When you choose to support local businesses, you invest in more than just a meal or a cup of coffee: you contribute directly to the heartbeat of your community.  

You benefit from the unique flavours, personalized service and familiar faces that make your town feel like home. Every time you choose a local eatery, you play a direct role in shaping the character of your town.  

When you walk into a familiar café or restaurant, you’re greeted by people who remember your favourite order and ask about your day. You experience genuine connections that larger chains simply can’t replicate. 

By loving local businesses, you help preserve the special places that make our community memorable for generations to come. You have the power to help small businesses thrive, which, in turn, creates jobs and supports local causes. 

That’s why we put out the call for you to nominate your favourite local spots around London; as a small business ourselves, we wanted to show some recognition to our fellow community members that help make our community the great place it is. 

We had several amazing nominations, but this year, our winners include Sidetrack Cafe, nominated by Eleni, and Paul’s nomination of Roy’s Coffee Shop. 

Sidetrack Café: A Local Staple with Bombastic Bagels 

Whether you’re seeking a quiet corner to focus or a vibrant neighbourhood hub to reconnect, Sidetrack Cafe serves as a cozy community anchor where locals gather amid lush greenery or swing by the convenient walk-up window for a drink on the go.  

The menu at Sidetrack is a thoughtful blend of comfort and culinary curiosity, anchored by their legendary "Bagel Bombs": a portable, cream-cheese-filled staple that has become a local favourite.  

Visitors can pair these savoury treats with expertly crafted classics or venture into the café’s signature creations, such as the blackberry-infused Black and Cream Latte.  

Beyond the caffeine, the community benefits from a space that celebrates "creative distraction," offering a rotation of artisanal baked goods and a welcoming environment that encourages both individual inspiration and collective conversation.  

From King Street to Wortley Village, whether you’re stopping in for a goat cheese and chive scone or a quiet afternoon of work, Sidetrack provides a high-quality experience that gives back to the people who call London home! 

Roy's Coffee Shop: A Taste of Hometown Charm 

Established in 1979 by Roy Gill, Roy’s Coffee Shop began as a modest four-table diner in Strathroy, Ontario, where the open-grill kitchen created an immediate sense of community.  

Today, it remains a family-owned staple on Caradoc St., beloved for its welcoming atmosphere where staff often greet regulars by name and the coffee is always flowing. 

The menu is a celebration of North American comfort food, anchored by an all-day breakfast that has earned a dedicated following. Patrons frequently visit for their signature selection of Eggs Benedict, as well as their renowned battered fish and chips and homemade soups.  

By balancing this classic diner vibe with a robust catering service for the community, Roy’s has maintained its reputation as a reliable destination for quality, "made-from-scratch" meals at a reasonable price. 

Why Loving Local Makes a Difference for You 

Choosing to love local businesses is about more than convenience; it’s about making intentional decisions that shape your community’s future.  

You enjoy a richer, more connected life when you support the people and places that make your town unique. You can rest assured that your loyalty helps local businesses weather challenges and continue to serve the community you call home. 

When you support local favourites, you also encourage others to do the same. Your enthusiasm and recommendations can inspire friends, family and neighbours to discover the charm and warmth of neighbourhood establishments.  

You benefit from a stronger, more resilient community that values relationships and shared experiences. 

The Connection Between Community and Hearing Health 

Your ability to connect with others is at the heart of what makes local businesses so special. Whether you’re catching up with a friend over breakfast at Roy’s Coffee Shop or enjoying a quiet moment at Sidetrack Cafe, clear communication is essential.  

When you prioritize your hearing health, you ensure that you can fully participate in these meaningful moments. 

You can rest assured that taking care of your hearing helps you stay engaged and active in your community. You benefit from every conversation, every shared laugh and every story told across the table.  

Your commitment to hearing health supports not only your own well-being but also the connections that make local businesses thrive. 

Thank You for Supporting Local Businesses 

Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate a business for this celebration. Your enthusiasm and support demonstrate the value you place on community and connection.  

When you love local, you invest in the people and places that make your community unique. You play a crucial role in keeping local favourites like Sidetrack Cafe and Roy’s Coffee Shop at the heart of our community! 

You can rest assured that your support makes a lasting difference. From stopping in for a meal, recommending a favourite spot or simply spreading the word, you help ensure that local businesses continue to flourish for years to come.