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OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, September 18, 2009 · 12 At the games PHOTOS BY GRAHAM PAINE / OAKVILLE BEAVER FOR THOSE IN NEED: At the second annual Winston Park Challenge in support of the United Way of Oakville, which announced last week it aims to raise more than $3 million by December.Above left, Moen member Paul Grant gets into the mood of putting the fun in fundraising; firefighter recruit Don Leis, in the foreground, along with other Oakville recruits, dig in for a tug-of-war challenge as Mayor Rob Burton cheers them on; and, Stacey Lenathen of team Pen Equity Realty holds onto her helmet as she tackles the firefighter relay challenge. Advertorial Cucci and the Firehall among the best of the best in Oakville dining In the very short time since Cucci has been open, it has become the place to be in Oakville. Owner Doug Greco is known for his modern Italian restaurant and has been nominated as Restaurateur of the Year through the Oakville Chamber of Commerce. Cucci has most definitely made a name for itself. "We have been showcased in a number of publications including The Hamilton Spectator, Oakville LIVE, Mercedes Benz publication and West of the City," Doug says. Cucci is proud to have one of the hottest young chefs running its kitchen. Chef Gordon Goss has cooked in some of the GTA's top restaurants including Toronto's famed Canoe and The Millcroft Inn and Spa. His experience and perfectionism in Cucci's kitchen has earned him the Best Chef award in the 2009 Oakville Readers Choice Awards. To ensure the freshest, most seasonal products are being used Cucci changes its menu quarterly to coincide with the seasons. "The Italian sensibility approach to food is fresh, local and seasonal, and this is what you will find at the heart of Cucci. Our kitchen, in conjunction with local purveyors, contributes to the inspiration you will find on our plates," Gordon says. Just recently he was seen rubbing elbows with Jamie Kennedy and Michael Smith at Feast of Fields, a local and organic event bring chefs and farmers together. "My goal is to present you with an unforgettable culinary experience while adhering to my beliefs in sustainable food. I invite you to come and experience our dining room here at Cucci." Focusing on customer service, Cucci has a polished and professional service team to ensure every one of their customers' needs is met. To enhance the dining experience Cucci features live entertainment Thursday through Saturday hosted by musician Rob Reed. Whether you are looking for an intimate dining experience or a place to host a group from 10 to 100, Cucci is the place to be. Two private rooms are available with drop down screens and a separate A/V system. For reservations and information on upcoming events call 905469-1811 or visit them online at www.cucci.ca. The restaurant's strong community sentiment is certainly evident in its charitable giving. The Firehall's focus has always been local, which in a big box, big business world, is more often than not, overlooked. "We're about more than making money and running a successful business, we intend to make a positive impact in the community," she added. Not one to sit on their laurels, operations manager Paul MacDonald says he is gearing up for the month ahead with the first Toronto Maple Leaf game, right up to the pinnacle of the NFL season ­ The Super Bowl. With the addition of Chef Brian Foster to this blazing team the Firehall now feeds the masses, it can comfortably look after groups from 10 to corporate events of more than 1300 people. Until the warm weather holds out, the popular patio at the Firehall is still open and is the perfect spot to enjoy some awardwinning wings, anytime. For more information about the Firehall drop by at 2441 Lakeshore Road West, visit the website at www.thefirehall.ca, or call 905-827-4445. Cucci's Chef de Cusine, Gordon Goss THE FIREHALL It's appropriate that as the Firehall quickly approaches its 10th year in business the Firehall reaches another level of success with the Readers' Choice Awards from the Oakville Beaver. Each win is like a candle on its cake for earning top honours in the most attentive owner, friendliest staff and service, tastiest ribs, Best Wings in Oakville, best boys night out, bar and sports bar categories. Owner Doug Greco is proud to be chosen by reader's Choice awards and is still riding high from his nomination as restaurateur of the year with the Oakville Chamber of Commerce. All of which he credits to his fantastic staff and management for making the Firehall the popular eatery, gathering spot and watering hole that it has become over the years. "I thank the patrons who voted for us because they enjoy celebrating their birthdays and special occasions, cheering for their favorite sports teams or just coming to our Bronte restaurant to enjoy dinner," said Greco. General manager Jennifer Ryerse echoes the kudos to the Firehall's staff and patrons.