New restaurant receives Michelin awards

Roger Varley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A "charming little bistro" on upper Brock Street has been awarded recognition by the internationally renowned Michelin Guide.

A screenshot of the Michelin Guide’s online entry for Sundays restaurant in Uxbridge.

Sundays, owned by Ben Denham and his partner, Ashley Lloyd, received a Michelin Green Star at a ceremony in Toronto a week ago. In announcing the award, Michelin noted in part: "This charming little bistro is a welcome sight in the town of Uxbridge. Husband and wife team Ben Denham and Ashley Lloyd work with ingredients largely grown on their 10-acre organic farm to craft a smart menu that celebrates the seasons. This is the kind of place you could visit every week and never tire."

The Michelin Green Star, according to the Michelin Guide website, “highlights restaurants at the forefront of the industry when it comes to their sustainable practices. They hold themselves accountable for both their ethical and environmental standards, and work with sustainable producers and suppliers to avoid waste.”

Denham and Lloyd opened the restaurant just a few months ago, having run a successful restaurant in Toronto for years. Denham said Sundays' team harvests every morning and brings only what they need to the restaurant each day. Their commitment to local products even extends to the wine, with a strong Ontario focus on their wine list.

Sundays also received “Bib Gourmand” recognition, separate from the Green Star. The Bib Gourmand recommendation means that the restaurant offers best value for money in a three course meal.

Photo from Sundays farm, https://whitelilyfarms.ca/gallery

While both awards highlight high-quality dining, the Bib Gourmand focuses on value, whereas the Green Star emphasizes sustainability and quality.

Denham said Michelin first contacted him about two months ago with some "general and specific" questions about the restaurant and its organic farm. He said he didn't contact Michelin to be assessed.

"The 'inspectors,' as they refer to them, come in on their own accord," he said. "As far as we know . . . these inspectors are from other countries, not local critics, thus receiving no “special” treatment during their multiple visits."

He said Sundays received a Green Star "likely due to our efforts made in organic farming, our wholesaling operation to other like-minded top tier restaurants and responsible sourcing of meat, seafood and even wine and spirits."

He said the award will not change the way the restaurant operates. Sundays will continue its relationships with local farmers, pushing the boundaries of year-round vegetable and fruit production.

Sundays, located at 58 Brock St. W. For more information, visit sundaysrestaurant.ca