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‘Ample Food and Sturdy Drink’ : Feast like the Irish on Saint Patrick’s Day

Irish cuisine is comfort food at its finest. Think rich stews, sensational (and unbelievably simple) breads and loaded shepherd’s pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes. The best part? Irish food proves that a plate doesn’t need fancy ingredients to satisfy. Most of the time, humble components are what make a meal truly remarkable.

Take Welsh rarebit as an example, a dish of hot cheese sauce, often including ale, mustard or Worcestershire sauce, served on toasted bread. The dish reached Ireland in the 18th and 19th centuries through British pub culture, and the Irish made it their own with mature Irish cheddar and stout instead of ale. Over time, it has become a savoury late-supper staple that’s quick, warming and absolutely delicious.

This Saint Patrick’s Day, why not feast like the Irish? Start with a full Irish breakfast at home, with potato scones or soda bread, black (blood) pudding, white pudding, thick cut bacon and sausages – all available at your local British Grocer – as well as eggs, baked beans, fried tomatoes or mushrooms, and strong Irish tea.

At Black Swan Kitchen Hub, with two locations in Burlington and one in Oakville, St. Paddy’s is the biggest night of the year. They even have a countdown and Irish dancers to mark the occasion! Their limited-time menu features classics like corned beef and cabbage, bangers and mash and their famous stew, which changes a little bit every year but always starts with a hearty base of root vegetables, broth and Guinness. It’s the kind of food you want to devour on a cold night.

St. Paddy’s wouldn’t be complete without great drinks. For authentic and Irish-style brews, head to Beertown in Burlington or Oakville for two specials on tap all March long: O’Hara’s Dry Stout and Storm Stayed Brewing Co.’s Patina Red Ale. Smooth, filling and packed with flavour, both are built for slow sipping over long conversations and pair perfectly with hearty Irish dishes. If you’re after something non-alcoholic but still with Irish spirit, try out a hot coffee with whipped cream. Many restaurants and pubs will now offer alcohol-free lagers with the same great taste as their alcoholic counterpart. 

For dessert, take a cab back home and whip up a quick apple tart or bread pudding, both quintessentially Irish sweet treats. There are countless recipes online to suit whatever flavour profile you’re craving, and since they all use simple pantry staples, you really can’t go wrong. Soda bread, which is yeast-free and also on the sweeter side of things, is an easy combination of just flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and buttermilk. Throw in some currants or other dried fruit for a brighter taste. Who knew bread baking could be this easy? 

Cheers and celebrate safely!

Local Links

Barra Fion
1505 Guelph Line, Burlington
barrafion.ca

Beertown Public House
2050 Appleby Line, Burlington
271 Cornwall Road, Oakville
beertown.ca

Blk Swan Kitchen Pub
380 Brant Street, Burlington
4040 Palladium Way, Burlington
3420 Rebecca Street, Oakville
blkswan.ca

British Grocer
213 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
1240 Burloak Drive, Burlington
britishgrocer.ca

Squires Pub
3537 Fairview Street, Burlington
squires.pub

The Judge and Jury
1222 Walker’s Line, Burlington
thejudgeandjury.ca

Gator Ted’s 
1505 Guelph Line, Burlington
gatorteds.ca

By Lauren Medeiros

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In Health & Wellness

Come Up For Air: Take a breather from screens and live a little

We love our screens. Our phones wake us up, keep us company in lineups, help us shop, socialize, work, relax, and procrastinate like champs. Screens are convenient and entertaining, but the downsides are real. 

Screen time can take a toll on our health and well-being, causing physical effects like eye strain, disrupted sleep, and reduced movement. Staring at a device for too long also brings mental health challenges like increased anxiety and feelings of isolation.

Leisure screen time alone jumped by 13 percent between 2018 and 2025, according to a study by Montreal public health officials. That’s a lot of scrolling. At some point, our bodies and brains start tapping us on the shoulder, saying, “Uh, maybe stand up or talk to an actual human?”

We could all use a friendly nudge toward real-world alternatives that still give us what we’re looking for when we reach for our phones in the first place. Screens meet very human needs, including entertainment, connection, distraction, and even practical tasks. The trick is finding ways to meet those needs offline.“This isn’t about avoiding screens completely. That’s not realistic. It’s about balance,” says Dr. Nikki Venere Brenner, Registered Psychotherapist and Founder of The Mind People in Oakville.

“Losing authentic connection within real-world interactions can increase the likelihood of relational problems,” Dr. Venere Brenner explains. “From a neurological standpoint, excessive screen use affects the natural release of dopamine. This can intensify the need for immediate gratification, which typically leads to more self-indulgent activities and even more screen use.”

Dr. Venere Brenner suggests putting our screens down regularly and finding opportunities for entertainment and connection offline. Playing games, crafting, taking a dance class, joining a social club, or browsing in an actual brick-and-mortar store are all accessible activities that can help break the cycle of mind-numbing screen scrolling.

Game 

If Candy Crush is your jam, board games are just as fun, probably more. Games get people laughing and interacting face-to-face. Gather at someone’s house or meet up at a game cafe like Nostalgia Games Cafe and fill your social bucket.

GameTime Social, Burlington

Craft

If your browsing history is filled with Pinterest, Instagram, or Etsy links, crafting can scratch that same itch. Knitting circles, paint nights, or pottery classes can give you some creative satisfaction without the algorithm deciding what you see next. You still get creative inspiration, but with the bonus of conversation, snacks, and even something tangible to take home.

Nostalgia Games Cafe

Move

If your screen time is about blowing off steam, physical outlets do that job better than a thousand angry tweets. Activities like paintball, rock climbing, swimming, hiking, pickleball, yoga, or walking with a friend can elevate both your heart rate and your mood. Movement helps regulate emotions, improves sleep, and burns off the restless energy that no app ever quite fixes.

Connect

If you grab your iPad to feel connected, social nights out can fill that cup way more effectively. Trivia nights, comedy shows, live music events, book clubs, and community classes offer low-pressure ways to socialize. You don’t need a clever caption. Just show up and be authentically you.

You’ll never return home from an outing saying, “Sure wish I’d stayed home alone with my laptop.”

Yes, Shopping Counts!

Pure Boutique

If online browsing is your go-to pastime, try making it an outing instead. Walkable areas give you the same “browse and discover” feeling, but with fresh air and human contact. Bronte Village and Downtown Oakville are perfect for wandering, with stops at local coffee shops and boutiques.

Grab an ice cream on the Burlington waterfront and take a walk on the pier, then explore the shops along historic Brant Street. A short GO Train trip into Toronto opens up places like Kensington Market, Chinatown, Queen West, and Queen’s Quay, all packed with character and people watching. Hamilton has its own gems too, with cool art districts, vintage shops, and markets worth exploring.

You’ll never return home from an outing saying, “Sure wish I’d stayed home alone with my laptop.”

Local Links to Off-Screen Fun 

The Mind People, Oakville
themindpeople.ca

Inye Yoga, Oakville
inyeyoga.com

Paintball Nation, Burlington
paintballnation.ca

Climber’s Rock, Burlington
climbersrock.com

Nostalgia Games Cafe, Burlington
nostalgiagamescafe.com

Game Time Social, Burlington
gametimesocial.ca

Creative Insight Pottery, Waterdown
creativeinsightpottery.com

Artfully You Paint Nights, Waterdown
artfullyyou.ca/paint-nights

Pottery N’ Paint, Burlington
potterynpaintcafe.com

Yuk Yuks Burlington
yukyuks.com/burlington

Club 54 Comedy, Burlington
club54.ca/comedy-at-club-54

Bronte Village, Oakville
bronte-village.ca

Oak Cafe Gallery, Oakville
oakcafe.ca

Peach Coffee Co., Aldershot, Roseland, Bronte
peachcoffeeco.com

BY LISA THORNBURY

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In Family

Heirs and Teddy Bears: Estate Planning 101 for New Parents

Starting a family is a sweet time in young adults’ lives. Picking out colours for the baby’s room, deciding on a name, and finally welcoming home the new arrival are moments to cherish. It’s somewhat less fun for parents to make financial commitments or think about their own mortality. Estate planning can, however, be considered an act of love. While not as enchanting to a baby as a plush toy, long-term financial security is a thoughtful, crucial gift from a parent to a child.

Will and trust 

A will is used to ensure, after your death, that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. It names guardians for your children and appoints an executor to manage your affairs. John Sutherland, Barrister and Solicitor, recommends that new or expectant parents meet with a lawyer to create a will as soon as a child is in the picture — or ideally before the child is born. 

“Having a will ensures that your loved ones are protected from the chaos, cost and guesswork that would ensue should you unexpectedly pass away,” Sutherland says. “A will gives you the ability to clearly dictate who will raise your children, how your assets will be managed, and at what age your children will inherit.” A will can also set up trusts to ensure the child receives the inheritance at an agreed upon age, and who will hold the money in trust for the benefit of the child.

RESP: The gift of education

Kids grow up fast, though it might be hard to imagine that squawking little bundle out of diapers and sashaying on stage in a graduation gown. Parents with room in their budget should consider a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), one of the most generous programs available to families. 

“Even small contributions are boosted by government grants, which is essentially ‘free money’ for your child’s education,” says Caroline Shutt, Family Wealth Advisor at Bellwether Family Wealth. If cash flow is tight, Shutt says, “grandparents can contribute at birthdays or holidays.” Grandparents can also set up their own RESP with their grandkids as beneficiaries. A modest, regular contribution really adds up (see sidebar) while the child grows.

While not as enchanting to a baby as a plush toy, long-term financial security is a thoughtful, crucial gift from a parent to a child.

Bellwether

Life insurance, added reassurance

Once children enter the picture, life insurance becomes another important financial consideration for young families. It isn’t about expecting the worst, Shutt says. “It’s about protecting your family’s lifestyle if the unexpected happens. It helps ensure that expenses like housing, childcare, and education don’t become an added burden during an already difficult time.” 

When shopping around for a policy, Shutt advises that new parents seek clarity. It’s important to know what is covered, what is not covered, how long the coverage lasts, whether premiums can change over time, and what information must be disclosed during the application.

“Working with a trusted advisor, asking questions, and reviewing details carefully up front can help avoid surprises later and give peace of mind that the coverage will truly be there when it’s needed most,” Shutt says.

By enlisting professional help, and with some budgeting and forethought, you can secure your child’s financial future. In return, you can confidently get on with the joys of parenting.

Bellwetherworks with families to simplify financial decisions by offering guidance in investments, tax and estate planning, and insurance, all tailored to your family’s goals. 

Sutherland Marshall Professional Corporationis a boutique law firm in downtown Oakville, specializing in Wills & Estates, Real Estate Law, and Family Law.

A small RESP contribution adds up

Saving about $96 bi-weekly adds up to $2,500 per year. The government then adds $500 annually through the 20% Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG).

Over 14 years:

  • Parents (or grandparents) contribute $35,000
  • Government grants add $7,200 (the lifetime maximum)

That’s $42,000 toward your child’s education before any investment growth and built gradually, one pay cheque at a time. The Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) is subject to annual and lifetime limits and eligibility requirements.

Local Links:

Bellwether Family Wealth
1425 Cornwall Road, Suite C6, Oakville
bellvest.ca

Sutherland Marshall Professional Corporation 
344 Lakeshore Road East, Suite D, Oakville
oakvillefamilylawyer.ca

By Michelle Morra

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In Blog

Spring into March: Exciting Events and Experiences Await in Oakville!

Visit Oakville invites visitors and residents to experience an exciting lineup of  events and activities happening throughout Oakville this March. From cultural celebrations,  exhibits and performances to immersive downtown experiences and live entertainment, there are countless reasons to plan a visit and explore all that Oakville has to offer.  

“March is an exciting time in Oakville, with events that celebrate culture, creativity and  community,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director, Visit Oakville. “Whether you’re coming  for fun and adventure at Bronte Creek Provincial Park’s Maple Syrup Festival, to enjoy delicious  dining at Taste of Oakville or a fun day trip or weekend stay, Oakville continues to offer  memorable experiences that showcase the town.”

Here are Oakville’s top must-see and do experiences for March: 

 Taste of Oakville – On until March 15 – Indulge in delicious prix fixe menus from over 50 amazing restaurants from across Oakville, starting at just $20 for lunch and $30 for dinner! Discover live music on Tuesday nights at select restaurants and new this year,  enjoy our cozy Dining Domes at The King’s Arms and 7 Enoteca for a unique, winter dining experience!

Maple Syrup Festival – March 1, 7, 8, 14-22, 28 & 29 – Experience one of Ontario’s  sweetest traditions at Bronte Creek Provincial Park’s Maple Syrup Festival. Running  during March Break and every weekend in March, this beloved annual event offers a fun  and educational look at how maple syrup is made. Families can explore the park’s  historic Spruce Lane Farmhouse, enjoy wagon rides, and of course taste delicious  pancakes topped with fresh maple syrup. 

Celebrate Eid in Oakville – Join the community for Oakville’s Eid Festival on March 14,  a celebration of culture and connection. Don’t miss the Eid Bazaar on March 19, where  visitors can explore festive treats and offerings.

Downtown Oakville’s Loop Experience – March 14-April 6 – Starting during March  Break, experience Loop, an interactive light installation transforming Downtown  Oakville’s Towne Square. This immersive outdoor event invites visitors to engage with sound and light in a playful, creative way. Tip – Spend the afternoon shopping, strolling  the lakefront and stop for lunch or dinner at any of the amazing downtown restaurants.

Oakville Museum’s March Break Craft and Tour – March 17-20 at 1:30 p.m. and 3:00  p.m. – Step back in time with the Oakville Museum’s special March Break craft workshop  and enjoy a guided tour offering a glimpse into Oakville’s rich history. (Ages 4-12 plus  adults). Children ages 6-10 can join morning workshops from 9:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. creating hands-on projects like terrariums, woven birds and more.

St. Patrick’s Day – On March 17, raise a glass and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at one of Oakville’s many lively venues such as The Firehall, The King’s Arms, The Queen’s Head, Oakville’s Temple Bar, Harper’s Landing, or The Oakville Pump & Patio where you’ll find festive drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere!

Experience the Outdoors with a Nature Walk – Get the kids outside and active with a walk at an Oakville park, trail or garden. Whether you bring the family for a scenic lakeside walk, explore local history at one of Oakville’s heritage trails or simply peruse one of our picturesque gardens, you’re sure to fall in love with Oakville’s outdoor offerings. The trails are also great to cross-country ski or snowshoe as well.

Additional March Family Fun: 

• iFly Oakville: The whole family can explore their adventurous side with indoor skydiving  at iFly! 

• Dave & Buster’s Oakville: Play arcade games and enjoy classic bites. On March 1, K Pop fans won’t want to miss the K-Pop Meet & Greet. 

• Lollipop Art Lounge: Spend the day crafting and creating. 

• Aerosports Oakville: Bounce your way through trampoline fun. 

• Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts: Catch Curious George and the Golden  Meatball on March 18 at 1:00 p.m.  

• Playlicious: Super fun indoor playground with climbing walls to slides, ball pits, and  obstacle courses. 

• Crack Pot Studio: Paint pottery or try your hand at the pottery wheel. Various  classes/times and drop-in sessions.  

• Steamulation Lab: On March 22, 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. sessions – Their Playdough Makers Workshop is the perfect mix of science, creativity, and sensory fun.

• VR Vibe: Experience Oakville’s most exciting VR escape rooms & immersive shooting games.

Looking for a place to stay in Oakville? With so many great hotel options to choose from, finding the perfect place to stay is easy.

Explore our accommodations and book your stay today to experience the best of Oakville during March!  For more details on these and other upcoming events, please visit our website:  www.visitoakville.com/events.


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Taste of Burlington is BACK!

Two weeks of prix-fixe dining returns January 26 – February 8

Taste of Burlington is officially underway. Burlington’s signature winter dining event returns today, inviting locals and visitors to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene through two weeks of curated prix-fixe menus, running January 26 to February 8, 2026.

First launched in 2008, Taste of Burlington has grown from a small winter dining initiative into one of the city’s most anticipated annual culinary events. Now celebrating 18 years in 2026, the program continues to evolve while staying rooted in its original purpose: showcasing Burlington’s talented chefs, supporting local restaurants during the winter season, and inviting the community to come together around great food.

New this year is the Burlington Taste Trail, a free, interactive digital experience that adds a fun layer of exploration to the program. Diners can sign up online, check in as they visit participating restaurants, and unlock an entry into the Burlington Taste Trail Grand Prize Giveaway after checking in at three or more locations. The prize package includes an overnight stay at the Burlington Waterfront Hotel, dinner for two at DiMario’s Trattoria, and tickets to a show of the winner’s choice at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre.

“Taste of Burlington is all about bringing people together around great food while supporting our local restaurant community during the winter season,” said Claire Green, Director of Destination Development and Marketing at Burlington Economic Development and Tourism. “With the program now live, it’s the perfect time to explore new restaurants, revisit favourites, and experience the incredible culinary talent we have right here in Burlington.”

Diners can browse participating restaurants, explore menus, and sign up for the Burlington Taste Trail at tasteofburlington.ca.

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Have a sweet time at the library this February 

The Burlington Public Library is introducing an exciting lineup of Valentine’s Day events, activities, and book displays at library branches across the city next month. From February 1 to 14, visitors will find playful programs, cozy reading inspiration, a creative bookmark contest, and more special events and activities to celebrate.

“We’re bringing a little extra love to Burlington this February with free Valentine’s Day events and activities for all ages,” says Tammy Csajaghy, Manager of Programming & Partnerships at Burlington Public Library. “We’re especially looking forward to the Valentine’s Day edition of our open mic event for singers, writers, and musicians to share their talents and stories.”

Free Fun Activities 

From February 1 to 14, all BPL branches will have a Blind Date with a Book display of books in brown paper bags. Each surprise book comes with a short description but no title or author. It’s like a literary blind date!

Visitors can also participate in the annual Burlington Bookmarks Contest for all ages. Pick up an entry form at any library branch and create an original, hand-drawn submission inspired by a book you love. Winning designs will be professionally printed and distributed in library branches throughout 2026. Kids can also jump into the fun with a drop-in Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt and colouring activities at library branches from February 1 to 14.

Free Valentine’s Day Events 

All programs are FREE and do not require a library card to attend. Check out the library’s website for a full list of all love inspired programs and events in February.

Farah Heron Talks Romance

Critically acclaimed author Farah Heron, Just Playing House, talks about writing romantic comedies.
Tue February 10, 7-8pm. Register. Central Branch .

Love, Hate & Popcorn Teen Movie Night

Celebrate an early Valentine’s Day with friends at a screening of the cult-classic Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.
Thu February 12, 6:30-8:30pm. Central Branch.

Romance the Open Mic

Singers, writers, poets, and musicians, share your talents—and speak your heart! Appreciative audience members are welcome.
Sat February 14, 1-2:30pm. Doors open at 12:30pm for sign-up. Central Branch.

The Story of Aida

Sabatino Vacca, Artistic Director of Southern Ontario Lyric Opera, talks about Verdi’s passionate opera masterpiece, Aida.
Tue February 17, 7-8:30pm. Register. Central Branch.

For more information about programs, events and things to do for Valentine’s Day, visit Burlington Public Library’s website.

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Taste of Oakville Returns with 50+ Restaurants and First-Ever Winter Dining Domes

Taste of Oakville is back, running February 19 to March 15, 2026. One of Oakville’s most anticipated culinary  celebrations, this year’s edition features more than fifty restaurants from across town offering  specially curated prix fixe lunch and dinner menus priced from $20–$35 for lunch and $30–$75  for dinner. New this year, Taste of Oakville will introduce its first-ever outdoor Dining Domes – offering guests a cozy, immersive, winter dining experience. 

With an incredible mix of returning favourites and exciting newcomers, including The Mule, Tabule Oakville, Café de Madrid, Andrea’s Cookies, Velvet Moo and more—Taste of Oakville continues to showcase the exceptional depth, creativity, and diversity of Oakville’s dining scene.

The full list of participating restaurants includes: Andrea’s Cookies, Baton Rouge Oakville,  Beacon, Blk Swan Kitchen Hub, Boffo’s Fine Foods, Bo.Vine Burgers & Bar, Buca Di Bacco,  Burger Theory, Café de Madrid, Ce Soir Brasserie + Bar, Chop Steakhouse and Bar, Colossus  Greek Taverna, Coriander Green, The Crepe Kitchen, El Spero Family Restaurant, Farma Greek Market, French Lunch, Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar, The Gingerman Social Corner,  Harper’s Landing, Holy Cow and Holy Puff, J.A.C.’s Bistro, Just Braise Sandwiches, Kelsey’s  Original Roadhouse, The King’s Arms, Marine Tavern, Mercato Sociale, The Mermaid and the  Oyster, Milestones, Mrakovic Fine Foods, The Mule, Oakville Fish and Chips, Odd Burger,  Paradiso, Pasquale’s Trattoria, Piano Piano, Puckz Pub, Pur and Simple (Bronte Village),  Ritorno, 7 Enoteca, Soi Thaifoon, Spice and Saffron, STACK BBQ Smokehouse, Sugar Suite,  Sweet! Bakery, The Sweetest Thing Bakery, Tabule Oakville, Velvet Moo, Verace Italian Restaurant, XII Old Fashioned Restaurant and Zara’s On Wheels. 

“Our culinary scene continues to shine, and Taste of Oakville is one of the best ways to  experience the talent, passion, and creativity of our local chefs,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive  Director, Visit Oakville. “We’re thrilled to welcome new restaurants to this year’s lineup and  introduce our first-ever Dining Domes—a truly unique way to enjoy a winter night out in  Oakville.”

New for 2026: Taste of Oakville Dining Domes 

The most exciting addition to this year’s event is the debut of Taste of Oakville Dining Domes,  offering guests a cozy, one-of-a-kind outdoor dining experience at two downtown Oakville restaurants. The King’s Arms is a casual British style pub that has won two Visit Oakville Talk of  the Town awards in the categories Best Burger and Best Cocktail Menu. 7 Enoteca located in  Towne Square specializes in fresh, authentic Italian cuisine is a recent recipient of the  MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Distinction award. 

Beginning February 1, visitors and residents can reserve private dining domes from February 19  – March 15 at: 

7 Enoteca – Bookings for four and six people can be made via OpenTable here. 

The King’s Arms – Please call the restaurant at 905-845-1010 to make a reservation for up to six people. 

These limited-time domes provide an unforgettable way to enjoy Taste of Oakville’s prix fixe menus under a warm, glowing winter hideaway—perfect for date nights, celebrations, or unique  group outings.

Tunesdays 

Live Music Returns: “Tunesdays” on February 24, March 3, and March 10. 

For the fourth consecutive year, Taste of Oakville will feature live performances by talented local  musicians during Tuesday evenings. This year, restaurants including Buca Di Bacco, Coriander Green, JAC’s Bistro,  Paradiso, Ritorno, and STACK BBQ Smokehouse will host artists from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Guests  can enjoy exceptional food paired with a vibrant, intimate dining atmosphere. More details on  the performers can be found here.

Make it a Weekend Getaway 

Visitors looking to extend their Taste of Oakville experience can take advantage of great  accommodation options. Enjoy the Holiday Inn and Suites Oakville @ Bronte stay and dine  package, including a $100 voucher to their restaurant Burger Theory (a participating Taste of  Oakville restaurant) and complimentary breakfast for two for stays from February 13 – March  15. At Quality Inn and Suites Oakville, guests will receive 10% off the Best Available Rate when  they mention Taste of Oakville when booking. Offer valid until March 31, 2026. Learn more here. 

This year’s Taste of Oakville is proudly supported by the Experience Ontario 2025 program. Watch the Taste of Oakville website throughout January to view each restaurant’s exclusive menus. If you are a restaurant owner interested in participating in Taste, please email  tasteofoakville@visitoakville.com. For more details on these and other upcoming events, please visit:  www.visitoakville.com/events. 

For more information visit TASTEOFOAKVILLE.CA

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New Local Businesses

Look Local invites you to support these businesses which have recently opened in our community! Check them out and pay them a visit!

502 Urban Coffee
2362 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
www.502urbancoffee.com

502 Urban Coffee opened in beautiful Bronte this summer, after their initial success selling coffee at the Bronte Farmer’s Market.  The owner, Leticia, is originally from Guatemala, and is delighted to bring the rich aroma and heavenly fragrance of delicioso café to the local community.  She sources her coffee from small coffee growers with artisanal methods who craft exceptional coffee infused with love.

Drop in to enjoy a hot drink on site, or shop from a selection of beans to take away. Leticia will be happy to welcome you and explain your options.

Café De Madrid
137 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.cafedemadrid.ca   

This authentic Spanish style café opened in Downtown Oakville this summer, and has been getting rave reviews ever since.  With a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of warmer climes, and friendly personal service, the stage is set for a memorable visit.  Drop in for a delicious coffee, or stay for a pastry, lunch or dinner.

Their menu stays true to their Spanish roots, with a selection of shared plates, open face sandwiches (pintxo classico), tapas and salads.  For dinner, the star of the show is their Paella de Mar Clasico, served with tiger shrimp, calamari, mussels, clams and peas.

Lunula Self Care Studio
355 Plains Road East # B9, Burlington
www.lunulaselfcare.com 

Lunula opened in Aldershot in September, offering a full array of services to enhance your natural beauty, including manicures, pedicures, eyelash treatments, and waxing. They use non-toxic, certified organic, and cruelty-free products, and offer a community space to connect, catch up, and feel like you belong.

Fully wheelchair-accessible spaces, adaptive service areas, and flexible seating make everyone feel welcome – perfect for self-care, beauty, and even a craft cocktail. The space is beautifully decorated – and don’t miss the fantastic mural at the rear of the building exterior if you are taking photos!

Tabule Oakville
234 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.tabule.ca   

The first Tabule opened on Yonge Street in midtown Toronto in 2005, and quickly earned a reputation for being one the finest Middle Eastern restaurants in Toronto.  From there, they have grown to 5 locations, with the latest venue opening in downtown Oakville in the fall of 2025.

The team at Tabule pride themselves on creating fresh interpretations of traditional dishes, offering some of the best Middle Eastern cuisine in the area.  You can expect vibrant, flavourful, authentic cuisine, served in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.  Join them for lunch or dinner 7 days a week!

Wellness by Flea
64 Hamilton Street North # 18, Waterdown
www.wellnessbyflea.com 

Wellness By Flea opened in the heart of Waterdown in the fall of 2025, with a mission to empower their members to reach their full potential, both physically and mentally, inspiring a balanced and healthy lifestyle. They have a team of dedicated professionals to support and guide their members on their fitness journey.

They offer a diverse range of programs in order to cater to a range of fitness goals and preferences. Options include the Youth Athletic Training program, the Adult Fitness program, and their innovative Parent Combined Fitness program for families. Wellness By Flea also aims to be more than a fitness sanctuary, engaging with the local community to host events and drive initiatives aimed at promoting holistic health and wellness.

The Mule Oakville
191 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.themuleoakville.ca 

The Mule opened their first restaurant on King William Street in downtown Hamilton, and enjoyed immediate success.  You can now enjoy The Mule in 6 locations, including Downtown Burlington, and since the fall of 2025 in downtown Oakville.

The vibe is most definitely hip, laid back and Mexican.  Come here for a fabulous selection of chef-inspired tacos, traditional guacamole and salsa, and of course Tequila cocktails. The menu is also 100% gluten free, with many vegetarian options.

NEWLY INHERITED
422 Pearl Street # 23, Burlington
newlyinherited.ca


This curated boutique opened in Burlington’s Village Square last year, with a vision inspired by a French market and the romance of a life well lived. You will find a selection of fashion and home décor items, as well as gift ideas and resort wear. Female-owned and family-inspired, this is a gathering place for pieces that speak to both past and present. Canadian-made garments crafted from natural fibres, sustainable décor from local artisans, and vintage treasures with character, are all carefully chosen to reflect a thoughtful lifestyle

WOOF GANG BAKERY & GROOMING
133 Bronte Road Suite B1-B, Oakville
woofgangbakery.com


Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming opened in Bronte Village late last year, offering full-service pet grooming and a wide selection of nutritious pet treats and food. They also carry stylish essentials, fashionable accessories, and a wide variety of toys and doggie spa products. The team at Woof Gang treat every pet as family, giving them special care so that they feel loved, and they leave looking and feeling their absolute best.

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Battle of the Marinaras: Which restaurant makes the best tomato sauce?

It’s almost time to cheer on our country’s team in the Winter Olympics. This February, countries will compete in Milan, Italy, a global capital for fashion, design and food. If you’ve been to Italy, you know just how good the pizza and pasta are, but they wouldn’t be the same without fresh, aromatic and slightly tangy marinara sauce.

On paper, marinara is perhaps one of the simplest sauces to make, but its complexity lies in restraint, technique and ingredients. We asked four local chefs what makes their marinara sauce top-tier, for a little friendly competition as we gear up for the Olympics.

Son of a Peach’s Chef Bart Nadherny 

The farm-to-table sauce

Neighborhood pizzeria Son of a Peach prides itself on its pure and rustic tomato sauce. Made with Stanislaus canned tomatoes — an Italian family company based in California — these tomatoes are packaged within four to six hours of being picked, making them peak-season and vibrant in colour and flavour. Chef Bart adds fresh basil and garlic, a sprinkle of chili flakes and a bit of extra-virgin olive oil before the sauce cooks on top of their pizza dough. A taste of Son of a Peach’s tomato sauce and you’re transported to a sunny farm where tomato vines thrive and produce fresh, floral fruit.

2049 Pine Street #62, Burlington
heypeachy.com

Di Mario’s Trattoria’s Culinary Director Claudio Aprile 

The perfectly timed sauce

For Claudio Aprile, making marinara sauce is a meticulous dance. The key is knowing the exact moment to add finely-diced onion to olive oil and knowing how long to keep crushed garlic in the mix before removing it, to impart flavour without overpowering the palate. It’s not about showing off technique or trying to outdo yourself.

The best tomato sauce is minimalist. At Di Mario’s, San Marzano tomatoes are the main act in the sauce, which is the backbone of the menu, used for their veal parmesan and a variety of pastas. Claudio credits Chef Gianpiero Todina for his simplistic — but oh so intelligent — approach to Italian cooking.

1455 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
dimarios.co

Sotto Sotto’s Chef Nabeel Sadaq

The labour of love sauce

Chef Nabeel at upscale Italian restaurant Sotto Sotto boils and peels roma tomatoes to make their well-loved marinara sauce. Once soft, the tomatoes are blended and cooked down with shallot, green onion, garlic, salt and pepper for at least half an hour — but the longer, the better. The result is a balanced bite that is sour (in a good way), punchy and silky-smooth. It’s so good that customers frequently walk to the kitchen to compliment the staff. Chef Nabeel recently had a customer tell him it was the “best tomato sauce” she had ever tasted. Sotto Sotto’s marinara pizza is a refined dish that pairs the sauce with just anchovies and parsley. 

139 Trafalgar Road, Oakville
sottosotto.ca/oakville/

Michelle’s Duelling Grandmas

My late grandmother, Grace Morra, made a killer sauce by browning tomato paste, deglazing it with water, and adding canned plum tomatoes, onion, herbs, and a pinch of sugar. It cooked for hours and had a deep red colour and a rich, smoky tang. 

Meanwhile, Grace’s mother-in-law (my great-grandmother Lena) made an entirely different sauce using only tomato paste, water, and seasonings. My dad would never have dared tell his mother that sometimes, for a change, he secretly loved his Grandma Lena’s sauce. Sacrilege! 

Verace’s Chef Tomo Kovacek

The authentic sauce  

Why change a good thing? At Verace, Chef Tomo swears he’ll never switch up his marinara sauce. His authentic approach to Italian cuisine has earned the restaurant VPN (Verace Pizza Napoletana) status, an Italian designation that strictly manages artisanal pizza making. Chef Tomo uses high-quality Italian olive oil and cooks San Marzano tomatoes with basil and garlic before finishing the sauce with parsley and seasonings. He graduated from culinary school in former Yugoslavia near Italy and has long been passionate about Italian cuisine. This passion is evident in his marinara sauce, whether it’s used for Verace’s bolognese, gnocchi or as a dipping sauce for calamari. 

312 Lakeshore Road East Unit 3-5, Oakville
veracepizza.ca

by Lauren Medeiros


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In Health & Wellness

New Year, New You: Visit A Spa or Salon and Look And Feel Your Best in 2026

Whether it’s your regular routine or your favourite gift to receive on Valentines Day, a visit to a salon or spa can truly elevate your look and mood. A professional haircut, mani-pedi or massage is more than a pleasant indulgence. Particularly in the deep freeze of winter, nine-to-fivers practically melt with relief when their feet submerge in warm saltwater. A hot blow-dryer blows troubles away. And after a battleground of traffic, snow and sleet, a lavender-scented steam room feels vital.

It takes special people to create a relaxing, soothing, and caring environment to put clients at ease and ensure a pleasant experience. Mind & Body Spa is a brand new facility in Burlington that offers a range of treatments, most notably head massages. The job is “not just about washing hair and doing massage,” says Manager Nancy Le. “It’s about giving good energy. You transfer your good energy to people and take their stress away.”

Halton region boasts a wealth of world-class salons and spas whose treatments relax, beautify, and invigorate. Don’t deprive yourself of these gifts from the wellness gods:

Manicure

Well-groomed nails are a small but important aspect of a person’s self image. Nails that look neat, clean and pretty are a great confidence boost… and that’s just the end result. The ritual of sitting still while someone nurtures your hands offers a healthy dose of relaxation and pampering. A good manicurist will also massage the hands, which improves circulation and flexibility, eases stiffness, and feels divine.

Pedicure

There’s something inherently soothing about foot-focused treatments. Our feet carry our full weight, day in and day out, so there’s tremendous pleasure in sitting in a massage chair, soaking your feet in warm water, and relaxing while the pedicurist exfoliates, clips, files, buffs, and applies polish.

A lovely foot massage with scented lotion is part of the experience. Writer’s note: I’m very ticklish and have to bite my lip during pedicures, but sometimes a loud giggle escapes. I’ve managed not to kick, so far…

A professional hairdo

Hair stylists don’t just cut hair. They listen, advise, and tailor a look that aligns with how a person wants to feel or be seen. Changing someone’s appearance is a delicate task. In fact, social anthropologist Grant McCracken compares hairstyling to “bomb disposal work” in his acclaimed book, Big Hair. 

Transformations happen in salons. A trim, blowout, or altogether new look can have a powerful impact on a client’s mood and self-confidence. There’s nothing quite like it, especially during periods of stress or transition.

Massage 

Massage is an immediate form of stress relief. It often features low lighting, the fragrance of essential oils, soothing music, and the gift of human touch. Even a single session can reduce muscle tension in the entire body, lower cortisol (the stress hormone), and promote better sleep. 

Head massage originated in Asia but is gaining momentum in Canada. It involves a deluxe hair wash, scalp massage, and the massage extends to the face, neck, shoulders and neck. “Honestly, most people fall asleep,” says Jesus Rojas, Owner of Mind & Body Spa. “It’s our top service for relaxation.”

Facial

A facial involves gentle cleansing, exfoliation, and facial massage to increase circulation and support skin health. Aside from a healthy glow, this treatment delivers big psychological perks. Being cared for in a calm, sensory-rich environment provides an emotional reset that can boost feelings of self-worth. Everyone needs a little nurturing, though we don’t always realize we’re missing it until it happens. 

Treating your body like a precious object is worth every penny, because the benefits radiate to your entire well-being. In the words of Le, “Leave your troubles at the door and let us take care of your soul.”

By Michelle Morra

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