! Shop thoughtfully formulated products from local boutiques  that carry ethical fashion, socially responsible goods, sustainable products, give-back brands, fair trade clothing, and more.

MAISON APOTHECARE

OAKVILLE

Soothe your baby's delicate skin with this naturally blended lotion made with skin-soothing organic lavender essential oil as well as calendula and chamomile. Gently massage your baby's skin for hydration and relaxation. maisonapothecare.ca

REFILLERY MARKET

BURLINGTON

This Canadian-made lemongrass-scented all-purpose cleaner does the dirty work for you with nothing but clean ingredients. Safe for your family, eco-friendly, and available in refillable bottles.   refillerymarket.ca

RUSTIC DAISY'S

WATERDOWN

Soothe and protect your baby's tiny bum. The healing power of Calendula makes this Butt Balm a must-have in the diaper bag, and it's cloth diaper friendly!  rusticdaisys.wordpress.com

TEN AND CO. OAKVILLE

The Ten and Co. Swedish Sponge Cloth is the ultimate eco-friendly kitchen accessory. Depending on your use, your sponge cloth can last anywhere from 6-12 months and replace up to 40+ rolls of paper towel.  tenandco.ca

A GREENER PLACE

WATERDOWN

Express your own unique beauty with these vegan and cruelty-free LipColour Pencils. The Elate LipColour Pencil is made with low environmental emissions and COSMO CERT ingredients for a positive impact on the planet – with YOU in mind. Available in a range of colours. agreenerplace.ca

BOS & CO

BURLINGTON

Ground yourself in nature with Style Care (seen here in vibrant Orchid Rose). Their S Café technology combines an energy-saving process to transform used coffee grounds and recycled plastic bottles into yarn. The sole is a natural “cork” born off a tree and is retrieved every nine years without the tree even being cut down. bosandco.com

looklocalmagazine.com

by ANNELIESE LAWTON

Picture this – your loved ones are coming over for dinner. It could be a special occasion. Maybe a birthday or a celebration. Your brother got engaged. Your best friend landed her dream job. Maybe they’re coming over simply to huddle around good company and even better food. Whatever the reason, you pull out your best. You drape the table with a crisp white cloth, lay place settings, and add an arrangement of soft pink roses. You’re set on making your Nonna’s famous ravioli (which pairs perfectly with your marinara).

With everything prepped, you wait for your guests to arrive.

This encapsulates the love, mission, and mandate – the heart – of local restaurateurs. Each owner has carefully crafted their menu, often inspired by flavours from their childhood. Then they package it together with atmosphere, music, linens, and staff to bring you a unique experience. An extension of their home.

This February (and again in the fall), select restaurants in Oakville and Burlington are taking part in a culinary event you don’t want to miss. Local restaurants will offer Prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus featuring unique or popular items. Prix-fixe menu is a collection of predetermined menu items presented as a multi-course meal at a set price, offering value and/or specialty dishes apart from the traditional menu.

We all know the pandemic has been hard on local businesses, especially the restaurant industry. But after the roar of the holidays, the months leading up to patio season can be fairly tough, too. The Taste programs are a great way to support your local hospitality sector and enjoy delicious meals at an exclusive price point. There’s no better time to try a Taste of Oakville, a Taste of Burlington, and a taste of something new.

Taste of Oakville has expanded in recent years, thanks to funding from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport. Visit Oakville is now running the program and this has enabled restaurants from all parts of town to participate. In 2022, Taste of Oakville partnered with 35 beloved local restaurants. With new restaurant openings and the growth of the program, 2023 is expected to be one of the largest Taste events Oakville has seen.

Kicking off on February 15th, the event will take place over three weeks in Bronte, Downtown, Kerr, and across Oakville. Popular restaurants like Piano Piano, Paradiso, Jac’s Bistro, and The Mermaid will offer exclusive prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus for dine-in and take-out. But you’ll also find a fun mix of pubs (like The King’s Arms), bakeries (such as Sugar Suite Cakes), Pizzerias (Dough Box, The Boot Social Pizzeria), family restaurants, ethnic restaurants, and even gluten and vegan options (Boon Burger, Community Restaurant). There is something for everyone: family night, date night, and even lunch on-the-go.

New this year is live music! Taste of Oakville has partnered with ten local musicians to perform in restaurants every Tuesday during the event. A full list of live music events and each restaurant’s Prix-fix menu will be posted on the Taste of Oakville website as the event draws near. We can’t wait to see what’s on the menu for this year!

In March 2008, Tourism Burlington invited local restaurants to meet with representatives from Tourism Burlington, and the Burlington Downtown and Aldershot Business Communities to discuss ways to increase awareness of Burlington as a dining and culinary destination.

From that initial meeting, it was suggested that a committee be struck up to look into the feasibility of a Prix fixe dining program. Committee members came together from Tourism Burlington, Aldershot Village BIA, Burlington Downtown Business Association, and local restaurants to develop and design the program. Now revving up for its 15th year, Taste of Burlington launches its two-and-a-half-week program on February 21st.

Burlington is quickly becoming known as a culinary destination, and Taste is a great way to showcase all it has to offer. From restaurants and pubs to cafes, Taste of Burlington has tremendous support from local restaurants and the community, and after the ups and downs of the pandemic the last few years, we are expecting the 2023 event to be bigger and better than ever.

Taste of Burlington runs twice each year in February/March and again in the fall, with restaurants across the city offering a Prix-fixe dining menu for lunch and dinner. However, the rest of the year they promote culinary programs and events in and around Burlington, such as Burlington Food Tours, E-A-T, Lakeside a la Carte, and more!

Pizza-Boat is passionately committed to serving time-preserved Turkish and Mediterranean delicacies. This means you can order a pepperoni pizza boat alongside lentil soup, Kafta, and Turkishstyle rice pudding for dessert. Our artisanal dough is made daily in-house and from scratch using the highest quality unbleached flour. We believe great food starts with great ingredients and use only the finest quality meats, cheeses, and freshly picked veggies. Each pizza is made-to-order and uniquely shaped into…you guess it, a boat! Select one of our recipes or create your own by selecting from our long list of ingredients including Beef soujuk, pulled beef, grilled zucchini, and even red kafta sauce as your base. Allow your taste buds to experience new flavours, and who knows, you might just discover your new favourite mix of toppings!

pizza boat

In alignment with its name, Burlington’s Pizza Boat delivers a unique take on pizza. Featuring Mediterranean-inspired ingredients and a boat-like shape, diners have come to love this artisanal pizzeria with a twist. Instead of being prepped in a round pan like traditional pizza, Pizza Boat’s crust shape allows more emphasis on toppings, less time to bake, and fewer carbs per serving. Dine-in or take-out (even eat it on the water).

What can guests expect when they come to your restaurant?

STACK’S authentic and meticulous method begins with only the best fresh-never-frozen meat. Their pitmasters season, rub, and then cook the meat over low heat. The sweet smoke from the Texas smoker fills the meat – whether it be beef, pork, or chicken – with unique Texas tenderness and taste. Homemade and made from scratch, guests love their salads, tacos, sausages, burgers, and unique collections of craft beer. Buttermilk fried chicken, ribs and brisket, apple slaw, baked beans, and mac n’ cheese, are just some of the features on their menu. From pit to table, it all tastes slow good.

stack smmMoked

STACK has a passion for BBQ. Texas BBQ, to be exact. Their smoker/pit is built in Mesquite, Texas (hence why it’s called a Texas smoker) and is designed to cook food without a flame – only heat and smoke. The hardwood fire generates a smoky heat, slow cooking meat (over 12 hours) with a sweet and smoky flavour. STACK has learned the art and science of craft BBQ by studying some of the most incredible pitmasters throughout the United States. And now, you can enjoy their tried-and-true techniques in Oakville.

What is it about STACK’S smoked meat that people love?

What makes Isabelle’s a must-try?

With their farm-to-table approach, Isabelle’s Restaurant and Lounge has crafted a one-of-a-kind menu inspired by the Mediterranean and Californian coastal climates. A core component of their fare is a highly productive 5-acre market garden. This seasonal operation is sensitive to the overall, long-term ecological sustainability of their food system and produces vegetable, fruit, and flower varieties under low-till and organic growing principles.

Featuring share-style dishes and mains, the dining experience is elegant yet familial. Their brunch menu features unique combinations such as mushroom toast with whipped ricotta or Lamb Polenta with poached eggs, hollandaise, and salsa macha. Share plates include Dry Aged Tomahawk Steak, Lamb Shoulder, and Whole Grilled Branzino. With a selection of decadent pasta, fresh salad, sides, and small plates – it’s the perfect spot for formal evenings, or quick bites with friends.

Located within the luxurious Pearle Hotel, Isabelle’s is the perfect spot to relax lakeside with a signature cocktail in hand. The Chef’s Rail offers a front-row seat to the culinary team, where you can watch an elegant farm-to-table lunch, brunch, or dinner menu come to life. With one of the best views of Lake Ontario, an exotic menu, and local ingredients, you’ll find Isabelle’s to be as unique as their offerings.

3 Elizabeth Street, Burlington 905.340.0590 Isabelle.ca

Whatever the season, the views from Spencer’s dining room are second to none. In the summer, take in beautiful Lake Ontario (especially stunning over a starry night sky) or watch model boats dart around Rotary Centennial Pond. A year-round feature, Centennial Pond transforms into a skating rink in the winter, with an icy Lake Ontario at its feet.

In addition to its elegant atmosphere and picturesque setting, Spencer’s is renowned for their menu. Whether it’s a mouth-watering steak from their butcher, sustainably sourced seafood, or freshly harvested produce from their farm, each ingredient is transformed into something delightfully delicious. Indulge in craft cuts of steak up to 22 oz, fresh seafood platters and towers, cocktails, and elevated entrees, including Ricotta Gnocchi and Spencer’s Burger.

Conveniently located beside Spencer Smith Park, with ample parking on both sides of the restaurant, Spencer’s is a great destination for an evening out. But be sure to check out their Weekend Brunch, too, featuring Morning Mimosas, Spencer’s Ceasars, and a selection of sweet and savory mains.

Spencer’s at the waterfront burlington

Located in Burlington, on Lake Ontario’s shoreline, Spencer’s at the Waterfront is a place to gather for lunch or dinner but is also the ideal location for weddings and all life’s special events. From the glass-walled dining room or heated patio that overlooks a tranquil reflection pond, enjoy blue skies and sparkling water by day or a spectacular moonrise with the lights across the lake by night.

1340 Lakeshore Road, Burlington 905.633.7494

Why is Spencer’s a beloved dining destination?

one five one social

OAKVILLE

Tucked away in a unique space right on Lakeshore Road in Downtown Oakville is this hidden gem offering fine, innovative cuisine in a relaxed and family friendly atmosphere. The menu is varied with a simple goal –offering their guests quality dishes with big flavour.

Open Thurs – Sat 4pm to 10 pm. Half price wine on Thursdays.

What makes dining at One Five One Social special?

151 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville 905.339.1151 onefiveonesocial.ca

Although the menu draws heavily on the owner’s Italian heritage, this is a place to enjoy fine dining with cuisines from around the world. The menu changes weekly, with new dishes and seasonal flavours, announced weekly on Instagram. Their Taste menu will offer selections such as arugula salad, arancini, beef & ricotta meatballs, lamb shank, pappardelle with wild boar ragu, and a special for fish of the day.

Buca di Bacco will be offering a prix fixe menu for Taste and including some of their classics, such as Patate pizza, made with an innovative combination of potato, mozzarella and goat cheese, pancetta and caramelized onions. Or the perfect dish for a cold winter’s evening… Osso Bucco cooked slowly until the flavours are perfect and it melts in the mouth. Enjoy a Campari and Soda cocktail before the meal, and you have to try their Italian Trufa Negra chips. Lastly, Buca will be making available limited quantities of their house-bottled olive oils, vinegars and condiments such as their black olive pate.

BUCA DI BACCO

OAKVILLE

Buca di Bacco serves fine Italian cuisine in a cozy and intimate space in the heart of downtown Oakville. Family owned and operated, their menu strives to strike a balance between authentic Italian flavours and contemporary innovations, always using the freshest seasonal ingredients.

130 Thomas Street, Oakville 905.845.7396 bucadibacco.ca

What can guests expect when they come to Buca di Bacco?

Boon Burger

Big, tender, juicy – and 100% guilt-free, Vegetarian and Vegan. If you’re craving such a burger, there’s no better place than Boon Burger Café. Sprouted to bring the public food that is good, Boon Burger’s menu is 100% plantbased (and 100% yummy). Basically, they’ve perfected comfort food.

Prepared in-house from scratch, with the best ingredients, each deliciously stacked burger, gravy- covered poutine, cheese- topped Peace-za, and fresh salad, are crafted to cater to comfort food cravings while offering a more sustainable future for all. 497 Dundas Street West,

At Boon Burger, you’ll find everything you’d expect to find at a traditional burger joint – but healthier. Herbivorefriendly and human-loved, their menu is a hot spot for vegans, vegetarians, and folks with dietary restrictions. Each menu item is guaranteed vegan (aka egg, animal, and dairy-free), but they also have a large selection of gluten-free recipes.

Enjoy any of their menu items, from Burgers to Brats to Peace Zas, all are packed with in house prepared patties, dressings and sauces along with full menu of fresh toppings. Each handcrafted item is guaranteed good: good for you, good for your taste buds, and good for the environment.

OAKVILLE

What can guests expect when they come to boon burger?

OAKVILLE

This is a haven for gourmet food. A to-go market, we offer frozen to fabulous appetizers, entrees, desserts and a beautiful array of artisan charcuterie and crudite boards. We have gourmet options for every occasion and no one goes hungry with a variety of inclusive choices including vegetarian, vegan, dairy and gluten free deliciousness. You can expect charm, excellent customer service and food that says, why cook anymore!?

the platter company

The Platter Company Gourmet Market let’s you ‘chef at home’ with meals so easy it’s basically ‘heat and eat’. If you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want outstanding food that’s easy to prepare, this place is for you! The menu is extensive with something for everyone, and it’s all guaranteed delicious.

175 Plains Road East, unit 1, Burlington 905.464.1138

What can guests expect when they come to the platter company gourmet market?

burlington

Why do people love Charminar Indian Cuisine?

Cooked to perfection with in-house chefs, Charminar crafts each dish using only the freshest, handpicked ingredients. They bring you (and are famous for) serving the best Biryani – an exotic blend of rare spices infused in meat with fragrant thin and long grain basmati rice (which is a complete meal in itself). Then there are their Dosas, a thin pancake or crepe originating from South India, made from fermented batter predominantly consisting of lentils and rice seasoned with onions. A perfect pairing with their white chutney (coconut) or red chutney (perfect for those who like some heat). They also have a full vegetarian menu including items like samosa, hot and sour soup, and a selection of curries. Plus, a kid’s menu, bread and naan, and even Hakka Chinese Specialties.

Charminar

Charminar Indian Cuisine takes pride in bringing you authentic South Indian taste with a wide variety of dishes. With a welcoming ambiance, attentive service, and lip-smacking food, it has quickly become one of Burlington’s favourite Indian restaurants – and the only restaurant in Canada to cater 30 varieties of Biryanis and Dosas. It’s truly a menu you’ll never get bored of!

1940 Appleby Line, Unit 4, Burlington 905.332.0999 Charminarburlington.com

can

Renowned for their ever popular pasta dishes such as the hand-rolled gnocchi or the traditional and heart-warming Bolognese made with a rich ragout of Provimi veal and beef, their regular menu is made for food lovers – and their Taste 2023 menu is no different. And don’t forget to leave room for dessert - they are decadent and delightful. Paradiso was also an early pioneer of live music while dining in Oakville, and is looking forward to hosting some musical talent again for Taste 2023.

Paradiso

OAKVILLE + Burlington

Paradiso has been a constant and ever popular choice to gather with family and friends in Downtown Oakville and Downtown Burlington for years. With a warm and intimate atmosphere, an open concept kitchen, and cuisine that draws inspiration from the warm climate of the Mediterranean, it’s a perfect spot to gather for lunch or dinner.

125 Lakeshore RD. E, Oakville 905.338.1594

looklocalmagazine.com

2041 Pine St., Burlington 905.639.1176 Paradisorestaurant.com

What

people expect to find at Paradiso?

Not just eggs benny! Though they are famous for them. From traditional eggs benedicts like ham to cheese to meat lover benny with smoked bacon, ham, sausage, and cheddar cheese, you really can’t go wrong. If you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, their waffles, pancakes, and French Toast are divine (and include flavours like amaretto, buttermilk, or fruit and Nutella). For lunch, enjoy Canadian bacon on a fresh croissant for their croissant BLT, a fresh salad, or Greek classics like Gyro or chicken on a pita. Their in-house freshly squeezed orange juice pairs perfectly with any meal. And insider secret: their home fries are crispy. There’s truly nothing better.

Benedict eatery burlington

New to Burlington and already a beloved breakfast joint, Benedict Eatery serves a menu of breakfast classics, including their famous eggs benedict. Family-owned and tucked away in a cozy corner of Village Square, you’ll find the restaurant and staff as charming as its location. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for breakfast and lunch (and, of course, brunch).

2045 Pine Street, Unit 54 Burlington 905.632.2225

What can guests expect to find at Benedict Eatery?

It should be no surprize that fish and seafood features mightily on the menu at Cove. From their appies such as salmon cakes or Cajun crawfish empanadas, to the best beer battered fish and chips in the area, you will be sure to find something that appeals. And the team at Cove love to innovate with a Creole flair, so look out for Alligator bites served with a garlic aioli, or the Jambalaya Risotto, made with shrimp, chicken, Andouille pork sausage and Creole spices.

It should be no surprize that fish and seafood features mightily on the menu at Cove. From their appies such as salmon cakes or Cajun crawfish empanadas, to the best beer battered fish and chips in the area, you will be sure to find something that appeals. And the team at Cove love to innovate with a Creole flair, so look out for flavour-packed dishes such as the Jambalaya Risotto, made with shrimp, chicken, Andouille pork sausage and Creole spices.

OAKVILLE Cove

OAKVILLE Cove

Bronte Harbour is beautiful in winter too, and although Cove’s famous patio is closed for the season, the space converts to a cozy and inviting dining room with the best views of Bronte Creek and the harbour. And the welcome is warm and the chowder to-die-for!

Bronte Harbour is beautiful in winter too, and although Cove’s famous patio is closed for the season, the space converts to a cozy and inviting dining room with the best views of Bronte Creek and the harbour. And the welcome is warm and the chowder to-die-for!

49 Bronte Road, Oakville 289.837.3056

49 Bronte Road, Oakville 289.837.3056

looklocalmagazine.com

Coverestaurant.ca

Coverestaurant.ca

What can people expect to find at Cove?

What can people expect to find at Cove?

Romance, it’s the language of love.

Though if you ask Dr. Gary Chapman, there are five “official” love languages: quality time, words of affirmation, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. Through years of counselling couples, Dr. Chapman analyzed the unique needs and communication styles within a relationship. Taking what he learned, he turned his observations into a best-selling book, The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. While many of us can relate to the five love languages above, understanding and acting on your partner’s love language can lead to a deeper connection. So, this Valentine’s Day, why not try a gift to resonate with your partner in a new way? Gift their love language.

Quality Time

If quality time is your partner’s love language, then the gift they really want is you! Book an evening at the Pearle Hotel and Spa to connect, unwind, and relax with views of Lake Ontario. Enjoy inroom dining, in-room soaker tubs, and luxurious amenities. Plus, their full-service spa on-site offers a 90-minutes couples’ massage. Another great way to spend quality time together is right at

home! Order in from one of your favourite restaurants or make your own heart-shaped pizza with House Sauce and Pizza Dough from Son of a Peach Pizzeria. Once dinner is made, hop into your jammies (Bocana on Pearl has adorable Valentine’s jammies), throw on your favourite movie, or get competitive in a game of Scrabble.

PEARLE HOTEL AND SPA

Words of Affirmation

If words of affirmation aren’t your love language, coming up with verbal ways to connect with your partner may feel a bit daunting. But fear not, there’s at least one card on the planet to thoughtfully get your feelings across. People who seek verbal affirmations are looking for words of encouragement and compliments through cards, conversations, phone calls, or texts. In other words, say “I love you” in any number of ways. Burlington’s Waves in the Village has witty and hilarious cards for everyone. While Cards N’ Such in Oakville is a great spot for something a bit more classic and romantic. To step it up a notch, write a love letter (or two) in a beautiful journal from The Handmade House in Burlington.

Receiving Gifts

This is where you can go fairly traditional with classic, elegant, and timeless gifts. Jewellery and flowers may be an obvious choice, but adding a personal touch can really elevate a gift. Design custom jewellery or incorporate a family heirloom into a beautiful keepsake at Diamond Boutique in Hamilton or Avalon Jewellery in Oakville. With Brant Florist, you can create a floral arrangement featuring your loved one’s favourite colours and flowers, or select a pre-arranged bouquet. Shops like Pure Boutique, Bluboho, and Homebody have unique, modern gifts from jewellery to home décor perfect for any style and stage of life.

THE PLATTER COMPANY

AVALON JEWELLERY

Acts of Service

Acts of service is the love language for people who believe actions speak louder than words. Things like a fresh cup of coffee (grab some fresh beans from Vereda Central and make a pot at home), prepping dinner (The Platter Company and Familia Fine Foods have incredible homecooked frozen meals), or tidying the house (Mint-Maids of Waterdown & Burlington offer plant-based eco-friendly cleans) will make your loved one feel seen and appreciated.

Physical Touch

Some people just love a good ole fashioned hug – and there’s nothing better than snuggling in something cozy. New from Joseph Tassoni is the JT Spa Collection, available for both men and women, so you can cocoon yourself in the softest dream robe. Or, turn the heat up with a little something from Goodnight Goodmorning in Oakville. Their silk robes are beautiful and sophisticated, available in a number of fun colours and patterns.

While speaking another love language may take some practice, with these gift ideas, there’s no doubt your partner will love what you’re trying to say.

Oakville Ranger Winter Classic

JAN 19-22 JAN 21 starting

The Oakville Rangers Hockey Club is set to host over 300 teams at the first-ever Oakville Rangers Winter Classic Rep hockey tournament presented by BarDown. Catering to all age groups, there is a 4-game guarantee + Semi-Finals and a Final, plus BarDown swag for all participants, and awards for Champions and Finalists.

Sixteen Mile Sports Complex 3070 Neyagawa Boulevard, Oakville Oakvillerangers.ca

JAN 28

Oakville Chinese New Year Gala

Join the Oakville Chinese Network as they celebrate the Chinese New Year Gala! The theme of the show is "Our Future as Immigrants," discussing questions such as:  What is our future here in Canada? What would our future have been if we hadn't come to Canada?  What would we have done in our countries of origin? And what should we do here to prepare ourselves for our new future?

The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts 130 Navy Street, Oakville Oakvillechinesenetwork.ca

Milton Winter Farmers Market

Enjoy some of your favourite summertime vendors during the winter months. Shop local sweet and savoury foods, handmade artisan goods, and more. Every Saturday from January 21 to March 11.

Milton Mall 55 Ontario Street South, Unit 5A, Milton Miltonfarmersmarket.ca

JAN 28

Robbie Burns Day

Celebrate Robbine Burns Day at the Blk Swan Kitchen Pub (Burlington location). Highlights will include the piping in and addressing of the Haggis, Scotch tasting, a traditional Scottish menu, and live music by The Colonia Boys with special guest Louisa O'Keane. Tickets are $65 and sell quickly!  Blk Swan Kitchen Pub 4040 Palladium Way, Burlington Blkswan.ca

starting

FEB 9

FEB 4

Black Excellence Gala

Celebrate Black excellence, contributions, accomplishments, and heritage as BMI kicks off Black History Month! Enjoy an evening of cultural display, music and food, engaging conversations, and a rich historical demonstration. Oakville Conference and Banquet Centre 2515 Wyecroft Road, Oakville Blackmentorshipinc.ca

Frogs After Dark

Grab a drink, enjoy the music, and experience Frogs! after dark as RBG’s winter exhibit transforms into a nightlife experience like no other. Join us for pub trivia, food and drinks, unique programming, and special guests. This is a 19+ event. Event tickets required. February 9, March 9 & April 6. Royal Botanical Gardens 680 Plains Road West, Burlington RBG.ca

FEB 11-12

Winterlit Enchanted Evenings

As if Winterlit isn’t dreamy enough, Conservation Halton has created an exclusive weekend to enjoy the magic of Winterlit with a little extra magic, featuring: a marketplace with local food and craft vendors, live music from local artists, licensed ice bar, a bonfire and ice performers, and more!

Mountsberg Park 2259 Millburough Line, Campbellville Conservationhalton.ca

FEB 15 starting

Taste of Oakville

Celebrate Oakville’s food scene with special prix fixe menus at participating restaurants. Taste of Oakville is a month-long culinary event featuring restaurants from Downtown, Bronte, Kerr, and across Oakville. February 15 to March 10. Tasteofoakville.ca

FEB 21 starting

A Taste of Burlington

Celebrating its 15th year, dine at some of Burlington’s hottest restaurants during Taste of Burlington. Restaurants across the city will be offering a prix fixe dining menu for lunch/ dinner, with lunch offered at $15,$20, or $25 and dinner at $30, $35, or $40. Bite in! February 21 to March 12. Tasteofburlington.ca

FEB 17-19

Because Brr Craft Beer Festival

Get your brew-loving friends together for a weekend at the Because Brr Craft Beer Festival. Sample local craft beer and cider, indulge in delicious eats, and enjoy live music from various artists, including Hamilton's iconic cover band, Born in the Eighties. Participating breweries and cideries include Clifford Brewing, Collective Arts, Fairweather Brewing Co., Grain and Grit Beer Co., Steel Town Cider, and more. Bridgeworks 200 Caroline Street North, Hamilton Becausebeer.ca

MAR 3-4

Burlington Winter Beer Festival

The 8th Annual Winter Beer Festival is an exciting celebration of beer and food in partnership with local restaurants, community-based organizations, and craft brewers across the province. Tickets can be purchased online.   Holiday Inn Burlington 3063 South Service Road, Burlington Burlingtonbeerfest.com

Ditch your plate and grab a bowl, these easy one-dish concoctions are revolutionizing mealtime. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner – bowls are typically loaded with healthy ingredients and filling proteins. Whether you’re making a smoothie bowl from scratch or trying to replicate a salad bowl from your favourite restaurant, bowls are on-trend, quick, and super-yum. Here’s why we love them:

A GREAT “ON-THE-GO” SOLUTION

Easy to prep in one container, bowls make mealtime easy when you’re on the go. Think quick work lunch, or even better, a healthy pre-made breakfast on your way out the door. Many recipes pull ingredients from key food groups, so you’re certain to get a whole (and filling) meal in one simple dish. No extra containers, no extra mess – simply open and enjoy.

EASY FOR ANY MEAL

Almost any meal can be made into a bowl, building on a foundation of whole grain, vegetable, or protein. For breakfast, a bed of scrambled eggs or sauteed spinach is a great starting point. Add some fresh or cooked veg, like tomatoes, and onions, then top with cheese. Or, you can try a smoothie bowl, blending frozen fruits and milk of your choice, and even add protein powder. Lunch bowls can be a salad with leafy greens, vegetables, and a protein, or something heartier with a grain such as quinoa, topped with leafy greens and veg. Dinner is when you can take your bowl to the next level. Starting with a base of rice or quinoa, then adding other ingredients such as roasted sweet potato and cauliflower. For an ethnic twist, try recreating popular fiesta, buddha, or poke bowls.

VERSATILE AND FRIENDLY

If you have food restrictions or allergies or watch your portions for a medical condition such as diabetes, food bowls are especially great. It’s not always easy to create a meal that’s both healthy and filling, but the intent of a bowl is to create a balanced meal while keeping portions in check. Whether you’re glutenfree, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian, or simply trying to “eat clean”, you can have fun mixing ingredients that satisfy your palate and requirements.

SUPER LOCAL BOWLS

Looking for some inspo? Try one of these bowls crafted by local chefs and restaurants.

TRISH JUICE, BURLINGTON trishjuice.com

Trish Juice offers perfectly crafted (vegan-friendly) smoothie bowls loaded with fresh fruits and veggies.  From their Protein Bowl featuring chia and granola to their Super Green Smoothie bowl with kale and spinach, there is a little something for everyone.

FAMILIA FINE FOODS, BURLINGTON familiafinefoods.com

If you’re looking for a warm and rustic dish, look no further than Familia Fine Foods. This family-owned restaurant, with a hearty Latin menu, creates everything by hand. Dig into their Burrito Bowl featuring a rice base topped with Pico de Gallo, mozzarella cheese, beans, corn, sour cream, hot sauce, salsa roja, salsa verde, and guacamole. Customize with chicken, beef, or pork, or keep it vegetarian or vegan.

FAMILIA FINE FOODS

HEAL WELLNESS

TRISH JUICE

LETTUCE LOVE CAFÉ

LETTUCE LOVE CAFÉ, BURLINGTON

lettucelovecafe.com

Lettuce Love serves up a delicious variety of brunch bowls. Choose from the Happy Buddha Bowl featuring brown rice, grilled sweet potato, diced red onions, diced tomato, raw almonds, sunflower seeds, dried herbs, cilantro & avocado, or cultural favourites including their Falafel Bowl, or their Burrito Bowl. They also offer a delicious Power Bowl with a quinoa base.

HEAL WELLNESS, BURLINGTON

healwellness.ca

Heal Wellness serves up quick, fresh, plant-based foods to fuel your busy, active lifestyle. Their menu features a variety of delicious and nutritious smoothie bowls that are sure to power up your day.

Hungry? There’s a bowl for that.

343 Kerr Street, Oakville Oakville: 905-582-3581

89 Lakeshore Road East, Mississauga Mississauga: 905-271-0486

www.communityresto.com

The Green Goddess bowl at Community is one of their bestsellers - and for good reason!

Make your own at home, or try it at either of their locations, in Kerr Village, Oakville or Port Credit, Mississauga. PLUS if you don't want to make the vinaigrette, you can buy a bottle at the restaurant.

LEMON BASIL VINAIGRETTE

ü 1 cup lemon juice ü 4 cups sunflower oil ü 2 tbsp Dijon ü 1 whole lemon zested ü 2 tsp salt ü 1 tsp pepper ü 1 cup garlic confit ü 2 whole bunches of basil leaves ü 6 tbsp of maple syrup

GREEN GODDESS BOWL

ü organic spinach ü organic arugula ü red cabbage ü zucchini noodle ü guacamole ü cucumber ü sprouts ü pomegranate ü fermented vegetables ü seed medley ü sesame seeds ü basil lemon vinaigrette