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Commercial Bay Christmas – What Polly Markus is Eating and Wearing this Festive Season

As December rolls in, the warmth of the season brings with it a sense of excitement that I always look forward to.

Piece by Polly Markus, bestselling author of Miss Polly’s Kitchen & Seriously Delicious

There’s something special about dining this time of year—surrounded by the festive energy, the abundance of fresh summer produce, and the menus that showcase vibrant, seasonal flavours. To me, this season is about more than just enjoying a meal; it’s about creating memorable moments, and much like selecting the perfect venue for your gatherings, dressing for the occasion becomes just as significant.

I believe that style should always be effortless, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be thoughtful. When it comes to holiday events, I gravitate toward outfits that not only carry me through the day but can also transition into the evening should the festivities head that way! Having spent most of my time in kitchen-friendly attire, I love the opportunity to dress up during the festive season and always make a point to elevate my look whenever I can.

Gochu: The Ultimate Spot for a Festive Midweek Work Lunch

If you’re after a casual yet delicious spot to gather a few colleagues for a midweek festive work lunch, Gochu ticks every box. This Korean-inspired eatery combines modern twists with bold flavours.

There is an area that can be curtained off, with a long table seating up to 20, perfect for group lunches. For those pressed for time, the $39 express lunch is a steal, offering curated highlights of the menu. But if you can spare a moment, the à la carte menu is the way to go. Dishes like the perfectly cooked octopus are simply too good to pass up and my all-time favourite Charred chicken with gochujang, comté cheese, and leek sauce is a MUST.  

And just like the food here my choice of fashion is bold and vibrant. I’ve swapped my usual all-white ensemble (chili oil and white shirts are not friends) for vibrant reds and stretchy fabrics—perfect for indulging guilt-free in a feast that demands over-ordering (something I am VERY good at)

SHOP POLLY’S PICKS

Wynn Hamlyn Mesh Long Sleeve Top, $350

Wynn Hamlyn Emma Maxi Skirt, $450

Wittner Oliva Black Leather Mule, $209

Coach Bowery Satchel 22, $595

Cendre Oscar Watch, $229 from Superette

 

Lodge Bar: Date spot! 

With an impressive cocktail list and a very standout list of tasty bar snacks, Lodge Bar effortlessly sets the scene for a festive afternoon or evening date. On a sunny day, you’ll find me outside, watching the buzz of the street unfold. For a more intimate experience, head inside to enjoy a cosier setting.

The martinis here are exceptional—a must-order, in my opinion. And the bar snacks? I Think oysters, delicate crab tarts, cured snapper, golden croquettes, and of course I can’t go past the crudo, the gazpacho-inspired garnish in the centre takes me back to Spain!

For a sunny afternoon at Lodge Bar, I’d opt for something like this matching AJE shirt and skirt. The subtle gold detail adds a little pizzazz, I would complete the look with a pair of sunglasses like these Miu Miu frames from Superette. 

SHOP POLLY’S PICKS

Aje Asteria Short Sleeve Shirt, $400

Aje Sabine Mini Skirt, $340

Alias Mae Aisha Heel, $299 from Superette

Status Anxiety Look Both Ways Cocoa Crossbody Bag, $259 from Flo & Frankie 

Moochi Billow Cuff, $89

Miu Miu Sunglasses, $719 from Superette

Caitlin Snell Georgie Hair Bow, $89 from Twenty-seven Names

 

QUEENS: Friendsmas long lunch 

If you’re looking for the ultimate city hotspot this season, QUEENS is it. With a DJ playing every evening until Christmas, it’s giving serious Friendsmas late lunch vibes—the kind of place where lunch could easily stretch into an all-afternoon affair.

I always like to kick things off with a generous plate of oysters and Cloudy Bay clams, maybe even a glass of champagne. Being the seafood lover I am, the crudo and sashimi plate are non-negotiable orders, as is a Gilda (or two). For mains, the bavette with French fries is perfection, while the chicken thigh schnitzel, Duck 2 ways, and heirloom tomatoes are equally divine. And of course the cocktails  – you MUST try the spicy watermelon margarita, it’s spectacular. 

Now, what to wear to match the vibe? I’d opt for this matching velvet two-piece from COS. Paired with a chunky necklace, this look is elegant and will definitely see you through an afternoon at Queens and well past the sunset. 

SHOP POLLY’S PICKS

COS Velvet Bustier, $135

COS Relaxed Velvet Wide-Leg Trousers, $175

COS Beaded Silk Scarf Necklace, $99

Scarpa Gem Silver Heels, $320

Moochi Drawn Mini Stud Bag, $329

Sito Luca Sunglasses, $89 from Storm