At this point, you've probably heard it a thousand times: the holidays this year are going to be different.
For some of us, "different" means seeing fewer people, avoiding gatherings, or seeing our loved ones virtually rather than in-person.
For others, it might mean doing our own thing, away from the places we may have grown up in and have become so accustomed to visiting this time of the year.
In fact, a recent Ipsos survey found that 86% of those who celebrate in December are planning to limit their gatherings this December - meaning it may not be "home for the holidays" as usual.
Being home for the holidays might have to remain a wish for many this year. But Stella Artois has stepped in to help bring some of those home vibes right to you.
Partnering up with some of their Rally for Restaurants partners, Stella Artois has curated a list of made-to-order holiday takeout kits inspired by each chef's hometown and upbringing. Helping us celebrate with the joy of a home-cooked meal are Montreal Chef Simon Laborde (Les Enfants Terribles), Toronto Chef Chris Locke (Marben), and Vancouver Chef David Wong (Earls).
Marben's Chris Locke has curated a festive 4-course menu that pays homage to his childhood Christmas dinners with an inexplicably juicy Chicken Ballantine and a delightful apricot stuffing. Paired with a Mini-Charcuterie Board, a Tomato Ricotta with Roasted Beets appetizer, and a Sticky Toffee dessert, you'll be more than satiated with this palatial feast starting at just $180.
Stella Artois
Vancouver's David Wong of Earls has prepared a traditional family style feast including oven roasted turkey breast, the fluffiest mashed potatoes and caramelized brussel sprouts. Finish off with a classic holiday treat - homemade bread pudding. The whole meal can be yours for $25 and includes ready-to-heat instructions. Pre-orders can be placed at the Earls Holiday site until December 17th.
Stella Artois
Montreal favourite Les Enfants Terribles executive chef Simon LaBorde is all about bringing comfort and generous helpings to the dinner table this holiday season. Inspired by both tradition and modernity, a tender Quebec Beef Short Rib is braised for an astonishing 36 hours and served up with a delicious Stella Artois sauce. Paired with roasted brussel sprouts, a potato and carrot puree, chicken liver mousse and foie gras profiteroles in addition to a butternut squash soup and a praline chocolate log for dessert, this 4 course kit will have you stuffed and content. At $140 for 2, you can treat your special one to a date night to remember.
Stella Artois
Though the hustle and bustle of the holiday season may look and feel a bit different this year, Stella Artois wants to remind us to slow down and enjoy life's moments like connecting over a shared meal, even if it can't be with your entire extended family.
Supporting Canada's hospitality industry is why Stella Artois launched Rally for Restaurants in April of this year, where Canadians can support local by buying giftcards with a twist. For every $25 or $50 gift card you buy, Stella Artois will contribute an additional $10, their gift to you. Give your favourite restaurant or bar the funds they need today and visit them to redeem your gift card for a delicious meal when this is all over.
Plus, if you buy a $100 gift card, they'll send an additional $25 directly to the restaurant. If you're still looking for a dine-in experience (in accordance with your local public health guidelines), you can use the new 'heated patio' search function to find your next go-to spot.
While it may be less "home for the holidays" and more "taste of home for the holidays" this December, supporting local never tasted so good. Visit Stella Artois' Taste of Home to plan your holiday meal today!