Restaurants

  • LCBO Strike 2024

    The LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario)

    Initiated its First-ever Strike

     

    On July 5, 2024, following unsuccessful negotiations between the LCBO management and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). Around 9,000 workers have walked off the job due to disputes primarily concerning job security, wages, and the potential effects of the provincial government’s plans to expand alcohol sales to more convenience and grocery stores.

    Key Issues and Impacts:

    1. Store Closures: All LCBO retail stores will be closed for the initial two weeks of the strike. If the strike persists beyond July 19, a limited number of stores will reopen on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with reduced hours.

    2. Online and Wholesale Services: The LCBO’s online platform and app will continue to operate, albeit with some limitations. Wholesale supply chains to bars, restaurants, and grocery stores will also remain functional, ensuring these establishments can still procure liquor.

    3. Union’s Concerns: OPSEU is focused on job security, fearing that the government’s move to liberalize alcohol sales could result in significant job losses. They are also advocating for better wages and working conditions. The union has emphasized that the strike is more about protecting jobs than just negotiating salary increases.

    4. LCBO’s Offer: The latest proposal from the LCBO included a seven percent pay increase over three years, converting 400 casual positions to full-time, and extending benefits to more casual employees. Despite these concessions, the union remains concerned about the broader implications of government policies on job security.

    5. Government Position: The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, remains committed to its plan to expand alcohol sales to more retail outlets, arguing that this will provide greater convenience and choice for consumers. The government has expressed disappointment over the breakdown in negotiations and has called for the union to return to the bargaining table.

    The ongoing strike underscores the tension between labor unions seeking to protect employment and benefits for their members and government policies aimed at increasing consumer access to alcohol through expanded retail opportunities.

    Stay tuned for more updates 🙏

  • LCBO July 5th Strike 2024

    LCBO STRIKE

    CHACHA, the WORLDS Premium Canadian VODKA. We can provide and service YOU during this time.

    The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) workers are preparing for a potential strike on July 5, 2024, as contract negotiations with the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) have stalled. The union, which represents about 10,000 employees, has been in a legal strike position since 12:01 a.m. on that date. Key issues in the negotiations include wage increases, the prevalence of part-time roles, and concerns about the Ford government’s plans to allow convenience stores to sell alcohol, which the union fears will reduce LCBO profits and lead to job losses.

    In anticipation of the strike, the LCBO has extended store hours from June 27 to July 4, opening from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., to allow customers to stock up. However, stores will remain closed on Canada Day. The LCBO has also indicated that it has contingency plans to ensure continued customer service, although details on how many stores will remain open and whether deliveries to bars and restaurants will continue have not been specified. LCBO likely will extend hours ahead of the union strike.

    More details from Globalnews.ca.

    FROM ORHMA

    JULY 4, 2024

    ”Dear Industry Colleagues,

    As we prepare for a potential LCBO strike starting July 5, it’s crucial to stay informed and ready for any impacts on operations. ORHMA continues to communicate with LCBO for updates and will provide timely information. The LCBO is actively developing contingency plans to maintain services for licensed hospitality operations across Ontario.

    Preparation Steps:

    Online Platform: Register on wholesale.lcbo.com for orders during a strike. These orders would be delivered to establishments, free of charge. The same day pick up option will not be available during the strike.

    If you have questions about the process or regarding your account set-up, you can email licensee@lcbo.com. Please provide your Liquor Sales License Number and company name in the subject line of the email.

    Inventory: Consider stocking up to mitigate supply chain disruptions.

    During a Strike:

    Ordering: Use the online platform; minimum case requirements apply. Product availability will be limited and LCBO has planned to increase their inventory based on customer preferences.

    Retail Closures: LCBO stores will close for 14 days post-strike; tailored guidance will be provided.
    Alternative Sources:

    It’s important to know that restaurants can purchase their wine directly from many Ontario wineries, some types of spirits from Ontario’s independent distilling companies, and beer from The Beer Store or directly from independent breweries.

    Reopening Strategy:

    On July 19th, 30 LCBO locations will reopen for in-store shopping and will operate 3 days a week (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) with limited hours in effect. Licensees can shop in-store. No product capacities will apply when you identify at checkout and receive your discount.

    For latest updates visit LCBO’s website. Together, we’ll navigate this period to uphold industry standards.”

  • How To Make a VODKA Martini

    VODKA Martini Checklist & Tips

    Ahhhhhhhh a classic vodka martini, yummmm!

    Go to the store & buy the below:

    1. 2 1/2 ounces vodka
    2. 1/2 ounce dry vermouth
    3. Ice cubes
    4. Lemon twist or olives for garnish

    You can reference the above items as a checklist, so its smooth sailing.

    The Equipment You’ll Need

    1. Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
    2. Bar spoon or long-handled spoon
    3. Martini glass
    4. Cocktail strainer

    Another checklist for you ?

    A Step-by-Step for YOUR Vodka Martini 

    Chill the Martini Glass

    Place the martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill it.

    A chilled glass helps keep the cocktail cold.

    Add Ice

    Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes. This will be used to chill and mix the ingredients.

    Add Vodka and Vermouth

    Pour 2 1/2 ounces of vodka and 1/2 ounce of dry vermouth into the mixing glass or cocktail shaker.

    Stir or Shake

    Using a bar spoon or long-handled spoon, gently stir the mixture in the mixing glass for about 30 seconds. If you prefer a more diluted and colder martini, you can shake the mixture vigorously in a cocktail shaker for about 10-15 seconds.

    However, shaking may create a slightly different texture and appearance.

    Strain into a Martini Glass

    Place the cocktail strainer over the mixing glass or cocktail shaker and pour the mixture into the chilled martini glass. The strainer will catch any ice cubes or small impurities, giving you a smooth martini.

    Garnish

    You can garnish your vodka martini with a lemon twist or olives. For a lemon twist, use a vegetable peeler or a knife to remove a small strip of lemon peel.

    Twist it over the glass to release the essential oils and then drop it into the drink. For olives, simply place one or two on a cocktail pick and place it in the glass.

    Grab Your Martini Glass, Pour & ENJOIY! ?
    Cheers to YOU & CHACHA! ?
Health Plus Fun
3 months ago
I don't usually drink Vodka but I could say CHACHA is one of a kind. Very smooth, distilled to perfection and it's elegance makes a complete package for a classy party hosting.
Jusentta Whiteley
3 months ago
This premium vodka is absolutely delightful. It's smooth and refreshing. I am very impressed and thrilled to have the opportunity to taste such refined vodka.
Orion Eveleigh
2 months ago
I'm a martini woman and CHACHA is the best I've tried such smooth sweet nectar of the gods!! This is most delicious clean and pure taste. Highly recommend.
Richey Garibay
2 months ago
Surprised that this would be a very good Vodka coming out of the Maple Leaf Country but a very great smooth tasting Vodka. Keep up the good work CHACHA!
Michael Powell
2 months ago
CHACHA is an excellent choice for a clean and purely filtered vodka that can be enjoyed straight up or mixed in a cocktail. Definitely one of the best out there!
Rachel B
2 months ago
This is one of my new favourite vodka’s ! Finest blend and Canadian brand, love to show my support to upcoming Canadian brands. Must try! You won’t be disappointed.

More About CHACHA