The best recommendations rarely come from a list. They come from conversation.
We asked one local business owner a simple question about their favourite summer spot. Each recommendation led to another, creating a word-of-mouth guide to some of Burlington and Oakville’s favourite destinations.
In this relay-style chain of must-try patios, hidden gems, sweet treats, and experiences, two business owners just happened to name Greek restaurants! We thank our local businesses for gushing over one another, and for their genuine community spirit and goodwill.
The Starting Point: Nicetys
172 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
shop.nicetys.com
For nearly a decade, Carol Lacher has owned Nicetys, though she has been part of Oakville’s Lakeshore community for more than 25 years. As the proprietor of a kitchen store, she knows that life’s biggest moments often happen around food. “The kitchen is the heart of the home,” she says of the sentiment that keeps customers coming in to chat about their milestones. This summer, she’s focusing on outdoor entertaining with unbreakable drinkware, seasonal tableware, and kitchen essentials.
Lacher’s favourite summer patio? Colossus Greek Taverna, and she doesn’t necessarily hit the patio for cocktail sipping. “Their salads are so tasty. You just want to capture all that sunshine on a plate!”
Recommended by Nicetys: Colossus Greek Taverna
221 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
colossusgreektaverna.com
If you’ve ever strolled through downtown Oakville on a sunny afternoon, chances are you’ve noticed the lively patio at Colossus located across from Towne Square. General Manager Jane Hingston has been part of the restaurant for 22 years and says the patio’s checkered chairs, umbrellas and Greek music transport guests straight to vacation mode. With just 28 seats and no reservations, it’s one of the most sought-after streetside spots for lunch, dinner, and tzatziki.
As for a local hidden gem, Hingston recommends Zoey’s Consignment Collection in Burlington. “You can always find a treasure. Whenever I go there, I leave with something unique.”
Recommended by Colossus Greek Taverna: Zoey’s Consignment Collection
4155 Fairview Street, Burlington
zoeys.ca
Lesley Charest has built Zoey’s Consignment Collection around the thrill of discovery. Specializing in pre-owned, high-quality furniture and home décor accessories, the shop is constantly changing as clients downsize or move over the summer months. In fact, summer is their busiest time of year with the best selection of items. “You never know what’s going to show up,” says Charest. “We get fabulous pieces you wouldn’t find anywhere else.”
When Charest is looking for a summer treat, her pick is Kawartha Dairy, located just down the street from her shop. She loves the rich ice cream with a wide variety of flavours and insists the best way to enjoy it is in a cone.
Recommended by Zoey’s Consignment Collection: Kawartha Dairy
3465 Fairview Street, Burlington
kawarthadairy.com
Everyone knows summer is peak ice cream season, and Kawartha Dairy is adding to the excitement this year. In collaboration with The Tragically Hip, they’re launching a new limited-edition flavour called “The Tragically Chip,” available by the scoop and in 1.5-litre tubs. The team at the Burlington location points out that the band’s song “Bobcaygeon” means a lot to the Canadian business, as that’s where Kawartha Dairy was founded in 1937.
For a great lineup of live music, the Kawartha Dairy team recommends Canada’s Largest Ribfest at Spencer Smith Park, as they always drive by on their way to the ice cream shop.
Recommended by Kawartha Dairy: Canada’s Largest Ribfest
Spencer Smith Park, Burlington
canadaslargestribfest.com
For 30 years, Canada’s Largest Ribfest has brought crowds to Spencer Smith Park for a Labour Day weekend filled with good food, music, and family fun. Co-chair Brent Paszt says the event is always proud to showcase live music, giving local bands the opportunity to play on a bigger stage. Running from September 4th to7th , the festival is a fundraiser for Rotary Burlington Lakeshore, offering 16 rib teams serving sweet, spicy and everything in between.
When it comes to grabbing something other than ribs, Paszt recommends Nisi Greek Taverna. “Our office is just behind the restaurant, so we often have our team meetings there. The food is fantastic, and we love supporting local businesses.”
Recommended by Canada’s Largest Ribfest: Nisi Greek Taverna
1455 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
www.nisigreek.ca
The local recommendation relay concludes at Nisi Greek Taverna, where General Manager Ben Britton says the restaurant’s success comes down to its passion for food. This summer, guests can enjoy an expanded cocktail, beer, and wine menu on the restaurant’s 100-seat patio overlooking Spencer Smith Park. For warm-weather dining, Britton suggests starting with the grilled calamari before moving on to the restaurant’s signature Greek moussaka, a tried-and-true favourite.
For summer shopping, Britton points to SAIL, his go-to destination for camping, hiking, and outdoor gear. “If you’re going up north or planning a summer adventure, they have everything you need.”
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