Plan a Scrumptious Escape in Ontario this Summer season

From the best reaches of Northern Ontario to the southern tip of Level Pelee, Ontario overflows with freshwater lakes, breathtaking views, and a number of the finest rattling meals within the nation (nay, the world). So, how do you determine the place to plan your final summer time escape?

We’ll admit it’s not straightforward. Nevertheless, we’ve packed this weblog with 12 tasty locations to assist make planning your summer time getaway a bit simpler and much more scrumptious. In fact, that is just the start. For much more inspiration, try our full listing of flavourful getaway spots to get jazzed about exploring your personal province.

Need to bounce forward? Go for it!

For the Outside Lovers and Adventurers

If outside journey and adrenaline rushes are your jam, these locations ship. And one of the best half? They’ve acquired epic spots to gasoline up afterwards. You received’t wish to miss them. 

Thunder Bay

In Thunder Bay, it’s all about taking part in exhausting and rewarding your self. Thrill seekers will discover no scarcity of journey, from epic hikes like High of the Big Lookout and paddling (and even kite browsing) on Lake Superior to visiting Kakabeka Falls, Ontario’s second-largest waterfall.

Add in tenting within the boreal forest, refreshing swims, and entry to a number of the province’s finest paddling routes, and also you’ve acquired a recipe for an unforgettable journey. With longer sunlight hours than Southern Ontario, there’s loads of time to discover.

And the meals? Thunder Bay’s culinary scene is a hidden gem. Beer lovers will take pleasure in Lakehead Beer’s flagship pours straight from the tank and Sleeping Big Brewing Firm’s seasonal spruce tip ale. Choose cocktails? Don’t miss Barkeep’s creative drinks or the comfortable vibe at Woodside Bar.

Eating choices vary from farm-to-table fare at Tomlin and Bight to artistic consolation meals like pulled pork pierogies at Crimson Lion Smokehouse and bannock burgers from The Bannock Girl. International eats additionally shine, with standout dishes like Tom Yum Soup at Thai Kitchen and Jap Chae at Bop Store.

For a real native expertise, strive Finnish staples like skinny pancakes and borscht throughout the town. A breakfast and sauna combo at Kangas Sauna is a should.

The Finest Spots to Eat + Drink in Thunder Bay

Earlier than heading residence, swing by Feast On® licensed NOMAD on the Thunder Bay Airport for native goodies that vary from craft beer to gelato and selfmade meals. It’s good for the journey residence and stocking up on scrumptious souvenirs of the town.  

 

Peterborough

For an escape simply 90 minutes from the GTA, Peterborough is surrounded by 150 lakes! As such, paddling the Trent-Severen River which flows proper by the town has turn out to be a summer time escape for Ontarians every summer time. Need one thing really particular? 

Take a look at the large, annual Lock and Paddle occasion that permits you to paddle utilizing a hydraulic elevate lock. How cool is that?! Publish-paddle, we recommend a go to to the model new Canadian Canoe Museum, proper on the water, to be taught all about canoe tradition in Canada. 

Cyclists can even discover residence in Peterborough this summer time with lots of of kilometers of trails zipping by the town and into its neighbouring cottage nation. Whether or not you’re searching for hills to climb or flat treks close to the water, you’re positive to seek out it. Plus, they’ve an important number of Ontario-by-bike licensed stops to refuel at afterwards. 

When it’s time for meals, Peterborough has you coated. Assume contemporary Spanish paella made with love at Contemporary Goals, beer brewed on web site and paired with cubano spring rolls at Publican Home or corn ribs tossed in jalapeno powder and lime crème at Love You, Imply It. 

Peterborough doesn’t skimp on their cafés and bakeries both! We love the laminated pastries (significantly, you haven’t had croissants like this) at Arduous Winter Bakery the place they specialise in actually, actually tasty bread and pastries. How a few espresso flight and a tasty sammy at Cork & Bean? Heading to that aforementioned Canadian Canoe Museum? Seize a butter tart or indulge within the charcuterie paddle crammed with Ontario cheeses and locally-cured meats at on-site Silver Bean Café. Yum! 

 

Haliburton Highlands

For a lot of Ontarians, Haliburton Highlands is the picture-perfect model of cottage nation—rocky shorelines, towering pines, and pristine lakes round each bend. Outside journey isn’t simply accessible right here—it’s the rationale to go to.

Whether or not it’s a dip within the lake after a glass of Ontario Chardonnay, a climb up the long-lasting Dorset Lookout Tower, or a backcountry tenting journey in Algonquin Park, this area delivers. Nestled between Muskoka and Ottawa, it provides loads of forest, lake, and gorgeous views to discover. Into biking? Trip by the Haliburton Forest Wolf Centre.

We extremely suggest a keep at Heather Lodge or Haliburton Publish Home—each function Feast On® licensed eating places with seasonally-inspired menus celebrating Ontario-grown elements. After a day of climbing, paddling, or swimming, these cozy, luxurious spots are the right place to refuel and unwind.

Haliburton’s meals scene shines at spots just like the Haliburton Farmers’ Market (don’t miss the wood-fired pizza) and at Abbey Gardens and Meals Hub, one other Feast On® fave. You’ll discover contemporary produce, preserves, baked items, and connoisseur cheese, all sourced or made proper on web site.

Feeling thirsty? Seize a chilly one at Haliburton Highlands Brewing or Boshkung Brewing & Smokehouse, the place you possibly can pair native craft beer with BBQ that hits the spot.

Take a look at how we spent our final journey right here—you may simply be impressed to plan your personal! 

 

Exploring the Culinary Gems of Haliburton: A Multi-Day Journey

For the Fab Foodie

Generally a bit luxurious goes a great distance. These locations mix artistic lodging, unforgettable eating experiences, and loads of contemporary air. In brief, they’re the right recipe for indulgence. 

 

Niagara Benchlands

Craving a getaway the place luxurious meets native flavour? The Niagara Benchlands have you ever coated

Begin with a go to to Restaurant Pearl Morissette, a Michelin-starred, Feast On® licensed gem nestled inside a 42-acre property. Right here, cooks craft ever-evolving tasting menus that commemorate the bounty of their regenerative farm, providing dishes which are each modern and deeply rooted within the area’s terroir. They had been even simply named on the high of the Canada’s Finest 100 Eating places listing! 

Subsequent, saunter over to Vineland Estates Vineyard, perched on the Niagara Escarpment. Their Feast On® licensed restaurant provides a menu that emphasizes domestically sourced elements, offering an genuine style of the area. Pair your meal with their distinct wines that replicate the distinctive terroir .

Don’t miss The Restaurant at Peninsula Ridge Estates Vineyard, set in a restored Queen Anne Revival Victorian mansion. This Feast On® licensed spot provides seasonal dishes crafted from contemporary, native elements, completely paired with their award-winning wines .

For a refined but relaxed eating expertise, The Good Earth Meals and Wine Co. in Beamsville gives a farm-to-table bistro set amidst lush gardens and vineyards, providing seasonally impressed dishes paired with their very own small-batch wines.

And for brunch fanatics, Revalee Brunch Café in Lincoln serves up trendy fare with distinctive vegan choices, all crafted from domestically sourced elements. It’s the best spot to recharge earlier than your subsequent wine tasting.

Within the Niagara Benchlands, luxurious and gastronomy intertwine, providing an indulgent retreat for these trying to savor the finer issues in life. 

 

Gray County

Gray County‘s rolling farm hills and the famed Apple Pie Path (which additionally spands by Bruce County) set the stage for a getaway that’s as indulgent as it’s picturesque.

Begin your culinary journey at Down Dwelling Restaurant in Markdale, the place cooks Joel Grey and Hannah Harradine serve up intimate, ever-evolving tasting menus impressed by their gardens and native producers. This Feast On® licensed spot is a must-visit for meals fanatics.

Additionally in Markdale, don’t miss Feast On® licensed The Marilynne, specializing in farm-focused fare that may remind you of your grandma’s home-cooked meals. From fried rooster burgers to contemporary focaccia with St. Brigid’s butter, it’s a best choice amongst locals and guests alike.

In downtown Thornbury, Bruce Wine Bar has been a beloved favorite for years, providing creative dishes bolstered by elements from neighbouring farms and markets. Assume selfmade cavatelli with blistered tomatoes and pizzas topped with matchstick slices of Granny Smith apples.

In Flesherton, The Gate, one in every of Canada’s Finest 100 Eating places, provides trendy European eats in a comfortable, historic setting, crafted by acclaimed Chef Jonathan Gushue. Assume white bean parmesan ragus, smoked haddock with scallop canneloni and extra. 

For a style of artisanal excellence, go to Secret Lands Farm, a family-run sheep dairy crafting cheeses, yogurts, and ice cream value writing residence about. Set on a scenic property, it’s the right spot to take pleasure in a pleasant charcuterie unfold on heat days of their pre-booked gazebos.

Able to relaxation? Lay your head down at Penny’s Motel in Thornbury- a classy motel with a retro vibe and a very good curated cocktail listing. In Kimberley, The June Motel Beaver Valley provides a comfortable 8-room retreat nestled in nature, completely completely different from their famed Prince Edward County location. For a breakfast to recollect, Two Sisters Inn in Markdale serves up a tasty meal of bacon sourced down the highway, contemporary fruits, eggs and extra. 

 

Elora

Elora makes for the right day journey or an indulgent weekend or mid-week escape, particularly in case your concept of luxurious consists of historic allure, scenic views, and an entire lot of fine meals.

We suggest beginning with a bit caffeine from the Misplaced + Discovered Café earlier than indulging in some retail remedy on the city’s many boutiques. This cozy downtown spot is thought for specialty drinks, selfmade syrups and a soothing environment you’re positive to like. 

Don’t skip out on a keep on the Elora Mill Lodge & Spa, perched dramatically above the gorge. This fantastically restored mill provides elegant rooms, a soothing spa with lovely views, and a Feast On® licensed restaurant that turns native elements into suave plates like Elora Heritage Hen, Wellington Beef Tartar and extra. 

For a delightfully artistic meal, head to The Evelyn on Metcalfe Avenue. With its stylish décor and dishes like trout almandine, alsatian flatbread with carmelized onions and gruyere and less complicated dishes like burgers topped with Mountainoak Cheese, it’s a spot that mixes sophistication with consolation.

Craving one thing candy? The Wild Tart is a European-style patisserie providing beautiful afternoon teas, mild fare, and a number of bubbles and cocktails. This charming spot is ideal for particular events or for treating your self! 

Whether or not you’re right here for a number of hours or a number of days, Elora provides a mix of luxurious, allure, and culinary delights that’s exhausting to withstand. 

 

For the Music Lovers

Ontario’s music scene is not any secret. It’s bursting with expertise. Higher but, a number of the province’s high musical hubs additionally occur to be hotspots for meals lovers. Discover these three vibrant locations that hit all the appropriate notes. 

 

London

Welcome to London, Ontario—Canada’s UNESCO Metropolis of Music. This metropolis hums with rhythm, from indie gigs on the London Music Corridor to the eclectic sounds of Sunfest and Rock the Park. However the melody doesn’t cease on the stage; it continues onto your plate.

Foodies will fall head over heels for Yaya’s Kitchen, a curated culinary area within the coronary heart of London’s Outdated East Village. Right here, husband-and-wife duo Maryam and Malvin craft dishes impressed by the African Sahel, mixing umami, spices, and creativity into each chunk. Every dish tells a narrative of Black foodways throughout the globe, immigration pathways and coronary heart.

Subsequent, waltz over to Grace, London’s vacation spot for a hyper-seasonal, domestically centered menu. Fantastically plated and thought out, this restaurant is called for Chef Angela’s grandmother and every dish carries a bit little bit of that love.

For a extra informal encore, go to the Beer Kitchen at 100 Kellogg Lane. This distinctive tackle a standard German beer backyard provides tank-to-glass beers and a menu of old-fashioned European eats like schnitzel and pretzels paired with pizza, tacos and smash burgers. If you’re completed, maintain exploring this historic Kellogg manufacturing unit or relaxation your head at Canada’s first Arduous Rock Lodge!

No go to to London is full with out a cease on the historic Covent Backyard Market, a vibrant hub since 1845. Right here, you’ll discover an array of contemporary produce, artisanal items, and various eateries that replicate the town’s multicultural tapestry.

Simply throughout the road, Jill’s Desk awaits meals fanatics with its number of specialty meals, kitchenware, and cooking lessons. Whether or not you’re a seasoned chef or a house prepare dinner, it’s a treasure trove of culinary inspiration.

Travelling with children in toe or trying to take a cooking class? Take a look at the programming at Feast On® licensed, Rising Cooks, a company geared toward bettering meals literacy. 

In London, each observe and nibble tells a narrative. So, tune into the town’s vibrant vibes and let your style buds dance to the rhythm. 

 

The place to Eat in London, Ontario whenever you Come to a Live performance

Kingston

Kingston, Ontario, affectionately often known as the “Limestone Metropolis,” is a harmonious mix of wealthy historical past, delectable delicacies, and a thriving music scene. As Canada’s first capital, the town boasts charming limestone structure, a waterfront that units the stage for unforgettable experiences and a very good array of nice bands hailing from the town together with the likes of the Tragically Hip, The Superb Sons and Tiny Horse to call a number of. 

Begin your day with a go to to the historic Kingston Public Market, a hub for contemporary produce and engaging snacks. Only a stone’s throw away, Pan Chancho Bakery & Café awaits meals fanatics with its number of specialty meals, baked items, and pleasant brunch choices.

The downtown core involves life in the summertime with a great deal of nice patios (we love those at Feast On® licensed Black Canine Tavern for one thing tucked away and The Everly for an choice that places you proper into the center of the hustle and bustle). 

When the solar units, Kingston’s music scene comes alive. Don’t miss the intimate setting of Musiikki Café, the place you possibly can savour a drink whereas listening to native artists or cheers over glasses of stout as you take heed to reside music at The Toucan.

For a extra informal encore, go to Feast On® licensed Dianne’s Fish Shack & Smokehouse, providing a singular mix of Mexican-inspired seafood and BBQ dishes or dive into Otter Creek Kitchen for handmade burgers and contemporary reduce fries. 

In Kingston, each observe and nibble tells a narrative. So, tune into the town’s vibrant vibes and let your style buds dance to the rhythm. 

 

Toronto

Toronto isn’t simply Canada’s largest metropolis—it’s a cultural powerhouse the place music and meals collide in essentially the most pleasant methods. This metropolis has been the launchpad for international sensations like Neil Younger, Drake, and Alessia Cara. Iconic venues reminiscent of Massey Corridor and the Horseshoe Tavern have echoed with legendary performances, whereas neighbourhoods like Queen Avenue West and Kensington Market pulse with reside music in intimate settings.

However let’s not neglect the culinary symphony that Toronto provides. Feast On® licensed spots like Ricky + Olivia and Avling Kitchen & Brewery are placing neighborhoods like Leslieville on the gastronomic map. At Ricky + Olivia, bask in dishes like massive onions and latkes, whereas Avling serves up delights reminiscent of King Cole Duck Spring Rolls, sourcing many elements from their rooftop backyard.

For a style of Palestine, louf provides daring and artistic dishes that honor Palestinian and native farmers, incomes it a spot amongst Canada’s Finest 100 Eating places.

Toronto’s culinary scene has additionally caught the attention of the Michelin Information, with a number of eating places incomes stars and accolades, additional elevating the town’s eating fame. Celeb chef Matty Matheson provides to the town’s taste along with his array of eateries, from the beloved Matty’s Patty’s Burger Membership to the refined Prime Seafood Palace.

And if festivals are your jam, Toronto’s summer time lineup is a feast for the senses. Dance and dine at occasions like Caribana, JerkFest, Style of Taiwan, and VegTO Fest, celebrating the town’s wealthy multicultural tapestry by music and meals.

So, whether or not you’re right here for the beats, the bites, or each, Toronto serves up a harmonious mix that’s positive to fulfill all of your senses. 

 

For Farm to Desk Fare

Need to be certain these good, locally-grown eats land proper in your plate? Look no additional. These three flavour-filled locations are buzzing with farm-fresh goodness and culinary allure. 

 

Waterloo Area

In Waterloo Area, the farm-to-table motion isn’t only a pattern. It’s a lifestyle. Simply over an hour from Toronto, this space is a treasure trove of farm-fresh flavours and native markets, making it a great vacation spot for many who love to buy native and prepare dinner with the freshest elements.

One standout is Willibald Farm Distillery & Brewery in Ayr. This Feast On® licensed spot is thought for its modern small-batch spirits like gin and whiskey, together with an on-site brewery and farm-to-table restaurant. Set in opposition to a scenic rural backdrop, guests can take pleasure in a singular tasting expertise that completely blends craft drinks with farm-fresh fare.

No go to to Waterloo Area is full with out a journey to the long-lasting St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, Canada’s largest year-round farmers’ market. With over 250 distributors, it’s a bustling hub the place you will discover every thing from contemporary produce and artisanal cheeses to handmade crafts and their well-known apple fritters. The market’s vibrant environment and various choices make it a must-visit for meals fanatics.

For these in search of a contemporary twist on the farm-to-table expertise, Graffiti Market in Kitchener provides a singular mix of culinary innovation and expertise. As North America’s first-of-its-kind restaurant, retail market, microbrewery, espresso roaster, and bakery, Graffiti Market options interactive Good Eating Tables and a menu that features Detroit-style pizza, house-made pastas, and rotisserie rooster.

The Neighbourhood Group of eating places, together with Borealis Kitchener, Borealis Guelph, Miijida, Park Eatery and The Wooly Pub emphasizes sustainability and native sourcing. Their dedication to serving contemporary, locally-driven menus comprised of scratch day by day ensures that diners take pleasure in meals which are each scrumptious and environmentally acutely aware as demonstrated by each their Feast On® certification and BCorp certification.

Whether or not you’re exploring bustling markets, modern eating spots, or community-focused eating places, Waterloo Area provides a farm-to-table expertise that’s wealthy in flavour and rooted in native delight.

Durham Area

Simply east of Toronto, Durham Area is a haven the place rolling farmlands meet modern kitchens. Surrounded by the Ontario Greenbelt, this space thrives with native producers and growers, making it a hotspot for farm-to-table fanatics.

Past the eating places, Durham’s panorama is dotted with farmers’ markets and pick-your-own farms. From strawberries to pumpkins, the area’s agricultural choices are as various as they’re scrumptious.

Begin your culinary journey at Pingle’s Farm Market in Hampton. This family-run, Feast On® licensed gem provides year-round delights, from scratch-made baked items to domestically sourced produce. Seasonal occasions like their Tulip Pageant and Harvest Pageant add a splash of enjoyable to your foodie adventures.

In Whitby, one in every of Canada’s Finest 100 Eating places, The Springwood, serves up homestyle eats specializing in native (with a Feast On® certification to show it). Over in Uxbridge, Feast On® licensed Nest at Path Hub provides an elevated eating expertise, the place every plate is a tribute to Ontario’s most interesting native elements. Assume Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, Sapsucker and extra. 

Whitby’s Bistro ’67, nestled inside Durham School’s Centre for Meals, gives a memorable field-to-fork expertise. Right here, college students and employees collaborate to serve dishes that showcase one of the best of Ontario’s bounty.

Fancy a sip of one thing particular? Slabtown Cider Co. in Uxbridge crafts ciders from heritage apple varieties, providing a style that’s each nostalgic and novel. Their Feast On® certification ensures a dedication to native sourcing and sustainability.

So, whether or not you’re indulging in a connoisseur meal or choosing contemporary produce straight from the vine, Durham Area serves up farm-to-table experiences which are as genuine as they’re appetizing. 

 

Prince Edward County

In Prince Edward County, the farm-to-table motion is second nature, which explains their big array of Feast On® licensed resetaurants. This picturesque area, affectionately often known as “The County,” boasts a bounty of native producers, vineyards, and modern kitchens that make it a hotspot for culinary fanatics.

Begin your foodie journey at Parsons Brewing Firm in Picton. This family-owned, Feast On® licensed brewery is housed in heritage lumber buildings and provides a country but refined setting. Their expansive beer backyard and outside kitchen serve up dishes like roasted rooster and tacos, completely paired with their craft beers.

For a lakeside eating expertise, Drake Devonshire in Wellington is a must-visit. This Feast On® licensed boutique lodge and restaurant provides up to date Canadian delicacies impressed by the seasons, with menus that proudly signify the bounty of close by farmers and vintners. Take pleasure in dishes like sumac lamb rack whereas taking in gorgeous waterfront views.

Within the coronary heart of Picton, The Royal Lodge seamlessly blends historic allure with trendy class. Govt Chef Albert Ponzo crafts Italian-inspired menus utilizing seasonal produce from The Royal’s personal Edwin County Farms and native growers, making certain a real farm-to-table expertise. Dine on the terrace or within the elegant eating room, and savour dishes that commemorate the area’s agricultural heritage.

Don’t miss Karlo Estates Vineyard. This Feast On® licensed institution provides a winery, converse straightforward and small bites, all set inside a fantastic picket barn. 

Whether or not you’re exploring bustling markets, modern eating spots, or community-focused eating places, Prince Edward County provides a farm-to-table expertise that’s wealthy in flavour and rooted in native delight.

Let Feast On® Be Your Information

This summer time, irrespective of the place you land in Ontario, let the Feast On® certification be your information to epic native eats. These companies are audited by the Culinary Tourism Alliance to make sure they’re procuring Ontario grown and raised elements. If you eat at a Feast On® institution, you possibly can really feel good understanding your cash goes again into the arms of Ontario farmers and meals producers.