The Venetian lives up to expectations

Not many banquet halls are quite like The Venetian, where you can look around and admire huge mosaics and glance up at a ceiling decorated with inspiring paintings and mouldings. The lobbies feature double tiers of gold, off-white and beige. The light reflects on the colours, juxtaposed with those of the mosaics and paintings to create an architectural masterpiece – a hall that not only displays art but is, in itself, a work of art.

The Venetian accommodates a variety of events, cultures and needs. It hosts everything from bachelor parties and showers to sacraments and weddings, including bar and bat mitzvahs and can cater to a wide variety of cuisines including Kosher, European, Chinese and Middle Eastern. Clients can also opt for a more traditional menu. “We pride ourselves on the diverse selection of food and services offered,” says owner Joseph Mete. Read more

City Survivor 1923 – 2009

Stretching back in time, Vaughan, named after a peace negotiator in 1792, showed much promise for becoming a booming hotbed of success. And the young founders who planted their entrepreneurial roots in the area served as symbols of opportunity, promise and hope.

Many companies, some established as far back as 1923, still exist today. Built upon hard work, dedication and good values, they have become the legs this city stands on. Once a barren landscape, Vaughan is now a thriving metropolis, thanks to these business beacons.

Read on to find out how these pillars of success have shaped the face of the community, proving that business is much like a merry-go-round – ever-turning with challenges and prosperity. Read more

Quality Buffalo in Ontario

Rich and creamy, strong or intense; whichever way you slice it, cheese is a blissful indulgence. As the companion to the cracker and the soulmate of wine, cheese enhances the taste of other foods, and is simply delectable – even when enjoyed alone.

In an age of after-dinner cheese platters and wine parties, artesian cheeses have become a symbol of culture, refinement and eminence. Whether you’re rubbing elbows at a fundraiser or fine dining in the city, there’s a good chance that cheese will be part of the big night. And of course, there’s no doubt that you just can’t throw the perfect gathering without it. Read more

Colour Confidante Robert Amado, of Amado Salon and Spa

The right haircut can bring about a burst of exhilarating change, provide confidence or even symbolize a fresh new start.

“Hair should reflect the individual, and reveal inner beauty,” says Robert Amado, creative director of Amado Salon and Spa. “It’s important to take into consideration a client’s facial structure, personality and lifestyle in order to create a look that best suits them,” he says of his work philosophy.

With 11 years of styling experience under his belt, the Vancouver-born stylist is master of his craft. Revered in his field, Amado pursued illustrious careers at various salons before opening his own this past February. Read more

Top Food & Gourmet Shoppes

Take a stroll and discover these village treasures.

It’s your city, which is why we’ve scavenged high and low for some of the best it has to offer. Introducing our prime picks of gourmet restaurants, a quality butcher, and a  fine cheese outlet, each spot offers an unbeatable product, guaranteed to please.

Whether you’re heading out for a night on the town or hosting a long-weekend getaway affair, get ready to discover some of your city’s top shoppes. Read more

Di Manno Ristorante: The City’s Culinary Hot Spot

Finding a delicious meal in a friendly urban atmosphere has just become easier. If you’re up for an experience that transcends the average date with your local trattoria, it’s worth taking a trip uptown. This summer, the opening of Di Manno Ristorante will offer a savoury piece of Italy and a touch of Mediterranean fusion to patrons throughout the city. The upscale eatery is set to unleash some of the freshest and finest gourmet cuisine, combined with an unbeatably warm encounter.

Specializing in preparing heavenly meals is not something the establishment takes lightly. “It’s more than just food; it’s something social and comforting,” says co-founder Nancy Di Manno. “Dining is a great way to unwind with a good glass of wine Read more

Brix Napa Valley Grille & Wine Bar: Pairing Cuisine With Pleasure

If the 19th century German chemist A.F.W. Brix was alive today, he’d surely be wining and dining at the restaurant bearing his name. Brix Napa Valley Grille & Wine Bar is named after the inventor’s scale system, used to measure grape sugar content. It’s a cleverly appropriate title for an establishment that provides an attentive pairing of food and wine. Read more

Zona Caffè: Taking A Break In Good Company

More than just a routine, enjoying a break is a way of life in Italy. The idea of sipping coffee and savouring a meal is a cherished tradition that has now found its way to the city. Opening this past spring at Jane and Rutherford’s bustling intersection, Zona Caffè is a unique hot spot, offering more than your average hot table and bar. “We wanted to create a place where friendships are made as you come to unwind,” says owner and founder Lina DeRocchis. “It has a very modern design and European feel – all of our equipment is imported from Italy.” Walking into Zona Caffè, patrons instantly notice the cool, soothing décor, infused with aromas of authentic Italian food. Read more

The Consulate Dining Lounge On Innis Lake: A Savoury Retreat

There’s a reason why illustrious journeys are made to places like California’s Napa Valley. Breathtaking open landscapes with protruding natural waters are ideal for a getaway from the everyday. But if you don’t have time to jump on a plane, there’s a beautiful oasis just around the corner. The Consulate Dining Lounge on Innis Lake is the ideal hot spot for a elegant gourmet meal, only minutes away from the city. “Our food and ambience is pretty hard to beat,” says owner John Giancola. “The French chateau-style dining room overlooks the terrace and the lake. It has a very authentic, rustic feel.” Read more

Il Cavallino Ristorante: Serving up Gourmet Tradition

Stepping through a doorway to visit a piece of Italy is not usually the case, but the experience is more than possible at Il Cavallino Ristorante. A place where visitors truly discover cultured cuisine; the establishment has been nourished for over 19 years with a long line of European experience. “I had a place in Toronto for 12 years, after working in Switzerland, Germany, and France, says owner Franco Poletti. “I always worked in the hospitality and hotel industry.” Growing up in the restaurant business, Poletti has been surrounded by food his entire life, which is the reason why he knows how to please the palate. Read more

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