LCBO Food & Drink Autumn 2020

EDITOR’S NOTES

Cheers to Fall!

After a summer spent adjusting to the new normal, autumn brings a return to routine—in a good way! Ontarians know how to embrace and celebrate the rituals of fall. While we’re still enjoying the last of the warm days, our minds are also turning to thoughts of cold-weather comforts and it feels like it’s time to get back to the table on weeknights and weekends. Thanksgiving and Halloween are just around the corner and no matter how you plan to mark those occasions, they should indeed be marked, whatever the size of your bubble. This year, Thanksgiving will likely have a limited guest list, so we asked our Food Editor, Eric Vellend, to create a casual menu that is ideal for just immediate family— whether you’re grazing all day or decide to get dressed up and set the table. Check it out on page 45. This is also a perfect occasion, we think, to contemplate sipping spirits on their own—straight up or over ice—as you linger around the fire. On page 88, our Drinks Editor, Charlene Rooke, shares some of her picks for those moments, whether you’re just dipping your toe into the spirit world, are looking for something new to try, or simply want to treat yourself. From easy pies (page 103) and stylish local dinnerware (page 32) to unique smoked cocktails (page 37) and suggestions for upgrading your bar cart (page 109), we’ve got plenty

of ways to enhance your day. Oh, and since Halloween is on a Saturday, we’ve got spooky cocktails and tasty small bites on page 123 for your pleasure too. No matter the season, when it comes to food and drinks, local is always our calling card—but especially in autumn. It’s harvest time in Ontario and its abundance is on full display throughout this issue. One of my personal faves, mushrooms, star in comfort food classics (and are the ultimate meat replacement) on page 55. Beets add flavour and vibrant colour to dishes both savoury and sweet on page 96. And we have a whole menu’s worth of farmer’s market finds starting on page 74. You’ll also find the perfect Ontario wine for any occasion big or small on page 65 and, on page 82, a feature on some of the bright young talents down in Niagara who are putting their mark on the local wine industry. And don’t forget, like George says (previous page), we want to hear about all the local treasures where you live, using #PairItForward on social media. We hope you enjoy the issue and that you have a spectacular fall!

PORTRAIT BY JAMES TSE

@lcbofoodanddrink

We’ve made it easier than

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ever to shop for the products in this issue. Visit lcbo.com/

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AUTUMN 2020 FOOD & DRINK