The Beacon Bike + Brew has become a hot spot for cyclists in Ontario's Prince Edward County.Daniel Vaughan/Handout
The thriving wine destination of Prince Edward County, Ont., is also a hot spot for cyclists, a community known to enjoy a good chat over a post-ride beverage and snack. Catering to this pedal-powered crowd is a new addition to the downtown Picton scene. Called Beacon Bike + Brew, it’s a year-round destination that’s part bicycle shop, part fully licensed café. Bright and airy with a decor style best described as a bohemian take on Memphis, Beacon is poised to become a popular gathering spot for visitors and locals of all ages and cycling abilities, and even offers a dedicated play area for its youngest customers.
A few years ago, husband-and-wife owners Jordan and Stephanie Malka were lured from Toronto to the area by its plentiful creative opportunities and easy-going lifestyle. “We fell in love with the area immediately,” says Jordan, an avid cyclist who has worked in restaurant management for more than 15 years. “We’d come out to pick up wine and we really liked the vibe and the culture and the people. It’s kind of an intersection between the GTA and Montreal.” With his experience in hospitality and her mastery of design (she also runs interior-design company Envelopd Design), carving out their own space in the community was the logical next step.
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The decor can best be described as a bohemian take on Memphis.Daniel Vaughan/Handout
The menu at Beacon makes the most of the county’s bountiful agriculture and features beans roasted by Quietly Coffee, of Sterling, Ont., and beer and wine from the many nearby brewers and vineyards. Morning bites and afternoon snacks, such as Scandinavian smorrebrod, are all made with regionally sourced ingredients. In addition to a selection of cycling accessories available to purchase, Toronto’s Blacksmith Cycle has curated a rotating exhibition space of unique hand-built bikes to geek out over.
Beacon Bike + Brew, 188 Main St., Picton, Ont., 613-471-1818, beaconbikebrew.com.
Smoked salmon with kaleidoscope red fife rye, dill, cream cheese and cucumber, $12.Daniel Vaughan/Handout
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Style news
Playful watch company Swatch has launched a destination special edition timepiece dedicated to Toronto. Named the 6IX6Watch, its jet-black face is complemented by the city skyline traced in gold on the lower strap with the silhouette of the iconic CN Tower above the face. The strap loop features a multicolour Toronto inspired by the sign at City Hall. With city pride at an all-time high following the Raptors’ NBA championship, this celebratory watch is especially timely, and is available exclusively at the Swatch store at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre for $110.
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French contemporary furniture brand Ligne Roset is now available at two new Toronto locations: Ligne Roset Toronto (44 Sherbourne St.) and Home Société (1270 Caledonia Rd.). Known for creative collaborations with both established and emerging designers, Ligne Roset specializes in home furnishings that demonstrate French craftsmanship combined with global artistry. This family business is headquartered at the foot of the Bugey Mountains in France, where the Rosets have been manufacturing furniture since 1860, including the colourful sofas they’re known for today. For more information, visit ligne-roset.com.
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