Look Local Oakville Burlington Holiday Issue 2022

A luxury rental community minutes away from the lake that offers every first-class amenity you can imagine. Enjoy a worry-free, luxury lifestyle, with restaurants, hair and nail salons, pharmacy, and grocery store only steps away from your home.

A luxury rental community minutes away from the lake that offers every first-class amenity you can imagine. Enjoy a worry-free, luxury lifestyle, with restaurants, hair and nail salons, pharmacy, and grocery store only steps away from your home.

A luxury rental community minutes away from the lake that offers every first-class amenity you can imagine. Enjoy a worry-free, luxury lifestyle, with restaurants, hair and nail salons, pharmacy, and grocery store only steps away from your home.

VISIT thevillageatbronte.com or CALL 866.202.4631 TO LEARN MORE, SEE FLOOR PLANS, BOOK YOUR VIP TOUR

VISIT thevillageatbronte.com or CALL 866.202.4631 TO LEARN MORE, SEE FLOOR PLANS, BOOK YOUR VIP TOUR

VISIT thevillageatbronte.com or CALL 866.202.4631 TO LEARN MORE, SEE FLOOR PLANS, BOOK YOUR VIP TOUR

Season’s Greetings

“I think you want to join a company that’s going to be around forever. Berkshire Hathaway is built to be forever, it’s true of all our business that we own. You want to be part of an organization that’s not looking to sell out next week or next month or next year or where the place will crumble when the founders leave. In terms of permanence, we can't be beat. Not only can we not be topped by anyone, we can't be matched by anyone.”

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Oakville is designed to provide the industry’s highest level of service and assistance to our realtors and their clients. Each agent is backed up by our in-house support team making every transaction smooth, consistent, and memorable.

When our name goes on a real estate sign, it means something. It’s a promise of trust, integrity, stability, longevity and the highest standards of work. These values are reflected in every office, every agent, every interaction.

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES WEST REALTY

Oakville Branch 210 Lakeshore Road East #4 Phone: 905-844-8068 bhhsoakville.ca

WARREN BUFFETT CEO Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is proud to be a name that buyers and sellers trust. We are your Forever Agents, come stop by our offices in the Oakville Town Square.

DAVE ANDERSON of DTWO CLOTHING & DAVID WILLIAM SHOES

Dave has been serving the Burlington and Dundas community for many years, initially with the family business Anderson Carpet & Home. 15 years ago, he embarked on a new venture, starting David William Shoes in Dundas. The store offers a wide selection of Blundstone boots, ON footwear, and an outstanding selection of carefully curated shoes, handbags and apparel.

Two years ago, in the middle of Covid, Dave opened up a second location, DTWO Clothing and David William Shoes at 107 Plains Road West in Aldershot. DTWO is a women's fine apparel, footwear and accessory store specializing in unique pieces from around the world. Dave and his team offer a fun-filled fashion shopping experience, with personal advice and stress-free consulting services. Enjoy free parking and a selection beyond your expectations.

Welcome to the 2022 Holiday Edition of Look Local! We hope you enjoy our stories, the information and ads from local businesses, and the suggestions about things to do and places to shop locally this holiday season.

It has been our pleasure to work with the Burlington Downtown Business Association and their members again this year to produce their annual Holiday Guide. You will fi nd the guide in the centre of this issue. Make sure you visit and discover all that Downtown Burlington has to offer this holiday season.

We recognize that Oakville and Burlington are culturally rich and diverse towns. Irrespective of your cultural background, we hope that you fi nd time to relax and enjoy this season with friends and family. It is always a very special time of year.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and healthy Holidays and best wishes for the New Year!

When we start planning our holiday issue, the Look

Local team gets giddy with anticipation. We thoughtfully curate the editorial, hand-pick the items in our Shop Local, and seek the most scrumptious recipe for your devourment. I hope the festive spirit of our Holiday Issue fills you with the same excitement my kids exude (bright and early) on Christmas morning. Let’s dive in!

Are you looking for the perfect side for your holiday breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner – you can’t go wrong with a potato. Bite into our Food feature for great inspo. Plus, check out our bubbly Wine feature for meal pairings.

Whether you’re leaving a stocking by the chimney for Santa, a wooden shoe out for Sinterklaas, or celebrating one of the many other holidays at this time of year, you can never go wrong with adding a sweet treat. Explore tasty recommendations in our Just for Fun Feature.

One of the things I love most about the holidays is unpacking seasonal décor, especially the heirloom ornaments from great-grandparents and handmade ornaments by our children. Our Home & Garden feature has some great suggestions for adding special decorations to your collection.

If you happen to uncover a piece of grandma’s jewellery while unpacking dusty boxes, our Family feature will guide you through regifting, repurposing, and reselling heirloom jewellery.

When it comes to magic, no one does it like the Burlington Downtown Business Association. We are honoured to include their Holiday Guide as our Special Feature.

During the holidays, we want to remember members of our community that can use additional love and support. This year, our Community feature highlights a special couple and how their Oakville-based Ukrainian vodka company rose to success, along with ways to support Ukrainian refugees, individuals, and families both in Canada and back home.

Happy Ho-Ho-Holidays,

Anneliese Lawton

EDITOR | anneliese@looklocalmagazine.com

by ERIN PEPLER

The holiday season is here, and it's time to dust off that box of festive decor and create a little winter magic inside your home. It's also a great excuse to go shopping for high-quality, locally-made holiday décor — after all, these pieces often become family heirlooms that bring back memories year after year. So, don't be a Scrooge — shop local, build your own collection of sentimental pieces and let your home sparkle with holiday joy. Here are some suggestions to help get you started.

TRIM YOUR TREE

Ornaments can be passed on from generation to generation, so don't be afraid to invest in a few (or a few dozen) you really love. You may be drawn to classic Santa or snowman pieces, elegant gold and silver accessories, one-of-a-kind crafty ornaments, or quirky bobbles that make you laugh (we're talking about you, naughty ornaments, and festive pickles). You may want wooden garlands,

family-friendly cloth ornaments, religious symbols, or something that complements your home's colour palette. Anything goes — let yourself explore and find out what you're drawn to. Your Christmas tree doesn't necessarily need to look like it belongs on the cover of a magazine — it just has to feel right. We recommend starting at a local shop like The Handmade House (with locations in Burlington and Dundas), Rustic Daisy's in Waterdown, and The Artisanville, located inside Burlington Centre. They offer a wide selection of unique, handmade ornaments that make perfect gifts for anyone on your list (including yourself).

MAGIC ON THE MANTLE

If you're lucky enough to have a classic fireplace mantle, make the most of it! And if not, mimic the same look using a console table, the top of an upright piano, or even a floating shelf. Consider using some greenery like garland from Centro Garden in Burlington, along with some candles, festive table top accessories, and olive wood accents. Centro also carries beautiful barware, textiles, and more items that are functional as well as stylish. You can also shop for festive mantle pieces at Lakeside Livin' in Bronte, which has a great selection of beautiful stockings, adorable gnomes, and elegant ornaments.

SPRUCE UP YOUR GLASSWARE

A holiday cocktail tastes even better in gorgeous glassware, and Hue La La — a by-appointment boutique in Burlington — has some excellent choices. Look for beveled, smoked, coloured, or even novelty glassware that brings you joy while impressing any guest. A decanter will look beautiful on your table and make any wine taste just that much better (even if it came from a box). Add some pottery mugs from the Art Gallery of Burlington for those booze-infused evening

HUE LA LA LAKESIDE LIVIN'

ART GALLERY OF BURLINGTON RUSTIC DAISY'S

coffees or hot chocolate, and you'll be ready to let those sleigh bells ring. Hue La La also carries festive napkins, quirky ornaments, gorgeous tabletop decor, and fantastic hostess gifts. Cheers to shopping local, and happy holidays!

ADD A FESTIVE TOUCH TO YOUR BATHROOM

The best play to spread holiday cheer is by sprinkling it everywhere – even in the bathroom, which is really one of the best spaces in your home to make the festive season fun. Lakeside Livin’ carries novelty items like Santa-themed toilet paper, along with the muchloved holiday scent Frasier Fir (available in candles, incense, soaps, and varieties). At Rustic Daisy’s, where everything is made in Canada, you can find winter-scented soaps, holiday candles, and even holidaythemed tea towels to add a special touch.

While Santa toilet paper may not become a holiday heirloom like a hand-made ornament, it may just become a family tradition. You never know what will be passed down for generations.

DISCOVER THE SPIRIT OF

UKRAINE

THE ZIRKOVA VODKA STORY

BY DENISE DAVY

The spirit of Ukraine is truly present in the vodka business that Katherine Vellinga runs from her home in Oakville. Katherine and her husband, John, are co-founders of Zirkova Vodka, an ultra-premium vodka made in Ukraine that first made its way onto the shelves of LCBO stores across Ontario in 2005. Keeping those shelves stocked hasn’t been easy, and their story is one of persistence and resilience.

It began many years ago when Katherine moved back to Ukraine for a few years. Her parents and grandparents were born there, and although they’d moved to Canada years earlier for a better life, they never forgot their dream of a free Ukraine, having survived Stalin’s genocide.

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FOR ANIMAL LOVERS

“I was always the kid who wanted to bring people together, and vodka has always been part of our Ukrainian culture,” said Vellinga, the company’s CEO. Vellinga lucked out when she found a distillery in the Cherkasy region of Ukraine, the birthplace of vodka, that dated back to 1895 and was close to an artesian mineral water source, an essential component for high-quality vodka.

“You can bring grain there, but you can’t move the water,” said Vellinga.

The vodka was made in the old traditional classical method, with the first batch being launched in 2004. It appeared on the LCBO shelves in 2005. Vellinga described it as the “ultimate sipping vodka.” In short order, Zirkova vodka was ranked fourth among top-shelf vodkas, in the over $30 price range, which is the highest quality. They then came up with Zirkova Together, which is made for mixing with cocktails.

When the pandemic hit, like many small businesses, they were forced to pivot. “There were times (during the pandemic) when we couldn’t even go into the stores. The whole industry was impacted. But we managed to hold on and were looking forward to being able to get out and interact with people again,” said Vellinga.

Then in February this year, just as they were rebounding, came the devastating news - Russian forces had invaded Ukraine. “We’d had a couple of trying years with the pandemic, then we were coming out of it when the invasion appeared. It was so heartbreaking,” says Casey Kiekebelt, Chief Marketing Officer.

Vellinga says she cried for the country and for the people she loved so much. But she was also worried about their business. They had trucks full of vodka shipments that were supposed to leave Ukraine on the day of the invasion (which didn’t make it out), and they only had a limited amount of inventory with the LCBO.

Still, there were zero thoughts of giving up. “I thought, we have to keep going for them. We have to find a way.” She was buoyed by the images of bravery coming across the TV screen.

“The world was seeing what I’d loved and appreciated for so long - the spirit of Ukrainians.”

There was much discussion about what to do. They agreed they would bring their Master distiller over from Ukraine and start producing a new brand of vodka in Ontario. “We wanted to make sure we preserved Ukrainian vodka making and continued what we’d discovered,” said Vellinga.

They took all of the things they knew from working in Ukraine and created a third brand called Zirkova Unity, which was on the shelves by July 2022. To show their love and support for Ukraine, 100 percent of profits from sales of Zirkova Unity goes toward humanitarian aid there.

Keikebelt says they’ve learned much over the past four years. “We’re stronger because of what we’ve been through. We all really know what we need to do to move forward,” said Keikebelt.

They recently expanded Zirkova Unity into Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

In Ukraine, production isn’t quite back to 100 percent, but they’re slowly getting there. “We will survive this together,” says Vellinga. “You have these extraordinary people who are still working and keeping the economy going and doing all that they can to contribute to the war effort. They’re all unique and extraordinary and purposeful and resilient.”

We’re stronger because of what we’ve been through

HOW TO HELP

UKRAINE

Celebrating the holidays with family and friends is often an overlooked privilege. It usually isn’t until we experience hardship – whether through our own eyes or someone else’s – that we’re reminded to slow down and savour what we have. While reflecting on heavy circumstances isn’t magical or merry, these circumstances are a reality in our community and our world. A reality the people of Ukraine know all too well.

There are many people and causes to support at this time of year, all of them deserving. But this year, we want to draw some attention to one of our community's most visible examples of strife and suffering. All Ukrainian people are directly impacted by the war overseas, whether they have family living there or not. Their people are displaced, disrupted, and dying at the hands of an unforgiving war. We spoke with Pastor Fr. Zenon Walnyckyj of Holy Protection Ukrainian Catholic Church on Pearl Street in Burlington to get his input on how we can locally support Ukraine.

Sometimes, giving back can be as simple as a prayer, and Pastor Fr. Walnyckyj hopes Canadians will keep Ukrainians in their thoughts and prayers during this time of turmoil and war. “Such spiritual/ moral support flowing out from a freedom and peace-loving nation

like Canada is very important to all who go through strife and the horror of war,” he said. “The feeling of loneliness and abandonment in itself creates a lot of pain. Knowing people around the world support Ukrainians offers a healing balm for their spirit.”

accepting

The Holy Protection Parish is accepting new or gently used winter clothing, shoes, bedding, and other items for newcomers. Anything that does not find a home here will be sent to Ukraine. The church is also collecting financial donations.

Newcomers from Ukraine are also in need of affordable housing and employment. Any proposals for assistance can be sent through Holy Protection.

Any donations can be taken to the Holy Protection Ukrainian Catholic Church at 419 Pearl Street or call 905-634-6598, email: holyprotection-burlington@outlook.com

LOOK LOCAL'S

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

LAKESIDE LIVIN'

OAKVILLE

The Gilded Ceramic Reed Di user spreads the freshly cut forest scent of crisp Siberian Fir needles, heartening cedarwood, and relaxing sandalwood through your surroundings. This home décor piece is beautifully modern and trimmed with 24-karat gold. lakesidelivin.com

BURLINGTON

Stock those stu ngs with a ordable glam that they can wear out on New Year's Eve. Visit Jus B Gauze to see their collection of Merx Jewellery starting at only $30. jusbgauze.com

A GREENER PLACE

WATERDOWN

This stylish medium weight shawl by Mini Tipi will be your go to accessory to keep you warm while looking good! These shawls are made from eco-friendly recycled polyester and recycled wool fabric and use patterns created by Indigenous artists. Matching blankets are also available. agreenerplace.ca

TUNDRA LEATHER

HAMILTON

Your trip is booked, your outfit is laid, and now all you need is your important toiletries! This sturdy, durable leather bag, with a handle at one end and a zipper pull tab at the other, makes it easy to grab your travel products and go. tundraleather.ca

NICETYS

OAKVILLE

Fine tuned - these glasses have been designed to enhance any drink. To celebrate this time of year, Nicety’s has imported beautiful colours unavailable anywhere else in Canada. And, they’re available at an exclusive price for Look

Local readers, just $65! (Only for December while quantities last). shop.nicetys.com

ANDREWS

OAKVILLE

The Love Cashmere Beanie by Kerri Rosenthal features the artist and designer's iconic hand-stitched Patchwork Love Heart with a reversible "LOVE" on the inside. Crafted from pure cashmere for an ultra-soft feel, pair this beanie with any look to add a vibrant touch of colour to your outerwear this season. andrewsco.com

DTWO CLOTHING

BURLINGTON

You can never have too much *bling* at the Christmas party. Find a wide selection of Jacqueline Kent's Swarovski necklaces, bracelets and earrings at DTWO in Burlington. davidwilliamshoes.com

looklocalmagazine.com

FLOURISH & BASK

OAKVILLE

Making the perfect winter warmer couldn’t be easier with this Mulled Drink Kit. Made in Canada with no additives or preservatives, this kit contains the perfect spice blend for mulling wine or apple cider. It also includes enough to garnish six drinks. flourishandbask.ca

RUSTIC DAISYS

WATERDOWN

Handmade jewelry at its finest. Elegant and handcrafted in Nova Scotia, these Pewter necklaces make the perfect gift. Many designs to choose from, plus Christmas tree ornaments and picture frames. Prices start at $29.95. rusticdaisys.wordpress.com

FAIRHOME INTERIORS

BURLINGTON

This floral Emma Bridgewater Rosehip & Ivy Medium Straight Jug with its rosehip and ivy illustrations is perfect for adding extra charm to your dining table as well as for pouring sauces from. Available online or in person at Fairhome Interiors fairhome.ca

SHAE ROSE AT HOME

WATERDOWN

Crafted from wood with sleek, simple lines, these modern Nordic natural wood trees are perfect for a fireplace or tabletop display. Available in small and large.

CHUDLEIGH'S

MILTON

Charcuterie Lovers Gift Set. The perfect gift box for the entertainers on your list! This set includes all the accompaniments every host needs to elevate their charcuterie platter this holiday season. chudleighs.com

LANA'S BOUTIQUE

OAKVILLE

These cute and cosy toques from Mitchie's will keep you both warm and stylish all winter! lanasboutique.com

SIMPLY GREEN BABY

OAKVILLE

These whimsical Pixies are steeped in Danish history and storytelling. They are handcrafted and designed to become collectible with special outfits. No doubt they will become part of your family's Christmas traditions. simplygreenbaby.com

THE KEEPING ROOM

DUNDAS

Make merry in style with these beautiful crystal glasses that are reinforced with Titanium for increased durability to resist chips and scratchesperfect for many-a-cheers!

thekeepingroom.ca

BOS & CO.

BURLINGTON

Step into style (and comfort) with the Highland walking shoe from Bos & Co. Comfy like a sneaker with a Gore-tex membrane to keep feet dry in any weather. A removable insole makes this shoe orthotic-friendly. Available in half sizes and wide. bosandco.com

looklocalmagazine.com

Oakville

Burlington

Shine Bright Collection

Visit Our in Downtown Burlington

FA A A A A

Your one stop shop for local & handmade gifts this holiday season! The Handmade House is home to over 100+ local artisans Our two locations offer a unique selection of one of a kind curated gifts Enjoy limited edition products in our Holiday Pop Up and Join us at our Holiday Markets for a rustic holiday shopping experience on December 4th In Dundas, and December 10th in Burlington

The winter holiday season is nearly upon us and our downtown business community has transformed into a winter wonderland.

The spirit of the season can be found in every corner of our downtown with festive holiday lights and animations designed to help you and your family make new holiday memories this year. Join us to kick off the season with the Santa Claus Parade, stay for the Bright Nights at Promenade West and stroll through the Festival of Lights all December long.

What better way to find a one-of-a-kind gift as unique as the people on your Christmas list than from one of Downtown’s specialty shops and services?

Whether it is your first time downtown, or you are getting reacquainted, you are sure to find a hidden treasure this season.

Let the Look Local Holiday Guide be your map to awardwinning restaurants, distinctive shoppes and services or to craft that custom find for that someone special on your list.

From our downtown family to yours, we wish you best of the season and we thank you for supporting local.

BRIAN DEAN

Executive Director, Burlington Downtown Business Association

“…It’s the most wonderful time of the year”

It goes without saying – the holiday season is a season of magic. City streets transform into a life-size snow globe with touches of glitz, glam, scent, and sound. Twinkle lights and peppermint hot chocolate certainly put a pep in your step, but the real magic comes with making the holidays special for someone else – especially when you're a parent or caregiver. Nothing compares to seeing the holidays through a child's eyes. Though, when you're scurrying to move a forgotten elf at three in the morning, it’s easy to land in the realm where holiday magic falls flat.

From the European-style holiday market in Village Square, Spencer Smith's Festival of Lights, and Burlington's Santa Claus Parade, you'll find endless holiday charm in our downtown –making it easy to create memories…and having fun, too.

Enjoy a candle-lit stroll

NOVEMBER 25TH | CIVIC SQUARE | 6 P.M. TO 9 P.M.

Warm up your vocal cords and bundle up your babies for a festive night in Civic Square. The holiday season will kick off with Burlington Downtown’s Candlelit Stroll, featuring a visit with Santa, music, nibbles, giveaways, and carols.

Revel in the magic of The Nutcracker

DECEMBER 2ND AND 3RD BURLINGTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

The National Ballet Theatre of Ukraine returns to Burlington to dazzle audiences with this timeless Christmas classic. Set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved music, the entire family will love this magical experience filled with charming sets and stunning costumes.

Discover the best holiday hot chocolate

Some of the best moments come with crisp snow under your feet and a warm drink between your mittens. Whether it’s gingerbread, peppermint, or egg nog– nothing compliments a winter walk quite like a festive drink. Lola Choco Bar And Sweet House, Kelly’s Bake Shop, Tamp Coffee Co, Lakeshore Coffee House, The Sunshine Doughnut Co, Coffee Culture, Starbucks, and Tim Horton’s bring their own take on seasonal bevvies (often delivered in adorable seasonal cups).

Presented by Lisa-Marie Winning, Winning & Associates IG Private Wealth Management

Get inspired at the Festival of Trees.

NOVEMBER 23RD TO DECEMBER 17TH BURLINGTON PERFORMING ARTS

CENTRE

Sparkles and yuletide joy are hitting the BPAC Lobby for the 6th Annual Festival of Trees. Unique and classic trends will drape nearly a dozen Christmas Trees (generously donated by Canadian Tire and sponsored by local businesses). If you see something you like, place your bid! Trees are up for grabs through a silent auction and available to take home just before Christmas.

Wander through the Festival of Lights

NOVEMBER 25TH TO JANUARY 8TH | SPENCER SMITH PARK 4 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT DAILY.

No matter where you wander, you’ll be met with lights. Featuring over 60 illuminating displays throughout Spencer Smith Park, this downtown experience has been a family favourite for nearly three decades (and it’s completely free!)

Peruse wintery window displays.

Enchanting window displays certainly add a special touch to the holidays. With oneof-a-kind boutiques, shops, and services, Burlington Downtown offers a little something for everyone on your list.

Wave hello to Santa Claus DECEMBER 4TH DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON

Save the date, after a two-year hiatus, the Santa Claus Parade is back! Colourful floats, marching bands, and the Big Man in Red are anxiously waiting to visit their favourite city once again.

Shop the European- style Holiday Market

VILLAGE SQUARE | DECEMBER 8TH TO 11TH

This European-style Christmas market infused with Canadiana flair promises to deliver a unique and immersive experience. Shop vendors while enjoying food, drink, and music. This holiday wonderland has something to excite all ages.

Skate beside Lake Ontario at Rotary Centennial Pond.

Lace up your skates! During the winter, the Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond offers free recreational skating with no need to reserve a spot in advance, weather permitting.

Explore local arts and culture.

Whether you have big kids or little kids (or you’re dragging your teen kids out of the house), Joseph Brant Museum, Burlington Performing Art Centre, and Art Gallery of Burlington are hosting exhibits, events, and activities all winter long (you can even view the festival of lights from the rooftop of Joseph Brant Museum).

clothing boutique

2060 Lakeshore Road Unit 108 Burlington, Ontario hello@thewhitecoconut.ca thewhitecoconut.ca

Delivering an elevated experience is our mission. Unwind in the lounge at Isabelle. 3 ELIZABETH STREET, BURLINGTON GET IN TOUCH: 905-340-0590

Delivering an elevated experience is our mission. Unwind in the lounge at Isabelle. 3 ELIZABETH STREET, BURLINGTON GET IN TOUCH: 905-340-0590

ooking for a fun way to say goodbye to 2022? We have a full list of New Year’s Eve events to help you start 2023 with a bang!

Whether you’re looking for some family fun, a romantic dinner, or a great night out, you’ll find it all right here in Burlington’s downtown.

Lounge Around

Looking for a one-stop shop this New Year? SB Prime covers it. This small, casual restaurant and lounge carries over 200 types of Gin and an extensive drink menu (word on the street, their martinis are divine). Renowned for its steaks and apps, it’s a perfect spot for an elegant dinner that can turn into evening drinks with friends.

Culaccino

Located just around the corner, facing the waterfront, you’ll find Loch Side Bar & Lounge. They specialize in a variety of Scotch, Gins, and fine wines, and they also offer a small social dining menu featuring lagers and cocktails. This Gastro pub with a touch of Scotland is the perfect spot to grab some handheld nibbles and casual drinks with friends while overlooking the Festival of Lights.

Dress Up and Eat Out!

If you happen to score a babysitter and want to enjoy an elegant night out, there are a number of stunning restaurants to choose from. Spencer’s at the Waterfront is often a top choice for its breathtaking views and fabulous food. Spencer’s offers a unique food concept, featuring market-fresh fish, exceptional seafood, and mouth-watering Craft Cut Steak. Guests can enjoy the sparkling lake view from inside the glass-walled dining room.

Located in central downtown, you’ll find Culaccino Bar + Kitchen, an eclectic Italian gastropub serving freshly made pasta, pizza, apps, and imported Italian beer (with over 100 Ontario beers, too). Their mid-century retro-style dining room is open concept, with soaring ceilings and beautiful big windows. The interior setting and food are certainly Intsa-worthy for your New Year’s celebrations.

Spencer'sat the Waterfront

ochSide Bar & Lounge

Bar + Kitchen LochSide

Dine-In with Take-Out

Does your New Year include take-out food and hitting the hay before the ball drops? Grab some authentic Thai Pho Mi T&T features healthy, tasty appetizers, a tremendous variety of delicious rice noodle soups in small through extra-large portions, stir-fried noodles, Pad Thai, and vermicelli noodle dishes. Or, give pizza a shot and grab some take-out from Son of a Peach Pizzeria. Their artisan pies offer unique toppings, including local wild honey, garlic roasted mushrooms, crispy onions, and house-made sausage.

from

Here's to great food and an even better 2023!

Son ofaPeachPizzeria

GIFT IDEAS

PURE BOUTIQUE

PUREBOUTIQUE.CA

389 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON

Let your friends and family know 'tis the season to be merry in this cute and cozy sweatshirt.

2060 LAKESHORE ROAD # 108, BURLINGTON

Cozy, stylish and super giftable, these fleece-lined cable-knit mittens are sure to please whoever is on your list!

JEFF'S GUYSHOP

JOELLES.COM

457 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON

These animal themed toques by Goorin Bros are really hot sellers (they also make the greatest mesh back trucker hats).

CAMPBELL CO & HOME CAMPBELLCOHOME.COM

415 ELIZABETH STREET # 37, BURLINGTON

Cozy up with a warm drink in your new favourite mug, under the cutest waffle knit throw, and get to solve your new puzzle! Included in this bundle is a mug that has been artistically glazed in neutral contrasting colours, a 1000-piece puzzle featuring an exquisite botanical illustration from the renowned Australian artist Edith Rewa, and finally a throw which is the perfect thickness for those chilly evenings at home - sure to bring warmth to your living space!

JOELLE'S

JOELLES.COM

457 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON

Looking for hostess gifts and stocking stuffers that will make every sip an experience - and a stylish one? Check out these cocktail, wine and sparkling glasses from Corkcicle.

ART GALLERY OF BURLINGTON

AGB.LIFE

1333 LAKESHORE ROAD, BURLINGTON

Discover a huge selection of hand-made and one-of-a-kind gifts at the Art Gallery of Burlington Shop, such as these artist made glass ornaments by Kingston Glass Studios.

THE BLOCK CO THEBLOCKCO.CA

395 JOHN STREET, BURLINGTON

Who wouldn’t love to receive a fully loaded charcuterie board from The Block Co, heaped with fine meats and cheeses from around the world, plus fruit, nuts and other delicacies? Perfect for sharing with friends and family over the holidays.

DOWNTOWN PET SHOP

DOWNTOWNPETSHOP.COM

398 MARTHA STREET, BURLINGTON

This Christmas, give your dog the gift of a healthy gut! Find these and other healthy treats at the Downtown Pet Shop.

SCRIVENER’S MEN’S APPAREL SCRIVENERS.CA

389 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON

Premium from thread to toe! Quality requires experience - that's why all Cole + Parker socks are knitted by expert Turkish and Italian artisans using only premium materials. The perfect choice for any occasion!

THE HANDMADE HOUSE

THEHANDMADEHOUSE.CA 460 PEARL STREET, BURLINGTON 71 KING STREET WEST, DUNDAS

Hand-crafted by Barely There Skincare in Oakville, this candle is made from 100% natural vegan soy wax, and scented with decadent chocolate with a hint of vanilla cream. Free from endocrine disrupting chemicals. Comes in a reusable glass mug for continuous use.

THE KNITTERS BOUTIQUE

THEKNITTERSBOUTIQUE.CA 431 PEARL STREET, BURLINGTON

For the passionate knitter in your family, why not give them this Introduction to Dyeing Kit? The kit contains all the dye and yarn for up to 4kg of fibre, plus instructions and a colour wheel to help your loved one create their own beautiful hand dyed yarns!

CENTRO GARDEN

CENTROGARDEN.COM

437 BRANT STREET 590 BRANT STREET BURLINGTON

If you're not in the Christmas spirit yet, you need to step into Centro Garden. Find all kinds of unique decor, including these glass Christmas trees.

It feels like we blinked. Suddenly we’re gazing at snowcovered streets, wondering how summer slipped away so quickly (and with it, the fresh flavours of watermelon and mint mojitos). Sigh. Take us back.

Whether you look forward to the winter months or walk toward them (completely bundled) with apprehension, you can’t deny that holiday merriment has an impact on food. A tasty one. From delectable chocolates to crafted charcuterie –‘tis the season to indulge.

FOR STOCKINGS

To stuff your stockings with something sweet, look no further than our local chocolatiers. Lola Choco Bar and Sweet House crafts handmade truffles and macarons, while Crème de la Crème Creamery Inc. has a series of festive treats, including hot chocolate bombs, paint-your-own-chocolate Christmas tree, reindeer lollipops, peppermint bark, and more!

Centro Garden carries a unique line of small-batch, infused popcorn, perfect for sprucing up a grown-up’s stocking. There’s Whiskey on the Pops, an air-popped whole-grain popcorn coated in rich, smooth, and subtly sweet Scotch whisky-infused caramel with smoky and peaty notes, and Poppin Rose All Day, with a crisp candied covering infused with rose wine…. slightly fizzy and tart with notes of watermelon and strawberry.

For something a little more savoury, The Block Co. on John Street creates unique and beautiful charcuterie boards featuring the finest meats and cheese. For those with a busy holiday schedule, a pre-ordered board makes a great hostess gift or easy appetizer for a holiday party. You can also purchase pantry items like jellies, mustards, vinegar, block boards, and crackers as stocking stuffers.

Coffee lovers will rejoice when they find locally-roasted beans from Tamp Coffee Co. in their stocking. While the grill master (who, let’s be real, grills all year long) will be “fired up” to discover The North Coal Kitchen & Bar’s Steeltown and Bobcajun seasonings, perfect for meat and veg. Add some Steel City hot sauce and flavoured finishing salts from The Handmade House Burlington, and you’ll be sure to please both aspiring and seasoned chefs (pun totally intended).

FOR CELEBRATING

Supporting a beloved Downtown eatery is a gift for all. As you enjoy a delicious meal, local chefs sauté spinach with an extra pep in their step. It’s a win-win. Many Downtown restaurants offer takeout – parents, treat yourselves to something other than nuggets after the kids are in bed. And during the holidays, there are always new dishes with seasonal flavours and ingredients to explore.

Joints like the Coop Wicked Chicken, Joe Dog's Gasbar Grill, and The Dickens craft mouth-watering comfort food, perfect for casual nights in. While, finer-dining restaurants like The Carriage House Restaurant, Paradiso Restaurant, and The Martini House also offer take-out, they’re great options for date night or booking your holiday party.

If you’re able to score a babysitter, it’s worth making the trip Downtown to eat in. The holiday ambiance is second-to-none. At The Dickens, you’ll find live music on Saturdays, while The Martini House has a vast martini menu worth exploring with friends. And while, yes, it’s cold and its winter, you should still grab some dessert at one of three gelato shops (because we believe there are no rules when it comes to ice cream).

Whether you’re a homebody, a hibernator, or hitting the streets – there are endless ways to celebrate food and festivities this holiday season.

CR Ê ME DE LA CR Ê ME

THE COOP WICKED CHICKEN

LOLA CHOCO BAR

You’ve been here before – it’s the 11th hour, and you’re standing at the checkout comparing a cheesy mug to a bottle of red. Maybe they don’t drink, you think to yourself – but they do have a cat. The meow mug it is.

Every year, without fail, someone on your gift list leaves you stumped. A Secret Santa, your child’s teacher, even your favourite neighbour. Through the years, you’ve learned that knowing someone’s name doesn’t always mean you know what they like. And yet, you’re here again – scrambling. While it’s easy to grab a gift card (or a meow mug), it’s not always the most thoughtful approach. Thankfully, this fool-proof gift guide, carefully curated by the Elves of Burlington Downtown, is here to save the day.

So, without further ado, we give you: super awesome gift ideas in a pinch.

A Photography Session

Depending on your recipient, there are a ton of options when it comes to gifting a photography session – full or mini family sessions, branding + portraits, newborn (a perfect baby’s first Christmas gift), and even boudoir. We have a number of talented photographers in our downtown core, including a new face: Sarah Martin Photography, who joins veteran photographers, Jessica Waugh, and Charlenne Arianna.

MY ROTI

A Spa Session

It’s probably not in your best interest to gift an upper lip wax, but you can never go wrong with a mani, pedi, or even a facial. Specializing in skincare (and body sugaring), one of our newest spas, Downtown Beauty Loft, promises relaxation and results. You’ll also find Water’s Edge Salon, Malgosia Spa, Spa in the Village, and a number of other wonderful options.

Build Your Own…Roti?

If there’s a foodie on your list, you can’t go wrong with…well, food, and new business My Roti Place/My Dosa Place brings their A-game. Treat your colleague, assistant, boss, or new relationship to a fun (and seriously) delicious meal. My Roti Place gives you the flexibility to make your roti the way you like – so while you may not know your lunch buddy too well, their choice of curry may just add a little extra spice to your relationship.

Something That Sparkles

There’s a way to gift jewellery without making it a romantic gesture – and it lies within your selection. Monogram initial pendants are always a safe bet, but Burlington Downtown‘s newest jeweller, Millennium Jewellers, has some other adorable options, too: unique and fun estate jewellery, colourful earrings, and even a poodle pendant (though, we can’t promise it will stick around for long). Millennium Jewellers receives new items frequently, so keep your eye on their Facebook page. There are also a number of veteran jewellers, including (but not limited to) Jockheck and Modern Love, each offering unique pieces to discover, or custom pieces to create.

SARAH MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY

MODERN LOVE

Meow Mug+

Okay, you have someone in your life who really does love their cat – Burlington Downtown has something for them, too. New to our BIA, Downtown Pet Shop has everything for the furry friend in your life (or the lover of furry friends). This holistic pet shop + apothecary has food, supplements, supplies, treats, toys, ceramics, apparel, and even a barkery. We meowst admit it’s all pretty darn cute.

And thankfully, there’s the Burlington Downtown GIFT CARD (accepted at over 60 stores). The no-idea-whatto-get-them gift – while still shopping local – for everyone on your list.

Downtown Pet SHop

At the office, we are all less reactive to things and clients, we are able to step back and use Tree's tools to deal with issues. Overall we are now a closer team and more efficient! Thanks Tree!

MAUDE LEGER OWNER, SOLD RIGHT AWAY

Regift, Remake, Resell

MAKING THE MOST OF NANA’S JEWELLERY

by ANNELIESE LAWTON

Special occasions are usually when heirloom jewellery changes hands (or necks or ears) – an engagement or wedding, a milestone birthday, an anniversary, and yes, even the holidays. But what do you do when Grandma’s ring shows up under your tree, and it’s not quite to your taste? Of course, the meaning of it far outweighs the appeal. But the last thing anyone wants is for a beloved ring to sit in a jewellery box collecting dust. Maybe you’ve thought of remaking the piece to suit your style while also keeping a loved one’s memory present. Maybe you’re not all that sentimental and would prefer to sell material objects you no longer use. When it comes to weighing your options, here are a few places to start:

Sometimes the memory of the piece is just too precious

Regifting

The most important part of regifting a piece of jewellery is acquiring an updated appraisal (the person receiving it should know exactly what its worth). If you haven’t had the piece appraised in a while, it is also important to note that the value may have changed over time depending on the material, popularity, and supply/demand.  S. Taylor Jewellery Appraisal & Consultation is a local Burlington business specializing in all proper documentation needs for a professional and accurate appraisal by Certified Gemologist Appraiser, Sherrie Taylor. With in-person, private appointments, Taylor has invested in specific tools that allow their clients to see their gems and jewellery up close and personal.

Remake

Sometimes the memory of the piece is just too precious, or maybe the value of the raw material is high, and you want to remake the piece into something that suits your style more. In this case, The Diamond Boutique, Oakville Jewellery, and Laura Tedesco Jewellery Design are all great options. With over 35 years experience, John Akcan relocated his Toronto Dundas Square store to Lakeshore Road in Oakville. His new location Oakville Jewellery features a state-ofthe-art workshop equipped with a 3D printer, laser welder, lapping machine and more. This allows them to create virtually any design a customer wants, and provide 3D proofs before creating the pieces on site. In the heart of Stoney Creek, you will find sisters Sandra and Julia Karan at The Diamond Boutique, with over 14 years of experience in the jewellery industry. This family-run shop specializes in custom engagement rings and jewellery designs, and can help you turn your vision into beautiful custom-designed pieces. Also in Hamilton,

Laura Tedesco Jewellery Design on Locke Street offers custom design work as well as a stunning collection of Laura’s own designs. Laura grew up in the jewellery business and her father Dino still helps out and consults in the business. And Laura’s husband John brings his creativity combined with CAD expertise to create stunning pieces of art for their clients. This team’s passion is to help clients find their unique expression in the jewellery they wear. Their website is user-friendly, with a selection of beautiful design templates to help customize your piece.

AU JEWELRY EXCHANGE LAB LAURA TEDESCO JEWELLERY DESIGN

THE DIAMOND BOUTIQUE OAKVILLE JEWELLERY

Resell/Recycle

Finally, if your jewellery has surpassed the first two options, you are most likely ready to completely let go of your pieces. Au Jewelry Exchange Lab is located in the heart of Downtown Burlington and offers a oneof-a-kind experience when it comes to reselling your precious metals. From honest and educational evaluations right in the privacy of the lab to in-home Gold Party and Lab on Location events, AU prides itself in making the experience about you. Their transparent approach differs from what we’re used to when we think of selling our gold for cash. One of the other factors that sets them apart is their emphasis on recycling the majority of the products they buy. AU Jewelry Exchange Lab uses local refiners to melt down their metals and recycle them back to be repurposed. So, if your jewellery has reached its final destination, allow it to do something good for the planet…and for your wallet! AU pays out their evaluations on the spot. Complimentary evaluations are available.

With an abundance of colourful lights and family celebrations, the holidays have officially arrived – all 12 of them. That’s right. Within the month of December, there are over 12 celebrated religious holidays. And while they’re all different in their own unique way, many share a common theme centred around food, family, and of course, gifts. Whether you’re leaving a stocking by the chimney for Santa, a wooden shoe out for Sinterklaas, or celebrating one of the many other holidays, you can never go wrong with adding a sweet treat.

Get Baking!

Baking cookies is a holiday tradition my family started just a few years ago. We gather in the kitchen, make a giant mess, burn cookies, and then hand them out to the neighbours. It’s a treat. Thankfully, Christy’s Gourmet Gifts has fresh, homemade dough, making it easier for my three little chefs to bake from scratch. We love the sugar cookie and gingerbread mix – and since it comes already as a dough, we simply create holiday shapes with our cookie cutters and bake!

Local Links

1

The Sweetest Thing, Oakville thesweetestthing.com

2 Molly Cake, Burlington mollycake.ca

3 Sweet Bakery, Oakville sweetbakery.ca

4

Christys Gourmet Gifts, Burlington christysgourmetgifts.com

5 Lola Choco Bar, Burlington lolachocobar.com

6 That Pie Place, Burlington thatpieplace.com

7 The Organic House, Oakville theorganichouse.ca

8 A Chocolate Lab, Oakville achocolatelab.com

And if that’s even too much, The Sweetest Thing in Oakville creates holiday cookie decorating kits. Each kit contains six cookies, two piping bags of icing, and two sprinkle pods.

Something to Sip On

Whether you’re at home or out on the town, hot chocolate – with a festive twist – seems to be the drink of choice this time of year. Lola Choco Bar and Sweethouse in Downtown Burlington is famous for its drinking chocolate. Made with coconut and 100% dark Ecuadorian chocolate, this smooth, warm chocolate drink is a local favourite. Back at home, hot chocolate bombs are all the rage. Filled with cocoa mix, marshmallows, sprinkles, and other edible baubles, they are a truly overthe-top way to level up your cocoa game. Once plopped inside a mug full of warm milk, the bombs open up, revealing the goodies inside and creating a decadent cup of hot cocoa once stirred together. Grab a box of seasonal flavours at Sweet! Bakery Oakville in Bronte.

LOLA CHOCO BAR AND SWEETHOUSE

Tiny + Thoughtful Gifts

For stockings, wooden shoes, or Hanukah gifts, smaller treats such as candies or chocolates can be a perfect fit. The Organic House in Oakville, owned by a mother-daughter duo, handcrafts organic, vegan, glutenfree, dairy-free, fair-trade, and kosher chocolate bars. These bars meet nearly every dietary restriction, and since they’re also kosher, they’re the perfect gift for Jewish friends, family, or hosts. A Chocolate Lab, also in Oakville, has a large selection of chocolates and handcrafted treats (specifically involving Oreos) perfect for the holidays. They have chocolate-covered Oreo Christmas trees, chocolate-dipped Oreo mints, along with chocolate-covered Oreos that look like ornaments. These items make great stocking stuffers for any age.

T H E ORGANIC HOUSE

THE SWEETEST THING

MOLLY CAKE

CHRISTY'S GOURMET GIFTS

SWEET BAKERY

Let Them Have Cake

The Yule Log, Chocolate Swiss Roll, and Fruit Cake all peak during the holiday season, but other cultures bring a little something extra to the dessert table. Sweet potato pie and coconut pie are traditional desserts at this time of year for our friends celebrating Kwanzaa. That Pie Place in Burlington has a large selection of both fresh and frozen savoury and fruit pies. They can also accommodate customizations. And if you’re not completely set on cake, why not try a beautifully decorated gingerbread house from Molly Cake? Available in small, medium, and large, these gingerbread houses make a beautiful hostess gift or dinner party centrepiece. The large house even comes with plug-in lights that shine through several delicious poured sugar window panes. However you’re celebrating this time of year, we hope you create some sweet memories.

THAT PIE PLACE

Bronte Historical Society Art

Show and Sale

Enjoy the historic Sovereign House and the amazing works created by the artists of Sovereign House. Paintings, pottery, sculpture, fabric arts, jewellery, clothing, decorations, cards – all lovingly handmade by local artists who have filled Sovereign House with their artwork all year.

Sovereign House 7 West River Street Brontehistoricalsociety.ca

NOV 26 Soup Bowl

NOV 26

The AGB's beloved soup bowl is back! This year’s event will feature oneof-a-kind, hand-made ceramic soup bowls, along with gourmet appetizers and soup shots, live musical entertainment, a short film screening, an amazing silent auction, and so much more! Guests take home their own ceramic bowl, along with a goodie bag of artisanal dry soup mix, recipe cards, and an invitation to an exclusive on-line chef-led cooking class!

Art Gallery of Burlington 1333 Lakeshore Road Agb.life

DEC 2

A Night at Ireland House

Spend the evening sampling seasonal foods prepared on the hearth and woodstove while you tour the Museum. Sip local wine and craft beer along the way. Tickets are $55 and must be purchased in advance. This event is 19+ Ireland House Museum 2168 Guelph Line, Burlington Museumsofburlington.ca

DEC 2-3

Burlington Comedy Festival

Two nights of laughout-loud comedy right here in Burlington! Enjoy some of your favourite Canadian stand-up comics, with different headliners each night. Tickets available at Burlingtoncomedy.com. Art Gallery of Burlington 1333 Lakeshore Road Burlingtoncomedy.com

Thursdays

Until DEC 29

Lights from the Rooftop of Joseph Brant Museum

Enjoy the Burlington Festival of Lights from the rooftop at Joseph Brant Museum. Beginning November 25th, during the Candlelit Stroll and every Thursday evening in December. There will be free hot chocolate and popcorn. Museum admission is not required for rooftop access. Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East Museumsofburlington.ca

Until JAN 5

The Augmented Reality Holiday Hunt

Explore the streets of Downtown Oakville on an Augmented Reality scavenger hunt for your chance to win $1000. Visit Downtownoakville.com for more information.

Downtown Oakville Oakvilledowntown.com

Wednesdays

Until JAN 8

to Sunday

Winter Wonders

Explore Hendrie Park’s picturesque pathways adorned with charming festive lights, new interactive light-tosound installations, and magical displays that celebrate the winter season. Enjoy festive music while indulging in the warm tastes and fragrances of the holiday season. Timed tickets are required.

Royal Botanical Gardens 680 Plains Road West, Burlington RBG.ca

Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Market

It’s the 28th annual Kerr Village Christmas Tree Lighting! Drop by and enjoy the Holiday PopUp Market and live musical entertainment. Featuring a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, the elves, and various characters. The tree-lighting ceremony will take place at 5:30 p.m.

Westwood Park 173 Kerr Street, Oakville Kerr-village.ca

www.moorefamilychiropractic.ca

DEC 3,10,17

Winterdown

Each Saturday in December leading up to Christmas, discover festive events in Waterdown! December 3rd will feature wagon rides, entertainment, gift wrapping, and free pop-up refreshments. December 10th is for the kids with a magic show, photos with Santa, treats and crafts. And on December 17th, you’ll find in-store specials for food and beverage businesses, along with a gift basket draw and entertainment in the Village.

Waterdown Village Waterdownvillage.ca

DEC 10

The Handmade House Outdoor Market

Meet makers and support local as your fill your stockings with handmade goodies! Enjoy a full day of artisan shopping at this one-day-only outdoor Holiday Market.

Handmade House 460 Pearl Street, Burlington thehandmadehouse.ca

DEC 11

Oakville Museum Christmas Tour

Enjoy a guided tour of the elegant Erchless Estate, beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and a feature exhibit with a focus on typewriters and sewing machines. Delight in nostalgic toys and historic reproduction ornaments. Tickets are at Oakville.ca/museum.

Erchless Estate

8 Navy Street, Oakville Oakville.ca/museum

DEC 10

Corontion Park Toy Drive

Looking for twinkling lights? The Oakville Professional Firefighters Association has partnered with the Town of Oakville to host a drive-thru donation event at Coronation Park on Friday, December 10, from 5 to 9 p.m. Oakville residents are encouraged to bring a gift card, unwrapped toy, and/or non-perishable food donation item to the event, which will feature a holiday light display, Santa waving from his sleigh, and other festive guests.

Coronation Park 1426 Lakeshore Road West

DEC 24

Carols in Centennial Square

Check out Centennial Square for free carols the evening of December 24th, all are welcome! Non-perishable food items will be collected in support of Kerr Street Mission. Centennial Square 120 Navy Street Chartwellchurch.com

DEC 28 JAN 4

Craft and Tour at the Oakville Museum

Spend some time with your little one at Erchless Estate for an afternoon craft and guided tour. Perfect for ages 4 to 9. Children require a ticket and must be accompanied by an adult (adults are free). Register online at Oakville.ca/museum.

Erchless Estate 8 Navy Street, Oakville Oakville.ca/museum

Ode to the

BY LISA EVANS

Potatoes are Canadians' favourite side dish

It's hard to find a more versatile vegetable than the potato. It can be fried, scalloped, roasted, mashed, or hashed. Potatoes are gluten-free and pair well with breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Not only is the potato versatile, but they're also affordable, accessible, and delicious any way you dig 'em.

Potatoes have played an important role in the planet's food security. Historians have traced the history of the potato back to Ancient Peru. It's believed the potato was first introduced to Europe by the Spanish explorers of the "New World." Some credit the potato with ending the famine in Northern Europe. Potatoes were first grown by settlers in New Brunswick as early as the mid-1600s and have been a staple in Canadian homes ever since.

Our Best

KITCHEN ROAST POTATOES

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 375ºF.

2 Peel the potatoes and cut into even sized chunks.

3 Soak the potatoes in cold water for 5 minutes and drain to remove excess starch.

4 Whilst the potatoes are soaking, spray a large baking tray evenly with cooking spray and add your fat – olive oil, butter or duck fat (in order of glutinousness). Place baking tray into the oven.

5 Tip potatoes into a large pot, cover with lukewarm salted water. Add teaspoon of baking soda which helps to create fluff y edges. Parboil for 10 minutes, or until a fork can readily puncture each chunk, then drain in a colander.

6 Leave to steam dry in the colander for 3 minutes and give it a shake until the potatoes form fluff y edges – this will help to make them super-crisp later on.

INGREDIENTS

1.5 kg russet potatoes (serves about 6) Duck fat or unsalted butter or olive oil (enough to form thin layer across your baking tray)

5 or 6 garlic cloves

1 bunch of fresh rosemary

1 teaspoon of baking soda Cooking spray (optional)

7 Tip the potatoes into the now hot tray in one layer. Season well with salt and black pepper. Toss the potatoes in the fat, then roast for 30 minutes, or until lightly golden.

8 Now’s the time for a key step. Gently squash each potato with a potato masher or spatula to increase the surface area – the more of your potato that’s in contact with the pan, the crispier it will be.

9 Add rosemary, unpeeled garlic cloves and 1 good lug of oil to a small bowl. Mix until garlic and rosemary are evenly coated.

10 Evenly distribute rosemary and garlic mixture with the potatoes and give the pan a good shake. Flip and gently squash each potato again, then pop back in the hot oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until crispy and delicious.

Potatoes are Canadians' favourite side dish, complementing any main meal. Add roasted potatoes to a chicken dish, french fries to a burger, hash browns to eggs, and have you ever been to a barbeque that didn't have potato salad?

Potatoes are also good for your health and pack a nutritious punch. Cooked potatoes with the skin are a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Potatoes are mainly comprised of carbs but contain almost no fat, so they can keep us full for longer.

1 - CHOOSE THE RIGHT SPUD.

• Potatoes come in many forms, but some varieties are better suited for some purposes than others.

• Russet potatoes have low water content and are high in starch, making this the preferred potato for baking, frying, mashing, and roasting.

• Red potatoes have lower starch and higher water content and are ideal for soups, stews, and salads.

• Yellow potatoes are all-purpose potatoes with a buttery taste and a rich, creamy texture.

2 - STORE YOUR POTATOES IN THE RIGHT LOCATION

Sunlight will cause your potatoes to release a chemical called solanine, which can be toxic. A cool, dark location, like a root cellar, is the best place to store potatoes. Avoid placing potatoes in the fridge. Fridge temperatures convert the starch to sugar which can change the taste of the potatoes.

3 - ADD POTATOES TO COLD WATER FIRST

To get silky smooth mashed potatoes, start potatoes in cold, salted water, then bring the pot to boil. When they're nearly ready to be mashed, heat your butter and milk in a small saucepan rather than adding them straight from the cold fridge.

4 - SALT THE WATER, NOT THE POTATOES

Adding salt to water causes the potatoes' starch to cook more, giving it a rich, creamy texture, while cooking potatoes in unsalted water results in a bland taste. Similarly, placing potatoes on a baking sheet without salt can cause them to get overcooked. The salt helps ensure the potatoes cook evenly.

One little vegetable with so much potential. Three cheers for the potato!

THING ' S mint chocolate sammies chocolate sammies

CHOCOLATE COOKIE INGREDIENTS

2 cups all-purpose flour

6 Tbsp cocoa powder

COOKIE METHOD

∙

1 tsp baking soda

∙

1/2 tsp salt

∙

110g bittersweet chocolate, melted and cooled

¾ cup unsalted butter

1½ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

MINT BUTTERCREAM INGREDIENTS

∙

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1 Tbsp vanilla extract

3 ½ cups powdered sugar

1-2 Tbsp cream

1/2 tsp mint extract

BUTTERCREAM METHOD

1 Cream butter and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer. Gradually add in the cream until the frosting is a spreadable consistency.

stand

1 Cream butter and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

1 Reduce mixer speed to low and add eggs, one at a time, mixing until each egg is completely incorporated before adding the next. Mix in vanilla.

3

1 Pour in lukewarm cooled chocolate and mix on low speed, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl well, until batter is uniform in color. Add dry ingredients and mix on low speed until just incorporated.

1 Scoop tablespoon sized balls of dough and place on a parchment lined sheet.

1 Bake for 7-8 minutes at 350 or until just set in the middle

1 Let cookies cool, and fill with Mint Buttercream. Drizzle melted chocolate over top and garnish with festive sprinkles!

7 top

www.thesweetestthing.com 282 Kerr Street, Oakville

is a reason why the Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail has remained a favourite on the drinks scene for almost 200 years. It is the cocktail equivalent of comfort food.

Your holiday guests will love this version of the traditional drink. Replacing the sugar or simple syrup with Kinsip’s Whisky Barrel Aged Maple Syrup adds depth to the flavour and gives it a Canadian spin.

Just as good ingredients are key to this drink, so are the garnishes. In this version we swap the traditional orange peel for a Sullivan Luxury Candied Orange slice and two maraschino cherries. Perfect flavours for sipping by the fire, or while wrapping presents.

EXPERT PICK:

Holiday Wines

THAT SPARKLE

BY JENNY RATCLIFFE-WRIGHT

Whether they're for gifting, toasting, or sacredly sipping, sparkling wines add a special touch to the holiday season. The demand for sparkling wine has grown (thanks to affordable Prosecco), and many are home grown in Ontario. With a vast selection to suit every taste and budget, these expertrecommended bottles will certainly add a little extra “sparkle” to your holiday events. For a tasty and reliable everyday bubbly, try the Jackson Triggs Sparkling Reserve VQA ($16.95 at LCBO). Fresh in flavour with floral and fruity notes, it's the perfect bubbly to pull out when friends drop by. To make a light and fun cocktail, mix in some juice.

For ultra-convenience, try the Outset sparkling wine in a 250ml can ($4.95 at the LCBO). This tiny bottle makes a great stocking stuffer or a cute addition to a charcuterie board. Since it's only a single serving, it's perfect on those nights when you don't want to open a whole bottle.

For a traditional bottle, try the Henry of Pelham Cuvee Catherine Brut ($32.95 at the LCBO). This fermented sparkling wine uses classic champagne varieties of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, offering the same flavour of champagne for a much lower price.

If you are a Chardonnay fan, you'll love the Cloudsley Twenty Mile Bench Chardonnay ($35 from the farm). Cloudsley is a small lot terroirdriven family-owned winery. Order straight from their website, and they'll deliver a case to your door.

Domaine Queylus makes a beautiful Bordeauxstyle blend called Droite ($44.95 from the farm). Aged in French oak barrels, this blend of Cabernet and Merlot is full of flavour. Try it with grilled steaks. Droite is available on the Domaine Queylus website.

Peller Family Vineyards Rose is a safe bet for most pallets and a real crowd-pleaser. It comes in a 1500ml size ($17.95) or a 1-litre tetra pack ($12.95) ( which is super convenient when you have a crowd). This off-dry bubbly is slightly sweet, with hints of rose petals and tropical fruit. Perfect with soda water if you enjoy a refreshing spritzer.

Pop a bottle and celebrate! The holidays are here!