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Planning your next staycation? This small town may be Ontario's best-kept secret
Planning your next staycation? This small town may be Ontario's best-kept secret

Calgary Herald

time21-07-2025

  • Calgary Herald

Planning your next staycation? This small town may be Ontario's best-kept secret

Article content Article content A scoop above the rest! We line up at Dad's for one velvety textured scoop after another, and take a seat in the adjacent park to indulge in original flavours like Unicorn Toots, a mélange of vanilla cake batter ice cream with a pink frosting ripple and rainbow chocolate chips; and Port Stanley Sunken Treasure, a vanilla base with a caramel core ribbon and chocolate covered toffee and almond pieces. While these new flavours keep us on our toes, Dad's classics like Coffee & Cream, an intense coffee flavoured ice cream with chocolatey espresso flakes and a chocolatey ripple; and Polar Eclipse, a cool blend of mint and chocolate ice creams swirled together with pieces of cream-filled cookies throughout, keep us swooning. Article content Good Pud starts with pure cream from a dairy just up the road. That is the secret to their success. And the proof is in the pudding, as they say. Is it decadent? YES! But there is less sugar in one of these jars than you might think. It's the cream. Really good quality pure Ontario cream, Belgian chocolate and a pinch of sea salt. The rest is the magic and the love of the two co-owners, sisters, Polly and Sarah, whose motto is, 'You don't need more; you just need better!' Their innate jovial nature is shared in every spoonful of this luxurious pudding, and it is pure bliss. Article content Article content Article content Article content Flavours like Belgian Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt and Belgian Milk Chocolate are to die for, but the refreshing burst from the Lemon pudding is like the crescendo of a sweet citric symphony. Wowza! Beware, these good puds are as seductive as they are smooth. Good Pud is the new taste of place in Tillsonburg, and not to be missed when travelling through Oxford County. Article content … And then, there's the cheese. Oxford County is chock full of award-winning cheesemakers. Just outside Tillsonburg is one of the newest and most innovative dairies on the Cheese Trail, the New Galma Dairy and Creamery. Article content Article content Article content Article content While touring the milk barn, what stands out most is how quiet it is. The cows are content. They are grass-fed. No hormones. They range from newborns to ten years old, and they're bred in a family-run operation that loves cows. New Galma extracts milk from its own herd of 300 cows by a robot with precision and quality control. We watch this process in amazement. Everything is clean, and we can tell the utmost care is taken. Article content Article content In the cheese barn, we see the process of how the cheese is made — Dutch-style Gouda cheese, which they offer in a variety of flavours. We sample from a range of Black Pepper, Chili Pepper, Clove, Cumin, Fenugreek, Pesto, and one of their bestsellers, Italian, which includes basil, thyme, garlic, and paprika. The texture is rich and velvety, and the flavours taste wholesome. This is artisanal cheese at its finest. Article content Article content There is so much to discover in Tillsonburg that should climb the ranks of every Ontario-travel bucket list. It's the best of small-town Ontario. They say, 'The second mouse gets the cheese,' and yet, Oxford County churns epicurean delights for insatiable cheese lovers at every stop along the way.

North Wales taproom and restaurant serving tapas with a Welsh twist
North Wales taproom and restaurant serving tapas with a Welsh twist

North Wales Live

time19-07-2025

  • Business
  • North Wales Live

North Wales taproom and restaurant serving tapas with a Welsh twist

A popular craft beer brewery business has recently opened up a restaurant and taproom in Mold. Polly's Social is located at the Daniel Owen precinct in the town centre. Owner of Polly's Brew Company, Sean Wheldon has lived in and around Mold his whole life. Sean launched the company aged 25, from his grandad's farm stable and the brewery was named after his horse, Polly. The craft beer company has come on leaps and bounds over the years, rapidly growing from humble beginnings of brewing on the farm to reinforcing their position as the highest rated brewery in Wales. They are also among the highest rated in the UK as a whole, and their beer has been sold in Marks and Spencer. The open plan taproom has become a destination taproom for their loyal legion of fans who have been chomping at the bit for a venue to enjoy Polly's closest to the source. The venue has a bold, shiny, modern, industrial look with televisions on the wall, which show off the Polly's brewing process. The tables are a mix between communal or more private seating for the anti-social, such as myself. Behind us, there was a huge logo of Polly's Social on the wall with framed art prints of Polly's craft design labels on the opposite side. Polly's Social has about twenty-three beers on tap, including five hand pulled options, as well as in-house roasted coffee and a line of spirits and wine. To try and pick one, out of a choice of twenty-three is really difficult. However, they do let you try a small sample. I don't think I have ever tasted a bad Polly's beer, so you can't really go wrong. My wife chose a half of one of their pale ale core beers. Floret, which is a delicious hazy juice bomb of a beer, bursting with peach, mango, and orange notes from its Citra and Simcoe hops. I ordered a half of Polly's Welsh Black Nitro Stout, which you can only get at the tap room. Stouts are back in fashion and this one didn't disappoint with a tang of rich coffee, dark chocolate, burnt toffee and even a bit of raisin. The nitrogen ensured a white creamy head on top of the glorious black stuff. The clientele was not what I was expecting at lunch time, with quite a lot of locals and elderly people eating, rather than the bearded tattoo stereotype of craft beer drinkers. The menu is split into three categories of grazing dishes, small plates or Sunday roasts. But does the food quality match the premium reputation of Polly's beer? Well, we were about to find out. As it was lunch time we decided to go for the light grazing dishes menu, where as you can choose any 3 for £18 between Wednesday to Saturday 12-3pm. The first dish we ordered arrived from the kitchen almost immediately. We started off proceedings with a starter of confit garlic focaccia, which we dipped into a dish of Welsh Blodyn Aur rapeseed oil with a balsamic glaze. The spongy bread was perfect for sharing with a soft and fluffy inside and its famous signature chew. The next dish to arrive on our table was a Polly's Beef Burger Slider. This mini burger may have been small but it was packed full with flavour due to the grain fed juicy beef patty. It was covered with a delicious house burger sauce along with sloppy melted cheese and crisp onions. It wasn't easy to share, but we managed to cut it in half and got stuck in. The burger was absolutely delicious and was too good to share to be honest. Next up, was 'Tatws Bravas', a Welsh version of the popular Spanish tapas dish. The lightly fried cubed potatoes were smothered in a sweet and smoked bravas sauce with a splash of aioli on the top. It was a bit messy to eat, but what's a bit of spill amongst friends? Last but not least was the IPA brine jerk chicken, which was a Polly's beer marinated boneless chicken thigh alongside some red cabbage slaw. The juicy and succulent chargrilled tinged meat packed a bit of heat, which meant a glug of Polly's beer after every bite. Glorious stuff. Other choices on the grazing menu included Polly's beef sausage, crab scones, salt and pepper corn ribs or house harsh browns. The small plates menu was fairly similar to the grazing dishes only with more choice and bigger. The Sunday roasts menu looked really interesting with choices such as modern apple glazed pork loin, grain fed sirloin or oyster mushroom wellington. Desserts included things like banana bread, rum pineapple, fudge stout brownies and house waffles for £8 each. We mooched over to pay the bill and vowed to return to try one of the other beers on the next visit. I am more than happy to report that the quality of the food at Polly's Social easily matches the premium quality and reputation of their fruity and juicy IPAs. And that is one very serious high bar to reach. Polly's Social - The Facts We ordered: IPA brine jerk chicken £6 Tatws Bravas £6 Polly's Beef Burger Slider £6 Confit garlic focaccia £5 Floret £2.30 Polly's Welsh Black Nitro Stout £2.50 Total: £27.80 Opening Times: Monday – Closed Tuesday 5pm – 10.30pm Wednesday and Thursday 11am – 10.30pm Friday 11am – 11.30pm Saturday 10.30am – 11.30pm Sunday 11.30am – 10.30pm Atmosphere: Cooler than a polar bear Car Parking: Public car park across the road £1.50 Disabled Access: Full disabled access Service: Beer-y happy to see you Overall: One of the most highly rated breweries in the UK, opens a tap room in Mold. Find It: Polly's Social New Unit 4, Daniel Owen Centre Mold CH7 1AP

Polly Pocket teams up with GCDS
Polly Pocket teams up with GCDS

Fashion United

time16-07-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Fashion United

Polly Pocket teams up with GCDS

Italian fashion line GCDS is tapping into the collectable toy trend with a special collaboration with Mattel's Polly Pocket to reconsider the miniature toy line through a luxury fashion lens. The collaboration is part of Mattel Creations, Mattel's design-driven platform celebrating the intersection of pop culture, fandom, and play, and aims to introduce a new chapter in Polly Pocket's legacy by "combining imaginative storytelling with elevated design, all inspired by the heart of Milan". Designed by GCDS' creative director Giuliano Calza, the curated capsule collection and collectable compact draws deeply from his cultural roots, infusing the Polly Pocket universe with a distinctly modern Italian perspective. At the heart of the collaboration is a compact inspired by classic Polly Pocket playsets and brought to life with details inspired by Italian lifestyle and urban charm, such as Milanese street scenes and gelato. Commenting on the collaboration, Calza said in a statement: 'Redesigning Polly Pocket marks a personal milestone. Ever since I was a kid, the moment I thought of something beautiful, those pastel cases would appear in my mind like a reflex. 'These tiny toys were magical representations of a bigger world - small enough to hold in your palm, but powerful enough to unlock entire scenarios and fantasies. That feeling shaped me. I've built my creative universe on the idea that 'cute' isn't superficial - it's a bold, emotional language of contemporary culture.' The pocket-sized version of Milan will be available in limited quantities from July 16, exclusively on and then on Mattel Creations from July 18. The collaboration will also be celebrated with a fully immersive experience inspired by Polly's miniature universe, complete with interactive installations in Milan on July 16. Visitors to the Giardino delle Arti pop-up will be able to purchase the Polly Pocket X GCDS Compact, merchandising, and selected items from the capsule collection, as well as taste Polly Pocket-themed food. Calza added: 'With this launch, I didn't just redesign a toy - I encapsulated my world into a new pocketworld. And I hope it resonates with the GCDS community and Polly lovers around the globe with the same emotional intensity it holds for me. Because when nostalgia meets design, it becomes desire.' This isn't the first time GCDS has teamed up with Polly Pocket. In 2018, they debuted a collection on the Milan catwalk for spring/summer 2019 and then expanded the partnership with a special edition of the Heart Bag during GCDS' autumn/winter 2024 show. The bag's transparent shell opened just like the beloved Polly Pocket compacts of the past, with a charming lineup of miniature Polly Pocket figures inside. Chris Down, chief design officer at Mattel, said: 'Polly Pocket has always used its tiny worlds to inspire big imagination. With GCDS, that sense of wonder takes on a bold new form—where fashion, nostalgia, and creative freedom converge. Giuliano's vision transforms a beloved icon into something unexpected and delightfully expressive.'

Polly Pocket™ Steps into High Fashion with GCDS in Special Edition Mattel Creations™ Collaboration
Polly Pocket™ Steps into High Fashion with GCDS in Special Edition Mattel Creations™ Collaboration

Business Wire

time16-07-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Business Wire

Polly Pocket™ Steps into High Fashion with GCDS in Special Edition Mattel Creations™ Collaboration

EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) and Italian fashion line GCDS announced a special collaboration that reconsiders the Polly Pocket brand through a luxury fashion lens for Mattel Creations, Mattel's design-driven platform celebrating the intersection of pop culture, fandom, and play. This partnership introduces a new chapter in the brand's legacy, combining imaginative storytelling with elevated design, all inspired by the heart of Milan. GCDS and Polly Pocket began their story in 2018 with a collection debuting on GCDS' Milan Fashion Week SS19 runway and expanded the partnership with a special edition of the Heart Bag debuting during GCDS' Fall/Winter 2024 runway show, 'Toys for Adults.' The bag's transparent shell opened just like the beloved Polly Pocket compacts of the past, with a charming lineup of miniature Polly Pocket figures inside, ready to add a dose of nostalgia and whimsy to any day. Back again for a playful blend of fashion and nostalgia, Polly Pocket has partnered with GCDS to showcase a highly curated capsule collection and collectible compact that reflects both brands' shared appreciation for creativity, individuality, and cultural expression. Designed by GCDS Creative Director Giuliano Calza, the collection draws deeply from cultural roots, infusing the Polly universe with a distinctly modern Italian perspective. At the center of the collaboration is a compact inspired by classic Polly Pocket playsets and brought to life with details inspired by Italian lifestyle and urban charm. From Milanese street scenes to gelato, the reimagined compact celebrates the power of play in a contemporary design. 'Polly Pocket has always used its tiny worlds to inspire big imagination,' said Chris Down, Chief Design Officer, Mattel. 'With GCDS, that sense of wonder takes on a bold new form—where fashion, nostalgia, and creative freedom converge. Giuliano's vision transforms a beloved icon into something unexpected and delightfully expressive.' 'Redesigning Polly Pocket marks a personal milestone,' said Giuliano Calza, Creative Director, GCDS. 'Ever since I was a kid, the moment I thought of something beautiful, those pastel cases would appear in my mind like a reflex. These tiny toys were magical representations of a bigger world—small enough to hold in your palm, but powerful enough to unlock entire scenarios and fantasies. That feeling shaped me. I've built my creative universe on the idea that 'cute' isn't superficial—it's a bold, emotional language of contemporary culture.' 'With this launch, I didn't just redesign a toy—I encapsulated my world into a new pocketworld,' said Calza. 'And I hope it resonates with the GCDS community and Polly lovers around the globe with the same emotional intensity it holds for me. Because when nostalgia meets design, it becomes desire.' In Milan on July 16th to commemorate the launch, Polly Pocket and GCDS will welcome fans into a fully immersive experience inspired by Polly's miniature universe, complete with interactive installations and the chance to purchase the Polly Pocket X GCDS Compact, merchandising, and selected items from the capsule collection. For the ones who will buy on site, there will be the chance to taste Polly Pocket themed food. The capsule collection and limited quantities of the Polly Pocket X GCDS Compact will be available starting July 16th exclusively on and then available on Mattel Creations, Mattel's design-driven platform celebrating the intersection of pop culture, fandom, and play, starting July 18 th. About Mattel Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends™, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Matchbox®, Monster High®, Polly Pocket®, and Barney®, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world's leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Visit us at About GCDS Giuliano Calza Design Studio is a Milan-based fashion house established in 2015 by brothers Giuliano and Giordano Calza who lead the brand as Creative Director and CEO. Renowned for its vibrant aesthetic and streetwear sensibility, GCDS merges Italian craftsmanship with bold pop culture references to cultivate a distinctive and inclusive fashion identity. Recognized for its playful visual language, and imaginative capsule collections, GCDS has emerged as a global emblem of the new wave of Made in Italy. From pioneering metaverse fashion shows to high-profile collaborations with industry icons such as Carine Roitfeld, GCDS has drawn a large pop community of international celebrities and icons that identify with its free and inclusive universe. With a well-established presence in Italy and Asia, and an ambitious growth strategy across Europe and the United States, GCDS continues to shape the future of contemporary fashion through originality, inclusivity, and uncompromising creativity.

Own a cute puppy? Put their health first with a personalised Pure Pet Food plan
Own a cute puppy? Put their health first with a personalised Pure Pet Food plan

Metro

time15-07-2025

  • Health
  • Metro

Own a cute puppy? Put their health first with a personalised Pure Pet Food plan

Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more When it comes to your own health, chances are you make a conscious effort to eat a balanced and nutritious diet. Meanwhile, your precious pup is likely munching on some heavily processed supermarket kibble made up of low-quality meat derivatives, additives, and cheap bulking agents. Doesn't really make sense, does it? So, why not invest in the long-term health of your canine companion, and try out a personalised Pure Pet Food subscription this summer? The leading natural dog food subscription service, you'll get all the delicious and nutritious meals, toppers, and treats your pup needs in one convenient delivery — and you can currently get 40% off your first box, and then 15% off the next two. Designed to suit their breed, age, and any specific needs or issues you report in the questionnaire, your pup's tailored menu will meet their dietary requirements down to a tee. You'll get the choice of up to two personalised recipes for each delivery — and your first order will include handy food and water scoops so you can make sure you're measuring out the perfect portion size for your pup. Backed by an advisory panel of expert vets and nutritionists, all Pure Pet Food natural meals and snacks are made with traceable and human-grade cuts of real meat and fish that have been cut into teeny tiny chunks for easy doggy digestion. They also contain nutrient-dense superfoods like spinach, blueberries, sweet potato, and broccoli, and functional ingredients like the gut-friendly prebiotic chicory root, and Omega-3 from algae — which leaves the coat gorgeous and glossy. But how do these natural ingredients stay nice and fresh? A genius solution, Pure Pet Food meals are air-dried at low temperatures to carefully remove the moisture — while still ensuring the nutrients in each ingredient are naturally protected and preserved. No need to store it in a fridge — just add warm water to transform the dehydrated mix into a delicious meal. From improving oral health and skin sensitivity, to helping lessen the impact of common conditions like arthritis and kidney disease, Pure Pet Food has already made a difference to the lives of thousands of dogs in the UK. More Trending Just take a look at the reviews to see for yourself. 'My rescue dog Nelly has alopecia, and when I first took her home two years ago, she would itch so much that she had scabs and whiteheads covering her whole body – and I couldn't even stroke her,' says her owner, Polly. 'But when we switched to Pure, she completely stopped itching within a week, and her skin cleared up. It truly gave her her life back.' And for customer Helen, she's noticed a real difference in both her precious pups. 'My older dog had a really sensitive stomach, and his previous food was going straight through him — but since swapping to Pure Pet Food, he's so much more healthy and content,' she says. 'My younger dog is on it now too, and I've noticed so much more vitality in them both.' Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: I'm a shopping writer and here's what I'm buying this week – from Berghaus to Skin Rocks MORE: Bella Hadid reveals 'secret' beauty travel hack – it's none other than this £9.50 skin cream MORE: From Space NK to Mango – here's 23 items our shopping expert is buying this weekend

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