Look Local Magazine Oakville & Burlington Issue 9.2

eat shop play local Oakville & Burlington

Volume 9 Issue 2

DISCOVER LOCAL

MEXICAN

Cuisine

WHAT'S INSIDE?

THE BENEFITS OF RAISED GARDEN BEDS WHAT IS THE KETO DIET?

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DESIGNER SERIES SHOWROOM

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Thanks for helping make Bronte Village better Hundreds of business owners, residents and visitors shared their BRONTE BIA vision for the future.

Watch for results this summer.

PHOTO: HEART OF ONTARIO

Visit: bronte-village.ca/bronte-forward

BOS AND CO

OAKVILLE HOME LEISURE

Oakville

Home Leisure

EXPLORE OUR NEW LOOK WHILE EXPLORING LOCAL

VISIT OAKVILLE

VisitOakville.com Please remember to follow regional, provincial and federal regulations when exploring Oakville. Contact hotels directly to confirm offers and policies.

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YOUR INTERIOR DECOR PARTNER SINCE 1964

ANDERSON'S

andersonsinteriors.ca | 686 Guelph Line, Burlington 905.639.0666 |

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Kerry & Hurbert | Nylas's Room

Kevin | COBS Bread Lakeshore

Hila | Sola Salons

Nancy | ACE Co-working

Kenzie | Sugar Suite Cakes

Susan | MUST Boutique

DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE

Sheena | Coriander Green

Staci | Staci Edwards Interior Design

Rob | The Kings Arms

Adriano | Squint Eyewear

Valerie | Kit & Ace

Bruce | The Works

OAKVILLEDOWNTOWN.COM/LOCAL

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Georgeous

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CONTENTS VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 2

18

JUNE 202 1

HOME & GARDEN Discover Raised Garden Beds

26

JUST FOR FUN

SHOP LOCAL

32

38

Local Subscription Boxes

Rad Gifts For Dad

HEALTH & WELLNESS The Keto Diet

COMMUNITY

44

48

54

&

62

Community Events

FAMILY Here's To The Dads

FOOD & DRINK The Best Mexican Cuisine Local Recipe: Familia Fine Foods Beef-Enchilada Casserole

COVER PHOTO FROM

NOSTALGIA L ATIN MARKET

CENTRO

We LIVE to Decorate Right Now: House Plants & Home Décor 289.337.5755 437 Brant Street BURLINGTON centrogarden.com Centro FREE Parking at back entrance off John Street

ZYLIK & BARRY 257 RANDALL STREET

219 MILKWEED WAY

Your Community-Focused REAL ESTATE TEAM

(905) 467-4745 SheilaandLinda.com

Linda Zylik BA., BROKER

Sheila Barry Lauren Zylik SALES REPRESENTATIVE

BCOMM., BROKER

FROM THE PUBLISHER

It’s the beginning of June and I am sure none of us could have predicted this time last year that we would still be in lock down. It has undoubtedly been a tough year, and nobody has escaped the impact of this virus on their personal, family and work lives.

But I think there are two words that capture our mood right now. The first is OPTIMISM. As the vaccines are rolled out and our case counts steadily decrease, I think there is renewed hope that a more normal future may be in sight.

And the second is RESILIENCE! It is amazing, encouraging and uplifting to see how as a society and a community we have fought back. Our local independent businesses, in their determination to survive, have found so many ways to innovate and adapt. We salute them all.

We’re almost there……. Stay Strong and Support Local!

Tim Root publisher

cf

LOOKLOCALMAGAZINE

looklocalmagazine.com

OAKVILLE & BURLINGTON

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 2 PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Tim Root

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jonathon Root

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Beth Walder EDITOR

Anneliese Lawton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jenny Ratcliffe-Wright Kristy Elik Denise Davy Allie Murray ART DIRECTORS

Jennifer Brewster Sarah Lush Ashly Bowers MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Celina Ip For Advertising or General Inquiries 905.845.8732 info@looklocalmagazine.com Look Local Magazine is published 10 times per year and is distributed for free at over 550 locations in Oakville, Burlington and surrounding areas. Copies are also distributed to select neighbourhoods using direct mail.

Look Local Magazine is owned and published by Novavita Publishing Limited 1464 Cornwall Road # 8, Oakville, Ontario L6J 7W5 Copyright: All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission from the Publisher is strictly prohibited.

Editorial contributions: Look Local encourages contributions of articles, recipes, photographs and other creative materials from the community. Please email info@looklocalmagazine.com or mail to 1464 Cornwall Road # 8, Oakville, Ontario L6J 7W5. We reserve the right to edit materials received and can assume no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Select photos courtesy of Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation Disclaimer: Advertisements published in Look Local Magazine are supplied solely by the advertiser and the Publisher accepts no responsibility for opinions expressed in advertisements or for copyright issues with respect to them.

Printed in

Canada

Authorized Service. Premium Experience.

CORE ONE in-person Available

NICETYS

EDITOR’S LETTER

S

ummer is a time we tend to feel inspired,

encouraged…vibrant.

With the warm sun casting its

vibrant glow – everything just

feels lighter. As we sit in (and near the end

of) this third lockdown, I know for many,

it’s been hard to find the light in all of this.

But as someone who has had the opportunity to interact with small business owners, restaurateurs, teachers, first responders, members of this tight-knit community – I can attest that there is still a light

burning brightly in the heart of our village and its people. Continue holding onto hope, we’re almost there.

There’s nothing that brings me more joy than cutting a fresh sprig of

basil out of my backyard herb garden. For easy access, I keep them in

a raised garden bed on the back deck. Learn how to create your own raised garden in our Home & Garden feature.

Mexican food packs a flavour punch – and while you may think tacos, dips, and enchiladas are the end-all-be-all of Mexican food, local authentic Mexican restaurants and grocers say there is so much more to their cuisine. Read more in our Food feature.

Fresh ingredients are the key to a healthy lifestyle. We’ve heard the

hype on the keto diet and decided to find out what it’s all about. Learn

about local bakeries and grocers who cater to this lifestyle in our Health and Wellness feature.

Another hot-ticket item this year is subscription boxes – and there are

a few brands that began right here in Oakville and Burlington. Get the scoop in our Just for Fun feature.

And, just in time – we give you our Father’s Day round-up. The best local gifts for dad, we have them all here! Check out our Special Feature.

The summer sun has only just begun,

Anneliese Lawton

E D I TO R

| anneliese@looklocalmagazine.com

FAIRHOME

W H O L E H O M E A U TO M AT I O N | H O M E T H E AT R E S | L I G H T I N G S O U N D S Y S T E M S | W I N D O W T R E AT M E N T S | S E C U R I T Y

PMWYRE

YOUR HOME ELECTRONIC EXPERTS 4155 FAIRVIEW STREET - #19 , BURLINGTON

|

905-639-9972 | PMWYRE.COM

Home & Garden

n w o r g e m Ho BY

KRIS

LIK TY E

C R E AT E A RAISED V E G E TA B L E GARDEN FOR A HAPPY HARVEST

I

n the summertime, there is nothing more satisfying than savouring a fresh slice of a juicy, ripe red tomato or biting into a cool, crisp cucumber — and it’s even more delicious when that tender vegetable was grown in your very own vegetable garden!

The simple act of nurturing a young plant to fruition is not only good for the environment, but studies show that a connection to nature is a healthy outlet for anxiety, as well as a practical exercise in self-sufficiency.

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This summer, whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned pro, why not hone your veggie-growing skills by growing your own?

MAKE YOUR BED Even if you don't have a lot of time for gardening, you can still have a productive vegetable garden, no matter the size, by starting with a raised bed. It’s a shortcut to a plentiful harvest, even in the first year. The benefits are many: Garden anywhere! Attractive cedar raised beds are an asset to your landscape. Create perimeter gardens, spice up your entryway, grow food in your front yard, or hide an eyesore.

You can harvest more food in less space. Set plants closer together so that every square inch is productive. Use small-space gardening techniques like succession planting and vertical supports to ensure you’re maximizing the space.

GARDEN GIRLS

Local Links

1 The Garden Girls thegardengirls.ca

2 Van Beek’s Landscape Supply, Oakville / Mississauga vanbeeks.com

3 Sheridan Nurseries, Mississauga sheridannurseries.com

4 Bulow Garden & Landscaping, Oakville / Mississauga Bulow-Gardens-Oakville

F

5 Terra Greenhouses, Burlington terragreenhouses.com

6 Connon Nurseries, Waterdown connon.ca

You can plant earlier. Excess water drains better and the soil warms up faster in spring compared to in-ground beds. Specialized covers and garden fabric help you get started even earlier.

You can use better soil. A productive vegetable garden depends on good soil. With a raised bed, you start fresh with the ideal soil blend — even if the soil in your yard is poor.

You’ll see fewer weeds. Because raised beds are densely planted, weeds have little room to grow. And when they do find space, it's easy to pull them from the loose, rich soil.

Easier pest control. It’s simpler to manage insects and exclude animal pests compared to long garden rows because you can easily cover beds with row fabrics or specialized covers.

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Less bending to tend. Deep root raised beds are 15” high, so you bend less during planting, caring for, and harvesting plants.

“Always use untreated wood instead of chemically treated wood or wood ties as chemicals can leech into your vegetables,” Darla Malcolm-Hauraney, cofounder of The Garden Girls Garden Care, advises. “Cedar is the top choice for raised beds because this durable wood is naturally rot-resistant and can last 10 to 15 years. It is also insect-resistant because of oils in the wood.”

“Also, fill the bed with great soil,” she continues. “The best soil suitable for vegetables includes 50% high-quality topsoil and 30% high-quality homemade or certified compost and 20% organic matter such as composted leaves, vermicompost (worm castings), mushroom compost, mineralized soil blend, ground bark, composted cow or poultry manure, and peat moss.”

Stay up to date with the latest news on our website as well you’ll see all of our new arrivals and final sale items!

Check out themillionairesdaughter.com for details.

MILLIONAIRE'S DAUGHTER To our wonderful consignors and customers,

REOPENING SOON! We will be opening our doors as soon as we are allowed to do so!

OAKVILLE

KITCHENER

HAMILTON

AURORA

427 Speers Road 289 837 3800

1436 Victoria Street N. 226 647 4777

272 Ottawa Street N. 905 543 8000

40 Engelhard Drive 905 503 9400

• Easy •

TOP TEN

#1

#2

SQUASH

GARLIC

#3

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#5

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PEAS

RADISH

CARROTS

BEETS

#7

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BEANS

CUCUMBER

LETTUCE

ONION

TRY SOMETHING NEW Time to decide what to plant! Fill your garden with the types of vegetables you like to eat, keeping in mind it’s getting late in the season to plant fruiting vegetables like tomatoes. But if your family loves salad, plant head lettuce, a lettuce cutting mix, cucumbers, and carrots. If you love to cook, plant onions and peppers, leeks, potatoes, and herbs. Try to include at least one vegetable that’s new to you! See our handy list of Easy Top Ten Vegetables.

“After you’ve chosen which veggies you want to grow, research planting dates for your location, your site conditions, your soil conditions, spacing for the size planned, and fertilizer needs,” Darla suggests. “Try to select plants and varieties that are well adapted to environmental conditions in your area, as these are likely to be more vigorous and better able to withstand attack by pests.” LL

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Look Local Volume 9 | Issue 2

since 1999

since 1999 since 1999

BEAUTIFUL HOMES HEALTHY HOMES BEAUTIFUL HOMES HEALTHY HOMES BEAUTIFUL HOMES HEALTHY HOMES

22 22years

salebraƟŶŐ salebraƟŶŐ 22years years salebraƟŶŐ

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fasada.ca Dundas and Bronte, Oakville

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LOVE IT OR LIST IT LOVE IT LISTITIT LOVEFASADA IT OR OR LIST

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TRENDING NOW Don’t miss out on the latest stories online at looklocalmagazine.com!

COMMUNITY

Welcome!

HOME & GARDEN

We've Got It Covered

Introduction to New Local Businesses

Guide to Professional and DIY Upholstery

LOCAL HISTORY Old Town

Historic Hotels and Taverns

FOOD & DRINK

Oodles of Noodles READ THESE STORIES ONLINE looklocalmagazine.com Visit our website:

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Style Meets

Serenity Find all your bathroom, kitchen, and flooring products here!

BARTON BATH & FLOOR

DEPENDABLE LAWN CARE Ask about our

Time-Tested Lawn CPR Rehab Protocol

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Just for Fun

A •THE YE R OF•

Local

SUBSCRIPTION BOXES YOU'LL

Love

by DENISE DAVY

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Look Local Volume 9 | Issue 2

N

ecessity was definitely the mother of invention when it came to small businesses surviving the pandemic. When the virus hit last year and in-person shopping was suddenly shut down, businesses had to scramble to find new ways to get their products to customers. Some found the solution in subscription boxes, which are filled with an assortment of items and delivered to a customer’s door on a one-time basis or according to a schedule.

The items are typically themed, from goodies for the home to beauty products. When Rustic Daisy’s in Waterdown realized they were facing another year with a pandemic, they decided to create a subscription box with a Canadian-made theme, hence the name - Canada in a Box. As of May 2021, Rustic Daisy’s has two different box options to choose from. The Munchie Box, available quarterly, is filled with items to snack on, cook with, and share. Previous boxes have had shortbread, chocolate smash, cookie mix, and fudge, and will sell for $50, with a retail value of between $85 and $100. Just in time for Father’s Day,

CUSTOM JEWELLERY DESIGN

LAURA TEDESCO

# 1 - 1 9 5 L O C K E S T R E E T S O U T H, H A M I LTO N L AURATEDESCO.COM

905 528 4414

Local Links

1 Rustic Daisy’s rusticdaisys.ca

2 Ruby Crate rubycrate.ca

3 The Spark Box thesparkbox.ca

4 Burlington Downtown Business Association burlingtondowntown.ca

the latest Munchie Box features a mix of gourmet items perfect for a summer barbecue, including: a chicken/rib rub, peach chutney, maple syrup, veggie dip, pickled preserves and more.

The second box is the Experience Box, which contains specialty items perfect for birthdays, wedding party gifts, ‘thinking of you’ gifts, graduations or just a rainy day. These boxes list for $75 (with an estimated retail value of $90 to $125) and feature a variety of one-of-a-kind

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$75.00

handmade items and treats, including cards, bath products, teas, chocolates, fudge, candles, soaps, coffee, coasters, and jewelry.

Rustic Daisy’s owner, Cat McCrimmon, says the subscription boxes are a winwin. Not only do they make for safer shopping, but they also support local businesses.

“I love this new brand that we have come up with, and hope to grow it and bring Canadianmade products into everyone’s home,” said Cat.

RUSTIC DAISYS Eco Box Gift Set www.CanadainaBox.style Spread the joy of an eco-friendly gift set that’s good for you and the environment, Presented by Rustic Daisy’s

25 Main St S. Waterdown ON | 289.260.7414 RUSTICDAISYS.CA

The Community Caring Box, founded in Georgetown, is another example of a subscription box - but this one donates a portion of their profits to a local charity. Each box supports more than 20 business brands.

Then there’s Ruby Crate, a lifestyle subscription box for tween and teenage girls that focuses on beauty items, style, and self-expression. With a tween daughter of her own, Oakville founder Heidi Avery had an 'aha moment' when she noticed there was a gap

BODEGA VASORELAXNT FOR GLACOMA

ANTI-EMETIC APPETITE CONTROL

ANALGESIC FOR RHEMATOID ARTHRITS

STIMULATES NEW GROWTH AND BONE STRENGTH

ANTI-ANXIETY ANTIOXIDANT ANTI-DEPRESSANT

ANTI-ISCHEMIC ANTI-INFLAMATORY

ANTI-PROKINETIC

STIMULATES NEW GROWTH AND BONE STRENGTH

in the market for this generation! Ruby Crate was born to cater to the younger generation's needs and wants - providing an excellent opportunity to create a new box with fun treasures for our girls that are theirs, and theirs alone. The Ruby Crate arrives four times a year and includes 5-7 unique products ranging from beauty and skin care, cool accessories, tech gadgets, and tasty snacks.

The Spark Box, founded by Sara and Mackenzie in Burlington, is specifically for moms and their kids and includes items for newborns and up. Each box is designed mindfully to address age-specific

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developmental milestones for your child and to include products that help make motherhood just a bit easier. All items target a child's specific age and developmental stage and also include items for mom, such as lotions.

The Burlington Downtown Business Association subscription box #DTBURLBOX - includes hand-selected items from local businesses and was set up to help businesses during the pandemic. It’s also a way to buy locally. Each box is filled with items from Downtown Burlington small businesses, such as a citronella candle from The Artisanville, sunscreen from Natural Health Garden, nail polish from Water’s Edge Salon & Spa, and a coupon for one pint of gelato from I Love Gelato. Each box is released at the beginning of the month and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Last year’s boxes were theme-filled, for example, Mother’s Day in May, Father’s Day in June, and Backyard Summer Survival in July. LL

YOUNG'S AUTOMOTIVE

Shop Local

RAD

GIFTS FOR

DAD LAKESIDE LIVIN' OAKVILLE These golf ball sets are the perfect gift for Father’s Day or any other celebration for that golf lover in your life! Sure to make him laugh as you remind him that simply putt, he's the best dad by par!

lakesidelivin.com

CORE 1 OAKVILLE With a padded interior for a laptop and plenty of additional storage space, the Herschel Gibson Bag will become his goto work and weekend carry-all.

core1.ca

VEREDA COFFEE OAKVILLE Treat your dad to a brew-tiful Father's Day with quality fair-trade roasts and brewing tools, so dad can become an expert barista in the comfort of his home!

veredacentral.ca

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A delightful consignment boutique that provides outstanding value and an extraordinary shopping experience.

BOGART HOME A GREENER PLACE WATERDOWN Green up dad's shaving routine! Swap out the old plastic razor and give dad one made to last a lifetime.

agreenerplace.ca

IN THE HEART OF BRONTE VILL AGE

2448 Lakeshore Rd, W.- Entrance on Bronte Road bogarthome.com | 289.837.4333 |

BODEGA WELLNESS BURLINGTON + HAMILTON

!$

TRIAS GALLERY

This dad friendly gift set includes the best-selling 'On The Go' CBD Oil Tincture, the CBD supercharged 'Solace' Pain Salve, a travel CBD Pain Stick Roller, Bodega Body Wash and a Black Tourmaline Crystal.

bodegawellness.com

www.triasgallery.com 11 Bronte Rd, #29, Bronte Harbour 905.465.1113

THE HANDMADE HOUSE BURLINGTON Summer is here and that means #bbqszn!

Your dad will love firing up some gourmet barbecue with some fiery heat and powerful flavours from Steel City Hot Sauce!

thehandmadehouse.ca

OAKVILLE HOME LEISURE OAKVILLE Get outside with dad this summer and grab this bocce ball set from Oakville Home Leisure. They've got lots of other great outdoors games to choose from too!

oakvillehomeleisure.ca

THE ARTISANVILLE BURLINGTON If your dad, brother, or husband is

TUNDRA LEATHER HAMILTON

more of a 2-in-1 kinda guy, this face

Dad will love storing his

and beard wash will streamline his

grooming tools or day-to-day

hectic morning routine.

theartisanville.ca

essentials inside this sleek, stylish and compact leather kit from Tundra Leather. #madeinhamilton

tundraleather.ca

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BURLINGTON’S

BUSH'S MENSWEAR FIRST CHOICE FOR QUALIT Y MEN’S CLOTHING 375 BRANT STREET 905.634.1837 WWW.BUSHS.CA

LANA’S B O U T IQU E LANA'S BOUTIQUE

SUMMER STYLES HAVE ARRIVED 905.847.8148 | BRONTE HARBOUR 100 BRONTE ROAD, UNIT 5, OAKVILLE LANASBRONTE.COM

Shop a curated selection of fantastic Father's Day gifts

If you are a local business

looklocal.ca

Interested in joining the marketplace, email us at info@looklocal.ca to learn more.

Find your

Add items

Choose between

Enjoy local!

favourite local

f rom mulitple

f ree local delivery

And feel good

businesses

shops to your

or curbside pickup

you've helped

all in one

cart for a single

support the

place

checkout

local community

experience

Mixology Whiskey Glass Set Sold By: Lakeside Livin', Oakville

Cookie Gift Basket Sold By: Kiki's Cookies

Herschel Little America Backpack Sold By: Core 1, Oakville

CBD Body Lotion (750mg CBD) Sold By: Bodega Wellness, Burlington

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL ! @looklocalmarketplace To learn about new products, vendors and special monthly giveaways!

A new way to shop local is coming soon!

Health & Wellness

HAT'S• •W

KETO? TH

EA

ER

TS

EV

Y

IN

G

YO

+L U N W EED TO KNO

by ALLIE MURRAY

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A OC

L

hen it comes to dieting, new trends pop up every so often. There was the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet, and Zone Diet. More recently, you've probably heard at least something about the Ketogenic (keto) diet - a low-carb, high-fat diet that has taken the world by storm.

W

Mostly known for weight loss, the diet works by reducing the intake of carbohydrates and replacing it with fats to put the body into a state called ketosis. Seafood, cheese, meat and poultry, and lowcarb veggies are just some of the foods that make the keto-cut.

While there are a variety of benefits for health and wellness from the keto diet, Gloria Palcich, the founder of Ketolibriyum in Oakville, notes, “Most commonly cited and what headlines tend to gravitate towards are the effects on weight loss, however, the benefits go far beyond that.” She adds, “Other common benefits one might experience from following a ketogenic diet include increased energy, lowered inflammation as well as improvements with insulin resistance.” Gloria says when she started making keto-friendly meals for her father, his blood sugar dropped enough to take him off his medication for Type 2 Diabetes.

ARS OF CUSTOM 0 YE LEA G3 TH TIN ER A W R B O E RK L E C

TUNDRA LEATHER

313 King Street East, Hamilton | 905.527.7745

tundraleather.ca | Follow us!

!"$%

STEPHEN CRAWFORD

At Ketolibriyum, she now has an entire selection of keto meal plans, individual grocery items, and supplements available to support a keto lifestyle. Gloria says that not all diets are the perfect fit for everyone, but more doctors are starting to prescribe the diet to help with health concerns.

Sandra Kay from Primal Cravings in Burlington says it's important to do your research before jumping into any diet. “The keto diet, like every diet, should be discussed with your doctor or health professional before starting,” she explains. “Do your research.

Understand it’s not a magic pill, it takes commitment”. Sandra initially started Primal Cravings in 2010 to cater to a Paleo sound lifestyle, but due to increased demand, she also offers autoimmune protocol friendly meals and desserts, as well as keto-friendly meals and desserts - free of soy, dairy, grains, legumes, and refined sugar (and everything is gluten-free!)

As the keto diet has gained in popularity, it has resulted in a variety of bakeries and stores popping up across the Halton Region specializing in ketogenic-friendly foods. Julia Rochon, the owner of Julia’s Joyful Kitchen in Oakville, started her namesake bakery to cater to specialty diets.

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“I saw the high demand for treats that were keto-friendly, so I got busy in the kitchen to create items that could be enjoyed without individuals having to compromise their way of eating,” Julia explains.

“If you are following a specific diet or way of eating, I believe it's super important to enjoy a treat now and then, especially one you can feel good about”.

At Julia's, you can find keto frosted brownies, lemonstrawberry donuts, bagels and brownie cakes.

Julia and Gloria both recommend understanding how your body works before trying something new - it's especially important to consult with your doctor. To help with education and understanding, Gloria at Ketolibriyum has a series called “Keto 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Start Keto” that breaks down everything you need to know.

We asked our business owners to tell us their favourite keto friendly food choices in their stores at the moment.

Here were their answers.

LEATHER LOFT

DIAMOND BOUTIQUE

JULIA'S JOYFUL KITCHEN

KETOLIBRIYUM

Ketolibriyum Ketolibriyum offers meals and baked goods. Gloria says her two favourite dishes at the store are the Chicken Shawarma or Buffalo Chicken Casserole, both keto-friendly and delicious.

2 3 8 7 T R A FA L G A R R O A D , O A KV I L L E .

ketolibriyum.ca

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JULia’s Joyful Kitchen Specializing in not only keto-friendly treats but also vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and soy-free products, Julia says her go-to treat is the Keto Swirl Brownie for something sweet or the Keto Bagels for a tasty and healthy breakfast.

388 SWITCHGRASS S T R E E T, O A KV I L L E

juliasjoyfulkitchen.com

LINGERIE

374 Brant St., Burlington 905.634.0101 LingerieDAmour.ca @lingeriedamour

Primal Cravings Known as Burlington’s one-stop-shop for specialty diet shopping, Sandra recommends the parmesan chicken with alfredo broccoli and zoodles or the meatlovers pizza for a delicious keto meal.

BOCANA

2 1 8 M O U N TA I N G R OV E AV E N U E # 1 0 2 , BURLINGTON

primalcravingsfrozen.com LL

435 Pearl St. Burlington 905.632.2993 Bocana.ca @BocanaOnPearl

Community Events

JUNE

Kite Festival

This year the City of Burlington Festivals and Events staff has teamed up with the Rocca Sisters Team and re-imagined their traditional Kite Festival. In lieu of an in-person festival they will be offering a limited supply of FREE Kite Kits to Burlington residents to get outside and play this June.

Registration opens June 7th at Burlington.ca City of Burlington Take Home Event Burlington.ca

8th Annual 23-29 Oakville Film Festival JUNE

OFFA presents Oakville’s only independent film festival – the Oakville Film Festival – each year in June. The once 3-day festival has now expanded to a full week for 2021 and will kick off as a fully digital festival. With over 100 films over 7 days, you will be able to stream all the films, Q&As, and festival action from the comfort of your home. Get your tickets at offa.ca Virtual Offa.ca

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JUNE

12

Relay for Life

This year’s Relay for Life is virtual but still includes all the hallmark components of the in-person events including an opening ceremony and inspiring stories from those affected by cancer in our communities. To participate visit support.cancer.ca Virtual Suppor.cancer.ca

JUNE

23

COVID Tree Dedication Ceremony

Join the Town of Oakville in a virtual celebration as they dedicate a tree at Oakville Trafalgar Community Centre, the former site of the Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, in remembrance of those we have lost during the COVID-19 pandemic and the unwavering dedication of first responders.

Oakville Trafalgar Community Centre Virtual Oakville.ca

P OT T E RY | FUSED GL A SS | SOA P MA KIN G | J EWE LLE RY

CREATIVE POTTERY ADULT SUMMER CLASSES

& SUMMER CAMPS NOW OPEN! REGISTER ONLINE

We host workshops, private parties, classes for all ages, home school groups and so much more. Gift cards available.

CREATIVEINSIGHTPOTTERY.COM

MADEBYHANDFORYOU.COM

OPEN MONDAYS

THEWINE WINE BARBAR CURATED WINE. CHARCUTERIE. CHEESE. WINE TASTINGS.

100 BRONTE ROAD, UNIT 9, OAKVILLE 905-469-8555 THEWINEBAROAKVILLE.COM - OPEN 12PM - 10PM (CLOSED TUESDAYS)

JUNE

23

At Home in Bronte

Summer 2021 invites locals to continue to get outside to walk, push and cycle to Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park and surrounding businesses to see – and use – 70 professionally painted Muskoka chairs. The art installation is safely spaced out, free and available any time, during any weather through October 2021.

Bronte Village, Oakville Bronte-village.ca

JULY

Canada Day

The Town of Oakville and City of Burlington are currently planning Canada Day Celebrations for their respective communities.

Details are still in the works, so keep an eye on their website for what’s to come!

Oakville & Burlington Oakville.ca Burlington.ca

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JULY

7

Storytime in Gairloch Gardens

Bring your little one to Oakville Galleries' Gairloch Gardens to explore art and enjoy story time! In partnership with the Oakville Public Library, stroll amongst the roses on the lakeside, using the surrounding sculptures within the garden as inspiration for an engaging toddler friendly art activity.

1306 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville Oakvillegalleries.com

#FARMTOCUP

VISIT US AT

VEREDA

UPPER MIDDLE & EIGHTH LINE OPENING SOON

1011 UPPERMIDDLE RD E LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF UPPER MIDDLE ROAD & 8TH LINE

310 KERR STREET

f @VEREDACENTRAL.CA VEREDACENTRAL.CA

13TH STREET WINERY

Environment Family

HERE' S TO THE

Dads TRENDING GIFTS FOR T H I S FAT H E R ’ S D AY

by ANNELIESE LAWTON

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M

y dad is a simple man – and as a man in his sixties, there’s not much he really needs. But when I think about our fondest times together, a few things come to mind: baiting a hook, casting a rod, and obviously, reeling in the big one. My husband, on the other hand, he’s a tech guy. His computer screens (yes, plural) are nearly bigger than our TV, he has more headphones than ears, and his keyboard makes a clicky sound – which apparently is a good thing. Just because you love someone, doesn’t always mean you know what to get them as a gift. Especially, if you have a father - figure in your life like my husband…… This is why we put together this gift guide – or should I say, gift guidance – as a way to guide you towards the perfect gift for the dad in your life.

REFILLERY

REFILL ABLE PRODUCTS . ECO-FRIENDLY . CANADIAN

S H O P R E F I L L E R Y M A R K E T.C A B U R L I N G T O N , O N TA R I O

GRAHAM & BROOKS Unique furniture, accessories & collections for your home, garden & cottage, featuring re-purposed and renewed Vintage Canadian, Industrial & Rustic furniture 289.238.8618 • 43 Cootes Drive, Dundas grahamandbrooks.com

PMWYRE

CORE ONE

FOR TH E TECH DAD If you have a tech-loving dad in your life and you’re not a techsmart person, it’s really hard to know where to shop and what to buy. Local businesses like Core One or PMWYRE can help. From Bluetooth headphones and turntables (which are totally making a comeback) to full man-cave system integrations, these technology and audio experts can guide you towards the perfect gift for your budget – and for the dad in your life.

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FOR THE G RILL DAD Barbeques Galore is the place to go if you’re looking for grill gifts for dad. From BBQs to outdoor heating, they have it all, but we recommend you check out their accessories too. For the dad who loves to grill, things like a wireless meat thermometer, BBQ brush, or pellets for Dad’s smoker will really step up his grill game. They have tools, gadgets, apparel and yes even the grills themselves.

For outdoor fire pits, Oakville Home Leisure is the place to go. They've also got dart boards, pool table accessories and lots more to choose from.

GREENER PLACE

Here to Help

FOR THE FOODIE DAD Hot sauces. Cured meats.

Salts. Mustards. Pies. Where do we begin? Let’s start with The Platter Company – a little shop in Aldershot that believes in all-inclusive eating. This means artisan cheese and charcuterie meats, desserts, pastries, appetizers – the works.

KARINA GOULD

FLORENCE MEATS

VEREDA CENTRAL

They also offer vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free dishes! Then, there is Florence Meats in Oakville who stock a huge selection of spices, rubs and sauces - most with a South African influence. You can also check out Nostalgia Latin Market for an amazing selection of Mexican and Latin American ingredients and fixings. Go ahead, indulge Dad!

FOR THE CAFFEINE CONSU MING DAD Does dad start every morning with a hot cup of Joe? Why not put together the ultimate coffee lover’s gift basket? Grab an assortment of beans from Vereda Central or Firebat Coffee – both of whom are farm-to-cup coffee roasters and roast in small batches. Add a punny mug (dad joke approved) from Burlington’s Artisanville or Handmade House, or Maker's Mojo in Downtown Oakville.

And lastly, grab some accessories like a Chemex from Tribeca Coffee in Downtown Oakville.

Don’t forget – Father’s Day is June 20th. Show Dad (Grandpa, your husband, the very-special father-figure in your life) some love! LL

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FIN

TC E KI

HE NWA R E & LOCAL FO O

DS

#CGMARKET SH

E

CASUAL GOURMET OP

I N-S T O R E O R O N L

IN

casualgourmet.ca HAMILTON - 1027 KING ST. WEST 905.522.9398

www.moorefamilychiropractic.ca

MOOR CHIRO Moore Chiropractic Dr. Brett Moore Dr. Andrew Moore Nucca and Thompson Methods 275 Trafalgar Rd., Oakville, ON 905-845-4541

SANDWICH SOCIETY Packed Picnic Lunches in all sizes with Oakville’s Best Sandwiches 905.338.5377 or info@sandwichsociety.ca

!"$

sandwichsociety.ca

Food & Drink

ra

vel t o

mexico t

via Your

tastebuds

by JENNY RATCLIFFE-WRIGHT

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W

ith secret island escapes, a Caribbean and Pacific coastline, and thriving restaurant scene, it’s no surprise that Mexico is one of the hottest vacation destinations.

Seriously, its hot down there. And while many people have been deprived of their ability to enjoy Mexican vacations in the last 18 months, it doesn’t mean that we have to be deprived of authentic (and delicious) Mexican food. Tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas just scratch the surface of Mexican cuisine.

What is often missed in Canada and the United States are the more traditional foods of Mexico. In fact, Mexican cuisine (along with French) has made the UNESCO representative list for the Intangible Cultural Heritage, a fact that many countries are challenging based on their own national pride of their dishes. Mexican food is the first ethnic cuisine to be recognized on this list. Mexican food is not all about burritos, or refried beans with Cheez Whiz, and jalapenos. Hardshell tacos with lettuce and cheddar, although delicious, are not traditional either.

Delicious

HOMEMADE MEALS DELIVERED or Available for Pickup

FAMILIA FINE FOODS

+ORDER ONLINE WWW.FAMILIAFINEFOODS.COM AVAILABLE FOR PICKUP OR DELIVERY 3245 Harvester Road, Burlington | 905 632 9299

Here are some suggestions of some dishes if you want to enjoy authentic Mexican food at home.

Chalupas are a popular type of street food that resemble tostadas.

They are fried thick tortillas topped with salsa, shredded meat, onion, and sometimes cheese.

Chiles en nogada is a popular Mexican dish that signifies the country’s independence, as the dish is made up of the colours of the flag: red, white, and green. It is a picadillo-stuffed poblano pepper, which is battered and fried and topped with walnut sauce, pomegranates, and parsley.

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Mole Poblano is also a very popular dish. The word 'mole' could originate from the Spanish translation of the Aztec word for sauce; mulli. Another explanation is that it comes from the Spanish word moler, meaning to grind. Mole is a sauce, often with a long list of ingredients that come in different consistencies and colours. It can contain a variety of ingredients and often has fruit, chili, nuts, and spices. Mole verde is made with pumpkin seeds and green chili.

For an authentic Mexican food experience locally, Pepe and Lela’s in Burlington has been serving tasty dishes for 23 years. Try the chicken mole made with organic Ontario chicken, and their house-made mole sauce made of dark chocolate, cinnamon, roasted almonds, and sesame seeds. You can also order a bottle of Mexican wine; try LA Cetto Petite Sirah with your meal for the full experience.

FLORENCE FINE MEATS

FAMILIA FINE FOODS

POR VIDA

BURRO TACOS

PEPE AND LEL A'S

Familia Fine Foods in Burlington, founded by Colombian-born couple Luis and Juliana, offers options of burritos or burrito bowls, as well as taco and quesadilla selections. Their meals are traditional and come with all the fixings - from pico de gallo to green tomato salsa. A must-try is also their Tres Leches - a popular Mexican cake. Or if you prefer to dine at home, they have a selection of frozen foods. Try the chicken mole.

Nostalgia Latin Market on Kerr Street in Oakville is a specialist Mexican and Latin American grocer. They sell hard-to-find ingredients to make authentic Mexican food at home, or you can take-out Mexican specialties like chicken tamales and green enchiladas, along with homemade fresh salsas. A tamale is a dish of seasoned meat and maize flour that is steamed or baked in maize husks. They also offer catering and Mexican cooking classes to make sure your techniques are excellent.

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Cakes Cookies Cupcakes

Bars & Squares Ice Cream & more!

THE SWEETEST THING

NEXT DAY DELIVERY AVAILABLE IN OUR ONLINE SHOP

282 Kerr Street, Oakville • Open Tues - Sun • 905.582.0862 • info@thesweetestthing.com

thesweetestthing.com

ONLINE ORDERS AVAILABLE

NOSTALGIA

V

ER

YT

HING YOU N EE D

E

EVERYTHING MEXICAN!

FOR YOUR MEXICAN PATIO PARTY CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE STORE FOR OUR NEW TACO KITS!!

CORN TORTILLAS TAMALES EMPANADAS FRESH SALSAS TACO KITS HOT SAUCES DRY CHILES MEXICAN CANDY JARRITOS

391 Kerr Street Oakville, ON L6K 3B9

905-845-9262 Open Monday to Saturday

Local Links

1 Pepe and Lela’s, Burlington pepeandlelas.com

2 Familia Fine Foods, Burlington

familiafinefoods.com

3 Burro Tacos, Burlington burrotacos.com

4 Habanero Taqueria, Oakville

thehabanero.ca

5 Por Vida, Oakville porvida.ca

6 Nostalgia Latin Market, Oakville

nostalgialatinmarket.com

For a vast array of cocktails with a Mexican spin, along with appetizers and tacos, head to Burro Tacos in Burlington for a fun night out.

Habanero Taqueria in Oakville has a customized solution for your Mexican meal where you can add in your favourite toppings to any taco, nacho, burrito, or bowl, with options from pulled pork to vegan chili.

Por Vida in Oakville has a huge selection of innovative and traditional Mexican dishes, along with a large cocktail list and a vast choice of Tequila and Mezcal. Although these two drinks may seem similar, both made from the core of the agave plant and both stored in oak barrels, they are distilled quite differently and the resulting spirit has a different taste. Tequila tends to taste smoother and sweeter while mezcal is often more savoury and smokier. The menu features a guacamole selection, a taco bar and a cold bar among other options From the most traditional foods of Mexico to the American–fusion version, there seems to be a little something for every palate to enjoy Mexico at home. LL

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HOUSEMADE PREPARED MEALS

●

SIDES & APPETIZERS

●

ARTISAN PLATTERS

GRAZING BOXES & MORE GOURMET GOOD STUFF!

THE PLATTER CO.

BURLINGTON’S GOURMET FOOD DESTINATION

SHOP LOCAL

WE ARE OPEN!

THEPLATTERCOMPANY.CA

9 0 5 . 4 6 4 .11 3 8 175 Plains Road East, Burlington

Follow us

$ @theplattercompany ! @The Platter Company

BURLINGTON’S GOURMET FOOD DESTINATION #ELEVATETHEEVERYDAY

Local Recipe

BEEF-ENCHILADA

casserole The ultimate party dish once we are all allowed to be together again! Make this at home, or pick it up in the frozen section at Familia Fine Foods!

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INGREDIENTS ∙ 1-1/2 to 2 pounds of extra lean ground beef ∙ 1 crushed garlic clove ∙ 4 to 5 tomatoes, chopped and stewed ∙ 6 oz. tomato or enchilada sauce ∙ 2 tsp olive oil ∙ 3 tbsp diced onion ∙ Salt to taste ∙ Coarsely ground pepper

∙ 6 to 8 jalapenos diced ∙ 12 soft corn tortillas, cut in 1/4 (triangles) ∙ 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese ∙ 1/3 cup fresh cilantro chopped ∙ 1/3 cup green onions finely chopped ∙ 1 cup of grated jack cheese (or parmesan)

METHOD 1

2

3

4

In a saucepan, brown the meat and drain away all liquids.

Return meat to saucepan, add crushed garlic and cook until well-blended into meat. Cover and leave aside.

In the same saucepan (medium - high heat), add stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, olive oil, onion and all seasonings. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for approx. 20 minutes stirring frequently. Blend in jalapenos, cover and put aside.

Preheat the oven to 350 F, then lightly butter a square 2-quart casserole dish. Cut corn tortillas into quarters.

Mix cheddar cheese, green onions and cilantro.

In a mixing bowl, combine cooked meat and sauce, mix well. Layer casserole dish with tortillas, then add meat/sauce mixture. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese/ green onion/cilantro mixture. Then add another layer of tortillas and repeat, ending with meat mixture. Sprinkle the entire casserole with jack cheese and any leftover cheddar cheese. Bake for 35/40 minutes until the cheese is completely melted. (Serves 6 to 8)

905-632-9299 familiafinefoods.com looklocalmagazine.com

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MASERATI