Saturday’s Dundas West Fest closed a 1.7km strip between Lansdowne and Shaw, welcoming pedestrian traffic and allowing businesses to set up shop outside their stores.

This year we did something different and threw a community BBQ. Calling on local business friends we created a menu that included craft beer from Blood Brothers Brewing, cold drinks from RI Coffee, artisanal breads from Mattachioni and Tori’s Bakeshop, hot sauce from Stasis Preserves and treats from Sweethart Kitchen. It was quite a feast! We prepared layered grilled veggie sandwiches, smothered in our baba ganoush and mustard, grilled pineapple on skewers and our new Carmenta caesar salad.

And while all the options were undeniably delicious, what surprised us the most was the overwhelming gratitude and relief when patrons discovered our barbecue was created with unprocessed plant based options and whole ingredients.

It’s a constant challenge, this real food, small business thing we do. But to see how much things have changed, to see the increasing demand for actually healthy food from a widening group of people, makes us pleased to be part of this shift. It rejuvenates our passion.

Thank you for seeking more from your food, your choices make the difference.