Lifestyle JANFEB 2026 digital

LIFESTYLE SERVING LONDON AND S OUT HWE S T E RN O N TA R I O F O R 26 YEA R S

HOMES & RENOS

DECOR

FASHION

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

AUTOS

| JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2 0 2 6

FOOD & DRINK

TRAVEL

THE ARTS

INCLUDING

PREVIEW Lifestyle Home Show

eatdrink The LOCAL Food & Drink Magazine

THE LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK MAGAZINE

January 24–26, 2026 Eat Yourself Healthy

NEW YEAR NEW YOU Grey County Road Trip

Recipes from Jamie Oliver

Local Scene Roundups

Culture Calling & Eatdrink Buzz

LHBA 2025 Awards of Creative Excellence lifestylemagazineonline.com

SEMI-DETACHED, DESIGN YOUR OWN & INVENTORY HOMES visit our

Presentation Centre: 42080 McBain Line, St. Thomas

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hether you're looking for a subtle change, or a significant transformation, our multidisciplinary team can help.

Surgical or non-surgical, body, face or skin, we’re the experts to make 2026 the year you move forward with confidence.

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NOTE | FROM THE PUBLISHER

LIFESTYLE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Happy New Year!

A “

You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

new year is upon us, full of possibility.

We’re presented with a fresh sheet upon which to draw up our goals and ambitions — literally or figuratively. There is excitement in that, but for most of us there is also some trepidation.

It is often far easier just to keep doing what we’ve been doing, sometimes with positive momentum but frequently with inertia. Pausing and reflecting upon the direction we’re going can be uncomfortable. Lisa Brandt has gathered some helpful advice in her “New Year New You” article for our Wellness department.

Martin Luther King Jr. was talking about faith when he reminded us about taking the first step, but I can’t think of anyone who acted on his faith more than him. We tasked Lisa with finding insights on how to not only take initiative but also sustain our efforts. I believe she has succeeded.

January is a great month for meeting Lifestyle readers face-to-face, as we have a booth at the Taste Ex food and drink show (January 9–10) and the London Home Builders’ Association (LHBA) Lifestyle Home Show (January 24–26), both at the J-AAR Expo Centre at Western Fair District.

Please stop by and say hello. We will have a great draw prize and magazines to introduce Lifestyle to some new folks, but feedback from regular readers is especially appreciated. To whet your appetite, our Home Show preview will introduce you to some

exhibitors and other local sources for your next project.

We’re also excited to help your dreaming by presenting the LHBA’s Awards for Creative Excellence winners for 2025. As usual this was a fierce competition, and the quality of submissions top-notch. Contemporary and local trends are in evidence, but so too are new interpretations of those. This Lifestyle is full of inspiration for 2026. That is the theme of our Marketplace pages, and as usual our fashion retailers present beautiful clothes and accessories for your consideration. Writing this in December, I can say we’ve seen a lot of winter already, so it’s helpful that our “warm and cosy” theme has proven prescient.

As much as we love to “celebrate the positive” in these pages, there is no doubt that we are in an economically-challenging time. Bruce Fyfe spoke to some automotive dealers about uncertainties in their industry, and I believe their helpful insights are relevant to almost every business. So I was glad that Bruce and his trusty partner Jane were able to take such an uplifting road trip to Grey County for us. We all need to keep putting one foot in front of the other (or getting behind the wheel!). “Supporting local” has never been more important and we’re pleased to give you some suggestions for how to do that.

May 2026 be an auspicious year for all of us.

Peace, Chris McDonell

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris McDonell COPY EDITOR Kym Wolfe MANAGING EDITOR Sue Gordon WRITERS Lisa Brandt Bruce Fyfe Sue Gordon Bryan Lavery Kathy Navackas Kathy Rumleski Sue Sutherland-Wood Janis Wallace ACCOUNT MANAGERS Jane Antoniak 519-719-9366 janeantoniak@gmail.com Annette Gent 519-200-0283 annettegent537@gmail.com Lorraine Lukings 519-520-7676 lorrainelukings@hotmail.com Jan McGrath 519-243-2932 jm@lambtonshores.com ART DIRECTION, EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN Wendy Reid PRODUCTION Wendy Reid PHOTOGRAPHY BAIN IMAGES Richard Bain / Jesse Bellringer ROAD TRIP STORY Jane Antoniak / Bruce Fyfe WEBSITE City Media citymedia.ca Lifestyle is published six times a year, in print and online. 20,000 copies of each issue are distributed through magazine stands and local businesses in London and surrounding cities and towns.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited material. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

CONTACT LIFESTYLE AT 525 Huron Street, London ON N5Y 4J6 • 519-434-8349 lifestyle.eatdrink@gmail.com lifestylemagazineonline.com

Last issue, Lisa Brandt wrote the story “An Ultra-Luxurious Primary Suite” and was not credited. That was accidental and my error, no one else’s. Lisa’s submission was a winner, as was Riverside Construction’s project. — CM

4 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

ON THE COVER

Light-filled great room in the LHBA 2025 Award of Creative Excellence “New Home of the Year” winner

by Magnus Homes.

CREATING HOME

home

London Home Builders’ Association 2025 Renovator of the Year.

www.ccrbuilding.com 519.472.7461

29

contents

61

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

EATDRINK

HOMES 7

50

LIFESTYLE HOME SHOW PREVIEW

60

29 LHBA’S 2025 AWARDS OF CREATIVE EXCELLENCE

BEAUTY & WELLNESS 36 NEW YEAR NEW YOU

MARKETPLACE

44 WARM & COSY

53 INSPIRING DESIGN

THE ARTS

AUTOS

56 A CAR MARKET IN TRANSITION Tariffs, EV Mandates and Consumer Uncertainty

TRAVEL

61 ROAD TRIP Grey County

53 36 6 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

78 RECIPES & REVIEW Eat Yourself Healthy

by Jamie Oliver

68

HEARTH & HOME

FASHION

50 CULTURE CALLING Notes from the local arts scene

70 THE BUZZ Culinary Community Notes

80 HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO (Preferably before 8pm)

BUSINESS PROFILES 42 Dr. Brian Rotenberg 43 Boutique Firenze 60 Acura West 68 Soxy’s at The Little Inn 69 The Market at Western Fair District

44

HOMES | HOME SHOW PREVIEW

LIFESTYLE HOME SHOW

Southwestern Ontario’s Largest Home Show!

W

ith hundreds of exhibitors, the Lifestyle Home Show is your onestop destination for lifestyle products and services, outdoor living, home improvement, and new home construction.

PREVIEW JANUARY 23–25, 2026

The J-AAR Expo Centre at the Western Fair District 845 Florence St, London • lifestylehomeshow.ca

WHAT TO EXPECT

Meet the region’s best experts and truly shop local with businesses from London, Woodstock, Ingersoll, Chatham, Stratford, Tillsonburg and beyond. You will find dozens of innovative, energy efficient, sustainable, exciting and trendy products and services that help make your life easier, healthier, more relaxing and more active. BONUS: Attendees have chances to win awesome prizes!

2026 SHOW HIGHLIGHTS LOBBY • City of London services (and our Lifestyle Magazine booth and draw!)

• The Grand Prize Contest!

Win a stylish full dining suite set valued at $10,000, courtesy of the Presenting Sponsor Rembrandt Homes.

MAIN BUILDING • The Boulevard of Dreams is a perennial crowd-pleaser. With so many dreamy options, it must be seen and experienced!

Friday: 12:00pm – 7:30pm | Saturday: 10:00am – 7:30pm | Sunday: 10:00am – 5:00pm • The Ultimate Vacation Contest offers guests the chance to win a $5,000 vacation package!

Visit The Ironstone Building Company booth at the entrance to the Boulevard of Dreams to submit your ballot.

• The LHBA Display at booths 2045, 2046, 3000, and 3001 offers expert advice if you are looking to build a house or renovate your home. Members or those interested in exploring membership are also encouraged to stop by.

• The Main Stage, sponsored by CLAY Design, Construction & Cabinetry, will showcase incredible speakers and presenters sharing tips, insights, and advice. Check out the lineup at the show.

• The Bar & Lounge located near the Main Stage offers guests a spot to mix and mingle, courtesy of Auburn Group.

• The Halcyon Homes’ Design Centre, at booths 3016-3019 and 3031-3034, will provide plenty of ideas and inspiration for your next project.

• The Junior Builders’ Zone offers hands-on building opportunities, kid-friendly activities, The Ironstone Building Company Jr. Builder hard hats to take home and more!

• The Outdoor Living Area, sponsored by The Better Bin Company & TRY Recycling, features businesses specializing in everything from landscaping to roofing.

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 7

HOMES | EXHIBITOR SPOTLIGHT

Riverside Construction Adapting Homes Through Life’s Stages

S

tatistics Canada figures show more than 25 per cent of our aging population have some form of a disability, and this figure is rising. If a homeowner is considering a renovation now, it might also be an opportunity to look at anticipated future needs, without compromising the design or the style, says Riverside Construction president and founder Greg Hassall.

Planning a renovation with a builder qualified and experienced in adaptive homes is essential, “You need someone who knows how to navigate the situation and will consider all aspects and details of the project.”

“We want to promote independence, peace of mind and flexibility. You want to be comfortable in your home through all stages,” he says. “As an adaptive home specialist, you can rely on our experience and knowledge at Riverside Construction.”

“People like the idea of aging in place,” says Hassall, and there are some simple future-proofing renovations that can make a big difference, such as widening doorways, choosing lighting locations, installing curbless showers, updating a floor finish and adopting smart home technology. “Perhaps it isn’t even doing it right then and there, it could be setting up for the future as we’re working within a project, such as putting utilities in behind the walls,” he says.

Hassall’s team liaises with their partners and consultants to ensure a holistic approach to adaptive design and renovation. “Talking to family members or

Successfully aging in place benefits from pre-planning and professional advice. • INSET Future-proofing could include curbless and wider access points and smart home technology.

caregivers can also be helpful,” he says.

“Sometimes these topics aren’t easy but planning is essential.” •

A great renovation is the result of a great experience At Riverside Construction, we know that the quality of your renovation experience is just as important as the end result.

There is a difference. Put our dedicated, award-winning team to work for you.

rsclondon.com

519 614 9044

Residential / Commercial / Design/Build / Custom

8 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

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Introducingthe theNaturals Naturals Introducing Collection CollectionatatConi-marble Coni-marble Plus: le Shower Bases Plus: Low LowProfi Profile Shower Bases

R

esponsiveness to customer needs is one of the key reasons that Coni-marble has been successful for more than 55 years. Since 1969, Coni-marble has been manufacturing synthetic marble shower bases, wall panels, accessories, vanity tops and tubs in a variety of solid, swirl, and granite colours.

As people prepare to age in place or update older homes, they often focus on bathroom upgrades such as converting a bathtub area to a walk-in shower. And when customers said they wanted the look of natural stone, Coni-marble got to work.

Now, after years of product development, Coni-marble is proud to introduce the new Naturals Collection. Available in Taupe or Platinum Grey vein, this classic stone look is an exciting

addition to the Coni-marble product line. Perfect for shower walls and ceilings as well as tub surrounds and tub skirts. As with all Coni-marble products they are non-porous, easy to clean and grout-free.

Another consumer request has been for low profi profile, le, easy access shower bases. Coni-marble has expanded its standard shower base line to include a new selection of low-profile low-profi le bases with a threshold height of 1.5”. The low-profi low-profile le bases are available in 36” x 48”and 32” x 60” tub replacer sizes, and 36” x 60”. Like all Coni-marble shower bases, the low-profi low-profile le bases slope to the drain, have a textured finish fi nish and are available in all standard colours.

Visit the Coni-marble showroom in Thorndale to see the Naturals and shower bases for yourself. •

Available in Taupe or Platinum Grey vein, this classic stone look is an exciting addition to the Coni-marble product line.

conimarble.ca VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT

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Proudly Canadian 10 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

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Gliding Shelf Solutions of London Experience the Gliding Advantage

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nyone who's found themself kneeling on the kitchen floor to crawl into a lower cupboard to retrieve a seldom-used pot or pan can appreciate a shelf that glides out of the cupboard, putting the contents within easy reach. It’s the concept that draws clients to Gliding Shelf Solutions.

While customers extol the ease and organizational benefits, there's another advantage that Stephen Millward, owner of the London dealership, is increasingly hearing from clients. That’s safety. More convenient for everyone, members of an aging demographic are telling him that the shelving’s potential to prevent falls allows them to age-in-place longer. This is an important consideration.

“I find it fulfilling to offer that help,” Millward says. “People often don't fully realize how much it can change their lifestyle in terms of safety, as well as functionality.”

12 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

EXHIBITOR SPOTLIGHT | HOMES

Thinking of a kitchen reno? Is the cost out of reach?

Consider a 1-day retrofit with custom glide-out shelving at a fraction of the cost!

The full extension pull-out shelves are versatile, custom-built to fit existing cabinets and able to be cut around pipes for use under sinks. Solutions for pantries and corner cabinets are popular.

Also popular are closet conversions, such as transforming a linen closet into a pantry. The shelves can hold up to 100

lbs of weight and are maintenance-free.

This simple upgrade to can mean so much in so many ways.

These made-in-Canada shelves will be on display at the company’s booth at the Lifestyle Home Show, an exhibit Millward says is “well worth it” for both customers and the company. •

Award-winning Design

The LKS team includes six award-winning designers who turn vision and inspiration into your home’s reality, collaborating with you and an experienced team of tradespeople every step of the way.

Kitchens • Bathrooms • Closets • Laundry Rooms • Outdoor Areas

londonkitchenstudio.ca • Unit 3-300 William Street, London • 226-721-8338

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Neighbourhood is beautiful all HOMES | BIZ SPOTLIGHT

times of year, in Neighbourhood isespecially beautiful all | BIZbut HOMES SPOTLIGHT Spring when the magnolia trees times of year, but especially in

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The Landings The Landings

that dotwhen the neighbourhood are in Spring the magnolia trees its in bloom. park will o erare that dotWalnut the neighbourhood WheretheStyle Meets Serenity residents ability to rent in an bloom. Walnut park will o er its

Where Style Meets Serenity

established area with trees, residents the ability totall rent in ana new on-site area park,with walkways anda established tall trees,

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stepson-site to amenities on Talbotand street. new park, walkways elcome to Lakeside Luxury The building will only 3 floors to steps to amenities on be Talbot street.

Living. Discover TheLuxury Landelcome toering Lakeside 1 and 2 blend into thewill area o The building only be 3 floors to ings, a premium freehold Living. Discover The Landbedroom with balconies ering 1 and 2 blend intolayouts the ings, area condominium community aopremium freehold in the picturesque town of Port Stanley, overlooking nature. bedroom layouts with balconies condominium community justthe steps from Lake Erie.

Developed MOVE-INS FOR SPRING 2025 in picturesque town of Port Stanley, overlooking nature. by Domus Developments, this exclusive just steps from Lake Erie.

Developed MOVE-INS FOR SPRING 2025 the perbungalow-style complex offers by Domus Developments, this exclusive fect blend of comfort, style, andthe location bungalow-style complex offers per— all ready for occupancy later this year. fect blend of comfort, style, and location Where modern design meets coastal — all ready for occupancy later this year. charm, located at 62 Compass “The Where modern design meetsTrail, coastal Landings” condominiums feature opencharm, located at 62 Compass Trail, “The LEASED concept two-bedroom floorfeature plans openranging Landings” condominiums LEASED from 1250 to 1,325 sq ft.

Complete with concept two-bedroom floor plans ranging vaulted ceilings, hardwood flooring and from 1250 to 1,325 sq ft. Complete with ceramic ceilings, tile finishes, large kitchen vaulted hardwood flooringislands and with breakfast bars, private decks islands with ceramic tile finishes, large kitchen an optional fenced yard, expansive with breakfast bars,inprivate decks with windows and optional finished basements an optional fenced in yard, expansive for addedand living space. finished Durable basements architecwindows optional for added living space. Durable architec-

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Where modern design meets coastalPATIO charm ROOFTOP LUXURY FINISHES Where modern design meets coastal charm LUXURY FINISHES

the local suppliers showcased in this project. tural stone and Hardie exteriors offer a AMENITIES sandshowcased and sunsets situated quality, modern aesthetic.

AMENITIES theSteps local from suppliers in this project. tural stone and Hardie exteriors offer a within distance of the situated Port Crafted with local quality, founded in Stepswalking from sand and sunsets quality, modern aesthetic.

Stanleywalking village and Littleof Beach, residents 1999, Domus a trusted, within distance the Port Crafted withDevelopments local quality,isfounded in enjoy easy access to boutique shops, local family-run builder committed to using local Stanley village and Little Beach, residents 1999, Domus Developments is a trusted, dining, and some of the region’s most materials and trades: Custom cabinetry enjoy easy access to boutique shops, local family-run builder committed to using local beautiful lakeside living.

• from St. Thomas and Custom elegant quartz coundining, and some of the region’s most materials and trades: cabinetry tertopsSt.made in London, Ontario are two of beautiful lakeside living. • from Thomas and elegant quartz coun-

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226-781-8519 info@primebrokerage.ca 226-781-8519 info@primebrokerage.ca 26 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026 16 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026 26 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

September/October 2025 LIFESTYLE 23 September/October 2025 LIFESTYLE 23

Renovations • Additions • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Outdoor Living

Transforming Houses Into Dream Homes.

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HOMES | BIZ SPOTLIGHT

Amber Light Custom Cabinetry Designer’s Approach to Each Project Provides Numerous Benefits

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ngaging an interior designer for a renovation project can significantly elevate your space, enhance your wellbeing and improve communication with your contractor, says Yvonne McLeod, owner and principal designer of Amber Light Custom Cabinetry.

“An interior designer brings a wealth of expertise and a fresh perspective that can transform your vision into reality,” says McLeod, an award-winning designer with more than 25 years of experience.

“They possess a keen understanding of design principles, colour theory and spatial planning, ensuring that your space is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional.”

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By collaborating with a designer, clients can create a cohesive look that reflects their personal style while optimizing the layout for comfort and usability, McLeod says. “This tailored approach can enhance one’s mental and emotional wellbeing, as a thoughtfully designed environment reduces stress and increases satisfaction at home.”

An interior designer also serves as an effective intermediary between clients and their contractors, she says. “Our experience at Amber Light Custom Cabinetry in managing renovations allows for clearer

communication of your ideas and preferences.” As well, interior designers can help translate a client’s wishes into detailed plans, minimizing misunderstandings and ensuring that the contractor has a precise roadmap to follow, McLeod says.

“This streamlined communication fosters a collaborative atmosphere, making it easier to address issues that arise during the renovation process.”Ultimately, hiring a designer helps ensure that your renovation project progresses efficiently, leading to a home that truly reflects your desires and enhances your quality of life. •

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HOMES | BIZ SPOTLIGHT

Alarmtech

Better Together: Protecting Life, Not Just Belongings

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ideo verification as a supplement to your home security system is key to a fast emergency response, says Stephen Karchut, owner of the London-based security solutions company Alarmtech. “When a homeowner is alerted that an alarm is going off, if you’re able to verify it through video, this will prompt a faster emergency dispatch,” he says.

This technology combines alarm sensors with cameras that can be viewed live in the event of an emergency. “Video verification works in conjunction with your alarm and ensures the authorities are aware the alarm is verified,” Karchut says. “My biggest concern is that people will feel safe with just a camera. I want to educate people about the importance of video verification. To confirm something in progress is essential.” He adds that having an Alarmtech system is more than a warning about an intrusion, it also ensures you don’t walk in on one in progress.

Karchut says when children arrive home from school, they can easily arm the system. “It’s about protecting life, not just your belongings. At the end

of the day, it’s all about your safety and your family’s safety.” He says Alarmtech also has fire detection systems to notify authorities of fire or carbon monoxide. “You can’t see it or smell carbon monoxide. It’s important to safeguard your loved ones and pets.” Alarmtech has been providing comprehensive security solutions in the London region for more than 30 years. It also offers security systems for commercial properties. •

Peace of mind.

With Alarmtech Security Solutions 20 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

At the end of the day, it’s all about your safety and your family’s safety.”

alarmtech.ca/bettertogether 519.636.4652

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Melchers Construction

Helping Clients Access Financial Initiatives for Home Ownership

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here are several government incentives to help first-time homeowners purchase a home, and Melchers Construction can assist clients in exploring the various programs available.

“We understand the political landscape and the housing market. We look forward to helping prospective home buyers who have never possessed real estate achieve ownership, by working with the various tiers of government offering incentives,” says Elaine Melchers, model home designer and business development manager for the company.

Melcher says first-time buyers are wise to know all the available offers, which can mean significant savings. Candidates may quality for a rebate of up to $4,000 on the provincial land-transfer tax and the province recently announced a proposal to save first-time homebuyers tens of thousands of dollars. More details need to be fleshed out but it’s exciting news.

Melchers Construction is proud to build in some of Southwestern Ontario’s most desirable and fast-growing communities, from lakeside retreats to family-friendly neighbourhoods.

Many municipalities have their own programs to help people entering the market for the first time. A new incentive for London and Middlesex County residents offers interest-free and forgivable loans — capped at $25,000 — for renters wanting to purchase their first property. Melcher recommends buyers work with professionals to ensure they understand all of the eligibility details,

and says people should also explore savings tools such as the tax-free First Home Savings Account to build or access down payment funds. “We’re here to help with securing funds toward building your first home vision.”

Melchers Construction, established in 1987, is a family-owned business committed to craftsmanship, value and community in Southwestern Ontario. •

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HOMES | BIZ SPOTLIGHT

Home Instead

Tailored Care Services Help Seniors Stay in their Homes with Dignity

S

tarting the conversation early about care needs can make all the difference for families, says James Chalmers, owner and managing director of two Home Instead office locations. One is in London and the other in Sarnia. Home Instead offers customized services that allow seniors to stay in their own homes with dignity, safety and privacy, he says. For more than 15 years, Home Instead has provided personalized, compassionate, in-home support for thousands of families who want an excellent standard of care. “We meet people at a moment where love isn’t the issue — time and energy are,” says Chalmers. “They want their parent or spouse to have the best, but they can’t do it alone. We give them certainty and we give them breathing room.”

Every care plan is tailored to the person, not the diagnosis. Trained Care

24 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

Professionals are matched with clients and support them in numerous ways, from personal care and mobility to dementia assistance, meal prep, escorting seniors to appointments and even help navigating the healthcare system, he says. An individual care plan could range from one day a week to every day and even overnights. “Families appreciate our continuity, responsive communication and concierge-style approach that adapts

trust us because we deliver exceptional service with professionalism, consistency and warmth.” •

A Home Instead Care Pro helping an appreciative client.

Shirley (left) and Colleen

COLLEEN AND SHIRLEY

as needs change,” Chalmers says. Home Instead helps restore balance to families.

“Seniors keep their independence and daughters and sons and spouses can return to roles that matter most — being present, loving and connected. They

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RENOVATED KITCHEN (up to $100,000)

5

LHBA 2025

BRAAM’S CUSTOM CABINETS KITCHEN CABINETRY (renovated)

Awards of Creative Excellence

BY JANIS WALLACE

R

enovating your home makes it look more up-to-date, boosts your home’s value and your daily quality of life. If you’re considering renovations, take time to plan. Look at trends and look at local builders’ work.

The London Home Builders’ Association is a good starting point. Check out their annual award-winners to see both trends and types of projects.

TRENDS

Kitchens and bathrooms remain the most popular spaces to renovate. Many homeowners convert their primary bathrooms into a day spa with standalone tubs and separate showers. One of the biggest trends is the “dirty kitchen” or back kitchen/large pantry. It keeps the mess of prepping and cooking out of sight. Built-in storage and seating are big.

Cabinetry is moving from cooler whites to warmer off-white tones, with a mix of wood and paint or all-wood cabinets.

Those woods are also darker now. The result is a more grounded feeling. People want spaces that are a cozy blend of practicality and harmony.

There is also a desire for harmony between inside and outdoors. Integrating the two spaces and using natural materials, called biophilic design, is gaining in popularity. It can be as simple as using

softer tones, such as sage green and earthy neutrals, adding wood and stone elements, or increasing the size of windows.

THE AWARDS

The LHBA’s Awards of Creative Excellence recognize innovators, leaders and visionaries of the home building industry and celebrate the achievements of individuals and teams who shape the future of the community.

Submissions are judged on: • design compatibility with intended lifestyle of the client • creative use of space and materials • functionality of the floor plans • overall appeal • use of interior finishes and architectural features Special awards also consider customer satisfaction. 

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 29

the winners

DESIGN AWARDS

1 NEW INDOOR LIVING SPACE: Martin Jesko Custom Cabinetry ON TREND: • Wood panels and built-in side tables in the bedroom • Walk-in wardrobe

1

2 RENOVATED INDOOR LIVING SPACE: DUO Building Limited ON TREND: • Dark, moody walls and lighting in the Basement Dreamscape • Relaxing seating area with large-screen television and bar • Whimsical built-in beneath staircase • Bowling alley with built-in banquette, bar-style table and stools, dramatic lighting and walls 3 OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE: Oke Woodsmith Building Systems ON TREND: • Applying indoor amenities in outdoor “rooms” for dining, seating around a firepit, and garden on stone-paved varied levels • Enclosed kitchen with a barbecue, refrigerator and seating area under a vaulted and beamed ceiling and enclosed by screens when needed • Sleek, sophisticated and modern design

2

4 KITCHEN CABINETRY (NEW): Caradoc Custom Cabinets ON TREND: • The Refined Countryside Kitchen is created with a soft creamy palette, warm wood and brass accents • Two-level island provides a dining area • Wood hutch and island contrast to painted cabinets • Large window brings in a view of the fields 5 KITCHEN CABINETRY (RENOVATED): Braam’s Custom Cabinets (See page 29) Design: Sloan Stone Design & V+V Homes ON TREND: • The name Shadow & Grain reflects the dramatic stone island and wood cabinetry that extend to the ceiling, contrasting with black cabinets and wall behind the cooktop • Open display shelves add interest

30 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

3

4

6

7

10

8

NEW HOME AWARDS 9

8 NEW KITCHEN (UP TO 2,500 SQ. FT.): Johnstone Homes ON TREND: • Mix of light wood with soft white cabinetry • Large island and walk-in pantry • Open to seating area with fireplace • Large windows and doors integrate outdoor spaces

6 BATHROOM CABINETRY: Caradoc Custom Cabinets ON TREND: • Caradoc applies the same refined countryside elegance to the bathroom with a mix of soft white and wood cabinetry • The double vanity, stand-alone tub and glass-walled shower with built-in bench create a spa environment with a view outdoors

9 NEW KITCHEN (OVER 2,500 SQ. FT.): Magnus Homes DESIGN: Verbeek Kitchens ON TREND: • Features an arched alcove with open and closed storage • Combination of cream and soft grey/green cabinetry • Island accommodates seating • Walk-in pantry • Dining area includes built-in banquette under a large window

7 HOME ORGANIZATION: Martin Jesko Custom Cabinetry Design: Erika Friesen Design & Graystone Homes ON TREND: • The multi-purpose study/office/library sits under a vaulted ceiling with an antique map set between the beams • Built-in shelves and rich, dark hues make it an inviting space

10 NEW BATHROOM: Magnus Homes Design:Verbeek Kitchens ON TREND: • A separate wet area includes the shower and a smoky grey tub under a large window for a spa setting • Separate room for toilet • Warm brass accents  January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 31

11

12

13

16 14

15

17

18 NEW EXTERIOR (SINGLE FAMILY): Bridlewood Homes (see page 25) (Silver Creek Circle) Design: Centre Line Home Design 11 NEW EXTERIOR (MULTI-FAMILY): Duncan Harwood Custom Homes (White Pine Meadows) ON TREND: • Both exteriors display a contrasting mix of materials and elegant landscaping • The Bridlewood home features light stone and black siding, trim and accents • The Duncan Harwood home features several wood textures and both brick and stone 12 RENTAL TOWNHOME: Old Oak Properties (Muse Townhomes) ON TREND: • Exteriors feature black brick, wood accents, and black and white siding • Interiors continue the black and white theme 32 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

• Laundry on second floor with bedrooms 13 ENTRY LEVEL NEW HOME: Rockmount Homes (Liberty Crossing) Design: London Kitchen Studio Corp.

ON TREND: • Large, welcoming entry • A great room features large windows, kitchen cabinets in light wood and cream paint with a dark island and hood • Bathroom continues the light wood on the vanity • Second floor laundry 14 NEW RENTAL MID/HIGHRISE: Old Oak Properties (The Saint James) ON TREND: • Exterior combines different materials • A common area exemplifies biophilic design with large windows, doors to a balcony, hanging plants • A bathroom in one unit continues

the green theme with a stand-alone tub, large glass shower • A coffee station in a unit uses open shelves for easy access 15 NEW MID/HIGH RISE HOME: The Tricar Group (The Westdell) ON TREND: • Features a white kitchen with black accents, using white subway tiles for the backsplash • Throughout, a palette of pale neutrals and light woods gives an airy, spacious feel • A den features a fireplace flanked by built-in shelving NEW SINGLE FAMILY HOME (up to 2,000 sq. ft.): Halcyon Homes Design: Moore Flooring & Design Limited & Casey’s Creative Kitchens Inc. 16 NEW SINGLE FAMILY HOME (2,000-3,000 sq. ft.): Magnus Homes ON TREND: • Bedroom with built-in wood headboard and end tables • Ensuite uses fluted tiles, soft neutrals and light wood

17 LHBA NEW HOME OF THE YEAR: Magnus Homes ON TREND: • The exterior of mixes light stone, cream siding and adds a gable and peaked roofline for curb appeal • Arches add architectural interest in a bedroom headboard and ensuite shower • Back kitchen adds a bar fridge, oven and sink

A Rare Opportunity to Own this Spacious, Elegant, North London Home

RENOVATION AWARDS RENOVATED KITCHEN (UP TO $100,000): V+V Homes (see page 29) Design: Sloan Stone Design & Braam’s Custom Cabinets ON TREND: • Kitchen wood cabinetry contrast to a black alcove for the cooktop • Dramatic island in stone 18 RENOVATED KITCHEN (OVER 100,000): DUO Building Ltd. Design: Braam’s Custom Cabinets ON TREND: • Kitchen opened up and combines white cabinetry, wood on the island and stone countertops with brass accents and hardware • Built-ins for china and a beverage bar contrast in soft green • Ceiling beams wrapped in wood to match island 

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19

21

20

21 23

• Dark millwork and cabinetry create a cozy, fun space • Large-screen television, music area with turntable, shelving for the records, instruments and a gallery wall • The speakeasy? – a hidden door to the bar

23 • Curves repeat in upper cabinets, pendant lights, door to dining room, and shelves in living room • Back kitchen offers storage and fridge/freezer 19 RENOVATED BATHROOM: Riverside Construction Design: London Kitchen Studio Corp. & Sloan Stone Design ON TREND: • Rain & Repose contrasts black faucets and shower glass with light wood • The spa-like retreat includes a heated towel rack 34 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

20 RENOVATED EXTERIOR: Royal Premier Homes ON TREND: • Stately façade provides timeless elegance • Arched window gable above front and rear entries • Large windows bring in light and connect to the outdoors • Dramatic night lighting showcases the façade and back living areas 21 RENOVATION (UP TO $100,000): CLAY Design, Construction & Cabinetry ON TREND: • The Vinyl Speakeasy reflects a nostalgic aesthetic with contemporary amenities

22 RENOVATION ($101,000-$250,000): Riverside Construction Design: Casey’s Creative Kitchens Inc. ON TREND: • Stone & Flow converted a dated kitchen to a modern space • White cabinets with wood-clad range hood, brass hardware and a deep blue island • Dining area with built-in china cabinet • Wine wall with a serving counter and storage below • Soft green accents, such as dining chairs, tiles in the laundry 23 RENOVATION (OVER $500,000): Royal Premier Homes ON TREND: • Double kitchen islands with dramatic black and white waterfall stone • Pendant lights look like sparkling bursts • Bathroom features a black pebble wall for texture, and white and black wallpaper • Fireplace in the main bedroom • Tray and beamed ceiling treatment • In-home gym

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22

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BUILDER OF THE YEAR (LARGE VOLUME): The Tricar Group INNOVATION: The Ironstone Building Company

SALES AND MARKETING AWARDS

30

Windows & Doors

PROJECT BRANDING: Foxwood Homes MERCHANDISED MODEL HOME: Magnus Homes DIGITAL PRESENCE: scherba & co.

SHOW ROOM, DESIGN CENTRE OR SALES OFFICE: Casey’s Creative Kitchens Design: scherba & co. & Riverside Construction TOP SALES ACHIEVEMENT: • Megan Corfield, The Tricar Group • Kevin Miller, Thrive Realty for Foxwood Homes • Kevin Barry, Thrive Realty for Foxwood Homes • Patrick Hazzard, Century 21 First Canadian for Rockmount Homes • Dimen Noory, Royal Premier Homes • Ahmed Waqas, Nu-Vista Premier Realty for Bridlewood Homes JANIS WALLACE has written for newspapers, magazines, scripts and social media on topics from music to dog food, fashion to décor, agriculture to gardens. She wrote a book about a theatre, a place she loves to be — in the audience or on stage.

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519-659-3550 January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 35

BEAUTY & WELLNESS | NEW YEAR NEW YOU

NEW YEAR new you

BY LISA BRANDT

O

h, the pressure a new year can bring. We tell ourselves it’s a fresh slate, an opportunity to change things about ourselves that displease us. There are the big five: lose weight, get fit, drink less alcohol, quit smoking and prioritize sleep. We’re definitely going to do it this time. January first is the first day of the rest of our lives.

But there’s a reason why the second Friday in January has been nicknamed Quitter’s Day. About one quarter of new resolutions fail around this point and all but one in ten will peter out within a month. Over the years, I have personally quit every gym you can name as soon as the shine dulled on my new training shoes.

36 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

So, what’s going on? We genuinely want to make these changes and we’re infused with energy and determination at the start. However, between day one and the day we give up, several factors get in the way of a successful transformation.

I’LL DRINK TO THAT Dry January couldn’t come at a better time after the indulgences of the holiday season. Although you’re meant to abstain from alcohol for the month, it’s also about kick-starting a new long-term relationship with booze.

We tend to think of alcohol as fairly safe as long as we don’t overindulge.

After all, it was always legal at a time when other substances were not. London Public Health Nurse, Melissa Knowler

educates people about the toll that even social drinking can take on your health.

“The biggest part is understanding that alcohol is not a benign substance. It does have risks. And then knowing about standard drinks and guidance that helps us with these risk zones.”

Knowler points out that everything in life has some risk, and the Middlesex London Health Unit isn’t trying to scare people off drinking altogether.

“There are very visible warning signs on tobacco,” says Knowler. “We’re not quite there yet with alcohol so we’re trying to educate.”

What’s considered a standard drink size is a bit of an eye opener. And no, using a bigger wine glass doesn’t count.

Alcohol also has more of a detrimental 

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effect on women because of our physiological makeup. I learned that and more at RethinkYourDrinking.ca.

Despite all we know about the dangers of smoking, approximately 12% of adults (mostly young adults) still smoke or vape. The Canadian Cancer Society’s website, Smoker’s Helpline, is well worth visiting if you’re ready to give it up. It offers coaching, resources, and even trial packs of nicotine replacement therapies.

There’s no question that quitting is difficult and a helping hand, or chew, can increase the chance of success.

HITTING THE GYM AND THE GYM HITS BACK Influencers all over social media tell us we’re simply not trying hard enough to achieve what many of them won in the DNA lottery. We’re not all meant to have rock hard abs but that won’t stop many of us from going all out in pursuit of them at the start of the year.

It’s easy to blame social media but body-image pressure has been around since long before Instagram and TikTok. Back in human cave-dwelling days there was probably one person per clan with a flat belly while the others happily packed on fat layers to survive harsh winters. If Gnoob hadn’t invented fire the skinny one would have shivered to death.

One reason we fail before even getting just one rock-hard ab is because we take on too much too soon and for the wrong reasons. The quick-fix diet or exercise plan seems too good to be true because it usually is. Dr. Albert Malkin, Assistant Professor of Education at Western, says a lifestyle change needs to align with our values if it’s going to stick.

“A high level of fitness takes many, many years,” explains Dr. Malkin. “You have to control every part of your life. It’s really intense. Instead of the unattainable thing, move toward the goal that gets you where you want to go, like playing with your kids or being a bit more healthy.”

ONE BITE AT A TIME Dr. Malkin, who is also a Board-certified Behavior Analyst, advises choosing “smaller sooner” rather than “larger later” rewards when it comes to goal setting.

Select the attributes of the person you want to be and take steps in that direction – literally. A daily walk with an aim of

38 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

staying mobile as you age might be enough.

“You can ask yourself questions about what’s important to you and care for yourself in multiple ways. Physical self-care, psychological and emotional well-being and grounding yourself, the way that you see the world.”

But he also says we can do hard things, even when we think we can’t. For some, that’s keeping a regular schedule at the gym even on an off day. It’s all in the way we look at it.

“Thoughts come up like, ‘not today, this is going to be too hard’”, Dr Makin acknowledges. “The way you choose to respond to it is obviously pretty important. Treating those thoughts as thoughts, they’re going to keep coming up. Or you can say, I’m having the thought that I’m tired but I’m going to the gym anyway.

The reason that you’re doing it is so that you can live a long, healthy life and enjoy yourself.”

SLEEP ON IT If you truly are tired, prioritizing better sleep might be part of your plan. You’ve likely heard about good sleep hygiene: making sure your room is dark and not too cold or hot, going to bed at the same time every night and avoiding screens (phones and TV) for ninety minutes before shutting down for the night.

Sleep experts in the city conduct regular free webinars called Dream On. (https://thamesvalleyfht.ca/programregistration/dream-on-cbt-for-insomnia/) At a recent session I learned that the story you tell yourself about your sleep makes a big difference.

We lie awake watching the clock, worrying about how many hours or minutes of sleep we will get before morning. But the body will note that you had poor sleep and make up for it the next night. The amount of sleep isn’t as important as the quality of sleep you get.

In other words, doing late-night sleep math is often just a waste of time (However, sleep apnea and other medical conditions should still be ruled out via testing.)

THE WONDER DRUG ARRIVES Many of us have dreamed our whole lives about a magic weight loss pill.

Now that semaglutides are here, they’re

THE BIG FIVE: lose weight, get fit, drink less alcohol, quit smoking and prioritize sleep. disrupting the multi-billion-dollar weight loss industry and altering our resolutions to fit into those old jeans. But these medications have come at a cost that’s been out of reach for many consumers.

However, late last year, the makers of Wegovy and Ozempic dropped their prices after pressure from the US administration. The monthly charge for these injections had been north of $1000 and were not always covered by insurance unless prescribed for Type 2 diabetes or severe obesity with additional health complications. But even a reduced price of $400 per month is still steep enough to be off the table for many who want it.

An exception is Canadians over age 65 for whom medication costs are covered.

This year, though, the manufacturers’ patents on these medications runs out.

Generic versions are coming that will undoubtedly cost less than the originals, making the magic pill an option for many more people who want it. And making the fresh start of a new year happen any time they choose. 

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I was suffering from severe snoring and met up with Dr. Rotenberg for a solution since I did not want to live the rest of my life with a CPAP machine. He suggested removing my tonsils and uvula. The surgery was flawless and I now sleep better than I have for over 8 years. I thank Dr. Rotenberg for everything he’s done and would absolutely recommend him he’s very professional and an absolutely amazing surgeon.”

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Sleep apnea and other medical conditions should still be ruled out via testing.

SLOW AND STEADY WINS THE RACE If a resolution is going to stick, it needs to be realistic enough to be attainable and move us closer to our best selves.

One New Year I vowed I’d never eat another baked good as long as I lived.

I’m here to tell you that life offers you the occasional cookie so you may as well enjoy one here and there. That’s what my best self wants me to do. • LISA BRANDT is a freelance writer, voice-over professional, podcaster and author of five books.

You can find her at voiceoflisabrandt.com. She lives in Port Stanley with her husband and their supervisor, a senior cat named Cuddles.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING | BUSINESS PROFILE

Better Sleep Better Life Snoring Solutions with Dr. Brian Rotenberg

S

noring is no joke. It happens when air can’t flow easily through your nose or mouth.

Not only does it disrupt your sleep and annoy your partner, it can indicate serious health conditions.

It can also be a symptom of sleep apnea.

“Half of men snore; 10 per cent of men and eight per cent of women have a form of apnea. There are very few surgeons in Canada who treat this,” says Dr. Rotenberg. Being one of them, he achieves satisfaction in helping his patients lead a better life through better sleep.

Unlike many sleep clinics, Dr. Rotenberg’s diagnostic assessments can be done in the patient’s home with “their own bed, their own pillow.”

Using technology to diagnose and treat snoring, Dr. Rotenberg is able to suggest solutions. “I like working with technology — interesting, innovative technology. Patients are typically motivated to make changes. It’s immensely rewarding.”

The process starts with a referral from a general practitioner, although patients can contact the clinic directly; gathering health history; and meeting at the clinic for a physical assessment.

The non-invasive sleep study is done overnight in the patient’s home. It is a convenient and cost-effective approach.

The home studies are not covered by OHIP, but may be covered by private insurance plans.

Options for treatment are provided based on the individual patient and the cause of the snoring. Solutions range from medical/therapeutic to surgical.

Dr. Brian Rotenberg and his nursing associate Denise Taylor — a key member of the team — are dedicated to helping patients and their families enjoy their highest quality of life through better sleep.

Addressing snoring and apnea can reduce daytime tiredness, headaches, high blood pressure and anxiety. Untreated, it increases the risk for heart attack, stroke and Type 2 diabetes.

While snoring is a common condition and usually harmless, if it interferes with your sleep, it might be a symptom of something more and you should see a doctor.

Dr. Rotenberg believes “if you improve sleep, you improve everything else in life,” including general health, mental health, partner relationships, ability to work, aches and pains.

Through his practice he helps people sleep better, live better. And that’s no joke. •

Addressing snoring and apnea can reduce daytime tiredness, headaches, high blood pressure and anxiety.

Untreated, it increases the risk for heart attack, stroke and Type 2 diabetes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION • Dr. Brian Rotenberg • brianrotenberg.com • 519-200-9048 42 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

FASHION | BUSINESS PROFILE

Canada and Italy:

Hand in Glove Style and Quality at Boutique Firenze

B

outique Firenze fits like a glove for owner Bettina Weber. The shop reflects her Italian name given to honour her father’s love of that country, her mother’s passion for fashion, and her own ongoing fascination for all things Italian, sparked by a degree in art history and fully lit on her first trip to the country.

She began selling Italian leather gloves to bring all those story threads together.

“Everybody loves Italy,” she says, but her love runs deeper. She studied art history and thought a trip to see everything she’d studied would be an ideal honeymoon. It became much more.

On her return, she wanted to share the beauty she’d found and chose to sell fine leather gloves — affordable elegance.

Her fashionable mother had always worn the gloves, the purse, the shoes to make an elegant outfit. Some of her mother’s collection is in the museum part of Boutique Firenze.

Of course, launching a business had a few bumps. “We learned some hard lessons the first couple of years,” says Weber. “Then we met reputable suppliers and we began to grow. They are small, family-run businesses, but now they’ve become friends. They make marvelous things. Some soaps come wrapped in paper another company has created since 1264. This is what we try to bring back to our store.”

After selling gloves and scarves at a variety of venues, Weber opened her store eight years ago and now offers soaps and toiletries, jewelry, Murano glass, and accessories by local, Canadian and Indigenous artisans. And she has the largest selection of fine Italian gloves in Ontario.

“I love the reactions of people coming in,” she says. Boutique Firenze is

in-person shopping only, to provide that personal interaction and allow customers to see and feel the quality.

Her sister, Marlaine provides graphic design, and Weber has a childhood photo of herself at a toy cash register, while her sister is shopping. “And that hasn’t changed,” she says, laughing.

When she’s not in the shop talking with customers, Weber has been Middlesex County’s Emergency Management Coordinator for 20 years.

The flexibility from them has given her the opportunity to merge practical style and community safety with Italian joy for life. •

In addition to Ontario’s largest selection of fine Italian gloves, Boutique Firenze offers other accessories such as scarves and jewellery (TOP) and toiletries and lotions (LEFT). A 1910 photo of her grandmother (ABOVE) accents an homage to Bettina Weber’s (INSET) family’s love for gloves.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Boutique Firenze 189 Adelaide St. S. 519-649-4122 boutiquefirenze.ca January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 43

FASHION | WINTER WEAR 2 1

J warm cosy ust because it’s cold

outside doesn’t mean we can’t be fashion

forward as we deal with the elements. Our local retailers have ideas

galore for keeping you comfy — from head to

&

toe — while making a

striking statement. Being

warm and cosy is all about layers

and textures, with both traditional

3

materials such as wool and

cashmere and new tech insulation having their place in the mix.

Bring it on, Winter!

8 4 7

5 6

1 SockSmith’s Smith & Gil, Bison in the Tundra, 2 layer acrylic knit toque with a fluffy pom-pom. White Balmer Shoes 2 Fair Trade wool knit hats.

Plumage Studio Accessories in The Market at Western Fair 3 Warm, comfy water-repellent, high-grip rubber sole. Crafted from a blend of microfiber and suede leather.

Leslies’s Clothing

44 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

4 Transitional light down jacket sewn in two layers with zipper closure and zippered side pockets. Water and windrepellent. Studio Style 5 Fawn Fingermitts. Made with silky pile lining and deer suede palms providing extra comfort and superior grip, while the two-piece glove construction and Bolton thumb ensure a snug fit. White Balmer Shoes

6 Remonte casual, white fur cuff, winter walking boots.

A side zipper provides an alternative to using the laces.

Protected with the RTex membrane for wet weather with a flip grip sole for safer footing on icy days.

White Balmer Shoes

7 Rieker TEX women’s lace-up ankle boots. Water-repellent.

White Balmer Shoes 8 Remonte boot with side zipper, lined with wool and waterproof TEX technology.

The glass-fibre outsole provides extra grip. White Balmer Shoes

11

10

12 9

13

14 15

9 Ilse Jacobsen fashionable lace-up rubber boots.

Leslies’s Clothing 10 Alison Sheri cable knit top in pink. Crafted from a soft cotton blend.

Studio Style 11 Alison Sheri longsleeve turtleneck sweater in blue, made from a soft blend of 60% cotton and 40% acrylic for warmth without itch.

Studio Style

12 Alison Sheri chain loop design cable knit sweater. Crafted from a soft cotton blend.

Studio Style 13 Colourful hats, mitts and fingerless hand warmers from Lost Horizons Canada.

Fair Trade accessories handmade by skilled women in Nepal, using New Zealand wool, fully lined in polar fleece.

Boutique Firenze

14 Riecker warm, soft, water-repellent! light brown ankle boots. A zipper allows quick and easy donning. Fluffy shaft edge detail with a grippy sole.

White Balmer Shoes 15 Puffer Coat, well padded and includes a hood and zipper pockets. Ungers Market 

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 45

FASHION | WINTER WEAR 16 17

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16 Max Mara Teddy Bear coat, made of alpaca and wool on a silk base. Oversized fit. Hangar9 17 Pure cashmere scarf, compact and very soft. Classic shape with large bangs and a slight Chevron barbed design. Made in Como, Italy. Hangar9 18 Rag & Bone Jada brushed 100% cashmere cardigan creates a cloud-soft texture. Front button closure and jewel neck. Hangar9 19 Wool beret from Parkhurst Canada. Snowflake brooch

by Danny Pollak Accessories of Toronto. 100% lambswool muffler from British & Irish Imports. Women’s lambskin gloves from Naples by Pennino, DiSa and Omega Gloves.

Boutique Firenze 20 Dorothee Schumacher fluffy statements jacket. Merino wool mix. The fluffy wash gives the loosely fitted style an extra soft feel. Hangar9 21 Remonte snow boots. Suede upper, platform heel, warm lining. White Balmer Shoes 22 Fair trade wool knit hats Plumage Studio Accessories in The Market at Western Fair 23 Veronica Beard Anne fairisle pullover. Spun from soft baby alpaca and merino wool blend, featuring a relaxed fit and slightly boxy shape. Hangar9

warm & cosy

46 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

24 26 25

27

24 Traditional Newfoundland “tigger mitts” with an extra finger for dexterity. Made in NL by Spindrift Handknits from durable wool milled in New Brunswick.

Boutique Firenze

25 Auclair, Daphnee gloves in genuine sheepskin leather.Cozy fleece lining with Mirafil Green insulation (repels water and traps heat). Decorative rabbit fur cuff.

White Balmer Shoes

26 Alison Sheri wool blend coat.

Fully lined with hand pockets and front button closure.. Off-white and pale blue and grey plaid.

Studio Style 27 Rieker ankle boots. Cozy warm lining. RiekerTEX technology.

White Balmer Shoes 

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 47

FASHION | WINTER WEAR

28 Socksmith warm & cozy ladies novelty socks. Premium quality and soft to the touch. Variety of colours and styles. White Balmer Shoes 29 Ultra soft brushed, fleece, long sleeve, hooded midi dress with side slits and pockets Ungers Market 30 Beary Cute Bear print flannel pajama set. Leslies’s Clothing 31 Women’s soft and cozy plaid socks by Socksmith.

White Balmer Shoes

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48 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

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123 Ontario Street, Stratford • whitebalmershoes.com 32 Bamboo Cocoon Wrap is expertly crafted and made to last in London, ON. Soft, breathable, wickable and thermal regulating bamboo French Terry can be worn all year. Loko Sport in The Market at Western Fair 33 InWear comfort wear crafted from soft, luxurious fabric. Magnolia Boutique, at Parkway Gardens 34 Katniss-inspired kniited vest crafted in London ON. Terry Lousie Knits and Wool Shop in The Market at Western Fair

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FOR MORE INFORMATION BOUTIQUE FIRENZE 189 Adelaide Street S #3 519-649-4122 • boutiquefirenze.ca HANGAR9 620 Richmond Street 519-672-0073 • hangar9.ca LESLIE'S CLOTHING 15 Main St N, Bayfield 519-565-2303 fb.com/LesliesClothing LOKO SPORT The Market at Western Fair District • 900 King Street lokosport.ca MAGNOLIA BOUTIQUE Located in Parkway Garden Centre 1473 Gainsborough Road 226-333-2019 parkwaygardens.ca/pages/ magnolia-boutique

PLUMAGE STUDIO Upper West Aisle of the Artisan’s Loft The Market at Western Fair District 900 King Street • plumagestudio.ca STUDIO STYLE 215 Main Street, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 • studiostyle.ca TERRY LOUISE KNITS AND WOOL SHOP The Market at Western Fair District • 900 King Street knitsbytlw.ca UNGERS MARKET 1010 Gainsborough Road, Hyde Park 519-472-8126 • ungers.ca WHITE BALMER SHOES 123 Ontario Street, Stratford 519-271-6661 whitebalmershoes.com January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 49

THE ARTS | CULTURE

Culture Calling

I

s there anything better than the hope and energy that a new year brings? Instead of heavy (and hard!) resolutions, consider something easily attainable like bringing more fun and joy into your year. That’s where arts and culture come in. My resolution is to go out more, see more concerts and shows, attend more festivals. With all of the exciting things happening in January and February, there won’t be any problems keeping my resolution.

We keep hearing that London is a UNESCO City of Music. What does that even mean? Basically, London is part of a global network of cities that have “identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development,” according to the London Music Office website.

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network consists of seven creative fields: Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts and Music. London is one of 84 Cities of Music. Music isn’t the sole focus though, as all of the arts are a significant contributor to making and keeping this designation.

The music industry is BIG business in London. The London Music Office cites that culture adds $671 million to London’s GDP, there are more than 1,000 workers in the live music sector, and 50 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

more than 4,740 live music events are presented annually. The music industry is estimated to have a $25.9 million impact on the local economy. Clearly, the contribution to the economy from all arts and culture is immense and needs to be better acknowledged.

London has some of the best venues to be found anywhere. Each has its own atmosphere and distinct programming.

For instance, the London Music Hall on Dundas Street has recently undergone some extensive renovations and has moved their entryway from the parking lot on Queens Avenue to Dundas Street.

It is an inviting, accessible entry to this amazing venue. If you haven’t been there before or haven’t been there in a while, their upcoming concerts have something for you. They program an eclectic mix of urban, contemporary, and nostalgic genres and everything in between. January highlights include Danko Jones and Fear. February brings Shad, Jade Eagles, Jully Black and April Wine. And that is just a brief sampling of what is playing.

This venue has something every week and often more than one night, definitely worth checking out regularly.

Part of the renovations in the building included adding an intimate Comedy Club space that will launch this month.

Plans are to have weekly comedy nights

Notes from the Local Arts Scene

BY KATHY NAVACKAS

under the name Comedy & Co. Watch for their opening announcements and upcoming acts posted on the London Music Hall website. londonmusichall.com The Central Library’s Wolf Performance Hall is another gorgeous venue in the city. Over the past year they have steadily increased their own programming, offering a diverse array of events while also renting the venue to various organizations and groups in the community. To say that it is a busy hub is an understatement.

Upcoming performances at The Wolf include John Muirhead, an indie-folk musician from Toronto who is promoting his latest cd, The Nomad. John will be performing on February 6. The Dreamboats, a high energy band performing pop rock hits of the ’50s and ’60s hits the stage on February 7.

Canadian favourite Pavlo will be at The Wolf on February 20. He is an internationally renowned, award winning recording artist who plays everything from classical to flamenco and so much more. Dominique Fils-Aimé from Quebec plays on February 26. Fils-Aimé is an R&B/Soul singer who won the Vocal Jazz Album award at the 2020 Junos.

Since this venue is part of the library, they often have wonderful authors speaking. Fans of the Murdoch Mystery TV

2026

SUMMER THEATRE SEASON

Six Stories — One MAY 27 – MAY 30

INNER ELDER

BY MICHELLE THRUSH

JUNE 2 – JUNE 6

GET DOWN TONIGHT OPPOSITE PAGE Toronto indie-folk musician John Muirhead • Canadian R&B/soul singer-songwriter Jully Black ABOVE Magisterra Soloists, a Canada-based chamber ensemble of global artists

show will be delighted to know that Maureen Jennings will be speaking on January 16. The TV series is based on her Detective Murdoch books and has entered its 19th season. More recently Jennings has developed a new series of mysteries focussed on Charlotte Frayne, P.I. This series, under the Paradise Café title, is already up to four books with the latest, March Roars, released in September 2024. January 16 promises to be great evening. lpl.ca/services-spaces/ featured-spaces/wolf-performance-hall The Wolf Performance Hall is a great venue for music as the acoustics and sightlines are terrific. Speaking of acoustics, London’s Aeolian Hall is famous among artists for its sound. This venue has hosted so many world famous artists that it is an honour to say that it’s part of London’s cultural scene.

The Aeolian Hall hosts a wide array of performances, everything from classical to country, to rock, to choral, to folk and so much more. A regular visit to their website is a must. January brings the Swedish folk group FRÄNDER to London as part of their North American tour. The band blends traditional Swedish and Estonian folk traditions with a modern twist. This would be a wonderful opportunity to expand your musical horizons.

Dala also plays in January. This Scarborough-based musical duo is known for lush harmonies that have been influenced by The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and Bob Dylan.

February is a busy month as well.

World music icon Alex Cuba performs

on Febuary 6. and if you want a high energy break from the winter doldrums this is for you: the amazing group from Zimbabwe, Black Umfolosi International, promises a cultural experience not to be missed.

Comedy in London seems to be undergoing a resurgence. There are two comedy evenings at Aeolian in February, featuring Bruce McCulloch and Ian Bagg.

The Barra MacNeils are celebrating 40 years! They are well known to London audiences and they are bringing their Celtic folk music in February, for a fantastic way to shake off any winter blues. aeolianhall.ca While London has plenty of music options, for fans of tribute shows the Port Stanley Festival Theatre has you covered. They have been developing winter programming and these shows are very popular with audiences of all ages. This season includes tributes to U2, Queen, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Elvis & Dolly, Beatlemania Revisited, and Patsy Cline & Shania Twain. There’s something for every musical taste and almost any era. psft.ca If you have never experienced a Magisterra Soloists concert at Museum London, make it a goal this year. Magisterra Soloists is a visionary chamber music ensemble. They have a current roster of over 49 international musicians hailing from more than 25 countries, who have performed in over 130 concert performances and 35 school outreach visits, and they in collaborate with over 35 international special guest artists (piano, winds, 

STARRING LEISA WAY & THE WAYWARD WIND BAND

JUNE 10 – JULY 4

THE LONG WEEKEND

BY NORM FOSTER

JULY 8 – JULY 25

SUGAR ROAD

BY KRISTEN DA SILVA

JULY 29 – AUGUST 15

DEADLY MEMORIES WORLD PREMIERE

BY STEVEN GALLAGHER

AUGUST 19 – SEPTEMBER 5

SHIP TO SHORE

WORLD PREMIERE

BY NORM FOSTER

SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS SINGLE TICKETS GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

PortStanley FestivalTheatre ake

play by the l

519-782-4353 January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 51

voice). Their performance in January is an annual concert dedicated to remembering the voices that were silenced because of the Holocaust, Silenced, Survived, Remembered. Through their music, Magisterra reminds us that art has always been and always will be a valuable form of expression. Look for their immersive and tactile concerts later in the year — an amazing experience for all ages. magisterra.com Opera fans can check out up-andcoming artists in the genre at Western University’s Opera Gala with Early Music Studio, at the von Kuster Hall on January 31. Students from the opera program will perform baroque opera excerpts; this is a free concert with no tickets required.

Swedish folk group FRÄNDER • Comedian Lewis Black

Arty-Facts

Discover the best of London !

Food, Artisans, Community.

Always fresh, local, handcrafted and unique.

Saturday 8:00—3:00 PM Sunday 10:00—2:00 PM www.themarketwfd.com @themarketwfd 900 King Street, London

52 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

The 6th annual Lights on Stratford is running until January 18, Thursdays to Sundays after dark. Various locations from Market Square to Tom Patterson Island host amazing light installations.

A major highlight this year is CHRONOHARP, an interactive light and colour sculpture that responds to touch.

This event truly transforms winter nights into a celebration of art and light at the darkest time of year, a great outing for everyone! lightsonstratford.ca Comedian Lewis Black will be appearing at Centennial Hall February 28. Black is known for his comedic rants on current affairs and politics, especially American politics. This promises to be a very interesting (and funny) evening. centennialhall.london.ca The organization Simple Reflections for Artists is a collective of diverse artists and arts enthusiasts. Founded

by Dario Novoa, the collective aims to celebrate diverse cultural expressions and give local up-and-coming artists an opportunity to showcase their talents.

They are having two events at The Beer Kitchen at The Factory (100 Kellogg Lane) on January 22 and February 12.

The Latin Dance Nights will feature Jennifer Martino and Dario Novoa, with live music by Gianny Correa.

Here’s your chance to get moving and have a great time! 100kellogglane.com •

KATHY NAVACKAS is a passionate and lifelong arts supporter. Having little artistic talent of her own (she maintains), she loves to use her skills and enthusiasm to support and promote the artists she deeply admires.

INDOOR DECOR | MARKETPLACE

1 1 BetterFit blinds. In the breakfast 2 Moonscapes by ET2 nine-light LED nook: Covers Designers’ Edge twochandelier. Cratered irreegularlypleat tack-top semi-sheer drapes in shaped panels with stainless steel Zoi. On patio doors: Labyrinth, with bands suspended with near-invisible extra long matching side panels in low voltage cables. citylightz.ca the great room. Great room windows: Altex motorized roller blind in E-Screen cool black. coverscanada.ca

3 Ollie swivel barrel chair by Palliser.

A small-scale, rounded tub chair with a wood base offers a cozy embrace.

Upholstery shown is Valley Seaglass. londonfinefurniture.com

elevate 2

3

your living space



January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 53

MARKETPLACE | INDOOR DECOR

4 5

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design

inspiring

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4 Ficonstone pottery is a mix of fibreglass and concrete, making them lighter but still resilient. parkwaygardens.ca 5 Livingstone table lamp, inspired by the Industrial Age, with a tripod base and circular mesh-metal shade. londonfinefurniture.com

54 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

6 Unity by ET2 LED linear pendant. Abstract shapes of stainless steel are finished in Brushed Champagne or Black Chrome to create an intriguing sculpture of light. citylightz.ca 7 Dramatic 1960’s vintage floor lamp.

Designed and made in Canada from solid teak in a sculptural zig zag form.

Mid-Century Modern at The Market at Western Fair

8 Belmont round metal pedestal coffee table. 36” diameter, made by Handstone. londonfinefurniture.com 9 AlaCarte Metro round solid wood top dining table. 42”diameter, made by Handstone. londonfinefurniture.com

10

11

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theory

colour

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10 Highland cow wall art. ungers.ca 11 Enchanted tropical wallpaper.

Complementary paint swatches: Vintage Vogue 462, Batik AF-610 and Southwest Pottery 048. clancysrainbow.com

12 Decorative lattice pillow with a tufted, geometric design. ungers.ca 13 Thick cotton rope woven storage baskets. ungers.ca

14 Sectional sofa by Decor-Rest with storage ottoman. Canadian-made and customizable in various fabrics and leathers. londonfinefurniture.com

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 55

AUTOS | MARKET CONDITIONS

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO’S

Car Market IN TRANSITION

Tariffs, EV Mandates and Consumer Uncertainty BY BRUCE FYFE

S

outhwestern Ontario’s automotive market is navigating one of its most complex periods in decades. Headlines about CanadaU.S. trade tensions, tariffs, paused EV mandates and shifting incentive programs dominate the conversation. Fluctuating

interest rates and inflation adds to consumer anxiety.

For buyers, perhaps the car lot feels less like a place of excitement and more like a financial chessboard. For dealers, it is about balancing inventory, educating customers, and adapting to a rapidly changing landscape.

Here’s a look where the marketplace has landed.

56 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

Uncertainty Shapes Buying Behavior Economic uncertainty is the defining theme of today’s car market. Consumers are increasingly cautious, delaying purchases or opting for shorter commitments. “The car business is like the ups and downs of the stock market,” says Paul Jennery, General Manager of Acura West. “The market hates uncertainty, and that uncertainty plays into people’s buying patterns. A car is your second-highest purchase after your home, and that uncertainty makes people sit on their hands to an extent.”

This caution is amplified by rising prices across the board.

With the cost of groceries, housing and utilities all climbing, the appetite for discretionary spending has cooled. Jennery observes, “If people don’t need a car, there isn’t that frothy excitement. Everything is so expensive now, not only automotive but groceries. You hear of the heat-or-eat debate.

“

The market hates uncertainty, and that uncertainty plays into people’s buying patterns.”

People are reluctant to spend a lot of money.” As a result, he notes, leasing has surged in popularity with about 70 percent of their business now coming from leasing, as it helps customers keep the cost within their budget.

Karen Adams, Service Manager at Subaru of London, sees similar trends.

“Price sensitivity has increased over the past year, and many buyers are comparing financing and lease options more carefully than before. Leasing in particular has grown in popularity because it offers lower monthly payments and less long-term commitment.”

Tariffs and Trade Tensions Earlier this year, the U.S. imposed 25 percent tariffs on Canadian-built vehicles

and parts, prompting Canada to respond with counter-tariffs. While fears of dramatic price hikes circulated widely, the actual impact has been more modest.

“Once Trump got in, there was an enormous pull forward as people raced to get in under the wire assuming tariffs would increase prices,” Jennery explains. “As it turns out, that was not the case. All our vehicles are made in Ohio, and Honda (which owns Acura) moves cars back and forth across the border all the time. Year over year, prices have gone up about one thousand dollars — not substantial.”

Still, the psychological effect of these headlines has been significant. Buyers wonder if they should hold onto their current vehicles longer, and showroom traffic from new customers has slowed.

“There’s always the consumer, the one

percent, where this doesn’t matter,” Jennery adds, “but the vast majority of us are concerned.”

Trade tensions have also disrupted availability for certain models. Adams notes, “We’ve experienced some disruptions with vehicle availability. Although most of our lineup is manufactured in Japan, the Subaru Ascent, Forester Wilderness and Crosstrek Wilderness, built in the U.S., have been removed from our lineup for the foreseeable future.”

EV Mandate: A Strategic Reset Canada’s original plan called for 20 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2026, ramping to 100 percent by 2035.

In September the 2026 mandate was paused, citing tariff pressures and 

THE NEW 2026 LUXURY COMPACT SUV

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 57

industry pushback, providing temporary relief for dealers and consumers alike.

With the pause, customers now have more time to evaluate options without feeling pressured.

Chris Pinelli, General Manager of Lexus of London, sees the pause as validation of a more balanced approach.

“The pause in the federal EV mandate has reinforced what we’ve believed all along: customers deserve choice and the industry needs a realistic transition timeline. For now, we can focus on hybrids and plug-in hybrids and properly educate consumers on Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), so they get the right solution when they’re ready.”

Adams agrees. “Some customers who were previously motivated by the sense of an approaching deadline are now taking more time to evaluate their options and the financial aspect of it.”

Manufacturers, however, are still investing heavily in EV development, and new models are on the horizon. Acura’s first full EV, the RXS, launches next June.

Jennery calls it a “game changer” but adds, “Two things need to happen for EVs to truly take off: a 1,000 km range and a price around $40- to $50,000.

That gets you to Toronto, Windsor or

58 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

Muskoka without anxiety. Right now, you won’t drop $70,000 for limited range.”

Affordability and Flexibility Take Center Stage Rising interest rates have made monthly payments a critical factor in decision-making.

Pinelli suggests that the hybrid lineup continues to be one of the strongest points of interest in the showroom as it gives the flexibility to choose what suits your lifestyle, budget and driving habits. And, Adams explains, “while fuel efficiency remains important, for EV shoppers, range and charging convenience are still the deciding factors.”

Used vehicles have become another focal point. With new car prices climbing, demand for quality pre-owned models has intensified. “Scarcity is the situation,” Jennery says. “It’s hard to keep more than five or six used vehicles on our lot. A good four- or five-year-old car is very desirable.”

EV Sentiments Consumer attitudes toward EVs can best be described as “curious but cautious.”

Adams observes, there is genuine excitement about new technology and the promise of lower operating costs, but practical concerns about range, charging access, battery life and resale value are top-of-mind questions. Cold weather performance and home charger installation are also frequent topics.

Pinelli sees a similar split. “Techforward buyers and young professionals are excited to upgrade, but many remain hesitant because of the unknown. That, he argues, “makes Lexus hybrid the safe entry-level electric offer.”

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles offer electric capability for short trips while retaining gasoline engines for longer journeys, reducing range anxiety and infrastructure dependence. For manufacturers and dealers, this multi-pathway approach is proving essential during the

transition years. Jennery sums it up: “You can’t incentivize it enough to make it viable yet. There’s still range anxiety and high price. Get the range right, and anxiety disappears, then it’s just about price.”

Pricing Pressures and Global Competition While tariffs have had a limited direct impact on pricing so far, global competition looms large. Chinese automakers are producing high-quality EVs at significantly lower costs thanks to their government subsidies, Jennery points out. But they aren’t coming to North America anytime soon. Tariffs are in place for a reason, he says, as without safeguards the influx of low-cost imports could disrupt the industry, making tariffs a contentious but strategic necessity.

Dealer Strategies in a Volatile Market Dealers across the region are adapting to this environment with a mix of shortterm tactics and long-term planning. Key strategies include:

• Expanding leasing programs to keep monthly payments manageable.

• Prioritizing hybrid models as a practical bridge to full electrification.

• Investing in consumer education to demystify EV technology and clarify incentive programs.

• Managing inventory carefully to balance the scarcity of used vehicles with growing demand for hybrids.

Pinelli emphasizes clarity. “We spend a lot of time helping guests understand what they do and don’t qualify for.

Adams adds, “Clear, up-to-date information has become essential during the sales process, especially for first-time EV buyers.”

Looking Ahead: What Should Buyers Do? For consumers in Southwestern Ontario, the key to navigating this market is flexibility and planning. Practical steps include: • Explore hybrid options as a transitional solution that balances efficiency and convenience.

• Consider leasing to reduce financial risk and maintain flexibility.

• Stay informed about incentive programs, which can change quickly.

• Plan for at home and road-side charging infrastructure if moving toward a battery-electric vehicle.

• Look for high-quality used cars that have been traded in on expired leases.

Conclusion Southwestern Ontario’s car market reflects a global story: uncertainty breeds caution. Tariffs, paused mandates and economic stress have slowed the pace of change, but not the direction. EVs are coming, just later and more gradually than originally planned. In the meantime, hybrids, leasing and informed decisionmaking are the tools buyers need to navigate this complex environment.

As Jennery puts it, “Everyone is wondering what’s coming next. Maybe I should hang onto my car? That’s the mood. But for those ready to buy, there’s still great value, if you know where to look.” •

BRUCE FYFE is a researcher, writer and retired

librarian who enjoys spending spare time exploring the back roads.

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 59

AUTOS | BUSINESS PROFILE

Welcoming All Auto Enthusiasts Acura West is Customer-centric

C

hoosing a car is a big decision. With so many choices, options and information available, it can also be stressful.

Acura West aims to make it easier, with an approach that runs counter to stereotypical sales.

“We strive to counter the stereotypical perception that many people have of car dealerships — low key, no pressure — collaborative discussions so the right choice is made for our guests. This philosophy permeates throughout the dealership from Sales to Parts to Service,” says Paul Jennery, general manager.

The dealership is welcoming and staff are knowledgeable, trained to help customers decide on the right vehicle with confidence and satisfaction. “Sales are a collaboration with the client. We are very customercentric,” says Jennery.

Customers are usually car enthusiasts looking for something beyond basic transportation from A to B. “We excel at luxury performance, design technology.” For those considering entering the luxury market, the ADX is a good starting point, Jennery says.

A popular model is the Integra, a sporty, compact sedan with four doors, hatchback and luxury elements. The Integra Type S was named Road & Track’s 2024 Performance Car of the Year.

Sharp Magazine called it “probably the best car Acura has made in, well, a long time. It’s an instant future classic, especially with its slick six-speed manual.”

60 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

“

Customers are usually car enthusiasts looking for something beyond basic transportation from A to B. We excel at luxury performance, design technology.”

“We’re at the forefront of innovation and out-of-the-box design technology.

Every manufacturer is looking at EVs down the road. Range and infrastructure are still top-most in minds,” says Jennery. To address this, hybrid versions of best sellers RDX and MDX models are in development. “The RSX will come out next summer. It’s an Acura EV that is high-tech, sporty, exciting looking and high-performance.”

Community involvement is also important. The dealership supports local charities, sports and cultural organizations and events. This reflects the goal to be more than car sales ­— to be a place where customers feel they are part of the family. For example, in the showroom,

The Acura West dealership approach matches Acura’s dedication to design and luxury performance. General manager Paul Jennery (CENTRE) leads a collaborative team with a deep appreciation of Acura vehicles and a shared commitment to superior customer service.

a wall of fame features sponsored sports teams for ages eight to fourteen.

Jennery invites people to come in to see it, see the vehicles, and talk to staff.

“We have great new products, great new designs, great new technology.” • FOR MORE INFORMATION

Acura West 759 Wonderland Rd. N. Acurawest.ca 519-657-1557

ROAD TRIP | TRAVEL

Road Trip

Grey County

BY BRUCE FYFE

T

here is a Scandinavian concept called hygge, pronounced “hoo-gah,” that celebrates winter as a season for comfort and connection. It’s about finding joy in simple pleasures such as sitting by a fire, savouring warm food, and appreciating sunlight on fresh snow. We discovered our own version of hygge just a few hours north of London in Grey County. Located about two and a half hours northeast, heading toward Georgian Bay, and known for its slogan “Gather in Grey,” the county offers charming inns, country stores and cozy restaurants. Exploring the Grey Highlands and Blue Mountains, we found hospitality that makes winter feel inviting and wonderfully restorative.

We wound our way through the villages of Walter’s Falls, Kimberley, Flesherton and Markdale. The secondary highways were in great shape, and we were well-prepared for winter driving in the Cloudburst Grey Lexus NX 350 from Lexus of London.

With its responsive turbocharged engine and confident all-wheel drive, the NX 350 made every curve feel effortless.

Inside, luxury met practicality — heated seats and a warm steering wheel kept us comfortable, while the spacious cabin easily held our gear. The premium sound system paired perfectly with our audiobook as we sipped coffee and passed horses feeding in snowy fields, sparkling drifts, and barns adorned with quiltpattern murals. It was the perfect start to discovering Grey County’s charm.

The gracious exterior of The Falls Inn & Spa. INSET The Inn’s elegant Afternoon Tea is a special event of note.

The Falls Inn & Spa – Walter’s Falls

After a day of exploring country roads and local shops, we arrived in the quiet village of Walter’s Falls near Meaford.

The Falls Inn & Spa is an adult-only retreat with 15 rooms, each offering a view of the 46-foot waterfall that gives the village its name. Owners Meg and Dwayne Hallman have created a haven of calm along the Bruce Trail, where the focus is on slowing down and relaxing.

Meg’s hospitality roots run deep.

She grew up working at an inn in St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick, and later trained at the former Talisman Inn in Ontario. She and Dwayne, 

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 61

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The Falls Inn & Spa co-owner Meg Hallman. • Breakfast or brunch, like this apple cinnamon French toast, is included with an overnight stay at The Falls Inn. • Vintage and rustic elements blend seamlessly with plush comfort and modern amenities at The June Motel. • Relax body, mind and spirit with the Thermal Journey at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain.

• Another view of the June Motel’s cozy ambiance and retro charm. • A cute mug at The June Motel.

who studied technology, met at Fanshawe College and 20 years ago built The Falls Inn on Dwayne’s family land. Meg oversees the front of house, adding personal touches such as seasonal afternoon tea events featuring 10 local teas and generous tiered trays.

The next tea is planned for Easter, and reservations are essential.

The Inn offers a full-service experience.

There is an on-site restaurant overlooking the falls and woods, a lounge, banquet facilities for weddings, and a spa for restorative treatments. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a 20-person saltwater hot tub, a sauna and a fire pit. Our room featured a king bed, electric fireplace, soaker tub, separate shower and thoughtful extras like a coffee maker, fridge, sparkling wine, and cookies.

Breakfast or weekend brunch is included with overnight stays. We sampled apple cinnamon French toast with maple syrup, served with fruit, yogurt, a warm scone and coffee in the cozy dining room with its fireplaces and

62 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

Photo courtesy of Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain (scandinave.com)

wood accents.

Chef April McLean crafts a menu of casual fine dining with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Service is warm and attentive, with staff offering tips for exploring the area and even providing a paper map, a refreshing change from screens.

The Falls Inn & Spa is a complete package for a peaceful getaway, where nature, comfort and hospitality come together beautifully.

The June Motel, Beaver Valley/Kimberley

Just minutes from Kimberley and overlooking Beaver Valley Ski Resort, The June Motel, Beaver Valley is the third reinvention by friends April 

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The Kimberley General Store’s front porch sets the welcoming vibes in the century-old building. • Owners Justin and Stacie Howe have created the cozy Justin’s Oven restaurant in Kimberley. • Justin Howe and his namesake oven, a wood-burning centrepiece producing everything from fresh baking to smoky brisket. • Sourdough bread and butter tarts at the Kimberley General Store.

Brown and Sarah Sklash. They began with a simple idea: to transform the humble roadside motel into something magical. In 2016, they bought a rundown property in Prince Edward County and renovated it by hand, adding bold design touches like neon signs and pink doors.

The June Motel concept quickly became a Canadian boutique favourite. Their second location is in Sauble Beach.

For Beaver Valley, their vision was even more intimate. They created a property with eight rooms that combines the cozy feel of a private rental with the curated design of a boutique motel.

Surrounded by river, woods and hills, this location invites guests to slow down and reconnect with nature, with each other, and with themselves. With a booked weekday stay, you’re entitled to reserved access to the Thermal Journey at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain, a

64 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

rejuvenating ritual of heat, cold and rest through saunas, pools and quiet spaces for deep tech-free relaxation.

Our Cozy King room lived up to its name with a plush king bed, deluxe bedding, brass fixtures and plenty of outlets. The retro charm remains with a compact bathroom, while modern upgrades include efficient heating and cooling and strong Wi-Fi. There are no televisions, an intentional choice to encourage unplugging, but books and robes add comfort.

The real magic happens in the common spaces. The Parlour offers a fireplace, comfortable seating and a kitchen with a high-end coffee machine.

It is stocked each morning with fresh pastries from The Kimberley Store and Justin’s Oven, along with fruit and yogurt. Groups often book all eight rooms for a Motel Takeover, perfect for

celebrations, retreats or small weddings, with delivered meals served in the upstairs studio, a flexible space for yoga, meditation or dining.

Outdoors, the riverfront setting shines with an electric sauna, cold plunges, nightly fire pits and s’mores kits. Guests often say they did not expect to feel so relaxed after such a short stay. That is the essence of The June, where design, nature and simplicity create space for connection.

Marilynne Restaurant

A short drive from Walter’s Falls brings you to Markdale, a town enjoying a culinary revival thanks to spots like Marilynne Restaurant. Marilynne came highly recommended, and we were lucky to snag a table on a snowy Saturday night. The cozy space was buzzing with couples and small groups savouring the farm-focused creations of owner/chef

LEFT Antique chairs and a harvest table reflect the traditional values espoused at Marilynne Restaurant in Markdale.

Brandon Bannon — an homage to his grandmother, the restaurant’s namesake.

“Marilynne taught me the finer things in life,” Brandon shared, and her influence is everywhere, from the antique décor sourced from her collection to the menu celebrating Grey County’s bounty. “It’s incredible what we can produce here,” he added. That commitment shines in dishes like the standout Bison Tourtiere, served with velvety mashed potatoes and a rich

Mystery Road Trips

@ 100 Kellogg Lane

RIGHT Locally-sourced Bison Tourtiere with mashed potatoes and sherry jus. INSET Marilynne Restaurant owner/chef Brandon Bannon offers a simple yet elegant drive-worthy dining destination.

sherry jus. It is a plate that feels like pure comfort. The bison, sourced locally, underscores Marilynne’s ethos of simple, elegant food rooted in community and tradition. It’s a destination worth the drive.

Justin’s Oven

At the heart of Kimberley, framed by the rolling hills of Beaver Valley, Justin’s Oven is the essence of hygge. It’s a warm wood-heated dining space where comfort

and community meet. Owned by Justin and Stacie Howe, who also run the Kimberley General Store next door, the restaurant feels like a cozy retreat after a day outdoors. “We get a lot of people who love nature and the escarpment,” says Stacie, and it’s easy to see why.

Built with help from their fathers, the intimate 20-seat dining room (plus an 80-seat patio in summer) glows with the heat. In the kitchen, a wood-fired oven, 

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White onion and cider soup with fresh sourdough bread at The Gate in Flesherton. • The Gate’s pork belly with Romano beans, cabbage and sweet pepper. • Another source for great butter tarts and more, Granny’s General Store is a popular destinatin in the historic village of Neustadt.

the centerpiece for smoky brisket, bison burgers, chicken and pizzas, make Friday nights a local ritual. In-house baking adds to the charm — think cookies, pies and butter tarts — while frozen meals in the store let you take a little comfort home. “People come in and we try to help them take the edge off their day. It’s a good feeling place. What we do, we do it well,” says Justin. Licensed and laidback, Justin’s Oven has earned a spot on Guess Where Trips, so reservations are wise. Whether you’re here for a hearty meal or a sweet treat by the fire, this is Grey County hospitality at its coziest.

The Gate

What a wonderful surprise to find one of Canada’s top new restaurants while stopping for lunch in Flesherton at The

In Flesherton, The Gate is ranked #8 Best New Restaurant in the country (2025) Gate, ranked #8 Best New Restaurant in the country (2025). Chef Jonathan Gushue and partner Jennifer Belanger have transformed a historic pharmacy into a welcoming space with exposed brick walls and an open kitchen that invites conversation. Gushue brings exceptional experience from celebrated dining destinations including Fogo Island

For winter adventures ...

Inn and Langdon Hall, while Belanger ensures every guest feels at home with warm, attentive service. Together they focus on full-flavour modern European cuisine inspired by the seasons, with plates designed for sharing. At lunch we enjoyed white onion and cider soup, fresh sourdough bread with cultured butter, and a shared plate of pork belly with Romano beans, cabbage and sweet pepper. Each dish was comforting and deeply satisfying, a perfect reflection of Grey County’s growing reputation as a culinary destination.

Country stores & shopping

Grey County’s history and charm live on in its devotion to long-standing general stores. Some, like the Kimberley General Store and Granny’s General

A Unique Shopping Experience

... or relaxing escapes Walter’s Falls Ontario www.thefallsinn.com

66 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

22955 Highbury Ave., N, Ilderton • 519-871-2535 bluehensmarkets.com

Lexus NX 350 AWD

in Cloudburst Grey Vehicle supplied by Lexus of London STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: • 2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder (275 hp, 317 lb-ft torque).

• 8-speed Direct Shift Automatic.

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD). • 18-inch alloy wheels.

• 9.8-inch touchscreen. • 10-speaker sound system.

• Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™.

• Heated Front Seats, heated power-adjustable steering wheel, 8-way power driver's seat with memory.

• Dual-zone automatic climate control.

• Smart Key System with Push Button Start, Power Liftgate, Power Moonroof.

• LED fog lamps, LED daytime running lamps, single-color ambient lighting.

• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert • Digital Latch & Safe Exit Assist: Button-press door opening & alerts for cyclists/vehicles.

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection.

• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist & Lane Tracing Assist. • Road Sign Assist.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The Utopia Market, near Feversham, is a stunning new post-and-beam edifice inspired by 1920s bank barns. • The 7,600-square-foot Utopia Market features a butcher, bakery, fresh produce, a café and more. • Utopia Market owner Sandy Gott stands with an antique quilt hanging from the building’s impressive loft.

Store in Neustadt, occupy buildings dating back to the early 1900s, while others, such as Utopia Market near Feversham, are newly built with a nod to heritage. If you’re on a butter tart quest, these stores are essential stops. Don’t miss the sourdough bread and dairy-free ginger cookies at Kimberley General Store.

Many shops, including Ravenna Country Market, offer locally made frozen meals, hearty take-away sandwiches, hot coffee, grocery staples and unique gifts.

Utopia Market, featuring a butcher, bakery and a café serving fresh meals and coffee, elevates produce, even in winter, thanks to its own greenhouses.

The market’s stunning 7,600-square-foot post-and-beam barn draws inspiration from 1920s bank barns and serves as a one-stop shop for foods, wines, snacks and gifts, especially for those heading to Blue Mountain.

These stores are proudly locally owned and double as community hubs, complete with poster boards and local publications. Some, like Granny’s, even serve as a post office and seasonal ice cream shop.

Gather in Grey

brimming with creativity, every stop offered warmth and connection. This is hygge, Canadian style. Comfort in the cold, beauty in the quiet. As we left, the hills fading behind us, we carried that feeling forward. If you’re looking for a winter getaway that blends cozy charm with unforgettable flavours, Grey County is waiting. •

Grey County showed us that winter is something to savour. From winding roads and snow-dusted valleys to kitchens

Photos by Bruce Fyfe and Jane Antoniak unless otherwise noted. They were guests of The Falls Inn & Spa, Marilynne Restaurant and The June Motel, which did not review or approve this story.

Beautiful Things

for Your Home

LAMBTON HERITAGE MUSEUM Lambton Gallery | Collections Centre | Woodland Heritage Trail

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10035 Museum Rd. Grand Bend heritagemuseum.ca January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 67

EATDRINK | BUSINESS PROFILE

A New Lounge with an Old Soul Soxy’s at The Little Inn in Bayfield

I

n the 19th century, stagecoaches stopped at Bayfield’s Little Inn to drop off travelers for a good meal, a drink and a comfortable bed. Almost 180 years after it was built guests still enjoy those amenities, plus everything the 21st century offers.

The latest offering is Soxy’s, a lounge opened in November 2025.

The setting is comfy and plush, inviting visitors to settle into a cushy chair with a drink and a couple of friends. Owner Jamie McDougall brought hospitality ideas from around the world to provide a memorable experience.

“My vision was to create something unique for Huron County,” he says. “I wanted something that told a story.” Part of that story is the name – Soxy is McDougall’s beloved horse. “It’s a great way to show my passion and celebrate my horse.”

Jessica Petelle directed the realization of the story, beginning with her observation that the Inn’s middle room would be a perfect location for a lounge. As a filmmaker, she was “thrilled to bring it to life.”

She wanted to create a space for overnight guests, day visitors and locals. It’s an inviting space that looks like it existed all along.

“It’s a place that, if you’ve never been, you’d think it always been like that. And if you’ve been, you’d think it was an inviting space created for you,” says marketing executive John Rishworth.

In the short time since opening, Soxy’s has garnered accolades from visitors. One described it as: “A place to gather that’s as warm and welcoming as your living room, to have a quiet conversation over cocktails, or turn up the music and mingle

68 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

A place to gather that’s as warm and welcoming as your living room, to have a quiet conversation over cocktails, or turn up the music and mingle with the gang to celebrate life’s events. with the gang to celebrate life’s events — Soxy’s is a perfect addition to Bayfield’s Little Inn. The decor and ambiance are new yet feel familiar, a new favourite with an old soul!”

Specialty cocktails and small plates were developed for the lounge and worldrenowned Scotches are available. The

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Soxy’s Lounge features numerous welcoming corners for a drink or a bite. • Enjoy a classic cocktail and conversation or a quiet moment at the bar.

• Owner Jamie McDougall and his horse Soxy, the namesake of The Little Inn’s new attraction.

• Plush banquette seating flanks a cosy dining spot. • Floral installations by Savannah Freeman, Young’s Point Flower Farm & Florals.

Photos by Lacey’s Lens Photography.

lounge accommodates 30 to 40 people for private events.

Whether a cozy conversation between two or a celebratory party, Soxy’s promises a memorable experience that combines historic charm and modern comfort, continuing the tradition at the Little Inn. • FOR MORE INFORMATION

Soxy’s at The Little Inn 26 Bayfield Main St. N., Bayfield littleinn.ca • 519-565-2611

EATDRINK | BUSINESS PROFILE

Warm environment, great food The Market at Western Fair District

T

he Market at Western Fair District continues to grow as a community gathering place. “We bring a sense of inclusion, multiculturalism, connection, accessibility.

It’s an incubator and it’s a place to learn and enjoy life,” says Carole Sceli, the market’s business development manager.

In the heart of winter the market is a perfect spot to come in out of the cold and savour not only delicious food, but the warmth of the people you will find there, she says. “In January, folks come and stretch their arms and legs after Christmas, so why not come and grab a coffee and relax? This is a great place to be to hear live music and engage with some of our community groups.” February is Maker’s Month in the Artisans Loft on the second floor. The area is dedicated to local artists and craftspeople. “A lot of them use the market as their studio. The public can come and watch them work and ask them questions and support them,” Sceli says. “We really try to highlight all of the great artisans that come through the market or make it their permanent home.”

During the Family Day long weekend in February, Sceli says, people tend to come together and stay longer.

Going to the market on King Street has become a tradition for many. “Entire families meet here. You see them rearranging tables so six or 10 people can sit together and enjoy the atmosphere.

We really appreciate the support we get from our market family and customers.”

Management also offers the market as a meeting space for community groups such as the Kiwanis Club and the Old East Village BIA, she says.

“

In January, folks come and stretch their arms and legs after Christmas, so why not come and grab a coffee and relax? This is a great place to be to hear live music and engage with some of our community groups.”

“Normally a meeting space is expensive.

They can give us some notice and then have a space to meet that they don’t have to pay for.”

Sceli says the businesses, artisans, community groups and buskers all bring inspiration to the market. “This place always has a sense of optimism. You are always welcome and you will find the best food.” •

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP The Market is a bustling spot for produce, meats, cheeses, baking and so much more.

• Cynthia from The Garden Party offers a colourful array of plants and flowers. • There is always something new and fresh on offer. • Local and seasonal produce is always available.

• Artisanal bakers supply fresh bread and baked goods.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Market at Western Fair District 519-800-3831 900 King St., London themarketwfd.com

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 69

EATDRINK | BUSINESS PROFILE

The Buzz

Culinary Community Notes

BY BRYAN LAVERY

Community Notes In recent issues, my column in Lifestyle has prioritized helping readers anticipate each unique dining experience by contextualizing local restaurants. I like to spotlight the diversity of immigrant and mom-and-pop establishments and revisit well-known institutions and new arrivals on the dining scene. I endeavour to showcase restaurants across the city that differ in location, price and ethos.

Lately, my interest in lesser-known (to me) cuisines has expanded. Drawing on expert perspectives, I aim to deepen readers’ understanding of what to expect.

In the past I have worked with Tourism London, Ontario’s Southwest and other marketing boards, and local BIAs like Downtown London to promote restaurants, highlighting local cuisine and our general culinary culture as a key attraction, and creating food trails and culinary experiences to boost the local economy and visitor experiences.

There is no denying the pressures of independent restaurant ownership, and it is getting worse for small businesses.

But their importance goes far beyond day-to-day economics. Independent restaurateurs are among the first to show up when their communities need them. They provide meals for frontline workers and the marginalized in need, donate time and fundraise for charitable and educational organizations and the community at large — all while shouldering immense burdens and sacrifices themselves. From navigating rising food, labour and overhead costs to supply chain volatility, skilled workforce shortages, and shifting consumer expectations, these indepen-

70 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

dent restaurateurs and mom-and-pop operators continue to face uncertainty.

This past year has tested the industry’s resilience, and many local restaurants have succumbed to the pressures by closing. And, while the restaurant industry continues to rebound, independent restaurants and bars are still mitigating risk, still struggling with survival, still pivoting and persevering to make fiscal sense in the new post-pandemic reality as food inflation continues to outpace the rate of general inflation.

Food Influencers and Armchair Restaurant Reviewers It’s my opinion that most self-styled restaurant reviewers and influencers do not provide informed or balanced reviews.

They create controversy to attract viewers, readers and listeners to various social media platforms. We live in a culture that overrates hyperbole and disparagement. It underrates intelligent skepticism and constructive criticism. People seem unwilling or unable to distinguish news from entertainment. Restaurant criticism is now less about food knowledge and more about spectacle. If you don’t have good, strong food media — whether you love them or despise them — you don’t have the same degree of interest, enthusiasm and accountability.

Too many self-proclaimed restaurant critics and influencers have little at stake.

If they are incorrect or misinformed in their assessments, there are virtually no consequences, but the restaurateur, chef and employees have their livelihoods on

Jesse Walker of Dine in 519

the line. Reviewing restaurants isn’t just a matter of a critic’s personal taste or uninformed opinion. Restaurateurs have the right to expect that the critics, influencers, marketing boards and media outlets that employ them uphold standards that ensure journalistic integrity, objectivity and accountability. The media plays a vital role in promoting tourism by informing potential visitors about destinations and attractions. A misguided reviewer’s need to create arbitrary best-of listicles for sensationalist content can result in plenty of unintended collateral damage.

Quality Catering FOR OVER

25 YEARS

Eataly at Toronto’s Eaton Centre

Jesse Walker does an excellent job promoting our culinary culture. I have been paying close attention to this intrepid food influencer, digital creator and former restaurateur, and his platform Dine in 519 (which I encourage you readers to do as well), for his idiosyncratic take on our hidden culinary gems and local food culture.

Walker recently announced a new podcast and partnership with Blackburn Media, with Sifton Properties as the title sponsor. The podcast will dive a little bit deeper into the culinary stories he has been telling for the last five years. It will allow him to look at culinary matters more comprehensively and go behind the scenes, sometimes with restaurateurs and chefs. Stay tuned, but in the meantime follow his posts on Instagram (instagram.com/dinein519).

Eataly What is more exciting for food enthusiasts than planning a winter culinary getaway? Toronto’s Eataly offers the kind of authentic gastronomic experience sought out not just by locals but by food and drink enthusiasts.

Canada’s first Eataly opened in Toronto’s Yorkville at the Manulife Centre in 2019. Its success led to new locations in Etobicoke at Sherway Gardens and in Don Mills. In November, Eataly opened its newest location at the Eaton Centre in downtown Toronto. There have also been seasonal Eataly pop-ups at Toronto’s Distillery District.

I generally visit Eataly once a month. I shop for unique Italian specialty products or try their regionally-inspired dining offerings.

Eataly’s menu reflects Italy’s distinctive culinary biodiversity, focusing on the finest regional products and traditional ingredients. Also on offer is a selection of small-scale specialty products from dairy farmers, cheesemakers, and butchers, all part of Eataly’s philosophy of sourcing locally. 

“AT MARSHALL’S, EVERY ITEM IS MADE WITH FAMILY IN MIND — YOURS AND OURS.”

Marshall’s specializes in making fresh pasta, homemade sauces, lasagnas and pasta trays.

Add our store-made lean beef meatballs and chicken parmesan. Feeding your family or a crowd, visit our website for menu ideas.

RETAIL STORE HOURS: Tues to Fri 9:30–6:30 • Sat 9:30–5

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Open 6 Days a Week January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 71

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Owner Ian Kennard (centre) and the Willie’s Café team

In January 2007, the Italian visionary and entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti converted an abandoned vermouth factory in Torino into the first Eataly location. He travelled across Italy’s 20 regions to locate and select high-quality regional products that meet Slow Food partners’ criteria for good, clean and fair food. Slow Food is the grassroots global organization founded in 1989 to combat the erosion of local food culture and tradition. The initiative also addresses encroaching fast-food culture. It has evolved into a worldwide movement that engages millions of people in over 160 countries.

Buzz The London Wine & Food Show is transforming into Taste Ex: The London Food and Drink Experience — featuring the largest range of beverages at any show in Canada — on January 9 and 10. TasteWFD.com Londonlicious, The Winter Edition, returns January 16 to February 8. londonlicious.ca Turning to developments in the restaurant landscape, for 50 years the Marienbad brought European dining culture to downtown in a casual setting. The kitchen evoked eastern and central Europe with its skill in creating time-honoured specialties, where sweet and sour flavours came together perfectly. There was always an exceptional steak tartare and a variety of signature schnitzels. The restaurant is now closed. The iconic heritage building is up for sale. As an alternative try Unique Food Attitudes. Barbara Czyz’s (pronounced Cush) has run her catering business for 25 years. The storefront bistro in the Old East Village opened 10 years ago, and has been a long-standing success due to its modern European sensibility, changing chalkboard menu offerings, fabulous well-prepared cuisine, and warm and attentive vibe. unique-food-attitudes.com Meraki, a new Greek restaurant, has opened in the former One on York which was previously the iconic Michael’s on the Thames. A new Indian restaurant, Malabari Bistro, serving Malabari-style cuisine from the southern coast of India has opened in the space previously 

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occupied by the much-lamented Grace Restaurant in downtown London.

Royal Malabar, another fine dining Indian restaurant, has opened in the space previously occupied by Massey’s before it relocated to a more upscale location with plenty of parking in Riverbend.

Ian Kennard’s Willie’s Café has been a revered London caterer and lunch spot for decades. The Old East Village location has closed, and Willie’s will reopen in new premises at One London Place. The menu includes over a dozen sandwiches and wraps, as well as soups, salads, and house specialties. Everything is made in-house and from scratch.

Willies have built a reputation as a caterer, delivering fresh, healthy fare to

Pramod and Susan Kukadia’s Currys Restaurant, a long-standing, hospitable staple for East Indian foods, welcomed diners to the Wellington Street location since 1985. The restaurant has now closed after the city controversially expropriated the property for its expanding bus rapid transit system.

Bryan’s Tasting Notes Abruzzi is stylish but casual, with an elegant white marble bar at the front.

In the center of the dining room, there is an elevated communal table for eight.

The comfortable chairs and banquettes, simple décor with bare brick, mirrors and innovative lighting, and the friendly ambience are central to the Abruzzi

Abruzzi Ristorante in downtown London

offices at affordable prices for decades. williescafeandcatering.com

PLAY & STAY

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• DAILY SPECIALS! • Lunch • Dinner • Ice Cream • Large Patio • Outdoor Stage 74 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

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Your Great Canadian Getaway!

Roll Roll in London’s Wortley Village

experience. After 15 years the menu still captures the essence of authentic Italian cuisine. Chef Dave Lamers and his brigade prepare intuitive, often iconic dishes using local, high-quality ingredients. They execute each dish with skill and attention to detail. The kitchen is committed to sourcing local, sustainable ingredients. Abruzzi sets the standard in London for discerning, regionally-inspired Italian gastronomy, with both its comprehensive wine list and accomplished menus. abruzzi.ca Jinju (Jully) Lee fell in love with Wortley Village after she moved to London and now owns two excellent Japanese restaurants there: Roll Roll, a trendy sushi takeout, and MORI (which means “forest” in Japanese).

The tiny space exemplifies the izakaya experience — a casual licensed bar serving small shareable dishes — and offers a wide selection of small-plate appetizers and main dishes, such as salmon truffle and Kushi Katsu. In Japanese, kushi refers to the skewers used, while katsu means a deep-fried meat cutlet. The drinks menu features Japanese cocktails, beer and sake. morilondon.ca Billy’s Deli Restaurant on Dundas Street has been a downtown landmark for decades. It is the best place in the city for a high-quality breakfast. It serves sensational crispy skillet-sized 

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“

You did not ‘grab someone a drink’, you didn’t call a table of women ‘guys’, she always knew what a regular client liked to drink and where they liked to sit.”

A wellness-driven cafe focused on clean ingredients, paleo baking and functional lattes crafted for balance and vitality.

95 ONTARIO ST STRATFORD

76 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

FROM CINDY KINSELLA OBITUARY, NOVEMBER 2025

Cindy Kinsella

potato latkes with all the proper accoutrements and high-quality perfectly-cooked bacon and sausages.

For lunch, there are classic deli offerings like an excellent Club House sandwich, a quarter-pound Reuben and piled-high Montreal smoked meat sandwiches.

Daily blackboard specials add seasonal interest to the traditional deli menu. We love the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benny Latke breakfast when it is featured.

Billy’s has a reputation for rustic homespun pies and friendly, charming servers. billysdelirestaurant.ca Ben Thanh Express is a longstanding second-generation Viet Thai restaurant. It offers a vast selection of meal-in-a-bowl specialties and vegetarian options at relatively accessible prices. Cooks prepare your meal fresh à la minute with quality ingredients and fragrant herbs and aromatics. The large dining room is airy, relaxing and casual. btexpress.ca In Woodstock, I savour chef Eric Boyar’s exceptional terroir-driven farm-to-table cuisine at sixthirtynine.

Boyar’s focused culinary repertoire, rooted in classical French technique, developed at several Toronto hotspots, including Splendido, Mistura, Goldfish, and the Metropolitan Hotel.

Chef and his wife, Jennifer, returned to Woodstock twenty years ago and opened sixthirtynine which has become the gold standard benchmark in southwestern Ontario. The restaurant recently added custom-built, elegant chairs for added comfort in the stylish white-linen dining room. sixthirtynine.com

Martin Withenshaw

Grassroots in St. Thomas builds on the community’s affection for chef Rob Lampman and Terri Collard’s Two Forks, a Port Stanley landmark. The culinary team, including chef Stephen Raaff, brings an elevated farm-totable dining experience. They continue the same commitment to quality and hospitality. grassroots-stthomas.ca

In Memoriam Shifting focus, we recently lost two wonderful people who made significant contributions to the culinary industry in our region.

Hospitality professional Cindy Kinsella passed away peacefully in early November 2025. Her husband, restaurateur and chef David Chapman, and son Russell Waring were by her side. Cindy spent her entire career in the restaurant business at several notable local institutions. These included The Iroquois, Highland Golf Club, Anthony’s Bistro, David’s Bistro, and Katana Kafe. She was a consummate hospitality professional and the embodiment of attentive, old-school service. Her obituary stated: “You did not ‘grab someone a drink’, you didn’t call a table of women ‘guys’, she always knew what a regular client liked to drink and where they liked to sit. Cindy’s other great passion was gardening, in both Thedford and Shedden. She was never happier than when planting and pruning in her garden. After tending to people all her working life, tending her garden brought her peace and tranquillity.

I knew Martin Withenshaw for 40 years. Martin also passed in November 2025 and has left an indelible mark in many respected and notable ways: as a human and gay rights activist; through his tenure in the restaurant industry, notably at Hilary Alderson’s iconic former Say Cheese; and through his ownership of the beloved Withenshaw’s Cheese Shop in Wortley Village. • BRYAN LAVERY has decades of experience as a food writer, chef, restaurateur, gourmet food retailer, caterer, consultant, award-winning tourism experience facilitator and local food champion. He consistently advocates for local culinary heroes and operates Blackfriars Bistro, Blackfriars Emporio and Catering, and Forest City Culinary Experiences.

Local Beef • Pork • Poultry • Premium Quality Award Winning Bacon Specialty European Meat Products

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blackfriarsbistro.com January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 77

EATDRINK | RECIPES

Eat Yourself Healthy Food to Change Your Life

BY JAME OLIVER REVIEW BY SUE GORDON

C

ongratulations are again in order for renowned celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. He turned 50 years old while publishing his 30th cookbook. Eat Yourself Healthy: Food to Change Your Life includes 120 recipes that feature Oliver’s well-researched ideas about what we should be eating. “Food can make an absolute difference in your life,” he writes. “What you eat can change how you look, how you feel and how you are, even how your brain functions.”

Oliver stresses the importance of getting seven servings of fruit and vegetables each day, with a helpful rather than scolding tone. He doles out information in small, clear, distinct ways that were easily absorbed as I read most of the book one cold winter night. I appreciated his overview of pantry staples and kitchen tools, shopping and sleep suggestions. He also has helpful tips for how to balance your plate, hydrate and determine healthy portion sizes. Perhaps most useful in our household, his list of “50 healthy snacks” has provided some new ideas.

A key feature of Eat Yourself Healthy is a “kickstarter” two-week menu gleaned from the recipes in the book. Each daily menu includes a minimum of seven fruit and vegetables; an average of 30g of fibre and 50g of protein per day; one portion of dairy or dairy alternative; and a variety of carbohydrates. Each recipe is designed for two people (I’ve got in the habit of cooking at least two meals at a time, no matter how simple!), with both prep and cooking time clear at the start. The index at the back of the book has nutritional info detailing the protein, carbs, fibre, energy, fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt of each recipe.

I enjoyed Oliver’s book, both as a read and while making the recipes. I chose

A key feature of Eat Yourself Healthy is a “kickstarter” two-week menu gleaned from the recipes in the book. three for the purpose of this review — an entrée, a salad and a dessert — but the whole book looks delicious and inviting.

There are great photographs for each recipe. I’m not a food stylist but my results looked pretty similar!

MEATBALL BAKE

Loved this recipe. The tastes, the warmth and the deep colours on the plate. The combination of whole tinned tomatoes and jarred roasted red peppers was delicious.

This proved a great meal to serve friends, who cleaned their plates.

CHOPPED RAINBOW SALAD

Loved how this salad came together so quickly. Oliver says 11 minutes and I think that is generous. The brilliant colours and the flavour combination would be welcome at any table for any occasion.

Taste preference in our home means less mint for us next time, but it would be a mistake to leave it out completely.

BANANA & ALMOND CAKE

A great dessert. The almond flour makes all the difference if you are thinking this looks like a traditional banana bread recipe. It’s much lighter. Unlike a loaf of banana bread at our house, this cake was nothing but crumbs by the end of the day.

Eat Yourself Healthy is ideal for someone who wants to eat in a healthier way but it also works for anyone who is busy and just wants to try tasty new recipes without a lot of ingredients. That seems to be Jamie Oliver’s recipe for success in the kitchen.

SUE GORDON has taught baking to high school students, including running an alternative school’s commercial bakery in Carcross, Yukon.

Now a retired nurse and educator, she is enjoying trying new things in her kitchen and garden.

78 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

Remove the pan from the oven, pour the sauce over the veg, then evenly space the golden balls around the pan. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes.

To serve, crumble on the feta, sprinkle with the reserved lemon zest and any fennel fronds, and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, if you like.

Great as it is, or with whole wheat toast, couscous, rice or spaghetti.

VEGGIE LOVE Ground meat alternative works very well in place of the ground beef or pork.

BANANA & ALMOND CAKE

MEATBALL BAKE

Using an old friend like meatballs to get some beans into your life is a tasty, nutritious win

Brilliant bananas and almonds take center stage in this deliciously moreish chuck-it-all-in cake

SERVES 4 | PREP 10 MINUTES | COOK 1 HOUR 1 large bulb of fennel (12 oz) 2 red onions (12 oz) 4 carrots (12 oz) 1 x 15-oz can of cannellini beans 1 lb ground beef or pork 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 x 28-oz can of whole tomatoes 1 x 16-oz jar of roasted red peppers 1 lemon 2 oz feta cheese Preheat the oven to 400°F. Trim the fennel, reserving any fronds, peel the onions, then cut it all into wedges and add to a deep roasting pan. Peel, halve and add the carrots. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with sea salt and black pepper, and roast for 40 minutes.

Meanwhile, drain the beans and pulse a couple of times in a food processor. Add the meat and oregano, season, and pulse until just combined. With clean wet hands, divide the mixture into 12, roll into balls, then place in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of oil and cook until golden all over, turning regularly.

Pour the tomatoes and peppers, juices and all, into the processor (there’s no need to clean it). Finely grate and reserve the lemon zest, then squeeze the juice into the processor, season and blitz until smooth.

SERVES 12 | PREP 11 MINUTES | COOK 45 MINUTES

CHOPPED RAINBOW SALAD

3 ripe bananas (about 1 lb) 2 large eggs 2 cups almond flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 cup plain yogurt, plus extra to serve - scant 1/2 cup maple syrup, plus extra for brushing 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste

SERVES 1 | 11 MINUTES

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease a deep 9-inch springform pan with olive oil and line the bottom with parchment paper.

3 oz each pomegranate seeds, yellow bell pepper, ripe tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, drained canned chickpeas, radishes, ripe avocado, little gem lettuce 1 oz dried mango ½ a bunch of mint (about ½ oz) 1 lime

Put 2 of the peeled bananas into a food processor, crack in the eggs, and add all of the remaining ingredients. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and a small pinch of sea salt and blitz until smooth.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread out evenly. Slice the remaining banana and arrange on top, then bake for 45 minutes, or until an inserted skewer comes out clean.

Leaving the pomegranate seeds and chickpeas whole, trim, peel or seed and finely chop all the veg and fruit, along with the dried mango and the mint leaves, then dress with the lime juice and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Season to perfection with sea salt and black pepper, and serve. Delicious just as it is, or paired with couscous or a steaming baked potato.

Remove from the oven, brush with a little maple syrup, and let cool for 10 minutes. Run an offset spatula around the edge of the pan, then release and remove the sides of the pan and transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool, or serve warm.

LEFTOVER LOVE Slice the cake, wrap each portion, and stash in the freezer for another day (up to 3 months). Simply thaw when you want a slice, and enjoy! •

Excerpted from Eat Yourself Healthy by Jamie Oliver published by Appetite © Jamie Oliver Enterprises Limited (2025 Eat Yourself Healthy).

Recipe photography: © David Loftus, 2025. Published by Appetite by Random House®, a division of Penguin Random House Canada Limited.

Reproduced by arrangement with the Publisher. All rights reserved.

January/February 2026 LIFESTYLE 79

HEARTH AND HOME |

Have Your Cake and Eat It Too (Preferably before 8pm)

BY SUE SUTHERLAND-WOOD

L

ike freshly fallen snow, January is a pure, crystalline month of the new year brimming with possibility.

It’s a chance to consider changes, make time for personal reflection.

Although after weeks of round-theclock holiday eating, perhaps it’s also time for some gastric reflection. (Or should I say reflux-ion?) But gosh, I will miss those five shortbread fingers at 3pm every day with my tea …

Now that I am a certain age, it is no longer advisable for me to have dinner too late, for example and especially not the kind of dinners that I used to enjoy years ago.

I will now date myself.

While waiting for cavernous bowls of creamy fettucine to arrive, we’d pull buttery slices from a warm loaf of garlic bread and order deep-fried tempura vegetables that were served in something the size of a child’s sand pail with a trough of sour cream dip alongside. (Oh, and anyone for a couple of onion blossoms?)

Carafes of house wine flowed freely followed by dessert offerings, samples of which would be wheeled in by the server.

(Which was fortunate because — aside from our poised dessert forks — who was moving at this point?) Cheesecake studded with jellied blueberries, shiny rectangles of Death-by-Chocolate, doorstop wedges of carrot cake and Banana Royale cake with those cute little discs of banana on top were all on display, rising high like miniature chateaux.

And obviously there would be ‘specialty’ coffees to finish, the whipped cream neatly bisecting the blackness of hot liquid beneath, clearly visible in its transparent beaker. I mean, years ago, we howled with laughter at Jerry Seinfeld’s parents’ penchant for “early bird dinners” but these days to me, it’s suddenly not quite so funny.

80 LIFESTYLE January/February 2026

In my experience, everyone loves brunch and guests seem secretly pleased that there’s an entire day left including time for a brisk walk — or a nap!

Nowadays, any meal served late will provide a sleepless night to contemplate both the ceiling and the curling rock now crouching in my dome of stomach. As I stare at the ceiling, my mind helpfully brings forth fun facts about the perils of high fat, heart disease and alcohol; in fact, that third glass of wine will not only impact my sleep but also affect the way I look in the morning, when my face becomes a compressed bathmat that doesn’t spring back. It’s not good.

The volume of food is simple enough to control of course but the time that I eat seems to be the main culprit. I am not happy about this — it feels elderly — but every time I find myself brightly agreeing to an outing that will involve a late meal, I know I will suffer later.

My millennial children still enjoy eating at all hours but their food choices seem more virtuous than my own were at their age: postage-stamp size bits of pork belly, tri-colour beets, perhaps a lean wild boar sausage? More often still it’s no meat at all and they’ll tuck into Buddha bowls or steaming noodle dishes.

They lean towards local organic produce, ethically sourced: discriminating eaters in other words, just as I wanted them to be.

But nowadays, for myself, I’d really prefer not to eat a beef cheek — slow braised or otherwise — even if the cow lived right next door; in fact, especially if he lived next door! I seem to crave the clean, especially after the gluttony of holiday gorging.

Of course I’ve also tried ordering lighter dinner fare. This suits both budget and digestion but also introduces the very real risk that I will greedily supplement with some grilled haloumi when I get home. Even later.

So, what’s a girl to do?

If event planning is up to me, I often suggest brunch either at my place or a restaurant. In my experience, everyone loves brunch and guests seem secretly pleased that there’s an entire day left including time for a brisk walk — or a nap!

I’ve also accepted the fact that sometimes eating late just happens and I’ll just be proactive with my dress sense and leave any waist cinching belts at home.

I’m also now acquainted with the “Digestive Health” aisle at the drug store and derive some comfort in the knowledge that I’m not alone.

(There’s a whole aisle, after all). •

As well as a lengthy career in public library systems in Canada and the UK, SUE SUTHERLAND-WOOD has written for numerous publications. Her short essays have won national awards. Read more from Sue at her Substack, Everyone Else is Taken (EveryoneElseisTaken.substack.com).

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