RADAR | HOT SPOT

Lady Lou Collective

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Named in loving memory of founder Katherine McMichael’s grandmother, Lady Lou Collective on Queen Street brings a thoughtful approach to gifting in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Lou was a fashion icon and knew the value of a kindhearted gift. In that spirit, the boutique highlights an array of Canadian-made goods, artisanal stationery and handpicked lifestyle items. Beyond its curated retail shelves, the shop doubles as an engaging community space hosting “Craft & Chit Chat” workshops that offer visitors a warm destination to connect and discover unique local finds. — Patrick O'Keeffe


Lady Lou Collective’s storefront in Niagara-on-the-Lake. | PHOTOS: COURTESY OF LADY LOU COLLECTIVE


RADAR | THE END OF THE ROAD

The Gardens at Pillar and Post

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont.

There’s a bit of southern France hiding in plain sight in southwestern Ontario. During the winter months, the six-acre, Monet-inspired garden at the Pillar and Post Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake is transformed into a frozen and festive winter wonderland. Rent a pair of skates (and a helmet), then lace up for a turn on the ice-skating rink — it’s free for all visitors. Afterwards, get cozy by the fire pit and warm up with a steaming mug of marshmallow-studded cocoa or a creative cocktail and snacks from The OutPost. Decorative sparkling lights provide a magical touch that illuminates any dark winter’s night. — Claudia Laroye


A winter’s night on the ice outside Pillar and Post Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake. | PHOTO: CHRIS SORGE/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS


RADAR | GREAT TASTE

COBS Bread’s Cinnamon Bun

COBS Bread has been a neighbourhood staple since opening its first Canadian bakery in 2003. This franchise relies on old-school techniques and bakes fresh batches of its Country Grain Loaf and treats from scratch every single morning. Though their crisp baguettes and hearty grains have long earned praise from customers, it is arguably the pastry case that shines the brightest — due in no small part to their signature Cinnamon Bun. Created with a rich, buttery dough and laced with fragrant, spiced sugar pockets, each spiralled bun is baked to golden-brown before receiving a thick, velvety smear of tangy cream cheese frosting on top. It strikes the ideal balance of pillowy warmth and rich, sweet comfort. — Michael Sutton CAA Members get a free treat when spending $15 or more at participating locations.


COBS Bread’s Cinnamon Buns are topped with cream cheese frosting. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF COBS BREAD


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