In Articles

Sweetness From The Heart, Homemade Cookies For The Holidays

November 19, 2016 No Comments

Christmas is a magical time of year, a time when people who usually don’t bake find themselves in the kitchen trying out family recipes. For some it’s a chance to relax and transform a few simple ingredients into something amazing that captures the joys of the season. For others, it’s a chance to create gifts that come straight from the heart, a symbol of the sweetness of friendship and family. For me, it’s about family tradition.

My mom was an excellent baker; every Christmas she would put out a magnificent display of her culinary talents with impressive trays of holiday cookies. She always made her famous shortbread that everyone fought over, there were never enough of her mini pecan tarts or thumbprint cookies; her iced cutout cookies were sheer holiday decadence and everyone would wrestle for her
mincemeat tarts.

Sometimes she would make her luscious chocolate and mint squares, her festive dried fruit icebox cookies, Italian pitzels or anything else that caught her eye that year. She would even craft the most beautiful gingerbread house that adorned our table, begging to be nibbled at throughout the season. I try my best at baking during the holiday season but my mom’s shoes are big ones to fill. I bake her traditional cookies but have added my own such as Whisky Pecan Bites, Niagara Biscotti and Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies.

The kind of cookie you bake is not as important as the flavour of the cookie. If you like that “melt-in-your-mouth” burst of flavour decadence in a cookie, nothing is better than butter. I’ve discovered through trial and error however, that cookies made with shortening hold their shape better. I don’t use margarine, but if you do, never use whipped margarine, the solid sticks are better for baking and they’re easier to measure.

If you’re a fan of chewy cookies you can melt the butter before adding it to the sugars and of course, cook them a few minutes less than the recipe calls for. Brown sugar will give you a chewy cookie while white sugar makes them crisper. Speaking of crisp cookies, try using two egg yolks instead of a whole egg and you’ll be surprised how much crispier each bite will be.

Try cookies with a vinous flair like Black Chocolate Baco Noir Cookies, Lavender Raspberry Cassis Cookies and Cabernet Crescents. Even the trendy French macaroons taste better with some wine with framboise cream between two little raspberry coloured cookies, or champagne cream sandwiched in light golden cookies.

Anyone who loves to bake during the holidays knows that Christmas baking is much more than about baking cookies – it is a way to celebrate life, family and friendship. These irresistibly sweet, icons of enchantment are perfect for gifting, decorating the tree and of course, leaving for Santa. To you and your family this holiday, all of my best wishes for a wonderful holiday season.

by Lynn Ogryzlo

Lynn Ogryzlo is a food, wine and travel writer, international award winning author and regular contributor to Look Local Magazine. She can be reached for questions or comments at www.lynnogryzlo.ca

In Health & Wellness

The Healthy Detox: 8 Tips on How to Detox Safely with Food

October 26, 2016 No Comments

Sometimes we think that feeling tired, unfocused, irritable or just generally unwell is because we’re stressed or not getting enough sleep, but these symptoms can be a sign of toxic overload. Under ideal circumstances, our bodies naturally rid themselves of harmful pollutants and protect against their effects through the built-in detoxification system of our liver, digestive tract, skin, kidneys and lungs. But the sheer volume of exposure to pollutants and chemicals we get on a daily basis sometimes overwhelms the natural processes. Pair that with an unhealthy diet, and chronic health issues may be the result.

1 Eat lots of fruits and vegetables

Choose a rainbow of colours — green, red, orange, purple, and yellow fruits and (mostly) vegetables. Aim for a minimum of five (half cup) servings daily. Green veggies, especially those of the Brassica family (including broccoli, cabbage, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower and kale) have high chlorophyll content in addition to other compounds that aid in liver function. Other excellent choices include avocado, collard greens and asparagus.

2 Choose organic produce wherever possible.

Unfortunately, not all the pesticides used to kill bugs, grubs and/or fungus on our conventionally farmed fruits and veggies wash off under the tap. Opt for organic fruits and vegetables, particularly in certain varieties known to contain higher levels of pesticide residues, such as bell peppers, kale, potatoes, spinach, apples, blueberries, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches and strawberries. Non-organic produce should be cleaned with a natural fruit and veggie wash to remove any pesticides, waxes, and chemicals. Rinse thoroughly and peel the skin where possible.

3 Add herbs and spices

Many herbs and spices, including turmeric, ginger and cilantro (coriander), have anti-inflammatory, liver cleansing and many other healing properties.

4 Include lean proteins

Lean protein is beneficial in clearing chemical toxins more rapidly from the bloodstream. Choose lean cuts of meat and poultry, ideally organically raised, or game meats. Include more vegetable protein sources like legumes, beans, peas, lentils, nuts and seeds.

5 Eat fish…in moderation

Include fish in your diet as long as it’s not loaded with mercury and other heavy metals. Eat wild or farmed fish once or twice weekly. Avoid fish high in mercury such as: shark, swordfish, king mackerel, grouper, all varieties of tuna, orange roughy, marlin, Chilean sea bass, halibut, snapper, sablefish, and striped bass (wild).

6 Try some non-processed grains.

Select grains that have low allergenic potential and a high nutrient profile. This includes gluten free grains like buckwheat or kasha, millet, quinoa, brown rice, arrowroot, amaranth and some oats.

7 Drink water

Water enhances detoxification. Drink a minimum of six to eight glasses of purified or mineral water each day to flush your system. Liven it up by adding lime, berries or fresh mint leaves to infuse flavour. Squeeze the juice of half an organic lemon into a glass of water first thing in the morning to boost your immune system, aid digestion and stimulate liver enzymes.

8 Support your detox

In addition to this nutritional approach to detoxification, be sure to avoid chemical-laden skin, hair and body products. Salt and soda baths, vinegar baths, dry skin brushing and infrared saunas also help remove toxins from your skin. Maintain a healthy workplace and home environment, by minimizing environmental pollutants and toxins.

The keys to vitality are a clean body and active mind. Physical activity, sleep and adequate stress reduction are important to the success of any detoxification program. Take some time to listen to music, dance or sing, breathe deeply, write in a journal, and have a good laugh.

Article by Jerry Balice

Jerry Balice is the Clinic Director at Nex Wellness in Burlington and Binbrook. You can read more health and wellness articles on his website at nexwellness.com

Local Links

Nex Wellness, Burlington
nexwellness.com

Pure Love, Burlington
lettucelovecafe.com

The Institute for Hormonal Health, Oakville
hormonalhealth.ca

Imbuir Naturopathic Medicine, Burlington
imbuir.ca

In Articles

Root Vegetables: Your Local Guide for a Thanksgiving Feast

September 26, 2016 No Comments

Have you ever noticed that most of the vegetables we see at the farmers’ market grow above ground? It may not be something you think about when you look at the abundance of greens, squashes, melons and eggplant. But fall is the season for roots and tubers that grow below the ground and offer what other vegetables cannot: savoury textures and natural sweetness.

As I walk through my farmers’ market at this time of year, I look at the parsnips and carrots and my mouth waters at the thought of them caramelizing along with a joint of meat. I can visualize parsley root to be made into breakfast fritters served with maple syrup, and onions roasted with figs and drizzled with balsamic vinegar. I can imagine my sweet potatoes being puréed for pies and velvety custards, and beets diced into a warm beet and corn salad.

The best part of fall roots is that they keep for longer periods of time in cold cellars or “root cellars” as they were once called. These little basement closets moderate temperatures for the sole purpose of extending the growing season, giving us the ability to eat local long after the first snowfall. Because so many roots will keep, we think of them as winter foods but they’re harvested in the fall making them an essential part of a great Thanksgiving meal.

Thanksgiving is a true food holiday that isn’t cluttered with the frenzy of buying presents, stringing lights or group singing. Thanksgiving dinner is a celebration that marks the end of a season filled with bountiful harvests; it’s about delicious food from the garden and good cooks.

Years ago my Thanksgiving dinner evolved into an affair of friends. Our Thanksgiving dinners have also evolved from the traditional menu of my childhood to the wondrous offerings of the cooks who come together, each brining a different dish to form a collective feast. There are usually four cooks in the kitchen that have spent an entire week scheming and foraging neighbourhood farms purchasing the necessary roots. Locally grown roots like turnips and beets, sweet potatoes and onions are in good supply and economical in this season.

When the day arrives, the kitchen is humming as we take turns swapping recipes and commenting on each other’s dishes. Rutabaga is peeled, Jerusalem artichokes are shaved, carrots are sliced, onions are diced and beets are roasted. On one workstation, thin layers of pasta are being stuffed with purée of yellow turnip and herbs; on the other side of the kitchen small, caramelized onion tarts are being topped with soft goat’s cheese; meanwhile on the stove, pine nuts are being browned for the soup.

The table is set in the beautiful colours of fall and the aromas in the kitchen are full of roasted turkey and sweet roots. The first course is served to the sounds of corks being pulled from bottles of wine. A large steaming terrine of truffled cream of celery root soup dotted with toasted pine nuts sits in the middle of the table; on either side are smaller bowls of glistening baby beets and baskets of Parmesan crusted Jerusalem artichoke chips.

We all sit down and raise a glass to the farmers who labour long to bring us so much fresh and delicious food. The conversation revolves around food, wine and more food. I hope your kitchen is deliciously bountiful this Thanksgiving.

Lynn Ogryzlo is a food, wine and travel writer, international award winning author and regular contributor to Look Local Magazine. She can be reached for questions or comments at www.lynnogryzlo.ca

Local Links

Halton Fresh Food Box, Burlington
haltonfreshfoodbox.com

Busy Liz’s Farm Shop, Campbellville
busylizs.com

Halton Region Farms, Halton
halton.ca

Farmer Jacks, Burlington
farmerjacksmarket.com

In Articles

Public or Private: Choosing The Best School For Your Child

September 22, 2016 No Comments

Choosing which school your kids should go to comes with a list of questions longer than a spelling bee. There are so many options and schooling methods to consider: Catholic, French Immersion, Christian, Montessori and more. We are very fortunate in Halton as our publicly funded schools have great reputations, undoubtedly fueling the immigration to our region. For example, both Oakville Trafalgar and Abbey Park in Oakville consistently rank in the top 10 schools in the province in the annual Fraser Institute rankings.

Oakville and Burlington’s public and separate schools offer many programs and options, including special education resources. For example, you can elect to take the International Baccalaureate curriculum, or sign up for a variety of extra-curricular, athletic and after school programs. The Thomas Merton Centre for Continuing Education in Oakville offers youth, academic upgrade and language programs that are very economically feasible. Kids from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 can take international language classes in one of more than 15 languages during the school year and in the summer. It is widely accepted that learning multiple languages can enhance cognitive development, promote cultural literacy, and increase employability.

In addition to our strong public schools, the Town of Oakville also boasts one of the highest concentrations of independent schools in North America. Jane Hamilton, Executive Director of Oakville Independent Schools (OIS), explains that these schools provide parents with a choice that they may be looking for based on their child’s talents, passions, needs and their family’s situation. “Just as we have great public schools in the area, we also have exceptional independent schools. It’s up to each individual family and parent as to what they decide is best for their child.” Parents opting to send their kids to an independent school may be attracted by the benefits of special needs classes, smaller class sizes, a focus on the arts, or perhaps the philosophy of Montessori-based education. There are also increased opportunities for children to get involved in charitable work. “Every single one of the OIS member schools is involved in some way with giving back to the community,” Hamilton says.

Two schools, Wildwood Academy and Chisholm Academy, focus on the special needs of children with ADHD, autism or dyslexia. Appleby College offers the option of boarding school for international students and requires all students to board in their final year. “Each school has its own mission and philosophy and is uniquely positioned to address each student’s educational goals and needs. It really comes down to what each family is looking for. Their reasons are often very personal and individual,” says Hamilton.

Private school is not just for the wealthy. Many forms of financial assistance are offered through bursaries, scholarships, and payment plans. “It is a cost and it is an investment. Financing an independent education takes planning and most families look at various options to keep costs within reach. Some families choose to manage with one car or forgo family vacations in order to provide for an investment in private education,” notes Hamilton. If you are thinking that a private school might be an option for your child, this is the time of year for school expos and open houses. You should consider attending the 11th annual Halton-Peel Private School Expo on October 16 at St. Joseph’s Banquet & Conference Centre in Oakville, and the members of OIS participate in a joint open house day on October 22nd where you can visit one or all of the eleven schools in one day.

With so many options available, the decision-making process can feel overwhelming. Of course, this is a good problem to have. Choice is important, and at the end of the day parents simply want to make the best decision for their child and their family. Take the time to explore your options, ask meaningful questions, and compare schools objectively. The best part is: the choice is yours.

Local Links

Halton District School Board
hdsb.ca

Halton Catholic District School Board
hcdsb.org

Oakville Independent Schools
educationoakville.com

Thomas Merton Centre for Continuing Education
mertoncentre.com

Ontario Alliance of Christian Schools
oacs.org

Our Kids Media
ourkids.net

In Blog

The Best Foods for Brain Health

August 31, 2016 No Comments

These 13 foods and ingredients promote a healthy brain

As we continue to learn more about the gut-brain health connection, and the link between inflammation and brain health, it turns out that many of the same nutrient dense foods we enjoy to fuel our bodies and protect against chronic disease are also working their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory impact or benefit on our brains — improving our cognitive performance, enhancing memory and reducing risk of neurodegenerative disorders including dementia and Parkinson’s.

So when we feed ourselves whole, nutritious foods, we are truly empowering our bodies from head to toe!

Here’s a list of top foods for brain (and overall) health.

Salmon

Salmon, particularly wild-caught and organic salmon (farmed salmon can have significant levels of mercury and other toxins), also contains a rich supply of omega-3 fatty acids to reduce brain fog and improve memory.

Bone Broth

Touted as a superhero for healing gut and brain, bone broth is an ancient food with many health benefits, from enhancing the immune system and reducing intestinal inflammation, to improving joint health and boosting memory.

Green, leafy vegetables

We already know that eating our veggies is good for us. And now a growing body of research suggests that green, leafy vegetables such as kale, Swiss Chard and spinach can help prevent or onset of dementia too. Also reach for bok choy, Romaine lettuce, turnip greens and parsley, the more the better. Choose a green leafy food at least once every day.

Broccoli

Another green vegetable that packs a nutrient punch for brain health is broccoli. It has a high level of choline to keep memory sharp. As well it’s high in Vitamin K and Vitamin C.

Beets

These colourful root vegetables have many antioxidant properties. Since beets lose some of their nutrients during cooking, beet juice has been suggested as a healthier way to reap their considerable health benefits, which include boosting blood flow to the brain to include and aid in mental performance overall. Try it blended with other juices or include in dairy-free smoothies.

Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has significant anti-inflammatory and brain health benefits. Studies have suggested it may improve learning and memory, as well as protecting against proteins that can lead to the onset of Alzheimer’s. To protect the integrity of the oil, eat it at room temperature — great drizzled on vegetables and pasta, as well as a staple in salad dressings.

Coconut Oil

Touted for its versatility and many health benefits, coconut oil is a potent anti-inflammatory. It also helps to eliminate unhealthy gut bacteria. Add it to smoothies, cook safely with it at higher temperatures (there are versions with and without the coconut-y taste, depending on your preference), and even eat a tablespoon a day on its own.

Blueberries

One of the most antioxidant-rich foods on the planet, blueberries are loaded with phytonutrients that support brain health. In particular, their high levels of gallic acid help protect the brain against stress and degeneration.

Avocados

Rich in nutrients, the avocado (actually a berry) contains high amounts of monounsaturated fatty aids (MFAs), healthy fats that help protect nerve cells in the brain that provide support to information-carrying nerves. Low in sugar and high in protein, and rich in vitamins B, C and K, as well as folate, avocados are a powerhouse food for improving memory and concentration, as well as helping to prevent blood clots and protect against stroke.

Turmeric

Containing curcumin, this amazing spice is considered by some to be one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory foods available. Used in curry, added to teas and even eggs, turmeric can help keep you alert, and may even help combat dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Walnuts

The high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals in the mighty walnut make this one of our top food picks for brain health. In addition to improving mental alertness, the vitamin E content in walnuts can also help keep Alzheimer’s at bay.

Dark Chocolate

After you’ve feasted on a wide selection of these brain-healthy vegetables, fruits and other foods, enjoy an ounce of the purest dark chocolate you can find. Dark chocolate (of at least 70% cocoa solids) contains high levels of cocoa flavonoids, a type of antioxidant, as well as tryptophan, an amino acid used by the brain to produce the “happy” compound serotonin.

Eggs

After several decades of being on the “naughty list,” the egg — and egg yolk in particular — has been redeemed as a healthy food choice. Once perceived as a risk factor for heart disease due its high cholesterol content, researchers have since discovered that eating eggs does not raise the levels of “bad” cholesterol in healthy adults. And in fact, the yolk’s high amount of choline helps the brain form memories and concentrate, aids fetal brain development, and helps produce “happy” hormones for improved mood. Opt for organic or free-range eggs for their optimal content of omega-3 fatty acids, which can also boost cognitive function.

Submitted by: NEX Wellness Burlington, Naturopaths and Binbrook Naturopaths offer various services with a focuses in hormone women’s and men’s hormone health, natural remedies for hormone imbalance in perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause, low thyroid, and bio-identical hormones. 905-634-5000 / info@nexwellness.com.

In Articles

Ready, Set…Sail – Take up a new hobby for life

July 1, 2016 No Comments

Singer Christopher Cross wasn’t wrong when he sang his classic tune, “Sailing”. In his words “if the wind is right you can sail away and find tranquility.” You just need to know how to skipper a sailboat and find a place to set sail from. If you’ve always wanted to take lessons, you need look no further than the Oakville or Bronte Harbour or LaSalle Marina in Burlington.

A Broadened Horizon
Sailing has many physical health benefits, but there’s more to the sport than just sore forearms and tired feet from moving from bow to stern, manning all of the equipment, and ducking under the boom.

Once you take up sailing, you’re always learning. Even experienced sailors find there is always something new to figure out, or a new set of weather conditions to master. There’s personal reflection involved, and especially when racing, technique and strategy make all the difference. Learning how to manoeuvre the ship through the water and how to navigate through the elements brings new skills to the table. Unless you’re a passenger just relaxing on deck, sailing trains your brain; it requires focus and hard work.

Sail Stress Away
The sport may involve some hard work, but by the time you’re ready to man your own boat it can be very relaxing. Imagine gliding through the water with nothing but sea and sky on the horizon. It is also a very social sport, and both young and old sailors can make lifelong friendships with fellow crew or other members of the sailing club. And once you have learned the basics, you can sail anywhere and enjoy different surroundings.

Ahoy, Accomplishment
Learning to sail takes dedication and passion. You will learn how to face certain challenges, either due to the weather or a malfunction of the boat, and on land you can transition those same skills when other unpredictable issues in life occur. All sailors have a healthy respect for nature, and understand the inherent dangers of wind and water. Acquiring the skills to captain your own boat is definitely a unique and invaluable experience, and will result in a real feeling of personal accomplishment.

Young children and teenagers can get involved and develop an appreciation and skill level for sailing too. The Burlington Sailing & Boating Club (BSBC), The Oakville Yacht Squadron (OYS), and Bronte Harbour Yacht Club (BHYC) offer classes and the CANSail summer camp program to would-be sailors. From the first day, campers are taught to be safe, have fun, learn to be a better sailor, work together and make friends. The Wet Feet camp (ages 5 – 8) is at an introductory level to get them comfortable with sailing. Kids learn basic rigging, boat parts and knots. Beginner Sailing (ages 9 and up) and Intermediate Sailing takes older kids through CANSail levels one through four, covering balance, basic concepts, propulsion, further boat rigging, control, knots and boat parts all the way to directional changes and advanced sailing skills such as trapeze and spinnaker. These clubs also offer race teams and big boat sailing lessons for kids.

Each club offers day camps in July and August for children. Adult classes are available in the evenings and/or weekends through each club, with women’s-only classes available at BSBC.

Did you know that “in the doldrums’ is a sailing term? The doldrums is an area in the ocean on either side of the equator where sailing can be difficult because of unstable and light wind conditions, calms and squalls. Of course it has also come to mean a feeling of listlessness, stagnation or despondency in everyday life. But once you get a feel for sailing, you’ll find a new freedom and need never feel depressed or marooned on dry land again. Just climb aboard and set a course for adventure.

Local Links:
Burlington Sailing & Boating Club
sailbsbc.ca

Bronte Harbour Yacht Club
bhyc.on.ca

The Oakville Yacht Squadron
oysqn.com

By Becky Dumais

In Articles

Local Apiaries & Honey Farms

June 2, 2016 No Comments

Not only do bees work hard all day to pollinate our flowers, trees, fruits and vegetables, but – of course – they make honey while doing it! There’s nothing like fresh, high-quality local honey to make your baking, desserts and toast sing! And there are a healthy number of local pure honey producers in our area. Here are a few to discover:

Burlington

Derry Gold Honey
From The Rattlesnake Point Conservation area, 100% local unpasteurized honey. Regular vendor at Burlington Mall Farmers’ Market on Saturdays May to October.
ontariobee.com or phone 905-332-9626

Martin’s Sweet Farm
High quality raw honey, skincare products and gifts in Campbellville. Vendor at Oakville Civitan Farmer’s Market. Products also available at Taste Marketeria. martinssweetfarm.com

Halton Hills

Hornby Apiaries
Just north of the 401 in Halton Hills, established in 1872. Liquid and creamed honey, raw and unpasteurized honey, comb honey.
ontariobee.com or phone 905-878-8568

Pinecreek Honey
Liquid and creamed honey. Comb honey in season. Beeswax candles. Regular vendor at Milton Farmers’ Market. pinecreekhoney.com or phone 905-636-6221

sweetBees
Located in Halton Hills and specializing in small batches of high quality raw honey. sweetbees.ca

Hamilton

Dutchman’s Gold
Retail store in Carlisle selling honey, maple syrup, gifts, candles and skincare products. dutchmansgold.com

Gibbs Honey
Unpasteurized honey from 2 locations in Binbrook and
Burlington. Vendor at Centro Garden Farmer’s Market. gibbshoney.com

Weir’s Lane Lavender & Apiary
Lavender farm, gifts, honey in West Flamborough/Dundas area. weirslanelavender.ca

In Articles

Cinco de Mayo – Local Mexican food that’s gourmet enough to say “Olé!”

April 15, 2016 No Comments

As this story was being written, restaurateur Bryan Adlam of Maracaz Cantinerie in downtown Burlington was just beginning to think about his plans for the Cinqo de Mayo celebration. “Of course we’re going to celebrate,” he says – as if the party had already begun!

The fun and quirky Mexican restaurant on the second floor above Curdz Putinerie on John Street is the birthplace of the Ultimate Baked Nachos. Adlam went around and tasted nachos at all of the other restaurants that served nachos (in the name of research, of course), and made his dish ultimately better. Then, “people began adding different ingredients to the nacho dish and it turned out to be a hit”, says Adlam of the dish that has made his restaurant so popular.

You can look forward to a full Cinqo de Mayo festival at Maracaz Cantinerie including the unbeatable Hermosa Fish Tacos, the smoky barbecued pulled pork Taco Guapos, and the Mac Grande, a much better version of a ‘Big Mac’ that you never knew you needed to have! Adlam is guessing there will be a piñata to bat around, different flavours of Margaritas in the constantly swirling slushie machines and maybe even a Mariachi band.

Besides lots of icy cold Mexican beer, Margaritas have become the signature drink of Cinqo de Mayo. Originally an icy cocktail made of tequila, triple sec and lime juice served in a salted rimmed glass, it now comes in many different flavours from Chili Mango to Jalapeno Watermelon, and in colours of the Mexican flag. Adlam doesn’t yet know what flavours he’ll be offering, but he does know that they’re going to be as fun and wacky as the restaurant itself.

Cinqo de Mayo literally means May 5^th. If that doesn’t sound like a good enough excuse for a celebration, consider that the day commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The stories told resemble Mexico’s version of David versus Goliath. The triumph became an inspiration for Mexican Americans during the American civil war and they began to celebrate the date in full Cinqo de Mayo spirit – and that’s the American history behind this Mexican holiday.

“Yes, we’re going to have a party on the 5^th of May but we don’t celebrate Cinqo de Mayo in Mexico,” says Antonio Marin, owner of Maria Bonita, Oakville’s go-to place for the best and most authentic Mexican food. Marin is from Mexico City and explains Cinqo de Mayo is a Mexican-American festival with the emphasis on American. “So many (people) think it’s Mexico’s Independence Day (September 16) but it’s not. It’s an excuse to go out, drink Mexican beer and eat guacamole.” Olé!

Like Adlam, Marin doesn’t plan very far ahead for the Cinqo de Mayo party but he does say with confidence, “I’ll make burritos. We don’t have burritos in Mexico or on our menu, but people ask me for them, so I’ll make them on Cinqo de Mayo.” Some of the more popular dishes on Marin’s menu include Ceviche de Pescado (light and bright white fish cured in lime juice), Pollo con Mole (chicken with the famous chocolate chili sauce), and Enchiladas (chicken wrapped in a warm tortilla blanket and smothered with salsa, sour cream and cheese). Finish the night with a slice of Marin’s famous Dulce de Limón, described as a lime and cookie pie, which is as light and refreshing as a Margarita. He’ll have plenty of cold Mexican beer flowing and he’s considering a Mariachi band and some flamenco dancers.

Like St. Patrick’s Day, Cinqo de Mayo certainly does bring people together to eat and drink and celebrate cultural pride. Enjoy a grand fiesta at your favourite Mexican place. Don’t miss it!

Local Links:
Maracaz Cantinerie, Burlington
twitter.com/maracazcantina

Maria Bonita, Oakville
mariabonitaoakville.com

By Lynn Ogryzlo
Lynn Ogryzlo is a food, wine and travel writer, international award winning author and regular contributor to Look Local Magazine. She can be reached for questions or comments at www.lynnogryzlo.ca.

In Community

Our Burlington Brunch List – The Best Breakfast and Brunch in Burlington

April 14, 2016 No Comments

It’s been said time and time again that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. We’re lucky to live in an area awash in fantastic breakfast spots, ranging from authentic mom and pop diners to franchise mealtime monoliths – all with pancakes, waffles, bacon and of course, the classics like eggs benny. Whether you pulled an all-nighter or need a hearty start to your day, here is our list of the best Burlington brunch and breakfast!

Burlington Brunch

Spencer’s at the Waterfront | 1340 Lakeshore Rd. | spencers.ca

You won’t find a fancier place for eggs over easy than Spencer’s. And with panoramic views of Burlington’s lakefront, you’ll also be hard pressed to find a more beautiful location to take in your first meal of the day. This restaurant is known for taking risks, pushing the limits, and making a brunch that is fit for the most finicky of forks.

Spencer's Burlington — Photo by Taylor Jackson

Lettuce Love Cafe | 399 John St. | lettucelovecafe.com

This might be Burlington’s Healthiest Brunch, from Burlington’s #1 rated restaurant, Lettuce Love Cafe. Serving a completely 100% Gluten-free plant-based brunch, created from organic, local, farm-to-table, sustainable, fair-trade ingredients you can be proud and happy to eat. Lettuce Love is a must try, and you will feel good about it by supporting local and sustainable food choices that are healthy and compassionate.

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe | 401 Brant St. | kellysxo.com

This popular cupcake spot also serves healthier breakfast options. Their baked-goods are gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, peanut-free without preservatives and artificial colours. They offer muffins, donuts, cookies, and brownies to bring a little more sweetness to your mornings.

Russell Williams | 20 Plains Rd. East | russellwilliamsrestaurant.com

Visiting Russell Williams is like taking a time machine back a few decades and immersing yourself in a slice of Ontario’s history. It’s pristine without being pretentious, friendly without being fake, and delicious without being expensive. It’s noisy and it’s social – which in our opinion, is absolutely perfect. Be prepared to wait for a table on weekends. It’s as authentic as they come!

Pane Fresco | 414 Locust St. | pane-fresco.ca

In addition to artisanal breads and fantastic coffee, this Italian café offers a classic breakfast – including some particularly popular pancakes. Their menu is preservative free and everything is fresh. And if you can’t make it to their Downtown Burlington location, you can now find them at a number of local Fortino’s!

Eggsactly | 3550 Dundas St. | eggsactlybreakfast.com

Eggsactly offers a ton of family favourites. They have a fresh and bright atmosphere with friendly service. Breakfast is served daily until 3pm and lunch is served from 11 to 3pm. They also carry gluten free bread. If you’re in Oakville, check out there other location here.

Black Swam Pub and Grill | 4040 Palladium Way | blackswanburlington.ca

The Black Swan only offers breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Look out for their traditional British breakfast and check out their kid-friendly options as well.

Rose Garden Family Restaurant | 1124 Plains Rd. West | rosegardenfamily.com

A few minutes away from Burlington’s Botanical Gardens, the Rose Garden Family Restaurant is another Burlington gem. They offer a great selection of classic breakfasts, including french toast and pancakes – and also have a menu for kids under 12. Get there early (weekdays before 11am) for their early bird specials!

Mount Royal Family Restaurant | 2029 Mount Forest Dr. | mountroyalfamilyrestaurant.com

A great little diner that makes a mean breakfast. It’s a small space but the homemade meals and welcoming atmosphere is fantastic. Expect a traditional breakfast and friendly service.

Contributor: Nicole Calhau

In Articles

Collingwood – Ontario’s ski town: Enjoy it year round

April 14, 2016 No Comments

Collingwood has built its reputation as a ski destination but there are many other things to see and do year round in this quaint town on the shores of Georgian Bay.

The area is one of Ontario’s most popular tourist spots and is close to the Blue Mountain Resort, Cranberry Resort and many well-known private ski clubs. Its popularity is well earned as the town and surrounding areas are filled with historic homes, great shops and lots of parks and trails, not to mention a feast of restaurants and cafes.

If it’s family fun you’re after, the Blue Mountain Ridge Runner roller coaster should be top of the list. The coaster blasts you down the side of the mountain as it twists and turns through varied terrain. Riders can control their own speeds but, if you’re feeling brave, the coaster can get up to 42 kms per hour.

The Wind Rider Triple Zips offer an even faster ride through the hills. You can fly down a 112-metre long zip line at up to 50 kms per hour while soaring 15 meters above the ground. For those who prefer a more sedate way of seeing the sights, you can tour the winding trails on a two-wheeled Segway, on Mountaintop Segway Tours (owned and operated by Blue Mountain Resort).

The tour company has an adventure outing that will have you riding a Segway along a scenic off-road trek across the top of the Niagara Escarpment. You can take in the views of Blue Mountain Village and Georgian Bay and don’t worry – there’s half an hour of training before you head out so you’ll know how to navigate your new set of wheels.

Of course, the simplest way to see the sights is by putting your runners on and hiking the trails, and Collingwood has lots of them. More than 60 kms of trails wind through the hills leading to every major point of interest in town, including the beaches of Sunset Point.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, simply take your pick Collingwood, from the Firehall Pizza Co. (at Blue Mountain Resort) to Azzurra Trattoria or The Iron Skillet. Or you can head to the Orchard where you’ll find Blue Mountain’s Yeti Cheese food truck, famous for its gooey grilled cheese sandwiches as well as its chocolate and candy. During the summer, the truck will be located at the top of the mountain next to the Gondola.

Speaking of candy, The Candy Factory is a one-of-a-kind store in Collingwood that includes a viewing room where visitors can watch chocolatiers and candy connoisseurs create sweets and chocolate the old fashioned way.

About 20 minutes south of Collingwood is the charming village of Creemore, where you can step back in time and relax. It’s home to the renowned Creemore Springs Brewery, which offers regular brewery tours. You can watch them fire brew their beer in authentic copper kettles and even enjoy some samples, if you’re of age, of course.

While in town, you can stay at the Creemore House Inn, a luxury boutique inn on the quiet main street. The village of Creemore itself is a collection of historic buildings with many dating back to the 1890’s. The main street includes Curiosity House Books and Gallery and The Mad and Noisy Gallery, named after two of the town’s rivers.

And for a slice of Viva Las Vegas without the plane ticket this summer, the Collingwood Elvis Festival has been going strong for more than 20 years and draws upwards of 30,000 people. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or not, it’s hard to resist the lure of seeing hundreds of lip-curling, hip-swerving Elvis look-a-likes. This year’s festival will be held from July 20 to 24.

By Denise Davy

Local Links:
Town of Collingwood
collingwood.ca

Collingwood Elvis Festival
collingwoodelvisfestival.com

Blue Mountain Resort
bluemountain.ca

Town of Creemore
experiencecreemore.com

Downtown Collingwood BIA
collingwooddowntown.com

LL note: Errors were made in the print edition of this article, which appeared in our April issue. The zipline company name, Segway information, Firehall Pizza Co. location and food truck references have been corrected in this online version. We sincerely apologize and regret any inconvenience.

jenn

by Lynn Ogryzlo

1 Eat lots of fruits and vegetables

2 Choose organic produce wherever possible.

3 Add herbs and spices

4 Include lean proteins

5 Eat fish…in moderation

6 Try some non-processed grains.

7 Drink water

8 Support your detox

Article by Jerry Balice

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